bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CASE CONTROL STUDY ON DETERMINANTS OF PERINATAL DEATH IN GHANDI MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
Authors: Birara Malede , T. Yigzaw , Urgie Tadesse
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTINTRODUCTION: Perinatal Mortality is a sensitive indicator of the quality of service provided to pregnantwomen and their newborns. Although data is lacking from community studies, hospital log books can help toget useful information. Some of the risk factors for PNM are avoidable if they are known with carefully controlledstudies.OBJECTIVE: To assess determinants of perinatal mortality Gandhi Memorial Hospital and determine theprobable causes of death.METHODS: This study was done in 2011. The study design was unmatched case control study to compare themultiple risk factors between perinatal deaths and their sampled live birth controls in Gandhi Memorial Hospital.The sample size for cases was 220 while for controls 440.RESULT: In this study PNM was found to be 50.8/1000 live births. Preterm delivery was 35%, LBW was 45%and Malpresentation 24.6% among cases and these were significantly higher than the controls. Maternal bookingstatus, malpresentation, vaginal route delivery, prematurity and LBW were important determinants of PNM.Most of the deaths didn’t have explainable cause of death. Of the known causes congenital malformation andmechanical cause are the most common. Parity and multiple gestations were not found to be predictors of perinataldeaths.CONCLUSION& RECOMMENDATIONS: LBW and preterm deliveries were important determinants ofPNM. Thus the delivery unit in the hospital should make improvements in the neonatal care services. Improveddocumentation of obstetric information is important to reduce the number of unexplained causes of death. ImprovedANC and intrapartum care can play important role to reduce PNM in Gandhi memorial hospital(GMH.)KEY WORDS: Perinatal mortality, Gandhi memorial Hospital, Ethiopia, Determinants(Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health 2016; 8:20--29)
CONTRACEPTIVE NEEDS AND PRACTICE OF WOMEN IN THE EXTENDED POST- PARTUM PERIOD IN ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
Authors: Awulachew Hailegeorgis , Negash Shiferaw , Getiye Yemisrach , Yusuf Lukman
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Family planning is the most cost-effective intervention to improve health outcomes in reproductive, maternal and child health. Extended post-partum defined as one-year post-birth period, 95% of low and middle-income countries women want to avoid a pregnancy within the next two years, but 70% are not using contraception. OBJECTIVE: To determine the magnitude and factors associated with contraceptive needs and practices of women during extended postpartum period in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS: Institution based cross sectional study used. Women in the reproductive age group within their first year after delivery who came to selected health facilities with their infants for immunization or child health clinics were interviewed. Epi-Info version 7 and SPSS version 21 were used for data entry & analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Bivariate and multi variable logistic regression model were used to see an association between variables. RESULT: Eight hundred thirty three post-partum mothers were interviewed. Mean age (± 1SD) of mothers at their last delivery was 27.3 (+ 4.5) years. The median number of pregnancy was 2. Regarding reproductive intention, 45.0% of mothers want to space the next pregnancy for more than two years. Among the 92.6% of mothers who wanted to use contraceptive method, 70.9% of them use modern contraceptives which give contraceptive prevalence rate of 65.7% . CONCLUSION: Reproductive intention, resumption of menses and sexual intercourse, knowledge, discussion with partner, post-partum visit and family planning counseling were found to be factors associated with postpartum family planning practice. Improving the knowledge on long term family planning methods and lactational amenorrhea method should be strengthen. KEY WORDS: Post-partum family planning, Post-partum contraceptives and family planning in extended postpartum period. (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health 2017;9:17-24)
PARTOGRAPH CHART USE AMONG OBSTETRIC CAREGIVERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTIONS OF WEST SHEWA ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA, 2015
Authors: Willi Wakeshi , Molla Mitike
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Partograph chart is recommended by WHO for developing countries to be used as an early warning system to identify prolonged labour and allow timely transfer. In Ethiopia, although most health institutions have been using partograph chart, there is limited information about its proper use and challenges faced by health workers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of partograph use, factors that affect its use and challenges faced among obstetric caregivers in public health institutions of West Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. METHODS: The study used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches from December 2014 to February 2015. It was conducted in two randomly selected hospitals and five health centres. The study used logistic regressions model to assess independent predictors of partograph use among health providers. RESULT: Out of 44 clients in the labour ward, only five items out of fifteen parameters listed on the partograph were completed. A fourth (24.7%) of all professionals