bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Deforestation on Rural Household Income in Selected Forest Dependent Commuinities in Odeda Local Council Area of Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Osoba A. E. , Atanda T. A. , Bola T. S.
Published: July 2019

This study was carried out to examine deforestation and rural household income with a view to ensuring conservation. A multistage sampling procedure with a 3-stage design was used for this study. Questionnaire was used to elicit information from 120 respondents in Odeda local council area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The Foster-Greer-Thorbecke indices of poverty metrics was used to determine the poverty line of households. Smith’s saliency was used to determine the livelihood activities in selected communities. The result showed that respondents were gender sensitive, majority (58.3%) were male and (41.7%) female. On age, 41 – 50 (45.8%) years recorded the highest. The mean age was 50 years. Most of the respondents were married (68.6%) while majority, (52.5%) have low literacy level attaining only secondary education. Household size 1 - 5 recorded the highest, (76.7%) of the total population. Mean household size was 5. The study area was dominated by Yoruba (77.5%). Major occupation income recorded a mean of N17, 000 Naira while minor occupation income recorded a mean of N4308.37 Naira. Poverty line of N122, 700 Naira was determined with poverty incidence (P0) of (21.67%). The poverty gap (P1), (5.09%) indicating that an average respondent requires N6, 245.43 Naira to reach the poverty line. The poverty severity (P2) was (0.02) showing that the respondents were not poor because the value is far from 1. Socio economic factors promoting deforestation were identified among the respondents with marital status as the only significant variable (P<0.05) and a negatively coefficient value of -2.281. Conclusively, deforestation was identified with livelihood activities of the people such as hunting, farming and trading of forest products. Therefore, it is recommended that forestry extension programmes should be intensified in rural communities to minimize deforestation activities and promote eco-consciousness among the local people.
Geochemical and Petrographical Evolution of the Weathering Mantle Derived from Basalt in Bangam Locality (West-Cameroon): Implication in the Bauxitisation Process
Authors: Sojien Taylor Moise , Mamdem Estelle Lionelle Tamto , Wouatong Armand Sylvain Ludovic , Oyono Dieudonne Lucien Bitom
Published: July 2019

A petrographical and geochemistry study of weathering mantle derived from the basaltic parent rock (plagioclase, olivine, pyroxene, zircon) has been conducted in the locality of Bangam (West-Cameroon). The weathered profile shows a vertical lithology succession of weathered parent rock, isalteritic clayed domain and superficial duricrust (alloterite). The weathering of basalt started by the formation of “pain d’epices” structure rich in gibbsite, metahalloysite, kaolinite. The geochemistry analysis of major elements indicate that SiO2 (46% -1.33%), K2O (0.84% - 0.01%), Na2O (3.6% -0.01%), MnO (0.3% - 0.04%), P2O5 (1.9% - 0.38%) and CaO (5% -0.02%) decrease from the bottom to the surface, however TiO2 (2.3% - 4.08%) remain constant, Fe2O3 (24.2% - 24,6%) and Al2O3 (14.5% - 45.2%) increase. The different weathering index such as, chemical index of alteration (55% - 99%), index of lateritization (41% - 103.5%) and Ruxton Ratio (0.12 - 3.21) just indicate an evolution of parent rock dominated by an alumina and iron phases under a control of hydrolysis phenomenon as bisialitisation, monosiallitisation and allitisation with the formation of minerals smectites group, kaolinite group gibbsite and iron oxides group. The fractionation patterns of rare earth elements (REE) show a positive and negative anomaly in Cerium and other rare earth elements, one more, the correlation between major, trace and REE prove a link of different pedological horizons developed on the basalt in redox condition.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Wernicke Encephalopathy and Korsakoff Syndrome: A Critical Appraisal of the Relevant Literature
Authors: Salahuddin Nasreen Khawer , Dutta Arindam , Qureshi Naseem Akhtar
Published: July 2019

Background: Hyperemesis gravidarum tends to rapidly progress into Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome and, therefore, needs to be recognized early and managed promptly with targeted multimodal therapies.

Objective: This study critically reviewed the relevant literature on clinical perspectives of hyperemesis gravidarum, Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. The secondary objective of this study was to improve the awareness, emphasis on early diagnosis and immediate intervention concerning these sequential syndromes in pregnant women across the board.

Methods: Electronic searches (since inception-2019) of PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, OvidSP, Dove Medical Press, ScienceDomain International (SDI) and Hindawi.com were conducted using keywords and Boolean Operators. Hundreds of thousands articles were retrieved which were reviewed independently by two authors and finally 144 articles retained that addressed clinical components of these sequential syndromes along with relevance of thiamine deficiency.

Results: Evidently, vulnerable women in early stage of gestation tend to develop hyperemesis gravidarum characterized by persistent severe pernicious nausea and vomiting that causes Wernicke encephalopathy defined by variable oculomotor disturbances, ataxia, confusion, metabolic disturbances and Korsakoff syndrome linked with gross memory impairment, confabulation and constipation. The women with these conditions need diagnostic evaluation by means of clinical history, relevant laboratory tests, abdominal ultrasound and brain computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Most patients need emergency admission, prompt treatment with optimal doses of antiemetics, vitamin B1, and followed by fluid replenishment and electrolyte balance with follow up till the end of pregnancy. Successful maternal and fetal outcome of pregnancy depends on multiple determinants including associated systemic diseases.

