bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covid-19 Vaccine Uptake and Associated Factors Among Adult Residents in Fitche Town, North Shewa Oromia, Ethiopia, 2022: Using Health Belief Model
Authors: Hussein Dursa , Taye Debeba , Geleta Tinsae Abeya , Ibrahim Seifu Mohammed , Lakew Meron Seyoum , Teressa Beka , Oyato Befekadu Tesfaye , Birhanu Belete
Published: March 2024

Background
The new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. More than 90% of countries, including Ethiopia, have encountered vaccine hesitancy, which can seriously threaten the successful implementation of vaccination campaigns with low coverage in Africa. This study aimed to determine the use of COVID-19 vaccines and identify associated factors among adult residents in Fitche Town, Ethiopia.
Objective
To assess COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among adult residents in Fitche town, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2022.
Methods
This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October 5–30, 2022, among the adult population of Fiche town residents. Face-to-face interviews were administered via a structured questionnaire. The data were downloaded to Excel from the Kobo toolbox and subsequently exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Variables with a P value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were included in the multivariable logistic regression model. The degree of association was expressed using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of < 0.05.
Results
With a 98.7% response rate, a median age of 35 years and an interquartile range of 60 years, the overall magnitude of COVID-19 vaccine uptake for at least one dose of any vaccine type among adult residents was 46.3% (95% CI; 42.3–50.2%). Respondents who were tested for COVID-19 [AOR = 1.86; 95% CI (1.088–3.170)], those who have family members or friends got vaccinated [AOR = 2.00; 95%CI (1.174–3.427)], had positive attitude towards COVID-19 vaccine[AOR = 2.37; 95% CI (1.372–4.101)],those who were high perceived susceptible [AOR = 4.9; 95% CI (2.647–9.194)], perceived high benefit [AOR = 5.2; 95% CI (2.197–12.385)] and those who had high clue to action [AOR = 2.3; 95% CI (1.270–4.192)] have significant association with COVID-19-vaccine uptake.
Conclusion
COVID-19 vaccine uptake among adult residents in Fitche Town was less than the level of herd immunity needed. Occupation status, ever being tested for COVID-19, friends or family members vaccinated for COVID-19, attitude towards COVID-19, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefit and cue to action were predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake at least once for any type of COVID-19 vaccine. The Fitche Town Health Office and stakeholders should mobilize, vaccinate and activate towards COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
Stroke risk factors and outcomes in Trinidad and Tobago: The START study
Authors: Seecheran Naveen Anand , Maharaj Nicole , Swarath Steven , Maharajh Anujh , Gowrie-Sankar Sesh , Charles Racquel , Lobin Rekha , Richard Srivane , Battersby Stephanie , Rohit Krystelle , Nanan Shenelle , Rohit Kerryn , Maharaj Ravi , Lalla Arianne , Juman Zahra , Thackoorcharan Sheri , Bissram Satesh , Frederick Jean-Marie , Ramcharan Priya , Seecheran Valmiki , Seecheran Rajeev , Peram Lakshmipatti , Motilal Shastri , Giddings Stanley , Sandy Sherry , Ramlackhansingh Anil , Maraj Nicholas , Panday Avidesh
Published: March 2024

Introduction:
This study aimed to assess the risk factors and outcomes of stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) at an academic tertiary medical center in Trinidad and Tobago.
Methods
This prospective cohort observational study evaluated 546 patients admitted with strokes and TIAs at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) from January 2023 to January 2024. Participants’ comorbidities, medications, and neuroimaging findings were recorded. Morbidity and survival outcomes utilizing the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were assessed during their inpatient status and at three months post-hospitalization.
Results
The average age represented was 65 years, with 56% males. Seventy-five percent of patients had a stroke, with ischemic being more common than hemorrhagic. The in-hospital mortality rate was 16%, and the 3-month mortality rate was 26%. Gender was associated with an increased risk of having a stroke compared to a TIA (p-value 0.036). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was associated with an increased odds of hemorrhagic stroke (p-value 0.02). Diabetes mellitus (DM) (p-value < 0.05), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) (p-value < 0.05), intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) (p-value < 0.001) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarct (p-value < 0.001) were predictors of in-hospital and 3-month mortality. Atrial fibrillation (AF) (p-value 0.031) was a predictor of in-hospital mortality. Age (p-value 0.004), heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) (p-value 0.032) and anterior cerebral artery (ACA) infarct (p-value < 0.001) were predictors of 3-month mortality. Age was positively correlated with mRS (p-value 0.013). Ischemic stroke had a median mRS of 3, while hemorrhagic stroke had a median mRS of 5 (p-value < 0.001).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated high-risk subgroups, morbidity and mortality outcomes in patients with stroke in Trinidad. Conventional risk factors such as age, CKD, DM, AF, and HFrEF with specific neuroradiologic findings (SAH, IPH, MCA and ACA infarcts) were all negative prognosticators with poor outcomes in stroke patients in Trinidad. This information may be clinically pertinent in devising comprehensive strategies to attenuate stroke burden. Further, large-scale prospective studies are required to confirm these epidemiologic results.
Trial registration number:
NCT05256550. This study was prospectively registered.
Automated analysis of high-resolution lidar traces large-scale medieval urbanism in highland Central Asia
Authors: Frachetti Michael , Berner Jack , Liu Jason , Henry Edward , Ju Tao , Maksudov Farhod
Published: March 2024

