bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and predictors of Caesarean Section deliveries at the Tamale Teaching Hospital in Northern Ghana
Authors: Agyemang George Sarpong , Gmanyami Jonathan Mawutor , Appiah Elvis Angelo , Haruna Umar , Amoakoh Michael Yaw , Kweku Margaret 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Modern medicine has significantly transformed the process of childbirth among childbearing women. The preferred mode of childbirth among women has become of global interest to many researchers due to the steady rise in recent caesarean section (CS) rates.
While CS is often viewed as a life-saving intervention, it is associated with both immediate and long-term complications for the mother, newborn, and future pregnancies. To better understand the medical and non-medical reasons for CS among women, this study was conducted to identify the socio-demographic and obstetric factors that influence CS deliveries in the Tamale Metropolis.
Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 318 postpartum mothers at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Descriptive analysis, univariate logistic regression and stepwise multivariate logistic regression model were conducted, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The majority of respondents (63.5%) were below the age of 30 years at the time of study. Almost all respondents (95.3%) were enrolled in the NHIS. The majority (95.91%) had single births, rather than twins. Most respondents (91.2%) delivered via spontaneous vaginal delivery. The prevalence of CS delivery was 8.8%. Significant factors influencing the preference for CS were maternal age above 30 years (aOR=2.27, 95% CI=1.01-5.12), rural settlement (aOR=0.31, 95% CI=0.10-0.92), twin delivery (aOR=6.88, 95% CI=1.64-28.95), and obstetric complication (aOR=10.55, 95% CI=2.42-46.04).
Conclusion: There is a need to focus on initiatives to improve regional inequities, enhance access to maternal healthcare services, and improve maternal and infant outcomes in the area of preference for mode of delivery.
Molecular docking, Dynamics and Experimental approach integrated identification of Phytopharmaceuticals against methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection
Authors: Saima Saima , Sharma Hitesh Kumar , Latha S. , Lather Viney , Tewari Devesh , Sharma Ruchika , Jain Gaurav Kumar , Pandita Deepti , kumar Anoop 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is indeed a significant public health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide which can range from mild skin infections to life-threatening conditions like bloodstream infections and pneumonia.
Aim
The aim of the current study is to decipher the possible mechanism of some selected natural compounds against MRSA. Methodology
The natural compounds were selected based on our earlier systematic literature review (SLR). The selected compounds were screened against various targets of MRSA using molecular docking techniques. The stability of selected compounds was checked using molecular dynamics. Further, ADME was predicted using QikProp module. All the computational studies were conducted using the Schrodinger Maestro version 13.5.128. In-vitro assays (diffusion assay, micro broth dilution assay and bacterial growth assay) were conducted to check the anti-bacterial effects of selected natural compounds against MRSA.
Results
Among 60 selected natural compounds, theasinensin A, xanthohumol, luteolin, oxyresveratrol, liquiritigenin and baicalin has shown the energetically favoured binding conformation in the active site of targets. Further, molecular dynamics results have shown the stable conformation of xanthohumol and theasinensin A in the active site of targets. Further, the pharmacokinetic profile of xanthohumol was found to be better among other natural compounds. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of xanthohumol was found to be 3.12µg/mL as indicated by disk diffusion and micro broth dilution assays.
Conclusion
Xanthohumol can be promising anti-bacterial agent against MRSA through multi modal mechanism. However, further detailed experimental studies are required to confirm its possible antibacterial mechanisms.
Exploring the use of health technology in community-based midwifery care – An interview study
Authors: Edmundson Holly , Glogowska Margaret , Hayward Gail , Mossop Jude 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: New portable health technologies may offer solutions to problems in current maternity care, but little is known about their current usage, existing problems, or areas of unmet needs.
Purpose: To better understand the use of health technology in community midwifery care in the UK.
Methods: Midwives with current or recent experience working in community settings were recruited using social media. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken. These were transcribed and thematically analyzed.
