bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Laparoscopic Ureteroureterostomy versus Single Ureteral Bladder Reimplantation in Treating Pediatric Complete Renal Duplication
Authors: yu bin , fan yingzhong
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore the therapeutic value of laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy compared to single ureteral bladder reimplantation in the treatment of pediatric complete renal duplication.
Methods: This retrospective study included 80 pediatric patients with complete renal duplication who underwent surgical treatment at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2015 to December 2022. Patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical approach: the laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy group (LUU group, n=45) and the single ureteral bladder reimplantation group (UR group, n=35). The two groups were compared in terms of operative time, intraoperative blood loss, number of stent placements, postoperative length of hospital stay, changes in ante-posterior diameter (APD) of the affected upper kidney pelvis before and after surgery, changes in upper ureteral diameter (UD), and variations in renal function.
Results: The LUU group demonstrated significantly shorter operative time (t=3.480, P=0.004), less intraoperative blood loss (t=-2.465, P=0.0196), and reduced postoperative length of stay (t=2.308, P=0.027) compared to the UR group. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the number of stent placements (x²=0.762, P=0.383). The UR group had four cases of long-term complications (two cases of anastomotic stricture, one case of vesicoureteral reflux, and one case of recurrent urinary tract infection), while the LUU group experienced one case of long-term complication (one case of anastomotic stricture), with no significant difference between groups (x²=1.493, P=0.222). Both groups showed significant improvement in preoperative and postoperative APD, UD, and affected side differential renal function (DRF). However, the differences in improvement values for upper kidney pelvis APD (ΔAPD; t=-0.032, P=0.962), differential renal function (ΔDRF; Z=1.895, P=0.073), and ureteral diameter (ΔUD; t=1.832, P=0.079) were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Both LUU and UR procedures are safe and effective in treating pediatric complete renal duplication. Compared to UR, LUU results in shorter operative time, less intraoperative blood loss, and reduced postoperative length of stay, while also causing less damage to the bladder.
A FSH-secreting pituitary adenoma discovered after ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a case report, illustrating pitfalls in the interpretation of serum FSH levels
Authors: Yano Keigo , Nakai Go , Matsutani Hiroki , Ohmichi Masahide , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Osuga Keigo
Published: October 2024

Background: Most cases of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) are caused by infertility treatment using human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). OHSS is widely known to have a “spoke-wheel” appearance on imaging, presenting as bilateral symmetric enlargement of ovaries with multiple cysts of varying sizes. When this spoke-wheel appearance is observed in patients not undergoing infertility treatment, tumor-derived hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and hCG should be measured. However, pitfalls exist in the interpretation of FSH levels.
Case presentation: A 29-year-old, gravida 0, para 0 woman visited her local doctor for irregular menstruation and to seek fertility treatment. At the first medical examination, bilateral ovarian tumors were found by ultrasonography, and she was referred to our hospital.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of the bilateral ovarian tumors suggested typical OHSS, and thus levels of serum hormones including FSH and hCG were measured to determine whether endogenous follicle-stimulating hormones were the cause. Estradiol was elevated at 737 pg/ml (normal: 28.8-196.8 pg/ml in follicular phase) and luteinizing hormone (LH) was low at < 0.3 mIU/ml (normal: 1.4-15 in follicular phase, 2.1-88 mIU/ml in ovulatory phase). Both FSH and hCG were within normal ranges. Therefore, the ovarian masses seemed to be estrogen-producing neoplasms rather than endogenous OHSS, and surgical resection was scheduled. However, computed tomography of the neck to pelvic region was performed to rule out metastatic ovarian tumors, and indicated a coincidental pituitary lesion, which was pathologically characterized as an FSH-secreting pituitary adenoma. Consequently, the scheduled ovarian surgery was avoided.
Conclusions: Awareness of MRI findings of OHSS is important to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures. When treating patients who have suspected OHSS on imaging but whose serum FSH is in the normal range, it is also important to know that an unsuppressed FSH level despite the negative feedback effect of high estrogen can suggest an FSH-producing tumor.
Increased Peritoneal Dialysis Associated Peritonitis Rate During Novel Coronavirus Pandemics
Authors: BILDACI Yelda DELIGOZ , KORUCU Berfu , OKTAN Mehmet Asi , BOZKAYA Evrim , AKDAM Hakan , TANRISEV Mehmet , DEGER Serpil Muge , CAVDAR Caner
Published: October 2024

Purpose
Due to the restriction rules that were placed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the visits to the peritoneal dialysis (PD) outpatient clinics decreased. We aimed to analyze the changes in peritonitis rates before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among four different nephrology clinics located in the western part of Turkey.
Methods
We have retrospectively screened 48 PD patients between March 2018 and March 2022. The patients who had peritonitis attacks were only included in to analyses. Peritonitis rates were calculated at three-month intervals.
Results
Number of peritonitis cases occurring in a 3-month period over the two-year timeframe revealed a significantly higher rate in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
During COVID-19 pandemic, our study showed no decrement regarding peritonitis rates. These findings serve as an important reminder of the importance of face-to-face clinical visits regarding to control and manage PD patients.
Overexpression of erythropoietin receptor causes paclitaxel resistance in ovarian adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Harvanik Pavol , Solárová Zuzana , Šemeláková Martina , Bhide Mangesh , Solár Peter
Published: October 2024

