bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delay in Receiving Lab Test Results Increases the Costs of Treating an Episode of Care for Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Thorpe Kenneth E. , Woodruff Robert W. , Policy Health
Published: November 2024

Background
To provide the first study examining the impact on the total health care costs of treating urinary tract infections as a function of the time delay in receiving lab test results.
Methods
Retrospective analysis including those receiving the urine bacteria test and ultimately diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. We estimate episode of care-based treatment costs associated with each day of delay in receiving results Using regression analysis, we estimate the total costs of treating an episode of a urinary tract infection. We control for patient demographics (age, gender), region and number of comorbid conditions. The analysis focuses on commercially insured populations using the IBM MarketScan database The dependent variable is the per person costs of treating a urinary tract infection episode and our controls included the number of days between test and diagnosis and prescription filled.
Results
Delays in receiving test results that allowed for filling a prescription and a diagnosis increased health plan treatment costs. The analysis looked at patients with a urine bacteria culture test and an ultimate diagnosis of urinary tract infection. We examine the days between the test and two outcomes the diagnosis and the prescription filled. Each day of delay (up to 5) added $1000 to nearly $3000 in health plan spending to treat the condition. These additional costs are traced to increased hospitalizations for the condition for each day of delay.
Conclusions
Slow turn around times in receiving test results for bacterial infections increase health plan and employer spending for treating infections. The delays also result in poorer quality of health as hospitalization rates increased with the delayed results. We need new technologies that allow for rapid results for these tests.
Deep-Multiscale Stratified Aggregation
Authors: Wu Ziheng , Yang Song , Hu Fengxiang , Yao Jiaxiang , Zhou Jun , Wang Jingyuan , Li Yongtao
Published: November 2024

In deep learning based vision tasks, improving multiscale representation by combining shallow and deep features has consistently led to performance gains across a wide range of applications. However, significant discrepancies in both scale and semantic content often occur during the fusion of shallow and deep features. Most existing approaches rely on standard convolutional structures for representing multiscale features, which may not fully capture the complexity of the underlying data. To address this, we propose a novel deep-multiscale stratified aggregation (D-MSA) module, which could improve the extraction and fusion of multiscale features by efficiently aggregating features across multiple receptive fields. The novel D-MSA module was integrated into the YOLO architecture to enhance the capacity for processing complex multiscale features. Experiments on the PASCAL VOC 2012 dataset demonstrate that D-MSA could effectively handle complex multiscale features while improving computational efficiency, making it suitable for object detection in challenging environments.
Enhancing Maternal and Infant Health: Insights from Comprehensive PMTCT OF HIV Services in Rwanda
Authors: Rutayisire Gad , Ntale Roman Saba , Semwaga Emmanuel , Nsereko Vincent , Uwera Marie Grace , Rurangwa Mike , Musafiri Tumusiime , Ishami Innocent , Wekia Enock , Kiwanuka Noah , Bagaya Bernard Ssentalo
Published: November 2024

Background
Despite the remarkable achievements in preventing and controlling HIV-1 at global level, Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV and the associated mortality continue to be unacceptably high. This remains a significant public health concern, with efforts focused on increasing the global coverage of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV programs.
Methods
This study expounds on the multifaceted dimensions of PMTCT interventions and their impact on maternal and child health outcomes in Rwanda, using a qualitative approach with pregnant mothers living with HIV navigating PMTCT clinics for 18 months.
Results
The results indicate that PMTCT services play a crucial role in enhancing the health and well-being of both pregnant mothers living with HIV and their infants. The primary reinforcements established include; nutritional support, continuous follow-up and postnatal care, education on HIV transmission, and access to government-provided medical insurance.
Conclusions
Based on the results, interventions for PMTCT services are compelling on economic and social grounds in many resource-limited settings in Rwanda and should remain at the forefront of global HIV prevention efforts.
Thermal Conductivity Characterization of High Oleic Vegetable Oils based Hybrid-Nanofluids Formulated using GnP, TiO2, MoS2, Al2O3 Nanoparticles for MQL Machining
Authors: Okafor Anthony Chukwujekwu , Abor Tobechukwu Kingsley , Valiev Saidanvar Esanjonovich , Ekengwu Ignatius Echezona , Saka Abiodun , Okoronkwo Monday U.
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the results of thermal conductivity characterization of six high oleic soybean oil (HOSO) and four high oleic canola oil (HOCO)-based hybrid nanofluids formulated with four types of nanoparticles (Graphene nanoplatelet (xGnP), TiO2, MoS2, and Al2O3) at nanoparticles wt.% concentration from 1–7% in 1% increment using the two-step method for use in MQL machining of difficult-to-cut metals. Thermal conductivity of the formulated hybrid nanofluids were measured using Thermtest Transient Hot Wire (THW-L2) Liquid Thermal Conductivity Meter at temperatures from 25 to 75°C in increment of 10°C. Obtained results showed that thermal conductivity of all nanofluids decreases linearly with temperature, while the thermal conductivity enhancement increases nonlinearly with increase in wt.% concentration. At 7 wt.% nanoparticle concentration, hybrid nanofluids xGnP-TiO2/HOSO gave the highest thermal conductivity enhancement (109.73 and 103.31% at 25 and 75°C) followed by xGnP-TiO2/HOCO (101.36 and 97.52% at 25 and 75°C), xGnP-MoS2/HOCO (101.36 and 97.52% at 25 and 75°C), xGnP-MoS2/HOSO (96.3 and 96.89% at 25 and 75°C), xGnP-Al2O3/HOCO (91.62 and 83.23% at 25 and 75°C), xGnP-Al2O3/HOSO (91.25 and 83.23% at 25 and 75°C). xGnP hybrid nanofluids are recommended for MQL machining. TiO2-MoS2/HOSO, TiO2-MoS2/HOCO, MoS2- Al2O3/HOSO, TiO2-Al2O3/HOSO hybrid nanofluids gave the lowest thermal conductivities and are not recommended as base fluids due to their insignificant thermal conductivity enhancement. Thermal conductivity of the hybrid nanofluids is lower than that of mono-nanofluids, but there are other inherent properties that could be beneficial.
Evolution of cyclic clusters in SiO2 hollow particle shells during heat treatment
Authors: Fursova Tatiana N. , Sukhinina Nadezhda S. , Masalov Vladimir M. , Zverkova Irina I. , Emel’chenko Gennadi A.
Published: November 2024

