bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governance and Efficiency in Brazilian Water Utilities: An Analysis from Revenue Collection Efficiency
Authors: Barbosa Alexandro , Medeiros Felipe Anderson Smith de , Simões Pedro
Published: June 2024

This study analyzes the relevance of governance structure for efficiency in revenue collection by Brazilian Water Utilities (WUs). Data was collected from the National Information System on Sanitation (SNIS) for 127 Brazilian WUs, covering a balanced longitudinal panel from 2018 to 2022. Governance structures evaluated included Ownership (public or private) and Corporatization (publicly traded or not). In scientific databases, we did not find studies on the efficiency of specific WUs in collecting customer bills for services rendered and its relationships with this type of governance; thus, this would be the main innovative contribution of the study to the previous literature. In the first stage, the study utilized the Dynamic Slack Based Model (DSBM) to assess revenue collection efficiency. In the second stage, an econometric model with Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) to explain the efficiency. The findings revealed a global average inefficiency of 50.47% in revenue collection. Corporatization was linked to higher collection efficiencies, while ownership type was significant, but with lower collection efficiency. Factors such as tariff accessibility, urbanization, and the COVID-19 pandemic also influenced efficiency. The study suggests regulatory bodies should consider these insights to implement policies that prevent inefficiencies from affecting the tariff system for services.
Energy Communities in the Transition to Renewable Sources: Innovative Models of Energy Self-Sufficiency through Organic Waste
Authors: Bellini Francesco , Campana Paola , Censi Riccardo , Di Renzo Matteo , Tarola Anna Maria
Published: June 2024

The paper examines the evolution and crucial role of energy communities in the context of the transition to renewable energy sources. Such communities are presented as an innovative and resilient response to the challenges posed by climate change. Their importance emerges from their ability to decentralise energy production, increasing local security and reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources and external suppliers. However, despite the obvious benefits, the contribution highlights several challenges, such as the need for significant upfront investment and the presence of regulatory barriers that may hinder the integration of these solutions into existing energy systems. A detailed bibliometric analysis is used, focusing on specific research areas and using tools to map the most relevant keywords and emerging trends. The results of the bibliometric analysis highlight how energy communities are emerging as key players in the sustainability landscape, capable of addressing and overcoming contemporary environmental challenges. The research reaffirms the transformative potential of energy communities in promoting a more sustainable and resilient future.
Investigating the Impact of an Integrated Project Management System on Financial Performance
Authors: Azizi Jafar , Nikravesh Ramin , Golshani Tina
Published: June 2024

Establishing systemic communications between the project plan, stakeholders, and the organization through integrated management meets stakeholders' demands and managerial expectations in project-oriented organizations. Performance assessment can be defined as a control system in any company that reviews its daily operations and evaluates how well it has achieved its goals. This study aims to investigate the impact of an integrated project management system on the financial performance of the Organization for Renovation, Development, and Equipment of Schools. This applied research is descriptive-analytical. The statistical population comprises 2,700 employees of the organization, with a sample size of 340 individuals examined. The reliability of the designed questionnaire was confirmed by experts in the organization using Cronbach's alpha (α=0.91). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and AMOS 18 software through descriptive statistics and confirmatory factor analysis. The results indicate that the seven dimensions of the integrated project management system (cost management, quality management and continuous control, change management, systems and information management, human resources management, interaction and communication management, procurement management) have a positive and significant impact on the financial performance of the Organization for Renovation, Development, and Equipment of Schools.
Current Advances in Small Peptides During Plant Growth and Development
Authors: Lu Shuaiqi , Xiao Fei
Published: June 2024

