bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Pathoanatomical Characteristics of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome a Clinical Case
Authors: Chepelev Alexandr S. , Timofeev Eugene V. , Myaggi Nadezhda A.
Published: October 2024

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a common congenital heart defect, accounting for 4 to 16% of cases, and is one of the most prognostically unfavorable, involving single-­ventricle hemodynamics. HLHS involves hypoplasia of the left ventricle, often in combination with atresia and/or stenosis of the aortic and/or mitral valves, as well as hypoplasia of various parts of the aorta. Intrauterine reduction in blood flow to the left heart structures at early stages of fetal development subsequently leads to severe changes in cardiac structures, often not amenable to surgical correction. Objective. To study the clinical and morphological features of HLHS using a clinical case as an example. Materials and Methods. The patient was a child from the first pregnancy, which was complicated by anemia and first-­trimester preeclampsia. The defect was diagnosed prenatally at 23/24 weeks. At 39 weeks, labor was induced, and the infant was hospitalized in the intensive care unit with symptoms of cardiac and respiratory failure. On the 6th day of life, surgical treatment was performed — a Norwood operation, which is a single-­ventricle hemodynamic surgical correction of the defect. Despite intensive care measures, multiple organ failure progressed, leading to the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and subsequent death on the 10th day of life. Results. Autopsy, including staining of the myocardium with Masson’s trichrome and hematoxylin and eosin, showed pronounced plethora of the microcirculatory vessels with formation of erythrocyte thrombi. Pronounced perivascular edema and fraying of muscle fibers were detected. Fibroelastosis of the endocardium of the left ventricle was observed, characterized by pronounced sclerotic thickening due to significant proliferation of fibrous tissue, with the spread of connective tissue strands into the myocardium. Endocardial fibroelastosis is a component of HLHS and one of the determining factors in the outcome of cardiac surgery. Conclusion. The results of this work indicate the complexity of HLHS as a developmental defect, the severity of its clinical manifestations, and the limited prospects of currently existing surgical treatment methods. These patients may require heart transplantation in the first days of life. A potential alternative to early postnatal heart transplantation may be the development of methods for intrauterine correction of the existing developmental defect.
Measuring the Unmeasurable: Unraveling the complexities of real-time output gap estimation
Authors: Pulido-Mahecha Karen L. , Restrepo-Ángel Sergio , Galeano-Ramírez† Franky Juliano
Published: October 2024

This paper evaluates seven output gap models for real-time estimates, based on three criteria: stability of estimations on new observations, data revisions and/or methodological changes; inflation forecasting accuracy; and potential output response to structural economic shocks. Results confirm no single model outperforms across all criteria. Structural VARs exhibit superior inflation forecasts but show high instability, while semi-structural models produce more theoretically consistent potential output responses. To overcome this trade-off, we propose a novel clustering approach to pool models based on their real-time performance, yielding improved estimates. Our findings highlight the value of this method for enhancing real-time output gap measurement and informing monetary policy decisions.
An IoT solution that detects human physical activities to support health assessment based on sensors and supervised learning algorithms
Authors: Tran Duc-Nghia
Published: October 2024

At the moment, human physical activities can be detected by activity recognition systems to help with health status evaluation. One of the key issues in human activity recognition (HAR) systems is cost, speed, and accuracy. With the advancement of mobile devices and increasingly sophisticated microprocessors, along with the integration of various sensors including accelerometers, human activity recognition has become easier and faster. However, the accuracy of activity classification based on accelerometer data depends on many different factors, which can lead to potential deviations in results. Through various experiments, we have found that selecting optimal features is crucial for the performance of classification. In this paper, we propose a simple feature set that yields very promising results with an accuracy of up to 99%.
Control of continuous digester kappa number using generalized model predictive control
Authors: GILBERT WESLEY , ALLISON BRUCE
Published: October 2024

Kappa number variability at the digester impacts pulp yield, physical strength properties, and lignin content for downstream delignification processing. Regulation of the digester kappa number is therefore of great importance to the pulp and paper industry. In this work, an industrial application of model-based predictive control (MPC), based on generalized prediction control, was developed for kappa number feedback control and applied to a dual vessel continuous digester located in Western Canada. The problem was complicated by the need to apply heat at multiple locations in the cook.
In this study, the problem was reduced from a multiple to a single input system by identifying three potential single variable permutations for temperature adjustment. In the end, a coordinated approach to the heaters was adopted. The process was perturbed and modeled as a simple first order plus dead time model and implemented in generalized predictive control (GPC). The GPC was then configured to be equivalent to Dahlin’s controller, which reduced tuning parameterization to a single closed loop time constant. The controller was then tuned based on robustness towards a worst-case dead time mismatch of 50%.
The control held the mean value of the kappa number close to the setpoint, and a 40% reduction in the kappa number’s standard deviation was achieved. Different kappa number trials were run, and the average fiberline yield for each period was evaluated. Trial results suggested yield gains of 0.3%–0.5% were possible for each 1 kappa number target increase.
STRUCTURAL SYNTHESIS OF A MOBILE FIRE EXTINGUISHER FOR CLASS B FIRE EXTINGUISHING
Authors: Abramov Yu. , Kolomiiets V. , Sobyna V.
Published: October 2024

