bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of a Moderate-Sized Earthquake: The 2023 Magnitude (Mw) 4.7 Leyte, Leyte Earthquake, Philippines
Authors: Perez Jeffrey S. , Llamas Deo Carlo E. , Buhay Daniel Jose L. , Constantino Ryan Christian , Legaspi Crystel Jade M. , Lagunsad Kristine Dionne B. , Grutas Rhommel N. , Quimson Marc Marion Y.
Published: February 2024

At 12:28 UTC (8:28 PM, local time) on 15 January 2023, a shallow, moderate earthquake with a magnitude (Mw) of 4.7 and a depth of one (1) kilometer shook the northern part of Leyte Island in the central part of the Philippines. The ground shaking was felt at PHIVOLCS Earthquake Intensity Scale (PEIS) VI, (very strong) equivalent to Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) VI in areas along the strike of the Leyte segment of the Philippine Fault. Even though this earthquake is classified as moderate in size, significant geologic, structural, and socio-economic impacts were documented. Most of the earthquake impacts that include surface rupture, liquefaction, and mass movements are limited near the epicentral area. The earthquake produced an 8-km-long surface rupture, the first documented rupture generated by a magnitude <6 along the Philippine Fault, and is unusual in other surface rupturing earthquakes worldwide. It injured 18 persons and damaged 434 residential buildings and 26 public infrastructures which amounts to about 500 thousand US dollars. Structural damages were caused by surface rupture and/or poor engineering construction practices. Analysis of the seismic waveform and recorded peak ground acceleration (PGA) suggests that the subsurface geology influenced the ground motion amplification in an area near the epicenter. Based on the hypocenter, focal mechanism solution, aftershock distribution, and actual field observation, the causative fault for this event is the northern end of the Philippine Fault – Leyte segment. Moderate in size, this earthquake emphasizes the need and importance of documenting moderate-sized earthquakes as a tool and guide for medium and long-term earthquake risk assessment and resiliency.
Development of Aptamer-Based Gold Nanoparticle Lateral Flow Test Strips for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 S Protein on the Surface of Cold Chain Food Packaging
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Wang Jiachen , Fang Xiaona , Zhao Lianhui , Luo Zhaofeng , Dong Yiyang
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic over the past years has shown a great need for rapid, low-cost and on-site detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this paper, an aptamer-based colloidal gold nanoparticle lateral flow test strip was well developed to realize the visual detection of wild type SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) and multiple variants. Under the optimal reaction conditions, a low detection limit of SARS-CoV-2 S protein of 0.68 nM was acquired, and the actual detection recovery was 83.3% to 108.8% for real world samples. This suggests a potential tool for the prompt detection of SARS-CoV-2 with good sensitivity and accuracy, and a new method for the development of alternative antibody test strips for the detection of other viral targets.
Linking Wetland Ecosystem Services to Fish Genetic Resources with Special Reference to Hilsa Shad (Tenualosa ilisha): A Novel Study from Northeastern Bangladesh
Authors: Sunny Atiqur Rahman , Rahman Md. Arifur , Hasan Md. Nazmul , Rahman Jeba Faizah , Sazzad Sharif Ahmed , Miah Md. Faruque , Ashrafuzzaman Md. , Prodhan Shamsul Haque
Published: February 2024

The wetlands in northeastern Bangladesh are home to some of the most prolific and valuable ecosystems on the planet, offering a wide range of benefits to both the local and wider communities. A limited number of research on this topic have been carried out in various wetlands in coastal hilsa, but none have been located in the northeastern region of Bangladesh. Thus, the goal of this study was to better understand the most commercially relevant species (anadromous hilsa) in northeastern Bangladesh as well as to assess the wetland ecosystem services more thoroughly with the contribution of their fish genetic resources. In addition to laboratory studies, fieldwork was done in the fishing settlements along the Surma River, Hakaluki Haor, and Tanguar Haor. The study classified 77 fish species into 21 subcategories of ecosystem services, of which 56% were not threatened, 17% were vulnerable, and 10% were highly endangered. The species Hilsa was found to be the most economically significant, accounting for 1% of the GDP overall. The study determined if the hilsa stock of the examined wetlands maintains a single or several subpopulations in comparison to other parts of the country when they migrate from saline water to northeastern Bangladesh (freshwater). But when compared to other groups, the FST score was between 0.000 to 0.017, indicating that the populations are identical and that there is genetic material sharing between them. Additionally, these statistics imply that the Sylhet haor and adjacent river systems contain a single stock of Hilsa fish. Nevertheless, a number of stresses and risks, including overexploitation, illicit and destructive fishing, siltation, and natural disasters like flash floods, have been linked to changes in the supply of hilsa and other ecosystem services. This study also emphasizes the necessity of policy attention and research to address the concerns.
Microstructure Analysis of Aluminium and Hybrid Reinforced Metal Matrix Al6061/B4C/ZrO2/SiC Composites
Authors: S Dr.Muzeer , LUKKANI SUSHMA
Published: February 2024

