bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Pericardial Fat on Left Ventricular Diastolic Function
Authors: Duarte Hugo , Alcafache Carlos , Coelho Patricia , Rodrigues Francisco
Published: December 2023

Background: Heart failure is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide; left ventricular diastolic dysfunction plays a leading role in this clinical context. Diastolic dysfunction may be predisposed by increased abdominal fat and, consequently, increased pericardial and epicardial adiposity. This study aimed to determine whether pericardial and epicardial fat are associated with left ventricular diastolic function. Methods: 82 patients had their abdominal circumference measured and underwent transthoracic echocardiography to measure the thickness of pericardial and epicardial fat and assess the left ventricular diastolic function. Two groups were created based on mean pericardial fat thickness (4.644 mm) and were related to abdominal circumference and echocardiographic parameters. Results: Subjects in the PF High group showed a significant decrease in septal e' (p<0.0001), lateral e' (p<0.0001) and E/A ratio (p=0.003) and a significant increase in E/e' ratio (p<0. 0001), E wave deceleration time (p=0. 013), left atrial volume (p<0.0001), LV mass (p=0.003), tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (p<0.0001) and LV diameter (p=0.014) compared to the PF Low group. Conclusions: Measurement of abdominal circumference, pericardial and epicardial fat is an early indicator of diastolic changes with transthoracic echocardiography being the gold standard exam.
Ferrocene-Containing Gallic Acid Derivative Modified Carbon Nanotubes Electrode for Fast and Simple Simultaneous or Selective Detection of Cytostatic from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Ilies Sorina , Andelescu Adelina , Visan Alexandru , Baciu Anamaria , Szerb Elisabeta I. , Manea Florica
Published: December 2023

In this work, a ferrocene-containing gallic acid derivative modified carbon nanotubes paste electrode (Gal-Fc-CNT) obtained by simple mechanical mixing was studied for fast simultaneous voltammetric detection of doxorubicin (DOX), capecitabine (CPB) and cyclophosphamide (CPP) as cytostatic index by cumulative signal and selective detection of DOX. The electrochemical behaviors of individual and simultaneous DOX, CPB and CPP studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) on Gal-Fc-CNT electrode at various pHs and potential ranges allowed the development of simple simultaneous detection method as cytostatic index at pH of 12 using square-wave voltammetry technique operated at modulation amplitude of 100 mV, step potential of 4 mV, frequency of 25 Hz and 100 mV·s−1 potential scan rate that allowed better performance than reported electrodes. Faster and selective detection of DOX with the lowest limit of detection of 75 ng⸱L-1 was achieved using square-wave voltammetry technique operated at modulation amplitude of 100 mV, step potential of 4 mV, frequency of 50 Hz and 200 mV·s−1 potential scan rate. The good results obtained for real tap water assessment indicated the utility of Gal-Fc-CNT paste electrode for practical applications (water samples, pharmaceutical formulations).
Efficient Decolorization of the Poly-Azo Dye Sirius Grey by Laccase-Mediator System: Process Optimization and Toxicity Assessment
Authors: Zouari-Mechichi Héla , Benali Jihen , Alessa Abdulrahman H. , Hadrich Bilel , Mechichi Tahar
Published: December 2023

The textile industry produces high volumes of colored effluents that require multiple treatments to remove non-adsorbed dyes which could be recalcitrant due to their complex chemical structure. Most of the studies have dealt with the biodegradation of mono or diazo dyes but rarely with poly-azo dyes. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to study the biodegradation of a four azo-bond dye (Sirius grey) and to optimize its decolorization conditions. Laccase-containing cell free supernatant from the culture of a newly isolated fungal strain, Coriolopsis gallica strain BS9, was used in the presence of 1-hydroxybenzotriazol (HBT) to optimize the dye decolorization conditions. A Box-Benken design with 4 factors namely: pH, enzyme concentration, HBT concentration and dye concentration, was performed to determine optimal conditions for the decolorization of Sirius grey. The optimal conditions were pH 5, 1 U/mL of laccase, 1 mM of HBT, and 50 mg/L of initial dye concentration ensuring a decolorization yield and rate of 87.56 % and 2.95 %/min respectively. Decolorized dye solution showed a decrease of its phytotoxicity (Germination index GI = 80 %) compared to the non-treated solution (GI = 29 %).
This study suggests that laccase-mediator system could be a promising alternative for dyes removal from textile wastewaters.
Breathing Pattern Response after 6-Week of Inspiratory Muscle Training during Exercise
Authors: Salazar-Martínez Eduardo
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: During physical exercise, ventilation (VE) adapts to the intensity and characteris-tics of the effort. The breathing pattern is defined as the relationship between the tidal volume (VT) and breathing frequency (BF) for a given VE. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether inspiratory muscle training influenced the response of the breathing pattern during an incremen-tal effort in amateur cyclists. (2) Methods: 18 amateur cyclists completed an incremental test to exhaustion with gas analysis on a cycle ergometer and spirometry. Cyclists were randomly as-signed to two groups (IMTG=9; CON=9). The IMT group completed 6 weeks of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) using a PowerBreathe K3® device at 50% of the maximum inspiratory pressure (Pimax). The workload was adjusted weekly. After the 6-week intervention, the cyclists repeated the incremental exercise test with gas analysis and spirometry. The response of the breathing pat-tern was evaluated during the incremental exercise test. (3) Results: Pimax increased in the IMTG (p<0.05; +19.62%). Variables related to the breathing pattern response showed no differences be-tween groups after the intervention (EXPvsCON; p>0.05). Likewise, no differences were found in the IMTG after training (PREvsPOST; p>0.05). (4) Conclusions: IMT improved the strength of in-spiratory muscles and sports performance in amateur cyclists. These changes were not attributed to alterations in the response of the breathing pattern.
Simultaneous Detection of Amylose and Amylopectin Content of Foxtail Millet Flour with Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Wang Guoliang , Xue Hongtao , Guo Erhu , Chen Xinxia , Zhang Aiying
Published: December 2023

