bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Verification and Further Reflection on the Peak-End Rule
Authors: Shifei Li , Yingjie Sun , Zhen Liu
Published: August 2024

People make choices all the time, and sometimes the results of choices are unexpected, and the existence of the peak-end rule can explain the counterintuition in our decision evaluation. In fact, changes in "peak" and "end" experiences affect the choices people make all the time and greatly affect the evaluation of decisions. This article summarizes the characteristics of the Peak-End Rule and provides a large number of real-life examples to explain it. Based on this, three experiments were designed to verify the correctness of the Peak-End Rule from different perspectives. Among these experiments, Experiment 2 was the most important, and all participants participated in two stages of the experiment. In the first stage, they ran 100 meters with full effort, and in the second stage, they slowed down and ran 50 meters after running 100 meters with full effort. It was recorded that all participants chose to participate in the second stage of exercise, and more people chose to complete the second stage. This conclusion is contrary to common sense because the second stage covered an additional distance of 50 meters. But this result precisely confirms the conclusion of the Peak-End Theorem, because the end of the second stage run is easier, and more participants choose to run in the second stage. Meanwhile, through in-depth analysis of the data from Experiment 3, the author believes that the impact of the "endpoint" on decision-making is greater than that of the "peak".
Reversal of P-glycoprotein Mediated Multidrug Resistance in MCF-7/R Cancer Cells by Esculetin Derivatives: Experimental and MD Simulation Studies
Authors: Kumbhar Navanath , Khan Neelofar , Bavi Rohit , Barage Sagar , Khan Ayesha
Published: August 2024

Coumarins of natural origin have been explored as potential inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Esculetin which belongs to the class of coumarin has been derivatized with known hydrazine pharmacophores viz; benzoyl hydrazine (BH), isonicotinyl hydrazine (INH), and hydrazino benzoic acid. The homology modeling approach was used to predict the three-dimensional structure of human P-gp. An in-silico study has been performed for the structural insight into the molecular mechanism of P-gp inhibition of the esculetin derivatives by molecular docking (MD) and simulation studies. The cell cytotoxic activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated using in-vitro studies. The sublines resistant doxorubicin (MCF-7/R) were generated and the activities of P-gp proteins were estimated using fluorescent dye accumulation assays. The E-BH showed promising P-gp inhibitory activity and cell cytotoxicity against MCF7 and MCF7/R (resistant) breast cancer cell lines. In line with experimental observations, the E-BH (Esculetin benzoyl hydrazine) has yielded the lowest energy stable complex with P-gp and is stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen bonding and more hydrophobic interactions during 100 ns of simulation. This suggested that the activity of P-gp is probably controlled by hydrophobic interactions. Performed experimental and computational studies has helped to elucidate the mechanism of P-gp inhibition by E-BH. Thus, amongst the three derivatives; E-BH exhibits greater efficacy in blocking the efflux mechanism.
Invasive Fungal Disease Associated with COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Debela Negeri , Nekahiwot Solome
Published: August 2024

While COVID-19 primarily attacks the lungs, its reach can extend to various organs. Patients battling severe cases, especially those in intensive care, face a heightened risk of secondary infections caused by fungi, bacteria, and even other viruses. This vulnerability stems from a weakened immune system due to the initial infection, extended hospital stays, and the use of medications that suppress the immune response. Fungal infections pose a significant threat, with aspergillosis, candidiasis, mucormycosis, Cryptococcus, pneumocystis, and even regional fungal strains being identified in COVID-19 patients. Weakened immunity and underlying lung issues make these patients particularly susceptible to aspergillosis. Prolonged hospitalization, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and a compromised immune system increase the risk of Candida infections. Additionally, diabetics receiving corticosteroids are more likely to develop mucormycosis. Diagnosing fungal infections in COVID-19 patients is challenging because symptoms often mimic those of the initial COVID-19 infection. However, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Doctors often rely on a combination of tests, including traditional microbiology, advanced molecular techniques, and tissue examination (histopathology). Improved monitoring of fungal infections, optimized treatment protocols, and the development of new antifungal therapies are all critical weapons in the fight against this global pandemic.
Economy, Energy, and Environment Impact on the Use of Ferronickel Slag Waste for Construction Project in Indonesia
Authors: Tamburaka Irmawatty , Edwin Romy
Published: August 2024

