bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing Water Quality in Arid Agricultural Regions: A Comprehensive Study in the command area of Jayakwadi Dam Maharashtra, India
Authors: Wadghane Rahul , Madguni Omprakash , Mulla Amir 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study assesses water quality in the Jayakwadi Dam command area, Maharashtra, India, crucial for drinking and irrigation.
Utilizing the Water Quality Index (WQI) with parameters like pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and total alkalinity, the research addresses water scarcity and challenges posed by intense sugarcane cultivation. A multi-stage random sampling approach collected 104 water samples, and GIS and interpolation methods facilitated spatial distribution mapping.
Results reveal pH variations, suggesting the need for water treatment, and elevated EC and TDS levels indicating salinity issues and potential health risks. Most areas show acceptable total alkalinity. Spatial analysis underscores the unsuitability of a majority of samples for drinking, prompting recommendations for salt-tolerant crops and enhanced soil permeability.
The study concludes that WQI is crucial for objective water quality assessment, offering insights for stakeholders to improve water quality and sustainable agriculture practices. Future research should consider additional parameters for a comprehensive understanding of water management.
The worst-class tropical cyclone-generated high waves identified by seismic noises
Authors: Shimura Tomoya , Yamada Masumi , Mori Nobuhito , Miyashita Takuya 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The extreme winds of tropical cyclones generate high waves over the ocean, causing severe damage to offshore facilities and coastal communities1. Disaster mitigation requires accurate prediction and forecasting of the worst-class high waves. Furthermore, wave development, an entity of momentum loss from a tropical cyclone, determines the intensity of the tropical cyclone2. However, the physics of wave development is not fully understood, and the number of mid-ocean observations during extreme tropical cyclones is extremely insufficient3. Therefore, physically and statistically evaluating worst-class high waves is difficult. However, ocean waves excite seismic noise (microseisms)4,5,6. Here, we utilize long-term microseisms observed by seismic observation networks7 to identify historical worst-class tropical cyclone-generated high-wave events around Japan. The identification is facilitated by using microseism energy within an 8–10 s period, and we show that Typhoon Wipha in 2013, Typhoon Lan in 2017, and Typhoon Hagibis in 2019 were the worst-class events in the past 20 years. Here, we show that microseism observations contain rich information on the development and propagation of waves depending on wave frequency, leading to a better understanding of the physics of high waves and accurate predictions of worst-class events.
Transcriptomic, cellular, and functional signatures of white matter damage in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Biswal Bharat , Li Yilu , Wang Pan , Peng Jinzhong , Liu Lin , Zhang Fanyu , Iturria-Medina Yasser , Yao Dezhong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Anatomical white matter (WM) alterations in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been widely reported, but functional WM dysregulation in AD has been rarely investigated. The current study focuses on characterizing WM functional and network properties alterations in participants with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and on further describing their spatially overlapping gene expression patterns. Both AD and MCI shared decreased functional connectivity, clustering coefficient and local efficiency within WM regions involved in impaired sensory-motor, visual-spatial, language or memory function. Notably, observed AD-specific dysfunction (i.e., AD vs. MCI and cognitively unimpaired participants) was predominantly located in WM, including anterior and posterior limb of internal capsule, corona radiata and left tapetum. This WM dysfunction spatially correlates with gene expression of BCHE and SLC24A4, enriched in multiple biological processes such as brain development and behavior, and mostly active in endothelial cells. These findings may represent a substantial contribution to the understanding of molecular, cellular, and functional signatures associated with WM damage in AD.
Impact of nutrition on students’ achievements: Evidence from Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Kholti Saad , Liouaeddine Mariem , JOUHARI Youssra 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of school canteen nutrition on the academic performance of students in sub-Saharan Africa using data from the PASEC-2019 survey. Employing propensity score matching, we found a significant positive effect of school canteens on students' math and reading scores. Specifically, the impact was estimated at 20.46 points for mathematics and 25.49 points for reading. The effect varied by gender, with girls showing slightly greater improvements: an average increase of 21.46 points in mathematics and 27.10 points in reading, compared to 19.91 and 25.33 points for boys, respectively. However, disparities were observed between countries, with some showing significant impacts while others did not. This comparative analysis underscores the role of school canteens as a crucial factor in enhancing educational outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa.