The emergence of tumour cell resistance is one of the major issues in current oncology practice. It reduces the effectiveness of therapy and worsens cancer patients' prognoses. However, it confirms a wide range of molecular interactions as well as the complexity of the human organism. Our previous research confirmed the functionality of the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) in ovarian and breast cancer cells, as well as its relationship to these cells' sensitivity to specific therapies. The current study demonstrates that EPOR overexpression in human ovarian adenocarcinoma cells A2780 is directly linked to paclitaxel resistance. Furthermore, EPOR overexpression results in morphological changes that vary according to the pattern of EPOR isotypes expressed. In this regard, the most interesting result appears to be the change in the shape of T clone, which has a tendency to form spheroidal structures. Indeed, T clone with single 68 kDa EPOR isotype demonstrates also significant resistance to paclitaxel therapy.
How to prioritise the development and regeneration of traditional villages?A Research Framework Based on Web Crawling, Natural Language Processing, and Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Liu Zongming , Zhu Yue , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhu Kongxi , Hong Wei
Published: October 2024

In the context of China’s rural revitalization, preventing the misallocation of national resources and identifying villages in urgent need of renewal have become critical goals. Existing planning methods often overlook how emotional perceptions influence environmental awareness and spatial planning. This study proposes an innovative framework to address this gap, focusing on optimizing village construction to enhance emotional responses. By using web crawling and natural language processing (NLP), social media data is analyzed to assess emotional evaluations. Geographic information systems (GIS) are then applied to evaluate village layouts and environmental characteristics. Focusing on national-level traditional villages in Weinan, Shaanxi Province, the study identifies “exemplary,” “inefficient,” and “priority” villages, offering targeted planning recommendations. Results show: 1) emotional differences across population groups; 2) varying impacts of landscape elements, with the sky having the strongest positive influence (r=0.328, p=0.001); and 3) “exemplary,” “priority,” and “inefficient” villages account for 6.52%, 39.13%, and 50.00%, respectively, revealing a need for timely renewal. This study offers a novel theoretical and practical framework for integrating emotional analysis into China’s rural planning to ensure more effective resource allocation and village development.
Efficient rigid and flexible perovskite solar cells with 86% fill factor using multifunctional electron-enriched molecular passivation
Authors: Fan Xi , Chen Jiwen , Wang Jinzhao , Wang Jing , Zeng Jixi , Wei Feng , Gao Shuai , Li Jia , Zhang Jing , Yan Feng , Song Weijie
Published: October 2024

Multiple active sites of additives with strong adsorption energies adsorb on perovskite facets, coordinate with lead ions and reduce halogen vacancy defects, leading to a highly ordered atomic arrangement of grain boundaries for efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we demonstrate efficient rigid and flexible PSCs via 1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine hydrochloride (TDH) molecular passivation. The TDH treatments restrain a formation of small twin crystals and remarkably improve the crystallinity through reducing the aligned point vacancy defects on the perovkite lattices, and the dislocations and distortions across the boundaries in the perovkite crystals. The rigid PSCs yield high PCE of 26.15% with fill factor (FF) as high as 85.94% (maximum: 86.03%). The flexible PSCs yield high PCE of 24.68% with FF as high as 86.07%. Both efficient rigid and flexible PSCs without package exhibit superior operation stability. The work provides an effective passivation strategy and valuable insights for crystalline perovskite materials and high-performance rigid and flexible PSCs.
Precision Molecular Engineering of Miniaturized Near-Infrared Fluorophores for Bioimaging
Authors: Liu Xiaogang , Huang Rongrong , Qiao Qinglong , Seah Deborah , Shen Tianruo , Wu Xia , de Moliner Fabio , Wang Chao , Ding Nannan , Chi Weijie , Sun Huaming , Vendrell Marc , Xu Zhaochao , Fang Yu
Published: October 2024