Small peptides (SPs), ranging from 5 to 100 amino acids, play integral roles in plants due to their diverse functions. Despite their low abundance and small molecular weight, SPs intricately regulate critical aspects of plant life, including cell division, growth, differentiation, flowering, fruiting, maturation, and stress responses. As vital mediators of intercellular signaling, SPs have garnered significant attention in plant biology research. This comprehensive review delves into SPs' structure, classification, and identification, providing a detailed understanding of their significance. Additionally, we summarize recent findings on the biological functions and signaling pathways of prominent SPs that regulate plant growth and development. The review also offers a forward-looking perspective on future research directions in peptide signaling pathways.
Digital Developmental Advising Systems for Engineering Students Based on ABET Student Outcomes Evaluations
Authors: Hussain Wajid , Spady William G. , Fong Mak
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this research is to examine the benefits and limitations of implementation of novel digital academic advising systems using automated collection and reporting processes for ABET student outcomes data based on principles of authentic OBE for effective developmental advising. We examine digital developmental advising models of undergraduate engineering programs in two universities that employ customized features of the web-based software EvalTools® - Advising Module based on assessment methodology incorporating the Faculty Course Assessment Report, Performance Indicators and hybrid rubrics classified according to the affective, cognitive and psychomotor domains of Bloom’s learning model. A case study approach over a six-year period is adopted for this research. The two case studies present results of samples of developmental advising activity employing sequential explanatory mixed methods models using a combination of quantitative and qualitative analyses of a) detailed students’ outcomes and Performance Indicators information; and b) self-evaluation of their professional development and lifelong learning skills. The findings of this study show that digital advising systems employing the Faculty Course Assessment Report using Performance Indicators and hybrid rubrics can provide comprehensive and realistic outcomes data to help both developmental advisors and students easily identify the specific cause of performance failures, implement practical recommendations for remedial actions and track improvements. Inherent strong skills can also be identified in academically weak students by observing patterns or trends of relatively better performing outcomes to reinforce natural affinity for learning specialized competencies and pursue related and successful career paths.
Unlocking AI Adoption in Local Governments: Best Practice Lessons from Smart Cities
Authors: Yigitcanlar Tan , David Anne , Li Wenda , Fookes Clinton , Bibri Simon Elias , Ye Xinyue
Published: June 2024

In an era marked by swift technological progress, the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly evident across various sectors, including local governments. These governmental bodies are progressively leveraging AI technologies to enhance service delivery to their communities, ranging from simple task automation to more complicated engineering endeavours. While more and more local governments are adopting AI, it is imperative to understand the functions, implications, and consequences of AI. Despite the growing importance of this domain, a significant gap persists within the scholarly discourse. This study strives to bridge this void by exploring the applications of AI technologies within the context of local government service provision and using this inquiry to generate lessons and best practices for similar smart city initiatives. Through a comprehensive grey literature review, we analysed 262 real-world AI implementations across 170 local governments worldwide. The findings underscore several key points: (a) There has been a consistent upward trajectory in the adoption of AI by local governments over the last decade; (b) Local governments from China, the US, and the UK are at the forefront of AI adoption; (c) Among local government AI technologies, Natural Language Processing and Robotic Process Automation emerge as the most prevalent ones; (d) Local governments primarily deploy AI across 28 distinct services; (e) Information management, back-office work, and transportation and traffic management are leading domains in terms of AI adoption. This study enriches the extant body of knowledge by providing an overview of existing AI applications within the sphere of local governance. It offers insights for smart city policymakers and decision-makers considering the adoption, expansion, or refinement of AI technologies in urban service provision. Additionally, it underscores the importance of using these insights to guide the successful integration and optimisation of AI in future smart city projects, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of communities.
Mitochondrial Control Region Database in Hungarian Fallow Deer (Dama dama) Populations for Forensic Use
Authors: Zorkóczy Orsolya K. , Wagenhoffer Zsombor , Lehotzky Pál , Pádár Zsolt , Zenke Petra
Published: June 2024

The evidential value of an mtDNA match between biological remains and its potential donor is determined by the random match probability of the haplotype. This probability is based on the haplotype’s population frequency estimate. Consequently, implementing a population study representative of the population relevant to the forensic case is vital to correctly evaluating the evidence. The emerging number of poaching cases and the limited availability of such data emphasizes the need for improved fallow deer mtDNA population databank for forensic purposes, including targeting the entire mitochondrial control region. By sequencing the whole mitochondrial control region in 138 animals from five populations in Hungary we found four different haplotypes, including one which has not yet been described. Our results, supplemented with data already available from previous research do not support the possibility of determining the population of origin, although some patterns of geographical separation can be distinguished. Estimates of molecular diversity indicate approximately similarly low mtDNA diversity (Hd=0.565 and π = 0.002), compared with data from other countries. The calculated random match probability of 0.547 shows a high probability of coincidence and, therefore, a limited capacity for exclusion. Consequently, it may be necessary to search for polymorphic sites on other mitochondrial gene sections or to sequence the entire mitogenome of fallow deer.
Social Robots for Meaningful Seated Activities: Acceptance & Use by Older Adults
Authors: Sadler James , Khan Aila , Lwin Michael , Mubin Omar
Published: June 2024

