bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dental team barriers and enablers for the dental management of adults with severe obesity: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Malik Zanab , McBride Kate , Williams Kathryn , Cockrell Deborah , Collins Clare 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Broad challenges regarding the dental management of people with severe obesity experienced by general dentists have been minimally explored. The perspectives of the dental team regarding these multifaceted issues are currently unknown and they potentially impede the delivery of optimal dental care to this population and contribute to poor oral and general health.

Aims
Our qualitative study aimed to identify and explore barriers and enablers in the dental management of adults with severe obesity among dental professionals and support staff in Australia.

Methods
Focus groups and semi-structured interviews (n=34 participants) were conducted with dental professionals (n=23) and support staff (n=11). Recordings were transcribed verbatim and synthesised using thematic, inductive analysis.

Results
Multiple barriers to adequate provision of dental care for people living with severe obesity in both general and specialist dental settings were identified. Key themes emerged related to the clinical challenges reported by participants in providing dental management for people living with severe obesity, appropriateness of existing bariatric dental service provision and safety of care. Enablers to access were identified, including increased availability of bariatric dental chairs, environmental modifications, education of both patients and the entire dental team and for guideline development.

Conclusion
The current study explored multiple barriers to optimal dental management of people living with severe obesity in both general and specialist dental settings. Enablers should be used to inform future practice. The optimisation of existing bariatric dental service provision requires urgent review with solutions guided by systemic change. Study findings suggest a review of current health systems, economics, access barriers, policies and procedures and education and training beyond the individual level are needed. Future directions to improve the dental management of people living with severe obesity are proposed.
First record of Toxodontia for the Itaboraí Basin (Paleogene, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and an assessment on the evolution of isotemnid notoungulates (Pan-Perissodactyla, Mammalia)
Authors: Castro Luis Otavio Resende , Bergqvist Lílian Paglarelli , García-López Daniel Alfredo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The traditional taxonomy of notoungulates divides this order in two main groups, Typotheria and Toxodontia. Within the latter, isotemnids encompass some of the earliest and more generalized species, radiating mostly during the Eocene and reaching also the Oligocene. Although somewhat conservative, the history of this group is marked by some morphological changes, and isotemnids presented a diversity of body sizes during the Paleogene. In Brazil, the Itaboraí Basin have yielded several paleontological records mainly represented by mammals. Its chronological context, in the first half of the Paleogene, places this basin as an important source of information on the evolution of South American vertebrates (particularly mammals). In this contribution we describe a new isotemnid species, based on a partial skull and isolated maxillary and dental material, recognized for levels of the Itaboraí Formation cropping out in São José de Itaboraí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A phylogenetic analysis was performed in order to evaluate the relationships of this new taxon, which results indicate (in part) that Isotemnidae represent a natural group, with some of the characters being related to the development of canines. Considering the evolutionary history of the family in this context, we recognized a series of radiation pulses during the Paleogene, and a possible correlation with Eocene climatic events that apparently affected the evolutionary rates of these notoungulates. This new record enhances our knowledge on the fossil diversity within the context of the Itaboraí Basin, whose vertebrates stand as important exponents of the early evolution of the South American biota.
Optimizing Landslide Susceptibility Mapping: A Comparative Study of Ensemble Models and Forest by Penalizing Attributes
Authors: Chen Wei , Wang Chao , Zhao Xia , Chen Xi , Zhao Qifei , Zhao Ruixin , Li Tao , Tsangaratos Paraskevas , Ilia Ioanna 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The present study introduces a novel approach to landslide susceptibility assessment by integrating the Forest Attribute Penalty (FPA) model with three ensemble algorithms—AdaBoost (AB), Rotation Forest (RF), and Random Subspace (RS)—and utilizing the Evidential Belief Function (EBF) to weight the classes of 16 landslide-related factors. To evaluate the performance of the developed methodology Yanchuan County, China, was chosen as appropriate study area. Three hundred and eleven landslide areas were identified through remote sensing and field investigations, which were randomly divided into 70% for model training and 30% for model evaluation, whereas sixteen landslide – related factors were considered, such as elevation, slope aspect, profile curvature, plan curvature, convergence index, slope length, terrain ruggedness index, topographic position index, distance to roads, distance to rivers, NDVI, land use, soil, rainfall, and lithology. EBF was employed to analyze the spatial correlation between these factors and landslide occurrences, providing the class weights of each factor for the implementation of FPA and the ensemble models. The next step involved the generation of the landslide susceptibility maps based on the models, with findings showing that more than half of the study area is classified as very low susceptibility. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and other statistical metrics, with the RFFPA model achieving the highest predictive ability, with AUC values of 0.878 and 0.890 for training and validation datasets, respectively. The AFPA and RSFPA hybrid models, however, demonstrated weaker predictive abilities compared to the FPA model. The study highlights the importance of optimizing model performance and evaluating the suitability of ensemble approaches, emphasizing the role of topographical and environmental settings in influencing model accuracy. The use of EBF for weight calculation proved crucial in improving model outcomes, suggesting that this approach could be further refined and adapted to other regions with similar geomorphological settings for better land use planning and risk management.
