bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence Factors of Platinum Dissolution in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: A Sensitivity Study
Authors: Stiegeler Julian , Mittermeier Thomas , Tsikonis Leonidas , Lehre Thilo , Vierrath Severin
Published: April 2024

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells for heavy-duty applications require lifetimes beyond 30,000 h, which poses a durability challenge. In this study, we investigated the influence of various factors on loss of electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) in the cathode, which is a major limiting factor. We derive a parameter range from simulated drive cycles showing that the voltage ranges between 0.70 and 0.85 V and that the cells are in idle state at upper potential limit (UPL) most of the time. We evaluate the influence and interaction of UPL, lower potential limit (LPL), temperature, relative humidity, and cycle time on ECSA and performance at four different operating conditions after 10,000 potential cycles based on 25 experiments. The results indicate that UPL and the hold time at UPL have the strongest impact on degradation, while LPL has a small impact, which does not increase below the potential of full platinum reduction (0.55 V) or hold times longer than 2 s. Furthermore, the interaction of humidity with other factors becomes significant for long experiment times. In summary, the findings of this work can serve as guidelines for minimizing ECSA loss, e.g. by keeping the fuel cell in a benign operation regime via systems control.
Artificial Intelligence in Cardiology and Atherosclerosis in the Context of Precision Medicine: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kolaszyńska Oliwia , Lorkowski Jacek
Published: April 2024

Cardiovascular diseases remain the main cause of death worldwide which makes it essential to better understand, diagnose, and treat atherosclerosis. Artificial intelligence (AI) and novel technological solutions offer us new possibilities and enable the practice of individually tailored medicine. The study was performed using the PRISMA protocol. As of January 10, 2023, the analysis has been based on a review of 457 identified articles in PubMed and MEDLINE databases. The search covered reviews, original articles, meta-analyses, comments, and editorials published in the years 2009–2023. In total, 123 articles met inclusion criteria. The results were divided into the subsections presented in the review (genome-wide association studies, radiomics, and other studies). This paper presents actual knowledge concerning atherosclerosis, in silico, and big data analyses in cardiology that affect the way medicine is practiced in order to create an individual approach and adjust the therapy of atherosclerosis.
Outcomes of Drug-Eluting Stents in comparison to Bare Metal Stents in Cancer Patients with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Siddiqui Muhammad U. , Warner Eric , Junarta Joey , O’Neill Parker , Signarovitz David , Kanawati Eyad , Murtaza Mohammed , Fischman David
Published: April 2024

Background. Studies have demonstrated poor prognosis in cancer patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for coronary artery disease (CAD). Cancer patients receiving PCI are at increased risk of in-stent thrombosis, bleeding, hospital readmissions, and cardiovascular and noncardiovascular mortality when compared to patients without cancer. It is unclear if the poor outcomes in cancer patients are related to the stent type utilized for PCI. This meta-analysis attempts to identify differences in efficacy and safety outcomes when comparing drug-eluting stents (DESs) with bare metal stents (BMSs) in cancer patients. Methods. This meta-analysis is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Cochrane risk of bias tool. The primary outcomes of interest were in-stent thrombosis, bleeding, and mortality. Results. Four studies comprising of 54,414 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was no difference in in-stent thrombosis (odds ratio (OR): 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58–1.07), bleeding events (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 0.77–2.49), or in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.92; 95% CI: 0.83–4.43) when comparing cancer patients who underwent PCI with DES vs BMS. Conclusions. This meta-analysis demonstrates no difference in mortality, bleeding, or in-stent thrombosis between revascularization with BMS vs DES in patients with cancer and CAD. Cancer patients included in this meta-analysis experienced higher rates of mortality, bleeding, and in-stent thrombosis after PCI compared to all-comers described in the literature.
Mitotic Kinases Aurora-A, Plk1, and Cdk1 Interact with Elk-1 Transcription Factor through the N-Terminal Domain
Authors: Uyar Oya Arı , Babal Yigit Koray , Yılmaz Bayram , Kurnaz Isil Aksan
Published: April 2024

Elk-1 is a member of the ETS domain transcription factor superfamily that is phosphorylated upon mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation, which in turn regulated its interaction with partner protein serum response factor (SRF), leading to formation of a ternary complex with DNA. It has previously been reported that Elk-1 interacts with a mitotic kinase Aurora-A, although the mechanisms or the relevance of this interaction was unclear. Elk-1 was also reported to be phosphorylated by CDK5 on Thr417 residue. In this study, we show for the first time that this transcription factor interacts not only with Aurora-A but also with other mitotic kinases Aurora-B, Plk1, and Cdk1, and we define the interaction domain on Elk-1 to the first N-terminal 205 amino acids. We also describe putative phosphorylation sites of these mitotic kinases on Elk-1 and show that Elk-1 peptides containing these residues get phosphorylated by the mitotic kinases in in vitro kinase assays. We also perform bioinformatic analysis of mitotic phosphoproteomes and determine potential interaction partners for Elk-1 in Plk or Aurora phosphoproteomes. We propose that understanding the dynamic phosphorylation of Elk-1 by mitotic kinases is important and that it can present a novel target for anticancer strategies.
Spatial Identification and Distribution Pattern of the Complexity of Rural Poverty in China Using Multisource Spatial Data
Authors: Qi Zhenyu , Pan Jinghu , Feng Yaya
Published: April 2024

