bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual differences in intracortical inhibition predict action control when facing emotional stimuli
Authors: Quettier Thomas , Ippolito Giuseppe , Però Lorenzo , Cardellicchio Pasquale , Battaglia Simone , Borgomaneri Sara
Published: June 2024

Efficient inhibitory control in the context of prepotent actions is vital. However, such action inhibition may be profoundly influenced by affective states. Interestingly, research indicates that action control can be either impaired or improved by emotional stimuli. Thus, a great deal of confusion surrounds our knowledge of the complex dynamics subtending emotions and action control. Here, we aimed to investigate whether negative stimuli, even when non-consciously presented and task-irrelevant, can affect action control relative to neutral stimuli. Additionally, we tested whether individual differences in intracortical excitability may predict action control capabilities. To address these issues, we asked participants to complete a modified version of the Stop Signal Task (SST) in which fearful or neutral stimuli were subliminally presented before the go signals as primes. Moreover, we assessed participants’ resting-state corticospinal excitability, short intracortical inhibition (SICI), and intracortical facilitation (ICF). Results demonstrated better action control capabilities when fearful stimuli were subliminally presented and interindividual SICI predicted stronger action inhibition capabilities. Taken together, these results shed new light on the intricate dynamics between action, consciousness, and motor control, suggesting that intracortical measures can be used as potential biomarkers of reduced motor inhibition in research and clinical settings.
Cariprazine maintenance treatment during pregnancy – a case report
Authors: Herold Róbert , Tényi Tamás , Herold Márton , Tóth Tünde
Published: June 2024

Data on reproductive safety of recently approved newer antipsychotics are limited. Here, we report a case vignette of a patient with schizophrenia treated with cariprazine during pregnancy. The patient became pregnant unexpectedly while taking medication. As a result of shared decision-making, the patient and her psychiatrist decided to continue the treatment, which proved to be protective against relapse and had no adverse effect either on the course of pregnancy or on the health of the newborn. Cariprazine maintenance treatment during pregnancy was found to be safe in our case.
Unveiling Pakistan’s transport problems: a call to safeguard public health
Authors: Habib Ashna , Ali Tooba , Nazir Zainab , Muskan Fiza , Jawed Ifra , Akilimali Aymar
Published: June 2024

Public transportation is an important mode of transportation in developing countries like Pakistan since it is accessible and convenient. But there are also serious health hazards associated with it, especially when it comes to the transmission of infectious diseases including COVID-19, TB, and Haemophilus influenzae. Worldwide transportation systems are vulnerable, as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown, underscoring the necessity for study and mitigating measures. The danger of disease transmission is increased in Pakistan by crowded metropolitan areas, inadequate sanitation, and low health awareness. In addition, congested public transportation and inadequate ventilation lead to reduced air quality and elevated stress levels among commuters. Comprehensive actions are needed to address these health hazards, such as promoting physical distance, improving cleanliness, enforcing traffic safety laws, and implementing policy changes that support sustainable transportation. Community involvement and advocacy are critical in campaigning for safer and more sustainable transportation networks. Pakistan can enhance public health outcomes and reduce the health hazards linked to public transportation by giving priority to these measures.
Effects of spatial accessibility of community health services on the activities of daily living among older adults in China: a propensity score matching study
Authors: Li Yuee , Liu Xiaohui
Published: June 2024

Background

The Chinese government proposes to establish a hierarchical diagnosis and treatment system, and attaches great importance to community health services. Under the background of population aging and the increase of older adults with disability, this study aimed to analyze the effect of spatial accessibility of community health services on the activities of daily living (ADL) among older adults in China.

Methods

A research sample of 7,922 older adults from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) data in 2018 was adopted. There were 2,806 participants in the treatment group and 5,116 participants in the control group. The propensity score matching method was adopted to match the treatment and control groups to calculate the values of average treatment effects on treated (ATT).

Results

The results of kernel density matching method showed that the factual ADL score of the treatment group was 10.912, the counterfactual ADL score of the control group was 10.694, and the ATT value was 0.218 (p < 0.01). The spatial accessibility of community health services could significantly improve the activities of daily living among older adults in China. Meanwhile, there was urban-rural heterogeneity in the impact of spatial accessibility of community health services on the activities of daily living of older adults in China. The effect value in urban samples (ATT = 0.371, p < 0.01) was higher than that in rural samples (ATT = 0.180, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Spatial accessibility of community health services could improve the activities of daily living among older adults in China. The Chinese government should take actions to improve the distribution of community health service resources.
The global burden of cataracts and its attributable risk factors in 204 countries and territories: a systematic analysis of the global burden of disease study
Authors: Wang Dongyue , Tang Tong , Li Peiheng , Zhao Jing , Shen Bairong , Zhang Ming
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The global distribution and trends in the attributable burden of cataract risk have rarely been systematically explored. To guide the development of targeted and accurate cataract screening and treatment strategies, we analyzed the burden of cataract disease attributable to known risk factors.

