bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the effectiveness of Berberis integerrima Bunge root extract combined with spearmint essential oil in the treatment of acne vulgaris: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Saeidi Sara , Ghanadian Syed Mustafa , Poostiyan Nazila , Soltani Rasool
Published: March 2024

Background

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological disorders. Berberis integerrima Bunge belongs to the Berberidaceae family. Several studies on different Berberis species in addition to B. integerrima have shown antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory effects. Spearmint essential oil also has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti‐inflammatory activities. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the topical combination of B. integerrima root extract and spearmint essential oil in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Methods

Patients with mild to moderate facial acne who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either drug (B. integerrima extract/spearmint essential oil topical solution) or control (clindamycin 1% topical solution) groups. Each group applied the solution twice a day for 4 weeks. Before and at the end of the intervention, the number of lesions and mGAGS (Modified Global Acne Grading Scale) score were recorded.

Results

Thirty patients in each group of drug and control completed the study. Topical B.integerrima root extract/spearmint essential oil significantly reduced the number of lesions (27.33 ± 26.17 vs. 21.58 ± 21.10; p < 0.001) and mGAGS (18.76 ± 8.61 vs. 13.87 ± 8.14; p < 0.001) at the end of the intervention. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the number of lesions (p = 0.906) and mGAGS (p = 0.882).

Conclusions

B. integerrima root extract combined with spearmint essential oil has significant anti‐acne effects, comparable to topical antibiotic clindamycin. It could be considered as a potential treatment for acne vulgaris. However, more studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations are required to confirm this effect.
Moral Exemplarity: The Trouble with Linda Zagzebski's Semantic Theory of Exemplarity
Authors: Dumler‐Winckler Emily
Published: March 2024

The emotion of admiration and the semantic theory of natural kinds and direct reference are foundational for Linda Zagzebski's exemplarist moral theory and divine motivation theory. Many have examined difficulties that arise from the central role of admiration, while others have engaged her account of the incarnation. Little attention has been given to her semantic theory or philosophy of language. This essay demonstrates the difficulties and problems that arise from this theory, problems that could be avoided with a sociopractical account of language and exemplarity. One set of problems pertain to the “principle of the division of linguistic labor.” Related problems come to light in Zagzebski's attempt to account for radical changes in perceptions of exemplars through social, political, and ethical revolutions. In the end, her semantic theory creates the very epistemological uncertainties that it is meant to forestall. It also fails to account for radical disagreements about exemplars and the role moral exemplars play in sociopolitical and ethical revolutions.
Maternal and neonatal health outcomes for First Nations Australian women and children: A retrospective cohort study in a Western Sydney metropolitan tertiary referral centre
Authors: Garsia Kathryn , Liu Anthony , Low Gary , Gandham Sowmya , Wensing Martin , Ocariza Linnette , Scobie Rachel , Poulton Alison , Bhurawala Habib
Published: March 2024

Aim

To analyse key pregnancy and birth outcomes for First Nations women and children at a Western Sydney metropolitan tertiary referral centre.

Methods

The birth and health‐determining characteristics of 470 First Nations infants born at Nepean Hospital in 2018 and their mothers were included in a retrospective audit and compared with a contemporaneous control group of 470 infants and their mothers.

Results

Mothers of First Nations infants had significantly higher rates of socioeconomic disadvantage (P < 0.001), psychosocial vulnerability (P < 0.007), mental illness (P < 0.001), teenage pregnancy (P < 0.001), smoking (45.6% vs. 19.4%, P < 0.001) and drug and alcohol use than control mothers (P < 0.001, P < 0.048). First Nations peoples did not have increased rates of maternal morbidity, nor any difference in rates of Caesarean section, resuscitation at birth, NICU admission, preterm birth or low birth weight in multivariable analysis. However, multivariable analysis demonstrated significant associations between low birth weight and maternal smoking (P < 0.001), hypertension (P < 0.01) and drug use (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Despite challenges facing First Nations mothers and infants, our study found no significant difference in maternal morbidity nor adverse birth outcomes for First Nations infants. The study occurred in the context of culturally specific, First Nations‐led antenatal and infant services. Future studies should further investigate relationships between participation in these services and health outcomes. This could identify strengths and areas for improvement in current services, with the goal of further improving outcomes for First Nations peoples through targeted health services that address their psychosocial vulnerabilities and support women to make healthy choices during pregnancy.
Tripolar concentric ring electrodes for capturing localised electroencephalography signals during sleep
Authors: Stuart Nicole , Manners Jack , Kemps Eva , Nguyen Phuc , Lechat Bastien , Catcheside Peter , Scott Hannah
Published: March 2024

