bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of inter-organizational health planning between public dental care and municipal care organizations for older people: A study protocol for a randomized controlled study in Sweden
Authors: Kylén Jessica Persson , Björns Sara , Hägglin Catharina , Bellander Lisa , Atzori Annsofi Brattbäck , Kylén Sven Persson , Baar Ann-Christine , Wijk Helle 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Patient participation is key in person-centred care, emphasizing individual choices in treatment. Oral health, integral to overall well-being, is sometimes a neglected part of general health. This intervention introduces a novel approach to strengthen person-centred care in homecare settings, employing collaborative, interprofessional teamwork and shared documentation across care organizations. This protocol outlines the design of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) in Sweden, comparing traditional oral assessments with an interorganizational, team-based oral health planning model facilitated by a shared digital platform for documentation and communication. The overall aim is to evaluate a person-centred interprofessional and interorganizational model for oral health planning supported by a digital platform to enable healthy ageing.
Methods/design:
The intervention, co-designed with older adults, academic institutions, healthcare providers in public dental care, and municipal organizations, will undergo ethical approval. The RCT will randomize older adults, dental hygienists (DHs) and nursing assistants (NAs) into two groups. The intervention group will attend a two-day workshop on a person-centred, three-step team-based model, while the control group will continue using standard procedures. Primary outcomes will be measured using the Revised Oral Assessment Guide (ROAG) and the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Secondary outcomes include health economic evaluations, participation rates and quality of care assessments. Additionally, qualitative studies from theoretical perspectives of change and learning based on interviews with key stakeholders will be conducted in both the test and control groups.
Discussion
Taking a co-created approach where theory and practice shape the research iteratively, a person-centred health planning model supported by a shared digital platform for ordinary home settings is evaluated. Anticipated outcomes include improved oral health assessments and a deeper understanding of effective person-centred care practices. The co-produced approach of the intervention is also expected to further develop knowledge regarding co-production within domains of healthy ageing from an oral health perspective. As such, the intervention shapes and fosters co-produced person-centred care and healthy ageing.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06310798. Registered 13 March 2024.
Phosphate ester-linked carbonized polymer nanosheets as efficient filters for removing Vibrio parahaemolyticus from aquaculture water
Authors: Huang Chih-Chhing , Anand Anisha , Unnikrishnan Binesh , Wang Chen-Yow , Lai Jui-Yang , Lin Han-Jia 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this study, we have developed a simple and low-temperature method without using toxic chemicals, to synthesize carbonized polymer nanosheets (CPNSs) that exhibit potent bacterial adsorption capabilities for their use as a filter to remove bacteria from aquaculture water. Sodium alginate (Alg), an algae-derived polysaccharide was pyrolyzed with diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAHP) in solid state at 180 °C. Initially, Alg underwent dehydration and cross-linking via phosphate ester bonds followed by carbonization resulted in the formation of 2D structured CPNSs with distinct polymeric characteristics. The as-synthesized CPNSs demonstrate a high bacterial adsorption capability toward V. parahaemolyticus and S. aureus. Furthermore, CPNSs can be used to modify ordinary filter paper to make them effective in filtering system. Aquaculture water filtration experiments using CPNSs-modified filter paper revealed an increase in the survival rate (> 50%) of shrimp challenged with V. parahaemolyticus upon circulation through the Alg-CPNSs-modified membrane, demonstrating their potential as a viable aquaculture filter.
