bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sero-prevalence of visceral leishmaniasis and associated risk factors among febrile patients attending Metema Hospital, West Gondar Zone, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Solomon , Getu Tibebnesh , Yohanes Tilahun , Bekele Damtew 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction: In Ethiopia, visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a public health concern that has been spreading to new endemic foci in recent years. An estimated 3.2 million people are at risk of infection, with 3700–7400 new cases each year. Thus, the study was aimed at determining the prevalence of VL and associated risk factors among febrile patients attending Metema Hospital, North West Ethiopia.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 404 febrile patients from February 2021 to June 2021. The test for VL was done using an immune-chromatographic test (rK39) according to the manufacturer's instructions (InBios International Inc., USA). An interviewer-administered, pretested questionnaire was used to collect data on risk factors associated with VL. Logistic regression and Chi-square assessed the association between VL and the associated risk factors.
Reults: The overall prevalence of visceral leishmaniasis was 18.8% (76/404), with a higher prevalence of VL in males, in the age category between 21 and 30, in study participants who completed elementary school, and in those who earned less than 500 birr monthly compared to their counterparts. Houses with thatched roofs (adjusted odd ratio (AOR)=17.648, 95CI=6.549,47.563), houses with mud walls (AOR=2.538, 95% CI=1.187-5.411), cattle ownership (AOR=.3.173, 95% CI=1.286-7.826), dog ownership (AOR=2,533, 95%CI= 1.256-5.111), presence of acacia trees near houses (AOR=1.975, 95%CI:1.004-3.886), presence of banalities tree (AOR=3.015, 95%CI=1.610-5.992), and outdoor sleeping (AOR= 2.259, 95%CI: 1.107-14.607) were the predictors of VL in the present study.
Conclusions: In the study area, VL is still very common. Thus, preventing and controlling infection in the area is largely dependent on raising community awareness of VL prevention and control measures and implementing the necessary interventions on the determinants that have been identified.
A Hybrid Koch Embedded Sierpinski Fractal Antenna for Uwb &amp; 5g Applications
Authors: Aravindraj E. , Bibi Rasheeda , Nagarajan G. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A Hybrid Koch Embedded Sierpinski Fractal Antenna with Co-Planar Waveguide (CPW) feed for UWB and 5G Applications is proposed. The prototype is mathematically developed for ultra-wide resonance with a miniaturized cross-sectional area. A fractal design resembling a second-order Koch Snowflake fractal embedded to the Sierpinski Arrowhead radiator in a mutually proportional manner, increases the radiation across the entire surface area by extending the effective length of the dielectric. The CPW feed is incorporated into the radiator trace to improve the antenna's Fractional Bandwidth (FBW). The selected dielectric medium, FR-4 (ɛr = 4.4 and δ = 0.02), serves the dual purpose of ensuring structural integrity and enabling the generation of displacement current. The proposed antenna has overall dimensions of 0.45λo x 0.58λo x 0.03λo. The driven radiator exhibits FBW of 170% spanning at 2.45 GHz to 30.5 GHz, along with a peak gain 6.33 dB. The fabricated prototype shows good correlation in testing with a microwave analyzer. T. Thus, the proposed antenna covers a wide range of frequency bands, including S, C, X, Ku, and K-bands. It also covers the entire spectrum of UWB, 5G (Sub-6 GHz band) Frequency Range 1 (FR 1), and the most deployed 5G mm-wave Frequency Range 2 (FR 2) spectrum (24.25GHz to 29.5GHz).
ANXA11-related multisystem proteinopathy with inclusion body myopathy, ALS and FTD: A case report
Authors: Xia Xingyu , Wang Ningning , Zhu Bochen , Cheng Nachuan , Jiao Kexin , Zhang Jialong , Gao Mingshi , Chen Xi , Dong Yi , Zhao Chongbo , Lu Jiahong , Zhu Wenhua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
ANXA11 mutations link to multisystem proteinopathy (MSP), typically affecting motor neurons. This report describes a 55-year-old man with a rare concurrent presentation of inclusion body myopathy (IBM), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), alongside cardiac issues, confirmed by genetic testing as ANXA11-related MSP with a c.118G > T (p.D40Y) mutation. This case underscores ANXA11's broad impact and its critical role in MSP, highlighting unusual multisystem involvement including the cardiac system, thus expanding our understanding of ANXA11 mutation spectra.
