bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modelling age at death reveals Nordic Corded Ware paleodemography
Authors: Tornberg Anna , Vandkilde Helle 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Drawing on modelling of age at death in skeletal remains, this article unveils hitherto unrecognized demographic patterns in the Nordic Corded Ware complex. This population formed part of the European Corded Ware complex that has been linked to disruption observed in the archaeological and genetic record. The newly developed methods of transition analysis 3 (TA3) and death rate ratio (DRR) were used to process skeletal data from 67 individuals deriving from single, double, and multiple graves in Scandinavia. The results disclose a high proportion of immature individuals aged less than twenty years. Attrition, however, complies with a demography with high age-nonspecific mortality, and this may connect to stressors such as epidemic diseases and endemic warfare. Compared to the partly contemporaneous Pitted Ware complex and the succeeding Late Neolithic–earliest Bronze Age period, the Nordic Corded Ware burials overall point to robust population growth, especially in the later period. This in turn aligns with a sedentary lifestyle rather than a mobile pastoral economy. Short-distance seasonal movements could fit in but cannot yet be measured. Recent genetics have demonstrated biological input in the female line from populations such as Funnel Beaker, Pitted Ware, and herders of the steppe forest zone: the remarkable tallness of Nordic Corded Ware individuals may well be an effect of such admixture. The burials moreover evidence a distinct adult male sex bias, which diminishes over time along with the growth in the number of buried females and young individuals. Judging from investment in graves and grave goods, immatures were highly valued. The scale of social status operates independently of age. Alongside the revealed Nordic Corded Ware demography and the burial and material record more broadly, this could indicate social inequality based on kinship and warrior values.
GIS-based assessment of groundwater vulnerability to heavy metal contamination via water quality pollution indices in urban Aligarh, India
Authors: Badar Mohd Saalim , Ali Shahrukh , Daniyal  , Akram Md Wasim , Faheem Kashif , Khan Saif Ullah , Farooqi Izharul Haq 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The study presents an assessment of groundwater vulnerability due to heavy-metal contamination using Heavy Metal Pollution and Contamination Index of Urban Aligarh. Globally, hazardous compounds in industrially contaminated sites are pressing and high-priority issue. A detailed risk assessment was carried out to determine the potential health hazards linked to locations that were recently polluted. A total of 17 groundwater samples were taken from hand-pump and 20 industrial drainage samples were collected from selected areas of Aligarh. The concentration of heavy-metals in the collected samples analyzed were shown on maps using ArcGIS software and interpreted for Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPIx) and Contamination Index (CDx). These analyzed values were subsequently compared with the permissible limits established by the agencies like EPA, WHO, and BIS. The mean concentration of heavy-metals in groundwater of different locations was observed as follows particular sequence: Ni (1.40), Cu (0.58), Zn (0.06), Fe (0.08), Mn (0.04), Cr (0.001), Pb (0.00025) mg/l. Additionally in industrial effluent, Cr (18.3), Ni (13.34), Mn (1.16), Cu (1.99), Pb (1.2), Fe (6.3), Zn (0.51) mg/l. According to HPIx, the analysis reveals 64.7%, of visited areas belonged to have safe groundwater. Conversely, a smaller proportion, 35.3%, was found falling into heavy metal-polluted group.
Integrated modeling of snow-covered areas and hydrological processes in the Larji Sub-Basin, Himachal Pradesh, India, using SRM and SWAT models
Authors: Kant Chander , Meena Ray Singh 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Alpine snow is crucial for the water cycle, as the runoff and environment of arid and semi-arid regions rely entirely on these glaciers. Mountain-fed rivers provides the water for domestic, agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power, and other uses. Due to climate variability, river catchment flows may shift, causing floods and droughts that will aggravate the economy. This study estimated the SCA using Google Earth Engine (GEE) for the Larji River basin, situated in Himachal Pradesh, from the year 2001 to 2021. The snow cover area (SCA) varies from 0.7–22% in the basin. The present study highlights the effectiveness of cloud computing for assessing trends in snow-cover regions in the basin. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) snow product (MOD10A1 V6 Snow Cover Daily Global 500m product) is utilized for SCA calculation. This study simulates runoff from the Larji river, using Snow-melt Runoff Model (SRM) and Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for years (2019-2021). Furthermore, the Coefficient of determination (R2) Coefficient of corelation (r), Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) and Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE) were used to evaluate the efficacy of models. This study will help the policymakers and stakeholders to carry out the water resource management practices in the study area.
Algal-bacterial shortcut nitrogen removal model with seasonal light variations
Authors: Iman Shayan Sahand , Youssef Steve , van der Steen Peter , Zhang Qiong , Ergas Sarina J. 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

