bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect Mechanism of Nutrients on Pathogenic Bacteria at The Sediment-Water Interface in Eutrophic Water
Authors: Wen Sun , Yang Zhang , Biao Peng , Jing Wang , Yuansong Wei , Jibao Liu
Published: August 2023

Based on the target, the research analyses the structure of the microorganism group in sediment-water interface(SWI) and two typical pathogenic bacteria (E. coli, Eateroconcus ) of gene expesion level,the relation between nutrients using the ways of modern biology.The distribution of nutrient content at the SWI mainly shows that the content in the sediment is significantly greater than that in the overlying water body. According to the calculation of the release flux according to Fick's first law, it is found that the PO43--P in the upper reaches of the reservoir is deposited from the overlying water. In addition to sedimentation, the release rate of NH4+-N was significantly greater than that of PO43—P. The community structure was mainly dominated by three genera of Methyloparacoccus, Methylomonas and Arenimonas. Both E.coli and Enterococcus showed that the surface sediment was larger than the overlying water body. Pearson correlation analysis showed that E.coli had a significant positive correlation with TN (P < 0.05) and TP (P < 0.05) at the SWI, while Enterococcus had a significant positive correlation with TN (P < 0.01) and TP (P < 0.01) have a very significant positive correlation.
Identification and characterization of 17 novel polynucleotide microsatellite markers in Ocypode stimpsoni (Decapoda: Ocypodidae) using next-generation sequencing
Authors: Song Ha Yeun , Choi Young Ji , Lee Dea-Sung , Choi Hyun Ki , Choi Kyung Min , Yu Kang-Yeol , Lee Seungki
Published: August 2023

Objective The ghost crab Ocypode stimpsoni (Decapoda) is considered a protected marine species in Korea because of its decreasing population size. In this study, we identified 17 microsatellite markers for O. stimpsoni using next-generation sequencing.Results Of the 63 loci screened, 26 were successfully amplified among 100 individuals. Seventeen loci, including 4 tri-nucleotide and 13 tetra-nucleotide repeats, displayed 4–26 alleles per locus (average = 14.1) among 100 samples from three populations of O. stimpsoni. The mean observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.616 and 0.935, respectively. These 17 newly identified polymorphic microsatellite loci will be useful for studying the genetic structure and diversity of this protected marine species and will help facilitate effective strategies for its conservation.
What does e-invoice data bring to SNA and Real-Time Economy?
Authors: Akagi Kaya
Published: August 2023

Governments are exploring the use of big data to improve economic statistics. Big data is characterized by its large volume, high velocity, and variety of information. In the statistical context, accounting data, particularly e-invoice data, has garnered attention due to its volume and variety.E-invoice data is being digitized in Europe to detect VAT fraud, but it also contains almost all the information on economic entities that make up the SNA.By utilizing accounting data, governments can better understand economic indicators at the firm level.Additionally, the Real-Time Economy is attracting attention worldwide for its ability to speed up statistics and provide real-time updates using frequently updated information like e-invoice data. However, no established method for estimating the SNA with e-invoice data exists. This study explores the benefits of using e-invoice data for economic statistics, especially for Input-Output Tables, and the feasibility and the obstacles associated with using e-invoice data. The advantages of e-invoicing data include the improvement of the granularity of statistical information and the frequency of updating. We also discuss the possibility of understanding inter-industry relations as a logistics network beyond the framework of the existing tables. On the other hand, to use invoice data, it is necessary to design a legal and information system for e-invoice data. As for these institutional and system issues, we compare the situation in Japan and advanced e-Government countries such as Estonia. In addition, there are some problems with the invoice data in estimating the Input-Output Tables, such as the inability to grasp transaction relationships and margins within the same company. This paper pointed up these problems and their solutions.
Construction of a core competency evaluation index system for nurses specializing in chronic kidney disease management in China: a Delphi study
Authors: Huang Xia , Shi Yu , Peng HongMei , Pu Shi , Huang JianFang , Liu Lei
Published: August 2023

Background: CKD management nurse specialists can effectively delay the progression of CKD by starting from changing patients' lifestyles and improving their self-management ability. Chronic kidney disease management requires more comprehensive theoretical knowledge as well as skills, and therefore there is an urgent need to train a group of multi-skilled specialist nurses. However, there are few specific indicators that can be used to assess the core competencies of these specialist nurses. Therefore, this study aimed to construct a core competency evaluation index system for CKD management specialist nurses through the Delphi expert consultation method.
Methods: This study initially constructed a core competency evaluation index system for CKD management nurse specialists through literature review and semi-structured interviews. Two rounds of expert consultation were conducted with 24 experts in different fields from 13 regions of China, including specialist nurses, nursing managers, nursing educators, and clinicians. They rated each item on a Likert scale and suggested modifications. Based on the recommendations of the two rounds of expert consultation and the group discussion, the final evaluation index system was formed.
Results: After two rounds of expert consultation, the final evaluation index system of core competence was formed, including three first-level items: professional theoretical knowledge; Clinical practice skills; Professional development competencies,and 16 Level 2 items, corresponding to 64 detailed level items.
Conclusions: The establishment of a core competency evaluation index system for CKD management specialist nurses provides a basis for the selection, training, and assessment of specialist nurses. The evaluation index system is comprehensive, reflects the characteristics of the speciality, and provides job descriptions based on core competencies, which can promote the development of chronic kidney disease management.
Enhancing Spectrum Sensing Performance in Low SNR Environments for CRN using Entropy-Based Approach
Authors: Usman Mustefa Badri , Ware Eshetu Tessema , Singh Ram Sewak , Hunde Megersa Lamesa
Published: August 2023

