bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Degradation of enrofloxacin by Fe0 activated PDS
Authors: Zhang Yaru , Li Zhenguo , Bi Wenlong , Sun Bo , Pei Huanhuan , Qin Junmei , Liu Fenwu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In this paper, the effect of zero-valent iron (Fe0) activated persulfate (PDS) on the removal of enrofloxacin (ENR) was investigated, and the effect and mechanism were analyzed by exploring the effects of Fe0 concentration, PDS concentration, pH, and the influence of anion and aqueous matrix on the removal of ENR by the Fe0/PDS system. The results showed that when [ENR] = 20 µmol/L, [Fe0] = 0.15 g/L, [PDS] = 0.4 mmol/L, the removal rate of ENR was 85.3% at 90 min, the mainradicals were HO•, SO4•− and O2•−. At the same time, the system had a good mineralization effect (TOC removal rate > 40%), in addition, the system did not show obvious toxicity to soil microorganisms after the reaction, furthermore the Fe0/PDS system had a good removal effect on ENR in a wide pH range (4 ≤ pH ≤ 10). The Fe0/PDS system was more effective than ultrapure water in removing ENR in river water. The results of this experiment could provide a reference for the removal of antibiotics based on advanced oxidation techniques based on SO4•−.
Mirror-invariance is not exclusively visual: evidence from blind and blindfolded sighted individuals.
Authors: Korczyk Maksymilian , Rączy Katarzyna , Szwed Marcin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Mirror-invariance enables recognition of mirrored objects as identical. During reading acquisition, sighted readers must overcome this innate bias to distinguish between mirror-inverted letters ('d' vs. 'b'). Congenitally blind individuals seem to overcome mirror-invariance for Braille letters, too. Here, we investigated mirror-invariance across modalities and its modulation based on the objects’ familiarity. Congenitally blind and sighted subjects participated in same-different judgment tasks using tactile (blind and blindfolded sighted subjects) and visual (sighted subjects) modalities. Stimuli included pairs of letters (Braille and Latin) and familiar non-linguistic stimuli: geometric figures and everyday objects, presented in identical ('p'/'p'), mirror ('p'/'q'), and different ('p'/'z') conditions. In the tactile modality, no group differences were found in shape judgment for non-linguistic stimuli. In the orientation-based task, higher expertise for haptic rather than visual geometric figures was observed in the sighted group. Sighted participants exhibit difficulties when judging the shape of Latin letters as identical to those presented in mirror orientation (signature of breaking mirror invariance), in comparison to the blind, who had no difficulties in mirror shape judging for Braille and non-linguistic stimuli. Results suggest that mirror invariance is modality-independent.
Impact Assessment of Natural Springs for Irrigation Potential in the Hilly Areas of Kashmir
Authors: Khan Zubair Ahmad , kumar Rohitashw , Khan Afzal Husain , Majeed Adil , Idrees Mohammad Attar , Sabi Ehab , Wani Mohd Younus 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The increasing water demand, fueled by rapid development activities, has significantly strained freshwater reservoirs. A comprehensive study was conducted in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir to address this issue, focusing on vital water springs essential for domestic and irrigation purposes. Seven key springs—Martand, Achabal, Malakhnag, Sherbagh, Verinag, Lukhbawan, and Kokernag—were monitored regularly from May to October 2018. The study explored the complex dynamics of surface-subsurface water interactions, which are crucial for understanding spring discharge patterns. The primary objectives were to determine the discharge rates of these springs and assess their capacity to meet the water requirement of crops within their respective command areas. Verinag spring was the most productive, with a discharge rate of 4.55 m³/s, followed by Kokernag at 1.16 m³/s. In contrast, Lukhbawan had the lowest discharge rate at 0.17 m³/s. Notably, the springs of Verinag, Martand, and Achabal were sufficient to meet the crop water requirements in their respective areas. These findings highlight the crucial role these springs play in supporting both household and agricultural needs across various regions.