Foxtail millet, a traditional cereal crop, has gained increasing attention for its high nutritional value and potential health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the simultaneous and rapid detection of amylose and amylopectin content of foxtail millet flour under different sheep manure application rates by hyperspectral imaging combined with chemometrics. The spectral data preprocessing used multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), and the combined algorithm of competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), random frog (RF), iterated retaining informative variables (IRIV) were employed for key band extraction. The partial least squares regression (PLSR) was then used to establish the prediction model and the regression equation, that was used to visualize the two components. Results demonstrated the key band extraction combined algorithm effectively reduced data dimension without compromising the accuracy of the prediction model. The prediction model for amylose using MSC-RF-IRIV-PLSR exhibited good performance, with the correlation coefficient (R) and root mean square error (RMSE) predicted to be 0.73 and 1.23, respectively. Similarly, the prediction model for amylopectin using MSC-CARS-IRIV-PLSR also demonstrated good performance, with the R and RMSE predicted to be 0.59 and 7.34, respectively. Then, the visualization graph generated clearly shows under the condition of applying 6 m3 of sheep manure, the amount of amylopectin accumulation was highest, and the amount of amylose was lowest. The experimental results offer valuable insights for the rapid detection of nutritional components in foxtail millet, serving as a basis for further research.
Is the Special Relativity Compatible with Einstein’s Static Universe? Proposal for New “Generic” Transformations. The Twin Paradox.
Authors: Ramírez José Gabriel
Published: December 2023

Albert Einstein, shortly after publishing his General Relativity Theory (GRT) applied it to the entire universe in a paper of 1917. Einstein assumed that such a universe was static in time and possessed a uniform distribution of matter on the largest scales, obtaining a static and finite universe of spherical spatial curvature of radius R. Although this model was refuted by Edwin Hubble's discovery of the expansion of the universe, it is still often studied as a theoretical framework for some problems, such as the twin paradox. This paper will show that Einstein's static universe model leads to a privileged frame of reference, so that any observer moving at the speed v will be able to measure speeds of light other than c depending on the direction of beam transmission. The above will refute the validity of the application to this closed and static universe of the Special Relativity Theory (SRT) proposed by Einstein in 1905 in his article . In addition, a new synchronization convention and new coordinate transformations will be deduced, the "generic" transformations, which will replace those of Lorentz. Finally, the twin paradox in this universe will be solved by making use of them.
The Thirty-Fifth Anniversary of K+ Channels in O2 Sensing: What We Know and What We Don’t Know.
Authors: Rocher Asuncion , Aaronson Philip Irving
Published: December 2023

On the thirty-fifth anniversary of the first description of O2-sensitive K+ channels in the carotid body chemoreceptors [1], O2 sensing remains a salient issue in the literature. Whereas much has been learned about this subject, important questions such as the identity of the specific K+ channel subtype(s) responsible for O2 sensing by chemoreceptors and the mechanism(s) by which their activities are altered by hypoxia have not yet been definitively answered. O2 sensing is a fundamental biological process necessary for the acute and chronic responses to varying environmental O2 levels which allow organisms to adapt to hypoxia. Whereas chronic responses depend on the modulation of hypoxia-inducible transcription factors which determine the expression of numerous genes encoding enzymes, transporters and growth factors, acute responses rely mainly on the dynamic modulation of ion channels by hypoxia, causing adaptive changes in cell excitability, contractility, and secretory activity in specialized tissues. The most widely studied oxygen-sensitive ion channels are potassium channels but oxygen sensing by members of both the calcium and sodium channel families has also been demonstrated. Given the explosion of information on this topic, in this review we will focus on the mechanisms of physiological oxygen chemotransduction by PO2-dependent K+ channels, with particular emphasis on their function in carotid body chemoreceptor cells (CBCC) and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC), highlighting areas of consensus and controversy within the field. We will first describe the most well-established concepts, those reproduced in multiple laboratories, and then discuss selected observations or questions that remain unresolved, and that limit our progress in this field.
Supporting Telemedicine and Community Welfare through Automated Drug Delivery Systems with UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) and IoT (Internet of Things) Technology: A Case Study in KLU Area
Authors: Arianty Alya Dwi , Winaryati Eny
Published: December 2023