Secured Fog Computing Based Framework for Intelligent Health Diagnosis Using Deep Learning and Internet of Things (IoT)
Authors: Kadu Ankush Kadu , Singh Manwinder Singh , Gandam Anudeep Gandam , Gupta Gunjan Gupta , Malik Praveen Malik , Singh Rajesh Singh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With the proliferation of IoT devices and cloud-based data processing technologies, cutting-edge smart, linked healthcare systems may be created. Smart healthcare systems examine patient data collected by the Internet of Things to improve treatment quality and lower healthcare expenditures. The amount of data produced by the billions of IoT devices connected to the Cloud-of-Things (CoT) is a significant problem for these systems. By bridging the gap between Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets and cloud computing, fog computing infrastructure provides a possible answer. It has the potential to provide low-latency, high-efficiency processing and storage for the Internet of Things at a tiny scale. However, privacy-preservation concerns are a major issue for healthcare systems due to the sensitive nature of patient data. In this study, we offer a unique secured computing architecture for intelligent healthcare diagnosis systems. For the sake of in-formation safety, a lightweight and trustworthy user authentication mechanism is made available. Electroencephalogram (EEG) data are used as input to an intelligent diagnosis system that use deep learning techniques to automate the identification of epileptic seizures. Security and performance evaluations, which compare the proposed technique to the current method for seizure prediction, show that it is secure and efficient.
A novel spherical fuzzy-based decision model for assessing Data management maturity in governmental institutions
Authors: AlFadhli Muna Salem , Ayvaz Berk , Kucukvar Murat , Alkhereibi Aya Hasan , Onat Nuri , Al-Maadeed Somaya 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The capability of government institutions to manage data effectively is fundamental to their operational efficiency and innovation potential. Governments face unique challenges, including rapid data generation, evolving regulations, and demands for quality services and transparency. This necessitates a tailored approach to data governance, given the complexities of balancing public interests with data privacy. This study aims to establish a robust framework for evaluating the data management maturity of Government Entities by developing an evaluative metric that reflects their data management maturity. Our approach involved gathering and synthesizing dispersed principles from existing literature into a set of definitive criteria. The criteria were subjectively weighted by an expert panel to reflect the significance of each criterion in a government setting. For methodology, the study pioneers the hybridization of Spherical Fuzzy Sets (SFSs) built on the Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) and the Evaluation based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) model. The criteria weighting was methodically calculated using the CRITIC method, and the subsequent evaluation of the alternatives was ascertained through EDAS. This combination of methodologies effectively reduced subjective bias, yielding a more reliable foundation for the rankings. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to confirm the robustness of the presented methodology when subjected to variations. To verify the validity of the developed method, we compared the SF- CRITIC & SF-EDAS approach with the SF-AHP & SF-EDAS, SF-CRITIC & SF-TOPSIS, the SF-CRITIC & SF-WPM, the SF-CRITIC & SF-MARCOS. The results showcased a spectrum of maturity levels across the evaluated entities, pinpointing both commendable proficiencies and key areas for growth. This research presents a strategic asset for government bodies, aiding in the targeted enhancement of their data management systems. The broader implications of our findings serve as a strategic compass for governmental organizations, steering them toward achieving a higher echelon of data management sophistication.
Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation and Retained Blood-associated Complications After Surgical Revascularisation Using Portable Digital Versus Conventional Drainage System: a Large Retrospective Study
Authors: Kalisnik Jurij M. , Courvoisier Delphine S. , Zujs Vitalijs , Hropot Tim , Krohn Jan-Niklas , Batashev Islam , Sirch Joachim , Fischlein Theodor 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Retained blood syndrome (RBS) is a potentially dangerous consequence of ineffective drainage after heart surgery. Active chest tube clearance decreases RBS and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). The present study assessed if a portable digital drainage system confers similar effects on postoperative outcomes.
Methods
Prospectively collected data from 1042 consecutive patients with sinus rhythm undergoing first-time surgical revascularization using cardiopulmonary bypass were considered and 863 analyzed retrospectively. Patients with conventional drainage were compared to patients with a portable digital drainage device. Propensity adjustment including comorbidities, anti-aggregating and preoperative medication, hematocrit, perisurgical parameters including chest tube placement, was applied for outcome assessment.
Results
Among conventionally drained patients, 14.8% had interventions for RBS, with 4.9% reexploration for bleeding/tamponade. Portable digital drainage patients had RBS in 5.3% with 1.4% needing reexploration for bleeding/tamponade (p < 0.001 and 0.024, respectively). Propensity-adjusted patients had 37% reduced incidence of POAF from 29.9% (111 out of 371) in conventional to 18.7% (92 out of 492) in the portable digital drainage cohort (p = 0.002). In-hospital mortality was 1.6% (6 out of 371) in conventional versus 0.8% (4 out of 492) in the portable digital drainage cohort (adjusted p = 0.364).
Conclusions
The portable digital drainage device used was associated with reduced POAF and RBS interventions. Effective chest drainage immediately at termination of surgery is crucial to minimize intrathoracic RBS associated complications.
