bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) Amongst Lower Extremity Agonist-Antagonist Myoneural Interface (AMI) Amputees
Authors: Chiao Rachael B , Sullivan Corey L , Berger Lori , Sparling Tawnee L , Landry Tracy L , Clites Kendall , Carty Matthew J
Published: July 2023

Background: The standard surgical approach to amputation has failed to evolve significantly over the past century. Consequently, standard amputations often fall short with regards to improving the quality-of-life (QoL) for patients. A modified amputation has been designed at both the transtibial (TTA) and transfemoral (TFA) level that incorporates agonist-antagonist myoneural interface (AMI) constructs to provide patients with a novel alternative to standard amputation. Here, we present the patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) amongst our lower extremity AMI amputees and demonstrate an overall significant improvement in their physical and mental wellbeing.
Methods: Four PROMs surveys, 1) EQ-5D-3L, 2) Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), 3) PROMIS-57, 4) Short Form-36 (SF-36), and 5) Sickness Impact Profile (SIP), were administered to lower extremity AMI amputees pre-operatively (baseline) and at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months, and 48 months post-operatively between June 24th, 2018, and December 15th, 2022. The surveys were either administered during a clinic visit or emailed at the encounter timepoint. Study data was collected and managed using REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) electronic data capture tools hosted at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Analyses of collated data were performed by fitting a linear mixed model using SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC).
Results: The cohort’s baseline and 12-month post-operative responses were compared to determine score improvement. The cohort demonstrated a significantly improved EQ-5D-3L index value (p<0.0001) and EQ VAS (p<0.0001) at 12-months post-operatively (n=22) when compared to baseline (n=28). The LEFS score significantly improved at 12-months post-operatively compared to baseline (p<0.0001) with a mean of 59.04 ± 3.14 (SE) at 12-months and a mean of 31.96 ± 2.84 (SE) at baseline. AMI patients demonstrated significantly improved scores across PROMIS-57 domains at 12-months compared to baseline scores; the p-value was <0.0001 for all domains except for the Depression domain where p=0.0181. The health domain scores significantly improved from baseline to 12-months post-operation for all SF-36 domains. Lastly, the SIP indicated a significant decrease in overall dysfunction from baseline to 12-months post-operation (p<0.0001).
Conclusions: Modified lower extremity amputation with AMI construction has the potential to provide amputees with increased quality-of-life when compared to the pre-operative state. However, further investigation is necessary to determine whether the patient reported outcome measures of the AMI amputee cohort are superior to those who receive a standard amputation.
Credit and Sensitivity risk differential method as a solution to bond illiquidity
Authors: Arora Ruchi , Mehra Rishi
Published: July 2023

The current study explores the problem of illiquidity in the corporate bond market and examines a broad set of liquidity proxies through empirical investigation. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to give solution to the global issue of illiquidity in the corporate bond market. The problem is identified by many researchers and this paper attempts to find out the viable solution of the "fungibility route" as an alternative to the "liquidity route". Design/ Methodology: An Analysis of a sample size of 2,34,772 trade data of corporate bonds and a sample size of 2,00,607 trade data of G-securities is done to identify the problem. Findings / Solution proposed: A mathematical model based on credit risk differential and sensitivity differential is proposed to find out the fair value at which an illiquid bond can be swapped by a liquid bond. To arrive at the fair value of the illiquid bond, we have calculated risk adjusted discount rate using modified duration and credit risk differential. With our solution, it is possible to enhance the liquidity of the bond not directly but through fungibility route. Originality: the research is first of its kind in which solution is given to the global problem of corporate bond illiquidity. To execute the trade in the fungibility route, proposed parties involved are the Fungibility platform, the initiator, and the bidder. The derived fair value would facilitate trade and serve as an exit strategy for illiquid bond holders worldwide.
Probiotics Change the Microbiota: From the Lab to the Bedside
Authors: Patil Abhinandan , Singh Neha
Published: July 2023