By design, tripolar concentric ring electrodes (TCRE) provide more focal brain activity signals than conventional electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes placed further apart. This study compared spectral characteristics and rates of data loss to noisy epochs with TCRE versus conventional EEG signals recorded during sleep. A total of 20 healthy sleepers (12 females; mean [standard deviation] age 27.8 [9.6] years) underwent a 9‐h sleep study. Participants were set up for polysomnography recording with TCRE to assess brain activity from 18 sites and conventional electrodes for EEG, eyes, and muscle movement. A fast Fourier transform using multitaper‐based estimation was applied in 5‐s epochs to scored sleep. Odds ratios with Bonferroni‐adjusted 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the proportional differences in the number of noisy epochs between electrode types. Relative power was compared in frequency bands throughout sleep. Linear mixed models showed significant main effects of signal type (p < 0.001) and sleep stage (p < 0.001) on relative spectral power in each power band, with lower relative spectral power across all stages in TCRE versus EEG in alpha, beta, sigma, and theta activity, and greater delta power in all stages. Scalp topography plots showed distinct beta activation in the right parietal lobe with TCRE versus EEG. EEG showed higher rates of noisy epochs compared to TCRE (1.3% versus 0.8%, p < 0.001). TCRE signals showed marked differences in brain activity compared to EEG, consistent with more focal measurements and region‐specific differences during sleep. TCRE may be useful for evaluating regional differences in brain activity with reduced muscle artefact compared to conventional EEG.
Does Belief in Supernatural Agents Moderate the Association Between Interpersonal Conflict at Work and Worker Well‐Being?
Authors: Jung Jong Hyun , Choi Gayoung , Ang Shannon
Published: March 2024

This study examines how interpersonal conflict at work is associated with worker well‐being in Singapore. More importantly, it assesses how this association is contingent upon belief in angelic intervention and belief in supernatural evil. Using data from the 2021 Work, Religion, and Health Survey (N  =  508), the analyses show that interpersonal conflict at work is positively associated with anxiety and job burnout. In addition, belief in angelic intervention and belief in supernatural evil moderate the association. Specifically, the positive association between interpersonal conflict at work and anxiety is weaker for those who report the belief in angelic intervention. Similarly, higher levels of belief in supernatural evil reduce the positive association of interpersonal conflict at work with anxiety and job burnout. These findings indicate that belief in supernatural agents acts as a key personal resource in the workplace, buffering against the harmful effects of interpersonal conflict at work on worker well‐being.
Effects of juvenile situational experience on behavioral development of Brandt's vole (Lasiopodomys brandtii): From cognition to psychology
Authors: Tian S. L. , Zhu M. L. , Wang J. , Zhang Y. F.
Published: March 2024

Juvenile situational experiences that animals are exposed to different environmental conditions have the potential to shape the developmental trajectory of individuals, influencing their personality traits, anxiety level, cognition, and memory. However, empirical evidence regarding these effects remains limited. In this study on male Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii) undergoing weaning process, we examined the consequences of juvenile situational experiences on their behavioral development, involving daily exploration of newly introduced objects with a diverse array of materials, shapes, sizes, and colors. The results showed that (1) the situational experience improved spatial cognition and memory, as evidenced by significantly higher scores in both the recognition index during test period (RIB) and the discrimination index during test period (DI) compared to the control group; (2) no significant differences were observed in autonomic activity between the two groups, including total distance traveled, resting time, mean speed, maximum speed, and duration of slow and fast movements across the entire arena; (3) situational experience reduced anxiety levels, indicated by increased exploration of the center area, more transitions between zones, shorter latency to enter the center zone, prolonged resting time in the center area, and greater total time spent and distance moved in the center area; and (4) the situational experience group exhibited significantly higher individual personality scores compared to the control group. In conclusion, our results imply that juvenile situational experience exerts significant positive effects on spatial cognition and memory, anxious behavior, and personality development in L. brandtii. These insights offer novel perspectives on the long‐term impacts of juvenile situational experiences on adulthood, with potential applications in addressing mental health and behavioral anomalies. Additionally, our study provides practical implications for animal management and environmental enrichment strategies.
Atypical post‐infectious glomerulonephritis with c‐ANCA positivity followed by endocarditis
Authors: Ryou Seyoung , Park Hyeran , Chae Seung Yun , Kim Yaeni , Choi Yeong‐Jin , Park Cheol Whee
Published: March 2024

