bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Innovative Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring by Using Multiband Split Ring Resonator Monopole Antenna (MSRRMA)
Authors: Mohamed EL Hawary , Eldamak Angie R. , Elsheakh Dalia N. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a multiband, compact monopole antenna based on an irregular curved shape of split ring resonator design MSRRMA to enable continuous monitoring of human blood glucose concentration level without requiring invasive blood samples. The proposed sensor resonates at frequencies of 0.94, 1.5, 3, 4.6, 6.3 and 7.2 GHz, with reflection coefficient impedance bandwidths ≤-10 dB at 4%, 3.5%, 65%, and 50%, respectively. Two cells of SRR metamaterial shape are used to create notches at 1.7 GHz and 4.4 GHz. The proposed monopole antenna is constructed using a cost-effective FR4 substrate with dimensions of 35 × 50 × 1.6 mm³. The 3D electromagnetic simulation using computer simulation technology (CST) software is employed to simulate the proposed antenna sensor with a human finger phantom model, measuring the sensor's sensitivity to blood glucose concentrations. The finger phantom model is positioned at various angles around the antenna to detect frequency changes relevant to blood glucose content monitoring. In experimental research, a real human finger is placed around the proposed sensor to measure resonant frequency, magnitude, and phase changes. The proposed sensor is fabricated to validate the results, highlighting its benefits and superiority in sensitivity compared to alternative methods in the literature.
Chemical degradation vs. creep loading vs. hydration process in cement-based materials immerged in seawater characterized with a multiscale model
Authors: El-Khoury Marinelle , Grondin Frédéric , Roziere Emmanuel , Cortas Rachid , Chehade Fadi Hage 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Upon contact with seawater, concrete undergoes degradation caused by the diffusion of aggressive ions into its porous network and their reaction with cement hydration products. In addition, time-dependent deformations occur resulting from long-term operational use and mechanical loading. The analysis of these coupled chemo-mechanical phenomena is complex and requires the development of innovative approaches. A micro-mechanical model has been developed to analyze these phenomena at the microscopic scale. A multi-scale approach has been performed for the evaluation of their effects in mortars. Creep loading is opposite to the chemical degradation due to seawater ingress and to the cement hydration evolution at early ages. After 3 days of loading, the model can reproduce the experimental measurements as the chemical reactions occur slowly, but differences are larger during the first 3 days. The contradictory effects of the formed phases balance each other out, resulting in similar creep behaviour in tap water and seawater. It indicates that to limit the failure risk of offshore concrete structures it is necessary to reduce the loading at early ages during the first days of seawater attack.
Exploring Harm Reduction Advice for Prescription Stimulants on Reddit
Authors: Johnson Benjamin , Thomas Natalie , Salom Caroline 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Psychostimulants such as amphetamine salts and methylphenidate are commonly prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, their non-medical use is also prevalent. Both medical and non-medical use of these substances can lead to a range of side effects. Despite this, there is limited research on harm reduction strategies employed by individuals who use prescription stimulants. This study, therefore aimed to explore the harm reduction strategies discussed by individuals using prescription stimulants on Reddit, to provide insights into how these strategies are shared and implemented.
Methods
A multi-site qualitative analysis was conducted on discussions from four subreddits: r/ADHD, r/drugs, r/stims, and r/nootropics. The data were collected and analysed to identify common themes and strategies related to harm reduction.
Results
Across all subreddits individuals emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, staying hydrated, and practicing good sleep hygiene as crucial components of their harm reduction practices. Redditors on r/drugs, r/nootropics and r/stims frequently recommend various substances, such as depressants, vitamins, and minerals, to mitigate the side effects of stimulants. In contrast, r/ADHD focused more on consulting healthcare professionals and adjusting medication regimens.
Conclusions
This study highlighted the significant role of online communities in sharing harm reduction strategies and supporting individuals in managing their stimulant use. This study provides important insights for healthcare professionals to inform support and guidance for both medical and non-medical use of prescription stimulants.
Agora: A Distributed Language Model framework with API-call Support for Integrated Climate Forecasting
Authors: Udrescu Alexandra , Popovici Dan-Matei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Large Language Models (LLMs) have achieved remarkable performance in a wide range of natural language processing (NLP) tasks and are increasingly applied to domain-specific challenges. However, integrating external knowledge into LLMs, thus allowing them to reason outside of their training data remains a significant hurdle. Additionally, the deployment of LLM-based systems demands substantial GPU resources, limiting the scalability of open-source solutions and driving a shift towards proprietary models, such as those from OpenAI and Amazon's Claude. In this paper, we present Agora, a system built on open-source language models for generating climate and agricultural forecasts and recommendations. Agora is designed to seamlessly integrate third-party API data, scale efficiently across diverse recommendation tasks, and operate on commodity GPUs without sacrificing performance. Moreover, Agora is trained to intelligently orchestrate API calls, enabling it to reason about data dependencies in user queries and dynamically determine the necessary API interactions.