Aerial lidar (light detection and ranging) has emerged as a powerful technology for mapping archaeological urban landscapes, especially where dense vegetation obscures site visibility1,2. More recently, drone-based data recovery has drastically improved the resolution of lidar point clouds, allowing for slight traces of ancient structural features to be computationally detected at centimeters of detail across large sites, particularly in contexts of dynamic erosion such as mountains, where shifting soils irregularly bury and expose archaeological remains. Here we present the results of the first aerial (drone) lidar surveys conducted in Central Asia, collected at two newly discovered medieval sites in southeastern Uzbekistan: Tashbulak and Tugunbulak. Situated at elevations between 2000-2300 m.a.s.l, these urban sites illustrate a newly documented geography of large, high-altitude cities along the mountainous crossroads of Asia’s medieval Silk Routes (8th to 11th c. CE)3,4. Although hidden by centuries of erosion and sedimentation, our pairing of very high-resolution surface modeling with automated feature analysis produces a detailed plan of monumental architecture and fortifications spanning 120 hectares at Tugunbulak, revealing one of Central Asia's largest, high-altitude urban constellations documented above 2000 m.a.s.l.
Single-cell Transcriptomics of Postimplantation Embryos: Unveiling Aneuploidy Effects and Lineage Dynamics
Authors: Kwok Sheila Yat Sze , Haham Lilach Marom , Russell Stewart , Balakier Hanna , Chen Siwei , Viotti Manuel , Madjunkova Svetlana , Madjunkova Svetlana , Librach Clifford
Published: March 2024

Transfer of aneuploid human embryos, as defined by the presence of > 80% cells with an abnormal chromosome complement, is clinically associated with pregnancy loss or congenital abnormalities. However, the transfer of diploid-aneuploid mosaic embryos can lead to healthy live births, indicating the early presence of aneuploid cells might not necessarily compromise embryo developmental competence. Currently, a comprehensive investigation of the molecular mechanisms determining post-implantation aneuploid cell fates is lacking. Here, we leverage cutting-edge human embryo extended culture techniques and single-cell omics to reveal global ploidy-specific transcriptomic signatures in post-implantation human embryos. We integrate cell demultiplexing and copy number variation calling to characterize diverse embryo cell populations. Differential expression and interactome analyses reveal that different intra-embryo environments facilitate distinct gene expression patterns related to energy expenditure, proteostasis, and DNA damage repair in the aneuploid cells. We observe temporary adaptive stress responses in homogeneous aneuploid embryos, whereas key machinery contributing to cell fitness is suppressed in aneuploid cells from mosaic embryos. Our findings point to a diminished survival advantage in aneuploid cells within post-implantation mosaic embryos, leading to self-correction by aneuploid cell depletion.
Cytology of a seminoma in a koi carp (Cyprinus carpio): a rapid diagnostic tool
Authors: Pigoli Claudio , Ghisleni Gabriele , Armando Federico , Grieco Valeria , Ghidelli Andrea , Brambilla Eleonora , Brambilla Eleonora
Published: March 2024

Koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) is an ornamental variety of common carp frequently kept as pets. Since their long lifespan, neoplasia, albeit rare, may occur in these animals, and only a few studies have faced their cytological diagnosis. In the present case, a koi carp was referred to the clinicians due to coelomic swelling. The carp underwent surgery, which revealed an enlargement of both removed testes. Testicular samples were cytologically and histologically examined. The lesion was diagnosed as a seminoma since it was composed of round, large, atypical, and often multinucleated cells with round central nuclei and moderate cytoplasm. These tumors had the same appearance as seminomas in mammals and should be considered among differential diagnoses when coelomic swelling occurs in koi carp. Seminomas in koi carp are diagnosed histologically, but cytology, a rapid and cheap exam executable in all veterinary clinical facilities, could be a relevant preliminary diagnostic tool that may influence the entire diagnostic process.
Seismic response analysis of the suspension core-tube structure
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Dewen , Guo Zhongfa , Huo Yiran , Luo Xiaoxuan , Lei Min
Published: March 2024

Suspension structures have great artistic value and usable value. In this paper, the suspension core-tube structure is studied. Firstly, modal analysis of it and the frame core-tube structure as well as their base seismic isolation structures is carried out to explore the self-vibration characteristics and seismic isolation effect of the structures. Secondly, the nonlinear time-history analysis of the four structures under the action of rare earthquakes in the X, Y, and Z directions is carried out, and their inter-story drift angles, inter-story shear forces, base shear forces, maximum accelerations at the apex of the core-tube, and cantilever beam stresses are analyzed comparatively. Finally, the displacements and loads of the energy dissipators, the maximum horizontal displacements and tensile and compressive stresses of the seismic isolation bearings are analyzed to evaluate the performance of both of them under rare earthquakes. The results show that the frame core-tube structure and the suspension core-tube structure with base seismic isolation bearings can provide good control of their inter-story drift angles and internal forces, etc. The suspension core-tube structure is better than the frame core-tube structure in self-vibration characteristics and controlling the maximum acceleration response at the apex of the core-tube.
Real-time observation of coherent chiral spin waves
Authors: Ha Taewoo , Sim Kyung Ik , Lee Howon , Shin Hyun Jun , Kim Sanghoon , Kim Se Kwon , Kim Jae Hoon , Han Dong-Soo , Choi Young Jai , Park Byung Cheol
Published: March 2024

