bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel miniature valve-based piezoelectric liquid pump
Authors: liu runyu , liu guojun , wang meng , li xinbo , sun xiaodong , liu xiaopeng , wang conghui
Published: April 2024

Piezoelectric pumps are an important aspect of microfluidics due to their small size, low noise, and lack of electromagnetic interference, which makes them highly versatile. As technology advances, the field of microfluidics requires higher standards for miniaturization, flow rate, and pressure of piezoelectric pumps. This paper introduces two novel miniature valve-based piezoelectric liquid pump with distinct structures: the Mono-port valved piezoelectric micropump (MPVPM) and the Bi-port valved piezoelectric micropump (BPVPM). The primary distinguishing factor between the two is the number of cantilever beam valves at the outlet, with the former featuring one set and the latter featuring two sets. Firstly, simulation software is employed to analyze the inlet/outlet valves, the surrounding flow field, microchannels, and the overall operation process. Secondly, the key structural parameters of the piezoelectric pump are optimized through experiments. Finally, prototypes are fabricated, and the output performance indicators of the proposed two piezoelectric pumps are tested and compared. According to the simulation and experimental results, it appears that BPVPM is capable of discharging the fluid in the chamber at a faster rate than MPVPM; The arc-shaped channel in BPVPM, which has been found to have better energy transfer efficiency; it has been observed that the flow rate and pressure of the piezoelectric pump initially increase with the driving frequency, followed by a decrease, while they increase linearly with the voltage. Under the optimal operating conditions, the flow rate and pressure of MPVPM are 4.4 mL/min and 21 kPa, respectively, while those of BPVPM reach 5.1 mL/min and 25.7 kPa. This suggests that BPVPM has a superior output performance compared to MPVPM. Additionally, both proposed piezoelectric pumps have the same dimensions of 7mm x 7mm x 1.5mm, making them compact and efficient. This piezoelectric pump exhibits good comprehensive output performance in a small size and holds potential practical value in fields such as biomedical, cooling systems, fuel supply, and chemical engineering.
The Potential of Human Defensin 5 (HD5) as a Novel Strategy for Malaria Control: Inhibition of Plasmodium Development in Anopheles
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wang Jing , Li Xin , Yu Shasha , Zheng Dan , Liu Zhilong , Hu Hui , Yang Xuesen , Wang Ying
Published: April 2024

Malaria is a serious threat to human health. The existing vector-based interventions have shortcomings, such as the environmental pollution and strong resistance to chemical insecticides, the relatively slow effects of biological insecticides. It is urgent to look for novel strategies to control malaria such as by reducing mosquito vector competence. Human defensin 5 (HD5) has broad-spectrum and high antimicrobial activity. We are intrigued whether HD5 can block malaria transmission by inhibition of plasmodium development in mosquitoes. So, HD5 was injected intrathoracically into Anopheles stephensi at various time points, and it was found that the infection intensity of Plasmodium yoelii in An. stephensi was significantly reduced by HD5 treatment at 24 h prior to infection or 6 h, 12 h, 24 h post-infection, comparing with the control groups. Then, we found that HD5 treatment significantly up-regulated TEP1 expression at 24 h and 72 h post-infection (hpi), while the expression of MyD88 and Rel1 in the Toll pathway were up-regulated at 24 hpi. Furthermore, RNA interference of MyD88 which is the key upstream molecule of Toll signaling pathway abolished the HD5-induced resistance of mosquitoes against malaria parasites infection. These results indicated HD5 microinjection to mosquito could effectively inhibit the development of malaria parasites in An. stephensi via activating the Toll signaling pathway. This study provides theoretical reference for the application of HD5 in malaria transmission blocking strategies using genetic engineering or transfection methods.
Effects of selenium nanoparticles on the ROS levels, oxidative stress, and expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and P53 genes in SW-480 human colon cancer cell line
Authors: Ghasemi Parvin , Maddah Atefeh , Salehzadeh Alireza , Ziamajidi Nasrin , Kalantary-Charvadeh Ashkan , Abbasalipourkabir Roghayeh , Salehzadeh Maryam
Published: April 2024

Background
Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have special applications in biochemistry and physics that enable various effects, such as oxidative stress or antioxidant activity. In the present study, the effect of SeNPs on SW480 cell lines via MTT assay, determination of ROS and stress oxidative enzymes activities, and gene expression of Bax, Bcl2, and P53 were studied.
Results
The results showed that oxidative stress levels increased after 24 hours of treatment with selected SeNPs concentrations. Moreover, the activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx enzymes decreased significantly. The expression levels of pro-apoptotic genes Bax and p53 were elevated, whereas the expression of the Bcl2 gene was reduced.
Conclusion
Selenium nanoparticles significantly reduced the activity of SOD, GPx, and CAT enzymes and caused an increase in ROS and induction of apoptosis in the cells. Therefore, the induced apoptosis can be caused by the excessive increase of oxidative stress in SW480 cell line.
Lipolysis pathways modulate endocannabinoid biosynthesis and signaling networks in dairy cows’ adipocytes
Authors: Myers Madison N. , Chirivi Miguel , Gandy Jeff C. , Tam Joseph , Zachut Maya , Contreras G. Andres
Published: April 2024