Unintended Pregnancy Among Antenatal Women at A Tertiary Maternity Hospital in Sierra Leone: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Kanu Alieu , Bah Abdul Karim , Orsi Michele , Jalloh Iye Pateh , Turay Fatmata Yeanoh , Kanu Sulaiman , Somigliana Edgardo , Jalloh Fatima , Ezeanochie Michael , Jalloh Mohamed Bella 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Unintended pregnancy remains a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with far-reaching consequences for maternal and child health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of unintended pregnancy among antenatal women at a tertiary maternity hospital in Sierra Leone.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,005 pregnant women attending their first antenatal visit at Princess Christian Maternity Hospital, Freetown, from March to June 2024. Participants were selected using systematic sampling. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression.
Results
The prevalence of unintended pregnancy was 31.8% (95% CI: 29.0-34.7%), with 30.0% mistimed and 1.8% unwanted. Factors independently associated with unintended pregnancy included age below 20 years (aOR: 3.57, 95% CI: 2.30-5.55, p<0.001), non-married status (aOR: 3.73, 95% CI: 2.60-5.36, p<0.001), and unemployment or student status (aOR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.25-2.42, p=0.001). Women who communicated with their partner about pregnancy (aOR: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.07-0.16, p<0.001) and whose pregnancy was desired by their partner (aOR: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.03-0.09, p<0.001) had significantly lower odds of unintended pregnancy.
Conclusion
The high prevalence of unintended pregnancy, particularly among younger, unmarried, and economically vulnerable women, underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions. Enhancing partner communication and male involvement in family planning could significantly reduce unintended pregnancies. These findings could inform the development of comprehensive reproductive health strategies in Sierra Leone and similar settings.
SWMMLIDopt: a tool for optimization of low-impact development (LID) measures using the SWMM model
Authors: Mohsen Hassan Abdalla Elhadi , Sivertsen Edvard , Tamm Ottar , Werner Adrian , Koivusalo Harri , Helness Herman 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
The present study introduces the SWMMLIDopt tool that aims to optimize the implementation of low-impact development (LID) measures for stormwater management. The developed tool utilizes the capabilities of the stormwater management model (SWMM) and provides a user-friendly interface for conducting multi-objective optimization of the selection and placement of LID measures in urban catchments. The features and capabilities of the developed optimization tool are demonstrated on two urban catchments in Northern Europe, Norway and Finland. The catchments exhibit different catchment sizes and characteristics, complexities and constraints demonstrating the flexibility of the tool. The selection and placement of LID measures within the study catchments were optimized according to two criteria: (1) minimizing the peak flow and (2) minimizing the cost. The generated Pareto-fronts for the study catchments allow for the evaluation of optimal scenarios based on the trade-offs between the two selected criteria. The results obtained using SWMMLIDopt demonstrate its efficacy in optimizing LID measures in urban stormwater management that will aid practitioners in designing cost-effective and climate resilient infrastructure.
Utilizing statistical distribution tests to develop rainfall intensity–duration–frequency curves for enhanced hydrological analysis in Kirkuk city, Iraq
Authors: Hussein Ameer Hashim , Kasim Mustafa Najdat 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Rainfall intensity is considered one of the basic factors in designing hydrological models based on rainstorm data. The objective of this research is to employ novel intensity–duration–frequency curves and develop empirical equations for rainfall intensity in the city of Kirkuk. The reduction formula adopted by the Indian Meteorological Department was used to divide the maximum daily rainfall for short periods of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 h. Three key methods of frequency analysis (lognormal distribution, log Pearson type III distribution, and Gumbel extreme value distribution) were utilized to formulate a statistical relationship based on rainfall intensity data from between the years 1981 and 2023 for a gauging station upstream of the Kirkuk city basin to provide the best data set for all periods of 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, and 2 years. Research has shown that the logarithmic distribution is the best fit for modelling the relationship between the annual maximum rainfall at Kirkuk station and duration of the rainfall. The goodness-of-fit results indicate that the lognormal distribution statistically outperforms other distribution models. Hence, the generated rainfall intensity, duration, and frequency curves that were developed led to estimating the intensity of precipitation to build forecasting and hydrological behaviour of the Kirkuk city basin.
Beneficial Effects of Curcumin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review of Recent Literature and Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Khamar Tayybeh , Jahani Najmeh , Jafari-Nozad Amir Masoud , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinological disorder
that affects women of reproductive age and can lead to infertility. The prevalence of
PCOS ranges from 5-21% depending on the diagnostic criteria and study population.