Probiotics have become a potential way to change the microbiota, which allows for more personalized ways to improve health results. This abstract gives an outline of the most important parts of personalized microbiota regulation through probiotics. It focuses on effectiveness and mechanisms, clinical applications, safety and tolerability, formulations and delivery methods, and customized approaches. Many studies have looked into how and why probiotics change the microbiome. These studies show that probiotics can change the makeup and function of microbial communities. Probiotics have been shown to help treat a number of health problems, such as digestive problems, immune system problems, metabolic problems, and mental health problems. It is important for the success of probiotics to find out if they are safe and can be tolerated. Studies have shown that probiotics are usually safe for most people, but there are some things that need to be taken into account to make sure they are safe, especially for people who are weak. Formulations and transport methods are very important for making sure that probiotics are alive, stable, and delivered to the right places in the GI tract. Probiotic strains work better in the gut because of improvements in how probiotic preparation technologies protect and control the release of probiotic strains. Personalized methods take into account how each person's microbiome and health are different. By using individual microbiota profiling, custom probiotic approaches can be made to address specific microbial imbalances and promote a healthier microbial environment, which could improve treatment results. Even though individual methods show promise, there are still problems, such as the need to standardize microbiota profiling techniques, figure out how to understand data, and keep track of people over time. For personalized probiotics to reach their full potential and change the way patients are cared for based on the microbiota-host relationship, more study, technological advances, and teamwork are needed. In conclusion, probiotics can be used to change your microbiome in a way that is specific to you and your health goals. By using the power of individualized microbiota profiling, personalized probiotic treatments might be able to help with certain health problems and make the microbial environment better. Putting personalized probiotics into clinical practice and changing the way patients are cared for will require more study and partnerships between different fields.
Hubungan Beban Kerja Fisik dan Kelelahan Kerja Dengan Unsafe Actions Pada Pekerja Bagian Tanning UPT Industri Kulit Magetan
Authors: Sari Mey Puspita , Chahyadhi Bachtiar , Rante Ada Yeremia
Published: July 2023

The rapid development of industrialization has resulted in the emergence of problems in the world of work, namely the emergence of work accidents. Work accidents can occur due to unsafe actions and unsafe condition. Physical workload affects the physiological condition of workers, workers who receive physical workloads that exceed capacity can cause fatigue which results in feelings of boredom and decreased concentration and alertness of workers, so that from these conditions will cause workers to experience negligence or unsafe actions while working,The sampling technique in this study used a total sampling technique with a total of 70 respondents. To measure the physical workload using a pulseoximeter, measuring work fatigue with the KAUPK2 questionnaire, and measuring unsafe actions with a questionnaire. The bivariate analysis technique used is the Somers'd test and the multivariate analysis used is the ordinal logistic regression test. The statistical test results show that the physical workload variable has a p-value = 0.000 (<0.05) and the work fatigue variable has a p-value = 0.000 (<0.05). Based on the results of the ordinal logistic regression test, it is known that the variable most related to unsafe actions is work fatigue with a wald value of 16,014.
USING OBD-2 TECHNOLOGY FOR VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC AND USING IT IN THE INFORMATION SYSTEM
Authors: Rybitskyi Oleksandr , Golian Vira , Golian Nataliia , Dudar Zoia , Kalynychenko Olga , Nikitin Dmytro
Published: July 2023

This article considers the research of OBD-2 technology for interaction with on-board vehicle systems, the creation of a unified system that can work with different makes and models of cars. The history of OBD-2 technology, its development, existing standards and their implementation in modern cars is described. Basic diagnostic functions are described, with which you can get information about the car, as well as perform its settings and send various commands to it. In addition, the hardware part of the scanner, its technical features, nuances of interaction with it and the purpose of each of its pins are considered. Also reviewed couple models of scanners that can be used to develop this system. Conclusions are drawn on the practicability of their use, taking into account their capabilities. Existing software analogues, their main functions, advantages and disadvantages are considered. The general concept of interaction with the car via OBD-2, the interaction algorithm and step-by-step analysis of the interaction between the scanner and the car are also considered. The software part of the interaction between the car and the scanner, special codes used to send requests and responses, their further analysis and interpretation in a human-friendly form are considered. The possibilities for the unification of these codes for different car manufacturers and the common code base to create a universal system that will be suitable for different cars from different car manufacturers are highlighted. A model of the software system is proposed, which can embody a large set of useful functions for any motorist and will be compatible with a large number of modern cars equipped with universal diagnostic tools, while using an affordable scanner model without the use of expensive professional equipment.
Regresi Ambang untuk Mendalami Pengaruh Kekuatan Pasar Nonlinier terhadap Pinjaman Bank di ASEAN-5
Authors:   Departemen Ilmu Ekonomi, Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis, Universitas Indonesia, Ekananda Mahjus
Published: July 2023

Penyaluran kredit telah berkembang pesat di kawasan ASEAN dan peran perbankan masih mendominasi dibandingkan dengan lembaga keuangan lainnya. Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi efek dari berbagai perubahan rezim pertumbuhan PDB, ukuran perusahaan, dan kebijakan moneter. Obyek penelitian adalah bank-bank komersial di ASEAN-5 dari tahun 2010 hingga 2019. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode regresi ambang batas dan juga proksi tunggal untuk mengukur kekuatan pasar. Hasil penelitian menemukan bahwa kebijakan moneter dan kekuatan pasar memengaruhi kredit produktif. Perubahan dampak yang terjadi disebabkan perilaku bank yang tidak sama untuk peraturan yang berbeda. Selain itu, respons pelaku ekonomi berbeda pada tingkat pertumbuhan PDB dan kebijakan moneter tertentu.
Enhancing students’ science process skill and self-regulation through inquiry interactive demonstration in science materials
Authors: Kurniawan Fauzan , Bidayati Haka Nukhbatul
Published: July 2023