The use of wireless communication resources, namely energy and spectrum, has significantly expanded recently. In order to mitigate incongruity ideas of spectrum scarcity and spectrum underutilization, the Cognitive radio (CR) technology considered as an optimistic solution. In Cognitive radio network (CRN), spectrum detection is a critical step in identifying the spectrum gaps or spectrum holes. To detect whether primary user is present or not, many spectrum detection methods like Energy detection (ED), Entropy detection, Matched filter and Cyclostationary detection have been developed. Among those, Energy detection (ED) has public the most observance from researchers due to its fast sensing time, simplicity on implementation and low computational complexity. Nevertheless, due to noise uncertainty problem, the performance of conventional detector is very low at low SNR. In this article, three-stage spectrum sensing technique is proposed to get better performance of single stage and two-stage spectrum sensing techniques and also to overcome the problem occurred due to uncertainty of noise at low SNR values. Furthermore, the performance comparison among three stages, two stage and single stage spectrum sensing techniques are performed over fading channel. The proposed three-stage detection technique has an about 1 dB and 2.5 dB performance improvement as compared to two-stage ED + Renyi Entropy (RE) and two-stage ED + Kapurs Entropy (KE) respectively. The cooperative three-stage detection technique using OR rule has an about 4 dB and 5 dB performance improvement as compared to single node and AND rule cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) technique respectively at number of user (NU) = 5.
The effectiveness of three Glomus species (G. mosseae, G. intraradices, and G. etunicatum) in the biocontrol of the root and crown rot pathogens Fusarium solani and mixed Fusarium in pepper plants
Authors: Bilgili Ayşin
Published: August 2023

In this research, the effectiveness of naturally derived arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) species, including Glomus mosseae (GM), G. intraradices (GI), and G. etunicatum (GE), and a mycorrhizal mix (MM) comprising these three species was tested on pepper plants inoculated with two isolates of Fusarium solani (48-F. solani and 18-F. solani) and two isolates of mixed Fusarium (50-F. mixture and 147-F. mixture). ANOVA and Tukey’s test revealed that the effects of AMF inoculations on morphological parameters, disease severity, root colonization, and total spore numbers in pathogen-infected plants varied significantly depending on the AMF species and pathogen group. AMF colonization significantly reduced disease severity, with disease inhibition (DI) reaching up to 58%, depending on the specific pathogen. However, there were a few instances where AMF application did not lead to a reduction in disease severity. Single AMF species were more effective in enhancing the growth of pathogen-treated host plants and suppressing disease compared to mixed AMFs. The mixed AMFs were more effective only in balancing pathogen-induced decreases in plant nutrients (Cu, Mg, Zn, P). Among the compared mycorrhizae, G. etunicatum (GE) was the most effective in disease suppression due to its more positive effects on plant root structure. Root colonization rates were generally higher in plants treated with both mycorrhiza and pathogens than in plants treated with mycorrhiza alone. Overall, the curative effects of AMFs on plants following pathogen application varied concurrently with disease severity rates caused primarily by pathogens. AMFs demonstrated greater efficacy in combating 18-F. solani, which causes less severe plant disease. However, the effectiveness of AMFs was lower against 48-F. solani and 147-F. mix., which cause more severe plant disease. This indicates that the efficacy of AMFs varies depending on the specific strain of Fusarium solani, with better results observed against strains that cause less severe plant disease.
Modelling of Transient Ground Potential Rise Due to Vacuum Circuit Breaker Switching in Steel Melting Plants
Authors: Eghtedarpour Navid
Published: August 2023

Vacuum circuit breakers (VCB) are now widely used for switching of electric arc furnaces. However, the associated switching transients have raised many concerns and have led to failures in industrial power systems. High frequency current and voltage transients result due to prestrike phenomena during the VCB energization. This paper presents a detailed switching case study of an arc furnace VCB in a steel melting plant. The VCB prestrike phenamenon is simulated and studied using the electromagnetic transient programme. The simulation model is verified by on- site measurements. The ground potential rise during the switching process is thoroughly investigated in order to analyse the practical methods to mitigate the switching transients. Additionally, some practical aspects of physical design and installation are discussed.
Thermomechanical Effect on the Propetties of Stainless Steels Using Rotative Friction: an Experimental Study on 304l and 316l Grades
Authors: Arzour Fatima Zohra , Amara Mouna , Suleiman Rami K. , meliani mohammed hadj
Published: August 2023

