bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the influence of the number of poles on the external characteristic of a brushless DC machine in the generator mode
Authors: Masliennikov Andrii
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of a study on the generator mode of operation of a brushless DC machine (BLDC) when operating under active load. For analysis, two models were created with the number of permanent magnets on the rotor differing by a factor of two. The relevance of the research is due to the wide range of applications of BLDC in various fields. One of the key advantages of BLDC is the absence of a brush-commutator unit, which is replaced by a controller with semiconductor elements. This increases the reliability of BLDC and expands the range of operating modes. The main objective of this study is to determine the impact of the number of permanent magnets on the external characteristic of BLDC in generator mode. To achieve this goal, computer modeling was performed using ANSYS Maxwell software. This software is designed to study and calculate the magnetic field pattern using the finite element method in electromechanical devices, providing accurate results for analysis. For each BLDC model, the degree of saturation of the magnetic system elements was determined, and graphs of voltage, current, and braking torque at the generator shaft over time were obtained. Analysis of the calculation results for BLDC models with 46 and 92 permanent magnets demonstrated an impact on the voltage and current waveforms, leading to some slight distortion of their shape. The obtained calculation results allowed determining the efficiency and constructing the external characteristic for both BLDC models. Higher efficiency was obtained for the BLDC model with 92 permanent magnets on the rotor. The external characteristic for the generator mode of BLDC operation demonstrated a change in voltage when transitioning from idle to nominal current operation within the range of 15% and 21%, indicating the stiffness of the characteristic. The conclusions of the study indicate the potential for improving the efficiency of BLDC through optimization of the magnetic system design and cooling conditions, and can be useful for engineers and developers of electromechanical systems aiming to improve the performance of their products.
Evaluation of working conditions in the production system
Authors: Kalinchyk Vasyl , Pobigaylo Vitalii , Kalinchyk Vitalii , Borychenko Olena , Meita Aleksandr
Published: July 2024

The paper analyzes methods for assessing professional risk, emphasizing that the primary method is job certification. Job certification establishes the compliance of the workplace with regulatory characteristics for specific risk factors in the production environment. The analysis reveals that the existing methodology for job certification does not provide insights into changes in the parameters of hazardous and harmful factors in the production environment, and consequently, changes in working conditions between planned certifications. The study advocates for a comprehensive assessment of the collective impact of all factors in the production environment and work processes on the human body. This is achieved through hygienic risk factor assessment. The paper highlights the appropriateness of quantitatively assessing working conditions in points, considering the simultaneous influence of multiple hazardous factors. A procedure for point-based assessment of working conditions is proposed, and the applicability of Haber's Law to determine the cumulative dose of a harmful factor in the body is demonstrated.
Trend analysis of malaria at Maraki Health Center, Gondar Town, Northwest Ethiopia: a ten-year retrospective study
Authors: Abere Aberham , Ayalew Solomon , Wondale Bealemlay , Tigabu Fentahun , Gizachew Nigus , Tesfaye Takele , Ayalew Getnet , Tegegne Banchamlak , Yimer Mulat , Aschale Yibeltal , Tilahun Adane , Tamir Mebratu , Megabiaw Fentahun , Eshetu Tegegne , Derso Adane
Published: July 2024

Background
Globally, malaria is the major public health disease caused by plasmodium species and it is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a protozoan parasite belonging to the genus Plasmodium. The largest number of malaria cases and deaths are reported from the WHO African region mainly, Sub-Saharan Africa, each year. The aim of the study was to assess the ten-year trend of malaria in Maraki Health Center, Gondar Town, northwest Ethiopia.
Methods
A retrospective study was carried out at Maraki Health Center. Ten-year (2012–2021) blood film results were extracted by reviewing the laboratory logbook. A chi-square test was used to describe associations between malaria cases and different variables.
Result
In a ten-year period, 15,978 blood films were requested for malaria diagnosis, of whom 57.5% were from males. About 68.0% fell under the age group of 15–45 years old. The overall prevalence of malaria was 25.2% (n = 4019) (95% CI: 23.83–26.59). Plasmodium falciparum was the dominant malaria species over the ten-year period. The highest peaks of total malaria cases were observed in 2012 and in October, and the lowest peaks were observed in 2016 and April (mean annual case = 401.9). The highest and lowest peaks of P. falciparum cases followed a similar pattern to the total malaria cases. The highest and lowest peaks of P. vivax cases were observed in 2012 and 2018, respectively. There was a statistically significant year and monthly variation of malaria cases (P < 0:001). Malaria was reported in both sexes and all age groups, of which males and the age group 15–45 years old comprised the maximum number of malaria cases (P < 0:001).
Conclusion
Malaria continues to be an important public health concern in the study area. A significant fluctuation was observed over the ten-year period. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species, despite some annual P. vivax dominance. Uninterrupted efforts are still essential to decrease the burden of malaria to a level that has no more public health effects.
Patterns of utilization and optimization of guideline-directed medical therapy and associated factors among heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction in selected hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Adamseged Michael , Mengistu Mekoya , Solela Gashaw , Berhane Abel Andargie , W/Yohannes Getachew
Published: July 2024