This research focuses on the development of an automated medication delivery system using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) to support telemedicine and community welfare in the KLU region. The system is designed to improve the quality of medical services and medication management for the community in the area. One of the main challenges faced is how the KLU community responds and accepts automatic medication delivery using UAVs and IoT. To overcome this challenge, this research suggests providing education and training to the community about the benefits and usage of the system, as well as displaying a working simulation of the system to the community.
IRS Backscatter Based Secrecy Enhancement against Active Eavesdropping
Authors: Miao Yuanyuan , Shao Yu , Zhang Jie
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes to combat active eavesdropping by intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) backscatter techniques. To be specific, the source (Alice) sends the confidential information to the intended user (Bob), while the eavesdropper (Willie) transmits jamming signal to interrupt the transmission for more data interception. To enhance the secrecy, an IRS is deployed and connected with Alice through fiber to transform the jamming signal into the confidential signal by employing backscatter techniques. Based on the considered model, an optimization problem is formulated to maximize signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) at Bob under the constraints of the transmit power at Alice, the reflection vector at the IRS and the allowable maximum SINR at Willie. To address the optimization problem, an alternate optimization algorithm is developed. The simulation results verify the achievable secrecy gain of the proposed scheme.
Deep Learning Improves Accuracy of Laparoscopic Imaging Classification for Endometriosis Diagnosis
Authors: Nifora Chrysa , Chasapi Lamprini , Chasapi Maria-Konstantina , Koutsojannis Constantinos
Published: December 2023

PurposeThe purpose of this research was the development and evaluation of an intelligent assistive classification system for the recognition of endometriosis and the improvement of the accuracy of laparoscopic imaging in diagnosis. The research was developed with the use of Deep Learning approaches. Methods Data from 4448 laparoscopy images were used in a retrospective chart analysis. The data were divided into two folders, healthy and pathological including 2157 healthy and 2291 pathological images. Based on simple clinical and imaging information and criteria such as the diagnosis of endometriosis (included in an open-source dataset GLENDA of Kaggle repository), data mining algorithms were used to improve laparoscopic imaging accuracy. Results The final developed computer system based on the ResNet50 algorithm predicted the best outcome for all participants who had laparoscopic surgical therapy. The Keras tool was used and the generated code was implemented in Python programming language providing a mean accuracy of > 95 %. Conclusion The intelligent approach revealed better performance than the commonly used imaging criteria in predicting endometriosis improving the time and the total accuracy of diagnostic approaches.
Model Based Optimization of Energy Consumption in Milk Evaporators
Authors: Tsochatzidi Artemis , Arvanitidis Achilleas L. , Georgiadis Michael C.
Published: December 2023

This work explores five falling film evaporator (FFE) simulation approaches combined with energy consumption minimization strategies, namely Mechanical Vapor Recompression and Thermal Vapor Recompression (MVR and TVR respectively). Global system analysis and advanced dynamic optimization strategies are then investigated to minimize steam consumption, the cost of steam, the total annualized cost and maximizing product yield. The results indicate that a higher TVR discharge pressure, or MVR compression ratios, along with higher feed temperatures enhance evaporation with but increase operational costs. The most economic option includes three evaporator effects with TVR for achieving 50% product dry mass content. However, for a 35% dry mass content, MVR becomes cost-effective with an 11% reduction in unit electricity prices or a simultaneous 7% drop in electricity prices and a 5% increase in gas-based steam prices. Furthermore, switching from milk powder production to milk concentrates, an annual cost reduction ranging from 10.75 to 44% is achieved. Also, a forecasted 20% (or more) reduction of biomass-based steam cost can lead to lower annual expenditure comparing with the nominal NG-based steam Case. Regarding the total annualized cost, for a new plant design, optimization strategies lead to a 9 - 45% reduction in the total cost depending on the Case under consideration.
Mucocutaneous Manifestations Reported by Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients in University Hospital
Authors: Jonaitytė Ieva Renata , Karpavičiūtė Vita , Kiudelis Gediminas , Kupčinskas Juozas , Jonaitis Laimas
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may affect organs outside the intestines, it is called extraintestinal manifestations of IBD. Data on the prevalence of mucocutaneous manifestations in IBD patients are very limited, therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of skin and mucosal lesions and to determine the relationship with demographic factors, clinical features, and systemic treatment. Materials and Methods: Prospective study included 162 out-patients with IBD who were managed in the tertiary care center. Ulcerative colitis (UC) was diagnosed in 117 patients, Crohn's disease (CD) in 45. Patients completed the questionnaire containing demographic and IBD data, questions about mucocutaneous lesions (in past or present state). Results: Skin lesions were reported by 40.7% of patients, oral mucosal lesions were reported by 16.7%, without significant differences between sexes or IBD types. In 47 (29%) of patients, skin lesions appeared together with IBD or during the course of the disease. The most common skin lesions were psoriasis (8.0%), erythema nodosum (5.6%), pyoderma gangrenosum and acne (3.7% each). UC patients mostly reported about psoriasis (9.4%), while CD patients – erythema nodosum (11.1%). There were more frequent skin lesions in patients with more extensive UC type (p = 0.01), while no difference was noticed between different types of CD. The average duration of IBD in patients with skin lesions was similar to those without lesions (9.3±6.7 vs. 9.4±6.7 years). Conclusions: Mucocutaneous lesions were reported by 48.8% of inflammatory bowel disease patients. The frequency of mucocutaneous lesions does not differ significantly between UC and CD, and a longer duration of illness is not a predictive factor for the appearance of lesions. More extensive UC is related to higher frequency of skin lesions.
Review of the Brain Behaviour after Injury and Disease for Its Application in an Agent Based Model (ABM)
Authors: Irastorza Varela Luis , Benítez Baena José María , Montans Francisco , Saucedo-Mora Luis
Published: December 2023

