bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-curvilinear beam enabled tunable manipulation of high- and low-refractive-index particles
Authors: Yuan Zheng , Zhang Chenchen , Gao Yuan , Yan Wenxiang , Long Xian , Ren Zhi-Cheng , Wang Xi-Lin , Ding Jianping , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: April 2024

We present an innovative approach for the simultaneous agile manipulation of high-refractive-index (HRI) and low-refractive-index (LRI) particles. Our method involves introducing a dual-curvilinear optical vortex beam (DC-OVB) generated by superimposing a pair of curved beams: HRI and LRI particles are controlled by the bright curve and the dark channel between the two curves, respectively. The proposed DC-OVB provides customizable motion paths and velocities for both LRI and HRI particles. Each curve of the DC-OVB can support a distinct orbital flow density (OFD), enabling the application of torques to HRI and LRI particles, guiding them to orbit along specified trajectories and prompting them to execute various curvilinear motions simultaneously, including curvilinear movement, revolution, and rotation.
Cross-sectional evaluation of the multidimensional indicators of psychosocial functioning and its sociodemographic correlates among Indian adults: WHO SAGE Study (2007–2010)
Authors: Barve Apurva , Thomas Tobin Courney S.
Published: April 2024

This study examined the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and psychosocial functioning (PF) among Indian adults. Data (N = 11,230) for this study came from the World Health Organization’s SAGE (Longitudinal Study of Global Aging and Adult Health) Wave 1 2007–2010. First, multivariable regression analyses (logistic or linear regression depending on the outcome variable) were run to evaluate whether PF indicators varied by gender after controlling other sociodemographic characteristics. Next, the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and PF indicators was examined using ordinary least square regression (OLS) models and logistic regression models, separately for men and women. Specifically, the PF indicators, including social indicators of interpersonal relationship difficulty, social connectedness, and personal indicators of sleep, affect, perceived quality of life, and cognition were each regressed on sociodemographic factors. All analyses in the study were cross-sectional in nature and conducted using STATA version 15.1. Overall, the study found significant sociodemographic differences in PF among Indian adults that also varied by gender. As such, social and/or economic disadvantage was associated with poorer PF. However, the results demonstrated that socioeconomic patterns in PF were much more nuanced among women than among men. This study adds to previous research on PF in India and provides new insights into how sociodemographic characteristics shape it. A major research implication of this finding is that inconsistent with assumptions of previous research, an increase in SES is not always linked to proportionate increases in PF among women. The study also makes a compelling case for separately examining multiple non-clinical outcomes of psychosocial health.
Association between dental clinical measures and oral health-related quality of life among Iraqi schoolchildren: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Alautry Hanan Fadhil , Namdari Mahshid , Khoshnevisan Mohammad Hossein , Ghasemi Hadi
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the association between dental clinical measures and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) together with the potential mediating role of sociodemographic factors and oral health behaviours on this association in a group of Iraqi children.

Methods

The target population for this cross-sectional study consisted of 372 primary school children aged 8–10 years in the city of Kut, Iraq, during the year 2022. The participants were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Detailed information about the children was collected through a comprehensive questionnaire that included demographic characteristics, oral health-related behaviors, the Arabic version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire for 8-10-year-olds (CPQ8-10), and parental knowledge regarding oral health. Additionally, clinical dental evaluations were conducted, which included assessments of decayed, missing, and filled surfaces (DMFS, dmfs) as well as teeth (DMFT, dmft). Simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), bleeding on probing (BOP), and the community periodontal index (CPI) were also recorded for each participant using the recommended methodology by the World Health Organization (WHO). The statistical analysis included the Chi-square test, independent t-test, and simple and multiple linear regressions.

Results

The mean age of the children was 9.0 (± 0.82) years. About one-third of children reported brushing at least two times per day and consuming a sweet snack once a day. Visiting a dentist during the past year was reported by 21% of children. Oral health behaviours demonstrated a significant association with the total CPQ8-10 scores (p < 0.001). Based on adjusted effects (β and 95% CI) from the multiple linear regressions, untreated dental caries (dt > 0, DT > 0) had a negative impact on the total CPQ8-10 score (adjusted β = 2.3 (95% CI: 0.67 to 3.91) and 3.4 (95% CI: 2.14 to 4.56), respectively). Decayed surfaces (DS), and teeth (DT) were associated with the total score of the CPQ8-10 and all its subscales (adjusted β range = 0.1 (95% C.I.: 0.03 to 0.19)–1.0 (95% CI: 0.72 to 1.26) and 0.2 (95% CI: 0.004 to 0.40)–1.2 (95% CI: 0.91 to 1.67), respectively). There was an association between oral hygiene index and total CPQ8-10 scores (adjusted β = 1.8 (95% CI: 0.62 to 3.02)), especially the functional limitations and emotional well-being subscales.

