bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical efficiency of early variety country bean cultivation in selected areas of Bangladesh: a stochastic frontier approach
Authors: ASM Golam Hafeez  , Md Abdullah A Kafi  , Md Rezaul Karim  , Shamim Ahamed  , Mehdee Mohay Men Ur Rahman
Published: September 2023

The present study was undertaken to measure the profitability and technical efficiency of early variety country bean cultivation in selected areas of Chatmohar upazila of Pabna district. A total of 60 early variety country bean-growing farmers were selected from three villages of Chatmohar upazila using a simple random sampling technique. Stochastic frontier production function was applied to determine the technical efficiency of the country bean growers. Technical inefficiency effects model was also applied to identify the demographic and socio-economic factors by which inefficiency effects are influenced. The study revealed that Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) was the highest (2.29) for large farmers followed by medium (2.27) and small farmers (2.21). The result of the Maximum Likelihood Estimates (MLE) showed that human labor, fencing and manure had significant positive impact whereas the irrigation and insecticides had a negative impact on the production of country bean. The results of technical inefficiency effect model showed that farmer’s age, farm size had negative impact while education, family size and farm credit had positive impact on technical efficiency. The inefficiency analysis results indicated that farm level technical efficiency ranged between 43.06% and 98.01% with a mean technical efficiency of 91.9% implied that there was potential to increase country bean production among smallholder farmers in the study area by 8.1% through efficient use of present technology. The main constraints to country bean (early variety) production were identified as- infestation of pest and disease, high price of inputs, paucity of quality seed and fertilizer, scarcity of human labor, lack of technical knowledge, limited access to institutional credit etc. Despite the constraints, there is a great prospect of early variety country bean production in the study areas. Country bean (early variety) production could be increased in a sustainable manner if farmers would be provided with government support regarding lower price of input, fair price of output, marketing facilities, training for farmers and farm credit at low interest rate, reducing the activities of syndicate of middlemen. Government should provide necessary support to the farmers for ensuring sustainable production of early varieties of country bean. 
Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 10, No. 2, August 2023: 155-164
Influence of vermicompost on growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in coastal area of Bangladesh
Authors: Rabeya Khatun  , Md Sabuj Ali  , Dewan Reashat Islam  , Sadia Rahaman  , Tamanna Islam  , Nur Mohammad  , Md Jakaria Rahman  , Siddike Md Nomun , Gazi Md Mohsin
Published: September 2023

An experiment was conducted at the research field in the Department of Agriculture, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh during the period from March to July 2022 to study the effect of vermicompost on growth and yield of okra. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) comprising four treatments with three replications. The four treatments were T0 (Control), T1 (Vermicompost 10 t ha-1), T2 (Vermicompost 15 t ha-1) and T3 (Vermicompost 20 t ha-1). Green finger F1 okra used as planting material. Data were recorded from different stages of plant growth viz, plant height, days of flowering, fruit per plant, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, fruit weight per plant, yield per plot and yield per hectare. All the recorded parameters were statistically significant (P<0.01). The maximum days to first flowering (47.31 days) was recorded from T0 (Control), while the minimum days for first flowering (40.67 days) was found from treatment T3 (Vermicompost 20 t ha-1). The maximum height of okra plant (100.43 cm), number of fruits per plant (22.13), fruit length (13.60 cm), fruit diameter (2.01 cm), fruit weight (13.47 g),  fruit weight per plant (198.02 g), yield per plot (1.78 kg), yield per hectare (17.8 t ha-1) were found in treatment T3 (Vermicompost 20 t ha-1) whereas lowest data recorded in treatment T0 (Control). Observing the results, it can be stated that application of vermicompost @ 20 t ha-1 for okra cultivation gave better growth and yield in the coastal area of Bangladesh.
Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 10, No. 2, August 2023: 165-173
Larval and adult surveillance of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Pabna, Bangladesh
Authors: Md Humayun Kabir  , Aparajita Kabiraz  , Md Abdul Alim  , Thahsin Farjana
Published: September 2023

An entomological study was conducted at Ishwardi Upazila of Pabna district to identify the species and breeding sites of mosquitoes. Adult mosquitoes were collected using collecting net, human bait, light trap and larvae were collected by ladle spoon, mug, dipper, and pipette from rail junction, bazar, house, cattle shed, rice field, sugarcane field, rice mill, paper mill, drains etc. A total of 2647 mosquito samples including 1426 larvae and 1221 adult mosquitoes were collected from these places. Seven species of larva and eight species of adult mosquitoes under two genera were identified. The recorded genera for both larvae and adults were Culex (Cx.) and Anopheles (An.). The collected species for larvae were Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx. epidesmus, Cx.tritaeniorhynchus, Cx. mimulus, Cx. sinensis, An. vagus and An. minimus. The collected species for adults were Cx. epidesmus, Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx.tritaeniorhynchus, Cx. mimulus, Cx. sinensis, Cx. pallidothorax, An. vagus and An. minimus. Among the collected larva, Culex was found most prevalent (85.7%) than Anopheles (14.3%). Same as larva, adult Culex mosquitoes was found most prevalent (84.4%) than Anopheles (15.6%). Cx. quinquefasciatus (33.5%) found highest among the larval prevalence, in contrast, Cx. epidesmus (36.2%) was dominant among adults. On the other hand, An. vagus was the most dominant species in both larval and adult surveillance (8.1% and 9.9%, respectively). Both the larva and adult Culex mosquitoes were found more prevalent in households (20.3% and 41.2%, respectively), whereas density of Anopheles larva was found highest in rice fields (20.6%) and those of adults were concentrated in households (39.5%). The result of this study will help us to develop a sustainable control measures for the mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases in the study areas as well as other areas of the country.
Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 10, No. 2, August 2023: 199-206
Processos físicos industriais para redução do tempo de cocção do arroz integral - Uma revisão
Authors: Souza Christian Rafael Câmara de , Silva Leomar Hackbart da , Costa Paula Fernanda Pinto da
Published: September 2023

