bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Protective Role of Royal Jelly against the Biochemical and Structural changes of Penile Corpora Cavernosa in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Alshali Rasha A , El-Aziz Gamal S. Abd , Aggad Waheeb S. , Mustafa Hesham N. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a leading cause of erectile dysfunction (ED). Understanding the structure of erectile tissue within the penile corpora cavernosa and their pathological changes in these tissues is essential for developing protective and therapeutic strategies. As the current diabetes management does not protect against ED, promising natural agents such as royal jelly (RJ), which has variable bioactive components that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties are needed. This study aimed to investigate the effect of induced DM on the biochemical and structural components of the corpora cavernosa and to evaluate the protective effect of RJ on these parameters. Forty adult albino male rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: the control group, the RJ group: received oral RJ (100 mg/kg/day), the diabetic group: subjected to induction of DM by using Streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) intraperitoneally; and the diabetic and RJ groups: subjected to DM induction and received RJ. All rats were sacrificed after 60 days; blood was drawn to estimate differences in diabetes parameters, testosterone levels, oxidative/antioxidant markers and nitrous oxide (NO) concentrations. Additionally, penile tissues were fixed in formalin for histological and immunohistochemical studies. STZ-induced DM results in marked hyperglycemia, decreased insulin, testosterone, and NO levels; and oxidative/antioxidative imbalance. Histologically, corpora cavernosa showed a decrease in collagen fibers, elastic and smooth muscle fibers with a disturbed normal architecture. Treatment of diabetic rats with RJ markedly decreased these biochemical and structural alterations. In conclusion, RJ cotreatment is a promising practice for diabetes-induced corpora cavernosal damage possibly through its antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, and androgenic effects.
Removal of ammonium from water by a bentonite biochar composite
Authors: Hai Nguyen Thi , Hoang-Minh Thao , Hieu Do Trung , Hoai Ta Thi , Dong Bui Van , Dung Luu Viet , Ha Nguyen Thi Hoang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A new adsorbent of bentonite biochar composite (BRK) from natural bentonite and rice husk was synthesized for removal of ammonium (NH4+) from water. The preparation of the adsorbent consisted of a pyrolysis process at 400 °C and activation of biochar with KOH to obtain BRK. Various advanced techniques were applied to characterize the investigated adsorbent, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), N2 adsorption analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) integrated with Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) Spectroscopy. The point of zero charge of BRK was 9.1. The pH solution strongly affected BRK’s adsorption capacity to NH4+ ions in the solution. The removal efficiencies of NH4+ were considerably diminished in the presence of coexisting cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+). The Langmuir adsorption capacity of BRK for NH4+ was in the following order: 22.51 mg/g (10 oC) > 20.57 mg/g (30 oC) > 16.22 mg/g (50 oC). The kinetic experiments demonstrated that the adsorption equilibrium was achieved after 30 mins of contact. The ion-exchange was found to be the main adsorption mechanism for removing NH4+ by BRK. This study proved that BRK is a low-cost and sustainable adsorbent derived from natural bentonite and rice husk and it is advantageous for successfully removing NH4+ from water.
Incidence and Factors Associated with Postoperative Headache among Adult Elective Surgical Patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Zegeye Sitotaw Tesfa , Ahmed Seid Adem , Aytolign Habitu Adane , Mekonnen Zemenay Ayinie 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Postoperative headache is a medical condition that has a strong association with future recurrent and chronic headache, higher morbidity and mortality, extended hospital stays, poor quality of life and high financial burden. Despite, having these consequences, there are limited studies regarding the incidence and associated factors of postoperative headache.
Objective
The objective of this study was to assess the incidence and associated factors of postoperative headache among adult elective surgical patients at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Northwest Ethiopia, April 9 to 20 June 2022.