The transformation of shell structure of PMMA–SiO2 core-shell particles and hollow SiO2 particles undergoing heat treatment was studied by IR spectroscopy using deconvolution of absorption bands in the frequency range 400–650 cm–1. It was revealed that the changes in the IR absorption spectra during annealing were caused by structural transformation of the particles' material due to its restructuring, including the formation of silica ring clusters of different sizes and changes of their ratio during annealing. The used method of the spectra deconvolution made it possible to consider in more detail the parameters and contributions of the vibration modes of such clusters to the absorption spectra of SiO2. A modified structure of an organosilicon polymer polymer, synthesized through hydrolysis of vinyltrimethoxysilane, which represents a polymer chain of repeating fragments containing four- and three-membered siloxane rings linked by a bridging oxygen atom, is proposed. It has been found that skeletal vibrations of 6-membered silica rings combined with TO1 and LO1 vibration modes make the principal contribution to total IR absorption of the studied samples both in amorphous and in crystal silica structures obtained after annealing.
Epidemiology of temporal trends, drug resistance and effective factors in mycobacterial infections: a seven-year analysis in Masih Daneshvari Hospital
Authors: Mofrad Sahar Sadeghi , Maleknia Mohsen , Ayoubi Saman , Dezhkhi Hoda , Seif Shima , Farnia Parissa , Farnia Poopak , Ghanavi Jalaledin , Velayati Ali Akbar
Published: November 2024

Mycobacterial infections pose significant global health challenges. Recent epidemiological shifts have seen an increase in nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections, particularly in developed countries, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of mycobacterial isolates over time. This study analyzed the temporal distribution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and NTM isolates from 2016 to 2023, examining factors influencing these trends, including sample types, hospital departments, and drug resistance patterns. A retrospective analysis of 20,569 clinical samples collected at Masih Daneshvari Hospital in Tehran, Iran, was conducted. Samples underwent smear microscopy, culture, molecular identification, and drug susceptibility testing. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate trends and associations. NTM detection increased significantly over the study period, with a notable surge in 2022 (OR 3.337, 95% CI: 2.456-4.533, p<0.0001 compared to 2016). Sample type and hospital department significantly influenced mycobacterial species identification (p<0.0001). Respiratory specimens were predominant, with sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage comprising 46.4% and 25.1% of samples, respectively. Smear microscopy results were significantly associated with NTM positivity, with 3+ smears showing lower odds of NTM detection compared to 1+ smears (OR 0.56, 95% CI: 0.42-0.75, p<0.0001). Drug resistance was observed in a considerable proportion of isolates, with isoniazid showing the highest resistance rate (7.8%, 95% CI: 6.9%-8.8%). The study revealed a significant increase in NTM detection over time, highlighting the need for tailored diagnostic and treatment approaches. The persistence of drug-resistant MTBC isolates underscores the ongoing challenges in tuberculosis management. These results demonstrate the importance of continued surveillance and research into mycobacterial infections to inform public health strategies and clinical practices.
A Technical Examination to Explore Conditional Multimodal Contextual Synthesis in Large Language Models
Authors: Zollner David , Vasiliev Robert , Castellano Brandon , Molnar George , Janssen Philip
Published: November 2024