Regional poverty is one of the most serious challenges facing the world today. Poverty, antipoverty, and poverty alleviation are the focus of the attention of scholars and the public. This paper takes China’s counties as the research unit, selects the influencing factors of poverty from natural and socio-economic factors, establishes an evaluation index system, simulates the natural poverty index and socio-economic poverty eradication index of each county, and clarifies the distribution characteristics of spatial poverty using GIS spatial analysis and BP artificial neural network. The results indicate that natural factors are the main cause of poverty in Chinese counties, with 710 counties having a high natural poverty index, accounting for nearly 30% of the total number of counties in the country. The national county-level natural poverty index shows a clear strip distribution pattern along latitude and longitude, with a strip distribution from north to south and from west to east; socio-economic factors have played a certain role in poverty alleviation, with as many as 1521 counties with low socio-economic poverty alleviation indices, accounting for approximately 64% of the total number of counties in the country. The spatial distribution of the county-level socio-economic poverty alleviation index is relatively fragmented. Through spatial scanning statistics, a total of 44 county poverty pressure index risk clusters reached a statistical significance level, involving 243 counties and districts. In poverty reduction practice, the internal counties and districts of contiguous poverty-stricken areas should strengthen cooperation and exchange. In the process of poverty alleviation and development, targeted poverty alleviation and economic development should be carried out based on the poverty-dominant type and self-development ability of the county, in order to improve efficiency. Regions that are relatively prosperous and have taken the lead in poverty reduction should play a leading and exemplary role in strengthening the radiation power of regional central cities. The prominent feature of this study is the comprehensive utilization of multisource data and the use of new spatial analysis methods (flexible spatial scanning method is widely used in the field of infectious disease prevention and control research). By constructing a multidimensional poverty measurement system that includes natural and social factors, it distinguishes the differences between the factors that cause poverty and the factors that eliminate poverty in regional poverty. At the same time, the flexible spatial scanning detection method was used to detect the differentiation mechanism of poverty spatial patterns.
Histopathological Insight of a Case of Adenoid Ameloblastoma: A Rare Odontogenic Tumor
Authors: Keshwar Shashi , Raut Toniya , Jain Neetu , Shrestha Ashish , Jaisani Mehul Rajesh
Published: April 2024

Adenoid ameloblastoma with dentinoid had been perceived as a rare odontogenic tumor with bridging histopathological features between ameloblastoma and adenomatoid odontogenic tumor. Due to the mixture of histopathological features of two separate and well‐recognized entities, adenoid ameloblastoma was also regarded as a hybrid lesion. The diversity in the histopathological presentation among the cases has disaccorded the nature, behaviour, and prognosis of this pathology. Despite the literature acknowledging the histopathological diversity, categorizing all these variations into one and addressing them as a single entity was lagging till the 5th edition of the odontogenic tumor classification by the WHO was forwarded. With the establishment of the new terminology of adenoid ameloblastoma and the enlistment of its diagnostic criteria, the scientific literature has advocated updating, contributing, and redefining the various aspects of this pathology. Here, we present a case of a 34‐year‐old male who presented with a chief complaint of swelling in the lower front region of his jaw in the past one month. The swelling was associated with pain that was sudden in onset with a progressive increase in size. The swelling was also associated with discharge that resembled pus. A panoramic radiograph showed a mixed radiopaque and radiolucent area, extending from the distal aspect of 32 up to the distal aspect of 43. The entire cystic lining along with the growth was excised and sent for histopathological examination. Correlating clinically, the histopathological features are suggestive of adenoid ameloblastoma. Scientific literature has stood as a boon to evidence‐based practice. The diagnosis for the present case report is truly an outcome of the literature‐based update which helped the diagnosis of the case as a separate entity rather than as a hybrid pathology. The goal was to enhance the understanding of the lesions in terms of their clinical characteristics and diverse histopathological morphology.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Activity of Cu-Doped MgO Nanoparticles on Degradation of Methyl Orange (MO)
Authors: Gebreaneniya Mebrihit Fissaha , Berhe Goitom Gebreyohannes , Teklu Tesfamariam
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to synthesize Cu-doped MgO nanoparticles and test the performance of photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO). Mg(NO3)2, CuCl2, NaOH, and fresh Calotropis procera leaf extract were used as precursors. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by using FT-IR, XRD, SEM, and UV-Vis spectrometer to study the functional group, crystal structure, surface morphology, and absorption edge, respectively. The wide band above 3000 cm−1 from the FT-IR spectrum corresponds to the stretching vibrations of flavonoids and phenolic compounds of Calotropis procera leaf extract. Furthermore, the Mg-O bonding of undoped MgO and Cu-doped MgO NPs is represented by new peaks which appeared at 831 and 835 cm−1, respectively. The crystal size of undoped MgO and Cu-doped MgO nanoparticles is 13.04 nm and 12.08 nm, respectively. The SEM microstructure of pure MgO showed higher agglomeration than the Cu-doped MgO nanoparticles. The degradation efficiency of the Cu-doped MgO NPs was compared with that of the MgO NPs, and the photocatalytic activity of these NPs was evaluated using the photocatalytic degradation rates of MO dye. Cu-doped MgO NPs showed higher degradation efficiency than pure MgO NPs. The insertion of Cu in the MgO structure improved the photocatalytic efficiency of the MgO NPs under optimal conditions. Therefore, Cu-doped MgO exhibits high photocatalytic activity compared with undoped MgO nanoparticles under sunlight irradiation.
Clinical and Genomic Landscape of RAS Mutations in Gynecologic Cancers
Authors: Son Ji , Zhang Yingao , Lin Heather , Mirallas Oriol , Alvarez Ballesteros Pablo , Nardo Mirella , Clark Natalie , Hillman R. Tyler , Campbell Erick , Holla Vijaykumar , Johnson Amber M. , Biter Amadeo B. , Yuan Ying , Cobb Lauren P. , Gershenson David M. , Jazaeri Amir A. , Lu Karen H. , Soliman Pamela T. , Westin Shannon N. , Euscher Elizabeth D. , Lawson Barrett C. , Yang Richard K. , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Hong David S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