The main objective of this work is to analyze structural hardening by direct friction welding on two austenitic materials of the AISI 304L and AISI 316L series, that were welded separately (similar welding) followed by a combined (mixed) welding. The friction welding parameters such as rotation speed, applied pressure (friction and forging), and holding time were carefully selected and optimized. Forty welding operations and thirty post-welding nominal tensile tests were performed, with the sole purpose of obtaining the rational curves. To achieve this objective, the results of the tensile tests were collected and analyzed. The rational curves allowed us to proceed by classical analytical modeling to quantify the effect of welding on the work-hardening behavior of the two stainless steel samples. The microstructure of each welded joint condition was analyzed and compared to each other.
The Role of FEV1/FVC in the Prediction of Acute Exacerbation of COPD
Authors: Jang Jong Geol , Kim Youlim , Shin Sun Hye , Min Kyung Hoon , Jung Ki Suck , Kim Yu-il , Park Shinhee , Na Joo Ock , Lee Hyun , Yoo Kwang Ha
Published: August 2023

Background:Whether the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) can be used as a spirometric biomarker to predict future risks of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is unknown. This study evaluated whether reduced FEV1/FVC is associated with an increased risk of AECOPD and whether that risk is further increased when both FEV1/FVC and the percentage of predicted FEV1(FEV1%pred) are decreased.Methods:Data from a prospective observational and multicenter cohort study of 2,043 patients in Korea with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were analyzed. The exposures were post-bronchodilator (BD) FEV1/FVC and/or FEV1%pred. The main outcome was AECOPD during the first year of follow-up.Results:The incidence rate of AECOPD increased as post-BD FEV1/FVC decreased (P < 0.001). Post-BD FEV1/FVC and FEV1%pred had similar predictive powers for AECOPD, with optimal predictive cut-offs of approximately 0.5 for post-BD FEV1/FVC and 50%pred for FEV1. When the participants were classified into groups based on these cut-off values, compared with a high both-lung function group (post-BD FEV1/FVC ≥ 0.5 and FEV1≥ 50%pred), the low-FEV1group (post-BD FEV1/FVC ≥ 0.5 and FEV1< 50%pred) had a modestly increased risk of severe AECOPD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 3.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.59–6.16), while the risk of severe AECOPD was the highest in the low both-lung function group (aHR = 5.16, 95% CI = 3.34–7.97) (FEV1< 50%pred and post-BD FEV1/FVC < 0.5).Conclusion:Post-BD FEV1/FVC is a spirometric biomarker predictive of AECOPD. In countries where accurate FEV1%pred is not available for their population, post-BD FEV1/FVC could be used as an alternative biomarker to assess the future risk of AECOPD. In countries where accurate FEV1%pred is available, both FEV1%pred and post-BD FEV1/FVC could be used to provide additional information for assessments of the future risk of AECOPD.
Using 16S rDNA and Metagenomic Sequencing Technology to Analyze the Fecal Microbiome of Children with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Authors: Ye Qina , Sun Shaodan , Deng Jian , Chen Xiaogang , Zhang Jing , Lin Suihua , Du Hongxuan , Gao Jinxiong , Zou Xiaoyin , Lin Xiaoling , Cai Yawen , Lu Zhuoming
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To investigate the gut microbiota distribution and its functions in children with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
Methods
A total of 135 children were enrolled in the study, including 102 children with ARFID and 33 healthy children. Fecal samples were analyzed to explore differences in gut microbiota composition and diversity and functional differences between the ARFID and healthy control (HC) groups via 16S rDNA and metagenomic sequencing.
Results
The gut microbiota composition and diversity in children with ARFID were different from those in heathy children, but there was no difference among children with ARFID aged 3–12 years. At the phylum level, the most abundant microbes in the two groups identified by 16SrDNA and metagenomic sequencing were the same. At the genus level, the abundance of Bacteroides was higher in the ARFID group (P > 0.05); however, different from the result of 16SrDNA sequencing, metagenomic sequencing showed that the proportion of Bacteroides in the ARFID group was significantly higher than that in the HC group (P = 0.041). At the species level, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lachnospira eligens were the most abundant taxa in the ARFID group, and Prevotella copri, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, and Ruminococcus gnavus were the top three microbial taxa in the HC group; there were no statistically significant differences between the proportions of these microbial taxa in the two groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the Chao1, Shannon and Simpson indices between the Y1 and Y2 groups (P = 0.1, P = 0.06, P = 0.06). At the phylum level, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota were the most abundant taxa in both groups, but there were no statistically significant differences among the proportions of these bacteria (P = 0.958, P = 0.456, P = 0.473, P = 0.065). At the genus level, Faecalibacterium was more abundant in the Y2 group than in the Y1 group, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.037). The KEGG annotation results showed no significant difference in gut microbiota function between children with ARFID and healthy children; however, GT26 was significantly enriched in children with ARFID based on the CAZy database. The most abundant antibiotic resistance genes in the ARFID group were the vanT, tetQ, adeF, ermF genes, and the abundance of macrolide resistance genes in the ARFID group was significantly higher than that in the HC group (P = 0.041).
Conclusions
Compared with healthy children, children with ARFID have a different distribution of the gut microbiota and functional genes. This indicates that the gut microbiome might play an important role in the pathogenesis of ARFID.
Clinical trial registration:
ChiCTR2300074759
The formation mechanism of discontinuously segmented chip in high-speed cutting of Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Ye Guigen , Li Xinjian , Zhang Peng , Xue Shifeng , Zhang Yi , Huang Xiaoguang
Published: August 2023

