bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Perinatal HIV Exposure and Infection on Salivary Properties Among Nigerian Children
Authors: Onyia Nonso Emmanuel , Osagie Esosa , Akhigbe Paul , Idemudia Nosakhare L , Obuekwe Ozoemene , Omoigberale Augustine , Richards Vincent , Coker Modupe
Published: February 2024

Background: There is growing evidence that perinatal HIV infection and exposure affect salivary pH and flow rate in children in most parts of the world, but not against the background of caries and the African demographic. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HIV infection as well as exposure on salivary properties and their influence upon the dental caries experience among school-aged children in Nigeria.
Method: This cross-sectional study assessed the salivary flow rates and salivary pH of HIV infected and exposed school-aged (4-11) children receiving care at a Nigerian tertiary hospital. A total of 266 consenting participants which comprised of three groups as follows: 1) HIV Infected (HI) (n = 87), 2) HIV Exposed and Uninfected (HEU) (n=82) and 3) HIV Unexposed and Uninfected (HUU) (n=97) were recruited for the study. Questionnaires completed by parents/guardians were used for data collection. Three calibrated dentists performed oral examinations for dental caries. International Caries Detection and Assessment Scores (ICDAS) was used and presented as dmft/DMFT. Salivary pH was measured using MColourpHastTM pH indicator strips, while salivary flow rate was determined by collecting unstimulated whole saliva using the suction method. Data analysis relied on comparative statistics to determine the correlation between HIV exposure and infection on salivary pH and flow rates.
Result: Across the groups, (HI, HEU, and HUU) mean pH of the HI was significantly less than that of HEU and HUU. Similarly, there was a statistically significant difference in the SFR across the three groups (p = 0.004). Other variables such as gender, age and oral hygiene status expressed by the gingival inflammatory scores had no significant influence on the pH and SFR of study participants. There was a rather unexpected positive correlation of DMFT of HI and HEU groups with increasing salivary flow rate; though, the relationship was weak and not significant.
Conclusion: Perinatal HIV exposure and infection significantly impact salivary pH and flow rate among school-aged children in Nigeria. The findings of this study imply that HIV infection influenced the salivary pH, while HIV maternal exposure (without infection) impacted salivary flow rates when compared to the controls.
METTL14 contributes to the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma through regulating the stability of AOC1 mRNA
Authors: Xue Zhen , Hu Changan , Song Shengguan , Zhao Shanglong
Published: February 2024

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant epithelial tumor of the nasopharyngeal mucosa with a high incidence rate all over the world. Methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) is a major RNA N6-adenosine methyltransferase implicated in tumor progression by regulating RNA function. This study is designed to explore the biological function and mechanism of METTL14 in NPC.
Methods: METTL14 and Amine oxidase copper containing 1 (AOC1)expression were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The protein levels of METTL14, AOC1, Cyclin D1, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), and N-cadherin were measured using western blot. Cell proliferation, cycle progression, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were assessed using 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU), Colony formation, flow cytometry, wound scratch, and transwell assays. The interaction between METTL14 and AOC1 was verified using RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP), and dual-luciferase reporter assays. The biological role of METTL14 on NPC tumor growth was examined by the xenograft tumor model in vivo.
Results: METTL14 and AOC1were highly expressed in NPC tissues and cells. Moreover, METTL14 knockdown might block NPC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induce cell apoptosis in vitro. In mechanism, METTL14 might enhance the stability of AOC1 mRNA via m6A methylation. METTL14 silencing might repress NPC tumor growth in vivo.
Conclusion: METTL14 might boosted the development of NPC cells partly by regulating the stability of AOC1 mRNA, which provided a promising therapeutic target for NPC treatment.
Medical cannabis use in Australia seven years after legalisation: findings from the online Cannabis as Medicine Survey 2022 (CAMS-22)
Authors: MILLS LLEWELLYN , ARNOLD JONATHON C. , SURAEV ANASTASIA , ABELEV SARAH V. , ZHOU CILLA , ARKELL THOMAS R. , McGREGOR IAIN S. , LINTZERIS NICHOLAS
Published: February 2024