Conclusion

Findings of this study emphasizes the negative impact of dental caries and poor oral hygiene on children’s OHRQoL. This association is highlighted more when considering that over two-thirds of these children do not comply with favourable levels of oral health behaviour. Enhancing the level of OHRQoL among these children, therefore, necessitates comprehensive programs for decreasing the volume of unmet oral health needs and improving children’s adherence to recommended oral health behaviours.
Level of adherence to option B+ program and associated factors among HIV-positive women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayele Alemu Degu , Kassa Bekalu Getnet , Mihretie Gedefaye Nibret , Belay Habtamu Gebrehana , Sewyew Dagne Addisu , Semahegn Abenezer Melkie , Yehuala Enyew Dagnew , Tiruneh Gebrehiwot Ayalew , Tenaw Lebeza Alemu , Sendekie Abrham Debeb , Teffera Adanech Getie , Aychew Eden Workneh , Belachew Yismaw Yimam , Liyeh Tewachew Muche , Worke Mulugeta Dile
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite policy initiatives and strategic measures highly focused on preventing mother-to-child transmission through the implementation of the Option B+ program, adherence to the treatment is still challenging. The level of adherence and determinants of Option B+ program utilization reported by different studies were highly inconsistent in Ethiopia. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of adherence to the Option B+ program and its predictors among HIV-positive women in Ethiopia.

Methods

PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, HINAR, Scopus, and Web of Sciences were searched for published articles from March 2010 to March 2022. The pooled prevalence of adherence was estimated using a weighted DerSimonian-Laird random effect model. The I2 statistics was used to identify the degree of heterogeneity. Publication bias was also assessed using the funnel plot and Egger’s regression test.

Results

A total of 15 studies were included. The pooled estimate of the option B+ program among HIV-positive women in Ethiopia was 81.58% (95% CI: 77.33–85.84). Getting social and financial support (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI: 2.12, 6.58), disclosure of HIV status to partners (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.75, 2.41), time to reach a health facility (AOR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.67), receiving counseling on drug side effects (AOR = 4.09, 95% CI: 2.74, 6.11), experience of drug side effects (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.36), and knowledge (AOR = 4.73, 95% CI: 2.62, 8.51) were significantly associated with adherence to the Option B+ program.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis showed that the level of adherence to the Option B+ program in Ethiopia is lower than the 95% level of adherence planned to be achieved in 2020. Social and financial support, disclosure of HIV status, time to reach the health facility, counseling, drug side effects, and knowledge of PMTCT were significantly associated with option B+ adherence. The findings of this meta-analysis highlight that governmental, non-governmental, and other stakeholders need to design an effective strategy to scale up the level of disclosing one’s own HIV status, access health facilities, improve knowledge of PMTCT, and counsel the potential side effects of Option B+ drugs, and advocate the program to reduce the multidimensional burden of HIV/AIDS.

Trial registration

Prospero registration: CRD42022320947. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022320947.
Sources and pathways of carbon and nitrogen of macrophytes and sediments using stable isotopes in Al-Kharrar Lagoon, eastern Red Sea coast, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abu-Zied Ramadan H. , Orif Mohammed I. , Bantan Rashad A. , Al-Farawati Radwan , Ghandourah Mohammed A. , Aljahdali Mohammed H.
Published: April 2024

Elemental ratios (δ13C, δ15N and C/N) and carbon and nitrogen concentrations in macrophytes, sediments and sponges of the hypersaline Al-Kharrar Lagoon (KL), central eastern Red Sea coast, were measured to distinguish their sources, pathways and see how they have been influenced by biogeochemical processes and terrestrial inputs. The mangroves and halophytes showed the most depleted δ13C values of –27.07±0.2 ‰ and –28.34±0.4 ‰, respectively, indicating their preferential 12C uptake, similar to C3-photosynthetic plants, except for the halophytes Atriplex sp. and Suaeda vermiculata which showed δ13C of –14.31±0.6 ‰, similar to C4-plants. Macroalgae were divided into A and B groups based on their δ13C values. The δ13C of macroalgae A averaged –15.41±0.4 ‰, whereas macroalgae B and seagrasses showed values of –7.41±0.8 ‰ and –7.98 ‰, suggesting uptake of HCO3– as a source for CO2 during photosynthesis. The δ13C of sponges was –10.7±0.3 ‰, suggesting that macroalgae and seagrasses are their main favoured diets. Substrates of all these taxa showed δ13C of –15.52±0.8 ‰, suggesting the KL is at present a macroalgae-dominated lagoon. The δ15N in taxa/sediments averaged 1.68 ‰, suggesting that atmospheric N2-fixation is the main source of nitrogen in/around the lagoon. The heaviest δ15N (10.58 ‰) in halophytes growing in algal mats and sabkha is possibly due to denitrification and ammonia evaporation. The macrophytes in the KL showed high C %, N %, and C/N ratios, but this is not indicated in their substrates due possibly to a rapid turnover of dense, hypersaline waters carrying most of the detached organic materials out into the Red Sea. The δ13C allowed separation of subaerial from aquatic macrophytes, a proxy that could be used when interpreting paleo-sea level or paleoclimatic changes from the coastal marine sediments.
Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging and robust statistics for in vivo non-melanoma skin cancer and actinic keratosis characterisation
Authors: Courtenay Lloyd A. , Barbero-García Innes , Martínez-Lastras Saray , Del Pozo Susana , Corral de la Calle Miriam , Garrido Alonso , Guerrero-Sevilla Diego , Hernandez-Lopez David , González-Aguilera Diego
Published: April 2024