The research was conducted to obtain an overview of improving Science Process Skill and Self Regulation by using the Inquiry Interactive Demonstration learning model on science material at Junior High School Public No. 19 Bandar Lampung, this research uses a Quasy Experiment with a research design The Matching Only Pretest-Posttest Design. Collecting data using observation sheets and Science Process Skills test using multiple choice while for self regulation using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a multivariate test (Manova). This study concludes that the inquiry interactive demonstration model can improve science process skills and self-regulation. The researcher suggests applying the inquiry interactive demonstration model to improve science process skills and self regulation in other science learning materials so that they can help develop science skills and reduce learning difficulties in other learning materials.
Technology-enabled active learning simulations (TEALSim) on distance learning of physics
Authors: Swandi Ahmad , Rahmadhanningsih Sri , Viridi Sparisoma
Published: July 2023

The effect of the spread of the Coronavirus 2019 has an impact on the implementation of face-to-face learning to distance learning. So that the learning that applies in Indonesia today needs to be supported by the right technology and supporting teaching materials. The selection of appropriate and interesting media will have a good impact on the quality of distance learning. This study aims to determine students' perceptions of the use of Technology-Enabled Active Learning Simulation (TEALSim) which is rich in interactive simulations and videos in physics learning and to determine the correlation between student perceptions of learning outcomes. With 26 students as respondents who were selected by random sampling. After using TEALSim, students fill out a questionnaire via google form that has been developed and validated by experts and then students take a concept understanding test. Based on the analysis, it shows that the majority of students have a perception with a percentage above 80% which is in the good category and in general is in the very good category. Besides, there is a good correlation between student perceptions and learning outcome data which is indicated by a correlation value of 0.7.
Instilling Islamic Values on STEAM Learning in Early Childhood Education to Produce Islamic Scientist
Authors: Rahmatullah Rahmatullah , Faeruz Ratna , Romadhon Dzikri Rahmat , Rahiem Maila D. H.
Published: July 2023

In Indonesia, most early childhood education institutions are affiliated with Muslim groups to educate future intellectuals who are clerics or knowledgeable about religion and scientists who advance science. This study aims to determine how teachers of Islamic Kindergarten/Raudhatul Athfal integrate Islamic values into STEAM instruction. The qualitative phenomenological method was employed in the research. The study enrolled 44 teachers and principals from eight Islamic Kindergartens/Raudhatul Athfal in five cities/districts throughout three provinces. The research revealed that instructors of Islamic Kindergarten/Raudhatul Athfal instill Islamic values into the STEAM curriculum by 1) integrating Islamic thematic; 2) conducting Tarbiyah Imaniyah and Islamiyah; 3) utilizing technological media, and 4) referencing the Qur'an and Hadith. The researchers concluded that implementing Islamic-based STEAM learning in Islamic Kindergarten/Raudhatul Athfal is characterized by reoccurring themes, which are subsequently translated into STEAM learning activities. The researchers urge Islamic Kindergarten/Raudhatul Athfal teachers to incorporate Islamic values throughout all STEAM curriculum components continuously. 
Peculiarities of commitment of students of a medical universit
Authors: Pozdeeva A. N. , Guryanov M. S.
Published: July 2023

Purpose: to assess the commitment of medical students to a healthy lifestyle during a new coronavirus infection. Tasks. Identification of threaths to health and identification of motivational factors for maintaining a healthy lifestyle Materials and methods. The study was conducted among first-year students of a medical university in 2018 and 2022 years, 926 first-year students were selected, including 412 people in 2018 (130 men and 282 women), in 2022–514 people (121 men and 393 women). Results. The study showed an increase in the proportion of medical students who consider health a priority value (from 59.1% to 71.7%) and are confident that they lead a healthy lifestyle (from 58.9% to 70.5%), a decrease in the specific weight who do not have physical activity (from 15.7 to 4.5%) and smokers (from 13.0% to 6.4). An increase in the number of students controlling the consumption of sugar, fruits and vegetables was recorded. The pandemic did not affect the opinion of students about the main factors affecting health: in the first ranking place, almost half of the students have systematic lack of sleep. On the second – overload associated with the educational process, on the third – the presence of bad habits. Conclusion. The study showed that the pandemic had a mixed effect on the adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Along with the growth of adherence, the opinion of students about the main factors affecting health has not changed. As in the pre-Covid period, students demonstrate opposite opinions about the influence of such factors as the presence of bad habits, passive smoking, an uncomfortable psychological microclimate in the group, overweight, hereditary predisposition. A significant part of the students indicate that the leading motivational factor influencing the implementation of health preservation is a regular and systematic study of the theoretical foundations of a healthy lifestyle.
Assessing ChatGPT Responses to Common Patient Questions Regarding Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Mika Aleksander P. , Martin J. Ryan , Engstrom Stephen M. , Polkowski Gregory G. , Wilson Jacob M.
Published: July 2023