Method

This study utilized detailed cataract data from the Global Burden of Disease e 2019, and we analyzed disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) e each risk factor from 1990 to 2019. Additionally, we calculated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) during the study period.

Results

The results revealed that from 1990−2019, the global age-standardized DALYs of e attributable to particulate matter pollution, smoking, high fasting glucose plasma and high BMI showed steady downward trends (1990−2009: EAPC = −0.21 [−0.57 −0.14]); 2000−2009: EAPC = −0.95 [−1.01 −0.89]; 2010−2019: EAPC = −1.41 [−1.8 −1.02]). The age-standardized DALYs and mortality caused by each risk factor were highest in the low-middle sociodemographic index (SDI) region (EAPC = −1.77[(−2.19–−1.34)]). The overall disease burden of cataracts is lower in males than in females. When analyzing the EAPCs of cataract disease burden for each risk factor individually, we found that the age-standardized disability-adjusted life years caused by particulate matter pollution and smoking decreased (PMP1990-2009: EAPC = −0.53 [−0.9–−0.16]; 2000−2009: EAPC = −1.39 [−1.45--1.32]; 2010−2019: EAPC = −2.27 [−2.75–−1.79]; smoking 2000 to 2009: EAPC = −1.51 [−1.6–−1.43], 2009 to 2019: EAPC = −1.34 [−1.68–−1])), while high fasting plasma glucose and high body mass index increased annually (HFPG1990 to 1999: EAPC = 1.27 [0.89−1.65], 2000 to 2009: EAPC = 1.02 [0.82−1.22], 2010−2019: EAPC = 0.44 [0.19−0.68]; HBMI 1990 to 1999: EAPC = 1.65 [1.37−1.94], 2000 to 2009: EAPC = 1.56 [1.43−1.68], 2010−2019: EAPC = 1.47 [1.18−1.77]).

Disscussion

The burden of cataracts caused by ambient particulate matter and smoking is increasing in low, low-middle SDI areas, and specific and effective measures are urgently needed. The results of this study suggest that reducing particulate matter pollution, quitting smoking, controlling blood glucose, and lowering BMI could play important roles in reducing the occurrence of cataracts, especially in older people.
Public awareness, knowledge, and attitude regarding proper disposal of unused medicines and associated factors in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tegegne Addisu Afrassa , Genet Gebremariam , Workie Limenh Liknaw , Yohannes Lamrot , Mohammed Seid Abdulwase , Alemayehu Tekletsadik Tekleslassie , Ayenew Wondim , Simegn Wudneh
Published: June 2024

Background

Proper disposal of unwanted medicines, in addition to reducing wastage, has a positive impact on the environment and public health. Improper disposal of medications increases the risk of accidental poisonings, particularly among children. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and awareness regarding the proper disposal of unused medicines in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia.

Method

From 30 July to 30 August 2023, a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the public in Gondar city. The data were gathered using the Kobo toolbox, exported into an Excel sheet, and then analyzed using SPSS version 27. Multivariate and bivariate binary logistic regressions were performed. A p-value of 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to determine statistical significance.

Result

From 786 study participants, the overall knowledge and attitude of the community toward the proper disposal of unused medicines were 42.6 and 42.9%, respectively. Factors identified in this study included ages between 19 and 25 [AOR = 6.91, 95% CI: (3.45, 13.84); education level: secondary [AOR = 11.82, 95% CI: (1.01, 3.29)] and college and above [AOR = 5.68, 95% CI: (2.25, 14.30)]; prior information [AOR = 6.41; 95% CI: (4.02, 10.22)]; and good attitudes [AOR = 2.11; 95% CI: (1.47, 3.02)]] as factors associated with good knowledge toward proper disposal of unused medicines. In addition, receiving information [AOR = 1.86 95% CI: (1.22, 2.86)], taking medication in the past 6 months [AOR = 1.61, 95% CI: (1.09, 2.38)], and being knowledgeable [AOR = 2.07 95% CI: (1.46, 2.94)] were factors contributing to positive attitudes toward the disposal of unused medicines among the general public. Furthermore, approximately 369 participants (46.9%) in our study lacked awareness about the harmful effects of disposing of unused medicine in regular waste.

Conclusion

A relatively low level of knowledge and attitudes about the proper disposal of unused medications is present in the community. In this regard, a well-coordinated and methodical public awareness campaign is recommended to disseminate information and promote the appropriate disposal of unused medications.
Practical quality improvement changes for a low-resourced pediatric unit
Authors: Yager Phoebe H. , Callans Kevin Mary , Samost-Williams Aubrey , Bonilla Jose A. , Flores Luis J. G. , Hasbun Susana C. A. , Rodríguez Angel E. A. , Cárdenas Alejandra B. A. , Núñez Alexia M. L. , Jayawardena Asitha D. L. , Zablah Evelyn J. , Hartnick Christopher J.
Published: June 2024

Background

This work describes a sustainable and replicable initiative to optimize multi-disciplinary care and uptake of clinical best practices for patients in a pediatric intensive care unit in Low/Middle Income Countries and to understand the various factors that may play a role in the reduction in child mortality seen after implementation of the Quality Improvement Initiative.