Fluorescent nanoplastics enhanced toxicity of Graphene oxide nanoparticles in freshwater algae Scenedesmus obliquus
Authors: Das Soupam , Giri Sampriti , Shah Janmey , Mukherjee Amitava 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The increased usage of Graphene oxide (GO) in various industrial applications led to their entry into freshwater systems. Other secondary contaminants like nanoplastics (NPs) often co-exist with GO in the environment. This study examines possible role of fluorescent nanoplastics (FNPs) in modifying the toxic effects of GO on freshwater algae Scenedesmus obliquus. Selected concentrations of GO (0.1, 1, and 10 mg L− 1) were combined with a fixed concentration of FNPs (1 mg L− 1) to perform the combinational toxicity tests on algae. FNPs significantly enhanced the toxic effects of GO in the mixtures in comparison with the pristine GO. In addition to the cytotoxic effects, oxidative stress parameters like total ROS generation and malondialdehyde (MDA) production also increased in case of the combined pollutants. The antioxidant enzymatic activities like catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the cells were also assessed. Algal exposure to the pristine pollutants and their mixture and led to a notable decrease in photosynthetic activities in the cells with the mixed pollutants aggravating the loss in activity. The interactive toxic effects of the contaminants when present in mixtures were evaluated using Abbotts' Independent action modeling. Furthermore, optical microscopic images revealed the morphological changes in the algal cells after exposure to the contaminants both in the pristine and combined forms.
Effect of balance training on ankle function and dynamic balance ability in patients with chronic ankle instability：A systematic review and meta- analysis
Authors: TANG Fang , YIN Shanshan , LI Xiang , DAI Yuxin , GAO Pincao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Conclusion: Balance training benefits ankle function with CAI patients and improve the dynamic balance ability. It is recommended to obtain the best rehabilitation effect by intervening 3 times a week, each intervention time of 20min to 30min, and consecutively intervening for 4 weeks or 6 weeks.
Objective: To investigate and contrast the effects of balance training on ankle function and dynamic balance ability in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI).
Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, Cochrane were searched up to December 2023. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk-of-bias guidelines, and the standardized mean differences (SMD) or mean differences (MD) for each outcome were calculated.
Results: Among 20 eligible studies, including 682 participants were analyzed in this meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that balance training was effective in improving ankle function with self-functional scores (SMD =1.02 ; 95% CI,0.61 to 1.43;P < 0.00001; I2 = 72%) and variables associated with the ability of dynamic balance such as SEBT-A (MD=5.88; 95% CI, 3.37 to 8.40; P<0.00001; I2 = 84%), SEBT-PM (MD=5.47; 95% CI, 3.40 to 7.54; P<0.00001; I2 = 61%), and SEBT-PL (MD=6.04; 95% CI, 3.30 to 8.79; P<0.0001; I2 = 79%) of CAI patients. Meta-regression showed that the intervention time may be the main reason for heterogeneity (P=0.046) in self-functional scores. In subgroup analyses of self-functional score across intervention types, among the intervention time, more than 20 minutes and less than 30 minutes had the best effect(MD=1.21, 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.46, P<0.00001，I2=55%);among the intervention period, 4 weeks (MD=0.84, 95% CI:0.50 to 1.19, P<0.00001，I2=78%)and 6 weeks (MD=1.21, 95% CI: 0.91 to1.51, P<0.00001，I2=71%) had significant effects; among the intervention frequency, 3 times (MD=1.14, 95% CI:0.89 to 1.38), P<0.00001，I2=57%)had significant effects. Secondly, in subgroup analyses of SEBT across intervention types, a 4-week and 6-week intervention with balance training 3 times a week for 20-30 min is the best combination of interventions to improve SEBT (dynamic balance) in patients with chronic ankle instability.
Conclusion: Balance training benefits ankle function with CAI patients and improve the dynamic balance ability. It is recommended to obtain the best rehabilitation effect by intervening 3 times a week, each intervention time of 20min to 30min, and consecutively intervening for 4 weeks or 6 weeks.
Systematic review registration: http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/,identifier CRD4202450 2230.