O arroz possui importância social, econômica e nutricional em diferentes países. Em sua forma integral o seu consumo confere mais benefícios a saúde. No entanto, devido às suas características de maior dureza e tempo de cocção prolongado, apresenta baixa aceitação entre os consumidores. O objetivo com este estudo foi analisar, por meio de uma revisão da literatura, os métodos que utilizam princípios físicos para redução do tempo de cozimento do arroz integral. Foram selecionados 69 estudos encontrados em diferentes bases de dados, publicados no período de 2002 a 2022. Compilaram-se as características de processamento do arroz, suas principais formas de consumo, a superioridade nutricional do arroz integral, os desafios de produção e a contextualização do desenvolvimento de novos métodos de processamento. Os principais métodos de processamento para redução do tempo de cocção do arroz integral encontrados foram descritos e analisados em relação a vias de investigação, princípios físicos e os resultados obtidos. Sendo eles o polimento parcial; pré-hidratação, cocção e secagem; indução de fissuras; aquecimento por irradiação infravermelha; tratamento com alta pressão hidrostática; tratamento ultrassônico e tratamento com plasma frio de baixa pressão. Constatou-se que embora esses métodos reduzem o tempo de cocção, alguns podem causar decréscimo no valor nutricional do arroz integral. Desta forma, considerou-se que os tratamentos de pré-hidratação, cocção e secagem e de indução de fissuras nos grãos são os mais promissores, uma vez que influenciaram de forma significativa na redução do tempo de cocção do arroz integral, sem alterar o seu valor nutricional.
Alterações da Ressonância Magnética Cardíaca em atletas na era pós-COVID: Uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Menezes Junior Antonio da Silva , Barbosa Vinícius Araújo , Laranjeira Tiago de Almeida , D’Dalarponio Pedro de Alcantara Torquette , Dutra Mariana Bassoli Felix , Gomes João Marcos Palmeira Ferrato , Fernandes Joaquim Ferreira , Carvalho Rebeca Coelho de , Damião Danielle Nibia , Amorim Paulo Henrique Cardoso
Published: September 2023

A síndrome de COVID apresenta-se como um estado pós-sistêmico com sintomas e desenvolvimento de possíveis sequelas tardias após o desaparecimento do estado agudo da doença. Entre essas sequelas, os achados da ressonância magnética cardíaca (RMC) estão associados aos desfechos potenciais em pacientes previamente infectados. A população atlética merece um olhar atento a todos os eventos envolvidos no processo físico-metabólico que podem culminar em morte súbita cardíaca. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de alterações CMR em atletas previamente infectados com SARS-CoV-2. Métodos: Revisão de literatura com estudos analíticos observacionais encontrados nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS e CENTRAL de atletas anteriores testados para SARS-CoV-2 por teste de CMR. Resultados e revisão: Dos seis estudos selecionados, a maioria relatou atletas em RMC, como realce tardio do gadolínio, e anormalidades ponderadas em T2, que mostraram a presença de formas subclínicas ou clínicas de miocardite, com prevalência de variação de 0,12 a 2,3% em relação à população. Além disso, a RMC foi responsável por diagnosticar os casos em que não havia alterações clínicas nem fortemente sugestivas para indicar triagem para miocardite. Conclusão: A doença miocardite faz parte do grupo de estudo das doenças associadas à síndrome pós-COVID e, apesar da baixa prevalência, são necessárias mais pesquisas para delinear a melhor estratégia capaz de identificar e diagnosticar a miocardite, mesmo após casos leves e moderados.
Probation: pros and cons
Authors: Serebrennikova Anna
Published: September 2023