With regard to a mobile firefighting unit based on a sigway, which is focused on extinguishing class B fires with sprayed water, its functional diagram is constructed. A feature of such a mobile fire-fighting unit is the inclusion of a human operator in its composition. For the set of elements of the mobile fire unit, the expression of the transfer function is obtained, the peculiarity of which is the presence of a lagging link. According to the principle of dynamic compensation, this transfer function is used to form the transfer function of the correction element. The transfer function of the correction element is formed using a priori specified transient quality indicators. Under these conditions, a reference transfer function of a mobile fire unit is chosen, whose Hurwitz polynomial is of the fourth order. It is shown that the transfer function of the correction element can be represented as a fractional rational function, the numerator polynomial of which is of the fourth order and the denominator polynomial of the sixth order. The coefficients of the denominator polynomial are subject to the necessary conditions of the Hurwitz criterion. These coefficients are determined through the generalized delay time of the elements of the mobile fire unit and through the ratio of the dimensionless time of the transient process and its dimensional permissible value. It is shown that the realization of the correction element can be carried out by means of two types of elementary dynamic links - integrating and aperiodic. A verbal interpretation of the algorithm for structural synthesis of a mobile fire unit is given. An example of such a structural synthesis is given and it is shown that the introduction of a correction element into the structure of a mobile fire unit provides a reduction in the time to extinguish a class B fire using sprayed water by an order of magnitude.
Keywords: mobile fire extinguishing unit, transfer function, quality indicators, extinguishing time.
PREVENTION OF TECHNOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES IN THE WARFARE ZONE
Authors: Rashkevych N. , Rashkevych О. , Rebrov O. , Shevchenko R.
Published: October 2024

In a war zone, there are potential risks of the spread of an emergency due to harmful (polluting) substances in the environment above the maximum permissible concentrations. The causes of the danger are explosions, detonations, chemical spills, military vehicles, shelling or destruction of the infrastructure of oil facilities, and damage to the infrastructure of water supply and drainage. Method of preventing emergencies of a technological nature includes procedures using modern technologies and information systems to ensure timely response and minimise risks for the population and the environment.
The algorithm for implementing the method of technological emergency prevention due to harmful (polluting) substances in the atmospheric air above the maximum permissible concentration in the combat zone consists of procedures. Procedures include work on planning and preparation, measurement and data collection, data analysis and processing, management decision-making, and control.
Using a laser complex to prevent emergencies is an innovative approach that helps to identify potential threats and control their development accurately and effectively. The laser complex solves the dual task of detecting and immediately evaluating polluting gases and aerosols.
The article also describes the algorithm for preventing technological emergencies due to harmful (polluting) substances in drinking water above the maximum permissible concentration in the combat zone. Groundwater is the predominant object of danger. The procedures consist of collecting and analysing statistical data, deciding the priority of monitoring areas, determining goals by types of hazards, setting tasks, choosing a monitoring scheme, determining monitoring procedures and their characteristics, solving monitoring issues, monitoring, making management decisions to limit the spread of the consequences of hazards.
Effective emergency prevention procedures planned and carried out using modern tools and instruments can contain the spread of the consequences of a technological emergency, limiting the number of victims and injured and the area of hazard spread.
Keywords: soil, air, monitoring, laser complex, emergency.
Diagnostic Challenge of Lupus with Overlap Syndrome in an Adolescent: A Case Report
Authors: Anu Suria Ganason  , Mohd Radzniwan A. Rashid  , Fathima Begum Syed Mohideen  , Syed Mohamad Sharifah Najwa , Nurul Hayati Chamhuri
Published: October 2024

Lupus with overlap syndrome is an uncommon autoimmune disease that typically affects teenage females. It can present as various symptoms affecting multiple organs. Delay in the diagnosis of lupus will lead to deleterious effects on the implicated adolescents’ health. The case report aims to describe the diagnostic challenge of a refractory skin disease leading to a delay in diagnosis and highlight its psychosocial impact. Here, we describe a case of a teenager who presented with poorly controlled chronic dermatitis. The chronic dermatitis was refractory to the first-line therapy of topical steroids and emollients. She was finally diagnosed with lupus and overlap syndrome, confirmed by a skin biopsy. In conclusion, any chronic refractory skin diseases warrant further referral and investigation at the tertiary centre. Assessment of psychosocial in managing chronic skin disease in adolescent is essential as it could implicate their mental health further.
Quantum Entanglement and Its Classification Protocols
Authors: Amirul Asyraf Zhahir  , Siti Munirah Mohd  , Mohd Sham Mohamad  , Mohd Ilias M Shuhud  , Bahari Idrus  , Hishamuddin Zainuddin  , Nurhidaya Mohamad Jan
Published: October 2024