Background Cannabis was legalised for medical purposes in 2016. Uptake was initially slow, but since 2019 there has been a large increase in the number of Australians who have been prescribed cannabis for medical reasons. Yet a significant number of consumers continue to treat their medical conditions via illicitly-sourced cannabis. Little is known about how these two groups of medical cannabis consumers differ. Methods The anonymous Cannabis-As-Medicine Survey 2022 (CAMS-22) was available for completion online from December 2022 to April 2023 to adult Australians who had used cannabis to treat a medical condition in the previous year. Recruitment occurred through social media, consumer forums, and medical practices. Questions included demographic characteristics, patterns of cannabis use, conditions treated, and self-rated efficacy. Results Of the 3323 respondents included in these analyses, 2352 {73%) mainly used prescribed medical cannabis, 871 (27%) mainly used illicit. Prescribed users were significantly more likely than illicit users to have had their health condition diagnosed (OR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.3, 2.2) and to consume their cannabis via oral (OR = 1.9; CI: 1.5, 2.4) or vaporised (OR = 5.2; CI: 4.0, 6.8) routes, and were significantly less likely to have used cannabis non-medically before medical use (OR = 0.6, CI: 0.5, 0.7) and consume cannabis via smoked routes (OR = 0.2, CI: 0.1, 0.2). The most common conditions among both prescribed and illicit users were pain (37%), mental health (36%), and sleep (15%) conditions. Prescribed users were significantly more likely to use cannabis to mainly treat a pain (OR = 1.3; CI: 1.1, 1.5) or sleep condition (OR = 1.4; CI: 1.1, 1.7) and less likely to treat a mental health condition (OR = 0.8; CI: 0.7, 0.9). There were no between-group differences in efficacy with over 96% saying medical cannabis had improved their symptoms. Conclusions From a harm-reduction perspective there is much to recommend prescribed medical cannabis; it tends to be less harmful and has fewer side-effects than illicit and does not risk consumers being exposed to the criminal justice system. Of concern however is the increased willingness of prescribers to prescribe for indications for which there is no evidence of efficacy, such as mental health and sleep conditions.
Comprehensive wheat straw processing with deep eutectic solvent to deliver reducing sugar and lignin streams
Authors: Piedade Patrícia , Venkat Veshal , Al-Shwafy Khaled , Aregawi Mearg , Dudek Gabriela , Zygadło Mateusz , Lukasik Rafal
Published: February 2024

Deep eutectic solvents are potential candidates for being used in chemistry and chemical engineering as novel solvents. In this work, the deep eutectic solvent composed of choline chloride and acetic acid was studied for its use in wheat straw fractionation, as a greener and low-cost substitute for conventional solvents. The pretreated biomass was assessed concerning the lignin and glucan content. The processed wheat straw, under optimized time and temperature conditions, of 3 h 47 min and 139.6°C, contained as much as 42.5 ± 0.42 wt.% and 38.59 ± 1.26 wt.% of glucan and lignin contents, respectively. The need for biomass washing after the pretreatment with deep eutectic solvents and before the enzymatic hydrolysis step was also evaluated. The obtained enzymatic hydrolysis results, i.e. glucan to glucose yield of 27.13 ± 0.25 vs. 25.73 ± 0.08 for washed or unwashed biomass correspondingly, are equally good substrates. Hence, biomass washing proved to be unnecessary.
The Chilean exposome-based system for ecosystems project: Protocol for the development of an informatics platform for national data integration
Authors: Matus Patricia , Sepúlveda-Peñaloza Alejandro , Page Keneth , Rodriguez Claudia , Cárcamo Marcela , Bustamante Francisco , Garrido Marcela , Urquidi Cinthya
Published: February 2024

The double burden of diseases and scarce resources in developing countries highlight the need to change conceptualization of health problems and development of translational research. Contrary to the traditional paradigm focused on genetics, the exposome approach proposed in 2005 that complements the genome is an innovative theory. It involves a holistic approach to understanding the complexity of the interactions between the human being’s environment throughout their life and health. Herein, we have describe the conceptual model and technological system development of the Chilean exposome-based system for ecosystems (CHiESS). It is an intelligent and dynamic system for human exposome research, which leverages available administrative data routinely collected by national agencies, in clinical records, and by biobanks. Based on the ecological theory and one-health ecosystem approach, CHiESS considers a multilevel exposure for exposome operationalization, including the ecosystem, community, population, and individual levels. CHiESS will include four consecutive stages for development into an informatic platform: 1) environmental data integration and harmonization system, 2) clinical and omics data integration, 3) advanced analytical algorithm development, and 4) visualization interface development and targeted population-based cohort recruitment. The ChiESS platform aims to integrate and harmonize available secondary administrative data and provide a complete geospatial mapping of the external exposome. Additionally, it aims to analyze complex interactions between environmental stressors of the ecosystem and molecular processes of the human being and their effect on human health. Moreover, by identifying exosome-based hotspots, CHiESS allows the targeted and efficient recruitment of population-based cohorts for translational research and impact evaluation.
Assessment of the impact of the Kenya Government fertilizer subsidy on the performance of domestic private sector fertilizer trade
Authors: Njagi Timothy , Riungu Claris , Opiyo Joseph , Mwadime Robert KN , Aloo Seth Yake
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Fertilizer subsidy was reinstated by the Kenyan government in 2022 to cushion farmers against increasing fertilizer prices on the domestic market caused by shocks to the global fertilizer supply chain. This study assessed the efficiency and effectiveness of the distribution process; the impact of the fertilizer subsidy on the domestic private sector trade; and proposed optional delivery mechanisms for better outcomes to actors in fertilizer supply chain.
Methodology
The study used mixed method approaches; secondary data, qualitative survey of key stakeholders and quantitative survey of beneficiaries.
Results
Findings show that the private sector and the government incurred about the same cost of delivering the fertilizer to last-mile agro-dealer. The absorption of the subsidised fertilizer increased over time especially when the fertiliser price reduced to Ksh 2,500 per 50kg bag. However, farmers faced challenges in accessing the fertiliser such as long distances and increased transport costs to the nearest NCPB depots, late delivery of subsidised fertilizer; mismatch between fertilizer types demanded by farmers. Distribution of the subsidised fertilizer was skewed towards the high potential maize growing region of the country. Certain farmers received subsidized fertilizer from both the NFSP and the county, while other farmers received did not receive since the NFSP and the county farmer database were not combined resulting to uneven distribution of fertiliser.
Conclusions
While all stakeholders viewed the decision to subsidise fertilizer favourably, the model used was suboptimal. The discounted fertiliser is not easily accessible because to high transportation costs, long queues at collection depots, and a delayed process during fertiliser pickup. To enhance access, the government should incorporate the private sector in distributing subsidised fertilizer. The NCPB storage facilities should be centrally positioned to facilitate farmers' quick access to subsidised fertiliser. Timely fertilizer delivery, proper fertilizer distribution, and subsidy predictability are essential for achieving the goal of increased productivity.
A comparative study of zero-shot inference with large language models and supervised modeling in breast cancer pathology classification
Authors: Sushil Madhumita , Zack Travis , Mandair Divneet , Zheng Zhiwei , Wali Ahmed , Yu Yan-Ning , Quan Yuwei , Butte Atul
Published: February 2024