As a result of the conducted research, it was found that the measures taken in the Russian Federation for the purpose of adaptation and re-socialization of former convicts are insufficient for the following reasons. Firstly, the psychological and educational work carried out with convicts is ineffective due to the lack of trust among the latter in the staff of the psychological service. Secondly, the specialties that a convict can master in a correctional institution are not relevant. Former convicts, being livestock breeders, turners and seamstresses, cannot represent a competitive force in the labor market. Thirdly, about a quarter of all crimes are committed by previously convicted persons. These facts indicate that the adoption of the Federal Law "On Probation in the Russian Federation" is a timely measure that can prevent further recidivism of crimes and adapt former convicts to life in society. However, the text of this law excludes the concept of "pre-penitentiary probation". However, it is necessary because: 1) a small number of citizens can afford to conclude an agreement with a lawyer due to the high cost of his services; 2) courts, choosing a measure of restraint on particularly serious articles, most often decide to detain the accused, while the accused cannot fully realize their legitimate interests and build a line of defense together with their lawyers.
First report of Perkinsus olseni infections in blood cockles Tegillarca granosa on the south coast of Korea
Authors: Cho YG , Kim JH , Choi HJ , Jang GI , Oh YK , Lee SJ , Hong SY , Kwon MG , Choi KS
Published: September 2023

The protozoan parasite Perkinsus olseni has become a focus of attention since it has been responsible for mass mortalities and economic losses in a wide range of bivalve hosts globally. The P. olseni host range along the south coast of Korea may extend beyond what was previously understood, and blood cockles in the Family Arcidae are also suggested to be potential hosts of P. olseni. In the present study, we applied histology and molecular techniques to identify Perkinsus sp. infections in the blood cockles Tegillarca granosa, which have been commercially exploited on the south coast of Korea for several decades. Histology and molecular techniques, including genus-specific immunofluorescence assay, species-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization, and phylogeny based on the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region revealed that T. granosa is infected by P. olseni, although the prevalence was low (0.5%). Histology revealed massive hemocyte infiltrations in the mantle, gill, and digestive gland connective tissues, indicating that the infection exerts negative impacts on the host cockles.
Breastfeeding outcomes, experiences and challenges, among breast cancer survivors: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Goga Aneta , Vivilaki Victoria , Kyrkou Ioanna , Iliadou Maria
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Breast cancer in pregnancy is diagnosed during pregnancy, during the first year after delivery or during lactation. It is one of the most common malignancies found in women. Although most women with breast cancer are postmenopausal, the number of premenopausal patients has been increasing in recent years. There are many issues related to the psychological management of gestational cancer that need to be addressed. Inadequate receipt of information and limited understanding of treatment options and outcomes may contribute to psychological distress in women. The purpose of this work was to record as closely as possible the data regarding the experiences and difficulties of breastfeeding in breast cancer patients, as well as breastfeeding outcomes. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of articles was performed in Pubmed and Google Scholar databases, with language restrictions (only English papers) and without time limitation. Results: The study included 7 qualitative studies. The participants invovlved were breast cancer survivors. They expressed all the difficulties related to breastfeeding and their need for emotional and psychological support. Conclusions: The general conclusion that emerges is fear and uncertainty both for the mother herself and for her child, as well as anxiety, physical and psychological fatigue and changes in relationships in the family.
En caul vaginal birth of a second trimester trisomy-21 fetus, as a result of medical pregnancy termination
Authors: Polychroni Damaskini , Machairas Petros , Fili Maria , Antoniou Myrsini , Nidimos Asterios , Apanozidou Sofia , Provetzas Panagiotis
Published: September 2023

En caul delivery is defined as the neonate is delivered inside the entire intact amnion. This condition is extremely rare. The majority of cases, is associated with premature neonates. We report a case of a 35-year-old woman who underwent medical abortion due to fetal Down’s Syndrome diagnosis. The patient received medication with misoprostol. After a few hours, the woman gave vaginal birth to a 23-week fetus with intact entire amnion. The combination of prematurity, nulliparity, vaginal en caul birth, and medical pregnancy termination has not previously been described.
Caracterización de la enfermedad mano-pie-boca en Colombia, 2019 a I trimestre de 2022. Análisis geoespacial
Authors: Velásquez Morales Alejandra , Soto Cortés Karen Andrea , Quijada Bonilla Hernán
Published: September 2023

Introducción: la enfermedad mano-pie-boca (EMPB) es una infección de etiología viral que predomina en la población infantil y se presenta generalmente en forma de brotes. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el comportamiento y análisis geoespacial del síndrome mano-pie-boca desde enero de 2019 al 31 de marzo de 2022 en Colombia, a partir de los registros captados en el Sistema de Vigilancia de Salud Pública (Sivigila). Metodología: investigación de tipo descriptivo, retrospectivo. Fuente primaria de datos el Sivigila del 01 de enero de 2019 al 31 de marzo de 2022. Fuentes secundarias: investigaciones epidemiológicas de campo de las entidades territoriales. Resultados: se tomaron 254 casos de síndrome mano-pie-boca del Sivigila. El promedio de edad fue de 6,8 años (media: 3 años), rango de 0 a 35 años y una desviación estándar de 4,28 [IC:3-4,05]. El sexo predominante fue el masculino con el 57,9 % (147). Discusión: el aumento en la notificación para el año 2022 comparado con los años anteriores en Colombia posiblemente estuvo vinculado al retorno estudiantil a instituciones educativas como jardines y hogares comunitarios posterior al cierre durante las medidas de mitigación y control durante la pandemia por COVID-19. En otros países de la región como Perú se detectaron brotes de esta enfermedad, desde el 31 de marzo al 5 de abril 2022, con165 casos de EMPB en cuatro regiones (Ucayali, San Martín, Huánuco y Amazonas). Conclusión: en Colombia se observó un aumento en el número de casos notificados con diagnóstico de síndrome mano-pie-boca para el primer trimestre del 2022 comparado con los años anteriores, especialmente en los departamentos de Norte de Santander, Santander, Risaralda, Caldas, Cundinamarca y San Andrés.
Políticas públicas, participação social e a comunidade trans: um debate acerca da centralidade do trabalho como fator de inclusão social digna no Brasil
Authors: Silva Paulo Henrique Araújo da , Bastos Dafne Fernandez de
Published: September 2023

