bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synovial fluid extracellular vesicles as arthritis biomarkers: the added value of lipid-profiling and integrated omics
Authors: Varela Laura , van de Lest Chris H.A. , van Weeren P. René , Wauben Marca H.M.
Published: June 2024

Arthritis, a diverse group of inflammatory joint disorders, poses great challenges in early diagnosis and targeted treatment. Timely intervention is imperative, yet conventional diagnostic methods are not able to detect subtle early symptoms. Hence, there is an urgent need for specific biomarkers that discriminate between different arthritis forms and for early diagnosis. The pursuit of such precise diagnostic tools has prompted a growing interest in extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs, released by cells in a regulated fashion, are detectable in body fluids, including synovial fluid (SF), which fills the joint space. They provide insights into the intricate molecular landscapes of arthritis, and this has stimulated the search for minimally invasive EV-based diagnostics. As such, the analysis of EVs in SF has become a focus for identifying EV-based biomarkers for joint disease endotyping, prognosis, and progression. EVs are composed of a lipid bilayer and a wide variety of different cargo types, of which proteins and RNAs are widely investigated. In contrast, membrane lipids of EVs, especially the abundance, presence, or absence of specific lipids and their contribution to the biological activity of EVs, are largely overlooked in EV research. Furthermore, the identification of specific combinations of different EV components acting in concert in EVs can fuel the definition of composite biomarkers. We here provide a state-of-the-art overview of the knowledge on SF-derived EVs with emphasis on lipid analysis and we give an example of the added value of integrated proteomics and lipidomics analysis in the search for composite EV-associated biomarkers.
User Satisfaction Management Information System Hospitals in Kuala Pembuang Regional General Hospital
Authors: Lasinrang Lasinrang , Adhani Rosihan , Shadiqi Muhammad Abdan , Arifin Syamsul , Bakhriansyah Mohammad
Published: June 2024

A computer-based Management Information System for hospitals is very important. Data was obtained that there were 89 hospitals (3%) that reported already having SIMRS but not running functionally, 294 hospitals (10%) did not have SIMRS, and 365 hospitals (12%) did not report SIMRS. Most of the employees are 20 – 35 years old. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the age of the hospital management information system, the quality of the information, the quality of the system, and the quality of services provided to patients at Kuala Pembuang Hospital. This study uses cross-sectional design and observational analytical methods. For the sampling technique used the type probability sampling with 89 participants. Chi-square analysis results showed the value of age p values (p= 0.587), system quality (p= 0.000), information quality (p= 0.000) and service quality (p= 0.000).  The results of multivariate analysis with logistic regression showed the p and ExpB values of the information quality variable (p=0.000, Exp B=10.267).  There is a substantial relationship between user satisfaction with system quality, information quality, and service quality. In addition, there is no significant relationship between age and user satisfaction of the hospital management information system at Kuala Pembuang Hospital.
Analysis of Psychosocial Support for Workers in Tiwingan Lama Port Area Post Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Agnesia Cindy , Azizah Luthfi , Safira Ajwa Salsabila , Arifin Muhammad , Wulandari Anggun
Published: June 2024

The Covid-19 outbreak significantly impacts community performance and the psychosocial well-being of workers at Tiwingan Lama port. According to Central Statistics Agency (BPS) data, the most affected businesses in the port area are food and beverage services (92.47%), general services (90.90%), and transportation and warehousing (90.34%). This research aims to provide an overview of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, psychological conditions, and the influence of providing psychosocial support on workers in the Tiwingan Lama port area. This study used mixed methods with a sample size of 55 people selected by purposive sampling. Quantitative data analysis technique employs Likert scale data tabulation, while qualitative data utilizes a narrative approach. The qualitative study found that during the pandemic, workers in the Tiwingan Lama port area suffered income loss which causing stress. Results showed 80% were negatively affected, while 20% were positively affected by COVID-19. However, post-pandemic, the majority of workers have good psychological conditions, which is 70%, and 30% have poor psychological conditions. This is influenced by the social support received, as evidenced by the results showing that 66% received positive social support, while the remaining 34% received negative social support.
Analysis of Nutritional Status and The Incidence of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in The Puskesmas Martapura 1
Authors: Ramadhani Aulia , Prihandini Yustin Ari , Setia Lisa , Nafila Nafila , Riyana Adies
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria and transmitted through the air. Indonesia, especially South Kalimantan, records a high number of TB cases. Martapura 1 Community Health Center, which is known for its significant number of pulmonary TB cases, requires special strategies in handling and prevention. This descriptive research uses a cross-sectional design. The research was carried out from February to June 2024, at Martapura 1 Health Center, Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan. The sample size was 50 people, with the sampling method being Accidental Sampling. Data collection techniques include BTA examination and BMI (Body Mass Index) assessment. Analysis of the relationship between nutritional status and the incidence of pulmonary TB in the working area of Martapura 1 Community Health Center, Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan based on statistical tests with chi-square obtained a p-value of 0.006 (p-value <0.05). Therefore, it can be concluded that there is a relationship between nutritional status and the incidence of pulmonary TB in the working area of Martapura 1 Health Center, Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan in 2024. The incidence of pulmonary TB can affect a person's nutritional status.
Digital Communications as a Development Factor of the Modern Library Institution
Authors: Perederii Iryna , Hula Ruslan
Published: June 2024