did not know when to start partograph mapping and 36% had unfavourable attitude toward partograph use. Most (73%) indicated that partograph predisposes labouring women for unnecessary and untimely intervention. Midwives (AOR=13 CI=2.6-66.2), health workers who had knowledge about partograph use (AOR=7, CI= (2.8-21.8) and who work in facilities who had access to the tool (AOR=8.8 CI: 2.8-27.6), were more likely to use partograph. Health workers in higher institutions (hospitals) were less likely to use partograph (AOR=0.09, CI: 0.03-0.26). CONCLUSION: Most health workers do not complete the tool properly. Lack of knowledge about the right start time of partograph plotting and its benefits has affected proper identification of the action line which will farther affect maternal and fetal outcome. In-service and pre-service training on partograph use, continuous mentoring, supervision and staff motivation could improve the proper use of the tool. KEY WORDS: Partograph, knowledge, obstetric caregivers, public health institutions, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health 2017;9:36-44)
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES AMONG FEMALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN ETHIOPIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Yimer Bilal Tessema , Atsbeha Berhanemeskel Weldegerima , Getaw Nurahmed Seid
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Unwanted pregnancy followed by unsafe abortion is one of the major worldwide health problems, which has many negative consequences on the health and well-being of women. Emergency contraception is a type of modern contraception that is indicated after unprotected sexual intercourse when regular contraception is not in use. This study summarized the knowledge, attitude and practice of ECs among female university students in Ethiopia. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies were conducted. Original studies were identified using databases of PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cinahl and Web of science. Heterogeneity across studies was checked using Cochrane Q test statistic and I2 test. The pooled prevalence of the knowledge, attitude and practice of ECs methods were computed using a random effect model. RESULTS: A total of 321 articles were retrieved through the initial search strategy, producing 15 observational studies from universities of Ethiopia for analysis. Based on the studies included in the meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of level of knowledge, attitude and magnitude of utilization of ECs were 57.7% (95% CI: 49.8 to 65.3), 42.6% (95% CI: 41.4 to 43.8) and 9.2% 95% CI: 6.6 to 12.6), respectively. On the other hand, significant heterogeneity was observed between studies (Q = 664.9, p = 0.000, I2 = 97.9%). CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of level of knowledge, attitude and the magnitude of utilization of ECs were relatively low among female university students in Ethiopia. Hence, behavioral change strategies should be considered by responsible bodies to improve knowledge and bring attitudinal change on use of emergency contraception. KEYWORDS: Emergency contraceptives, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Meta-analysis, Systematic review, Ethiopia. (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health 2017;9:60-71)
BASIC EMERGENCY MATERNAL AND NEONATAL CARE STATUS OF SOUTH GONDAR ZONE, NORTH CENTRAL ETHIOPIA: INSTITUTIONAL DESCRIPTIVE SURVEY, JUNE 2016
Authors: Abate Bedilu Abebe , Ahunie Mekonnen Assefa
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Globally; an estimated 303,000 maternal deaths, two million intrapartum-related stillbirths and neonatal deaths occur annually. The majority of the deaths occur around the time of childbirth and three fourth are preventable with BEmONC services. OBJECTIVE: To assessed status of emergency maternal and neonatal care in south Gondar zone, North central Ethiopia. METHODS: Institutional descriptive survey was conducted from January to June 2016 on 89 public health facilities including one general hospital using WHO and AMDD questionnaires. The signal functions of BEmONC were determined. RESULT: About 94.4%, 96.6% and 79.8% of health facilities administered parenteral antibiotics, parenteral oxytocics and parenteral anti-convulsant three months before the study period respectively. More than nine in ten (91%) of facilities had performed removal of retained products in the last 3 months. More than nine in ten 93.3% of health facilities were used partograph to manage labor. The hospital performed all CEmONC signal functions. Nineteen percent of the health facilities provided intensive care to a preterm or low birth weight. Majority of health facilities (80.9%) were not provided the service due to 50.7% no separate pediatric or intensive care unit for infants, (25.4%) lack of supplies, lack of training16.9% and no indication (4.2%). CONCLUSION: About one in three of the health facilities had performed newborn resuscitation and used partograph. Majority of the health facilities had not provided special or intensive care to a preterm or low birth weight baby in the last three months. The regional health bureau and other responsible stake holders should train professionals on breech delivery and avail supplies and solve management issues. KEY WORDS : Signal functions, BEmONC, Ethiopia. (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health 2017;9:7--16)
EFFECTIVE WAYS OF TEACHING INTERRELATED TASKS IN BIOLOGY LESSONS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS
Authors: Məhərrəmov Əliyənnağı
Published: August 2024

