bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oligotriche and Quaking Gene Mutations Phenotypic Effects on Mouse Spermatogenesis and Testicular Steroidogenesis
Authors: CHUBB CURTIS
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The phenotypic actions of the oligotriche gene mutation on testicular function have not been elucidated, although it is known that male mice homozygous for the mutation are infertile. In the present study, the effect of the oligotriche gene mutation on mouse testicular function was analyzed by comparing normal and mutant mice. Spermatogenesis was analyzed by enumerating germ cells in seminiferous tubules at specific stages of spermatogenesis and by electron microscopy. Steroidogenic potential was estimated by radioimmunometric determination of testosterone secreted by testes perfused in vitro. Parallel studies were completed for male mice homozygous for the quaking gene mutation, a mutation known to cause male mouse sterility by disrupting sperm tail development. The experimental results suggest that the oligotriche and quaking gene mutations interfere with sperm tail formation by different mechanisms. Testicular steroidogenesis was not affected by either gene mutation. The results provide the first evidence that the oligotriche gene mutation induces male mouse sterility by effecting the complete absence of a sperm tail. This phenotypic action is different from that of the quaking gene mutation.
Developmental Expression of Multiple Forms of 3‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase mRNA in Rat Testes
Authors: NESS GENE C. , NAZIAN STANLEY J.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The developmental expression of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase, the enzyme that catalyzes the rate‐limiting reaction of mevalonate formation, was investigated in rat testes. Adult testes were found to contain three distinct forms of HMG‐CoA reductase mRNA of 4.8, 4.2, and 4.0 kilobases (kb) in length. In testes from 26‐day‐old rats the 4.8‐kb species was the major form present. By 40 days of age, large increases in the levels of the testes‐specific 4.2‐ and 4.0‐kb forms occurred, with a small decrease in the amount of the 4.8‐kb form. The level of the 4.8‐kb form appeared to be associated with the level of testicular HMG‐CoA reductase activity.
FSH Isoforms, Radioimmunoassays, Bioassays, and Their Significance
Authors: DAHL KRISTINE D. , STONE MARY P.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a central role in steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. In recent years, a great deal has been learned about the microheterogeneity of FSH using newly developed assay techniques. This review article will attempt to discuss the advantages and the limitations of recently developed and commonly used assay systems.
Risk, ambiguity, and misspecification: Decision theory, robust control, and statistics
Authors: Hansen Lars Peter , Sargent Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

What are “deep uncertainties” and how should their presence influence prudent decisions? To address these questions, we bring ideas from robust control theory into statistical decision theory. Decision theory has its origins in axiomatic formulations by von Neumann and Morgenstern, Wald, and Savage. After Savage, decision theorists constructed axioms that formalize a notion of ambiguity aversion. Meanwhile, control theorists constructed decision rules that are robust to some model misspecifications. We reinterpret axiomatic foundations of decision theories to express ambiguity about a prior over a family of models along with concerns about misspecifications of the corresponding likelihood functions.
Converting croplands into perennials may contribute to the deep soil nitrogen (N) accumulation in N‐limited region: Evidence from the arid and semi‐arid Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Li Bin‐bin , Zhang Wan‐tao , Wu Wei‐wei , Liang Xiao , Liu Guo‐bin , Xu Ming‐xiang
Published: October 2023

Converting degraded croplands into perennials has been proposed as an effective method of soil N sequestration, however, the dynamics of deep soil N (>100 cm) following cropland conversion are not well understood. In this study, we synthesized 3049 observations to detect the changes in deep soil N content following cropland conversion on the arid and semiarid Loess Plateau. Our results showed that converting croplands into perennials significantly increased the soil N content by an average of 57.4%, 23.1%, and 29.5% in the surface (0–20 cm), subsurface (20–100 cm), and deep (100–200 cm) layers, respectively. The extent of the increase was influenced significantly by the land‐use conversion types and tree species. Specifically, the conversion of croplands into deep‐rooted forests or shrubs, particularly Robinia pseudoacacia and Caragana microphylla, exhibited higher advantages in deep soil N sequestration. Moreover, deep soil N sequestration increased significantly with time since cropland conversion (p < 0.001), and the rates in deep soils were approximately 26.1% and 66.7% of that in 0–20 and 20–100 cm soils, respectively. In the long term, converting croplands into forests and shrubs showed higher potential for deep soil N sequestration. Linear regression analysis showed that the changes of deep soil N sequestration were influenced significantly by initial soil N content (p < 0.001) and humidity index (p < 0.001), with the slopes in >100 cm layers being 2 to 3 times than that in the top meter, indicating higher sensitivity in deep soils. Overall, this study provides evidence that converting degraded croplands into perennials may contribute to deep soil N accumulation in N‐limited regions, which could potentially alleviate N limitation and sustain long‐term ecosystem carbon sequestration.
Vertigo and its burden of disease—Results from a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Hackenberg Berit , O'Brien Karoline , Döge Julia , Lackner Karl J. , Beutel Manfred E. , Münzel Thomas , Wild Philipp S. , Pfeiffer Norbert , Chalabi Julian , Matthias Christoph , Bahr‐Hamm Katharina
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Vertigo describes symptoms of abnormal movement of the environment or the patient's own body. As such, it affects patients' quality of life, prevents them from following their daily activities, and increases healthcare utilization. The Global Burden of Disease Project aims to quantify morbidity and mortality worldwide. In 2013, a separate disability weight for vertigo was introduced. The aim of this study is to estimate the symptom burden of disease caused by vertigo.