Background
The global burden of heart failure, especially with reduced ejection fraction, is a significant health issue. Current guidelines stress the importance of optimal medication use to maximize patient outcomes. Nevertheless, a notable gap exists in implementing these guidelines worldwide. In Ethiopia, there is limited post-guideline data on the utilization and optimization of medications for patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. This study aims to evaluate the patterns of utilization and drug optimization and associated factors of guideline directed medical therapy among these patients attending cardiac centers at selected public and private hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A facility-based, cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using a pretested, structured checklist. Data were edited and cleaned via Microsoft Excel 2016 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Baseline demographic and clinical datawere summarized using descriptive statistics. Multiple logistic regression analysis was run to identify association between dependent and independent variables, by computing odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
A total of 404 patients were included in this study, with a response rate of 95.7%. Majority (222; 55%) were males, and patients’ age ranged from 17 years to 86 years with a median (inter-quartile range) of 56 (43.25–65) years. Overall, 46 (11.4%) were receiving quadruple therapy. ACEIs/ARBs, beta-blockers and MRA were given to 212(52.5%), 314 (77.7%), and238 (58.9%) patients, respectively. SGLT2Is were prescribed to only 109 (27%) patients. Age older than 65 years (AOR = 4.34; 95% CI = 1.59, 11.89), history of previous hospitalization (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI = 1.21, 5.15) and taking < 5 medications (AOR = 9.6; 95% CI = 2.79, 33.07) were associated with GDMT underutilization.
Conclusion
There is a large gap in GDMT implementation, with majority of the patients having either underutilization or under-dosing, particularly those older than 65 years, with history of previous hospitalization and taking < 5 medications. Thus, efforts should be directed to design customized guidelines along with institution of sensitization and training programs while also considering multidisciplinary care.
The Targeting Incidence of Brazil’s Vale Transporte transit subsidy scheme
Authors: Gómez-Lobo Andrés , González Vileydy , Sanchez Santiago
Published: July 2024

We evaluate the targeting properties of the Vale Transporte scheme in Brazil, one of the oldest and most iconic transit subsidies in the Latin American region. We use household survey data for 26 metropolitan areas to calculate the Concentration Index and the Ω Index to determine whether benefits are accruing to workers belonging to low-income households. The results indicate that this program is badly targeted. The Concentration Index is negative in only 7 of the 26 metropolitan areas, indicating a regressive incidence of this benefit in most cities. Likewise, the Ω Index indicates that only in 3 metropolitan areas is the targeting incidence mildly progressive when the target population is defined as workers belonging to the poorest 40% of households in each city. The reason behind these results is that only formal sector workers are eligible for this benefit while many low-income individuals work in the informal sector in Brazil. In addition, since this subsidy is paid for by employers it is reasonable to expect compensating equilibrium wage effects in the formal labor market. We present evidence that suggests that this may have occurred.
Prevention Values for Copper (Low Tier Approach) in Subtropical Acidic Soils
Authors: de Oliveira Daniela Aparecida , Freitas Thiago Ramos , Rosa Vanessa Mignon Dalla , Filho Luís Carlos Iuñes de Oliveira , Veiga Milton da , Campos Mari Lucia , Miquelluti David José , Klauberg-Filho Osmar
Published: July 2024

Copper is a trace element in plants and animals whose importance can be understood due to its role in different essential metabolic processes. Anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and mining are potential sources of pollution due to the emission of copper into the environment. Brazilian legislation ties soil quality to guideline values, among which the Prevention Value indicates the critical environmental limit for trace elements. The aim of this study was to obtain PVs for copper for two subtropical soils (Cambisol and Nitisol), given that the pedological richness was not considered when deriving the PVs contained in the federal normative. Reproduction assays followed ISO guidelines with the earthworm species Eisenia andrei and Perionyx excavatus, the enchytraeids Enchytraeus crypticus and E. bigeminus and the springtails Folsomia candida and Proisotoma minuta. Results showed that the sensitivity of the organisms was greater in Cambisol. The most sensitive species were the earthworms, especially P. excavatus (EC50 = 67.83 in Cambisol; EC50 = 264.96 in Nitisol). The springtails, on the other hand, were the least sensitive to contamination. These findings reinforce the need to include organisms from different ecological groups in ecotoxicological assessments. It was also observed that the PV adopted in federal legislation (= 60 mg kg-1) is in fact protective for the species and soils we evaluated, since the PVs we obtained based on the EC50 were 346.74 mg kg-1 in Nitisol and 134.05 mg kg-1 in Cambisol. It is important to note that our results do not exclude the need for evaluations with other subtropical soils, given the influence of their properties on the toxicity and bioavailability of copper to soil organisms.
ISL1-overexpressing BMSCs attenuate renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress through the paracrine action
Authors: Wang Jiale , Wang Jingwen , Lu Cuinan , Wang Ying , Bi Huanjing , Zheng Jin , Ding Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major event in renal transplantation, leading to adverse outcomes. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are novel promising therapeutics for repairing kidney injuries. The therapeutic efficacy of BMSCs with ISL1 overexpression in renal IRI and its underlying mechanism need to be investigated. The unilateral renal IRI rat model was established to mimic clinical acute kidney injury. Rats were injected with PBS, BMSCs-Scrambled or BMSCs-ISL1 via the tail vein at the timepoint of reperfusion, and then sacrificed after 24 h of reperfusion. The administration of BMSCs-ISL1 significantly improved renal function, inhibited tubular cells apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress in rats. In vitro, HKC cells subjected to H2O2 stimulation were pretreated with the conditioned medium (CM) of BMSCs-Scrambled or BMSCs-ISL1. The pretreatment of ISL1-CM attenuated apoptosis and oxidative stress induced by H2O2 in HKC cells. Our proteomic data suggested that haptoglobin (Hp) was one of the secretory proteins in ISL1-CM. Subsequent experiments confirmed that Hp was the important paracrine factor from BMSCs-ISL1 that exerted anti-apoptotic and antioxidant functions. Mechanistically, Hp played a cytoprotective role via the inhibition of ERK signaling pathway, which could be abrogated by Ro 67-7476, the ERK phosphorylation agonist. The results suggested that paracrine action may be the main mechanism for BMSCs-ISL1 to exert protective effects. As an important anti-apoptotic and antioxidant factor in ISL1-CM, Hp may serve as a new therapeutic agent for treating IRI, providing new insights for overcoming the long-term adverse effects of stem cell therapy.
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width and Pediatric Post-operative Cardiac Function
Authors: Alaei Fariba , Vahidshahi Kourosh , Alaei Mastaneh , Khalilian Mohammad Reza , kamfar Sharareh , Zavareh Seyyed Abdolhossein Tavallai
Published: July 2024

