bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Peste Des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in Turkey Between 2017-2019
Authors: Bayir T , Gürcan İS 
Published: April 2024

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a viral disease affecting small ruminants and causes significant agricultural damage. The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) has classified PPR as an animal disease that must be reported immediately. In this study was aimed to understand of spatial and seasonal epidemiology of PPR in Turkey and provide information by using Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Descriptive and analytical statistics were used in the study, logistic regression analysis was applied to assess the effect of season and species factors on PPR outbreaks occurring in Turkey. Data were obtained from the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) database of OIE. Between 2017-2019, 337 outbreaks, 18.467 cases and 11.526 deaths were reported 57 provinces of Turkey and the highest number of PPR outbreaks, cases and deaths were reported in The Central Anatolia Region. On time-wise examination, the PPR risk-areas revealed changes with different levels of endemicity. The Central Anatolia Region were the top outbreaks reported region during 2017-2018, whereas The Marmara Region reported more outbreaks during 2019. PPR outbreaks occurred throughout the year in all seasons, but were most frequently encountered during the winter season (December to February) and the results showed that seasonal and species factors are important in the spread of the disease. PPR has widely distributed throughout the country, and the epidemiological picture suggests that the disease has become an endemic infection in the country. The spatial and seasonal distribution of PPR in Turkey gives useful information on hotspot areas, allowing managers to make informed decisions about prevention and control in different parts of the country. In accordance with the PPR Global Control and Eradication Strategy, the study also outlines when and where extensive surveillance, vaccination, and biosecurity measures are required for the control and eradication of the disease in Turkey.
Vaginal bacteria of healthy cats during different stages of their oestrous cycle
Authors: Maksimovic A , Nurkic M , Maksimovic Z , Rifatbegovic M 
Published: April 2024

Little is known about vaginal and uterine bacteria in clinically healthy cats and their correlation with different stages of the oestrus cycle. The differences in vaginal bacterial flora between household and stray queens remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of vaginal and uterine bacteria in clinically healthy household and stray queens and to correlate culture findings with specific stages of the oestrous cycle. Vaginal and uterine samples from 40 clinically healthy queens were collected for isolation of bacteria and cytological examination. Bacteria were isolated from 31 vaginal swabs (77.5%) from stray (16/20; 80%) and household (15/20; 75%) cats. The isolates were more frequently detected in pure culture (18/31; 58%) than in mixed cultures (13/31; 41.9%). Streptococcus spp. was the most commonly identified bacteria (n = 16; 51.6%), followed by coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. (n = 15; 48.4%) and E. coli (n = 12; 38.7%). A mixed bacterial culture of E. coli and Streptococcus spp. was commonly detected (50%), mainly in households (66.7%), whereas a mixed culture of Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. (41.6%) was commonly isolated from stray cats (60%). The frequency of isolation of pure or mixed bacterial cultures and the isolates did not vary significantly during the different stages of the oestrus cycle. All uterine samples tested were negative for bacteria. This study identified the most common bacteria in the vagina of clinically healthy cats. The isolation of vaginal bacteria in pure or mixed cultures should be considered as normal finding. The stage of the oestrous cycle apparently does not affect vaginal bacterial flora. Vaginal bacteria may differ between stray and households cats. No bacteria can be isolated from the uterus of clinically healthy cats.
Effect of hCG administration on ovulation and estrus in Saanen goats subjected to short-term estrus synchronization protocol during the breeding season
Authors: Dogan I , Toker MB , Aktar A , Yilmaz MM , Udum D 
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to compare the effect of hCG administered at 24 or 36 h following a short-term estrus synchronization treatment on the ovulation time and estrus parameters in non-lactating Saanen goats during the breeding season. The estrous cycles of does were synchronized with an intravaginal sponge containing 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) for six days, and an injection of 125 µg of d-cloprostenol at the time of sponge insertion in addition to an injection of 300 IU of eCG 24h before sponge removal. After removal of the sponges, does were injected intramuscularly either 1 ml physiological saline (0.9% NaCl) solution after 12 h (Group1/Control; n=10), 100 IU hCG after 24 h (Group2; n=9) or 100 IU hCG after 36 h (Group3; n=9). Estrus behavior after sponge removal was observed twice daily for 84 h using teaser bucks and transrectal ovarian ultrasonography was performed twice a day for seven days to determine small, medium and large follicle numbers, luteal development and the time of ovulation. Blood samples were collected on the same days to determine serum progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) concentrations. No significant differences were observed in terms of estrus parameters, ovarian structure and serum P4 and E2 concentrations between the hCG-treated groups and the control group. Average values observed for all groups: estrous response (53.57%), the interval from sponge removal to estrus and ovulation (35.2 h and 67.86 h, respectively), duration of estrus (18.4 h), the interval from estrus onset to ovulation (50.37 h), ovulation rate (96.43%), number of ovulations (1.36), ovulatory follicle diameter (6.86 mm), corpus luteum diameter (8.22 mm), follicle and luteal growth rate (1.17 and 0.68 mm/day, respectively). In conclusion, administration of hCG at 24 or 36 h following a short-term estrous synchronization protocol does not affect ovulation time, estrus parameters, and serum P4 and E2 concentrations in goats during the breeding season.
Hypertension subtypes at high altitude in Peru: Analysis of the Demographic and Family Health Survey 2016–2019
Authors: Ortiz-Saavedra Brando , Montes-Madariaga Elizbet S. , Moreno-Loaiza Oscar , Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos J. 
Published: April 2024