The brain being arguably the most complex organ in the human body, its detailed functioning is yet to be fully deciphered, let alone accurately modeled. Nonetheless, the medical community has gathered quite a remarkable amount of studies about the consequences of illnesses and injuries on its development and functioning. This bibliographic review aims to cover mostly the findings related to the changes in the physical distribution of neurons and their connections - the connectome -, both structural and functional, as well as their modelling. It does not intend to offer an extensive medical description of all injuries and diseases affecting the brain, rather presenting the most common ones succinctly so the need for accurate brain modelling can be fully understood and pondered, offering propositions to this aim.
Cellular Biophysical Markers for Rapid Evaluation of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Radioimmunotherapy Against Glioblastomas
Authors: Ibironke Bayode , Machida Kylie , Khan Arij , Hughes Jayce , Schwengler Melanie , Benoit Allison , Jank Erika , Hubbard Anne , Walter Yohan , Ekpenyong Andrew
Published: December 2023

Cancers of the brain and nervous system account for 1 in every 100 cancer diagnoses in the United States and about 0.3 million diagnoses globally, every year. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemo-therapy constitute the standard of care. Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment delivery, mortality rate for these cancers have remained steady for over three decades. Immunotherapy is an emerging fourth treatment modality which has been effective against several cancers but not brain cancers, such as glioblastoma, GBM. Here, we develop in vitro assays to quantify molecular readouts of cell death, cell migration and clonogenicity, and synopsize these as biophysical markers for the rapid evaluation of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), durvalumab and pembrolizumab, alone and in combination with radiotherapy (radioimmunotherapy). We find different trends in their direct action on two GBM cell lines (T98G and U87), even in the absence of immune cells. Radiation alone, and pembrolizumab with radiation, both reduced (p < 0.05) cell-cell adhesion. This reduction suggests increased potential for local invasion. Our assays offer additional insights regarding ICIs, may enable evaluation of their potential efficacy, and could set the stage for pa-tient-specific radioimmunotherapy against brain cancers, engendering improved treatment out-comes.
Development and Validation of a Compressible Reacting Gas-Dynamic Flow Solver for Supersonic Combustion
Authors: Gilmanov Anvar , Gokulakrishnan Ponnuthurai , Klassen Michael S
Published: December 2023

An approach based on the OpenFOAM library has been developed to solve a high-speed, multicomponent mixture of a reacting, compressible flow. This work presents comprehensive validation of the newly developed solver called compressibleCentralReactingFoam with different supersonic flows, including shocks, expansion waves, and turbulence-combustion interaction. The comparisons of the simulation results with experimental and computational data confirm the fidelity of this solver for problems involving multicomponent high-speed reactive flows. The gas dynamics of turbulence-chemistry interaction are modeled using a partially-stirred reactor formulation and provide promising results to better understand the complex physics involved in supersonic combustors. A time-scale analysis based on local Damköhler numbers reveals different regimes of turbulent combustion. In the core of the jet flow, the Damköhler number is relatively high indicating that the reaction time scale is smaller than the turbulent mixing time scale. This means that the combustion is controlled by turbulent mixing. In the shear layer, where the heat release rate and the scalar dissipation rate have the highest value, the flame is stabilized due to finite rate chemistry with small Damköhler numbers and a high fraction of fine structure. This solver allows three-dimensional gas dynamic simulation of high-speed multicomponent reactive flows relevant to practical combustion applications.
Crystallization Behavior of Na2O-GeO2-P2O5 Glass System: (Micro)Structural, Electrical, and Dielectric Study
Authors: Marijan Sara , Razum Marta , Sklepić Kerhač Kristina , Mošner Petr , Koudelka Ladislav , Pisk Jana , Moguš-Milanković Andrea , Skoko Željko , Pavić Luka
Published: December 2023