Methods

This was a longitudinal assessment of a quality improvement program with the primary outcome of intubated pediatric patient mortality. The program was assessed 36 months following implementation of the quality improvement intervention using a t-test with linear regression to control for co-variates. An Impact Pathway model was developed to describe potential pathways for improvement, and context was added with an exploratory analysis of adoption of the intervention and locally initiated interventions.

Results

147 patients were included in the sustainability cohort. Comparing the initial post-implementation cohort to the sustainability cohort, the overall PICU unexpected extubations per 100 days mechanical ventilation decreased significantly from baseline (6.98) to the first year post intervention (3.52; p < 0.008) but plateaued without further significant decrease in the final cohort (3.0; p = 0.73), whereas the mortality decreased from 22.4 (std 0.42) to 9.5% (std 0.29): p value: 0.002 (confidence intervals: 0.05;0.21). The regression model that examined age, sex, diagnosis and severity of illness (via aggregate Pediatric Risk of Mortality (PRISM) scores between epochs) yielded an adjusted R-squared (adjusting for the number of predictors) value of 0.046, indicating that approximately 4.6% of the variance in mortality was explained by the predictors included in the model. The overall significance of the regression model was supported by an F-statistic of 3.198 (p = 0.00828). age, weight, diagnosis, and severity of illness. 15 new and locally driven quality practices were observed in the PICU compared to the initial post-implementation time period. The Impact Pathway model suggested multiple unique potential pathways connecting the improved patient outcomes with the intervention components.

Conclusion

Sustained improvements were seen in the care of intubated pediatric patients. While some of this improvement may be attributable to the intervention, it appears likely that the change is multifactorial, as evidenced by a significant number of new quality improvement projects initiated by the local clinical team. Although currently limited by available data, the use of Driver Diagram and Impact Pathway models demonstrates several proposed causal pathways and holds potential for further elucidating the complex dynamics underlying such improvements.
Predicting overall survival from tumor dynamics metrics using parametric statistical and machine learning models: application to patients with RET-altered solid tumors
Authors: Velasquez Erick , Kassir Nastya , Cheeti Sravanthi , Kuruvilla Denison , Sane Rucha , Dang Steve , Miles Dale , Lu James
Published: June 2024

In oncology drug development, tumor dynamics modeling is widely applied to predict patients' overall survival (OS) via parametric models. However, the current modeling paradigm, which assumes a disease-specific link between tumor dynamics and survival, has its limitations. This is particularly evident in drug development scenarios where the clinical trial under consideration contains patients with tumor types for which there is little to no prior institutional data. In this work, we propose the use of a pan-indication solid tumor machine learning (ML) approach whereby all three tumor metrics (tumor shrinkage rate, tumor regrowth rate and time to tumor growth) are simultaneously used to predict patients' OS in a tumor type independent manner. We demonstrate the utility of this approach in a clinical trial of cancer patients treated with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, pralsetinib. We compared the parametric and ML models and the results showed that the proposed ML approach is able to adequately predict patient OS across RET-altered solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer, medullary thyroid cancer as well as other solid tumors. While the findings of this study are promising, further research is needed for evaluating the generalizability of the ML model to other solid tumor types.
Energy asset stranding in resource-rich developing countries and the just transition - A framework to push research frontiers
Authors: Hoffart Franziska M. , Holz Franziska
Published: June 2024