One of the most common forms of cancer in fair skinned populations is Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC), which primarily consists of Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), and cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Detecting NMSC early can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce medical costs. Similarly, Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition that, if left untreated, can develop into more serious conditions, such as SCC. Hyperspectral imagery is at the forefront of research to develop non-invasive techniques for the study and characterisation of skin lesions. This study aims to investigate the potential of near-infrared hyperspectral imagery in the study and identification of BCC, SCC and AK samples in comparison with healthy skin. Here we use a pushbroom hyperspectral camera with a spectral range of ≈ 900 to 1600 nm for the study of these lesions. For this purpose, an ad hoc platform was developed to facilitate image acquisition. This study employed robust statistical methods for the identification of an optimal spectral window where the different samples could be differentiated. To examine these datasets, we first tested for the homogeneity of sample distributions. Depending on these results, either traditional or robust descriptive metrics were used. This was then followed by tests concerning the homoscedasticity, and finally multivariate comparisons of sample variance. The analysis revealed that the spectral regions between 900.66–1085.38 nm, 1109.06–1208.53 nm, 1236.95–1322.21 nm, and 1383.79–1454.83 nm showed the highest differences in this regard, with <1% probability of these observations being a Type I statistical error. Our findings demonstrate that hyperspectral imagery in the near-infrared spectrum is a valuable tool for analyzing, diagnosing, and evaluating non-melanoma skin lesions, contributing significantly to skin cancer research.
In vitro biological evaluation and in silico insights into the antiviral activity of standardized olive leaves extract against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Majrashi Taghreed A. , El Hassab Mahmoud A. , Mahmoud Sara H. , Mostafa Ahmed , Wahsh Engy A. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Hassan Fatma E. , Eldehna Wagdy M. , Abdelgawad Shimaa M.
Published: April 2024

There is still a great global need for efficient treatments for the management of SARS-CoV-2 illness notwithstanding the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccinations. Olive leaf is an herbal remedy with a potential antiviral activity that could improve the recovery of COVID-19 patients. In this work, the olive leaves major metabolites were screened in silico for their activity against SARS-CoV-2 by molecular docking on several viral targets such as methyl transferase, helicase, Plpro, Mpro, and RdRp. The results of in silico docking study showed that olive leaves phytoconstituents exhibited strong potential antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 selected targets. Verbacoside demonstrated a strong inhibition against methyl transferase, helicase, Plpro, Mpro, and RdRp (docking scores = -17.2, -20, -18.2, -19.8, and -21.7 kcal/mol.) respectively. Oleuropein inhibited 5rmm, Mpro, and RdRp (docking scores = -15, -16.6 and -18.6 kcal/mol., respectively) respectively. Apigenin-7-O-glucoside exhibited activity against methyl transferase and RdRp (docking score = -16.1 and -19.4 kcal/mol., respectively) while Luteolin-7-O-glucoside inhibited Plpro and RdRp (docking score = -15.2 and -20 kcal/mol., respectively). The in vitro antiviral assay was carried out on standardized olive leaf extract (SOLE) containing 20% oleuropein and IC50 was calculated. The results revealed that 20% SOLE demonstrated a moderate antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 with IC50 of 118.3 μg /mL. Accordingly, olive leaf could be a potential herbal therapy against SARS-CoV-2 but more in vivo and clinical investigations are recommended.
Cascade of care for hypertension among apparently healthy and unhealthy individuals of 25–64 years in the Czech Republic
Authors: Berka Barbora , Lustigová Michala , Urbanová Jana , Krollová Pavlína , Hloch Ondřej , Romanová Alexandra , Michalec Juraj , Taniwall Arian , Žejglicová Kristýna , Malinovská Jana , Jenšovský Michael , Vejtasová Veronika , González-Rivas Juan P. , Maranhao Neto Geraldo A. , Pavlovska Iuliia , Brož Jan
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite accessible diagnostics and treatment of hypertension, a high proportion of patients worldwide remain unaware of their diagnosis, and even more remain untreated. Several studies suggest that absence of comorbidities is a predictive factor for unawareness and consequently non-treatment of hypertension. There are only a few studies that have assessed the hypertension prevalence and management among apparently healthy individuals.

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess and compare hypertension prevalence, awareness, treatment and control among apparently healthy individuals, patients with internal diseases, and patients with non-internal diseases.

Methods

Data from standardised blood pressure measurements conducted during the Czech European Health Examination Survey 2014 and information on health status and health care use collected during the Czech European Health Interview Survey 2014 were analyzed. We focused on participants aged 25–64. Data were weighted on sex and age to ensure an appropriate sex and age structure of the population. The χ2-test and binary logistic regression analyses were used to compare distribution of cascade of care for hypertension between the health-status groups of respondents.