Quantum entanglement has its own major role in quantum information theory. Its application in numerous areas namely quantum computing, quantum cryptography and quantum teleportation are proven vital and essential. Over the last decades, the interests in quantum entanglement have grown and significant progress in quantum computing has been revealed. However, the classification of entanglement was proved to be challenging especially in a higher qubit-dimensional system setting. In this review, indexed literature as the secondary resource was chosen by specific keywords from several database. In reference to the literatures review, there exists several entanglement classifications protocols that will be presented in this paper namely local unitary (LU), local operations and classical communication (LOCC), and stochastic local operations and classical communication (SLOCC). This study will offer a better understanding of quantum entanglement and the entanglement classification protocols.
Structural and Electrochemical Properties of Binary ZnO:Al Nanocomposites as Anode for Lithium-ion Batteries
Authors: Maisurah Mukhtar  , Najiha Hamid  , Suhaimi Syahida Suhaimi , Azwani Sofia Ahmad Khiar  , Peshawa Omer Amin
Published: October 2024

In conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), carbon compounds are commonly utilised as the anode owing to their great performance, low cost, and abundance. However, due to the limited storage capability of pure carbon materials that restrict further improvement of LIBs, zinc oxide (ZnO) has been one of the promising anode materials to be used as an alternative to strengthen the electrochemical performance of LIBs due to its high theoretical capacity of 987 mAh g-1. This study aims to synthesise ZnO:Al nanowires using the hot-tube thermal evaporation method. Three types of samples are made using this method by varying the concentration of 0 wt% (S1), 3wt% (S2), and 6 wt% (S3) of aluminium (Al) during the Al deposition process. The EDX findings indicated that the sample has a high proportion of zinc (Zn) and oxygen (O), with the S3 sample having the highest Al concentration after being deposited. The most substantial diffraction peak for XRD of all samples was found at (101), exhibiting a single crystalline hexagonal structure with optimum growth direction on the c-axis. For EIS analysis, the S3 sample has the lowest bulk resistance and maximum ionic conductivity. In conclusion, the ZnO sample with 3 wt% of Al as a dopant was selected as the optimum result to synthesise a homogenous surface of ZnO:Al with good crystallinity by using a hot-tube thermal evaporation process and giving the best conductivity in electrochemical performance.
Saga tveggja bókmenntaskóla: Sósíalískt raunsæi og skandinavískar verkalýðsbókmenntir á fjórða áratug síðustu aldar
Authors: Lund Nicklas Freisleben , Nilsson Magnus
Published: October 2024

Greinin fjallar um samband hinnar fagurfræðilegu kenningar um sósíalískt raunsæi og skandínavískra (danskra og sænskra) verkalýðsbókmennta. Hún beinir sjónum að þremur höfundum sem áttu sæti í skandinavísku sendinefndinni á Fyrsta allsherjarþingi sovéskra rithöfunda í Moskvu árið 1934, Svíunum Mou Martinson og Harry Martinson og Dananum Martin Andersen Nexø – en einnig að nokkrum áhrifamiklum verkalýðshöfundum og gagnrýnendum sem áttu þátt í að móta umræðuna um sósíalískt raunsæi í Skandinavíu: Svíunum Ivar Lo-Johansson og Erik Blomberg og Dönunum Julius Bomholt, Harald Herdal og Hans Kirk. Greinin sýnir fram á að þótt bein áhrif sósíalíska raunsæisins hafi verið takmörkuð í Skandinavíu bar allnokkuð á hugtakinu í bókmenntaumræðunni. Þannig veitir greining á sambandi sósíalísks raunsæis og skandínavískra verkalýðsbókmennta ekki aðeins innsýn í tvenns konar sérstætt bókmenntaumhverfi heldur opnar hún einnig nýjar leiðir til að setja þær í alþjóðlegt samhengi og hugsa það sem kalla má rauðar heimsbókmenntir á annan hátt. Greinin leiðir rök að því að tengsl kenningarinnar um sósíalískt raunsæi og skandinavískra verkalýðsbókmennta á síðari hluta fjórða áratugarins dragi fram hversu margbrotið hið menningarlega landslag rauðra heimsbókmennta var, þar sem það mótaðist af ólíku þjóðlegu og svæðisbundnu samhengi. Þannig verður hugtakið rauðar heimsbókmenntir að leggja áherslu á tilvist margra ólíkra afbrigða vinstrisinnaðra bókmennta, sem að hluta til hafa verið markaðar af innbyrðis átökum eða togstreitu. Lykilorð: verkalýðsbókmenntir, sósíalískt raunsæi, heimsbókmenntir.
Alþjóðasinnaðar heimsbókmenntir og endurvakning þeirra á áttunda áratugnum í Vestur-Þýskalandi: Vettvangsfrásagnir, gagnmenning og þverþjóðleg verkalýðsstétt
Authors: Schaub Christoph
Published: October 2024