Organic fluorophores with near-infrared (NIR) emission and reduced molecular weight are crucial for advancing bioimaging and biosensing technologies. Traditional methods, such as conjugation expansion and heteroatom engineering, often fail to reduce fluorophore size without sacrificing NIR emission properties. Addressing this challenge, our study utilized quantum chemical calculations and structure-property relationship analysis to establish an iterative design approach and enable precision engineering for compact, single-benzene-based NIR fluorophores. These newly developed fluorophores exhibit emissions above 700 nm and maintain molecular weights under 200 g/mol, approximately 50% of that of Cy7. Additionally, they display unique environmental sensitivity—non-emissive in aqueous solutions but highly emissive in lipid environments. This property significantly enhances their utility in wash-free imaging of live cells. Our findings mark a substantial breakthrough in fluorophore engineering, paving the way for more efficient and adaptable imaging methodologies.
Evaluation of Hazard Quotient (Hq) of Toxic and Heavy Metal Concentration in Air Sediments Across Selected Cities in Nigeria
Authors: Ewona I. O , Ekah B. J , Akwagiobe J. U , Udo S. O , Rabiu B.
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates air quality index (HQ) from toxic and heavy metal concentration across selected cities in Nigeria. Gravitational sedimentation method was used to collect air sediments to extract toxic and heavy metals contained in air particulates. Funnel shaped collectors securely attached to clean empty containers were exposed in open spaces at designated locations within the city, for a period of nine months, covering the two major seasons in Nigeria. (January to September, 2023). Airborne particles were allowed to settle naturally in the container along with rainwater. Samples from various points in a city were put together for laboratory analyses. This procedure was repeated in five other cities covering various geographical and climatic regions in Nigeria. The cities include: Benin (S1), Kano (S2), Abuja (S3), Lagos (S4), Enugu (S5), and Calabar (S6). The average concentration of toxic and carcinogenic elements reveals that salinity exhibits the highest HQ at 21.25, followed by nickel (Ni) at 4.58, magnesium (Mg) at 4.43, lead (Pb) at 3.66, chlorine (Cl) at 1.83, and chromium (Cr) at 1.06. Conversely, elements such as; Ar:0.3, NH3:0.042, Al:0.36, CO:0.02, Cu:0.11, Zn:0.01, K:0.36, NO2:0.32, NO3:0.042, Fe:0.31 and Na:0.18 have HQs below 1, indicating safe exposure levels. Cadmium (Cd) displays the highest HQ in Kano (S2) at 2.33, suggesting significant health risks, including cancer and kidney failure. Nickel’s highest HQ is recorded in Edo State, Benin (S1) at 5.5, linked to bronchitis, asthma, and skin irritation. Manganese (Mn) has the highest HQ in Enugu (S5) at 16, with potential for lung inflammation, liver damage, and cognitive impairment. Lead (Pb) shows the highest HQ in Kano (S2) and Calabar (S6) at 8, associated with kidney damage and developmental issues. Salinity’s highest HQ is found in Abuja (S3) at 32.74, impacting water quality and health. Chromium (Cr) exhibits the highest HQ in Kano (S2) at 1.3, potentially causing lung cancer and bronchitis. Potassium (K) exceeds an HQ of 1 only in Kano (S2) at 1.05, posing risks of hyperkalemia and kidney issues. Elements with HQs below 1, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, zinc, nitrite, fluoride, sodium, and conductivity, are deemed safe for human exposure. This study highlights the critical need for monitoring and mitigating exposure to elements with high HQs to protect public health in these urban areas.
The Entomotoxic Synergistic Effect Of Sesame Seed Oil With N-doped TiO2 Against the Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Abbood Naseer Malaky , Al-Yaqoubi Hussein Saleh Mahdi , Albadry Majid A.Z.
Published: October 2024

N-doped TiO2 was prepared and characterized using several techniques, including X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy, (AFM) and Infra-Red Spectrophotometry, then their entomotoxic effect and the synergistic effect of sesame oil with this nanoparticle against the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) adults were tested, where it was found that the greatest effectiveness was for the mixing ratio (N-doped TiO2 1:3 oil) with a rate of mortality percentage (35.19%) and LC50 (2.10 Ml/L), but they did not differ significantly (p ≤ 0.05) with N-doped TiO2 and the mixing ratio (N-doped TiO2 1:1 oil), which were rate of mortality percentage 31.25% and 32.26%, and their LC50 were 2.68 Ml/L and 2.58 Ml/L, respectively. It was also shown that the toxicity index for the mixing ratio (N-doped TiO2 1:3 oil) is the highest, reaching 100%. It was also shown that Sesame oil had a synergistic effect with N-doped TiO2, as the result of the synergistic effect equation for the two mixing ratios reached more than 1.
Rusty Pipe Syndrome: First Case Report from a Nigerian Lactating Mother
Authors: Afolayan Folake Moriliat , Idowu-Tunji Oluwatimilehin Grace , Ogunkayode Oluwatosin Stephen , Abdulkareem Misbahudeen Olohuntoyin , Olasinde Adeola , Lawal Olajide , Ibrahim Olayinka Rasheed , Owolabi Bilikis
Published: October 2024

Background Rusty pipe syndrome is a rare medical condition seen in late pregnancy or early lactation, which may affect successful breastfeeding despite being benign and self-limiting. Although rare, RPS can cause significant concern for mothers, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Thus, we highlight this case report in a Nigerian lactating motherCase presentation A 24-year-old first-time mother delivered an infant with a birth weight of 3000 g via spontaneous vaginal delivery at 38 weeks of gestation. While attempting to breastfeed her baby, the mother experienced painless bilateral bloody nipple discharge. Physical examination of her breasts revealed that they were unremarkable. Breast ultrasonography and cytological analysis of the discharge revealed no signs of neoplasm. The bloody discharge resolved spontaneously over 72 hours, and she continued to breastfeed her baby exclusively.Conclusion Rusty pipe syndrome is a benign, self-limiting condition that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of bloody nipple discharge. Awareness of this rare disease among medical healthcare workers would be extremely beneficial and help ensure successful breastfeeding.
Jet Stream Poleward Migration Leads to Marine Primary Production Decrease
Authors: Crespin Júlia , Solé Jordi , Canals Miquel
Published: October 2024