Results

The final eligible sample consisted of 1121 participants. The prevalence of hypertension was 32.8% in the healthy group, 29.8% in the non-internal disease group and 52.4% in the internal disease group, (p < 0.001). Awareness was 54.1%, 59.1% and 85.2% respectively, (p < 0.001). Treatment was 44.2%, 52.6% and 86.4%, respectively, (p < 0.001). Among apparently healthy respondents 62.6% had their blood pressure measured by a medical professional in the last year, compared to 71.1% in the non-internal disease group and 91.7% in the internal disease group, (p < 0.001). Differences in hypertension control were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Generally, our data show a discordance in hypertension management within the Czech population. Apparently healthy individuals are the least aware of their diagnosis and the highest proportion of them remain untreated.
Temporal changes in toe-brachial index results in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Baines Belinda L. , Pianta Timothy , Tacey Mark , Bramston Cassandra , Cotchett Matthew , Tucker Stephen , Jessup Rebecca L.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Toe brachial index (TBI), the ratio of toe pressure to systolic blood pressure (SBP), helps predict peripheral arterial disease. In patients with kidney failure this may be performed during haemodialysis for convenience. Until recently there has been little evaluation of the impact of haemodialysis in limb and systemic perfusion on these values. We aimed to determine if the values of TBI would change during and after dialysis compared to pre-dialysis assessments.

Methods

Using a repeated measures study, TBIs and toe pressures were measured using the Hadeco Smartop Vascular Ultrasound Doppler in 31 patients undergoing haemodialysis. TBI assessments were completed pre-dialysis and compared to values obtained at 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, and post-dialysis to monitor change in TBI results. Comparison of values for each patient were tested for differences using paired t-tests. Linear mixed-effects models were used to test for the effect of patient and clinical factors on change in outcome measures.

Results

Mean TBI decreased from pre-dialysis at 1 hour (0.72 to 0.63, p = 0.01) and remained lower at 2 hours and 3 hours, before returning to pre-dialysis levels at post-dialysis. Mean systolic blood pressure also declined during dialysis. Mean TBI results were lower in those with a history of lower limb ulceration and in females.

Sixteen patients (51.6%) had a normal TBI at baseline, 14 (45.2%) had a mildly low TBI, and one (3.2%) had a severely low TBI. Between baseline and 1 h, five patient’s results moved from normal to mildly abnormal and one from mildly abnormal to severely abnormal. As haemodialysis concluded (post-dialysis) there were 17 (56.7%) ‘normal’ TBIs, with no severely abnormal TBIs (p = 0.73). 0.30)

Conclusion

TBI and toe pressures are impacted significantly by dialysis. TBI and toe pressure assessments should be conducted before haemodialysis begins, or between dialysis sessions to avoid variability.
One-instrument, objective microsatellite instability analysis using high-resolution melt
Authors: Bendixen Kamilla Kolding , Forsberg-Pho Sofie , Dazio Giulia , Hansen Emeli Elisabeth , Eriksen Sarah Kronborg , Epistolio Samantha , Merlo Elisabetta , Boldorini Renzo , Venesio Tiziana , Movilia Alessandra , Caprera Cecilia , Arnspang Eva Christensen , Børgesen Michael , Christensen Ulf Bech , Frattini Milo , Petersen Rasmus Koefoed
Published: April 2024

In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitors have proved immense clinical progression in the treatment of certain cancers. The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors is correlated with mismatch repair system deficiency and is exceptionally administered based exclusively on this biological mechanism independent of the cancer type. The promising effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors has left an increasing demand for analytical tools evaluating the mismatch repair status. The analysis of microsatellite instability (MSI), reflecting an indirect but objective manner the inactivation of the mismatch repair system, plays several roles in clinical practice and, therefore, its evaluation is of high relevance. Analysis of MSI by PCR followed by fragment analysis on capillary electrophoresis remains the gold standard method for detection of a deficient mismatch repair system and thereby treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Novel technologies have been applied and concepts such as tumor mutation burden have been introduced. However, to date, most of these technologies require high costs or the need of matched non-tumor tissue as internal comparator. In this study, we present a novel, one-instrument, fast, and objective method for the detection of MSI (MicroSight® MSI 1-step HRM Analysis), which does not depend on the use of matched non-tumor tissue. The assay analyzes five well-described mononucleotide microsatellite sequences by real-time PCR followed by high-resolution melt and evaluates microsatellite length variations via PCR product melting profiles. The assay was evaluated using two different patient cohorts and evaluation included several DNA extraction methodologies, two different PCR platforms, and an inter-laboratory ring study. The MicroSight® MSI assay showed a high repeatability regardless of DNA extraction method and PCR platform, and a 100% agreement of the MSI status with PCR fragment analysis methods applied as clinical comparator.
Polypharmacy and associated factors in South Korean elderly patients with dementia: An analysis using National Health Insurance claims data
Authors: Kim Hea-Lim , Lee Hye-Jae
Published: April 2024

Background

Dementia is accompanied by several symptoms, including cognitive function decline, as well as behavioral and psychological symptoms. Elderly patients with dementia often experience polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications, due to chronic comorbidities. However, research on polypharmacy in patients with dementia is limited. This study aimed to characterize polypharmacy and associated factors among elderly patients with dementia in South Korea, and compare the characteristics of patients with and without dementia patients.