Magnonics, a crucial domain in information science and technology, utilizes spin waves in magnets as efficient information carriers1–4. While antiferromagnets have been suggested for versatile magnonic platform because of the coexistence of right- and left-handed spin waves, their energetic degeneracy poses challenges for observation through spectral measurements, limiting their applicability. Recent observations of distinct spin wave handedness within the gigahertz regime have reported5 but, are yet to be demonstrated in terahertz (THz) frequencies of antiferromagnetic spin waves. Most of all, the coherence of spin waves is a key aspect of quantum information. Here, employing THz time-domain spectroscopy—a direct, precise, and easy probe for monitoring coherent spin wave dynamics—we discern chiral antiferromagnetic spin waves of opposite phase windings in the time domain, noting their handedness (or chirality) reversal across the angular momentum compensation temperature in ferrimagnets. We establish a principle for directly measuring the chirality of coherent antiferromagnetic spin waves in ferrimagnets with net magnetic moment M ≠ 0 but angular momentum L = 0. Our multidimensional access in the time and spectral domain enables the accurate determination of critical temperature and the dynamic observation of coherent chiral spin waves simultaneously in a single experiment, with potential applications in exploring other quantum chiral entities.
Unveiling the hidden threat: Lasioderma serricorne infestation in Vermicelli and parasitic behaviour of Anisopteromalus calandrae
Authors: Dodiya R. D. , Pathan N. P. , Chachpara B. A. , Sondarava P. M.
Published: March 2024

Grain kept in storage suffers significant financial losses due to the cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne Fab). In addition, cigarette beetle has a tendency to ruin far more food than they really eat. An empirical experiment was carried out to ascertain the level of insect infestation in the vermicelli at Anand, Gujarat, India. Also, per cent weight loss of vermicelli due to infestation of L. serricorne and apparent parasitism of Anisopteromalus calandrae on grub of L. serricorne were calculated. The identified insect was L. serricorne, also known as the cigarette beetle, which harbours vermicelli. The percentage of weight that was loss as a result of its infestation ranged from 18.00 to 68.00 per cent. Notably, grub of L. serricorne was also parasitized by A. calandrae and the apparent parasitism ranged from 48.00 to 85.00 percent. It was first report of Lasioderma serricorne an infestation in vermicelli from India.
What leads people to tolerate negative interest rates on their savings under inflation? Evidence from a Quasi-Experiment
Authors: Bressan Aureliano Angel , Alcântara Guilherme Moreira e , Vieira Kelmara Mendes , de Abreu Daniel Pereira Alves
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the behavior of investors in the face of negative real interest rates through a quasi-experiment with 142 respondents. The study analyzes the impact of changes in the invested volume, time horizon, and interest rates on investment decisions. The findings reveal that investors with a shorter investment time horizon and those who save larger amounts are more likely to tolerate negative real rates. However, the tolerance for negative real rates decreases when investors are provided with information about the effects of inflation. The study found no effects of saving habits and financial literacy on the tolerance for negative real rates. These insights are important for policymakers and financial agents in countries with wide and successive variations in interest rates and inflation, as they can help in defining more effective and sustainable credit and financial inclusion policies.
Improving Well-being Among Women in Neonatology
Authors: Vyas-Read Shilpa , Yanni Diana , Scheid Annette , Sinha Cynthia , Ramsey Kara Wong , Hempel Bridget , Hubbard Dena , Pappagallo Mariann , Vargas Laura , Gowda Sharada , Savich Renate , Dammann Christiane , Vyas-Read Shilpa
Published: March 2024