Methods
An institution -based follow- up study was conducted from April 9 to June 20 2022, at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, after approval of ethical committee, Consecutively 424 patients were included. Postoperative headache was measured based on patient interview and the response was dichotomized as present or absent. Data were collected through chart review as well as patient interviews using a questionnaire. Data entered in to epidata 4.6.0 and statistical analysis was performed using stata version 14.01 software. Descriptive statistics was conducted to summarize patient’s information and to determine the incidence of postoperative headache. Binary logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with postoperative headache. Variables with P-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results
The overall incidence of postoperative headache in the first three postoperative days was 54.3% and the response rate was 99%. Previous history of headache (AOR = 4.83, CI = 2.42 9.73), prolonged fasting (AOR = 2.28, CI = 1.44–3.60), general anesthesia (AOR = 1.96, CI = 1.25 3.07), intraoperative hypotension (AOR = 1.74, CI = 1.06–2.88), female gender (AOR = 1.62,CI = 1.06–2.54) and caffeine consumption(AOR = 1.60,CI = 1.02–2.52) were significantly associated with postoperative headache and most of patients (39%) were experienced moderate headache
Conclusion and recommendations:
According to the findings of our study, more than half of surgical patients suffered from postoperative headache. Use of general anesthesia techniques, having history of headache, being female, intraoperative hypotension, caffeine consumption and having prolonged preoperative fasting were strongly associated with postoperative headache. The problem needs regular assessment and treatment.
Nanoelectrospray based synthesis of large, transportable membranes with integrated membrane proteins
Authors: Wilm Matthias 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Membrane proteins tend to be difficult to study since they need to be integrated into a lipid bilayer membrane to function properly. Here I am presenting a method to synthesize a macroscopically large and freely transportable membrane with integrated membrane proteins. This is useful for studying membrane proteins and protein complexes in isolation. The method could serve as a blueprint for the production of larger quantities of functionalised membranes for integration into technical devices similar to the MinION DNA sequencer. It is possible to self-assemble larger biological membranes on solid surfaces. However, they cannot be removed from their solid support without destroying them. In transportable form, self-assembled membranes are limited to sizes of about 17 nm in nanodiscs. Here we electrospray a series of molecular layers onto the liquid surface of a buffer solution. This creates a flat, liquid environment on the surface that directs the self-assembly of the membrane. The composition of the membrane, its lipid and protein content, is experimentally controlled. We have succeeded in producing large membranes with integrated OmpG, a transmembrane pore protein. The technique appears to be compatible with the assembly of membrane based protein complexes.
Impact of family socioeconomic status on the prognosis of heart transplantation in children
Authors: Liu Shun , Hua Xiumeng , Mo Han , Zhao Yiqi , Chen Xiao , Wang Weiteng , Li Yijing , Zhang Ningning , Bao Mengni , Cui Zeyu , Zhao Qian , Yan Jun , Song Jiangping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Low family socioeconomic status is a known factor that can contribute to increased mortality for patients with cardiovascular disease. However, in developing countries, the prognostic impact of socioeconomic level on pediatric HTx is unclear, particularly in developing countries.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of children younger than 18 years who underwent heart transplantation (HTx) at our center from October 1, 2005, to May 31, 2023. To assess the impact of socioeconomic status, we followed up with the discharged children until September 30, 2023, monitoring for all-cause mortality and unplanned readmission events. To evaluate the relationship between socioeconomic status and prognosis, we assigned a composite score based on an assessment of household income, parental education level, and occupation. The Cox proportional hazards model and the Kaplan-Meier method were utilized for this analysis.
Results
64 children (median age at operation 14 years, IQR 13–15) were enrolled and one case died in hospital due to HF, 63 (98.4%) children had a median follow-up of 60 months (IQR 5.9-113.9). During the follow-up period, 10 (15.9%) children died, and 20 (31.7%) children had 25 unplanned readmissions. Children had higher all-cause mortality and more unplanned readmissions in families with low socioeconomic status (n = 33) than middle (n = 10) or high (n = 20) family socioeconomic status. Hazard ratios were 5.99,(95%CI:2.28–10.64, P = 0.003) for all-cause mortality for low versus high family socioeconomic status, and 2.53 (95%CI:1.04–9.43, P = 0.029) for middle versus high family socioeconomic status.