This investigation mainly focused on the microstructural analysis of Al based hybrid metal matrix composites. Aluminium as base metal and reinforced with 2% B4 C, ZrO2 (2%,4%,6%), SiC (4%,8%,12%). Specimens were manufactured by using conventional stir casting technique. Hybrid metal matrix composites were examined by using Scanning electron microscope. This research explained XRD, EDS and Fractography analysis. This investigation shows the reinforced material has given better results in all aspects than pure Al6061 alloy and homogeneous dispersion of particles inside the matrix. Porosity, delamination, cracks, particle distributions were observed through microstructural analysis. Additionally determined the crystal size of pure Aluminium 6061 alloy and hybrid composites.
Chemical Profiles and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oil from Different Plant Parts of Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.)
Authors: Ilic Zoran , Sunic Ljubomir , Stanojevic Ljiljana , Milenković Lidija , Milenkovic Aleksandra , Stanojevic Jelena , Cvetkovic Dragan
Published: February 2024

The present study focuses on the yield, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of essential oils from the leaves and fruit of wild-grown bay laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) in Montenegro. The chemical composition of isolated essential oils was determined by GC/MS and GC/FID. Antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH assay. The laurel bay essential oil (LEO) yield was 0.88% in fruits and 2.65% in the leaves. The results obtained from this study indicate that the LEOs obtained from the different plant parts (leaves, fruit) display different compositions. Fifty components were identified in LEO leaves, with 1,8-cineole (39.4%), linalool (13.9%), α-terpinyl acetate (11.2%), sabinene (6.7%), methyl eugenol (5.7%), β-pinene (3.2%), and α-pinene (3.1%) being the most abundant ones. Fifty-five components were isolated in LEO fruits with 1,8-cineole (34.2%), α-pinene (6.6%), sabinene (6.1%), β-bisabolene (5.8%), β-pinene (4.8), α-terpinyl acetate (4.5%), and α-terpineol (4.3%) as the main components. However, this study is the first to present the chemical composition of the LEO fruits from Montenegro. The results indicate that the composition of LEO is similar to recent studies from Balkan and Mediterranean areas. The degree of DPPH radical neutralization increased with the incubation time. The LEO isolated from leaves showed better antioxidant activity (EC50 value of 1.43 mg/mL) in comparison to the LEO isolated from fruits (EC50 value of 3.74 mg/mL) during the incubation time of 120 min. Taken together, this study indicates that the LEO from leaves and fruits possesses significant antioxidant activities (possibly due to the high level of 1,8-cineole) and is an important component in the food and pharmaceutical industries. All plant parts of L. nobilis can be successfully used in LEO extraction and isolation.
Solvent Extraction of Au(III) by 2-ethylhexanol and Kinetic Modelling of the Facilitated Transport Across a Liquid Membrane
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose , Robla Jose Ignacio
Published: February 2024

The solvent extraction of gold(III) by undiluted 2-ethylhexanol or dissolved in toluene from HCl solution has been investigated. The numerical analysis of gold distribution data suggests the formation of HAuCl4·L and HAuCl4·2L (L= 2-ethylhexanol) species in the organic phase with formation constants K11= 38 and K12= 309, respectively. The results derived from gold(III) distribution have been implemented in a solid-supported liquid membrane system. The influence of several variables on gold transport was considered: feed and receiving phases stirring speeds, HCl and gold concentrations in the feed phase and carrier concentration in the membrane phase as well as the presence of base metals (Fe,Cu,Ni) and PGMs in the feed phase. Also, diffusional resistances to mass transfer are estimated. Gold is recovered as zero valent nanoparticles.
Resistance Exercise Program Is Feasible and Effective in Improving Functional Strength in Post-Covid Survivors
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Katarzyna , Matharu Yogi , Bobowik Patrycja , Gajewski Jan , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnineszka , Kulig Kornelia
Published: February 2024

Evidence suggests that COVID-19 infection can cause lasting health consequences. Multidiscipli-nary rehabilitation services have been recommended to reduce the sequalae. However, the effec-tiveness of physical exercise interventions remains insufficiently documented. The aim of this study was to develop and implement a specific and well tolerated protocol-based, intervention to reduce muscle weakness in older adults impacted by COVID-19. Forty six older adults random-ized into Intervention and Control Groups. Isometric and isokinetic strength assessments were conducted for selected muscle groups using JBA Staniak® torquemeter and Biodex System 3 dy-namometer. Functional abilities were evaluated with the Time Up and Go test and Chair Stand Tests. Men in intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in static conditions for knee flexors (KF), trunk extensors (TE) and trunk flexors (TF) and in dynamic conditions for knee extensors (KE). Women in intervention group showed significant improvement in static condition for EF, KF, TE and TF and in dynamic for a KE and for a KF. The interaction GROUP x TESTING SESSION was significant for Chair test (s) and Chair test (n). Our results demonstrate the effec-tiveness of a well-tolerated, protocol-based approach that can be used to diminish long lasting functional deficits in post-covid survivors.
Development of The AI Pipeline for Corneal Opacity Detection
Authors: Yoshitsugu Kenji , Shimizu Eisuke , Nishimura Hiroki , Khemlani Rohan , Nakayama Shintaro , Takemura Tadamasa
Published: February 2024