This paper analyzes the types of digital communications of a modern library institution. The role of library digital communications in creating library electronic resources, services and providing information needs of remote users is indicated. The key aspects of digital communications of the modern library are defined.
Digital Communications as a Development Factor of the Modern Library Institution
Authors: Koloskova Galina
Published: June 2024

This paper analyzes the types of digital communications of a modern library institution. The role of library digital communications in creating library electronic resources, services and providing information needs of remote users is indicated. The key aspects of digital communications of the modern library are defined
The Impact of Short-Term Rental Accommodation in Urban Tourism: A Comparative Analysis of Tourist and Residents’ Perspectives
Authors: Albuquerque Helena , Quintela Joana A. , Marques Jorge
Published: June 2024

Urban tourism has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by various factors that foster the transformation of urban areas into tourist hotspots. These factors include a rising interest in culture and heritage, ongoing urban redevelopment and conversion processes, and the introduction of new experiences and activities. Two particularly influential factors contributing to this growth are low-cost travel, which facilitates more accessible access to urban destinations, and the emergence of new types of accommodation, such as short-term rental (also known as local accommodation or Airbnb-type accommodation). This sudden and continuous growth of this type of tourist accommodation brings new challenges to cities and local communities. On the positive side, it contributes to job opportunities, the dynamism of the local economy, and urban revitalization. On the other hand, it also represents more difficulty in retaining the local population in city centers, as more and more buildings are converted into hostels and tourist apartments. In this context, it becomes essential to conduct studies evaluating the impacts of these dynamics in urban areas and how they influence residents' and visitors' perspectives. Therefore, this study aims to identify the main transformations resulting from short-term rental (STR) development, focusing on the impacts felt by tourists and residents in Porto. A questionnaire was distributed to tourists and residents in Porto's city center in June 2023. The results reveal differences in opinions between tourists and residents, particularly concerning historical heritage preservation, local population relocation, and reduced housing availability for residents. Nevertheless, there is a similarity in their opinions regarding the stimulus that local accommodation brings to the economy and the rehabilitation of buildings and urban areas. This study reinforces the need to pay more attention to the future development of tourist accommodation in city centers, especially regarding local policies and territorial planning, to balance better tourism development and local communities' quality of life.
Sequential Behavior of Broiler Chickens in Enriched Environments Under Varying Thermal Conditions Using the Generalized Sequential Pattern Algorithm: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Massari Juliana M. , Moura Daniella J. , A. Nääs Irenilza , Pereira Danilo F. , Oliveira Stanley R. M. , Branco Tatiane , Barros Juliana de S. G.
Published: June 2024

Behavior analysis is a widely used non-invasive tool in the practical production routine, as the animal acts as a biosensor capable of reflecting its degree of adaptation and discomfort to some environmental challenge. Predominantly, conventional statistics use occurrence data for behavioral evaluation and well-being estimation, disregarding the temporal sequence of events. The Generalized Sequential Pattern (GSP) algorithm is a data mining method that identifies recurrent sequences that exceed a user-specified support threshold, whose potential has not yet been investigated for broiler chickens in enriched environments. Enrichment aims to increase environmental complexity with promising effects on animal welfare, stimulating priority behaviors and potentially reducing the deleterious effects of heat stress. The objective was to validate the application of the GSP algorithm to identify temporal correlations between heat stress and the behavior of broiler chickens in enriched environments through proof of concept. Video image collection was carried out automatically for 48 continuous hours, analyzing a continuous period of seven hours, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, during two consecutive days of tests for chickens housed in enriched and non-enriched environments under comfort and stress temperatures. Chickens at comfort temperature showed high motivation to perform the behaviors of Preening (P), Foraging (F), Lying down (Ld), Eating (E), and Walking (W) whose sequences <{Ld,P}>; <{Ld,F}>; <{P,F,P}>; <{Ld,P,F}> and <{E,W,F}> were the only ones observed in both treatments. All other sequential patterns (comfort and stress) were distinct, suggesting that environmental enrichment alters the behavioral pattern of broiler chickens. Heat stress drastically reduced the sequential patterns found at the 20% threshold level in the tested environments. The behavior of lying laterally "Ll" is a strong indicator of heat stress in broilers and was only frequent in the non-enriched environment, which may suggest that environmental enrichment provides the animal with better opportunities to adapt to stress-inducing challenges, such as heat.
Trajectory Analysis of 6-DOF Industrial Robot Manipulators by Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: YILDIRIM SAHIN , CETINKAYA MEHMET BAHADIR , YILDIRIM KÜRŞAT
Published: June 2024