Background:

The contemporary patient has access to numerous resources on common orthopaedic procedures before ever presenting for a clinical evaluation. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven chatbots have become mainstream, allowing patients to engage with interfaces that supply convincing, human-like responses to prompts. ChatGPT (OpenAI), a recently developed AI-based chat technology, is one such application that has garnered rapid growth in popularity. Given the likelihood that patients may soon call on this technology for preoperative education, we sought to determine whether ChatGPT could appropriately answer frequently asked questions regarding total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods:

Ten frequently asked questions regarding total hip arthroplasty were posed to the chatbot during a conversation thread, with no follow-up questions or repetition. Each response was analyzed for accuracy with use of an evidence-based approach. Responses were rated as “excellent response not requiring clarification,” “satisfactory requiring minimal clarification,” “satisfactory requiring moderate clarification,” or “unsatisfactory requiring substantial clarification.”

Results:

Of the responses given by the chatbot, only 1 received an “unsatisfactory” rating; 2 did not require any correction, and the majority required either minimal (4 of 10) or moderate (3 of 10) clarification. Although several responses required nuanced clarification, the chatbot’s responses were generally unbiased and evidence-based, even for controversial topics.

Conclusions:

The chatbot effectively provided evidence-based responses to questions commonly asked by patients prior to THA. The chatbot presented information in a way that most patients would be able to understand. This resource may serve as a valuable clinical tool for patient education and understanding prior to orthopaedic consultation in the future.
Opioid-Sparing Strategies in Arthroscopic Surgery
Authors: Ekhtiari Seper , Nucci Nicholas , Uddin Fares , Albadran Adeeba , Gazendam Aaron Michael , Bhandari Mohit , Khan Moin
Published: July 2023

Background:

Opioid overprescription is a problem in orthopaedic surgery. Arthroscopic surgery, given its minimally invasive nature, represents an opportunity to minimize opioid prescription and consumption by using effective pain management adjuncts. Thus, the primary question posed in this study was which noninvasive pain management modalities can effectively manage pain and reduce opioid intake after arthroscopic surgery.

Methods:

The databases PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on August 10, 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating noninvasive pain management strategies in arthroscopy patients were evaluated. Eligible studies were selected through a systematic screening process. Meta-analysis was performed for pain scores and opioid consumption at time points which had sufficient data available.

Results:

Twenty-one RCTs were included, with a total of 2,148 patients undergoing shoulder, knee, and hip arthroscopy. Meta-analysis comparing nonopioid, oral analgesic regimens, with or without patient education components, with the standard of care or placebo demonstrated no difference in pain scores at 24 hours, 4 to 7 days, or 14 days postoperatively. Nonopioid regimens also resulted in significantly lower opioid consumption in the first 24 hours postoperatively (mean difference, −37.02 mg oral morphine equivalents, 95% confidence interval, −74.01 to −0.03). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), cryotherapy, and zolpidem were also found to effectively manage pain and reduce opioid use in a limited number of studies.

Conclusions:

A range of noninvasive pain management strategies exist to manage pain and reduce opioid use after arthroscopic procedures. The strongest evidence base supports the use of multimodal nonopioid oral analgesics, with some studies incorporating patient education components. Some evidence supports the efficacy of TENS, cryotherapy, and nonbenzodiazepine sleeping aids. Direction from governing bodies is an important next step to incorporate these adjuncts into routine clinical practice to manage pain and reduce the amount of opioids prescribed and consumed after arthroscopic surgery.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of the levels of evidence.
Characteristics of Cucumber Powder Drink (Cucumis sativus L.) With Addition of Lime Juice and Concentration of Maltodextrin Foam Mat Drying Method
Authors: Zakiyah Mei Dita Fitrotus , Budiandari Rahmah Utami
Published: July 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of adding lime juice and maltodextrin concentration on the characteristics of cucumber powder drink (Cucumis sativus L.) using the foam mat drying method. The method used in this study was a randomized block design (RBD) using two factorials consisting of lime juice with a concentration of (5%, 15%, 25%) and a concentration of maltodextrin (15%, 20%, 25%). So that there were 9 treatment combinations. Each treatment was repeated 3 times, so that 27 trials were obtained. Data analysis was carried out using ANOVA and follow-up tests with a 5% level of Honest Significant Difference and organoleptic tests were analyzed using the Friedman test. The results showed that there was no interaction between the concentration of lime and the concentration of maltodextrin on the levels of vitamin C in cucumber powder, but there was an interaction between the concentration of lime and the concentration of maltodextrin on the solubility of cucumber powder. The results showed that the lowest value for the water content parameter was 17.5%, the highest value for vitamin C was 1.287% and the highest value for the solubility parameter was 147.16%.
A interdisciplinaridade na formação de professores de matemática do ensino médio sob a luz da BNCC
Authors: Sabadin Presotto Keila , Dalla Costa Silvia Fernanda
Published: July 2023