Post‐infectious glomerulonephritis (PIGN), an uncommon variety of glomerulonephritis (GN), is characterized by emergence of nephritic syndrome within a few weeks following an infectious event. PIGN typically presents as a mild condition and tends to resolve by the time of diagnosis for GN. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans belongs to the HACEK group of bacteria, which constitutes less than 3% of bacteria responsible for community‐acquired infective endocarditis. We present a case of 29‐year‐old man suspected of lymphoma with B‐symptoms along with severe splenomegaly and nephromegaly. Shortly after, he developed an episode of nephritic syndrome accompanied by acute kidney injury (AKI) and high titers of cytoplasmic ANCA (c‐ANCA)‐positivity. Kidney biopsy revealed PIGN with tubulointerstitial nephritis. Despite treatment with antibiotics and corticosteroid, he visited the emergency room due to worsening dyspnea and multi‐organ failure. An echocardiogram showed a bicuspid aortic valve with vegetation unseen on previous echocardiogram. He underwent aortic valve replacement immediately without adverse events. Four months after valve replacement, his renal function and cardiac performance have remained stable. We report a case of PIGN with AKI and high titers of c‐ANCA appearing later as an infective endocarditis due to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. With careful clinical observation and appropriate and timely management, satisfactory outcomes for patient health are possible.
Microbial composition and diversity in intraradicular biofilm formed in situ: New concepts based on next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Matoso Felipe Barros , Montagner Francisco , Grecca Fabiana Soares , Rampelotto Pabulo Henrique , Kopper Patrícia Maria Poli
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to characterize the taxonomic composition of intraradicular multispecies biofilms (IMB) formed in situ in a model to reproduce clinical conditions. Twelve palatal roots of maxillary molars had its canals prepared. Two roots were randomly selected to sterility control. Ten intraoral prosthetic appliances with lateral slots were fabricated. The roots were positioned in the slots with the canal access open to the oral cavity. Eight volunteers wore the appliance for 21 days, and two wore it at two different time points. One root from each appliance was removed and stored at −20°C until DNA extraction and sequencing (n = 10). Biofilm was analyzed using next‐generation sequencing and bioinformatics. The V4 hyper‐variable region of the 16SrRNA gene was amplified and sequenced. For data analyses, the mothur pipeline was used for 16SrRNA processing, and subsequent analyses of the sequence dataset were performed in R using the Microbiome Analyst R package. The taxonomy‐based analysis of bacterial communities identified 562 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), which belonged to 93 genera, 44 families, and 8 phyla. Bacterial colonization was different for each biofilm, and samples did not have the same group of bacteria. Alpha and beta diversity analysis revealed some general patterns of sample clustering. A core microbiome of prevalent OTUs and genera was identified. IMBs were heterogeneous when analyzed individually, but some diversity patterns were found after sample clustering. The experimental model seemed to reproduce the actual biofilm composition in endodontic infections, which suggests that it may be used to evaluate disinfection protocols.
Neural correlates of the revised reinforcement sensitivity theory: A cross‐sectional structural neuroimaging study in middle‐aged adults
Authors: Espinoza Oyarce Daniela A. , Burns Richard A. , Shaw Marnie E. , Butterworth Peter , Cherbuin Nicolas
Published: March 2024

The revised reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) proposes that neurobiological systems control behavior: the fight‐flight‐freeze (FFFS) for avoidance of threat; behavioral approach/activation (BAS) for approach to rewards; and behavioral inhibition (BIS) for conflict resolution when avoidance and approach are possible. Neuroimaging studies have confirmed some theoretical associations between brain structures and the BAS and BIS; however, little representative population data are available for the FFFS. We investigated the neural correlates of the revised RST in a sample of 404 middle‐aged adults (Mage = 47.18 (SD = 1.38); 54.5% female). Participants underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging and completed health questionnaires and the BIS/BAS/FFFS scales. We used multiple regression analyses to investigate the association between scale scores and volumes of a priori theoretically linked regions of interest while controlling for sex, age, intracranial volume, and cardio‐metabolic variables; and conducted exploratory analyses on cortical thickness. The BIS was negatively associated with hippocampus laterality. At standard significance levels, the fear component of the FFFS was positively associated with anterior cingulate cortex; the BAS was positively associated with bilateral caudate; and the BIS was positively associated with posterior cingulate cortex volume. Furthermore, these neurobiological systems showed distinct patterns of association with cortical thickness though future work is needed. Our results showed that the neurobiological systems of the revised RST characterized in rodents can also be identified in the human brain.
Effect of complicated, untreated and uncontrolled diabetes and pre‐diabetes on treatment outcome among patients with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Kim Kyung Hoon , Kim Hyung Woo , Kim Yong Hyun , Park Yeonhee , Jung Sung Soo , Kim Jin Woo , Oh Jee Youn , Lee Heayon , Kim Sung Kyoung , Kim Sun‐Hyung , Lyu Jiwon , Ko Yousang , Kwon Sun Jung , Jeong Yun‐Jeong , Kim Do Jin , Koo Hyeon‐Kyoung , Jegal Yangjin , Kyung Sun Young , Lee Sung Soon , Park Jae Seuk , Kim Ju Sang , Min Jinsoo
Published: March 2024

Background and Objective

Patients with tuberculosis and diabetes have a higher risk of unfavourable anti‐tuberculosis treatment outcomes. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of various diabetes statuses on the outcomes of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.

Methods

Among the patients with pulmonary tuberculosis enrolled in the Korea Tuberculosis Cohort (KTBC) registry and the multicentre prospective cohort study of pulmonary tuberculosis (COSMOTB), those with diabetes and complicated diabetes were identified. The primary and secondary outcomes were unfavourable outcomes and mortality, respectively. The effect of diabetes and complicated diabetes on the outcomes was assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Using COSMOTB, subgroup analyses were performed to assess the association between various diabetes statuses and outcomes.