Results: Thirteen midwives were interviewed between October 2021 and March 2022. The main themes and subthemes were as follows: 1) Problems with current equipment: (a) Issues in the context of remote working, b) Concerns regarding accuracy, and c) Women’s experiences with equipment. 2) Equipment challenges working within the UK National Health Service: a) Lack of availability of appropriate equipment, and b) Lack of autonomy in how to utilize equipment. 3) Areas of unmet needs.
Conclusion: This study has shown that there are several areas of unmet needs for community midwives which should be investigated; however, arguably more pressing is improving the availability and quality of health technologies and other equipment that is already widely used. Midwives were interested in technologies that support decision making, reduce the number of hospital visits for their patients, improve their workload, and reduce medicalisation. At the same time, there is fear that technology may take away midwives’ wisdom. Where new technologies are introduced, support and training should be provided to address potential resistance.
Surface non-destructively inspection of annular ceramic metal coating based on data augmentation and deep learning
Authors: LIANG Dan , Ye MinJie , Wang DingCai , Yu GuiTao , Tu JianFei , Liang DongTai , Zhang Xi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The defects in the metal coating surface of annular ceramic workpiece have significant effects on the conductivity and reliability. Due to the irregularity, small area, and few sample number of defects, it is difficult to achieve efficient and accurate inspection. This paper presents a defect inspection framework based on deep learning for the metal coating surface of annular ceramic workpiece. Firstly, an image acquisition system for the coating surface is designed, and the defects characteristics are analyzed. Then, a surface image data set is constructed through five data augmentation strategies in order to solve the problem of insufficient samples. Finally, a defect detection framework for ceramic metal coating surface based on improved YOLOv7 model is established. By optimizing the clustering algorithm of target box, introducing an attention mechanism, and improving the MPConv structure, the efficient and precise identification of different defects is realized. Experimental results show that the recognition rate of defects including scratch, deficiency, scuffing, and dot is higher than 94%, and the average detection time is about 30 ms. The proposed detection framework based on deep learning shows great application potential in the fields of precise coating and manufacturing of ceramic materials.
Enhanced Densification of Cerium (IV) Oxide during Spark Plasma Sintering under a Carbon Dioxide Atmosphere
Authors: Prasad Anil , Malakkal Linu , Bichler Lukas , Szpunar Jerzy 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Cerium dioxide (CeO2) finds extensive utility in electro ceramics applications, including solid oxide fuel cells, oxygen sensors, and catalysts. However, Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) of CeO2 presents challenges due to the heightened mobility of O2− ions in the presence of an electric field, as well as its reactivity with graphite tooling. Traditionally, CeO2 is sintered in an oxidative environment to prevent it from reducing to CeO2−δ or Ce2O3. Nevertheless, oxidative atmospheres are detrimental to the graphite and steel tooling used in SPS processing. In this study, we investigated CeO2 SPS in a CO2 atmosphere and observed substantial enhancement in the relative density (RD) of the as-sintered samples in comparison to those sintered in an Ar atmosphere. The improved densification is attributed to reduced formation of oxygen vacancies in the CO2 atmosphere. Furthermore, the reaction between CeO2 and graphite generates COx gases, and that reaction can be reversed in a CO2 atmosphere. In summary, CeO2 SPS in a CO2 environment demonstrates superior densification, effectively mitigating the challenges associated with ionic mobility and graphite reactivity.
Development of a Prognostic Model for HR-positive HER2-negative and Node-negative Breast Cancer: Integrating Clinical and Transcriptional Biomarkers
Authors: Chen Xiaoxi , Liu Hongjin , Gao Min , Ye Jingming 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
In this study, a prognostic model was constructed for HR-positive HER2-negative (HR+/HER2–) and node-negative breast cancer by integrating clinical and transcriptional biomarkers, with a particular focus on exploring both main effects and gene-gene (G × G) interactions.
Methods
Univariate and multivariate Cox regression were used to analyze three independent trans-ethnic cohorts with a total of 2180 samples. Independent prognostic factors were used to construct a prediction model. The Model was validated by ROC curves, calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).The molecular basis of the Model was illustrated by integrating bulk-tumor and single-cell RNAseq datasets.