Introduction
: Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) has recently been introduced as an important related factor in surveying prognosis of chronic diseases. This study was performed to assess the relationship between RDW and cardiac function before and after congenital heart disease surgery in children.
Method
Seventy-six children with congenital heart disease (CHD) requiring surgery admitted in Modarres Hospital pediatric cardiology ward were enrolled in this cross-sectional descriptive study. Blood samples were taken for RDW determination. Two-dimensional, M-mode, Doppler flow velocity and Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) were applied to evaluate cardiac function by echocardiography on the day following operation.
Results
There was no relationship between Preoperative RDW levels and early postoperative heart function except for increased Aortic Velocity Time Integral (VTI) and Mitral Valve Systolic Velocity (MV S′) noted in patients with higher RDW percents. Also, patients with higher RDW showed a longer intra-operative pump time and mean ICU stay.
Conclusion
Higher RDW levels may predict longer duration of surgery and ICU stay in pediatric cardiac surgery, however it has no relationship with cardiac function in the early postoperative period.
Weak coupling of observed surface PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR with rice crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana
Authors: Mangaraj Poonam , Matsumi Yutaka , Nakayama Tomoki , Biswal Akash , Yamaji Kazuyo , Araki Hikaru , Yasutomi Natsuko , Takigawa Masayuki , Patra Prabir , Hayashida Sachiko , Sharma Akansha , DIMRI ASHOK , Dhaka Surendra Kumar , Bhatti Manpreet , Kajino Mizuo , Kumar Sahil , Khaiwal Ravindra , Bhardwaj Sanjeev , Vazhathara Vimal , Kunchala Ravi , Mandal Tuhin , Misra Prakhar , Singh Tanbir , Vatta Kamal , Mor Suman
Published: July 2024

Air pollution impacts on human health are of serious concern in northern India, and over the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) in particular. The Kharif crop residue burning (CRB) is often blamed for degradation of Delhi-NCR’s seasonal air quality. However, the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) remained stable in Delhi, while the fire detection counts (FDCs) from satellites over Punjab and Haryana declined by 50% or more during 2015-2023. We further analysed measurements of PM2.5, carbon monoxide (CO) and related parameters in Delhi-NCR, Haryana and Punjab from a network of 30 low-cost sensors (CUPI-Gs) in a selected period (September–November) of 2022 and 2023. Measured PM2.5 showed lower concentration in 2023 compared to 2022 at Punjab and Haryana sites, in compliance with FDC reductions. We have conducted airmass trajectories, particle dispersion and chemistry-transport model simulations to depict the formation of air pollution events from CRB emissions. Using model sensitivity simulations, we estimated meagerly ~14% of PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR was contributed directly by the emissions from CRB in Punjab during October-November 2022. Model-observation comparisons of PM2.5, and day-night variations of PM2.5 and CO suggest emissions from incomplete combustion dominate in Delhi-NCR, which explains the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Valorization of Sugar Industrial Waste (Molasse) via Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production for a Sustainable Circular Economy
Authors: MOUHO OCEANNE MURIELLE BOHASSET , Yan Song , Konan Affoué Tindo Sylvie , Doudjo Soro , Yao Kouassi Benjamin , Drogui Patrick , Tyagi Rajeshwar D
Published: July 2024