Ophthalmological services face global inadequacies, especially in low- and middle-income countries, which are marked by a shortage of both practitioners and equipment. This study employed a portable slit-lamp microscope with video capabilities and cloud storage for a more equitable global diagnostic resource distribution. To enhance accessibility and quality of care, this study targeted corneal opacity, a global cause of blindness. To boost the online diagnosis efficiency, an AI pipeline was developed using anterior segment videos to detect corneal opacity. First, we extracted image frames from videos and learned them using a Convolutional Neural Network(CNN) model. Second, we manually annotated to extract only the corneal margins, adjusted the contrast with CLAHE, and learned using the CNN model. Finally, we performed semantic segmentation of the cornea using the annotated data. The results showed an accuracy of 0.8 for image frames, and 0.96 for corneal margins. Dice and IoU were 0.94 for semantic segmentation of corneal margins. While corneal opacity detection from video frames seemed challenging in the early stages of this study, manual annotation, corneal extraction, and CLAHE contrast adjustment significantly improved accuracy. Integrating manual annotation into the AI pipeline through semantic segmentation achieved a high accuracy in detecting corneal opacity.
Lower Bound for the Fokker Planck Kolmogorov (FPK) Probability Density Function Controller's Designed Parameter with FPK applications to Genetics
Authors: A. Mageed Ismail
Published: February 2024

The hard open problem of finding the lower bound for the Fokker Planck Kolmogorov’s time-dependent controller parameter probability density function is addressed for the first time in literature in this work. This revolutionary exposition will put control theory and other related inter-disciplinary fields to a higher level towards contemporary control theory. Notably, based on the influential role of control theory in both engineering and industry, this paper will be of great value to all engineering and industry professionals who seek to know more about advanced trends within control theory settings. On the other remit of the spectrum, Fokker Planck Kolmogorov(FPK) equations are of high importance to physicists as well as mathematicians, based on their multiple applicability to multi-interdisciplinary fields of human knowledge, and beyond. So, this by default adds more taste and credibility to this study. Concluding thoughts are included at the end of the work along with a difficult outstanding problem and the direction of future work.
Improving Generalizability of PET DL Algorithms: List-Mode Reconstructions Improve DOTATATE PET Hepatic Lesion Detection Performance
Authors: Yang Xinyi , Silosky Michael , Wehrend Jonathan , Litwiller Daniel V , Nachiappan Muthiah , Metzler Scott D , Ghosh Debashis , Xing Fuyong , Chin Bennett B
Published: February 2024

Deep learning (DL) algorithms used for DOTATATE PET lesion detection typically require large, well-annotated training datasets. These are difficult to obtain due to low incidence of gastroenteopancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs), and the high cost of manual annotation. Furthermore, networks trained and tested with data acquired from site specific PET/CT instrumentation, acquisition and processing protocols have reduced performance when tested with offsite data. This lack of generalizability requires even larger, more diverse training datasets. The objective of this study is to investigate the feasibility of improving DL algorithm performance by better matching the background noise in training datasets to higher noise, out-of-domain testing datasets. 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT datasets were obtained from two scanners: Scanner1, a state-of-the-art digital PET/CT (GE DMI PET/CT; n=83 subjects), and Scanner2, an older-generation analog PET/CT (GE STE; n=123 subjects). Set1, the data set from Scanner1 was reconstructed with standard clinical parameters (5 minutes; Q.Clear) and list-mode reconstructions (VPFXS 2, 3, 4, and 5-minutes). Set2, data from Scanner2, representing out-of-domain clinical scans, used standard iterative reconstruction (5 minutes; OSEM). Reconstructed datasets were divided into training, validation, and testing datasets in a 60%, 20%, 20% proportion, and a deep neural network was trained with each: Network1 for Scanner1 and Network2 for Scanner2. DL performance (Network1) was tested with out-of-domain test data (Set2). To evaluate the effect of training sample size, we tested DL model performance using a fraction (25%, 50%, and 75%) of Set1 for training. Scanner1, list-mode 2-minute reconstructed data demonstrated the most similar noise level compared that of Set2, resulting in the best performance (F1=0.713). This was not significantly different compared to the highest performance, upper-bound limit using in-domain training for Network2 (F1=0.755; p-value=0.103). Regarding sample size, the F1 score significantly increased from 25% training data (F1=0.478) to 100% training data (F1=0.713; p<0.001). List-mode data from modern PET scanners can be reconstructed to better match the noise properties of older scanners. Using existing data and their associated annotations dramatically reduces the cost and effort in generating these datasets, and significantly improves the performance of existing DL algorithms. List-mode reconstructions can provide an efficient, low-cost method to improve DL algorithm generalizability.
Water Energy Food Nexus in Urbanizing Wetlands: Challenges and Solutions Explored through Choremes and Focus Maps
Authors: BALAICAN Dragos , Teubner Katrin , Tudor Mihaela-Iuliana , NICHERSU Iulian , Burada Adrian , Trifanov Cristian , Tudor Marian , Iticescu Catalina , Moraru Luminita , Georgescu Puiu Lucian
Published: February 2024

