bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Oxidation Treatment and UV Irradiation of Titanium Surface on Yeast Adhesion
Authors: Umetsu Masaki , Sekiai Ryota , Chien Mei-Fang , Yokoyama Shun , Kamitakahara Masanobu 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Support materials capable of immobilizing microorganisms, such as yeast, are important for developing bioreactors for producing useful substances and wastewater treatment. However, the intricacies of initial microorganism adhesion remain unclear owing to the complex interactions among physicochemical properties of the material and microbial cell surfaces. Therefore, this study was undertaken to elucidate the effects of changes in the physicochemical properties of oxidized titanium surfaces on yeast adhesion. Surface-oxidized titanium was selected as a biocompatible material anticipated to serve as a support material for yeast. The titanium surface properties were controlled through oxidation and UV irradiation treatments, and their effects on yeast adhesion were evaluated. The application of heat treatment or anodic oxidation to polished titanium led to a significant increase in the number of adherent yeast, particularly on the anodic-oxidized titanium surface. This observation suggests that anodic oxidation is the preferred method for enhancing yeast adhesion. Despite the known significance of surface hydrophilicity in microbial adhesion, no correlation was observed between hydrophilicity and yeast adhesion in this study. UV irradiation increased the surface free energy of oxidized titanium; however, the surface free energy of polished, heat-treated titanium when immersed in yeast extract-peptone-dextrose medium decreased owing to the adsorption of medium components. In contrast, anodic-oxidized titanium maintained its hydrophilicity and surface free energy after immersion, although it adsorbed more culture medium components than the other titanium samples. Surface characterization of the adsorption layer may provide a more comprehensive understanding of microbial adherence.
Activation of peroxydisulfate via Bismuth-containing CoFe Layered double hydroxide for effective degradation of aniline
Authors: Li Yutong , Jin Xinglong , Qi Buying 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) is a promising method for the degradation of pollutants, with the lack of appropriate activation catalysts limiting its application in wastewater treatment. The 1.5BiCoFe LDH was synthesized by coprecipitation method to enhance the activation efficiency of CoFe LDH for peroxydisulfate (PDS), characterized as a complex of Bi2O2CO3 and CoFe LDH. The Bi2O2CO3 imparts high electron transport characteristics, thereby enhancing the activation efficiency of PDS. Comparative analysis with pure CoFe LDH reveals a remarkable increase in reaction rate by approximately 14.66 times. Furthermore, this work proposes an electron transport catalytic mechanism in the reaction system that offers new insights into strengthening PDS activation.
Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic Appendiceal Stump Closure Techniques in South Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Anwar Shoaib , Akhtar Naveed , Javed Sadia , Hassan Syed Shams ul , Javaid Aamir , Bandesha Faisal Naeem 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: The study aimed to compare the efficacy of metallic endo-clips and extracorporeal knotting techniques for closing the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy. The primary objectives were to assess the impact on surgery duration, hospital stay, and postoperative complications, focusing on identifying the potential benefits of using metallic endo-clips.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted at Nishtar Medical University, Multan. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received metallic endo-clips, while Group B underwent extracorporeal knotting. Data were collected from surgical notes and discharge forms, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Among the 70 patients, 62.9% were male, and 37.1% were female. The male-to-female ratio was 2:1. Most patients (81.4%) were aged up to 35 years, with 68.6% from urban areas. Using metallic endo-clips, Group A had a significantly shorter mean surgery duration (28.89 minutes) than Group B (34.23 minutes). Hospital stay duration showed no significant difference between the two groups. Only 4.3% of patients experienced complications, with a slightly higher incidence in Group B (66.7%).
Conclusions: The study suggests that using metallic endo-clips for laparoscopic appendiceal stump closure offers potential benefits, including shorter surgery duration and lower rates of complications. This technique may enhance surgical efficiency and reduce the risk of prolonged anesthesia and surgery. Although this study had some limitations, it highlights the promise of metallic endo-clips as a viable alternative for appendiceal stump closure in laparoscopic appendectomy.