An unprecedented demand for models that can process, interpret, and respond to complex, multimodal inputs has driven efforts to develop architectures capable of synthesizing contextually coherent and relevant responses across diverse information sources. Addressing this need, Conditional Multimodal Contextual Synthesis (CMCS) presents an innovative approach, introducing a structured framework where multimodal data is dynamically synthesized based on conditional relevance, enabling large language models (LLMs) to process varied data inputs while maintaining robust contextual fidelity. The architecture, which integrates gated attention mechanisms, conditional embeddings, and adaptive memory modules, advances the capabilities of LLMs in generating precise, context-aware responses, allowing seamless prioritization of multimodal information. Experimental results reveal significant gains in coherence, error reduction, and latency efficiency, illustrating that CMCS not only enhances contextual synthesis but also optimizes computational performance under varied complexity conditions. Moreover, the flexibility and open-source design of the CMCS framework demonstrate its adaptability to a broad range of applications where real-time multimodal interaction is essential, highlighting its relevance in advancing language model architectures toward more adaptive and scalable systems. Through rigorous assessment across multiple metrics, CMCS demonstrates considerable improvements over traditional multimodal LLM implementations, reinforcing its potential as a foundational advancement for future research and applications requiring complex contextual processing.
Transcriptome analysis of Stephania yunnanensis and functional validation of CYP80s involved in benzylisoquinoline alkaloids biosynthesis
Authors: Shi Wenlong , Li Qishuang , Li Xinyi , Gan Jingyi , Ma Ying , Wang Jian , Chen Tong , Zhang Yifeng , Su Ping , Ma Xiaohui , Guo Juan , Huang Luqi
Published: November 2024

The medicinal plant Stephania yunnanensis is rich in aporphine alkaloids, a type of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs), with aporphine being the representative and most abundant compound, but our understanding on the biosynthesis of BIA alkaloids in this plant have been relatively limited. Previous research has reported the genome of S. yunnanensis and preliminarily identified the upstream gene norcoclaurine synthase (NCS) in the BIA biosynthetic pathways. However, the key genes promoting the formation of the aporphine skeleton have not yet been reported. In this study, based on the differences in the content of crebanine and several other BIAs in different tissues, we conducted transcriptome sequencing of roots, stems, and leaves. We then identified candidate genes through functional annotation and sequence alignment, followed by transcriptomic and genomic analyses. Based on this analysis, we identified three CYP80 enzymes (SyCYP80Q5-1, SyCYP80Q5-3, and SyCYP80G6), which exhibited different activities towards (S)- and (R)-configured substrates in S. yunnanensisand demonstrated strict stereoselectivity enroute to aporphine. This study provides metabolomic and transcriptomic information on the biosynthesis of BIAs in S. yunnanensis and offers valuable insights into the elucidation of BIA biosynthesis, and lays the foundation for the complete analysis of pathways for more aporphine alkaloids.
What drives economics students to use generative artificial intelligence?
Authors: Balytska Mariia , Rašticová Martina , Versal Nataliia , Honchar Ihor , Prykaziuk Nataliia , Tkalenko Nataliia
Published: November 2024

The increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education requires studying the motives for its use among students. This study aims to identify the key motivations for economics students to use AI and compare these motivations by grade level and gender. The study examines satisfaction with the use of AI and analyzes the number of AI tools used.
An anonymous empirical study was conducted among 264 students from the Faculty of Economics at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine. Data analysis included descriptive statistical methods, non-parametric statistical methods, and exploratory factor analysis.
The study found that students’ main motivations for using AI are the automation of routine tasks (34.2%) and the need to save time (21.5%), while 18.7% use AI to compensate for lack of experience. Among Bachelor’s students, motivations such as automating routine tasks and saving time increased from 53% to 58% over the course of their studies, while lack of experience decreased from 22% to 15%. In contrast, Master’s students showed a decrease in routine automation (from 36% to 28%) but an increase in the need to compensate for lack of experience (from 15% to 28%) and to save time (from 18% to 25%). In terms of gender, men are more likely to use AI for learning and personal development, while women are slightly more likely to use AI for work. More than 38% of respondents say they need to use at least 2 AIs to achieve their goals.
Acknowledgment This publication is based upon work from 24-PKVV-UM-002, ‘Strengthening the Resilience of Universities: Czech-Ukrainian Partnership for Digital Education, Research Cooperation, and Diversity Management,’ supported by the Czech Development Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the initiative ‘Capacity Building of Public Universities in Ukraine 2024.’
Phosphocreatine in the treatment of chronic heart failure: Case report
Authors: Ostroumova O. D. , Kochetkov A. I. , Telkova S. S. , Arablinskiy A. V.
Published: November 2024