This research intends to investigate the economic, energy and environmental aspects of mortar and concrete manufactured with ferronickel slag (FNS) as a substitute for cement and aggregate because many infrastructure projects in Indonesia use waste materials, particularly FNS, as one of the construction components. Results indicate that incorporating FNS powder as one material in construction projects also has indirect benefits such as generating employment, and fostering local community economic growth. The grinding of FNS will provide business opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs). The use of FNS as sand replacement affords an economy advantage in concrete production which also benefits in the construction sector. In addition, utilizing by-products (FNS 1 and FNS 2) in mortar production has a beneficial effect on lowering the LCC. However, adding FNS in place of sand does not reduce the LCC of concrete constructed with FNS. The usage of FNS in place of cement appears to help reduce mortar's energy consumption. However, using FNS in place of sand throughout the concrete-making process has minimal impact on energy usage. There is an environmental benefit to using FNS 1 and FNS 2 in the mortar production process. When concrete is built using FNS as a sand substitute, the CO2 emission does not show the same favourable outcomes as mortar made with FNS powder. Although it doesn't significantly reduce carbon emissions, FNS sand significantly improves concrete's performance.
Research of Bubble Breakup and Influencing Factors in Flotation Machine
Authors: Zhou Jianjun , Lin Jingjun , Yuan Xianbao , Mao Zhangliang
Published: August 2024

As the core factor of flotation, bubbles have an important effect on flotation. The rotor speed, initial gas parameters and impeller structure of the flotation machine will affect the formation and movement of bubbles. It is very important to study the influence mechanism of operating parameters of flotation machine on the bubble breakup process for flotation machine design and structure optimization. This paper takes KYF-0.2m3 flotation machine as the research object, establishes a single bubble analysis model, adopts the VOF (Volume of Fluid) method to analyze the influence of different initial positions of bubbles on the bubble breakup behavior, and studies the influence of impeller speed and initial position of bubbles on the bubble breakup. Result show that the breakup of bubbles mainly occurs near the stator region. With the increase of rotational speed of the impeller, the centrifugal force and the disturbance of the convection field will become greater, the time of the bubble breakup become shorter, more bubbles breakup and generate more smaller ones. With the bubble position is closer to the rotating axis of the impeller, the impact of reflow becomes stronger and the bubble breakup effect will be better, and if the bubble initial position closer to the impeller cover, the influence of impeller on the bubbles become greater and the distribution of bubbles will be more uniform.
Effective Project Delivery Method for Public Construction: Case in the Oromia Region, West Wallaga Zone
Authors: Merga Chera , Keno Marema
Published: August 2024

This thesis is to identify and evaluate effective delivery methods and assess their applicability to the local situations in the Oromia region of the West Wallaga Zone. The significance of the research is that the broadening of the service packages is believed to enable the optimization of the process and the product as a whole in the construction industry, as well as facilitate the development of the infrastructure sectors. The objective of this research is to identify effective project delivery methods for public works construction in the Oromia Region West Wallaga Zone. The data collection process used in the research had the option of two basic methods: primary data collection and secondary data collection. Accordingly, four project delivery methods based on their relevance to the local situation have been evaluated; their merits, demerits, and requirements have been identified. These methods are: the design-bid-build, construction managers (at resk and at fee), the design-build, and the design-build-operate-transfer methods. Based on these findings of the study, the design-bid-Build method has been the most widely used effective project delivery method in the Oromia Region West Wallaga Zone. Performance-based project delivery methods are thought to offer a way to develop the sector and to benefit all stakeholders. In order to benefit all parties involved in the building sector, this will serve as a beneficial addition to the current techniques.
Assessment of Morphometric Characteristics and Gully Development Susceptibility in Itu Local Government Area Using Geographic Information System
Authors: Lucky Ehiremen , Comfort Abraham , Unyime Saturday
Published: August 2024

The intensification in urbanization and wrong termination of drains into ravine has resulted in gully development which has rendered people homeless and reduced agricultural and economic development. Consequently, this study assessed morphometric characteristics and gully development susceptibility in Itu Local Government Area using Geographic Information System. In conducting this study, measurement of the morphometric parameters of the identified gullies were carried out while the susceptibility extent of gully development was done using multi-criteria technique in GIS. In assessing the characteristics features of the gullies, Field surveys measurements of gully morphology and hydraulic variables were carried out by the researcher using Global Positioning System (GPS), measuring tape, ranging pole, etc. This help in determining gullied land volume and cross-sectional area. Result of the study shows that the measured gully depth varies from 6.4m at Obong Itam to 25.8m at Enen Atai, while the gully width ranges from 4.1m in Ikot Ekang to 9.3m in Ntiat Itam. The cross-sectional profiles ranges from 45.43m2 to 165.12m2. Also, the cross-sectional profile of the area indicative of V-shape to U- shape, all with very narrow gully width and steeply sloping gully sides, which are features of gullies developed on very loose and incoherent soils that slump/collapse on exposure. On the other hand, the mean sand composition of the soil was 62.2% ranging between 55.3-70.1 while silt ranges from 17.7-25.2 with a mean of 20.2% and clay ranging between 10.0-21.9 with mean of 17.7%. The correlation matrix between the gully depth and cross- sectional area (0.84) and is significant at 99% confidence level, meaning that the retreat of gully sides take place at rates proportional to the rate of gully deepening. In assessing the susceptibility extent of gully development in Itu Local Government Area using multi-criteria Analysis technique, the summary of the map shows that 52.94% of the total study area are highly susceptible to gully development, 28.19% are moderately susceptible while 9.31% and 9.56% marginally and not susceptible respectively to gully development in Itu local government area. The study concludes that the poor soil quality attributes, soil conservation and management practices contribute to gully development in the area, hence, the need for government to enact laws against such activities that favour gully growth and initialization.
Association and Path Coefficient Analysis of Some Arsi Coffee Accesions (Coffea arabica L.) for Quality Traits at Mechara, Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Sintayehu , Mohammed Wassu , Ayano Ashenafi
Published: August 2024