Associations of Cigarette Smoking with General and Abdominal Obesity Risks among Men in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Min-Chen , Nfor Oswald Ndi , Liaw Yung-Po , Ho Chien-Chang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Obesity and smoking are two major public health challenges, both contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study investigates the association between smoking behaviors and obesity among men in Taiwan, focusing on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) as indicators of general and abdominal obesity. The sample consisted of 27,908 men categorized into five groups based on their smoking status: never smoking (NS), former smoking (FS), light-intensity smoking (LIS), moderate-intensity smoking (MIS), and heavy-intensity smoking (HIS). Our findings reveal a significant association between smoking and increased obesity risk, particularly among light- and moderate-intensity smokers. Socioeconomic factors such as education and income levels were also found to influence these behaviors. These results underscore the importance of integrated public health strategies that address both smoking cessation and obesity prevention.
Core Outcome Set development for LEPtospirosis trials (COS-LEP): a study protocol to develop a core outcome set for the evaluation of clinical therapeutic interventions for human Leptospirosis
Authors: Lee Nathaniel , Smith Chris , Bailey Robin , Ariyoshi Koya , Smith Sarah , Black Nick , Edwards Tansy 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial infection occurring worldwide. It is of particular public health concern due to its global distribution, epidemic potential and high mortality without appropriate treatment. The method for the management of leptospirosis, particularly in severe disease, is clouded by methodological inconsistency and a lack of standardized outcome measures.
The study this protocol details aims to develop a core outcome set (COS) for leptospirosis research. A COS is a set of outcomes with international consensus as a minimum for reporting in future studies focusing on leptospirosis. Establishing a COS will contribute to harmonizing Leptospirosis treatment research and will be instrumental in constructing a high-quality evidence base to feed into a planned future rigorous international clinical trial on leptospirosis.
Methods
The COS-LEP study will employ a COS development methodology standardized by the COMET initiative framework. This includes: 1) a systematic review of available quantitative and qualitative literature reporting therapeutic response and safety outcomes and measures; 2) focused interviews with healthcare professional and people treated for leptospirosis exploring outcomes of interests using qualitative methodology; 3) narrowing the choice of outcomes by international consensus using a Delphi survey process; and 4) undertaking a hybrid consensus meeting with key stakeholders to build the final COS.
Discussion
This protocol describes the method to develop the first core outcome set for use in human leptospirosis studies. This will not only be a key feature in the design of a future definitive randomised controlled trial, but also provide a structure for clinicians and researchers collecting treatment cohort data in the various settings where leptospirosis is a public health issue.
A Neutrosophy Framework for Emotion Analysis in Audio and Text Files using Harris Hawk Optimization
Authors: Mousa Iman , Guirguis Shawkat K. , Madbouly Magda M. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In the digital data landscape, businesses are increasingly reliant on advanced tools for extracting actionable insights, with sentiment analysis being at the forefront. This study breaks new ground by exploring sentiment analysis in audio data through the lens of Neutrosophy. Our approach hinges on Harris Hawk Optimization (HHO) augmented with Neutrosophic Sets for efficient feature selection. Utilizing the Libri TTS train clean 100 dataset, our experiments demonstrate the superiority of our model in reducing feature numbers while enhancing sentiment analysis accuracy. Remarkably, the Neutrosophic Sets significantly boost HHO's performance, achieving a best fitness of 0.96, and enabling the selection of a minimal number of features (39 out of 300) with a rapid convergence rate. Classification accuracy, using SVM, KNN, and DT classifiers, shows a notable improvement over other fitness functions, particularly with Neutrosophic Sets, where accuracy increases to 0.96. Further, our model outperforms baseline algorithms in sentiment classification, with an 18\% error rate reduction compared to the nearest competitor. Clustering analysis of the LibriSpeech dataset using Single-Valued Neutrosophic Sets reveals insightful patterns, underlining the model's potential to transform sentiment analysis by integrating both audio and textual data. This research not only advances sentiment analysis techniques but also pioneers the application of Neutrosophy in audio data analysis, offering novel insights and a robust framework for businesses and researchers in the digital era.