We aimed to describe RAS mutations in gynecologic cancers as they relate to clinicopathologic and genomic features, survival, and therapeutic implications.

Experimental Design:

Gynecologic cancers with available somatic molecular profiling data at our institution between February 2010 and August 2022 were included and grouped by RAS mutation status. Overall survival was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method, and multivariable analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazard model.

Results:

Of 3,328 gynecologic cancers, 523 (15.7%) showed any RAS mutation. Patients with RAS-mutated tumors were younger (57 vs. 60 years nonmutated), had a higher prevalence of endometriosis (27.3% vs. 16.9%), and lower grades (grade 1/2, 43.2% vs. 8.1%, all P < 0.0001). The highest prevalence of KRAS mutation was in mesonephric-like endometrial (100%, n = 9/9), mesonephric-like ovarian (83.3%, n = 5/6), mucinous ovarian (60.4%), and low-grade serous ovarian (44.4%) cancers. After adjustment for age, cancer type, and grade, RAS mutation was associated with worse overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.3; P = 0.001]. Specific mutations were in KRAS (13.5%), NRAS (2.0%), and HRAS (0.51%), most commonly KRAS G12D (28.4%) and G12V (26.1%). Common co-mutations were PIK3CA (30.9%), PTEN (28.8%), ARID1A (28.0%), and TP53 (27.9%), of which 64.7% were actionable. RAS + MAPK pathway-targeted therapies were administered to 62 patients with RAS-mutated cancers. While overall survival was significantly higher with therapy [8.4 years [(95% confidence interval (CI), 5.5–12.0) vs. 5.5 years (95% CI, 4.6–6.6); HR = 0.67; P = 0.031], this effect did not persist in multivariable analysis.

Conclusions:

RAS mutations in gynecologic cancers have a distinct histopathologic distribution and may impact overall survival. PIK3CA, PTEN, and ARID1A are potentially actionable co-alterations. RAS pathway-targeted therapy should be considered.
Supplementary Table 4 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Table 4 - FGFRi pre-treated patients with kinase domain resistance mutations identified in centrally tested ctDNA
FIGURE 3 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

Antitumor activity. A, Best percent change in target lesions by KIN-3248 starting dose level. Bars are color-coded by the gene (FGFR2 or FGFR3) that was altered according to the molecular report provided for study eligibility evaluation (local testing). Bars are labeled with the best overall response for each evaluable participant. X-axis is labeled with the tumor type of each participant, with the labels color-coded (black or red) to show which participants have been previously treated (*) with one or more FGFR inhibitors. Participants with documented on-target acquired resistance mutations, either by local testing or central ctDNA analysis, are indicated with distinct symbols. B, Twenty-six patients were evaluable for efficacy and were tested by central ctDNA analysis. Box and whisker plot of change in mean variant allele frequency of ctDNA after first cycle of KIN-3248 treatment by best overall response. C, Scatter plot of change in mean variant allele frequency of ctDNA after first cycle of KIN-3248 treatment by best % change in target lesions. X-axis direction is reversed. Linear fit with SE. Pearson R = 0.45, P = 0.021.
FIGURE 1 from A Phase I Study of KIN-3248, an Irreversible Small-molecule Pan-FGFR Inhibitor, in Patients with Advanced FGFR2/3-driven Solid Tumors
Authors: Garmezy Benjamin , Borad Mitesh J. , Bahleda Rastilav , Perez Cesar A. , Chen Li-Tzong , Kato Shumei , Oh Do-Youn , Severson Paul , Tam Betty Y. , Quah Cheng S. , Harding James J.
Published: April 2024