The article analyzes the effective ways of learning tasks in unity in biology lessons in secondary schools. It is shown that three important functions of teaching are performed in biology classes: to educate, to educate and develop the personality (student). These listed functions of training should be implemented in unity and not in a phased manner. It is justified in the article that the unified application of the functions of education, development, upbringing, and prediction plays an important role in the formation of the educational culture of students. During the teaching of biological education in the school, the teacher should work on the course of educational training, scientifically correct and in accordance with the plan in the teaching of each course.
Geotechnical problems due to the collapse of unsaturated soils: the case of loess from northern France
Authors: Pierre Delage
Published: August 2024

Some periglacial loess deposits from Northern France are partially saturated thanks to the protection provided by an upper surface layer with higher clay content. When excavated and exposed to climatic changes, the loess deposit may exhibit collapse if their clay fraction is small enough and carbonate content high enough. These conditions allow for the stability of a loose porous microstructure with bonding links that are destroyed by water infiltration. In the paper, the origin and the properties of loess deposits from Northern France are described, together with the laboratory method of characterising collapse. Some practical conclusions are afterwards drawn.
Time effects in geomaterials
Authors: Jean-Michel Pereira
Published: August 2024

In this paper, time effects, seen as strain rate effects and creep phenomenon, on the mechanical behaviour of geomaterials are considered. Coupling between these effects and partial saturation of geomaterials is more particularly studied. An elasto-visco-plastic model, called RASTRA, is presented and validated from the comparison with experimental data.
Bifurcations in two‐dimensional differentially heated cavity
Authors: Sabiha Aklouche‐Benouaguef  , Belkacem Zeghmati
Published: August 2024

In this work, we propose a numerical analysis of a bidimensional instationary naturalconvection in a square cavity filled with air and inclined 45 degree versus to horizontal. The verticalwalls are subjected to non‐uniform temperatures while the horizontal walls are adiabatic. Theequations based on the formulation vorticity‐stream function are solved using the AlternatingDirections Implicit scheme (ADI) and Gauss elimination method. We analyze the influence ofRayleigh number on the roads to chaos borrowed by the natural convection developed in thiscavity, and we are looking for stable solutions representing the nonlinear dynamic system. Acorrelation between the Nusselt number and the Rayleigh number is proposed. We have analyzedthe vicinity of the critical point. The transition of the point attractor to another limit cycleattractor is characterized by the Hopf bifurcation.
Experimental investigation on the optimal formulation of dune sand concrete reinforced with date palm fibers
Authors: Salima Rezig  , Ahmed Bouaziz  , Abdallah Zatar
Published: August 2024

The main objective of this study is to propose an optimal formulation of sand concrete.The experimental approach consists in fixing the cement dosage at 350 kg / m3 and, in the firstphase, to investigate the optimum proportions of each constituent (limestone filler, silica fume,water and adjuvant). The second phase of this study was reserved for the effect of date palm fiberson the optimal formulation deduced from the experimental program of the first phase. The datepalm fiber mass rates studied are: 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%. The results obtained from the firstphase made it possible to fix the desired optimal composition equivalent to a unit volume of sandconcrete (1 m3 ). The cement dosage was maintained at 350 kg, dune sand, alluvial sand, finelimestone, silica fume, water and superplasticizer were optimized respectively as follows: 423.98kg; 980.34 kg; 165 kg; 35 kg; 210 kg and 2%.The results obtained from the second phase showdifferent tendencies in compression than in indirect traction. Indeed, a reduction in resistance wasrecorded in compression as a function of the increase in the rate of the reinforcement of datepalm fibers. This progressive decrease can reach 27% when the rate of reinforcement is equal to2%. On the other hand, a fluctuation in the results of traction in the range of 5 to 6 MPa wasrecorded. The maximum tensile strength was reached at a date palm fiber content of 1%. Theresults obtained from the mass loss measurements clearly showed that the increase in the fiberreinforcement rate induces a decrease in the mass loss estimated at 23.5 %.
Gyro-Accelerometer based Control of an Intelligent Wheelchair
Authors: Rafia Hassani  , Mohamed Boumehraz  , Maroua Hamzi  , Zineb Habba
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a free-hand interface to control an electric wheelchair using thehead gesture for people with severe disabilities i.e. multiple sclerosis, quadriplegic patients and oldage people. The patient head acceleration and rotation rate are used to control the intelligentwheelchair. The patient head gesture is detected using accelerometer and gyroscope sensorsembedded on a single board MPU6050. The MEMS sensors outputs are combined using Kalmanfilter as sensor fusion to build a high accurate orientation sensor. The system uses an Arduinomega as microcontroller to perform data processing, sensor fusion and joystick emulation tocontrol the intelligent wheelchair and HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensors to provide safe navigation.Thewheelchair can be controlled using two modes. In the first mode, the wheelchair is controlled bythe usual joystick. In the second mode, the patient uses his head motion to control the wheelchair.The principal advantage of the proposed approach is that the switching between the two controlmodes is soft, straightforward and transparent to the user.
Evaluation of the sound environment of the city of Biskra (Algeria)
Authors: Tallal Abdel Karim Bouzir  , Nourdinne Zemmouri
Published: August 2024

This research concerns the quantitative evaluation of the urban sound environment of the city of Biskra. The aim was to determine the quality of the soundscape based on in situ measurement, using a Landtek SL5868P sound level meter. 62 points have been identified to represent the whole city. The results show that that the noise level varies from 54.1 to 75.8 dB(A) during the weekdays and from 50.4 to 74.2dB(A) during the weekend. In addition,90% of the results of the weekday measurements and 81% of the results of the weekend measurements exceed the recommended levels given by the World Health Organization. The present urban sound exposure could have a substantial impact on the overall comfort of inhabitants and increase the risk of the syndrome of the sick cities.
ESTUDO DA CRIANÇA COM TRANSTORNO DE ESPECTRO AUTISTA: NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL
Authors: Castro Fabiana Mesquita Lima de , Paz Maria José Alves
Published: August 2024