Climate policy will inevitably lead to the stranding of fossil energy assets such as production and transport assets for coal, oil, and natural gas. Resource-rich developing countries are particularly affected, as they have a higher risk of asset stranding due to strong fossil dependencies and wider societal consequences beyond revenue disruption. However, there is only little academic and political awareness of the challenge to manage the asset stranding in these countries, as research on transition risk like asset stranding is still in its infancy. We provide a research framework to identify wider societal consequences of fossil asset stranding. We apply it to a case study of Nigeria. Analyzing different policy measures, we argue that compensation payments come with implementation challenges. Instead of one policy alone to address asset stranding, a problem-oriented mix of policies is needed. Renewable hydrogen and just energy transition partnerships can be a contribution to economic development and SDGs. However, they can only unfold their potential if fair benefit sharing and an improvement to the typical institutional problems in resource-rich countries, such as the lack of rule of law, are achieved. We conclude with presenting a future research agenda for the global community and academia.
Navigating urbanization implications: effects of land expropriation on farmers’ livelihoods in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ayenachew Yeshitla Agonafir , Abebe Birhanu Girma
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the effect of land expropriation on the livelihoods of farmers expropriated from the peripheries of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A mixed methods approach, including household surveys, key informant interviews, field visits, and document reviews, was employed. A sample of 349 expropriated farmer household heads from four purposively selected sub-cities was drawn using systematic random sampling. The findings reveal significant adverse effects of land expropriation on the livelihoods of expropriated farmers, such as income losses, unemployment, and reduced agricultural production, primarily due to a lack of transparency and consultation during the expropriation process, inadequate compensation, and insufficient resettlement support provided by the city administration. Consequently, the living conditions of most farmers deteriorated in the post-expropriation. To address these effects, the study recommends enhancing procedural clarity, ensuring meaningful participation and consultation with affected farmers, and providing comprehensive resettlement support, including access to housing, employment opportunities, credit, and social services, to help affected farmers transition to new livelihoods.
Homophobic beliefs and attitudes among mid-adolescent boys: exploring the ideas of hybrid masculinities
Authors: Exner-Cortens Deinera , Claussen Caroline , Jenney Angelique , Vijayan Vineetha Warriyar Kodalore
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Homophobia is well-documented as key to social regulation of masculine behavior and practices in Western settings. Yet, empirical data from a number of Western settings has shown a decline in overt homophobic attitudes in the past decade, leading some to suggest that the nature of masculinities is also changing. However, theorizing on the changing nature of masculinities among adolescents has received limited quantitative attention. Research is needed to better understand shifts in adolescent masculinities in contemporary Western settings.

Methods

In this paper, we investigate the application of one newer approach to explore masculinities in context – hybrid masculinities – in a sample of cisgender, heterosexual, mid-adolescent boys in one province in Western Canada (N = 873, mean age (SD) = 14.39 (0.37)). Data were collected from nine cohorts of grade 9 youth over a 10-year period (2013–2022) as part of the baseline survey of an ongoing evaluation of a gender-transformative healthy relationships program.

Results and discussion

We hypothesized that if the ideas of hybrid masculinities held in our sample, we would find that overt homophobic attitudes and adherence to related patriarchal norms (e.g., avoidance of femininity) would decline over this period, but that the use of homophobic name-calling would remain differentiated in terms of to whom it was directed (e.g., a friend, someone they thought was gay). We did find a significant decline in homophobic attitudes and norms related to emotional restriction and avoidance of femininity over the 10-year period, but also found that homophobic name-calling remained differentiated, with significantly higher name-calling toward a friend than toward someone the youth thought was gay. Thus, our hypotheses were supported. We discuss the implications of our findings for future theory and research on understanding adolescent masculinities in context.
Increasing sustainability in the tomato processing industry: environmental impact analysis and future development scenarios
Authors: Eslami Elham , Abdurrahman Emadaldin , Pataro Gianpiero , Ferrari Giovanna
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The agri-food sector has been identified as one of the most significant contributors to environmental degradation and emissions. Thus, in order to respond to the societal demand for cleaner and greener products, in recent years, the food industry has been striving to identify and apply more sustainable practices to minimize the negative impact on the environment. Within the agri-food sector, one of the industries requiring efforts to mitigate its environmental footprint is the tomato processing industry, which represents an important industry within the Italian industrial food processing sector. Efficient utilization of resources and adoption of innovative methods in the production lines of the tomato processing industry can be envisaged as strategic measures to increase sustainability. This study aims to discuss the results of the case study in which an Italian tomato processing company has been analyzed by applying the LCA methodology.

Method

Foreground data were obtained from the tomato processing facility located in southern Italy, and Ecoinvent database was the source of background data. The assessment was carried out by SimaPro software using ReCiPe 2016 (V1.03). The feasible conservation strategies in the production line have been evaluated through water-energy nexus simulation by SuperPro Designer® before the implementation, and different scenarios have been evaluated by SimaPro to decrease the environmental load.