Currently, there is a steady increase in the prevalence of chronic heart failure (CHF), as well as a high mortality rate associated with this condition, despite the implementation of rational pharmacotherapy. The use of quadrotherapy in clinical practice for the treatment of CHF contributes to the blocking of neurohumoral regulation by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathoadrenal systems, which leads to decrease in preand afterload and, respectively, to delayed and partial reverse remodeling of the heart chambers. However, these drugs don’t affect the energy metabolism of cardiomyocytes, which is still impaired in patients at the preclinical stage of CHF. In this regard, an important task of practical healthcare is the search for new schemes of a pathogenetic therapy of CHF. One of the promising directions is an adjuvant therapy, which is represented by phosphocreatine, a drug with a cardioprotective effect, proven in a large number of studies, which ensures the maintenance of myocardial energy metabolism. The use of phosphocreatin prevents further deterioration of the contractile function of the heart in patients with CHF, reduces the degree of damage to the cell membrane, improves microcirculation, and also has antiarrhythmic activity, which is especially significant in patients with a history of myocardial infarction. The drug not only improves the quality of life of patients by reducing the severity of symptoms, but also has been proven to increase myocardial contractility and reduce mortality. The purpose of the clinical case report is the description of adjuvant therapy results in a patient with CHF after using all pharmacotherapy reserves. The clinical case demonstrates the effectiveness of CHF treatment with phosphocreatine, confirmed by data from clinical, laboratory and instrumental examinations.
Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with pheochromocytoma and retroperitoneal paraganglioma
Authors: Rebrova D. V. , Vorokhobina N. V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PPGL) is a rare hormonally active tumor of chromaffin tissue. Delayed diagnosis of this disease can lead to severe, even fatal, complications. Surgical treatment of PPGL without the necessary preoperative preparation can cause intraoperative uncontrolled hemodynamic impairment. In addition, since 2017, PPGL has been recognized as a malignant tumor due to the presence of metastatic potential. All these factors determine the need for early diagnosis of PPGL, which is based, first of all, on knowledge of the clinical picture by specialists in various fields.

Aim. To check and confirm the epidemiological characteristics of PPGL as well as the most common clinical symptoms in the whole group of PPGL and in subgroups of clinical forms; to form a risk group for screening for PPGL.

Materials and methods. There were enrolled 353 patients in the study. These patients were operated on at the St. Petersburg State University Hospital in the period from 2010 to 2022 inclusive. All the patients were verified PPGL diagnosis histologically. Clinical symptoms were assessed: a) retrospectively, by analyzing complaints and anamnesis from the initial examination in medical histories upon admission to the hospital for surgical treatment b) both in the entire group as a whole and in subgroups of clinical forms (paroxysmal, constant, mixed, asymptomatic). Statistical analysis was performed using the Python 3.11 programming language (Python Software Foundation, USA). descriptive statistics of quantitative characteristics are presented in the form of medians, first and third quartiles in me format [q1; q3], categorical features – in the form of absolute and relative frequencies in the format n (%). the frequency histogram was constructed using the Matplotlib 3.8.2 library.

Results. PPGL is most common in women over 40 years of age. The most common symptoms of PPGL are the following: a feeling of rapid heartbeat (55.95%), headache (41.07%), arterial hypertension (AH) in the form of hypertensive crises (55.65%), constant increase in blood pressure (38.39%), episodes of moderate increases in blood pressure (24.11%), sweating (30.65%), general weakness and fatigue (26.19%), hot flashes or chills (24.11%). These symptoms are formed into the criteria for screening for PPGL. In the asymptomatic clinical form – lower back pain is more common (14%); with paroxysmal – panic attacks (10%); with mixed – thirst and dry mouth (10%), and with constant form – the actual constant nature of hypertension (100%).

Conclusion. In a large sample of patients with a rare pathology, the most characteristic symptom complex was identified, characteristic of both PPGL and individual clinical forms. A risk group has been formed for screening for PPGL.
Effect of metformin therapy on the development of vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Koroleva I. G. , Sizova Z. M. , Shikh E. V. , Zakharova V. L. , Shindryaeva N. N. , Melnik M. V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. For the past decades, metformin has been the drug of choice for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, its long-term use leads to a number of side effects, such as the development of vitamin B12 deficiency (VB12).

Aim. Assess the safety of metformin use in real clinical practice in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes based on the analysis of the incidence of VB12 deficiency.

Materials and methods. Sixty patients with T2DM aged 27 to 65 years were examined in a city polyclinic. The average anamnestic duration of T2DM was 68 [4; 291] months. All patients were on selected hypoglycemic therapy: 19 patients (31.7%) received metformin monotherapy, and 41 patients (68.3%) received metformin as part of combination therapy. The average duration of metformin therapy was 62 [3; 291] months. All patients underwent analysis of the VB12 content in the blood serum depending on the duration of metformin intake. 

