bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fertility rate and determinants of fertility among women with epilepsy at Debre Birhan Referral Hospital, North Shewa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kasahun Fetene , Urge Yonas Teshome , Worku Negese , Solomon Yerukneh , Alaro Melaku Geletu , Chala Getahun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Fertility is defined as the number of live births per thousand women. There are increased reproductive problems among women with epilepsy (WWE) who are taking antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Literatures indicate that there is a greater risk of pregnancy complications related to seizures and the drugs taken by these patients. Therefore, the main aim of this research was to determine the fertility rate and determinants of fertility among women with epilepsy at Debre Birhan Referral Hospital, North Shewa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted, and a total of 88 reproductive-aged women with epilepsy were interviewed about their pregnancy and birth histories. The authors’ questionnaire was used to assess the sociodemographic data and clinical characteristics of the patients. The clinical data were also crosschecked with the medical records.
Results
Of the 88 women with epilepsy included in this study, 35 (39.8%) were married, and 45 (51.1%) had a history of pregnancy. The mean number of live births among women with epilepsy was 3.15 (± 1.41 SD). Of the total pregnancies, approximately one-third were complicated, six (13.3%) ended up with abortion, 2 (4.4%) were stillborn, and 5 (11.1%) had birth defects. Among the 5 (11.1%) birth defects that occurred, 2 (4.4%) were hydrocephalus, while 3 (6.7%) were neural tube defects. All stillbirths and/or abortions were among women with a body mass index (BMI) less than 18.5 kg/m2. A total of 33.3% of the deliveries were at home, and 89.7% of the health facility deliveries were delivered by cesarean section. Slightly fewer than half 20, (44.4%) of the pregnancies were unplanned. Contraceptive failure was reported by 15.6% (7/45) of the women. Pills and condoms were reported as methods that failed to protect against pregnancy. The fertility rate of reproductive-aged women with epilepsy for the three years preceding the data collection period was 0.4 per 1000 women.
Conclusion
The fertility rate of women with epilepsy was lower than that of the general population. Fetal loss, congenital malformation, and contraceptive failure were observed among women with epilepsy. Careful preconception care might be beneficial for attaining a healthy weight and adjusting antiepileptic drugs for women with epilepsy. A specific study for assessing the reasons for this disparity is recommended.
How Registered Nurses Learn with Virtual Patient Cases to Enhance Continuous Professional Development: A Qualitative Study in Primary Healthcare Settings in Low- Income Regions
Authors: Nyiringango Gerard , Fors Uno , Tumusiime David K , Forsberg Elenita 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Virtual Patients (VPs) are interactive computer simulations replicating real-life clinical scenarios. While primarily utilized in training healthcare students, VPs have also shown potential in improving the clinical reasoning skills of in-service healthcare providers like nurses in primary healthcare settings.
Aim
This study aimed to explore the opinions and perceptions of registered nurses regarding how Virtual Patients enhance learning for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in primary healthcare settings, specifically at health centers in Rwanda.
Methods
The study employed a qualitative interpretive description design. Twelve nurses from six different health centers who have engaged in four virtual patient cases as continuous professional development exercises over a one-week period participated in individual and focus group interviews. The research employed inductive thematic analysis as its chosen method of analysis.
Results
The interview and focus group results indicate how nurses learn using VP cases for continuous professional development, which are categorized into three themes related to learning (motivates learning, enhancing clinical reasoning, and providing a safe learning environment) and two themes that report the feasibility and future predictions of using Virtual Patient case for learning among nurses working at health centers (primary health setting).
Conclusion
The results of this study indicate that VP cases can enhance the learning of practicing nurses for continuous professional development. The participants in this study acknowledge that engaging with VP cases allowed them to learn by reflecting on their daily practice and self-assessing when comparing their decisions with those of experts in VP cases.
Pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation:a preventive measure against glucocorticoid -induced osteoporosis in rats
Authors: Ding Shuai , Zhang Guangquan , Gao Yanzheng , Hou Zhiqiang , Shao Fuqiang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The use of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) has demonstrated effectiveness in the management of femoral head osteonecrosis as well as nonunion fractures; however, the effects of PEMF on preventing glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) have not been extensively studied. The aim of this investigation was to explore the effectiveness of PEMF stimulation in averting GIOP in rats and uncover the potential fundamental mechanisms involved.