Methods

This study analyzes data from the Gutenberg Health Study (GHS). The GHS is a population‐based cohort study representative of the city of Mainz and its district. Participants were asked whether they suffered from vertigo and, if so, how bothered they felt by it, rating their distress on a six‐level scale from 1 = little stressful to 6 = extremely stressful.

Results

Eight thousand five hundred and nineteen participants could be included in the study. The overall prevalence of vertigo was 21.6% (95%‐confidence interval [CI] [20.7%; 22.5%]). Vertigo prevalence peaked in the age group of 55–64 years. Vertigo annoyance averaged 2.42 (1.28). When an annoyance of 3–6 was considered bothersome, the prevalence of bothersome vertigo was 8.1 % (95%‐CI [7.5%; 8.7%]). Age‐standardized to the European Standard Population 2013, vertigo caused a burden of 2102 years lived with disability per 100,000 population.

Conclusion

In this study, it was found that one in five people suffer at least occasionally from vertigo. This result suggests a significant burden of disease. This burden is reported at the symptom level. Future studies are needed to attribute the burden to specific causes.

Level of Evidence

2.
The Time‑Point Distribution Characteristics of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Elderly Patients
Authors: Liu Zhi , Zhang Chun , Liu Lianlian , Zhang Jinhong , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Jiasen , Zhao Jing , Zou Shizhen , Ma Xin , Li Jinrang
Published: October 2023

Objective

To identify the characteristics of the time‐point distribution of the occurrence of hypopharyngeal‐proximal reflux episodes (HREs) in elderly and younger patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Analysis of data from patients with LPR‐related symptoms and 24‑hour hypopharyngeal‐esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance‐pH (24‐hour HEMII‑pH) monitoring from February 2017 to September 2022 at Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital.

Methods

Patients were divided into 2 age groups: the elderly group (>60 years) and the younger group (≤60 years). The time series of HREs and meals within 24 hours were analyzed based on HEMII‑pH.

Results

A total of 305 patients were included (126 elderly patients). In younger patients, except for nonacid‐gas HREs, the incidence of the remaining types of HREs tended to increase within 2 hours after meals, especially after dinner. The incidence of all types of HREs pre‐ and postmeal was not significantly different in the elderly group (χ2 = 0.080, P = .777). The incidence of nighttime HREs in elderly patients was statistically higher than in younger patients (6.23% vs 3.96%, P = .030), particularly acid‐/nonacid‐liquid HREs.

Conclusion

HREs tend to increase within 2 hours after meals in younger LPR patients, except for nonacid‐gas HREs. In elderly LPR patients, the incidence of all types of HREs pre‐ and postmeal were not significantly different, and nighttime fluid HREs was more prone to occur than in younger patients.
A mixed least‐squares finite element method for a geometrically nonlinear TPM formulation
Authors: Schwarz Alexander , Schwarz Carina , Bluhm Joachim , Schröder Jörg
Published: October 2023

In the present work, a mixed least‐squares finite element method (LSFEM) is used, which is applied on the partial differential equations arising from the Theory of Porous Media (TPM), see for example [1, 2, 3]. Since the LSFEM is not limited to the LBB condition, the method has some theoretical advantages over the well‐known (mixed) Galerkin method, see [4]. In particular, the LSFEM leads to positive definite and symmetric system matrices, even for differential equations with non‐self‐adjoint operators. In detail, we study an incompressible binary model with solid and liquid phases. The modeling of saturated porous structures serves as the basis for the presented approach. The resulting finite element is a four‐field formulation in terms of solid displacements, fluid pressure, mixture stresses, and a new variable associated with the pressure gradient. Vector‐valued Raviart‐Thomas and conventional Lagrangian functions are used to achieve a conforming discretization of the unknowns in the spaces H(div) and H1. The applicability of the LSFEM approach is demonstrated with numerical examples for fluid‐saturated porous structures, which consider incompressible, geometrically nonlinear elastic material behavior.
Towards realistic nonlinear elastic bending behavior for cable simulation
Authors: Zhao Tian , Schneider‐Jung Fabio , Linn Joachim , Müller Ralf
Published: October 2023

This contribution aims to characterize and model the nonlinear elastic behavior of cables for reliable simulations. To simulate the nonlinear elastic behavior of cables, we use an iterative method, where at each step, an algorithmic local bending stiffness constant is used and updated according to the current cable state. We also formulate an inverse problem to determine the properties of real cables. By solving the inverse problem, the nonlinear elastic behavior for given measurement data is identified, yielding a curvature‐dependent bending stiffness characteristic. In addition, we propose an alternative method based on the balance equations for rods in static equilibrium to identify the bending stiffness characteristic. We apply both methods to experimental data, and the results are compared and discussed.
A novel surrogate modelling approach for additive manufacturing processes
Authors: Hürkamp André , Ekanayaka Virama
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the production of complex and customised components with minimal waste. However, to achieve the desired geometry and quality, a lot of process optimisation is needed (often by experimental trial and error). Especially, in the case of AM with concrete materials, the time‐dependent behaviour of the fresh concrete is a large challenge to achieve process stability. Simulations taking into account the time‐dependent material are able to predict the printing result. Since these simulations are very time consuming, a proper orthogonal decomposition (POD)‐based reduced order model for AM is presented. Based on snapshots along the build‐up process, a surrogate model is constructed that is able to predict the printing result with respect to the underlying process and materials. Inspired by the POD approximation, a novel surrogate modelling approach using the initial waypoints of the printing trajectory as input is investigated. In this case, it is possible to analyse the manufacturing process for arbitrary geometries. The proposed method is demonstrated for the use case of additive manufacturing in construction.
Poly(o‐anisidine), its composites, derivatives and applications: A review
Authors: Vispute Kanishka , Mukke Atul , More Aarti P.
Published: October 2023