Robot manipulators are robotic systems that are frequently used in automation systems and able to provide increased speed, precision and efficiency in the industrial applications. Due to their nonlinear and complex nature, it is crucial to optimize the robot manipulator systems in terms of trajectory control. In this study, positioning analysis based on artificial neural networks (ANN) were performed for robot manipulator systems used in the textile industry and the optimal ANN model for the high-accuracy positioning was improved. The inverse kinematic analysis of a 6 degree of freedom (DOF) industrial denim robot manipulator were carried out via 4 different learning algorithms of Delta-Bar-Delta (DBD), Online Back Propagation (OBP), Quick Back Propagation (QBP) and Random Back Propagation (RBP) for proposed neural network predictor. From the results obtained, it was observed that QBP based 3-10-6 type ANN structure produced the optimal results in terms of estimation and modelling of trajectory control. In addition, 3-5-6 type ANN structure was also improved and its Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and statistical R2 performances were compared to that of 3-10-6 ANN structure. Consequently, it can be concluded that the proposed neural predictors can successfully be employed in real-time industrial applications for robot manipulator trajectory analysis.
Integrated Photonic Sensors for The Detection of Toxic Gases - A Review
Authors: Butt Muhammad A. , Piramidowicz Ryszard
Published: June 2024

Gas sensing is crucial for detecting hazardous gases in industrial environments, ensuring safety and preventing accidents. Additionally, it plays a vital role in environmental monitoring and control, helping to mitigate pollution and protect public health. Integrated photonic gas sensors are important due to their high sensitivity, rapid response time, and compact size, enabling precise recognition of gas concentrations in real-time. These sensors leverage photonic technologies, such as waveguides and resonators, to enhance performance over traditional gas sensors. Advancements in materials and fabrication techniques could further improve their efficiency, making them invaluable for environmental monitoring, industrial safety, and healthcare diagnostics. In this review, we delved into photonic gas sensors that operate based on the principles of evanescent field absorption (EFA) and wavelength interrogation methods. These advanced sensing mechanisms allow for highly sensitive and selective gas detection, leveraging the interplay of light with gas molecules to produce precise measurements.
Upaya Pencegahan Terjadinya Tindak Pidana Korupsi di Indonesia dengan Cara Pencabutan Hak Politik Bagi Terpidana Korupsi
Authors: Maulana Mochamad Ilham , Ismunarno Ismunarno
Published: June 2024

Korupsi merupakan perbuatan atau tindakan memperkaya diri sendiri yang bertujuan untuk memperoleh keuntungan baik secara pribadi ataupun golongan. Kasus korupsi di Indoensia saat ini sudah pada tahap yang sangat memperihatinkan, maka dari itu perlu adanya uapaya-upaya yang efektif untuk menanggulangi permasalahan korupsi di.Indonesia. Salah satu upaya.yang dilakukan adalah dengan menerapkan pidana tambahan.berupa pencabutan hak politik bagi terpidana kasus korupsi. Namun, agar pencabutan hak politik ini mampu berjalan dengan efektif dan mampu memberikan.efek jera pada para pelaku.tindak pidana korupsi perlu adanya perangkat-perangkat hukum tambahan supaya mekansime dari pencabutan hak politik ini mampu menjadi penggerak hukum progersif dalam upaya memberantas kasus korupsi di Indonesia. Oleh karna itu pencabutan hak ini perlu berlandaskan pada tingkat kejahatan, dampak yang timbul akibat tindak pidana korupsi terhadap masyarakat dan posisi atau.jabatan seseorang saat melakukan.tindak pidana. Pencabutan hak politik bagi terpidana korupsi merupakan.upaya yang perlu dilakukan untuk memberantas kasus korupsi di Indonesia. Namun, pada penerapannya pencabutan hak politik bagi.para pelaku tindak pidana.korupsi dianggap kurang efektif karena adanya pembatasan masa hukuman yang dibatasi minimal selama 2 (dua).tahun dan maksimal selama 5 (lima).tahun. Untuk memaksimalkan efektivitas dari pencabutan hak politik perlu adanya perubahan peraturan dalam penerapan pencabutan hak politik yang tidak dibatasi masa hukumannya selama 5 (lima) tahun khususnya pencabutan.hak politik berupa hak.dipilih dalam pemilihan umum. Dengan demikian diharapkan pencabutan hak politik bagi.terpidana korupsi dapat berjalan lebih efektif dan mampu meberikan efek jera serta dapat menjamin tidak terjadinya pengulangan tindak pidana/korupsi dimasa depan.
Examining the Impact of Minimum Handgun Purchase Age and Background Check Legislation on Young Adult Suicide in the United States, 1991–2020
Authors: Fridel Emma E. , Zimmerman Gregory M. , Arrigo Shayna R.
Published: June 2024

Objectives. To examine the independent and joint effects of state legislation on minimum age for purchasing handguns and background checks on the suicide of young adults aged 18 to 20 years.

Methods. We used negative binomial regressions with fixed effects for year and generalized estimating equations for state to estimate the effects of state legislation on annual counts of firearm, nonfirearm, and total young adult suicides in all 50 US states from 1991 to 2020.

Results. Minimum age laws decreased the incidence rate of firearm suicide among young adults, an effect that was amplified in states with permit to purchase laws; there was no effect on the nonfirearm or total suicide rate. Permit to purchase laws significantly decreased the young adult firearm suicide incidence rate by 39% (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.51, 0.74) and the overall suicide incidence rate by 14% (IRR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.75, 0.99), with no effect on the nonfirearm suicide rate.