Sugar industries are among the oldest food processing factories. Regrettably, main waste from sugar industries, are discharged without treatment in the environment. There are many wastes from raw to final product in sugar processes. Industrial waste requires proper management; otherwise, it causes a major eﬀect on the environment. Molasse is one of the wastes from the sugar industry. However, it also has the potential to be transformed into polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) via fermentation. This approach could reduce waste and solve an environmental pollution. In this study, a fermentation was conducted in shake-flask with Cupriavidus Necator. Three types of pretreatments of molasse were conducted to increase PHA production: i) sulfuric acid pretreatment; ii) enzymatic pretreatment and iii) pretreatment with activated carbon. Molasse pretreated with enzyme, incubated in a water bath for 5 h (60 °C, 150 rpm), allows to accumulate up to a maximum of 8.20 g/L cell dry mass (CDW), with a PHA content of 71.79 wt%. The use of molasse for PHA production, has the potential to drive sugar industry toward a circular bioeconomy. Because PHB obtained will use to produce bioplastic bag, for containing sugar.
A randomized trial of the effects of limiting digital screen use on parent-child synchrony in physical behaviours and family cohesion
Authors: Grøntved Anders , Sørensen Sarah , Schmidt-Persson Jesper , Kristensen Peter , Rasmussen Martin , Mortensen Sofie , Gejl Anne , Arundell Lauren , Salmon Jo , Halpin Brendan
Published: July 2024

Engagement in shared activities between parents and children is potentially compromised by the pervasive use of digital screens in familial contexts. In this randomized trial in 326 parent-child dyads nested in 87 families, we investigated the effects of limiting screen use in parents and children on the amount of synchrony in physical behaviors and family cohesion. Families were randomly assigned to wither undergo an extensive screen media reduction intervention or to control. For seven days at baseline and follow-up, parents and children each wore two accelerometers, positioned on the thigh and trunk, 24 hours/day, enabling the second-by-second classification of their physical behaviors. Time-series sequence analysis of physical behavior revealed significant enhancements in dyadic synchrony for the screen reduction group. In shared leisure time, the between-group mean difference in change favored the screen reduction group, with a -0.18 point (95%CI -0.27 to -0.10) decrease in time-warp edit distance dissimilarity score and a 32.9 min/day (95%CI 16.0 to 49.9) of more direct matched activity. Additionally, parents in the screen reduction group reported enhanced family communication, more collaborative tasks, and engagement in new shared activities. Our findings highlight the potential benefits of reducing screen time for improving parent-child behavioral synchrony and familial cohesion.
Assessment of Seismic Site Response and Liquefaction Potential for Seismic Site Classification in the Niger Delta Region
Authors: TrustGod John A. , Kennedy Charles , Ataria Robert B.
Published: July 2024

A comprehensive seismic site characterization of Igbogene in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria was conducted to evaluate the site response and liquefaction potential. Field investigations included borehole drilling, Standard Penetration Testing (SPT), and Multi-Channel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) testing to obtain soil samples and characterize subsurface properties. Laboratory tests determined soil classification, index properties, density, and geotechnical parameters per ASTM standards. Mathematical correlations were developed through regression modelling to estimate SPT N-values, shear wave velocity (Vs), and liquefaction and safety factor factor based on soil depth, composition, moisture content, and effective stress. The correlations demonstrated strong agreement with measured field and laboratory data, outperforming existing empirical models. Subsurface conditions comprised predominantly loose to dense silty sands and soft compressible clays within the upper 30 m. Shear wave velocity profiles matched closely with the developed velocity correlation, averaging 5.2% error. Site response analyses and simplified liquefaction evaluations were conducted to assess seismic hazards. The results showed amplification factors ranging from 1.5 to over 3 for the loose sandy soils, demonstrating their ability to significantly amplify ground shaking. Liquefaction potential maps were generated based on spatial variations in geologic conditions. This comprehensive site characterization provided reliable input for seismic microzonation and geotechnical earthquake engineering design as per international codes. This study's results can aid in stimulating infrastructure resilience against seismic activity throughout the Niger Delta region.
Roles of cytokines in modulating Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense infection outcomes in vervet monkeys
Authors: Adung’a Vincent , Jebet Clara , John Thuita , Masiga Daniel , John Oidho , Field Mark , Matovu Enock , Orindi Benedict
Published: July 2024

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, remains a threat in east and southern African regions. The disease is widely categorised as acute, but often presents varying clinical outcomes that could also be considered as chronic. Although the mechanisms underpinning these variable clinical dynamics are poorly understood, host and parasite factors or both have been suggested. Here we assessed the roles of host cytokines in disease progression using a non-human primate (NHP), vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) model of HAT. We quantified the levels of eight cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN- γ, IL-10, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-1 β, the brain injury biomarker S100β, clinical data and compared acute and chronic infections. As expected, cytokine levels in both infected groups were significantly higher than uninfected controls (P<0.05). IL-12, IL-6 and IL-1β cytokines were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in early-stage disease which extended from infection to the onset of late stage disease at a median (range) time of 16 (8-24) and 16 (12-28) dpi for acute and chronic strains respectively. IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-10 are implicated in pro- and counter inflammatory responses and their modulation. C. aethiops infected with KETRI 3801 died with a mean survival time of 28 days compared to KETRI 3928 with a mean survival time of 95 days. In addition, CSF parasite and WBC levels were higher in KETRI 3801 as compared to KETRI 3928 infections. We conclude that cytokines play a role in modulating disease progression and severity in a NHP model of T. b. rhodesiense HAT. Further, we validate the cyclic vervet monkey model of HAT, enhancing its utility for disease pathogenesis studies. These results are important in investigating host-pathogen interactions to unravel varying infection outcomes.
Occluded Person Re-ID Based on Dual Attention Mask Guidance
Authors: Liao Kaiyang , Lin Jie , Zheng Yuanlin , Liu Haiwen , Tan Yunfei , Feng Wen
Published: July 2024