Poly(o‐anisidine) (POA) is from the conductive polymer family and derivative of polyaniline. It can be mainly synthesized in two routes, chemical synthesis produces a powdered polymer, whereas electrochemical synthesis produces thin films. The plain POA explored for the anticorrosive applications on aluminum, copper, and brass surface. The POA is also explored in nanoparticles and nanofibers form. Along with plain POA, the composites of POA are popular and various materials such as carbon nanotube, graphene, vanadium pentoxide, cerium dioxide, are explored for the synthesis of POA composites. The POA composites find application as catalyst, for anticorrosive coating, for conductivity and membrane applications. The composites are used for sensor, detector, ion exchange membrane, anticorrosive coating on steel and aluminum substrate. The various derivatives of POA such as poly(2‐anisidine), poly(aniline‐co‐2‐anisidine), poly(aniline‐co‐o‐anisidine‐co‐o‐toluidine), poly(aniline‐co‐o‐anisidine), and poly(o‐anisidine‐co‐o‐toluidine) are explored in the literature and they have shown better performance as compared to the plain POA in terms of anticorrosive coating as well as they used in development of sensors and detectors. The health hazards of POA is slightly touched at the end of the review hence the study gives the brief idea about POA, its composites, POA derivatives with its wide range of applications in various sectors.
A comprehensive analysis of neuroblastoma incidence, survival, and racial and ethnic disparities from 2001 to 2019
Authors: Campbell Kevin , Siegel David A. , Umaretiya Puja J. , Dai Shifan , Heczey Andras , Lupo Philip J. , Schraw Jeremy M. , Thompson Trevor D. , Scheurer Michael E. , Foster Jennifer H.
Published: October 2023

Background

We characterize the incidence and 5‐year survival of children and adolescents with neuroblastoma stratified by demographic and clinical factors based on the comprehensive data from United States Cancer Statistics (USCS) and the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR).

Methods

We analyzed the incidence of neuroblastoma from USCS (2003–2019) and survival data from NPCR (2001–2018) for patients less than 20 years old. Incidence trends were calculated by average annual percent change (AAPC) using joinpoint regression. Differences in relative survival were estimated comparing non‐overlapping confidence intervals (CI).

Results

We identified 11,543 primary neuroblastoma cases in USCS. Age‐adjusted incidence was 8.3 per million persons [95% CI: 8.2, 8.5], with an AAPC of 0.4% [95% CI: −0.1, 0.9]. Five‐year relative survival from the NPCR dataset (n = 10,676) was 79.7% [95% CI: 78.9, 80.5]. Patients aged less than 1 year had the highest 5‐year relative survival (92.5%). Five‐year relative survival was higher for non‐Hispanic White patients (80.7%) or Hispanic patients (80.8%) compared to non‐Hispanic Black patients (72.6%).

Conclusion

Neuroblastoma incidence was stable during 2003–2019. Differences in relative survival exist by sex, age, race/ethnicity, and stage; patients who were male, older, non‐Hispanic Black, or with distant disease had worse survival. Future studies could seek to assess the upstream factors driving disparities in survival, and evaluate interventions to address inequities and improve survival across all groups.
Recent trends in the additive manufacturing of polyurethanes
Authors: Bean Ren H , Long Timothy E
Published: October 2023

Polyurethanes are remarkably versatile materials that offer exceptional control over structure–property relationships, making them the subject of extensive research and exploration across diverse applications. These materials have garnered significant attention due to their inherent chemical, mechanical, thermomechanical, biological and physical properties, further fueling interest in their potential uses. However, conventional processing methods, involving molds, high temperatures or solvents, impose limitations on geometric complexity, hindering their potential applications. Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has emerged as a transformative solution, enabling the fabrication of intricate geometries, unparalleled design flexibility, dematerialization and enhanced material properties. This mini‐review explores recent advancements in additive manufacturing techniques applied to polyurethanes, focusing on three prominent 3D printing modalities: vat photopolymerization, direct ink write and fused filament fabrication. Examining the successful integration of polyurethanes with these cutting‐edge 3D printing methods illuminates the remarkable progress achieved in tailoring part design, expanding the range of applications and unlocking novel material−object functionalities. This mini‐review aims to provide valuable insight into the latest trends and development in 3D printing polyurethanes, paving the way for their future utilization in diverse industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Binding cooperativity in the self‐assembly of double stranded silver(I) trihelicates
Authors: Garrett Thomas M. , Koert Ulrich , Lehn Jean‐marie
Published: October 2023