Although supervised machine learning is popular for information extraction from clinical notes, creating large, annotated datasets requires extensive domain expertise and is time-consuming. Meanwhile, large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated promising transfer learning capability. In this study, we explored whether recent LLMs can reduce the need for large-scale data annotations. We curated a manually labeled dataset of 769 breast cancer pathology reports, labeled with 13 categories, to compare zero-shot classification capability of the GPT-4 model and the GPT-3.5 model with supervised classification performance of three model architectures: random forests classifier, long short-term memory networks with attention (LSTM-Att), and the UCSF-BERT model. Across all 13 tasks, the GPT-4 model performed either significantly better than or as well as the best supervised model, the LSTM-Att model (average macro F1 score of 0.83 vs. 0.75). On tasks with a high imbalance between labels, the differences were more prominent. Frequent sources of GPT-4 errors included inferences from multiple samples and complex task design. On complex tasks where large annotated datasets cannot be easily collected, LLMs can reduce the burden of large-scale data labeling. However, if the use of LLMs is prohibitive, the use of simpler supervised models with large annotated datasets can provide comparable results. LLMs demonstrated the potential to speed up the execution of clinical NLP studies by reducing the need for curating large annotated datasets. This may increase the utilization of NLP-based variables and outcomes in observational clinical studies.
Smartphone Use in the Management of Neurological Emergencies: A Simulation-based Study
Authors: Pergakis Melissa B. , Ali Afrah A. , Chang WanTsu Wendy , Neustein Benjamin , Albin Casey , Aysenne Aimee , Tisherman Samuel A. , Morris Nicholas A.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives
Smartphone use in medicine is nearly universal despite a dearth of research assessing utility in clinical performance. We sought to identify and define smartphone use during simulated neuro-emergencies.
Methods
In this retrospective review of a prospective, observational, single-center simulation-based study, participants, ranging from sub-interns to attending physicians and stratified by training level (novice, intermediate, and advanced) managed a variety of neurological emergencies. The primary outcome was frequency and purpose of smartphone use. Secondary outcomes included success rate of smartphone use and performance (measured by completion of critical tasks) of participants who used smartphones vs. those that did not. In subgroup analyses we compared outcomes across participants by level of training using t-tests and Chi-square statistics.
Results
One hundred and three participants completed 245 simulation scenarios. Smartphones were used in 109 (45%) simulations. Of participants using smartphones, 102 participants looked up medication doses, 52 participants looked up management guidelines, 11 participants looked up hospital protocols, and 13 participants used smartphones for assistance with an exam scale. Participants found the correct answer 73% of the time using smartphones. There was an association between participant level and smartphone use with intermediate participants being more likely to use their smartphones than novice or advanced participants, 53% vs. 29% and 26%, respectively (p < .05). Of the intermediate participants, those who used smartphones did not perform better during the simulation scenario than participants who did not use smartphones (smartphone users’ mean score [standard deviation (SD)] = 12.3 (2.9) vs. non-smartphone users’ mean score (SD) = 12.9 (2.7), p = .85).
Discussion
Participants commonly used smartphones in simulated neuro-emergencies but use didn’t confer improved clinical performance. Less experienced participants were the most likely to use smartphones, were less likely to arrive at correct conclusions, and thus are the most likely to benefit from an evidence-based smartphone application for neuro-emergencies.
Exploring Microbial Signatures in Individuals with Prolactin-Secreting Pituitary Adenoma: Unraveling Microbiome Variations and Underlying Markers
Authors: Jiang Haixiao , Yang Fang , Zhang Xiaoli , Fang Huie , Qiu Tao , Peng Aijun
Published: February 2024