Background
As cows transition from pregnancy to lactation, free fatty acids (FFA) are mobilized from adipose tissues (AT) through lipolysis to counter energy deficits. In clinically healthy cows, lipolysis intensity is reduced throughout lactation; however, if FFA release exceeds tissue demands or the liver’s metabolic capacity, lipid byproducts accumulate, increasing cows’ risk of metabolic and infectious disease. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) and their congeners, N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), are lipid-based compounds that modulate metabolism and inflammation. Their synthesis and release depend upon the availability of FFA precursors and the abundance of synthesizing and degrading enzymes and transporters. Therefore, we hypothesized that eCB production and transcription of endocannabinoid system components are modulated by lipolysis pathways in adipocytes. To test this hypothesis, we stimulated canonical (isoproterenol, 1 µM; ISO) and inflammatory (lipopolysaccharide, 1 µg/mL; LPS) lipolysis pathways in adipocytes isolated from the AT of 5 Holstein dairy cows. Following, we assessed lipolysis intensity, adipocytes’ release of eCBs, and transcription of ECS components.
Results
ISO and LPS stimulated lipolysis at comparable intensities. Exposure to ISO or LPS tended to elevate the release of eCBs and NAEs from adipocytes. ISO enhanced adipocytes’ release of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) but reduced NAE. Conversely, LPS enhanced the synthesis of N-arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA) compared to ISO. Transcriptomic analyses revealed substantial changes in gene expression profiles amongst treatment groups. Notably, ISO enhanced the expression of 2-AG biosynthesizing genes, including INPP5F, GDPD5, and GPAT4. LPS augmented adipocytes’ transcription of NAE-biosynthesizing PTPN22. LPS heightened adipocytes’ transcription of 2-AG degrading COX-2, MGLL, and CYP27B1. Furthermore, LPS enhanced the transcription of HSPA1A and SCP2 whereas ISO increased CD36. ISO promoted the transcription of PPARG, while LPS enhanced expression of TRPV3 and CACNA1C.
Conclusions
Our data provide evidence for distinct modulatory roles of canonical and inflammatory lipolysis pathways over eCB release and transcriptional regulation of biosynthesis, degradation, transport, and ECS signaling in cows’ adipocytes. Based on our findings, we conclude that, within adipocytes, eCB production and ECS component expression are, at least in part, mediated by lipolysis in a pathway-dependent manner.These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic regulation in dairy cows’ AT, with potential implications for prevention and treatment of inflammatory and metabolic disorders.
Disparities in Sexual and Reproductive Health Service Utilization and Associated Factors among Agrarian and Pastoralist Adolescents in South Omo Zone, Ethiopia: A Community-Based Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wolde Belay , Dana Tadele , Kassa Yibeltal , Sahilu Tagay , Katiwaso Nigist
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Around1.2 billion of the world’s population is adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years. In Ethiopia, pastoralists are about 12% of total population. Studies on sexual and reproductive health service uptake in Ethiopia have been conducted, but they hadn’t shown the disparity in service utilization between agrarian and pastoralist settings.
Method: A community-based, comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2023. A multi-stage sampling technique was used, and 502 adolescents were randomly selected to participate in the study. The data were entered into Epi data 4.6 version and the analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Significance was considered at P-value <0.05, in the multivariate analysis.
Results: In total, 98.2% adolescents took part in the study. The overall utilization of SRH services was 27.4% (95%CI: 26.9, 27.8). There was a significant difference in SRH service utilization between agrarians 36% (95%CI: 35.5, 36.5) and pastoralists 18.7% (95%CI: 18.3, 19.1). Level of Education:-Uneducated Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR=0.187, 95%CI 0.065, 0.536), father/mother encouragement (AOR=2.817, 95% CI 1.120, 7.089), parent discussion (AOR=3.729, 95% CI 1.315, 10.574), and distance to SRH service (AOR=3.645, 95% CI 1.423, 9.337) were determinants of adolescent SRH service utilization.
Conclusion: Overall, ASRH service utilization in the study area was very low. Promoting father/mother encouragement and establishing SRH service centers at health institutions and school levels should be emphasized. The health sector and other stakeholders need to strengthen their efforts to establish SRH services near adolescents in places where they do not yet exist, in both agrarian and pastoralist areas.
Exploring the Associations between the Biomechanical and Psychological Mechanistic Pathways of Lower Back Pain Development amongst Persons with Lower-Limb Amputation
Authors: Withey Alexandra , Cazzola Dario , Tabor Abby , Seminati Elena
Published: April 2024