Conclusions
Lower family socioeconomic status is associated with a worse prognosis than high family socioeconomic status. Measures to alleviate economic disparities are needed to improve the prognosis of pediatric HTx.
The Relationship between Dental Caries and Salivary TGF-β Level and Growth Indicators in 5-6-Year-Old Children: A case-control study
Authors: Derakhshan Shokoofeh , Kamiab Zahra , Pourjahanshah Donya , Hoseinzade Faezehe , Karimabad Mojgan Noroozi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
Pro-inflammatory cytokines in the saliva were detected in periodontitis and dental caries. This study aims to compare the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) in the saliva of dental caries patients and survey growth indices from childhood to the present, in children with dental caries.
Methods
In this case-control study, two groups of 30 cases (children with tooth decay) and control (without tooth decay), aged 5–6 years, were selected by using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and were matched based on age and sex. They were evaluated in terms of growth indices (BMI, gender, weight, height, and head circumference) from childhood to the present, as well as salivary TGF-β levels. Finally, the data were analyzed by SPSS22.
Results
The DMFT index in the case group was 7.03 ± 3.32 and they had significantly lower BMI (p = 0.042), but no relationship was observed with height and weight. The mean level of TGF-β (Pg/mL) in the case group was significantly higher than the control group (p = 0.047).
Conclusions
The study results indicate that TGF B level is higher in children with dental caries. Children with dental caries weigh less than children of the same age; therefore, dental examination in preschool children is necessary, with the aim of preventing DMFT.
Electro-polymerization of modified carbon paste sensor for detecting Azithromycin
Authors: mamdouh salma , shehata mohammed , fekry amany , ameer magda 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A carbon paste electrode (CPE) was simply modified to detect AM using poly-threonine (PT). Azithromycin (AM) is one of the prescribed drugs in pandemic medication regimen which has a paying attention. The work was characterised using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A very sensitive response to the oxidation of 1.0 mM AM in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) over a pH range of 5.0 to 10.0 was observed using a developed poly-threonine carbon paste electrode (PTCPE). In PBS with a pH of 7.4, the impact of different AM concentrations was investigated resulting in a detection limit of 0.32 µM and a quantification limit of 1.07 µM. Finally, the recently used electrode realized acceptable sensitivity and consistency for AM detection in pharmaceutical drugs.
The TyG index is negatively associated with sarcopenia in nondiabetic middle-aged and elderly adults based on CHARLS data
Authors: Zhang Han , Du Hongzhen , Zhao Yuanyuan , Li Zengning , Liu Kun , Wang Xuan , Manafe Hendra , Sun Kejuan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the TyG index, an alternative marker of insulin resistance, and sarcopenia in nondiabetic middle-aged and elderly people to provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia.
Methods: Our study utilized data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2011-2015 to investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia in nondiabetic middle-aged and elderly adults based on the diagnostic criteria published by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) in 2019. Triglyceride and fasting blood glucose values were obtained from physical examination data to calculate the TyG index. The associations between the TyG index and sarcopenia, as well as its components, were analysed using multifactorial logistic regression and restricted cubic spline regression. The relationship between the TyG index and incident sarcopenia was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression modelling.