The chip transition from continuously serrated to discontinuously segmented is one of the most fundamental and challenging problems in metal cutting. In this work, a reliable finite element model for high speed cutting of Ti-6Al-4V was developed based on the high speed cutting experiments. The Johnson-Cook (J-C) constitutive parameters of the Ti-6Al-4V were optimized using the response surface method (RSM) and multi-objective genetic algorithm to accurately describe the plastic behavior of Ti-6Al-4V alloy in high speed cutting. With using the optimized constitutive parameters, the simulated chip morphologies and cutting forces match well with the experimental results in a wide range of cutting speed from 0.05 m/s to 86.5 m/s. The formation mechanism of the discontinuously segmented chip was further studied based on the validated finite element model. The results reveal that three distinct cracks form successively in the segmented chip formation process: the crack I forms at chip root, the cracks II and III initiate at the primary shear zone center and chip free surface respectively and propagate along the direction of maximum stress triaxiality to seperate the chip and workpiece. The crack I, which forms at the chip root due to the maturely evolved shear banding, is the key reason for the transition of chip formation from continuously serrated to discontinuously segmented.
Temporality of environmental policy and its effects on the location and abatement decision
Authors: RIVERA FELIPE , LÓPEZ KATHERIN , ZAMORANO JORGE
Published: August 2023

This research analyzes the effects of the temporality of environmental policy on firm location and abatement decisions. Environmental policies are implemented by a benevolent regulator who is concerned about the welfare of society and environmental pollution. For this reason, it implements two instruments at the same time: the tax on emissions, which seeks to internalize environmental costs, and the subsidy to clean technologies, which encourages their adoption. In addition, the optimal levels of taxes and subsidies that maximize social welfare are studied, considering the impact of the timing of the decision (ex ante or ex post) on the competitiveness of the market. As for its resolution, a model of duopolistic firms competing in quantities in an emission-intensive sector is used. Among the main results, it is shown that in an ex post regime, firms prefer to locate in the country that offers a higher subsidy, even when they face higher tax levels compared to the ex ante regime.
Shear wave splitting and seismic velocity structure in the focal area of the earthquake swarm and their relation with earthquake swarm activity in the Noto Peninsula, central Japan
Authors: Okada Tomomi , Savage Martha K. , Sakai Shin'ichi , Yoshida Keisuke , Uchida Naoki , Takagi Ryota , Kimura Shuutoku , Hirahara Satoshi , Tagami Ayaka , Fujimura Ryotaro , Matsuzawa Toru , Kurashimo Eiji , Hiramatsu Yoshihiro
Published: August 2023

Seismic activity in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, central Japan, has increased since August 2020 and has continued as of August 2023. Stress changes due to subsurface sources and increases in fluid pressure are discussed as the causes of the seismic activity increase. In this study, S-wave polarization anisotropy was investigated by S-wave splitting analysis using temporary and permanent stations located in the epicenter area. We also investigated the seismic wave velocity structure in the source region by analyzing seismic wave velocity tomography. The directions of anisotropy were generally NW-SE in the southern part of the focal area and east-west in the northern part. The NW-SE anisotropy generally coincides with the direction of the maximum horizontal compression axis. Therefore, stress-induced anisotropy can be the cause of the observed NW-SE anisotropy. On the other hand, faults with strike directions generally east-west have been identified, and structural anisotropy may be the cause of the observed east-west anisotropy. We examined the time variation of anisotropy at N.SUZH, one of the permanent stations. No significant time variation was observed in the direction of anisotropy. Larger anisotropy was observed, particularly for the activity in the western part of the focal area, from about June-September 2021 compared to the period up to the period. A high Vp/Vs region was identified beneath the focal area, at a depth of 18 km. This high Vp/Vs region has slightly larger P-wave velocities than the surrounding area. Since Tertiary igneous rocks are distributed in the target area, the high Vp/Vs region may represent a magma reservoir, suggesting that fluids released from the magma reservoir are involved in this seismic swarm. This seismic activity started in the southern part of the area where relatively immature fault structure development, stress anisotropy is distributed, and high Vp/Vs regions suggestive of fluid at depth are identified. Subsequently, activity became more active in the northern part, where structural anisotropy with well-developed fault structures is distributed.
Firstborns Versus Later-borns: Same Resources, Different Outcomes. An Extension of Resources Dilution Theory
Authors: Lwiza Samwel Saimon , Jaah Mkupete , Sharma Vipin
Published: August 2023