Conclusion: Evidently, a variety of etiological and risk factors in pregnant women determine the initiation of hyperemesis gravidarum that subsequently causes Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome, and each of which needs prompt multimodal treatment in order to reduce maternal morbidity and increase successful outcome of pregnancy. Although clinical literature concerning these sequential syndromes is huge, further studies are needed to understand their underlying pathophysiological pathways across the world.
Controllable Phase Separation with Star‐Shaped Y‐Type Electron Acceptors for High‐Efficiency and Stable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Bo , Xu Jianing , Lin Yi , Xiao Chengyi , Liang Shijie , Tang Zheng , McNeill Christopher R. , Li Weiwei
Published: December 2024

Star‐shaped conjugated materials exhibit monodisperses, well‐defined structures akin to small molecules while possessing the high molecular weights typical of polymers, making them appealing for organic electronics. Herein, a series of star‐shaped electron acceptors, labeled SP1‐Ph, SP2‐Ph, SP3‐Ph, SP4‐Ph, and SP6‐Ph correspond to one to six number of arms, have been synthesized for use in organic solar cells (OSCs). The acceptors have been synthesized through Williamson ether synthesis, utilizing OH‐substituted Y‐type precursors and (multiple‐substituted bromomethyl)benzene. An increase in the number of arms results in weakened crystallinity and different aggregation behavior. Therefore, different number of arms can efficiently tune phase separation sizes between the acceptors and donor polymer blended films, which dominates the charge generation process in OSCs. As a result, SP3‐Ph and SP4‐Ph, with modest phase separation size in binary blends, have achieved optimal efficiencies of 16.10% with high stability. However, SP6‐Ph‐based OSC exhibits oversized phase separation and low efficiency of 8.87%. Furthermore, the use of SP3‐Ph and SP4‐Ph in ternary OSCs leads to an impressive efficiency of 19.3%. These results highlight the ability of star‐shaped electron acceptors with varying arm numbers to precisely control the phase separation of photoactive layers, thereby advancing the development of highly efficient and stable OSCs.
Sustainable Gelatin‐Based Nanocomposite Packaging Films with Enhanced Physical Properties and Inherent Recyclability
Authors: Dong Ming , Bilotti Emiliano , Zhang Han , Papageorgiou Dimitrios G.
Published: December 2024

Gelatin‐based composite films with enhanced physical and barrier performance are attractive for food packaging applications due to their potential to address critical challenges in the food packaging industry. This study presents gelatin‐based nanocomposite films reinforced with Ti3C2Tx MXene, developed through solution casting and optimized for food packaging applications. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirm that MXene nanoplatelets interacted with gelatin through the formation of hydrogen bonds. A homogeneous distribution of MXene in the gelatin matrix is observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in‐plane alignment of MXene is observed by SEM and is quantitatively demonstrated by polarized Raman spectroscopy. The Young's modulus and tensile strength of the films increased from 1.17 to 1.6 GPa and from 39.2 to 48.4 MPa, respectively, with 0.75 wt.% MXene, while the inclusion of MXene nanoplatelets proves highly effective at blocking UV light transmission. The water and oxygen permeability of the films are considerably reduced while composites display a hydrophobic behavior. Quite importantly, the produced films exhibit outstanding recyclability making them a compelling alternative to traditional packaging materials and addressing environmental concerns in the packaging industry.
Optimizing Conjugation of Polymer Hole Transport Materials via Cyclic Alkoxylation for Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yin Sen , Luo Xuanang , Tang Fushen , Zhong Wenkai , Yang Wenyu , Xiong Zhihui , Lin Youran , Peng Feng , Ying Lei
Published: December 2024

Hole transport materials (HTMs) play a crucial role in realizing efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs), as they improve perovskite affinity and passivation, charge transport and extraction, and ultimately the performance of PSCs. In this study, manipulating the conjugation extension in poly(triaryl amine) (PTAA) derivatives by cyclic alkoxylation of side benzene groups with benzo[d][1,3]dioxole (PTAAO5) and dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxine (PTAAO6) is focused on. PTAAO6 exhibits extended π‐conjugation within the side groups, leading to improved energy level alignment with perovskite and enhanced charge carrier transport compared to both PTAA and PTAAO5. This strong conjugation also promotes interactions between PTAAO6 and the perovskite, resulting in larger grain sizes with reduced defects within the perovskite layer. Therefore, PSCs incorporating PTAAO6 as the HTM achieve an outstanding power conversion efficiency of 25.19%, along with excellent operational stability, retaining 90.2% of the initial PCE after 1000 h under ISOS‐L‐3 testing conditions. These results underscore cyclic alkoxylation as a promising approach for tailoring polymer HTMs and provide crucial insights for designing high‐performance PSCs.
Management of post‐implant fibrous dysplasia in the maxilla: A case study
Authors: Amrou Yousef Taha Y. , Koleilat Anass M. , Alrmali Abdusalam E. , Nor Felipe , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: December 2024

Background

Fibrous dysplasia is generally rare, and even rarer in older adults. Special care is needed when altering the alveolar bone in these cases, especially if an implant is involved. This case study highlights such a scenario.