Jet streams (JS) are high-speed upper-tropospheric winds that have significant influence on weather and climate. As anthropogenic climate change alters temperature gradients, subtropical JS are projected to shift poleward, which can have unforeseen impacts on midlatitude Earth systems. Here, we demonstrate for the first time the impact of the steady poleward migration of the Northern Hemisphere subtropical JS on marine primary production (MPP). This northward migration lines up with a consistent decrease in MPP over the last two decades in the Northwestern Mediterranean Sea. While the primary influence of JS position on MPP is seasonal, its impact extends to non-seasonal components as well. These findings highlight the direct consequences of JS latitudinal shifts on marine ecosystems, indicating potential cascading effects driven by climate change.
Capacity Optimization of a Wind-Solar Integrated Oxygen Production and Pure Oxygen Combustion Carbon Reduction System Using Typical Wind-Solar-Load Scenario Generation
Authors: Ding Ying , Wang Weiqing , Ding Ming , Han Dianlei , Sun Lixiang , Liu Jixun
Published: October 2024

In response to the growing need for carbon reduction and enhanced integration of renewable energy into the power grid, this paper introduces a capacity optimization approach for a wind-solar integrated system that combines oxygen production with pure oxygen combustion to achieve carbon reduction. The method incorporates the generation of typical wind-solar-load scenarios to account for variability and interdependencies across multiple energy sources and demand loads. A Dirichlet Process Mixture Model with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (DPMM-MCMC) is employed to generate representative daily scenarios, capturing the uncertainties and correlations among energy sources and loads. Based on these scenarios, a capacity optimization model is formulated for the wind-solar integrated system. Simulations and comparative analyses, using annual data from a region in Northwest China, demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results highlight the significant impact of pure oxygen combustion technology, which not only increases carbon capture efficiency but also reduces capture costs by approximately 27.8%. Additionally, the optimal wind power share is identified within 60% to 80%, with load penetration further enhancing energy utilization efficiency. These findings underscore the potential of the proposed system to improve renewable energy absorption and reduce carbon emissions.
Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles and their evaluations as anti-diabetic, cytotoxic and antibacterial agent
Authors: khan jehangir , Gul Taj Gul , jan Sorab Jan , islam Islam Uddin , khan Wajid Ali Khan , Ullah Rizwan Ullah , ahmad Zubair Ahmad , zaid Zaidur Rahman , khan shakeel ahmad
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been significant interest in the eco-friendly production of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) using plant extracts and their potential applications. This study presents a green synthesis method for producing ZnO NPs from Dodonaea viscosa leaf extract. The crystalline phase, morphology, and surface area of the synthesized sample were characterized using FTIR for functional group analysis, XRD for crystal structure determination, and SEM and TEM for surface morphology evaluation. The NPs were then tested for anti-diabetic, cytotoxic, and antibacterial properties. The highest α-amylase enzyme inhibition (30.8%) was observed at the highest concentration of 200 mg/mL, while no inhibition was detected at the lowest concentration of 5 mg/mL. Similarly, the cytotoxicity of ZnO NPs was measured at 21.8% for a concentration of 200 μg/mL, with no hemolysis observed at doses below 5 μg/mL. Additionally, the ZnO NPs demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative species.
Numerical modeling of clamp load relaxation of plastic nuts under varying moisture and fiber content
Authors: Wippermann Jan , Meschut Gerson
Published: October 2024