Pre-breeding in alfalfa germplasm develops highly differentiated populations, as revealed by genome-wide microhaplotype markers
Authors: Medina Cesar A. , Zhao Dongyan , Lin Meng , Sapkota Manoj , Sandercock Alexander M. , Beil Craig T. , Sheehan Moira J. , Irish Brian M. , Yu Long-Xi , Poudel Hari , Claessens Annie , Moore Virginia , Crawford Jamie , Hansen Julie , Viands Donald , Peel Michael D. , Tilhou Neal , Riday Heathcliffe , Brummer E. Charles , Xu Zhanyou 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Plant genebanks contain large numbers of accessions that likely harbor useful alleles or genes absent in commercial plant breeding programs. Broadening the genetic base of commercial alfalfa germplasm with these useful genetic variations can be accomplished by screening the extensive genetic diversity in germplasm collections and enabling maximal recombination among selected genotypes. In this study we surveyed the genetic diversity and differentiation of germplasm pools selected in northern US latitudes (USDA Plant Hardiness Zone seven or less) originating from Eurasian germplasm. The germplasm evaluated here included four BASE populations (C0) from different geographical origins (CASIA, EURO, OTTM, SYBR), 20 cycle-one populations (C1) generated from each of the four BASE populations selected in five locations in the USA and Canada, and four commercial cultivars. A panel of 3,000 SNP Diversity Array Technologies (DArTag) markers harboring ~ 12,000 microhaplotypes were used to quantify genetic diversity and population structure. Principal Component Analysis and Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components identified substantial population structure among the alfalfa populations based on their geographical origin, while the check cultivars formed a central cluster. Inbreeding coefficients (FIS) ranged from − 0.1 to 0.006, and 27 out of 28 populations had negative FIS values, indicating an excess of heterozygotes. Interpopulation genetic distances were calculated using Rho and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) parameters. Pairwise population Rho values ranged from 0.007 to 0.336. All BASE populations had the lowest Rho values compared to C1 populations and check cultivars. AMOVA found high variance among individuals within populations and low variance between populations. Variation among population was highest among check cultivars and lowest in BASE populations at 10.6% and 7.3% of total molecular variation, respectively. This study shows that BASE populations have high gene diversity, low interpopulation distances, and minimal inbreeding which is required for base-broadening selection.
Factors influencing underrepresented geoscientists' decisions to accept or decline faculty job offers
Authors: Duffy Margaret , Barnes Liza , Wirz Christopher , Ranganathan Meghana , Freilich Mara , Freese Lyssa , Lalk Ellen , Wilcots Julia 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Many geoscience departments are taking steps to recruit and retain faculty from underrepresented groups. Here we interview 19 geoscientists who identify as an underrepresented race or gender who recently declined a tenure-track faculty job offer. A range of key factors influenced their decisions to accept or decline a position including commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) including personal identities, DEI initiatives, and mentorship; (in)civility during job interviews; values revealed in negotiation; and compatibility with personal life including family and geography. Many of the participants experienced hiring processes inconsistent with existing recommendations to increase faculty diversity. Therefore, we leverage our results to provide actionable recommendations for improving the equity and effectiveness of faculty recruitment efforts. We find that departments may doubly benefit from improving their culture: in addition to benefiting current members of the department, it may also help with recruitment.
Investigation of pitching performance and physical changes associated with fatigue
Authors: Ishii Daisuke , Kenmoku Tomonori , Tazawa Ryo , Inoue Kosuke , Matsumoto Mitsuyoshi , Kawabata Masashi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Takahira Naonobu , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this study, the impact of repeated pitching on the shoulder performance and physical parameters was examined in 21 male baseball players, averaging 23.1 years old. Pitching performance and physical changes were assessed across six cycles of 15 pitches with 10-minute rest intervals. The visual analogue scale was used to measure fatigue levels, while the active shoulder range of motion was also measured before and after each pitching cycle. The Rapsodo Pitching system was used to measure ball velocity, release point height, spin rate, and strike rate to evaluate pitching performance. Fatigue levels significantly increased after pitching cycle (p < 0.01), coupled with decreases in shoulder flexion on the throwing side (p = 0.02) as well as flexion and abduction on the non-throwing side (p = 0.03 and 0.02, respectively). The ball velocity decreased in the last cycle (p = 0.03), while no significant changes were observed in release point height, ball spin rate, or strike rate. Active shoulder flexion on the throwing side emerged as a more sensitive indicator of pitching-related fatigue than overall pitching form. These findings underscore the importance of post-game recovery for both the throwing and non-throwing sides to mitigate the effects of pitching fatigue on shoulder performance.