Introduction
The global rise in lower-limb amputations is mainly due to diabetes and vascular complications. Amputations cause serious physical and psycho-social disabilities which impair locomotion and compromise patients quality of life. Biopsychosocial factors such as altered gait parameters, poor prosthetic fit, depression, fear avoidance behaviours and stigma increase the risk of individuals incurring lower back pain; the leading cause of secondary disability amongst persons with lower-limb amputation. Exploring the potential mechanistic pathways of lower back pain development is important to inform timely patient-centred programmes of care. Currently, limited information exists to inform the design of such programmes. Thus, there is a pressing need to understand the bio-behavioural, psychological, and social features of individuals with lower-limb amputation in the presence of lower back pain.
Methods and analysis
This proposed protocol employs a prospective longitudinal study design that aims to explore the determinants of lower back pain amongst 30 adults with unilateral lower-limb amputation over 12-months. Biomechanical gait variables, trunk and lower-limb muscle activations, and objective pain measurements will be monitored every 3-months, and their relationship will be investigated. This information can be used to explore the characteristics of lower back pain and will inform future care management and rehabilitation processes. A data repository will be created and will be accessible through the University of Bath library website (https://library.bath.ac.uk/home).
Ethics and dissemination
This research has ethical approval from HRA ethics (REC reference: 23/EE/0090) agreed 28/04/23. The study results will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed clinical biomechanics journal, and disseminated through conference presentations.
Trial reference number
The study is registered at IRAS ID: 321729 and at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06243549.
Enhancing Medical Education for Undergraduates: Integrating Virtual Reality and Case-Based Learning for Shoulder Joint
Authors: He Yu , Wang Ziliang , Sun Nianyi , Zhao Yinuo , Zhao Gang , Ma Xun , Liang Zihui , Xia Shenglin , Liu Xueyong
Published: April 2024

Background The integration of Virtual Reality (VR) with Case-Based Learning (CBL) has the potential to revolutionize undergraduate medical education, particularly in complex subjects like anatomy and rehabilitation of the shoulder joint. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of this innovative approach in enhancing learning outcomes and knowledge retention.Methods A comprehensive five-week educational program was developed, combining traditional lecture-based learning with VR-enhanced CBL. The study involved 82 undergraduate students from China Medical University, divided into groups receiving different combinations of VR and CBL. Student performance was evaluated through tests and questionnaires.Results In the study of anatomy-related courses, the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) technology with Case-Based Learning (CBL) yielded significantly higher results (87.71 ± 5.60) compared to traditional methods (82.59 ± 6.64), reaching a statistically significant difference (P<0.05). This provides compelling evidence of VR's potential to enhance student engagement and knowledge retention. In the context of physiotherapy-related courses, however, while the test scores of the VR-combined CBL group (81.85 ± 5.99) were marginally higher than those of the traditional CBL group (79.02 ± 7.57), this difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05).Conclusion The present study provides preliminary evidence for the benefits of incorporating VR into medical education, particularly in anatomy. While the results are promising, further research is needed to explore the optimal integration of VR and CBL in rehabilitation studies and to assess their long-term impact on student learning and clinical performance.
Association of Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms with Caries Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Qin Xiurong , Wang Mei , Wang Linlin , Xu Ying , Xiong Shijiang
Published: April 2024

Background In this study, we aimed to evaluate the association of Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms with caries risk in children (< 18 years).Methods The electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, Cqvip, and Wanfang were searched for observational studies on the relationship between VDR polymorphisms and caries, including cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional studies. Quality assessment of selected studies was conducted using the Newcastle Ottawa scale. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) values for associations of individual VDR polymorphisms with dental caries were calculated based on four genetic models: allelic, recessive, dominant, and overdominant. Of 79 studies considered, 10 (nine case-control and one cross-sectional) were selected for analysis; the studies involved seven VDR single nucleotide polymorphisms: rs731236, rs739837, rs10735810, rs2228570, rs7975232, rs1544410, and rs11568820.Results Alleles C and T of rs10735810 were significantly differently distributed in the caries and caries-free groups (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.30–2.30, P = 0.03), with CC + CT genotypes at this locus associated with greater risk of developing caries than the TT genotype (OR = 1.87, 95%CI: 1.15–3.04, P = 0.01). Further, TT + CC genotype at rs731236 was associated with a 1.33-fold higher risk of caries development than the TC genotype (OR = 1.33, 95%CI:1.06–1.67,P = 0.02). On subgroup analysis, the association between rs731236 and caries risk was affected by dentition type, ethnicity, and genotyping method (permanent dentition: OR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.07–2.03, P = 0.02; Asian: OR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.02–1.87, P = 0.03; quantitative PCR test: OR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.10–2.10, P = 0.01). Genotype distributions at rs1544410, rs739837, rs2228570, and rs7975232 did not differ significantly between the caries and caries-free groups.Conclusions Caries risk was associated with rs731236 and rs10735810 genotypes, and rs731236 may be a risk factor for permanent teeth caries among Asian people.
In vitro assays with Kappaphycus alvarezii for the bioremediation of coastal eutrophic systems in Southeast Brazil
Authors: Oliveira-Moreira Raquel , Mello-Guimarães Teresa Cristina , Silva Michele Maria , Borges-Barreto Manuella , Pereira Tatiane Rocha , Wasserman Maria Angélica , Wasserman Julio Cesar
Published: April 2024