KIN3248 mean concentrations (mean ± SD) in patients following oral daily administration of KIN-3248 during cycle 1 day 1 and day 2.
Remote Surveillance Technology of Dialysis Arteriovenous Access: Retrospective Evaluation in a UK Renal Centre
Authors: Eltahan Alshymaa Rafiek , Pondor Zulfikar , Donne Rosemary L. , Lewis David , Raman Maharajan , Hinchliffe Paul , Cowperthwaite Jan , Poulikakos Dimitrios
Published: April 2024

Background: Early identification of dysfunctional arteriovenous haemodialysis (HD) vascular access (VA) is important for timely referral and intervention. Method: We retrospectively calculated VA risk score using Vasc-Alert surveillance software technology from HD treatment sessions in 2 satellite HD units over 18 months. We included in the analysis HD patients dialysing with arteriovenous fistula or graft (AVF/G) with available Vasc-Alert data for≥ 2 months. For group one (eventful) that included patients who developed vascular access thrombosis or stenosis over the study period, we collected Vasc-Alert risk score 2 months prior to the event and, for group two (uneventful), over 5 consecutive months. Vasc-Alert technology utilises routinely collected data during HD to calculate VA risk score and triggers an alert if the score is ≥7 in 3 consecutive dialysis sessions. Patients with >2 alerts (vascular access score ≥7) per month were considered to have positive alerts. Results: From 140 HD patients, 81 patients dialysed via AVF/G. 77/81 had available Vasc-Alert data and were included in the final analysis. Out of 17 eventful patients, 11 (64.7%) had positive alerts 2 months prior to the vascular event. Out of the 60 patients without vascular events, 20 patients (33.3%) had positive alert. Vasc-Alert’s sensitivity and specificity for vascular events were 64.7% and 66.6%, respectively. Within the 6 patients with thrombosed access, 2 patients (33.3%) detected by Vasc-Alert were not detected with clinical monitoring. Conclusion: Vascular access risk score can be a useful non-invasive vascular access surveillance method to assist clinical decision making.
Integrative Onkologie: Welche Rolle die Pflege spielt
Authors: Witt Claudia M.
Published: April 2024

Objective: Nurses are increasingly becoming involved in integrative oncology (IO) programs. This study examined the additive effect of nurse-provided guidance for self-administered IO therapies on cancer-related fatigue and quality of life (QoL). Methods: The study was randomized and controlled, enrolling patients undergoing active oncology treatment with IO interventions for fatigue and other QoL-related outcomes. IO practitioner guidance on self-treatment with manual, relaxation, and/or traditional herbal therapies was provided to patients in both the intervention and control arms. However, patients in the intervention arms also received additional guidance on self-treatment by IO-trained palliative care nurses. All participants were assessed for fatigue and QoL at baseline and at 24-h follow-up, using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) and the Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCAW) questionnaire tools. Results: Of 353 patients recruited, 187 were randomized to the intervention and 166 to the control group. Both groups had similar demographic and oncology-related characteristics. Patients in the intervention arm reported significantly greater improvement in ESAS scores for fatigue (p = 0.026) and appetite (p = 0.003) when compared to controls. Conclusion: The addition of nurse-provided guidance on self-administration of IO treatments to that provided by IO practitioners further reduced short-term scores for fatigue and improved appetite. The relationship between palliative and IO supportive cancer care requires further study.
Uns Baixa adesão à profilaxia pós-exposição ao HIV em um município do interior de São Paulo entre 2011 e 2020
Authors: Romero Gabriela Salgaço , Guimarães Gabriela Paim , Yamashita Barbara Harumi , Corregliano Juliana Rossi , De Ângelo Carolina Vicente , Nogueira Luisa Tosetto , Figueiredo Walter Manso
Published: April 2024

Introdução: A Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida (aids) é uma doença que tem como agente etiológico o vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), adquirido por via sexual, sanguínea e vertical, por meio de objetos perfurocortantes contaminados ou pelo contato com fluidos corporais. A infecção pode permanecer assintomática por anos, e a sintomatologia inicial pode ser inespecífica. A maior prevalência ocorre em homens que fazem sexo com homens, na faixa de 40 a 49 anos (44,4%), e 50 anos ou mais (52,8%) na categoria heterossexual. Nas mulheres, a principal categoria é a heterossexual (mais de 80%). Nos menores de 13 anos, a principal via de infecção é a vertical, e nos maiores, a sexual. A maior parte possui ensino médico completo e se declara como pardo. O tratamento da infecção pelo HIV é feito com fármacos antirretrovirais. A Profilaxia Pós-Exposição (PEP), indicada até 72 horas após a exposição ao HIV, consiste no uso de medicamentos para reduzir o risco de adquirir a infecção. Objetivos: Avaliar a adesão à PEP no município de Araraquara, de acordo com sexo, idade, escolaridade, estado civil, raça e profissão, a fim de promover maior conhecimento e maior adesão aos métodos preventivos ao HIV. Metodologia: Estudo transversal descritivo. Os dados dos pacientes que iniciaram a PEP no Serviço de Assistência Especializada (SAE), do Serviço Especial de Saúde de Araraquara (SESA), foram coletados do banco de dados do Sistema de Informação e Gestão em Saúde Pública (Sistema Juarez). Para análise dos dados, foi utilizado o programa Microsoft Power BI. Após essa etapa, houve promoção de educação sexual, por meio de panfletos e cartazes informativos, nas unidades de saúde do município, com foco nos desafios identificados por meio das informações coletadas. Resultados: A prevalência dos indivíduos que aderiram à PEP (9,2%) foi maior nos indivíduos do sexo masculino, entre 30 e 40 anos, raça branca, autônomos e com ensino superior completo. Conclusão: A maioria dos indivíduos que procuram pela PEP não aderiram a esse método de prevenção, logo, é necessário conscientizar a população alvo sobre a existência de métodos preventivos pré e pós-exposição sexual e a importância de finalizar a medicação e o seguimento, a fim de evitar a contaminação pelo HIV.
Tratamento da tireotoxicose e do carcinoma da tireóide pelo iôdo radioativo
Authors: Carvalho Nelson
Published: April 2024

