bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-native plant species richness and influence of greenhouses and human populations in the conterminous United States
Authors: Hanberry Brice B.
Published: June 2023

Background

One issue in invasive plant ecology is identification of the factors related to the invasion process that increase number of non-native species. When invasion by non-native species increases, so does the probability that some non-native species will become harmful, or classified as invasive species, which disrupt natural ecosystems with attendant economic and social costs. I quantified patterns of how non-native species richness varied with vegetation types and human populations. To evaluate the relative importance of different predictor variables for invasion pathways in the conterminous United States, I modeled non-native plant species richness by county compared to current and historical human populations; greenhouses and nurseries; railroads, pipelines, transmission lines, and oil and gas wells; and land covers of impervious surface, development intensity categories, agriculture, and vegetation types. I also modeled these variables within vegetation types, excluding vegetation variables.

Results

To summarize patterns, non-native plant species richness increased from 72 to 200 with increasing human population density classes. Forests and forest land use mosaics had the greatest mean number of non-native plant species, ranging from 121 to 166, whereas grasslands and grassland mosaics had the least number of non-native plant species, about 70. For modeling variable importance, all combined variables had R2 values of 56% (random forests regressor) and 54% (cubist regressor) for predictions of withheld observations of non-native plant species richness, with greenhouse density and percent forestlands as most influential variables. Single variables of greenhouses (R2 = 29%), historical and current human populations (R2 = 27% and 23%), impervious surface (25%), and medium intensity development (23%) were most associated with non-native plant species richness. For vegetation types, greenhouse and historical human population densities were influential variables particularly in forestlands, shrublands, and wetlands.

Conclusions

Based on these models, human population measures and horticultural locations of greenhouses and plant nurseries may have stronger relationships than measures of land use disturbance and transport with non-native plant species richness.
Association of Patient-Reported Health-Related Quality of Life With Physician-Reported Toxicities in Adolescents and Young Adults Receiving Radiation Therapy for Cancer
Authors: Corrigan Kelsey L. , Reeve Bryce B. , Salsman John M. , Siembida Elizabeth J. , Smith Grace L. , Swartz Maria C. , Lee Kamaria L. , Afridi Faraz , Andring Lauren M. , Bishop Andrew J. , Gunther Jillian R. , Livingston J. Andrew , Peterson Susan K. , Parsons Susan K. , Roth Michael
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

Radiation therapy (RT) may cause toxicities in adolescents and young adults (AYAs, age 15-39 years) with cancer. However, the range of RT-related toxicities in AYAs and the affect on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) has not been well studied. We performed a cross-sectional study in AYAs with cancer who received RT to identify RT-related toxicities and examine their impact on HRQOL.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 178 AYAs received RT and completed PROMIS HRQOL instruments from 2018 to 2022. Acute and late physician-graded Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events RT–related toxicities were extracted and described. Multivariable linear regression was used to evaluate the association of RT-related toxicity with HRQOL scores during and post-RT. Minimally important differences were used to evaluate the clinical relevance of relationships.

RESULTS

Eighty-four AYAs completed HRQOL surveys during RT and 94 post-RT. In the during-RT cohort, 75 AYAs (89%) had acute RT-related toxicities, a majority of which were grade 1 (n = 49, 65%). AYAs who experienced acute grade 2 or greater toxicities reported worse global mental health ( B = –7.35, P < .01) and worse pain ( B = 5.25, P = .01) than those with acute grade 1 or no toxicities. In the post-RT cohort, the median (IQR) time from RT to survey completion was 24 (14-27) months. Forty-eight AYAs (51%) had late RT-related toxicities, a majority of which were grade 1 (n = 37, 77%). AYAs who experienced late grade 2 or greater toxicities reported worse global mental health ( B = –8.07, P = .01), worse social roles ( B = –9.96, P < .01), and greater sleep disturbance ( B = 10.75, P < .01) than those with late grade 1 or no RT toxicities.

CONCLUSION

The presence of acute and late grade 2 or greater RT-related toxicities may contribute to worse HRQOL, especially global mental health, in AYAs. Screening and early interventions to mitigate RT-related toxicities are needed to improve AYA HRQOL.
The Multifaceted Roles of Bone Marrow Adipocytes in Bone and Hematopoietic Homeostasis
Authors: Li Ziru , Rosen Clifford J
Published: June 2023

Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) makes up a significant portion of the marrow space, ranging from 50% to 70%, in healthy adults. It expands with aging, obesity, anorexia nervosa, and irradiation, which are conditions associated with skeletal complications or hematopoietic disorders. Therefore, BMAT has been viewed as a negative component of the bone marrow niche for decades, although the mechanisms and causative relationships have not been well-addressed. Of note, recent studies have revealed that BMAT is a multifaceted tissue that can serve as an energy reservoir to fuel osteoblasts and hematopoietic cells under stressful situations, and also acts as an endocrine/paracrine organ to suppress bone formation and support hematopoiesis at steady-state conditions. In this review, we summarize the uniqueness of BMAT, the complex findings of previous studies, and update our understanding of the physiological roles of BMAT in bone and hematopoietic metabolism based on a newly established bone marrow adipocyte–specific mouse model.
Efficacy of metoprolol combined with torasemide in elderly patients with degenerative valvular heart disease and heart failure and its influence on NT-proBNP levels
Authors: Ren Kai , Feng Jinping , Yang Xuwen , Ren Bei , Guo Yujun
Published: June 2023

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of metoprolol combined with torasemide in elderly patients with degenerative valvular heart disease (DVHD) and heart failure and its influence on N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentrations.

Methods: The records of 129 DVHD patients ≥60 years old with heart failure diagnosed and treated in our hospital from January 2020 to February 2022 were retrospectively selected. According to the treatment records, 62 patients received metoprolol treatment (Control-group), and 67 patients received metoprolol combined with torasemide treatment (Observation-group). The changes in cardiac function, NT-proBNP and inflammatory factor concentrations and clinical efficacy were analyzed and compared between the two groups before and after treatment.

Results: After treatment, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and the mitral ratio of peak early to late diastolic filling velocity (E/A) were lower, with a greater decrease in the Observation-group compared to the Control-group (P<0.05). After treatment, NT-proBNP and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations were lower in both groups, with a greater decrease in the Observation-group compared to the Control-group (P<0.05). The total clinical efficacy of the Observation-group was significantly higher than the Control-group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the total incidence of adverse drug reactions between the two groups (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Metoprolol combined with torasemide has a significant therapeutic effect on DVHD patients with heart failure. This drug combination improved cardiac function, reduced NT-proBNP concentrations and has good safety.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.4.7465

How to cite this: Ren K, Feng J, Yang X, Ren B, Guo Y. Efficacy of metoprolol combined with torasemide in elderly patients with degenerative valvular heart disease and heart failure and its influence on NT-proBNP levels. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(4):945-949.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.4.7465

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Survival in general surgery: The female surgeons’ perspective
Authors: Naqvi Syeda Saima Qamar , Adeeb Humera , Sethi Ahsan
Published: June 2023

Objective: Specialty choices in health profession has long been influenced by gender. The field of General Surgery remains the least preferred specialty by females, especially in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to identify the factors leading to success and retention of females in General Surgery in Pakistan.

Methods: Qualitative case study was conducted from February to May 2020 at Khyber Medical University, Peshawar. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposive sample of female surgeons at various academic position in different tertiary care hospitals of Pakistan. Data were thematically analyzed.

Results: Participants were driven by their passion for surgery, which led them to choose this specialty in the beginning. Their survival in male dominant workplace was made possible by their own personality traits and conducive environment provided by the supervisors and peers. However, a structured mentorship program for females was found lacking.

Conclusion: The necessary ingredients for success are passion and personality traits in any field but attention to nurturing and supportive environment for females in the General Surgery is paramount in determining success. Due consideration to the factors identified in the current study will enhance the retention and success of females in General Surgery.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.4.7528

How to cite this: Naqvi SSQ, Adeeb H, Sethi A. Survival in general surgery: The female surgeons’ perspective. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(4):926-930. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.4.7528

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
What drives the rural‑urban disparities in maternity‑care services utilisation? Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Gebresilassie Yibrah Hagos , Teka Araya Mebrahtu
Published: June 2023

Background: Ethiopia has a high rate of maternal mortality. One of the most important interventions to reduce maternal death from pregnancy-related problems is the use of antenatal and delivery care services. However, the utilisation of these services continues to be unequal for Ethiopian women living in rural and urban areas. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the factors influencing rural‑urban disparity in the use of antenatal and delivery‑care services. 

Methods: Data were acquired from the most recent 2019 Ethiopian demographic and health surveys. A total of 7,084 women of reproductive age (15‑49 years) participated in this study. An extended Oaxaca‑Blinder decomposition technique was used to examine the relative contribution of covariates explaining the rural‑urban gap in the factors of antenatal and delivery‑care services utilisation in Ethiopia.  

Findings: The results revealed large gaps in maternity care services utilisation between rural and urban areas, with lower coverage in rural areas. The rural-urban gap is primarily influenced by women's socioeconomic and educational status, followed by their media exposure, whereas women's employment status and religious beliefs help to minimise the difference. 