GCLC desuccinylation regulated by oxidative stress protects human cancer cells from ferroptosis
Authors: Zhao Yongliang , Chen Zixiang , Niu Kaifeng , Li Mengge , Deng Yuchun , Zhang Ji , Wei Di , Wang Jiaqi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Tumor cells evolve strong antioxidant capacities to counteract the abnormal high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the tumor microenvironment. Glutamate-cysteine ligase catalyzing subunit (GCLC) for synthesis of antioxidant glutathione (GSH) represents the key enzyme to maintain redox homeostasis of tumor cells, however, whether its activity is regulated by posttranslational modifications, such as succinylation, remains to be clarified. Here, we demonstrate the existence of succinylation modification on GCLC by in vitro and in vivo assays. NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirtuin-2 (SIRT2) serves as the desuccinylase and catalyzes GCLC desuccinylation at sites of K38, K126 and K326. Specifically, GCLC directly interacts with SIRT2, which can be substantially enhanced upon ROS treatment. This strengthened association results in GCLC desuccinylation and activation, consequently promoting GSH synthesis and rendering cancer cells resistant to ferroptosis induction. Depletion of SIRT2 decreases total GSH level and meanwhile increases the cellular susceptibility to ferroptosis, which can mostly be rescued by introducing wild type GCLC, but not its 3K-E mutant. Thus, SIRT2-regulated GCLC succinylation represents an essential signaling axis for cancer cells to maintain their redox balance in coping with oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis.
Association between Systemic Immune-inflammation Index and Decreased Kidney Function in Patients with Early Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhang Jinshi , Liu Yueming , Xu Baihui , Zhu Bin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a newly developed biomarker to assess inflammation, which plays a crucial role in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The objective of the investigation was to examine the connection between SII and early CKD. Retrospective clinical data from patients admitted to the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital between 1996 and 2022 were analyzed. SII was calculated as platelet count × neutrophil count/lymphocyte count and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope as the difference between the first and last observed eGFR divided by the year interval. The independent connection between Sll and eGFR slope was explored employing the curves of Kaplan–Meier survival, Multivariable regression analysis, and subgroup analysis. This study included 3,419 patients who were separated into four groups depending on SII quartiles, with early decreased kidney function defined as eGFR slope ≥ 1. After adjustment for covariates, the adjusted HR (95%CIs) for the second, third, fourth quartiles were 1.36(1.18,1.56), 1.28(1.11,1.47) and 1.30(1.13,1.51), respectively. Subgroup analyses showed elevated SII levels were related to early CKD in patients aged ≤ 65, male, with no history of diabetes mellitus, and with or without hypertension. Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that with increasing SII levels, the cumulative renal survival rate (eGFR slope < 1) significantly decreased. Our findings suggest that SII may act as a valuable novel marker for anticipating prognosis in individuals with early-stage CKD.
Association between percent body fat and the risk of prediabetes among Chinese adults: a 5-years longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Li Xin , Yu Haomiao , Yu Ke , Huang Zhenhua , Deng Zhe 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Our study aimed to explore the potential influence of percent body fat (PBF) on the risk of developing prediabetes in Chinese individuals, considering the scarce evidence available on this relationship.
Methods
This study included 184,268 Chinese adults in a retrospective cohort design. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models along with cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting to examine the correlation between initial PBF and the likelihood of prediabetes, investigating its nonlinear connection. We performed a variety of sensitivity and subgroup analyses to confirm the strength of our results.
Results
After adjusting for covariates, the study found a positive correlation between the PBF and the risk of prediabetes (HR = 1.29, 95%CI: 1.25–1.32, p < 0.0001).The risk of prediabetes increased progressively across quartiles of the PBF (Q1 to Q4), with Q4 showing a significantly higher risk compared to Q1.Additionally, there was a nonlinear correlation found between PBF and the likelihood of prediabetes, showing a turning point at 29.5.On the left side of the turning point, the hazard ratio was 1.13 with a 95% confidence interval from 1.08 to 1.19, whereas on the right side, the hazard ratio was 1.49 with a 95% confidence interval from 1.41 to 1.57.Interaction analysis showed that gender interacted with PBF.
Conclusion
In our research, we discovered a curved connection between PBF and the emergence of prediabetes in Chinese people, with a turning point at 29.5. Reducing PBF to below 29.5 may help maintain a lower risk of developing prediabetes.