Methods

This case study details the experience of a 63‐year‐old African American female who presented with a bump on her jaw, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of fibrous dysplasia. The patient underwent surgery for osseous recontouring to address the bone overgrowth associated with the condition.

Results

The study documents the successful surgical recontouring of a fibrous dysplasia lesion in the upper right maxilla that developed 5 years after dental implant placement. Additionally, it highlights the preservation of peri‐implant hard and soft tissues over a 6‐month follow‐up period post‐surgery, ensuring proper tissue healing and bone shaping for optimal patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The successful surgical recontouring of fibrous dysplasia in the upper right maxilla, along with the preservation of peri‐implant hard and soft tissues, underscores the potential for effective oral rehabilitation in similar cases involving dental implants.

Plain Language Summary

In this study, we managed a rare bone disorder called fibrous dysplasia in a 63‐year‐old woman, 5 years after she had dental implants in her upper jaw. This condition leads to bone overgrowth and deformities, making oral rehabilitation challenging. The patient presented with a bump in her upper jaw, which was diagnosed through various tests. We performed surgery to reshape the overgrown bone while preserving her dental implants and surrounding tissues. The surgery was successful, and 6 months later, the implants remained stable with no signs of recurring issues.

Key points

Why is this case new information?

This case is rare because it presents a successful management strategy for fibrous dysplasia in the maxilla with dental implants, a combination that is both uncommon and challenging.

What are the keys to the successful management of this case?

Successful management relies on accurate diagnosis, careful surgical recontouring to preserve peri‐implant bone while providing a maintainable environment for the patient, and thorough postoperative care to ensure healing and stability.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

Primary limitations include the risk of implant compromise, potential recurrence of fibrous dysplasia, and challenges related to bone quality and healing, particularly in an older patient.
Anxiolytic Effect of Sesamol, Possibly Through the GABAkine Interaction Pathway
Authors: Islam Md. Tahajul , Malik Abdul , Alshememry Abdullah K. , Chowdhury Raihan , Bhuia Md. Shimul , Fatima Sabiha , Hossen Md. Samim , Rakib Asraful Islam , Mollah Faysal , Akbor Md. Showkoth , Bappi Mehedi Hasan , Saim Md. Abu , Islam Muhammad Torequl
Published: December 2024

Plant‐based components have helped generate novel lead molecules and scaffolds for anxiety research in psychopharmacology. The present study examined the anxiolytic properties of sesamol (SES), a phenolic lignan derived from Sesamum indicum, employing both in vivo and computational methods to understand its mechanisms of action. In this experiment, adult Swiss albino mice received various doses of SES (25 and 50 mg/kg, p.o.) orally. Afterward, a series of behavioral assessments, including open field, swing, hole cross, and light–dark testing, were conducted. The impact of the GABAergic agonist diazepam (DZP‐1 mg/kg, i.p.) along with the antagonist flumazenil (FLU‐0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) has been studied as provided concurrently with the SES‐50 group. Computational studies were performed to comprehend the interaction between SES and GABAA receptor subunits (α2 and α3). The results of our investigation revealed that SES dose‐dependently and significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the number of square crosses, hole crosses, swings, grooming, and rearing along with a reduction of light residence time in animals. When combined with DZP, SES‐50 significantly reduced all these parameters, while altering with FLU‐0.1. The molecular docking analysis showed that the SES has a relatively good binding score (−5.03 ± 0.15 and −5.25 ± 0.23 kcal/mol) with GABAA receptor α2 and α3 subunits, respectively. The SES triggers anxiolytic effects via GABAA receptor α2 and α3 subunit interactions. Furthermore, precise and comprehensive preclinical research must be considered to validate potential SES targets for anxiolytic impact, clinical trial efficacy, and safety.
Geology, Mineralogy and Sulphur Isotope Constraints of the Buffalo Reef Gold Deposit, Central Belt, Peninsular Malaysia: Implications for Ore Genesis
Authors: Mohd Zin Mazlinfalina , Basori Mohd Basril Iswadi , Sanematsu Kenzo , Manaka Takayuki , Zaw Khin , Dietz Christian , Jamil Habibah , Salam Abhisit
Published: December 2024