Psychometric properties of Persian Version of Advance Care Planning Questionnaire among Older Adults in Iran
Authors: Golmohammadi Mobina , Barasteh Salman , Mollahadi Mohsen , ali Shadi baba , Ebadi Abbas 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Introduction: advanced age is associated with life-threatening conditions at the end of life. Many of these patients at the end of their lives cannot make decisions because of the variable status of the level of consciousness. When these individuals are able to make decisions and identify their care priorities, in a process called advanced care planning, they plan about their preferences for end-of-life care. Accordingly, a local or native instrument is required for investigating ACP of the elderly. This study was performed to determine the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the advanced care planning questionnaire of the elderly referring to healthcare centers in Tehran city.
Method: this methodological study was performed in five hospitals of Tehran in 2021-2022. A total of 390 eligible elderlies were included. After receiving the permission from the instrument developer, double back translation, face validity was done using face-to-face interview with 10 elderlies, while the qualitative content validity was performed through surveying 10 experts in palliative care. The construct validity was performed using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency was captured using Cronbach alpha coefficient, and stability was performed using test-retest method to evaluate the reliability of the instrument.
Results: the face validity of the instrument was performed with minor changes in the wording of item 12. The content validity ratio for all of the items was above 0.79, and no item was eliminated. In the explorative factor analysis with 230 entities, four factors of “feelings regarding advance care planning”, "justifications for advance care planning”, “justifications for not having advance care planning: fate and religion”, and “justifications for not having advance care planning: avoid thinking about death” were extracted. CFA with 160 elder patient showed that the four-factor model extracted from EFA has a good fit of the data (RMSEA: 0.04; NFI: 0.97 CFI: .99; IFI: .99; RFI: .96; AGFI: .87; GFI 0/90; standardized RMR: 0.02). To assess internal consistency Cronbach alpha coefficient for the questionnaire was confirmed within the range of 0.72-0.94, while stability with intra-cluster correlation coefficient was confirmed within the range of 0.85-0.96.
Conclusion: the results indicated that the Persian version of the advance care planning questionnaire has desirable psychometric properties for measuring the advanced care planning of the elderly. In addition, healthcare providers can employ this questionnaire in healthcare systems as well as research in Iran.
Reviving Cultural Heritage: Advancements in Pose Recognition and 3D Model Reconstruction for Indian Classical Dance Using AI and Augmented Reality Technologies
Authors: Jayanthi J , Maheswari P. Uma 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This paper delves into the specialized domain of human action recognition, focusing on the Identification of Indian classical dance poses, specifically Bharatanatyam. Within the dance context, a "Karana" embodies a synchronized and harmonious movement encompassing body, hands, and feet, as defined by the Natyashastra. The essence of Karana lies in the amalgamation of nritta hasta (hand movements), sthaana (body postures), and chaari (leg movements). Although numerous, Natyashastra codifies 108 karanas, showcased in the intricate stone carvings adorning the Nataraj temples of Chidambaram, where Lord Shiva's association with these movements is depicted. Automating pose identification in Bharatanatyam poses challenges due to the vast array of variations, encompassing hand and body postures, mudras (hand gestures), facial expressions, and head gestures. To simplify this intricate task, this research employs image processing and automation techniques. The proposed methodology comprises four stages: acquisition and pre-processing of images involving skeletonization and Data Augmentation techniques, feature extraction from images, classification of dance poses using a deep learning network-based convolution neural network model (InceptionResNetV2), and visualization of 3D models through mesh creation from point clouds. The use of advanced technologies, such as the MediaPipe library for body key point detection and deep learning networks, streamlines the identification process. Data augmentation, a pivotal step, expands small datasets, enhancing the model's accuracy. The convolution neural network model showcased its effectiveness in accurately recognizing intricate dance movements, paving the way for streamlined analysis and interpretation. This innovative approach not only simplifies the identification of Bharatanatyam poses but also sets a precedent for enhancing accessibility and efficiency for practitioners and researchers in the Indian classical dance.