Conclusions: The disproportionate disparities in antenatal and delivery‑care services utilisation were due to the proportional differences among women in maternal educational and economic status. Hence, enhancing women's economic and educational status as well as prioritising intervention for the rural disadvantaged women could significantly minimise the disparities in antenatal and delivery‑care service utilisation.
Redes empresariales y patrones de cooperación en MIPYMES textiles en México
Authors: Ayala Arroyo Karen Lizeth , Rivas Tovar Luis Arturo , Cardénas Tapia Magali
Published: June 2023

El objetivo de la investigación es analizar los patrones de cooperación en las redes empresariales textiles enAcolman, México. Como método de investigación se usó el análisis de Redes Complejas a través de las variables de centralidad estructural: grado nodal, cercanía e intermediación y eigenvector. Los resultados surgierona partir de las siguientes hipótesis: h1) Las empresas prefieren cooperar con personas conocidas y despuéscon familiares, h2) La cooperación está enfocada solo en los eslabones de operaciones, logística interna ylogística externa y h3) No está articulado el modelo de la triple hélice y ninguna empresa coopera con organizaciones gubernamentales, ni académicas. Los hallazgos indican una preferencia a cooperar con conocidosen lugar que familiares, lo cual es consistente con investigaciones realizadas en México, pero contradicen los fuertes lazos de cooperación entre familiares que se observan en la cooperación de empresas italianas. Una de las limitaciones de la investigación es que varias empresas se negaron a participar por desconfianza en compartir sus redes de cooperación.
Case Article—Creating a Brick Empire Through Data Visualization and Analytics
Authors: Drake Matthew J.
Published: June 2023

This case study provides a comprehensive decision-making scenario that takes students through all three types of analytics—descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive—to provide recommendations to a decision maker. The scenario focuses on an individual investor who is purchasing LEGO sets from retailers with the goal of selling them for a higher price on the aftermarket in a few years once they retire from shelves. Students must create visualizations to generate insights from the data and develop a regression model to identify sets that represent value investment opportunities. In the extension case they must take their estimated values and optimize the decisions of which sets to purchase to meet the decision maker’s investment goals using an integer program. Students also have the opportunity to develop soft skills in problem solving and communicating results and dealing with missing data points in a data set that is larger than standard textbook data sets but is still a manageable size for introductory students. The open-ended instructions make the case appropriate for a wide range of students from the introductory undergraduate level to the advanced graduate level.

Supplemental Material: Supplemental materials are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ited.2023.0288ca . The Teaching Note and data files are available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subscribe/Access-Restricted-Materials .
Design of Working Table for Fret Wiring Operators With Nida Method in Guitar Industry Mancasan Sukoharjo
Authors: Astuti Rahmaniyah Dwi , Pudjiantoro Fathin Kusumo Pramesti , Suhardi Bambang , Iftadi Irwan , Syahiliantina Annisa
Published: June 2023

The guitar industry is in Mancasan, Sukoharjo regency is a smallmedium enterprises which carried out finishing process to produceacoustic guitars. All of the process are done manually without anymachine. There is one process called fret wire installation where theoperator is in a static work posture for an extended period of time tohold the work piece. Nordic Body Map (NBM) assessment showedthat almost all assessed workers have pain in hip and right upperarm. There is indication of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDS) risk inleft upper arm, back, and waist of workers who conduct fret wiresinstallation process. This indication is confirmed using REBA. REBAScore for fret wiring operator is 10, it indicates that the investigationand modification was needed as soon as possible. This arises to aproblem called workers MSDS due to awkward posture. Thisresearch aims to design an ergonomic working table to reduce therisk of musculoskeletal disorder for fret wire installation operators.REBA was used to evaluate working posture to find the specificproblem. In addition, NIDA product development process andanthropometry concept were also implemented to develop workingtable based on the problem previously found. The result is theproposed working table which specifications are has adjustablesystem on the leg of the table, features a lock to hold the guitarhead, a support with a pad for the neck and body of the guitar, awork tool area and a half-coil fret wire arrangement, and a curvedtable base so that the operator is in a comfortable position and isclose to the work piece.
Aggregate Planning Implementation for Planning and Controlling The Materials in The Beverage Packaging Industry
Authors: Setiawan Indra , Nurdiansyah Nurdiansyah , Tosin Muh. , Lusia Vivi , Wahid Muhammad
Published: June 2023