Results. The average VB12 level in the examined patients was 345 [99; 770] pg/ml. Normal VB12 levels were observed in 51 (85%) patients (386 [221; 770] pg/ml), VB12 deficiency (<200 pg/ml) was detected in 9 (15%) patients (146 [99; 195] pg/ml), the differences between VB12 levels were significant (p < 0.05). At the same time, in 37 (61.7%) patients with normal VB12 levels, its values were assessed as borderline (in the range of 200–450 pg/ml), and amounted to 335 [221; 470] pg/ml. VB12 deficiency developed more often in patients taking metformin for more than 1 year (16.7%), borderline VB12 levels were more often found in patients taking metformin for less than a year (58.3%) and more than 5 years (71%). However, the dependence of VB12 levels on the duration of metformin intake was not significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion. Metformin use results in the development of VB12 deficiency in every sixth patient with T2DM, primarily after one year of treatment.
Primary hyperparathyroidism with intrathyroidal location of parathyroid adenoma
Authors: Fadeeva M. I. , Vasifova L. Z. , Savelyeva E. A. , Urusova L. S. , Eremkina A. K. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: November 2024

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common endocrine disease with high morbidity and mortality from all causes. The disease can be asymptomatic and for a long time remain undiagnosed, which leads to untimely surgical treatment, increases the risks of development and progression of severe disabling complications and worsens patients prognosis. In clinical practice there are certain difficulties in diagnosing this pathology. One of the urgent problems is the search for the source of parathyroid hormone hyperproduction, especially in case of atypical location of paraаdenoma. The most common atypical locations of altered parathyroid glands are thymus, retroor paraesophageal space, retropharyngeal space, mediastinum and thyroid gland. The frequency of intrathyroidal masses of parathyroid glands, in the thyroid parenchyma or under its capsule, ranges on average from 2 to 3%, but according to some authors can reach 18–22%. With such localization of paraadenomas there is a need for their differential diagnosis, first of all, with nodular formations of the thyroid gland. In addition, the absence of additional laboratory studies parathormone and calcium blood levels does not allow timely suspicion of the disease, and cytologic examination of the material obtained by fine-needle aspiration puncture biopsy does not allow reliable differentiation of the altered parathyroid gland. This article presents a clinical case of a patient with primary hyperparathyroidism with intrathyroidally located parathyroid adenoma, for a long time long identified as a “nodular goiter,” and provides a brief review of the methods that identify an intrathyroidally located parathyroma. Despite the abundance of diagnostic methods in visualization of intrathyroidal parathyroid glands, today the most appropriate seems to be expert ultrasound examination with assessment of the parathyroid hormone level in a washout after fine-needle aspiration, supplemented, if necessary, by scintigraphy and single-photon emission computed tomography combined with computed tomography or multispiral computed tomography.
The role of beta blockers in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Chulkov V. S. , Gasanov M. Z. , Azovtseva O. V. , Minina E. E. , Chulkov Vl. S.
Published: November 2024

Beta-blockers are used to treat various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and chronic heart failure. They act by suppressing the effects of catecholamines through various pathways and affect heart rate, strength, and renin release, providing antihypertensive and anti-ischemic effects. The individual effects of various drugs on clinical outcomes in this group were determined according to characteristics of the patient, underlying disease, and type of beta-blocker used. In recent years, beta-blockers have faced a serious obstacle when new guidelines on hypertension suggest their use as second-line therapy after angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and slow calcium channel blockers in the absence of clear indications. In fact, these recommendations were based on meta-analyses that showed that beta-blockers have fewer beneficial effects on overall mortality, cardiovascular events, and brain stroke. In addition, according to currently available data, the appointment of beta-blockers for diseases such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and stable coronary heart disease can cause more harm than good outcomes. Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker with the highest selectivity for beta1-adrenergic receptors, which determines the rare frequency of side effects that develop because of its use. This review presents current data on the use of beta-blockers for treating cardiovascular diseases, with an emphasis on the use of bisoprolol.
Machine learning-based prediction of scour depth evolution around spur dikes
Authors: Tabassum Reshma , Guguloth Sai , Gondu Venkata Ramana , Zakwan Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Spur dikes are pivotal elements in river training, serving to mitigate the dynamic alterations induced by river degradation and aggradation. Traditionally, scour prediction models have relied on regression techniques, but the advent of soft computing and machine learning has offered opportunities for enhanced accuracy. This study focuses on the development of hybrid machine-learning models, including eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), random forest (RF), convolutional neural network–long short-term memory, and artificial neural network, optimized using genetic algorithms to predict both temporal scour depth variation and maximum scour depth around the initial spur dike in a series. The analysis reveals strong associations between scour depth and various parameters such as non-dimensional time, spacing, channel width, time-averaged velocity, and densimetric Froude number. The models are established through an iterative process involving four predictor combinations. Results demonstrate XGBoost as the top-performing model, consistently exhibiting superior performance with R2 of 0.99, root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.012, and mean absolute error of 0.008 during training, and R2 of 0.96, RMSE of 0.044, and Kling–Gupta efficiency of 0.98 during testing for predicting temporal scour depth. For non-dimensional maximum scour depth, it reached R2 of 0.99 and RMSE of 0.005 in training, with R2 > 0.91 across all combinations during testing. Although RF showcases commendable accuracy, it slightly lags in precision compared to XGBoost.
Influence of rubber particle inputs on nitrogen removal efficiency of bioretention systems
Authors: Hu Tuanping , Li Wenyi , Xiong Jiaqing , Zhou Jiajia , Xia Qianhe
Published: November 2024