Background
Alterations in the intestinal flora composition can influence host inflammation, metabolism, and immune response. While extensive research has explored gut dysbiosis in various pituitary adenomas (PA), the changes in gut microbiota composition and their correlations with clinical parameters in prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma (PPA) patients remain unknown. This study investigates these alterations and associations and explores microbial markers for PPA diagnosis.
Methods
A total of 101 participants were enrolled, comprising 72 PA patients (31 with prolactin-secreting adenomas and 41 with non-functioning adenomas, i.e., PPA and NFPA groups) and 29 age and sex-matched healthy controls (HC). Utilizing 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we examined the gut microbiota community in the PPA group and investigated its associations with clinical characteristics.
Results
Our results revealed significantly reduced microbial ecosystem richness and evenness in PPA patients compared to healthy controls. The PA group, especially PPA, exhibited substantial alterations in gut microbiota structure, including increased abundance of gram-negative pathogenic bacteria such as Desulfovibrio and Enterobacter, and decreased levels of probiotic bacteria like Bifidobacterium. We also identified significant positive correlations between PPA-enriched bacteria and serum lipid levels. A biomarker panel (including Bifidobacterium, Dorea, Blautia, Morganella, Desulfovibrio, and Enterobacter) demonstrated good performance in differentiating between PA patients and healthy controls (AUC: 0.959). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis unveiled dysregulations in fundamental physiological pathways, particularly lipid metabolism, within the PPA group.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that PA patients, particularly those with PPA, exhibit distinct host-microbe interactions compared to healthy controls. Notably, the intestinal flora, particularly in the PPA microenvironment, may play a role in contributing to tumor development by impacting fundamental metabolism, especially lipid metabolism. Our comprehensive findings, including the development of a biomarker panel, suggest the potential of intestinal flora as a diagnostic and predictive tool, emphasizing its significance as a preventive target for PPA.
Intraspecific variations in activities of four classes of fine root phosphatases in Quercus serrata, a dominant deciduous oak, occurring across a wide soil phosphorus gradient in Japan
Authors: Mizukami Chika , Mukai Mana , Wagai Rota , Kitayama Kanehiro
Published: February 2024

Background and aims
Phosphatase secretion by fine roots is an important phosphorus (P) acquisition strategy for plants growing under soil P deficiency. Four different classes of phosphatases degrade specific fractions of soil organic P respectively (phosphomonoesterase, PME degrading labile monoester P; pyrophosphatase, PyP for pyrophosphate; phytase, PhT for phytate; and phosphodiesterase, PDE for diester P). We investigated how plants depend on these phosphatases and how their activities are regulated.
Methods
Activities of four classes of phosphatases were measured in fine roots of Quercus serrata, which is a dominant deciduous oak in Japan. Root samples were collected from 14 sites that formed a wide soil P gradient. Activities of four classes of phosphatases were analyzed as releasing rate of product by colorimetric methods under a common laboratory condition.
Results
Activities of the three phosphatases that produced phosphate as their end product (i.e. PME, PyP and PhT) showed significant inter-site variations, while PDE activity was invariant. PME activity was higher by one to two-order(s) of magnitude than the others in all sites. In structural equation modeling, PME activity was negatively related to the concentration of labile inorganic P in soils, implying that PME was regulated by its product but not by substrate.
Conclusion
Quercus serrata appears to be mainly dependent on PME and the other phosphatases are complementary to PME. The variations patterns of activities among sites probably reflect cost-benefit balance of acquiring phosphate in Q. serrata. This regulatory mechanism may allow Q. serrata to grow across a wide soil P gradient.
Multi-Modal Emotion Recognition Using Tensor Decomposition Fusion and Self-Supervised Multi-Tasking
Authors: Zhu Jiawei , Zhu Xianxun , Wang Shoujin , Wang Tao , Huang Jingze , Wang Rui
Published: February 2024

With technological advancements, we can now capture rich dialogue content, tones, textual information, and visual data through tools like microphones, the internet, and cameras. However, relying solely on a single modality for emotion analysis often fails to accurately reflect the true emotional state, as this approach overlooks the dynamic correlations between different modalities. To address this, our study introduces a multimodal emotion recognition method that combines tensor decomposition fusion and self-supervised multi-task learning. This method first employs Tucker decomposition techniques to effectively reduce the model’s parameter count, lowering the risk of overfitting. Subsequently, by building a learning mechanism for both multimodal and unimodal tasks and incorporating the concept of label generation, it more accurately captures the emotional differences between modalities. We conducted extensive experiments and analyses on public datasets like CMU-MOSI and CMU-MOSEI, and the results show that our method significantly outperforms existing methods in terms of performance. The related code is open-sourced at https://github.com/ZhuJw31/MMER-TD.
Investigation of Structure, Thermal and Linear/Nonlinear Optical Properties of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene/Nickel Chloride (ABS/NiCl 2 ) Composites for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Elsharkawy Wafaa B. , Azzam M. A. , Elqahtani Z. M. , Fahmy T.
Published: February 2024

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/nickel chloride (ABS/NiCl2) composites are prepared using the casting method. Structure of these composites is investigated by XRD and FTIR spectroscopy. XRD measurements revealed that the structural properties of ABS host polymer have been modified after doping with NiCl2. Various structural parameters such as crystallite size (D), lattice strain (ε) and dislocation density (δ) are estimated. ATR-FTIR spectra exhibited a clear change in the intensity and position of some of the main bands of the ABS polymer such as, Ni(OH)2, C ≡ N, C = O and C = C which confirms the interaction between ABS terpolymer and NiCl2. Coats–Redfern approach has been applied to explore the effect of NiCl2 on the kinetics of thermal degradation of pure ABS and ABS/NiCl2 composites. The results showed that the activation energy of every thermal degradation stage increases with increasing NiCl2 content confirming that the thermal stability of ABS/NiCl2 composites has been enhanced. The optical parameters such as Urbach energy (EU) and bandgap energy (Eg) are investigated in terms of the absorption coefficient. The dispersion parameters such as, oscillator energy (E0), dispersion energy (Ed), transition moments (M− 1 and M− 3) and oscillator strength (f) are evaluated by applying the single oscillator model (SOM). Effect of NiCl2 on the linear/nonlinear optical (NLO) parameters is investigated. Our results clearly revealed that doping ABS with NiCl2 improved the nonlinear optical properties, which are preferred for optoelectronic device applications.
Study on the Structure Characterization and Swelling Properties of the CMSM
Authors: Liu Xiaokai , He Hao , Zhou Lijuan , Zhao Baiyun , Zhao Xuan , Wang Chenxu , Wang Li
Published: February 2024