The Buffalo Reef deposit is a developed gold mine located in the northern part of Pahang State, within the Central Belt of Peninsular Malaysia. The gold deposit is hosted by the Permo‐Triassic Gua Musang Formation, which consists of shale, carbonaceous shale, mudstone, siltstone, volcanic rocks and low‐grade metamorphic rocks. Gold ore at Buffalo Reef is found in quartz veins and alteration selvages, which fill ductile‐brittle structures along N–S and NE–SW striking faults and shear zones. The sulphide minerals associated with gold ore include pyrite, arsenopyrite, stibnite and minor amounts of galena. Geochemical studies of gold grains reveal that the gold is alloyed with less than 10 wt% Ag and contains no other minor elements, with fineness of gold grains ranging from 882 to 990. Sulphur isotope analysis of sulphide minerals extracted from auriferous veins shows a narrow range of δ34S values from −2.40‰ to +2.70‰ (n = 29). The δ34S composition close to zero relative to VCDT for all sulphide minerals indicate that these minerals are isotopically uniform and derived from a single source. The overlapping sulphur isotope data between the sulphide minerals from the Buffalo Reef and those from other gold deposits in the Central Belt suggest that the sulphur in the ore‐forming fluids responsible for the auriferous quartz veins at Buffalo Reef is likely related to devolatilisation from metamorphic fluids at depth in an orogenic system. However, the substantial contribution of magmatic fluid cannot be ruled out due to the narrow range of sulphur isotopic compositions around zero per mil. The results of this study indicate that gold mineralisation in the study area and in other gold deposits along the Bentong‐Raub Suture Zone in the Central Belt is of the orogenic type.
Conditional Survival of Patients With Early‐Stage Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer Who Undergo Lobectomy, Segmentectomy, or Wedge Resection Using the NCDB
Authors: Deboever Nathaniel , Eisenberg Michael , Niu Jiangong , Graber William , Antonoff Mara B. , Hofstetter Wayne L. , Mehran Reza J. , Swisher Stephen G. , Vaporciyan Ara A. , Walsh Garrett L. , Giordano Sharon Hermes , Rajaram Ravi , Rice David C.
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Randomized clinical trials have shown that sub‐lobar resection for clinical stage (cStage) IA non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is non‐inferior to lobar resection. We evaluated traditional and conditional survival differences between lobectomy, wedge resection, and segmentectomy in patients with cStage IA NSCLC.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (2004–2019) was queried for patients with cStage IA (≤ 2 cm) NSCLC who underwent upfront lobectomy, segmentectomy, or wedge resection. Patients were stratified by extent of resection. Propensity‐matched traditional (TSA) and conditional (CSA) survival analyses were performed. Propensity score included age, gender, histology, tumor grade, and Charlson‐Deyo score. Number of lymph nodes (LN) harvested was also compared between groups.

Results

There were 46 395 patients who met the inclusion criteria, of whom 32 599 (70.3%) received lobectomy, 11 181 (24.1%) wedge resection, and 2615 (5.6%) segmentectomy. Following propensity matching, all groups contained 2615 patients. In the TSA, segmentectomy (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–1.32) and wedge resection (HR: 1.41, CI: 1.28–1.56) were associated with worse 5‐year survival. This remained significant in CSA at 3‐ and 5‐years post‐resection in patients who underwent segmentectomy (HR: 1.24, CI: 1.08–1.43 and HR: 1.23, CI: 1.02–1.49, respectively) and wedge resection (HR: 1.42, CI: 1.24–1.63 and HR: 1.33, CI: 1.11–1.59, respectively). Wedge resection and segmentectomy were associated with a lower number of harvested LN (median = 4 and 6, respectively) compared to lobectomy (8, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Analysis of real‐world data suggests that lobectomy is associated with improved traditional and conditional 5‐year survival as well as LN harvest.
Custom‐Shapable and Reusable Thermoplastic Manganese Halide Scintillation Glass for Curved X‐Ray Imaging
Authors: Zhou Zijian , Feng Zhe , Li Jiangang , Zhu Yongkang , Gu Tianhan , Zhu Wenjuan , Xu Xiuwen , Liu Shujuan , Wang Feng , Zhao Qiang
Published: December 2024

Luminescent metal halides (MHs), whether in the form of rigid single crystal or flexible polymer‐MH composite, are currently at the forefront of next‐generation scintillator development. However, the stringent conditions required for single crystal growth and the opacity of polymer‐MH composites due to severe light scattering pose challenges for achieving high‐resolution X‐ray imaging of intricate objects with irregular geometries. Herein, a flexible, transparent, and thermoplastic 0D manganese (Mn) halide scintillation glass is reported by using a facile melt‐quenching approach. Through alkylating triethylene diamine (ted) with extended chain length and employing it as the spacer, the coulombic interaction within the 0D manganese halide is greatly attenuated, thus lowering the melting temperature (Tm) and glass transition temperature (Tg) necessary for glass formation under a mild condition. The scintillation glass exhibits a high relative light yield of 20784 photons MeV−1 and an impressive spatial resolution of 20.4 lp mm−1. More importantly, due to the low Tg and excellent reusability, one scintillation glass can be custom‐shaped to conform to different matters with various irregular geometries for multiple times, all achieving high‐resolution curved X‐ray imaging. This work opens a new avenue for reusable curved X‐ray imaging through thermoplastic scintillation glasses.
High‐throughput calculation of large spin Hall conductivity in heavy‐metal‐based antiperovskite compounds
Authors: Xu Xiong , Lv J. X. , Wang Y. , Li Min , Wang Zhe , Wang Hui
Published: December 2024

Spin Hall effect (SHE) provides a promising solution to the realization of advantageous functionalities for spin‐based recording and information processing. In this work, we conduct high‐throughput calculations on the spin Hall conductivity (SHC) of antiperovskite compounds with the composition ZXM3, where Z is a nonmetal, X is a metal, and M is a platinum group metal. From an initial database over 4500 structures, we screen 295 structurally stable compounds and identify 24 compounds with intrinsic SHC exceeding 500 (ℏ/e) (Ω⁻1 cm⁻1). We reveal a strong dependence of SHC on spin‐orbit coupling‐induced energy splitting near the Fermi level. In addition, SHCs can be regulated through proper doping of electrons or holes. The present work establishes high‐throughput database of SHC in antiperovskites which is crucial for designing future electric and spintronic devices.
Intelligence Mindset, Self‐Esteem, Emotions and Unconditional Self‐Acceptance During Achievement‐Related Difficulties
Authors: Gál Éva
Published: December 2024

