bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forecasting agricultures security indices: Evidence from transformers method
Authors: Bilel Ammouri 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn recent years, ensuring food security has become a global concern, necessitating accurate forecasting of agriculture security to aid in policymaking and resource allocation. This article proposes the utilization of transformers, a powerful deep learning technique, for predicting the Agriculture Security Index (
). The
is a comprehensive metric that evaluates the stability and resilience of agricultural systems. By harnessing the temporal dependencies and complex patterns present in historical
data, transformers offer a promising approach for accurate and reliable forecasting. The transformer architecture, renowned for its ability to capture long‐range dependencies, is tailored to suit the
forecasting task. The model is trained using a combination of supervised learning and attention mechanisms to identify salient features and capture intricate relationships within the data. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, various evaluation metrics, including mean absolute error, root mean square error, and coefficient of determination, are employed to assess the accuracy, robustness, and generalizability of the transformer‐based forecasting approach. The results obtained demonstrate the efficacy of transformers in forecasting the
, outperforming traditional time series forecasting methods. The transformer model showcases its ability to capture both short‐term fluctuations and long‐term trends in the
, allowing policymakers and stakeholders to make informed decisions. Additionally, the study identifies key factors that significantly influence agriculture security, providing valuable insights for proactive intervention and resource allocation.
Early feeding after free flap reconstruction of the oral cavity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Barlow Joshua , Sragi Zara , Rodriguez Nina , Alsen Mathilda , Kappauf Catharine , Ferrandino Rocco , Chennareddy Susmita , Kotz Tamar , Kirke Diana N. , Teng Marita S. , Genden Eric M. , Khan Mohemmed N. , Roof Scott A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundTraditionally, patients undergoing free flap reconstruction for oral cavity defects have been given nothing by mouth for 6–14 days post‐operatively due to concern for orocutaneous fistula development.MethodsMultiple databases were screened for studies assessing the rate of orocutaneous fistula formation in early (≤5 days) versus late (>5 days) feeding groups following oral cavity free flap reconstruction. Fixed‐ and random‐effects meta‐analyses were used.ResultsOne randomized controlled trial, one prospective cohort, and three retrospective cohort studies were included. The early feeding group displayed no significant increase in orocutaneous fistula formation (RD = −0.02, p = 0.06) or free flap failure (RD = −0.01, p = 0.39), with a significantly shorter hospital length of stay (mean difference [days] = −2.43, p < 0.01).ConclusionsWhile further prospective trials are necessary, initiation of oral intake before post‐operative day 5 may be appropriate in properly selected patients following oral reconstruction.
Tandem catalysis in electrocatalytic nitrate reduction: Unlocking efficiency and mechanism
Authors: Wu Ziyang , Song Yanhui , Guo Haocheng , Xie Fengting , Cong Yuting , Kuang Min , Yang Jianping 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) holds promise for ecofriendly nitrate removal. However, the challenge of achieving high selectivity and efficiency in electrocatalyst systems still significantly hampers the mechanism understanding and the large‐scale application. Tandem catalysts, comprising multiple catalytic components working synergistically, offer promising potential for improving the efficiency and selectivity of the NO3RR. This review highlights recent progress in designing tandem catalysts for electrochemical NO3RR, including the noble metal‐related system, transition metal electrocatalysts, and pulsed electrocatalysis strategies. Specifically, the optimization of active sites, interface engineering, synergistic effects between catalyst components, various in situ technologies, and theory simulations are discussed in detail. Challenges and opportunities in the development of tandem catalysts for scaling up electrochemical NO3RR are further discussed, such as stability, durability, and reaction mechanisms. By outlining possible solutions for future tandem catalyst design, this review aims to open avenues for efficient nitrate reduction and comprehensive insights into the mechanisms for energy sustainability and environmental safety.
