bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive assessment of risk factors and pathogenic characteristics of wound infections following thoracoscopic radical resection for lung cancer
Authors: Xu Jian , Zhu Jianhua
Published: March 2024

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer‐related mortality, with surgical resection as a primary treatment modality. However, postoperative wound infections (PWIs) pose significant risks following thoracoscopic radical resection. This study aims to identify the risk factors and pathogenetic characteristics associated with PWIs in lung cancer surgery. A comprehensive retrospective study was conducted from August 2021 to June 2023 at our institution. The study included 30 patients who developed PWIs and 60 controls who did not, following thoracoscopic radical resection for lung cancer. We evaluated various factors including age, hospital stay, intraoperative blood loss, body mass index (BMI), operation time, prophylactic antibiotic use, diabetes mellitus and tumour staging. Diagnostic criteria for PWIs were based on clinical signs and microbiological confirmation. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, utilizing chi‐square tests, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. The predominant pathogens identified in PWIs were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Univariate analysis revealed operation time (≥4 h) and diabetes mellitus as significant risk factors for PWIs, while prophylactic antibiotic use was associated with a lower incidence of PWIs. Multivariate analysis further confirmed these findings, highlighting prolonged operation time and diabetes as significant predictors of PWIs, and antibiotic use as a protective factor. Prolonged operation time and diabetes mellitus significantly increase the risk of PWIs following thoracoscopic radical resection for lung cancer, whereas prophylactic antibiotics play a protective role. These findings underscore the importance of tailored preventive strategies in clinical practice to minimize the occurrence of postoperative infections and improve surgical outcomes in lung cancer patients.
Mitochondrial respiration in peripheral arterial disease depends on stage severity
Authors: Speichinger Fiona , Gratl Alexandra , Raude Ben , Schawe Larissa , Carstens Jan , Hering Nina A. , Greiner Andreas , Pesta Dominik , Frese Jan Paul
Published: March 2024

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an increasing cause of morbidity and its severity is graded based on clinical manifestation. To investigate the influence of the different stages on myopathy of ischemic muscle we analysed severity‐dependent effects of mitochondrial respiration in PAD. Eighteen patients with severe PAD, defined as chronic limb‐threatening ischemia, 47 patients with intermittent claudication (IC) and 22 non‐ischemic controls were analysed. High‐resolution respirometry (HRR) was performed on muscle biopsies of gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis muscle of patients in different PAD stages to investigate different respiratory states. Results from HRR are given as median and interquartile range and were normalized to citrate synthase activity (CSA), a marker for mitochondrial content. In order to account for inter‐individual differences between patients and controls, we calculated the ratio of O₂‐flux in gastrocnemius muscle over vastus muscle (‘GV ratio’). CSA of the gastrocnemius muscle as a proxy for mitochondrial content was significantly lower in critical ischemia compared to controls. Mitochondrial respiration normalized to CSA was higher in IC compared to controls. Likewise, the GV ratio was significantly higher in IC compared to control. Mitochondrial respiration and CSA of PAD patients showed stage‐dependent modifications with greater changes in the mild PAD stage group (IC).
Remote sensing‐based mapping of structural building damage in the Ahr valley
Authors: Samprogna Mohor Guilherme , Sieg Tobias , Koch Oliver , Buhrmann Aaron , Maiwald Holger , Schwarz Jochen , Thieken Annegret H.
Published: March 2024

Flood damage data are needed for various applications. Structural damage of buildings can reflect not only the economic damage but also the life‐threatening condition of a building, which provide crucial information for disaster response and recovery. Since traditional on‐site data collection shortly after a disaster is challenging, remote sensing data can be of great help, cover a wider area and be deployed earlier in time than on‐site surveys. However, this has its challenges and limitations. We elucidate on that by presenting two case studies from flash floods in Germany. First, we assessed the reliability of an existing flood damage schema, which differentiates from minor (structural) damage to complete building collapse. We compared two on‐site raters of the 2016 Braunsbach flood, reaching an excellent level of reliability. Second, we mapped structural building damage after the flood in the Ahr valley in 2021 using a textured 3D mesh and orthophotos. Here, we evaluated the remote sense‐based damage mapping done by three raters. Although the heterogeneity of ratings using remote sensing data is larger than among on‐site ratings, we consider it fit‐for‐purpose when compared with on‐site mapping, especially for event documentation and as basis for financial damage estimation and less complex numerical modelling.
Examining suicide risk in sexual and gender minority youth: A descriptive observational study on depressive symptoms, social support and self‐esteem
Authors: Gómez‐Chica Pablo , Rueda‐Ruzafa Lola , Aparicio‐Mota Adrián , Rodriguez‐Arrastia Miguel , Ropero‐Padilla Carmen , Rodriguez‐Valbuena Cristian , Román Pablo
Published: March 2024

Aim

To understand the factors that contribute to the risk of suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual (sexual minorities) youth.

Background

The increase in the likelihood of suicide has made it an urgent issue in public health, particularly among young people, where it now ranks as the fourth leading cause of death. This issue becomes even more significant when focusing on sexual minorities.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in targeted young individuals (15–29 years). Several variables were assessed, including suicide risk, self‐esteem, presence and severity of depressive symptoms, perceived social support and self‐reported levels of anxiety and depression.