Conclusions. Permit to purchase laws are a more promising avenue for reducing young adult suicides than are age-based restrictions. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(8):805–813. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307689 )
O padrão decisório vinculante administrativo e o precedente administrativo como categorias e suas contribuições à administração compartida
Authors: Trindade Jonas Faviero , Bitencourt Caroline Müller , Lopes Andrea Roloff
Published: June 2024

The categories of administrative binding decision pattern and administrative precedent, in Brazil, are investigated from the perspective of shared public administration. The objective is to understand whether such mechanisms cooperate with the shared administration, delimiting their functions. The administrative binding decision pattern is a legal imposition, that is, it is a decision that is formed to regulate future cases. The precedent is formed in the decision-making chain, organically, in which a certain agent, when deciding, takes up a decision from the past, to create the standard that will decide the present situation.  Both categories require going back to the past in order to understand what the Law requires. While the administrative binding decision standard is created formally, to bind future situations, the administrative precedent imposes itself, naturally, by its argumentative quality. The problem to be answered is: considering the paradigms and assumptions of a shared public administration, in what way can the distinction between binding administrative decision-making standards and administrative precedent contribute to the formation of a democratic administrative decision focused on the public interest? The hypothesis is that the administrative decision, which gives meaning to the Law, should be developed in a procedural environment, with the participation of the actors and addressees of the rules. In the administrative binding decision pattern, as it is already known in advance that the constructed answer will regulate future situations, it is inevitable that a greater openness takes place, to cooperate with the legitimacy of the decision and with shared administration.
Analysis Potential of Solar and Wind as Power Plant in Bontang Kuala Using Software Homer
Authors: Sakti Bima , Burhandenny Aji Ery , Utomo Restu Mukti , Nugroho Happy , Wirawan Adi Pandu
Published: June 2024

The increasing need for electrical energy is becoming a problem due to limited fossil energy, so it is necearry to know locations that have the potential to generate electricity from renewable energy. This study simulates and analyzes the potential of solar and wind energy in Bontang Kuala as a power plant using Homer software. Load planning uses a peak load of 38,44 kW and usage of 471,56 kWh/day from the results of a survei conducted at one of the RTs in Bontang Kuala. The simulation produces three optimal configurations of three types of generators, namely Solar Cell, Hybrid Power Plant  and Wind Power Plant. The most optimal configuration is the Solar Cell system with the smallest NPC value of Rp3,6 B and this system has a solar panel capacity of 142 kW, a battery capacity of 461 kWh and an inverter capacity of 50 kW.
Modelado y simulación de un sistema de reposición de inventarios bajo demanda incremental constante
Authors: Cárdenas-Romay Dany José , Navarrete Ramos Andrés Mauricio
Published: June 2024

La gestión efectiva de inventarios representa un componente vital para asegurar una operación continua y sin interrupciones en cualquier empresa. En situaciones dónde la demanda se mantiene constante a lo largó del tiempo, la necesidad de contar con un sistema de gestión de inventarios que logre mantener un equilibrio entre la oferta y la demanda es aún más crucial. Este estudió se centró en el desarrollo y la simulación de un modelo de reposición de inventarios diseñado específicamente para adaptarse a una demanda incremental constante. Utilizando ecuaciones diferenciales cómo herramienta principal, se construyó un modelo que no sólo considera la demanda, sino también los flujos de reposición de inventarió en función de la cantidad óptima que minimiza los costos (ROQ), adema s de tener en cuenta otros factores críticos, cómo el tiempo de entrega y el punto de reorden (ROP). Para evaluar la efectividad del modelo, se llevó a cabo una simulación exhaustiva utilizando las herramientas Simulink y Vensim en diversos escenarios y con diferentes parámetros. Los resultados revelaron que el modelo propuesto es altamente eficiente en la gestión de la demanda, evitando eficazmente la falta de inventarió.
Measuring effectiveness of holistic defense: social service provision and justice system outcomes
Authors: Lepage C. R.
Published: June 2024

Objective: to analyze the efficiency of a holistic defense model and to elaborate recommendations for improving its mechanism.

Methods: dialectical approach to cognition of social phenomena, allowing to analyze them in historical development and functioning in the context of the totality of objective and subjective factors, which predetermined the following research methods: formal-logical and sociological.

Results: a holistic public defense model is more comprehensive than a traditional model of public defense representation. Holistic defense seeks to address extralegal needs that are a nexus to the criminal charge rather than focusing solely on addressing the current criminal charge of the individual. This model is a collaborative approach that has traditionally included social workers and civil legal workers in a team approach with a criminal lawyer. Prior research on holistic defense has demonstrated efficacy in addressing individuals’ social and legal needs thus reducing recidivism and justice system costs.

Scientific novelty: this research describes and evaluates a pilot project of a holistic defense model employed in Southwest Alaska and outlines similar models in use in other jurisdictions in the United States. This evaluation supports previous research that indicates the importance of addressing defendants’ extralegal needs in reducing recidivism and costs while improving individual case outcomes. The author also discusses the policy implications of the model and provides recommendations to enhance future evaluations of a holistic defense model.