Spectroscopic and potentiometric studies of Ag(I) binding by tris‐bipyridine strands indicate that the formation of trinuclear silver trihelicates is a process displaying positive cooperativity.
Mechanistic significance of the magnitude of cross‐interaction constants
Authors: Lee Ikchoon
Published: October 2023

The relationship between the magnitude of the cross‐interaction constant, |ρij|, and the force constant of activation, ΔF‡ij, has been derived and their equivalence has been shown, where ΔF‡‡= (force constant in the transition state, ΔF‡ij‐ force constant in the ground state, F0ij). When bond formation is involved in the activation process, ΔF‡ij becomes equal to F‡ij and |ρij| is inversely related to the distance, r‡ij, between reaction centres Ri and Rj. However, for bond‐breaking processes, interpretation of |ρij| becomes complicated, since ΔF‡ij = F‡ij − F0ij may be negative or positive depending on the relative size of F‡ij and F0ij. Some examples of re‐examination are given for various cases of |ρij| in the bond‐breaking processes.
Tuning the stator subunit of the flagellar motor with coiled‐coil engineering
Authors: Ridone Pietro , Winter Daniel L. , Baker Matthew A. B.
Published: October 2023

Many bacteria swim driven by an extracellular filament rotated by the bacterial flagellar motor. This motor is powered by the stator complex, MotA5MotB2, an heptameric complex which forms an ion channel which couples energy from the ion motive force to torque generation. Recent structural work revealed that stator complex consists of a ring of five MotA subunits which rotate around a central dimer of MotB subunits. Transmembrane (TM) domains TM3 and TM4 from MotA combine with the single TM domain from MotB to form two separate ion channels within this complex. Much is known about the ion binding site and ion specificity; however, to date, no modeling has been undertaken to explore the MotB‐MotB dimer stability and the role of MotB conformational dynamics during rotation. Here, we modeled the central MotB dimer using coiled‐coil engineering and modeling principles and calculated free energies to identify stable states in the operating cycle of the stator. We found three stable coiled‐coil states with dimer interface angles of 28°, 56°, and 64°. We tested the effect of strategic mutagenesis on the comparative energy of the states and correlated motility with a specific hierarchy of stability between the three states. In general, our results indicate agreement with existing models describing a 36° rotation step of the MotA pentameric ring during the power stroke and provide an energetic basis for the coordinated rotation of the central MotB dimer based on coiled‐coil modeling.
Assessing sustainable production: A selection of indicators aligned with the SDGs
Authors: Viles Elisabeth , Cavallieri María Sol , Kalemkerian Florencia , Montoya‐Torres Jairo R. , Santos Javier
Published: October 2023

Sustainability is a paramount concern for manufacturing companies, necessitating the adoption of sustainable production and circular economy strategies. However, quantifying these sustainability efforts remains a formidable challenge due to the absence of a standardized framework, consequently hindering the development of effective strategies. This study presents a framework comprising 39 indicators, each accompanied by a descriptive calculation method, recommended units, and a suggested trend. These indicators were meticulously selected through a comprehensive literature review and refined via expert consensus during semi‐structured interviews. To establish a tangible connection between the operational world of companies and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we employ a visualization tool – the Sankey diagram. This diagram unravels the intricate links between the selected indicators and the SDGs. Both contributions provide manufacturers with a clear roadmap to quantify and align their actions with broader global objectives.
Large‐area growth of monolayer MoS2 by using atmospheric‐pressure chemical vapor deposition with nucleation controlling process
Authors: Ding Binbin , Zhu Changjun , Wang Tianming , Li Lianbi , Li Zebin , Cheng Lin , Feng Song , Zhang Guoqing , Zang Yuan , Hu Jichao , Li Lei , Xia Caijuan
Published: October 2023

The epitaxial growth of high‐quality and large‐area monolayer (ML) MoS2 has attracted widespread attention in recent years. Here, MoS2 on Al2O3 substrate was prepared by using atmospheric‐pressure chemical vapor deposition. The process parameters such as temperature difference and distance between MoO3 and Al2O3, nucleation temperature, and heating rate were optimized. The high MoO3 evaporation temperature facilitates Mo vapor transport to grow ML‐MoS2. The introduction of nucleation temperature facilitates the deposition of MoS2, and the morphology of the nucleation point is related to the amount of MoO3‐x deposited on Al2O3. This process optimization method is also applicable to growth MoS2 on SiO2. The ML‐MoS2 with a size greater than 1 cm2 was successfully fabricated on Al2O3 and SiO2, which laid a foundation for the practical application of ML‐MoS2.
Erwärmung des Anschlusses eines feuerverzinkten Sekundärträgers an einen mit reaktivem Brandschutzsystem geschützten Hauptträger im Brandfall
Authors: Mensinger Martin , Firan Maria‐Mirabela
Published: October 2023