Results

In the KTBC, diabetes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.64–2.26) and complicated diabetes (aOR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.67–2.30) were significantly associated with unfavourable outcomes, consistent with the COSMOTB data analysis. Based on subgroup analysis, untreated diabetes at baseline was an independent risk factor for unfavourable outcomes (aOR = 2.72, 95% CI = 1.26–5.61). Prediabetes and uncontrolled diabetes increased unfavourable outcomes and mortality without statistical significance.

Conclusion

Untreated and complicated diabetes at the time of tuberculosis diagnosis increases the risk of unfavourable outcomes and mortality.
Enhancing Contaminant Removal in Sewage Treatment Plant Effluent with PES/Ag Membrane
Authors: Lee F. W. , Wai K. P. , Koo C. H.
Published: March 2024

In this study, a silver-infused membrane was fabricated using an ex-situ method that involved blending silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with Polyethersulfone (PES) as the base polymer in treating sewage treatment plant (STP) effluent. Three distinct membranes denoted as S1(Ag0), S2(Ag0.5) and S3(Ag2.0) were manufactured with varying weight percentages of polymer and silver (Ag) contents. The objective was to investigate the effect of the dosage of AgNPs on membrane characterization and performance, encompassing pure water flux filtration tests, organic rejection tests, and antibacterial properties. The results showed that all PES/Ag membranes demonstrated robust performance in removing total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), apparent colour (Hazen unit), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, conductivity, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), and Escherichia coli (E. coli), complying to Class IIB (Recreational use with body contact) of the Interim National River Water Quality Standards (INWQS) for Malaysia ruled by the Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE). The results also highlighted that upon the addition of AgNPs, the E. coli removal of the membrane S3(Ag2.0) was further improved to 99.87%. The results have evidenced that the PES/Ag membranes could reject E. coli effectively, proving their value in treating bacteria-contaminated surface water. In conclusion, this study highlights the effectiveness of PES/Ag membranes as a viable solution for domestic sewage treatment, aligning with stringent water quality requirements.
Chitosan Incorporated with Titanium (IV) Oxide Membrane for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Application
Authors: Parameswaran K. R. , Suhaimin N. S. , Jaafar Juhana
Published: March 2024

The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), a type of promoted polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), has received tremendous attention in the past two decades because of its potential as a promising technology for clean and efficient power generation in the twenty-first century. Over the past four decades, the dominancy of perfluorinated proton exchange membranes (PEM) such as Nafion is prolonging in the current PEM technology due to its chemical stability, high proton conductivity and high mechanical strength in the low operating temperatures. However, the Nafion membrane also has several weaknesses, such as high methanol permeability, high manufacturing cost, and dehydration with low proton conductivity at elevated temperatures > 100°C. This study fabricated a novel composite membrane by blending the pristine chitosan (CS) and titanium oxide (TiO2) at various loadings, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 wt% to obtain high performance in DMFC. SEM and FTIR analysis showed that the grafting of (O-Ti-O) successfully incorporated into the CS polymer matrix. Water and methanol uptake of CS/TiO2 composite membrane decreased with increase of TiO2 loadings, but proton conductivity value increased. The CS/TiO2 membrane with 1.5wt.%TiO2 loading exhibited highest proton conductivity (0.41mScm-1) and lowest methanol permeability (17.18E-08cm2/s) characteristics among other membranes this due to the hydrophilic TiO2 raised the membrane hydrophilic character by increasing the number of hydrophilic sites, such as OH-, COO- and O-. The results obtained from the study can be used to conclude that chitosan membrane with TiO2 filler is a promising high performance PEM candidate for DMFC applications.
Regulatory mechanism of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization and its effects on intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Luo Jiaying , Jin Guoxin , Cui Shaoqian , Wang Huan , Liu Qi
Published: March 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) poses a significant health burden, necessitating a deeper understanding of its molecular underpinnings. Transcriptomic analysis reveals 485 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with IDD, underscoring the importance of immune regulation. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) identifies a yellow module strongly correlated with IDD, intersecting with 197 DEGs. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis identifies ITGAX, MMP9 and FCGR2A as hub genes, predominantly expressed in macrophages. Functional validation through in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrates the pivotal role of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization and IDD progression. Mechanistically, FCGR2A knockdown suppresses M1 macrophage polarization and NF‐κB phosphorylation while enhancing M2 polarization and STAT3 activation, leading to ameliorated IDD in animal models. This study sheds light on the regulatory function of FCGR2A in macrophage polarization, offering novel insights for IDD intervention strategies.

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Key points

This study unveils the role of FCGR2A in intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD).

FCGR2A knockdown mitigates IDD in cellular and animal models.

Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing uncovers diverse macrophage subpopulations in degenerated IVDs.

This study reveals the molecular mechanism of FCGR2A in regulating macrophage polarization.