A presente pesquisa estuda de que maneira a centralidade do trabalho no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro pauta as possibilidades de inclusão social digna da comunidade trans no país, com o objetivo de realizar um levantamento sistematizado acerca das conjecturas teóricas sobre a natureza e as consequências das violações sofridas pelas pessoas trans em esfera trabalhista. Investigou-se também a promessa da Constituição de 1988 de ampliação dos instrumentos participativos na busca por políticas públicas construídas para e por esse grupo. O método empregado foi o hipotético-dedutivo, a partir do qual foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica qualitativa e exploratória que teve três conclusões principais: a) a inserção da comunidade trans no mercado de trabalho é atravessada pelos estigmas da produtividade, da informalização, da precarização e da degradação; b) apenas as políticas públicas de viés transformador, que integrem redistribuição e reconhecimento, são eficazes no tratamento de questões referentes à identidade e à diversidade de gênero; c) conceber as políticas públicas como instrumentos participativos significa compreender tanto a dignidade quanto a pobreza como conceitos construídos socialmente e privilegiar metodologias capazes de captar as percepções dos atores sociais que sofrem com aquele problema e convertê-las em instrumentos para a elaboração dessas políticas.
Economia popular como categoria política reivindicatória para Maria Inés Fernández Álvarez: os limites protetivos do direito do trabalho e a formação da classe social
Authors: Barbosa Rodrigo Camargo
Published: September 2023

O artigo se debruça no objetivo geral de problematizar a necessidade de abertura das arestas epistemológicas do direito do trabalho protetivo, além de expressar a autonomia da vontade coletiva através de um repertório dos sujeitos coletivos de direito, na economia informal, por fora da normatividade formalista do direito coletivo do trabalho. A abordagem qualitativa deste artigo se arvora na revisão bibliográfica de uma literatura interdisciplinar, atual e clássica, na área da sociologia do trabalho, filosofia política, economia política e teoria crítica dos direitos humanos. Fundamental, para tanto, a compreensão de que o trabalho, diante da lógica neoliberal, passa a ser compreendido como custo, razão do fenômeno da acumulação por despossessão a se ampliar a dimensão da subsunção real do trabalho ao capital. A delimitação do problema e hipótese do artigo se amolda na ineficácia da proteção social dos trabalhadores da economia popular diante dos limites do direito coletivo do trabalho, concebido em um contexto de trabalho livre-subordinado em uma sociedade urbana e industrial. Nos resultados da revisão bibliográfica, o artigo confirma a hipótese do limite protetivo do direito coletivo do trabalho na economia popular. Conclui, ao fim, por captar parâmetros de repertórios e a penetração da concepção de classe social nos grupos de trabalhadores informais, como categoria política reivindicatória, forjando o pertencimento ao espaço público de produção de valor-trabalho e na práxis emancipatória.
A face oculta da lista suja do trabalho escravo
Authors: Fagundes Maurício Krepsky , Miraglia Lívia Mendes Moreira
Published: September 2023

O presente artigo objetiva analisar as razões pelas quais algumas empresas foram retiradas do Cadastro de Empregadores que tenham submetido trabalhadores a condições análogas às de escravo, mais conhecido como Lista Suja, a partir do marco temporal de abril de 2017. Foram levantados os nomes das empresas que conseguiram via decisão judicial serem excluídas da Lista Suja, descortinando os motivos pelos quais as sentenças e/ou liminares permitiram que essas empresas previamente flagradas submetendo trabalhadores a condições análogas à escravidão pela Inspeção do Trabalho e tendo sido previamente submetidas ao procedimento administrativo próprio para inclusão no cadastro, fossem excluídas da Lista Suja.
A informalidade que persiste: trabalho doméstico e racialidade no período pós-pandêmico
Authors: Fernandes Kamilla de Freitas , Reis Roberta Carolina Araujo dos , Guimarães Sandra Suely Moreira Lurine
Published: September 2023