Background
The prevalence of hypertension in Peru has increased over the years. Approximately one third of the Peruvian population lives at high altitudes. This population presents particular physiological, genetic and environmental characteristics that could be related to the prevalence of hypertension and its subtypes.

Objective
To assess the association between altitude and hypertension in the Peruvian population through an analysis of a nationally representative survey.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the Demographic and Family Health Survey for the period 2016–2019. We included 122,336 individuals aged 18 years and older. Hypertension was defined according to the JNC-7 guidelines. High-altitude location was defined as a residential cluster located above 2,500 meters above sea level. We utilized generalized linear models from the Poisson family with a log-link function to assess the magnitude of the association between high altitude and hypertension. Additionally, we employed multinomial regression models to analyze the association between high altitude and subtypes of hypertension, including isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH), and systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH).

Results
In the adjusted Poisson regression model, we found that the prevalence of hypertension among participants living at high altitudes was lower compared to those living at low altitudes (aPR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.86–0.93). In the adjusted multinomial regression model, we observed a lower prevalence rate of ISH among participants residing at high altitudes (aRPR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.61–0.73) and a higher prevalence rate of IDH among participants residing at high altitudes (aRPR: 1.60; 95% CI: 1.32–1.94).

Conclusions
Residents at high altitudes in Peru have a lower prevalence rate of ISH and a higher prevalence rate of IDH compared to those living at low altitudes. Further studies are needed to determine the influence of other biological, environmental, and healthcare access factors on this relationship.
La heroína, la guerrillera, la guerra y la(s) madre(s)
Authors: Kahan Emmanuel Nicolás 
Published: April 2024

Jaika Grossman formó parte de las juventudes judías que resistieron la política de persecución del nazismo. Militante de la organización sionista-socialista “Hashomer Hatzair”, integró la resistencia clandestina en el gueto de Bialystock. A posteriori, como sobreviviente y emigrada al Estado de Israel, fue una de las referentes del partido de izquierda MAPAM. En su derrotero político, Jaika Grossman visitó Argentina en tres oportunidades: 1963, 1967 y 1985. En estas ocasiones haría uso de la experiencia de resistencia contra el nazismo para interpelar a diversos actores públicos y étnico-comunitarios. El presente trabajo se propone relevar cuáles fueron los modos en los que la memoria de la resistencia judía durante el Holocausto circuló en el país en contextos específicos: los de la radicalización política y la recuperación democrática. Esta aproximación, a su vez, tendrá en cuenta las implicancias y sentidos cambiantes de la recepción del conflicto árabe-israelí en la agenda política local.
HDG Method for Nonlinear Parabolic Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Jain Riya , Yadav Sangita 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin (HDG) method has been applied to a nonlinear parabolic integro-differential equation.
The nonlinear functions are considered to be Lipschitz continuous to analyze uniform in time a priori bounds.
An extended type Ritz–Volterra projection is introduced and used along with the HDG projection as an intermediate projection to achieve optimal order convergence of

O
⁢

(

h

k
+
1

)

O(h^{k+1})