Greinin byggist á lestri og samanburði á vettvangsfrásögnum Egons Erwins Kisch og Marianne Herzog, annars vegar vel þekkts höfundar og hins vegar höfundar sem er að mestu leyti gleymdur. Markmiðið er að kanna sögulega samfellu og rof frá millistríðsárunum, þegar alþjóðasinnaðar heimsbókmenntir tóku á sig mynd, og fram á áttunda áratuginn, þegar höfundar í Vestur-Þýskalandi tóku að byggja á þeirri hefð. Greinin leiðir rök að því að slíka samfellu og rof megi greina með því að beina sjónum að þremur atriðum: 1) vettvangsfrásögninni; 2) þverþjóðlegri verkalýðsstétt; 3) gagnmenningu sem vettvangi útgáfu og dreifingar og viðfangsefni bókmenntaverka. Annar þáttur snýr að þeirri gagnrýni að sjónarhorn kommúnísku verkalýðshreyfingarinnar á öreigana sem byltingarsinnaðan hluta verkalýðsins hafi byggst á einsleitri og staðlaðri skilgreiningu á byltingarsinnanum. Gagnrýnin er í mörgum tilvikum réttmæt en skrif kommúnistans Kisch og sósíalíska femínistans Herzog eru dæmi um hefð vinstrisinnaðra bókmennta sem bregða upp myndum af fjölbreyttri og margslunginni verkalýðsstétt. Loks gefur samanburður á skrifum Herzog og Kisch færi á nákvæmari greiningu á hlutverki kyngervis. Þegar vettvangsfrásögn Herzog Von der Hand in den Mund (Úr höndinni í munninn, 1976) er lesin sem dæmi um framhaldslíf alþjóðasinnaðra heimsbókmennta má líta á hana sem gagnrýna samræðu við þessa eldri hefð. Finna má fjölmörg dæmi um kommúnísk bókmenntaverk frá millistríðsárunum sem byggðu lýsingar sínar á verkamanninum og byltingarsinnanum á viðteknum karlmennskuímyndum, þótt vitaskuld eigi það ekki við um alla texta hreyfingarinnar. Með því að beina sjónum alfarið að verkakonum í verksmiðjunni og innan heimilisins, með því að skrásetja áhyggjur þeirra, samstöðu og andóf opnar Herzog sósíalískt og femínískt sjónarhorn á verkalýðsstéttina sem tilheyrir hennar eigin tíma og sögulegu samhengi. Með því að leggja áherslu á þetta atriði afhjúpar greinin um leið mikilvæga blindu í vettvangsfrásögnum Kisch.
Germination of chief fire seeds cockscomb cultivar under saline stress conditions induced by sodium chloride
Authors: Barata Gabriel Cruz , Tejo Débora Perdigão , Takane Roberto Jun , Pedro Junior Sérgio , Gomes Gisely Paula , Faria Ricardo Tadeu
Published: October 2024

Cockscomb plant, Chief fire cultivar, is used as an ornamental, medicinal and non-conventional food plant (NCFP) and is cultivated from the north to the center-west of Brazil; however, these areas suffer from adverse environmental factors such as salinity stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the seed germination performance and vigor of Celosia cristata L. var. Chief Fire seedlings exposed to salinity during the germination phase. To carry out the work, C. cristata seeds were sown in gerboxes conditioned to increasing doses of sodium chloride (NaCl), obtained by dissolving the salt in distilled water, obtaining electrical conductivities of 2.0; 4.0; 6.0 and 8.0 dS.m-1, constituting the treatments. An additional group was treated only with distilled water and was used as a control for the experiment. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, with a total of five treatments and four replicates of 25 seeds. The parameters assessed were: first germination count, germination, germination speed index (GVI), mean germination time (MGT), length of aerial part and primary root. The data was submitted to analysis of variance and the means were compared using the Scott-Knott test at 5% significance.  Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that the conditions of salt stress induced by NaCl were not harmful to the germination of C. cristata, presenting itself as a species tolerant to water salinity during seed germination, since the variables analyzed showed no signs of deleterious effects as the salt concentration was increased.
Lực lượng kinh tế tư nhân Việt Nam – động lực quan trọng trong phát triển kinh tế đất nước
Authors: Ngô Thắng Lợi
Published: October 2024

Bài viết nhìn nhận dưới góc độ lực lượng kinh tế tư nhân, tức là cấu trúc hệ thống tổng thể các bộ phận cấu thành khu vực này. Theo cách tiếp cận đó, ngoài việc đánh giá được những bước tiến nhảy vọt của khu vực này, từ chỗ là đối tượng tồn tại để cải tạo đến chỗ được định vị là khu vực giữa vai trò động lực quan trọng trong phát triển đất nước, bài viết đã phát hiện được những “vấn đề” của kinh tế tư nhân Việt Nam hiện nay, như: mất cân đối giữa các nhóm quy mô doanh nghiệp, những yếu kém trong sự liên kết giữa các bộ phận cấu thành, kể cả vai trò hạn chế của các “sếu đầu đàn”, sự tham gia yếu ớt của các loại hình doanh nghiệp nhỏ và vừa cũng như các hộ kinh doanh cá thể trong quá trình hình thành và phát triển các mô hình chuỗi liên kết. Trên cơ sở các phát hiện hai nhóm nguyên nhân chính của các vấn đề nói trên là những yếu kém của chính lực lượng kinh tế tư nhân và những bất cập trong hệ thống chính sách hỗ trợ của Nhà nước, bài viết đề xuất hai nhóm giải pháp tương ứng nhằm nâng cao vai trò động lực quan trọng của kinh tế tư nhân trong quá trình thực hiện khát vọng phát triển Việt Nam đến năm 2030, tầm nhìn đến năm 2045.
The Androgen Deprivation Therapy Landscape in 2024 – Co-navigating the Available Options with Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Taylor Jennifer
Published: October 2024