Previous studies indicated that when encountering academic difficulties, students with fixed intelligence mindset, experience higher levels of negative emotions and they also report significant drops in their self‐esteem. Thus, the present study proposed to test whether priming students with unconditional self‐acceptance (USA), reduces difficulty‐related self‐esteem loss and alleviates the affective consequences of difficulties. It also aimed to explore whether the USA prime offers comparable benefits to both growth and fixed mindset students. Participants (N = 202, Nfemale = 156, Mage = 23.09, SDage = 3.31) were randomized into an USA prime (N = 111) and control condition (N = 91) and were presented with unsolvable cognitive tasks (i.e., difficulty experience). Students' self‐esteem, positive and negative emotions were measured before and after the difficult experience. Results of the mixed analysis of variance indicated that participants in the prime condition reported smaller decreases in self‐esteem and smaller increases in negative emotions, however, the prime had no effect on positive emotions. Furthermore, mindset did not affect students' post‐difficulty self‐esteem and emotions, however, differences emerged in their overall levels. Finally, both mindset groups benefited equally from the USA prime.
Artificial Intelligence Technology for Path Planning of Automated Earthwork Machinery
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Wang Yuxiang , Li Rao , Guan Tao , Liu Zhenyuan , Peng Gang , You Ke
Published: December 2024

The challenging characteristics of earthwork environments—complex, unstructured, and constantly evolving—pose significant challenges for the path planning of automated earthwork machinery. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology have opened new avenues to address these challenges, which are crucial for improving the intelligence level of automated earthwork machinery. However, there is a notable lack of comprehensive analyses on AI‐based path planning in earthwork operations. Consequently, we provide a systematic review of four AI technologies currently employed in path planning for earthwork machinery, including (1) evolutionary computation, (2) swarm intelligence, (3) machine learning, and (4) other AI‐based technologies. We analyzed the application and performance evaluation results of these technologies across various construction machinery. Through this systematic analysis, we identified several key challenges: (1) multiconstraint earthwork environments, (2) generalization across 3D unstructured sites, (3) adaptability to dynamically uncertain environments, and (4) shortage of on‐site validation. We then outline potential future directions: (1) integration of generative AI with reinforcement learning, (2) use of large model technology, (3) adoption of embodied intelligence technology, and (4) conduction of more on‐site experiments.
Rotating flow over a vertical Riga plate with ramped heating using transformer oil
Authors: Ali Farhad , Afshana Gul , Sheikh Nadeem Ahmad , Khan Ilyas
Published: December 2024

The present study explores the electrohydrodynamic flow of Casson nanofluid over a vertical Riga plate within a rotating frame, incorporating a ramped wall temperature (RWT). Transformer oil, selected as the base fluid for its engineering applications, is infused with dispersed graphene nanoparticles to form the nanofluid. The analysis further accounts for the effects of radiation, chemical reactions, and porous media. By employing dimensionless variables, the governing system of ordinary differential equations, subject to specific boundary conditions, is transformed. The Laplace transform method is then applied to determine the distributions of temperature, concentration, and velocity. The effects of various physical parameters on velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles are discussed in the physical sense. Results showed that adding 4% graphene nanoparticles considerably increases the rate of heat transfer from transform oil to 7.88% in both cases of RWT and isothermal wall temperature (IWT). Graphene nanoparticles enhance the life of transformers by improving thermal conductivity and decreasing oxidation resistance in the transformer oil, which eventually leads to greater heat dissipation and less degradation.
Sickness absence trajectories among young and early midlife employees with psychological distress: the contributions of social and health-related factors in a longitudinal register linkage study
Authors: Salmela Jatta , Heinonen Noora Amanda , Knop Jade , Virtanen Marianna , Fagerlund Pi , Kouvonen Anne , Lallukka Tea
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Psychological distress has been associated with sickness absence (SA), but less is known about whether there are distinct patterns in the development of SA among people with psychological distress. We examined trajectories of short- and long-term SA among employees with psychological distress and how social and health-related factors are associated with them.

Methods

We used the employer’s register data on all-cause short- (≤ 10 working days) and long-term (> 10 working days) SA with a two-year follow-up. We prospectively linked the Helsinki Health Study survey data on 19–39-year-old employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland, in 2017, to the SA data. We included 1060 participants (81% women) who reported experiencing psychological distress, measured by the emotional wellbeing scale of RAND-36. Survey responses of age; gender; education; marital status; social support, procedural and interactional organisational justice, and bullying at work; physical activity; diet; tobacco and alcohol use; prior SA; and the level of psychological distress were included as exposures. Group-based trajectory modelling and multinomial logistic regression were used for the analyses.

Results

We identified four short-term SA trajectories: ‘low’ (n = 379, 36% of participants), ‘descending’ (n = 212, 20%), ‘intermediate’ (n = 312, 29%), and ‘high’ (n = 157, 15%); and two long-term SA trajectories: ‘low’ (n = 973, 92%) and ‘high’ (n = 87, 8%). A higher education, fewer prior SA, and lower levels of psychological distress were associated with the ‘low’ short- and long-term SA trajectories.