Effect of acetate and methanol on the kinetics of total dissolved selenium removal in a chemostat
Authors: Mohammadi Elnaz , Baldwin Susan A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDCarbon (C) source consumption in industrial bioreactors removing soluble selenium (Se) contributes to the operating cost and can influence the rate of removal. This study used a laboratory chemostat to investigate the dependency of the rate of dissolved Se removal on the concentration of acetate and methanol, two C sources used in treatment of Se containing mine‐influenced water. It was hypothesized that the rate of dissolved Se removal follows a Monod kinetic model with C source as the limiting substrate.RESULTSA chemostat fed with 25 mg‐selenate‐Se L−1 and acetate as C source at different concentrations operated over a range of hydraulic retention times (HRTs) achieved maximal removal of 99.7% dissolved Se at an HRT of 1.5 days [rate 16.7 mg‐Se (L day)−1]. When methanol was fed into the chemostat as the C source instead of acetate, the extent and rate of removal were much less [65% at an HRT of 6 days, rate 2.7 mg‐Se (L day)−1]. Carbon source consumption per mole of dissolved Se removed was not constant and exceeded stoichiometric estimates. Monod kinetic parameters for the Dechloromonas/Ralstonia consortium growing on acetate were estimated as = 3.36 mg‐C L−1 and = 0.70 L day−1. The Methylophilaceae consortium growing on methanol did not exhibit Monod kinetic growth.CONCLUSIONSUsing acetate as a C source achieved greater efficiency of dissolved Se removal than when methanol was used. Total dissolved Se removal rate was dependent on acetate only at low concentrations and when the HRT was close to washout. However, total dissolved Se removal rate was strongly dependent on HRT when methanol was used. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Interaction between Acanthamoeba and Staphylococcus
Authors: Özcan Aykol Şevval M. , Zeybek Zuhal 
Published: February 2024

AbstractFree‐living amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are infected by various bacteria in nature, and thus bacteria can protect themselves from adverse environmental conditions. Contrary to this ameba–bacteria relationship whether Acanthamoeba has antibacterial effects on bacteria is the different aspect of the relationship between these microorganisms. In this study, we investigate various Acanthamoeba strains have antibacterial effects on various Staphylococcus strains. Three environmental Acanthamoeba strains, isolated from various aquatic environments in Turkey, and Acanthamoeba castellanii ATCC 50373 standard strains were used in the study. The antistaphylococcal effect of cell‐free supernatant (CFS) obtained from these amoebae against 12 different Staphylococcus bacteria was investigated by colony counting method. In addition, the pathogenicity of the tested Acanthamoeba strains was determined using osmotolerance and thermotolerance tests. CFSs obtained from Acanthamoeba were found to have varying degrees of antistaphylococcal effects on various Staphylococcus strains (0%–100%). It was determined that the CFS of the standard Acanthamoeba strain showed 100% inhibitory effect against one clinical methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain (M2). Also, CFS of Ugöl strain showed 99.97% inhibitory effect against one clinical methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus epidermidis strain (L3). It was determined that all Acanthamoeba isolates had no pathogenic potential. According to the results, it has been observed that Acanthamoeba produces antibacterial substance(s) against Staphylococcus bacteria and that the ameba–bacteria relationship may also result in the detriment of the bacteria. Furthermore, the current study indicates that new and natural antimicrobial agents from Acanthamoeba can be used as an alternative to infections caused by Staphylococcus.
High rates of vitamin D insufficiency among patients presenting for total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Liu Christina , Seyok Thany , Moye Stephen , Sugita Lansing , Eltouny Ehab , Carrera Christopher , Denagamage Prabhavi , Charles Julia , Fitz Wolfgang , Chen Antonia F. , Earp Brandon 
Published: February 2024

AbstractWidely varying prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been reported in patients presenting for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The primary aim of this study was to determine vitamin D levels in TKA patients and to compare to patients already routinely evaluated for vitamin D levels, patients with fragility fractures of the distal radius (DRF). There is significant overlap between patients presenting for TKA and with DRF, both in terms of medical comorbidities and overall health status, making these populations suitable comparative cohorts. Wefound that all patients presenting for TKA consultation had vitamin D insufficiency and 33% had vitamin D deficiency, compared to only 37% and 14% in the DRF cohort, a patient population routinely evaluated for vitamin D due to the high risk of deficiency. Furthermore, patients with DRF had higher levels of vitamin D before (38 ± 16 vs. 23 ± 5) and after vitamin D supplementation (39 ± 17 vs. 33 ± 10), suggesting that patients presenting for TKA are at even higher risk of vitamin D insufficiency than patients presenting with DRF. Reassuringly, supplementation successfully corrected 39.0% and 55.8% of patients in the DRF and TKA cohorts, respectively.