Results
Our findings revealed that a combination of clinical and transcriptional factors can improve the accuracy of prognostic models for HR+/HER2– and node-negative breast cancer. The Model achieved satisfactory discrimination, with the area under the curve (AUC) ranging from 0.65 (Metabric, 10-year survival) to 0.88 (GSE96058, 3-year survival).
Conclusion
This research provides a powerful tool for predicting outcomes in HR+/HER2– and node-negative breast cancer, offering initial insights into the molecular mechanisms that can guide future investigations.
Paraquat at 63 - the story of a controversial herbicide and its regulations: It is time to put people and public health first when regulating paraquat.
Authors: Utyasheva Leah , Amarasinghe Prabath , Eddleston Michael 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Paraquat has been one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, despite its high human toxicity and the overwhelming evidence of associated high morbidity and mortality. Due to the significant public health implications from paraquat’s use, there have been calls to severely restrict or ban it in many countries. In this paper, we aim to investigate the regulatory status of paraquat on national, regional, and international levels, discuss the successes and challenges of regulatory implementation, and assess the impact of regulation on the incidence of poisonings and deaths.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review of articles on regulations related to the herbicide paraquat. The review concentrated on interventions to mitigate the negative public health impact of paraquat use. We also conducted region-wise and country-wise searches on paraquat regulations to complement our findings. We collected information on paraquat regulations and restrictions, and regulatory aspects of regulation implementation.
Results
At least 74 countries do not authorize paraquat in their markets, with bans, phase-outs, and withdrawals from the market. National and regional bans and phase-outs were effective in reducing paraquat poisonings and deaths. Restrictions on the use and application of paraquat, however, did not always result in a significant reduction in poisoning and suicide mortality, and many countries introduced bans after restrictions proved ineffective.
Conclusion
Our review highlights several elements important for the success of the implementation of regulations, with reductions in harm and no effect on agriculture. It is now time that national, regional, and international authorities pay attention to the scientific evidence of human toxicity and put people’s life and health ahead of economic and business considerations in regulating paraquat. Its use should be replaced by other methods of weed control. This should be a public health priority.
Targeting ROS production by Tea Polyphenols biomimetic nanoparticles for asthma treatment in mice
Authors: Ouyang Suidong , Lu Peishan , Li Jianing , Jin Hua , Wu Wanhua , Luo Renxing , Wang Bin , Huang Xueqin , Lian Xinlong , Huang Gonghua 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Asthma presents as a chronic allergic condition characterized by airway inflammation, increased responsiveness, and mucus accumulation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are central to its inflammatory cascade and pathology. Hence, we theorized that antioxidants could offer a promising therapeutic strategy for house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma. Our study reveals that Tea Polyphenols (TPs) encapsulated in biocompatible nanoparticles, enveloped with platelet membranes (PM@TP/NPs), effectively alleviated HDM-induced asthma by suppressing ROS production and modulating the CCL2/MAPK signaling pathway. Notably, PM@TP/NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility and safety, with enhanced lung retention compared to free TP. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PM@TP/NPs curbed HDM-induced inflammation in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells by reducing ROS levels, Ccl2 mRNA expression, and inhibiting the MAPK pathway. In an HDM-induced mouse asthma model, inhalation of PM@TP/NPs significantly attenuated lung inflammation, characterized by reduced eosinophil infiltration and secretion of type 2 pro-inflammatory factors. Furthermore, PM@TP/NPs enhanced ROS scavenging capacity while concurrently suppressing the CCL2/MAPK pathway in the lungs of asthmatic mice. Collectively, our findings propose PM@TP/NPs as a novel therapeutic strategy for asthma, targeting ROS production and inflammation for potential clinical application.