Sodium-phosphate-based glass-ceramics (GCs) are promising materials for a wide range of applications, including solid-state sodium-ion batteries, microelectronic packaging substrates, and humidity sensors. This study investigates the impact of 24-hour heat-treatments at varying temperatures on Na-Ge-P glass, with a focus on (micro)structural, electrical, and dielectric properties of prepared GCs. Various techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflection (IR-ATR), and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) are employed. With the elevation of heat-treatment temperature, crystallinity progressively rises; at 450 °C, the microstructure retains amorphous traits featuring nanometric grains, whereas at 550 °C, heat-treatment results in fully crystallized structures characterized by square-shaped micron-scale grains of NaPO3. The insight into the evaluation of electrical and dielectric properties is provided by Solid-State Impedance Spectroscopy (SS-IS), revealing a strong correlation with the conditions of controlled crystallization and observed (micro)structure. The glass-ceramic heat-treated at 450 °C achieves the highest DC conductivity of 2.30×10–8 Ω–1 cm–1 at 393 K. As the heat-treatment temperature rises, the crystallization of the NaPO3 phase depletes the glass matrix of mobile Na+ ions, resulting in a reduction in DC conductivity. Dielectric parameters also decrease with rising heat-treatment temperature, with the glass-ceramic heat-treated at 550 °C displaying the lowest permittivity of 19.37 and the dielectric loss of 0.008. This research uncovers the intricate relationship between heat-treatment conditions and material properties, emphasizing that controlled crystallization allows for precise modifications to microstructure and phase composition within remaining glassy phase, ultimately facilitating fine-tuning of material properties.
The Protective Role of Canopy Cover against Cork Oak Decline in the Face of Climate Change
Authors: Ribeiro João , Camilo-Alves Constança , Ribeiro Nuno
Published: December 2023

Cork oak mortality has reached alarming proportions in the last decades, exacerbated by climate change. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial in finding mitigation or adaptation strategies. This study conducts a diachronic analysis of cork oak mortality over 10 years using GIS tools, focusing on Portugal's Tagus Lezíria region. Topographic, edaphic and climatic variables were employed to create maps of edaphoclimatic aptitude for cork oaks. Dead trees were identified using remote sensing techniques and crown coverage was determined to calculate the mortality index. The diachronic analysis aimed to explore climate change effects on cork oak mortality. A decrease in precipitation was observed, significantly impacting stands with canopy cover below 40%. Furthermore, a negative effect of solar radiation identified only in stands with canopy cover of 40% suggested its role in cork oak decline. This study introduces a novel perspective, highlighting the protective effect of denser canopy cover (above 40%) against excessive solar radiation and the impact of reduced precipitation. The integrated and diachronic approach provides valuable information for adapting management strategies to climate change challenges.
Detection of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) Producing Enterobacteriaceae from Diseased Broiler Chickens in Lusaka District, Zambia
Authors: Chileshe Chikwanda , Shawa Misheck , Phiri Nelson , Ndebe Joseph , Khumalo Sipho , Nakajima Chie , Masahiro Kajihara , Higasi Hideaki , Sawa Hirofumi , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Muleya Walter , Hang'ombe Bernard
Published: December 2023

: Poultry products in Zambia form an integral part of the human diet in many households, as they are cheap and easy to produce. The burden of poultry diseases has, however, remained a major challenge. Growing consumer demand for poultry products in Zambia has resulted in non-prudent antimicrobial use on farms, intending to prevent and treat poultry diseases for growth optimization and maximising profits. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the different types of bacteria causing diseases in chickens in Lusaka and to detect the extended-spectrum-lactamase (ESBL)-encoding genes. We collected 215 samples from 91 diseased chickens at three post-mortem facilities and screened them for gram-negative bacteria. Of these samples, 103 tested positive for various clinically relevant Enterobacteriaceae, including Enterobacter (43/103, 41.7%), Escherichia coli (20/103, 19.4%), Salmonella (10/103, 9.7%), and Shigella (8/103, 7.8%). Other isolated bacteria included Yersinia, Morganella, Proteus, and Klebsiella, which accounted for 21.4%. E. coli, Enterobacter, Salmonella, and Shigella were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The results revealed that E. coli, Enterobacter, and shigella were highly resistant to tetracycline, ampicillin, amoxicillin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, while Salmonella showed complete susceptibility to all antibiotics. The observed resistance patterns correlated with antimicrobial usage estimated from sales data from a large-scale wholesale and retail company. Six (6/14, 42.9%) E. coli isolates tested positive for blaCTX-M, whilst eight (8/14, 57.1%) Enterobacter samples tested positive for blaTEM. Interestingly, four (4/6, 66.7%) of the E. coli isolates carrying blaCTX-M-positive strains were also positive for blaTEM. Sanger sequencing of the PCR products revealed that five (5/6,83.3%) of the abovementioned isolates possessed the blaCTX-M-15 allele. The results suggest the presence of potentially pathogenic ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in poultry, threatening public health. Keywords:. Enterobacteriaceae, blaCTX-M, blaTEM
Evaluating a 3D Ultrasound Imaging Resolution of Single Transmitter/Receiver with Coding Mask by Extracting Phase Information
Authors: Syaryadhi Mohammad , Nakazawa Eiko , Tagawa Norio , Yang Ming
Published: December 2023