Results

Statistically significant disparities were observed in suicide risk, presence of depressive symptoms and self‐reported levels of anxiety and depression, all of which were more pronounced in sexual minority youth compared to heterosexual cisgender individuals. Likewise, statistically significant differences were noted concerning self‐esteem and family support, both of which were lower in sexual minority youth.

Conclusion

This study has identified risk factors, such as anxiety, depression and limited social support, as well as protective factors, like higher self‐esteem and self‐concept. Understanding and addressing all these factors are essential in reducing the elevated rates of suicide among sexual minority youth. Consequently, evidence‐based interventions such as Gender and Sexuality Alliances, which empower and create safe spaces for sexual minority youth, possess substantial potential for effectively addressing this issue.

Implications for the Profession

Given sexual minorities vulnerability, healthcare pros, especially nurses, must grasp suicide risk factors. They can help by educating, offering care, assessing risk and fighting stigma. This guarantees safety and access to mental health services for at‐risk individuals from sexual minorities.

Reporting Method

The reporting follows the STROBE checklist.

Patient Contribution

People who were invited to participate voluntarily completed a range of questionnaires.
Navigating growing pains: Tensions in integrating critical race theory in psychology and strategies for addressing them
Authors: Nicolai Korinthia D. , Morton Terrell R. , La Torre Corina De , DeCuir‐Gunby Jessica T. , Koenka Alison C.
Published: March 2024

Recently there has been an uptake in the call for research that explores race and racism within the context of psychology. Researchers can use Critical Race Theory (CRT) to do so. However, scholars within the field of psychology may confront growing pains when integrating psychology research with CRT due to their respective inquiry worldviews—postpositivism and critical—which result in several tensions pertaining to the framing of research and methods. These tensions may limit the uptake of CRT in psychology and may cause people to struggle to understand CRT. Therefore in this article, we describe (a) CRT and related frameworks, (b) tensions when integrating CRT into psychology, and (c) strategies to attenuate the tensions. Additionally, we highlight the importance of identity and the political choice of using CRT. It is critical for psychology researchers to challenge dominant postpositivist research inquiry worldviews and deconstruct what is considered “legitimate knowledge.” By doing so, we can (a) validate experiences and vast forms of knowledge that shape the reality of People of Color and our families, communities, and cultures and (b) challenge systems of oppression.
Theorizing the governance of direct and indirect transactions in multi‐tier supply chains
Authors: Chae Sangho , Choi Thomas Y. , Hoetker Glenn
Published: March 2024

An outsourcing decision does not equate to the outsourcing of a sourcing decision. Many indirect transactions with lower tier suppliers are embedded in transactions with first‐tier suppliers. Building on the identification of a transaction as the fundamental unit of analysis, this study proposes that transactions comprise bundles of intertwined direct transactions at the firm level and indirect transactions at the supply chain level. These indirect transactions require separate but not independent sourcing decisions. Using a buyer's decision to control or delegate the governance of indirect transactions for an externally sourced product, this study demonstrates that disaggregating the transaction advances theory by extending the range of outcomes, refining the calculus of the make‐or‐buy decision, and providing a coherent theoretical framework for multi‐tier supply chain management. This study considers the theoretical, managerial, and societal implications across various contingencies involving inter‐firm relationships.
Citation for Dr. Katharina Lodders, Leonard Medalist, 2021
Authors: Ebel Denton S.
Published: March 2024

The 2021 Leonard Medal was awarded to Dr. Katharina Lodders, in person, at the 2021 Annual Meeting of the Meteoritical Society in Chicago, IL, USA. This is the citation presented for Dr. Lodders.
Genotype–environment associations reveal genes potentially linked to avian malaria infection in populations of an endemic island bird
Authors: Sheppard Eleanor C. , Martin Claudia A. , Armstrong Claire , González‐Quevedo Catalina , Illera Juan Carlos , Suh Alexander , Spurgin Lewis G. , Richardson David S.
Published: March 2024

Patterns of pathogen prevalence are, at least partially, the result of coevolutionary host–pathogen interactions. Thus, exploring the distribution of host genetic variation in relation to infection by a pathogen within and across populations can provide important insights into mechanisms of host defence and adaptation. Here, we use a landscape genomics approach (Bayenv) in conjunction with genome‐wide data (ddRADseq) to test for associations between avian malaria (Plasmodium) prevalence and host genetic variation across 13 populations of the island endemic Berthelot's pipit (Anthus berthelotii). Considerable and consistent spatial heterogeneity in malaria prevalence was observed among populations over a period of 15 years. The prevalence of malaria infection was also strongly positively correlated with pox (Avipoxvirus) prevalence. Multiple host loci showed significant associations with malaria prevalence after controlling for genome‐wide neutral genetic structure. These sites were located near to or within genes linked to metabolism, stress response, transcriptional regulation, complement activity and the inflammatory response, many previously implicated in vertebrate responses to malarial infection. Our findings identify diverse genes – not just limited to the immune system – that may be involved in host protection against malaria and suggest that spatially variable pathogen pressure may be an important evolutionary driver of genetic divergence among wild animal populations, such as Berthelot's pipit. Furthermore, our data indicate that spatio‐temporal variation in multiple different pathogens (e.g. malaria and pox in this case) may have to be studied together to develop a more holistic understanding of host pathogen‐mediated evolution.
Comparison of the Medium‐term Outcomes of Anterior Lumbar Discectomy and Fusion with Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Song Chao , Deng Zhibo , Dai Hanhao , Zheng Wu , Yu Guoyu , Wu Yijing , Luo Jun , Xu Jie
Published: March 2024