Nano-Enhanced Concrete: Unveiling the Impact of Nano-Silica on Durability, Strength, and Cost Efficiency
Authors: Labaran Yahaya Hassan , Atmaca Nihat , Tan Mehmet , Atmaca Kemal , Aram Salim Ali , Talib Ahmed Kaky 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study delves into the cutting-edge use of nano-silica (nS) in concrete, underscoring its remarkable ability to bolster both the mechanical properties and longevity of concrete structures. Distinguishing itself from previous research, this study not only investigates standard performance metrics such as compressive strength, water absorption, air permeability, and drying shrinkage but also scrutinizes the impact of nS on production costs. Through rigorous experimental procedures, the research meticulously formulated concrete mixes with varied water to binder (w/b) ratios of 0.33, 0.45, and 0.55, incorporating nS proportions of 0, 1, 3, and 5 percent relative to the binder's weight. The findings reveal that a 3% nS admixture optimally enhances compressive strength and diminishes both water and gas permeability, although it concurrently increases drying shrinkage. Importantly, the cost analysis reveals that even a minimal 1% addition of nS can significantly escalate production expenses, highlighting the critical balance between economic feasibility and performance enhancement required for nS's practical integration into concrete applications.
Evaluation of different mathematical models on fitting the in vitro gas production parameters in beef cattle
Authors: Wang Jinze , Zhou Zhiyu , Cheng Yang , Wu Hao , Yi Xin , Deng Ziqi , Ye Boping , Liu Saige , Ren Lingyu , Li Ning , Zhu Xiaowen , Li Wei , Yi Simeng , Zhou Zhenming , Meng Qingxiang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In vitro rumen gas production experiment was conducted with 57 kinds of feedstuff, which were categorized into energy feed, protein feed, and roughage, collected within China. Eight mathematical models were employed to describe the kinetics of in vitro rumen gas production. The results found that for energy feeds, protein feeds, and roughages, respectively, MM or Logistic-Exponential with lag (LEL), MM, and Mitscherlich (MIT) exhibited the highest or shown no significant difference compared to the highest coefficient of determination (R2) (P< 0.05) for all categories of feed. Furthermore, regression estimation of intercept and slope for regression estimates of intercept and slope for Observed versus Predicted of aforementioned models shown no significant difference from 0 and 1, respectively (P< 0.05), except LEL for energy feed. Mean absolute error (MAE), root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP), mean squared error of prediction (MSEP) of those models were relatively lower, with minimal systematic bias and regression bias. Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) rankings were higher compared with other models. Given these results, in studies where feedstuff categories are not distinguished or multiple feedstuffs categories are included, the MM model proves to be a good choice. MM or LEL was considered to better fit energy foodstuffs. The MM model was the optimal choice for fitting protein foodstuffs. MIT provided the best accuracy and moderate precision when fitting roughages.
“We are Having a Vast Trauma” Experiences of Africa Women with Infertility Treatment: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Joseph-Shehu Elizabeth Musili , Odejobi Omowumi Rebecca , Lateef Adepeju M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The experience of women undergoing infertility treatment is multifaceted, encompassing a range of physical, psychological, social dimensions and traumatic suffering of women due to cultural beliefs implication in Africa. This study explored and described the experiences of infertility among women receiving treatment in Nigeria. A qualitative descriptive design was implemented in this study. In-depth individual interview with fifteen infertility women (n = 15) was conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. The study utilised both descriptive and thematic content analysis. The key themes identified from this study were as follows: (i) Experience a troubling time, has three subthemes: Un-satisfy able feeling, Reduction of self-esteem and Challenges of self-contained. (ii) Psychological Trauma unpleasant experience has the following subthemes: Stressful and anxiety, Terrible spouse and given your all because is Sacrificial. (iii) Cultural beliefs negative impact has two subthemes: Not palatable, and emotional trauma and Stigmatisation. (iv) Inadequate Resources has one subtheme which is limited infertility centre. Infertility has a serious psychological, physical, social, and economic impact on women lives. The importance of information on the causes, prevention, and treatment of infertility should be prioritized in efforts to lessen the burden and offer psychological support.