We are currently investigating the ultrasound imaging of a sensor consisting of a randomized encoding mask attached to a single lead zirconate titanate (PZT) oscillator for use in a puncture microscope. The proposed model was performed using a finite element method (FEM) simulator. To increase the number of measurements required by a single element system, the transducer was rotated at different angles. The image was constructed by solving a linear equation of the image model. In a previous study, the image resolution was improved by extracting phase information. In this study, we propose a strategy by integrating the weighted frequency subbands compound and a super resolution method (SCM) to improve the resolution in range and lateral resolution. We also evaluated the image performance by applying different methods to improve the image quality. The results show that better image resolution and speckle suppression were obtained by applying the proposed method.
Experimental Evaluation of a Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Controller for an EV3 Ballbot System
Authors: Enemegio Rodolfo , Jurado Francisco , Villanueva-Tavira Jonathan
Published: December 2023

In this paper, experimental results about the performance of a Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Controller (TSFC) for an EV3 Ballbot Robotic System (EV3BRS) are reported. The physical configuration for the EV3BRS has the form of an inverted pendulum mounted on a ball. The EV3BRS is an underactuated robotic system with four outputs and two control torques. The Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Model (TSFM) design comes from linearization of the nonlinear model around two operation points near from the upright position of the EV3BRS's body. The Parallel Distributed Compensation (PDC) approach is used to the design of the TSFC. The Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs) approach is used to get the feedback gains for every local linear controller guaranteeing global asymptotically stability, via a more relaxed stability condition, of the overall fuzzy control system. Measurement and control data from and to the EV3BRS are transferred via telecontrol and telemetry.
A Comparative Study of Sports Consumption Psychology and Behavior between Chinese and British University Students
Authors: Chi Puyan , Zhu Xueying , Bai Yun , Wang Baoping , Chi Aiping , Xiao Tao
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to reveal the differences in the status, psychology, and behaviour of sports consumption between Chinese and UK college students. The questionnaire was distributed through the British JISC questionnaire system, and 1,318 valid questionnaires were obtained. The results showed that the sports consumption ratio of Chinese students was significantly higher than that of UK students, and they were more inclined to choose strengthening the body, recreational leisure, low income, high commodity prices, lack of field equipment, and lack of sports atmosphere as subjective and objective factors that affect sports consumption. Moreover, Chinese students prefer participatory, ornamental, game-class, and training consuming behaviors. In terms of consumption motivation, the reality-seeking motive score of Chinese students was significantly higher, but their consumption cognition score was lower than that of British students.
Kualitas Hidup Pasien Post Stroke di Rumah Sakit Rujukan Nasional
Authors: Nurhasnah Nurhasnah , Sulistiyaningsih Endang , Syaf Rachmat Fauzie
Published: December 2023