This study presents a numerical approach using a 3D finite element model to quantify the remaining clamp load of a plastic nut joint after a specific time. The viscoelastic relaxation of a thermoplastic nut, which is predominantly screwed on a welding stud, is described by a material card using Prony Series. Prony Series are derived from experimental Dynamical Mechanical Analysis with different moisture and fiber contents of the thermoplastic. Since plastic nuts usually do not have preformed threads, the increased temperatures and resulting stresses from the thread-forming process are considered in the simulation. Firstly, the FE model is verified by substrate stress relaxation tests. Subsequently, experimental clamp load measurements with miniature compression load cells verify the clamp load prediction. Finally, the developed model is used to analyze the clamp load distribution within the threads.
Enhancing Far-Field Speech Recognition with Mixer: A Novel Data Augmentation Approach
Authors: Niu Tong , Chen Yaqi , Qu Dan , Hu Hengbo
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in End-to-end (E2E) modeling have notably improved automatic speech recognition (ASR) systems; however, far-field speech recognition (FSR) remains challenging due to signal degradation from factors such as low signal-to-noise ratio, reverberation, and interfering sounds. This requires richer training data and multi-channel speech enhancement. To address this gap, we introduce Mixer, a novel data augmentation technique designed to further enhance the performance of large-scale pre-trained models for FSR. Mixer interpolates and mixes feature representations of speech samples and their corresponding losses, extending the MixSpeech framework to intermediate layers of Whisper. Additionally, we propose Mixer-C, which further leverages multi-channel information by combining speech from different microphone channels using a channel selector. Experimental results demonstrate that Mixer significantly outperforms existing methods, including SpecAugment, achieving a relative word error rate (WER) reduction of 3.6% compared to the baseline. Furthermore, Mixer-C offers an additional WER improvement of 2.2%, showcasing its efficacy in improving FSR accuracy.
Assessment of zinc toxicity and tolerance in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivars using physiological, biochemical and metabolomic responses
Authors: ullah shakir , Li Xingfan , Salam Uzma , Elateeq Ahmed A. , Ri Ilbong , Li Dewen , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Guo Xiaorui , Tang Zhonghua
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims: Zinc (Zn) is an essential microelement that plants need for appropriate growth and development. However, high concentrations may hamper the physio-chemical and metabolic processes and weaken plant growth. This study aims to broadly explore the relative tolerance of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivars, and examine their physiological, biochemical, and metabolomics responses under various Zn levels.
Methods: Three chickpea cultivars: ICCV89310 (IC8), NC234 (NC2), and ICCV89323-B (IC8-B) were exposed to different Zn levels (Ck, 50, 100, and 150 µM) for one week in a hydroponic medium. Growth and physiological indices, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes activity, and osmolytes content were detected. Primary metabolites profile and accumulation of Zn were assessed using GC-MS and ICP-OES, respectively.
Results: IC8 and NC2 cultivars exhibited more tolerance than IC8-B because of their high biomass and plant height, root-to-shoot ratio, shoot water, and chlorophyll contents under high Zn stress. Besides, Zn contents were higher in the root of IC8-B, while IC8 and NC2 showed high accumulation in the shoot. Under Zn stress, there was an increase in the concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), and electrolyte leakage (EL). Additionally, Zn supplementation positively regulated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and osmolytes (proline, soluble sugars, and total protein), but catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductases (GR) were differential in response to Zn stress. Simultaneously, metabolomics profiling revealed forty-six responsive metabolites in IC8, NC2, and IC8-B, mainly consisting of organic acids, amino acids, amines, alcohols, and sugars.
Conclusion: Cultivars IC8 and NC2 displayed superior tolerance to Zn stress compared to IC8-B, showcasing robust growth characteristics and biochemical responses. The relative tolerance potential of IC8 and NC2 may be attributed to different adaptive strategies, such as a well-developed profile of responsive metabolites, such as histidine, asparagine, tryptophan, allantoin and antioxidants. Hence, cultivar IC8-B maybe utilized as a control cultivar under Zn stress to evaluate other chickpeas' tolerance capacity. Besides, IC8 and NC2 can be suggested as promising candidates for Zn-contaminated soil.
MPPT with Fixed voltage control method for single phase Grid connected solar PV system
Authors: Nenavath Shanker. N , L E. Sri , Ra K.Srinibasa
Published: October 2024

A maximum power point Tracking(MPPT) technique plays a vital role to extract the maximum power from the solar PV array under variable weather conditions. This paper presents a new maximum power point tracking algorithm based Fixed voltage control method for single phase grid connected solar PV system and Double stage grid connected converters such as DC-DC Boost converter,DC-AC Inverter parameters have been Obseved.In the Inverter circuit output is connected with L,LC and LCL passive filters and grid parameters also studied, observed The main advantage of this algorithm comes from its ability to predict the approximate amplitude with the reference voltage wave forms or power that can be derived from the PV array with the help of constant voltage at variable conditions. In this Fixed voltage control method at different irradiance and temperature conditions the permissible grid parameters such as voltage,current,real,reactive power and THD's have been implemented in Simlink/MATLAB.
Interrogative approaches identify causes of physical impairment in those affected by post- COVID-19 morbidity (Long COVID) - an international multicenter observational study- Protocol).
Authors: Maden-Wilkinson Thomas , Ashton Ruth , Owen Rebecca , Thomas Callum , Kumar Sundar , Cemal Ozemak , Ross Arena , Rachita Gururaj , Nikolaus Kudiersky , Thomas Parkington , Caroline Dalton , Copeland Robert , Paul Ansdell , Hume Emily , Thomas Bewick , Mark Faghy
Published: October 2024