Coffee is still one of Ethiopian’s primary agricultural export crops accounting for more than 25% of export earnings. Arsi coffee is known to produce Harar C coffee quality grade and known for its unique flavor and aroma. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine association among coffee bean quality traits and, the direct and indirect effects of bean quality traits on overall quality of coffee. A total of 56 Arsi coffee accessions and four Hararghe coffee varieties were evaluated for bean physical and organoleptic coffee quality traits using Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The analysis of variance results showed significant variation among Arsi coffee accession for all traits except astringency, bitterness, and odor. The overall coffee quality had positive and significant phenotypic and genotype correlations with aromatic intensity, aromatic quality, acidity, body, flavor, overall standard quality and overall cup quality. These traits also had positive direct effects on overall coffee quality however; aromatic intensity and body exerted negligible negative direct effects at genotypic level whereas aromatic quality had negative direct effect at phenotypic level. All these traits through overall standard quality, and aromatic intensity, aromatic quality and acidity via each other and through body and flavor exerted positive direct effects on overall coffee quality at genotypic level. Thus majority of quality traits could be used for indirect selection of genotypes for overall coffee quality.
Research on the Development of Creative Innovation Industry of Landmark Building and City Image
Authors: Li Zhenhua
Published: August 2024

Landmark building is the external image and social card of a city, which reflects the traditional culture and spiritual connotation of a city and even a country. Landmark buildings not only refer to the large modern buildings in the city, but also include large sculptures, artworks, historical relics and so on. The innovative and creative industries of landmark buildings and urban images are often attached to the cultural tourism industry. At present, the development and research in this field are vague in definition, and the industrial development situation varies significantly in different cities and regions. Domestic first-tier cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and some tourist cities such as Hangzhou and Suzhou have advanced and comprehensive development in this field, and there are also unconscious spontaneous behaviors of the public to broaden the research content in this field. In contrast, some cities have not yet formed a good industry in this field. The development of innovative and creative industries for landmark buildings in foreign countries is earlier than that in China, and its forms are more abundant and avant-garde, which is worth learning and reference for researchers. The development of innovative and creative industries in landmark buildings will enhance the image and popularity of the city, thus boosting the development of the local tourism economy. At the same time, the industry shows the meaning and connotation of landmark buildings by means of artistic expression. In addition, innovative and creative products will also promote the popularization of arts education for all. Through a series of research and practice, the author also adds some specific cases and feasible research routes for the research and development of this field.
Research on the Joint Supervision System of Finance, Audit and Inspection in Universities
Authors: Ziyan Zhang , Xiaoyan Zeng , Ruifang Gao
Published: August 2024

With the continuous improvement of the global economy and information technology, the education sector has entered an unprecedented new stage of development. As an important component of the education sector, the scale of universities are expanding year by year. With the continuous development of universities, the multi campus education model has quietly emerged, and research projects are increasing day by day. The diversification of research funding channels has put forward higher requirements for government supervision of universities, and relying solely on single department supervision is no longer applicable. At present, the supervision subject of finance, auditing, and inspection in universities generally work independently and perform their duties independently, lacking communication, resulting in poor supervision effectiveness and resource waste. Therefore, integrating the supervisory forces of universities and establishing a joint system is an urgent need for the rapid development of universities. So, this article analyzes the current situation of financial, auditing, and inspection supervision in universities, explores the significance, principles, and methods of constructing a joint supervision system for financial, auditing, and inspection in universities, and strives to provide some suggestions for the construction of joint supervision system for financial, auditing, and inspection in universities, in order to provide reference for other researchers.
Adsorption Studies of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Cr3+ from Aqueous Solution Using Azadirachta Indica (Neem) Seed Husk and Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Seeds
Authors: Yahaya Nasiru , Saad Yahaya , Abubakar Adamu
Published: August 2024