Este trabalho tem por objetivo conceituar a interdisciplinaridade na busca da formação integral no percurso formativo dos estudantes do ensino médio, de acordo com a aplicabilidade da Base Nacional Comum Curricular- BNCC e do Currículo Base do Ensino Médio do Território Catarinense - CBEMTC, bem como investigar a concepção de interdisciplinaridade entre os professores de Matemática que atuam nessa etapa de ensino. Buscou-se verificar e entender formas de valorizar a diversidade de saberes e vivências que estão presentes na sala de aula, além dos muros da escola para que se possa realmente ofertar uma formação que contemple as dez competências da BNCC. A pesquisa foi qualitativa, constituindo-se em um estudo de caso com professores de matemática que atuam no Ensino Médio da Rede Estadual de Ensino de Santa Catarina, mediada por revisões bibliográficas e documentais da Base Nacional Comum Curricular, - BNCC e do Currículo base do Território Catarinense, que dialogam sobre interdisciplinaridade e formação de professores de Matemática. Percebe-se que há muito a ser feito para que professores estejam preparados para atuar interdisciplinarmente. A formação inicial e continuada é uma das principais armas para que se possa cumprir o que está posto na BNCC e CBEMTC, bem como uma mudança de pensamento em relação à forma de fazer o planejamento que precisa de forma coletiva e abrangendo as diversas áreas de conhecimentos.
Age-dependent Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Musculoskeletal Health in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Yang Hea-Eun , An Eui Jin , Choi I Jun , Oh Ji Yeon , Lee Byeong Wook
Published: July 2023

Study designProspective drug-intervention study.ObjectivesTo determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on changes in body composition associated with musculoskeletal health status in patients with chronic SCI and vitamin D deficiency as a response to age.SettingDepartment of rehabilitation medicine, Veterans Health Service Medical Center.MethodsSeventeen patients with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency (<30 ng/ml) and chronic SCI were divided into two groups: groups (A) <65 years (n=8) and (B) ≥65 years of age (n=9). Both groups received 800 IU/day cholecalciferol for 12 weeks. Participants body composition at baseline and 12 weeks after treatment were evaluated. We used blood samples to evaluate metabolites related to vitamin D, testosterone (T), lipid profiles, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) was used to evaluate body composition.ResultsGroup A had significantly better baseline clinical characteristics for all BIA measurements. SHGB was significantly higher in Group B (p=0.003) and albumin was significantly higher in Group A (p=0.000). When comparing pre- to post-treatment, Group A showed a significant improvement in T (p=0.042), total cholesterol (p=0.035), and triglyceride (p=0.025) levels, whereas Group B significantly increased vitamin D (p=0.038) and protein mass (PM) (p=0.034) levels.ConclusionsThis study confirmed that addressing vitamin D deficiency in patients with SCI had different effects in young and older adults, with both groups showing positive changes in body composition. Particularly, the increase in PM on BIA measurements in elderly patients at high risk of sarcopenia was encouraging.
Assessing Fishery Households Welfare in Indonesia: Panel Spatial Durbin Model Approach
Authors: Harsono Iwan , Sukiyono Ketut , Mulana Lalu Yuriade
Published: July 2023

The welfare of fishermen, indicated by the value of NTN, is the government's focus in supporting economic growth and national development. The NTN or Nilai Tukar Nelayan (Fihermen Exchange Rate), is estimated based on the prices of goods and services in terms of production, costs and household consumption.. On the other hand, the government needs to recognize how macroeconomic assumptions affect the welfare of fishermen in Indonesia as a basis for budget planning and national development programs. Therefore, this study is aimed at- comprehensively analyzing the welfare of fishermen in Indonesia using a spatial Durbin panel model approach. Provincial (spasial) secondary data from 2020–2022 involving variables of Fishermen's Exchange Rates, Human Development, Population Density, inflation, agricultural sector labor, and average daily wages are used for thi study.. From the results of selecting the best model human capital (IPM) and inflation have a significant positive effect on fishery household welfare in Indonesia, while other factors are not... Further goverment interventions are further required especially to improve fishermen skill and inovations, development disparities as well as inflation controls.
Synergistic Effects of Graphite and Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Fillers on Key Properties of Epoxidized Natural Rubber Nanocomposites
Authors: Pichaiyut Skulrat , Kitisavetjit Wasuthon , Nakason Charoen
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the preparation and characterization of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) nanocomposites using graphite (GP), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and CNTs/GP hybrid fillers. The results demonstrate that both gum and filled ENR compounds exhibit a reversion curve due to the breaking of weak -O-O- linkages. Furthermore, increasing GP loadings in ENR-GP and ENR-CNTs/GP hybrid composites lead to elevated cure curves and torque differences, indicating higher crosslink density and stiffness of the vulcanizates. These changes are attributed to the increasing chemical interaction between polar functional groups in ENR molecules and nanofiller surfaces, as confirmed by FTIR analysis. The analysis demonstrates a decrease in OH and epoxide groups, along with an increase in ether linkages. Moreover, ENR-CNTs/GP hybrid composites exhibit even higher curing curves, torque differences, Payne effect, total bound rubber content, electrical conductivity, and dielectric constant due to finer filler dispersion and distribution. This results in the formation of interconnected infinite networks that rapidly reach the percolation threshold concentration. Additionally, the formation of CNTs-GP-CNT connections enhances mechanical strength, heat conduction, and the tunneling effect of electrons. These findings confirm the synergistic effects of graphite and carbon nanotube hybrid fillers on key properties in ENR-CNTs/GP hybrid nanocomposites, indicating their potential applications in various fields.
Bridging the Gap: Examining the level, trends and determinants of Adequacy of Quality Antenatal Care in India
Authors: Nihal Saif
Published: July 2023