Methods
A total of seventy-two adult male Wistar rats composed the experimental group and were subsequently assigned to three groups for treatment. (1) On the first day (day 0), 24 rats in the PEMF group were intravenously injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a concentration of 10 µg/kg. This was followed by intramuscular injections of methylprednisolone acetate (MPSL) at a dose of 20 mg/kg for the subsequent three days (days 1–3). Subsequently, the rats were exposed to PEMF for 4 hours daily, with the duration varying from 1 to 8 weeks. (2) Adhering to the injection schedule of the PEMF group, the MPSL group (consisting of 24 rats) was administered LPS and MPSL, omitting PEMF stimulation. (3) The PS group (n = 24) was administered injections of 0.9% saline solution in an identical manner and at the same time intervals as the other two groups. At 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the last MPSL (or saline) injection, bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and the expression levels of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) mRNA and protein in the proximal femur were measured.
Results
Analysis of the PS and PEMF groups at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the final saline (or MPSL) injection revealed no statistically significant differences in BMD or BMC(P > 0.05). From weeks 2 through 8, the MPSL group rats displayed a marked decrease in BMD and BMC compared to those of the PS group, and at the 4-week and 8-week time points, these values were significantly lower than those of the PEMF group (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the MPSL and PS groups, the expression levels of BMP-2 mRNA markedly increased after PEMF treatment, peaking one week later and sustaining a heightened state for four weeks, but decreased only at the eighth week. Conversely, BMP-2 protein expression exhibited a similar upward trend, peaking two weeks after PEMF treatment and then remaining elevated for the subsequent eight weeks.
Conclusions
PEMF stimulation has been shown to have prophylactic potential against GIOP in rats, possibly through the upregulation expression of BMP-2 expression.
Dietary nano iron enhanced intestinal physical barrier, antioxidant capacity and immune function of juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus nigricans)
Authors: He Kuo , Huang Rui , Yang Hangyu , Liu Qiao , Zhang Yaoyi , Yan Haoxiao , Hu Yifan , Tahir Rabia , Zhao Liulan , Yang Song 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Nano-additives can improve the absorption and utilization of feed nutrients. In this study, we reported the effects of supplementary nano iron (0, 30, 60, 120, 240 and 480 mg/kg) on intestinal tract function of largemouth bass juveniles. Firstly, 60 mg/kg of supplementary nano iron improved the specific growth rate, and significantly increased the height and width of intestinal villi and intestinal absorption area, and improved the intestinal physical barrier of juvenile largemouth bass. Secondly, the supplementation of low concentration of nano iron can significantly increase the activity of intestinal antioxidant enzymes (CAT and T-SOD), enhance the expression of antioxidant-related genes (SOD1, Nrf-2) and proteins (CAT; P < 0.05), and decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Meanwhile, supplementation with 60 mg/kg of nano iron resulted in the highest survival rate following intraperitoneal injection of Nocardia. However, supplementation of 480 mg/kg would compromise the immune and antioxidant capacity of juvenile largemouth bass. This was evidenced by increased expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, significant reduction in the expression of intestinal tight junction genes (ZO-1, Acludin1, Acludin7; P < 0.05), impairment of intestinal physical barriers, and exacerbation of oxidative stress levels in the organism, ultimately resulting in decreased immunity. In conclusion, moderate supplementation of nano iron appears to enhance the intestinal physical barrier, antioxidant capacity, and immune function of juvenile largemouth bass.
Bifidobacterium longum subsp infantis (EVC001) is Associated with Reduced Incidence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Stage &gt;2 and Bloody Stools in Premature Babies
Authors: Sohn Kristin , Palacios Victoria , Clark Reese 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective To utilize an evidence-based probiotic protocol to achieve a 50% reduction in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) > stage 2 and bloody stools.
Study design From January 2022 through September 2023, we administered daily enteral EVC001 to babies <33 6/7 weeks gestation until 36 weeks post menstrual age. We compared feeding tolerance and complications to babies admitted during the prior two-year period. Fisher’s Exact test was used to analyze proportional data and student t-test was used for continuous variables.
Results 265 babies received EVC001. 277 babies formed the pre-probiotic cohort. Probiotic use was associated with decreased NEC > stage 2 (p=0.0058), reduced bloody stools (p<0.0001), decreased time to full enteral feeds (p<0.0001), and decreased total parenteral nutrition (TPN) days (p<0.0001).
Conclusion Supplementation with B. infantis was associated with a decrease in NEC, a decrease in bloody stools, and improvement in feeding tolerance in premature babies.