Results: Of the 7190 subjects included in 2011, 1139 (15.8%) had sarcopenia. There was a significant negative association between the TyG index and sarcopenia in nondiabetic middle-aged and older adults (OR=0.699, 95% CI: 0.588 to 0.830, P<0.001) and a negative association with low muscle mass and low physical function, with adjusted risk ratios of 0.677 and 0.840, respectively.The restricted cubic spline regression analysis showed a nonlinear association, demonstrating a significant negative correlation with sarcopenia when the TyG index was greater than 8.51. During the four-year follow-up, 520 (12.9%) of the 4,034 participants developed sarcopenia. Cox regression analysis revealed that the risk of incident sarcopenia decreased as the TyG index increased (HR=0.631, 95% CI: 0.538-0.741 P<0.001). After adjusting the model based on age, sex, education level, smoking and drinking status, marital status, glycated haemoglobin, high-density lipoprotein, and comorbidities, the trend remained consistent (HR=0.762, 95% CI=0.629-0.923, P=0.005). The adjusted hazard ratio for sarcopenia in the highest quartile of the TyG index compared to the lowest quartile was 0.719 (P=0.025), indicating a 28.1% reduced risk of new-onset sarcopenia.
Conclusions: The TyG index of nondiabetic middle-aged and elderly people in China is negatively correlated with sarcopenia, which may provide a reference for the prevention and management of sarcopenia.
Conservative or Radical: The Importance of Split-Renal Function Assessment in the Treatment of Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
Authors: Liu Wei , Jia Xuan , Sun Lingjiang , Liu Jun , Ni Jianming , Li Qianqian , Luo Liang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute necrotizing infectious disease of the collecting system, the renal parenchyma, and perinephric tissues. The current treatment methods include intravenous antibiotics, percutaneous drainage and nephrectomy. Here, we report a case of a female patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM) who presented with EPN. Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the causative pathogen. Application of empirical simple antibiotic did not take a significant improvement of clinical manifestations. Combination of two kind of sensitive antibiotics, and appropriated invasive treatment based on the split-renal function assessment were suggested. Percutaneous drainage is helpful to improve clinical manifestations and achieve a better outcome. The split-renal function can be used to direct whether nephrectomy is necessary. If the split-renal function assessment provides support for nephron-sparing intervention, we should try our best to save it.
Experiences and unmet needs among caregivers of children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nigeria: A qualitative study using the socio-ecological model
Authors: Azubuike Albright Obinna , Azubuike Precious Chidozie , Onyekachi Ebuka Light , Enyam Michael Obule , Akinreni Temidayo , Abuo James , Ogbonna Chimankpam Kingsley , Timothy Promise Nmesomachi , Uchegbu Eberechukwu Ruth , Adai George Sefa 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines the experiences and unmet needs of caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder in Nigeria. With a 14.8% prevalence in Nigeria, autism spectrum disorder poses a heavy economic burden on society and the patients’ families, with limited social interactions and stigma. Despite this, the unmet needs and psychosocial burdens of autism spectrum disorder on caregivers have been understudied in Nigeria. The study contributes evidence and raises interest in this area of research.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted among twenty-three purposively selected caregivers. Questions from the PREPARE and Zarit Burden Interview tools were adapted for the interview and discussion guides. Data were collected among caregivers of pupils in selected special needs schools in Cross River State, Nigeria. Inductive and deductive approaches were used for the analysis using NVivo 20 pro. The socio-ecological model was used to generate the themes and quotes.
Results: The study generated four themes and eleven sub-themes across four levels of the socio-ecological model. Findings from our study showed that caregivers of children undergo significant emotional distress, disbelief, and fear at the early stage of diagnosis. Furthermore, families and friends had difficulty comprehending or accepting their children’s diagnosis, which further created tension and misunderstanding. Socio-cultural contexts such as stigma and isolation were not uncommon in the society.
Conclusion: Given the burden of the psychological demand and stigma attached to caregivers and children with autism, there is an urgent need for a tailor-made intervention with the key interplay of individual, interpersonal, societal/institutional, and policy in Nigeria. Advocacy efforts and awareness chaired by caregivers should be strengthened across all levels of the society in Nigeria.