Background
Antenatal care (ANC) is an important component of the continuum of care for a mother’s health as it is a complete package of not only timely diagnosis of obstetric conditions but it also awares women about the sign of complications due to pregnancy and the importance of family planning and breastfeeding. It has been estimated that by increasing coverage as well as the quality of ANC nearly all maternal deaths are preventable in low- and middle-income countries. However, there have been very few studies with regard to quality antenatal care in India. Therefore, this study attempts to assess the adequacy of quality ANC in India.
Objectives
Firstly, it attempts to understand the trends and patterns in components of quality ANC and secondly it analyses the determinants of quality ANC in India.
Data & Methods:
This study is based on data from National Family Health Survey. The dependent variable is the quality of antenatal care composed of skilled health care, timeliness, sufficiency, and appropriateness in content. Both bivariate and multivariate generalised ordered logit regression analysis has been employed.
Results
The findings indicate that in 2015-16, there were 16% of births without antenatal care, which decreased to just 6% in 2019-21. Despite significant improvement, the components of antenatal care are far from the requirement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The overall quality of antenatal care is just 33% in NFHS-5, rising 10 percentage points from NFHS-4. Southern state has highest utilisation of adequate quality of ANC. The utilisation of adequate quality of ANC increases with women’s education, wealth quintile and decreases with birth order. It is higher in urban areas; those covered by health insurance and have mass media exposure.
Conclusion
Despite some improvements in coverage of antenatal care, the quality of antenatal care is very low in the country and requires urgent attention by policy and program makers.
Faith in God as a source for maintaining a sense of control in cancer in Polish sample
Authors: Manterys Krzysztof , Błażek Magdalena , Rabinovitch Aleksandra
Published: July 2023

Introduction. Developing breast cancer affects the functioning of the patient at all stages of treatment. The sense of control over one’s health contributes to coping with stress, the sense of empowerment, and the doctor-patient relationship.
Objective. The aim of the study was to determine the sociopsychological and demographic factors that protect patients with breast cancer from losing the sense of control and those that foster such loss.
Materials and methods. The research was conducted on 132 female patients of the oncology clinic in Poland at various stages of treatment. Three stages were distinguished: Women during chemotherapy (n = 41), patients of the physical therapy ward after the completion of oncological treatment (n = 40), and the group of “Amazons” (n = 50) who have experienced at least five years of remission after the end of treatment. The research was conducted with the use of demographic data, the Fatalist Loss of Control Scale, the Religious Problem Solving scale, and the scale of perceiving God.
Results and conclusions. There was a negative correlation between the loss of control and the number of planned tasks (life projects) and the faith in the realisation of such projects. The results demonstrated that the sense of losing control increased along with the duration of the illness and decreased with faith in an active, powerful God. The results have been interpreted according to the compensation control theory. They demonstrate that the sense of control over one’s health is closely linked to the dynamics of the treatment process and the quality of life. The presented results may constitute a basis for developing support programmes based on a model of the sense of control over health, which may translate into an ability to better cope with the disease and into patients’ involvement in the treatment process.
Growing climate change concern but rising regional disparities in China
Authors: Xia Ziqian , Ye Jinquan , Marlon Jennifer , Dong Xu , Xie Jinliang , Tian Xi , Xu Ming , Yang Jianxun , Zhang Chao , Liu Miaomiao
Published: July 2023