The adsorption of Pb2+, Cu2+ and Cr3+ from aqueous solution using Neem seed husk (NSH) and baobab seed (BS) were studied through the use of batch adsorption system. The adsorbents were prepared by drying at 120°C for 24hours and were characterized using FT-IR, XRD, and SEM analysis. The FTIR spectroscopy revealed the presence of O-H, N-H, C-H, C=C, C=O, and C-O stretching; XRD revealed the particle sizes as 44.51nm for NSH and 42.61nm while the morphology of the NSH and BS were revealed by SEM to be porous for NSH and BS. Various parameters such as, initial metal ion concentration, adsorbent dosage, contact time, Temperature and pH of metal ion solution were investigated in a batch-adsorption System. The adsorption uptake was found to increase with increase in adsorbent dose, contact time and temperature but decreases with the initial concentration. The uptake of the metal ions increases and reaches optimum at pH of 4-6. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be Pb-NSH (15.267mg/g) and Cu-NSH (19.46mg/g). Adsorption of Cu2+onto NSH fitted Langmuir isotherm model with (R2 > 0.93) while Adsorption of Pb-NSH Fitted Freundlich isotherm Model with (R2> 0.99). Kinetic data fitted pseudo-second-order model (R2 > 0.98) which was more suitable in explaining the adsorption rate. Thermodynamic data showed that Gibb’s free energy (ΔG°) values for all metal ions were negative indicating feasibility and favorability of adsorption. Positive enthalpy change (ΔH°) and Entropy change (ΔS°) values indicate endothermic processes and increase in randomness.
Exploring Varicella Vaccine Coverage and Influencing Factors in Rural and Pastoral Children of Qinghai Province: A Cross-Sectional Catch-Up Vaccination Study
Authors: Bingju Guan , Zengping Hao , Wengsheng Ba , Xianglu Zhu , Yanmei Ma , Lianwei Li , Qingyu Xie , Kezhong A
Published: August 2024

Background: Varicella is a respiratory infectious disease caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. Varicella vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in preventing varicella disease, however it is not included in Qinghai Province’s local immunization planning program and must be paid for by families. Its use in local areas is options instead of compulsory, so high coverage is difficult to guarantee. Starting in October 2021, one dose of live attenuated varicella vaccine was recommended at lest for 3-17-year-old children in Qinghai. In 2022, it was conducted that an investigation of varicella vaccine coverage and factors influencing coverage among children in rural rural and pastoral areas to determine the impact of this VarV catch-up policy. Objective:  To explore varicella vaccine coverage and factors influencing caverage among 3-17-year-old children in rural and pastoral areas of Qinghai province. Methods: A stratified cluster sampling method was used to select children aged 3-17 years from kindergartens and primary /secondary schools in rural and pastoral areas of Qinghai province for a questionnaire-based survey of their guardians. Coverage levels of one and two doses of VarV (VarV1 and VarV2) before and after a catch-up vaccination activity initiated in October 2021, and identified factors influenceing VarV1 coverage. Results: VarV1 and VarV2 coverage levels after the catch-up activity were 79.06% (676/855) and 43.79% (363/829), respectively, and increased by 34.38 and 24.13 percentage points compared with before the catch-up activity. Multivariate logistic regression showed that VarV1 coverage was higher in rural areas than in pastoral areas (OR=4.63, 95%CI: 2.91-7.39), and higher among children whose guardians scored 4-6 or 7-10 points on knowledge about varicella and VarV than among children whose guardians scored 0-3 points (OR=8.61, 95%CI: 4.73-15.69, OR=2.86, 95%CI: 1.69-4.84). the main reasons for non-vaccination were guardians’ lack of understanding of VarV (48.6%, 87 children), guardians’ unawarness of the need for VarV vaccination (43.6%, 78 children), and unavailability of VarV at vaccination centers (31.3%, 56 children). Conclusions: The catch-up activity significantly increased VarV coverage among children in the surveyed areas. It should been strengthened that health education on knowledge about varicella and VarV among guardians of children in Qinghai, especially in pastoral areas, to promote VarV vaccination of age-eligible children.
Precipitation and Temperature Maxima: A Study across the Southern Great Plains Winter Wheat Region
Authors: Flanagan Paul Xavier
Published: August 2024

With the importance of agriculture to the southern Great Plains (SGPs), accurate knowledge of growing season (GS) temperatures and precipitation is critical. Previous research into GS precipitation and temperature maxima leads to the development of the asynchronous difference index (ADI) which identified positive and negative ADI GSs (March–September). The goal of this research is to further investigate the ADI within a specific agricultural region of the SGP, the winter wheat region, and to quantify the temporal evolution of temperature and precipitation during positive and negative ADI GSs. For this, Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN) daily station data were analyzed across the GS (March–September) from 1900 to 2020. Results show that differences appear in the temperature and precipitation fields when comparing positive and negative GSs. Namely, positive (negative) ADI GSs show positive (negative) precipitation and negative (positive) temperature anomalies early in the GS, with these anomalies flipping in the later portion of the GS. Further, the results of this work show that the depicted changes in temperature and precipitation during positive and negative ADI GSs impact winter wheat yields. Overall, these results analyze the implications of positive and negative ADI GSs on the SGP climate, namely, the impact of the seasonal variability of daily maximum temperature and precipitation on agriculture.
Maladaptive Personality Characteristics, Coping and Situational Factors Predict Symptoms of Complicated Grief and Health Difficulties
Authors: Peak Ashley , Martin Luci , Post Kristina M. , Hua William
Published: August 2024