The commercial alga Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) L.M.Liao 1996 may constitute a good bioremediator for eutrophicated coastal environments. In the present research, the ability of K. alvarezii to remove nutrients from the water was tested via in vitro experiments under various conditions. Cultivated K. alvarezii samples were obtained from commercial aquaculture in Angra dos Reis, Brazil, together with large volumes of water from the same area and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Eight experimental sets were prepared with variable concentrations of nutrients, and pre-weighed pieces of algae, subjected to artificial illumination. The physical-chemical parameters were continuously monitored. Water samples were periodically analyzed for ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphate. Algal samples were collected at the end of the experiment to quantify biomass growth/decay, nitrogen and phosphorus tissue contents. The ammonium concentration in the water decreased due to preferential consumption of this nutrient by the algae, as well as oxidation. The algae were able to incorporate nutrients in their tissues; however, they were not able to promote a reduction in dissolved concentrations. Nutrient removal rates were elevated and seemed to occur in microcosms at the very beginning of the experiments, but release was observed in the end. However, phosphorus removal was attained in the microcosms that did not receive artificial fertilizers. It was concluded that the use of K. alvarezii as a bioremediator in coastal lagoons is possible, but more complex in vitro and in situ experiments are still necessary for a better understanding of removal processes.
Hyperhomocysteinemia Increases the Risk of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque in the High-Risk Group of Stroke: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Niu Shenna , Tian Long , Zhang Jie , Gao Yan , Xiao Huicong , Yao Shumei , Qu Chuanqiang , Chen Hong
Published: April 2024

Hyperhomocysteinemia (Hhcy) is associated with ischemic stroke. Controlling or reversing the progression of atherosclerotic plaque is essential to prevent ischemic stroke. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia and the risk of carotid atherosclerotic plaque in the high-risk population of stroke in China. We included the high-risk population of stroke over 40 years old in East China for analysis, measured the plasma total homocysteine level, and evaluated the carotid atherosclerotic plaque by ultrasound. After adjusting for demographic and vascular risk factors, multiple machine models were applied to analyze the correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and carotid atherosclerotic plaque. The logistic model achieved the best performance at AUROC (0.720), followed by Bayes (0.708), and KNN (0.665). SVM with random forest did not work well. The results showed that 17006 (76.6%) of 22192 subjects had carotid atherosclerotic plaque. Among the population ≧ 55 years old, HHcy was significantly associated with carotid atherosclerotic plaque. HHcy (OR = 1.17, P < 0.001) is a risk factor of carotid atherosclerotic plaque. We conclude that hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for carotid atherosclerotic plaque in stroke high-risk population.
Improving Emergency Medicine Resident Pediatric Lumbar Puncture Procedural Performance through a Brief Just-In-Time Video Intervention
Authors: McGuire Sarayna S. , Finch Alexander S. , Thomas Jenna M. , Lazaro Octavio , Hevesi Sara A. , Mullan Aidan F. , Homme Jim L.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Emergency medicine (EM) trainee comfort level with lumbar puncture (LP) has decreased over time due to changing practice guidelines, particularly amongst pediatric patients. We implemented a “just in time” (JIT) brief educational video based on a validated LP evaluation checklist to improve trainee efficiency and competence in LP performance.
METHODS
Our experimental study took place January-June 2022 within a large, academic Midwestern emergency department (ED) with an established 3-year EM residency program. All 9 interns performed a timed diagnostic LP on an infant LP model in January, scored according to a previously validated LP Performance Scoring Checklist. In June, interns repeated the timed LP procedure directly after watching a brief educational video based on major checklist steps. The study was deemed exempt by the Institutional Review Board.
RESULTS
All interns completed both assessments. At baseline, interns had logged performance of median 2 (IQR 0–5) LPs and spent 12.9 (10.3–14.4) minutes performing the procedure. Post-intervention, interns had logged an additional median 2 (0–5) LPs and completed the procedure faster with an average time of 10.3 (9.7–11.3) minutes (p = 0.004). A median of 5 (4–7) major steps were missed at baseline, compared to 1 (1–2) at time of post-intervention assessment (p = 0.015).
CONCLUSION
Development of a brief educational video improved efficiency and competency amongst our intern class in performing an infant LP when viewed Just-In-Time. Similar efforts may improve education and performance of other rare (or decreasing in frequency) procedures within EM training. Future research with other procedures, larger learner cohorts, and comparing JIT approaches will be necessary to determine whether JIT videos based on validated assessment checklists are truly “best practice”. Formal evaluation of the effect of similar “standardized” videos on cognitive load of learners and supervisors is also an important avenue of future research.
Complexity measure in natural time analysis identifying the accumulation of stresses before major earthquakes
Authors: Varotsos Panayiotis , Sarlis Nicholas V , Nagao Toshiyasu
Published: April 2024

Here we suggest a new procedure through which one can identify when the accumulation of stresses before major earthquakes
(EQs) (of magnitude M 8.2 or larger) occurs. By analyzing the seismicity in the frame of natural time, which is a new concept of time introduced in 2001, we study the evolution of the fluctuations of the entropy change of seismicity under time reversal for
various scales of different length i (number of events). We find that anomalous intersections between scales of different lengths
i are observed upon approaching an extraordinary major EQ occurrence. The investigation is presented for the seismicity in
Japan since 1984 including the M9 Tohoku EQ on 11 March 2011, which is the largest EQ ever recorded there, as well as for
the seismicity in Mexico where the deadly Chiapas M8.2 EQ in 2017 is Mexico’s largest EQ in more than a century. On the
basis of this new complexity measure, a preprint of the present work submitted to the arxiv.org on 5 December 2023 anticipated
the recent M7.6 EQ on 1 January 2024 which caused extensive damage in the west coast of Japan.
Calculated hydration free energies become less accurate with increases in molecular weight
Authors: Ivanov Stefan M.
Published: April 2024