Zum Erwärmungsverhalten von Anschlüssen ungeschützter feuerverzinkter Stahlkonstruktionen im Brandfall liegen bisher keine normativen Regelungen vor, sodass aktuell auf die in DIN EN 1993‐1‐2 enthaltenen wenigen Angaben für nicht feuerverzinkte Stahlkonstruktionen zurückgegriffen wird. In der Norm fehlen außerdem Angaben, wie der thermische Einfluss eines ungeschützten Bauteils auf ein damit verbundenes geschütztes Bauteil zu berücksichtigen ist. Forschungsergebnisse zeigen, dass durch Feuerverzinken die Feuerwiderstandsdauer von Stahl verbessert werden kann. Für den Fall, dass eine Feuerverzinkung bei einem Teil der Konstruktion nicht ausreicht, um den erforderlichen Feuerwiderstand sicherzustellen, könnte ein Teil der Konstruktion feuerverzinkt und ein anderer Teil mit einem reaktiven Brandschutzsystem geschützt werden. Die zusätzliche Erwärmung in einem Anschlussdetail, die aus dem feuerverzinkten Bauteil resultiert, muss beim Tragfähigkeitsnachweis des mit einem reaktiven Brandschutzsystem geschützten Bauteils berücksichtigt werden. Der Einfluss auf das Erwärmungsverhalten von Anschlüssen zwischen feuerverzinkten Sekundärträgern und mit reaktiven Brandschutzsystemen geschützten Hauptträgern wird daher mithilfe von Brandversuchen an unterschiedlichen Anschlussdetails untersucht. Ziel dieser Untersuchung ist die Gewinnung von thermischen Daten im Anschlussbereich von Trägern mit I‐Profil, weshalb die Brandversuche ohne mechanische Belastung durchgeführt werden.
Characterization, variations, fluxes, and sources of contaminants in coal mine water of Korba basin, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Patel Khageshwar Singh , Pandey Piyush Kant , Agarwal Chandresh , Sahu Bharat Lal , Sharma Sanjay Kumar , Wysocka Irena , Yurdakul Sema , Varol Simge , Martín‐Ramos Pablo
Published: October 2023

Several million tons of coal are extracted which discharge the contaminated mineral water into the environment in the coal mines located in the Korba basin (Chhattisgarh, India) chosen as the study area. The aim of this work is to describe: (i) the physico‐chemical characteristics (pH, EC, TDS, DO, RP, CC (carbonate carbon), OC (organic carbon) F−, Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, SiO44−, PO43−, Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Al, As, Sb, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Hg) of the coal mine water samples, (ii) spatial, seasonal (i.e. PrM (pre‐monsoon), M (monsoon) and PtM (post monsoon) and temporal (over the period of 2012–2017) variations, (iii) sources of contaminants from fourteen coal mines, (iv) suitability of the water for drinking and other uses, and (v) health impact of the mine water in view of developing remedial approaches.

The mine water is neutral in nature with high TDS (total dissolved solid) values ranging from 620 to 13711 mg L−1 due to mainly high carbon content. The concertation of all species lies between 519–11432 mg L−1 with maximum value of OC. The most dominating species were OC, CC, Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, Na, and Ca. Species, that is, F−, OC, Al, Fe, As, Sb, Cd, Pb, and Hg occurred beyond their limits. Their higher concentration in the PtM is observed. Water quality index (WQI) values ranged from 17.52 to 95.68 in the PtM period. 42.85%, 21.42%, and 7.14% of water samples represent “excellent water”, “good water” and “poor water” respectively in the PtM period. In addition, the fertilizer and trace element concentrations in the water samples were compared with the limit values determined for usability as drinking water. Accordingly, it was concluded that it is not suitable for use as drinking water in terms of TDS, F−, and NO3− concentrations. In addition, AsT (total arsenic), F− and NO3− pollutants were detected in the water samples, and it was observed that F− and NO3− ions did not have a carcinogenic effect. A health risk assessment of As has been made, and it is found that adults and children have a low risk of developing cancer from the exposure. However, arsenic has high non‐carcinogenic and potentially harmful effects.
Experimental study on clogging of three different types of emitters with similar properties
Authors: El Bouhali Mohamed , Ouarriche Hamza , Bouisfi Firdaouss , Bouziane Abdelkhalek , Zouine Ahmed , Assoudi Redouane , Chaoui Mohamed
Published: October 2023

The drip irrigation process has been designed to reduce water losses, and to combine irrigation, with the supply of fertilizers. However, in drip irrigation systems, the clogging of emitters is a major problem that significantly reduces the performance of drip irrigation systems. The water used in these systems is generally loaded with suspended matter, which might cause clogging of the emitters. This work was carried out in order to evaluate the clogging rate in three different types of emitters with roughly similar flow rates, tested in an experimental drip irrigation system, using water pumped from the Sebou River. Thus, a compensating‐pressure emitter named E1 and two non‐compensating‐pressure emitters named E2 and E3 were tested. Each dripper was subjected to 112 irrigations, which lasted 397 h and were spread over a period of 2 months. To evaluate the hydraulic performance of the emitters, the following three coefficients were used to measure the effect of clogging: (i) the variation of the flow ratio (Dra), which reflects the degree of clogging; (ii) the emission uniformity coefficient (EU); and (iii) the Christiansen uniformity coefficient (CU). No emitters became completely clogged during the experiment. However, as the clogging rate increased, the average flow rates measured in some emitters at the end of the test had decreased by 89% compared to the initial flow rates. During the experiment, flow fluctuations were observed during the evolution of the clogging, which could come from a partial recovery of flow.
Random Walk Simulation of Chemical Reactions Represented by Nonlinear Reaction‐Diffusion Equations
Authors: Komkov V. , Dannon V.
Published: October 2023