Healthy aging among older adults requires the maintenance of good physical and cognitive activity. However, in the natural course of aging, older adults usually experience a decline in their physical and cognitive activity, causing an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Some older adults may not have a choice but to become increasingly sedentary as they age due to injury or deteriorated physicality. As such they require a manner of assistive technologies to aid in their daily lives and activities to maintain healthy cognitive function. Social Robots are a newer form of assistive technology, specifically designed for social interactions and gameplay. As with other assistive technologies, compliance barriers to the acceptance and use of social robots and types of meaningful, seated activities among older adults are expected. To better explore this phenomenon, improve quality of life and understand what drives older adults to accept and use newer forms of technology like social robots, this research conjoins two conceptual frameworks: The Activity Theory of Aging (ATA) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). As social robots hold great promise for improving the quality of life for older adults, exploring what driving factors could enable their greater acceptance and use is essential to furthering this field of study within Australia.
Preparedness, Prevention, Investigation, and Response to the Emergence of Mpox in Khartoum, Sudan in 2022
Authors: Ali Yousif , Siddig Emmanuel Edwar , Osman Mohammed , Mohamed Nouh Saad , Musa Ahmed , Ahmed Ayman
Published: June 2024

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a rare viral disease initially discovered in Africa in 1958. Since its first identification, several outbreaks have occurred in various African nations. Recently, the global community has witnessed a resurgence in the number of Mpox cases reported worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the ongoing multi-country outbreak a public health emergency in July 2022. This study reports on the first cases of Mpox detected in Khartoum State, Sudan, outlining the epidemiology, preparedness, and public health response to this new challenge. A total of 55 suspected cases were identified, with two confirmed cases. The clinical manifestations observed in these cases align with the classic skin rash typical of Mpox, presenting alongside symptoms like fever, headache, and joint pain. The findings underscore the need for heightened surveillance, early detection, and timely intervention to prevent the domestic spread of Mpox and its potential impact on public health. Continued global efforts are needed to support effective screening, diagnostic, and control measures, ultimately enhancing preparedness and response in the face of this emerging disease.
Unveiling Key Drivers to Enhance Global Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Jamilah Hafshah , Supardi Supardi , Indayani Lilik
Published: June 2024

This quantitative study investigates the influence of service quality, price, and brand image on customer satisfaction at PT. Pos Indonesia Sultan Agung Magersari Sidoarjo. Using a sample of 85 respondents and multiple linear regression analysis, the research finds significant positive effects of service quality, price, and brand image on customer satisfaction. Specifically, reliability and responsiveness significantly impact service quality, competitor price significantly influences price, and uniqueness significantly affects brand image. The study underscores the importance of maintaining high service quality standards, competitive pricing strategies, and distinctive brand images to enhance customer satisfaction in the postal service industry. The findings offer practical implications for PT. Pos Indonesia, suggesting the prioritization of reliability and responsiveness in service delivery, competitive pricing strategies, and leveraging unique brand attributes for market differentiation. Future research directions include exploring additional variables and employing qualitative methods to deepen understanding and optimize customer satisfaction strategies.   Highlight:  Study: Service, price, brand influence postal customer satisfaction significantly. Regression: Reliability, responsiveness, competitor price, uniqueness impact customer satisfaction. Practical: Maintain reliability, competitive pricing, leverage uniqueness for customer satisfaction.     Keywoed: Customer satisfaction, Service quality, Price, Brand image, Postal services
Influential Factors Shaping Consumer Behavior in Skincare Industry
Authors: Ningrum Ridiya , Indayani Lilik
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the influence of digital marketing, brand awareness, and electronic word-of-mouth (e-WOM) on consumer purchasing intentions for local skincare products in East Java, Indonesia. Employing an objective and scientific quantitative research approach, data from 97 respondents were analyzed using SPSS software. Findings reveal a significant positive impact of brand awareness and e-WOM on purchasing intentions, while digital marketing showed no significant effect. These results emphasize the importance of tailored marketing strategies in driving consumer interest and suggest avenues for future research to explore additional influencing factors. Limitations include the small sample size and potential biases in data collection. This research contributes to understanding consumer behavior dynamics in the skincare industry and informs marketing strategies for local skincare products.
Highlights:
1. Analyzing digital, brand, e-WOM impact on skincare consumer behavior.2. Brand awareness, e-WOM significantly influence consumer interest in skincare products.3. Tailored marketing crucial for leveraging consumer preferences in skincare industry.
Keywords: Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing, Brand Awareness, Electronic Word-of-Mouth (e-WOM), Skincare Industry
Prevalence and factors associated with hypertension among children attending pre-schools in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Authors: Said Jida Juma , Salim Nahya , Kunambi Peter P , Furia Francis
Published: June 2024