Grief responses range from minimal changes in functioning to debilitating, prolonged, complicated grief. The objective of the current study was to clarify the relationship between maladaptive personality characteristics, coping and situational factors associated with symptoms of complicated grief and health difficulties among bereaved individuals who had lost a loved one within the past six months to two years ( N = 304; 59% male; M age = 33.49, SD = 9.98, range 20–81). Situational risk factors, coping (self-distancing, denial, substance use, positive reframing, acceptance, religion, self-blame, behavioral disengagement, venting and humor) and maladaptive personality traits significantly predicted either symptoms of complicated grief or health difficulties. Coping strategies partially mediated the relationship between maladaptive personality traits and symptoms of complicated grief and health difficulties. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of maladaptive personality traits and coping strategies in the conceptualization of complicated grief and should be a greater focus of clinical intervention.
Colonialism as a Social Determinant of Health in Puerto Rico: Using the Socioecological Model to Examine How the Jones Act Impacted Health After Hurricane María
Authors: Martin Jacquelyn N. , Pace Thaddeus W. W.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, making Puerto Ricans vulnerable to damaging colonial policy. The purpose of this article is to utilize the socioecological model (SEM) to evaluate how the Jones Act impacted Puerto Rico after Hurricane María, examining colonialist policy as a social determinant of health (SDOH) in Puerto Rico.

Methods:

Levels of the SEM used in this examination included: individual, institutional, community, policy, and context.

Results:

Evaluation of the Jones Act using the model demonstrated relationships between all socioecological levels. The Jones Act caused delays and increased prices for goods needed to rebuild community utility infrastructure, which led to extended closures of institutions like workplaces, schools, and hospitals, and ultimately contributed to increased acute and chronic physical and mental illness among Puerto Ricans.

Discussion:

This evaluation establishes that colonialist policy negatively impacts the health of Puerto Ricans, positioning colonialism as an SDOH.
The discursive formation of the affirmative action policy in Chile: Right to higher education, public education, and deficit
Authors: Miranda-Molina Rafael , Leyton Daniel
Published: August 2024

Global scholarly narratives have identified a strong influence of anti-racist, anti-discrimination, and gender equality movements and discourses on affirmative actions in higher education in different national contexts. While empirically valid for various cases, this portrait overlooks affirmative actions’ problematic entanglements with other conflictive rationalities and political projects. This article focused on the discursive formation of the affirmative action policy in Chile within a hegemonic context of meritocratic and neoliberal ideologies in higher education arrangements. It delves into a case that has been scarcely considered within the progressive narratives framing affirmative actions in higher education globally. Based on 61 policy documents and 16 interviews with key policy actors as part of a broader critical policy ethnography, we uncover three crucial contradictory and yet articulated discursive lines constituting this policy—higher education as a social right, recovery of public education, and deficit alongside key ideological policy technologies: situated meritocracy, improvement, and leveling. These discursive formations were associated with significant struggles and intertwinement with neoliberal higher education and reorientations at the State level. This work contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the discursive porosity and multiplicity of affirmative actions in higher education as they are assembled by social justice and exclusionary logics and participate in broader discursive struggles, ideologies, and contradictory state projects.
From Marx to the classroom: Understanding teacher alienation in policy contexts
Authors: Aksakalli Ayhan
Published: August 2024

This article examines the phenomenon of teacher alienation through the lens of Marxist theory, exploring how capitalist and bureaucratic structures inherent in educational policies contribute to feelings of disconnection and disenfranchisement among educators. Drawing upon Marx’s concept of alienated labor, the study delves into the ways in which teachers experience alienation within the context of modern education systems. By tracing the historical roots of alienation in capitalist societies, the article highlights the pervasive influence of market-oriented reforms and accountability measures on teacher autonomy and professional agency. Furthermore, the study examines the implications of teacher alienation for both educators and students, emphasizing the detrimental effects on teacher well-being, job satisfaction, and instructional effectiveness. It explores how feelings of alienation can hinder collaboration, innovation, and collective efficacy within educational communities, perpetuating cycles of disengagement and disaffection among educators and students alike. Ultimately, the article calls for a reimagining of education that prioritizes the empowerment and well-being of educators, challenging dominant paradigms and policies that perpetuate teacher alienation. By centering the voices and experiences of teachers, policymakers can work toward creating more supportive, inclusive, and equitable learning environments that foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and social justice in education.
Lower Extremity Injury Rates on Artificial Turf Versus Natural Grass Surfaces in the National Football League During the 2021 and 2022 Seasons
Authors: Venishetty Nikit , Xiao Angel X. , Ghanta Ramesh , Reddy Rohit , Pandya Nirav Kiritkumar , Feeley Brian T.
Published: August 2024

Background:

It has been argued that the use of artificial turf football fields in the National Football League (NFL) increases player injury risk compared with natural grass surfaces.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to quantify the rate of lower extremity injuries occurring in NFL players on artificial turf compared with natural grass surfaces and characterize the time missed due to injury and proportion of injuries requiring surgery. It was hypothesized that lower extremity injuries requiring surgical intervention would occur at a higher rate on artificial turf than on natural grass.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Lower extremity injury data for the 2021 and 2022 NFL seasons were obtained using publicly available records. Data collected included injury type, player position, player age, playing surface, weeks missed due to injury, and whether the patient underwent season-ending or minor surgery. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the risk of season-ending surgery according to playing surface.