In order for computer-aided drug design to fulfil its long held promise of delivering new medicines faster and cheaper, extensive development and validation work must be done first. This pertains particularly to molecular dynamics force fields where one important aspect – the hydration free energy (HFE) of small molecules – is often insufficiently and deceptively analyzed and reported. While most benchmarking studies report excellent accuracies of calculated hydration free energies – usually within 2 kcal/mol of the experimental values – we find that deeper analysis reveals significant shortcomings. Herein, we report a dependence of HFE prediction errors on ligand molecular weight – the higher the weight, the bigger the prediction error and the higher the probability the calculated result is erroneous by a large residual. We show that in the drug-like molecular weight region, HFE predictions can easily be off by 5 kcal/mol or more. This is likely to be highly problematic in a drug discovery and development setting. These findings should be taken into consideration during development and testing of the next generation of force fields, if they are to usher in the next generation of antineoplastics.
Investigation of Network Selection Decisions for Mixed Deployment of SA and NSA 5G Network
Authors: Falowo Olabisi
Published: April 2024

As migration from 4G network to 5G network gains momentum across the world, network operators are faced with different options when migrating from the 4G to a unified 5G network. These options have been broadly classified as standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) options. While an operator can migrate from the 4G network to the 5G network in one step, using the SA 5G deployment option, for most network operators, the migration from the 4G network to a unified 5G network is a multistage process, starting with an NSA 5G deployment option. This paper investigates network selection decisions for a mixed deployment of NSA and SA 5G network, along the migration path to the realization of a unified 5G network. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper investigating network selection decisions in a 5G network with mixed deployment of NSA and SA options. A Markov model has been developed to investigate the blocking of MBB, eMBB, and uRLLC services from different categories of users in the network, based on their equipment capabilities and service subscription profiles. Moreover, the developed model has been used to investigate the effect of users’ equipment capability on average utilization of the heterogeneous network. Simulation results show that users’ equipment capability and users’ service subscription profiles significantly affect service blocking probabilities and average utilization in the heterogenous network. The study underscores the importance of upgrading users’ equipment and users’ subscription profiles before reaping the connection-level QoS benefit of deploying the 5G network.
Etiology, patterns and short-term outcomes of lower urinary tract trauma in males admitted at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda
Authors: Atwine O , Ainomugisha Racheal , Mwesigwa Marvin , Tayebwa E
Published: April 2024

Background: Trauma poses a major public health challenge in Africa. This study was conducted to establish the etiology, patterns and short-term outcomes of patients with lower urinary tract trauma in males admitted at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital
Methods: This was a hospital based prospective cohort study done on participants with lower urinary tract trauma admitted at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital for a period of eight months from December 2022 to July 2023.
Results: A total of thirty-nine (38) male participants were consecutively selected and enrolled into the study. The over all median age was 25, interquartile range (5-37) years. A total of 50 lower urinary tract injuries were recorded. Urethra was the most injured organ at 70% (n=35). Injuries due to motor vehicle crush was the commonest cause of trauma at 52% (n=26). Urethral complete tear was the most common urethra injury pattern at 62.9% (n=22) while bladder contusion was the commonest bladder injury pattern at 60% (n=9). Anterior urethra was the most injured part at 60.0% (n=21). Overall complication stood at 57.9% (n=22) with urethral bleeding being the commonest at 36.8 % (n=14). Most patients stayed in the hospital longer than one week 65.8% (n=25). Mortality was 5.3% (n=2).
Conclusion: Motor vehicle crush is the leading cause of lower urinary tract trauma in males; urethra is the most injured organ and urethra bleeding is the commonest complication following treatment. Overall mortality is low.
Categorical testing of the viral load of people living with HIV to measure the intensity of the epidemic and the effectiveness of the response in the community: a prospective cohort study in Xinjiang China
Authors: He Qian , Ni Yongkang , Li Yuefei , Hu Xiaoyuan , Hu Xiaomin , Ni Zhen , Zeng Changyu , Akbar Azmat , Xu Bixin , Ni Mingjian
Published: April 2024