O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar, à luz da perspectiva interseccional, a informalidade do trabalho doméstico no Brasil, notadamente, no período pós pandêmico. Desta feita, utilizou-se do método dedutivo, recorrendo à pesquisa bibliográfica e às informações fornecidas por institutos de pesquisa sobre os efeitos da pandemia na vida de mulheres negras. Como é sabido, o trabalho doméstico guarda certa relação de continuidade com as atividades realizadas por mulheres escravizadas no ambiente privado, de modo que, na atualidade, o universo de trabalhadoras domésticas no Brasil é constituído majoritariamente por mulheres negras. O estudo chama atenção para o fato da questão da informalidade do trabalho doméstico já ser uma realidade mesmo antes da pandemia, mas que foi agravado em razão dessa crise sanitária, de modo que no contexto pós pandemia, há inclusive uma dificuldade dessas trabalhadoras retornarem ao mercado, o que as coloca em situação de graves vulnerabilidade. Nesse contexto, é imprescindível compreender os efeitos dessa informalidade nessa atividade laboral. Conclui-se que a pandemia pode ser uma oportunidade séria de reflexão sobre a necessidade de profundas alterações nas estruturas sociais, historicamente engendradas e legitimadas pelas desigualdades de gênero e raça que afetam sobremaneira a vida das mulheres racializadas, como ficou claro no contexto pandêmico.
Comprehensive codon usage analysis of the African Swine Fever Virus
Authors: Kanyema Makoye Mhozya , Cheng Mingyang , Luo Jiawei , Lu Mei , Xing Xinyuan , Sun Yu , Wang Junhong , Lu Yiyuan , Shi Chunwei , Zeng Yan , Yang Guilian , Cao Xin , Wang Chunfeng
Published: September 2023

The non-uniform usage of synonymous codons occurs in genomes of all organisms, including DNA and RNA viruses. The preferential selection of a codon at the expense of other synonymous codons within the same group is known as Codon Usage Bias. The understanding of this bias assists in unveiling the factors driving molecular evolution, as defined by the selection-mutation-drift theory. According to this model, molecular evolution is predominantly driven by mutation, natural selection, and genetic drift. Nevertheless, elements like nucleotide composition, gene length, and protein secondary structure also contribute to this process. Comprehensive genomic analyses that highlight the codon usage preference of the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) are infrequent. ASFV, a hemorrhagic and highly contagious viral disease, almost invariably results in 100% fatality among infected pigs and wild boars. This study, therefore, embarked on a thorough examination of codon usage patterns in ASFV’s complete genomic sequences, an endeavor of great relevance to molecular evolution studies, complex transmission models, and vaccine research. For an exhaustive evaluation of ASFV’s whole-genome codon usage, we used parameters like ENC, RSCU, and CAI. A Principal Component Analysis was carried out to reaffirm the interconnected RSCU lineages based on the continent, and their evolutionary relationships were later elucidated through phylogenetic tree construction. ASFV emerged as a low-biased codon user (ENC = 52.8) that is moderately adapted to its host. Its genome has a high AT composition (64.05%), suggesting the impact of mutational pressure on genomic evolution. However, neutrality plot analysis revealed natural selection’s slight supremacy over mutational pressure. The low codon bias (>45) implies ASFV’s diverse usage of synonymous codons within a given codon family, allowing for effective translation and subsequent successful viral replication cycles. Its moderate adaptation (CAI = 0.56) permits the virus to infect a range of hosts, including reservoirs such as warthogs and bush pigs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the pioneering report providing a comprehensive examination of ASFV’s complete genomic sequences. Consequently, research focusing on viral gene expression and regulation, gene function prediction, parasite-host interaction, immune dysfunction, and drug and vaccine design may find this report to be a valuable resource.
Biomechanical analysis and clinical observation of 3D-printed acetabular prosthesis for the acetabular reconstruction of total hip arthroplasty in Crowe III hip dysplasia
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Wang Fuyang , Ying Jiawei , Xu Minghao , Wei Yuan , Li Junlei , Xie Hui , Zhao Dewei , Cheng Liangliang
Published: September 2023

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effectiveness of 3D-printed integrated acetabular prosthesis (IAP) and modular acetabular prosthesis (MAP) in reconstructing the acetabulum for patients with Crowe III developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The results of this study can provide a theoretical foundation for the treatment of Crowe III DDH in total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods: Finite element (FE) analysis models were created to reconstruct Crowe III DDH acetabular defects using IAP and MAP. The contact stress and relative micromotion between the acetabular prosthesis and the host bone were analyzed by gradually loading in three increments (210 N, 2100 N, and 4200 N). In addition, five patients with Crowe III DDH who underwent IAP acetabular reconstruction were observed.

Results: At the same load, the peak values of IAP contact stress and relative micromotion were lower than those of MAP acetabular reconstruction. Under jogging load, the MAP metal augment’s peak stress exceeded porous tantalum yield strength, and the risk of prosthesis fracture was higher. The peak stress in the bone interface in contact with the MAP during walking and jogging was higher than that in the cancellous bone, while that of IAP was higher than that of the cancellous bone only under jogging load, so the risk of MAP cancellous bone failure was greater. Under jogging load, the relative micromotion of the MAP reconstruction acetabular implant was 45.2 μm, which was not conducive to bone growth, while under three different loads, the relative micromotion of the IAP acetabular implant was 1.5–11.2 μm, all <40 μm, which was beneficial to bone growth. Five patients with IAP acetabular reconstruction were followed up for 11.8 ± 3.4 months, and the Harris score of the last follow-up was 85.4 ± 5.5. The imaging results showed good stability of all prostheses with no adverse conditions observed.