Results:

When combining injuries for the 2021 and 2022 seasons (N = 718 injuries), the incidence rate of lower extremity injury was 1.22 injuries/game for natural grass and 1.42 injuries/game for artificial turf. The odds of a season-ending surgery were found to be significantly higher on artificial turf compared with natural grass (odds ratio = 1.60; 95% CI, 1.28-1.99; P < .05), while additional variables, including weather, age, position, week of injury occurrence, and history of prior injury, did not influence the odds of season-ending surgery.

Conclusion:

The 2021 and 2022 NFL seasons of our analysis demonstrated a higher incidence rate of injuries on artificial turf surfaces compared with natural grass surfaces. In addition, the odds of injury requiring season-ending surgery were found to be significantly higher on artificial turf compared with natural grass.
Thrombomodulin (p.Cys537Stop) is released from cells by an unusual membrane insertion/leakage mechanism
Authors: Bernard Clara , Pin Andréa , Hézard Nathalie , Ernest Vincent , Falaise Céline , Roze Camille , Simoncini Stéphanie , Lacroix Romaric , Morange Pierre-Emmanuel , Peiretti Franck
Published: August 2024

Expression of the thrombomodulin (TM) variant c.1611C>A (p.Cys537Stop) leads to the synthesis of a protein with no cytoplasmic tail and a transmembrane domain shortened by 3 amino acids (TM536). However, little is known regarding the release mechanism and properties of TM536. Using umbilical vein endothelial cells and peripheral blood-derived endothelial colony-forming cells from a heterozygous carrier of the TM536 variant as well as overexpression cell models, we demonstrated that TM536 is released from cells by an unusual mechanism. First, TM536 is inserted into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane, then, because of the low hydrophobicity of its intramembrane domain, it escapes from it and follows the conventional secretory pathway to be released into the extracellular compartment without the involvement of proteolysis. This particular secretion mechanism yields a soluble TM536, which is poorly modified by chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycan compared with conventionally secreted soluble forms of TM, and therefore has a suboptimal capacity to mediate thrombin-dependent activation of protein C (PC). We also showed that TM536 cellular trafficking was altered, with retention in the early secretory pathway and increased sensitivity to ER-associated degradation. As expected, activation of ER-associated degradation increased TM536 degradation and reduced its release. The expression of TM536 at the cell surface was low, and its distribution in lipid raft-like membrane microdomains was altered, resulting in low thrombin-dependent PC activation on the cell surface.
A novel deletion in the BLOC1S6 Gene Associated with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome type 9 (HPS-9)
Authors: Kahani Seyyed Mohammad , Saray Ali Rabbizadeh , Kahaei Mir Salar , Dehghani Ali , Mohammadi Pouria , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: August 2024

Background

Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS), a rare autosomal recessive disorder, is characterized by oculocutaneous albinism, bleeding diathesis, and sometimes severe lung problems and inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms include skin and hair pigmentation variations, along with visual impairments. Variants in eleven genes encoding protein complexes essential for membrane trafficking and intracellular endosomal transport pathways underlie various recognized HPS subtypes. This study focuses on HPS-9, a subtype of Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome caused by a variant in the BLOC1S6 gene, which is a subunit of the BLOC1 complex. In this study, a novel Copy Number Variation (CNV) in the aforementioned gene in an Iranian family is reported. The study aims to better understand the etiology of HPS-9 symptoms by identifying and confirming the variant and determining whether the gene is expressed despite the deletion. There have only been five reports of this syndrome in the literature thus far. Our novel CNV represents a significant contribution to understanding the genetic basis of HPS-9.

Results

This study investigates a male patient presenting with albinism. Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous deletion of approximately 350 bp using CNV analysis. The deletion affects the intronic region of the BLOC1S6 gene, causing uncertainties in defining the exact boundaries due to WES limitations. Primer walking and GAP-PCR techniques were used to define the deletion boundaries. Subsequent assessments of this variant across other family members helped identify homozygous affected members and heterozygous carriers. The absence of BLOC1S6 expression in the affected individual was confirmed through Real-time PCR experiments. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the implications for the patient’s healthcare and potential therapeutic approaches.