Clinical manifestations include irregular or absent menstrual periods, obesity, and signs
of hyperandrogenism. PCOS can also lead to long-term consequences such as metabolic
syndrome, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, endometrial cancer, diabetes mellitus,
and hypertension. Metformin and oral contraceptive pills are the most commonly
used drugs for PCOS management, but their efficiency is limited and they have some
considerable side effects. Researchers are looking into alternative therapeutic options
such as phytochemicals. Curcumin (CUR) is a polyphenolic compound found in the rhizome
of Curcuma longa and has shown promising effects for females with PCOS. CUR
exerts its anti-PCOS effects through different mechanisms such as reducing oxidative
stress and inflammation, balancing hormone levels, and controlling the blood sugar and
lipid profile. It can also reduce insulin resistance, regulate menstruation, and improve
ovarian morphology and function. Despite its beneficial effects, CUR faces several challenges
and limitations in clinical use, such as low bioavailability, instability, and rapid
elimination. Therefore, researchers are investigating the potential of CUR nanoformulations
and new drug delivery systems to overcome these barriers. With growing evidence
regarding the potential role of CUR in PCOS treatment, we decided to provide an updated
summary of the recent literature from clinical and preclinical studies on this topic.
Thrombosis in Hypertension: Pathophysiology, Biomarkers, and the Effect of Antihypertensive Treatment
Authors: Theofilis Panagiotis , Oikonomou Evangelos , Karakasis Paschalis , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Sagris Marios , Sakalidis Athanasios , Mantzouranis Emmanouil , K Vlachakis Panayotis , Pamporis Konstantinos , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Tousoulis Dimitris 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Hypertension, characterized by elevated blood pressure levels, remains a global
health concern due to its association with cardiovascular complications, notably
thrombosis. Thrombosis, the formation of blood clots within blood vessels, poses a significant
risk for myocardial infarction, stroke, and limb ischemia, leading to adverse patient
outcomes. Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying thrombosis
in hypertension is crucial for developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Hypertension induces structural and functional alterations in the vasculature, endothelium,
and platelets, creating a prothrombotic milieu. Endothelial dysfunction, increased
platelet activation, and alterations in coagulation factors contribute to the heightened
thrombotic risk observed in hypertensive individuals. Biomarkers associated with
thrombotic events, such as mean platelet volume, D-Dimer, and fibrinogen offer valuable
insights into the pathogenesis of thrombosis and may serve as prognostic indicators
for cardiovascular events in hypertensive populations. Investigating the impact of antihypertensive
treatment on thrombotic risk is essential, as these medications exert pleiotropic
effects on the vasculature and hemostatic system. By elucidating the intricate interplay
between hypertension and thrombosis, this review aims to enhance our understanding
of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive individuals and identify novel therapeutic targets
for preventing thrombotic complications.
Controlled Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles via QBD for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Haghighizadeh Atoosa , Ghadiri Sima , Dadpour Saba , Amirinejad Mostafa , Etemad Leila , Rajabi Omid 
Published: October 2024

Introduction:
Iron oxide nanoparticles have gained significant attention in pharmaceutical
applications because of their unique properties. The hydrothermal method is employed
for the synthesis of iron nanoparticles [IONPs], which offers advantages such as uniform composition
and size distribution.

Method:
However, the size and properties of IONPs can be influenced by various factors. In this
study, we utilized quality by design [QBD] via response surface methodology to investigate the
impact of temperature, time, and pH on the size of hydrothermally prepared IONPs. The optimized
synthesis conditions were determined, and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized
using techniques such as dynamic light scattering [DLS], scanning electron microscopy [SEM],
transmission electron microscopy [TEM], vibrating sample magnetometry [VSM], X-ray diffraction
[XRD], and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR].

Results:
The findings contribute to a better understanding of the controlled synthesis of IONPs
and their potential applications in nanomedicine. The XRD characterization revealed that the
product was Fe3O4. The FTIR results indicate that Fe3O4 nanoparticles were coated with PEG-
400. The SEM and HRTEM images of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles showed that they were spherical
and had a well-distributed size with an optimized hydrodynamic size of 65 nm.

Conclusion:
The magnetic properties of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles indicated that they exhibited
ferromagnetic properties. These prepared nanoparticles are suitable for biomedical purposes, like
serving as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging in different cancers and delivering
drugs.