Epidemiology of Diphtheria and Predictors of Outcome in Nigeria: A Single-Center Study from July 2023 to April 2024
Authors: Alege Abdurrazzaq , Ibrahim Olayinka Rasheed , Ibraheem Rasheedat Mobolaji , Aladesua Olajide , Lugga Abubakar Sani , Yahaya Yunusa Yusuf ,   Abdallah Sanda4 Sanda, Suleiman Bello Muhammed 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Despite recurrent outbreaks of diphtheria in Nigeria, there is a lack of in-depth analysis of hospitalization outcomes. Herein, we describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory features that were associated with hospitalization outcomes (defined as death or discharge) during the recent diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria.
Methods
This prospective observational study included 246 diphtheria cases managed in a dedicated isolation ward of a health facility in northwestern Nigeria from July 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. We adopted the case definition for diphtheria from the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
Results
The median age (interquartile range) was 7.00 (4–10) years, and half of the patients were aged 5–10 years (49.6%). The common clinical features were fever (95.9%), sore throat (91.9%), painful swallowing (90.7%), pseudomembrane (93.1%), and cervical-submandibular lymphadenopathy (91.5%). Most children were unvaccinated (158; 64.2%), and 199 (80.9%) received diphtheria antitoxin. Of the 246 cases of diphtheria, 58 in-hospital deaths occurred, with a crude mortality rate of 23.6%. After adjusting for confounders, the variables that predicted hospitalization deaths were neck swelling with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 9.8 (95% CI 1.686–56.469), abnormal respiratory findings (AOR, 149.987 [95% CI, 15.600–1442.023] ), hypoxemia (AOR, 37.785 [95% CI, 4.255–331.962] ), and elevated serum creatinine above 1.5 mg/dL (AOR 107.783, 95% CI, 7.944–1462.376).
Conclusions
Diphtheria, a re-emerging disease, constitutes a significant burden in Nigeria, especially among children. Neck swelling, hypoxemia, abnormal respiratory findings and impaired renal function are predictive of hospitalized death.
Dynamic Wall Shear Stress Measurementusing Event-based 3D Particle Tracking
Authors: Willert Christian , Klinner Joachim 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We describe the implementation of a 3d Lagrangian particle tracking (LPT) system based on event-based vision (EBV) and demonstrate its application for the near-wall characterization of a turbulent boundary layer (TBL) in air. The viscous sublayer of the TBL is illuminated by a thin light sheet that grazes the surface of a thin glass window inserted into the wind tunnel wall. The data simultaneously captured by three synchronized event-cameras is used to reconstruct the 3d particle tracks within 400 μm of the wall on a fieldof view of 12.0 mm × 7.5 mm. The velocity and position of particles within the viscous sublayer permit the estimation of the local vector of the unsteady wall shear stress (WSS) under the assumption of linearity between particle velocity and WSS. Thereby, time-evolving maps of the unsteady WSS and higher order statistics are obtained that are in agreement with DNS data at matching Reynolds number. Near-wall particle acceleration provide the rate of change of the WSS which exhibits fully symmetric log-normal superstatistics. Two-point correlations of the randomly spaced WSS data are obtained by a bin-averaging approach and reveal information on the spacing of near-wall streaks. The employed compact EBV hardware coupled with suited LPT tracking algorithms provide data quality on par with currently used, considerably more expensive, high-speed framing cameras.
Rock magnetic properties vis-à-vis thermal gradient in basaltic flows, Rajmahal traps, India
Authors: Chatterjee Saurodeep , Arif Mohammad , Singh Sahendra 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The present study aims to determine the relationship between thermal gradient and rock magnetic parameters in the Rajmahal trap basalts of eastern India. Rock magnetic analyses are carried out which include magnetic susceptibility (χ) and its temperature (T) dependence (χ-T plots), Isothermal Remanent Magnetization (IRM) acquisition and backfield remanence coercivity of the IRM and Saturation IRM (SIRM). Also, some inter-parametric ratios like SIRM/χ and S-ratio are calculated. A thermo-magnetic deviation parameter (defined as the numerical difference between the Curie temperatures determined from the heating and cooling curves) is determined from the χ-T plots. Thermo-magnetic deviation varies with the distance from the eruptive centres, specifically, it decreases with increasing distance and cooling rate and is thus, considered a useful proxy for the cooling rate of lavas. It is shown that the composition-dependent parameters (χ and SIRM) and grain-size related parameters (SIRM/χ) have direct or indirect proportionality with the cooling rates. SIRM and χ decrease with increasing cooling rate and mark a decrease in ferrimagnetism from the eruptive centre towards the periphery in the igneous province. The SIRM/χ either decreases or shows an even pattern with increasing cooling rate, suggesting an abundance of Pseudo-Single-Domain (PSD)-sized magnetic grains. Despite this, the composition of the magnetic minerals (depicted by the S-ratio) is independent of the thermo-magnetic deviation and the cooling rate in the igneous province.