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) present changes in communication, social interaction and behavior. In this sense, there are several challenges to be faced in different spaces. The theme of this work is the study of children with autism spectrum disorder: in early childhood education. The general objective is to understand specialized pedagogical practices aimed at learning for children with autism spectrum disorder in early childhood education and as specific objectives to verify intervention programs from the perspective of the development of children with autism spectrum disorder in early childhood education; record the importance of family involvement in monitoring children on the autism spectrum in early childhood education; point out the most common challenges faced by children with autism spectrum disorder in early childhood education. Thus, to achieve these objectives, bibliographical research and qualitative analysis were used. In this way, the results demonstrate that the professionals’ interpretation brought the possibility of broadening the perspectives on the reality experienced by students with ASD in the school space and that the inclusion process is happening slowly and with many gaps still to be overcome. The need for continued training for teachers is also of great importance for the acceptance of inclusion as a social process, and the pedagogical strategies used by them are the main instrument of social interaction for students with ASD in the school environment.
Assessing Relations Among Visual Variables in Hotel Lobbies Using Deep Learning
Authors: Saniei Taraneh , Kianersi Mansoureh , Fekri-Ershad Shervan
Published: August 2024

To understand the relationships between cognitive variables like visual complexity, coherence, and colour contrast in interior spaces, direct numerical analysis is crucial. Conventional approaches are limited due to the brain's struggle to process visual information without cognitive manipulation. However, advancements in artificial intelligence enable direct examinations. This study used a convolutional neural network to assess the intensity of colour contrasts in images of 5-star hotel lobby interiors with high levels of coherence and complexity. The results indicated that visually complex lobby interiors have less warm-cool and dark-light contrast but more pronounced complementary contrast than coherent lobby interiors. Additionally, a negative correlation was identified between complementary and warm-cool contrasts across all perspectives. These results underscore the potential influence of specific colour contrast types on the cognitive experience of interiority.
Ventral tegmental area interneurons revisited: GABA and glutamate projection neurons make local synapses
Authors: Oriol Lucie , Chao Melody , Kollman Grace J , Dowlat Dina S , Singhal Sarthak M , Steinkellner Thomas , Hnasko Thomas S
Published: August 2024

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) contains projection neurons that release the neurotransmitters dopamine, GABA, and/or glutamate from distal synapses. VTA also contains GABA neurons that synapse locally on to dopamine neurons, synapses widely credited to a population of so-called VTA interneurons. Interneurons in cortex, striatum, and elsewhere have well-defined morphological features, physiological properties, and molecular markers, but such features have not been clearly described in VTA. Indeed, there is scant evidence that local and distal synapses originate from separate populations of VTA GABA neurons. In this study we tested whether several markers expressed in non-dopamine VTA neurons are selective markers of interneurons, defined as neurons that synapse locally but not distally. Challenging previous assumptions, we found that VTA neurons genetically defined by expression of parvalbumin, somatostatin, neurotensin, or mu-opioid receptor project to known VTA targets including nucleus accumbens, ventral pallidum, lateral habenula, and prefrontal cortex. Moreover, we provide evidence that VTA GABA and glutamate projection neurons make functional inhibitory or excitatory synapses locally within VTA. These findings suggest that local collaterals of VTA projection neurons could mediate functions prior attributed to VTA interneurons. This study underscores the need for a refined understanding of VTA connectivity to explain how heterogeneous VTA circuits mediate diverse functions related to reward, motivation, or addiction.
Ventral tegmental area interneurons revisited: GABA and glutamate projection neurons make local synapses
Authors: Oriol Lucie , Chao Melody , Kollman Grace J , Dowlat Dina S , Singhal Sarthak M , Steinkellner Thomas , Hnasko Thomas S
Published: August 2024

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) contains projection neurons that release the neurotransmitters dopamine, GABA, and/or glutamate from distal synapses. VTA also contains GABA neurons that synapse locally on to VTA dopamine neurons, synapses widely credited to a population of so-called VTA interneurons. Interneurons in cortex, striatum, and elsewhere have well-defined morphological features, physiological properties, and molecular markers, but such features have not been clearly described in VTA. Indeed, there is scant evidence that local and distal synapses originate from separate populations of VTA GABA neurons. In this study we tested whether several markers expressed in non-dopamine VTA neurons are selective markers of interneurons, defined as neurons that synapse locally but not distally. Challenging previous assumptions, we found that VTA neurons genetically defined by expression of parvalbumin, somatostatin, neurotensin, or mu-opioid receptor project to known VTA targets including nucleus accumbens, ventral pallidum, lateral habenula, and prefrontal cortex. Moreover, we provide evidence that VTA GABA and glutamate projection neurons make functional inhibitory or excitatory synapses locally within VTA. These findings suggest that local collaterals of VTA projection neurons could mediate functions prior attributed to VTA interneurons. This study underscores the need for a refined understanding of VTA connectivity to explain how heterogeneous VTA circuits mediate diverse functions related to reward, motivation, or addiction.
Robust estimation of cancer and immune cell-type proportions from bulk tumor ATAC-Seq data
Authors: Gabriel Aurélie AG , Racle Julien , Falquet Maryline , Jandus Camilla , Gfeller David
Published: August 2024

Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin sequencing (ATAC-Seq) is a widely used technique to explore gene regulatory mechanisms. For most ATAC-Seq data from healthy and diseased tissues such as tumors, chromatin accessibility measurement represents a mixed signal from multiple cell types. In this work, we derive reliable chromatin accessibility marker peaks and reference profiles for most non-malignant cell types frequently observed in the tumor micro-environment. We then integrate these data into the EPIC deconvolution framework (Racle
et al
., 2017) to quantify cell-type heterogeneity in bulk ATAC-Seq data. Our EPIC-ATAC tool accurately predicts non-malignant and malignant cell fractions in tumor samples. When applied to a breast cancer cohort, EPIC-ATAC accurately infers the immune contexture of the main breast cancer subtypes.
CPT1A Mediates Radiation Sensitivity in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chen Zhenhui , Yu Lu , Zheng Zhihao , Wang Xusheng , Guo Qiqing , Chen Yuchuan , Zhang Yaowei , Zhang Yuqin , Xiao Jianbiao , Chen Keli , Fan Hongying , Ding Yi
Published: August 2024

The prevalence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) are increasing worldwide. Radiation resistance hinders radiotherapy, a standard treatment for advanced CRC, leading to local recurrence and metastasis. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying radioresistance in CRC is critical to enhance therapeutic efficacy and patient outcomes. Bioinformatic analysis and tumour tissue examination were conducted to investigate the CPT1A mRNA and protein levels in CRC and their correlation with radiotherapy efficacy. Furthermore, lentiviral overexpression and CRISPR/Cas9 lentiviral vectors, along with
in vitro
and
in vivo
radiation experiments, were used to explore the effect of CPT1A on radiosensitivity. Additionally, transcriptomic sequencing, molecular biology experiments, and bioinformatic analyses were employed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which CPT1A regulates radiosensitivity. CPT1A was significantly downregulated in CRC and negatively correlated with responsiveness to neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Functional studies suggested that CPT1A mediates radiosensitivity, influencing reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and DNA damage response. Transcriptomic and molecular analyses highlighted the involvement of the peroxisomal pathway. Mechanistic exploration revealed that CPT1A downregulates the FOXM1-SOD1/SOD2/CAT axis, moderating cellular ROS levels after irradiation and enhancing radiosensitivity. CPT1A downregulation contributes to radioresistance in CRC by augmenting the FOXM1-mediated antioxidant response. Thus, CPT1A is a potential biomarker of radiosensitivity and a novel target for overcoming radioresistance, offering a future direction to enhance CRC radiotherapy.
Chemogenetic stimulation of phrenic motor output and diaphragm activity
Authors: Benevides Ethan S , Thakre Prajwal P , Rana Sabhya , Sunshine Michael D , Jensen Victoria N , Oweiss Karim , Fuller David D
Published: August 2024

Impaired diaphragm activation contributes to morbidity and mortality in many neurodegenerative diseases and neurologic injuries. We conducted experiments to determine if expression of an excitatory DREADD (designer receptors exclusively activation by designer drugs) in the mid-cervical spinal cord would enable respiratory-related activation of phrenic motoneurons to increase diaphragm activation. Wild type (C57/bl6) and ChAT-Cre mice received bilateral intraspinal (C4) injections of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) encoding the hM3D(Gq) excitatory DREADD. In wild type mice, this produced non-specific DREADD expression throughout the mid-cervical ventral horn. In ChAT-Cre mice, a Cre-dependent viral construct was used to drive DREADD expression in C4 ventral horn motoneurons, targeting the phrenic motoneuron pool. Diaphragm EMG was recorded during spontaneous breathing at 6-8 weeks post-AAV delivery. The selective DREADD ligand JHU37160 (J60) caused a bilateral, sustained (>1 hr) increase in inspiratory EMG bursting in both groups; the relative increase was greater in ChAT-Cre mice. Additional experiments in a ChAT-Cre rat model were conducted to determine if spinal DREADD activation could increase inspiratory tidal volume (VT) during spontaneous breathing without anesthesia. Three to four months after intraspinal (C4) injection of AAV driving Cre-dependent hM3D(Gq) expression, intravenous J60 resulted in a sustained (>30 min) increase in VT assessed using whole-body plethysmography. Subsequently, direct nerve recordings confirmed that J60 evoked a >50% increase in inspiratory phrenic output. The data show that mid-cervical spinal DREADD expression targeting the phrenic motoneuron pool enables ligand-induced, sustained increases in the neural drive to the diaphragm. Further development of this technology may enable application to clinical conditions associated with impaired diaphragm activation and hypoventilation.
Forecasting CO2 emissions of fuel vehicles for an ecological world using ensemble learning, machine learning, and deep learning models
Authors: Gurcan Fatih
Published: August 2024

Background

The continuous increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from fuel vehicles generates a greenhouse effect in the atmosphere, which has a negative impact on global warming and climate change and raises serious concerns about environmental sustainability. Therefore, research on estimating and reducing vehicle CO2 emissions is crucial in promoting environmental sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.