This study confirms the role of the NF‐κB/STAT3 pathway in regulating macrophage polarization in IDD.
Influence of Sampling Rate on Reproducibility and Accuracy of Miniature Kolsky Bar Experiments
Authors: Hannah Thomas , Martin Valerie , Ellis Stephen , Kraft Reuben H.
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this work is to develop and verify a method for quantitatively analyzing data collected from Kolsky bar experiments and to confirm its validity by comparing it to a finite element (FE) model. This study also aims to demonstrate the need for higher sample rate capture in miniature Kolsky bars, 3.16 mm diameter used in this work, by comparing results from two different data acquisition setups on identically sized experimental setups. We identified that the sample capture rate needed to accurately depict experimental results on small-scale systems is at least 400 kHz, which is far greater than what is typically assumed for lager systems. Finally, a statistical method for evaluating results is presented and expanded upon, which removes the dependence on the knowledge and experience of the experimentalist to interpret the data. Using this analysis technique on the two different systems examined in this study, we find upwards of 3.5 times better loading condition reproducibility and up to a 20 MPa reduction in the standard deviation of the sample stress profile, confirming the need for higher quality frequency capture rates.
Pyrimidines maintain mitochondrial pyruvate oxidation to support de novo lipogenesis
Authors: Sahu Umakant , Villa Elodie , Reczek Colleen R. , Zhao Zibo , O’Hara Brendan P. , Torno Michael D. , Mishra Rohan , Shannon William D. , Asara John M. , Gao Peng , Shilatifard Ali , Chandel Navdeep S. , Ben-Sahra Issam
Published: March 2024

Cellular purines, particularly adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), fuel many metabolic reactions, but less is known about the direct effects of pyrimidines on cellular metabolism. We found that pyrimidines, but not purines, maintain pyruvate oxidation and the tricarboxylic citric acid (TCA) cycle by regulating pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity. PDH activity requires sufficient substrates and cofactors, including thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP). Depletion of cellular pyrimidines decreased TPP synthesis, a reaction carried out by TPP kinase 1 (TPK1), which reportedly uses ATP to phosphorylate thiamine (vitamin B1). We found that uridine 5′-triphosphate (UTP) acts as the preferred substrate for TPK1, enabling cellular TPP synthesis, PDH activity, TCA-cycle activity, lipogenesis, and adipocyte differentiation. Thus, UTP is required for vitamin B1 utilization to maintain pyruvate oxidation and lipogenesis.
Framing tough problems
Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World
Guru Madhavan
Norton, 2024. 384 pp.
Authors: Riley Donna
Published: March 2024

An engineer urges readers to think more holistically about complex challenges
A more biofriendly piezoelectric material
Authors: Wang Linping , Li Run-Wei
Published: March 2024

A ferroelectric molecular crystal displays characteristics required for implantation
NIH’s flat budget for 2024 will force ‘very difficult decisions’
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: March 2024

Belated Senate and House compromise eliminates policy riders restricting certain studies
Reviewing essential public health functions in the Eastern Mediterranean Region post COVID-19 pandemic: a foundation for system resilience
Authors: Mohamed-Ahmed Olaa , Aboutaleb Hala , Latif Samia , Watson Hannah L , Handley Rachel , Humphreys Emily , Gedik Fethiye Gulin , De Sa Joia , Zhang Yu , Bhatia Tazeem , Dar Osman , Saikat Sohel , Squires Neil , Mataria Awad
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in many health systems worldwide with profound implications for health and society. The public health challenges experienced during the pandemic have highlighted the importance of resilient health systems, that can adapt and transform to meet the population’s evolving health needs. Essential public health functions (EPHFs) offer a holistic, integrated and sustainable approach to public health by contributing to achieving several health priorities and goals. In recent years, there has been a focused effort to conceptualise and define the EPHFs. In this paper, we describe the collaborative approach undertaken by the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) and UK Health Security Agency and present the findings and results of the revised EPHFs, in view of lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic and the current priorities for countries across the EMR. This included conducting a desktop review, a gap and bottleneck analysis and stakeholder consultation to arrive at the revised EPHF model including four enablers and nine core functions, including a new function: public health services. The EPHFs will offer countries a complementary and synergistic approach to strengthen health systems and public health capacities and contribute to the region’s ability to effectively respond to future health challenges and emergencies. By focusing on the EPHFs, countries can work towards ensuring health security as an integral goal for the health system besides universal health coverage, thus strengthening and building more resilient and equitable health systems.
Venous thromboembolism risk in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a hospital record-linkage study
Authors: Goldacre Raph , Trubshaw Michael , Morris Eva J A , Talbot Kevin , Goldacre Michael J , Thompson Alexander Guy , Turner Martin R
Published: March 2024

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) can occur in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and pulmonary embolism causes death in a minority of cases. The benefits of preventing VTE must be weighed against the risks. An accurate estimate of the incidence of VTE in ALS is crucial to assessing this balance.

Methods

This retrospective record-linkage cohort study derived data from the Hospital Episode Statistics database, covering admissions to England’s hospitals from 1 April 2003 to 31 December 2019 and included 21 163 patients with ALS and 17 425 337 controls. Follow-up began at index admission and ended at VTE admission, death or 2 years (whichever came sooner). Adjusted HRs (aHRs) for VTE were calculated, controlling for confounders.