In order to further understand the potential applications of cellulose membrane materials in adsorption, drug delivery, and biomedical applications, to optimize their material properties, improve their performance, and expand their application fields, carboxymethyl Salix powder (CMS) was prepared by etherification reaction using Salix powder (SPP) as the raw material. Carboxymethyl Salix powder membrane (CMSM) was subsequently prepared through wet spinning technology. The swelling properties of CMSM were investigated. The results showed that the swelling degree reached the maximum at 45 minutes, pH 5, temperature of 65°C, and a NaCl concentration of 0.04 mol/L, reaching 7.95 g/g. Through model fitting, it was found that CMSM fits well with the Fickian diffusion model in the early stage, while the entire swelling process fits well with the Schott model. Characterization results indicate that the structure of CMSM is loose, porous, and uneven on the surface. This structure facilitates the diffusion of water molecules and enhances the water absorption performance of CMSM. The structure of CMSM is similar to the disordered structure of glass or plastic, presenting an amorphous structure. Additionally, CMSM exhibits good thermal stability. Key wards: Cellulose membrane; Swelling property; SPP; CMS ———— Xiaokai Liu and Hao He contributed equally to this work.(779960624@qq.com; hehao030533@163.com) Corresponding author at: College of Material Science and Art Design, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. Hohhot 010018, China E-mail address: wlndcl@126.com (Li.Wang)
A Green one-pot three component synthesis of thiazolidine-2,4-dione based bisspirooxindolo-pyrrolidines with [Bmim]BF 4 : their in vitro and in silico anti- TB studies
Authors: V Rukya Naik , Gamidi Rama Krishna , Kumari Jyothi , Sri Dharmarajan , Basavoju Srinivas
Published: February 2024

A simple and effective three-component one-pot green methodology was employed for the synthesis of a new thiazolidine-2,4-dione based bisspirooxindolo-pyrrolidine derivatives using [Bmim]BF4 ionic liquid via [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. It is an environmentally benign, column chromatography-free, shorter reaction time, good yield and easy product isolation method. The synthesized compounds 10a-x, were thoroughly characterized by using various spectroscopic methods like FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Mass spectrometry and finally by single crystal X-ray diffraction method. In vitro anti-tubercular (anti-TB) activity studies were carried out on these synthesized compounds, and they showed good to moderate anti-TB activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain. The compound 10a exhibited good anti-TB activity, with an MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) value of 12.5 µg/mL, and the compounds 10m, 10o and 10r showed moderate activity with an MIC value of 25.0 µg/mL. Remaining compounds exhibited poor activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Ethambutol, rifampicin and isoniazid were used as standard drugs. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking experiments on the TB protein (PDB ID: 1DF7) were carried out to understand the binding interactions, and they showed least binding energy values ranging from − 8.9 to -7.2 kcal/mol.
The transformative role of sustainable procurement in decarbonizing the construction industry
Authors: Sipp Elisa , Marty Justine , Tosi Laetitia
Published: February 2024

Our study delves into the imperative need for decarbonization within the construction industry. Specifically, we investigate the procurement function's role in steering this transition towards a more sustainable industry. Employing a two-fold methodology, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to examine the existing academic discourse on sustainable procurement. Subsequently, we conducted semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals from three prominent construction companies. Through this combined approach, we aim to understand how procurement practices are adapting to integrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles and achieve low-carbon objectives. Our findings underscore the significant transformation underway within the procurement function, positioning buyers as pivotal figures in the decarbonization agenda. They grapple with the challenge of balancing economic gains with environmental performance, a task facilitated by enhanced integration of sustainability objectives within their decision-making processes. Despite these advancements, obstacles such as sectoral disparities in sustainability maturity and the necessity for substantial investments in greener alternatives persist, warranting further exploration and strategic interventions.
A National Dental Practice-Based Research Network phase II, cluster-randomized clinical trial assessing nicotine replacement therapy sampling in dental settings: Study protocol for the Free Samples for Health (FreSH) study
Authors: Fang Pearl , Adkins-Hempel Melissa , Lischka Tamara , Basile Sarah , Rindal D. Brad , Carpenter Matthew J. , Kopycka-Kedzierawski Dorota T. , Dahne Jennifer , Helseth Sarah A. , Levy Douglas E. , Truong Arthur , Leo Michael C. , Funkhouser Kimberly , Louis David , Japuntich Sandra
Published: February 2024