Resources Dilution theory predicts a trade-off between quantity and quality of children in the household. According to the theory, eldest kids would achieve higher educational outcomes than later-born siblings because of more resources allocated to them. In this paper, we attempted to examine whether the theory holds even when household resources are evenly distributed to both siblings. By using the dataset of the Young Lives School Survey in Ethiopia conducted respectively in 2012/13 and 2016/17, we found that, while firstborns shown to be 3% more efficient, second and third-borns were significantly 1% more efficient than later-born siblings. We suggest that even if household resources are evenly distributed, elder kids would attain higher educational outcome than later-born children. This study underlines the importance of birth order on opportunities and inequalities among siblings, which may guide policymakers on designing appropriate maternity leave, school funding, and human capital improvement policies that would support later-borns.
Different methods for resolving overlapping UV spectra of combination medicinal dose forms of Hydroxychloroquine and Paracetamol
Authors: Elbaramawi Samar S. , El-Adl Sobhy M. , Nafea Alaa , Mattar Amr A. , Sebaiy Mahmoud M.
Published: August 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Drug survival analysis of dupilumab and associated predictors in patients with atopic dermatitis in South Korea: single-center, retrospective study
Authors: Seul Tae Woong , Park Hyun Woo , Kim Hyo Yoon , Shin Jung Jin , Son Sang Wook
Published: August 2023

Long-term data on dupilumab drug survival in Asia patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) are limited. A single-center, retrospective study was performed to assess drug survival between March 2019 and March 2023. Drug survival and associated characteristics were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and multivariate Cox regression analysis, respectively. A total of 124 patients with AD (Mean age [standard deviation], 26.0 [8.6] years) with a 4 years-overall dupilumab drug survival rate of 87.9%, were included in this study. During the same period, drug survival in the 479 cyclosporine patients was 0.2%, statistically different from the dupilumab group (p -value < 0.001). Characteristics associated with shorter drug survival were the low eczema area and severity index (EASI) scores at baseline (hazard ratio [HR], 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75–0.94, p-value = 0.003) and non-insurance coverage of dupilumab (HR, 11.87; 95% CI, 3.28–42.99, p-value = 0.001). This retrospective study demonstrated good overall 4-year dupilumab survival (87.9%) in South Korea. Patients with low baseline EASI scores and those who did not have insurance for dupilumab treatment discontinued the therapy frequently. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first long-term dupilumab drug survival study conducted in Asia with predictors.
Cybersecurity Management System of the Czech Republic
Authors: Červený Vlastimil , Hromada Martin , Jašek Roman
Published: August 2023

Today, our lives, work and relationships are interconnected and completely dependent on information technologies and communication networks. Modern society has created cyberspace as an extension of our lives, which has brought us many positive things, but also many new risks that need to be managed. Every organization, whether in the public or private sector, must have a cybersecurity management system in place to survive and prosper in this environment. However, how is the cybersecurity management system established at the state level? Is it possible to consider a state as a certain type of large and complex organization and implement a cybersecurity management system similar to those used by companies and smaller institutions? This article attempts to answer these questions by analyzing the cybersecurity management system at the level of the Czech Republic and by identifying and discussing the specifics of cybersecurity management at the state level.
In-situ growth of SiC w on the surface of C/C composite materials and different influencing factors on the morphology control of SiC w transition layer
Authors: Xie Chen , Jiang Yun , Chen Jingtao , Min Jiahua , Zhang Jijun , Liang Xiaoyan , Hu Pengfei
Published: August 2023

The in-situ growth of SiC whisker (SiCw) buffer layer on the surface of C/C composite material substrates provides an excellent solution to alleviate the thermal stress mismatch with the oxidation-resistant coating. Nevertheless, the growth mechanism of SiCw on the surface of C/C composite materials has been a subject of ongoing debate. This study initially investigates the reduction process of Ni(NO3)2·6H2O as a catalyst precursor and analyzes the morphological impact of Ni nanoparticles on the surface of C/C composite materials with respect to SiCw. Furthermore, it summarizes the V-L-S growth mechanism and V-S mechanism of SiCw, providing a comprehensive analysis of the microstructure and defects associated with SiCw growth under different mechanisms. The catalytic mechanism of Ni particles and the role of twinning and Z-shaped dipoles in whisker growth are elucidated. Finally, the influence of temperature and time on whisker morphology is examined, with particular emphasis on the occurrence of bead-like whiskers. This research extensively elucidates the growth process of SiCw on C/C composite substrate, resolving the previously ambiguous growth mechanism through structural analysis under diverse conditions.
Women mental wellbeing in the adverse context: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Vy Thi To , Duy Luong Vinh Quoc
Published: August 2023