Objective– To evaluate the factors that improve professional and personal well-being amongst women in neonatology (WiN)
Study Design – A 30-question survey of multiple choice, rank order, and open-ended questions focused on professional and personal factors that affect the well-being of WiN members. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to determine leading factors and themes.
Results– Of 326 respondents, 64% felt “well” professionally over half of the time. Professional well-being was most affected by scheduling flexibility, helping patients, administrative and staffing support, feelings of being valued, and clinical workload/acuity. Time for family and self-care, having domestic help, and scheduling flexibility were factors that most positively impacted personal well-being.
Conclusion – In this national survey, WiN members identified the factors that can improve their well-being. Strategic planning and targeted interventions are urgently needed to enhance work-life integration and job satisfaction, leading to improved neonatal workforce retention and improved quality of patient care.
Study on Spatial Anti-jamming of Link-16 based on Power Inversion
Authors: Hou Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Link-16 data link is a widely used tactical communication system, which is characterized by good confidentiality, high transmission rate and strong anti-jamming ability.Link-16 incorporates variety of anti-jamming techniques including CRC, RS encoding, interleaving, CCSK spread spectrum, MSK modulation, high-speed frequency hopping, and dual-pulse structure, These technologies enable the system to achieve effective interference suppression in both time domain and frequency domain. To address problem when DOA of the desired signal cannot be obtained, the improved power inversion algorithm(PI) is presented. To tackle the problem of the attenuation in the desired direction during high SNR and insufficient interference suppression during low ISR, a matrix reordering-based power inversion algorithm (MRPI) is proposed. The MRPI algorithm employs a diagonal loading technique based generalized linear combination to correct the covariance matrix, then, the covariance matrix is decomposed by eigenvalue decomposition, and the eigenvectors corresponding to interference are discarded to mitigate the impact of interference components on the optimal weights, achieving strong interference suppression in the presence of weak interference.The effectiveness of the MRPI algorithm is verified through simulations by comparing the nulling variations of the desired and interference signal directions in the beam pattern. Additionally, the improvement of the system's anti-interference performance is validated by comparing the output SINR against the input SNR.
Integration of TWC & GPF into exhaust system & validating durability (vibration & thermo- mechanical effect) through virtual analysis & prototype to make system for EURO 6-c norms
Authors: Vibhute Mahesh
Published: March 2024

The aim of the paper was to enhance the existing cold end exhaust system by integrating a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) system to eliminate particulate matter generated during combustion, ensuring compliance with Euro 6.2c emission standards. The current cold end underfloor with Three-Way Catalyst (TWC) lacked a GPF, resulting in non-compliance with Euro 6.2c emission regulations. It focuses on optimizing the inlet cone of a catalytic converter to achieve specific flow-related goals, ensuring the efficient utilization of the entire catalytic converter monolith. A higher uniformity index is crucial for enhancing the catalytic converter's efficiency. Subsequently, the baseline design of the catalytic assembly is examined, and modifications are applied to the inlet cone design. Additionally, Utilizing Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tools to evaluate durability against vibration, thermomechanical effects, and other system properties, designs generated in CATIA software were analyzed and optimized. Subsequently, prototype samples were produced in-house, with SN testing conducted on the UFC inlet section to evaluate joint capacity, comparing it with safety factors. Furthermore, thermal fatigue tests were carried out on the samples to assess system sag resulting from thermal cycling and failure due to thermally induced stress. The observed sag was within the customer's specified limits, and the leak rate remained within regulatory bounds. The CAE tool results showed significant correlation with experimental and prototype findings, indicating no need for modifications based on physical testing results.
Lightweight NAS Super-Resolution model
Authors: Xie Junyan , Liang Jiu , Zhang Yu , Han Mingliang , Wan Jincheng , Yu Shui
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a lightweight image super-resolution reconstruction algorithm (Lightweight NAS Super-Resolution model, LNSR) based on neural network architecture search. The search space of the algorithm is divided into Cell level and Network level. The design of the Cell-level search space is based on the RFDB structure, focusing on searching for combinations of lightweight operators, aiming to build a more lightweight and efficient structure. The Network-level search space focuses on searching the feature connections between Cells, aiming to find the information flow that is most beneficial to improve performance. In order to reduce the time of network architecture search, this paper extends the search strategy of MiLeNAS. At the same time, this paper uses a new type of loss function, which comprehensively considers image distortion, high-frequency detail reconstruction, and model size to promote the model to search for a lightweight and high-performance network structure. The experimental results show that LNSR only needs to spend about 2 days on a 2080 Ti to search for the optimal network structure, and the hardware resources and time consumed are much less than that of FALSR-B. In terms of network scale and performance, LNSR surpasses the artificial design and NAS-based SOTA lightweight method with a lower amount of parameters and calculation.
MEG microstates: an investigation of underlying brain sources and potential neurophysiological processes
Authors: Valt Christian , Tavella Angelantonio , Berchio Cristina , Sportelli Leonardo , Rampino Antonio , Bertolino Alessandro , Pergola Giulio
Published: March 2024

Microstates are transient patterns of scalp configurations of brain activity measured by electroencephalography (EEG) at rest. To date, replicating EEG microstates in magnetoencephalography (MEG) data remains challenging. In this study with 113 participants, we aimed to identify prototypical MEG microstates (mMS) at rest, explore their corresponding brain sources, and relate their temporal features to changes in brain activity during open-eyes (ROE) or closed-eyes resting state (RCE). Additionally, we examined their relationship with stimulus-related activity during an auditory Mismatch Negativity (MMN) task. Meta-criterion validation of individual recurrent scalp topographies of resting-state brain activity at the group level identified six mMS. Four mMSs showed a strong spatial correlation with canonical EEG microstates. Fitting mMSs to the MEG signals revealed that mMSs were associated with different brain sources (mMS A/mMS B: left/right occipito-parietal; mMS C: fronto-temporal; mMS D: centro-medial; mMS F/mMS G: left/right fronto-parietal) and that mMS time coverage differed significantly across experimental conditions. Increases in occipital alpha power in RCE relative to ROE correlated with greater mMS A and mMS B time coverage. In the MMN task, the lateralization of deviant detection was associated with mMS F and mMS G time coverage. These results suggest that the MEG signal can be effectively decomposed into microstates. Microstate source reconstruction and task-related modulations indicate that mMSs are associated with large-scale networks and localized activities. Thus, mMSs can provide insight into brain network dynamics and task- or stimulus-specific brain processes, offering a tool to study physiologic and dysfunctional brain activity.
Chloroplast damage induced by simulated acid rain is delayed in soybean plants pretreated with 24- epibrassinolide: Evidence connected to photosynthesis and biomass
Authors: Lobato Allan Klynger da Silva , Pontes Caio Victor Silva , Gonçalves Maria Andressa Fernandes , Santos Valéria Castro dos , de Carvalho Nayane Cristina Figueiredo , Ferreira Thiago de Souza , Lopes Layse Kristine Corrêa , Silva Breno Ricardo Serrão da
Published: March 2024