Bioretention systems effectively capture rubber particles and other microplastics in stormwater runoff. However, it is uncertain whether long-term particle accumulation affects pollutant removal efficacy. This study investigated the impact of various concentrations of ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (EPDM) particles (0, 50, 100, and 400 mg/L) on bioretention system nitrogen removal performance. The input of EPDM during short-duration (2 h) rainfall favored the removal of nitrogen, and the total nitrogen effluent concentration of the bioretention system with EPDM was reduced by 0.59–1.52 mg/L compared with that of the system without EPDM. In addition, the input of EPDM reduced the negative effects of drought. During long-duration (24 h) rainfall, higher concentrations of EPDM led to lower nitrate–nitrogen concentrations in the effluent. The bioretention system with EPDM required less time for nitrate–nitrogen removal to reach 50% than that without EPDM input. Microbial community analysis showed that EPDM increased the relative total abundance of denitrifying bacteria (such as Dechloromonas, Zoogloea, Ramlibacter, and Aeromonas) by 7.25–10.26%, which improved the denitrification capacity of the system.
Anthocyanins as Nutraceutical for Infertility and Impotency
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Chaudhary Benu , Arya Preeti , Singla Deepak , Rani Nidhi
Published: November 2024

Anthocyanins comprise polyphenols having recognized antioxidant capacity,
whichare involved in several biological processes such as the protection or reduction of
heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer and also play an important role in infertility
as well as impotency. Such qualities, including stability and bioavailability, are
determined by their chemical composition. The current study provides a brief overview
of anthocyanin's chemical components, bioavailability, as well as anti-inflammatory
properties. If a couple has already been attempting to conceive for more than a year
without success, then they may be regarded ashaving fertility problems. Worldwide,
20% of all couples are unable to have offspring. Subfertility canaffect either female,
male, or even both partners. Nevertheless, for some couples, the source of infertility
cannot be determined, which is known as unexplained infertility. Antioxidants are
expected to reduce the harm resulting from oxidative stress, which is known to be
implicated in the pathogenesis of infertility. Antioxidants are commonly available and
reasonably priced. However, there is currently insufficient high-quality research to
establish whether consuming antioxidants would benefit or damage infertile women.
Current Global Scenario for Anthocyanin-Based Nutraceuticals
Authors: Nishal Suchitra , Arya Ashwani , Kadian Renu , Dhall Manish
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the world population has been very conscious about having a
healthy lifestyle. Anthocyanin is nowadays popular as a nutraceutical and hasalready
been part of traditional medicines. It is not only employed as a colored pigment but
also as a potent ingredient in pharmaceutical preparations in several food industries.
Various In vitro (scavenging assays) and In vivo (animal and human cell line studies,
various animal models, and clinical trials) evaluations have revealed that anthocyanins
are rich in dietary supplements when consumed either through food or beverages and
have always been beneficial for humans. According to several studies, it is reported
that these anthocyanins possess various activities such as antioxidant, anti-aging, antiinflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antiviral and also manage illnesses related to
neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. The size of the worldwide nutraceuticals
market, estimated at USD 454.55 billion in 2021, is anticipated to rise at a 9 percent
compound annual growth rate between 2021 and 2030. Over the course of the forecast
period, the market is anticipated to be driven primarily by the rising demand for
functional foods and dietary supplements. A positive view of medical nutrition in light
of its growing use to treat cardiovascular disease and malnutrition is predicted to
stimulate the market for dietary supplements. The significant characteristics of
anthocyanin-based nutraceuticals are efficiency in cost, a wide safety view for both
animals and humans, acceptability and easy availability. Regardless of a wide safety
view, some of the nutraceuticals-based products are considered to be negotiated owing
to adulteration with poisonous pesticides, abusive drug molecules, heavy metals,
harmful plants, mycotoxins and lethal fertilizers. Thus, future broad research from both
the pharmaceutical area and academia is required to ensure their effectiveness and
safety concerns.
Enhanced Healthcare Solutions: Leveraging Big Data and Cloud Computing
Authors: Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Joshi Kapil
Published: November 2024

Big data is utilized in healthcare to save costs, cure diseases, increase
revenues, anticipate epidemics, and improve the quality of life by averting fatalities.
This is where the voyage through big data in healthcare gets started, covering some of
the most widely utilized applications of big data in the healthcare sector. The source of
big data in healthcare is large electronic health databases, which are extremely difficult
to maintain with standard hardware and software. Making sense of all this data and
using it wisely for treatment plans, clinical operations, and medical research is a
problem for the healthcare business because 80% of healthcare data is unstructured.
Big data and cloud computing can help healthcare providers optimize resources, reduce
administrative costs, and improve operational efficiency, making healthcare more
affordable and sustainable (SDG 3). By analyzing big data, healthcare providers can
identify and predict disease outbreaks, track the spread of diseases, and develop
effective prevention and management strategies, contributing to the goal of reducing
the global burden of disease (SDG 3). Cloud computing provides secure and scalable
storage solutions for health data, ensuring privacy and security while enabling datadriven decision-making for better health outcomes (SDG 3, SDG 9). Big data analytics
and cloud computing support medical research and innovation by providing researchers
with access to large datasets and computational resources, leading to the development
of new treatments and technologies to address global health challenges (SDG 3, SDG
9).
Revolutionizing Health Services: Industry 4.0 Aligned Systems for the Future
Authors: Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Joshi Kapil
Published: November 2024