Enhanced Wound Healing in Superficial Infection Wounds Through α-SMA Upregulation and Collagen Density Increase by Secretome Hypoxia Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sawitri Windi , Putra Agung , Chodijah Chodijah , Amalina Nur Dina , Prasetyo Ardi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Superficial wound infections lead to delayed remodeling due to the suppression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) gene expression, thus inhibiting collagen synthesis. Secretomes from hypoxia mesenchymal stem cells (SH-MSCs) contain various cytokines and growth factors that play a role in accelerating wound healing and suppressing infections. This study aims to determine the influence of SH-MSCs gel administration on the α-SMA gene expression and collagen density in the skin tissue of rats with superficial wound infections. Research Design: The research design was a posttest-only control group with a completely randomized design.
Methods: The study sample comprised 24 rats with superficial wound infections induced by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria at a concentration of 5x10^7 CFU/mL in 100 µl. The study included four groups: a healthy group, a negative control group, treatment 1 (T1) with a 10% dose of SH-MSCs gel, and treatment 2 (T2) with a 20% dose of SH-MSCs gel. The α-SMA gene expression was analyzed using qRT-PCR, and collagen density was analyzed using Masson's trichrome staining.
Results: qRT-PCR analysis showed increased α-SMA gene expression in the T2 group, which was the highest (10.03±3.78), followed by the mean α-SMA gene expression in the T1 group (4.96±2.77). The lowest ratio was observed in the negative control treatment group, at 0.46±0.09. Collagen density analysis also revealed increased collagen density in the T2 group (35.68±5.28), the highest, followed by the mean collagen density in the T1 group (34.78±1.72). The negative control group observed the lowest collagen density data, at 17.39±2.47.
Conclusion: Administration of SH-MSCs gel can increase α-SMA gene expression and collagen density in a rat model of superficial wound infection.
Extended hot dust emission around the earliest massive quiescent galaxy
Authors: Ji Zhiyuan , Williams Christina , Rieke George , Lyu Jianwei , Alberts Stacey , Sun Fengwu , Helton Jakob , Rieke Marcia , Shivaei Irene , D'Eugenio Francesco , Tacchella Sandro , Robertson Brant , Zhu Yongda , Maiolino Roberto , Bunker Andrew , Sun Yang , Willmer Christopher 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A major unsolved problem in galaxy evolution is the early appearance of massive quiescent galaxies that no longer actively form stars only ~1 billion years after the Big Bang. Their high stellar masses and extremely compact structure indicate that they formed through rapid bursts of star formation between redshift z ≈ 6-11. Theoretical models of galaxy evolution cannot explain their high number density, rapid growth and truncation of star formation at such early times, which likely requires extreme feedback to destroy the cold interstellar medium (the fuel for star formation). We report the discovery of a significant reservoir of hot dust in one of the most distant known examples at z=4.658, GS-9209. The dust was identified using JWST's Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), whose unprecedented sensitivity and high spatial resolution, for the first time, firmly show that this dust is significantly more extended than the stars by ≥3 times. We find that the dust has preferentially been evacuated or diluted in the galaxy center. Our analysis finds that the extended hot dust emission is consistent with recent heating by a younger and more spatially extended generation of star formation. This reveals that the earliest quiescent galaxies did not form in a single rapid burst; instead, similar to galaxy growth at later times, the center formed first with star formation continuing in an extended envelope. The growth of this galaxy is truncating from the inside out, consistent with central gas depletion from early AGN feedback.