The Beverage Packaging Industry is a company that produce ready-to-drink drinks that produces Box Bottle Tea (BBT) 250 slim products. This product is sent to several customers and distributors throughout Indonesia. During 2020 the demand for this product has increased. In addition, the increasing demand also fluctuated significantly so the company was unable to predict production schedule. The continuity of the production process to meet consumer demand requires good production planning. The purpose of this research is to plan and control the production process of BBT 250 slim to obtain optimal raw material requirements. This study uses the method of Linear Regression and Aggregate Planning. Based on the analysis with Linear Regression, this study resulted in a model Y=319.575+3.723X, meaning that if demand decreases, the amount of production also decreases. This model is very useful for the Beverage Packaging Industry in planning and controlling raw materials for production. Calculation of raw material requirements for BBT 250 slim products results in an efficiency of raw materials than usual forecasting.
Ergonomic Design of Hand Sanitizer Dispenser Stand With Foot Pedal Model
Authors: Sokhibi Akh , Alifiana Mia Ajeng , Asri Vikha Indira
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic that occurred in early 2020 until now is a new phenomenon in human life. Various sectors of life have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government has made every effort, including appealing to avoid crowds, maintain distance, wear masks, limit mobility and diligently wash hands with water or hand sanitizer. Especially for the use of hand sanitizers placed in public places, tools are needed to place hand sanitizers that by the range of dimensions of the human body. So it is necessary to design a hand sanitizer stand by considering ergonomic aspects. Methods that have been used in this research was experimental with an ergonomic approach. The object of research is the design of a hand sanitizer dispenser stands with a foot pedal model by incorporating ergonomic aspects. The data collection procedure used is anthropometric data from the Javanese community. Then the anthropometric data were tested for normality, uniformity test, and data test. The design dimensions were obtained from percentile calculations based on anthropometric data. The results showed that the height of the bottle hand sanitizer stands was 91.73 cm; the hand sanitizer stand pedal width 13.67 cm; for the hand sanitizer stand, the pedal length is 24.32 cm.
Robust Controller Numerical Design for Reinforced Concrete Structures Under Seismic Excitation Conditions
Authors: Chen Tim , Crosbie Robert C. , Anandkumarb Azita , Melville Charles , Chen J , Nguyen T
Published: June 2023

The article discusses driver optimization design issues that combine the evolution of artificial intelligence of the bat optimization algorithm with fuzzy drivers to enable practical applications in construction. The designation of system controllers includes various subsections such as initial system parameters, EB optimization algorithm, cloud controllers, stability analysis, and excitation sensors. The advantage of this design is the integrated H2 / H output of a robust strategy for certain systems with continuous and polyhedral uncertainties f or. The asymptote was obtained by adjusting the design parameters with the help of correction criteria. Numerical verification of the time and frequency domain shows the new system design to accurately predict and control the structural displacement reactions required to actively control each model structure . The Genetic Algorithm Test technique uses the Hurwitz Matrix Functional Structure hierarchy for hierarchical conditions and measures of exacerbation of effect. This article proposes any type of dynamic controller to obtain the optimal power structure required for active control of nonlinear structures. This method has shown favorable results in the resolutions of closed systems.
Increasing joy in work in UK healthcare teams: a national quality improvement collaborative
Authors: Shah Amar , Akhtar Saiqa , Ayers Tom , Bevan Rosanna , Cannon Emily , Milarski Matthew , Souza Renata , Warby Ros
Published: June 2023

In 2021, 38 healthcare teams across England and Wales took part in the national enjoying work quality improvement collaborative, which aimed to enhance staff wellbeing and create joy in work. Participating teams were supported to use quality improvement methodology and tools as part of a national learning network. At the end of the programme, 16 teams saw an improvement in at least one outcome measure, while 17 teams saw a sustained deterioration in at least one outcome measure. Aggregate data from all teams demonstrated improvements from baseline in all three outcome measures, with a 51% average improvement in the percentage of people who frequently enjoyed being at work, a 41% average improvement in the percentage of people experiencing no symptoms of burnout and a 42% average improvement in the percentage of people who were extremely likely to recommend their team as a place to work. As the first programme on this topic at a national scale, these findings provide ideas for change that can be adapted or replicated by clinical and non-clinical teams to improve their joy and wellbeing at work, and build their understanding of the barriers they may face and what is needed to overcome them. From the ideas tested and the learning from across the collaborative, a theory of change for enhancing staff wellbeing and joy in work has been created to inform future work in this area.
Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis: opportunities for understanding and research
Authors: Strain W David , Davies Shane , Chowdhury Sonya
Published: June 2023

Colleagues from the UK charity Action For M.E. discuss the overlap between long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis, and the implications of this for research into, and management of, these conditions.
Community water fluoridation: legislation and evidence base
Authors: Morris A John , Lowry Ray
Published: June 2023

With passage of the 2022 Health and Care Act, the legislation governing water fluoridation in England has changed. This article provides an overview of the changes and implications for decision-making in relation to this important public health measure and an overview of the evidence base.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article will help members of the dental team understand how fluoridation responsibilities are handled in England and the considerations around the evidence base.
The use of cone beam computed tomography in endodontic re-treatment
Authors: Caga Daniel
Published: June 2023