Correlation between De Ritis Ratio with Severity of Covid-19 Patients Severity
Authors: Rostini Tiene , Khairunnissa Khairunnissa , Turbawaty Dewi Kartika 
Published: October 2024

SARS COV-2 is the causative agent of the infectious disease Corona Virus Illness-19 (Covid-19). Covid-19 can cause damage to multiple organs, including the liver. The de Ritis ratio is a ratio between AST and ALT in blood serum, which may be a useful indicator for assessing liver damage in Covid-19 patients. The aim of this study is to determine the association between the severity of liver injury and an increase in the de Ritis ratio in Covid-19. The study population included patients with acute Covid-19 disease whose infection was validated using real-time PCR. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. There were 1.983 subjects included, and 1.123 belonged to the moderate, 673 severe, and 181 to the critical groups. Calculations using Spearman rank revealed a strong significant association between De Ritis ratio and Covid-19 grade severity (rs=0.624, p<0.001). The more severe Covid-19, the higher de Ritis ratio values. The ROC curve of de Ritis ratio with Covid-19 severity shows AUC of 0.771 (P<0.001), sensitivity of 63.5%, specificity of 90.6%, PPV of 98.5% and an NPV of 20.02%. In conclusion, the severity of Covid-19 symptoms increases proportionally with the de Ritis ratio.
THE CONFIGURATIONS OF THE PROCESS OF DOING, FEELING, THINKING, AND RELATING IN LAMPUNGESE LANGUAGE CLAUSES
Authors: Afrianto Afrianto , Sujatna Eva Tuckyta Sari , Darmayanti Nani , Ariyani Farida 
Published: October 2024

This descriptive-qualitative research explores the processes configured in Lampungese language clauses. Here, the processes are structured in clauses showing physical actions, feelings, thinking, relation, behaviour, and existence. It investigates the processes using Hallidayan transitivity system and focuses on the constituents forming a clause, such as participant, process, and circumstance. In order to keep a natural setting, the data of this research were collected by documentation from passages of six lesson books of Lampungese language. The results of analyses show that the process of doing is realized with nyeghbu, ngemulai perlawanan, ngelawan, ngebantu, ditulis and diteghusko, whereas the mental process is constituted by nyeghah, ngenal, nganggop, and dikenang. Meanwhile, the realization of relational process is dimaksudko, which is classified as an identifying relational process. It is also found that a relational clause can be structured without any relational process. The disappearance of the process can be categorized as zero relational process and marked with 0. The result of this research is expected to give a contribution to document the structure of the Lampungese language.
Healthcare at Arm's Length: Exploring the association of distance and household wealth index in Odisha, India
Authors: Ahmad Imteyaz , Dehury Ranjit Kumar , Gadiraju Padmaja , Dehury Parthsarathi , Samal Janmejaya , Behera Manas Ranjan 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Location or distance from healthcare facilities affects the use of health facilities of households. Use of health facilities also have an impact on the socioeconomic conditions. Distance from healthcare facilities significantly affects catastrophic health expenditures. This study aimed to determine the association of physical distance to healthcare facilities with the economic deprivation of households.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the distance of healthcare facilities from households in different wealth index categories of Odisha. The study argues that the household wealth index is associated with the distance to healthcare facilities.
Methodology: This study is based on six purposively selected districts in Odisha: Rayagada, Kalahandi, Angul, Keonjhar, Khordha, and Kendrapara. A cross-sectional household survey was conducted to collect the data. A total of 902 household data points were collected. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS version 25.
Results: A difference is observed among households that need to travel more than one hour to reach a private doctor or private hospital: 42.6% of poor households face this challenge, whereas only 25% of wealthy households do. Among those who cannot reach a public hospital in less than an hour, a larger proportion are from poor households (62.6%). The poor and wealthy segments of the population have nearly equal access to NGO-run healthcare facilities in terms of proximity. We observe that poor households are less likely than wealthy households to reach private pharmacists in less than an hour and are more likely to require over an hour to reach them.
Conclusion: Ensuring healthcare facilities is the minimum requirement within one hour of reach for every household in India. Underreporting of illnesses and diseases is one of the major factors of high mortality in the population. Physical accessibility to healthcare facilities can reduce the mortality burden on the population.
Activities for Counteracting Wasting Food by Supermarket Chains in the Context of Sustainable Development
Authors: Żukiewicz Konrad , Słowik Tomasz , Dudziak Agnieszka , Łusiak Patrycja , Mazur Jacek 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The problem of food wastage, particularly in the recent period, has been broadly discussed worldwide with regard to various stages of the food supply chain. One of such stages is food distribution to consumers by supermarket chains. The study presents results of activities undertaken by supermarket chain administrators for the purpose of food wastage reduction. One of the basic measures is price reduction aimed at possibly fast sale of products. Such activities can cause an even 8-fold increase in sales in the case of price reduction by half. Other positive activities include donating food to charity organisations or food banks. This study addresses the mutual correlation between the sales of various products, and the effect of the percent of discounts on the sale of products for different product groups in the offer of the supermarket chain, as well as the dependency of the trade volume and the amount of food donated to public purpose organisations. The research was conducted in the period of 4 years of operation (2020-2023) of a Polish chain of grocery supermarkets.