Results

The incidence of VTE in the ALS cohort was 18.8/1000 person-years. The relative risk of VTE in ALS was significantly greater than in controls (aHR 2.7, 95% CI 2.4 to 3.0). The relative risk of VTE in patients with ALS under 65 years was five times higher than controls (aHR 5.34, 95% CI 4.6 to 6.2), and higher than that of patients over 65 years compared with controls (aHR 1.86, 95% CI 1.62 to 2.12).

Conclusions

Patients with ALS are at a higher risk of developing VTE, but this is similar in magnitude to that reported in other chronic neurological conditions associated with immobility, such as multiple sclerosis, which do not routinely receive VTE prophylaxis. Those with ALS below the median age of symptom onset have a notably higher relative risk. A reappraisal of the case for routine antithrombotic therapy in those diagnosed with ALS now requires a randomised controlled trial.
Evaluation of the use of commercial-type and synthetic diets to test a nucleotide-rich yeast-derived product as a growth promotor for first feeding rainbow trout fry raised at 10 or 16 °C
Authors: Anderson Derek M. , White Margot B. , Collins Stephanie A. , Patterson Rob
Published: March 2024

A nucleotide-rich yeast-derived product (Maxi-Gen™; CBS Bio Platforms, Inc., Calgary AB, Canada), was fed to rainbow trout fry housed at 10 or 16 °C to determine its effect on weight gain and feed intake. Rainbow trout fry housed in 40 16 L tanks (25 fish/tank) were fed commercial-type or synthetic diets with or without the nucleotide-rich yeast product added (0% or 0.5% inclusion) until they reached 60 days of age (5 tanks/4 diets/2 temperatures). Fish housed at 16 °C consumed significantly more feed and gained significantly more weight than fish housed at 10 °C. Trout fed the commercial-type diet gained significantly more weight than those fed the synthetic diet without the nucleotide-rich yeast product added. There was no significant difference in weight gain or feed intake among fish fed either commercial-type diet and the fish fed the synthetic diets with the nucleotide-rich yeast product added, although fish fed the commercial-type diets had significantly better feed conversion efficiencies than those fed the synthetic diets. The nucleotide-rich yeast product could be used in low fish meal, low fish oil first feeding diets, as the aquaculture industry decreases fish meal and oil use in aquafeeds in response to their increasing cost and decreasing availability.
CROSS-BARGAIN-EEF EVALUATION APPROACH FOR CO2 EMISSION EFFICIENCY IN CHINA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WITH FIXED-SUM UNDESIRABLE OUTPUT
Authors: ZHANG XIAOQI , WU CHENYAN , GONG BENGANG , CHEN JIUMEI
Published: March 2024

The rapid urbanization in China has led to a substantial expansion of construction activities, causing notable energy consumption and a consequent rise in CO2 emissions. This study proposes an approach to assess CO2 emission efficiency in China’s construction industry by integrating data envelopment analysis cross-efficiency and the Nash bargaining game, considering CO2 as a fixed-sum undesirable output. The study identifies Jiangsu and Beijing as top performers, establishing benchmarks for other provinces. In contrast, Inner Mongolia displays the lowest efficiency. Generally, most provinces exhibit room to improve environmental efficiency in the construction sector. The study provides policy implications and tailored suggestions for specific provinces.
The dynamics of vacuum, gravity and matter: Implications on the fundamental constants
Authors: Solà Peracaula Joan
Published: March 2024

The possibility that the vacuum energy density (VED) [Formula: see text] could be time dependent in the expanding Universe is intuitively more reasonable than just a rigid cosmological constant for the entire cosmic history. The dynamics of [Formula: see text] as a function of the Hubble rate, [Formula: see text], most likely contributes to alleviate cosmological problems and tensions, having also implications on the so-called fundamental ‘constants’ of Nature, which should be slowly drifting with the cosmic expansion owing to the fluctuations of the quantum vacuum. This includes the gravitational ‘constant’ G, but also the gauge and Yukawa couplings as well as the particle masses themselves (both of dark matter and baryonic matter). The subtle exchange of energy involved is the basis for the “micro and macro connection”. Herein, I discuss not only this connection as a possibility but also show that it is in fact a generic prediction of QFT in cosmological spacetime which is fully compatible with general covariance. This fact has not been pointed out until recently when an appropriate renormalization framework for the VED has been found which is free from the usual conundrums associated with the cosmological constant problem.
Deviation from μ−τ symmetry and lepton flavor violation with generalized CP transformations
Authors: Ganguly Joy
Published: March 2024