Conclusion: Compared with acetabular reconstruction with MAP, IAP has a lower risk of loosening and fracture, as well as a better long-term stability. The application of IAP is an ideal acetabular reconstruction method for Crowe III DDH.
The biomechanical effects of insoles with different cushioning on the knee joints of people with different body mass index grades
Authors: Jia Rui , Wang Fei , Jiang Jiang , Zhang Hongtao , Li Jianyi
Published: September 2023

Background: Enhancing knee protection for individuals who are overweight and obese is crucial. Cushioning insoles may improve knee biomechanics and play a significant protective role. However, the impact of insoles with varying cushioning properties on knee joints in individuals with different body mass index (BMI) categories remains unknown. Our aim was to investigate the biomechanical effects of insoles with different cushioning properties on knee joints across different BMI grades.

Methods: Gravity-driven impact tests were used to characterize the cushioning properties of three types of Artificial Cartilage Foam (ACF18, 28, and 38) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) insoles. Knee joint sagittal, coronal, and vertical axis angles and moments were collected from healthy-weight (BMI 18.5–23.9 kg/m2, n = 15), overweight (BMI 24.0–27.9 kg/m2, n = 16), and obese (BMI ≥28.0 kg/m2, n = 15) individuals randomly assigned four different insoles during a drop jump. The Kruskal–Wallis test and mixed model repeated measures analysis of variance were used to compare differences among cushioning and biomechanical data across various insoles, respectively.

Results: ACF showed higher cushioning than EVA, and ACF38 was the highest among the three types of ACF (all p < 0.001). During the drop jump, the knee flexion angles and moments of the ACF insoles were lower than those of the EVA insoles, the knee adduction angles of the ACF18 and ACF28 insoles were lower than those of the EVA insoles, and ACF18 insoles increased the first cushion time (all p < 0.05) for all participants in whom biomechanical variables demonstrated no interactions between insoles and BMI. Regarding the BMI-dependent biomechanical variables, compared with the EVA insoles, ACF28 insoles decreased the knee flexion angle and ACF38 insoles decreased the knee adduction and rotation moment in the healthy-weight group; ACF18 insoles decreased the knee flexion angle and ACF38 insoles decreased the knee moment in the overweight group; ACF28 insoles decreased the knee flexion and adduction moment, and ACF38 insoles decreased the knee flexion angle and rotation moment in the obese group (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Insoles with higher cushioning properties could improve knee biomechanics and provide better knee joint protection in people across different BMI ranges.
Enabling technologies of health and safety practices in the fourth industrial revolution: Nigerian construction industry perspective
Authors: Abina Oluwarotimi Gbenga , Ogunbayo Babatunde Fatai , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis
Published: September 2023

Globally, different approaches have been applied to improve workplace safety practices due to the complexities of construction activities that pose different dangers to workers’ safety and wellbeing. This study uses Lagos, Nigeria, as a case study and investigates awareness of 4IR technologies in H&S practices among construction professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. A quantitative research approach was developed to retrieve a structured survey questionnaire from construction stakeholders in the study area. Retrieved data was analysed in three stages: data reliability and validity, descriptive statistics, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The descriptive analysis findings and the Kruskal–Wallis H test revealed no significant difference in professionals’ awareness of 4IR technologies in H&S practices in the construction project delivery in Lagos, Nigeria. The findings of the EFA returned four-factor components of H&S practices enabling technologies in the Era of 4IR as data and robotic technologies, process-based automation, output communication technologies, and wearable hazard detectives’ technologies. This study recommends innovative strategies from the professional bodies through academic and professional development (workshops, training, conferences, and seminars) to improve knowledge of 4IR technologies in H&S practices among professionals.
Separation and flow cytometry analysis of microplastics and nanoplastics
Authors: Li Jingjing , Huang Fuyi , Zhang Guohui , Zhang Zixing , Zhang Xian
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the utilization of flow cytometry for quantitative microplastic analysis has gained prominence. However, the current methods have some drawbacks that need to be improved. The present study aims to enhance the flow cytometry detection protocols for Nile red (NR) stained microplastics, facilitating distinct microplastic and nanoplastic enumeration. By elevating dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentration to 20%–30% within the solution, NR solubility improved and agglomeration reduced. The analysis of 26 replicates of polystyrene (PS) liquid samples through four distinct dot plots highlighted the superior accuracy of dot plots integrating yellow fluorescence. Through systematic staining of varying NR concentrations across three microplastic liquid samples (polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, and polypropylene), the optimal staining concentration was determined to be 15–20 μg/mL. The distributions of agglomerated NR and NR stained PS under two scenarios—dissolved NR and partially agglomerated NR—were compared. Results showed their distinct distributions within the side scatter versus yellow fluorescence dot plot. Counting results from gradient-diluted PS liquid samples revealed a microplastic detection lower limit of 104 particles/mL, with an optimal concentration range of 105–106 particles/mL. Flow cytometric assessment of PS microspheres spanning 150 nm to 40 μm indicated a 150 nm particle size detection minimum. Our investigation validated the efficacy of NR staining and subsequent flow cytometry analysis across eleven types of microplastics. Separation and concentration of microplastics (1.0–50.0 μm) and nanoplastics (0.2–1.0 μm) were achieved via sequential sieving through 50, 1.0, and 0.2 μm filter membranes. We used a combination of multiple filtration steps and flow cytometry to analyze microplastics and nanoplastics in nine simulated water samples. Our results showed that the combined amount of microplastics (1.0–50.0 μm) and nanoplastics (0.2–1.0 μm) after filtration had a ratio of 0.80–1.19 compared to the total microplastic concentration before filtration. This result confirms the practicality of our approach. By enhancing flow cytometry-based microplastic and nanoplastic detection protocols, our study provides pivotal technical support for research concerning quantitative toxicity assessment of microplastic and nanoplastic pollution.
Tutorial: calibration refinement in quantum annealing
Authors: Chern Kevin , Boothby Kelly , Raymond Jack , Farré Pau , King Andrew D.
Published: September 2023