Acid rain (AR) is a major climate change-related factor that adversely affects plant metabolism and reduces crop and cereal yield. The natural, biodegradable plant growth regulator 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) has multiple effects on plant performance, including enhancing photosynthesis, antioxidant defences, and growth. In this study, we investigated whether pre-treatment with EBR can protect soybean plants exposed to simulated acid rain (SAR), with a focus on its impact on chloroplast pigments, photosynthetic apparatus, and biomass. The experiment was designed with four treatments, namely, two SAR (0 and 0.5 M H2SO4, designated – SAR and + SAR, respectively) and two brassinosteroid concentrations (0 and 100 nM EBR, defined as – EBR and + EBR, respectively). Five replicates for each of the four treatments were conducted, yielding 20 experimental units used in the experiment, with one plant in each. SAR adversely affected plant metabolism and growth; however, plants pretreated with EBR exhibited less damage to leaf structures and higher biomass under SAR conditions. Chloroplastic pigment degradation was delayed, and was detected as increased chlorophyll a (23%), chlorophyll b (29%), and total chlorophyll (24%) compared to plants receiving similar treatment without EBR. Regarding gas exchange, increments in net photosynthetic rate and water-use efficiency of 44% and 41%, respectively, were observed. These results can be explained by the stimulating effects of EBR pretreatment on stomatal characteristics, including stomatal density. Therefore, this study revealed that exogenous EBR application delayed SAR-induced deleterious effects in soybean plants.
Segmentation of Acute Ischemic Stroke Lesion from Non-Contrast CT Scans
Authors: Nag Manas Kumar , Sadhu Anup Kumar , Das Samiran
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes an advanced deep learning model for detecting and segmenting the brain acute ischemic lesions from Non-Contrast CT scans. This treatise introduced the 3D CoAtNet model for accurately detecting hypo-intense lesions, which even experienced clinicians fail to detect with satisfactory accuracy. The computer-aided detection and segmentation can act as an assistive tool for clinicians. However, most of the prevalent machine learning models were unable to obtain satisfactory detection accuracy. We propose an efficient deep learning model based on the 3D CoAtNet, which combines the attention mechanism with convolution. It helps the shallow encoder-decoder structure to perform better feature extraction, which plays a crucial role in separating brain tissue and ischemic stroke lesions. Dilation rates of 1, 3, and 5 were applied to each encoder convolution block. We obtained the dice similarity score, which was calculated as 75% and the Jaccard index was 69%.
Can Decipheri̇ng the Growth of Meckel’s Diverticulum Help Us to Decide Resection Technique?
Authors: CAN MEHMET , ERGİN Malik , OKUR Özkan , PAYZA Ayşe Demet , POLATDEMİR Kamer , ORAL Akgün
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The employment of laparoscopic surgical techniques has reignited the debate on managing Meckel's Diverticulum (MD) due to its low complication rates. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised regarding completely removing any potential heterotopic mucosa. Our study aimed to compare surgical approaches in MD and assess the effectiveness of simple diverticulectomy.
Methods
The morphometric measurements and the location of the heterotopic mucosa were retrospectively analyzed between 2003 and 2022 for 139 patients with MD regarding growth and symptoms.
Results
Simple diverticulectomy achieved the lowest complication rate (p = 0.03). Length, diameter, and distance to the ileocecal valve increase linearly in the first three years of life (p = 0.00, p = 0.01, p = 0.00) but not in subsequent years As the length increases, the heterotopic mucosa (HM) is displaced distally (p = 0.01). Patients with HM extending to the ileodiverticular border always present with bleeding (p = 0.02).
Discussion
Simple diverticulectomy is a safe technique for MD’s resection. MD continues to grow until the age of 3 years and the HM is displaced distally and moves away from the ileodiverticular junction. Bleeding is the main symptom in patients with HM reaching the ileodiverticular junction. In patients with bleeding or younger than three years of age, simple diverticulectomy may not be considered safe.
Safety and Complications of Continuation of Aspirin Therapy in Patients Undergoing Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy
Authors: Saini Sumit , Thakker Parth U. , Ritts Rory , O’Rourke Timothy K. , Hemal Ashok K.
Published: March 2024