Background
Childhood hypertension has become a public health problem due to its increasing prevalence and complications; the high prevalence is noted to mirror an increase in obesity among children. Hypertension in children is frequently undiagnosed due to challenges in getting appropriate cuff sizes and interpretation of the readings. Several studies have been carried out among children however; most of available information is focused on hypertension among older children and adolescents.
Methodology:
A cross sectional study was conducted in 2 districts of Dar es Salaam region namely Ilala and Kinondoni from October to November 2020. Children aged 2–5 years attending pre-schools in these districts meeting the inclusion criteria and whose parent/guardian signed informed consent were included. Questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic characteristics; anthropometric and three oscillometric single- occasion blood pressure measurements were taken. The average blood pressure was compared to the standard charts for age and sex provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics 2017 to determine the blood pressure category of the child. A total of 1083 children fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were enrolled into the study, 51.3% (556/1083) of participants were males and the median age was 4 years (IQR 3–5). Blood pressures for 252 (23.3%) participants were in the high blood pressure range (19.8% with elevated blood pressure and 3.5% with hypertension). No significant gender difference was observed among those with high blood pressure. Factors that were noted to be significantly associated with elevated blood pressure included low birth weight (p = 0.036), increasing age (p = 0.032) and body mass index (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
High prevalence of elevated blood pressure in this population of pre-school aged children is alarming. Low birth weight, increasing age and body mass index were significantly associated with elevated blood pressure.
Genome‑wide identifcation and expression analysis of the growth-regulating factors under drought in Brassica juncea
Authors: Zhang Yuling , Jiang Huanhuan , Liang Fenghao , Yang Bin , Wang Lulu , Tang Rong , Lei Shaolin , Xiao Huagui , Zhang Chao
Published: June 2024

Growth-regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcription factors (TFs) involved in the regulation of plant growth, development, and abiotic stress processes. However, the functions of Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss GRFs remain largely unknown. In this study, 34 BjGRF genes were identified in B. juncea. BjGRF members of the same subfamily were found to share a similar motif composition and gene structure. In total, 663 cis-acting element sites were found in the promoter regions of BjGRF genes, which were related to light response, hormone response, environmental stresses, and plant growth/development. Additionally, 48 pairs of segmental duplication genes were identified during gene duplication events, and no tandemly duplicated genes were identified. qRT-PCR analysis showed that the 34 BjGRF genes were primarily expressed in the roots, followed by the leaves. Furthermore, the 10 BjGRF genes were screened in response to drought stress, and the expression patterns of the genes were relatively consistent, with a maximum expression level at 3 or 24 h. This preliminary study clarifies the response of the BjGRF gene family to drought stress and provides ideas for further analyses of the biological functions of BjGRF genes.
Primary caesarean section: trend, predictors and outcomes among low risk multiparous women at tertiary hospital northern Tanzania: a cross sectional study
Authors: Maingu Leons , Masenga Gileard , Mchome Bariki , Batchu Nasra , Mangi Glory , Gaffur Raziya , Mlay Pendo , Mjema Rafiki , Maro Eusebius , Kakumbi Tom , Salum Ibrahim , Rwenyagira Doris , Swai Patricia
Published: June 2024

Background: Cesarean section rate has been increasing worldwide, surpassing the standard cesarean section rate set by WHO of 10-15%. Primary cesarean section has been a major contributor to the overall Cesarean section rates. Studies have reported much on primary caesarean section on prime parous however the prevalence, risk factors and outcomes of caesarean section in multiparous women who had previous vaginal birth are still understudied. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the trend and predictors, and outcome of primary cesarean section in low-risk multiparous women.
Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study using birth registry linked data from Kilimanjaro Christian medical center from 2012 to 2021. Multiparous women who delivered from 37 to 42 weeks were enrolled in the study after exclusion of those with medical and obstetric risk condition. Social demographic and obstetric characteristics were used to determine the predictors of caesarean section by using multivariate logistic regression. Maternal and neonatal outcome were computed using chi squire.
Results: Total of 12760 multiparous women were enrolled for analysis, the overall prevalence of primary CS of 36.8%, the indications reported were fetal distress, malposition and labor dystocia. During the study period the trend has been constantly high, with its peak prevalence of 41.0%, there was a gradual decline of prevalence to 22.4% from 2019 to 2021. Advanced maternal age >35 years and obesity were independent predictors of primary caesarean section (AOR 1.15, 95%CI 1.06-1.26, AOR1.40 95%CI 1.09-1.80). Maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with primary CS were postpartum hemorrhage, blood transfusion and Apgar score of >7 in first minute.
Conclusion: The trend of CS was high and factors contributing to CS were maternal obesity and advance maternal age. Pre conceptual counseling to women in communities and antenatal clinics on health education on diet and lifestyle modification are key in reducing the burden of obesity.
Deciphering genomic arms race between the chemical defense of a tree and counter-defense of insect herbivores
Authors: Wei Shu-Jun , Song Wei , Cao Li-Jun , Chen Jin-Cui , Guo Wen-Juan , Li Hui-Juan , Sun Xue-Wen , Hoffmann Ary , Wen Jun-Bao
Published: June 2024