Background: New indicators of HIV transmission potential are being actively explored. We aim to categorical testing of the viral load of people living with HIV in order to explore new indicators to measure the intensity of the epidemic and the effectiveness of the response in the community.
Methods: A dynamic cohort study was conducted in Yining to monitor the viral load (VL) of all individuals with HIV/AIDS from 2017 to 2019. Different PVL surrogate values were calculated and the strength of the associations between different PVL surrogates and HIV new incidence, antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, virus unsuppression, and viremia prevalence was assessed. Then we used PVL surrogate markers to describe the current status of HIV transmission potential in different characteristic populations and different communities.
Results: All the values of different PVL indicators showed a decreasing trend year by year (P < 0.05). A significant correlation was observed between the decrease in community viral load (CVL) alone and the increase in the incidence of new HIV infections. Mean CVL (r = 1.000, P = 0.006), geometric mean CVL (r = 1.000, P = 0.001) were positively associated with HIV new infection. Both before and after imputation with missing values showed that mean CVL and geometric mean CVL were significantly associated with ART coverage and viral unsuppression (P < 0.05). Relatively high CVLs were found for males, ≤25 years of age, elementary school or less, other place of domicile, other type of health insurance, other source of sample, nonmarital noncommercial heterosexual contact, and nonmarital commercial heterosexual contact in the different characteristics groups. Community-based cross-sectional analyses showed a positive correlation between CVL, Viral unsuppression rate, and Viremia prevalence, and a negative correlation between ART coverage rate and the first three indicators, suggesting that “community 10” is the hotspot for HIV epidemics in the city.
Conclusions: CVL can be used as an indicator evaluate the HIV transmission potential. To further reduce the HIV transmission potential, targeted interventions should be developed on key populations and hotspot communities.
Cervical Balloon Induction in LDRP Unit: Effects on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes for Primiparous Women
Authors: Gao Chunfeng , Ma Qiang , Dong Jinhua , Chen Fang , Ni Qingqing
Published: April 2024

Background: To compare the delivery outcomes and childbirth experiences of primiparous women using double-balloon catheters to induce labor in LDRP (labor waiting, delivery and postpartum recovery) unit and in ordinary delivery room.
Methods: 160 cases of primiparous women undergoing induced labor with double-balloon catheters in Jiaxing Women and Children's Hospital affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University between January 2022 and October 2022 were selected as the study group, either in LDRP unit or in ordinary delivery room. Age, gestational week, BMI, induced labor outcome, and blood loss at 2 hours postpartum were evaluated and compared between the two groups. Three days after delivery, the women assessed their childbirth experience using the Chinese version of Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ-C). The data was analyzed utilizing IBM SPSS Statistics.
Results: Women in the LDRP group experienced shorter time of total labor stage (333.16 min vs 434.88 min, P < 0.01) and first stage of labor (262.87 min vs 360.34 min, P < 0.01). Incidence of intrapartum fever in the LDRP group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.01). There were no differences in the rates of cesarean section (CS) or postpartum hemorrhage (P > 0.05). Additionally, rates of postpartum infection, neonatal admissions, 5min-Apgar scores, and indications for CS were similar in the two groups (P > 0.05). The mean total CEQ-C score for women in LDRP was 3.48 (SD 0.25). In “Own capacity it was 3.38 (SD 0.40), in “Professional support” it was 3.91 (SD 0.19), in “Perceived safety” it was 3.16 (SD 0.51), and in “Participation” it was 3.22 (SD 0.56). When comparing women in ordinary room, differences were detectable (p < 0.01).
Conclusion LDRP can improve the outcome of cervical balloon induction and enhance the experience of childbirth.
Phenotypic variation and relationships in body weight and composition traits of domesticated snakeskin gourami (Trichopodus pectoralis) at harvest
Authors: Sutthakiet Onprang , Suwansopee Thanathip , Na-Nakorn Uthairat , Koonawootrittriron Skorn
Published: April 2024

Phenotypic variation in organisms arises from diverse sources, each with unique implications for adaptability to selection and environmental changes. This variation is particularly significant in tropical aquaculture, exemplified by the snakeskin gourami (Trichopodus pectoralis), a popular whole-body sale fish. Understanding these variations is crucial for optimizing animal breeding and commercialization efforts. This study explores previously uncharted territory by investigating the relationships among body weight (BW), total length (TL), body depth (BD), and Fulton’s condition factor (K) using 8,345 records of domesticated snakeskin gourami fish at the 9-month harvest point. Interrelationships between these traits and the associations between BW and other characteristics were examined and compared for each sex. Sexual dimorphism was evident, with females being significantly more extensive, and it showed higher variation and a stronger correlation between traits than males in all characteristics. The population was categorized into six market sizes (XL, L, M, S, XS, and XXS), with XXS being the most abundant (36.35%), followed by XS, S, M, L, and XL (31.95%, 23.30%, 8.06%, 0.31%, and 0.04%, respectively). There was mostly a male population in the XS and XXS size categories compared to a female population. Strongly significant correlations emerged (p < 0.0001), with BW highly associated with TL and BD and moderately associated with K. This study underscores the importance of understanding sexual dimorphism and trait correlations in domesticated snakeskin gourami for informing selective breeding and commercial strategies in tropical aquaculture.
Combinations of synbiotics and herbs in fed diets to enhance immunity and growth of Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer
Authors: Susanto Gregorius Nugroho , Budi Khrsina Lazuardi , Antoro Suci , Brite Margie , Sumardi Sumardi , Hadi Sutopo
Published: April 2024