Modular organization of functional brain networks in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: shao Ziwei , Tan yongming , zhan yaru , He Laichang 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objectives
Previous studies have indicated that brain functional plasticity and reorganization in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). However, it remains unclear whether and how compression of the cervical cord influences the functional integration and separation between and/or within modules. This study aimed to address these questions using graph theory.
Methods
Functional MRI was conducted on 46 CSM patients and 35 healthy controls (HCs). The intra- and inter-modular connectivity properties of the whole-brain functional network and nodal topological properties were then calculated using theoretical graph analysis. The difference in categorical variables between groups was compared using a chi-squared test, while that between continuous variables was evaluated using a two-sample t-test. Correlation analysis was conducted between modular connectivity properties and clinical parameters.
Results
Modules interaction analyses showed that the CSM group had significantly greater inter-module connections than the HCs group (DMN-FPN: t = 2.38, p = 0.02); inversely, the CSM group had significantly lower intra-module connections than the HCs group (SMN: t=-2.13, p = 0.036). Then we calculated the nodal topological properties of all nodes that were part of exceptionally connected modules. Compared to HCs, CSM patients exhibited higher nodal topological properties in the right superior frontal gyrus, left post cingulate gyrus, left occipital, right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, left anterior cingulate cortex and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. In contrast, compared to the HCs group, CSM patients exhibited lower nodal topological properties in the sensorimotor network. The Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score was positively correlated with inter-module connections (r = 0.330, FDR p = 0.029) but not correlated with intra-module connections.
Conclusions
This study reported altered modular connections and nodal centralities in CSM patients. Decreased nodal centralities and intra-modular connection in the sensory-motor regions may indicate sensory-motor dysfunction. Furthermore, increased nodal centralities and inter-modular connection in the DMN and the frontal–parietal network may be compensatory for sensory-motor dysfunction in CSM.
Machine Learning-Driven Microchannel Geometry and Flow Dimensionless Parameters Optimization for Maximizing Heat Transfer
Authors: Ozkat Erkan Caner , Markal Burak , Avci Mete , Aydin Orhan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Flow boiling in microchannel heat sinks provides superior cooling capacity and high heat transfer rates thanks to their favorable surface area-to-volume ratio and the utilization of the coolant’s latent heat. Despite its advantages, the transition of flow boiling in microchannel heat sinks from the laboratory to commercial use faces significant challenges. One key challenge is the lack of established methods for accurately estimating the heat transfer coefficient. Additionally, there has been notable neglect in addressing the optimization problem for finding the best flow conditions to maximize the heat transfer coefficient. Therefore in this study, five machine learning models (SVM, GPR, kNN, RF, and MLP) were initially developed to estimate the heat transfer coefficient. Performance evaluation showed that the MLP model outperformed the others based on R2, RMSE, and MAPE metrics. Subsequently, an optimization problem was formulated to determine the optimum microchannel dimensions and flow condition via dimensionless numbers that would maximize the heat transfer coefficient. The optimization results indicated microchannel dimensions of 300 µm in width (w) and 60 µm in height (h) as well as dimensionless numbers, namely Boiling number (Bo) of 0.000103, Weber number (We) of 0.1012, Reynolds number (Re) of 65.278, vapor quality (χe) of 0.0104, and Prandtl number (Pr) of 2.3757. In these optimized conditions, the heat transfer coefficient reached 34.497 kW/m2K.
Climate Change Mitigation: Consideration of Sensible Heat Emitted by Photovoltaic Solar Panels
Authors: Lucas Terry 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
A quantitative evaluation is made comparing the sensible heat added to the atmosphere by photovoltaic solar panels with the heat removed by the reduced fossil fuel consumption associated with the panel-generated electricity. Depending on the local natural albedo of the earth’s surface, the panels can in fact be neutral or even make negative contributions to the objective of reducing global warming. Desert regions where panels are often installed are particularly poor locations due to high natural albedo. Each location where a PV array is planned should be studied for albedo effects if the installation is to be claimed as a contributor to the mitigation of Climate Change.