Dieser Artikel besteht aus zwei Teilen, einer davon über stochastische Simulation von Lösungen nichtlinearer partieller Differentialgleichungen, wie sie bei chemischen Reaktionen auftreten, der andere über Prozesse, wie es zum Beispiel ökologische Phänomena sind, die mit Hilfe quasilinearer Lotka‐Volterra‐Systeme modelliert werden können.
Hautkrebsfrüherkennung in der alternden Bevölkerung Sachsen-Anhalts
Authors: Walter S. , Hasenpusch C. , Hrudey I. , Holstiege J. , Bätzing J. , Faßhauer H. , March S. , Swart E. , Stallmann C.
Published: October 2023

Hintergrund

Das gesetzliche Hautkrebsscreening (gHKS) kann einem schweren Krankheitsverlauf von verschiedenen Hautkrebsarten vorbeugen. Das Beispiel des malignen Melanoms zeigt, dass es angesichts des hohen durchschnittlichen Erkrankungsalters von 62 Jahren (Frauen) und 68 Jahren (Männer) für die alternde Bevölkerung bedeutsam ist. Für Sachsen-Anhalt (ST) als ein vom demografischen Wandel besonders betroffenes Land gibt es für das gHKS wenige Daten zur ausführlichen Abbildung der Nutzung.

Ziel

Für die Studie werden die Teilnahmeraten des gHKS für Personen ab 55 Jahren in ST im Vergleich zum restlichen Bundesgebiet dargestellt. Gründe und Barrieren der Teilnahme aus Sicht der Inanspruchnahmeberechtigten sowie mögliche Handlungsfelder werden aufgezeigt.

Material und Methoden

Für die Zielgruppe werden deutschlandweite ambulante vertragsärztliche Abrechnungsdaten zum gHKS von 2011 bis 2020 quer- und längsschnittlich analysiert. Leitfadengestützte Telefoninterviews mit 18 Einwohner*innen dienen unter Anwendung der qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse nach Kuckartz der Identifikation von Gründen und Barrieren der Inanspruchnahme des gHKS.

Ergebnisse

Das gHKS wurde in ST und dem restlichen Bundesgebiet 2011 bis 2020 selten und unregelmäßig in Anspruch genommen – die jährliche Inanspruchnahmerate lag jeweils ca. bei 8,0 % (Bundesdurchschnitt: 8,4 %). Etwa 50 % der anspruchsberechtigten Personen ab 55 Jahren nahmen zwischen 2011 und 2020 gar nicht am gHKS teil. Die höchsten Inanspruchnahmeraten hatten Männer zwischen 70 und 79 Jahren. Neben kreisspezifischen Unterschieden, die auf mögliche Versorgungslücken hindeuten, scheinen insbesondere Informationsdefizite die geringe Teilnahme zu bedingen.

Diskussion

Die geringe Inanspruchnahme des gHKS u. a. aufgrund von Informationsdefiziten unter den Anspruchsberechtigten erfordert zielgruppenspezifische Informationsangebote.
Sondenlose Herzschrittmacher
Authors: Steinwender Clemens , Blessberger Hermann , Saleh Karim
Published: October 2023

Die beiden aktuell erhältlichen sondenlosen Schrittmacher weisen in den jeweiligen Zulassungsstudien sowie den zusätzlichen Real-world-Registern eine hohe Effektivität und Sicherheit auf. Im Vergleich zu konventionellen Schrittmachern finden sich niedrigere Langzeit-Komplikationsraten (v. a. im Hinblick auf Sondendislokationen und Systeminfektionen). Zunehmende Evidenz (derzeit größtenteils für den MicraTM [Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA]) zeigt, dass diese Vorzüge auch Bestand haben und daher von einer „dauerhaft guten Lösung“ gesprochen werden kann.
Impact of implementing Dutch versus European guideline risk factor targets in older patients with ischaemic heart disease
Authors: van Trier Tinka J. , Snaterse Marjolein , Herings Ron M. C. , Overbeek Jetty A. , Peters Ron J. G. , Jørstad Harald T.
Published: October 2023

Background

In patients with ischaemic heart disease (IHD) aged > 70 years, Dutch and European guidelines recommend different treatment targets: low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) < 2.6 versus < 1.4 mmol/l and systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 140 versus < 130 mm Hg, respectively. How this impacts cardiovascular event-free life expectancy has not been investigated. The study objective was to compare estimated lifelong treatment benefits of implementing Dutch and European LDL‑c and SBP targets.

Methods

Data from patients aged 71–80 years hospitalised for IHD in 2017–2019 were extracted from the PHARMO Database Network, which links primary and secondary healthcare settings, with follow-up until 31 December 2020. Potential benefit according to treatment strategy (in gain in event-free years) was estimated using the SMART-REACH model.

Results

Of the 3003 eligible patients, 1186 (39%) had missing LDL‑c and/or SBP measurements. Of the 1817 included patients (36% women, median age at event: 74 years (interquartile range (IQR): 72–77), 84% achieved the Dutch targets for both LDL‑c and SBP; for European targets, this was 23% and 61%, respectively. If Dutch targets were met for LDL‑c and SBP (n = 1281), the additional effect of reaching European targets was a median gain of 0.6 event-free life years (IQR: 0.3–1.0). The greatest effect could be reached in patients not reaching Dutch targets (n = 501), with a median gain of 0.6 (IQR: 0.2–1.2) and 1.7 (IQR: 1.2–2.5) event-free years with Dutch versus European targets.