Methods

This study performed a comparative regression analysis using 18 different regression algorithms based on machine learning, ensemble learning, and deep learning paradigms to evaluate and predict CO2 emissions from fuel vehicles. The performance of each algorithm was evaluated using metrics including R2, Adjusted R2, root mean square error (RMSE), and runtime.

Results

The findings revealed that ensemble learning methods have higher prediction accuracy and lower error rates. Ensemble learning algorithms that included Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB), Random Forest, and Light Gradient-Boosting Machine (LGBM) demonstrated high R2 and low RMSE values. As a result, these ensemble learning-based algorithms were discovered to be the most effective methods of predicting CO2 emissions. Although deep learning models with complex structures, such as the convolutional neural network (CNN), deep neural network (DNN) and gated recurrent unit (GRU), achieved high R2 values, it was discovered that they take longer to train and require more computational resources. The methodology and findings of our research provide a number of important implications for the different stakeholders striving for environmental sustainability and an ecological world.
Where have I got to? Associations of age at marriage with marital household assets in educated and uneducated women in lowland Nepal
Authors: Marphatia Akanksha A. , Saville Naomi M. , Manandhar Dharma S. , Cortina-Borja Mario , Wells Jonathan C. K.
Published: August 2024

Background

Women’s underage marriage (<18 years) is associated with adverse maternal and child health outcomes. Poverty in the natal household has been widely considered to be a key risk factor for underage marriage, but the evidence base is unreliable. When investigating this issue, most studies use marital wealth inappropriately, as a proxy for wealth in the natal household. In contrast, we investigated whether the timing of women’s marriage was associated with the wealth of the households they marry into, and how this may vary by women’s education level. This approach allows us to explore a different set of research questions which help to understand the economic value placed on the timing of women’s marriage.

Methods

We used data on 3,102 women aged 12–34 years, surveyed within 1 year of marriage, from the cluster-randomized Low Birth Weight South Asia Trial in lowland rural Nepal. Linear mixed-effects regression models investigated independent associations of women’s marriage age and education level with marital household wealth, and their interactive effects. Models adjusted for marital household traits. We analysed the full sample, and then only the uneducated women, who comprised a substantial proportion in our sample.

Results

In the full sample, we found that each later year of women’s marriage was associated with 1.5% lower asset score for those with primary education, and with 0.3% and 1.3% higher asset score for those with lower secondary or secondary/higher education, respectively. For uneducated women, relative to marrying ≤14 years, marrying at 15, 16, 17 and ≥18 years was associated with 1.5%, 4.4%, 2.4% and 6.2% greater marital asset score respectively.

Conclusion

On average, marrying ≥18 years was associated with greater marital assets for secondary-educated women. There were only very modest benefits in terms of marital household wealth for delaying marriage beyond 16 years for uneducated women or those with low education. These findings elucidate potential trade-offs faced by families, including decisions over how much education, if any, to provide to daughters. They may help to understand the economic rationale underpinning the timing of marriage, and why early marriage remains common despite efforts to delay it.
Cognitive expertise in esport experts: a three-level model meta-analysis
Authors: Miao Haofei , He Hao , Hou Xianyun , Wang Jinghui , Chi Lizhong
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The cognitive expertise of experts has been an intriguing theme; there has been rapid growth in cognitive research related to esports. Given the close association between esports activities and cognition, esports holds promise in offering new perspectives for understanding cognitive expertise. This meta-analysis aims at quantitatively delineating the cognitive disparities between esports experts and amateurs.

Methods

The expert group comprised professional video game players and high-ranking players (top 1%), while amateurs were assigned to the control group. Research studies published between January 2000 and December 2023 were systematically searched in databases. A three-level model with cluster-robust variance estimation was used to calculate the overall effect size. The moderating variables included professional level, cognitive abilities, dependent variable type, game genre, gender and age.