Sequencing confirms Anopheles stephensi distribution across southern Yemen
Authors: Baheshm Yasser A , Zayed Alia , Awash Abdullah A , Follis Madison , Terreri Payton , Samake Jeanne N. , Aljasari Adel , Harwood James F. , Lenhart Audrey , Zohdy Sarah , Al-Eryani Samira M. , Carter Tamar E. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The invasion of Anopheles stephensi in Africa warrants investigation of neighboring countries. In this study, genetic analysis was applied to determine the status of An. stephensi in southern Yemen. Cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) were sequenced in An. stephensi collected in Aden City, Lahj, Rodoom, Al Mukalla, and Sayhut, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed An. stephensi identity. Our analyses revealed that the ITS2 sequence were identical in all An. stephensi, while COI analysis revealed two haplotypes, one previously reported in northern Horn of Africa and one identified in this study for the first time. Overall, these findings revealed low levels of mitochondrial DNA diversity, which is consistent with a recent population introduction in parts of southern Yemen. Further whole genomic analysis is needed to elucidate the original connection with invasive populations of An. stephensi in the Horn of Africa.
The impact of distracting factors on reaction time in student drivers and non-drivers
Authors: Pieknik-Janiszewska Magdalena , Maciaszek Janusz 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of two different types of music and cognitive task on students’ reaction time and additionally to compare results of two groups: drivers and non-drivers. Reaction tests associated with driving-related skills were conducted on 52 students aged 18–25, 33 of them were drivers and 19 were no-drivers. Tests included three parameters: choice reaction time, the number of correct reactions and the number of no reactions and were conducted in four conditions: in silence (control test), with energetic music, with relaxing music and with cognitive task (answering questions). It turned out that results of all three parameters were better in silence and with music than while doing cognitive task. There were no differences between the two examined groups.
Understanding the maternal sepsis patient journey in Malawi: “I called for help, but they showed no interest in helping me”.
Authors: Chimwaza Yamikani , Chapuma Chikondi , Ndamala Chifundo , Lifa Emily , Machilika Mercy , Dossie Bernard , Kwelepeta Meliya , Maseko Bertha , Lissauer David , Nyondo-Mipando Alinane Linda , Odland Maria Lisa 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: In Malawi, there is limited understanding of the personal experiences of women who have survived severe maternal infections that lead to sepsis and of their perspectives on the care they receive. It is essential to consider women's experiences to improve the quality of care for severe maternal outcomes and provide responsive, person-centered care. This study aimed to explore the experiences of maternal sepsis survivors in Malawi to improve sepsis care and management.
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted from April to May 2023 in Blantyre, Malawi. Pregnant, postpartum, and postabortion women older than 16 yearswho had sepsis were included in the study via purposive sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted at the women's homes or at convenient locations. We conducted a thematic analysis using the Three-Delays and Respectful Maternity Care frameworks to analyze the interview data.
Results: Women with sepsis face multiple barriers to accessing care, mainly delays in receiving adequate and appropriate care at health facilities. The keybarriers mentioned by participants included inadequate monitoring, inadequate clinical management of infections, delays in diagnosis and treatment, and delays in providing lifesaving obstetric skills. Some women also experienced mistreatment by healthcare providers, such as verbal abuse, neglect, abandonment, lack of dignity, disrespect, denial of care, and inequitable treatment. Additionally, some women continue to experience long-term physical and psychological complications from maternal sepsis.
Conclusion: Exploring women’s experiences reveals key barriers women face throughout their sepsis journey. Patient narratives of near-miss experiences can inform policy and practice to improve maternal healthcare. System-wide interventions need to be implemented to improve the management of maternal infections and sepsis so that Malawi can reduce preventable maternal morbidity and mortality, achieving its global maternal health targets.
An antioxidant nanozyme for targeted cardiac fibrosis therapy post myocardial infarction
Authors: Gu Ziyi , Liu Xueliang , Qi Zhen , Fang Zhou , Jiang Yiting , Huang Yuting , Wang Yongyi , Wu Lianming , Yang Yu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The excessive release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) after myocardial infarction (MI) disrupts the natural healing process, leading to cardiac fibrosis and compromising patient prognosis. However, the clinical application of many antioxidant drugs for MI treatment is hindered by their poor antioxidant efficacy and inability to specifically target the heart. Here we developed a tannic acid-modified MnO2 nanozyme (named MnO2@TA), which can achieve cardiac targeting to inhibit post-MI fibrosis and enhance cardiac function. Specifically, the MnO2@TA nanozyme, endowed with superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, effectively scavenges ROS, suppressing fibroblast activation and mitigating cardiac fibrosis without affecting cardiac repair. Notably, the incorporation of TA improves the nanozyme's affinity for the elastin and collagen-rich extracellular matrix in cardiac tissues, significantly increasing its retention and uptake within the heart and thereby enhancing its anti-fibrotic efficacy. In a murine myocardial infarction model, MnO2@TA demonstrates remarkable cardiac protection, significantly improving cardiac function while attenuating cardiac fibrosis. This study presents a valuable reference for clinical research aimed at inhibiting cardiac fibrosis and advancing myocardial infarction treatments.