Ferroptosis Participates in Coenzyme Q10-treated Silicosis Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Sun Yue , Yu Mengxue , Zhang Huning , Zhang Wenyue , Wen Shengpeng , Chang Sirong , Yang Fei , Qi Guangjun , Ma Xin , Liu Zhihong , Yang Anning , Jiang Yideng , Liu Bin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Silicosis is the most common, fastest-progressing, and most severe type of occupational pneumoconiosis, which result in diffuse pulmonary fibrosis. However, there are no specific treatments for silicosis. Coenzyme Q10, as a component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, can enhance mitochondrial quality and cellular energy supply, inhibit the production of ROS to reduce oxidative damage for reducing the risk of fibrosis. Ferroptosis is triggered by reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation induced by the overload of Fe2+ and has tight correlation with pulmonary fibrosis. However, whether ferroptosis is involved in coenzyme Q10-treated silicosis fibrosis in mice remains unclear.
Methods
After intratracheal instillation of silica in C57BL/6J mice for 48 hours, CoQ10 was administered orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg•d. The mice were randomly divided into control group, saline group and CoQ10 treatment group, and there are 6 mice in each group. Lung injury and fibrosis in mice were observed by HE, Masson, and Sirius Red assays. Iron content was measured by colorimetry in lung tissue. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in lung tissue was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Protein and mRNA expression of aSMA, Collagen I, GPX4 and p53 were determined by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Multiple data comparisons were conducted using one-way ANOVA, meanwhile multiple comparisons were conducted using Tukey test.
Result
Histopathological staining assays showed that the normal lung tissues in control group exhibited a basically intact alveolar structure, thin alveolar walls, no obvious inflammatory cells aggregation, and no significant collagen fiber deposition in pulmonary mesenchyme. But after CoQ10 treatment, the alveolar structure was still acceptable and no silicosis nodules and reduced collagen deposition. qPCR and WB experiments showed that CoQ10 significantly reduced the expression levels of α-SMA and collagen I in silicosis lung tissues. It is worth noting that CoQ10 significantly inhibited the accumulation of lipid peroxidation and Fe2+ and increased the expression of ferroptosis regulatory core enzyme GPX4 and reduced its upstream regulator p53 in silicosis lung tissues.
Conclusion
Ferroptosis is involved in coenzyme Q10-treated silicosis fibrosis and this finding is a new perspective for exploring the pathogenesis and treatment for silicosis.
Effectiveness, reliability, and validity of new Japanese diagnostic criteria for obstetrical disseminated intravascular coagulation (tentative version): A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Takeda Yoshiharu , Matsunaga Shigetaka , Makino Shintaro , Eto Eriko , Serizawa Mariko , Nii Masafumi , Takeda Jun , Masuyama Hisashi , Itakura Atsuo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Since July 2023, obstetrical disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in Japan has been diagnosed based on the new criteria (tentative version), which assesses the main underlying disease, fibrinogen level, and fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products or D-dimer level. The previous Japanese criteria assessed underlying disease, clinical symptoms, and various laboratory findings. This study aimed to prove the effectiveness, reliability, and validity of the new criteria. We analyzed 212 women with singleton pregnancies who delivered after 22 gestational weeks and experienced blood loss ≥ 1,000 mL during vaginal delivery or ≥ 2,000 mL during cesarean section. Those with missing laboratory findings before receiving blood transfusion at delivery were excluded. In the obstetrical DIC group, the frequency of fibrinogen levels < 150 mg/dL was significantly higher than in the control group (92% vs 4%, p < 0.0001), as was the frequency of scores ≥ 8 according to the previous Japanese criteria (100% vs. 9%, p < 0.0001). The relationship between the overall scores using the new criteria with those using the previous criteria was significantly positive (p < 0.0001). Cronbach alpha was 0.767 and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient was 0.712 between the new and previous criteria. In conclusion, we proved the effectiveness, reliability, and validity of the Japanese new criteria.