Managing Water, Energy, and Food (WEF) resources within socio-environmental systems demands innovative strategies that provide decision-makers with actionable insights. This article explores the challenges and potential solutions of employing Focus Maps and choremes as a novel approach for assessing anthropogenic impacts and enhancing the visualization of the WEF Nexus in specific geographic areas. By integrating geospatial data, multi-criteria analysis, and involving stakeholders, our research aims to develop Choreomatic Focus Maps (CFMs) that offer a comprehensive spatial representation of the WEF Nexus, facilitating better-informed decision-making at the community level.
Our current work outlines visualization of WEF Nexus, as an initial stages of creating CFMs through a detailed step-by-step process. This includes identifying the main drivers for WEF nexus, such as anthropogenic activities and their distribution, evaluating environmental factors, linking anthropogenic impact with environmental indicators over time, and conducting on-site validation. Our focus is on advancing through these crucial steps, particularly emphasizing field validation within the Local Decision-Makers Tools, visualized here by using Focus Maps. This phase is vital for ensuring our approach is grounded in reality and meets the needs of the communities within the Danube Delta region. By doing so, we aim to provide a visual summary of the WEF Nexus that not only captures the complexity of this fragile ecosystem but also incorporates local insights and priorities, identifying key areas where human activities have significant impacts.
Global Overview of Usable Landsat and Sentinel-2 Data for 1982–2023
Authors: Lewińska Katarzyna , Ernst Stefan , Frantz David , Leser Ulf , Hostert Patrick
Published: February 2024

Landsat and Sentinel-2 acquisitions are among the most widely used medium-resolution optical data adopted for terrestrial vegetation applications, such as land cover and land use mapping, vegetation condition and phenology monitoring, and disturbance and change mapping. When combined, both data archives provide over 40 years, and counting, of continuous and consistent observations. Although the spatio-temporal availability of both data archives is well-known at the scene level, information on the actual availability of cloud-, snow-, and shade-free observations at the pixel level is lacking and should be explored individually for each study to correctly parametrize subsequent analyses. However, data exploration is time and resource consuming, thus is rarely performed a-priori. Consequently, the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of usable data is often inadequately accounted for in the analysis design, risking ill-advised selection of algorithms and hypotheses, and thus inferior quality of final results. Here we present precomputed data on the daily 1982‑2023 availability of usable Landsat and Sentinel-2 acquisitions across the globe, sampled at a pixel-level in a regular 0.18°-point grid. The dataset comprises separate Landsat- and Sentinel‑2‑specific data records, and is accompanied by a pixel-specific growing season information to facilitate data exploration. The dataset was derived based on freely available 1982-2023 Landsat surface reflectance (Collection 2) and Sentinel-2 top-of-the-atmosphere reflectance (pre‑Collection-1 and Collection-1) scenes from 2015 through 2023, following the methodology developed in the recent study on data availability over Europe [1]. Growing season information was derived based on 2001‑2019 time series of the yearly 500 m MODIS land cover dynamics product (MCD12Q2; Collection 6) [1]. As such, the dataset presents a unique overview of the spatio-temporal availability of usable daily Landsat and Sentinel-2 data at the global scale, hence offering much needed a-priori information aiding identification of appropriate methods and challenges for terrestrial vegetation analyses at local to global scale.
Preparation of Ultrasound-Assisted Herbal Coffee Infusion, Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds and Their Antioxidant, Anti-diabetic, and Anti-Alzheimer Potential
Authors: Ali Akhtar
Published: February 2024

Herbal Coffee is getting more popular due to its unique flavor and higher concentration of bioactive compounds, mainly polyphenols. Rosemary is a unique herb with potent antioxidant properties. A green technique called ultrasound aids in releasing bioactive substances from the plant cell wall. In this context, ultrasound-assisted herbal coffee prepared and their anti-diabetic, anti-Alzheimer, and antioxidant activities were measured while the LC/MS was used to determine the bioactive components from the herbal coffee infusion. A total of 95 secondary metabolites were putatively reported, including alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which we identified in the herbal coffee infusion. The total phenolic content (61.5 ± 5.1 mg GAE/g), total flavonoid content (19.3 ± 0.9 mg QE/g), and total condensed tannin (7.6 ± 0.7 mg CE/g) of herbal coffee infusion were observed to be highest of the two remaining samples. The herbal coffee extracts were used to determine all samples' antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-Alzheimer activities. Using LC-MS/MS, we semi-quantified 19 phenolic metabolites. The results show numerous bioactive components in herbal coffee infusion with more potent antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-Alzheimer potential. Moreover, more studies must be conducted to confirm how the metabolomic profile of herbal coffee affects its flavor profile.
Deep Radial Basis Function Networks
Authors: Wurzberger Fabian , Schwenker Friedhelm
Published: February 2024

Radial basis function (RBF) networks are often viewed as instable when used in multi-layered architectures and therefore are mostly used in a single-layered manner.
Universal approximation theorems for single-layered RBF networks further render deeper architectures useless.
However, deep neural networks have proven their effectiveness on many different tasks.
We show that deeper RBF architectures with multiple radial basis function layers are achievable and able to learn. We introduce an initialization scheme for deep RBF networks based on k-means clustering and covariance estimation. We further show how to make use of convolutions to speed up the calculation of a Mahalanobis distance in a partially-connected fashion, similar to convolutional neural networks (CNNs).
Finally, we evaluate our approach on image classification as well as speech emotion recognition tasks.
Our results show that deep RBF networks perform similar to simple CNNs.
Combined Pharmacological Modulation of Translational and Transcriptional Activity Signaling Pathways as a Promising Therapeutic Approach in Children With Myocardial Changes
Authors: Kamenshchyk Andrii , Belenuchev Igor , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr
Published: February 2024