Results

A total of 15 studies containing 142 effect sizes and 1085 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated that, compared to amateurs, video game experts demonstrated superior cognitive abilities with a small effect size (Hedges’ g = 0.373, 95% CI [0.055–0.691], p = .012). The differences between experts and amateur players mainly manifest in spatial cognition and attention. Sensitivity analysis, risk of bias, and publication bias results indicated the reliability of these findings.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis confirms that esports experts possess superior cognitive abilities compared to amateurs, particularly in aspects of spatial cognition and attention. These can provide an effective reference for future selection and training in esports.
Energia solar e logística de distribuição de sistemas fotovoltaicos: uma análise bibliométrica
Authors: Cariboni Fabio Oliveira , Vieira Guilherme Bergmann Borges , Santos Carlos Honorato Schuch , Verruck Fábio , Vidor Gabriel
Published: August 2024

No Brasil, tem aumentado o interesse pelo uso da energia solar através de geradores fotovoltaicos. No entanto, os distribuidores de sistemas fotovoltaicos têm enfrentado desafios logísticos importantes, devido, entre outros fatores, às dimensões dos equipamentos, ao difícil acesso a alguns locais de entrega e às condições dos veículos. Inserido neste contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a produção científica sobre a logística de distribuição de sistemas fotovoltaicos no período de 2018 a 2022. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo bibliométrico nas bases de dados Scopus e Science Direct, sendo utilizados os termos de busca importer, distributor, wholesale, photovoltaic panel, photovoltaic, logistic e Brazil, além de algumas variações desses termos. Através da análise de 22 artigos selecionados, os resultados indicaram que nenhum documento estava diretamente relacionado à logística de distribuição de geradores solares, porém, contribuíam com informações relevantes relacionadas ao uso de energia solar, às formas de distribuição nas áreas urbanas e rurais, bem como às regulamentações que norteiam as necessidades para o uso de sistemas fotovoltaicos. Esses resultados podem ser usados como referência por investidores, empresas pertencentes à cadeia de energia solar e pelo poder público.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Tissue Transglutaminase and Combined Assay of Tissue Transglutaminase and Deamidated Gliadin Peptide in Children with Coeliac Disease: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Yadav Pankaj Kumar , Attri Nisha , Bharadia Lalit , Bansal Rajiv Kumar
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Coeliac Disease (CD) is a systemic immune disorder caused by gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. A serological screening assay for CD has been designed to detect Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG anti-tissue Transglutaminase (a-tTG) and IgA and IgG Deamidated Gliadin Peptide antibodies (a-DGP) simultaneously. The seronegative gap can be closed when these two antigens are combined on a single solid phase. This is primarily because untreated CD children who are negative for antibodies of one of the antigens may exhibit a positive result for the other. Aim: To determine the diagnostic parameters {sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV)} of tTG-IgA and htTG-DGP (Coeliac fusion- a combination of IgA and IgG to human tTG and synthetic DGP) for the diagnosis of CD in clinically symptomatic children. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Paediatric Outpatient Department (OPD) of Santokhba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India from April 2023 to November 2023. The study population comprised 45 children (age >6 months and <18 years) showing clinical features of CD. Considering biopsy as the gold standard, the diagnostic parameters (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV) of tTG-IgA and htTG-DGP were calculated with a 95% confidence interval for both tests. To determine the agreement between the two tests, Cohen’s kappa was calculated. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the study population, 23 (46%) CD patients were in the age group of 3-6 years, while 13 (26%) patients were in the age group of 6-9 years. A total of 24 (53.3%) CD patients were males, and 21 (46.7%) were females. Chronic diarrhoea was the most common clinical feature in 31 (62%) patients. Considering duodenal biopsy as the gold standard, the study results showed that the anti tTG-IgA antibody test had a sensitivity of 91.1%, specificity of 80%, PPV of 97.6, and NPV of 50%. In comparison, the htTG-DGP antibody test had a sensitivity of 95.6%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, and NPV of 71.43%. Conclusion: Currently, tTG-IgA is considered the best CD screening test. However, the inclusion of DGP IgG could increase diagnostic sensitivity, and a Combined IgA/G-DGP/ tTG assay could be even better than tTG-IgA for the diagnosis of childhood CD.
Evaluating Existing Mobile Apps for Toddler Parenting: Recommendations for Future App Developers
Authors: Sunita  , Malik Poonam
Published: August 2024

Background: As the number of smartphones in use rises, more parents are turning to mobile applications for parenting guidance. However, identifying quality apps for guidance on child development can be challenging for parents.
Objective: This study evaluated existing mobile applications to disseminate important parenting information among Indian parents using a structured analysis method.
Methodology: This app analysis study aimed to document the basic and special features of toddler parenting apps in India available to parents as they promote their child's development and health. To understand the accessibility and quality of apps for toddler parents, we conducted an analysis of apps in the Google Play Store. The Google Play Store was searched for available parenting apps using different search terms such as mom, mother, mommy, father, dad, papa, daddy, baby, kid, toddler, child, children, parent, and parenting. We screened 138 apps and evaluated 40 that met the criteria for their features and usability.
Results: We found that a great number of toddler parenting apps are available, but most of the apps had foreign regions of origin (50%). The information is in English language (65%) and the apps are mostly non-interactive (60%). 
Conclusion: The study addresses a crucial gap in the availability and quality of mobile applications tailored for toddler parenting, specifically in the Indian context. By evaluating and highlighting the shortcomings of existing apps, the study provides valuable insights that can inform the development of more effective, culturally relevant, and interactive parenting tools. The findings also emphasize the need for localized content, which is vital for enhancing parenting practices and child development.
Anaemia and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Brief Review on the Direction of Their Relationship
Authors: K Prajeesha. , D Swathi. , V Harsha.
Published: August 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 10% of the adult population worldwide. Anaemia is the common complication in CKD, which severely impacts patient quality of life and increases the risk of cardiovascular complications. The primary cause of anaemia in CKD patients is insufficient production of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone essential for red blood cell production, due to impaired kidney function. Other contributing factors include disruptions in iron metabolism, chronic inflammation, and elevated hepcidin levels, which hinder iron absorption and availability. Anaemia exacerbates symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairment in CKD patients, significantly diminishing their daily functioning and overall well-being. Effective management of anaemia in CKD patients necessitates a comprehensive approach involving regular monitoring of haemoglobin and iron levels, timely administration of treatments such as EPO and intravenous iron, and addressing underlying causes. This review provides an overall overview of the pathophysiological connections, clinical implications, diagnosis, and management strategies for anaemia in CKD patients, highlighting the need for ongoing research and integrated care approaches.
The Role of Transcriptomics in Crop Improvement: A Review
Authors: Srujana V. , Swarnalatha V. , Mangrauthia S.K. , Vanisri S.
Published: August 2024