The influence of pulp swelling degree during pre-mixing on the stability of Lyocell solution
Authors: Gunawan Ivana , Zhang Yue , Wang Huijie , Kou Mengtian , Wang Chao , Zhang Yumei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Pulp pre-mixing acts as a preliminary treatment in the lyocell process which allows aqueous NMMO solvent molecules to penetrate wood fiber structure. The present paper first determines the pre-swelling, swelling, and dissolution phenomena of cellulose in NMMO aqueous solutions of different concentrations and temperatures. It was found that instead of “pre-swelling” and “dissolution”, the “swelling” action during pre-mixing develops the most suitable interaction between wood pulp fiber and solvent. Higher concentrations of NMMO aqueous solutions (70–80%) contain a small amount of water, which limits the uniformly wetting of the pulp, while lower NMMO concentration (50%) are not able to fully establish the hydrogen bonding interaction between cellulose and NMMO. The pre-mixing of cellulose pulp using 60% NMMO aqueous solution at 65oC can ensure that NMMO does not degrade and provide sufficient solvent diffusivity for pulp based on the swelling effect, significantly reducing the formation of heterogeneous microstructure aggregations and effectively promoting subsequent dissolution processes. The dissolved cellulose has more uniformity at the molecular level, showing lower dope relaxation time and gel temperature, which offers better alternatives to the need for stable, high-viscosity lyocell spinning, and constructs stronger fiber compared to that of untreated pulp.
Price Efficiency in Emerging Equity Markets during Recent Crises Periods: Empirical Evidence from Equity Markets in BRICS Countries
Authors: Lee Seungho , McCann Laura , Amanulla Ameerabeevi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of increased systematic risk on the efficiency of equity markets in emerging countries, focusing on the BRICS market (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). We measure market efficiency by analyzing the spot and futures prices of indices in these markets using the futures-spot arbitrage test over recent crisis periods. Our findings suggest that mispricing existed among the major indices of the BRICS market before the crises, but that the crises exacerbated the extent of mispricing. We also find that there are noteworthy variations amongst the BRICS markets in terms of how market efficiency changed during the downturns, highlighting the need for heterogeneous investment strategies for each individual market.
JEL Classification: F15; F22; G14
Management of Depression in Primary Care in Catalonia: A Mixed- method Study
Authors: Fuster-Casanovas Aïna , Moretó Sònia , Catalina Queralt Miró , Vidal-Alaball Josep , Carrion Carme 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Consultations related to major depression have increased significantly in recent years in Primary Care (PC) in Catalonia. PC is key in the approach, so we analysed the training and alignment with clinical practice guidelines (CPG) of PC professionals in Catalonia and explored their perceptions of the results obtained.
Methods
Explanatory sequential study. Cross-sectional observational study through surveys carried out on nursing and medical professionals and community emotional wellness referents (RBEC), followed by a qualitative study of phenomenological design through focus groups in the same disciplines.
Results
Most professionals feel poorly trained (63.5%) and do not consider themselves aligned (58.3%) with the CPG. In the focus groups, there was a widespread awareness of the PC approach to depression. It was detected that the lack of homogeneity in clinical practice is due to a lack of both time and resources, and a predominantly pharmacological approach. It was expressed that practical training focused on PC, together with collaborative care, unification of CPG and working with the social determinants of health could help in homogenisation. However, a certain reluctance towards eHealth in the approach to depression was detected.
Conclusions
It has been detected that professionals feel poorly trained and aligned with CPG. However, the qualitative study has made it possible to analyse the enabling factors that may explain the results obtained. The detailed analysis that has been performed may help in the development of specific strategies to improve the approach to depression in PC in Catalonia, as well as the implementation of technology in the process.
The complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic analysis of the ornate flying snake Chrysopelea ornata (Shaw 1802) Colubridae
Authors: Dinesh D , Roy Soma , Ishani M 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The first complete mitochondrial genome sequencing of golden tree snake, gliding snake, ornate flying snake, golden flying snake, and flying tree snake (Chrysopelea ornate_shaw 1802) was conducted utilizing Next-generation sequencing technologies. The complete mitochondrial genome of flying tree snake is 17,252 bp long with a base composition of A-36%, T- 27%, G-12%, C-25% with a GC content of 38%. Chrysopelea ornata also shows mitogenome organization of 37 genes including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes and two non-coding regions. Nine genes including eight tRNAs and NAD6 were encoded. Phylogenetic investigations, utilizing the entire mitochondrial genome of chrysopelea ornata, reveal a strong association with the Colubridae family.
Linear control of flow in High-Speed on/off valves based on state observers for position tracking of water hydraulic systems
Authors: Ma Aixiang , Yan Xihao , Jin Zihan , Zhou Yunlin , Wei Yaqiang , Zhao Sihai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Water hydraulic systems face challenges in precise flow control due to the low viscosity of water-based liquids. High-speed on/off valves offer a solution by providing discrete flow outputs for water-based liquids continuous flow control. This paper presents a novel approach to proportional flow control in these valves, focusing on estimating and controlling spool position using only current feedback. The proposed method integrates a robust controller with a high-gain extended state observer (HGESO). The HGESO estimates spool position and unmodeled disturbances based on coil current, deriving the system's output flow. The robust controller then adjusts the spool position to control the overall flow. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the controller's ability to track desired flow rates under various conditions. This research contributes to water hydraulic systems by offering an effective method for position tracking control without direct position sensors. The study provides a valuable solution for improving the performance and precision of hydraulic systems in various applications. By addressing the challenges of water-based hydraulic systems and offering a practical approach to flow control, this research has significant implications for advancing the field of hydraulic control systems.