In the model [J. Ganguly and R. S. Hundi, Chinese Phys. C 46, 103101 (2022).], the neutrino mixing has been explained in a type II seesaw scenario with generalized [Formula: see text] symmetries. The neutrino mass matrix has [Formula: see text] symmetric nature. As neutrino oscillation data suggests neutrino mixing can deviate from [Formula: see text] symmetry, in this work, deviation from [Formula: see text] symmetric mass matrix is shown by breaking the generalized [Formula: see text] symmetry explicitly by a small amount in the Yukawa Lagrangian which actually shows that atmospheric mixing angle can deviate from maximal value. As a phenomenological implication, branching ratios of the lepton flavor violating decays have been studied, which occurs by the triplet Higgs, by writing down the full scalar potential and then finding the mass eigenstates of the scalars. We have studied the implications of neutrinoless double beta decay within our model.
Centrality and cumulative activities in hadron collisions
Authors: Troshin S. M. , Tyurin N. E.
Published: March 2024

The notion of cumulative activity for elastic events in hadron collision is introduced. The interrelation between centrality and cumulative activities of the elastic and inelastic events has been established for hadron scattering. Considerations on its application are presented.
Comparative study of silver-blood-based three binary nanofluids and thermal enhancement in a PTSC
Authors: Gangadhar Kotha , Rani M. Sangeetha , Wakif Abderrahim
Published: March 2024

This paper studies the similarity of silver-blood-based Carreau–Maxwell, Carreau–Oldroyd-B and Carreau–Jeffrey binary nanofluids on the parabolic trough solar collector. By the energy equations, Joule heating effects and nonlinear thermal radiation were integrated. The velocity slip condition by the solid–liquid interface was again worked out. In this model, magnetic field aspects and viscous dissipation were again taken into account. The converted construction was modeled into ordinary differential methods with the help of appropriate comparison applications. This governing relation on current flow problem was given graphically and determined mathematically by applying made-up MATLAB computational tool with the aid of renowned mathematical shooting methods bvp4c (Lobatto’s IIIa Formulae). This mathematical outcomes are given in tabular and graphical models. It was observed that the nonlinear thermal radiation aggregates the temperature profile. This skin friction was improved for greater values of magnetic parameter by 6.16%. Moreover, the local Nusselt number was reduced about developing values of radiation parameter into 71.78%. Moreover, these Casson–Jeffrey and Casson–Maxwell nanofluid models are more efficient than the Casson–Oldroyd-B nanofluid models.
Investigations on theoretical models describing the load-indentation size dependence for (001), (010), (101), (1̄1̄1) and (1̄11) faces of triglycine sulphate
Authors: Nagaraju D. , Raja Shekar P. V. , Madhavi Latha D.
Published: March 2024

Ferroelectric triglycine sulphate (TGS) single crystals were grown by slow evaporation technique over a period of 30–40 days. The Vickers microhardness studies have been carried out on (001), (010), (101), ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]1) and ([Formula: see text]11) faces of the TGS crystal. The as-grown (001) face and (010) face with the ferroelectric phase were used to study the temperature dependence of hardness. The indentation size effect (ISE) described using the five theoretical models viz., Meyer’s law, Hays–Kendall, elastic/plastic deformation (EPD), proportional specimen resistance (PSR) and modified PSR model has been investigated on all the crystal faces under study. The experimental results show that the modified PSR model is more accurate at generating load-independent hardness data and also for explaining the origin of ISE.
3D RENDERING OF THE QUATERNION MANDELBROT SET WITH MEMORY
Authors: FARIELLO RICARDO , BOURKE PAUL , ABREU GABRIEL V. S.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we explore the quaternion equivalent of the Mandelbrot set equipped with memory and apply various visualization techniques to the resulting [Formula: see text]-dimensional geometry. Three memory functions have been considered, two that apply a weighted sum to only the previous two terms and one that performs a weighted sum of all previous terms of the series. The visualization includes one or two cutting planes for dimensional reduction to either [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] dimensions, respectively, as well as employing an intersection with a half space to trim the [Formula: see text]D solids in order to reveal the interiors. Using various metrics, we quantify the effect of each memory function on the structure of the quaternion Mandelbrot set.
SOME NEW PARAMETRIZED INEQUALITIES ON FRACTAL SET
Authors: XU HONGYAN , LAKHDARI ABDELGHANI , SALEH WEDAD , MEFTAH BADREDDINE
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to examine certain open three-point Newton–Cotes-type inequalities for differentiable generalized [Formula: see text]-convex functions on a fractal set. To begin, we introduce a novel parametrized identity involving the relevant formula, which yields various new findings as well as previously established ones. Finally, an example is given to demonstrate the accuracy of the new results and their graphical depiction. Moreover, we emphasize the applications of the results obtained.
Identification of unknown sources in time-space fractional parabolic equation
Authors: Lv Xianli , Feng Xiufang
Published: March 2024

This study considers the issue for recognizing unknown source within a time-space fractional parabolic equation. This particular issue is characterized by severe ill-posedness, where the solution does not depend continuously on the data. To tackle this issue, the wavelet dual least squares method is extended to handle ill-posedness of the issue under priori rule. Additionally, a posterior wavelet regularization parameter selection rule is introduced to address the Cauchy problem. Furthermore, error estimates between the exact solution and its approximation are established using both a priori and a posteriori methodologies. Numerical examples are given to validate the effectiveness and stability of the proposed method.
The Impact of an Increase in Bank Competition on Export Product Quality: Evidence from China
Authors: Tu Chengcheng , Xu Xiaohui
Published: March 2024