Results and conclusion

This study demonstrates that the production of 1 kg of peeled tomatoes and tomato puree leads to greenhouse gas emissions of 0.083 kg CO2 eq and 0.135 kg CO2 eq, respectively. A deeper analysis to evaluate the contribution of the different tomato processing stages indicated that the thermal units are the main ones responsible for adverse effects on the environment, and any improvement in their performance can be seen as an unmissable opportunity. The conservation strategies identified resulted in considerable water (23.4%), electricity (14.7%), and methane (28.7%) savings and, consequently, in 16 and 19% reduction of global warming potential in peeled tomato and tomato puree production lines, respectively. These findings provide new insights for tomato processing companies wishing to adopt more sustainable processing practices, reducing their environmental impact to a considerable extent and improving their economic performance.
Reduced Kinematic Error for Position Accuracy in a High-Torque, Lightweight Actuator
Authors: Megalingam Rajesh Kannan , Vadivel Shree Rajesh Raagul , Manoharan Sakthiprasad Kuttankulangara , Pula Bhanu Teja , Sathi Sarveswara Reddy , Gupta Uppala Sai Chaitanya
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose the design, development, and testing of high-torque and lightweight actuators suitable for lightweight robotic applications. The detailed design of the actuator module is described, and its performance evaluation is also presented. Further, the mathematical modelling of the actuator is discussed. Various performance analysis tests were carried out for the elucidation of the designed actuator, which included primarily position, velocity, and torque analyses. The position accuracy analysis included position repeatability at the maximum payload for calculating the acceptable tolerance. The velocity elucidation included a velocity test for the variable load. The torque analysis of the actuator was completed at different supply currents. These tests and the results indicate that the proposed actuator has high precision in reaching the desired position and provides a stabilized performance with variable loads up to the limit for which it was designed. Based on the torque output and the weight, the proposed actuator could be a good fit for lightweight robotic applications.
The Possibility of Powering a Light Aircraft by Releasing the Energy Stored in Hydrogen within a Fuel Cell Stack
Authors: Olsen John
Published: June 2024

In this work, we examine the possibility of converting a light propeller-driven aircraft, powered by a spark-ignition, reciprocating piston, and internal combustion engine running on AVGAS, into one powered by an electric motor driven by a proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack running on hydrogen. Our studies suggest that storing hydrogen cryogenically is a better option than storing hydrogen under pressure. In comparison to cryogenic tanks, high-pressure tanks are extremely heavy and unacceptable for light aircraft. We show that the modified aircraft (including batteries) is no heavier than the original, and that the layout of the major components results in lower movement of the aircraft center-of-gravity as the aircraft consumes hydrogen. However, we acknowledge that our fuel cell aircraft cannot store the same amount of energy as the original running on AVGAS. Therefore, despite the fact that the fuel cell stack is markedly more efficient than an internal combustion engine, there is a reduction in the range of the fuel cell aircraft. One of our most important findings is that the quantity of energy that we need to dissipate to the surroundings via heat transfer is significantly greater from a fuel cell stack than from an internal combustion engine. This is particularly the case when we attempt to run the fuel cell stack at high current densities. To control this problem, our strategy during the cruise phase is to run the fuel cell stack at its maximum efficiency, where the current density is low. We size the fuel cell stack to produce at least enough power for cruise, and when we require excess power, we add the energy stored in batteries to make up the difference.
Raising the Drying Unit for Fruits and Vegetables Energy Efficiency by Application of Thermoelectric Heat Pump
Authors: Tikhomirov Dmitry , Khimenko Aleksei , Kuzmichev Aleksey , Budnikov Dmitry , Bolshev Vadim
Published: June 2024

Drying food stuffs and other materials belongs to one of the most commonly used feedstock processing techniques, featuring rather high energy consumption. The major disadvantage of conventional electric convective-type household dryers is substantial thermal energy emission into the environment with a wet exhaust, worked-out drying agent. Among other principal disadvantages common to all dryers of this type, the following have to be mentioned: spatial inhomogeneity of heating a product under processing and that of drying agent distribution due to its temperature reduction and relative humidity growth as it moves upwards. A block diagram and a breadboard model of a convective-type thermoelectric dryer employing a thermoelectric heat pump have been designed. In our approach, a product is treated with the help of a drying agent (normally, heated air) with partial exhaust-air recirculation and heat recovery. Laboratory studies of the drying process have been carried out using apple fruits as a test material in order to evaluate the power consumed for evaporation of 1 kg of water in the newly developed convective-type thermoelectric drying unit. Physical parameters of apple fruits before and after drying both in the thermoelectric drying unit and in a conventional series-produced convective-type domestic dryer have been reported. The energy efficiency of the newly designed drying unit has been compared with that of some series-produced samples. It has been found out that, unlike conventional convective-type dryers, the breadboard model of the developed thermoelectric drying unit features a smoother product drying process owing to the presence of side air channels and more effective drying agent path organization in the processing chamber. This conclusion was supported by the results of the carried out tests. Application of thermoelectric heat pumps with the function of the exhaust drying agent heat recovery will make it possible to reduce the drying agent heater installed capacity and the power consumed by the newly designed convective-type thermoelectric drying unit by up to 20% in the course of the drying process, compared to series-produced household convective-type dryers.
Study on the Shear and Bending Mechanical Properties of Millet Stem
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Zeze , Pan Ben , Cui Qingliang , Zhang Lili , Qiu Shujin , Zhang Yanqing
Published: June 2024