Methods

From the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS)-Senior cohort database, we extracted data on patients aged≥60 years who received outpatient treatment in 2019. Polypharmacy was defined as the concurrent use of five or more different oral medications for ≥90 days; excessive polypharmacy referred to the concurrent use of ten or more different oral medications for ≥90 days. We compared the prevalence of polypharmacy between patients with and without and identified the associated factors using a logistic regression model.

Results

About 70.3% and 23.7% of patients with dementia exhibited polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy, respectively. After adjusting for conditions such as age and Charlson’s comorbidity index, the likelihood of polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy significantly increased over time after the diagnosis of dementia. Additionally, under the same conditions, Medical Aid beneficiaries with dementia were more likely to experience polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy compared to patients with dementia covered by National Health Insurance (NHI).

Conclusion

This study reports the latest evidence on the status and risk factors of polypharmacy in elderly patients with dementia. We proposed that careful monitoring and management are required for patients at high risk for polypharmacy.
Men’s education and intimate partner violence—Beyond the victim-oriented perspective: Evidence from demographic and health surveys in Central Africa
Authors: Tsala Dimbuene Zacharie , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Amugsi Dickson Abanimi
Published: April 2024

Background

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has increasingly received attention in the last three decades. However, IPV-related studies in both high- and low- and middle-income countries adopted a victim-oriented perspective in which men are perpetrators and women, the victims. Using socio-cultural and resource theories as guiding frameworks, this paper assessed the associations between men’s education and IPV in Central Africa, using nationally representative data of married and cohabiting women of reproductive ages.

Methods

Data included in the analyses come from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHSs) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Cameroon, Gabon, and Chad. Analyzed sub-samples consisted of 3421, 5023, 3930, and 3221 married/cohabiting women of reproductive ages in Chad, DRC, Cameroon, and Gabon, respectively.

Results

Findings indicated significant variations of IPV prevalence within and across countries. Previous research demonstrated that men’s education is a protective factor in health-related studies. The present study, however, provide no clear evidence on the linkages between men’s education and IPV. In contrast, the paper substantiated that highly educated women were at higher risks of IPV when spouses/partners were less educated.

Conclusion

These findings have policy and programmatic implications because they might impede progress towards SDG goals on the elimination of all forms of violence against girls and women in Central Africa, which recorded the worst development indicators in sub-Saharan Africa. On a methodological note, studies are increasingly using pooled data to increase statistical power. Those studies can be very limited to devise effective IPV—interventions since they mask geographical variations within and across countries. More effective IPV—interventions should be culturally rooted and accounting for geographical variations because some areas are more affected than others.
The inflammasome pathway is activated by dengue virus non-structural protein 1 and is protective during dengue virus infection
Authors: Wong Marcus P. , Juan Evan Y. W. , Pahmeier Felix , Chelluri Sai S. , Wang Phoebe , Castillo-Rojas Bryan , Blanc Sophie F. , Biering Scott B. , Vance Russell E. , Harris Eva
Published: April 2024

Dengue virus (DENV) is a medically important flavivirus causing an estimated 50–100 million dengue cases annually, some of whom progress to severe disease. DENV non-structural protein 1 (NS1) is secreted from infected cells and has been implicated as a major driver of dengue pathogenesis by inducing endothelial barrier dysfunction. However, less is known about how DENV NS1 interacts with immune cells and what role these interactions play. Here we report that DENV NS1 can trigger activation of inflammasomes, a family of cytosolic innate immune sensors that respond to infectious and noxious stimuli, in mouse and human macrophages. DENV NS1 induces the release of IL-1β in a caspase-1 dependent manner. Additionally, we find that DENV NS1-induced inflammasome activation is independent of the NLRP3, Pyrin, and AIM2 inflammasome pathways, but requires CD14. Intriguingly, DENV NS1-induced inflammasome activation does not induce pyroptosis and rapid cell death; instead, macrophages maintain cellular viability while releasing IL-1β. Lastly, we show that caspase-1/11-deficient, but not NLRP3-deficient, mice are more susceptible to lethal DENV infection. Together, these results indicate that the inflammasome pathway acts as a sensor of DENV NS1 and plays a protective role during infection.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for one-dimensional variational problems with applications to elasticity
Authors: Quittner Pavol
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with necessary and sufficient conditions for weak and strong minimizers of functionals
Φ
(
u
)
=

∫
a
b

f
(
x
,
u
(
x
)
,

u
′

(
x
)
)

d
x
, where
u
∈

C
1

(
[
a
,
b
]
,

R

N

)
. We first derive conditions which are simpler than the known ones, and then apply them to several particular problems, including stability problems in the elasticity theory. In particular, we solve some open problems in [A. Majumdar, A. Raisch: Stability of twisted rods, helices and buckling solutions in three dimensions, Nonlinearity 27(2014), 2841–2867] by finding optimal conditions for the stability of a naturally straight Kirchhoff rod under various types of endpoint constraints.
Radial solutions and a local bifurcation result for a singular elliptic problem with Neumann condition
Authors: Saccon Claudio
Published: April 2024