The algal–bacterial shortcut nitrogen removal (ABSNR) process can be used to treat high ammonia strength wastewaters without external aeration. However, prior algal–bacterial SNR studies have been conducted under fixed light/dark periods that were not representative of natural light conditions. In this study, laboratory-scale photo-sequencing batch reactors (PSBRs) were used to treat anaerobic digester sidestream under varying light intensities that mimicked summer and winter conditions in Tampa, FL, USA. A dynamic mathematical model was developed for the ABSNR process, which was calibrated and validated using data sets from the laboratory PSBRs. The model elucidated the dynamics of algal and bacterial biomass growth under natural illumination conditions as well as transformation processes for nitrogen species, oxygen, organic and inorganic carbon. A full-scale PSBR with a 1.2 m depth, a 6-day hydraulic retention time (HRT) and a 10-day solids retention time (SRT) was simulated for treatment of anaerobic digester sidestream. The full-scale PSBR could achieve &gt;90% ammonia removal, significantly reducing the nitrogen load to the mainstream wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The dynamic simulation showed that ABSNR process can help wastewater treatment facilities meet stringent nitrogen removal standards with low energy inputs.
Evaluación estadística del circuito de clasificación-molienda de la planta de carbón en pulpa de Antapite de la compañía Sierra Sun Group (Perú) empleando modeol s estadísticos de regresión y ANOVA
Authors: Zegarra Castañeda Fernando , Verdeja Luis Felipe , Álvarez Rodrigo , Fernández-González Daniel 
Published: March 2024

El presente trabajo pudo mostrar una evaluación estadística del circuito de molienda – clasificación de una planta aurífera de la planta Antapite de la Compañía Minera Sierra Sun Group (Perú). El circuito de molienda empleaba un molino de bolas, cuyo mineral descargado tenía una la ley de oro de 29.50 g/t, el cual alimentaba a un hidrociclón convencional Krebs (de 10 pulgadas de tamaño, 254 mm), cuyo rebose tenía una distribución de oro de 71.30 % (para tamaños de partículas de menos 74 μm). Sin embargo, el objetivo fue aumentar esta distribución a un valor equivalente a 77.39% (para partículas menores a 74 μm), es decir, al menos 5 puntos por encima de la actual. Este rebose alimentó al circuito metalúrgico formado por concentración gravimétrica y/o cianuración – adsorción dependiendo de la mineralogía con la que se encontraba asociada el oro. Se realizó un análisis estadístico de regresión múltiple para las variables de operación del hidrociclón Krebs de 10 pulgadas (254 mm) que permitió obtener la distribución de oro (objetivo mencionado anteriormente). De esta manera se plantearon tres escenarios diferentes, en los cuales se eliminaron las variables no significativas. El primer escenario evaluó la dependencia del tamaño de corte corregido d50C en función de la presión y caudal de la pulpa de alimentación al hidrociclón, el segundo escenario analizó la variable independiente: distribución de oro en el rebose del hidrociclón con respecto a las variables dependientes: caudal alimentado, presión, d50 y d50C para tamaños de partículas menores a 74 μm. Por último, el tercer escenario permitió evaluar la dependencia de la distribución de oro objetivo frente al d50C. Finalmente, se logró definir el parámetro que influye en la dependencia de la distribución de oro objetivo en el rebose, pudiendo encontrar así el valor de d50 (tamaño de corte sin corregir en micras) en función del caudal y presión de trabajo para llegar a la distribución de oro objetivo de 77.39% en el rebose (para partículas menores a 74 μm).
The Prognosis of Crimean-congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Thiqar City, South of
Iraq, in 100 Cases over 2022
Authors: Kareem Azher , Hazbar Khudair , Noaman Haitham 
Published: March 2024

Background::
The study of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) worldwide is of low rate as it is an uncommon disease. The outbreak in Iraq in 2022 is
high.

Aim::
To study the prognosis of hemorrhagic fever patients in Thi-Qar governorate, where the highest rate of the disease is, so that we might expect the
fat of the disease.

:
Patients and Methods: A descriptive cases series of cross-section studies that included all patients with severe or life-threatening Crimean-Congo
hemorrhagic fever(CCHF) PCR-positive cases (out of the total 100) admitted and followed up in AL-Hussain Teaching Hospital in 2022. To study
patients' features that indicate the prognostic factors of the disease.

Results::
All cases proved to be CCHF by PCR were 100 patients of variable severity, 14 cases were admitted to intensive care units (ICU), 13 patients died,
2 pregnant ladies were infected with CCHF unfortunately died, 16 children admitted to hospital 2 of them died and 14 cases completely cured. The
most serious cases are intrapulmonary hemorrhage and neuropsychiatric presentation.