Practical significance: the main provisions and conclusions of the article can be used in scientific, pedagogical and law enforcement activities when considering the issues related to holistic defense.
WITHDRAWN: The COVID-19 Impact on Software Design Activities Globally Software Engineering – A Study from computing Perspective in Medical Science
Authors: Nabi Faisal , Hasan Rija , Maple Carsten
Published: June 2024

13 June, 2024. Research Square has withdrawn this preprint due to significant portions of plagiarized content directly copied from the published manuscript [How did COVID-19 Impact Software Design Activities in Global Software Engineering - Systematic Review](https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218194024500098), authored by Mahum Advil et al., and received by the International Journal of Software Engineering and Knowledge Engineering on 31 August 2023.
Assessment of the Annual Effective Dose and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk Due to Natural Background Radiation Levels in West Pokot, Kenya
Authors: Pkemoi Elijah , Mwangi Elijah , Mangala Michael Josiah , Karuga Susan Waiyego
Published: June 2024

This research determined the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) resulting from background ionizing radiation (BIR) within the vicinity of the Ortum and River Muruny artisanal gold mining sites in West Pokot, Kenya. The study employed a portable hand-held Thermo Scientific RADEYE PRD Personal Radiation Detector for data collection. Measurements of the ADR in air were conducted at thirty-two distinct locations within the sites and their surroundings, each positioned 1.0 meters above ground level. The recorded ADRs ranged from 66 to 155 nGy h− 1 within the sites, with an average of 106 ± 22 nGy h− 1. These readings were above the global average value of 60 nGy h− 1. The AEDE ranged from 0.08 to 0.19 mSv, with a mean of 0.13 ± 0.03 mSv/yr, which is below the threshold limit of 1 mSv/yr. The excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) ranged from 0.28x10− 3 to 0.67x10− 3, with an average of 0.46 ± 0.10. These values surpass the recommended limit value of 0.299×10− 3. While the AEDE values were compliant with international recommendations of 1 mSv/y, the ELCR values surpassed the average recommended limit. This suggests that artisanal gold mining sites pose no immediate radiological health hazards due to the absorbed dose from the BIR, yet the risk of cancer development over a lifetime of exposure remains considerably high. Thus, routine monitoring of the BIR and radioactivity concentration in soil and rocks and minimizing prolonged exposure are recommended to ensure the safety of workers and residents.
Visualizati on and Clustering of Data Derived from Forest Inventory Using Self-Organizing Neural Network (Case Study: District Two Forests of Kacha, Gilan)
Authors: Asl Sima Lotfi , Navroodi Iraj Hassanzad , Kalteh Aman Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Forest inventory is essential for all types of management programs, decision-making, and obtaining information about forest lands. Tree density, stand Volume, and diameter at breast height are quantitative forest characteristics that are derived from a significant amount of data through the inventory process. To process and interpret such an extensive set of data, data clustering becomes essential, enabling the identification of diverse data entities. The SOM neural network stands as a valuable tool for data dimensionality reduction and clustering. This tool offers a visualization of a dataset on a two-dimensional plane, acting as a data map. It's particularly effective in discerning relationships among structural variables and pinpointing the role of singular variables in the formation of clusters via the SOM neurons. Within this study, the SOM neural network was harnessed to project and segment data derived from the forest inventory of the District Two Kacha forests. The derived findings highlight that, considering density and stand volume, the study area can be segmented into three distinct clusters: 1(A), 2(B), and 3(C). Notably, samples from Cluster 1(A) exhibit the peak density and stand volume, whereas Cluster 3(C) records the minimum values. Notably, the study found that the SOM neural network could be a valuable tool for analyzing large datasets in forests, particularly in the District Two Kacha.
Physicochemical quality, microbial load and health risk assessment of groundwater in view of the sustainable development goals 3, 6, and 11 in Osogbo, Nigeria
Authors: TOWOLAWI Adeleke Taofik , IDOWU Adekunle Adedoyin , ADEGBORE Abidemi Kafayat , BADMUS-OLADAPO Ramot Bolanle , ADEGBITE Kabirat Iyabode , OLADEJI Francis Olusegun , AKINWUMI Isaac Tope , ABDULSALAMI Baseerat Adebola , ADEOYE Moriam Dasola
Published: June 2024

Water is abundantly available, but that of good quality for good health and well-being is not accessible thereby making cities and communities to be doubted for sustainability. Ascertaining water of good quality requires more than comparing the laboratory results with regulatory standards; exploring the multifaceted approach to check the quality of water is highly imperative and mundane to achieving the related SDGs 3, 6, and 11 to this study. The Osun Water Corporation Laboratory analysed physicochemical parameters, heavy/ toxic metals, and microbial loads of ten households’ water samples across Osogbo and environs, Osun State, Nigeria. The obtained data were descriptively compared with four drinking water standards, recent works (2018-2024), and further subjected to health risk assessments (CDI, CDIing, CDIderm, HQ, HI, and PLCR) using SPSS v23. The results indicated that the consumers were not free from microbial loads (total plate count, total coliform, andEscherichia coliin 100 % locations), cyanide (in 60 % locations), K (in 90 % locations), Cr (in 60 % locations), Cd (in 100 % locations), Mo (in 80 % locations), N-nitrate, and Free CO2contamination as their levels were higher than the limits of WHO, UNICEF (2014), and NIS 554 (2015) while HCO3-was higher that the WHO (2008) limit. The average CDIingvalues ranged from 3.77E-2 at location C to 8.54E-3 at location H for children and from 1.32E-1 at location C to 3.00E-2 at location H for adults. The average CDIdermvalues ranged from 2.48E-4 at location C to 5.64E-5 at location H for children and from 4.61E-4 at location C to 1.05E-2 at location H for adults. The HQingof Cd, Cr, and Cu were > 1, while the HQdermof Cd was > 1, thereby indicating a low non-carcinogenic risk. The adults’ HIingwas higher than that of the children except at locations DEC. The PLCRingfor adults > PLCRingfor children > PLCRdermfor adults > PLCRdermfor children. The study concluded that the health implications of the limit-exceeded parameters determined noncompliance with SDGs 3, 6, and 11. The children were more prone to ingestion and dermally-contact side effects than the adults. The HQingis generally > HQderm. There is a need for a joint effort to make potable water available for the residents of Osogbo and its environs.
Analysis of ANO6, HAPLN1 and EDIL3 Polymorphisms in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis in a Chinese Han Population: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Lian Zijian , Luo Wei , Liu Jun , Wang Jing , Chai Wei , Wang Yan , Shi Lewis L. , Idowu Olumuyiwa , Ma Xinlong
Published: June 2024