Objective
To evaluate the safety and feasibility of continued perioperative aspirin at the time of robotic assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP).
Materials and Methods
We performed a retrospective review of our IRB approved institutional database of patients who underwent RASP between 2013 to 2022. Comparative groups included patients taking aspirin continued in the perioperative period and those not taking aspirin pre-operatively. The primary outcome was any post-operative bleeding related complication using the modified Clavien-Dindo classification. Secondary outcomes included the identification of risk factors for increased blood loss in the entire study population, operative time, and blood transfusion requirement.
Results
143 patients underwent RASP of which 55 (38.5%) patients had continued perioperative aspirin therapy and 88 (61.5%) patients did not take perioperative aspirin. Baseline demographics were similar between the groups. Patients taking perioperative aspirin had a higher rate of hypertension (74.5% vs 58.0%, p = 0.04) and other cardiovascular disease (30.9% vs 11.4%, p = 0.007). Postoperative complications were similar between the groups (Clavien Dindo ³ 3; p = 0.43). Median blood loss (150 cc vs 150 cc, p = 0.38), percentage drop in hemoglobin (13.4 vs 13.2, p = 0.94) and blood transfusion rate (3.6 vs 1.1, p = 0.56) were similar between the two groups. The median blood loss was 150 ml for the whole study population. On regression analysis, neither aspirin nor any other variable was associated with increased blood loss (> 150 ml).
Conclusions
Aspirin can be safely continued perioperatively in patients undergoing RASP without any risk of bleeding related complications, blood loss, or increased transfusion rate.
Internet use and frailty in middle-aged and older adults: Findings from developed and developing countries
Authors: Li Liang
Published: March 2024

Background
With increasing trend of internet use in all age groups, whether internet use can prevent frailty in middle-aged and older adults remains unclear.
Methods
Five cohorts across the United States, England, 28 Europe countries, China and Mexico were used in this study. Frailty status was assessed by frailty index based on a standard procedure. Generalized estimating equations models, random effects meta-analysis, and mediation analysis were utilized.
Results
In the multicohort study, a total of 155,695 participants were included. The proportion of internet use was varied across countries, ranging from 5.56% in China to 83.46% in Denmark. According to the generalized estimating equations models and meta-analysis, internet use was inversely associated with frailty, with the pooled ORs (95%CIs) of 0.72 (0.67,0.79). Additionally, the association was partially mediated by social activities and slightly pronounced in participants aged 65 and over, male, not working for payment, not married or partnered, not smoking, drinking, and not co-residence with children.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight the important role of internet use in the incidence of frailty and recommend more engagements in social activities among middle-aged and older adults. Grasping the opportunity to spread health information and increase social activities by the internet would decrease the incidence of frailty.
Driving factors of molybdenum (Mo) bioavailability in the Longitudinal Range-Gorge Region of Southwestern China
Authors: Wu Zhiliang , Hou Qingye , Yang Zhongfang , Yu Tao , Li Dapeng , Lin Kun , Li Xuezhen , Li Bo , Huang Changchen , Wang Jiaxin
Published: March 2024

Molybdenum (Mo) plays an important role in maintaining plant growth and human health. Assessment studies on the driving factors of Mo migration in soil-crop systems are crucial for ensuring optimal agricultural and human health. The Mo bioconcentration factor (BCF-Mo) is a useful tool for evaluating Mo bioavailability in soil-crop systems. However, the influence pathways and degrees of different environmental factors on BCF-Mo remain poorly understood. In this context, 109 rhizosphere and maize grain samples were collected from the Longitudinal Range–Gorge Region (LRGR) in Linshui County, Sichuan Province, China, and analyzed for the contents of Mo and other soil physiochemical parameters to explore the spatial patterns of BCF-Mo and its driving factors. Areas with the highest BCF-Mo values were mainly observed in the southern and northern parts of the Huaying and Tongluo mountains. The influence degrees of the selected environmental factors in this study followed the order of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) < elevation (EL) < mean annual humidity (MAH) < slope (SL) < mean annual temperature (MAT). The MAH and NDVI directly influenced the BCF-Mo values. The EL and MAT indirectly affected the BCF-Mo values by influencing the rhizosphere organic matter (OM) contents, while the SL affected the BCF-Mo values by influencing the rhizosphere pH. Therefore, OM and pH of the rhizosphere were the main influencing factors of BCF-Mo in the study area. In summary, the selected environmental factors mainly exhibited indirect influences on BCF-Mo by directly affecting the physicochemical properties of the rhizosphere.
Association of waist circumference with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in diabetes from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2018
Authors: Song Bin , Ji Huizhong , Li Xuehui , Chen Hui , Sun Xueli , Tian Tian , Geng Yang , Wang Xin , Zhang Hengzhong , Wu Yumei , Liu Yan , Pei Changjun , Cao Ling
Published: March 2024