Objective

Lumbar degenerative diseases (LDDs) with huge herniation in the left lateral recess or central canal present challenges for oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) or endoscope‐assisted OLIF procedures. Currently, minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS‐TLIF) is the primary approach for this issue. This study aims to provide a standardized technical description of the anterior lumbar discectomy and fusion (ALDF) and evaluate the medium‐term clinical effectiveness of both ALDF and MIS‐TLIF techniques.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on LDDs who underwent ALDF and MIS‐TLIF surgery from January 2018 to January 2020. The evaluation encompassed various clinical outcomes, such as the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for back pain and leg pain (VAS‐back, VAS‐leg), the Oswestry disability index (ODI), the 36‐item short‐form health survey mental component summary (SF‐36 MCS), and the physical component summary (SF‐36 PCS). Additionally, radiological parameters, including disc height (DH), segmental disk angle (SDA), lumbar lordosis (LL), and cross‐sectional area (CSA), were assessed. Data including radiculopathy, estimated blood loss, operation time, time of getting out of bed, fusion rate, and complications were recorded. Student's independent samples t test and Pearson's chi‐square test were used to compare the differences between groups.

Results

In total, 47 patients were treated by ALDF and 48 patients were treated by MIS‐TLIF. The ALDF group exhibited statistically significant lower estimated blood loss and earlier time of getting out of bed compared to the MIS‐TLIF group (p < 0.05). The ALDF group demonstrated lower VAS‐back scores and a higher remission rate of low back pain 3 years after the surgery (p < 0.05). During the entire follow‐up period, the ALDF group exhibited higher increases in DH and SDA compared to the MIS‐TLIF group (p < 0.05). At 6 months, the fusion rate in the ALDF group was significantly higher than in the MIS‐TLIF group (p < 0.05). The comparison revealed no statistically significant differences in complication rates between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The ALDF could be considered as a viable surgical alternative for the treatment of LDDs that necessitate ventral neural direct decompression. ALDF exhibited favorable medium‐term outcomes in patients with LDDs, displaying advantages in facilitating expedited recovery, enhancing radiographic outcomes, and elevating the remission rate of low back pain. Although ALDF presents slightly higher complication rates compared to MIS‐TLIF, it does not adversely affect clinical outcomes.
Inside‐out: Synergising leaf biochemical traits with stomatal‐regulated water fluxes to enhance transpiration modelling during abiotic stress
Authors: Caine Robert S. , Khan Muhammad S. , Brench Robert A. , Walker Heather J. , Croft Holly L.
Published: March 2024

As the global climate continues to change, plants will increasingly experience abiotic stress(es). Stomata on leaf surfaces are the gatekeepers to plant interiors, regulating gaseous exchanges that are crucial for both photosynthesis and outward water release. To optimise future crop productivity, accurate modelling of how stomata govern plant–environment interactions will be crucial. Here, we synergise optical and thermal imaging data to improve modelled transpiration estimates during water and/or nutrient stress (where leaf N is reduced). By utilising hyperspectral data and partial least squares regression analysis of six plant traits and fluxes in wheat (Triticum aestivum), we develop a new spectral vegetation index; the Combined Nitrogen and Drought Index (CNDI), which can be used to detect both water stress and/or nitrogen deficiency. Upon full stomatal closure during drought, CNDI shows a strong relationship with leaf water content (r2 = 0.70), with confounding changes in leaf biochemistry. By incorporating CNDI transformed with a sigmoid function into thermal‐based transpiration modelling, we have increased the accuracy of modelling water fluxes during abiotic stress. These findings demonstrate the potential of using combined optical and thermal remote sensing‐based modelling approaches to dynamically model water fluxes to improve both agricultural water usage and yields.
Public trust in regulatory agencies and support for policies on agricultural gene drive
Authors: Buchman Leah W. , Goldsmith Carol L. , Heitman Elizabeth , Kang Ki Eun , Liu Xinsheng
Published: March 2024

Public trust in government agencies plays an important role in the formation of public opinion about public policy issues. However, the association between public trust in regulatory agencies and public support for policy development in emergent biotechnologies such as gene drive is not well understood. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are tasked with coordinating and regulating biotechnology. Drawing on past literature, this study examines how public trust in these federal agencies is associated with public opinion on various options for gene drive policy. Using data from a nationally representative public opinion survey (n = 1220) conducted in 2021, our statistical analyses show that respondents who report higher levels of trust in regulatory agencies are more likely to support policy proposals that promote gene drive research and ultimately, may lead to regulatory policies that allow gene drive to be researched and employed to manage agricultural pests, establishing a pathway for scientists, developers, producers, and consumers alike to realize the benefits of this technology.
Prevention of drought damage through zeolite treatments onVitis vinifera: A promising sustainable solution for soil management
Authors: Cataldo Eleonora , Puccioni Sergio , Eichmeier Aleš , Storchi Paolo
Published: March 2024