We study the problem
−
Δ
u
=
λ
u
−

u

−
1

with a Neumann boundary condition; the peculiarity being the presence of the singular term
−

u

−
1

. We point out that the minus sign in front of the negative power of
u
is particularly challenging, since no convexity argument can be invoked. Using bifurcation techniques we are able to prove the existence of solution
(

u
λ

,
λ
)
with

u
λ

approaching the trivial constant solution
u
=

λ

−
1

/

2

and
λ
close to an eigenvalue of a suitable linearized problem. To achieve this we also need to prove a generalization of a classical two-branch bifurcation result for potential operators. Next we study the radial case and show that in this case one of the bifurcation branches is global and we find the asymptotical behavior of such a branch. This results allows to derive the existence of multiple solutions
u
with

λ

fixed.
Global attractivity of a higher order nonlinear difference equation with decreasing terms
Authors: Wang Xiao , Qian Chuanxi
Published: April 2024

In the present paper, we further study the asymptotical behavior of the following higher order nonlinear difference equation

x
(
n
+
1
)
=
a
x
(
n
)
+
b
f
(
x
(
n
)
)
+
c
f
(
x
(
n
−
k
)
)
,

n
=
0
,
1
,
…
where

a

,

b

and
c
are constants with
0
<
a
<
1
,
0
≤
b
<
1
,
0
≤
c
<
1
and
a
+
b
+
c
=
1
,
f
∈
C
[
[
0
,
∞
)
,
[
0
,
∞
)
]
with
f
(
x
)
>
0
for
x
>
0
, and
k
is a positive integer, which has been recently studied in: On global attractivity of a higher order difference equation and its applications [Electron. J. Qual. Theory Diff. Equ. 2022, No. 2, 1–14]. We obtain some new sufficient conditions for the global attractivity of positive solutions of the equation, and show the applications of these results to some population models.
Pyrazole-based photoinitiator with antibacterial activity
Authors: Yapaoz Melda Altikatoglu , Keskin Dogruyol Sevnur
Published: April 2024

1-(naphthalen-2-yl)-2-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl) ethanone (MPPY) was synthesized. The structure was characterized by spectral analysis (1H-NMR, FTIR). The molar  absorptivity of MPPY is high enough, similarly to acetonaphthone derivatives, to be used as an efficient type I photoinitiator. The influence of MPPY concentration and the addition of the co-initiator N-methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) on methyl methacrylate (MMA) polymerization were also investigated.  Additionally, MPPY showed good antibacterialactivity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (diffusion method).
A Minimalist Approach to Coordination
Authors:   The Society Of Modern Grammar, Lee Chung-Hoon
Published: April 2024

In natural languages, there are two types of coordination―structured vs. unstructured coordination. These two coordination constructions are formed by the set-forming operation FORMSET(FS). FS applies to a work space WS, forming the set Y = {X1, …, Xn}, Xi ∈ WS by minimal search, and is so-called ‘the third factor’ compatible, which means that FS comes free. The distinction between structured and unstructured coordination stems from the modes of application of FS. Assuming WS = {α, β, γ}, if FS applies only once forming {α, β, γ}, then the unstructured coordination construction appears but if FS applies twice forming {{α, β}, γ} or {α, {β, γ}}, then the structured coordination construction appears. With the structure building operation, there must be a labeling algorithm LA. Regarding LA, the subcate- gorization feature is counted as a agreement feature. Finally, FS plus language- specific conditions yields merge.
Clitic and Affix Combinations: Korean Nominal Template Redux
Authors:   The Society Of Modern Grammar, Choi YoungSik
Published: April 2024

I claim à la Choi (2023) that semantic case morphemes in Korean are clitics, which are syntactically indepen- dent words of postpositions quite unlike structural case morphemes which are affixes. It follows that nominal expressions with a semantic case morpheme are PPs whereas those with a structural case morpheme are NPs. The present proposal thus crucially diverges from Cho and Sells (1995), who claims that case morphemes in Korean, be they structural or semantic, are affixes. I will discuss the important implications of the present proposal hitherto unnoticed in the literature for the post-nominal morphemes in the so called nominal template by Cho and Sells (1995). which is morphological in nature. These findings strongly suggest that templatic approach by Cho and Sells (1995) is simply wrong.
Analysis of Ambulance Ship Design in Karimunjawa Waters reviewed by Stability and Seakeeping
Authors: Putra Gusma Hamdana , Soelistijono Rachmad Tri , Setyawan Prasastya Dhohir
Published: April 2024