Quantum annealing has emerged as a powerful platform for simulating and optimizing classical and quantum Ising models. Quantum annealers, like other quantum and/or analog computing devices, are susceptible to non-idealities including crosstalk, device variation, and environmental noise. Compensating for these effects through calibration refinement or “shimming” can significantly improve performance but often relies on ad-hoc methods that exploit symmetries in both the problem being solved and the quantum annealer itself. In this tutorial, we attempt to demystify these methods. We introduce methods for finding exploitable symmetries in Ising models and discuss how to use these symmetries to suppress unwanted bias. We work through several examples of increasing complexity and provide complete Python code. We include automated methods for two important tasks: finding copies of small subgraphs in the qubit connectivity graph and automatically finding symmetries of an Ising model via generalized graph automorphism. We conclude the tutorial by surveying additional methods, providing practical implementation tips, and discussing limitations and remedies of the calibration procedure. Code is available at: https://github.com/dwavesystems/shimming-tutorial.
Radiomics analysis enhances the diagnostic performance of CMR stress perfusion: a proof-of-concept study using the Dan-NICAD dataset
Authors: Raisi-Estabragh Zahra , Martin-Isla Carlos , Nissen Louise , Szabo Liliana , Campello Victor M. , Escalera Sergio , Winther Simon , Bøttcher Morten , Lekadir Karim , Petersen Steffen E.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of extracting radiomics signal intensity based features from the myocardium using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging stress perfusion sequences. Furthermore, to compare the diagnostic performance of radiomics models against standard-of-care qualitative visual assessment of stress perfusion images, with the ground truth stenosis label being defined by invasive Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) and quantitative coronary angiography.

Methods

We used the Dan-NICAD 1 dataset, a multi-centre study with coronary computed tomography angiography, 1,5 T CMR stress perfusion, and invasive FFR available for a subset of 148 patients with suspected coronary artery disease. Image segmentation was performed by two independent readers. We used the Pyradiomics platform to extract radiomics first-order (n = 14) and texture (n = 75) features from the LV myocardium (basal, mid, apical) in rest and stress perfusion images.

Results

Overall, 92 patients (mean age 62 years, 56 men) were included in the study, 39 with positive FFR. We double-cross validated the model and, in each inner fold, we trained and validated a per territory model. The conventional analysis results reported sensitivity of 41% and specificity of 84%. Our final radiomics model demonstrated an improvement on these results with an average sensitivity of 53% and specificity of 86%.

Conclusion

In this proof-of-concept study from the Dan-NICAD dataset, we demonstrate the feasibility of radiomics analysis applied to CMR perfusion images with a suggestion of superior diagnostic performance of radiomics models over conventional visual analysis of perfusion images in picking up perfusion defects defined by invasive coronary angiography.
Virtual twin for healthcare management
Authors: Polasek Thomas M.
Published: September 2023

Healthcare is increasingly fragmented, resulting in escalating costs, patient dissatisfaction, and sometimes adverse clinical outcomes. Strategies to decrease healthcare fragmentation are therefore attractive from payer and patient perspectives. In this commentary, a patient-centered smart phone application called Virtual Twin for Healthcare Management (VTHM) is proposed, including its organizational layout, basic functionality, and potential clinical applications. The platform features a virtual twin hub that displays the body and its health data. This is a physiologically based human model that is “virtualized” for the patient based on their unique genetic, molecular, physiological, and disease characteristics. The spokes of the system are a full service and interoperable electronic-health record, accessible to healthcare providers with permission on any device with internet access. Theoretical case studies based on real scenarios are presented to show how VTHM could potentially improve patient care and clinical efficiency. Challenges that must be overcome to turn VTHM into reality are also briefly outlined. Notably, the VTHM platform is designed to operationalize current and future precision medicine initiatives, such as access to molecular diagnostic results, pharmacogenomics-guided prescribing, and model-informed precision dosing.
Identification of small cell lung cancer patients who are at risk of developing common serious adverse event groups with machine learning
Authors: Wanika Linda , Evans Neil D. , Chappell Michael J.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Across multiple studies, the most common serious adverse event groups that Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) patients experience, whilst undergoing chemotherapy treatment, are: Blood and Lymphatic Disorders, Infections and Infestations together with Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders. The majority of the research that investigates the relationship between adverse events and SCLC patients, focuses on specific adverse events such as neutropenia and thrombocytopenia.