Myocardial hypertrophy is the most common condition that accompanies heart changings in children. Transcriptional pathways regulating gene expression playing a critical role both in cardiac embryogenesis and in the pathogenesis of congenital hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, neonatal posthypoxic myocardial hypertrophy and congenital heart diseases. This paper describes the state of cardiac gene expression and potential pharmacological modulators at different transcriptional levels. An experimental model of perinatal cardiac hypoxia showed downregulated expression of genes responsible for cardiac muscle integrity and overexpressed genes associated with energy metabolism and apoptosis, which may provide a basis for a therapeutic approach. Current evidence suggests that RNA drugs, theaflavin, neuraminidase, proton pump and histone deacetylase inhibitors are promising pharmacological agents in progressive cardiac hypertrophy. The different points of application of the above drugs makes combined use possible, potentiating the effects of inhibition in specific signaling pathways. The special role of N-acetyl cysteine in both the inhibition of several signaling pathways and the reduction of oxidative stress was emphasized.
Theory of planned behavior dan Stigma Publik sebagai Prediktor Perilaku Mencari Bantuan
Authors: Ali Zakiya
Published: February 2024

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to predicting help seeking behavior from profesional with theory of planned behavior and publik stigma of mental illness. The research subject were 397 college students. The method of data collection uses the scale of attitudes (α = 0,889), subjective norms (α = 0,901), perceived behavioral control (α = 0,748), intention (α=0,951), and public stigma of mental illness (0,913). The results of data analysis using path analysis showed that, intention was affected by attitudes (β = 0.445), subjective norms (β = 0.179), and publik stigma (β = -0.092). Meanwhile, perceived behavioral control has no effect on intention. Furthermore, help-seeking behavior is directly influenced by publik stigma (β = -0.104), but it is not influenced by intention so, it can be concluded that attitudes, subjective norms, perceptions of behavioral kontrol, and publik stigma cannot indirectly predict behavior with intention as mediator.

 

Keywords: help-seeking behavior, theory of planned behavior, public stigma of mental disorder
Deconstructing Junior High School English Learning Materials based on Microlearning
Authors: Nugrahani Riemas Dina , Dewanti Ratna , Iskandar Ifan , Maharani Suci
Published: February 2024

Microlearning provides smaller units of a subject adapted using technologies that can be accessed anywhere in a relatively short period, making learning activities more efficient and helping students learn with a specific focus in a brief session. This study aims to analyze the extent of microlearning in the existing junior high school English learning materials and describe the description of junior high school English learning materials based on microlearning. This study uses a qualitative research approach to analyze 25 English learning materials applied and used by junior high school English language teachers in East Jakarta, DKI Jakarta. The study found that most of the junior high school English learning materials are not microlearning-based as they do not fulfill the indicators of microlearning-based English materials for the junior high school level. The procedure of deconstructing 36 basic competencies into microlearning object material includes recognizing the topic and the instructional activities as well as finding suitable micro-learning object materials for the activities. The total 195 microlearning object materials are varied, such as Short videos, Games, PPTs, Quizizz, Interactive e-learning Websites, podcasts, YouTube videos, digital flashcards, and many more. In summary, as the existing English learning materials do not fulfill the indicators, the procedure of deconstructing basic competencies is made to form micro-learning object materials.
A Lateral Fracture Line Affects Femoral Trochanteric Fracture Instability and Swing Motion of the Intramedullary Nail
Authors: Usami Takuya , Takada Naoya , Kosuwon Weerachai , Paholpak Permsak , Tokunaga Masami , Iwata Hidetoshi , Hattori Yusuke , Nagaya Yuko , Murakami Hideki , Kuroyanagi Gen
Published: February 2024

Background:

An unstable trochanteric femoral fracture is a serious injury, with a 1-year mortality rate of 5.4% to 24.9%, for which there is currently no standard treatment method. The lag screw insertion site is one of the primary contact areas between the cortical bone and an intramedullary nail. We hypothesized that a posterolateral fracture causes intramedullary nail instability when the posterolateral fracture line interferes with lag screw insertion. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of posterolateral fracture line morphology on intramedullary nail stability by simulating unstable trochanteric femoral fractures with a posterolateral fracture fragment.

Methods:

Eighteen custom-made synthetic osteoporotic bone samples were used in the present study. Nine samples had a posterolateral fracture line interfering with the lag screw insertion hole (Fracture A), and the other 9 had a fracture line 10 mm away from the hole (Fracture B). Cyclic loading (750 N) was applied to the femoral head 1,500 times. Movement of the end cap attached to the intramedullary nail was recorded. The amplitudes of motion in the coronal plane (coronal swing motion), sagittal plane (sagittal swing motion), and axial plane (total swing motion) were evaluated. The change in the neck-shaft angle was evaluated on photographs that were made before and after the test. Medial cortical displacement was measured before and after the test.

Results:

Two Fracture-A samples were excluded because the amplitude of sagittal swing motion was too large. The mean values for coronal, sagittal, and total swing motion were 1.13 ± 0.28 mm and 0.51 ± 0.09 mm (p < 0.001), 0.50 ± 0.12 mm and 0.46 ± 0.09 mm (p = 0.46), and 1.24 ± 0.24 mm and 0.69 ± 0.11 mm (p < 0.001) for Fractures A and B, respectively. The mean neck-shaft angle change was −8.29° ± 2.69° and −3.56° ± 2.35° for Fractures A and B, respectively (p = 0.002). The mean displacement of the medial cortex was 0.38 ± 1.12 mm and 0.12 ± 0.37 mm for Fractures A and B, respectively (p = 0.57).