Conclusion

SA trajectories differ among employees with psychological distress. Early intervention and support are needed among employees with mental health symptoms to prevent future SA.
Opioidverordnungen bei Versicherten ohne Krebserkrankung in Deutschland – Daten der BARMER
Authors: Lappe Veronika , Grandt Daniel , Marschall Ursula , Petzke Frank , Häuser Winfried , Schubert Ingrid
Published: December 2024

Hintergrund

Der Stellenwert der Opioide bei nichttumorbedingten Schmerzen wird kontrovers diskutiert. Aus Deutschland fehlen aktuelle Daten zur Opioidverordnung bei nichttumorbedingtem Schmerz.

Ziel der Arbeit

Daten zur Prävalenz von kurz- und langfristigen Opioidverordnungen, verschriebenen Wirkstoffen, Komedikation, verschreibenden Fachgruppen und demografischen und klinischen Charakteristika der Patienten.

Material und Methoden

Retrospektive Analyse von Abrechnungsdaten erwachsener BARMER-Versicherter ohne Hinweis auf einen bösartigen Tumor für das Jahr 2021 (n = 6.771.075) sowie Versicherter mit Neubeginn einer Opioidtherapie in 2019 (n = 142.598).

Ergebnisse

5,7 % der Versicherten ohne Krebsdiagnose erhielten in 2021 mindestens eine Opioidverordnung, 1,9 % eine Langzeittherapie. Tilidin und Tramadol waren die am häufigsten verordneten Opioide in Kurz- und Langzeittherapie. Frauen erhielten häufiger Opioide als Männer. Die Verordnungshäufigkeit stieg mit dem Alter deutlich an. In 2021 erhielten 22,5 % der Versicherten mit Langzeitopioidtherapie eine Komedikation mit Pregabalin und/oder Gabapentin, 37,5 % mit einem Antidepressivum und 58,1 % mit Metamizol und/oder nichtsteroidale Antirheumatika (NSAR). Erstverordnungen erfolgten zu 59,5 % durch Hausärzte. Im ersten Therapiejahr waren bei Personen mit Langzeitopioidtherapie im Mittel 2,1 Praxen an der Schmerzmittelverordnung beteiligt, 13 verschiedene chronische Krankheiten wurden dokumentiert.

Diskussion

Die Opioidtherapie nichttumorbedingter Schmerzen findet überwiegend im hausärztlichen Bereich bei älteren, multimorbiden Patienten statt. Die Indikationsstellung erfordert eine gemeinsame Entscheidungsfindung mit Patientinnen und Patienten und gegebenenfalls ihren Angehörigen sowie die Überprüfung möglicher Arzneimittelinteraktionen.

Graphic abstract
Speckle-tracking echocardiography of left and right ventricle and acute cellular rejection in orthotropic heart transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xourgia Eleni , Brignoli Kristina , Linder Olivier , Neagoe Alexandra-Maria , Capek Lukas , Bruno Jolie , Strickler Eva , Bakula Adam , Pavlicek-Bahlo Maryam , Fürholz Monika , Muster Christian , Malagutti Patrizia , Martinelli Michele , Hunziker Lukas , Schnegg Bruno
Published: December 2024

After a cardiac transplantation, the steering of immunosuppression requires an active search for acute cellular rejection (ACR). Surveillance with endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is the gold standard. Given the costs and potential complications, there is growing interest in the use of non-invasive screening methods. Thus, we have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the role of speckle-tracking echocardiography as a screening method for ACR. We searched PubMed (CENTRAL) and gray literature for studies presenting data on speckle tracking echocardiography in heart-transplant patients experiencing acute cellular rejection. The primary outcomes of the meta-analysis were left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain. We used random effects models for all our calculations. We pre-registered our meta-analysis with PROSPERO (CRD42024508654). By incorporating data from over 2000 biopsies included in 18 studies, we found that both left (LVGLS, MD -1.96, 95% CI -2.85 to -1.07, p < 0.0001), and right (RVGLS, MD -2.90, 95% CI -4.03 to -1.76, p < 0.00001) ventricular longitudinal strain were lower among patients without ACR. The change of LVGLS from baseline over time was also greater among patients experiencing ACR (MD -2.43, 95% CI -4.82 to -0.05, p = 0.045). Current data suggest that myocardial strain measured by speckle tracking echocardiography is affected in ACR and could potentially be used for early rejection detection as a rule-out strategy, leading to reduction of routine EMB in heart transplant follow-up.
Effectiveness and Characteristics of Work Participation Interventions for Adults with Musculoskeletal Upper Limb Conditions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Newington Lisa , Ceh Daniel , Sandford Fiona , Parsons Vaughan , Madan Ira
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To systematically identify and evaluate interventions to improve work participation for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions, and explore contextual factors and mechanisms that suggest how the intervention is effective, for whom, and in what setting.

Methods

The review protocol was pre-registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023433216). Eligible studies met the following criteria. Population adults (aged ≥ 18 years), with musculoskeletal upper limb conditions including traumatic and non-traumatic presentations. Intervention strategies aimed at enhancing work participation. Outcomes measures including return to work, increased work duties or hours, and work functioning. Study design randomised and non-randomised experimental studies, mixed methods, qualitative studies, and case series. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and completed quality appraisal. Interventions were described using TIDieR and the data presented as a narrative synthesis.