Association between nutrition intake and muscle mass in adult inpatients receiving nutrition support: A prospective cohort study
Authors: de Abreu Silva Luciana , de Vasconcelos Generoso Simone , da Rocha Vanessa Moreira , da Mata Lincoln Antinossi Cordeiro , Castro Carolina Fernandes , Ribeiro Mariana Vassallo , Campolina Bruna Guerra , Duarte Camila Kümmel 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe present study aimed to evaluate the association between muscle mass variation, estimated by different equations, during hospitalization with the energy and protein intake and clinical and nutrition outcomes of patients using nutrition support.MethodsA prospective observational study with patients older than 18 years in use of enteral and/or parenteral nutrition therapy and monitored by the Nutritional Therapy Committee between December 14, 2021, and December 14, 2022. Data were collected from the electronic records and were applied in 11 equations to estimate the four different portions of muscle mass of patients receiving nutrition support at the beginning and the end of hospitalization.ResultsA total of 261 patients were evaluated, with a median age of 61.0 (49.0–69.75) years, and 106 were women (40.6%). According to the nutrition diagnosis, several participants had severe malnutrition (39.5%). The most muscle mass estimation equations indicated a reduction of muscle mass during hospitalization. All patients presented negative energy and protein balances during hospitalization, but greater protein intake increased the lean soft tissue. Also, the greater the number of infections, metabolic complications, and scheduled diet interruption, the greater was the chance of losing muscle mass.ConclusionThere can be an association between the variation in muscle mass and energy and protein intake during hospitalization of patients using nutrition support. In addition, variation in muscle mass was associated with complications from nutrition support. The results emphasize the importance of anthropometric measurements to estimate muscle mass when other methods are not available.
Association between weight‐for‐length percentile and ICU length of stay in patients with a single ventricle undergoing bidirectional Glenn repair: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Adair Austin B. , Gong Wu , Lindsell Christopher J. , Clay Mark A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundPoor weight gain has been identified as an independent risk factor for increased surgical morbidity and mortality for patients with single‐ventricle physiology undergoing staged surgical palliation. Conversely, excessive weight gain has also emerged as an independent risk factor predicting increased morbidity and mortality in a single‐center study. Given this novel single‐center concept, we investigated the impact of excessive weight on patients with single‐ventricle physiology undergoing bidirectional Glenn palliation in a multicenter study model.MethodsPatients from the Pediatric Heart Network Single Ventricle Reconstruction Trial (n = 387) were analyzed in a retrospective cohort study examining the independent effect of weight percentile on intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) and ventilator days. Locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) regression was used to plot weight‐for‐length (WFL) percentiles by ICU LOS and ventilator days. Unadjusted and adjusted ordinal regression was used to model ICU LOS and ventilator days.ResultsScatterplots and LOESS regression curves demonstrated increasing ICU LOS and ventilator days for increasing WFL percentiles. Unadjusted ordinal regression analysis of ICU LOS demonstrated a trend of increasing ICU LOS for increasing WFL percentiles that was not statistically significant (P = 0.11). A similar trend was demonstrated in adjusted ordinal regression that was not statistically significant (P = 0.48). Unadjusted and adjusted ordinal regression analysis of ventilator days did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.07).ConclusionExcessive weight gain has a clinically relevant but not statistically significant association with increased ICU LOS and ventilator days for those patients in the >90th WFL percentile for age.