Conclusions:

This study showed that an unstable trochanteric femoral fracture with a posterolateral fracture line that interferes with the lag screw insertion holes is a risk factor for increased intramedullary nail instability.
Development of ETS (E-Ticketing System) Module for Issue Management
Authors: Syamsuddin Muhammad , Indahyanti Uce
Published: February 2024

This study proposes the integration of an Employee Tracking System (ETS) module within a logistics company's existing web application to streamline internal management processes. Focused on a one-month internship, the research aims to address the inefficiencies of conventional communication methods by facilitating real-time issue tracking and resolution. Through collaboration between academia and industry, the study explores the practical implementation of information technology solutions to enhance organizational communication and problem-solving. Results indicate improved communication efficiency and problem resolution within the organization, highlighting the potential of such systems to contribute to the evolution of information technology in the workplace.
Highlights :

Implementation of ETS module improves communication efficiency.
Collaboration between academia and industry addresses practical challenges.
Integration of technology enhances problem-solving within organizations.

Keywords: Organizational Communication, Employee Tracking System, Information Technology, Logistics Industry, Collaboration
Quality Control Analysis Using the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis Method
Authors: Hakim Muchammad Lukman , Cahyana Atikha Sidhi
Published: February 2024

This study aims to identify critical factors contributing to defects in Epodion rh-Erythropoietin Alfa syringes and propose strategies to minimize production flaws. Through Failure Modes and Effect Analysis (FMEA), the research identified cracking as the predominant defect, accounting for 43 out of 62 observed syringe flaws in a production batch of 162,332 units. The Risk Priority Number (RPN) calculation yielded a score of 162, indicating material-related issues as the primary concern. Consequently, the study recommends stringent quality testing of raw materials to enhance material strength and diminish product defects, thereby bolstering overall manufacturing quality.
Highlights :

The study aimed to investigate factors contributing to defective Epodion® rh-Erythropoietin Alfa syringes, with a focus on reducing cracks during manufacturing.
A Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) approach was used to identify the primary causes of failure, revealing cracking as the predominant issue affecting 43% of defective units.
Enhanced quality control measures for raw materials prior to their utilization within the production process were recommended to minimize product defects.

Keywords: Epodion, rh-Erythropoietin Alfa, syringes, FMEA, quality control.
Influence of the Advance Jacked Pipe on the Jacking Force of the Subsequent Pipe Based on Pipe–Soil Full Contact Model
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhao Xu , Guo Fei , Tao Lianjin , Liu Jun , Liao Weizhang , Tan Lei , Yang Xiaohui
Published: February 2024

In pipe jacking engineering, accurate prediction of jacking force is the key to pipe jacking design. Based on a project of the Beijing Daxing Airport Line, the influence of the advance jacked pipes on the jacking force of the subsequent pipe is carried out in the present work. First, the verified numerical model of practical engineering was established, and the jacking force and radial stress of different pipes were analyzed. Then, the two pipes were taken as research object, and the parameters of spacing, angle, buried depth, and pipe diameter were investigated, respectively. The results show that in the actual project, the advance jacked pipes have amplification and superposition effects on friction resistance of the subsequent pipe, and the maximum growth rate is 37.2%. The friction resistance of the subsequent pipe presents a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with the change of the layout angle of advance jacked pipe from 0° to 180°. With the increase of buried depth and pipe diameter, the absolute value of incremental friction resistance of the subsequent pipe increases gradually, but the growth rate remains constant. Finally, the empirical formulas for predicting the friction resistance growth rate of subsequent pipes under different angles are proposed. The research results can provide some reference for the design of pipe jacking.
Efecto del índice temperatura-humedad sobre el desempeño reproductivo en cuatro establos lecheros de crianza intensiva de Lima, Perú durante el periodo 2010 al 2013
Authors:   , Rolando Betancourt Paola Laura
Published: February 2024

El estrés por calor presenta un impacto negativo en la industria láctea, su indicador más completo es el índice de temperatura humedad, que combina el efecto de la temperatura ambiental y la humedad relativa en una sola variable. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la relación entre el índice temperatura-humedad-máximo (Max THI) y el desempeño reproductivo de los establos lecheros de la Región Lima. Se calcularon las tasas mensuales de servicio, de concepción y de preñez de cuatro establos, como indicadores del desempeño reproductivo, y los registros de las estaciones meteorológicas más cercanas a los establos, para calcular el índice temperatura-humedad (THI) en un periodo de tres años. Para establecer la relación entre el THI y los indicadores del desempeño reproductivo se aplicó un modelo lineal general que consideró como variables explicativas al establo y al año. El modelo de regresión presentó un coeficiente de determinación ajustado de 33.5% y un error estándar de la estimación de 5.75%. Asimismo, el análisis de varianza de la regresión revela una alta significancia del modelo (p<0.001). Los coeficientes de regresión de Max THI para las variables tasa de preñez y tasa de concepción fueron significativos (p<0.001). Se encontró que por cada unidad de incremento de Max THI, se produce una disminución de 0.84% de la tasa de preñez y una disminución de 1.74% de la tasa de concepción. El coeficiente de regresión de Max THI para la variable tasa de servicio no fue significativa. Se concluye que el incremento Max THI afecta significativamente el desempeño reproductivo de los establos lecheros de Lima.
Generación de biogás y biol con mezcla del suero salado de queserías y estiércol de cuy en Canta - Perú
Authors:   , Jordán Bouchon Yildiz Thais
Published: February 2024