Contact characteristics and wall and corner effect of abandoned dreg based on parallel line characteristics of particles
Authors: Song Longlong , Huo Yuxiang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Waste dump sites are extensively produced during the process of engineering constructions. The side slopes of these artificial geological bodies possess waste particles with varying shapes, and the deformation and failure mechanisms are often complex, leading to frequently occurred slope instability events. In this study, we simplified waste particles by defining 4 types of particles with different shapes, which are distinguished by the presence of parallel sides. By performing a series of numerical simulations of direct shear tests, we investigated the wall-corner effect and mesoscopic contact characteristics of the interior of particle deposits. The results prove the existence of wall-corner effect in the waste deposits. Loose particle arrangement and penetrating voids extending along the shear force direction can be observed. The uniform distribution of force chain in parallel-sided waste particles is disrupted, while a circular distribution or the disruption of force chain development is seen in non-parallel-sided particles, indicative of the generation of penetrating voids. When the confining pressure is low, the angle of internal void spaces inside the particles deflects when the shear displacement is 3-6mm, and this deflection in parallel-sided particles is not obvious compared with that in non-parallel-sided particles. Specifically for the hexagonal waste particles, the extension angle is positively correlated with the confining pressure in the early and middle shear stage. Under the effect of increasing confining pressure or shear force, the arrangement of particles gradually become ordered, and the void spaces extend toward the central and corner areas of the shear zone. In practical engineering, these void spaces can be filled with heterogeneous wastes, and drainage measures can be set in the corners of the retaining wall, thereby mitigating the influence of penetrating voids on the stability of waste dump slopes.
Current Status Analysis of the Prevalence and Regional Disparities of Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy in Japan Using Diagnosis Procedure Combination Data
Authors: Hara Kentaro , Kanda Masato , Kuwabara Hiroyo , Kobayashi Yoshio , Inoue Takahiro 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We investigated the prevalence and regional disparities in the adoption of robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) across Japan using Diagnosis Procedure Combination data. Introduction of the “da Vinci S HD Surgical System” marked a significant shift towards robotic surgeries in Japan; however, the initial high costs and lack of efficacy data posed barriers to its widespread adoption. By 2023, more than 570 da Vinci units were operational in Japan, highlighting the growing acceptance of robotic surgery despite these challenges. This study adopted a retrospective observational design and analyzed data from 2,857 urban and 4,184 regional hospitals across 47 prefectures in Japan. It focused on the number of RALP procedures, da Vinci systems, and certified urological surgery proctors to assess disparities between urban and regional settings. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the significant factors influencing RALP adoption. Urban areas were found to have a higher prevalence of RALP procedures and da Vinci systems, with urban hospitals performing 937 RALP procedures compared to 195.5 in regional hospitals. The analysis also revealed significant urban-regional disparities in access to robot-assisted surgery, with urban areas housing more da Vinci systems and hospitals performing RALP. The findings highlight a pronounced urban-regional disparity in RALP implementation, attributed to uneven access to advanced medical technologies and specialist training. Urban centers benefit from better access, leading to more RALP procedures. This study calls for policies to promote the dissemination of robotic surgery technologies and enhance specialist training in regional cities.
Eco-Friendly Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Sansevieria Zeylanica: Catalytic Performance for Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Sabadini S. , Shaji Y. Christabel , Brucely Y. , Babu B. Ganesh , Sakthipandi K 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This article examines the synthesis of silver nanoparticles utilizing Sansevieria Zeylanica leaf extract (SZ-AgNPs) as a green stabilizing and reducing agent. The biosynthesized SZ-AgNPs exhibit distinct properties, characterized by a well-defined morphology and size, as validated through UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy analyses. The research investigates the potential applications of eco-friendly obtained SZ-AgNPs in environmental remediation, with a particular focus on their catalytic performance in degrading synthetic dyes, notably crystal violet and Congo red. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the SZ-AgNPs is assessed against various bacterial and fungal strains. The findings reveal substantial dye degradation percentages and significant zones of inhibition against both gram-positive bacteria, underscoring the dual advantages of environmentally friendly nanoparticle synthesis for sustainable applications in wastewater treatment and antimicrobial interventions. The study underscores the pivotal role of green nanotechnology in tackling pressing environmental challenges, advocating for the adoption of eco-friendly approaches in nanoparticle synthesis for a more sustainable future.