Background:
Women’s health and wellbeing is of great concern to many developing countries. However, the topic on women mental wellbeing in developing countries is not adequately covered by academic studies. Our study is an endeavor amid the pandemic to investigate Vietnam women’s mental wellbeing and its associations.
Methods
A questionnaire survey on women including items on WHO-5 wellbeing, OECD wellbeing, demographics, education, and economic background. There were 519 women located in the city and province as Bac Ninh, Ha Tinh, Gia Lai, Lam Dong and Ho Chi Minh City participated in the survey. Correlational analysis was used to the associations between women’s mental wellbeing and other factors.
Results
Results from our study show statistically significant associations between women mental wellbeing and their marriage status, education, job, wage, age, children, and household appliances.
Conclusions
We suggest that social and economic policies should be well-coordinated to improve women mental wellbeing amid the adverse context.
Advantages of cone beam computed tomography for evaluation of subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee compared with MRI
Authors: Delsmann Maximilian , Delsmann Julian , Jandl Nico Maximilian , Maas Kai-Jonathan , Beil Frank Timo , Amling Michael , Henes Frank Oliver , Rolvien Tim , Spink Clemens
Published: August 2023

Purpose To determine the diagnostic yield of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) compared with 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee. Methods Consecutive patients with subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee examined by 3T MRI and CBCT of the femoral condyles were reviewed. Two experienced raters graded the lesion severity on 3T MRI and CBCT images: grade 1: no signs of a subchondral bone lesion; grade 2: subchondral trabecular fracture or cystic changes, but without infraction of the subchondral bone plate; grade 3: collapse of the subchondral bone plate. Ratings were repeated after six weeks to determine reliability. In addition, the bone lesion size was measured as elliptical area (mm2) and compared between CBCT and T1-weighted MRI sequences. Results Among 30 patients included (43.3% women; mean age: 60.9 ± 12.8 years; body mass index (BMI) 29.0 ± 12.8 kg/m2), the medial femoral condyle was affected in 21/30 patients (70%). The grading of subchondral lesions between MRI and CBCT did not match in twelve cases (40%). Based on MRI images, an underestimation (i.e., undergrading) compared with CBCT was observed in nine cases (30%), whereas overgrading occurred in three cases (10%). Compared to CBCT, routine T1-weighted 3T sequences significantly overestimated osseus defect zones in sagittal (84.7 ± 68.9 mm2vs.35.9 ± 38.2 mm2, p < 0.01) and coronal orientation (53.1 ± 24.0 mm2vs.22.0 ± 15.2 mm2, p < 0.01). The reproducibility of the grading determined by intra- and inter-rater agreement was very high in MRI (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.78 and 0.90, respectively) and CBCT (ICC 0.96 and 0.96, respectively). Conclusion In patients with subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee, the use of CBCT revealed discrepancies in lesion grading compared with MRI. These findings are clinically relevant, as precise determination of subchondral bone plate integrity may influence the decision about conservative or surgical treatment. CBCT represents our imaging modality of choice for grading the lesion and assessing subchondral bone plate integrity. MRI remains the gold standard modality to detect especially early stages.
Enhancing postpartum nursing experiences through information technology-enabled services: An integration of systems theory and a patient-centered perspective
Authors: Hung Chih-Lung , Chang Te-Min , Chang Yie-Jie , Huang Pei-Chen , Hsieh Ming-Che , Chen Yi-Cheng , Lin Li-Min , Wu Jen-Her
Published: August 2023

Postpartum nursing care, which is critical to sustaining women’s health and wellness, has undergone a major shift in focus toward patient-centered and coordinated care. However, this shift has been hindered by the persistence of traditional practices in which patients are regarded as passive receivers of health care and by the presence of a fragmented health-care system with dynamic complexity. Implementing modern postpartum nursing care in which information technology (IT) enabled services are utilized can enable health-care organizations to bridge service gaps. The current study proposes an IT-enabled service design methodology (ISDM) that integrates systems theory and a patient-centered perspective to create a design roadmap to meet postpartum mothers’ needs. The usability and feasibility of the ISDM are evaluated through a case study of the E-DA BASSINET postpartum nursing center. The results indicate that implementation of the ISDM can effectively facilitate the transformation of postpartum nursing services into patient-centered services, which can substantially enhance satisfaction among postpartum mothers during their nursing care journey.
What is day programme treatment for Anorexia Nervosa really like? A reflexive thematic analysis of five years of feedback from young people
Authors: Gledhill Lucinda J. , MacInnes Danielle , Chan Sze Chi , Drewery Charlotte , Watson Charlotte , Baudinet Julian
Published: August 2023