Occluded person re-identification aims to match occluded pedestrian with pedestrian images from nonintersecting cameras. For dealing with the task of Occluded Person Re-ID, existing methods focus only on tackling the pedestrian occlusion issue. Yet they all ignore the fact that salient nonhuman body parts such as hats, bags, and jewelry can provide more discriminatory informational cues. In this regard, this paper proposed an Occluded Person Re-ID algorithm based on Dual Attention Mask (DAM) guidance, which simultaneously solves the problems of pedestrian occlusion and significant non-human body part features that are easily ignored. Specifically, DAM consists of Pose Attention (PA) and Saliency Attention (SA). PA utilizes human pose key points to generate heatmap, and the produced heatmap indicates whether a specific body part is occluded or not, as well as guides the model to focus on the non-occluded region. SA then locates dropped salient non-human body part features through spatial attention and channel attention, and generates a saliency attention heat map to direct the model focus on the salient non-human body part features. Accordingly, DAM not only highlights the visible body parts while suppressing the occluded parts, but also localizes the prominent non-human body parts in the background. Finally, extensive experiments on three occlusion datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method.
Impact of a 2-week Flipped Classroom Virtual Neurology Clerkship versus a Traditional 4- week Rotation on NBME Shelf Exam Scores
Authors: Rybinnik Igor , Pal Gian , Farrukh Humza , Przydzial Paulina , Mani Ram
Published: July 2024

Objective
There is conflicting evidence whether decreased clerkship duration is associated with reduced NBME shelf examination performance. We hypothesized that scores would remain stable for students in a shortened 2-week flipped classroom-based virtual rotation as compared to the traditional 4-week Neurology clerkship.
Background
There is conflicting evidence whether decreased clerkship duration is associated with reduced NBME shelf examination performance. We hypothesized that Neurology shelf exam scores would remain stable for students in a shortened 2-week flipped classroom-based virtual rotation as compared to the traditional 4-week Neurology clerkship with direct patient care supplemented by didactics.
Methods
This is a retrospective observational cohort study. In April 2020, the neurology clerkship at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School switched from a traditional 4-week in-person clinical rotation supplemented by didactics to a 2-week flipped classroom-based virtual-only curriculum decoupled from a supplementary 2-week in-person clinical rotation to be completed later. Students were offered the opportunity to test after the 2-week virtual curriculum. NBME shelf scores for these “exam before clinical rotation” (EBC) students over the final quarter of the academic year 2019–2020 were compared to those of the “exam after clinical” (EAC) students undergoing the 4-week traditional rotation from July 2018 to March 2020.
Results
321 students completed the shelf exam between July 2018 and June 2020, of which 284 students comprised the EAC cohort and 37 students, the EBC cohort. Mean scores did not differ between the EBC and EAC cohorts (81.8 ± 6.7 versus 81.8 ± 6.5, p = 0.96). Additional analyses showed no significant differences in the performance of EBC students as compared to the EAC students that tested within the same academic year 2019–2020 or within the matched quarter of the prior academic year 2018–2019, and students completing the virtual rotation who delayed testing after the clinical experience.
Conclusions
Testing after a 2-week flipped classroom-based virtual curriculum in Neurology without additional clinical training did not negatively affect neurology NBME shelf scores. Decoupling clinical experiences from knowledge acquisition and the evaluation of that knowledge base by means of NBME shelf examination is not likely to disadvantage learners with respect to shelf examination performance.
Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable. This is not a clinical trial.
Seasonal Dynamics of Soil Microbiome in Response to Dry-Wet Alternation along the Jinsha River Dry-hot Valley
Authors: Jiang Hao , Chen Xiaoqing , Li Yongping , Chen Jiangang , Wei Li , Zhang Yuanbin
Published: July 2024