Conclusion::
There are many clinical and laboratory prognostic markers. The riskiest clinical bad prognostic factor is the neuropsychiatric and pulmonary
hemorrhage and CCHF in pregnant ladies.
Posterior Longitudinal Ligament Calcification with Myelopathy - A Case Report
Authors: Alyosef Ebrahem , Mohsin Mariam , Ali Mavra , Gibrata Qonitah , George Biji Thomas 
Published: March 2024

Background::
Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) constitutes a significant etiology of cervical myelopathy. The most common clinical
presentations are myelopathy and radiculopathy, which result from a decrease in the spinal canal's volume and the spinal cord's subsequent
compression by the ossified posterior longitudinal ligament. This results in motor and sensory deficits, especially in the extremities.

Case Presentation::
A 48-year-old male presented with a complaint of neck pain that radiated to both upper limbs and was associated with numbness, tingling, and
paranesthesia. He also had a history of lower back pain that radiated to the right leg, which was also associated with numbness and limited mobility
to his cervical spine. Lhermitte's sign was positive. Sensory deficit to pinprick and touch was noted in the right upper limb and lower limbs.
Flexion deformities of the right hand and elbow extension fingers were noted. Neuroimaging of the cervical spine showed cervical canal stenosis,
OPLL, and myelopathy. Surgical management included internal fixation using plates and transpedicular screws, lateral mass fixation, and
laminectomy of the third to sixth cervical vertebrae (C3-C6).

Conclusion::
OPLL should be considered an integral component of the differential diagnosis when evaluating a patient with neck pain and consequent motor and
sensory deficits of the extremities. OPLL with mild and/or non-progressive symptoms can be addressed with non-operative measures. Assessing
preoperative neuroimaging is crucial before surgery to determine the degree of spinal cord compression and the presence of OPLL in all patients
with cervical myelopathy. Surgical treatment options for posterior longitudinal ligament calcification include laminectomy and fusion, anterior
decompression including transpedicular and costo-transversectomy, laminoplasty, and circumferential decompression via staged posterior and
anterior approaches. Determining the most effective surgical approach for managing OPLL is still controversial, and selecting the appropriate
procedure should be based on the patient's clinical presentation and level of pathological involvement.
Interferon Upregulation Associates with Insulin Resistance in Humans
Authors: Adeva-Andany Maria M. , Carneiro-Freire Natalia , Castro-Quintela Elvira , Ameneiros-Rodriguez Eva , Adeva-Contreras Lucia , Fernandez-Fernandez Carlos 
Published: March 2024

:
In humans, insulin resistance is a physiological response to infections developed to
supply sufficient energy to the activated immune system. This metabolic adaptation facilitates
the immune response but usually persists after the recovery period of the infection and predisposes the hosts to type 2 diabetes and vascular injury. In patients with diabetes, superimposed
insulin resistance worsens metabolic control and promotes diabetic ketoacidosis. Pathogenic
mechanisms underlying insulin resistance during microbial invasions remain to be fully defined.
However, interferons cause insulin resistance in healthy subjects and other population groups,
and their production is increased during infections, suggesting that this group of molecules may
contribute to reduced insulin sensitivity. In agreement with this notion, gene expression profiles
[transcriptomes] from patients with insulin resistance show a robust overexpression of interferon-stimulated genes [interferon signature]. In addition, serum levels of interferon and surrogates
for interferon activity are elevated in patients with insulin resistance. Circulating levels of interferon-γ-inducible protein-10, neopterin, and apolipoprotein L1 correlate with insulin resistance
manifestations, such as hypertriglyceridemia, reduced HDL-c, visceral fat, and homeostasis
model assessment-insulin resistance. Furthermore, interferon downregulation improves insulin
resistance. Antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine reduce interferon production and improve
insulin resistance, reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In addition,
diverse clinical conditions that feature interferon upregulation are associated with insulin resistance, suggesting that interferon may be a common factor promoting this adaptive response.
Among these conditions are systemic lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, and infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Exploring the Driving Factors behind Traditional Food Entrepreneurs in Sabah and Selangor
Authors: Md Ramli Adilah , Mohd Noor Harifah , Saad Mazni , Sulistyo Joko 
Published: March 2024

his study explores the key factors influencing local entrepreneurs in Sabah and Selangor states in selling traditional food. Twenty (20) informants from various business categories are identified and interviewed using a qualitative method. The transcript interview is being analysed to develop code and theme. Results showed there are two (2) themes that have been identified: 1) criteria for traditional food (cooking method, flavour, and originality) and 2) demand for traditional food (history, origin of food). Findings show the key factors that drive local entrepreneurs to develop distinctive attractions and become new tourism destinations, especially in traditional food areas
Exploring the Impact of In Basket Metrics on the Adoption of a New Electronic Health Record System Among Specialists in a Tertiary Hospital in Alberta: Descriptive Study
Authors: Avdagovska Melita , Kuziemsky Craig , Koosha Helia , Hadizadeh Maliheh , Pauly Robert P , Graham Timothy , Stafinski Tania , Bigam David , Kassam Narmin , Menon Devidas 
Published: March 2024

Background
Health care organizations implement electronic health record (EHR) systems with the expectation of improved patient care and enhanced provider performance. However, while these technologies hold the potential to create improved care and system efficiencies, they can also lead to unintended negative consequences, such as patient safety issues, communication problems, and provider burnout.