To determine the patterns and influencing factors of the mechanical properties of millet stems from different varieties during the maturity period, this study employed a complete block experiment method and conducted shearing and bending tests on millet stems using the INSTRON5544 electronic universal material testing machine. The research investigated the variation in the shear strength, specific shear energy, bending strength, elastic modulus, and bending stiffness at different internode positions of the stems of Changza 466, Zhangza 16, and Jingu 21 during their maturity period. The results indicated that the variety had a significant impact on the mechanical properties of millet stems: from largest to smallest, the order of shear and bending forces was Jingu 21, Zhangza 16, and Changza 466. The shear strength and bending strength of Jingu 21 were the greatest among the three stem samples. The internode position significantly affected the shear mechanical properties of the millet stems, showing a general trend of decreasing shear strength with ascending internode position. The effect of the internode position on the bending stiffness was highly significant, whereas its impact on the bending strength and elastic modulus was not significant. The shear strength of the millet stems ranged from 3.866 ± 1.086 to 6.953 ± 2.208 MPa, significantly lower than the bending strength, which ranged from 18.934 ± 4.374 to 34.286 ± 6.875 MPa. The lowest shear strength and specific shearing energy, recorded at the fifth internode, were 4.028 ± 1.918 MPa and 15.097 ± 12.633 MJ/mm2, respectively. Jingu 21 and Changza 466 exhibit better lodging resistance than Zhangza 16. It is recommended to use a cutting-type platform for harvesting millet stems, with the cutting height set at the fifth internode position. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of millet harvesting machinery and the selection of harvest parameters.
Application of Overground Rock Film Mulching (ORFM) Technology in Karst Rocky Desertification Farmland: Improving Soil Moisture Environment and Crop Root Growth
Authors: Zhao Zhimeng , Zhang Jin , Liu Rui
Published: June 2024

Overground rock is a prominent feature of rocky desertification landscape in karst farmland; however, people often pay attention to their adverse effects, leaving their positive effects on ecohydrological processes and plant growth as rarely studied and utilized. In this study, the effects of overground rock film mulching (ORFM) on soil water flow behavior, soil water content and temporal and spatial heterogeneity were investigated through a dye tracer test and soil moisture measurement. Moreover, the effects of this technology on the root characteristics of crops (maize and broad bean) were analyzed. The results showed that ORFM treatment significantly increased soil water content and its spatio-temporal heterogeneity by preventing preferential flow at the rock–soil interface. It suggested that this practice can provide a more favorable soil moisture environment for crop growth, which was confirmed by the differences in root characteristics of crops (maize and broad bean) under different treatments in this study. It was found that ORFM treatment reduced the root radial extent of crops but increased the root biomass and root bifurcation rate, which are widely considered to be key factors in improving the efficiency of fine root absorption. Therefore, we believe that ORFM has great potential to improve the effective use of soil water and agricultural water management in karst areas, which is essential for sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Weight Development and Growth Curves of Grazing Santa Inês Sheep Supplemented with Concentrate in the Pre-Weaning Phase
Authors: da Silva Rodrigo Ferreira , Ribeiro Pedro Henrique Cavalcante , Silva Yasmin dos Santos , Soares Maria Alice de Lima , Ribeiro Cláudio Vaz De Mambro , Rangel Adriano Henrique do Nascimento , Ferreira Marcelo de Andrade , Emerenciano Neto João Virgínio , Urbano Stela Antas
Published: June 2024

Monitoring weight development is essential for decision-making and assessing the effectiveness of management strategies. However, this practice is often hindered by the lack of scales on farms. This study aimed to characterize the weight development and growth curves of male and female Santa Inês lambs from birth to weaning, managed on pasture with creep-fed concentrate supplementation. Data from 212 lambs during the pre-weaning phase were analyzed. The animals were weighed every seven days to evaluate total weight gain and average daily gain. Biometric measurements were taken every 28 days. Mixed models were used to assess the effects of sex and birth type on birth and weaning weights. Simple and multiple linear regression models were employed to estimate live weight using biometric measurements. The non-linear Gompertz model was utilized to describe weight development and formulate growth curves. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05. An interaction effect between birth type and sex (p < 0.05) was noted for birth weight, with the lowest weight observed in twin-birth females (2.96 kg) and the highest in single-birth males (3.73 kg) and females (3.65 kg) (p > 0.05). Birth type significantly influenced average daily gain, total weight gain, and weaning weight (p < 0.05). The Gompertz model accurately depicted the growth curves, effectively describing the weight development. Pearson’s correlation coefficients between biometric measurements and weight were positive and significant (p < 0.05), ranging from 0.599 for hip height to 0.847 for heart girth. Consequently, the simple and multiple regression equations demonstrated high precision in predicting weaning weight. In conclusion, twin-birth lambs receiving concentrate supplementation via creep-feeding and managed on pasture showed different developmental patterns compared to single-birth lambs under the same conditions. The Gompertz model proved effective for monitoring development during the pre-weaning phase. All simple and multiple linear regression models were effective in predicting weaning weight through biometric measurements. However, for practical application, the model incorporating two measurements—body length and abdominal circumference—is recommended.
Evolutionary Specializations in the Venous Anatomy of the Two-Toed Sloth (Choloepus didactylus): Insights from CT-scan 3D Reconstructions
Authors: Martre Paul , Mulot Baptiste , Roussel Edouard , Leclerc Antoine
Published: June 2024