This study maps the shifts in subnational climate change issue priority and risk perceptions in China, based on datasets from two large-scale surveys conducted over 13 years. Our findings reveal significant increases in climate change issue priority and perceived impact (19% and 13%, respectively) at the national scale but wider regional disparities. We highlight the needs for tailored and targeted communication strategies to mitigate the spatial mismatch between climate change perception and risk exposure.
An Implementation Technology for Intelligent Sensor Network Security Communication Based on the Elliptic Curve Encryption Algorithm
Authors: Liu Deliang , Lu Biao , Zhou Wei
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the ECC main algorithms are introduced in detail, the mathematical principles of elliptic curve theory are studied, and the realization of point addition, point doubling and point multiplication in the rapid implementation of elliptic curve cryptographic algorithms on prime field Fp-specific plans are proposed. We discuss the security of elliptic curve cryptosystems and analyze the theoretical basis and algorithmic principle of elliptic curve encryption. This paper also analyzes the mathematical theoretical foundation of elliptic curve cryptography, especially elliptic curve theory in finite fields, and proposes a high-performance elliptic curve cryptography scheme on the basis of the corresponding elliptic curve theoretical background. The feasibility of the system is verified by a software model. Furthermore, the performance of the two protocols is compared in the simulation experiment because the new protocol employs special measures in path design, so it is much better than DD in terms of the unit event transmission energy consumption, average delay time, and event transmission success rate protocol. The key management scheme, which is based on the elliptic curve, is suitable for distributed UWSNs and can authenticate node identity before the shared key is established. Before the node is deployed, the base station preallocates system parameters to the node, and before the two nodes communicate with each other, the identity of the node is authenticated; after the authentication is successful, the two nodes exchange their respective passwords. The round key is iteratively generated through the logistic chaotic map, and the round function is constructed from a discrete double chaotic system. Through analysis, the algorithm meets the security requirements and can resist attacks. The simulation results show that, compared with the DES and AES encryption algorithms, this algorithm consumes fewer resources and is suitable for underwater sensor networks.
Taxonomic identification and temperature stress tolerance mechanisms of Aequorivita scotiaensis sp. nov.
Authors: Cong Bailin , Liu Wenqi , Lin Jing , Liu Shenghao , Deng Aifang , Zhao Linlin
Published: July 2023

The deep sea harbours microorganisms with unique life characteristics and life activities due to its special environmental conditions, but the limited sample collection and pure culture techniques available constrain the study of deep-sea microorganisms. In this study, strain Ant34-E75 was isolated from Antarctic deep-sea sediment samples and showed the highest 16S rDNA gene sequence similarity of 97.18%. Polyphasic taxonomy results suggested that strain Ant34-E75 is a new member of the genusAequorivita. Strain Ant34-E75 belongs to the psychrotrophs and can effectively increase the cold tolerance ofChlamydomonas reininatus. Subsequent transcriptome analysis revealed multiple mechanisms involved in the Ant34-E75 response to temperature stress, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed that the peptidoglycan synthesis pathway was the key component. Overall, this study provides insights into the characteristics of deep-sea microorganisms, elucidates the mechanism of temperature adaptation at the molecular level. Furthermore, it enriches our understanding of the species and genetic diversity of deep-sea microorganisms.
Morphometric analysis and prioritization of the drought-prone watersheds in the northwest Bangladesh for soil conservation
Authors: Shoumik Baig Abdullah Al , Islam Md. Sanaul , Baloch Muhammad Yousuf Jat
Published: July 2023

Morphometric analysis plays a key role in understanding the geological and hydrological behavior of watersheds and their prioritization for soil conservation. The conventional methods of determining the morphological characteristics of a basin are expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, in this study, a remote and satellite sensing tools were used to delineate and analyze the linear, areal, and relief aspects of the morphometric indices of the six largest river basins of Dinajpur district which is agro-ecologically an important but drought-prone area in Bangladesh. The river basins are Dinajpur Sadar-Birganj (DS-B), Dinajpur Sadar-Khansama (DS-K), Chirirbandar-Khansama (C-K), Nawabganj-Chirirbandar (N-C), Birampur-Parbatipur (B-P), and Hakimpur-Parbatipur (H-P). The Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model with 30m resolution was used for delineating the river basins. The identified catchments were prioritized based on the morphometric indices and ranked according to their hydrological response to soil erosion. The results of the bifurcation ratio, length of overland flow, drainage density, drainage texture, and constant channel maintenance indicated that the catchments were well-dissected and had less flood and erosion risk. The values of form factor, elongation ratio, circularity ratio, and compactness coefficient dictated an elongated shape of all the basins with a mature geological adjustment. The prioritization of these basins signified that DS-B is the most susceptible catchment and requires a sustainable development decision making framework for its management. This research emphasizes the need for extending this study on the investigated as well as the uninvestigated basins at the micro-level to further prioritize the most vulnerable segment within the basins.
The nature and distribution of non-functional alleles suggest only two independent events at the origins of Astyanax mexicanus cavefish populations
Authors: Policarpo Maxime , Legendre Laurent , Germon Isabelle , Espinasa Luis , Rétaux Sylvie , Casane Didier , Lafargeas Philippe
Published: July 2023