Viticultural activity is intrinsically interlocked with climatic fluctuations and awful subjected to soil management. Increasing temperatures and reduced precipitation originate several alterations in the metabolic plant pathway and a depletion in grapes quality. The main aspiration of soil management is to keep and retain a microenvironment that considers all vine requirements to upgrade the balance between vegetative growth and cluster quality intensifying its resilience towards abiotic stress. Aiming to establish match and dissimilar drought stress responses among Sangiovese grapevines, we scouted ecophysiological and biochemical alterations after zeolite and irrigation soil application (combined and/or alone), using as control plants naturally exposed to abiotic stress in a Chianti Classico vineyard. When grapevines were exposed to water stress alone, the main reactions encompassed dwindled leaf midday water potential (Ψleaf) and increased proline content. These were accompanied by augments in zeaxanthin and lutein leaf contents, symptomatic of oxidative stress. Positive metabolic alterations in grapes triggered by zeolite and/or water showed some influence on the ripening of the berry differently depending on the year. They created a situation of resilience in berry avoiding arrest in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway during the warmest season and produced a more balanced maturation, closer to the objectives of the modern producer of classic Chianti (i.e. fresher and less alcoholic wines) during the fresher one. Under severe drought, it was activated the shikimic acid pathway and in stressed vines treatment, (WS) a reduction in malic acid content was found. Sugar and phenolic compounds were enhanced by zeolitic and undrought treatments. A negative effect enkindled by the drought and high temperatures combined with stress was the accumulation of quercetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside (Qrut), quercetin‐3‐O‐galactoside (Qgala), quercetin‐3‐O‐glucoside (Qgluc) and quercetin‐3‐O‐glucoronide (Qgluco) in WS treatment. These results summarize that clinoptilolite applied to the soil, both combined with water as well in purity, noteworthy protectorship from more detrimental repercussions of drought‐stressed grapevines, suggesting that new sustainable approaches in soil management are useful for the wellness of vines.
Complex evolution in thin air: Investigating female flightlessness and diel behaviour in geometrid moths (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Lee Kyung Min , Murillo‐Ramos Leidys , Huemer Peter , Hausmann Axel , Staude Hermann S. , Mayr Toni , Sihvonen Pasi
Published: March 2024

Many unique high‐altitude mountain ecosystems have been declining due to climate change, posing a threat to flora and fauna that have adapted to these ecosystems. This study explores the evolution of high‐altitude adaptations, focusing on female flightlessness and diel activity, in geometrid moths (Lepidoptera: Ennominae, Gnophini) within the European Alps. We constructed a phylogeny of Gnophini moths using a dataset of 157 taxa, with up to seven genetic markers and traced the evolutionary history of diel activity and wing length reduction in females. Analysis of divergence times suggested that female flightlessness has evolved at least three times independently between the early and late Miocene. The evolution of wing length reduction is likely correlated with elevation, indicating adaptations to cold and windy conditions in high altitude. The evolutionary events leading to shifts in adult diel activity, from ancestral nocturnality to diurnality, have occurred independently at least three times and may also be a consequence of adaptations at high elevations. Strikingly, among diurnal Sciadia, two species have evolved further to become nocturnal like their ancestors. Our findings highlight how phylogenies can provide new insights into evolutionary patterns in moths. We provided a robust basis for resolving taxonomic ambiguities in Alpine Gnophini, leading us to propose 10 changes to the current classification: Scrupodes Lee & Sihvonen gen. n., Elophos Boisduval (type species Geometra operaria Hübner) is considered a junior synonym of Sciadia Hübner syn. n., Yezognophos dilucidaria (Denis & Schiffermüller) and Y. sproengertsi (Püngeler) are transferred to Parietaria Leraut comb. n., Yezognophos serotinaria (Denis & Schiffermüller) is transferred to Scrupeus Lee & Sihvonen comb. n., Elophos caelibaria (Heydenreich), E. zirbitzensis (Pieszcek), E. operaria (Hübner) and E. andereggaria (De La Harpe) are transferred to Sciadia Hübner comb. n. and Dichrognophos Wehrli (type species Gnophos orthogonia Wehrli) is transferred from Ennominae: Cassymini to Ennominae: Gnophini.
ULASAN SENARIO PELEPASAN NANOZARAH SINTETIK KE EKOSISTEM AIR
Authors: Ahmad Nur Suraya , Wan Yaacob Wan Zuhairi
Published: March 2024