Few studies specifically testified to how increased bank competition affects export product quality. This paper fills this gap in this area by examining whether and how increased bank competition affects export product quality. The core results of our findings are as follows. First, the statistical analysis results show that a series of bank reforms have enhanced competition in the banking industry in China. Second, the theoretical model shows that bank reform positively influences export product quality. Subsequently, employing a panel sample of 77,817 firms that exported 4,787 products (HS-6) to 230 destinations from 2000 to 2006, we adopt a difference-in-differences approach to test the association between a rise in bank competition and the quality of exported products. The baseline results which are robust in different model settings support that an increase in bank competition increases export product quality. The further empirical test shows that increased bank competition upgrades export product quality through the following channels: bank competition increase leads to enterprises’ financial stability enhancement which, in turn, leads to R&D investment upgrading which then leads to export product quality enhancement. Finally, the heterogeneity checks documented that the positive effect of bank competition upgrading on export product quality is pronounced for non-SOEs, and for firms in both the growth and mature stages. Moreover, an increase in bank competition makes financial resources more accessible in areas with weak financial infrastructure. Our findings shed light on the policy implications for emerging economies. Our study expands the theoretical framework of bank competition research on export product quality and inspires the development of strategies for exporting enterprises.
Deep Learning-Based Indoor Localization Using Wireless Sensor Network: An Efficient Approach for Livestock Monitoring
Authors: Martono Niken Prasasti , Sawada Tomohide , Uchino Tom , Ohwada Hayato
Published: March 2024

Indoor localization for livestock is important as it facilitates effective monitoring and management of animals within confined spaces, such as barns or stables. By accurately tracking the position of individual animals, farmers and livestock managers can gain valuable insights into their behavior, health, and welfare. This information enables the early detection of potential issues, such as diseases or injuries, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. While GPS sensors offer global position estimation, they are limited to outdoor environments and inherently exhibit inaccuracies of several meters. In indoor spaces, alternative sensors like lasers and cameras can estimate positions, but they necessitate maps and substantial computational resources to process complex algorithms. Presently, Wireless Networks (WN) are extensively accessible in indoor environments, providing efficient global localization with relatively low cost and computing demands. This paper presents a novel approach to estimate the location of cows in a given area using Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) applied to LQI data. This method aims to improve the efficiency of livestock management, particularly in large-scale farming operations, by enabling precise tracking and monitoring of individual animals. Our proposed model leverages data from wireless sensor networks (WSNs) and demonstrates promising results in terms of accuracy and computational efficiency. This study contributes to the ongoing research in smart agriculture and the application of advanced technologies in the livestock industry.
Numerical Integration and Angular Spectrum Modeling of Resonant and Non-Resonant Wave Interaction with a Solid Plate
Authors: Sæther Mathias M.
Published: March 2024

The angular spectrum (AS) model is widely used to calculate the pressure transmitted through, and reflected from, a fluid-immersed solid plate, using a baffled piston as source. However, narrow peaks (infinite peaks for the lossless case) in the piston aperture function and in the plane wave transmission and reflection coefficients, in addition to a highly oscillatory integrand, cause challenges in the numerical integration. To overcome the challenges related to the aperture function peak, the AS model is reformulated using integration by parts. The peaks in the transmission and reflection coefficients are identified as symmetric and antisymmetric Scholte modes, and a numerical integration method is provided enabling integration over these peaks. The AS-model is also used to obtain the full-wave diffraction correction for a pulse-train transmitted through, or reflected from, the plate, which is highly relevant in pulse-transmit or pulse-receive measurements. The diffraction effects caused by the plate are calculated by suppressing resonance effects in the plate and obtaining the corresponding plane wave pressure transmission and reflection coefficients. A hybrid Gauss-Filon adaptive numerical integration method is used to calculate the pressure. These calculations are conducted in APAS, a MATLAB program developed in the current work and provided as open-source supplementary material.
Adaptive Neural Network Finite-Time Prescribed Performance Consensus Control for a Class of Second-Order Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: Ma Chi , Huo Jiahe , Dong Dianbiao
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the semi-global practical finite-time prescribed performance consensus control issue for a class of second-order multi-agent systems with unknown nonlinear functions. Unlike the previous finite-time control set by a finite-time performance function, we give finite-time control by constraining the terminal sliding manifold in a performance function. In addition, an adaptive neural network control scheme is designed, which simplifies the controller and avoids the chattering issue existing in traditional sliding mode control. Eventually, a novel adaptive finite-time prescribed performance consensus control strategy is designed, which ensures that all system variables are semi-globally practical finite-time stable and consensus errors of the multi-agent systems converge within the prescribed region in finite time. The effectiveness and practicality of the presented control strategy are evaluated by conducting simulation cases.