O autor expõe as múltiplas vantagens do tratamento da tireotoxicose pelo iodo radioativo.A simplicidade, a segurança, a eficiência e ausência de complicações tornamo I o tratamento de escolha da tireotoxicose, em pacientes acima de 35 anos de idade e naqueles que recidivaram após a operação.As conclusões a que chega sobre o emprego do I nos cânceres da tireóide são: 1) O rádio-iôdo ajuda no diagnóstico dos cânceres tireóideos, localizando as zonas suspeitas, guiando a biopsia, permitindo em certos casos o diagnóstico precoce numa fase em que ainda não existem sinais clínicos suspeitos. 2) A seleção dos cânceres suscetíveis de serem tratados pelo iodo radioativo é difícil. 3) Somente podem ser tratados os cânceres primitivos e as metástases que fixarem o iodo em doses suficientes. 4) Só devem ser tratados pelo I131 os casos contra-indicados para a cirurgia.
Fracture Risk Among Stroke Survivors According to Poststroke Disability Status and Stroke Type
Authors: Lee Dagyeong , Cho In Young , Chang Won Hyuk , Yoo Jung Eun , Choi Hea Lim , Park Junhee , Shin Dong Wook , Han Kyungdo
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Stroke survivors face physical and cognitive challenges, leading to an increased dependency and a higher fall risk. We aimed to investigate the impact of poststroke disability and stroke type on fracture risk at various sites compared with matched controls.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Korean National Health Insurance System database (2010–2018), including patients with stroke and 1:1 matched controls. Stroke survivors were grouped based on the presence and severity of their poststroke disability and stroke type. The primary outcome was a newly diagnosed fracture, analyzed by Cox proportional hazard regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS:

Among 223 358 stroke survivors (mean age, 64.8±10.9 years; 61.2% men), 16 344 fractures occurred during a mean follow-up of 3.7±2.5 years. In matched controls (n=322 161; mean age, 65.4±11.2 years; 61.3% men), 20 398 fractures were identified. Stroke survivors had increased overall fracture risk compared with matched controls (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.40 [95% CI, 1.37–1.43]). Specifically, hip fracture risk was even greater in stroke survivors (incidence rate per 1000 person-years, 4.7 [95% CI, 4.5–4.8]; aHR, 2.42 [95% CI, 2.30–2.55]) than controls (incidence rate, 2.2 [95% CI, 2.1–2.3]). The risk of vertebral fractures (aHR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.25–1.34]) and other fractures (aHR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.15–1.23]) was also higher than that of the control group. Hip fracture risk was the highest among stroke survivors with severe poststroke disability (aHR, 4.82 [95% CI, 4.28–5.42]), although vertebral or other fracture risk was the highest among those with mild poststroke disability. No significant difference in fracture risk was found between hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke survivors when stratified by disability status.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings showed increased subsequent fracture risk among stroke survivors, particularly those with poststroke disability and for hip fracture. Bone health assessment and treatment should be emphasized as an essential part of stroke management.
Groundwater decline has negatively affected the well-preserved amphibian community of Doñana National Park (SW Spain)
Authors: Díaz-Paniagua Carmen , Florencio Margarita , de Felipe Miguel , Ramírez-Soto Mamen , Román Isidro , Arribas Rosa
Published: April 2024

The success of amphibian conservation efforts is highly dependent on the preservation of amphibian breeding habitats. Doñana National Park contains an abundance of ponds with heterogeneous characteristics, which has historically favoured its amphibian community. However, most of the park’s ponds are groundwater dependent, and aquifer overexploitation outside the park is leading to shorter hydroperiods and even desiccation in the pond network. This problem has been exacerbated by the scarcity of rain over the last decade. In 2021-2022, we surveyed the occurrence of the park’s 11 amphibian species, with a view to comparing our findings with those from the last previous survey in 2003-2004. We mapped the species occurrence within the park for the two survey periods. While all 11 amphibian species could still be found in Doñana, their occurrence had decreased across the board. In 2003-2004, 6 species were present across more than 50% of the sampling area. In contrast, 18 years later, such was the case for only two species (Pelophylax perezi and Hyla meridionalis). Declines were greatest for Epidalea calamita, followed by Pelobates cultripes, Triturus pygmaeus, and Lissotriton boscai. The mean number of species per sampling unit (i.e., grid cell) dropped from 4.3 to 3.1. To preserve Doñana’s amphibian community, it is important to restore the park’s pond network, which implies reducing regional groundwater overexploitation.
Taxonomy of Naumann’s and dusky, red-throated and black-throated thrush complexes (Aves: Turdidae) using morphological and molecular characteristics
Authors: An Boyang , Yin Danyang , Huang Songlin , Mohamed Nassoro , Li Bo
Published: April 2024