A Bayesian Approach for Parameterizing and Predicting Plasmid Conjugation Dynamics
Authors: Kumsuwan Sirinapa , Jaichuen Chanon , Jatura Chakachon , Subsoontorn Pakpoom 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Population dynamic models that explain and predict the spread of conjugative plasmids are pivotal for understanding microbial evolution and engineering microbiomes. However, prediction uncertainty of these models has rarely been assessed. We adopt a Bayesian approach, employing Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), to parameterize and model plasmid conjugation dynamics. This approach treats model parameters as random variables whose probability distributions informed by data on plasmid population dynamics. These distributions allow us to estimate confidence intervals of the model’s parameters and predictions. We validated this approach using synthetic population dynamic data with known parameter values and experimental population dynamic data of mini-RK2, a miniaturized counterpart of the well-characterized and widely used RK2 conjugation plasmids. Our methodology accurately estimated the parameters of synthetic data, and model predictions were robust across time scales and initial conditions. Incorporating long-term population dynamic data enhances the precision of parameter estimates related to plasmid loss and the accuracy of long-term population dynamic predictions. For experimental data, the model correctly explained and predicted most population dynamic trends, albeit with broader confidence intervals. Overall, our method allows for deeper investigation of plasmid population dynamics and could potentially be generalized to study population dynamics of other mobile genetic elements.
Species composition and feeding pattern of malaria vectors in indoor and non-indoor residual spraying districts of Lira and Kole, Northern Uganda
Authors: Mwesige Rashid , Byagamy John Paul , Opiro Robert , Angwech Harriet , Ocen Patrick Buchan , Ochaya Stephen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Vector control interventions using long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying are common tools deployed for the control of malaria in Uganda. To evaluate the effectiveness of these control tools and understand the prevailing malaria vectors, a study was conducted to determine the species composition, indoor resting population density, and biting pattern of malaria vectors in Indoor Residual Spraying and non-Indoor Residual Spraying districts of Lira and Kole, Northern Uganda.
Methods
Both indoor and outdoor adult malaria vectors were collected from August to September 2022 using Human-Baited Catch and Pyrethrum Spray Catch methods. To identify the different sibling species of An. gambiae and An. funestus complexes, mosquitoes were identified morphologically and using Polymerase Chain Reaction.
Results
The non-Indoor Residual Spraying district of Kole had a relatively high density of vectors (67.5%) compared with the Indoor Residual Spraying district of Lira (32.5%). An. gambiae s.s. dominated the composition of the vectors (43.1%)) in the non-IRS district, followed by An. funestus (30.4%) and An. arabiensis (26.5%). In the IRS district, An. funestus was the predominant species (52.3%), followed by An. gambiae s.s. (34.1%) and An. arabiensis (13.61%). Although Kole district had a slightly higher Indoor Resting Density (IRD) than Lira district, there was no statistically significant difference between the IRD in the two districts. In IRS district, An. funestus and An. gambiae s.s. had an indoor biting peak of 3:00–4:00AM and outdoors from 21:00–1:00 AM.
Conclusion
There was no statistically significant difference in either the indoor or outdoor biting rates of all malaria vectors in the two districts. This indicates that the population could be protected while resting indoors, as the peaks observed during the night correspond to moments when the population is asleep, unlike the peak that occurs during the morning when people are awake and remain unprotected by Long Lasting Insecticides Nets. The high numbers of An. gambiae in the non-IRS district and An. funestus in the IRS district indicates a high malaria transmission potential and predicts the risk of a malaria upsurge within the study area. An. arabiensis was predominant in the unsprayed district compared to that in the sprayed district.
Assessment of the evolution of psychomotor skills in the robotic surgery simulation process
Authors: Silva Danilo Araújo , Szutan Luiz Arnaldo , Zandonai Alexandra Paola 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Robotic surgery is a rapidly expanding field, given the wide variety of new robotic platforms emerging. Looking at the training of surgeons in robotic surgery is of extreme necessity and urgency, considering the ongoing technological advancements. In this research, the performance during the virtual reality simulation phase of training for robotic surgery was analyzed. It was observed that, in addition to the lack of consensus among societies regarding the required simulation hours, there is no guidance on the best curriculum to be adopted. From the data in this study, it can be inferred that the more advanced skills have fewer proficient individuals, meaning that fewer surgeons in training have reached proficiency in all skill exercises. Even with differences in the number of exercises performed proficiently between groups that underwent varying amounts of simulation time, there is no statistically significant difference in the proportion between them.