Aim: This study aims to utilise machine learning in order to identify those patients who are at risk of developing common serious adverse event groups, as well as their specific adverse event classification grade.

Methods: Data from five clinical trial studies were analysed and 12 analysis groups were formed based on the serious adverse event group and grade.

Results: The best test runs for each of the models were able to produce an area under the curve (AUC) score of at least 0.714. The best model was the Blood and Lymphatic Disorder group, SAE grade 0 vs. grade 3 (best AUC = 1, sensitivity rate = 0.84, specificity rate = 0.96).

Conclusion: The top features that contributed to this prediction were total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and age. Future work should investigate the relationship between these features and common SAE groups.
Insights into post-emplacement lava flow dynamics at Mt. Etna volcano from 2016 to 2021 by synthetic aperture radar and multispectral satellite data
Authors: Beccaro Lisa , Albano Matteo , Tolomei Cristiano , Spinetti Claudia , Pezzo Giuseppe , Palano Mimmo , Chiarabba Claudio
Published: September 2023

Post-emplacement dynamics of lava flows is governed by several factors such as poroelastic deformation of the substrate; gravity-induced repacking and rearrangement of the vesicle-bearing fluid lava and other void spaces by superposed flows; lava densification processes; viscoelastic strain relaxation of the ground caused by the lava load; thermal cooling and contraction of the solid lava; and discrete motion of surface blocks. Here we investigate post-emplacement lava flow dynamics at the Mt. Etna volcano, and we infer on the possible causes by exploiting optical and radar satellite data. Synthetic aperture radar data from Sentinel-1 satellite mission provided high-resolution horizontal and vertical displacement rates and displacement time series of the lava flows emplaced on the Mt. Etna volcano summit from January 2016 to July 2021. Sentinel-2 multispectral data allowed to identify the lava flows boundaries emplaced during the December 2018 and May 2019 paroxysms. Finally, high resolution COSMO-SkyMed radar data allowed to account for the topographic changes generated by the lava emplacement by means of stereo radargrammetry technique. Such an unprecedented dataset provided a full picture of the lava flow dynamics, whose kinematics is governed lava cooling, which in turn produce thermal contraction of the lava body and viscous compaction of the underlying substrate. Both phenomena act at different periods, being the thermal contraction predominant for recent lava flows. Downslope sliding is also invoked, especially for recent lava flows emplaced on high slope areas.
Cooperative and competitive school climate: their impact on sense of belonging across cultures
Authors: Ooi Shi Xin , Cortina Kai S.
Published: September 2023

The role of sense of belonging within an educational context has been well-documented. Previous studies on belongingness using OECD-PISA data showed that the degree to which students feel a sense of belongingness to their school varies across countries. The current study extents the prior findings by analyzing the relationship between the sense of belonging and perceived competitiveness and cooperation in schools using the 2018 PISA cycle, including data from 76 countries. Perceived cooperation across all countries and aggregated on the country level was significantly and positively correlated with belongingness. Belongingness regressed on perceived competitiveness and perceived cooperativity results in both variables being significant predictors in the expected directions. Together, the two climate variables explained 18.8% of the variance on belongingness between countries. Thus, there is robust cross-cultural evidence that sense of belongingness is negatively affected by a competitive and positively by a cooperative classroom climate.
Citizen science benefits coral reefs and community members alike
Authors: Hesley Dalton , Kaufman Madeline , Lirman Diego
Published: September 2023

The field of coral gardening and active restoration has expanded rapidly over the past 2 decades in response to the rapid, global decline of coral reefs. Even with this expansion, the long-term success of coral restoration and ecosystem recovery will still depend on social action to mitigate the local and global stressors plaguing reefs. Rescue a Reef (RAR), a citizen science program, was designed to engage community members and catalyze action through hands-on, experiential opportunities as coral gardeners and restoration practitioners alongside trained scientists. While community-based coral restoration programs can be a powerful platform for education and increase project success, few programs utilize citizen science and even fewer measure and evaluate the long-term impacts of these activities. Here, we describe the benefits of citizen science for coral conservation identified through a mixed methods longitudinal evaluation of RAR after 8 years of citizen science programming. A survey was distributed to all program participants and responses were compared to historical pre-post survey responses of citizen scientists as well as to a control group. We found that despite the passing of time, citizen scientists largely retained their knowledge levels on coral reef-related topics and were significantly more knowledgeable on the topics than a control group. Additionally, RAR successfully developed a strong sense of community, coral stewardship, and program support among its participants. Most importantly, citizen science has the potential to act as a vehicle for positive social change with the majority of participants reporting changes in perceptions (70.5%) and behavior (60.1%) because of their participation in RAR. Thus, the untapped potential of citizen science as a tool for coral reef conservation, restoration, and stewardship must be realized. Furthermore, citizen science projects must embed evaluation in their activities to gather information and evidence on the effectiveness of their activities as well as potential areas for improvement.