Results

Twenty-two studies were included. Interventions were categorised into three groups: multimodal or multidisciplinary (n = 13), ergonomic (n = 4), and exercise (n = 5). Eight interventions were primarily delivered in the workplace and 14 in healthcare settings. Four outcome domains were reported: return to work (n = 18), self-reported work function (n = 4), work productivity (n = 5), and work-related costs (n = 2). Only exercise interventions showed consistent statistically significant benefits. Heterogeneity in outcomes prevented formal meta-analysis. Only five studies were rated as high quality.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to recommend specific work participation interventions for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal systems. No studies explored the impact of Fit Notes or other formal work guidance documentation.
Guidelines for Caring for Incapacitated Teachers and Students at Former Jesuit Colleges in Europe
Authors: Kochanowicz Jerzy , Topij-Stempińska Beata , Paal Piret
Published: December 2024

The aim of this article is to explore the regulations governing the treatment of incapacitated people in former Jesuit colleges in Europe, focusing on the academic staff and students residing in these institutions. This treatment was strongly influenced by the spirituality of Ignatius of Loyola, who perceived disease in dual terms: as an evil to be combated through all available means and as a test of faith from God. Ignatius instructed college superiors to prioritize the care of the sick and appointed specific officers within the community, such as prefects of health, nurses, and pharmacists, while also formulating detailed rules for the care and treatment of the sick. Understanding these principles, which served as a vademecum for nursing practices at the time, provides insights into the daily life of former Jesuit colleges and can serve as inspiration for modern approaches to patient care, particularly emphasizing the importance of attending to their mental well-being.
Impact of vegetation type on the content and spectroscopic properties of soil organic matter in the subalpine zone of the Bieszczady Mountains (Eastern Carpathians)
Authors: Kramarczuk Patrycja , Musielok Łukasz , Stolarczyk Mateusz , Jelonkiewicz Łukasz , Nikorych Volodymyr A. , Szymański Wojciech
Published: December 2024

Aims

This study aimed to define how vegetation affects the content and chemistry of soil organic matter (SOM) in topsoil (O and A) horizons under blueberry shrubs (Vaccinietum myrtilli) and tall-grass vegetation in the subalpine zone of the Bieszczady Mountains (Eastern Carpathians, SE Poland).

Methods

Topsoil samples (O and A horizons) were collected from ten sites covered with Vaccinium myrtillus L. and at ten sites covered with tall-grass vegetation. Above- and belowground parts of vegetation from each vegetation type were sampled. Total carbon (TC) and nitrogen (TN) content in soil and vegetation samples were determined using an elemental analyzer. SOM chemical properties were determined via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The mineral composition of the A horizons was determined via X-ray diffractometry (XRD).

Results

V. myrtillus L. showed significantly higher TC content and C/N ratio in its aboveground parts compared to tall-grass vegetation, though TN content was significantly lower. FTIR-ATR spectra showed more intense absorption bands for V. myrtillus L. The soil mineral composition was similar across vegetation types. Soils under blueberry shrubs showed significantly higher mean content of organic carbon and TN in the O horizon compared to tall-grass vegetation, with no significant differences in the A horizon.

Conclusions

Topsoil horizons under blueberry shrubs show higher soil organic carbon (SOC) content and C/N ratios than those under tall-grasses. Our results suggest that shrubification may affect carbon concentration in the soil; however, the lack of bulk density measurements prevents the quantification of SOM content and overall carbon sequestration, necessitating further studies.
Wear and Corrosion of HVAF and HVOF-Sprayed WC-CoCr Coatings on Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Owoseni Tunji Adetayo , Gupta Mohit , Joshi Shrikant V. , Ingmar Mare , Varis Tommi
Published: December 2024

Light alloys are being increasingly investigated as alternatives to ferrous-based engineering components, based on weight considerations. However, in-service applications of such light alloy components often require a surface modification step to enhance their wear and corrosion responses for improved functionality. Thermally sprayed cermet coatings offer an enhanced resistance to wear and corrosion. This work investigates WC-CoCr coatings deposited using two different feedstocks comprising fine and coarse powder size distributions on aluminum alloy and steel substrates using high-velocity air-fuel (HVAF) and high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) spray techniques. The WC-CoCr coatings were HVAF sprayed at various parameters to investigate the relationship between the processing conditions, microstructure, and performance. Microindentation, dry sliding wear, dry sand abrasion, cavitation erosion, and corrosion tests were conducted to assess the performance of the coatings. Despite the qualitative similarities in the microstructures of the coatings, the measured microindentation hardness values were observed to vary, and coatings deposited with higher particle impact velocities showed the highest microhardness between 1400 and 1600 HV0.3. For the three categories of wear investigated, the HVAF coatings showed better resistance than the HVOF coating investigated in this study. The estimated average specific wear rate (SWR) due to sliding wear of the HVOF coating was ~ 16.7 ± 4.0 × 10−8 mm3/Nm compared to that of the most resistant HVAF coating, which exhibited a SWR of ~ 1.7 ± 0.6 × 10−8 mm3/Nm. The cumulative mass loss rate due to the abrasive wear on the HVOF coating reached ~ 1.11 mg/min compared to ~ 0.76 mg/min of the most abrasion-resistant HVAF coating. All coatings showed similar corrosion resistances under the investigated conditions. The combination of wear and corrosion performance of the respective coatings could provide insight into the coating selection for intended applications.
First case report of disseminated intravascular coagulopathy associated with severe micronutrient deficiency and protein malnutrition following sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Saliba Maram , Abdulrazzaq Sama , Dweik Manar
Published: December 2024