La cuenca del río Chillón es conocida por su actividad ganadera (vacuno) y alta producción de quesos. Esta producción genera suero salado, que son eliminados al río, impactando el ecosistema. En este contexto, la presente investigación busca solucionar esta problemática dando valor a dos fuentes orgánicas (suero salado y estiércol de cuy) para producir biogás y biol, contribuyendo con la generación de electricidad a partir de fuentes orgánicas en las zonas rurales y beneficios en su agricultura. Se realizaron cinco tratamientos (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5) con diferentes porcentajes de suero salado y estiércol de cuy. El tiempo de retención (días) para las evaluaciones fueron: 61 para biogás y 164 para biol. Para el biogás, se evaluó: pH, temperatura y conductividad eléctrica. Los resultados muestran mayor producción de biogás en T2 (21 041 ml). En el caso del biol, los análisis de coliformes fecales cumplieron con el D.S. No 004-2017-MINAM (< 10 NMP/ml) y los análisis de macronutrientes fueron elevados en T4 y T5. El ensayo de fitotoxicidad con semillas de alfalfa, indicaron valores altos de IG a diluciones de 1%, 0.1% y 0.01% en los cinco tratamientos; no obstante, T3 y T5 mostraron altos valores, incluso al 10%. Se concluye que, la mayor producción de biogás se presentó en T2, asimismo se evidenció valores altos de IG y macronutrientes en T4, así como ausencia de coliformes; lo cual lo convierte en buen abono que podría ser utilizado en las zonas rurales, para el cultivo de alfalfa.
Prevalence and risk factors of gross neurologic deficits in children after severe malaria: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Okullo Allen Eva , John Chandy C. , Idro Richard , Conroy Andrea L. , Kinengyere Alison Annet , Ojiambo Kevin Ouma , Otike Caroline , Ouma Simple , Ocan Moses , Obuku Ekwaro A. , Hensbroek Michaël Boele van
Published: February 2024

Background
Children exposed to severe malaria may recover with gross neurologic deficits (GND). Several risk factors for GND after cerebral malaria (CM), the deadliest form of severe malaria, have been identified in children. However, there is inconsistency between previously reported and more recent findings. Although CM patients are the most likely group to develop GND, it is not clear if other forms of severe malaria (non-CM) may also contribute to the malaria related GND. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize evidence on the prevalence and risk factors for GND in children following CM and map the changes in patterns over time. In addition, this review will synthesize evidence on the reported prevalence and risk factors of gross neurologic deficits following other forms of severe malaria.
Methods
The systematic review will be conducted according to recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Protocols (PRISMA-P). Relevant research articles will be identified using relevant search terms from the following databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and Global Index Medicus (GIM). The articles will be screened at title and abstract, then at full text for inclusion using a priori eligibility criteria. Data extraction will be done using a tool developed and optimized in Excel spreadsheet. Risk of bias assessment will be done using appropriate tools including ROBINS-E (‘Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Exposure’) tool, while publication bias will be assessed using funnel plot. A random-effects meta-analysis and structured narrative synthesis of the outcomes will be performed and results presented.
Discussion
Findings from this systematic review will inform policy makers on planning, design and implementation of interventions targeting the treatment and rehabilitation of GND following severe malaria in children.
Systematic review registration:
The protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), registration number CRD42022297109.
Evaluation of anti-Toxoplasma effects of lipid nanoparticles carrying Tea tree oil on Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites in Vero Cells
Authors: khonakdari Fatemeh Alipour , Mirjalali Hamed , Hosseini Farzaneh , Pazoki Hossein , Rahimi Hanieh Mohammad , Nemati Sara , Hesari Zahra
Published: February 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that infects more than a third of the world's population. The drugs used today to treat toxoplasmosis cause severe side effects in many people and have poor success in treating chronic infections. In the current study, extracted oil from tea leaf was loaded into solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and its anti-Toxoplasma properties were analyzed. Double emulsification technique was employed to provide SLNs and its physical criteria was calculated by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Cell toxicity and anti-intracellular Toxoplasma activity were investigated by a MTT assay. The anti-Toxoplasma activity of TTO-SLNs was evaluated by trypan-blue staining. The TTO-SLNs were round with a mean particle size of 85.23 nm and clear and stable margins. An association was seen between the cell toxicity of TTO-SLNs with the concentration of the component (P-value = 0.009). The cytotoxic concentration (CC50) against Toxoplasma was > 10 mg/mL, while it was concentration-dependent (P-value < 0.0001). the viability of T. gondii- infected Vero cells was higher in lower concentrations of TTO-SLNs (P-value = 0.0174), while at least 80% of T. gondii- infected Vero cells remained alive in the concentration ˃1 mg/mL. Overall, our findings demonstrated high anti-T. gondii properties of TTO-SLNs, suggesting the promising role of SLNs to carry TTO. In addition, our findings showed prolonged release of the TTO from SLNs capsulation of the can lead to, suggesting the capability of TTO-SLNs to be employed for chronic phase (cyst stages), which should be further investigated in animal models.
Microbial degradation of DOC released by the mixed culture of Crassostrea gigas and Undaria pinnatifida
Authors: Hu Tian , Su Jie , Shao Kuishuang , Xie Yuyang , Wei Yawen , Ming Hongxia , Shi Tingting , Guo Ge , Fan Jingfeng
Published: February 2024