Traditional breeding methods have been practiced for years, while more contemporary initiatives using markers-assisted breeding have made significant advancements that have helped us meet the world's food demands. With the depletion of natural resources, the threat of population growth, and the effects of climatic change, the demand for food will be extremely high in the future. But with urgent needs for food and other farm related produce, there is an extreme need to utilize genomic resources for precise crop breeding fully. Plant breeding can benefit in integrating transcriptome studies to improve crops as well as enables the exploration of regulatory networks and whole genome expression patterns, which help in revealing novel stress tolerance associated genes in crop plants. Transcriptome studies can effectively link the phenotype with the genotypes of the observed traits, regardless of the genome availability and/or complexity of the crops facilitating the practical selection of superior genotypes for us.
Smart Contracts Management: The Interplay of Data Privacy and Blockchain for Secure and Efficient Real Estate Transactions
Authors: Ogungbemi Olumide Samuel
Published: August 2024

The digital transformation of the real estate industry is being significantly influenced by blockchain technology and smart contracts, which promise enhanced efficiency, transparency, and security in transactions. This study aims to develop a secure and efficient smart contract management protocol that balances the benefits of blockchain with robust data privacy practices. The methodology involves descriptive analytics of transaction data from the Ethereum blockchain, feasibility studies using synthetic transaction data, and a regulatory compliance analysis to map the impact of different regions' regulations on blockchain adoption in real estate. The findings reveal that while smart contracts can automate various processes and reduce reliance on intermediaries, challenges related to data privacy and regulatory compliance persist. Higher privacy features in smart contracts are associated with increased execution costs, indicating a trade-off between privacy and cost efficiency. Smart contracts with privacy level 3 had an execution cost of 0.025 ETH, compared to those with privacy level 1 at 0.02 ETH. Integrating permissioned blockchains and zero-knowledge proofs offers a promising solution, though their complexity limits broader adoption. Zero-knowledge proofs maintained high privacy (achieving privacy levels of up to 0.76) at a reasonable computational cost (proof generation time of 1.9 seconds). Thus, the integration of permissioned blockchains and zero-knowledge proofs offers a promising pathway to address these challenges. However, the complexity of these techniques requires specialized knowledge, limiting broader adoption. The study concludes with recommendations to develop specialized training programs, collaborate on regulatory frameworks, invest in advanced cryptographic research, and implement targeted strategies to overcome adoption barriers. These efforts will contribute to the digital transformation of asset management, fostering innovation and enhancing the overall efficiency of real estate transactions.
Party Autonomy in the CISG and the New Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive
Authors: Pires César
Published: August 2024

The recent Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) introduces new challenges for both large companies and small and medium-sized enterprises in their supply chains. This article addresses the interaction between the principle of party autonomy under the CISG and the issues arising from the new CSDDD. It also explores the suspension and termination of international sales contracts as a last resort under both the CISG and the CSDD.
Overview of Peptide and Protein Analysis by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Guoan , Annan Roland S. , Carr Steven A. , Neubert Thomas A.
Published: October 2014

Mass spectrometry is an indispensable tool for peptide and protein analysis owing to its speed, sensitivity, and versatility. It can be used to determine amino acid sequences of peptides, and to characterize a wide variety of post‐translational modifications such as phosphorylation and glycosylation. Mass spectrometry can also be used to determine absolute and relative protein quantities, and can identify and quantify thousands of proteins from complex samples, which makes it an extremely powerful tool for systems biology studies. The main goals of this unit are to familiarize peptide and protein chemists and biologists with the types of mass spectrometers that are appropriate for the majority of their analytical needs, to describe the kinds of experiments that can be performed with these instruments on a routine basis, and to discuss the kinds of information that these experiments provide. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 108:10.21.1‐10.21.30. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.