The development and empowerment of nanotechnology have always attracted scientists and industry players because this sector has the potential to become a new economic bottom line. Various products involving nano-sized materials have been utilized to create items that can provide benefits to humans. This usage will inevitably lead to an increasing number of nanoparticles being released into the environment. The scenario of releasing various nanoparticles from consumer products into natural water and the environment raises great concern nowadays. Thus, this brief review aims to provide information on the types of nanoparticles, release scenarios, pathways of nanoparticles into the environment, and their reactions when released into the water environment.
COTTON AND POLYESTER TREATED WITH TRAGACANTH GUM LOADED WITH CLOVE ESSENTIAL OIL NANOEMULSION FOR MOSQUITO REPELLENTOL
Authors: Abdullah Nurul Nabila Aini , Kamari Azlan , Wong Siew Tin Susana , Yusof Norjan , Othman Hidayatulfathi , Hussein Mohd Zobir , Hargreaves Justin S. J.
Published: March 2024

Clove essential oil has been revealed to have a mosquito-repellent effect. Nevertheless, its application in topical preparations is minimal due to its immediate volatility. Nanoemulsion has been regarded as a promising carrier for essential oils. Here, we studied the effectiveness of cotton and polyester treated with tragacanth gum loaded with clove essential oil nanoemulsion to repel two mosquito species, namely Aedes aegypti (day biter) and Anopheles latens (night biter) for the first time. The nanoemulsion formulation was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential and polydispersity index. Tragacanth gum loaded with clove essential oil nanoemulsion formulation exhibits 98% encapsulation efficiency with a -42.3 mV zeta potential and 0.3 polydispersity index. Following 5 cycles of washing, 60% of the tragacanth gum loaded with clove essential oil nanoemulsion retained on cotton meanwhile 46% of the nanoemulsion formulation retained on polyester. From an Excito chamber study, 64% of Ae. aegypti were successfully repelled from cotton whereas 53% of the same mosquito species were repelled from polyester. Overall, the nanoemulsion treatment was able to functionalize the fabrics up to a "very good" level of repellence against mosquitoes even after 5 cycles of washing.
A CONCEPTUAL MODELING OF ULTRASONIC TOMOGRAPHY SYSTEM TO DETECT EARLY CARIES LESIONS
Authors: Mohd Zulkifli Nurul I’zaaz , Jamaludin Juliza , Ab Malik Normaliza , Jamal Mohamad Farah Aina , Nik Abdul Razak Nik Halimaton Sadiah
Published: March 2024

Dental diagnostic imaging plays a significant role in the field of dentistry. In the oral environment, continuous demineralization and remineralization of tooth structure is common. Early diagnosis and monitoring of carious lesions are essential, and enamel abnormalities require quantitative imaging techniques. Among the imaging modalities available are radiography, X-ray computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. However, to obtain imaging information on dental diagnostics, most of these systems rely on specific radiation and energy which might be harmful to health. To overcome the aforementioned problem, this research proposes a conceptual modeling of ultrasonic tomography system to detect enamel abnormalities using simulation from COMSOL software. Ultrasonic tomography can be obtained by the presence of acoustic waves transmitted from a source and the reflection of the waves at the investigated area. The transmission technique yielded 0.0041260 V for 7 MHz and 0.0003841 V for 25 MHz, but the reflection method yielded 0.000060 V for 7 MHz and 0.000211 V for 25 MHz.  The transmission approach produces the greatest difference in voltage when compared to the reflection method. This suggests that, in comparison to the reflection technique, the transmission method is significantly better at detecting changes on the tooth surface.
THE EFFECT OF SAWDUST AS SELF-CURING AGENT IN CONCRETE
Authors: Sulaiman Muhd Fauzy , Ruslin Nuratiqah , Jikino Elissa , Majain Nelly , Zakaria Siti Nor Farhana , Mohamad Habib Musa , Lim Chung Han
Published: March 2024

Concrete is known as the most used material for the construction industry. It is crucial to understand the properties of concrete especially on curing interaction and process. At the water shortage areas, the production of concrete is limited as approximately 230 liters of water is needed for 1 m3 of concrete. The insufficient of water resources has inhibited the building construction and development. Nowadays, researchers have studied and developed curing technology by implementing curing agents into concrete mixes. In this paper, the potential and properties of pre-wetted sawdust as curing agent is investigated and studied. Different curing regimes are implemented and tested to determine the properties of sawdust as curing agent. The results showed that the sawdust has potential to be used for curing agent as the concrete properties have been enhanced with strength index ratios ranging between 0.87 until 0.98. Moreover, the compressive strength and tensile properties were also developed with range ratios between 0.69 up until 0.98, respectively. Hence, the application of pre-wetted sawdust inside concrete is effective for concrete production and highly recommended to be implemented at the water shortage areas.
A THERMAL BEHAVIOUR STUDY OF NATURAL FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITE/HONEYCOMB CORE SANDWICH PANELS
Authors: Zulkarnain Muhammad , M. Sobron Y Lubis, , Insdrawaty Mohamad Irfan , Azman Mohamad Izmul Farees , Azmi Muhamad Izwan Aiman , Zainol Mohd Faez
Published: March 2024