Stroke adalah salah satu penyebab kematian dan kecacatan yang akan berdampak terhadap ekonomi dan kualitas hidup. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengukur kualitas hidup pasien post stroke dan membandingkan nilai kualitas hidupnya dengan kualitas hidup populasi masyarakat Indonesia. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah non-eksperimental cross-sectional dan teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan non-probability sampling. Data kualitas hidup masyarakat Indonesia diperoleh dari artikel yang telah dipublikasi sebelumnya. Data kualitas hidup pasien post stroke diperoleh dari hasil pengisian kuesioner di salah satu rumah sakit khusus di Sumatra Barat dan data lainnya diperoleh dari rekam medis pasien. Penilaian kualitas hidup menggunakan kuesioner EQ-5D-5L dan EQ-VAS versi bahasa Indonesia. Sebanyak 109 pasien post stroke terlibat dalam penelitian. Nilai rata-rata utilitas pasien post stroke dengan menggunakan EQ-5D-5L adalah 0,47±0,16dan rata-rata skor EQ-VAS adalah 76,88±10,81. Nilai rata-rata kualitas hidup pasien post stroke dibawah nilai rata-rata kualitas hidup masyarakat Indonesia yaitu 0,91±0,11 (EQ-5D-5L) dan 79,39±14,01 (EQ-VAS). Dapat disimpulkan terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan kualitas hidup pasien post stroke dengan masyarakat umum Indonesia (nilai p< 0,001) dengan menggunakan kuesioner EQ-5D-5L dan kualitas hidup masyarakat Indonesia lebih baik dibandingkan pasien post stroke.
The Influence of Attitude toward Dementia and Nursing Practice Environment on Person-centered Care in Long-term Care Hospital Nurses
Authors: Jang Su Hyun , Shin Hyun Hee
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of attitude toward dementia and nursing practice environment on person-centered care in long-term care hospital nurses.Methods: Data were collected from September 1 to September 30, 2021 using a structural questionnaire, which was completed by 150 nurses working in eleven long-term care hospitals in D and K city. The collected data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation and stepwise multiple regression analysis using SPSS 22.0.Results: As a result of analyzing the correlation between the subject’s dementia attitude, nursing practice environment, and person-centered care, it was found that the more positively the nursing practice environment was perceived, the higher the awareness of person-centered care. The factor that had the greatest influence on person-centered care was the nursing practice environment (β= 0.48, p< 0.001), followed by the number of patients in charge of 20 to 39 (β= -0.28, p= 0.015) and more than 40 (β= -0.33, p= 0.004). These influencing factors were found to explain 27.0% of person-centered care.Conclusions: In order to provide high-quality nursing services in long-term care hospitals, it is necessary to improve the nursing practice environment. Through these efforts, we can expect to provide active person-centered care by nurses in long-term care hospitals.
Association between Anemia and Myopia in Korean Adults
Authors: Seo Minyi , Park Sangshin
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Anemia is a significant public health issue worldwide and has been associated with ocular changes. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between anemia and myopia in an adult population in South Korea.Methods: We analyzed the data of 8,672 participants aged 20 to 54 years in the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Anemia was defined as hemoglobin levels < 13 g/dL for men, < 12 g/dL for women, and < 11 g/dL for pregnant women. Anemia was subdivided into mild anemia (11-12.9 g/dL for men, 11-11.9 g/dL for women, and 10-10.9 g/dL for pregnant women) and moderate to severe anemia ( < 11 g/dL for men and women and < 10 g/dL for pregnant women) categories. Myopia was defined as spherical equivalent value ≤ -0.5 diopters. We performed multivariable logistic regression analysis to examine the relationship between anemia and myopia.Results: The prevalence of myopia was 43.5% in men and 56.5% in women. The prevalence of anemia was 0.9% in men and 14.5% in women. After adjusting for confounders, the risk of myopia was 1.28 times higher in women with anemia than in those without anemia (odds ratio, OR = 1.28, 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.02-1.60, p= 0.036). The risk of myopia was 1.55 times higher in women with moderate to severe anemia than in those without anemia (OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.12-2.16, p= 0.026). Anemia was not significantly associated with myopia in men.Conclusions: Women with anemia were at increased risk of myopia compared to those without anemia. The severity of anemia was also associated the risk of myopia.
Analysis of Outcomes in Open and Laparoscopic Surgeries for Gastric Cancer Patients and Impact of Comorbidity on Differences in Length of Stay and Hospital Costs: Using Healthcare Claims Database
Authors: Kim Beom Jun , Hwang Yoo Na , Kim Ju A , Kim Sung Min
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze factors affecting the outcomes of gastrectomy in gastric cancer patients, and to identify comorbidities that influence the length of stay and hospital costs differences between open surgeries (OS) and laparoscopic surgeries (LS).Methods: We extracted all health insurance claim data for patients who underwent gastrectomy with gastric cancer as the primary diagnosis from 2019 to 2021, as provided by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service in Korea. Univariate analysis was performed to examine differences in general characteristics and distribution of comorbidities between the OS and LS patient groups. Additionally, differences in mean length of stay and mean hospital costs were analyzed. Furthermore, using multivariate analysis, we evaluated factors influencing surgical outcomes. To identify comorbidities contributing to differences in length of stay and hospital costs between the two surgical methods, we compared results from univariate and multivariate analyses for each comorbidity.Results: The multivariate regression analysis of general characteristics revealed that LS had a shorter length of stay and higher hospital costs compared to OS. The analysis of comorbidities, both in univariate and multivariate analyses, consistently indicated that chronic pulmonary disease and peptic ulcer disease were the diseases that caused differences in length of stay and hospital costs between OS and LS.Conclusions: Efforts to consider surgical methods based on patient characteristics and comorbidities are essential to ensure the efficient allocation of medical resources.
Factors Influencing Teacher Efficacy: The Impact of Awareness of Sexual Media Literacy and Communication Competence among Health Teachers
Authors: Park Yong-Kyung , Kim Eun-Hwi , Choi Moon-Ji , Ha Young-Sun
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing teacher efficacy, awareness of sexual media literacy, and communication competence among health teachers.Methods: A descriptive study design was used. Participants included 102 health teachers in K-do. The data were collected from November 5 to 12, 2022. The collected data were analyzed using t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression through the SPSS 29.0 program.Results: The influential factor for teacher efficacy was communication competence (β= 0.34, p< 0.001). This factor accounted for 22.5% of the teacher efficacy among health teachers.Conclusions: To develop a program that increases teacher efficacy among health teachers, it is necessary to prepare a plan to improve communication competence.
Statistical Methods for Visualizing Healthcare Big Data
Authors: Kim Sung Hwa , Lim Jihye , Kang Dae Ryong
Published: December 2023

With the advancement and acceleration of digital technology, the demand and supply of healthcare big data are increasing. In Korea, the government and companies have made various efforts to utilize healthcare big data, such as deregulation data-related legal regulations and data linkage between different institutions. As a result, many researchers have been able to access a variety of healthcare big data. Although healthcare big data has a vast amount and high value, many researchers are unable to fully access healthcare big data because there are difficulties in processing, analysis, and interpretation for data. The data visualization is recognized as an important tool that can solve these limitations. Using data visualization, researchers can intuitively understand complex data and receive support for decision-making. Additionally, these visualizations promote effective communication between experts in different fields and between experts and non-experts. Visualization is used in a variety of research fields and processes, including data summarization, data exploration, and evaluation and interpretation of predictive models. Various types of visualization have different meanings depending on how they are expressed. Therefore, it is important to express the meaning of visualization appropriately. This study provides representative examples of visual representations for data summarization, data exploration, and predictive model evaluation. This study aimed to improve easier access and utilization of healthcare big data by providing R code and visualization results.
Chiropractic Manipulation Causing Anterior-Posterior Compression Type Pelvic Ring Injury
Authors: Kerr Matthew S. , Yawman Jonathan P. , Kelly John J. , Shaath M. Kareem , Langford Joshua R.
Published: December 2023