Background
Cigarette smoking has major detrimental effects on oral health. Tobacco interventions in dental settings are effective, but rarely delivered. The American Dental Hygienists Association recommends that oral health providers: Ask patients about tobacco use, Advise quitting tobacco use, and Refer to state quitlines (Ask-Advise-Refer; AAR). While AAR connects patients to counseling, it does not directly connect patients to medication. Nicotine replacement therapy sampling (NRTS) is an empirically supported intervention to provide starter packs of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to people who smoke. NRTS combined with AAR could be an effective tobacco treatment intervention for dental settings.
Methods
This manuscript describes the study protocol for the Free Samples for Health (FreSH) study, a group randomized clinical trial testing the effectiveness of NRTS + AAR vs. AAR alone on long-term smoking abstinence. Fifty dental practices in the Midwest and Northeast nodes of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network are randomly assigned to provide AAR and either a 2-week supply of 14-mg nicotine patches and 4-mg nicotine lozenges (NRTS condition) or an electric toothbrush (ET condition). Approximately 1,200 patients who currently smoke—regardless of interest in quitting— are recruited during dental visits. Participants complete a baseline survey in-person, then after visit, 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up surveys remotely. The primary outcome is carbon monoxide-confirmed 7-day point prevalence abstinence from combustible tobacco measured at 6 months post-enrollment. Secondary outcomes include: 24-hour intentional quit attempts, change in cigarettes smoked per day, NRT utilization, attitudes toward NRT, intention to use NRT, and intention to quit smoking. A key informant process evaluation and cost effectiveness analysis will provide information for future implementation of NRTS.
Discussion
This is the first clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of NRTS on promoting smoking cessation in dental settings. If effective, this treatment could be implemented to increase the provision of smoking cessation interventions in dental settings to provide an additional treatment access point for people who smoke.
Trial Registration:
Registered at ClincalTrials.gov (NCT05627596) on 11/25/2022.
Long-lasting Residual Efficacy of Actellic ® 300CS and Icon ® 10CS on Different Surfaces against Anopheles stephensi, an Invasive Malaria Vector
Authors: Nikpoor Fatemeh , Vatandoost Hassan , Hanafi-Bojd Ahmad Ali , Raeisi Ahmad , Mirolyaie Abdolreza , Mojahedi Abdol-rasol , Yaryan Masoud , Banar Ahad , Abbasi Madineh
Published: February 2024

Background: Anopheles stephensi, an invasive malaria vector, has developed resistance to several commonly used insecticides, including DDT, Dieldrin, Malathion, and synthetic pyrethroids. In response to this challenge, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the use of Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS for Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) to control pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes. This study aimed to assess the current susceptibility status of An. stephensi to the Diagnostic Concentration (DC) of some insecticides in Iran, and the residual effectiveness of Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS against this malaria vector.
Method: Susceptibility of An. stephensi populations from the south of Iran was evaluated against Deltamethrin 0.05%, DDT 4%, Malathion 5%, Bendiocarb 0.1%, Synergist assay PBO 4% with Deltamethrin 0.05%, and intensity assay with 5x DC of Deltamethrin (0.25%) and Bendiocarb 0.5%. Laboratory cone bioassay tests for evaluation of the residual efficacy of Actellic®300 and Icon®10CS insecticides on different surfaces commonly found in human dwellings, such as cement, mud, plaster, and wood were conducted by using the WHO test kits and the standard testing protocols.
Results: The An. stephensi populations in Bandar Abbas were found to be sensitive to Malathion 5% and Deltamethrin 0.25% (5X DC) but resistant to DDT, Deltamethrin 1x DC, and Bendiocarb (1x DC and 5X DC). In laboratory cone bioassay tests, the mortality rates of An. stephensi exposed to Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS on various surfaces were consistently above 80% for Actellic®300CS on all substrates throughout the 300-day after-spraying period. However, for Icon®10CS, the mortality rates were above 80% on plaster and wood substrates for 165 days and on mud and cement substrates for 270 days after spraying. Both Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS showed 100% mortality 72 hours after each test on all substrates for the entire 300-day after-spraying period.
Discussion and Conclusion: The study highlights the varying levels of resistance of An. stephensi Hormoodar populations to different insecticides and demonstrates the consistent performance of Actellic®300CS in controlling these mosquitoes on various surfaces. The findings suggest that long-lasting CS formulations may be more effective for malaria vector control compared to the current options. Further research is needed to validate these findings in field settings and assess the impact of these insecticides on malaria transmission.
The Art of Cerebral Revascularization: An Illustrative Case Series of Bypass Techniques for Complex Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Sánchez José Luis Acha , Bocanegra-Becerra Jhon E. , Ruiz-Yaringaño Arturo J. , Avendaño Diego Hidalgo , Hoyos Andrea Celeste Cifuentes , Yrene Miriam Lizeth Guerrero , Rodriguez-Calienes Aaron
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Complex intracranial aneurysms (CIAs) comprise a subset of lesions with defiant vascular architecture, difficult access, and prior treatment. Surgical management of CIAs is often challenging and demands an assessment on a case-by-case basis. The generational evolution of bypass surgery has offered a long-standing potential for effective cerebral revascularization. Herein, we aim to illustrate a single-center experience treating CIAs.
Methods
The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical records of patients treated with cerebral revascularization techniques at Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo, Lima, Peru during 2018–2022. Relevant data were collected, including patient history, aneurysm features on imaging, preoperative complications, the intraoperative course, aneurysm occlusion rates, bypass patency, neurological function, and postoperative complications.
Results
Seventeen patients (70.59% female; median age: 53 years) received treatment for 17 CIAs (64.7% saccular; 76.5% ruptured). The most common clinical presentation included loss of consciousness (70.6%) and headaches (58.8%). Microsurgical treatment included first, second, and third-generation bypass techniques. In 47.1% of cases, an anastomosis between the superior temporal artery (STA) and the M3 segment was predominantly used, followed by an A3-A3 bypass (29.4%), STA-M2 bypass (17.6%), and an external carotid artery to M2 bypass (5.9%). Intraoperative aneurysm rupture occurred in 11.8% of cases. Postoperative complications included ischemia (40%), cerebrospinal fluid fistulas (26.7%), and pneumonia (20%). At hospital discharge, the median Glasgow Coma Scale score was 14 (range: 10–15), and 58.2% of patients had a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of ≤ 2. At the six-month follow-up, 82.4% of patients had an mRS score ≤ 2, and the morbidity rate was 17.6%.
Conclusion
CIAs represent a wide spectrum of defiant vascular lesions with a poor natural history. Among the long-standing microsurgical techniques, bypass surgery offers the potential for definitive treatment; however, it merits extensive training and manual dexterity. Our case series illustrated the paramount role of cerebral revascularization for CIAs with a critical approach on a case-by-case basis to provide optimal technical success and neurological outcomes.
Influence of sea stratification and troposphere stability over the Coastal Squall Lines of Eastern Amazon
Authors: Silva Douglas Vieira da , de Camargo Ricardo , Veleda Doris , Silva Thiago Luiz do Vale
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the relationship between oceanic and atmospheric parameters and their relation with the occurrence of Coastal Squall Lines (CSL) in the Eastern Amazon. Utilizing a minimalist set of stability and stratification parameters, results indicate a significant coherence in the 8 and 12-month period in bulk parameters, potentially linked to the discharge of the Amazon River and the convective regime of Western Tropical Atlantic. A cross-wavelet analysis shed light on the relation of CSL frequency with the local and remote oceanic stratification and atmosphere stability parameters. Additionally, composite analyses reveal shifts in the distributions of these parameters during CSL occurrences, highlighting the sensitivity of CSL to environmental variables. These outcomes reveal the need to consider the influence of local shelf sea stratification to enhance the precision of CSL characterization. While this study covers this gap, further research considering the mechanistic approach is needed to improve the understanding of mesoscale convection at the Eastern Amazon.
Ground-motion models for earthquakes occurring in the United Kingdom
Authors: Douglas John , Aldama-Bustos Guillermo , Tallett-Williams Sarah , Daví Manuela , Tromans Iain J.
Published: February 2024