Background
The value of clinical cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) within healthcare settings has been established in the last decade. CPET methods remain highly relevant in the COVID-19 endemic phase and should be used to assess those recovering from COVID-19 infection. This diagnostic tool could play an integral role in disease prognostication and evaluate the integrative response to incremental exercise. The primary aims of the study are to (1) evaluate the integrative response to incremental exercise relating to post-COVID-19 morbidity and (2) assess cardio-respiratory responses to physiological stress and provide insight regarding the integrity of the pulmonary-vascular interface and characterization of any impairment or abnormal cardio-respiratory function.
Methods
Participants will be asked to attend 3 lab visits, 1 baseline visit where they will provide patient reported outcome measures of symptomatology, Quality of Life, Sleep, Fatigue, Dyspnea and Cognition alongside assessments of lung function and functional capacity (six-minute walk test and timed up and go). Following a 7–10 observation period for post exertional malaise, patients will be asked to perform a cardiopulmonary exercise test on 2 consecutive days where their response to exercise will be quantified. A sub-sample will then report on post-CPET symptomology for seven consecutive dates using a bespoke smartphone application.
Discussion
Data from such assessments can enable practitioners to characterize cardio-respiratory fitness and identify reasons for physical impairment or abnormal cardio-respiratory function. measurements obtained from an assessment of cardio-respiratory responses to physiological stress could provide insight regarding the integrity of the pulmonary-vascular interface and characterisation of any impairment or abnormal cardio-respiratory function.
Trial registration
: Retrospectively Registered at Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT 06394921. Date of Registry: 26-03-2024.
Comprehensive Research: Corn Flour Cookies Supplemented with amaranth flour and Pumpkin Seeds Powder
Authors: Paterwal Akhilesh , Chamroy Themmeichon
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to utilize amaranth flour and pumpkin seed powder as a supplement in the preparation of gluten-free corn flour cookies. Which is a versatile and nutritious ingredient and can be added in the preparation of cookies due to high fiber content, low glycemic index, rich in various nutrients. Amaranth flour is a nutritious and gluten-free replacement to traditional wheat flour that has gained popularity in recent years due to its high nutritional profile. The recipe was developed by replacing wheat flour with corn flour and amaranth flour in a traditional cookie recipe and incorporating pumpkin seed powder as a functional ingredient in different ratios. Four different treatments were standardized, Type 1 (100% Corn flour control), Type 2 (80% corn flour + 10% Amaranth flour + 10% Pumpkin seed powder), Type 3 (60% Corn flour + 20% Amaranth flour + 20% Pumpkin seed powder) and Type 4 (40% Corn flour + 30% Amaranth flour + 30% Pumpkin seed powder). The flavonoid content and the phenolic content were highest in Type 4 followed by the Type 3 sample and lowest in Type 1. DPPH Assay was conducted, Type 1 showed the lowest inhibition (9.82%), and the highest level of inhibition was observed in Type 4 (46.19%). All the results showed that Type 4 is comparatively more nutritious than Type 1. As per sensory evaluation, the Type 4 sample was highly acceptable. The results showed that the corn flour cookies supplemented with amaranth and pumpkin seeds powder showed better texture, were richer in taste and their nutritional content was higher as compared to cookies prepared by using only corn flour (control). Type 1 was least acceptable followed by Type 2. The study concluded that the enriched cookies (Type 4), were a nutritious and tasty alternative to traditional wheat flour cookies. They offer a wide range of nutrition and antioxidant benefits with a unique flavor and texture profile. However further research is needed to evaluate the shelf life and stability of the cookies.
Age-Dependent Pathogenesis of Aquatic Bird Bornavirus 1 in Turkeys
Authors: Gordon Lisa , Leacy Alexander , Pham Phuc H. , Tuling Jaime , Che Sunoh , El-Khouri Antonius , Caswell Jeff L. , Lillie Brandon N. , Susta Leonardo
Published: October 2024

Aquatic bird bornavirus 1, an orthobornavirus in the family Bornaviridae, displays a broad host range among avian species, including poultry. The pathogenesis of orthobornaviruses is mediated by the host immune response against the infected nervous tissue, with younger animals showing a milder disease due to immune tolerance. Here, we tested the ability of ABBV1 to infect domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), with a focus on evaluating the impact of age at infection. Cohorts of 6-week-old (old) and day-old (young) male turkeys were divided into virus-inoculated and control groups, and kept for up to 12 weeks. Results showed that turkeys of both ages were susceptible to ABBV1 infection by intramuscular administration, following a centripetal and limited centrifugal spread, although infection appeared delayed in old compared to young birds. Notably, only young turkeys developed clinical signs and more frequent inflammation of the central nervous system, indicating that infection at a very early age is unlikely to induce tolerance to ABBV1 infection.
The avian lung mycobiome: phylogenetic and ecological drivers of lung-fungal communities and their potential pathogens
Authors: Salazar-Hamm Paris , Gadek Chauncey , Mann Michael , Steinberg Madeline , Montoya Kyana , Behnia Mahgol , Gyllenhaal Ethan , Brady Serina , Takano Oona , Williamson Jessie , Witt Christopher , Natvig Donald
Published: October 2024