Background:
A significant proportion of young people do not respond to the NICE recommended treatment for anorexia nervosa: Family Therapy. Whilst historically these young people would be admitted to inpatient services, which are associated with greater treatment cost, greater risk of relapse, and worse outcome, more recently evidence is building for the effectiveness of day programmes. One day programme that has been found to be effective is the Intensive Treatment Programme (ITP) of the Maudsley Centre for Child & Adolescent Eating Disorders in London, UK. However, to-date no studies have investigated how young people experience such a day programme.
Method:
Anonymous feedback was completed via online survey by 51 young people over a 5-year period (2018-2023) on discharge from ITP.
Results:
Four main themes were identified: (1) Support - young people expressed the importance of boundaries but also of feeling validated, and encouraged; (2) Uniqueness: an experience like no other - ITP was described as different to any other treatment received before (both outpatient and inpatient); (3) Relationships – young people valued connecting with others in a similar situation and reflected that relationships at home changed throughout treatment; (4) Self-development – learning skills, developing independence, and exploring an identity outside of the eating disorder was valued.
Conclusions:
It is hoped that the reflections from these young people can help to inform clinicians working in DPs and those hoping to set up novel DPs about key aspects of treatment.
Multicomponent Reaction Based Tolyl-substituted and Pyrene-Pyridine Conjugated Isomeric Ratiometric Fluorescent Probes: A Comparative Investigation of Photophysical and Hg(II)-Sensing Behaviors
Authors: Niranjan Raghvendra , Prasad G. Durga , Achankunju Simi , Arockiaraj Mariyaraj , Velumani Kotteswaran , Nachimuthu Kiruthika , Sundramoorthy Ashok K. , Neogi Ishita , Nallasivam Jothi L. , Rajeshkumar Venkatachalam , Mahadevegowda Surendra H.
Published: August 2023

Herein, the synthesis of pyrene conjugated 2,6-di-ortho-tolylpyridine and 2,6-di-para-tolylpyridine structural isomers were achieved efficiently through multicomponent Chichibabin pyridine synthesis reaction. The DFT, TD-DFT and experimental investigations were carried out to investigate the photophysical behaviors of the synthesized novel pyrene-pyridine based isomeric probes. Our studies revealed that, due to the continuous conjugation of the pyrene, pyridine and tolyl moieties, the dihedral angles of the trisubstituents on the central pyridine moiety significantly influences the photophysical properties of the synthesized novel pyrene based fluorescent probes. Further, we have comparatively investigated the sensing behaviors of the synthesized tolyl-substituted isomeric ratiometric fluorescent probes with metal ions, our studies reveals that both the ortho and para tolyl ratiometric fluorescent probes have distinct photoemissive properties in selectively sensing of Hg2+ ions. Our studies indicates that, the para-tolyl substituted isomer displays more red-shift in wavelength of emission band compared to its ortho isomer analogue during ratiometric fluorescent specific detection of Hg2+ ions.
Vegetation–soil–microbiota dynamics across a 50-year grassland chronosequence: implications for desertified land restoration in the loess hilly region of China
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Shen Yan , Jin Ling , Tian Yu , Ma Hongbin , Lan Jian , Fu Bingzhe
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) establishment is an effective strategy for restoring degraded grasslands. However, the mechanisms underlying ecological restoration in reconstructed grasslands following alfalfa establishment are still poorly understood. This study investigated vegetation community, soil quality and rhizosphere microbiota dynamics across a reconstructed grassland chronosequence in the loess region of Northwest China.
Methods
A space-for-time substitution method was used to evaluate vegetation coverage and alfalfa production performance in grassland stands with different ages (1–50 years old). High-throughput sequencing was conducted to characterise microbial communities in rhizosphere soils.
Results
The plant heights, yields and stem-to-leaf ratios of alfalfa all peaked in the seven-year-old stand and then decreased in older stands, with Stipa bungeana replacing alfalfa as the dominant species in the 50-year-old stand. Soil bulk density and major nutrient contents were highest in the artificial grassland (1–10 years). Soil enzyme activities (e.g., urease and sucrase) were enhanced in the transitional grassland (10–30 years), accompanied by enrichment of potentially beneficial microorganisms (e.g., Actinobacteria and Mortierella) and functional fungi (e.g., saprotrophs and symbiotrophs). Soil water content, total porosity and microbial diversity reached their maximum levels in the natural grassland (> 30 years).
Conclusions
The results indicated that alfalfa establishment altered soil structure and nutrient status over the short term, subsequently creating an optimal rhizosphere micro-environment. The improved soil conditions and rhizosphere microbiota were favourable for establishment of native grass species, leading to the formation of a stable natural ecosystem.
The safety and efficacy of intra-arterial low dose tirofiban administration during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic core volume
Authors: Cho Kwang-Chun , Son Nak-Hoon , Gwon So Hyeon , Choi Jin Wook , Jung Woo Sang
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial (IA) administration of low dose tirofiban during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic volumes on initial brain CT. Patients were divided into two groups based on the use of IA tirofiban. We identified 87 patients (16 and 71 patients in the tirofiban and no-tirofiban groups, respectively) with acute ischemic stroke due to intracranial artery occlusion who underwent endovascular therapy with a low Alberta Stroke Program Early CT scores (2–5). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed no association between IA tirofiban administration and serious postprocedural haemorrhagic complications (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 0.720; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.099–5.219; p = 0.960), any radiologic haemorrhage (aOR 0.076; 95% CI, 0.003–2.323; p = 0.139), or 3-month mortality (aOR, 0.087; 95% CI, 0.005–1.501; p = 0.093). However, IA tirofiban was associated with a lower 90-day mRS score (aOR, 0.197; 95% CI, 0.015–1.306; p = 0.017) and change in NIHSS score from baseline (aOR, 0.698; 95% CI, 0.531–0.917; p = 0.010). IA tirofiban administration during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic volumes may be effective and safe.
Crossing Boundaries and Time: An Exploration of Time Allocation and Emotional Well-Being of Immigrants in the United States *
Authors: Coniglio Nicola Daniele , Hoxhaj Rezart , lagravinese raffaele
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the emotional experiences of immigrants and native-born individuals in the United States, exploring the relationship between daily activities and feelings of happiness, stress, and meaningfulness. We analyze the entire range of daily activities and their durations, utilizing data from the American Time-Use Survey (ATUS) Well-Being modules. The results reveal that when viewed through the evaluation lenses of the general US population, immigrants engage in less happy, more stressful, and less meaningful activities compared to natives. However, when considering subjective emotional assessments, immigrants are more optimistic and perceive these activities as associated with higher levels of happiness and meaningfulness. The study also finds evidence of emotional assimilation over time, with happiness disparities between immigrants and natives diminishing. In particular, this process appears incomplete for second-generation immigrants. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing the different perspectives of immigrants to formulate inclusive policies that facilitate integration.
JEL codes: J15, J22, I31, Z13
Denoising of Blasting Vibration Signals Based on CEEMDAN- ICA Algorithm
Authors: Bai Wenjun , Chang Yingjie
Published: August 2023