Background
Plant secondary metabolites play important roles in defense against herbivorous insects. However, many insects can overcome plant defenses even when they produce a rich toxin load, and there is an expected arms race between plants evolving new toxins and insects evolving to overcome them.
Results
Here we deciphered genomic features linked to arms race in the tree of heaven that can produce a high richness of secondary metabolites with about 745 compounds and two monophagous weevils that only feed on this tree species. We first assembled chromosome-level genomes for the tree of heaven and two weevils. Comparative genomics showed an expansion of genes related to synthesizing secondary metabolites in the tree, while in the weevils, genes related to detoxification and chemosensing expanded. The expansion of core genes involved in quassinoid biosynthesis in the tree was linked to tandem duplication and whole genome duplication, while the expansion of detoxifying GST and chemosensing SNMP genes in the two weevils was linked to tandem duplication and novel genes, respectively.
Conclusions
The results indicate that plants and insect herbivores reshaped their genomes each other in common and unique ways underlying their arms race of defense and countering defense, improving our understanding of genome evolution driven by tropical interactions.
Effect of inhibitors on the degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) by ultrasonic-assisted inorganic anions: degradation mechanism and pathway
Authors: Do Huu Tuan , Thi Lan Anh Phan , Ngoc Nguyen Thuy
Published: June 2024

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a notable polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFASs) contaminating global water environment. This study investigated the effect of inhibitors on the degradation of PFOA by ultrasonic-assisted inorganic anions. Among NO3–, SO42–, and HCO3– anions use to assist in PFOA degradation by ultrasonic (US), SO42– showed higher result. When tert-butanol (t-BuOH) was used as a radical scavenger to find out which radical play role in PFOA degradation and the highest PFOA decomposition efficiency (94.9%) was observed in NaNO3/t-BuOH, US system with 30 mM NaNO3– initial concentration. We did not detect any shorter-chain perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) except for PFOA and F– anions in the final reaction solution that mean PFOA was decomposed directly to CO, CO2 and HF. Meanwhile, HCO3– anions showed the lowest degradation efficiency. In terms of energy efficiency, the energy consumption in US/sulfate system was seen to be comparable to that of sonolysis.
Pain Management's Influence on Voluntary Assisted Dying Decision-Making
Authors: Mohabbati Vahid , Papan Mohammadkazem , McCarthy Stephen , Yapp Alvin
Published: June 2024

Background: Voluntary assisted dying has only recently been legalised in the Australian state of New South Wales. Clinical judgement must be exercised by the doctors of patients requesting voluntary assisted dying, regarding the likelihood that the patient’s condition is terminal and that no adequate relief or management can be provided to them.
Actual case: An elderly man, with multiple comorbidities, experienced functional decline and worsening of osteoarthritic right hip pain following the cancellation of a total hip arthroplasty. Due to this and medical complications deeming him unfit for surgery, the patient expressed a wish to initiate the voluntary assisted dying process. Pharmacological analgesia was ineffective in controlling his pain.
Possible courses of action: Applications for voluntary assisted dying may come from any patient. The application needs first to be supported by two physicians, before independent review; adequate pain management should occur simultaneously to preserve the patient’s quality of life as much as possible.
Formulation of a plan: The patient was supported in his decision to begin the voluntary assisted dying process, but education was also carried out regarding pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of pain management. After some thought and familial input, the patient was agreeable to an interventional pain referral, and later consented to radiofrequency ablation of the right genicular and femoral nerves.
Outcome: Following radiofrequency ablation, the patient reported a significant decrease in his hip pain, and an improvement in his quality of life; he elected to cease the voluntary assisted dying process.
Discussion: The presence of pain is a key factor in both quality of life and a patient’s perceptions of such; this has major implications where voluntary assisted dying is concerned. Interventions such as radiofrequency ablation are minimally invasive and can often have significant impacts on improving mood and quality of life.
Conclusions: Interventional pain management is an important management tool in improving the quality of life of patients, especially in a palliative disease stage. It may lead patients to reconsider programmes such as voluntary assisted dying, which are still poorly understood by many inside and outside of the health profession. Education of doctors and medical students on the presence and role of interventional pain specialists should be undertaken.
Comparative analysis of the gut microbiota of the Chinese Kunming dog, German Shepherd, and Belgian Malinois
Authors: Hu Qingmei , Cheng Luguang , Cao Xueting , Shi Feng , Ma Yunjie , Mo Liling , Li Junyu , Zhu Siyi , Liu Z ichao
Published: June 2024