Seabass, Lates calcarifer, has high economic value; hence, it must be cultivated optimally. Constraints in cultivation include pasteurellosis and vibriosis, which disrupt growth and affect mortality. Prevention of pathogenic bacteria can be carried out by boosting fish immunity. Providing natural herbs is one way to increase immune response and prevent disease attacks. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the immune response and growth performance of seabass provided with synbiotics and different herbs in the feed. The study was conducted at the Lampung Marine Aquaculture and Fishery Center using a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replicates. The treatments were T1 (- control), T2 (+ control), T3 (synbiotics), T4 (herbs), and T5 (mixed). The results indicated that the highest leukocyte number and phagocytosis rate were found in T5 at 5.67×106 cells mL-1 and 67.57%, respectively, while the highest phagocytosis index was in T2 at 1.87. The most significant increases in length and weight gain, FCR, and SGR were found in T5 at 12.6 cm, 97 g, 1.62, and 3.86% day-1, while the highest SR at 100% was found in T3 and T5. In conclusion, T5 significantly affected seabass's immune response and growth performance.
EEG-ECeG coherence mapping of human cerebro-cerebellar projections
Authors: Todd Neil P M , Govender Sendhil , Hochstrasser Daniel , Keller Peter E , Colebatch James G
Published: April 2024

The cerebellar and cerebral cortices are powerfully connected via reciprocal, crossed projections which mediate their coordination in motor, cognitive and affective processes. In the present paper we demonstrate non-invasive imaging of crossed cerebro-cerebellar connectivity by means of wavelet coherence. In a sample of six healthy adult subjects, we recorded EEG and the electro-cerebellogram (ECeG) with a 10% cerebellar extension montage during voluntary left and right index finger and foot movements. EMG was also recorded from finger extensors and flexors and from the tibialis anterior and soleus muscles and was used to generate triggers for movement related averaging (-2000 to + 2000 ms). Wavelet power and EEG-ECeG coherence were computed over the 4 s epoch for each electrode and for statistical analysis both cerebral and cerebellar grids centred around Cz and SIz. Movement related changes were observed in both cerebral and cerebellar power, most significantly in the high delta band (1.5 to 3 Hz). Significant movement related change in d-band EEG-ECeG coherence was also observed and to a lesser extent a-decoherence. Of particular note, when lateralised seeds were selected (C1 vs C2 and PO11 vs PO12) the low-frequency (d, q, a, b) coherence was distributed contralaterally for both cerebral and cerebellar seeds, likely reflecting the underlying crossed cerebro-cerebellar projections. However, the two projections differed in their spatial distribution whereby the cerebellar (PO11/PO12) seeded coherence was concentrated towards the cerebral midline while the cerebral (C1/C2) seeded coherence was distributed away from the cerebellar midline. The cerebral (C1/C2) seeded coherence also extended anteriorly to temporal leads suggestive of temporal lobe involvement. Evidence was also apparent of a distinct high-frequency (VHF/UHF) crossed projection which differed again in its spatial distribution. These findings further support the value of recording cerebellar ECeG and demonstrate its potential to contribute to the understanding of cerebro-cerebellar function and dysfunction.
Effects of inulin on the growth performance and tolerance in adverse environments of several probiotics
Authors: Fan Yan-Ge , Ning Yu-Chang , Chen Jin , Cao Chang-Qing , Wang Hui-Feng , Han Nan-Feng
Published: April 2024

This study focused on the effects of inulin on growth performance and tolerance in an adverse environment of several probiotics Bacillus subtilis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Lactobacillus fermentum. The results showed that inulin could significantly promote the growth of B. subtilis, S. cerevisiae, and L. fermentum (p < 0.05). When inulin replaced glucose, the ethanol concentration in S. cerevisiae fermentation broth could be increased by 15%. Inulin could significantly improve the acid tolerance of B. subtilis under acidic conditions. It could significantly improve the bile salt tolerance of L. fermentum and S. cerevisiae and significantly increase the ethanol tolerance of L. fermentum and B. subtilis. It could also significantly increase the survival rate of these three probiotics under low-temperature conditions. Our findings prove that inulin positively affects the growth ability and poor environmental tolerance of probiotics, and can be used as a prebiotic for several probiotics.
Immersion Cooling for Lithium–Ion Batteries at High Discharging Rates
Authors: Hong Hanchi , Shi Xu , d`Apolito Luigi , Xin Qianfan
Published: April 2024

Consumer demand for high-power electric vehicles has been increasing. Batteries have been used in high-heat-generation conditions more often with fast charging and discharging. The need for more advanced battery thermal management systems (BTMS) has been increasing since recent years. Application of different types of coolants with immersion cooling with high-rate discharging was studied. Immersion cooling was applied to an 8S3P battery module. The cooling performance of the battery module at high discharging rates was studied by using five different types of dielectric coolants. The immersion cooling model of battery module was established. The cooling performance with different types of coolants at high discharging rates (4C, 6C, and 8C) was analyzed. The effect of coolant flow rate on battery cooling performance was also studied. To make a comprehensive evaluation on the coolants used for immersion cooling at high discharging rates, an analysis was conducted by assessing power consumption and temperature uniformity. Cooling efficiency, power consumption, and temperature uniformity were considered in coolant selection, and coolant flow rate had a significant effect coolant selection. This study can provide a guidance for the design of BTMS with immersion cooling in electric vehicle applications
The Investigation of the Effects of Group Exercise Treatment on Psychological Status, Muscle Strength, Respiratory Performance and Balance Parameters in Hospitalized Patients in Psychiatry Departments: A Randomized Clinical Study
Authors: YILMAZ Neslihan ALTUNTAS , AYDIN Adem , GICA Şakir , ÇİÇEK Beyza , Kılınç Derya , Venç Kerime Şevval
Published: April 2024