Effects of Self-Perceived Oral Health and Stress Levels on Subjective Oral Symptoms and Lifestyle of University Students in South Korea: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Jung YuYeon , Jeong JinHyoung 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Self-perceived oral health is related to clinical and subjective oral factors, socioeconomic factors, perceived stress, and oral health behavior. However, limited studies have examined whether self-perceived oral health is related to dry mouth, salivary viscosity, or lifestyle factors. Accordingly, this study aimed to verify the effect of self-perceived oral health and stress levels on subjective oral symptoms and lifestyle.
Methods: The responses of 644 university students who agreed to participate in the study were analyzed. A chi-square test was used to determine whether self-perceived oral health and stress levels showed significant differences based on subjective oral symptoms and lifestyle. Logistic regression was used to analyze the effect of subjective oral symptoms and periodontal disease diagnosis on self-perceived oral health.
Results: Subjective oral symptom factors that showed significant differences depending on self-perceived oral health included gingival bleeding or pain, dry mouth, and saliva viscosity, and depending on lifestyle factors included the frequency of tooth brushing and beverage consumption. Additionally, subjective oral symptoms influenced self-perceived oral health. Self-perceived oral health was negative when there was gingival bleeding, pain (odds ratio (OR=0.594, p=0.002), and dry mouth (OR=0.577, p=0.001).
Conclusions: This study’s results showed that self-perceived oral health significantly impacts gingival bleeding, pain, and dry mouth. Therefore, government intervention must provide and manage innovative and efficient education programs that promote self-perceived oral health management habits and maintenance and improvement of oral health.
Effects of North Atlantic summer marine heatwaves on Arctic sea ice freeze-up delay: modulation by atmospheric teleconnections
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Su Jie , Zhao Tianhao , Zhang Han 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Since the early 21st century, the Arctic sea ice melting season has significantly lengthened, primarily due to delayed freeze onset (FO). We identify the northern Chukchi and East Siberian Seas as the FO key area with the most significant interannual variability in Arctic FO and link it to extreme ocean events, particularly marine heatwaves (MHWs) in North Atlantic. The results show that, in July, intense and persistent MHWs occurred near southeast Greenland Island (seGI), which served as a strong near-surface heat source, with warm air masses ascending up to 300 hPa. This facilitated the development of planetary-scale wave activity flux (WAF) in August. The WAF over seGI, together with the WAF from the Pacific side, resulted in a strengthened anticyclonic circulation prevailed over the FO key area in September. The abnormal descending warm airflow caused by anticyclonic circulation resulted in a two-week delay in FO in its key area compared to the climatology. Unlike general warm sea surface temperature, MHW-induced anomalous heat release can reach the higher atmospheric level (300hPa), which is less affected by disturbances from lower and higher atmosphere, more accessibly impacting the Arctic sea ice.
Enhancing Network Performance Monitoring through Scalable Multi-Dimensional Metric Analysis and Pattern-Based Anomaly Detection
Authors: Ahmad Salman , Scotney Bryan , Glass David , Zhang Shuai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a novel approach to network performance monitoring and improvement through profile pattern extraction-based anomaly detection in multi-dimensional network throughput metrics. As modern networks grow in complexity, traditional monitoring methods often struggle to detect subtle yet significant anomalies that can impact performance. Our research addresses this challenge by developing an integrated framework that combines advanced data analysis techniques with machine learning algorithms to identify and interpret complex patterns in network behaviour. The proposed methodology leverages autocorrelation function (ACF) based clustering to group similar time series, and employs feature extraction methods to create profile patterns from multi-dimensional network data. These patterns serve as a baseline for normal network behaviour, against which anomalies are detected using the Isolation Forest algorithm. These patterns serve as a baseline for normal network behaviour, against which anomalies are detected using a combination of statistical methods and machine learning approaches. Our experimental results, based on real-world data from a telecommunications network, demonstrate that the profile pattern-based approach significantly enhances anomaly detection capabilities. The best-performing model, which combines raw data and Z-scores derived from profile patterns, achieved an anomaly detection rate of 1.805% with the highest confidence (average anomaly score of -0.123). This model outperformed both raw data analysis and Z-score-only approaches in terms of selectivity and computational efficiency, completing analysis in 8.582 seconds. This research contributes to the field of network performance monitoring by offering a more sophisticated and accurate approach to anomaly detection, potentially leading to enhanced network reliability, reduced downtime, and improved user experience. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for network administrators and outlining future research directions in this rapidly evolving field.