Rising Climate Risk and Loss and Damage to Coastal Subsistence-oriented Livelihoods
Authors: Maina Joseph , Asamoah Ernest Frimpong , D'Agata Stephanie , GAMOYO MAJAMBO , RAKOTO PERCY , GEORGE RUSHINGISHA , OCHIEWO JACOB , JUIZO DINIS , Bosire Jared 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Subsistence-oriented communities in tropical coastal areas face the greatest threat from climate change, with consequences manifesting through diminishing returns from small-scale fishing and farming ventures. The complementary climate, sustainable development, and biodiversity conservation policies target reducing climate risks, but effective policy outcomes depend on a thorough understanding of system-wide climate risk, community adaptation potential and gaps, and possible economic losses. Using four countries in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region as a case, we present a framework for quantifying climate risk to subsistence-oriented coastal communities. On average, economic losses of ecosystem services are predicted to increase with increasing climate risk, with annual losses of up to 23% and 32% of total economic value (~ US$ 516,828,468/year) under SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios by 2050, respectively. A comprehensive assessment of climate risks, ecosystem service value and cost of climate inaction can inform policy actions aimed at adapting, mitigating, and compensating for the loss and damage caused by climate change.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of telemedicine and artificial intelligence-based diabetic retinopathy screening in urban and rural China
Authors: su zhixian , Li Huiyi , Zheng Yi , Xie Peiwen , Ng Tsz Kin , Qiu Kunliang , Zhang Guihua 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of telemedicine-based diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening with artificial intelligence (AI)-based grading in rural and urban China.
Methods
The cost effectiveness of telemedicine-based diabetic retinopathy screening with AI-based grading was compared to no DR screening in rural area and urban area from social perspective. Increment cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) using quality-adjusted life year (QALY) was calculated and compared to the per capita GDP in China 2022.
Results
The ICERs of AI and manual screening were $11132.39/QALY and $11239.22/QALY gained in rural area and $6764.12/QALY and $6923.77/QALY in urban area respectively as compared to no screening. The ICERs of both strategies were less than the threshold, and considered to be cost-effective in rural area and very cost-effective in urban area. Moreover, AI-based screening was more cost-effective than human assessor-based screening in both areas.
Conclusion
DR screenings based on fundus photography and telemedicine are both cost-effective in rural and urban area. AI-based screening is more cost-effective than human assessor-based screening, extending the application of DR screening across China.
Psychometric validation of the French version of two scales measuring general (HLS19-Q12) and navigational (HLS19-NAV) health literacy using the Rasch model
Authors: Touzani Rajae , Rouquette Alexandra , Schultz Emilien , Allaire Cécile , Carrieri Patrizia , Mancini Julien , Hardouin Jean-Benoit 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background: To examine the psychometrics properties of the French version of two scales measuring general (HLS19-Q12) and navigational (HLS19-NAV) health literacy (HL) using two validation methods based on modern psychometric test theories: a Rasch model analysis and structural equation models (SEM).
Methods: The data on representative samples of the French adult population came from the Health Literacy Survey (N=2 003), conducted in France in two waves (2020 and 2021), and from the third wave of SLAVACO study (N=2 022), conducted in December 2021. A Rasch analysis was performed using a partial credit model adapted to polytomous data. Category probability curves were used to examine whether participants found it consistently difficult to distinguish between response options. A Person Separation Index (PSI) of 0.7 has conventionally been considered to be the minimum acceptable PSI level. Chi-square fit statistics, expressed as infit and outfit mean square statistics, were calculated for each item in the two scales. An acceptable fit corresponded to average values between 0.7 and 1.3. Differential item functioning (DIF) was also examined for each item in the two scales as a function of age, gender, and economic status.