Species are the basic units in evolution and biodiversity and thus a reasonable species classification is essential to assess and protect biodiversity. The classifications of the Naumann’s and dusky thrush complexes and the red-throated and black-throated thrush complexes are not well defined in Turdidae (Aves, Passeriformes). Herein, we use qualitative and quantitative morphological characters and molecular data to review the taxonomy of these thrush complexes. These four thrushes can be distinguished with qualitative features of feather color and striping. These birds cannot be divided by quantitative features, which only work on two groups of thrush complexes. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial genes indicate that all haplotypes might be divided into two monophyletic clades corresponding to two groups of thrush complexes. According to coalescence-based species delimitation and the gen-morph species concept, these two groups of thrush complexes should be separated as two distinctive species (T. naumanni and T. ruficollis) and including two subspecies per species. This species classification is also supported by gene flow analysis. There is a significant mixing between these two thrush species in the neighbor-joining (NJ) tree and the cluster analysis using a few microsatellite loci. This leads to a pattern of nuclear-mitochondrial discordance between the two birds that can be explained by several potential mechanisms. This study provides the first comprehensive classification of the two thrush complexes on a population level using morphological and molecular characteristics, which will be useful in expanding our understanding of species division among thrush complexes.
International Lawyers as Hope Mongers: How Did We Come to Believe That Democracy Was Here to Stay?
Authors: Aral Işıl
Published: April 2024

It is common these days to lament the recession of democracy around the world. The way scholars address the issue of democratic backsliding shows that there is a significant gap between the expectation about democracy’s anticipated course of development and the current state of affairs. This article argues that the expectation that democracy would consolidate over time was produced by the progress narrative of democratic governance discourses. Drawing on narratology, it conducts a discourse analysis to demonstrate that today’s dismay about the recession of democracy is due to an unwarranted expectation that was created by the progress narrative of democratic governance discourses. It focuses on the periodisation of history in the construction of these discourses and investigates how scholars used the Cold War – post-Cold War dichotomy to create a progress narrative.
Undescribed diversity in Iberian Mutillidae (Hymenoptera): a new species of Smicromyrme Thomson, 1870 from Portugal
Authors: MATIAS RAFAEL
Published: April 2024

Mutillid wasps (Mutillidae) are relatively inconspicuous ectoparasitoid Hymenoptera, distributed worldwide, with ca. 150 species known from Europe. Compared to other areas in the continent (e.g. Italy, former USSR), and despite important effort made during the 20th century by Spanish entomologists, the biodiverse Iberian Peninsula remains relatively unexplored, with important knowledge gaps; this is particularly true and acute for Portugal, where prospection effort has been historically residual regarding the mutillid wasp fauna. The present situation at the regional level results from additional factors, including difficulties with diagnosing specimens, in turn also a consequence of insufficient original descriptions and from synonymies incorrectly established, creating taxonomic confusion. The synonymization of Mutilla pusilla Klug in Waltl, 1835 with various unrelated species by Ernest André was a particularly problematic case, causing several taxa to have remained undescribed for more than one century, confused under an incorrectly broadened definition. In consequence, the potential discovery of new taxa in the region is not unlikely and is maybe even expectable. Smicromyrme suarezi Matias, sp. nov. is described from females from Portugal and illustrated. The new species most closely resembles S. partitus Klug in Waltl, 1835 and S. sulcisius Invrea, 1955, both here also briefly treated and illustrated. Fourteen species of the genus Smicromyrme Thomson, 1870 are now known from the Iberian Peninsula; a key to their eight females is provided.
Viridiflavoritia koxiae (Lepidoptera, Zygaenidae, Chalcosiinae), a new genus and a new species from China
Authors: HUANG SI-YAO , HORIE KIYOSHI , ZHANG CHAO , ZHANG XIN-YU , ESPELAND MARIANNE
Published: April 2024

A new genus Viridiflavoritia Huang & Horie, gen. n. is described to accommodate a new species, V. koxiae Huang & Horie sp. n. from Mt. Simian, Chongqing, southwestern China and Mt. Tianping, Guangxi, southern China. A comparative is made with its related taxa. Adult and genitalia of the aforementioned taxa are illustrated.
Recent Advances and Applications of Graph Convolution Neural Network Methods in Materials Science
Authors: Zhao Ke-Lin , Li Qing-Xu
Published: April 2024