Hierarchically porous composites containing mining tailings-based geopolymer and zeolite 13X: application for carbon dioxide sequestration
Authors: Schneider Mariana , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique , Guerrero-Pérez M. Olga , Hotza Dachamir , Junior Agenor Noni , Moreira Regina 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

One promising approach to addressing global warming involves capturing storing and reusing greenhouse gas emissions. Following separation, usually via adsorption, potential CO2 emissions capture rates can reach up to 90%. Hence, It is crucial to enhance efficiency and reduce costs associated with CO2 capture and utilization processes. This study explores the synthesis of geopolymer/zeolite composites based on phosphate amine tailings for CO2 capture applications. These materials offer benign environmental advantages and demonstrate reversible adsorption and desorption of carbon dioxide. The research compares the adsorption capacities of the synthesized materials with the geopolymer and the commercial Zeolite 13X, assessing their performance for the CO2, H2, and CO adsorption at various temperatures (30, 50, and 100°C). Furthermore, the samples underwent thorough characterization by XRF, XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDS, XPS, NMR, micro-CT, density, BET surface area, and porosity. The high surface area and low porosity of the materials influence directly in the adsorption capacity, which increases with the addition of more zeolite on the composite. The incorporation of 30% (w/w) of zeolite to the composite yielded notable adsorption capacities at 30 ºC and 1 bar (~ 2.6 mmol·g− 1).
Clinical and functional evidence for the pathogenicity of the LRRK2 p.Arg1067Gln variant
Authors: Tan Ai Huey , Lim Shen-Yang , Toh Tzi Shin , Hor Jia Wei , Lim Jia Lun , Lit Lei Cheng , Ahmad-Annuar Azlina , Tay Yi Wen , Foo Jia Nee , Ng Ebonne , Muthusamy Kalai Arasu , Ibrahim Norlinah Mohamed , Ibrahim Khairul Azmi , Tan Louis CS , Zulkefli Jannah , Anuar Anis Nadhirah Khairul , Black Kirsten , Lis Pawel , Xie Fei , Cen Zhidong , Lim Kai Shi , Lohmann Katja , Padmanabhan Shalini , Alessi Dario , Luo Wei , Tan Eng-King , Sammler Esther 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

LRRK2-related Parkinson’s disease (LRRK2-PD) is the most frequent form of monogenic PD worldwide, with important therapeutic opportunities, exemplified by the advancement in LRRK2 kinase inhibition studies/trials. However, many LRRK2 variants, especially those found in underrepresented populations, remain classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Leveraging on Malaysian, Singaporean, and mainland Chinese PD datasets (n=4,901), we describe 12 Chinese-ancestry patients harbouring the LRRK2 p.Arg1067Gln variant, more than doubling the number of previously reported cases (total n=23, 87% East Asian, mean age of onset:53.9years). We determine that this variant is enriched in East Asian PD patients compared to population controls (OR=8.0, 95%CI:3.0-20.9), and provide supportive data for its co-segregation with PD, albeit with incomplete penetrance. Utilizing established experimental workflows, this variant showed increased LRRK2 kinase activity, by ~2-fold compared to wildtype and higher than the European p.Gly2019Ser variant. Taken together, p.Arg1067Gln should be reclassified from a VUS to pathogenic for causing LRRK2-PD.