The goodness of fit of the SEM was assessed using the following indices: SRMR≤0.08; RMSEA≤0.08; CFI and TLI, good fit if close to 1.
Results: The Rasch analysis demonstrated the unidimensionality of the French version of the scales measuring general and navigational HL. The PSI values for both scales were greater than 0.90. No disordered categories were observed. No evidence of significant DIF was found when associated with gender and economic status. However, two items for both scales had a DIF which was dependent on age.
SEM indices showed adequate goodness of fit with strong significant correlation between the two latent traits.
Conclusions: Our results, based on a rigorous statistical analysis, verified the psychometric parameters of the French version of the HLS19-Q12 and HLS19-NAV scales. Despite strong correlation between both scales, each measured a different latent trait. Moreover, despite the fact that presence of DIF was weak, attention must nonetheless be paid when comparing scale response scores between young and older respondents.
Characterizing interregional differences in the rheological properties and composition of rat small intestinal mucus
Authors: Klitgaard Mette , Jacobsen Jette , Kristensen Maja Nørgaard , Berthelsen Ragna , Müllertz Anette 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The mucus layer in the small intestinal is generally regarded as a barrier to drug absorption. However, the mucus layer is a complex system, and presently, only a few studies have been conducted to elucidate its physicochemical properties. The current study hypothesizes that the mucus layer contains solubility-enhancing surfactants and thus might aid the oral absorption of poorly water-soluble drugs.
Mucus was sampled from sections of the small intestine of fasted rats to analyze the rheological properties and determine the mucus pH and concentrations of proteins and endogenous surfactants, i.e., bile salts, polar lipids, and neutral lipids.
The mucus layer in the two proximal sections of the small intestine exhibited different rheological properties such as higher zero-shear viscosity and lower loss tangent and higher protein concentrations compared to all subsequent sections of the small intestine. The pH of the mucus layer was stable at ~ 6.5 throughout most of the small intestine, but increased to 7.5 in the ileum. The bile salt concentrations increased from the duodenum (16.0 ± 2.2 mM) until the mid jejunum (55.1 ± 9.5 mM), whereas the concentrations of polar lipids and neutral lipids decreased from the duodenum (17.4 ± 2.2 mM and 37.8 ± 1.6 mM, respectively) until the ileum (4.8 ± 0.4 mM and 10.7 ± 1.1 mM, respectively).
In conclusion, the mucus layer of the rat small intestine contains endogenous surfactants at levels that might benefit solubilization and absorption of orally administered poorly water-soluble drugs.
Creating a common understanding of organizational problems across disciplines in hospitals – a case study of stroke care delivery
Authors: Fjermeros Are , Berg Geir Vegard , Holtskog Halvor , Benders Jos 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background: Research has revealed that a lack of coordination between specialist units reduces the quality of care and leads to a waste of resources. Improved cooperation is necessary to ensure better care delivery, but not easy to achieve. To obtain sustainable improvement, medical practitioners need to have deep insights into the relevance of interdisciplinary coordination at their particular unit. In a case study we explore the development of knowledge and the effect of interdisciplinary coordination.
Methods: We present and reflect on a project to improve stroke treatment in a Norwegian hospital led by the first author. Data was obtained via documents, observations, and interviews with participants in a cross-functional improvement group.
Results: The participants developed a common understanding of why it took a long time to provide effective treatment for patients suffering from thrombotic stroke. These insights were used to implement practical changes, which led to immediate improvements in care for stroke patients. Their successful implementation set into motion a permanent improvement structure. The participants considered that mapping and then assessing the entire patient and work flow across disciplines were relevant methods for improving the quality of patient care.
Conclusion: This study provides a practical example of how improvement work can be organized in a hands-on way. The practical approach makes medical professionals discover and understand the importance of cross-disciplinary coordination for the quality of patient care.