bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Porous cenosphere ceramic microfiltration membrane: Preparation, characterization, permeability evaluation, and cost estimation
Authors: Pradhan Prachiprava , Rathod Ajit P. , Rai Suchita B. , Sonawane Shriram S. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractCeramic membranes are now receiving greater attention and are regarded as the best alternative option for reducing energy use. There are currently a number of limitations on the use of ceramic membranes, including high raw material costs and high sintering temperatures during synthesis. Cost‐effective raw materials were employed in the synthesis of ceramic membranes to get around these restrictions. Utilizing a straightforward pressing technique, circular disc‐type membranes were prepared. To assess the membrane properties, the impact of sintering temperatures between 700 and 900°C was examined. By varying the sintering temperature, the average membrane pore diameter was observed. The membrane, which was sintered at 800°C, had pores that were on average 110 nm in size. Furthermore, the porosity of these synthesized membranes ranged from 22% to 35% with an average pore diameter of 74–121 nm. These manufactured membranes showed very good chemical stability when both acidic and basic solutions were used. Various characterization methods, including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used. Thermo‐gravimetric investigation revealed that the synthesized cenosphere membrane required a minimum sintering temperature of about 700°C. The flux measured with deionized water and the applied transmembrane pressure showed an upward trend. The impact of sintering temperature on permeate flux was investigated. The results showed that as the sintering temperature increased from 700°C to 900°C, the flux reduced. It was determined that the synthesized membrane cost ₹1618.80/m2.
Atonic‐BECTS: An unusual presentation of self‐limited epilepsy in childhood
Authors: Sampat Varun , Singh Avantika , