bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optical properties of polyvinyl alcohol-glass waste powder composites
Authors: Hussien Hani M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The effect of glass powder on the UV-Vis spectroscopy of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) has been studied. The glass powder was obtained from fluorescent tubes waste. The solution casting method was utilized to prepare PVA- glass composite films by adding glass powder with 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt. %. UV-Vis absorption spectra of PVA- glass samples were listed in the range 200–1100 nm at room temperature. The optical parameters were calculated as follow: transmittance, absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, refractive index, dielectric constant, and dielectric loss. The results of XRD showed that the amorphous nature was observed to increase with increase in the concentration of the added glass powder. The transmittance increased with the wavelength and the large increase in the weight percentage of glass powder made the transmittance constant for a certain range of wavelengths. While the absorption coefficient generally decreased with increasing wavelength. Also it was observed that at wavelengths greater than 600 nm, the absorption coefficient increased with the increase in the weight ratio of glass powder (except 20 wt. %). Furthermore, the highest values of the absorption coefficient were observed for the sample containing 20 wt. % of glass powder. It was also found that the change in the refractive index and dielectric constant with the wavelength were accompanied by the presence of peaks in the case of the pure sample and the other containing 10 wt% glass powder, while the peaks disappeared when the percentage of glass powder increased. On the other hand, it was noticed that the pure sample has the values of the imaginary dielectric constant and extinction coefficient that change very slightly with the wavelength and had the lowest values, while it increased with wavelength in other samples. Finally it was found that the energy gap did not change by adding glass powder except for the addition of 30% and 40 wt. %. Through this study, it was possible to change the optical properties of the polymer by adding glass powder, which allows the possibility of benefiting from the new formed composites for use in different applications and according to their response to wavelengths.
Multimodal Nuclear Magnetic Imaging Prediction of Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients with Acute Stroke Using Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Long Xiaoyue , Zhang Peiren , Luo Bin , Yang Xiao , Du Yuxuan , Yu Xiaoqing , Zhang Fangfang , Chen Yan , Dong Zhong , Zhang Peilan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: To explore the relationship between Signal intensity ratio (SIR) levels, a cerebral hemodynamic index, and early neurological function deterioration in patients with acute cerebral infarction under the guidance of multimodal nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) with intravenous thrombolysis.
Methods: 157 patients with acute cerebral infarction who received intravenous thrombolysis within 4.5 hours of stroke were obtained from Tianjin Huanhu Hospital between January 2022 and February 2024. early neurological deterioration (END) was defined as an increase in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of ≥4 points from baseline at 24 hours after intravenous thrombolysis or death. The patients were divided into 36 cases in the END group and 121 cases in the non-END group. Baseline, clinical, and imaging data were collected from patients. Patients who received treatment were followed for 3 months. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was used to determine SIR levels before and after thrombolysis and to analyze the correlation between SIR levels and END.
Results: Patients in the END group had higher baseline systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, post-thrombolysis hemorrhage conversion, baseline NIHSS score, discharge NIHSS score, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score than those in the no-END group, whereas pre- and post-thrombolysis SIR levels were lower than those in the no-END group (P<0.05). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that baseline NIHSS score, post-thrombolytic hemorrhagic conversion, and pre-thrombolytic SIR were independent risk factors for the development of END in patients with acute cerebral infarction treated with intravenous thrombolysis. Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of END detected by the combination of baseline NIHSS score and pre-thrombolysis SIR level was 0.791 (95% CI: 0.712-0.870), with sensitivity and specificity of 60% and 88.9%, respectively, and P<0.001 (Figure 1), which was higher than that of END detected by the two measures alone (baseline NIHSS score: AUC 0.770, 95% CI: 0.691-0.849, p=0.000; pre-thrombolytic SIR: AUC 0.654, 95% CI: 0.556-0.752, p=0.005). Spearman's correlation analysis showed that pre-thrombolysis SIR level was negatively correlated with the level of mRS score and post-thrombolysis hemorrhagic conversion (r=-0.218, p=0.000; r=-0.166, p=0.038), whereas it was positively correlated with post-thrombolysis SIR level (r=0.408, p=0.000).
Conclusions: SIR levels can be used as a simple, non-invasive and highly reproducible method in combination with baseline NIHSS scores to determine the occurrence of END after intravenous thrombolysis, providing a method for early screening of individuals at risk for END.
High greenhouse gas emission scenarios increase soil erosion risk: A case study of the Min-Tuo River Basin, China
Authors: Jiang Nan , Ni Fuquan , Deng Yu , Wu Mingyan , Zhu Mengyu , Wang Yuxuan , Ren Huazhun , Yue Ziying 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

To quantify the current status of soil erosion in the Min-Tuo River Basin and predict future soil erosion conditions, the RUSLE model and GIS technology were employed to assess soil erosion in the Min-Tuo River Basin from 2000 to 2020. Based on the CMIP6 model, precipitation in the Min-Tuo River from 2021 to 2050 was predicted, and the CA-Markov model was used to forecast land use types from 2030 to 2050, thereby predicting the spatial distribution trends of soil erosion in 2030, 2040, and 2050. The results indicate that: (1) The overall soil erosion intensity in the study area increased from 2000 to 2020; (2) Future precipitation in the basin, predicted using the CMIP6 model, showed a fluctuating upward trend compared to historical levels. The SSP5-8.5 scenario had the largest fluctuation; (3) In terms of future land use types, an increase in the area of converted cropland may increase the risk of soil erosion; (4) The area affected by soil erosion in the future will increase, with the highest annual average soil erosion modulus and total amount occurring under the SSP5-8.5 high emission scenario; (5) The dynamic evolution of future soil erosion levels indicates that the stability of soil erosion levels under the SSP2-4.5 scenario is higher than under the other scenarios. In the future high CO2 emission scenario, the risk of soil erosion in the Min-Tuo River Basin will increase, necessitating the active implementation of various prevention and control measures to prevent further exacerbation.
Development and validation of a nomogram clinical prediction model for osteoporosis in elderly malnourished patients
Authors: chen Jiao , Sun Chengxia , Zhu Yingchao , Pan Yuhao , Li Xueping 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish a nomogram model for predicting the incidence of osteoporosis (OP) in elderly malnourished patients and to verify its predictive effect. We conducted a retrospective analysis of elderly malnourished patients hospitalized at the Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine between December 2023 and June 2024. The cohort was randomly divided into a training set and a validation set in a 7:3 ratio. Optimal factors were identified using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, which were then incorporated into a multifactorial logistic regression model to ascertain independent predictors. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test, area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve (CIC) were used to assess the model's goodness of fit, discrimination, calibration, and clinical impact, respectively. A total of 381 patients were included in the analysis. Independent predictors of OP in this population included: Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI)(OR=0.520,95%CI 0.282-0.958),activity situation(OR=0.590,95%CI 0.353 0.987),hypertension(OR=2.833,95%CI 1.384-5.798), type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)(OR=4.314,95%CI 1.971-9.439),serum calcium (Ca)(OR=0.012,95%CI 0.001-0.180), total cholesterol(TC)(OR=4.185,95%CI 2.571-6.809), triglycerides (TG)(OR=2.003,95%CI 1.217-3.297),albumin (ALB) (OR=0.804,95%CI 0.683-0.946),overall hip joint bone mineral density (BMD)(OR=0.015,95%CI 0.001-0.225),overall lumbar spine BMD(OR=0.029, 95%CI 0.005-0.188),and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)(OR=1.022,95%CI 1.011-1.034). The AUC for the training and validation sets were 0.946(95%CI 0.920-0.972) and 0.963(95%CI 0.936-0.990), respectively, indicating great discriminatory ability. The nomogram model developed in this study exhibits good discrimination and accuracy, facilitating the identification of OP risk in elderly malnourished patients in a simple and efficient manner. This model supports early clinical decision-making and intervention, serving as a vital tool for improving patient prognosis. It is anticipated that larger, multicenter studies will be conducted to further validate, enhance, and update the model.
Quantitative Assessment of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Its Correlation with Clinical Symptoms: A Study Utilizing Ultrashort Time-of-Echo and T2 Mapping as Biomarkers
Authors: Han Jun , Meng XiangHong , Ji Zhilin , Niu Feige , Zhu Nana , Zhao Tingting , Shen Zhiwei , Wang Zhi , Yang Qiang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Lumbar cartilage endplate (CEP) structures show low signal intensity on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), making them hard to observe and quantify. This often results in poor correlation between conventional MRI findings and low back pain (LBP) symptoms and provides inadequate guidance for clinical decisions.
Methods:
The study included Twenty-five healthy volunteers and forty-one patients with LBP. Quantitative MRI techniques—Ultrashort Echo Time (UTE) T2* mapping and T2 mapping are employed to evaluate lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and LBP symptoms. Pfirrmann and Rajasekaran grading systems and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) served as reference standards.
Regions of interest (ROIs) for the nucleus pulposus (NP), upper CEP, and lower CEP were outlined in UTE Two echo subtracting images and transferred to UTE images fused with 3D water sequence images and T2 mapping images. UTE-T2* and T2 mapping values were automatically calculated. Cohen’s kappa, Spearman’s rank correlation, and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results:
Spearman’s rank correlation revealed that UTE‑T2* and T2 values for upper CEP, lower CEP, and NP negatively correlated with Pfirrmann and Rajasekaran grades (P < 0.001). The Kruskal–Wallis test showed significant differences in values between Pfirrmann grades II, III, IV, and V (P < 0.001). ODI was negatively correlated with T2* and T2 values of the lower CEP (P < 0.001)and positively with Pfirrmann grade (r = 0.2, P = 0.003).
Conclusion: Quantitative MRI methods for T2* values and T2 mapping are associated with grade of degeneration and ODI index and are more effective for assessing CEP damage and LBP symptoms than conventional MRI sequence.
Formulation Development and Optimisation of a Novel Quality-by-Design Bedaquline-Loaded Nanoemulsion for the Potential Treatment of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis in Paediatrics
Authors: Ajayi Taiwo Oreoluwa , Poka Madan Sai. , Witika Bwalya Angel 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bedaquiline is a drug used for the treatment of multidrug-resistant TB in adults and children that is currently only commercially available in tablet form. The present study was aimed at preparing nanoemulsion (NE) of BDQ using natural vegetable oils to deliver BDQ. The optimisation of surfactant mixtures was undertaken using Design of Experiments (DoE), specifically an optimal mixture design. The NEs were optimised while monitoring droplet size (DS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI) and drug content (DC). The optimised NEs were further characterised using transmission electron microscopy, electrical conductivity, viscosity, pH and in vitro release studies. The optimised NE showed values of 191.6 nm ± 2.38 nm, 0.1176 ± 1.69, -25.9 mV ± 3.00 mV and 3.14 ± 0.82 mg/ml for DS, PDI, ZP and DC respectively. Furthermore, the TEM studies demonstrated the spherical shape of the optimised globules. The nanoemulsion was characterised by measuring its electrical conductivity, viscosity and pH which were determined as 53.1 µS/cm, 327 ± 3.05 cP and 5.63 ± 1.78, respectively. In conclusion, these NEs have great potential for improving solubility, drug delivery, and administration of BDQ. However, further studies are required to maximise the drug content and to demonstrate to what extent these NE have effect against MDR-TB.
A comparative study of lumbar spine stabilization with 2-stage surgery and cement augmentation in osteoporosis patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hajilo Parisa , Imani behzad , Zandi Shirdel , mehrafshan Ali 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The biggest challenge for osteoporotic patients after spinal stabilization is screw loosening. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the comparative aim of stabilizing the lumbar spine with 2-stage surgery and cement augmentation in osteoporotic patients.
Methods
66 patients selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: CAPS and 2-stage surgery. In the CAPS group, lumbar spine fixation was performed in a single stage, accompanied by cement augmentation. In the 2-stage surgery group, spinal stabilization was conducted in 2 stages. In the first stage, pedicle screws were implanted, followed by the pedicle screw anchoring process six months later. fusion rate, screw loosening, pain levels (VAS), and patients' disability (ODI) were measured in each group.
Results
The fusion rate in the 2-stage Surgery group significantly increased. Screw loosening in the CAPS group showed a significantly higher difference. The rate of pain and disability in patients early postoperatively, in comparison to preoperative measures, significantly decreased in both groups. In the final follow-up, the CAPS group experienced a significant increase in pain and disability.
Conclusions
The 2-stage Surgery stabilization, when compared to the CAPS technique, demonstrates superiority in enhancing the biomechanical stability of screws and achieving successful fusion.
Investigation of the Effect of Humic Acid on Experimental Copper Accumulation in the Liver in Rats
Authors: Cagin Yasir Furkan , Atayan Yahya , Ozhan Onural , Berber Ilhami , Yildiz Azibe , Dogru Feyzi , Kirec Yusuf 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective
There is a need for an affordable oral chelator to reduce the treatment cost in cases of chronic copper intoxication, such as hereditary Wilson's disease. Humic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule found in water and soil, with a longchain and the ability to transfer electrons. It has the capability to eliminate toxic compounds from the body. This study was designed to test chelator effect of HA on copper as well as its anti-oxidant effect against the copper-induced hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity and brain toxicity
Materials and Methods
Forty female Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (n:10) as follows: Control group; HA group: 536 mg/kg/day HA (po for 14 days); Cu group: 75 mg/kg copper sulfate (po at 12-hour intervals for14 days); Cu + HA group: 75 mg/kg copper sulfate (po at 12-hour intervals for 14 days) and 536 mg/kg/day HA (po for 14 days). Blood and two tissue samples(liver, kidney and brain) were collected for biochemical and histopathological analyses.
Results
The copper-induced hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity and brain toxicity were demonstrated by histopathological and biochemical manner. Histopathological changes in the Cu + HA group were observed to continue similarly to the Cu group. Significant changes were observed in all oxidant and antioxidant parameters except liver MDA, GPx and TAS and kidney GSH and SOD between the copper group and the HA plus copper group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The protective effects of humic acid against copper-induced hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity and brain toxicity were shown in our study. However, further research is needed to corroborate the results of our study.
Multimodal imaging for the diagnosis of cardiac alveolar echinococcosis: a case report
Authors: Zhu Mengdie , Gao Xukun , Wang Xiaoping , Meng Li 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Primary cardiac echinococcosis is rare, and cardiac alveolar echinococcosis is even rarer and more unusual. Reported cases of this disease are extremely limited, and multimodal imaging provides an important guide to treatment and decision-making. We report a case of cardiac alveolar echinococcosis.
Case summary: A 31-year-old male patient with no specific medical history was found to have a cardiac space-occupying lesion on physical examination one day earlier. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a cystic mass anterior to the right lateral aspect of the right atrium, which did not show enhancement on the enhanced scan. Multidetector computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance showed a cystic space-occupying lesion in the right lateral aspect of the right atrium, with mild enhancement of the edges of the lesion and multiple small vesicles on the enhancement scan. Surgery was performed on suspicion of cardiac alveolar echinococcosis, and the lesion was successfully excised. Ultimately, postoperative histopathologic examination revealed cardiac alveolar echinococcosis. The patient recovered well and was discharged with regular postoperative oral albendazole tablets and regular follow-up reviews.
Conclusion: We report a case of cardiac alveolar echinococcosis with multimodal imaging features and therapeutic strategies, an extremely rare cardiac occupying disease. Multimodal imaging can be very helpful in diagnosing the disease; however, surgical resection with histopathologic diagnosis is essential. Appropriate postoperative treatment and follow-up are based on histologic findings. This rare case emphasizes the integrated diagnosis of cardiac alveolar echinococcosis with clinical, multimodal imaging and pathologic data.
Digital Narratives of Grief and Resilience: Insights from the Integrating Emotional Stories Online ( IESO) Platform
Authors: Patton Desmond , Kleiner Shana , Miller Shug , Deas Nick , Edwards Fahnmusa , Grieser Jessi , Shephard James , Turcan Elsbeth , McKeown Kathy 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Social media has altered how humans express emotions, among them, grief. Features unique to social media platforms, such as persistence, replicability, scalability, and searchability have afforded social media users new spaces and larger communities in which to express deep, complex pain and find support. This interdisciplinary study, leveraging insights from social work, computer science, and linguistics, explores how grief and daily stressors are expressed, on a digital platform, among Black Harlem residents and students attending a large university in New York City. Particular attention is given to posts with features that reflect African American English and social media-specific language, seeking to understand challenges associated with interpreting these expressions; misinterpretation can lead to differential support and treatment for those seeking help. To examine the experience, we created the Integrating Emotional Stories Online (IESO) platform, to collect expressions of grief and everyday stress. The platform allowed participants to anonymously post and self-label their emotions; we analyzed posts using qualitative and computational topic modeling methods to identify core themes. We identified four primary themes: expressions of interpersonal grief, systemic grief, everyday stressors and self-care & joy. The computational topic modeling approach validated those themes. The study was conducted in the context of significant events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, protests against police brutality, and mass shootings. Findings reveal the complex ways grief and everyday stress may be communicated in digital space, emphasizing the importance of deep analysis and reflection when examining hyper-local dialects. Findings also underscore the importance of digital platforms in understanding and supporting individuals who experience grief and other forms of stress, providing valuable insights for mental health practitioners.
Risk factors analysis and risk prediction model for failed back surgery syndrome: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hajilo Parisa , Imani behzad , Zandi Shirdel , mehrafshan Ali , khazaei salman 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
With the growing number of posterior open surgery, the incidence of failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) increases gradually. Currently, there is a lack of predictive systems and scientific evaluation in clinical practice. This study aimed to risk factors analysis of FBSS and develop a risk prediction model.
Materials and Methods
Baseline data were collected from 512 patients. Patients were followed up for one year. Ultimately, 146 patients were classified in the FBSS group, with an incidence rate of 32.5%. Logistic regression was used to screen for independent risk factors influencing the occurrence of FBSS. The diagnostic power of model was evaluated using the ROC curve.
Findings:
Age, smoking, type of pain, revision surgery, surgical technique, quality of life, and psychological status were significantly associated with the incidence of FBSS. The strongest factor in this model was the selected surgical technique, with an odds ratio of 0.095. The area under the ROC curve for the model's diagnostic and classification power was 0.852.
Conclusion
The causes of FBSS can stem from underlying factors, lifestyle, surgical causes, and patients' psychological factors. Therefore, prevention and treatment for each individual should be based on their specific cause to achieve optimal results.