The venous anatomy of the two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) remains poorly understood, particularly in living specimens due to the limitations of traditional cadaveric studies. This study aims to describe the unique venous structures of Choloepus didactylus using computed tomography, enhancing our understanding of this species in a live setting. Three living Choloepus didactylus underwent CT scans as part of routine clinical assessments. The images were reconstructed using 3D Slicer software (version 5.6.2), focusing on the caudal vena cava anatomy. The reconstructions confirmed the presence of a significant intravertebral vein, showing complex venous connections through the ventral sacral foramen and vertebral foramina. These findings highlight notable anatomical variations and challenge existing literature on the species’ venous architecture. By employing modern imaging technologies, this research provides new insights into the venous anatomy of Choloepus didactylus, demonstrating the value of non-invasive techniques in studying the anatomical features of live animals, thereby offering a foundation for further comparative and evolutionary studies.
Accordance of Registered Drug Packages with Guideline-Recommended Treatment Durations for Community-Acquired Pneumonia—A New Antibiotic Stewardship Target?
Authors: Prusac Martina , Ortner Hadziabdic Maja , Rusic Doris , Modun Darko
Published: June 2024

In most countries, antibiotics for oral administration are put on the market in fixed packages. When there is no exact unit dispensing of antimicrobials, drug pack size may influence prescribers’ choice of treatment duration. The aim of this study was to investigate the accordance of approved antibiotic packages with national guidelines for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). For the purpose of this study, criteria were developed to determine the accordance of approved antibiotic packages for treating CAP (criteria), which are based on recommendations from national guidelines for treating CAP. Subsequently, the accordance of approved antibiotic packages with the number of antibiotic doses resulting from the specified criteria was determined. Of 39 identified therapeutic option-package size combinations, 11 were found to be matched (28.2%), meaning there were no leftover medication units after completing therapy, and 28 were mismatched combinations (71.8%), indicating that there were excess doses of antibiotics remaining at the end of therapy. The results of this research showed a significant non-accordance of the approved antibiotic packages with the national guidelines for the treatment of CAP and, consequently, the creation of a large amount of residues of unit doses of antibiotics in the community.
Exploring Prescription Practices: Insights from an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at a Tertiary Healthcare Facility, Rwanda
Authors: Gashegu Misbah , Gahamanyi Noel , Ndayambaje François Xavier , Munyemana Jean Bosco , Ndahindwa Vedaste , Lukwago Fredrick , Ingabire Lambert , Gambanga Fiona , Gashema Pierre , Tuyishime Albert , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Dukundane Damas , Muvunyi Thierry Zawadi , Muvunyi Claude Mambo
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat linked to increased morbidity and mortality. It has the potential to return us to the pre-antibiotic era. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are recognized as a key intervention to improve antimicrobial use and combat AMR. However, implementation of AMS remains limited in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This study aimed to assess prescription practices, identify areas for improvement, and promote adherence to AMS principles. Conducted at King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda, this qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with eight participants until saturation was reached. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed, revealing four emerging themes. The first theme was on AMS activities that were working well based on availability of microbiology laboratory results and prescription guidelines as factors influencing antibiotic prescription adjustments. The second theme was related to challenges during the implementation of the AMS program, including the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, limited local data on AMR patterns, and stock-outs of essential antibiotics. The third theme was on the importance of adhering to AMR management guidelines at KFH. The last emerged on recommendations from participants centered on regular training for healthcare workers, widespread dissemination of AMR findings across departments, and the enforcement of antibiotic restriction policies. These actions can improve prescription behaviors, upholding the highest standards of patient care, and strengthening the nascent AMS program.
Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Pulp, Peel and Seeds from Jeriva (Syagrus romanzoffiana)
Authors: Mello Beatriz C. B. S. , Malarski Angelika , Böhm Volker
Published: June 2024