Background
Soil microorganisms play a key role in nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and other important ecosystem processes, yet their response to seasonal dry-wet alternation remains poorly understood. Here, we collected 120 soil samples from dry-hot valleys (DHVs, ~1100 m a.s.l.), transition (~2000 m a.s.l.) and alpine zones (~3000 m a.s.l.) along the Jinsha River in southwest China during both wet and dry seasons. Our aims were to investigate the bacterial microbiome across these zones, with a specific focus on the difference between wet and dry seasons.
Results
Despite seasonal variations, bacterial communities in DHVs exhibit resilience, maintaining consistent community richness, diversity, and coverage. This suggests that the microbes inhabiting DHVs have evolved adaptive mechanisms to withstand the extreme dry and hot conditions. In addition, we observed season-specific microbial clades in all sampling areas, highlighting their resilience and adaptability to environmental fluctuations. Notably, we found similarities in microbial clades between soils from DHVs and the transition zones, including the phyla Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Proteobacteria. The neutral community model respectively explained a substantial proportion of the community variation in DHVs (87.7%), transition (81.4%) and alpine zones (81%), indicating that those were predominantly driven by stochastic processes. Our results showed that migration rates were higher in the dry season than in the wet season in both DHVs and the alpine zones, suggesting fewer diffusion constraints. However, this trend was reversed in the transition zones.
Conclusions
Our findings contribute to a better understanding of how the soil microbiome responds to seasonal dry-wet alternation in the Jinsha River valley. These insights can be valuable for optimizing soil health and enhancing ecosystem resilience, particularly in dry-hot valleys, in the context of climate change.
Radiomics improves the prognosis assessment of glioma recurrences: Focus on reliability analysis of MRI features
Authors: Li Linlin , Yan Ying , Zhang Jiaxin , Lv Zhiru , Liu Bing , Tong Guiyuan , Xue Zhaofeng , Sun Ying , Zhao Xinzhuo
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To investigate whether imaging biomarkers could improve the efficacy of recurrent glioma survival prediction compared with that of the established clinical factors model.
Method
The clinical information of 80 patients was recorded in detail along with the radiomic features of the tumor region on recurrent MR images. An overall survival (OS) prediction model was proposed that combines clinical information and radiomic features. To improve the model’s generalizability and reliability, three-level feature selection methods (Kruskal‒Wallis test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and LASSO) were utilized. Finally, feature maps were constructed to explain the radiomic features.
Results
Six radiomic features and three clinical factors were identified to have prognostic value for recurrent glioma. The model combining radiomics features and clinical factors achieved better predictive performance (C-index = 0.787) than the clinical-based model (C-index = 0.734). KM survival curves showed clear differences between the high- and low-risk OS groups, with C-indexes of 0.751 (p < .0001) and 0.687 (p = 0.018), respectively.
Conclusion
Radiomics features improve overall survival prediction for recurrent glioma patients.
Antioxidant and genotoxic activity of Pistacia terebinthus and Ephedra alata crude extracts
Authors: HARIR Mohammed , Bnedif Hamdi , Reimann hauker , Filomena Silva , Nerin Cristina , Hintzsche Henning
Published: July 2024

In the last decades, cases of poisoning due to medicinal plants have been very common in many countries including Algeria. Algerian herbal medicines have been used in effectively treating several health problems, but their toxicity limits their use. Pistacia terebinthus and Ephedra alata herbal medicine collected from Algeria have been used for a long time to treat several diseases. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and evaluate the genotoxicity and the antioxidant activity of crude extracts of these two herbal medicines (E. alata and P. terebinthus) traditionally used in Algeria and North Africa. For this purpose, genotoxicity was assessed using the micronucleus test. Additionally, compounds with antioxidant and genotoxic activities of these two plants were identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The highest antioxidant capacity of the extracts was found in P. terebinthus ethanol extract owing to its richness of daphnetin, and oleic acid amide. Our results showed that most of these plants exhibited antioxidant activities and genotoxic effects, depending on the level of administered doses. To our knowledge, this is the first report on these effects caused by of both plants.
The application of Information Poverty Theory to health information and misinformation in the digital age
Authors: Matli Walter
Published: July 2024

Purpose – The growing use and availability of advanced technologies have helped empower communities around health issues across the world. This review article focuses more specifically on health misinformation, paying particular attention to the interplay between a lack of adequate data for decision-making during health emergencies and the context of widespread uncertainty around the use and reliability of information from digital sources.
Design/methodology/approach – The systematic review sampled the Scopus database to access articles using several literature searches. This qualitative review article adopts the Information Poverty Theory to understand better decision-making regarding the availability of health information by both communities and individuals.
Findings – First, health emergencies result in uneven situations for some people and communities, as they are not active participants in the use of information technology. In many cases, this is not by choice but because of the situations in which they find themselves. Second, there are concerns about the lack of social integration with new technologies. We live in an unequal world, where the privileged have access to and use technology to access health-related information, whereas, for others, access and use are difficult or not an option at all.
Originality – As digital health information distribution grows and as more data becomes available, society requires information that will assist them in responding to health emergencies and in becoming more knowledgeable about how to access such information. Policymakers within the healthcare sector and in governments need to learn the importance of increasing access to advanced information technologies as part of their approach to sharing health information, especially for those with poor or no access to information and communication infrastructure and to learn from recent failures and successes experienced.
Effect of cations on ATP binding to the N-domain of Na+, K+-ATPase
Authors: Ramírez-Alonso Jocelin I. , Sampedro José G.
Published: July 2024