Vertebrate lungs contain diverse microbial communities, but little is known the causes of community composition or its consequences for health. Lung microbiome assembly by processes such as dispersal, coevolution, and host-switching can be elucidated with comparative surveys. However, few comparative surveys exist for lung microbiomes, particularly for the fungal component, the mycobiome. Distinguishing fungal taxa that are generalist or specialist symbionts, potential pathogens, or incidentally inhaled spores is urgent because of high potential for emerging disease. Here, we provide the first characterization of the avian lung mycobiome and we test the relative influences of environment, phylogeny, and functional traits. We used metabarcoding and culturing from 195 lung samples representing 32 bird species across 20 families. We identified 532 fungal taxa (zOTUs) including many that are opportunistic pathogens. These were composed predominantly of the phylum Ascomycota (79%) followed by Basidiomycota (16%) and Mucoromycota (5%). Yeast and yeast-like taxa (Malassezia, Filobasidium, Saccharomyces, Meyerozyma, and Aureobasidium) and filamentous fungi (Cladosporium, Alternaria, Neurospora, Fusarium, and Aspergillus) were abundant. Lung mycobiomes were strongly shaped by environmental exposure, and further modulated by host identity, traits, and phylogenetic affinities. Our results implicate migratory bird species as potential vectors for long-distance dispersal of opportunistically pathogenic fungi.
Readmission Patterns in Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Hematoma: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Tenkorang Pearl Ohenewaa , BSc Olivia Asiedu , Annan Adjoa S. , MBChB Kwadwo Darko , Adjei Emmanuel K. , MBChB Teddy Totimeh
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Hospital readmissions following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) represent a significant concern in healthcare, particularly in Ghana. The objective of this paper is to investigate the readmission rates of patients with sICH in Ghana and to identify the factors influencing these rates.
Methods: A retrospective study at the University of Ghana Medical Centre analyzed sICH patient data (January 2021-June 2023), comparing readmitted and non-readmitted groups using Wilcoxon rank-sum and chi-square tests to assess differences in clinical features, treatments, and outcomes.
Results: The study involved 84 non-readmitted patients and 18 re-admitted patients. Among the readmitted patients, 50.0% were females and 50.0% were males, compared to 27.4% and 72.6% in the non-readmitted group, respectively. The mean age of the non-readmitted patients was 51.5 years (SD = 12.2), while the mean age of the readmitted patients was 61.3 years (SD = 21.0). A higher proportion of readmitted patients had diabetes (22.2%) compared to non-readmitted patients (6.0%) (p = 0.049). The mean MRS 1 month and 3 months post-discharge were significantly higher in the readmitted group (p=0.004 and p=0.005, respectively). Patients who were readmitted had a lower GCS (10.9, SD = 3.4) compared with the non-readmitted group (p= 0.082).
Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive discharge planning and post-discharge support for patients with sICH, particularly those with diabetes and higher mRS scores, to mitigate readmission risks and improve long-term outcomes.
What is day programme treatment for Anorexia Nervosa really like? Part 2: A reflexive thematic analysis of feedback from parents
Authors: Gledhill Lucinda J. , Calissano Chiara , Turner Jasmin , Watson Charlotte , Simic Mima , Baudinet Julian
Published: October 2024

Background: A significant proportion of young people do not respond to NICE recommended treatment for anorexia nervosa: Family Therapy (FT-AN). Evidence is building for the effectiveness of day programmes as an alternative to inpatient admissions for young people whom traditional community treatment has not benefited. One day programme that has been found to be effective is the Intensive Treatment Programme (ITP) of the Maudsley Centre for Child & Adolescent Eating Disorders in London, UK. However, to-date limited data are available on how parents of young people attending experience such a day programme.
Method: Anonymous feedback was completed via online survey by 64 parents over a 5-year period (2018-2023) on discharge from ITP.
Results: Five main themes emerged: (1) Clarity and consistency are key; (2) Skills and practical support; (3) Collaborative relationships; (4) Layers of change; (5) It wasn’t all great.
Conclusions: Expanding our understanding of parental experiences is important given the FT-AN model holds expectations that “the family is needed as a resource” and that parents should “take a lead in managing their child’s eating”. It is hoped that increased understanding will lead to services continuing to improve the support they provide.
Computational Analysis of Luteolin, Apigenin and Their Derivatives from Allophylus africanus as Potential Inhibitors of Plasmepsin II a Malaria Target
Authors: Abubakari Ismail , Kwiyukwa Lucas P. , Paul Lucas
Published: October 2024