Introduction: In diabetes mellitus (DM), the relationship between waist circumference (WC) and mortality is scarce. Herein, we explored all-cause and cardiovascular mortality relationships with the baseline WC among individuals with DM.
Methods: US adults with DM (3151 women and 3473 men) from NHANES 2003-2018 who had WC measurement at the baseline were included. The national death index was employed to obtain their survival data from the enrollment till 2019. The mortality risk was calculated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect analysis.
Results: Among a total of 6624 participants with diabetes, 621 women and 871 men died during the median follow-up of 6.8 and 6.3 years, respectively. With all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, WC exhibited a U-shaped association among females and a J-shaped trend among males. The adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all-cause mortality given WC values below and above 107.0 cm were 0.97 (0.96–0.98) and 1.04 (1.02–1.05), respectively, among women; and those below and above 89.0 cm were 0.94 (0.90–0.97) and 1.03 (1.02–1.05), respectively, among men.
Conclusions: WC presented a U-shaped relationship among women, and a J-shaped relation among men regarding all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among US adults with DM from NHANES.
The impact of audit committee dimensions on financial reporting efficiency of limited partnership companies listed on the Amman Stock exchange
Authors: Ahmad Alawaqleh Qasim , Aleqab Mahmoud , Bsoul Ruba , AL-Tahat Saqer
Published: March 2024

Currently, the Jordanian economy needs more investment due to the growing financial deficit facing the Jordanian state. Therefore, this study came to increase investors' trust in financial reports issued by Jordanian companies to attract more investments. Based on that, this study will investigate the impact of audit committee dimensions on the efficiency of financial reports of limited partnership companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange. The data were collected from financial reports issued by 52 limited partnership companies for the year 2021. The study used multiple regression to test the hypotheses. Based on the findings, audit committee dimensions explained the variation in financial reports' efficiency which reached 0.629. The audit committee members' size does not significantly affect the financial reports' efficiency. The significance reached 0.287. However, the knowledge of financial management has a significant positive effect on financial report efficiency; the significance reached 0.000 and the effect volume arrived at 0.699. Also, the findings showed that audit committee meetings have a greater effect on financial reporting efficiency than financial management knowledge. The impact was significantly positive, arriving at 0.790, while the significance reached 0.000. The main research conclusion is that limited partnership companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange adopt corporate governance to achieve control effectiveness of audit committees to increase financial reporting efficiency to achieve more investments.
AcknowledgmentThe publication of this research has been supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research and Graduate Studies at Philadelphia University – Jordan.
The influence of water rights transfer policy on farmers' intention to conserve water
Authors: Su Zhaoxian , Fu Hao
Published: March 2024

Exploring the factors influencing farmers' water conservation intentions under the water rights transfer policy is crucial for developing equitable water rights systems and safeguarding farmers' interests. Leveraging data from 608 respondents in the Yellow Irrigation District of Inner Mongolia, China, integrating the theory of planned behavior and the theory of perceived value, we present an analytical framework to investigate the factors affecting farmers' water conservation intentions through structural equation modeling. Our findings reveal the following: firstly, farmers' water conservation intentions are predominantly influenced by subjective norms, behavioral attitudes, perceived behavioral control, perceived benefits, and perceived risks; secondly, perceived behavioral control exerts the most significant impact on farmers' water conservation intention, whereas subjective norms have the weakest influence. This implies that farmers’ water conservation intention is not closely related to subjective norms in the context of mandatory water-saving interventions; lastly, the paths leading to farmers' water conservation intention include ‘perceived benefits/perceived risks → behavioral intention,’ and an indirect path through ‘perceived benefits/perceived risks → behavioral attitudes → behavioral intention’. Consequently, reducing the water-saving technology complexity, harnessing the influence of neighboring communities and water user associations, and enhancing farmers' compensation are effective strategies to bolster farmers' intention to engage in water conservation.
Process benefits of ozone/BAC as pretreatment to membrane-based advanced treatment for direct potable reuse
Authors: Trussell R. Shane , Pisarenko Aleksey N.
Published: March 2024

The state of California, USA, has developed regulations for projects that want to pursue direct potable reuse. One of the most significant requirements is that the treatment train must include ozone and biological activated carbon (ozone/BAC) as pretreatment to a membrane-based treatment train. Ozone/BAC mitigates chemical peaks and diversifies the removal mechanisms of low molecular weight compounds likely to persist in advanced treated water. This paper will present the process benefits of ozone/BAC as pretreatment to the membrane-based treatment train based on testing at a 3,785 m3/d demonstration facility in San Diego, California, USA. One of the most significant benefits of ozone/BAC pretreatment is the improved water quality that benefits not only the product water produced for potable consumption but also the residual stream that is generated with the implementation of the RO process, commonly known as RO concentrate. This improved water quality originates from TOC reduction which is achieved through a combination of chemical oxidation with ozonation and biological growth in the BAC process that results in reduced operating pressures and chemical use for the membrane systems. These process benefits were quantified to develop an overall water cost comparison between a DPR and an indirect potable reuse train.
The method to measure the UV emittance of low-pressure-lamps: a commentary on Schmalwieser et al. (2021)
Authors: Zhang Lianfeng
Published: March 2024

In the paper by Schmalwieser and colleagues, the irradiance on the wall of a cylindrical UV reactor for water disinfection was measured. This is a useful way to measure/evaluate such UV devices. However, this measurement is not a solution for measuring the UV emittance of low-pressure-lamps. In fact, throughout the paper, the method and the emittance measurements that the title claimed were not really provided. The title of the paper claiming to be a ‘standardized method to measure the longitudinal UV emittance’ is misleading.
Definitions and Calculations in Statistics
Authors: Abderrahmane Horimek
Published: March 2024