when polynomials of degree

k
≥
0

k\geq 0

are used to approximate both the solution and the flux variables.
By relaxing the assumptions in the nonlinear variable, super-convergence is achieved by element-by-element post-processing.
Using the backward Euler method in temporal direction and quadrature rule to discretize the integral term, a fully discrete scheme is derived along with its error estimates.
Finally, with the help of numerical examples in two-dimensional domains, computational results are obtained, which verify our results.
A new technique for improving performance of conventional CRLH resonators using IDC/UISs with enhanced harmonic suppression in balanced dual-band BPFs
Authors: Eskandari Reza , Tavakoli Mohammadbagher , Setoudeh Farbod , Horri Ashkan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The design of balanced filters based on composite right/left hand (CRLH) structure is well developed. Among those, few designs exist which although they provide some good responses, suffer from narrow stopbands and interdependent passbands. This paper proposes a new technique for improving the characteristics of dual-band balanced bandpass filters (B-BPFs) based on planar CRLH. Using unequal inductive stubs (UISs) attached to the interdigital capacitor (IDC) unit cell, we were able to achieve outstanding harmonic suppression and passband controllability. This structure offers higher degrees of freedom compared to conventional designs and provides better control over the filter specifications. Mathematical modeling, analysis, simulation, fabrication, and performance measurement of the proposed technique in a dual-band B-BPF are also provided. Our work resulted in an independent and controllable dual-band B-BPF with ultra-wide upper differential-mode (DM) stopband of 5.9f
1 and common-mode (CM) suppression of 40.4 and 32.6 dB for the first and second bands, respectively.
Investigating fertility health knowledge and lifestyle risk factors among Nigerian university students: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wellington Olubukola A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Adolescents who are unaware of infertility risk factors and the long-term health effects of their lifestyle choices may participate in unsafe sexual and lifestyle behaviors. Their reproductive goals and health may be affected by such behaviors. Adolescents’ awareness of male and female infertility risk factors was assessed, along with lifestyle risk variables related to sexual behavior and psychoactive substance use. The causes of inconsistent condom use were also examined.

Methods
In 2022, a cross-sectional survey was undertaken involving 598 sexually active university students from Nigeria (18.6 years±0.9), the majority of whom were female (57.2 %). Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and binary logistic regression were utilized in the data analysis to determine the influence of lifestyle factors and levels of knowledge on fertility.

Results
Most participants had a moderate understanding of male and female infertility risk factors. The results showed that female students were more informed. Multiple sexual partners and psychoactive substance use were common lifestyle variables. Younger female students, those with several partners, and participants who frequently used alcohol and narcotics used condoms inconsistently.

Conclusions
The study emphasizes the need for fertility health and lifestyle risk education for Nigerian youth. Despite moderate knowledge, lifestyle implications on fertility are unclear. Fertility health education in schools could help students make informed reproductive choices and lower the risk of infertility and chronic diseases. Research is needed to confirm findings and inform nationwide targeted interventions.
The Post-Tridentine Controversies at the Louvain Faculty of Theology: The Correspondence between Judocus Tiletanus and Michael Baius (1568)
Authors: Bertrand Gabrielle 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Josse Ravesteyn, or Judocus Tiletanus, was promoted as a doctor of theology in 1546, acted as participant in the Council of Trent in 1551, and was appointed as inquisitor-general of the Low Countries in 1559. This temporal triptych alone reflects the precipitous degradation of Christian and civil cohesion in the second half of the sixteenth century and how the responsibilities of theologians accordingly changed. Throughout this period, Louvain, its University and its Faculty of Theology were increasingly called upon to provide their expertise to the various appeasement attempts. Inside the Faculty, Tiletanus was also his colleague Michael Baius’ main theological opponent from 1564 onwards; after the Council of Trent came to an end, the former called upon different levels of authority to have the latter’s works and assertions censured, culminating in Pius V’s 1567 bull Ex omnibus afflictionibus. Seeing however how Baius’ confidence and notoriety were left somewhat unscathed, Tiletanus confronted him directly in a personal correspondence made up of six letters in 1568. This article is the first attempt to determine to what extent the Council shaped Tiletanus’ sense of responsibility as a theologian as well as his relationship with Michael Baius.
Detection of sickle cell disease using deep neural networks and explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Goswami Neelankit Gautam , Goswami Anushree , Sampathila Niranjana , Bairy Muralidhar G. , Chadaga Krishnaraj , Belurkar Sushma 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD), a blood disorder that transforms the shape of red blood cells into a distinctive sickle form, is a major concern as it not only compromises the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity but also poses significant health risks, ranging from weakness to paralysis and, in severe cases, even fatality. This condition not only underscores the pressing need for innovative solutions but also encapsulates the broader challenges faced by medical professionals, including delayed treatment, protracted processes, and the potential for subjective errors in diagnosis and classification. Consequently, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has emerged as a transformative force, inspiring multidisciplinary efforts to overcome the complexities associated with SCD and enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. The use of transfer learning helps to extract features from the input dataset and give an accurate prediction. We analyse and compare the performance parameters of three distinct models for this purpose: GoogLeNet, ResNet18, and ResNet50. The best results were shown by the ResNet50 model, with an accuracy of 94.90%. Explainable AI is the best approach for transparency and confirmation of the predictions made by the classifiers. This research utilizes Grad-CAM to interpret and make the models more reliable. Therefore, this specific approach benefits pathologists through its speed, precision, and accuracy of classification of sickle cells.
Compilation of a self-management assessment scale for postoperative patients with aortic dissection
Authors: Zhang Li-Wei , Peng Yan-Chun , Pan Qiong , Li Sai-Lan , Chen Liang-Wan , Lin Yan-Juan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
The aim of this research was to compile a self-management assessment scale for patients with aortic dissection (AD). The questionnaire is useful in making the patient aware of the need for post-operative care in order to contribute to improving the outcome and quality of life.