The nucleotide-binding domain (N-domain) of the Na+, K+-ATPase (NKA) is physicochemically characterized by a high content of Glu and Asp residues, resulting in a low isoelectric point (pI = 5.0). Acidic proteins are known to interact with cations. The analysis in silico revealed potential cation interaction sites in the NKA N-domain structure. The interaction with cations was tested in vitro by using a recombinant NKA N-domain. The N-domain contains two Trp residues at the protein surface, as determined by acrylamide-mediated fluorescence quenching, that are useful for structural studies through fluorescence changes. Intrinsic fluorescence of the N-domain was quenched by the presence of cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+) indicating an effect on the protein structure. ATP binding also quenched the N-domain intrinsic fluorescence, which allowed nucleotide affinity determination and sigmoid kinetics for binding. In the presence of cations, the N-domain affinity for ATP was increased, as well as binding cooperativity. Molecular docking of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) with the N-domain showed two binding modes with the isothiocyanate group located 5–6 Å close to Lys480 and Lys501 in the nucleotide-binding site. The presence of ATP prevented the FITC covalent labeling of the N-domain demonstrating the competitive behavior for the binding site. Finally, it was found that the presence of Na+ and K+, but not Ca2+, diminished the FITC labeling of the N-domain; i.e., by decreasing FITC affinity at the nucleotide-binding site. It is proposed that cations interact with the N-domain structure and thereby modulate nucleotide (ATP) affinity and possibly affecting NKA catalysis.
No-tillage with total green manure mulching reduces soil respiration by regulating soil moisture affecting heterotrophic respiration
Authors: Shang Yongpan , YU Aizhong , Wang Yulong , Wang Pengfei , Lyu Hanqiang , Wang Feng , Yang Xuehui , Liu Yalong , Yin Bo , Zhang Dongling
Published: July 2024

Background and aims
Green manure is widely used in agricultural production due to its beneficial soil modification and fertilization functions. However, the mechanisms related to the effects of green manure return methods on soil respiration (Rs) and its components are not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of green manure return methods on Rs in maize fields by quantifying Rs.
Methods
A field experiment with five treatments was conducted in 2021–2023 in the inland river oasis irrigation area of Gansu: tillage with a full quantity of green manure incorporated into the soil (TG), no-tillage with a full quantity of green manure mulched into the soil surface (NTG), tillage with roots incorporated into the soil and above ground green manure removed (T), no-tillage with above ground manure removed (NT) and conventional tillage and leisure (CT).
Results
The results showed that compared to CT, the NTG treatment increases maize grain yield while reducing Rs by 6.7–8.7%, carbon emission (CE) by 6.7–8.6%, and improving carbon emission efficiency (CEE) by 20.8–25.6%. The increase in soil water content (SWC) significantly reduced soil heterotrophic respiration rate (Rh) during all growth periods, which was the main reason for the decrease in Rs. Additionally, under this treatment, the NEP-C of the farmland ecosystem is positive, indicating that the soil acts as a carbon "sink".
Conclusions
Therefore, no-tillage with full quantity of green manure mulched on soil surface is an effective measure for carbon sequestration and emission reduction in farmland.
Graphene-based High-frequency Millimeter-wave Tunable Broadband Absorber
Authors: Jia yilin , Dian Wang , Shilong Miao , Xinran JI , Binyi Ma , Qiannan Wu
Published: July 2024

To address the issues of narrow absorption bandwidth and low absorption rate in current high-frequency millimeter-wave absorbers, this paper proposes a graphene-based metamaterial broadband absorber. The absorber consists of a PET layer at the bottom, an ITO layer, a SiO2 layer, a surface graphene layer, and a patterned copper structure. Simulation results indicate that the proposed absorber achieves an absorption bandwidth of 101.3 GHz, with an absorption frequency range of 117.5 to 218.8 GHz, where the absorption rate exceeds 90%. Near-perfect absorption is achieved at 170 GHz, covering the high-frequency millimeter-wave band. By adjusting the Fermi level of graphene, tunable absorption can be achieved, and the absorber is insensitive to both TE and TM polarization. The proposed absorber features good symmetry, compact size, tunability, and excellent insensitivity to TE and TM waves. This design holds promise for enhancing communication security and reducing electromagnetic interference in sixth-generation (6G) devices.
Determining Empty Seed Formation and Germination Rates Induced by Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) in Coniferous Species in Turkiye Forests
Authors: parlak salih , YILMAZ Mustafa
Published: July 2024