The unique honeycomb structure has provided good modulus with a lightweight material, especially in aerospace and vehicle applications.  Realizing that the thermal analysis of natural fiber honeycomb sandwiches was still lacking in observation, the research needs to investigate thermal transfer characteristics to promote engineering demand. The objective of this research was to investigate honeycomb sandwiches' thermal behaviour by implementing local natural fibers of coconut, oil palm, and sugar cane for sheet plate structure through experimental and numerical analysis. The natural fiber was varied by weight content with the ratio of composite given in a range of 0%wt. - 8%wt.  The results have demonstrated that the face sheet plate was paramount part to absorb thermal flow. The study displayed the low thermal conductivity of the face sheet will counter significantly the heat transfer of the honeycomb structure. The experimental investigation found that the coconut fiber successfully performs as an insulator in a honeycomb sandwich which reached 6.78 W.m-1K-1 of thermal conductivity which was an 85.86% improvement as an insulator. While palm oil and sugar cane presented at 11.12 W.m-1K-1 and 10.59 W.m-1K-1, it was slightly higher compared to the coconut. In the numerical investigation, fiber distribution development was successfully performed in a honeycomb sandwich sheet plate composite. The thermal conductivity showed a difference from the experimental, where the higher thermal resistance was shown by palm oil and sugar cane at 8.22 W.m-1K-1 and 8.16 W.m-1K-1, respectively.
DETERMINING GOOD DNA QUALITY OF FFPE CRC TISSUES VIA A MACRODISSECTION-DNA EXTRACTION PROTOCOL
Authors: Phei Ying Ng , Mohd Nafi Siti Norasikin
Published: March 2024

A good DNA quality and quantity from a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sample is crucial for a better downstream genomic analysis. Previous research has focused on comparing FFPE DNA extraction kits, but the improvement in kit outcome has yet to be studied. This study aimed to make some modifications to a selected Qiagen DNA extraction manual protocol using a manual macrodissected FFPE colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue sample. A variety of DNA extraction protocol-related variables, such as washing steps, tissue sections, and FFPE tissue age have been investigated to determine the DNA quality and quantity of the FFPE tissues. The prechilled absolute ethanol washing step showed the highest DNA concentration with good purity ratios. One, two, or four tissue sections using the washing step were sufficient to obtain adequate DNA concentrations with acceptable DNA purity ratios. 1% or 2% agarose gel electrophoresis with the pre-casting method allowed better visualisation of FFPE DNA. Based on the ideal quality and quantity, we chose a manual macrodissected DNA extraction protocol employing 4 x 10 µm FFPE tissue sections generated in recent years with an optimised prechilled absolute ethanol washing step.
DEVELOPMENT OF IMAGE RECONSTRUCTION FOR DETECTING STATIC OIL-GAS REGIMES USING INVASIVE ELECTRICAL CAPACITANCE TOMOGRAPHY IN STEEL PIPE APPLICATION – AN INITIAL STUDY An Initial Study
Authors: Hamzah Haziq Syakir , Che Man Ain Eazriena , Abdul Wahab Yasmin , Abu Talip Nurhafizah , Saari Mohd Mawardi
Published: March 2024

Electrical Capacitance Tomography (ECT) is a well-known technique for identifying two-phase regimes when a non-conducting medium is the main medium inside a pipe. However, the common non-invasive techniques of ECT are not suitable for monitoring non-conducting systems that use steel pipes. This is because the placement of the common ECT sensor is outside of the pipe and thus cannot penetrate the conducting pipe. Therefore, this paper presents the development of image reconstruction techniques for invasive Electrical Capacitance Tomography (ECT) in steel pipe applications. The study uses eight electrodes for invasive ECT that are independently designed for easy replacement. The shield guard of each electrode is individually designed, unlike the common sensor of ECT. Moreover, it produces a sensitivity map in the forward problem by modeling the geometry to mimic the real hardware of invasive ECT in Comsol Multiphysics livelink with MATLAB. The data from real hardware is exported offline and a linear back projection algorithm is used as the inverse problem. The phantom of gas-oil with different sizes, positions, and multiple phantoms from the range of 20mm, 25 mm and 33mm are tested. The tomograms of the region of interest can be obtained as a result. The paper concludes that the developed image reconstruction techniques for invasive ECT in steel pipe applications can provide acceptable and reliable results. This study can be useful for researchers and practitioners in the field of ECT and steel pipe applications.
MEASUREMENT OF RICE MOISTURE CONTENT BASED ON QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS FROM RADIO TOMOGRAPHY IMAGES
Authors: Mohd Ramli Nurul Amira , Rahiman Mohd Hafiz Fazalul , Abdul Rahim Ruzairi , Kamarudin Latifah Munirah , Mohamed Latifah , Zakaria Ammar , Saeed Moqbel Abdullah Mohammed
Published: March 2024