Case:

We present a case of an anteroposterior compression (APC) type pelvic ring injury that occurred after chiropractic manipulation in a patient with a history of quadriplegia. Emergent surgical stabilization was undertaken, and he had an excellent outcome with no complications at 3.5-year follow-up.

Conclusion:

APC type pelvic ring injuries usually occur to high-energy mechanisms. We describe a case of a patient with quadriplegia and osteopenia that suffered a pelvic ring injury because of a unique mechanism. Practitioners performing pelvic manipulation should be aware of this type of injury in at-risk patients.
Resection of Traumatic Triradiate Bar Led To Restored Triradiate Growth
Authors: Eardley-Harris Nathan , Johnson Michael , Balakumar Jitendra
Published: December 2023

Case:

A 2-year-old boy suffered an injury to the acetabular physis resulting in the formation of an osseus bar across all 3 limbs of the triradiate, growth arrest, and secondary hip dysplasia. This condition was treated with bony bar resection using an anterior intrapelvic approach. Over a follow-up period of more than 3 years, there was notable restoration of triradiate cartilage growth.

Conclusion:

Our case demonstrates that resection of a triradiate bar can be an effective treatment of premature traumatic triradiate closure. Early recognition and intervention are preferable before secondary changes in the acetabulum have fully developed.
Adolescent use of outpatient health services in Mexico: their health needs and associated factors
Authors: Avila-Burgos Leticia , Montañez-Hernández Julio César , Cerecer-Ortiz Nadia , Hubert Celia , Heredia-Pi Ileana , Suárez-López Leticia , Villalobos Aremis
Published: December 2023

Objective. To estimate adolescent use of outpatient services, identifying their health needs and associated socioeconomic factors. Materials and methods. Using data from Ensanut 2018-2019, adolescents (ages 10-19) with health needs and those receiving care from health personnel (users) were identified. Needs were analyzed by sex and socioeconomic status (SES). Logistic models were used to assess the factors associated with the use of health care and choice of provider. Results. 6% of adolescents reported health needs, of whom 64% used outpatient services. Respiratory and gastrointestinal infections were the principal health needs prompting use of services overall. However, by SES, motivations centered on pregnancy for the poor and accidental injuries for the wealthy. One in three adolescents with health needs, particularly the poorest, received no care. Living with a partner and having health insurance were the main predictors of use. Greater schooling among household heads and higher SES correlated with the use of private services. Conclusions. Despite being aware of their health needs, adolescents are the group that uses health services the least in Mexico. Promoting preventative and timely treatment for this population would encourage youths to seek care more often.
Phosphate solubilization potential of PSB: An advance approach to enhance phosphorous availability for phytostimulation
Authors: Tariq Aqsa , Ahmed Ambreen
Published: December 2023

Rhizosphere engineering approach is considered a quantum leap in plant sciences. The current study focused on investigating rhizobacterial efficiency to mobilize bioavailable phosphate from insoluble-phosphate source. Phosphate-solubilization potential of four efficient phosphate solubilizing bacterial strains i.e., Pseudomonas songnenensis (GR3), Stutzerimonas stutzeri (HH2), Bacillus bingmayongensis (KH3) and Achromobacter aegrifaciens (MH1) was analyzed. The bacterial strain GR3 was observed as most efficient phosphate solubilizer. Interactions between various physiological parameters and phosphate solubilization efficiency of isolates was evaluated using surface response methodology. In-vitro experiments revealed that glucose significantly facilitated phosphorus solubilization at 37 ℃, with media having pH 7 and 0.5% phosphorous. Additionally, positive correlation among P-solubilization potential, acids produced and pH variations was observed. Plant microbe-interaction analysis was performed to evaluate the efficiency of these bacterial strains on various morpho-physiological responses of Zea mays L. For this purpose, various concentrations of tricalcium phosphate were applied to plants in the presence and absence of bacterial strains. The results showed that, lower phosphate levels trigger shoot development, improve plant weight and leaf formation whereas higher phosphate concentrations stimulated the development of longer root system. The bacterial strains GR3 and HH2 were observed as efficient phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) that positively stimulated plant morphological responses by triggering various biochemical attributes such as plant protein content, phytohormone homeostasis, macromolecule content, solute content and pigment content. Hence, the current study reviled that the use of these phosphate solubilizing PGPR are efficient phytostimulators used for crop production in replacement of chemical fertilizers which are carcinogenic and deteriorating our eco-system.