Franchise management strategy driving franchisee performance in the service sectors in Thailand
Authors: Darawong Chonlatis 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis empirical study aims to investigate the impact of different dimensions of franchise management strategies on franchisee performance in the professional service sector. The hypothesized relationship was supported by agency theory, which explains the situation of two parties, one representing the other in day‐to‐day transactions. The samples were 259 managers and supervisors who had worked for franchise service businesses located in Thailand and had regular contact with the franchisor of the global firm. Purposive and snowballing methods were employed to distribute questionnaires to the target respondents. The results of structural equation modeling indicated a good fit of the data to the proposed model. Hypothesis testing revealed noteworthy direct influences of four franchise management strategies, namely innovative culture, supportive service, information exchange, and recommendation, on the performance of franchisees. This study offers valuable insights into the importance of implementing effective franchise management strategies and their direct implications for franchisee performance. The findings have practical implications for franchise businesses, highlighting key areas of focus for enhancing franchisee success and overall business performance.
High three‐dimensional accuracy of component placement and lower limb alignment using a robotic arm‐assisted system and gap‐balancing instrument in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Diquattro Emanuele , Prill Robert , Salzmann Mikhail , Traina Francesco , Becker Roland 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPurposeIt was hypothesized that robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA‐TKA) using additionally a gap‐balancing instrumentation will show high accuracy in executing the planning in femoral and tibial component placement throughout the range of knee motion (ROM) during TKA surgery.MethodsProspectively collected data were analysed for patients undergoing RA‐TKA. A cruciate retaining cemented design was implanted using the MAKO® robotic system. Lower limb alignment at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° of flexion was recorded at the beginning of surgery and finally after implantation of the components. A ligament tensioner was inserted after tibial precut to measure the extension and flexion gap, and final component placement was planned based on 3D CT images. Femoral and tibial component placement was measured in all three planes.ResultsA total of 104 patients were included (mean age 69.4 ± 9 years; 44 male, 60 female). The difference in component placement after planning and final implantation showed less valgus of 0.7° ± 1.4° (p < 0.001), less external rotation of 0.6° ± 1.9° (p = 0.001) and less flexion of 0.9° ± 1.8° (p < 0.001) for the femoral component. The tibial component was placed in more varus of 0.2° ± 0.9° (p = 0.056) and more posterior slope of 0.5° ± 0.9° (p < 0.001). The lower limb alignment in extension was 4.4° ± 5.2° of varus of the native knee and changed to 1.2° ± 1.9° of varus after TKA (p < 0.01).ConclusionRobotic‐assisted TKA helps to achieve the target of alignment and component placement very close to the planning. It allows optimal component placement of off‐the‐shelf implants respecting patient's specific anatomy.Level of EvidenceLevel II.
Endoscopic Versus Microscopic Tympanoplasty: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis
Authors: Gkrinia Eleni , Ntziovara Anna Maria , Brotis Alexandros G. , Tzimkas‐Dakis Konstantinos , Saratziotis Athanasios , Korais Christos , Hajiioannou Jiannis 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveEndoscopic ear surgery is no longer a promising technique, but a well‐established one. This study aims to compare endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty based on current literature evidence, in terms of their efficacy and safety characteristics.Data SourcesWe conducted a systematic literature search of four medical databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov), focusing on randomized controlled or observational studies comparing microscopic to endoscopic tympanoplasty.Review MethodsData related to the efficacy and safety of each technique were extracted. Outcome data were summarized using pooled mean differences or pooled odds ratio along with their 95% confidence intervals. The risk of bias was estimated, by using the ROBINS‐I and RoB‐II assessment tools, while the overall quality of evidence was evaluated according to the GRADE working group.ResultsThirty‐three studies, with 