Background
Several studies suggested that cavefish populations of Astyanax mexicanus settled during the Late Pleistocene. This implies that the cavefish’s most conspicuous phenotypic changes, blindness and depigmentation, and more cryptic characters important for cave life, evolved rapidly.
Results
Using the published genomes of 47 Astyanax cavefish from la Cueva de El Pachón, El Sótano de la Tinaja, La Cueva Chica and El Sótano de Molino, we searched for loss-of-function mutations in previously defined sets of genes, i.e., vision, circadian clock and pigmentation genes — non-functional alleles for four vision genes were identified. Then, we searched genome-wide for non-functional alleles in these four cave populations. Among 512 genes with segregating non-functional alleles, we found an enrichment in visual perception genes. Among cavefish populations, different levels of shared non-functional alleles were found. Using a subset of 12 genes for which loss-of-function mutations were found, we extend the analysis of shared pseudogenes to 11 cave populations. Using a subset of six genes for which loss-of-function mutations were found in the El Sótano del Toro population, where extensive hybridization with surface fish occurs, we found a correlation between the level of eye regression and the amount of non-functional alleles.
Conclusions
We can confirm that very few non-functional alleles are present in a large set of vision genes, in accordance with the recent origin of Astyanax mexicanus cavefish. Nevertheless, the genome-wide analysis indicates an enrichment of loss-of-function alleles in genes with vision-related GO-terms, suggesting that visual perception may be the function chiefly impacted by gene losses related to the shift from a surface to a cave environment. The geographic distribution of the loss-of-function alleles supports the hypothesis that cave populations from Sierra de Guatemala and Sierra de El Abra share a common origin, albeit followed by independent evolution for a long period of time. It also supports that populations from the Micos area have an independent origin. In El Sótano del Toro, the troglomorphic phenotype is maintained despite massive introgression of the surface genome.
Anticoccidial Activity of Aloe Vera Leafs’ Aqueous Extract and vaccination Against Eimeria tenella: Pathological Study in Broilers
Authors: Hassan Shahenaz M.H. , Zayeda Rasha , Ellakany Hany F , Badr Sohair , A Abou-Rawash Abdelrahman , Abd-Ellatieff Hoda A.
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an anticoccidial vaccine and the anticoccidial activity of Aloe vera in broiler chickens infected with Eimeria tenella. A total of 225 healthy one-day-old, unsexed broiler chicks (avian48) from a commercial broiler company were randomly divided into nine experimental groups, with 25 chicks in each group. The groups included: Group 1 (control, vaccinated, non-infected), Group 2 (vaccinated and infected with 5×104 sporulated oocysts), Group 3 (vaccinated, infected with 5×104 sporulated oocysts, and treated with Aloe vera), Group 4 (infected with 5×104 sporulated oocysts and treated with Aloe vera), Group 5 (positive control, infected with 5×104 sporulated oocysts), Group 6 (challenged with 5×104 sporulated oocysts and then treated with amprolium), Group 7 (treated with amprolium), Group 8 (blank control negative group), and Group 9 (treated with Aloe vera gel). Various parameters including clinical signs, growth performance, oocyst shedding, hematological and immunological parameters, and pathological lesion scoring were evaluated. The results showed that Aloe vera improved growth performance, reduced oocyst shedding, and decreased caecal lesion scores in broiler chicks infected with Eimeria tenella. The use of Aloe vera in combination with either amprolium or anticoccidial vaccines provided a potential solution to the issues of drug resistance and drug residues. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the control of coccidiosis in broilers. Supplementing the chicken diet with Aloe vera had beneficial effects on the pathogenicity and infectivity of Eimeria tenella, making it a cost-effective alternative as an herbal extract with no adverse side effects for coccidiosis control. These findings suggest that Aloe vera can be considered as a potential candidate for inclusion in broiler diets to effectively control coccidiosis.
Novel islands of GGC and GCC repeats coincide with human evolution
Authors: Tajeddin N , Arabfard M , Alizadeh S , Salesi M , Khamse S , Delbari A , Ohadi M
Published: July 2023

Background
Because of high mutation rate, overrepresentation in genic regions, and link with various neurological, neurodegenerative, and movement disorders, GGC and GCC short tandem repeats (STRs) are prone to natural selection. Among a number of lacking data on those STRs, the 3-repeats of these STRs remain widely unexplored.
Results
In a genome-wide search in human, here we mapped GGC and GCC STRs of ≥ 3-repeats, and report islands of up to 45 of those STRs, populating spans of 1 to 2 kb of genomic DNA. RGPD4 and NOC4L harbored the densest (GGC)3 (probability 3.09061E-71) and (GCC)3 (probability 1.72376E-61) islands, respectively, and were human-specific. We also found prime instances of directional incremented density of STRs at a specific locus in human versus other species, including the FOXK2 and SKI GGC islands. The genes containing those islands significantly diverged in expression in human versus other species, and the proteins encoded by those genes interact closely in a physical interaction network, consequence of which may be human-specific characteristics such as higher order brain functions.
Conclusion
We report novel islands of GG C and GCC STRs of evolutionary relevance in human. The density, and in some instances, periodicity of these islands support them as a novel genomic entity, which need to be further explored in evolutionary, mechanistic, and functional platforms.