Malaria is a life-threatening disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. It remains a critical global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where Plasmodium falciparum parasite species is rampant. With the rise of drug-resistant strains, the urgency for novel and effective antimalarial therapies has never been greater. In the absence of a highly effective vaccine, chemotherapy continues to be the frontline defense against malaria. One promising avenue for therapeutic intervention is Plasmepsin II (PMII) an essential aspartic protease involved in hemoglobin degradation within the parasite’s digestive vacuole. Targeting PM II has the potential to disrupt the parasite’s lifecycle, making it a compelling focus for the development of next-generation antimalarial drugs, crucial in the fight against resistant strains. In this study, the interactions of luteolin, apigenin, and their glycoside derivatives from Allophylus africanus with PMII was explored through computational methods. Using molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and free energy calculations, the binding affinities, structural stability, and conformational changes induced by these compounds were evaluated. The docking results revealed that luteolin derivatives, particularly 1 luteolin-7-O-glucoside and luteolin-3’,7-di-O-glucoside, exhibited strong binding affinities, with binding energies of −9.1 and −9.5 kcal/mol, respectively. These interactions were driven by enhanced hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions with key residues such as Asp34 and Asp214 in the active site of PMI. Apigenin derivatives, including apigenin-6,8-di-C-hexoside, also demonstrated significant binding affinity with a binding energy of −10.2 kcal/mol. The overall binding energy with MMPBSA further reinforced these findings with apigenin 8-C-hexoside showing the strongest binding free energy of (−86.646 kJ/mol), driven by significant van der Waals stabilization. Luteolin-3’,7-di-O-glucoside and apigenin-6,8-di-C-hexoside also exhibited strong binding free energies of −57.506 kJ/mol and −79.591 kJ/mol, respectively, indicating their potential as effective inhibitors. Free energy surface (FES) revealed that luteolin and derivatives binding favours an open-state conformation of the PMI flap, while apigenin derivatives induce multiple conformational states reflecting a more flexible interaction. This study demonstrates the potential of apigenin 8-C-hexoside, luteolin-3’,7-di-O-glucoside, and apigenin-6,8-di-C-hexoside as effective agents against the malaria target. These compounds could serve as promising candidates for developing new antimalarial drugs. Nevertheless, further experimental research is required to validate their efficacy.
Effect of an Educational Program on Nurses’ Level of Knowledge about Pain Assessment and Management: A Quasi Experimental
Authors: Alomari Hussein , ALLOBANEY Nabeel F. , SWALLMEH Esmat , MACAALY Rosario A. , AL-HUSBAN Raya Yousef
Published: October 2024

Background
Pain is universally acknowledged as one of the most distressing experiences that individuals encounter, often leading to significant psychological and physical implications. Effective pain management is essential in healthcare, and it is imperative that nursing professionals possess the requisite knowledge and skills to assess and manage pain effectively.
Aim
This study aims to evaluate the impact of a structured educational program on the performance levels of nurses in the domains of pain assessment and management.
Design
A quasi-experimental, one-group pre- and post-test intervention design was employed to facilitate this investigation.
Setting
The research was conducted in the inpatient medical and surgical departments at Al-Zarqa Governmental Hospital, Jordan.
Subjects
A total of 106 nurses, both male and female, who provide direct nursing care in medical and surgical wards, voluntarily participated in the study.
Tools
Two instruments were utilized for data collection:
1. A questionnaire designed to assess nurses' knowledge regarding pain assessment and management.
2. An observational checklist to evaluate the practical application of pain management techniques by nurses.
Results
· The sample comprised predominantly female nurses, most of whom held a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and had 2–5 years of clinical experience.
· A significant 88.7% of participants had not previously attended any educational sessions focused on pain assessment and management.
· Statistical analysis revealed a significant improvement in mean knowledge scores post-educational intervention (P<0.001).
· All dimensions of nursing practices related to pain management showed statistically significant enhancement following the training, demonstrating a strong correlation between knowledge and practice levels before and after the educational program.
Conclusion
The implementation of the educational program resulted in over half of the participating nurses achieving a commendable level of knowledge and satisfactory practice in pain assessment and management. This underscores the program's effectiveness in enhancing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Identification of Magnetic Structures in the Amazon Basin West of Manaus and Their Implications for the Conceptual Sedimentary-Stratigraphic Model
Authors: Pereira Itamar , Mane Miguel
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to map magnetometric structures west of the city of Manaus up to the city of Codajás, using data from aerial surveys and processed through Geosoft Oasis Montaj software. For the processing, filtering and frequency enhancement techniques were applied, resulting in maps of anomalous magnetic fields, analytical signal maps, and upward continuation maps, for the subsequent identification of subsurface magnetic structures. After identifying these structures, efforts were made to interpret and compare them with the structures mapped by geology, as shown in geological maps and literature of the area.
Glucose oxidase synergistically promotes cellulase hydrogenation distillation for the extraction of essential oil from Eleutherococcus senticosus
Authors: Zhao Xu , Chen Zeshao , Xi Gaolei , Zhao Shengchen , Cao Ke , Wang Qiyue , Zhang Yinghao , Ma Shengtao , An Nan , Yu Shuai , Jia Tao
Published: October 2024

Eleutherococcus senticosus essential oil (ESEO) has the function of clearing heat and detoxifying, delaying aging. The ESEO yield obtained by traditional extraction methods is low because essential oils are encased in plant cell structures and are difficult to extract. In this study, we adopted the method of glucose oxidase promoting cellulase assisted hydrogenation distillation(GCAHD), and utilized the interaction of glucose oxidase and cellulase to promote the full destruction of cellulose in plant cells, resulting in a large amount of internal essential oil flowing out and improving the yield of ESEO. By optimizing the main factors of enzymatic hydrolysis, the optimal extraction conditions for E. senticosus essential oil were determined through BBD experiments. The ratio of glucose oxidase to cellulase is 1:20, the concentration of the enzyme is 1.02%, the temperature of enzymatic hydrolysis is 40.0 ℃, and the pH value of enzymatic hydrolysis is 3.44. The optimal yield was 0.14%. The yield of essential oil extracted from E. senticosus was increased by 49.9% compared to a single cellulase assisted extraction method. The extraction process used in this work is milder, more environmentally friendly, and more efficient, which has important reference value for the industrial extraction and utilization of medicinal plants.