Conclusion

This study introduces a case of Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Type 9 (HPS-9) caused by a homozygous deletion in the BLOC1S6 gene. We identified an approximately 7-kb deletion encompassing exon 1 and the intronic region of the gene. The absence of BLOC1S6 expression, confirmed via Real-time PCR, highlights the importance of studying the pathogenicity of the deletion and its impact on the patient’s health. Our findings contribute to the sparse knowledge on HPS-9 and underscore the need for further exploration into the genetic causes of this rare disorder.
Comparison of gait analysis before and after unilateral total knee arthroplasty for knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Fukui Jun , Matsui Yasumoto , Mizuno Takafumi , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Takemura Marie , Ishizuka Shinya , Imagama Shiro , Arai Hidenori
Published: August 2024

Background

Gait ability can be objectively assessed using gait analysis. Three-dimensional gait analysis, the most commonly used analytical method, has limitations, such as a prolonged examination, high system costs, and inconsistently reported gait symmetry in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the gait symmetry and changes before and after unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using the Walkway analyzer, a sheet-type gait analyzer.

Methods

The healthy group included 38 participants from the Locomotor Frailty and Sarcopenia Registry study with lower limb pain or Kellgren–Lawrence classification grade 3 or 4 OA. The OA group included 34 participants from the registry study who underwent unilateral TKA. The walking speed, step length, step width, cadence, stride time, stance time, swing phase time, double-limb support phase time, stride, step length, and step width were analyzed per side using the Walkway gait analyzer.

Results

No significant differences between the right and left sides were observed in the healthy group. In the OA group, the time indices and stance phase (p = 0.011) and the double-limb support phase time (p = 0.039) were longer on the contralateral side and the swing phase was longer on the affected side (p = 0.004) pre-operatively. However, these differences disappeared post-operatively. There were no significant differences in the spatial indices. Thus, this study revealed that patients undergoing unilateral TKA had an asymmetric gait pre-operatively, with a time index compensating for the painful side, and an improved symmetric gait post-operatively.

Conclusions

The Walkway analyzer employs a simple test that requires only walking; hence, it is expected to be used for objective evaluation in actual clinical practice.
Exploring the immunometabolic potential of Danggui Buxue Decoction for the treatment of IBD-related colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Yang , Kang Qianming , He Luying , Chan Ka Iong , Gu Hui , Xue Wenjing , Zhong Zhangfeng , Tan Wen
Published: August 2024

Danggui Buxue (DGBX) decoction is a classical prescription composed of Astragali Radix (AR) and Angelicae Sinensis Radix (ASR), used to enrich blood, and nourish Qi in Chinese medicine, with the potential to recover energy and stimulate metabolism. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-related colorectal cancer (CRC). More importantly, AR and ASR have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities, as well as prefiguring a potential effect on inflammation-cancer transformation. We, therefore, aimed to review the immunometabolism potential of DGBX decoction and its components in this malignant transformation, to provide a helpful complement to manage the risk of IBD-CRC. The present study investigates the multifaceted roles of DGBX decoction and its entire components AR and ASR, including anti-inflammation effects, anti-cancer properties, immune regulation, and metabolic regulation. This assessment is informed by a synthesis of scholarly literature, with more than two hundred articles retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases within the past two decades. The search strategy employed utilized keywords such as “Danggui Buxue”, “Astragali Radix”, “Angelicae Sinensis Radix”, “Inflammation”, and “Metabolism”, alongside the related synonyms, with a particular emphasis on high-quality research and studies yielding significant findings. The potential of DGBX decoction in modulating immunometabolism holds promise for the treatment of IBD-related CRC. It is particularly relevant given the heterogeneity of CRC and the growing trend towards personalized medicine, but the precise and detailed mechanism necessitate further in vivo validation and extensive clinical studies to substantiate the immunometabolic modulation and delineate the pathways involved.

Graphical Abstract
Serum and urinary monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 as markers of inflammation and renal damage in dogs with naturally occurring leishmaniosis
Authors: Pantaleo Valeria , Furlanello Tommaso , Ventura Laura , Solano-Gallego Laia
Published: August 2024

Background

Renal disease in canine leishmaniosis is of great importance owing to increased risk of mortality. In human visceral leishmaniosis, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) has been used as a marker of renal damage and inflammation. The purpose of this study was first to determine the serum MCP-1 and urinary MCP-1-to-creatinine ratio (uMCP-1/Cr) in healthy dogs and dogs with leishmaniosis at diagnosis, and second to determine whether these markers can differentiate disease severity at diagnosis.

Methods

In total, 19 healthy seronegative dogs and 38 dogs with leishmaniosis were included in the study. Dogs with leishmaniosis were classified as LeishVet clinical staging and as International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) staging. Serum and urinary MCP-1 concentrations were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve determined disease severity at diagnosis between two LeishVet groups (Stage II versus stage III and IV).