With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), AI plus science is increasingly valued, presenting new perspectives to scientific research. The research on using machine learning (including deep learning) to discover patterns from data and predict targeted material properties has received widespread attention, which will have a profound impact in material science studies. In recent years, there has been an increased interest in the use of deep learning in materials science, which has led to significant progress in both fundamental and applied research. One of the most notable advancements is the development of graph convolutional neural network models, which combine graph neural networks and convolutional neural networks to achieve outstanding results in materials science and bridge effectively the deep learning models and material properties predictions. The availability of large materials databases due to the rise of big data has further enhanced the relevance of these models in the field. We present, in this article, a comprehensive overview of graph convolutional neural network models, explaining their fundamental principles and highlighting a few examples of their applications in materials science, as well as current trends. The limitations and challenges that these models face, as well as the potential for future research in this dynamic area are also discussed.
Efficacy of Essential Oil Formulations in Rice Seed Treatment Against Magnaporthe oryzae B.C Couch, a Rice Blast Pathogen
Authors: Souleymane Ouattara , Itolou Kassankogno , Sylvain Zougrana , Abdoulaye Sérémé , Kadidia Koïta
Published: April 2024

Rice is one of the most widely produced cereals in Burkina Faso. However, the fungi transmitted by rice seeds, Oryza sativa L, cause enormous production losses in rice fields. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of powdery formulations of essential oils against Magnaporthe oryzae in rice. Thus, rice seeds of the FKR64 variety were disinfected with 15% sodium hypochlorite for 10 minutes and soaked in the suspension of 104 conidia/ml for 24 hours. These contaminated rice seeds were coated into powdery formulations of essential oils of L. multiflora, C. schoenanthus and their combination at a dose of 10g/kg of seed. A contaminated control was used. The experimental set-up was a completely randomised block with four treatments in three replicates, one of which was an absolute control. These treatments were carried out on L. multiflora essential oil, C. schoenanthus essential oil and their combination at a proportion of 50%. The results showed that the essential oil of L. multiflora recorded the highest percentage emergence, average height and average number of tillers of the plants, with values of 97.33%, 47.67 cm and 7.89 tillers respectively. This same formulation recorded the lowest percentage of seedling melt and foliar incidence, at 1.33% and 11.67% respectively. These essential oil formulations can be recommended for seed treatment against Magnaporthe oryzae.
Artificial House for Swiftlets (COLLOCALIA FUCIPHAGA) Based on MAMDANI FIS (Fuzzy Inference System)
Authors: Marzuki Achmad , Heryawan Wawan , Dulhan Irman
Published: April 2024

Indonesia is an archipelagic country crossed by the equator, surrounded by the ocean, and traversed by many rivers, with a high level of rainfall. One of its islands is West Kalimantan, which has the longest river in Indonesia, the Kapuas River. In addition to the Kapuas River, there are also several tributaries scattered across this island, ensuring a constant water supply in the region. A natural condition surrounded by water, creates an environment with temperature and humidity that is ideal for the habitat of the swiftlets (COLLOCALIA FUCIPHAGA). The swiftlets initially inhabit caves with humidity levels around 80-95% and temperatures between 25-27°C. The nests of these swiftlets contain valuable substances, especially for health and cosmetics purposes, making them highly valuable in the market. Due to their high economic value, many farmers construct artificial houses for swiftlets of various sizes. The main challenge in a swiftlet house is to maintain humidity and temperature conditions close to the ideal habitat. This research aims to create a prototype control and monitoring system based on Mamdani FIS to maintain humidity and temperature inside the swiftlets house close to the ideal conditions, achieved by implementing an effective timing mechanism for humidifier machines and fans. Experiments results of the prototype show that the average humidity produced is 87.06%, and the temperature is 25.19°C. The placement of this prototype within an Artificial house for swiftlets should be movable within certain rooms and positioned according to the swiftlets' needs to ensure that the location is favored by the birds. This prototype can be operated manually and automatically, thus providing flexibility for Swiftlet farmers to control and monitor the Swiftlet’s house condition. This automatic control can be done globally via smartphone devices, so it is also able to provide great convenience for Swiftlets farmers to change and monitor the temperature and humidity.
Orthopedic Joint Preservation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Obeid Bilal
Published: April 2024