Pan-cancer and single-cell analyses reveal LAMP3 as a biomarker associated with cancer prognosis and immune infiltration
Authors: zhu zexuan , Wang Cai-Fan , Sun Xin , Tang Hua , Guo Dian-Hao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Lysosomal-associated membrane protein 3 (LAMP3) is a member of the LAMP family and is also known as a marker of mature dendritic cells (DCs). However, it is unclear how the expression of LAMP3 is linked to human cancers or immune infiltration. Here, we conducted a systematic study on the function and mechanism of LAMP3 in pan-cancer.
Methods: The expression level of LAMP3 was studied using the Sangerbox, TIMER 2.0, and GEPIA2 databases in various types of human cancer. The TCGA database and GEPIA2 were utilized to evaluate the potential of LAMP3 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in pan-cancer. The LAMP3 mutation was analyzed using the cBioPortal database. The TIMER and TISIDB websites were used to investigate the role of LAMP3 in immune infiltration. We obtained single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data on immune cells from 75 patients diagnosed with one of the 13 most prevalent cancer types. Pseudotime analysis, GSVA, cellular interaction analysis, and TF analysis were performed using R.
Results: Results showed that LAMP3 expression was elevated and mutated in the majority of tumors, indicating a worse prognosis. The ROC curve demonstrated that LAMP3 can serve as a diagnostic indicator. LAMP3 expression demonstrated a significant positive correlation with Treg infiltration levels, also showing a positive correlation with DC infiltration levels. Single-cell sequencing revealed that the expression of LAMP3 was concentrated in mature DC cells within tumor tissue. GSVA analysis found that NF-κB, apoptosis, and hypoxia were upregulated in this cluster of DC cells. These DC cells also exhibited high expression of various chemokines and were predicted to recruite Treg cells into tumor tissue through CCL17-CCR4 and CCL22-CCR4.
Conclusion: LAMP3 may be a potential biomarker in pan-cancer, particularly in KIRC. Moreover, LAMP3 is associated with immune cell infiltration in pan-cancer and represents a potential immunotherapeutic target for tumor therapy.
Fabrication and Characterization of Graphene, Nickel Oxide, Graphene Nickel Oxide, and Graphene Nickel Nanomaterials Using Horizontal Vapor Phase Growth Technique for Formaldehyde Gas Detection
Authors: Salvador Arturo , Santos Gil Nonato 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Toxic gases, such as formaldehyde, pose serious health risks and can lead to a range of illnesses, including cancer and damage to the nervous system. Formaldehyde is a common air pollutant found in indoor environments due to its release from various sources, such as building materials, furniture, and cleaning products. The development of gas sensors that can effectively detect and monitor formaldehyde levels is important to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in these environments. Nickel Oxide, Graphene-Nickel Oxide, and Graphene-Nickel nanomaterials were synthesized using the Horizontal Vapor Phase Growth (HPVG) technique and fabricated as sensor substrates. The nanomaterials were characterized morphologically using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and underwent gold sputtering using the JEOL JFC-1200 Fine coater. Elemental composition analysis was conducted using Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). Chronoamperometry technique was employed for the electrical characterization, utilizing the Biologic SP-150 instrument. The sensors were exposed to various concentrations of formaldehyde, ranging from 0.95 ppm to 4.77 ppm. The current measurement of the gas sensors was recorded at different input voltages, ranging from 0.25 volts to 2 volts, both when exposed to air and the target gas. Results showed that the Graphene-Nickel sensor showed the highest sensing performance in both input voltages of 0.50V and 2V with sensor response of 420% and 84.64% respectively and in both concentrations gap from low and high with sensitivity of 52.63 and 131.7 respectively.