Results

Dogs in Leishvet stages IIb, III, and IV had a median serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr concentration higher than healthy dogs (P < 0.0001). No statistical differences were found in serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr between dogs in LeishVet stage IIa and healthy dogs. The dogs in LeishVet stage IV had significantly higher serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr compared with the dogs in LeishVet stage IIa (P < 0.0001). Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1 were significantly higher in dogs in IRIS stage I and II + III + IV compared with healthy dogs. Dogs stage II + III + IV of IRIS had a significantly higher serum MCP-1 compared with dogs in IRIS stage I (P < 0.0001). The area under the ROC curve for serum MCP-1 was 0.78 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–0.93] and for uMCP-1/Cr it was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.74–0.99). The optimal cutoff value for serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr was 336.85 pg/ml (sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 68%) and 6.89 × 10−7(sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 79%), respectively.

Conclusions

Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr are increased in dogs with leishmaniosis compared with healthy dogs, suggesting the presence of inflammation and renal injury. Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr were more elevated in the advanced stages of the disease compared with the moderate stages and, therefore, can be markers of the severity of the disease process.

Graphical Abstract
Advancing healthcare with artificial intelligence: diagnostic accuracy of machine learning algorithm in diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy in the Brazilian population
Authors: dos Reis Mateus A. , Künas Cristiano A. , da Silva Araújo Thiago , Schneiders Josiane , de Azevedo Pietro B. , Nakayama Luis F. , Rados Dimitris R. V. , Umpierre Roberto N. , Berwanger Otávio , Lavinsky Daniel , Malerbi Fernando K. , Navaux Philippe O. A. , Schaan Beatriz D.
Published: August 2024

Background

In healthcare systems in general, access to diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening is limited. Artificial intelligence has the potential to increase care delivery. Therefore, we trained and evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of a machine learning algorithm for automated detection of DR.

Methods

We included color fundus photographs from individuals from 4 databases (primary and specialized care settings), excluding uninterpretable images. The datasets consist of images from Brazilian patients, which differs from previous work. This modification allows for a more tailored application of the model to Brazilian patients, ensuring that the nuances and characteristics of this specific population are adequately captured. The sample was fractionated in training (70%) and testing (30%) samples. A convolutional neural network was trained for image classification. The reference test was the combined decision from three ophthalmologists. The sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve of the algorithm for detecting referable DR (moderate non-proliferative DR; severe non-proliferative DR; proliferative DR and/or clinically significant macular edema) were estimated.

Results

A total of 15,816 images (4590 patients) were included. The overall prevalence of any degree of DR was 26.5%. Compared with human evaluators (manual method of diagnosing DR performed by an ophthalmologist), the deep learning algorithm achieved an area under the ROC curve of 0.98 (95% CI 0.97–0.98), with a specificity of 94.6% (95% CI 93.8–95.3) and a sensitivity of 93.5% (95% CI 92.2–94.9) at the point of greatest efficiency to detect referable DR.

Conclusions

A large database showed that this deep learning algorithm was accurate in detecting referable DR. This finding aids to universal healthcare systems like Brazil, optimizing screening processes and can serve as a tool for improving DR screening, making it more agile and expanding care access.
Virtual power plants: an in-depth analysis of their advancements and importance as crucial players in modern power systems
Authors: Abdelkader Sobhy , Amissah Jeremiah , Abdel-Rahim Omar
Published: August 2024

Background

Virtual power plants (VPPs) represent a pivotal evolution in power system management, offering dynamic solutions to the challenges of renewable energy integration, grid stability, and demand-side management. Originally conceived as a concept to aggregate small-scale distributed energy resources, VPPs have evolved into sophisticated enablers of diverse energy assets, including solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage systems, and demand response units. This review article explores the evolution of VPPs and their pivotal roles as major stakeholders within contemporary power systems. The review opens with a definition of VPPs that clarifies both their fundamental traits and technological foundations. A historical examination of their development highlights major turning points and milestones that illustrate their transforming journey.

Main text

The methodology used for this article entailed a thorough examination to identify relevant studies, articles, and scholarly works related to virtual power plants. Academic databases were used to gather relevant literature. The literature was organized into categories helping to structure and present information in a logical flow based on the outline created for the review article. The discussions in the article show that the various functions that VPPs perform in power systems are of major interest. VPPs promote the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and provide optimum grid management by aggregating distributed energy resources, which improves sustainability. One of the important components of this evaluation involves taking market and policy considerations. Examining worldwide market patterns and forecasts reveals that VPP usage is rising, and that regulatory frameworks and incentives have a bigger impact on how well they integrate.

Conclusion

Overcoming obstacles is a necessary step towards realizing full VPP potential. For VPPs to be widely adopted, it is still essential to address technological and operational challenges as they arise. Diverse stakeholders must work together to overcome market obstacles and promote the expansion of the VPP market. This analysis highlights the potential for VPPs to propel the evolution of contemporary power systems toward a more sustainable and effective future by highlighting areas for future research and development.