This symposium convened during the 2024 European Association of Urology (EAU) Congress in Paris, France, focusing on the multifaceted aspects of prostate cancer (PCa) treatment from the patient’s perspective. The session delved into the nuanced needs, expectations, and treatment experiences encountered by individuals diagnosed with this condition. A pivotal aspect of the discussion centred on the imperative of ensuring patient awareness and informed consent, particularly concerning androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), given its array of potential side effects. ADT, a cornerstone in advanced PCa management, encompasses a spectrum of side effects including both physical and psychological dimensions. These include, but are not limited to, body hair loss, weight fluctuations, mood alterations, decreased libido, cognitive impairments, muscle atrophy, and bone density loss. Effective management of these side effects requires comprehensive support to be provided to patients to mitigate complications and optimise quality of life. The options for ADT were discussed, with their comparative strengths and challenges. ADT strategies take effect over different time periods (from 12 hours up to 4 weeks), exert varying effects on testosterone levels, and carry different side effect profiles. Selecting the optimal course of treatment for localised or locally advanced PCa requires consideration of whether the patient is at intermediate-, high-, or very high-risk of biochemical recurrence, and whether the intermediate-risk disease is classified as favourable intermediate-risk (FIR) or unfavourable intermediate-risk (UIR). While continuous ADT is the standard of care, intermittent ADT has been associated with significantly better quality of life scores for hot flushes, desire for sexual activity, and urinary symptoms, with a trend toward improvement in the level of fatigue. Furthermore, the interplay between PCa, ADT, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) was discussed to underscore the imperative for clinicians to assess the cardiovascular risks associated with ADT, particularly in patients with heightened cardiovascular vulnerability. Mitigating the adverse skeletal effects of ADT mandates a multifaceted approach encompassing nutritional supplementation, exercise regimens, and lifestyle modifications including alcohol cessation and smoking cessation. Integrating a prehabilitation checklist into clinical practice emerges as a pragmatic strategy to facilitate informed discussions regarding the potential adverse effects of ADT, enabling proactive support provision to optimise patient outcomes.
Teoretisk kunskap hjälpte mig förstå min praktik
Authors: Henriksson Jenny
Published: October 2024

I texten berättar jag om hur min tid som doktorand i forskarskolan ReCEC och hur den licentiatuppsats som jag skrev (Henriksson, 2022) har bidragit till att utveckla min förståelse för mig själv som undervisande förskollärare och min undervisningspraktik.  I texten lyfts utmaningar och dilemman som förklaras med stöd i licentiatstudiens resultat. Syftet är att visa hur en teoretisk förståelse bidrar till utvecklandet av förskolans undervisningspraktiker.
Yrkesspråk möter skolspråk – uppstår kärlek?
Authors: Johansson Håkan
Published: October 2024

I artikeln presenteras sju vetenskapliga studier som ställt frågor kring hur yrkesspråk används i yrkesutbildning och hur det relaterar till ett mer allmänt skolspråk. Studierna antyder att yrkeslärare i olika grad omformar yrkesspråket för att det ska vara ett funktionellt verktyg i yrkesutbildningen, och att de gör detta genom att antingen luta sig utåt mot yrket eller inåt mot skolan. Artikeln är tänkt att vara ett tankeredskap för yrkeslärares kollegiala reflektion.
Åskådarnas roll i skolors arbete mot mobbning
Authors: Sjögren Björn
Published: October 2024

Mobbning sker oftast inför en publik bestående av jämnåriga kamrater, så kallade ”åskådare”. Forskning visar att en effektiv metod för att minska förekomsten av mobbning kan vara att få fler åskådare att hjälpa dem som utsätts. Skolors förebyggande arbete kan dra nytta av detta genom att använda åtgärder som ökar sannolikheten att åskådarna på olika sätt tar ställning för dem som utsätts. Två sådana åtgärder som kan ha stor betydelse är (1) att stärka elevernas tilltro till sin förmåga att försvara dem som blir utsatta, (2) att motverka elevers tendenser att fjärma sig från sin moraliska kompass.
Factors Associated with Nurse Preparedness in Handling Disaster Victims in Central Sulawesi
Authors: Ra'bung Alfrida Semuel , Tampake Rina , Lenny Lenny , Wartana I Kadek
Published: October 2024

Several factors influence nurses' preparedness in handling disaster victims. This study aims to identify the factors associated with nurses' preparedness to manage Central Sulawesi disaster victims. Conducted between April and July 2023, this cross-sectional quantitative study involved 124 nurses from Undata Hospital, Anutapura Hospital, Madani Hospital, Bhayangkara Hospital, and Dr. Sindhu Trisno Hospital, selected through total sampling. Preparedness was measured using the Disaster Preparedness Evaluation Tool (DPET). At the same time, knowledge, attitudes, and experiences in disaster management were assessed with the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Disaster Management (KAP DM) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using chi-square and linear regression tests. The chi-square results indicated significant relationships between preparedness and knowledge (p=0.004), attitude (p=0.045), length of service (p=0.037), participation in disaster training (p=0.004), and experience in disaster management (p=0.028). At the same time, education level showed no significant relationship (p = 0.075). Linear regression revealed that knowledge had the strongest influence on preparedness. The study concludes that knowledge, attitudes, length of service, disaster training, and disaster management experience are key factors affecting nurses' preparedness. It is recommended that emergency nurses regularly participate in disaster-related training to enhance their ability to provide timely medical assistance, thereby reducing disaster-related mortality.
The Effects of Visual Arts and Animated Film Therapy in Managing Emotional Fatigue in Preschool Children Hospitalized in the Pediatric Ward of RSUD Poso
Authors: Supetran I Wayan , Langitan Rosamey Elleke , Agusrianto Agusrianto , Ndama Metrys , Rantesigi Nirva
Published: October 2024