This comprehensive review article delves into the intricate realm of orthopedic joint preservation with a focus on surgical techniques, innovative treatments, rehabilitation protocols, and long-term outcomes. Within the orthopedic landscape, joint preservation plays a crucial role in enhancing patient quality of life and functional outcomes. The article delivers a detailed exploration of various surgical techniques utilized for joint preservation, encompassing arthroscopy, cartilage repair, osteotomy, and ligament reconstruction. By scrutinizing the indications, outcomes, and potential complications associated with these procedures, the article aids in providing a comprehensive understanding for practitioners. Moreover, it delves into the realm of cutting-edge treatments such as regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy, and biologic agents, shedding light on their significant role in promoting joint preservation and fostering tissue healing. Rehabilitation protocols for joint preservation are also thoroughly evaluated, underlining the pivotal role of early mobilization, tailored physical therapy regimens, and patient education in fostering optimal outcomes while averting potential complications. Through an assessment of long-term outcomes post joint preservation interventions including functional improvements, pain management, and patient contentment, the article endeavors to gauge the efficacy and longevity of these interventions. By offering a nuanced overview of the current state of joint preservation in orthopedics, the article extends valuable insights to orthopedic surgeons, researchers, and healthcare professionals actively engaged in managing joint disorders.
Factors Associated with the Financial Accessibility of Medicines in Public Health Structures in Conakry, Guinea
Authors: Youla Yamoussa , Bah Tanou , Bangoura Salifou , Mory Guilao , Sékou Traoré , Sow Abdoulaye , Sylla Younoussa , Sidibé Sidikiba , Camara Saidouba , Diakité Djiba , Olivier Kadio , Touré Abdoulaye
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study is to analyze the factors associated with financial accessibility to medicines in public health structures in Matoto, Guinea, 2022. This was a cross-sectional study, lasting six months. It concerned patients admitted for consultation in one of the public health structures in Matoto, who had received a medical prescription and who presented themselves at the point of sale of the structure where they were consulted. We performed a chi2, Fischer Exact test to compare the proportions with each other. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. A total of 573 patients, predominantly female 63% and single 52%, voluntarily participated in this study. We found that 30% of patients carried out a liberal activity compared to 5.93% who were civil servants. 3.14% of the subjects surveyed came from outside Conakry. We estimated the frequency of financial inaccessibility to medicines at 56.54%. This study revealed that financial accessibility to medicines in public health structures in Matoto (Guinea) is a challenge for 56.54% of patients. The associated factors are: Gender, socio-professional status, origin and age.
Factors Associated with Teenage Pregnancy in Mutasa District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Moyoweshumba Maxwell , Chikaka Elliot , Mhlanga Maxwell , Mukuzunga Munyaradzi
Published: April 2024

Teenage pregnancies are a global problem mainly in marginalised communities resulting in complications, societal rejection and deaths. In Zimbabwe, 48% of the teenage pregnancies occurred between 13-19 years. Mutasa District, one of the Districts in Zimbabwe has high rate of teenage pregnancies. Teenage abortions rose from 3/1000 in 2018 to 5/1000 in 2019. We conducted a study on the factors associated with teenage pregnancies in Mutasa District in the year 2018 and 2019. The specific objectives were to determine the prevalence of teenage pregnancies, to determine the sociocultural, economic and religious factors influencing teenage pregnancies and to assess the availability and utilisation of Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Services. A multi-methods+ study design was used with a sample size of 80 cases and 80 controls from four hospitals in Mutasa. Systematic sampling was employed where every 3rd subject was systematically selected upon satisfaction of the inclusion criteria, with sampling interval observed. A quantitative survey and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data. The results showed that 72 (90%) of the cases only had primary school education. Being single orphans 60 (75%), having information and education gaps 77 (96.3%), being chased off home to go to the male partner 49 (61.3%) were the prevalent factors linked to teenage pregnancies. Having been disciplined when found with contraceptives led to 41 (51.3%) of the pregnancies. Having the boyfriend as a source of livelihood allowances contributed to 59 (73.8%) of teenage pregnancies while being a member of an Apostolic Sect contributed 65 (82.3%) of the cases. The FGDs revealed that the Youth Friendly Centres were inadequate for the community, poorly resourced having no comprehensive preventive services and therefore poorly utilised. In addition, teenage pregnancy preventions were stereotyped to females only with current interventions being predominantly reactionary than preventive. The findings of this study suggest the need for reproductive health information, gender inclusive programming, and provision of a sundry of well-resourced Youth Friendly Centres in the District and a focus on tailor-made preventive interventions rather than punitive ones.
Temporal and Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Torrential Flooding Disasters with Different Intensities in Tarim Basin
Authors: null Nuyiyeti , Liu Chenliang , Xie Xiaofeng , Hu Ming , Hao Lei
Published: April 2024

As torrential flooding often cause huge economic losses and casualties, analyzing the spatio-temporal variation characteristics of torrential flooding events is of great significance to disaster prevention and reduction. Based on five indicators for torrential floodingin the Tarim Basin in 1990-2019, ratio weighting and non-dimensional linear summation were employed to calculate disastrous loss indicators that represent disaster intensity. Afterwards, percentile method was used to divide disasters into four levels, i.e., general, relatively severe, severe and extremely severe. The results showed that the regions where Level-1 to Level-4 disasters frequently and recurrently occur are concentrated in Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Aksu Prefecture and Kashgar Prefecture and that such disasters often take place from April to July. The interannual variation of the frequency and intensity of Level-1 disasters presented a linear upward trend, and the frequency and disastrous loss indicator increased by 14.6 and 0.8 per 10a, respectively. The interannual variation of the frequency and intensity of Level-2 to Level-4 disasters did not show a linear increase or decrease trend. The threshold for 12-hour precipitation that may cause torrential flooding in the basin from March and October is 10mm. The annual frequency of 12-hour precipitation exceeding the threshold increased year by year, so did the frequency and intensity of Level-1 disasters.