The inadequate health facilities in the Karimunjawa Islands region still need attention. In particular, patients who have to be referred to the hospital still have problems in terms of transportation. This research presents the results of simulations of ambulance ship designs adapted to Karimunjawa conditions. A ship with a length of 8 m, width of 2.2 m, height of 1.1 m, and draft height of 0.37 m is analyzed regarding stability and seakeeping referring to IMO HSC Code 2000 Annex 8. Several parameters are determined, such as load, speed, significant wave height, and direction. The results in terms of stability show that loads of 100%, 50%, and 25% are still acceptable. Then, the results from seakeeping show that at a speed of 23 knots and significant wave height, especially in the diagonal wave direction of the ship, it is not acceptable
Analysis of Relationship between Geometric and Potential Accident on Imogiri - Dlingo Road, Bantul, Indonesia
Authors: Mahmudah Noor , Reswara Hanggara , Al-Haji Ghazwan
Published: April 2024

Imogiri - Dlingo road section is a primary collector road located in the Mangunan tourist area, Bantul, Indonesia. This road is a provincial road with hilly terrain, lots of sharp turns, and long ascents and descents, which are potential for traffic accidents. Police data records that in February 2022 there was an accident on this road with 13 deaths and 33 injuries. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate road geometric, both horizontal and vertical alignments on Imogiri - Dlingo road based on Guidelines for Road Geometric Design number 13/P/BM /2021. To do so, road geometric analysis is conducted by employing road safety inspection data, which is then modeled using AutoCAD Civil 3D software. Based on the survey on road geometric, it is known that the number and width of lanes and shoulders are in accordance with Guidelines. Meanwhile, the analysis results using computer program show that this road has 24 horizontal and 6 vertical alignments. Nevertheless, 87% of bend radius, 67% of curve length, 58% of bend angle, 43% of slope, 57% of critical length, and 67% of control design (K) are not fulfilled the requirements. Therefore, Imogiri - Dlingo road is dangerous road and is potentially causing fatal accidents.
Study of Individual and Communal Type Rainwater Harvesting Designs, (Case Study: Sawojajar Village, Wanasari District, Brebes Regency, Central Java)
Authors: Maryono Agus , Sembada Pratama Tirza Surya , Aji Ilmiawan Satria Bayu , Wijayanti Estu , Setiadi Johan , Kuncoro Seno Adi , Rohim Hanif Abdul , Mahendra Alfian Isya
Published: April 2024

Climate change and geographic location affect water availability. Coastal areas in Indonesia generally have drinking water problems because the well water is dry due to the dry season and the water is brackish, as is the case in Sawojajar Village in Brebes Regency, Central Java. On the other hand, the potential for rainwater in Sawojajar Village is quite good. The Brebes Regency Government is planning and implementing a rain harvesting (Gama Rain Filter) with an individual type for people who want to install rainwater harvestings in their homes, and a communal type for people who still want communal rainwater harvestings. This applied research aims to compare the two types. The individual type planning method for harvesting rain is carried out in each house and the communal type planning method is carried out in groups of houses. The planning carried out includes checking the quality and quantity of rainwater, calculating the dimensions of the storage tank, design drawings, and planning and implementation budget plans. The results of this applied research are the quality and quantity of rainwater, the design of individual and communal type rainwater harvestings, and the planning costs and implementation costs required. This research resulted in the conclusion that the individual type rain harvesting is more recommended than the communal type because the individual type costs less to plan and construct, is more flexible in placement, easier to manufacture, and maintains operations more securely.
The Impact of DNA Analysis Technology on the Rate of NAGPRA Repatriations
Authors: Kane Emily
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates whether recent advancements in DNA analysis technology have impacted the rate with which Native American remains are repatriated, or returned, to linear descendants or culturally affiliated tribes. The purpose of this study is to determine whether DNA analysis technology has effected repatriation rates specifically in Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) cases. This paper compiles information for all NAGPRA notices published in the National Register to conduct a statistical analysis of the rate of repatriations between 2011 and 2021. The resulting figures demonstrate that DNA analysis technology had an extremely slight effect on the rate of repatriation. The paper then concludes that this may be due to the difficulties in implementing DNA analysis as a culturally acceptable Archaeological methodology.
The Influences of Multi-Level Environmental Regulations on Firm Performance in China
Authors: Kong Fanjing
Published: April 2024

A multi-level perspective of how environmental regulations affect firm performance receives less attention. By document analysis and semi-structured interviews, this study examines the influences of environmental regulations from the central government, the local governments, and the corporate on firm performance with a case study based on a state-owned enterprise named SINOPEC Yangzi Petrochemical Company (SYPC) in China. The findings show that the regulations from different levels exert distinct but interconnected influences on performance of SYPC. The guiding concepts from the central government, the prescriptive standards from the local governments, and the performance management systems from the SINOPEC headquarters incentivize SYPC to innovate green technology. Technical upgrade, good relations with the government, and popularity in the public due to the implementation of regulations improve economic performance of SYPC, though which is not the priority of the company. SYPC actively implements environmental policies but also acts as a part of the strategy of SINOPEC circumventing regulations.
Preparation of itaconic acid-modified epoxy resins and comparative study on the properties of it and epoxy acrylates
Authors: Ye Qinchen , Zhao Qiuli , Yang Qinghao , Li Wendong , Hou Zhenzhong , Zhang Guanjun
Published: April 2024