Preschool-aged children who experience hospitalization in a pediatric ward often face a variety of emotional challenges, including emotional exhaustion. Hospitalization is a frightening and stressful experience for children, especially when they are separated from their family and peers. Visual art and animation film therapy have been recognized as effective therapeutic methods for addressing children's emotional exhaustion and stress. Visual arts play therapy allows children to express their feelings, overcome anxiety, and build emotional connections with their surroundings. The study aimed to look at the effects of visual art play therapy and animated films on managing emotional exhaustion in hospitalized preschool-age children. The data were collected through observation, interviews, and questionnaires given to parents. The result obtained by the treatment group's mean emotional exhaustion score before the action was 32.20, and after the action was 21.80. Wilcoxon statistical analysis, p-value = 0.001. So, it is concluded that there is a significant decrease in children's emotional exhaustion before and after therapy. The conclusion of this study can help improve the care and well-being of preschool children who experience hospitalization, as well as provide valuable insights for health practitioners and educators in supporting the emotional development of children in challenging medical situations.
Coupling effects of irrigation amount and fertilization rate on growth and bioactive components of four-year-old licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) in arid regions of Xinjiang
Authors: Abudurezike Abudukeyoumu , Liu Xinghong , Shawuer Ayixiamu , Aikebaier Gulimila
Published: October 2024

Water scarcity, over-fertilization, and improper crop management practices severely limit the sustainable cultivation of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) in the arid regions of Xinjiang. To elucidate the impacts of integrated water and fertilizer management on the growth characteristics and bioactive components (glycyrrhizic acid and liquiritin) of four-year-old licorice plants, a comprehensive four-year field experiment was conducted from 2019 to 2022.The experiment included four irrigation levels (W1: 2500 m³/ha, W2: 4000 m³/ha, W3: 5500 m³/ha, W4: 7000 m³/ha) and four fertilization rates (F1: 305 kg/ha, F2: 610 kg/ha, F3: 915 kg/ha, F4: 1220 kg/ha), following a completely randomized design. Results indicated that both irrigation and fertilization significantly influenced plant height, root length, root weight, root diameter, leaf area index, and root-to-shoot ratio. The optimal growth characteristics were observed under the W2F2 treatment. The contents of glycyrrhizic acid and liquiritin varied significantly among different water and fertilizer treatments, with the highest levels observed under the W2F2 treatment. Excessive irrigation (W4) and over-fertilization (F4) led to a decrease in these bioactive components. A comprehensive evaluation of the growth characteristics and bioactive components revealed that the ideal irrigation and fertilization parameters were 4000 m³/ha and 610 kg/ha, respectively. These parameters optimized plant development and bioactive component accumulation while ensuring efficient resource use. This study provides scientific evidence for optimizing irrigation and fertilization strategies to enhance licorice yield in arid regions, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving economic benefits.
Assessing the metastatic potential of circulating tumor cells using an organ-on-chip model
Authors: Schmid Karin F. , Zeinali Soheila , Moser Susanne K. , Dubey Christelle , Schneider Sabine , Deng Haibin , Haefliger Simon , Marti Thomas M. , Guenat Olivier T.
Published: October 2024

Metastatic lung cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, with its intricate metastatic cascade posing significant challenges to researchers and clinicians. Despite substantial progress in understanding this cascade, many aspects remain elusive. Microfluidic-based vasculature-on-chip models have emerged as powerful tools in cancer research, enabling the simulation of specific stages of tumor progression. In this study, we investigate the extravasation behaviors of A549 lung cancer cell subpopulations, revealing distinct differences based on their phenotypes. Our results show that holoclones, which exhibit an epithelial phenotype, do not undergo extravasation. In contrast, paraclones, characterized by a mesenchymal phenotype, demonstrate a notable capacity for extravasation. Furthermore, we observed that paraclones migrate significantly faster than holoclones within the microfluidic model. Importantly, we found that the depletion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) effectively inhibits the extravasation of paraclones. These findings highlight the utility of microfluidic-based models in replicating key aspects of the metastatic cascade. The insights gained from this study underscore the potential of these models to advance precision medicine by facilitating the assessment of patient-specific cancer cell dynamics and drug responses. This approach could lead to improved strategies for predicting metastatic risk and tailoring personalized cancer therapies, potentially involving the sampling of cancer cells from patients during tumor resection or biopsies.
A multi-site mixed-method evaluation of ‘Cardiac College for Women’ implementation: perspectives of cardiac rehabilitation patients and providers
Authors: Carson Rachael Pamela , Grace Sherry L. , Bomtempo Ana Paula Delgado , Hebert Andree-Anne , Ross Marie-Kristelle , Oh Paul , Ghisi Gabriela
Published: October 2024