Lung recruitment with high frequency ventilation versus volume targeted ventilation in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Eldegwi Marwa , Shaltout Ali , Elagamy Osama , Salama Dina , Elshaer Mohammed , Shouman Basma 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is one of the most common causes of premature infant respiratory failure. Recently, many techniques for optimizing fetal-neonatal transition and promoting lung recruitment have been accessible. To compare the effect of lung recruitment using high frequency ventilation versus volume targeted ventilation on duration of intubation as well as its effect on lung inflammation in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Forty preterm infants with RDS were randomly assigned to Group A (LRM with HFOV, n=20) or Group B (LRM with VTV/AC, n=20). TGF-β1 levels measured in BAL samples at two time points. Both groups showed no significant difference in rate of prematurity complications nor delta change of TFG-β1level in tracheal aspirate of those preterm infants measured before lung recruitment and five days after recruitment or at extubation. Conclusions: Lung recruitment maneuver was not associated with significant difference between both groups of preterm infants. The results obtained from our study, being the first of its kind to compare the effect of lung recruitment, provide a promising research area for further investigations.
Weld Image Processing Algorithm Based on Machine Vision Detection and Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Zhu Yanjun , Wu Zhisheng , Liu Cuirong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In order to solve the problem of inaccurate centerline extraction caused by external environmental interference in traditional algorithms for processing weld seam images, which in turn affects the accuracy of robotic arm welding, the author proposes a weld seam image processing algorithm based on machine vision detection and industrial Internet of Things. This method first preprocesses the welding object image by grayscale, histogram equalization, and threshold segmentation. Then, the Canny operator is used to extract the pixel edge lines of the weld seam, and a dedicated centerline extraction algorithm for the weld seam is designed. Finally, an adaptive polynomial welding seam curve fitting algorithm was proposed, and the pixel coordinates of the fitting curve were converted into robot coordinates through a coordinate transformation model, in order to send welding path data to the arc welding robot. The experimental results show that the improved arc welding robot system can autonomously recognize complex weld seam trajectories and generate accurate welding paths, thereby guiding the robot to complete welding operations. The maximum error value is controlled within 0.29 millimeters, which meets the requirements of welding accuracy and shows good processing effect.
Multimorbidity patterns among patients hospitalized with prostate cancer in Portugal: a cluster analysis approach
Authors: Carvalho Patrícia , Souza Julio , Botelho Francisco , Lobo Mariana , Marreiros Goreti , Freitas Alberto 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Multimorbidity is a common condition among cancer patients, resulting in increased complexity of care and risk of negative outcomes. This study aims to use clustering analysis to identify and characterize multimorbidity patterns among hospitalized prostate cancer patients in Portugal. This is a retrospective observational study using inpatient data from the Portuguese National Hospital Morbidity Database. Data on hospital admissions with a diagnosis of prostate cancer occurring in all public hospitals in mainland Portugal during 2011–2017 were considered. Partitioning clustering algorithms, namely K-modes, PAM (Partitioning Around Medoids), and hierarchical clustering, were used to identify multimorbidity clusters. Results obtained from the different clustering approaches were compared and assessed in terms of clinical relevance. A total of 10394 inpatient episodes were analyzed, with 6091 (58%) reporting multimorbidity. Similar clusters were obtained through the different partitioning approaches, with PAM presenting a higher stability and the best quality results in terms of average silhouette. The analysis of the 6 clusters obtained with PAM reveals groups with a pattern of hypertension co-occurring with diabetes, obesity, and arrhythmia, in addition to cancer itself. In this study, the validity of cluster analysis as an exploratory method for identifying clusters of multimorbid conditions among prostate cancer patients in Portugal was demonstrated, identifying relevant patterns of disease co-occurrence, with potential impact on treatment decisions and outcomes. The identified clusters revealed conditions that typically co-occur with prostate of cancer and that can be controlled throughout all phases of cancer survivorship by means of healthier behaviors aligned with integrated and coordinated care.
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine: a Review of the Infrastructural Construction and the Rising Spate of Building Collapse in Lagos, Nigeria in Comparison With Dubai, Uae
Authors: Aduloju Temidayo Olanrewaju 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
It is high time the Nigerian construction industry stakeholders faced the reality and collectively combated the rising spate of building collapse in some parts of the country before it sinks the industry to an all-time low. Lagos is a state in Nigeria with a land mass area surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, while Dubai, known in recent times for the reclamation of land which has led to the building of several industrial areas like the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, the World Islands and Palm Islands. Vertical cities construction and industries continue to spring up in Dubai without the menace of building collapse and environmental degradation. However, Lagos State in Nigeria is bedeviled with a lot of saddening stories of building collapse and environmental pollution from the construction of storey buildings and manufacturing industries. Therefore, this study conducted a comparative analysis of the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the two cities in question taking special cognizance of the geographical similarities. A literature review and an in-depth analysis of the likely causes and determining factors of building collapse in Lagos Nigeria, an overpopulated small land mass area surrounded by a large body of water was carried out. Findings from the study revealed the little or no physical site inspection before registering a building, cutting of corners through the use of substandard construction materials and opening of sealed sites by contractors and developers and lack of properly scrutinized approvals especially for multi-storey buildings from government agencies among others as the causes of building collapse in Nigeria. It is recommended that effective policies and education of the stakeholders in the housing and human environmental sector in order to have a sustainably built environment should be given proper attention. Moreover, premium should be placed on establishing construction site monitoring teams all over the nation by the government with the knowledge of the various professional bodies. All these and more will help in protecting the present and future of the Nigerian construction industry in combating building collapse and improving holistic sustainability. Thus, bringing to reality the popular idiomatic expressions that “a stitch in time saves nine”.