Conclusion

In patients aged > 70 years with IHD, implementation of European targets resulted in a greater gain of event-free years compared with Dutch targets, especially in patients with poorer risk factor control. The considerable number of patients with missing risk factor documentation suggested additional opportunities for risk reduction.
An Efficient E-Voting System for Business Intelligence Innovation Based on Blockchain
Authors: Yi Haibo
Published: October 2023

Business intelligence (BI) is driven by data and provides valuable business insights and decision support through data analysis, mining, and visualization. The application of blockchain technology in electronic voting can make the voting process more fair and transparent. This is because the decentralized nature of blockchain technology ensures that voting data is not lost due to a single central server failure and also mitigates the risk of data tampering. However, electronic voting still faces security issues that are not easily resistant to quantum attacks. To address these challenges, we propose post-quantum cryptography and verifiable random functions for secure and efficient business intelligence electronic voting. Firstly, we propose a post-quantum verifiable random function algorithm that can resist quantum computer attacks. Secondly, we introduce a consensus algorithm based on random functions to achieve fast and efficient consensus. Thirdly, we propose a blockchain architecture based on the consensus algorithm to achieve secure and efficient blockchain applications. By integrating post-quantum verifiable random functions, consensus algorithms, and blockchain technology, we present an efficient business intelligence electronic voting system. Implementation and comparison with relevant designs demonstrate that this system provides efficient and secure electronic voting services for business intelligence users. Furthermore, the efficient consensus algorithm can be utilized to improve other blockchain applications or decentralized applications.
Estimation of body segmental orientation for prosthetic gait using a nonlinear autoregressive neural network with exogenous inputs
Authors: Tham Lai Kuan , Al Kouzbary Mouaz , Al Kouzbary Hamza , Liu Jingjing , Abu Osman Noor Azuan
Published: October 2023

Assessment of the prosthetic gait is an important clinical approach to evaluate the quality and functionality of the prescribed lower limb prosthesis as well as to monitor rehabilitation progresses following limb amputation. Limited access to quantitative assessment tools generally affects the repeatability and consistency of prosthetic gait assessments in clinical practice. The rapidly developing wearable technology industry provides an alternative to objectively quantify prosthetic gait in the unconstrained environment. This study employs a neural network-based model in estimating three-dimensional body segmental orientation of the lower limb amputees during gait. Using a wearable system with inertial sensors attached to the lower limb segments, thirteen individuals with lower limb amputation performed two-minute walk tests on a robotic foot and a passive foot. The proposed model replicates features of a complementary filter to estimate drift free three-dimensional orientation of the intact and prosthetic limbs. The results indicate minimal estimation biases and high correlation, validating the ability of the proposed model to reproduce the properties of a complementary filter while avoiding the drawbacks, most notably in the transverse plane due to gravitational acceleration and magnetic disturbance. Results of this study also demonstrates the capability of the well-trained model to accurately estimate segmental orientation, regardless of amputation level, in different types of locomotion task.
A Mātauranga Māori Perspective of Literacy for Adult Learners
Authors: Furness Jane , Rua Mohi , Masters-Awatere Bridgette , Piercy-Cameron Gemma , Cochrane Bill , Heaton Sharyn
Published: October 2023

Globally, literacy can be conceived of in different ways. Two perspectives that have influenced adult literacy policy internationally are the economic functionalist and the sociocultural. In Aotearoa New Zealand, Māori educators have repeatedly advanced a mātauranga Māori perspective of literacy. This perspective has parallels with the embodied, practice-based multiliteracies and sociomateriality of the sociocultural perspective but less so with the dominant functionalist perspective. To address how Māori views have been side-lined in adult literacy policy development, we seek to clarify this view and foreground Māori-led policy recommendations that date back to the creation of the New Zealand Adult Literacy Strategy in 2001. We also highlight the relevance of this perspective by sharing the success and effectiveness of Māori-led adult literacy programmes. In doing so, we demonstrate the need for a biliteracy approach to adult literacy policy to reflect our bicultural nation and ensure Māori aspirations for literacy are met.
Who’s who: how uncertainty about the favored group affects outcomes of affirmative action
Authors: Trieu Chi
Published: October 2023

When affirmative action policies target more than one disadvantaged group, they contain uncertainty as to whether an individual who belongs to one of these groups was actually favored. In a laboratory experiment, we study how this feature affects outcomes of affirmative action in the form of quotas, and compare it with two other conditions, namely affirmative action with a certain favored group and no affirmative action. We find that when a group is favored with certainty and the social identity that triggers affirmative action is made salient, affirmed individuals are wrongly perceived as less competent, both by themselves and by others. Consequently, their willingness to compete does not increase and they are selected less for teamwork post competition. Affirmative action with uncertain favored groups does not distort belief in competence, and thus does not induce such unintended consequences. In contrast, it increases competition entry of the affirmed groups and enhances their chances of being selected for teamwork.
Seamless real-time thermal imaging system with ESP8266: wireless data transfer and display using UDP
Authors: Moon Md. Abdul Muttalib , Kaimujjaman Md. , Hossain Md. Mahabub , Islam Md. Mehedi , Hossain Md. Selim
Published: October 2023