The composition of the gut microbiota is essential for the host’s health and adaptation to the environment. Due to bacterial functional redundancy in microbial communities, different bacteria can produce the same important metabolites beneficial to health, and studying the gut flora composition of dogs of different breeds under the same domestication conditions can help improve microbial diversity and normalize metabolite production in diseased dogs. In this study, noninvasive sampling and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing were used to compare and analyze the structure and function of the gut microbiota of three dog breeds, namely the Chinese Kunming dog (CKD), German Shepherd dog (GSD) and Belgian Malinois dog (BMD). The results showed that the gut microbiota of the three dog breeds consisted of 257 species across 146 genera, 60 families, 35 orders, 15 classes, and 10 phyla. The dominant bacterial phyla across the three breeds were Firmicutes (57.44%), Fusobacteriota (28.86%), and Bacteroidota (7.63%), while the dominant bacterial genera across the three breeds were Peptostreptococcus (21.08%), Fusobacterium (18.50%), Lactobacillus (12.37%), and Cetobacter (10.29%). Further analysis also revealed significant differences in the intestinal flora of the three breeds, at both the phylum and genus levels. The richness of intestinal flora of BMD was significantly higher than that of CKD and GSD. The results of this study provide novel insights into the intestinal flora of intervention dogs and suggest novel methods to improve their health status.
Impact analysis and predictive modeling in emergency care： Evaluating the effects of immediately post-COVID-19 lockdown at a top Chinese teaching hospital
Authors: Pei Yuanyuan , Wang Xi , Cao Lingjie , Li Dilu , Guo Liping , Yang Fengtao , Huang Wenfeng , Li Hao , He Jing , Zhu Jihong
Published: June 2024

Background
Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a global pandemic. Emergency department (ED) suffered a significant impact due to COVID-19 spread after policy adjustments at the end of 2022 in China.
Methods
This study analyzed the impact of post-COVID-19 lock-down on ED visits and critically ill patients at Peking University People's Hospital from December 2022 to January 2023. Machine learning was employed to identify key predictors of mortality in critically ill ED patients. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) was developed to estimate the prognostic predictors.
Results
We have observed a significant rise in ED visits and admissions of critical patient, particularly with COVID-19 pneumonia. A total of 25413 patients visited ED, of who 631 patients were critically ill. Our analysis of 581 critical patients revealed distinct clinical and demographic characteristics like hypertension and diabetes, with a notable prevalence of complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury and respiratory failure. We further studied the variables with high contribution to model prediction to observe the characteristic differences between the variables in the non-survival group and the survival group. Age, hypoxic state and ventilator support, white blood cell, platelets, and coagulation indicators were identified as key risk factors for mortality using a Random Forest model. The study's predictive model demonstrated high accuracy, with its area under the receiver-operator curve as 0·8385, which incorporated into a user-friendly GUI for clinical application and could enhance the management of critical COVID-19 cases in emergency settings.
Conclusion
The pandemic spread rapidly in China after the quarantine was lifted. The predictive score and GUI for estimating prognostic risk factors in ED critical patients can be used to aid in the proper treatment and optimizing medical resources.
A GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Framework for Landfill Site Selection in Bilaspur and Gaurela-Pendra- Marwahi Districts, Chhattisgarh: Integrating AHP and MIF
Authors: Patel Rahul Kumar , Soni Prasoon , Singh Pushpraj
Published: June 2024

Landfilling is the most plausible method employed in developing countries to dispose of solid waste in the light of the global context. Since this area’s industry and urbanization, there is a production of waste. In contrast, many other reasons, such as the public’s lack of knowledge, e-waste from discarded gadgets, waste generated by businesses, and families, and citizens’ indifference, are responsible for the rapid growth of waste in the study area. One of the activities aided by Geographic Information System (GIS) that ensured a successful outcome is related to landfills. The paper describes using tools, like Remote Sensing and GIS, along with MIF and AHP methods. Its goal: find ideal waste dumping sites in Bilaspur and Gourela-Pendra-Marwahi districts, Chhattisgarh. Thematic maps, categorized by ArcGIS, helped grasp the challenge and get precise results. AHP and MIF aid decision-making, recommending top dumping locations. To clarify, the complex issue was divided into a hierarchical structure. Some things went into choosing the standards. The method makes sure we can fix the problem with the picked things. Maps helped see the issue and find a spot for a landfill in the studied area.
Bcl-2 knockdown by multifunctional lipid nanoparticle and its influence in apoptosis pathway regarding cutaneous melanoma: in vitro and ex vivo studies.
Authors: Viegas Juliana Santos Rosa , Araujo Jackeline Souza , Leite Marcel Nani , Praqça Fabiola Garcia , Ciampo Jose Orestes Del , Espreáfico Enilza Maria , Frade Marco Andrey Cipriani , Bentley Maria Vitoria Lopes Badra
Published: June 2024