Inefficient storage of paddy and rice grains can lead to grain deterioration, resulting in post-harvest losses ranging from 10% to 30%. The quality of grains cannot be improved throughout the storage period. Therefore, following the mechanisation of agricultural industries, air dryers have been developed to control the crops’ moisture level by blowing ambient or heated air into the silo to improve the aeration and allow the grains to be preserved with minimal loss of quality until the appropriate time for managing and marketing processes. However, the conventional sampling method used to measure the moisture level is inefficient because it is very localised and only represents part of the moisture distribution inside the bulk grains. Additionally, incorporating advanced technologies can be a significant cost limitation for small-scale industries. Thus, to address the issue, this research study developed a radio tomographic imaging (RTI) system in a silo-scale prototype using 20 sensor nodes operating at 2.4 GHz to localise and monitor the moisture level constructively. The RTI system reconstructs the cross-sectional images across the rice silo by measuring radio frequency attenuation, in terms of received signal strength (RSS) quality, caused by the rice moisture phantoms within the wireless sensor network (WSN) area. A total of five phantoms’ profiles having a percentage of moisture content (MC) of 15%, 20% and 25% were reconstructed using four image reconstruction algorithms, Linear Back Projection (LBP), Filtered Back Projection (FBP), Newton’s One-step Error Reconstruction (NOSER) and Tikhonov Regularisation.
EFFECT OF SEA WATER, COASTAL SAND, AND CLAM SHELL POWDER ON COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF NORMAL CONCRETE
Authors: Helmi Masdar , Alami Fikri , Isneini Mohd , Mayang Sari Rendityas , Zikrillah Muhammad Daffa
Published: March 2024

Durability and resilience are essential factors of reinforced concrete structures in maritime environment which are subjected by stress, abrasion, and tidal exposure continuously. The research aims to analyze the effect of marine materials and its environment on the compressive strength of concrete cube (15x15x15 cm) at various days such as 7, 14, 28, and 56 days. The marine materials were used such as seawater, coastal sand, and clamshell powder as part of the concrete mixture. In addition, the effect of seawater on curing period, also were investigated. Treatment of marine environment were conducted by placing the samples after 28 days of age in tidal zone, submerged, and coastal atmospheric area.  The results show the marine environment decreased the compressive strength about of 2%, 11% and 19% for coastal atmosphere, tidal and submerged treatments respectively which correlated to carbonation depth. The use of coastal sand in concrete mixture decreased compressive strength of concrete while the presence of clamshell powder slightly increased compressive strength for both curing treatments in fresh water and seawater. The curing process in seawater until the 28-days had a similar of compressive strength rate with the ones in freshwater.
Extended period of ventilation before delayed cord clamping augments left‐to‐right shunting and decreases systemic perfusion at birth in preterm lambs
Authors: Smolich Joseph J. , Kenna Kelly R. , Mynard Jonathan P.
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have suggested that an extended period of ventilation before delayed cord clamping (DCC) augments birth‐related rises in pulmonary arterial (PA) blood flow. However, it is unknown whether this greater rise in PA flow is accompanied by increases in left ventricular (LV) output and systemic arterial perfusion or whether it reflects enhanced left‐to‐right shunting across the ductus arteriosus and/or foramen ovale (FO), with decreased systemic arterial perfusion. Using an established preterm lamb birth transition model, this study compared the effect of a short (∼40 s, n = 11), moderate (∼2 min, n = 11) or extended (∼5 min, n = 12) period of initial mechanical lung ventilation before DCC on flow probe‐derived perinatal changes in PA flow, LV output, total systemic arterial blood flow, ductal shunting and FO shunting. The LV output was relatively stable during initial ventilation but increased after DCC, with similar responses in all groups. Systemic arterial flow patterns displayed only minor differences during brief and moderate periods of initial ventilation and were similar after DCC. However, an increase in PA flow was augmented with an extended initial ventilation (P < 0.001), owing to an earlier onset of left‐to‐right ductal and FO shunting (P < 0.001), and was accompanied by a pronounced reduction in total systemic arterial flow (P = 0.005) that persisted for 4 min after DCC (P ≤ 0.039). These findings suggest that, owing to increased left‐to‐right shunting and a greater reduction in systemic arterial perfusion, an extended period of ventilation before DCC does not result in greater perinatal circulatory benefits than shorter periods of initial ventilation in the birth transition.

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Key points

Previous studies suggest that an extended period of initial ventilation before delayed cord clamping (DCC) augments birth‐related rises in pulmonary arterial (PA) blood flow.

It is unknown whether this greater rise in PA flow is accompanied by an increased left ventricular output and systemic arterial perfusion or whether it reflects enhanced left‐to‐right shunting across the ductus arteriosus and/or foramen ovale, with decreased systemic arterial perfusion.

Anaesthetized preterm fetal lambs instrumented with central arterial flow probes underwent a brief (∼40 s), moderate (∼2 min) or extended (∼5 min) period of ventilation before DCC.

Perinatal changes in left ventricular output were similar in all groups, but extended initial ventilation augmented both perinatal increases in PA flow, owing to earlier onset and greater left‐to‐right ductal and foramen ovale shunting, and perinatal reductions in total systemic arterial perfusion.