A Cardiac College for Women curriculum was developed to address the dearth of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation (CR) education. This study investigated: (1) patient utilization of the education; (2) acceptability and applicability of the education; as well as (3) patient and CR providers’ experiences implementing it. This was a multi-site, mixed-methods study. After baseline assessments at an academic CR program in two Canadian provinces, the 12 weekly 30 min structured in-person group education sessions were led by staff in the relevant discipline, with supporting online videos and written materials. Women reported their engagement with the education in weekly diaries, and completed a survey post-program. Semi-structured virtual interviews were held with willing participants and staff delivering the intervention. Transcripts were analyzed concurrently by two researchers independently via NVIVO using text condensation, followed by consensus reconciliation and multi-source validation. Forty patients participated in the women-focused education program, with 28 completing weekly diaries and 36 post-intervention surveys. Participants attended 80% of sessions (67%–89%). They spent an average of 30 min/week engaging additionally with the online education, with 83% rating the weekly content applicable (73%–100%). Overall acceptability was rated 4.3 ± 1.7/5. Twelve patients and 5 staff participated in interviews. Four themes were identified: contextual considerations, staffing and implementation issues, valued aspects, and suggestions for improvement. In conclusion, Cardiac College for Women was established as highly acceptable and applicable to patients, supporting their self-management. The women-specific CR education materials were also established as readily implementable by CR staff.
Right subaxillary small incision on low-age and low-weight infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Jing Xiaoyong , Li Lun , Wu Yongtao , Wang Zhiyi , Lv Lizhi , Wang Qiang
Published: October 2024

Background

As a minimally invasive approach to treating congenital heart disease (CHD), the application of the right subaxillary small incision (RSSI) has been developing fast in its indication spectrum. However, RSSI's use is still quite challenging for the surgical treatment of the low-age and low-weight infant patient group.

Objectives

To investigate the safety and efficacy of performing RSSI surgery, treating CHD for infants with low-age and low-weight.

Methods

Between March 2010 and April 2023, Low-age (≤6 months) and low-weight (≤5 kg) infants with ventricular or atrial septal defect (ASD) as the main diagnosis were retrospectively included in this study. The infants were divided into the RSSI group and the median sternotomy (MS) group. Preoperative conditions, general surgical conditions, perioperative and postoperative outcomes, and long-term follow-up results were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

The study included 783 cases. Of these, 434 were operated with MS, and 349 were operated with RSSI. A1:1 matched MS group (282 cases) and RSSI group (282 cases) were obtained after performing propensity score matching (PSM). Analysis of the 2 groups after PSM showed the differences in residual ASD/VSD, peak airway pressure, fraction of inspired oxygen/partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2/FiO2), and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) before return to the intensive care unit (ICU) and extubation were not statistically significant between groups, whereas mechanical ventilation time (P < 0.001), ICU stay (P < 0.001), and hospitalization time (P < 0.001) were lower in RSSI group; and the differences in perioperative complication outcomes were not statistically significant. Long-term outcomes revealed the rate of thoracic deformity was higher in the MS group.

Conclusions

Based on the appropriate selection of patients, compared with MS, RSSI surgery for the treatment of low-age (≤6 months) and low-weight (≤5 kg) infants with CHD yields favorable therapeutic results without increasing surgical risks and causes less trauma, which deserves to be further promoted and applied.
Inflammatory profile of eosinophils in asthma-COPD overlap and eosinophilic COPD: a multi-omics study
Authors: Sunata Keeya , Miyata Jun , Kawashima Yusuke , Konno Ryo , Ishikawa Masaki , Hasegawa Yoshinori , Onozato Ryuta , Otsu Yo , Matsuyama Emiko , Sasaki Hisashi , Okuzumi Shinichi , Mochimaru Takao , Masaki Katsunori , Kabata Hiroki , Chubachi Shotaro , Arita Makoto , Fukunaga Koichi
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Elevated blood eosinophil levels in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with or without asthma are linked to increased exacerbations and the effectiveness of inhaled corticosteroid treatment. This study aimed to delineate the inflammatory cellular properties of eosinophils in patients with asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) and eosinophilic COPD (eCOPD).

Methods

Eosinophils were isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy volunteers, patients with non-eCOPD, and those with ACO/eCOPD. Multi-omics analysis involving transcriptomics, proteomics, and lipidomics was performed, followed by bioinformatic data analyses. In vitro experiments using eosinophils from healthy volunteers were conducted to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular alterations in eosinophils.

Results

Proteomics and transcriptomics analyses revealed cellular characteristics in overall COPD patients represented by viral infection (elevated expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1) and inflammatory responses (elevated levels of IL1 receptor-like 1, Fc epsilon receptor Ig, and transmembrane protein 176B). Cholesterol metabolism enzymes were identified as ACO/eCOPD-related factors. Gene Ontology and pathway enrichment analyses demonstrated the key roles of antiviral responses, cholesterol metabolism, and inflammatory molecules-related signaling pathways in ACO/eCOPD. Lipidomics showed the impaired synthesis of cyclooxygenase-derived mediators including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in ACO/eCOPD. In vitro assessment confirmed that IL-33 or TNF-α stimulation combined with IL-5 and IFN-γ stimulation induced cellular signatures in eosinophils in ACO/eCOPD. Atorvastatin, dexamethasone, and PGE2 differentially modulated these inflammatory changes.