Jeriva (Syagrus romanzoffiana) is a fruit from palm trees of the Arecaceae family, widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of Latin America. It has low production costs and high productivity throughout the year; however, its consumption is very low, and the production goes almost entirely to feed animals or to waste. To improve its consumption, a good characterization of the whole fruit is necessary. The objective of this work was to evaluate the jeriva pulp, peel and seeds according to carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, tocopherols and antioxidant potential using HPLC, microplate readers and spectrophotometric methods. Every part of the fruit exhibited antioxidant capacity in the ORAC and TEAC tests, which can be attributed to its high concentration of polyphenols. Carotenoids were more present in the pulp and peel and almost absent in the seeds. Vitamin C ranged from 12 ± 1 for the seeds up to 92 ± 3 mg/100 g for the pulp. The total phenolic content was quantified between 473 ± 39 for the seeds and 1089 ± 32 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/100 g for the pulp. These results demonstrate that all parts of this fruit have important bioactive nutrients, with promising perspectives for further scientific approaches and for composing formulations of food products to enhance functional properties.
Anti-Melanogenic Activity of Ethanolic Extract from Garcinia atroviridis Fruits Using In Vitro Experiments, Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Tedasen Aman , Chiabchalard Anchalee , Tencomnao Tewin , Yamasaki Kenshi , Majima Hideyuki J. , Phongphithakchai Atthaphong , Chatatikun Moragot
Published: June 2024

Melanin, the pigment responsible for human skin color, increases susceptibility to UV radiation, leading to excessive melanin production and hyperpigmentation disorders. This study investigated the ethanolic extract of Garcinia atroviridis fruits for its phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant activity, and impact on melanogenesis pathways using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Utilizing network pharmacology, molecular docking, and dynamics simulations, researchers explored G. atroviridis fruit extract’s active compounds, targets, and pharmacological effects on hyperpigmentation. G. atroviridis fruit extract exhibited antioxidant properties, scavenging DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals radicals and chelating copper. It inhibited cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content in stimulated B16F10 cells, downregulating TYR, TRP-1, phosphorylated CREB, CREB, and MITF proteins along with transcription levels of MITF, TYR, and TRP-2. LC-MS analysis identified thirty-three metabolites, with seventeen compounds selected for further investigation. Network pharmacology revealed 41 hyperpigmentation-associated genes and identified significant GO terms and KEGG pathways, including cancer-related pathways. Kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside exhibited high binding affinity against MAPK3/ERK1, potentially regulating melanogenesis by inhibiting tyrosinase activity. Stable ligand–protein interactions in molecular dynamics simulations supported these findings. Overall, this study suggests that the ethanolic extract of G. atroviridis fruits possesses significant antioxidant, tyrosinase inhibitory, and anti-melanogenic properties mediated through key molecular targets and pathways.
Collective Communication Performance Evaluation for Distributed Deep Learning Training
Authors: Lee Sookwang , Lee Jaehwan
Published: June 2024

In distributed deep learning, the improper use of the collective communication library can lead to a decline in deep learning performance due to increased communication time. Representative collective communication libraries such as MPI, GLOO, and NCCL exhibit varying performance based on server environment and communication architecture. In this study, we investigate three key aspects to evaluate the performance of the collective communication libraries in a distributed deep learning setting in an intra-node environment. First, we conduct a comparison and analysis of collective communication library performance within common distributed deep learning architectures, such as parameter servers and ring all-reduce methods. Second, we evaluate the performance of these libraries in different environments, including various container platforms and bare metal setups, considering the scalability and flexibility advantages offered by cloud virtualization. Last, to ensure practicality, we assess the libraries’ performance in a Linux shell and within the PyTorch framework. In the cross-docker virtualization environment, NCCL shows up to 213% higher latency compared to single docker, while GLOO exhibits 36% lower latency in single docker than in cross docker, and NCCL achieves up to 345% lower execution time in all-reduce operations compared to other libraries (MPI and GLOO). These findings will inform the selection of an appropriate collective communication library for designing effective distributed deep learning environments.
Research on the Deformation Mechanism of Railway Subgrade under Buried Strike–Slip Fault Dislocation
Authors: Liang Jingwei , Ye Yangsheng , Cai Degou , Yan Hongye , Yao Junkai
Published: June 2024

With the gradual densification of China’s railway network, more and more railways are inevitably crossing active fault zones. Creep dislocation and stick–slip dislocation of the fault zones can lead to uneven deformation and cracks in the railway subgrade, threatening the sustainability of the railway. Therefore, a model test and numerical simulation were used to analyze the deformation mechanism and sustainability of the subgrade and foundation induced by a strike–slip fault dislocation in a flat site under different angles between the subgrade and fault strikes. The test and simulation results show that (1) under the influence of strike–slip fault dislocation, the horizontal direction of the subgrade appeared to have an S–shaped displacement. The top surface of the subgrade appeared to have a vertical settlement. Further, tension–shear cracks and compression crush zones appeared on the subgrade’s surface. (2) When the angle between the fault and subgrade strikes increased, the subgrade’s uneven deformations induced by fault dislocation first decreased and then increased. The angle between the main tension–shear crack on the top surface of the subgrade and the fault strike showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing. In addition, the compressive stress along the subgrade strike decreased, while the tensile stress along the subgrade strike gradually increased. (3) The tension–shear cracks in the subgrade and foundation were spiral and converged to the basement strike–slip fault along the depth direction. This study provides a reference for the safe operation and sustainability of railways near faults.