Background: Earlier research has shown a genetic basis for the susceptibility to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and the severity of AS. By employing a genome-wide association study, recent research has established a correlation between the susceptibility to AS and the ANO6, HAPLN , EDIL3 genes in a western study population, although alternative studies have not corroborated these findings. This study aims to examine the effects of ANO6, HAPLN1 and EDIL3 polymorphisms on the susceptibility to AS ,and as well as the severity of AS among the predominantly Chinese Han population.
Methods: The study involved the collection of blood samples from 497 Patients with AS and 498 non-related healthy individuals. All participants in the study are of Han Chinese descent and whose HLA-B27 are positive. The intensity of the illness served as a criterion for classifying patients with AS. 13 tagSNPs in ANO6, HAPLN1 and EDIL3 were chosen and then subjected to genetic typing. Analysis was conducted on the occurrence rates of various genotypes and alleles between patients with varying severity of AS and the control group.
Results: Following Bonferroni correction, the rs4768085 and rs17095830 SNPs in ANO6 are related to the susceptibility to AS. The rs6869296 SNP in HAPLN1 is associated with the AS susceptibility, the rs2301071 SNP between EDIL3 and HAPLN1 is related to the susceptibility to AS. The rs4768085, rs2897868, rs7965430 and rs11182965 SNPs in ANO6are related to the severity of AS.
Conclusions: The ANO6,HAPLN1 genes are related to the susceptibility to AS. The ANO6 gene is also associated with the severity of AS among the Han population in China.
Application of OSA-VET® and qualiquantitative tear tests in brachycephalic dogs with and without keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Authors: Voitena Jéssica N. , Marinho Tatiane O. C. , Montiani-Ferreira Fabiano , Cremonini Daniela N. , Chiurciu João L.V. , Jesus Nadja S. , Leonard Brian C , Cunha Olicies da , Brito Fábio L.C.
Published: June 2024

The aim was to compare the outcomes acquired from the OSA-Vet® device with conventional quantitative and qualitative tear tests and between groups within each test, in brachycephalic dogs both healthy and those diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca. The dogs were divided into four groups: healthy dogs (HD), with mild KCS (MIKCS); moderate KCS (MOKCS); severe KCS (SKCS). All patients underwent ocular surface diagnostic examination in the following order, with a 10-minute interval between tests: non-invasive tear film breakup time (TBUTNI - OSA-Vet®), tear meniscus height (TMH-OSA-Vet®), meniscometry (I-Tear® test), Schirmer Tear Test-1 (STT-1), and tear film breakup time (TBUT). Kruskal-Wallis H tests were performed to establish the difference between the groups and Spearman´s correlation coefficient test to assess the correlation between tests. And an analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey-Kramer post-hoc test was performed for TMH. Results with (p<0.05) were considered statistically significant. The correlation of conventional tests in relation to those obtained by OSA-Vet® proved to be low, except between TBUTNI (OSA-Vet®) and TBUT in MOKCS, with a strong correlation (r=0.925). In the comparison between TBUTNI (OSA-Vet®) and TBUT in MIKCS the correlation was moderate (r=0.547) as well as STT-1 and I-Tear® test in MOKCS (r=0.416). In the comparison between groups, the main result observed was a significant difference between all the KCS groups and HD, in the TBUT and TBUTNI (OSA-Vet®) test. The OSA-Vet® and conventional tests are useful for evaluating the ocular surface of brachycephalic dogs. However, the OSA-Vet® does not correlate well with conventional standardized tests.
Investigation of the Frequency of Osmophobia in Patients With Primary Headache
Authors: ÇİÇEKLİ Esen , MUNGAN Semra , ORHAN Gürdal
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Osmophobia is an isolated phobia that is especially common in patients with primary headaches. Osmophobia is recommended for inclusion in the migraine diagnostic criteria because it increases sensitivity and shows absolute specificity. Although there are publications supporting the frequency of osmophobia in patients with tension-type headache (TTH), the association between TTH and osmophobia has not been definitively demonstrated, and various studies have been conducted on this subject. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of osmophobia in a cohort of migraine and TTH patients selected from two different centers.
Methods:
For the current analysis, patients who presented to the neurology outpatient clinic and were diagnosed with migraine or TTH according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders III were selected. A total of 214 patients (129 with migraine and 85 with TTH) were included in the study. Patients’ characteristics, medical visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and migraine disability assessment (MIDAS) scores wererecorded. Osmophobia characteristics in Migraine and TTH patients were compared along with clinical parameters between the groups and within the groups.
Results:
Sixty-eight percentof the migraine patientshad osmophobia. The most common type of smell that migraine patients experienced was the scent of perfume. A total of31.3% of the patients with TTH had osmophobia. While the most irritating odorant in migraine patients was perfume, in TTH patients, it was the smell of food. There wereno significant differences between osmophobia and age, education level, disease duration, pain frequency, attack duration, or VAS score in both migraine patients and TTH patients. There was no significant difference between migraine patients with and without osmophobia in termsof the MIDAS score.
Discussion:
Our study indicates that osmophobia mostly supports migraine as a differential diagnosis in clinical practice. However, osmophobia can be described to a considerable extent in patients with TTH, and it would be useful to use supporting criteria for differential diagnosis and to question the characteristics of osmophobia more deeply.
Meta-analysis of genome and predicted exome sequencing diagnostic yield
Authors: Bergant Gaber , Maver Aleš , Peterlin Borut
Published: June 2024