Pharmaceuticals and associated industries, manufacturers of hospital
supplies, equipment, and services, healthcare facilities, managed care, medical services,
and health insurance are the basic sub-segments that may be used to classify the core
segments of the healthcare business. The goal of technology-assisted virtualization is to
personalize healthcare for patients, professionals, and other stakeholders. In brief, the
“Health 4.0” movement uses technology to increase communication among healthcare
stakeholders and elevate the quality of healthcare services. Healthcare is progressing
beyond conventional healthcare resources and toward more virtual, dispersed care that
makes extensive use of cutting-edge technologies, such as deep learning (DL),
genomics, artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, robots, home-based healthcare,
and 3D printing of tissue and implants.
An Application of Distance Measure Function of Fermatean Fuzzy Set in Urban Sustainable Development Appraisal
Authors: Kumari Anita , Kumar Deepak , Umang  , Joshi Kapil
Published: November 2024

Due to its quantitative capacity to differentiate Fermatean fuzzy sets (FFSs),
distance measurement is a research hotspot in the Fermatean fuzzy set. For Fermatean
fuzzy sets, we used cosine distance, a novel distance metric. In this study, measures of
cosine similarity and cosine distance amongst FFSs are taken into account when trying
to solve a multi-attribute decision-making problem based on sustainable development
goals. In this study, we used the cosine distance measure for Fermatean fuzzy set
theory to rank a set of urban cities according to many factors, including poverty, health,
industrial development, and climate quality. Additionally, a suitable example is used to
illustrate the superiority and logic of the present formulation.
Exploring religion's influence on causing emotional distress
Authors: Santosa I Ketut Arya , Surya Michael , Mahardika Komang Ana , Trisnowati Rini
Published: November 2024

While Hinduism offers many positive teachings and practices that promote well-being, certain interpretations and pressures within the religion—such as rigid social hierarchies, religious guilt, and community pressure—can also contribute to feelings of isolation, low self-worth, and anxiety. Cultural pressures and gender-specific roles within Hindu families can also significantly impact mental health, particularly for married Hindu women who face the dual responsibilities of managing household chores and fulfilling religious obligations. These expectations to raise children, participate in daily prayers, and uphold familial honor can lead to emotional and psychological overwhelm, resulting in heightened stress levels and decreased mental well-being. It is essential to recognize that the effects of these pressures vary widely based on individual experiences, family dynamics, and personal beliefs. By emphasizing flexibility, inclusivity, and mental health awareness within Hindu communities, we can help mitigate these negative impacts and foster a supportive environment where individuals can balance spiritual practices with their well-being.
Construction of oral cancer microenvironment model using 3D culture technology and search for new therapeutic targets
Authors: Haga Kenta
Published: November 2024

There remains much to be discovered and understood about the subtypes of cancer associated-fibroblasts (CAFs) in oral cancer. At the Faculty of Dentistry, Niigata University in Japan, Dr Kenta Haga is investigating the tumour microenvironment and CAFs. To do this, he and his team are
using 3D culture technology in their studies as 3D culture models are considered to be more useful and more faithful to the biological characteristics and drug resistance of cancer than 2D cultures. This is because cells are never in 2D in the human body; they are all placed in a 3D structural
environment. In their latest study, the researchers utilised their experimental model to recreate the cancer microenvironment and evaluate the proliferation and invasion of cancer cells over time. They have incorporated CAFs into a collagen gel, seeded oral cancer cells and established the
basic technology for a 3D culture model with a two-layered structure that has a tumour layer and an interstitial layer to mimic squamous cell carcinoma. The team has been able to investigate the interaction of CAFs with oral cancer cells by in vitro, in vivo and in human oral cancer specimens.
In order to understand the complex tumour microenvironment they are seeking to analyse the effects of CAFs on the invasive and proliferative potential for cancer cells. If they can elucidate the intercellular network in the tumour microenvironment, this will lead to novel treatment strategies
for cancer. Haga and the team have already demonstrated that the TGF-ß/SOX9 pathway plays an important role in CAFs promoting epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in oral cancer.
Significance of in-vivo biofilm in non-tuberculous mycobacterial diseases
Authors: Yamamoto Kentaro , Torigoe Shota , Tsujimura Yusuke
Published: November 2024