In recent years, low germination rates have been a problem in the seeds of various coniferous species in Turkiye, particularly Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia) and black pine (Pinus nigra), which are commonly used species for afforestation activities. The increase in low germination rates corresponds to the spread of Leptoglossus occidentalis in coniferous forests, suggesting an investigation of potential correlation between the spread of this insect and the empty seed formation and germination rates. This study aimed to investigate the main causes of empty seeds and low germination rates induced by Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) in coniferous species in Turkiye. In the study, sample cones from various coniferous species including Fir (Abies spp.), Stone pine (Pinus pinea), Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia), Spruce (Picea orientalis), Cedar (Cedrus libani), Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), Black pine (Pinus nigra) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) were collected based on their geographical distribution, and then their seeds were extracted. The 1000-seed weights were determined for each species, followed by germination tests conducted under controlled conditions. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations in germination rates among species. Among the eight species examined, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) had the highest germination rate at 37.9%, while fir (Abies spp) had the lowest rate at 0.4%. Further statistical analysis revealed variations in germination rates based on aspects, with generally higher rates observed in sunny aspects. The results indicated that Leptoglossus occidentalis caused a significant decrease in seed germination ranging from 60–99% in coniferous species. Additionally, reductions in 1000-seed weights ranging from 19–81% were observed in the species, except Scots pine. The findings highlight widespread germination issues in seeds of majority of the coniferous tree in Turkiye. As a result, it was found that L. occidentalis significantly contributes to empty seed formation and lower germination rates in coniferous forests. Therefore, it is essential to develop strategies to protect and conserve seed resources to mitigate any negative impacts on forest resources.
Barriers to Correct Pronoun Usage in Healthcare Settings
Authors: Makara Jodie , Cain Roman , Glock Lucas , Ioerger Michael , Holliday Scott
Published: July 2024

Background
Using correct pronouns is an impactful way to establish affirming environments for transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) patients. However, physicians often report struggling with this.
Objective
This study set out to conduct an initial root cause analysis of factors contributing to medical students and physicians failing to use TGNB patients’ correct pronouns.
Methods
A 10-item Qualtrics survey was sent to medical students, residents, and physicians practicing in Central Ohio. Participants were asked to describe perceived challenges or barriers colleagues have regarding correctly using TGNB patients’ correct pronouns. A directed content analysis of participant responses was performed utilizing a fishbone diagram root cause analysis tool as a basis for conceptualizing and categorizing barriers. All coding was completed by independent reviewers utilizing a consensus reconciliation methodology.
Results
Of 928 survey respondents, 763 met the study inclusion criteria, of which 453 provided analyzable responses. Of these 453, attendings with five or more years of practice (32.5%) and medical students (27.4%) made up the two largest demographic categories. 1.7% of respondents identified as transgender, nonbinary, and/or genderqueer, and 64% identified as heterosexual/straight. Five core barrier categories were identified: documentation, patient care, environment, knowledge, and individuals. Sub-categories were also identified, including lack of documentation, discomfort, medical culture, lack of standardization, prejudice, and assumptions.
Conclusion
The study identifies important barriers to medical professionals correctly using TGNB patients’ pronouns. The root cause analysis conducted as part of this study demonstrates the necessity of multi-pronged, system-level interventions to support ensuring TGNB patients are addressed using the correct pronouns.
Morphology of fracture profiles and toughness: competition between inter and transgranular fracture in two dimensional brittle solids
Authors: Paul Retam , Parameswaran Venkitanarayanan , Basu Sumit
Published: July 2024

Two dimensional intergranular brittle cracks propagating through a microstructured material produce fracture profiles which, at scales larger than the microstructural length scale, are anti-persistent and close to directed random walks with Hurst exponent ∼ 0.5. The extent of intergranularity is controlled by the ratio of the toughness of the grain boundaries to that of the grain interior. However, experiments suggest that even when transgranular crack propagation is possible, the fracture profile is still close to a random walk. In this work, generating fracture profiles in a material with an idealised honeycomb microstructure using a phase field based model of crack propagation, we show that the competition between inter and transgranular fracture manifests in a manner that is more nuanced than what the experiments suggest. While the fracture profile is indeed always anti-persistent, transgranularity resulting from toughening the grains leads to profiles that can have roughness exponents much lower than 0.5. Moreover, in such cases, the overall toughness of the specimen scales with the Hurst exponent. On the other hand, transgranularity resulting from weakening the grain boundaries, without changing the toughness of the grain interior, always lead to fracture profiles close to the random walk.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) MSC code1 · MSC code2 · more
Effect of raw material ratio on properties of phosphogypsum- blast furnace slag cold bonded aggregate
Authors: Wang Shengqing , Tuo Biyang , Wang Jianli , Shi Xiulong , Guo Jidong , Zhang Xujun
Published: July 2024

In order to solve the serious environmental problems caused by the storage of phosphogypsum (PG) and alleviate the consumption of natural aggregates such as sand and gravel. PG, blast furnace slag and cement were prepared into round particles of 5–13 mm by disc granulator. The effects of different raw material ratios on the properties of phosphogypsum-slag cold bonded aggregate were studied. Additionally, the physical characteristics and mechanical strength of PBCA were examined across different proportions of PG and blast furnace slag. By elevating the PG content from 60–90%, there was a notable decline in the bulk density of PBCA from 1021 kg/m3 to 953 kg/m3 after 28 d. Additionally, the cylinder compressive strength of PBCA decreased significantly from 16.22 MPa to 1.96 MPa when subjected to dry conditions. Furthermore, the water absorption rate witnessed a notable increase from 6.01–13.41%. MIP analysis showed that with the increase of PG content, the internal pore size of PBCA gradually increased, and the proportion of pores larger than 200 nm increased.