Objective
To investigate effects of physical activity on psychological state, muscle strength, respiratory capacity, and balance in patients hospitalized in the psychiatry department.
Method
Forty-six patients with psychiatric disorders were divided into two groups by simple randomization. The study was completed with 30 participants in exercise group (n = 15) and controls (n = 15). Height, weight, age, marital status, education level, year and family history of psychiatric diagnosis were recorded. The Functional Reach Test for dynamic balance, the Romberg Test for static balance, the 30-sec Sitting and Standing Test for lower extremity endurance, front part strength measurements of Quadriceps Femoris and Deltoid with hand-held dynamometer, chest mobility and respiration types were evaluated. The Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) was used for psychological symptoms and psychopathological features. While exercise protocol was administered to the exercise group along with the medical treatment for psychiatric disorders, only medical treatment was given to controls. A 14-session exercise treatment was performed seven days a week for two weeks. At the end of the second week, the initial measurements of all patients were repeated and analyzed.
Results
Such psychometric scores as obsessive-compulsive symptoms, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety and psychoticism, and muscle strength, axillary and subcostal respiratory capacity scores were statistically significantly different in the exercise group (p < 0.05). In balance and lower extremity endurance, however, there was no superiority of exercise for 14 sessions (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
The positive effects of group exercises consisting of respiration, posture, and stretching on psychiatric patients were noted to be higher, compared to those on physical parameters.
Access-Based Competition and Investment in Mobile Network - Evidence from Germany and Spain
Authors: Frank Niels , Kleczka Mitja , Shtjefanaku Erion
Published: April 2024

This article examines the effect of access obligation on mobile network investment. Access obligation is a form of regulated network access in wholesale markets that commits Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to grant non-discriminatory access to Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). While it is often claimed that such regulation might lower investment incentives of MNOs, this assertion has not yet been assessed by appropriate econometric methods. We implement an empirical Difference-in-Differences (DiD) framework to investigate the link between access obligation and mobile network investment in Germany, where access obligation had been implemented for the 3G technology (but not for 4G and 5G), and in Spain, where access obligation had been introduced as a remedy for joint significant market power. Contrary to common claims, our results show that access obligation has not lowered mobile network investment in Germany and indeed increased investment in Spain.
Are syntropic agroforestry systems microclimatically similar to tropical forests?
Authors: Pereira Sabrina Mendes , Hoffman Maurício Rigon , Salemi Luiz Felippe
Published: April 2024

One possible way to make agricultural systems more sustainable is to mimic natural ecosystems. In this regard, syntropic agroforestry systems are agroecosystems that imitate, to some extent, the structure and natural dynamics of forests. This study aims to address the following question: Are SAS microclimatically similar to tropical forests? To investigate, climate variables such as canopy coverage, relative air humidity, air temperature, soil temperature, and illuminance were measured in both a tropical forest area and an adjacent Syntropic Agroforestry System. The results showed significant differences in relative humidity, air temperature, and illuminance compared to the forest. These differences may be attributed to the higher density of tree individuals and the number of strata, which are greater in the tropical forest compared to the syntropic agroforestry system. It is concluded that, despite resembling a tropical forest in appearance, syntropic agroforestry systems do not have microclimatic conditions similar to tropical forests.
Creep lifetime of ethylene vinyl acetate co-polymer film after pre-load relaxation
Authors: Kislyuk Victor , Shyvaniuk Vladyslav , Kotrechko Sergiy
Published: April 2024

The influence of the mechanical load and ultraviolet radiation on the lifetime of viscous and elastic ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) films under the various loads are studied to establish its principles and to develop the basic concepts regarding their physical nature. The dumbbell samples of the cured (annealed at 135oC) EVA films (c-EVA) are pre-loaded and kept pre-strained till the complete load relaxation to reduce a viscous component prior to the creep under the load added to the relaxed value of the external force. The creep lifetime logarithm vs. added load dependencies measured at 21 oC with and without simultaneous ultraviolet irradiation with 365 nm wavelength light (from the EVA absorption tail) contain two linear segments each. The linear fragments are approximated with Zhurkov and Kauzmann-Eyring (KE) phenomenological models, which allows one to derive the quantitative parameters such as activation energy (found to be by several times lower than the dissociation energy of C – C bond); structural factor and force concentration factor as well as to estimate the density of the aligned polymer chains (per unit area) and the alignment level defined as the ratio of the polymer chain density to its maximal value (calculated to be 4 ∙ 1018 m-2). The specific surface energy of 0.01 J ∙m-2 calculated from the KE approximation is in a proper consent with Griffith’s criterion for the crack propagation.