Discussion

ACO/eCOPD is associated with viral infection and an inflammatory milieu. Therapeutic strategies using statins and inhaled corticosteroids are recommended to control these pathogenic changes.
Classification, biology and entomopathogenic fungi-based management and their mode of action against Drosophila species (Diptera: Drosophilidae): a review
Authors: Vivekanandhan Perumal , Swathy Kannan , Sarayut Pittarate , Patcharin Krutmuang
Published: October 2024

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the classification, biology, and management of Drosophila species (Diptera: Drosophilidae) with a focus on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) as a biocontrol strategy. Drosophila species, particularly Drosophila suzukii, and Drosophila melanogaster have emerged as significant pests in various agricultural systems, causing extensive damage to fruit crops. Understanding their taxonomic classification and biological traits is crucial for developing effective management strategies. This review delves into the life cycle, behavior, and ecological interactions of Drosophila species, highlighting the challenges posed by their rapid reproduction and adaptability. The review further explores the potential of EPF as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. The mode of action of EPF against Drosophila species is examined, including spore adhesion, germination, and penetration of the insect cuticle, leading to host death. Factors influencing the efficacy of EPF, such as environmental conditions, fungal virulence, and host specificity, are discussed in detail. By synthesizing current research, this review aims to provide valuable insights into the application of EPF and to identify future research directions for enhancing the effectiveness of EPF-based control measures against Drosophila species.
Exploring shared biomarkers and shared pathways in insomnia and atherosclerosis using integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yang Qichong , Liu Juncheng , Zhang Tingting , Zhu Tingting , Yao Siyu , Wang Rongzi , Wang Wenjuan , Dilimulati Haliminai , Ge Junbo , An Songtao
Published: October 2024

Background

Insomnia (ISM) is one of the non-traditional drivers of atherosclerosis (AS) and an important risk factor for AS-related cardiovascular disease. Our study aimed to explore the shared pathways and diagnostic biomarkers of ISM-related AS using integrated bioinformatics analysis.

Methods

We download the datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and the GeneCards database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and gene differential expression analysis were applied to screen the AS-related gene set. The shared genes of ISM and AS were obtained by intersecting with ISM-related genes. Subsequently, candidate diagnostic biomarkers were identified by constructing protein–protein interaction networks and machine learning algorithms, and a nomogram was constructed. Moreover, to explore potential mechanisms, a comprehensive analysis of shared genes was carried out, including enrichment analysis, protein interactions, immune cell infiltration, and single-cell sequencing analysis.

Results

We successfully screened 61 genes shared by ISM and AS, of which 3 genes (IL10RA, CCR1, and SPI1) were identified as diagnostic biomarkers. A nomogram with excellent predictive value was constructed (the area under curve of the model constructed by the biomarkers was 0.931, and the validation set was 0.745). In addition, the shared genes were mainly enriched in immune and inflammatory response regulation pathways. The biomarkers were associated with a variety of immune cells, especially myeloid immune cells.

Conclusion

We constructed a diagnostic nomogram based on IL10RA, CCR1, and SPI1 and explored the inflammatory-immune mechanisms, which indicated new insights for early diagnosis and treatment of ISM-related AS.
Feasibility of ctDNA in detecting minimal residual disease and predicting recurrence for colorectal cancer liver metastases
Authors: Kalil Jennifer A. , Krzywon Lucyna , Petrillo Stephanie K. , Tsamchoe Migmar , Zlotnik Oran , Lazaris Anthoula , Metrakos Peter
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer develop colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM). Although curative intent liver resection provides 5-year survival of 40-50%, up to 70% of patients develop recurrence of CRLM. Detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) is essential for timely, optimized treatment. This study evaluated the feasibility and utility of using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to identify MRD and predict disease recurrence.

Methods

Patients with CRLM that underwent liver resection and had known KRAS or PIK3CA mutations were retrospectively identified. Serial blood samples were collected every 3 months following surgery for disease surveillance. ctDNA was isolated from the samples and analyzed with digital PCR (dPCR).

Results

KRAS and PIK3CA mutations were identified by dPCR in 29 patients over 115 timepoints. In patients with detectable ctDNA at time of liver resection, 81% (13/16) developed disease recurrence, while 46% (6/13) of the patients with undetectable ctDNA recurred (p=0.064). Presence of ctDNA was detected in 27.6% (8/29) of the initial postoperative samples. Radiologic recurrence was later diagnosed in 100% (8/8) of these patients, while 52% (11/21) who had undetectable ctDNA postoperatively recurred (p=0.026). Detectable ctDNA postoperatively was associated with a shorter disease-free survival (DFS) of 9 months vs 13 months in patients who had undetectable ctDNA (HR 2.95, 95% CI 1.16-7.49; p=0.02).

Conclusion

Liquid biopsy using dPCR can identify low levels of ctDNA, enabling early detection of disease recurrence. Additionally, the presence of ctDNA postoperatively was predictive of recurrence. This study corroborates current literature and provides rational for moving toward a clinical trial using ctDNA and dPCR to detect MRD after CRLM resection.