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulopathy (DIC) is a serious acquired hematological syndrome with intravascular activation of the coagulation process in which both microvascular thrombosis and life-threatening bleeding can occur depending on the balance between utilization of platelets, inhibitors, and coagulation factors. (DIC) can manifest in either an acute or chronic form and almost always arises as a secondary complication of an underlying disease, trauma, or clinical condition. Various causes identified with infection and cancer being on the top of the list, though, idiopathic cases were also reported. Bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) is one of the treatment lines for obesity with a low mortality rate. However, its associated with certain medical and /or hematological complications secondary to nutritional deficiencies such as protein/albumin malnutrition, low iron, copper, and B 12 deficiencies, causing anemia, and pancytopenia. DIC in post gastric bypass surgery has been previously reported. However, its occurrence after Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) remains unclear and has not been previously reported.
Insights of the trypsin inhibitory activity and ultrasound effect of ovomucoid based on molecular docking and spectroscopic
Authors: Cui Rui , Ding Lixian , Ji Shengnan , Fu Xing , Cai Zhaoxia , Huang Xi
Published: December 2024

Ovomucoid (OVM) is the most abundant trypsin inhibitor in egg white, considered as one of the anti-nutritional factors in egg processing. In this study, the molecular mechanism of the interaction between OVM and trypsin was explored. Besides, the effect of food processing methods on the activity of OVM and structural change of OVM was analyzed. The results showed that OVM mainly inhibited trypsin activity through hydrogen bonding in its first domain and it was a non-competitive inhibitor. Surprisingly, ultrasound treatment could reduce trypsin inhibitory activity of OVM to 30%. The hydrolytic resistance to digestive enzymes and the thermal stability of the OVM was also significantly reduced. The spectroscopic results indicated ultrasound treatment affected the trypsin inhibitory activity of OVM by reducing β-sheet content and increasing hydrophobicity. In conclusion, this study reveals the molecular mechanism by which OVM inhibits trypsin activity, and provides an ultrasound treatment method to effectively reduce this activity of OVM.
What we (don’t) know about parrot welfare: Finding welfare indicators through a systematic literature review
Authors: Piseddu Andrea , van Zeeland Yvonne RA , Rault Jean-Loup
Published: December 2024

Parrots are popular companion animals but show prevalent and at times severe welfare issues. Nonetheless, there are no scientific tools available to assess parrot welfare. The aim of this systematic review was to identify valid and feasible outcome measures that could be used as welfare indicators for companion parrots. From 1,848 peer-reviewed studies retrieved, 98 met our inclusion and exclusion criteria (e.g. experimental studies, captive parrots). For each outcome collected, validity was assessed based on the statistical significance reported by the authors, as other validity parameters were rarely provided for evaluation. Feasibility was assigned by considering the need for specific instruments, veterinary-level expertise or handling the parrot. A total of 1,512 outcomes were evaluated, of which 572 had a significant P-value and were considered feasible. These included changes in behaviour (e.g. activity level, social interactions, exploration), body measurements (e.g. body weight, plumage condition) and abnormal behaviours, amongst others. Many physical and physiological parameters were identified that either require experimental validation, or veterinary-level skills and expertise, limiting their potential use by parrot owners themselves. Moreover, a high risk of bias undermined the internal validity of these outcomes, while a strong taxonomic bias, a predominance of studies on parrots in laboratories, and an underrepresentation of companion parrots jeopardised their external validity. These results provide a promising starting point for validating a set of welfare indicators in parrots.
Bursting bubble in an elastoviscoplastic medium
Authors: Balasubramanian Arivazhagan G. , Sanjay Vatsal , Jalaal Maziyar , Vinuesa Ricardo , Tammisola Outi
Published: December 2024

A gas bubble sitting at a liquid–gas interface can burst following the rupture of the thin liquid film separating it from the ambient, owing to the large surface energy of the resultant cavity. This bursting bubble forms capillary waves, a Worthington jet and subsequent droplets for a Newtonian liquid medium. However, rheological properties of the liquid medium like elastoviscoplasticity can greatly affect these dynamics. Using direct numerical simulations, this study exemplifies how the complex interplay between elasticity (in terms of elastic stress relaxation) and yield stress influences the transient interfacial phenomenon of bursting bubbles. We investigate how bursting dynamics depends on capillary, elastic and yield stresses by exploring the parameter space of the Deborah number

${{\textit {De}}}$

(dimensionless relaxation time of elastic stresses) and the plastocapillary number

$\mathcal {J}$

(dimensionless yield-stress of the medium), delineating four distinct characteristic behaviours. Overall, we observe a non-monotonic effect of elastic stress relaxation on the jet development while plasticity of the elastoviscoplastic (EVP) medium is shown to affect primarily the jet evolution only at faster relaxation times (low

${{\textit {De}}}$

). The role of elastic stresses on jet development is elucidated with the support of energy budgets identifying different modes of energy transfer within the EVP medium. The effects of elasticity on the initial progression of capillary waves and droplet formation are also studied. In passing, we study the effects of solvent–polymer viscosity ratio on bursting dynamics and show that polymer viscosity can increase the jet thickness apart from reducing the maximum height of the jet.