Multifunctional therapies have emerged as innovative strategies in cancer treatment. In this research article, we proposed a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) designed for the topical treatment of cutaneous melanoma, which simultaneously delivers 5-FU and Bcl-2 siRNA. The characterized nanoparticles exhibited a diameter of 259 ± 9 nm and a polydispersion index of 0.2, indicating a uniform size distribution. The NLCs were primarily localized in the epidermis, effectively minimizing the systemic release of 5-FU across skin layers. The ex vivo skin model revealed the formation of a protective lipid film, decreasing the desquamation process of the stratum corneum which can be associated to an effect of increasing permeation. In vitro assays demonstrated that A375 melanoma cells exhibited a higher sensitivity to the treatment compared to non-cancerous cells, reflecting the expected difference in their metabolic rates. The uptake of NLC by A375 cells reached approximately 90% within 4 hours. The efficacy of Bcl-2 knockdown was thoroughly assessed using ELISA, Western blot, and qRT-PCR analyses, revealing a significant knockdown and synergistic action of the NLC formulation containing 5-FU and Bcl-2 siRNA (at low concentration --100 pM). Notably, the silencing of Bcl-2 mRNA also impacted other members of the Bcl-2 protein family, including Mcl-1, Bcl-xl, BAX, and BAK. The observed modulation of these proteins strongly indicated the activation of the apoptosis pathway, suggesting a successful inhibition of melanoma growth and prevention of its in vitro spread.
Short-term real-world outcomes of diabetic macular edema treated with intravitreal faricimab
Authors: Hirakata Toshiaki , Hara Fumihiro , Nochi Yuta , Shinohara Daisuke , Yamamoto Shutaro , Hiratsuka Yoshimune , Nakao Shintaro
Published: June 2024

Faricimab, a new drug for diabetic macular edema (DME), was made available in Japan in 2022. However, few reports have been published about its treatment outcomes in clinical practice. To assess the short-term outcomes of intravitreal faricimab (IVF) in patients with DME, the records of patients with DME receiving IVF therapy between July 2022 and July 2023 at Juntendo University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Their best-corrected visual acuities in the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution units and central macular thicknesses were compared at baseline and one month after the final IVF. Eighteen patients and 22 eyes were included and allocated to the naïve and switched groups: 12 cases (15 eyes) and 6 cases (7 eyes), respectively. The best-corrected visual acuity improved for the naïve group, but no difference was observed for the switched group. In contrast, the central macular thickness improved for both the naïve and switched groups. IVF demonstrated good short-term outcomes for DME, suggesting that it is effective for DME in clinical practice.
Dynamical protein interaction pathways: A molecular root to diseases
Authors: M Paul Asir
Published: June 2024

We propose a complex dynamical model to mimic the protein-protein interaction. The signalling pathways that activate the proteins enact the intracellular functions are modelled by random and complimentary linking. The molecular roots of diseases are illuminated on the grounds of protein misfolding. Specifically, amy-loid fibrillated states are emphasized that are analogous to the coalescence of ordered and disordered dynamics. Also, a β− pleated sheet can be inferred from the model reflected as an anti-phase synchronized state. Note that the coupling strength is equivalent to the electromagnetic forces of the individual molecules. Critical clustering coupling strength has been analytically derived. Statistical techniques are imposed to impart an energy perspective of the model. We found that the relaxation time of the model plays a vital role in protein folding. We quote that ‘The quicker the folding, the lesser the entropy’. We validate the model using pathological data of breast carcinoma obtained from https://proteinatlas.org.
The Construction of a Five-Dimensional Theoretical Model of Advanced Health Assessment
Authors: Peng Gangyi , Chen Lianhua , Zhang Qian , Zhang Tiantian , Cai Zehua , Zhao Aihuang
Published: June 2024

Background
Advanced nursing practice is the practice of clinical nursing specialists in a specific nursing discipline who apply theoretical and practical, research and evidence-based skills to the clinical nursing practice of solving complex patient health problems. Advanced health assessment is the primary link of advanced nursing practice and is a prerequisite for accurately assessing patients' health problems and making scientific, professional and independent nursing decisions. The purpose of the study is to construct a theoretical model of advanced health assessment.
Methods
The study conducts content analysis on clinical data and literature data in obstetrics, cardiovascular, pediatrics, gynecology, and geriatrics specialties.
Results
Based on the new purpose of medicine, the new orientation, the new pattern and the new value of nursing, a five-dimensional theoretical model of advanced health assessment was constructed, including 'disease condition', 'health status', 'physiological function', 'self-care ability' and 'complication and risk'.
Conclusions
A five-dimensional theoretical model of advanced health assessment was constructed. It can guide nurses in conducting comprehensive health assessments to identify patients' health problems and provide targeted and prospective nursing interventions, reduce the occurrence of complications, and improve patient outcomes.
Effect of different carbodiimide additives on the compatibility and hydrolytic behavior of PLA/PBAT blends
Authors: WANG Yang , CHEN Chen , LI Jun , HUANG Jinfei , XIONG Lulu
Published: June 2024