Monitoring of blasting vibration signals can make the collected blasting signals noisy due to various factors such as on-site actual construction conditions, equipment, and instruments. Thus, the acquired signals should be preprocessed before analyzing the blasting vibration signals. The current study proposes a blasting vibration denoising method based on CEEMDAN-ICA to alleviate the noise component in the blasting signals effectively. The collected signal is first decomposed through the CEMMDAN algorithm to extract the IMF components of different frequency bands. Next, the collected signal is estimated using the ICA algorithm to attain corresponding ICA components. Finally, the arrangement entropy of the ICA components is calculated for signal reconstruction to attain a noise-free blasting vibration signal. Simulations are performed to evaluate the feasibility of the presented algorithm and compare its efficiency with the traditional algorithms. The results demonstrate that this algorithm has specific advantages over other algorithms, which can more accurately denoise the original signal and retain the effective signals, providing a new denoising method for subsequent signal analysis.
Genetic Association between Obesity, Arm Fat Percentage, Leg Fat Percentage, and Risk of Migraine: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Tian Dachen , Wang Mengen , Ning Zhaoteng , Wu Jincheng , Wang Xianjun
Published: August 2023

Background:
Migraine, a prevalent neurological disorder, has attracted considerable attention due to its complex etiology and potential links with traits related to obesity. This study utilizes a robust two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) framework to explore potential genetic connections between obesity, arm fat percentage (AFP, left), leg fat percentage (LFP, right), and migraine risk.
Methods:
This study conducted a rigorous two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using comprehensive summary-level data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving obesity, AFP (left), LFP (right), and migraine. Genetic instruments were carefully chosen based on firmly established connections with the corresponding traits. The MR analysis employed various methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR-Egger, to evaluate causal relationships and potential pleiotropy.
Results:
The findings offer strong evidence indicating a possible causal link between obesity and a decreased migraine risk (IVW: odds ratio [OR] = 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.85–0.97). Moreover, the MR analysis indicates a comparable potential causal connection between arm fat percentage (left) and a reduced risk of migraine (IVW: OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.75–0.98). However, no substantial causal link was found between leg fat percentage (right) and migraine risk in this study (IVW: OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.85–1.16).
Conclusion:
This two-sample Mendelian randomization investigation illuminates the complex interplay between obesity-related traits and migraine risk. The findings imply a potential protective effect of obesity and arm fat percentage (left) against migraine risk, suggesting a novel approach for investigating preventive strategies. In contrast, there was no substantial causal connection observed between leg fat percentage (right) and migraine risk. These findings emphasize the significance of additional research to clarify the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of these associations.