Radiography plays an integral role in endodontics. However, conventional radiographic techniques have limitations, such as background noise, providing only a two-dimensional representation of the image, superimposition and distortion. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides the clinician with a three-dimensional image of the structures involved in the clinical situation. When considering options for endodontic re-treatments, it is vital to identify the cause of the initial failure and here, the use of CBCT images can be beneficial. This is illustrated through an endodontic re-treatment case owing to a palatal canal missed with conventional radiographic techniques.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Cone beam computed tomography can be beneficial in cases of endodontic re-treatment.
Antioxidant Activity and Functional Components of Salvia plebeia R. Br. Extracted by Enzyme Treatment
Authors: Kim Mi Jin , Yang Hee Sun , Kim Ji Yeong , Choe Jeong-sook , Choi Ae-jin
Published: June 2023

This study selected the optimal conditions for enzyme treatment that can promote the extraction of functional components from Salvia plebeia (SP) and confirmed solubilization characteristics, functional component contents, and applicability evaluation in pilot-scale, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory activity. The optimal conditions of pectinase, 1%, and 2 h (P) were determined through the enzyme treatment of SP. The water-soluble index and total polyphenol content were the highest in P compared to 100°C reflux condition for 2 h (CON). Component analysis performed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that flavonoid contents were increased 6.6-9.5 times in the P compared to CON. There was no difference in component content when comparing the measurement lab-scale and pilot scale. CON and P indicated cytoprotective effect against H2O2-induced RAW 264.7 cells. CON and P pre-treatment also reduced the production of nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, P showed higher antioxidant and anti-inflammation activities than CON. These results suggested that P has a higher concentration of bioactive compounds through enzyme treatment than that obtained from CON. Thus, it can be used as a primary material for industrial utilization, such as developing functional food materials using SP.
Quality Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Blended Coffee with Different Extraction Methods
Authors: Kim Si-Yoon , Ahn Sun-Choung
Published: June 2023

This study measured the biochemical properties, antioxidants, free sugars, organic acids, trigonelin, chlorogenic acids, and caffeine content of coffee prepared using different extraction methods by adding dried apple powder to develop high-quality functional drinks. Espresso had the highest soluble solids content and brownness at 9.17±0.88°Brix and 1.85±0.57. Its organic acid content was higher in the sample groups than in the control group, whereas the espresso group was highest in citric acid at 2184.11±0.01 mg/mL, malic acid at 2181.35±0.03 mg/mL, fumal acid at 40.42± 0.01 mg/mL, lactic acid at 32.04±0.02 mg/mL, and formic acid at 49890 mg/mL. Additionally, it had the highest sucrose, glucose, fructose, and sorbitol contents (p<0.05). In the trigonelin content, the sample groups showed a higher content than the control group, with the order being espresso > mokapot > water drip > frenchpress > sippon > hand drip (p<0.05). In the content of chlorogenic acid and caffeine, the sample groups showed higher content than the control group, with the order of espresso > mokapot > water drip > siphon > frenchpress > hand drip (p<0.05). As a result, espresso was found to be suitable for developing coffee drinks in manufactured coffee with different extraction methods.
Plan for Imported Food Safety Management Using Imported Food Non-compliance and Global Food Hazard Information in Korea
Authors: Baek Seo Jun , Jung In Kwon , Lee Byoung Gon , Kim Jung Min , Ahn Chang Jun , Jung Hee Seok , Choi Joon Ho
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the hazard factors based on imported food non-compliance and global food hazard information for the last 4 years to suggest imported food safety management. Food safety management on utensils or packaging containers is appropriately managed for the compounds derived from them. Food safety management on health-functional foods, processed foods, and agricultural products is concentrated on ingredient contents, food additives, and pesticide residuals. Additional hazards are illegal compounds, mycotoxins & pesticide residuals, hygieneindicator microorganisms and food-borne pathogens in health-functional foods, processed foods, and agricultural products, respectively. The continuous increase in hazards related to safety and hygiene in global food hazard information needs additional attention. To reduce the hazard factors, this study proposes that imported food be limited to products certified by HACCP or an equivalent food safety management system because registering foreign food facilities for processed and health-functional foods is mandatory. Additionally, the customs clearance inspections should focus on the hazard factors derived from the global food hazard information system. This study suggests a global food hazard information system that could derive frequently issued hazard factors at a given period and newly issued hazard factors in aspects, such as food items, subcategories, and exporting countries.
Optimum Conditions for Manufacturing High-Acidity Dongchimi and its Effect on the Quality
Authors: Lim Ju Young , Choi Yun-Jeong , Kim Ye Sol , Lee Mi-Ai , Min Sung Gi
Published: June 2023