Online peer support for mental health in individuals with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19: A pre-post pilot study with mixed methods
Authors: Hazumi Megumi , Miyake Michi , Kataoka Mayumi , Usuda Kentaro , Nishi Daisuke 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
This pilot examined the effect of online peer support on mental health problems among individuals with post-acute sequelae of COVID-2019 (PASC).
Methods
A single-arm pre-post design of online peer support design consisting of eight sessions of 1 h per week with three to six participants and two facilitators per group was performed. Participants were recruited from online communities, social media, and medical clinics for the PASC between May and August 2023. The degrees of depression, anxiety, loneliness, social withdrawal, and self-esteem were measured pre- and post-intervention. Participants’ statements during the sessions were analyzed using thematic analyses.
Results
Of the 18 participants, 3 dropped out of the interventions, and 17 (including 2 participants who dropped out) completed the pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Depression severity significantly decreased in the paired t-test and linear mixed model. The following interactions were extracted: conveying the same feelings, dealing with difficulties, showing empathy, enhancing the atmosphere, and adapting to suit health conditions. Impressions extracted from participating in the interventions included feelings of emotional support, a sense of bonding, changes in perspective, changes in behaviors or new actions through participation, inadequacy during sessions, and adverse effects associated with participation.
Conclusion
Online peer support may be helpful in treating depression in individuals with PASC.
Slip-resistant mechanism of bio-inspired foot end based on particle morphology and friction on ice and frozen ground
Authors: Li Guoyu , Zhang Rui , Chen Kaixiang , Pang Hao , Zhang Rui , Wen Lige 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The attachment characteristics of the mechanical foot end are crucial for enhancing the traversability and locomotion of robots on extreme terrains. In this study targeting the reindeer touchdown unit, four bio-inspired foot ends and one conventional multi-baffle foot end were designed. Dynamic friction data of the bio-inspired foot ends were collected under various ground conditions, and the macro- and micro-structures of these surfaces were analyzed. The impacts of multiple factors on the attachment performances of the bio-inspired foot ends were explored, including the moisture content and compactness of frozen soil, and the ridges and convex crowns of foot ends. Additionally, a sliding/rolling friction conversion model was proposed to describe the interaction between the foot ends and frozen soil. When the ends interacted with the frozen ground and simulant for water-ice lunar soil, the attachment of the bio-inspired ribbed foot end and convex-crown was the best, and its dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) increased by 24.19%-44.68% and 35.14%-51.47% than the multi-baffle foot end. Upon interacting with the ice surface, the bio-inspired ribless foot end and non-convex crown demonstrated the best attachment performance. The DCOFs of these designs increased by about 24% compared to the multi-baffle foot end. The attachment performances of foot ends were more affected by moisture content compared with the compacted state of frozen ground. Compared to the ribless and non-convex-crown structures, the structures of ribs and convex-crown increased DCOF by 1%-15% and 18%-42%, respectively. Therefore, the effect of convex-crowns was greater than that of ribs. This study can improve the adaptability and traversability of robots on extreme terrains, which is of great significance for their applications in exploring polar regions, the moon, and other harsh environments.
Outlier detection in classification based on feature-selection-based regression
Authors: Su Jinxia , Liu Qiwen , Cui Jingke 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The appearance of outliers results in a complexity to achieve an accurate classify. This paper aims to the detection and identification of outlier before selecting a suitable classifier. The problem is firstly converted to an high-dimensional regression, then we propose a novel method on combination of multiple-correlation-coefficientbased feature selection for dimensional reduction, t−test for sparsification, an iterated algorithm is also given. Performance on simulated numerical data and applications to low-dimensional iris data as well as high-dimensional DBWORD E-mail data demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method in outlier identification.