Application of Machine Learning for Predicting Concrete Strength: Ensembles vs. Instance-Based Algorithms in WEKA
Authors: ARIFUZZAMAN Md 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This research work presents a comprehensive analysis of machine learning (ML) techniques for predicting the compressive strength of concrete, a critical parameter in civil engineering. The study compares instance-based learning methods, such as Locally Weighted Learning (LWL), K*, and IBk, with ensemble-based methods like Bagging, Random Committee, and Ensemble Selection, using the WEKA software platform. The research highlights the advantages of each ML approach, with ensemble methods generally outperforming instance-based methods in terms of prediction accuracy. The document also discusses the importance of data preprocessing, particularly the handling of outliers and extreme values, and employs Spearman's rank correlation for statistical analysis. The findings contribute to the advancement of ML applications in the construction industry, offering insights into the comparative strengths of different ML algorithms for predicting concrete compressive strength.
Analysis of Soret and Dufour impacts on MHD flow constrained between a long upright wavy wall and a parallel flat wall in a permeable medium
Authors: Deka Bhaskarjyoti , Choudhury Rita 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This investigation focuses on how the waviness of one of the walls affects the flow and thermal-mass exchange of a completely developed free convection stream of a viscous, incompressible fluid that is constrained between two long, vertical walls in a permeable medium. The walls exhibit different shapes- one is wavy, the other is flat and the movement of both the walls is caused by variations in wall temperatures and concentrations. The emphasis has been on elucidating the Soret and Dufour impacts pertaining to heat sources and chemical reactions. The governing equations are accurately modeled through a series of regular differential equations generated by an analogous transformation. These equations are then solved using MATLAB’s advanced numerical method. A thorough analysis of the distributions of velocity, temperature and concentration has been conducted taking into account a range of physical parameters. Additionally, comprehensive tables have been compiled that demonstrate the variations in skin friction, Nusselt number and Sherwood number according to various management parameters at both walls. The current outcomes are compared to previously released works and are deemed to be a great addition.
Assessing the Economic Impact of Obesity and Overweight on Employers: Identifying Paths Toward Work Force Health and Well-Being
Authors: Dall Timothy , Sapra Tanvi , Natale Zachary , Livingston Tia , Chen Fang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives
: Obesity is a major public health issue, significantly affecting national and individual health and economic well-being. This study quantifies the economic impact of excess body weight on employers and employees in 2023, offering insights for obesity prevention and treatment.
Methods
We utilized data from National Health Interview Survey, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, and Current Population Survey. Published reports and original estimates were combined to assess the economic burden for the U.S. and across seven major industries (Construction, Education & Health, Financial Activities, Government, Manufacturing, Professional & Business Services, and Transportation & Utilities). We compared the economic outcomes for adults with obesity and overweight to those with healthy weight, focusing on direct and indirect costs. Potential savings from different weight loss scenarios were estimated using the Disease Prevention & Treatment Microsimulation Model.
Results
In 2023, among 158 million civilian employees on nonfarm payrolls, 30% had obesity and 34% had overweight, resulting in a combined economic burden of $425.5 billion (obesity: $347.5 billion; overweight: $78 billion). This includes excess medical costs of obesity ($115 billion), presenteeism (obesity: $113.8 billion; overweight: $46.5 billion), absenteeism from obesity ($82.3 billion), excess medical costs of overweight ($31.5 billion), obesity-related disability payments ($31.1 billion), and workers’ compensation payments ($5.2 billion). For a hypothetical firm with 10 000 employees (plus dependents), the annual costs were $22 million for obesity and $4.9 million for overweight, with average costs of $6472 per employee with obesity, $1244 per employee with overweight, $1514 per adult dependent with obesity, and $380 per adult dependent with overweight. Medical savings over 5 years ranges from $153.3 billion with a 5% weight loss to $326.1 billion with 25% weight loss at the industry level.
Conclusion
The substantial economic costs imposed by obesity and overweight on employers and employees highlight the need for resources dedicated to treatment and prevention, which can result in reduced medical expenses and improved productivity.