Dongchimi is one of the most representative types of watery kimchi in Korea. Although the scope of application of dongchimi has been expanded, research on the quality of dongchimi is insufficient compared to that of baechu kimchi. This study aimed to find the optimal manufacturing condition of high-acidity dongchimi and investigate the effects of potassium citrate (P) and sugar (S) on quality. Different dongchimi samples (Control, S, P) were prepared and stored at 15oC for 15 days. Among the various sugars, sucrose made the highest acidity of dongchimi. When potassium citrate was added as a pH buffer, the acidity was 2.2 times higher than the control group. In the PS group, where sucrose and potassium citrate were added, the acidity and organic acid content were 3-fold and 3.7-fold higher, respectively, than those in the control group. As a result of the analysis of the free sugar content, the metabolism of lactic acid bacteria was expected to be relatively more activated in the PS group. Therefore, this study could be utilized in the dongchimi manufacturing industry or as primary data for other dongchimi research.
Protocol for the Development of a Computerized Battery for Cross-Cultural Neuropsychological Assessment: The EMBRACED Project
Authors: Ibanez-Casas Inmaculada , Crespo Leonard Brooke , Perez-Garacia Miquel , Puente Antonio
Published: June 2023

Globalization is making our world increasingly diverse. However, the field of neuropsychological assessment hasn’t addressed this diversity appropriately and people around the world are being assessed with instruments that are not culturally adapted for them. Practitioners are using tests that were originally created for Western culture(s) to evaluate patients of all demographic backgrounds. The solution is the development of computerized cross-cultural tests, but there is no established standard procedure for creating a battery that is comprehensive, modular, psychometrically robust, easy to use, free, and culturally salient. The EMBRACED battery is intended to be exactly that. The protocol for its development followed strict, evidence-based scientific methods for the determination of all its neuropsychological domains, their relevant constructs, and the best tasks to measure them; the tasks and stimuli are also computerized. The EMBRACED battery is user-friendly, cost-effective, and patient-guided. The preliminary results obtained to date show that culture has a significant effect on neuropsychological test performance, with bias in favor of Western populations. Our field has an ethical responsibility to improve our instruments, increase fairness in testing, and to fight for social justice around the world, which is precisely the aim of the EMBRACED project.
5G/6G optical fronthaul modeling: cost and energy consumption assessment
Authors: Fayad Abdulhalim , Cinkler Tibor , Rak Jacek
Published: June 2023

In fifth generatin (5G) and the future beyond 5G (6G) radio access networks (RANs), the cost of fronthaul deployment is a main challenge for mobile network operators. Depending on different constraints, there are various solutions to deploy an efficient fronthaul. Fiber-optic-based fronthaul offers long-term support with regard to a rapid increase in capacity demands. When fiber connections, either point-to-point (P2P) or point-to-multipoint [i.e., passive optical networks (PONs)], are not available due to economic or geographical constraints, new optical fronthaul solutions such as free space optics (FSO) can be applied. Before deploying any optical fronthaul architecture, mobile operators must assess its impact on the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the network (i.e., capital and operational expenditures). To assist operators in choosing the most cost-effective fronthaul architecture, in this paper, we show how to evaluate the TCO of 5G and beyond RANs while taking various fronthaul architectures (P2P, PON, and hybrid PON-FSO) into consideration. Furthermore, this paper answers the question of how much energy is needed to run a network using each of the considered optical fronthaul architectures. To do so, we propose a holistic framework based on an integer linear program that minimizes the TCO of the network. Furthermore, we propose a heuristic algorithm to solve large-sized problems. We run simulations to compare different fronthaul architectures for two deployment areas: dense and sparse.
Backward multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman (CARS) spectroscopic imaging with electron-multiplying CCD (EM-CCD) camera
Authors: MURAKAMI YUSUKE , Yoshimura Minami , Klement W.J. , Oda Atsuki , Sakamoto Ryo , Yakabe Miho , Matsumoto Atsushi , Oketani Ryosuke , Leproux Philippe , Ikenouchi Junichi , Browne Wesley , Kano Hideaki
Published: June 2023

A multiplex CARS imaging system, equipped with an EM-CCD camera, was developed to improve the sensitivity of backward CARS imaging in biological analysis using an inverted microscope. The signal-to-noise ratio was improved by a factor of ca. 3 compared to a conventional CCD mode through the use of EM gain. When imaging cultured epithelial cells in the backward CARS configuration, intracellular organelles such as lipid droplets and nuclei were spectroscopically identified with an exposure time of only 100 ms/pixel.
A wavelength-dependent extinction coefficient model for multispectral image defogging
Authors: Liu Yu , huang feng , Ke Chaozhen , Wu Xianyu , Guo Cuixia
Published: June 2023

Most of the state-of-the-art defogging models presented in the literature assume that the attenuation coefficient of all spectral channels is a constant, which inevitably leads to spectral distortion and information bias. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel defogging method that takes into account the difference between the extinction coefficients of multispectral channels of light traveling through fog. Then the spatially distributed transmission map of each spectral channel is reconstructed to restore the fog-degraded images. The experimental results of various realistic complex scenes show that the proposed method has outstanding advantages in restoring lost detail, compensating for degraded spectral information, and recognizing targets hidden in dense fog. In addition, this work provides a rare method to characterize the intrinsic property of fog expressed as multispectral relative extinction coefficients, which act as a fundament for further reconstruction of multispectral information.
BRCA germline mutations in multiethnic gynecologic patients: A 10-year retrospective analysis from a single cancer institute
Authors: Wei Christina H. , Shehayeb Susan , Santiago Nicole Lugo , Kruper Laura , Han Ernest , Wang Edward , Cristea Mihaela , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Lorna , Yost Susan E. , Stewart Daphne
Published: June 2023