Perspectives on hand hygiene in Belizean healthcare facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative evaluation with healthcare workers
Authors: McDavid Kelsey , Craig Christina , Ly Anh N. , Bivens Nicholas , Morey Francis , Manzanero Russell , Morazan Gerhaldine , Hawes Ella , Medley Alexandra , Murray Kristy , Lozier Matthew 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

The World Health Organization recommends healthcare workers (HCWs) practice hand hygiene (HH) while providing care. Making alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) available at points of care is recommended during times of high patient volume, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In low- and middle-income countries, such as Belize, there may be limited access to HH materials within healthcare facilities (HCF). This paper examines the motivators and barriers to HH among HCWs in the 11 largest public healthcare facilities in Belize and HCWs' experiences with an intervention. In 2021, focus group discussions (FGDs) gathered HCWs' HH perceptions and preferences. An intervention was then implemented to increase ABHR access and HH training for HCWs. Post-intervention endpoint FGDs in 2022 documented HCWs' experiences with interventions. Baseline FGDs revealed that self-protection and protection of one's household members from illness were key motivators for HCWs' HH practice. Insufficient time, inadequate access to HH supplies, and gaps in education were barriers to practicing HH. At endpoint, participants appreciated increased access to ABHR and its convenience but did not like ABHR's effect on hands. Experiences with the training were mixed. To improve HCWs' HH practices, HH interventions should be tailored to HCWs' context and learning preferences.
Delineation of potential zones for groundwater recharge using integrated GIS-based AHP and CSI techniques in Ogun Waterside, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Badmus Ganiyu Olabode , Fagbohun Babatunde Joseph , Ogungbemi Oluwaseun Samuel , Akinyemi Olukayode Dewumi , Gbadebo Adewole Michael , Oyedepo John Adebayo 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Ogun Waterside region of southwestern Nigeria experiences seasonal water stress stemming from groundwater overdraft. Therefore, it became imperative to effectively manage the existing groundwater resources to fulfill the anticipated demand for potable water. To achieve this goal, an analysis involving seven spatial parameters: geomorphology, land use/land cover, slope, lineament density, drainage density, soil types, and geology was conducted. These parameters were examined using a combination of geographic information system (GIS)-based analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and cumulative score index (CSI) techniques to delineate potential zones for groundwater recharge. The AHP methodology was employed to assign relative weights to the thematic layers and their corresponding features, reflecting their importance. The AHP results were integrated using a weighted linear combination within a GIS environment to generate the groundwater recharge potential map. Further, the CSI was used to reclassify the composite groundwater recharge potential map. The resultant map revealed three zones which were classified into high, moderate, and low potential zones founded on the CSI approximation. About 98.56 km2 (8.28%) of the study area is categorized as having low potential, 803.77 km2 (67.54%) falls within the moderate potential zone and 287.71 km2 (24.18%) falls in the high potential zone.
Water-smart strategies to support decision-making for water resource management in the industrial context
Authors: Alferes Janelcy , Desmet Nele , Kempeneers Sven , Latte Sander , Hitsov Ivaylo , Jayaweera Chamanti , De Neve Kristof , Wauman Joachim , Bosch Ralf , Dehaspe Joni , Van Ermen Sofie , Seuntjens Piet , Genné Inge 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Efficient water resource management and shrinking freshwater sources are among the biggest challenges that the industry is facing. Best practices, optimization methodologies, technologies and tools are being required to better monitor the water systems and manage the water needs of industries. With this goal, this paper introduces different water-smart strategies being developed around the industrial Antwerp area in Belgium, where increasing levels of salinity are affecting the quality of the water used by different stakeholders within their activities. In view of better management of the surface water, a sensor network has been implemented to provide real-time monitoring of the water quality, and an operational model is used to obtain insights on the water quality dynamics to support water management decision-making. On the industrial side, tests with highly instrumented pilot facilities have provided valuable information regarding the feasibility of reducing water consumption, with a focus on the operation of cooling towers and the reuse of industrial water streams by using advanced treatment trains. In complement, a digital twin for cooling towers has been developed to study the influence of the water quality and test different operation scenarios in view of reducing water consumption and improving energy efficiency.
Workability, mechanical, durability, and microstructural investigation of sustainable concrete utilizing secondary treated wastewater, fly ash, and sodium nitrite
Authors: K. N. Rajiv , G. Shiva Kumar , Y. Ramalinga Reddy , Ramaraju H. K. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

This study explored the use of secondary treated wastewater (STW) from three secondary-level wastewater treatment plants, along with fly ash (FA) and sodium nitrite (SN), to produce sustainable concrete, comparing it to concrete made with tap water. Key properties examined included workability (slump cone), strength (compressive, split tensile, and flexural), and durability (rapid chloride permeability and efflorescence). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed to investigate the concrete's microstructure. The results indicated that FA and SN content had a notable influence on the workability, mechanical strength, and durability of the concrete mixtures. However, the type of water (STW or tap water) used in the concrete preparation showed no significant impact. Durability tests revealed that the penetrability of the mixtures ranged from low to moderate, signifying good quality, and no efflorescence was observed. Ultimately, the study concluded that concrete made with STW, when supplemented with 10% FA and 2% SN, demonstrated comparable performance to that made with tap water across key properties, offering a viable option for sustainable concrete production.