This article presents models to predict median horizontal elastic response spectral accelerations for 5% damping from earthquakes with moment magnitudes 3.5 to 7.25 occurring in the United Kingdom. This model was derived using the hybrid stochastic-empirical method based on an existing ground-motion model for California and a stochastic model for the UK, which was developed specifically for this purpose. The model is presented in two consistent formats, both for two distance metrics, with different target end-users. Firstly, we provide a complete logic tree with 162 branches, and associated weights, capturing epistemic uncertainties in the depth to the top of rupture, geometric spreading, anelastic path attenuation, site attenuation and stress drop, which is more likely to be used for research. The weights for these branches were derived using Bayesian updating of a priori weights from expert judgment. Secondly, we provide a backbone model with three and five branches corresponding to different percentiles, with corresponding weights, capturing the overall epistemic uncertainty, which is tailored for engineering applications. The derived models are compared with ground-motion observations, both instrumental and macroseismic, from the UK and surrounding region (northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands, western Germany and western Scandinavia). These comparisons show that the model is well-centred (low overall bias and with no obvious trends with magnitude or distance) and the branches capture the body and range of the technically defensible interpretations. In addition, comparisons with ground-motion models that have been previously used within seismic hazard assessments for the UK show that ground-motion predictions from the proposed model match those from previous models quite closely for most magnitudes and distances. The models are available as subroutines in various computer languages for ease of use.
Preliminary survey on infection rate of Biomphalaria pfeifferi with Schistosoma mansoni in Qeha, Shinta and Dimaza river sites around Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Awoke Ashebir , Aemero Mulugeta , Awoke Deribew
Published: February 2024