Histologic and genetic mutation information from racially and ethnically diverse populations is warranted to better inform future cancer predisposition and promote health equity. A single institutional, retrospective capture of patients with gynecologic conditions and genetic susceptibilities to malignant neoplasms of the breast or ovaries was performed. This was achieved with manual curation of the electronic medical record (EMR) from 2010–2020 with the use of ICD-10 code searches. Among 8983 consecutive women identified with gynecologic conditions, 184 were diagnosed with pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) germline BRCA (gBRCA) mutations. Median age was 54 (22–90). Mutations included insertion/deletion (majority frameshift, 57.4%), substitution (32.4%), large structural rearrangement (5.4%), and alteration in splice site/intronic sequence (4.7%). A total of 48% were non-Hispanic White, 32% Hispanic or Latino, 13% Asian, 2% Black, and 5% Other. The most common pathology was high grade serous carcinoma (HGSC, 63%), followed by unclassified/high grade carcinoma (13%). Additional multigene panels led to the detection of 23 additional BRCA-positive patients with germline co-mutations and/or variants of uncertain significance in genes functionally involved in DNA repair mechanisms. Hispanic or Latino and Asian individuals comprised 45% of patients with concomitant gynecologic condition and gBRCA positivity in our cohort, confirming that germline mutations are represented across racial and ethnic groups. Insertion/deletion mutations, the majority of which led to a frameshift change, occurred in approximately half of our patient cohort, which may have prognostic implication for therapy resistance. Prospective studies are needed to unravel the significance of germline co-mutations in gynecologic patients.
Sex differences in hepatitis A incidence rates–a multi-year pooled-analysis based on national data from nine high-income countries
Authors: Green Manfred S. , Schwartz Naama , Peer Victoria
Published: June 2023

Background

Possible sex differences in hepatitis A virus (HAV) incidence rates in different age groups are not well documented. We aimed to obtain stable pooled estimates of such differences based on data from a number of high-income countries.

Methods

We obtained data on incident cases of HAV by sex and age group over a period of 6–25 years from nine countries: Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Israel, Netherland, New Zealand and Spain. Male to female incidence rate ratios (IRR) were computed for each year, by country and age group. For each age group, we used meta-analytic methods to combine the IRRs. Meta-regression was conducted to estimate the effects of age, country, and time period on the IRR.

Results

A male excess in incidence rates was consistently observed in all age groups, although in the youngest and oldest age groups, where the numbers tended to be lower, the lower bounds of the 95% confidence intervals for the IRRs were less than one. In the age groups <1, 1–4, 5–9, 10–14, 15–44, 45–64 and 65+, the pooled IRRs (with 95% CI) over countries and time periods were 1.18 (0.94,1.48), 1.22 (1.16,1.29), 1.07 (1.03,1.11), 1.09 (1.04,1.14), 1.46 (1.30,1.64), 1.32 (1.15,1.51) and 1.10 (0.99,1.23) respectively.

Conclusions

The excess HAV incidence rates in young males, pooled over a number of countries, suggest that the sex differences are likely to be due at least in part to physiological and biological differences and not just behavioral factors. At older ages, differential exposure plays an important role. These findings, seen in the context of the excess incidence rates in young males for many other infectious diseases, can provide further keys to the mechanisms of the infection.
Severe fluctuation in mean perfusion pressure is associated with increased risk of in-hospital mortality in critically ill patients with central venous pressure monitoring: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Peng Yudie , Wu Buyun , Xing Changying , Mao Huijuan
Published: June 2023

Background

The mean perfusion pressure (MPP) was recently proposed to personalize tissue perfusion pressure management in critically ill patients. Severe fluctuation in MPP may be associated with adverse outcomes. We sought to determine if higher MPP variability was correlated with increased mortality in critically ill patients with CVP monitoring.

Methods

We designed a retrospective observational study and analyzed data stored in the eICU Collaborative Research Database. Validation test was conducted in MIMIC-III database. The exposure was the coefficient of variation (CV) of MPP in the primary analyses, using the first 24 hours MPP data recorded within 72 hours in the first ICU stay. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 6,111 patients were included. The in-hospital mortality of 17.6% and the median MPP-CV was 12.3%. Non-survivors had significantly higher MPP-CV than survivors (13.0% vs 12.2%, p<0.001). After accounting for confounders, the highest MPP-CV in decile (CV > 19.2%) were associated with increased risk of hospital mortality compared with those in the fifth and sixth decile (adjusted OR: 1.38, 95% Cl: 1.07–1.78). These relationships remained remarkable in the multiple sensitivity analyses. The validation test with 4,153 individuals also confirmed the results when MPP-CV > 21.3% (adjusted OR: 1.46, 95% Cl: 1.05–2.03).