The Statistical part was included in only one chapter given the ample details provided
for the probability part. For this, the necessary terminology in statistics is presented well as it
should be. Thereafter, the exploitation of the central tendency to determine the confidence
interval and the risk of error according to different situations are presented in detail and with
illustrative examples.
Probability and Statistics: Theory and Exercises
Authors: Abderrahmane Horimek
Published: March 2024

Probability and Statistics: Theory and Exercises is a textbook focused on practical examples of probability theory and statistics, with the goal of giving readers a thorough understanding of mathematical relationships in these subjects. The book is designed for basic courses in probability and statistics, and is aimed primarily at non-specialists and beginner level students.

The book is divided into 2 sections, respectively.

Probability: Includes a primer on set theory, basic probability theory definitions and calculations, combinatorial analysis, random variables and distribution laws

Statistics: Covers basic concepts of descriptive statistics

Key features

- Simple, clear language for easy comprehension of key concepts

- Carefully chosen exercises with solutions for self-learning

- Over 40 Illustrations for clear explanations

- References for further reading and tutorials.
Pengembangan Game “Marko” Dengan Konsep Game-Based Learning untuk Siswa VII SMP
Authors: Prasetyo Ramadhani Eko , Dewanto Adi
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan produk Game "Marko" dengan konsep game-based learning dan membuat media pembelajaran interaktif dengan menggunakan pembelajaran berbasis game. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan dengan menggunakan model pengembangan ADDIE, dengan 90 siswa kelas VII SMP Muhammadiyah 4 Yogyakarta. Game ini dikembangkan menggunakan mesin game Construct 3 dan menerima peringkat tinggi dari para ahli, dengan 96% pakar media dan 88% pakar materi menilainya sebagai media yang layak. Permainan ini juga menerima skala berkualitas berdasarkan standar ISO 25010, dengan keberhasilan 100% dalam fungsionalitas, kompatibilitas, dan kegunaan. Permainan ini mendapat perhatian dan mempertahankan interaktivitas media di antara siswa, dengan skala puas yang menunjukkan keberhasilannya dalam mempertahankan perhatian mereka. Aspek kemudahan belajar juga turut andil dalam kesuksesan permainan.
Implementasi Next.js dan Headless CMS untuk Peningkatan Kualitas Website MI Al Islam Pare
Authors: Maftuh Muchamad Lutfi , Nurkhamid
Published: March 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah: (1) Mengembangkan website sekolah MI Al Islam Pare dengan mengimplementasikan Next.js dan Headless CMS. (2) Menguji kualitas website sekolah MI Al Islam Pare yang sudah mengimplementasikan Next.js dan Headless CMS sesuai dengan standar ISO/EIC 25010 yang ditinjau dari aspek functional suitability, usability, reliability, dan performance efficiency. Metode penelitian yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah research and development (R&D) dengan model pengembangan perangkat lunak waterfall yang tahapannya terdiri dari tahap komunikasi, perencanaan, pemodelan, konstruksi, dan penyerahan kepada pengguna. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah: 1) website sekolah MI Al Islam Pare berhasil dikembangkan dengan implementasi Next.js dan Headless CMS 2) kualitas website telah memenuhi standar ISO/EIC pada aspek (1) functional suitability fungsi pada website berjalan 98,7% atau sangat layak, (3) usability memperoleh skor 75,3% atau layak, reliability memperoleh skor 100% atau sukses, dan performance efficiency memperoleh skor 94,2 (baik) untuk mode Mobile dan 99,86 untuk mode Desktop (baik).
Analisis dan Perancangan Ulang UI/UX E-Learning Besmart Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta dengan Metode User Centered Design
Authors: Mianita Enggal
Published: March 2024

-learning Besmart dari Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta menggunakan LMS Moodle untuk media pembelajaran. Menurut hasil survei pengalaman pengguna yang telah dilakukan terhadap 60 orang responden mahasiswa menggunakan kuesioner User Evaluation Questionnaire menghasilkan grafik benchmark pada skor rata- rata rendah. Pengguna juga mengeluhkan fitur pencarian materi membingungkan karena alur pencarian materi yang panjang. Dari latar belakang tersebut maka penelitian ini memiliki tujuan Memahami masalah dan kebutuhan pengguna saat menggunakan e-learning Besmart. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode user centered design. Data diambil dengan subjek penelitian mahasiswa Departemen Pendidikan Teknik Elektronika dan Informatika. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa diantaranya: (1) penelitian ini berhasil mengembangkan desain prototipe rancang ulang e-learning Besmart. (2) Hasil uji user experience terhadap perancangan ulang desain e-learning Besmart dari analisis didapatkan bahwa 6 aspek skala indikator diantaranya daya tarik, ketepatan, stimulasi berada pada kategori sangat baik, sedangkan untuk indikator efisiensi, kejelasan dan kebaruan berada di kategori baik.