This meta-analysis assesses the relative diagnostic yield of genome sequencing (GS) compared to the predicted exome sequencing (ES) yield in patients with suspected Mendelian disorders. Employing the PRISMA guidelines and PICO framework, we conducted a systematic review of studies that used GS in the context of rare disorders. We collected reported diagnostic findings and estimated the reliability of their detection via a comprehensive ES approach. A comparative analysis of 44 included studies (from an initially evaluated 72) involving 15,559 probands revealed a GS diagnostic yield of 25.8% and a predicted ES diagnostic yield of 24.3%. Variants which could not have been detected using ES were predominantly small or complex structural variants and intronic variants. This meta-analysis suggests a statistically significant but modest increase in diagnostic yield of GS over ES. Consequently, ES might be considered a suitable initial diagnostic approach for most patients with Mendelian disorders.
Simulation of Hollow Ormocomp Microneedles and Fabrication by Two photon Photolithography
Authors: Singh Sachin Kumar , Dwivedi Monika , Bhattacharyya T. K. , Mishra Richa
Published: June 2024

In recent years, two-photon photopolymerization (2PP) has emerged as a preferred technique for microneedles (MNs) fabrication. Ormocomp, a class of ormocers (organically modified ceramics) is a photoresist that has been widely used in dental implants and is now preferred for MNs because of its excellent structural strength and biocompatibility. In this study, Ormocomp hollow microneedles (HMNs) were explored for their suitability for transdermal drug delivery. HMNs were designed and simulated for their structural strength during skin insertion. Velocity, flowrate and Reynold’s number in the HMNs connected to reservoir were also studied. Subsequently their fabrication was explored using 2PP. HMNs (3X3 array, 600µm height, 120µm outer diameter, 60µm inner diameter and 700 µm array spacing) were first fabricated on glass substrate and their fabrication and development step was optimised. Then in a novel process, a combination of direct laser writing technique for HMN base and 2 PP technique for HMN array was adopted. In this process, first a SU-8 base with through holes (100µm diameter, 3X3 array, 700µm array spacing) was fabricated using direct laser writing (DLW) process and then same dimension HMNs as fabricated earlier were aligned and fabricated on top of these through holes and fabricated using 2PP. The novelty of the work lies in obtaining the SU-8 base containing HMNs which was slowly separated from glass slide substrate with help of a blade.
Solar Radiation Modification is projected to increase
land carbon storage and to protect the Amazon rainforest
Authors: Parry Isobel , Ritchie Paul , Boucher Olivier , Cox Peter , Haywood Jim , Niemeier Ulrike , Séférian Roland , Tilmes Simone , Visioni Daniele
Published: June 2024

Solar radiation modification (SRM) aims to artificially cool the Earth, counteracting warming from anthropogenic greenhouse gases by increasing the reflection of incoming sunlight. One SRM strategy is stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), which mimics explosive volcanoes by injecting aerosols into the stratosphere. There are concerns that SAI could suppress vegetation productivity by reducing the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface and by shifting rainfall patterns. Here we examine results from five Earth System Models that use SAI to reduce the global mean temperature from that of a high emissions world (SSP585), to that of a more moderate global warming scenario (SSP245). Compared to SSP245, the SAI simulations project higher global NPP values (+15.6%) and higher land carbon storage (+5.9%), primarily because of increased CO2 fertilization. The effects of SAI are most obvious in Amazonia where notable increases in NPP (+13.8%) and land carbon storage (+8.6%) are projected compared to SSP245, as well as compared to SSP585 (+10.8% and +7.1% respectively). Our results therefore suggest that SAI could provide some protection against the risk of climate change induced Amazon forest dieback, and may in fact be a very effective method of atmospheric carbon sequestration.
Chronic Subdural Hematoma in a Vast Cohort of Patients in their Ninth Decade of Life: is it a hostile and recursive disease? Italian CSDH Research Group
Authors: Pesce Alessandro , Armocida Daniele , Cofano Fabio , Paccapelo Alexandro , Perna Giuseppe Di , Colamaria Antonio , Garbossa Diego , Santoro Antonio , Salvati Maurizio , Frati Alessandro , Palmieri Mauro
Published: June 2024