Objective
This study aims to document metrics related to the In Basket communication hub (time in In Basket per day, time in In Basket per appointment, In Basket messages received per day, and turnaround time) of the EHR system implemented by Alberta Health Services, the province-wide health delivery system called Connect Care (Epic Systems). The objective was to identify how a newly implemented EHR system was used, the timing of its use, and the duration of use specifically related to In Basket activities.

Methods
A descriptive study was conducted. Due to the diversity of specialties, the providers were grouped into medical and surgical based on previous similar studies. The participants were further subgrouped based on their self-reported clinical full-time equivalent (FTE ) measure. This resulted in 3 subgroups for analysis: medical FTE <0.5, medical FTE >0.5, and surgical (all of whom reported FTE >0.5). The analysis was limited to outpatient clinical interactions and explicitly excluded inpatient activities.

Results
A total of 72 participants from 19 different specialties enrolled in this study. The providers had, on average, 8.31 appointments per day during the reporting periods. The providers received, on average, 21.93 messages per day, and they spent 7.61 minutes on average in the time in In Basket per day metric and 1.84 minutes on average in the time in In Basket per appointment metric. The time for the providers to mark messages as done (turnaround time) was on average 11.45 days during the reporting period. Although the surgical group had, on average, approximately twice as many appointments per scheduled day, they spent considerably less connected time (based on almost all time metrics) than the medical group. However, the surgical group took much longer than the medical group to mark messages as done (turnaround time).

Conclusions
We observed a range of patterns with no consistent direction. There does not seem to be evidence of a “learning curve,” which would have shown a consistent reduction in time spent on the system over time due to familiarity and experience. While this study does not show how the included metrics could be used as predictors of providers’ satisfaction or feelings of burnout, the use trends could be used to start discussions about future Canadian studies needed in this area.
Updated Surveillance Metrics and History of the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2023) in the Middle East and North Africa: Longitudinal Trend Analysis
Authors: Soetikno Alan G , Lundberg Alexander L , Ozer Egon A , Wu Scott A , Welch Sarah B , Mason Maryann , Liu Yingxuan , Havey Robert J , Murphy Robert L , Hawkins Claudia , Moss Charles B , Post Lori Ann 
Published: March 2024

Background
This study updates the COVID-19 pandemic surveillance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) we first conducted in 2020 with 2 additional years of data for the region.

Objective
The objective of this study is to determine whether the MENA region meets the criteria for moving from a pandemic to endemic. In doing so, this study considers pandemic trends, dynamic and genomic surveillance methods, and region-specific historical context for the pandemic. These considerations continue through the World Health Organization (WHO) declaration of the end of the public health emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic on May 5, 2023.

Methods
In addition to updates to traditional surveillance data and dynamic panel estimates from the original study by Post et al, this study used data on sequenced SARS-CoV-2 variants from the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) to identify the appearance and duration of variants of concern. We used Nextclade nomenclature to collect clade designations from sequences and Pangolin nomenclature for lineage designations of SARS-CoV-2. Finally, we conducted a 1-sided t test to determine whether regional weekly speed of COVID-19 spread was greater than an outbreak threshold of 10. We ran the test iteratively with 6 months of data from September 4, 2020, to May 12, 2023.

Results
The speed of COVID-19 spread for the region had remained below the outbreak threshold for 7 continuous months by the time of the WHO declaration. Acceleration and jerk were also low and stable. Although the 1- and 7-day persistence coefficients remained statistically significant and positive, the weekly shift parameters suggested the coefficients had most recently turned negative, meaning the clustering effect of new COVID-19 cases became even smaller in the 2 weeks around the WHO declaration. From December 2021 onward, Omicron was the predominant variant of concern in sequenced viral samples. The rolling t test of the speed of spread equal to 10 became entirely insignificant from October 2022 onward.

Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic had far-reaching effects on MENA, impacting health care systems, economies, and social well-being. Although COVID-19 continues to circulate in the MENA region, the rate of transmission remained well below the threshold of an outbreak for over 1 year ahead of the WHO declaration. COVID-19 is endemic in the region and no longer reaches the threshold of the pandemic definition. Both standard and enhanced surveillance metrics confirm that the pandemic had transitioned to endemic by the time of the WHO declaration.