To determine the potential of shellfish-algae aquaculture on carbon sequestration, we studied the microbial degradation process of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) released in a mixed culture of Crassostrea gigas and Undaria pinnatifida. The results showed that DOC concentration tended to rapidly decline followed by a slow decline period and then a steady phase with 28% concentration of DOC remaining over a period of 120 days after removing the Crassostrea gigas and Undaria pinnatifida. Bacterial community structure was dynamic over time and changed in response to three stages of DOC degradation. In the three stages of DOC degradation, the dominant microbial classes shifted from Alphaproteobacteria (39%) and Gammaproteobacteria (43%) in the rapid decline period to Planctomycetia (28%) and Flavobacteria (19%) in the slow decline period to Alphaproteobacteria (29%) in the stable period. The amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were observed to be highly active in the rapid DOC decline and slow DOC decline periods, respectively. The carbon-fixing genes smtA and rbcL were most abundant during the DOC rapid degradation stage. The DOC concentration was significantly negatively correlated with Planctomycetia, Anaerolineae (p < 0.05) and the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) (p < 0.001). These results suggested that the main carbon fixation pathways TCA cycle and its related carbon-fixing genes may be involved in the degradation of DOC released by the mixed culture of shellfish-algae.
PinMyMetal: A hybrid learning system to accurately model metal binding sites in macromolecules
Authors: Zheng Heping , Zhang Huihui , Zhong Juanhong , Gucwa Michal , Zhang Yishuai , Ma Haojie , Deng Lei , Mao Longfei , Minor Wladek , Wang Nasui
Published: February 2024

Metal ions are vital components in many proteins for the inference and engineering of protein function, with coordination complexity linked to structural (4-residue predominate), catalytic (3-residue predominate), or regulatory (2-residue predominate) roles. Computational tools for modeling metal ions in protein structures, especially for transient, reversible, and concentration-dependent regulatory sites, remain immature. We present PinMyMetal (PMM), a sophisticated hybrid machine learning system for predicting zinc ion localization and environment in macromolecular structures. Compared to other predictors, PMM excels in predicting regulatory sites (median deviation of 0.34 Å), demonstrating superior accuracy in locating catalytic sites (median deviation of 0.27 Å) and structural sites (median deviation of 0.14 Å). PMM assigns a certainty score to each predicted site based on local structural and physicochemical features independent of homolog presence. Interactive validation through our server, CheckMyMetal, expands PMM's scope, enabling it to pinpoint and validates diverse functional zinc sites from different structure sources (predicted structures, cryo-EM and crystallography). This facilitates residue-wise assessment and robust metal binding site design. The lightweight PMM system demands minimal computing resources and is available at https://PMM.biocloud.top. While currently trained on zinc, the PMM workflow can easily adapt to other metals through expanded training data.
Early myocardial injury in children on cancer chemotherapy: A cross-sectional study in a tertiary referral centre in Kenya
Authors: Kariuki Nyambura , Kimani Esther , Jowi Christine , Wamalwa Dalton , Suen Jacky Y. , Fraser John F. , Obonyo Nchafatso G.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION: Use of doxorubicin, an anthracycline chemotherapeutic agent has been associated with late-occurring cardiac toxicities. Detection of early-occurring cardiac effects of cancer chemotherapy is essential so as to prevent occurrence of adverse events including toxicity, myocardial dysfunction, and death. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of elevated cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and associated factors of myocardial injury in children on doxorubicin cancer chemotherapy. METHODS: Design: A cross-sectional study Setting and subjects: A hospital-based study conducted on children aged 1-month to 12.4-years who had a diagnosis of cancer and were admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Interventions and outcomes: The patients underwent Echocardiography (ECHO) before their scheduled chemotherapy infusion. Twenty-four (24) hours after the chemotherapy infusion the patients had an evaluation of the serum cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and a repeat ECHO. Myocardial injury was defined as cTnT level > 0.014 ng/ml or a Fractional Shortening (FS) of < 29% on ECHO. RESULTS: One hundred (100) children were included in the final analysis. Thirty-two percent (32%) of the study population had an elevated cTnT. A cumulative doxorubicin dose of > 175mg/m2 was significantly associated with and elevated cTnT (OR, 10.76; 95% CI, 1.18–97.92; p = 0.035). Diagnosis of nephroblastoma was also significantly associated with an elevated cTnT (OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.23–7.26; p = 0.105). Nine percent (9%) of the participants had echocardiographic evidence of myocardial injury. CONCLUSION: When compared to echocardiography, elevated levels of cTnT showed a higher association with early-occurring chemotherapy-induced myocardial injury among children on cancer treatment at a tertiary teaching and referral hospital in Kenya.