Predictors of Health-Promoting Lifestyle Behaviors Among Pregnant Women of Siyari Rural Municipality, Rupandehi, Nepal
Authors: Dhungana Mahalaxmi , Kaphle Hari Prasad , Shrestha Niranjan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Health-promoting lifestyle behaviors are self-initiated behaviors that focus on life promotion through lifestyle which consists of different aspects to enhance the level of well-being. The lifestyle adopted during pregnancy has a long-term effect on the health and life quality of both mother and child.
Purpose: This study aimed to assess predictors of health-promoting lifestyle behaviors among pregnant women of Siyari Rural Municipality, Rupandehi.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional analytical design was carried out in Siyari Rural Municipality, Rupandehi, Nepal. Data was collected from 15th June to 15th July 2023, among 229 pregnant women. A probability proportionate sampling technique was implemented to select total participants and a pregnant was selected randomly. With ethical approval from Pokhara University, the IRC, and maintaining all ethics face-to-face interviews were conducted using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data was 3.1 entered into Epi-Data and analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.
Results: The mean score of health-promoting behavior was 123.09 ± 13.34, and 72.9% of participants had a moderate level of health-promoting lifestyle behavior. Subscale scores showed low scores in physical activity 8.79 ± 1.66 and stress management 15.13 ± 2.09. Ethnicity (Exp B=10.98, 95% CI=3.762-32.074), education level of the participant (Exp B=13.943, 95% CI=2.655-73214), and number of antenatal checkup visits during last pregnancy (Exp B=3.815, 95% CI=1.102-13.207) were the greatest predictors of health-promoting lifestyle behavior among pregnant women.
Conclusion: Pregnant women had moderate levels of health-promoting behavior however, there were low scores in physical activity and stress management. Ethnicity, education of the participant, and number of ANC visits during the last pregnancy were the greatest predictors of health-promoting lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy. They need to pay proper attention to predictors of health-promoting lifestyle behaviors to improve their behaviors during pregnancy.
The Effect of Physical Fitness on Psychological Health: Evidence from Chinese College Students
Authors: Ma Shuzhen , Xu Yanqi , Xu Simao , Guo Zhicheng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Objective
The connection between physical and mental health is frequently discussed, yet the influence of physical fitness on mental well-being remains to be definitively established.
Method
This study conducted descriptive statistics analysis on the total score of Sport Quality test and SCL-90 scale test results of the total sample, respectively. Then the independent sample t test was used to compare differences between psychological state among seven Sport Quality indicators. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the impacts of scores of sport quality indicators on students' psychological state. The dependent variable is divided into two categories: normal (record as 1) and abnormal (record as 2), this study uses the binary logistic regression model to explore the impacts of scores of sport quality indicators on students' psychological state.
Results
BMI, vital capacity, and endurance running scores impact indicators of mental health, while scores for reaction time, lower limb explosiveness, flexibility, and muscle strength have no effect on mental health indicators.
Conclusion
Lowering BMI, increasing vital capacity, and enhancing endurance running have demonstrated promising effects on multiple aspects of mental health, suggesting their potential value in promoting overall well-being.
Identification of novel genes associated with herbicide tolerance in Lentil (Lens culinaris ssp. culinaris Medik.).
Authors: Balech Rind , Maalouf Fouad , Kaur Sukhjiwan , Jighly Abdulqader , Joukhadar Reem , Alsamman Alsamman M. , Hamwieh Aladdin , Khater Lynn Abou , Rubiales Diego , Kumar Shiv 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Weeds pose a major constraint in lentil cultivation, leading to decrease farmers’ revenues by reducing the yield and increasing the management costs. The development of herbicide tolerant cultivars is essential to increase lentil yield. Even though herbicide tolerant lines have been identified in lentils, breeding efforts are still limited and lack proper validation. Marker assisted selection (MAS) can increase selection accuracy at early generations. Total 292 lentil accessions were evaluated under different dosages of two herbicides, metribuzin and imazethapyr, during two seasons at Marchouch, Morocco and Terbol, Lebanon. Highly significant differences among accessions were observed for days to flowering (DF) and maturity (DM), plant height (PH), biological yield (BY), seed yield (SY), number of pods per plant (NP), as well as the reduction indices (RI) for PH, BY, SY and NP. A total of 10,271 SNPs markers uniformly distributed along the lentil genome were assayed using Multispecies Pulse SNP chip developed at Agriculture Victoria, Melbourne. Meta-GWAS analysis was used to detect marker-trait associations, which detected 125 SNPs markers associated with different traits and clustered in 85 unique quantitative trait loci. These findings provide valuable insights for initiating MAS programs aiming to enhance herbicide tolerance in lentil crop.