Extended ventilation before DCC does not confer a greater perinatal circulatory benefit than shorter periods of initial ventilation.
Experimental Investigation of Mode-Frequency Scattering at Fan Stages
Authors: Behn Maximilian , Tapken Ulf
Published: March 2024

For the development of low-noise fan designs the sound generation must be reduced at the source, but also sound transmission effects through the rotor can be exploited to reduce the noise emitted to the far-field. Rotor shielding has been identified as a means of noise abatement, where rotor counter-rotating modes are blocked by the rotor and transmit poorly to the inlet. An effect that is rarely considered in this context is mode-frequency scattering at the rotor, which can circumvent the blockage effect by shifting the sound energy in frequency and mode order, typically to a rotor co-rotating mode order that transmits efficiently to the inlet. An experimental investigation is presented, where the transmission, reflection, and scattering of individually generated modes through a fan stage is measured by means of a loudspeaker array and microphone arrays, upstream and downstream. The highly resolved measured data comprise the variation of mode order, frequency, rotor speed, and aerodynamic operating conditions. In this study, the focus is on mode-frequency scattering, for which results are presented for high and low rotor speeds.
Effect of Buoyancy Force in Phase Change Material-Based Metal Hydride Reactor
Authors: Lewis Swaraj D. , Chippar Purushothama
Published: March 2024

In Phase Change Material (PCM) simulations, buoyancy force is used to capture the melting contour. However, for the sake of simplicity, most of the PCM-based Metal Hydride (MH) simulations have ignored the influence of buoyancy in PCM which is crucial in analyzing the heat flow within PCM. This study incorporates the buoyancy term in mathematical models to capture the contour of a melted PCM and also its heat transfer capacity during the hydrogen absorption process. A PCM model with buoyancy force is validated against the experimental values and applied to the MH-PCM models. Incorporating the buoyancy force improves the heat transfer rate in the PCM during melting which benefits in better heat removal from the MH bed. Two designs of MH-PCM models having PCM placed in ring-type and tube-type configurations are discussed. Further, the design optimization in ring-type models was done by changing the PCM-MH volume and sandwiching ratios.
Lung cancer with bilateral internal jugular vein thrombosis
Authors: Jiang Fenglin , Zhu Jingjun
Published: March 2024

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The ultrasonography and pathological features of primary hepatic pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma
Authors: Bao Yuhan , Meng Qingkai , Qu Nina
Published: March 2024

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Ultrasound imaging of the transversus nuchae muscle: a potential entrapment site for the lesser occipital nerve
Authors: Zaottini Federico , Picasso Riccardo , Wu Wei-Ting , Chang Ke-Vin , Mezian Kamal , Ricci Vincenzo , Özçakar Levent
Published: March 2024

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Evaluation of a mentoring program for junior medical staff at a tertiary paediatric hospital: Uptake, impact and sustainability
Authors: Stewart Bianca , Polley Clare , Gray Amy
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Mentoring for doctors has benefits for mentors, mentees and their employment organisations. There are emerging examples of formal mentoring programs in hospitals. There remains limited published data evaluating self-selection models for participant satisfaction and long-term outcomes. Our aim was to explore the experience of mentors and mentees who opted in to the dyad mentoring program at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) to understand the longevity of the mentoring relationships and to understand the utilisation of the supporting mentoring tools.
Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted. In 2020, 174 eligible doctors were invited to complete a survey containing multiple-choice and Likert-scale questions to explore Moore’s outcome levels for evaluating continuing medical education. Of the eligible cohort, 66 (38%) responded, and of these, 14 volunteered for in-depth individual interviews. Descriptive statistics from survey responses were used to calculate number and frequency of responses, and inductive thematic analysis was used to identify themes from transcribed interviews as part of a phenomenological approach.
Results: One third of mentees and 68.8% (22/32) of mentors reported ongoing relationships beyond the 10-month formal program. A “cycle of mentoring” was evident, with mentees returning to the program as mentors. Four key qualitative themes were identified: “broad benefits” of mentoring, “it’s a relationship and it takes work”, “giving back” and “program foundations”. Outcomes in domains of participation, satisfaction, learning and organisational culture change were identified.
Conclusion: The mentoring program at RCH has demonstrated positive impact and long-term sustainability. The program structure could be replicated in different settings.
Healthcare workers’ understanding of interprofessional education and collaborative practice in regional health settings: A survey study
Authors: Martin Priya , Pighills Alison , Sinclair Lynne , Argus Geoff
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Interprofessional education and collaborative practice can enhance outcomes for patients and families. Facilitating collaborative practice at the point of care requires skilled healthcare workers who understand relevant terminology and concepts. However, gaps persist in the understanding and facilitation of interprofessional education and collaborative practice in some health settings. This survey study investigated healthcare workers’ perceived knowledge and understanding of interprofessional education and collaborative practice.
Methods: A bespoke online survey was administered to healthcare workers from two regional health services in Queensland, Australia. Data were subject to descriptive and inferential analyses.
Results: Data were available from 235 healthcare workers. Multiple regression analysis revealed that claiming to understand the difference between different models of service delivery, the ability to explain interprofessional education to a colleague and being an allied health practitioner were statistically significant predictors of a high knowledge of interprofessional practice score. Very few respondents were trained in this area (6%, n = 14), and those trained reported higher confidence in facilitating interprofessional education and collaborative practice at the point of care.
Conclusion: This study has highlighted the gaps in healthcare workers’ perceived knowledge and understanding of interprofessional education and collaborative practice. Healthcare workers need targeted professional development opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for practising in interprofessional teams. They also need opportunities to facilitate it with students and others. Improving interprofessional and collaborative practice within teams will ultimately improve healthcare outcomes of patients serviced by healthcare workers.