There’s been a rise of pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease in developed countries. Treatment for this is limited and existing treatments have an extensive duration. The disease has a long latent period and often experiences recurrence after treatment. In their
work, Senior Research Scientist Dr Kentaro Yamamoto and his team based at the Leprosy Research Centre within the Department of Mycobacteriology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) are building on the recent discovery that NTMs form biofilms in infected tissues. There is potential
that biofilms formed in infected tissues could shield the bacilli from drug exposure, protect them against the host’s immune system attacks, or offer a refuge for the bacilli within the human body. Therefore the researchers believe that the removal of biofilms formed by NTMs or M. tuberculosis
in the body could represent a novel treatment approach. By developing a device that can easily detect mycobacterial biofilms within the body, it would be possible to non-invasively assess a patient’s condition, including the stage of infection. Much remains to be discovered about the
structure and function of mycobacterial biofilms in vivo and so the researchers want to clarify the relationship between biofilm formation in the lungs and key factors such as pathogenicity, bacterial growth, drug resistance, host immune response and the phenomena of latency and recurrence.
If the team can make these clarifications, the research will benefit patients who are allergic to antimicrobials and those whose quality of life is reduced by the long-term treatment of NTM disease.
Research and Development Alliance for Competitiveness and Product Value Enhancement in the Hand Tools and Aids Industry
Authors: Cai Dengchuan
Published: November 2024

Through ongoing research and development (R&D), there has been great progress, including the development and improvement of medicine, health practices and nutrition that can extend lives. With the ageing population, it is important that the elderly require the help and assistance
they may need to carry out their daily lives and have the best quality of life possible. Taiwan is an example of a country where the ageing population continues to grow, to the extent that Taiwan is an Aged Society. Distinguished Professor Dengchuan Cai is Director of the R&D Centre of
Product Innovation and Assistive Technology, which is based within the Department of Industrial Design at the National Yunlin University of Science and Technology in Taiwan. He is passionate about R&D and its crucial role is pushing forward scientific enquiry. He and his team are working
to develop tools and devices that can benefit the lives of the elderly. Cai is harnessing his background in human factors engineering and industrial design to apply knowledge in skills in functionality, useability and appearance to advance his investigations and wider R&D. One of many
foci for the Centre is competitiveness and product value enhancement in the hand tools and aids industry, which is particularly beneficial for the elderly. A key invention for the Centre has been pillows with different heights for when a person is lying on their front or lying on their side
to help maintain the natural posture of the spine when sleeping and thereby improve sleep quality. Another key technology is a dementia prevention bicycle built on the concept of reverse pedalling.
Comprehensive analysis on Wnt signaling pathway to develop a novel signal modifier
Authors: Ikebuchi Yuki
Published: November 2024

Wnt signals play a key role in organ formation and function. Abnormalities in organ function or genetic diseases and carcinogenesis could point to issues with these signals, they are therefore an effective target for drug delivery. Dr Yuki Ikebuchi, Department of Pharmacy, The University
of Tokyo Hospital, Japan, is heading up a team of researchers working to shed greater light on the Wnt signalling pathway. This will facilitate the development and delivery of more targeted drug therapies, helping patients. One element of Ikebuchi’s research is a detailed analysis on
the Wnt signalling pathway to develop a novel signal modifier. As previous studies have found that Wnt molecules exert their physiological activities through glycosylation and lipid modification, a possible method to input signals downstream of the Wnt-Fzd complex is to crosslink and interact
with Fzd molecules or co-receptors using antibody-like molecules. The researchers sought to obtain high-definition signal activation profiles of 10 types of Fzd molecules; something that hasn't been done before. At first, the team established the cell line, derived from
mouse osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells, in which endogenously expressed all Fzd and co-receptor genese were knocked out using CRISPR-Cas9 system. And then, they used adenoviruses containing the gene sequences of Wnt, Fzd and the co-receptor to transiently express them in knocked-out cells. The
researchers will assess the resulting activation of downstream pathways by Luciferase assays using various reporter sequences. They will adopt a dual-glo assay that can correct the gene transfer efficiency and further enhance accuracy using NanoLuc.
Development of a risk index for cognitive decline predicted by adverse radiation events and diet in older oral cancer patients
Authors: Ogama Norimasa
Published: November 2024

Professor Norimasa Ogama, Faculty of Nursing, Soka University, is interested in how symptoms such as dry mouth and changes in taste in elderly oral cancer patients could predict the risk of decline in cognitive function with the use of different sensory food experiences. He is developing
an index to predict this. While previously at the Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Ogama saw a range of problems among patients caused by radiation and chemotherapy, including reduced eating and swallowing function, changes in body image and ongoing issues
with being able to eat and speak. He began to consider how it might be possible to improve quality of life for such patients, including the ability to enjoy food. This inspired him to work to develop an oral rehabilitation programme that takes into account post-operative life evaluation and
its influencing factors in order to significantly increase patients’ life satisfaction. Ogama and the team are developing a risk index for cognitive decline predicted by the adverse events of radiation and the diet of elderly patients with oral cancer. The goal is to accurately
determine the risk of cognitive decline early based on changes to eating preferences and the taste of food, as well as worsening of oral mucositis and symptoms of dry mouth due to radiation therapy. This will be done through the concept of ‘eating deliciously’, based on personal
preferences and characteristics.