Methods
The initial version of the “postoperative self-management assessment scale for patients with aortic dissection” was developed using the Delphi expert consultation method based on qualitative research results, consultation of self-management-related literature, reference to the existing self-management scale, and self-efficacy theory, combined with the disease characteristics of AD. By using the convenience sampling method, a total of 201 patients with AD who had undergone surgery were selected as the research participants. The initial version of the scale was used for follow-up investigation, and the scale entries were evaluated and exploratory factor analysis carried out to form the formal version of the “postoperative self-management assessment scale for patients with aortic dissection.” A total of 214 patients with AD after surgery were selected as the research participants. The formal version of the scale was used for follow-up investigation, and its reliability and validity were evaluated.

Results
The formal version of the scale had 6 dimensions and 35 entries. The Cronbach’s α coefficient for the total scale was 0.908, the split-half reliability was 0.790, and the test–retest reliability after 2 weeks was 0.471. The content validity index of the total scale was 0.963. Exploratory factor analysis yielded six common factors, and the cumulative contribution rate of variance was 66.303%. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that except for the incremental fit index, Tucker–Lewis index, and comparative fit index >0.85, slightly lower than 0.90, χ
2/df <3, root mean square of approximation <0.08, parsimonious goodness-of-fit index, and parsimonious normed fit index >0.50; all other model fitting requirements were satisfied, indicating that the model fitting was acceptable.

Conclusion
We compiled the postoperative self-management assessment scale for patients with AD, which has demonstrated excellent reliability and validity and can be used as a tool to evaluate the postoperative self-management level in patients with aortic dissection.
Analysis of road traffic noise in an urban area in Croatia using different noise prediction models
Authors: Džambas Tamara , Ivančev Ana Čudina , Dragčević Vesna , Bezina Šime 
Published: April 2024

AbstractRoad traffic noise is the second largest environmental stressor in urban areas in Europe after air pollution. The harmful effects of noise arise mainly from the stress response it triggers in the human body, which can have significant consequences for physical and mental health. Therefore, the use of a reliable noise prediction model is an important prerequisite for the quality assessment of a number of residents exposed to excessive noise levels and for the selection of appropriate noise mitigation measures. In this study, the analysis of road traffic noise in an urban street in the narrower centre of the Croatian capital Zagreb was performed using four noise prediction models: "RLS-90", "RLS-19", “NMPB-Routes-96 (SET-RA-CERTU-LCPC-CSTB)”, and “CNOSSOS-EU”. LimA V2021 noise prediction software was used for the analysis, and the noise modelling results were validated with short-term noise measurements. The main objective of the research presented in the article was to test the “CNOSSOS-EU” method, recently introduced in Croatian noise control practice, and to gain initial insights into which of the aforementioned noise prediction models is the most reliable for the assessment of road traffic noise in urban environments in Croatia. A comparison of the noise modelling results with the results of short-term noise measurements has shown that the German national calculation methods “RLS-90” and “RLS-19” as well as the “CNOSSOS-EU” method provide significantly more accurate noise predictions than the “NMPB-Routes-96 (SETRA-CERTU-LCPC-CSTB)” method.
Effects of nanofillers on the physical, mechanical, and tribological behavior of carbon/kenaf fiber–reinforced phenolic composites
Authors: Bilvatej Bramanandan , Naveen Jesuarockiam , Norrrahim Mohd Nor Faiz , Knight Victor Feizal , Karthikeyan Natesan , Chandrasekar Muthukumar , Loganathan Tamil Moli , Anand Suya Prem 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This research investigates the effect of kenaf/carbon fiber reinforcement with the addition of nanofillers such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) in the phenolic matrix composite. Three different types of samples were made using short carbon fiber, kenaf fiber (KF), BaSO4, Cashew dust, MWCNT, and CNC. Sample 1 contains 40 wt% of carbon fiber with binders reinforced in the phenolic matrix, whereas, in sample 2, carbon fiber has been replaced with KF in the MWCNT-modified phenolic matrix. On the other hand, in sample 3, carbon fiber has been replaced with KF in a CNC-modified phenolic matrix. The physical, mechanical, and tribological properties were investigated and compared. The results showed that sample 1 exhibited higher mechanical performance compared to other samples. On the other hand, the least wear loss and a high coefficient of friction were observed for Sample 2 compared to Samples 1 and 3. Even though KF-based composites exhibited slightly lower mechanical performance, they showed excellent tribological behavior.