2646 patients in total, were included in the meta‐analysis. Success rate was evaluated by estimating tympanic graft failure (pooled mean difference:−0.23; 95% CI: −0.61, 0.14, I2 = 33.42%), and air‐bone gap improvement (pooled mean difference:−0.05; 95% CI:−0.23, 0.13, I2 = 52.69%), resulting in comparable outcomes for the two techniques. A statistically significant difference favoring the endoscopic technique was detected regarding postoperative wound infection (OR: −1.72; 95% CI: −3.39, −0.04, I2 = 0%), dysgeusia (OR: −1.47; 95% CI: −2.47, −0.47, I2 = 0%), otitis externa development (OR: −1.96; 95% CI: −3.23, −0.69, I2 = 0%), auricular numbness (OR: −2.56; 95% CI: −3.93, −1.19, I2 = 0%), as well as surgical duration (OR: −1.86; 95% CI: −2.70, −1.02, I2 = 43.95%), when compared to the postauricular microscopic approach.ConclusionEndoscopic tympanoplasty is an innovative alternative to the microscopic technique, resulting in commensurate outcomes regarding success rate. Furthermore, it offers superior results concerning postoperative complications, while it presents a significant reduction in the duration of surgery, mainly when it is compared to the postauricular microscopic approach.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 134:3466–3476, 2024
The Impact of COVID‐19 Restrictions on Hospital Admissions of Common Head and Neck Infections
Authors: Urichuk Matthew , Azzi Jason Lee , Leitao Darren J. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionFollowing the emergence of COVID‐19, multiple preventative measures were implemented to limit the spread of the disease. This study aims to elucidate the impact of COVID‐19 restrictions on hospital admissions of otolaryngology‐related infections.Materials and MethodsA retrospective chart review was conducted to capture all admissions for otolaryngology‐related infections in the 2 years pre‐ and post‐COVID‐19 at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. These infections included croup, tracheitis, neck abscess, peritonsillar abscess, otitis media, mastoiditis, sinus infection, orbital infection, pharyngotonsillitis, retro/parapharyngeal abscess, and acute epiglottitis. Demographic information and admission details were collected and analyzed to compare pre‐ and post‐COVID‐19 admissions. Further analysis was conducted to compare hospital admissions of patients from rural/remote regions.ResultsBetween March 2018 and March 2022, 253 pediatric patients and 197 adults were admitted for otolaryngology‐related infections. Total pediatric admissions decreased post‐COVID‐19 (154 pre‐COVID‐19, 99 post‐COVID‐19; p < 0.001) whereas adult admissions remained stable (107 pre‐COVID‐19, 90 post‐COVID‐19; p = 0.25). No significant difference in mean patient age, admission duration, surgical rates or in the proportion of admissions from patients from rural/remote regions was observed in the pediatric or adult cohort when comparing pre‐COVID‐19 data to post‐COVID‐19 data. Diagnosis‐specific changes in admissions were observed in pediatric croup (40 pre‐COVID‐19, 15 post‐COVID‐19; p < 0.001) and in adult orbital infections (30 pre‐COVID‐19, six post‐COVID‐19; p < 0.001).ConclusionFollowing the implementation of COVID‐19 restrictions, there was a decrease in admissions due to pediatric croup and adult orbital infections with an overall decrease in pediatric Otolaryngology‐infection related admissions.Level of Evidence3 Laryngoscope, 134:3542–3547, 2024
PVD coated dies in action: Exploring finite element analyses for sheet metal forming of high‐strength steel
Authors: Sivarajan S. , Neto Diogo M. , Oliveira Marta C. , Raghupathy Padmanabhan , Menezes Luis F. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis research proposes a complete analysis of the use of physical vapour deposition coated dies in the sheet metal forming process for high‐strength‐steel sheets. The goal of the proposed approach is to investigate how PVD coatings affect die performance and how that affects the formability and quality of the high‐strength‐steel‐sheets that are made. The finite element analyses are used to simulate and evaluate the mechanical behaviour and deformation characteristics during the forming process. Studies to enhance the forming characteristics of these materials, typically denoted by limiting draw ratio and maximum punch force are required. A reduction in punch force required and improved limiting draw ratio is observed that is attributed to the enhanced contact with friction‐conditions in the die‐sheet interfaces. The experimental results are compared with simulation results from DD3IMP, a code used for deep drawing simulations, and it is evident that the experimental outcomes are analysed well with the simulation results.