To investigate the potential applications of bio-based epoxy resins across diverse fields, this study synthesized a bio-based epoxy resin using itaconic acid (EIA) as the precursor material and compared its thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties with those of epoxy acrylate (EA). The findings indicate that the glass transition temperature and the 5% thermal decomposition temperature of the EIA-cured system are higher than those of EA. The breakdown field strength of the EIA-cured system is slightly higher than that of EA (35.58 kV·mm−1), suggesting that EIA exhibits stronger electrical properties compared to EA. Mechanical property tests demonstrate that the tensile strength, elongation at the fracture point, and Shore hardness of the EIA-cured system are superior to those of EA. In conclusion, EIA, serving as a matrix resin, is influenced by cross-linking density and intramolecular ester bonding and exhibits close electrical strength but superior mechanical, thermal, and degradation properties than EA.
Preparation and characterization of stannous phosphate glass – polytetrafluoroethylene composites
Authors: Shyu Jiin-Jyh , Tsai Pei-Chun
Published: April 2024

A low-T
g SnO–MgO–P2O5 (SMP) glass was mixed with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to form composites by a sintering route. Effects of SMP:PTFE ratio and sintering temperature (350 °C–430 °C) on the microstructure and the bonding ability to a low thermal-expansion glass substrate were investigated. The onset softening temperatures of SMP and PTFE are close (328 °C and 313 °C), which are much lower than the onset temperature of weight loss of PTFE (381 °C). This is important for the sintering of SMP–PTFE composites. After sintering, pure SMP glass was not able to bond to the low thermal-expansion 1737® glass substrates. However, SMP–PTFE composites were able to bond to 1737® after sintering at appropriate temperatures. A possible mechanism for the enhancement of bonding by adding PTFE is discussed.
Notetaking among nursing students
Authors: Cross Lisa , Kendrick Amy
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this review was to determine the current state of the literature for notetaking among nursing students and identify implications for future nursing education and research. Notetaking is frequently used by college students and is a proven learning strategy. There has been less research for notetaking among nursing students than students in other disciplines.

Content

This narrative review was completed using the method described by Ferrari. Seven electronic databases were searched from 2018 to 2023 using the terms notetaking, students, and nursing.

Seven of 65 articles were included in this review. Upon analysis, three categories of research findings were identified: learning style, notetaking skill, and notetaking and technology.

Outlook

Nursing faculty should be aware of learning styles, notetaking strategies, and notetaking skill when designing assignments and course content for students. Future research should be done on this population to strengthen the findings of current literature.
Ethanolic extract of Persea americana Mill. (Lauraceae) seeds induced antiestrogenic effects in young female Wistar rats
Authors: Minko Essono Stéphane , Mvondo Marie Alfrede , Wego Marius Trésor Kamgaing , Kemka Nguimatio François Xavier , Momo Tetsatsi Aimé Césaire , Watcho Pierre
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The ethanol extract of Persea americana seeds was found to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female Wistar rats, suggesting the ability of its secondary metabolites to interact with estrogen receptors (ERs), either as partial agonists or as antagonists. To test this hypothesis, the abovementioned extract was assessed for its ability to mimic and/or antagonize estradiol effects.

Methods

Two experiments were conducted in ovariectomized (OVX) rats: (1) animals were treated with estradiol valerate (E2V; 1 mg/kg) or P. americana at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg; (2) animals were treated with E2V alone (0.75 mg/kg) or in combination with P. americana at the abovementioned doses. Treatments were given orally for 3 days and animals were sacrificed for biochemical and histological analyses of the uterus and vagina.

Results

When administered alone, P. americana did not change the histomorphology of both organs (uterus and vagina). In combination with E2V, P. americana decreased uterine weight [30 % decrease (p<0.001) at 25 mg/kg and 24 % (p<0.01) at 50 mg/kg] and epithelium height (37 % decrease). This was associated with decreased estradiol levels (at least 86 % decrease, p<0.001) in the uterus. Similarly, vagina epithelium height decreased by at least 34 % (p<0.05) when E2V was co-administered with P. americana.

Conclusions

The seed extract of P. americana contains ER antagonist secondary metabolites accounting for its ability to inhibit the development of estrogen-dependent conditions in female rats.
Measures of Lifespan Length and Variation Using a Mixture Model: The Case of Egypt
Authors: Siam Marwah S. , Sayed Hussein A. , El-Zeini Laila O.
Published: April 2024

Monitoring the changes in mortality patterns and levels requires studying mortality models and measures of lifespan length and variation. Measures of lifespan length and variation can be obtained from life tables or from mortality modes. In this paper, measures of lifespan length and variation are presented for mixture model introduced by Zanotto, L., V. Canudas-Romo, and S. Mazzuco. 2021. “A Mixture-Function Mortality Model: Illustration of the Evolution of Premature Mortality.” European Journal of Population 37 (1): 1–27. This was applied to the case of Egypt for males and females in the period 1950–2021. The mixture model was able to fit Egypt’s mortality pattern well for both males and females. The calculated measures of lifespan length and variation show that there is an increasing longevity and a declining variation of age at death distribution across time for both males and females.