Background
Schistosoma mansoni is a significant public health concern, as it is transmitted through infection with cercariae released from Biomphalaria species-infested water.
Method
In order to collect Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails from the rivers of Dmaza, Shinta, and Qeha in Gondar town, a one-time snail collection was conducted using a scoop and handpicked method.
Result
A total of 242 Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails were collected from Shinta (22.3%), Qeha (32.2%), and Dimaza (45.5%) rivers. Among these, 85 (35.1%) were found to be shedding S. mansoni cercariae.
Conclusion
The survey findings indicate a high infestation rate of snails with the S. mansoni parasite. The frequent shedding of cercariae highlights the urgent need for comprehensive intervention measures in the study area.
Stereotactic radiotherapy vith CyberKnife-M6 in patients with limited brain metastases originated from lung cancer
Authors: Sarihan Sureyya , Tunc Sema Gozcu , Irem Zenciye Kiray , Kahraman Arda , Ocakoglu Gokhan
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe effect of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) with CyberKnife-M6 (CK-M6) on local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) in patients with limited brain metastases (BM) originated from lung cancer was investigated.MethodsA total of 64 BM of the 35 patients were treated between 2018 to 2022. The median age was 63 (39–80). Median lesion size was 11 mm (2–40). Resection cavity or intact metastasis was contoured as gross target volume. Planning target volume (PTV) was created with 0–2 mm margin. A median of 24 Gy in 3 fractions (18–30/1–6) was applied to 64 lesions. Median treatment duration was 19 min (12–35).ResultsThe median follow-up was 13 months (1–48) at February 2023. The median prescription isodose covering 95% of PTV was 86.1% (80- 95.01%). During the follow-up, LC was obtained as 70% (39/56) in the evaluated lesions. Asymptomatic radionecrosis was observed in 20% (11/56) of lesions at a median of 9 months (6–20). The mean OS from SRT was 20 months (± 2,92). In multivariate analysis, disease-specific graded prognostic assesment score ≤ 2 (p = 0.043, HR: 3,11, 95% CI: 1,03–9,93), treatment duration ≤ 19 min (p = 0.021, HR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1,13 − 4,64) and absence of LC at 12 months (p = 0,007, HR: 5,46, 95% CI: 1,57 − 18,97) were unfavorable factors in terms of OS.ConclusionWith a median treatment duration of 19 min, CK-M6 based cranial SRT was found to be effective, safe and comfortable.
A compact continuous-wave intracavity frequency doubling Pr:YLF ultraviolet laser at 360 nm
Authors: Ruan Jianjian , Zhang Zichen , Sun Dong , Lin Hongyi
Published: February 2024

We demonstrated a continuous-wave (CW) ultraviolet laser (UV) at 360 nm generated by intracavity frequency doubling of Pr:YLF laser at 720 nm. It was more compact and simpler than the reported UV laser, because a straight cavity was adopted. The entire length of the laser is 75 mm, and the resonant cavity length is only 25 mm. By using an InGaN laser diode (LD) emitting at 444 nm with a maximum incident power of 3.1W, we achieved the CW UV laser with an output power of 252 mW. The optical to optical conversion efficiency was up to 8.1%, and the output power stability was better than 2% in 2 hours. It can be applied in spectral analysis, material analysis, bioengineering, optoelectronic detection, medical treatment, etc.
First evidence of predation on the native endangered Galemys pyrenaicus by the invader specie American mink using eDNA tools in Extremadura (Spain).
Authors: Fernandez-Garcia Jose Luis
Published: February 2024

In recent years it has been claimed that the introduction of invasive species significantly damages ecosystems. Their ability to adapt has been overestimated, without considering the consequences they could have on the native fauna. One of the clearest examples is the American mink (Neovison vision), which has also been postulated as a large predator. Its diet includes small native mammals such Mediterranean water shrew (Neomys anomalus), also one of great importance, Iberian desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), which today is seriously endangered due to the population decline it has suffered in recent years.
There are very few studies that have been carried out in the Central System Mountains of the region of Extremadura that help to understand the impact of the diet of these invasive species. Thanks to non-invasive sampling through faecal collection and non-invasive genetic techniques, we can track the impact of predators such as mink and. The assay was developed using the TaqMan probe design for duplex RT-PCR simultaneously targeting the CYB genes of the native species G. pyrenaicus and Neomys anomalus, demonstrating the evidence of the presence of micromammals. Therefore, the assay has high analytical sensitivity for both target species, and is a tool that will helps to monitor the damage of invasive species.
Research on the Dynamic Response of Penetration and Perforation of Armor-Piercing Rounds against Gelatin Targets with Protective Coatings
Authors: Yuan Rui , Wen Yaoke , Wang Bo , Liu Dongxu , Xu Cheng , Nie Weixiao
Published: February 2024

In order to investigate the coupled damage mechanism of blunt impact and penetration of projectiles after penetrating bulletproof plates against human body targets, experiments were conducted using 6.8mm caliber armor-piercing bullet against gelatin targets with protective coatings. A numerical analysis model of projectile penetration into gelatin with protective coatings was established, obtaining endpoint characteristic quantities such as projectile velocity changes, changes in energy distribution, pressure, stress, and stress wave variations within the gelatin target after protection. The results indicate that at a velocity of 640 m/s, the 6.8mm caliber armor-piercing round failed to penetrate the bulletproof plate, yet still caused a blunt impact depression of 37mm in depth. Under conditions where the projectile did not penetrate the bulletproof plate, approximately 80% of the projectile's kinetic energy was absorbed by the bulletproof plate. At a velocity of 740 m/s, the projectile penetrated the bulletproof plate, resulting in a blunt impact depression depth of 56mm and an instantaneous cavity with a maximum diameter of 60mm. During the process of penetrating the bulletproof plate, approximately 50% of the projectile's kinetic energy was absorbed by the bulletproof plate, and about 40% of the remaining kinetic energy was transferred into the gelatin during the penetration of the target.