Objective
To date, there is no consensus over treatment indications in ultra-elderly patients, in their ninth decade of life suffering from Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). The present investigation aims to focus and carefully report on the clinical course of such a particularly fragile subgroup of patients.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical, radiological, and surgical records of a multicentric cohort of 1312 patients suffering from CSDH. We assigned the enrolled patients to two subgroups, Group A, whose age was under 90 years, and Group B, whose age was over 90 years. For each patient, we recorded age, sex, clinical onset, history of traumatic brain injury, antiplatelet/anticoagulant, and pre and postoperative corticosteroid medication intake. We recorded the surgical approach if a surgical drain was left in the subdural space and the anesthesia protocol. Clinical results were measured with the Markwalder score. Recurrence and mortality were analyzed either.
Results
The final cohort comprised 1312 patients operated on for CSDH. Patients in their ninth decade of life may experience, similar or even better clinical outcomes than their younger counterparts. In particular, the pre-postoperative variation of the Markwalder scores appears to be favorable in elderly patients. Multivariate analyses confirm that preoperative corticosteroids, local anesthesia, single-side CSDH, and no antiplatelet/anticoagulant intake are further independent predictors of favorable outcomes.
Conclusions
Patients in their ninth-decade experience similar clinical and radiological outcomes compared to their younger counterparts. Such patients could be eligible for standard minimally invasive treatments.
Blood oxygenation level-dependent MRI for evaluating renal function in chronic kidney disease: A preliminary retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Lu Fang , Wu Yu , Yang Jing , Ye Chaoyang , Wang Chen
Published: June 2024

Renal hypoxia is a key factor in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), yet it is challenging to evaluate non-invasively. This study utilized Blood Oxygenation Level-Dependent (BOLD) MRI to assess renal oxygenation and function in CKD patients and healthy volunteers (HVs). We retrospectively analyzed BOLD MRI data from 128 CKD patients and 25 HVs. CKD patients were categorized into mild (CKD stages 1-2), moderate (stage 3), and severe (stages 4-5) impairment groups based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The study measured cortical and medullary T2* values (COT2* and MET2*), investigating their differences and correlations with eGFR and clinical indicators such as serum creatinine (Scr), cystatin C (Cys C), beta-2 microglobulin (β2-MG), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Our findings indicated that both COT2* and MET2* values were significantly higher in HVs than in all CKD groups and decreased progressively with advancing CKD (P < 0.001). Notably, the decrease in T2* values correlated significantly with worsening renal function, evidenced by positive correlations with clinical indicators such as Scr, Cys C, β2-MG, and BUN (all P < 0.001), and negative correlations with eGFR (P < 0.001). No significant correlations were found between T2* values and UA (P > 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis further refined the clinical utility of BOLD MRI, identifying optimal cut-points for differentiating between stages: COT2* values were 62.25 ms between HVs and CKD stages 1-2, 52.58 ms between CKD stages 1-2 and 3, and 42.76 ms between CKD stages 3 and 4-5; MET2* values were 36.17 ms, 29.42 ms, and 23.33 ms, respectively, for these comparisons.This study highlights BOLD MRI's potential for non-invasively monitoring renal hypoxia and functional deterioration in CKD, advocating its integration into clinical diagnostics.
Short-term Effect of Distant-image Screen on Myopia Control in Children and Comparison with Tablet Computer
Authors: Zhang Chuanli , Guo Xingyi , Wu Yiyuan , Ruan Zhanliang , Lu Wenli , Chen Xiaoqin , Li Lihua
Published: June 2024

Background
To evaluate the effect of distant-image screen on myopia prevention and control.
Methods
Cross-designed randomized controlled trial. A total of 40 children were recruited. The subjects were randomly assigned to single-vision spectacle (SVS) lenses group or defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) lenses group.In each group, participants were randomly allocated to tablet computer group (TC)or distant-image screen (DIS)group, and exchanged after 3 to 7 days. Participants were asked to watch videos for 90 minutes. Outcomes including choroid thickness (ChT) were measured before and after watching video. A two-stage cross-design analysis of variance and linear mixed model (LMM)were used to analyze the effects.
Results
40 children were recruited, with an average age of 10.58 ± 1.48 years and an average spherical equivalent error (SER) of -2.11 ± 1.09 diopter (D). There were no statistical difference in baseline data. For participants wearing SVS or DIMS ,there were no statistical difference in the change of accommodative microfluctuation (AM), accommodative lag (ACL), axial length (AL) ,visual acuity between the DIS group and TC group (P > 0.05). For participants wearing SVS, the changes in ChT measured at 1mm inferior to the fovea (P = 0.036) and 1mm from the temporal side to the fovea (P = 0.032) in the DIS group were higher than that in the TC group,however, for participants wearing DIMS, there was no statistical difference between DIS group and the TC group (P > 0.05). Results of LMM analysis showed that the combination of glasses type and screen type had an interactive effect on ChT measured at the fovea (P = 0.027), 1mm from the nasal side of the fovea (P = 0.038), and 1mm from the temporal side of the fovea (P = 0.026).
Conclusion
The distant-image screen helps reduce the ChT thinning during video watching, indicating it might have an effect on myopia prevention and control.