Conclusions

Severe fluctuation in MPP was associated with increased short-term mortality in critically ill patients with CVP monitoring.
The association between bedtime at night and diabetes in US adults: Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015-March -2020 pre-pandemic
Authors: Ouyang Shayuan , Su Yinghua , Ding Ning , Su Yingjie , He Liudang
Published: June 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between bedtime at night and the risk of diabetes in adults.

Methods

We extracted data from 14,821 target subjects from the NHANES database for a cross-sectional study. The data on bedtime came from the question in the sleep questionnaire: “What time do you usually fall asleep on weekdays or workdays?”. Diabetes was defined as fasting blood sugar ≥ 126mg/dL, or glycohemoglobin ≥ 6.5%, or 2-hour Oral Glucose Tolerance Test blood sugar ≥ 200mg/dL, or taking hypoglycemic agent and insulin, or self-reported diabetes mellitus. A weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between bedtime at night and diabetes in adults.

Results

From 19:00 to 23:00, a significantly negative association can be found between bedtime and diabetes(OR, 0.91 [95%CI, 0.83, 0.99]). From 23:00 to 02:00, The relationship between the two was positive(OR, 1.07 [95%CI, 0.94, 1.22]), nevertheless, the P values was not statistically significant(p = 0.3524). In subgroup analysis, from 19:00–23:00, the relationship was negative across genders, and in males, the P-values were still statistically significant(p = 0.0414). From 23:00–02:00, the relationship was positive across genders.

Conclusion

Earlier bedtime (before 23:00) increased the risk of developing diabetes. And this effect was not significantly different between male and female. For bedtime between 23:00–2:00, there was a trend of increasing the risk of diabetes as the bedtime was delayed.
Implementation of hybrid optimized battery controller and advanced power management control strategy in a renewable energy integrated DC microgrid
Authors: Al sumarmad Khaizaran , Sulaiman Nasri , Abdul Wahab Noor Izzri , Hizam Hashim
Published: June 2023

In Renewable Energy (RE) integrated DC Microgrid (MG), the intermittency of power variation from RE sources can lead to power and voltage imbalances in the DC network and have an impact on the MG’s operation in terms of reliability, power quality, and stability. In such case, a battery energy storage (BES) technology is widely used for mitigating power variation from the RE sources to get better voltage regulation and power balance in DC network. In this study, a BES based coordinated power management control strategy (PMCS) is proposed for the MG system to get effective utilization of RE sources while maintaining the MG’s reliability and stability. For safe and effective utilization of BES, a battery management system (BMS) with inclusion of advanced BES control strategy is implemented. The BES control system with optimized FOPI controllers using hybrid (atom search optimization and particle swarm optimization (ASO-PSO)) optimization technique is proposed to get improved overall performance in terms of control response and voltage regulation in DC network under the random change in load profile and uncertain conditions of RE sources in real time.
Examination of water quality at the household level and its association with diarrhea among young children in Ghana: Results from UNICEF-MICS6 survey
Authors: Husein Mohammed , Nounkeu Carole Debora , Armah Seth , Dharod Jigna M.
Published: June 2023

Ghana has made significant progress in expanding water services, but microbial contamination of water is still a major public health problem. The objectives of the study were to: 1) Examine sociodemographic and water access related predictors for the point of use or drinking water quality among rural and urban households, and; 2) Determine the association between the point of use water quality and prevalence of diarrhea among young children in rural and urban households. A secondary data analysis was carried out using the Ghana UNICEF-MICS6 survey taking into account the complex survey design. Logistic regression models were used to carry out the objectives. Among the 2317 households included for water quality testing, majority reported using improved source of drinking water. However, use of unimproved source of water was more common among rural households. In examining water quality at the point of use, it was found that more than 60% of the samples had mid to high levels of E. coli count, with significantly more common among rural compared to urban households (p < .0001). The prevalence of diarrhea among under 5 children was 16.9%. In estimating the risk, E. coli count was not associated with higher diarrhea prevalence. However in urban areas, water storage was associated with increased risk of caregiver-reported diarrhea in children. Also, other factors such as child’s age, maternal education, region and household wealth index predicted diarrhea prevalence. In Ghana, contaminated point of use drinking water is more common in rural household, and in urban areas, water storage is associated with increased risk of caregiver-reported diarrhea in children. In the future, investigation of living condition and environmental hygiene is warranted to further understand different pathways through which risk of diarrhea increases among children.