Effects of Digital Serious Games on Nursing Education: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lee Minjae , Shin Sujin , Lee Miji , Hong Eunmin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Advancements in digital technologies and the coronavirus disease pandemic have rapidly shifted educational practices towards engaging digital methods, such as serious games, significantly influencing healthcare education. Few high-quality systematic reviews and meta-analyses were focused exclusively on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of digital serious games to determine their effects in nursing education.
Objective
To evaluate the effects of digital serious games on nursing education through a systematic review and meta-analysis using the Kirkpatrick model to evaluate learning and behavioral changes.
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs was performed. Six databases were searched for articles published before April 2024. Risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (Rob 2.0). A sensitivity analysis was performed. Outcome variables were categorized according to the Kirkpatrick model. Effect sizes were determined using Hedges’ g in a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis was performed.
Results
Eleven studies were included in the systematic review, and eight studies, in the meta-analysis. The intervention group showed significant improvements in knowledge (Hedges’ g = 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.27, 1.22], p = .002, I² = 90.51%), confidence (Hedges’ g = 0.73, 95% CI = [0.23, 1.24], p = .005, I² = 82.71%), and performance (Hedges’ g = 0.49, 95% CI = [0.17, 0.80], p = .003, I² = 56.60%). Subgroup analysis showed a significant improvement in knowledge when the intervention period exceeded 2 weeks (Hedges’ g = 0.53, 95% CI = [0.32, 0.74], p < .001, I² = 25.41%).
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that digital serious games significantly enhance knowledge, performance, and confidence of nursing students. Therefore, they provide a practical and valuable alternative to traditional learning methods, meeting the modern demands of healthcare education and equipping nursing students with essential clinical competencies.
Benzimidazole Resistance-Associated Mutations in the β-tubulin Gene of Hookworms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tenorio Jan Clyden B. , Heikal Muhammad Fikri , Kafle Alok , Saichua Prasert , Suttiprapa Sutas 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

There is a growing number of reports on the occurrence of benzimidazole resistance-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene of various helminths of veterinary and public health concerns. However, a comprehensive analysis of their occurrence and their contributions to conferring benzimidazole resistance among hookworms has yet to be done. The objectives of this systematic review are to summarize and synthesize peer-reviewed evidence on the occurrence of these resistance-associated mutations in hookworms, document their geographical distribution, and assess their contributions to conferring phenotypic resistance. Three databases were systematically searched using specific keywords. Research that assessed the occurrence of benzimidazole resistance-associated SNPs in hookworms, papers that reported the geographical distribution of these SNPs, and studies that investigated the SNPs’ resistance-associated phenotypic effects were included in the review. Research that was not done in hookworms, papers not in the English language, and literature reviews and book chapters were excluded. Critical appraisal checklists were used to determine the risk of bias in the selected papers. Data were extracted from the selected studies and analyzed. PROSPERO Systematic Review Protocol Registration No.: CRD42024510924. A total of 29 studies were included and analyzed. Of these, four were conducted in a laboratory setting, eight described development and validation of SNP detection methods, and the remaining 17 involved field research. Seven SNP-induced amino acid substitutions at four loci were reported among several hookworm species: Q134H, F167Y, E198A, E198K, E198V, F200Y, and F200L. SNPs have been reported in isolates occurring in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Haiti, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ghana, Mozambique, and Tanzania. No reports were found in Asia. E198A and F200L were reported in Ancylostoma ceylanicum with laboratory-induced resistance. F167Y and Q134H conferred resistance in A. caninum, as revealed by in vitro investigations and field assessments. There is insufficient peer-reviewed evidence to prove the association between SNP occurrence and resistance. Mutations in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene confer benzimidazole resistance in Ancylostoma caninum and A. ceylanicum, but similar evidence is lacking for human hookworms. Understanding benzimidazole resistance through further research can better inform treatment, prevention and control strategies.