Blends of Polylactic acid (PLA) and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) have great potential to replace conventional polyolefin and polyester materials. However, poor compatibility and fast degradation rate limit its development. In this paper, the effect of two monomer-type carbodiimides and one polymerized carbodiimide on the mechanical, crystalline, thermal stability, and hydrolysis properties of PLA/PBAT blends are investigated. Tested by FTIR, SEM, DSC, TGA, GPC, MFR, terminal carboxyl content, tensile properties and rotational torque. It is found that all the three carbodiimide additives improve the compatibility, enhance the mechanical, processing, and thermal stability properties of PLA and PBAT blends except for their reduced crystallization performance. Moreover, regarding the hydrolysis properties, the two monomeric carbodiimides exhibit little effect on the hydrolysis of PLA/PBAT blends, especially when the degradation conditions are alkaline, and even accelerate the degradation rate. Howover, the anti-hydrolysis effect of polycarbodiimide is remarkable, thus effectively enhancing the compatibility and anti-hydrolysis properties of PLA/PBAT blends, which is confirmed to be the most effective additive in this study.
Effect of hydrophobic monomers with different carbon chains on the structure–activity relationship of associating polyacrylamides
Authors: Yang Rong , Lai Xiaojuan , Li Qiying , Ding Xi , Wang Lei , Wen Xin , Guo Yan
Published: June 2024

As temperature and salt-resistant materials, hydrophobically associating polymers can form a reversible spatial network structure through the interaction between their hydrophobic groups, effectively improve the viscosity of the polymer solution through association, and enhance the temperature and salt resistance of the polymer. Hydrophobically associating monomers have different effects on the properties of polymer solutions. Herein, acrylic acid, acrylamide, and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid were used as hydrophilic monomers. The three hydrophobic monomers with different carbon chain lengths were prepared by the bromination reaction. Hydrophobic associating polymers DQM1-PAM, DQM2-PAM, and DQM3-PAM were prepared by aqueous solution free-radical polymerization. The structure–activity relationship of the hydrophobic monomers with different carbon chain lengths on polymers was studied. It was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H-NMR that the target product was successfully synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that with increasing hydrophobic carbon chain length, the hydrophobic microarea of molecular aggregation increased, forming a closer spatial network structure. Thermogravimetric and fluorescence tests revealed that with increasing hydrophobic carbon chain length of polymer molecules, the polymerization temperature resistance increased, intermolecular association degree increased, and critical association concentration decreased. Rheological property evaluation revealed that the viscosity of 0.5% polymer DQM1-PAM, DQM2-PAM, and DQM3-PAM was 71.32, 118.79, and 118.79 mPa·s after shearing at 120°C and 170 s− 1 for 1 h. With the increase in the carbon chain length, the retention rate of shear viscosity of polymer in a salt solution increased, showing good salt resistance. Concurrently, the molecular aggregation microarea of a solution with 0.5% polymer, degree of molecular chain action, viscoelasticity of the solution (G' > G''), and thixotropic area all increased. The performance of polymer solution can be improved by modifying hydrophobically associating polymers with long carbon chains, which has a broader application.
Evaluation of micronutrient status in pediatric palliative care clinic: a single-center cross-sectional study
Authors: Onur Derşan , Sadıkoğlu Sunanur Çiftçi , Harputluoğlu Nilgün , Özkan Behzat
Published: June 2024

Background
Pediatric palliative care (PPC) patients are at an elevated risk of malnutrition. Nutritional inadequacy can also cause micronutrient deficiencies. These factors can lead to weight loss, stunted growth, and poor quality of life. Despite the prevalence of these issues, limited research exists in the micronutrient status of PPC patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the micronutrient levels of PPC patients to contribute to a better understanding of their micronutrient needs as well as the appropriate management of diet and treatment approaches.
Methods
This was a single-center observational cross-sectional retrospective study. This study evaluated the levels of vitamin B12, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, iron, ferritin, folate, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in PPC patients. The patients were classified according to the Chronic Complex Conditions (CCC) v2 and then compared.
Results
A total of 3,144 micronutrient data points were collected from 822 hospitalizations of 364 patients. At least one micronutrient deficiency was identified in 96.9% of the patients. The most prevalent deficiencies were observed for iron, calcium, and phosphate. In addition, 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency was observed in one-third of patients. Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were negatively correlated with age.
Conclusion
The results of this study indicate that micronutrient deficiencies are highly prevalent in PPC patients. These findings have the potential to contribute to improvements in the nutritional and therapeutic management of patients.