Thermal imaging technology has become increasingly popular for various applications, including industrial monitoring, building automation, and medical diagnostics. However, existing thermal imaging systems often come with high costs and limited connectivity options. In this paper, we propose a method to address these challenges by utilizing the ESP8266 microcontroller to create a thermal imaging system that can measure thermal pixel values, transfer the data wirelessly using the ESP8266’s networking capabilities and display the pixel data in real-time on a Thin-film-transistor liquid-crystal (TFT) display. The objective is to establish a seamless and real-time transfer of thermal images within a local network environment. User datagram protocol (UDP) supports transmission via broadcast and multicast, making it highly efficient for delivering data to multiple clients or devices on a network. It allows a single UDP packet to be simultaneously sent to multiple destinations, enhancing its effectiveness. This feature simplifies the implementation of network protocols and applications, reducing their overall complexity. UDP is particularly well-suited for devices with limited resources, such as microcontrollers or embedded systems, where memory and computing power are constrained. Experimental results demonstrate the successful transmission and display of thermal pixel data between the ESP8266 microcontrollers using the UDP protocol. The project utilizes the Arduino framework along with ESP8266WiFi and UDP libraries to enable network connectivity and UDP communication. The sender and receiver devices are connected to the same local network, guaranteeing efficient and low-latency transmission of thermal pixel data. The system achieves real-time communication within a radius of approximately 15–18 m, ensuring immediate visualization of thermal images on connected displays. By minimizing latency, the system enables a seamless and instantaneous viewing experience offering seamless and instantaneous image visualization for the users.
Exploring the status of artificial intelligence for healthcare research in Africa: a bibliometric and thematic analysis
Authors: Kondo Tabu S. , Diwani Salim A. , Nyamawe Ally S. , Mjahidi Mohamed M.
Published: October 2023

This paper explores the status of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for healthcare research in Africa. The aim was to use bibliometric and thematic analysis methods to determine the publication counts, leading authors, top journals and publishers, most active institutions and countries, most cited institutions, funding bodies, top subject areas, co-occurrence of keywords and co-authorship. Bibliographic data were collected on April 9 2022, through the Lens database, based on the critical areas of authorship studies, such as authorship pattern, number of authors, etc. The findings showed that several channels were used to disseminate the publications, including articles, conference papers, reviews, and others. Publications on computer science topped the list of documented subject categories. The Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health is the top journal, where articles on AI have been published. One of the top nations that published AI research was the United Kingdom. With 143 publications, Harvard University was the higher education institution that produced the most in terms of affiliation. It was discovered that the Medical Research Council was one of the funding organizations that supported research, resulting in the publication of articles in AI. By summarizing the current research themes and trends, this work serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and funding organizations interested in Artificial intelligence for healthcare research in Africa.
New-Onset Acute Interstitial Nephritis Post-SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 Vaccination: A Panoramic Review
Authors: Wang Yu , Yang Ling , Xu Gaosi
Published: October 2023

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has posed a considerable challenge to global healthcare. Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) post SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination has been reported, but its clinical features and pathogenesis remained unclear. We reviewed so far the largest 22 cases of AIN post SARS-CoV-2 infection and 36 cases of AIN following COVID-19 vaccination. The onset of AIN was mainly related to messenger RNA vaccines (52.8%). Apart from fever, proteinuria (45.5%) was the main manifestation of AIN post SARS-CoV-2 infection, left acute kidney injury (AKI, 63.9%) in patients post COVID-19 vaccination. The potential mechanism of vaccination induced AIN was conjugating vaccines with proteins to form a hapten, which activated dendritic cells and promoted a cascade immunological reaction leading to AIN.
Rural–Urban Inequities in Tuberculosis-Related Practices in Equatorial Guinea
Authors: Ayala Alba , Ncogo Policarpo , Eyene Juan , García Belén , Benito Agustín , Romay-Barja María
Published: October 2023

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading causes of mortality from a single infectious disease agent. Equatorial Guinea is a country with high estimated TB incidence in 2021 (275 cases per 100,000 population) and low TB case detection (42%). Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for TB control. Failure to seek adequate health care increases the disease’s transmission and leads to poor treatment outcome, the mortality, even for easily manageable conditions. Information regarding community management of TB and treatment-seeking patterns in Equatorial Guinea is rare. The aim of this study was to explore differences in TB health-seeking behaviour among urban and rural population TB cases in Equatorial Guinea and the factors associated with this behaviour.

Methods

A national cross-sectional study of 770 household caregivers was conducted in 2020 in Equatorial Guinea using multistage stratified sampling. The 284 caregivers that reported having had a TB case in their family were included in this study. A practice index was created. Poisson regression with robust variance was performed with the practices index as dependent variable to assess the factors associated with the health-seeking behaviour.

Results

Most of the cases (65%) have had good TB health-seeking practices. However, 23.2% of TB cases reported having abandoned treatment before 6 months. A higher probability of having good TB practices was observed with being women, aged and living in rural area. Those who were TB cases themselves have heard about TB on the radio, and had high knowledge about TB, hand also good practices.

Conclusions

Disparities in tuberculosis health-seeking behaviour between rural and urban populations highlight the challenges existing in the fight against this infectious disease. The National Tuberculosis Control Program has to reinforce the health system needs to strengthen the follow-up of TB patients taking into account the population at risk of inappropriate TB behaviour.

Trial Registration

Not applicable.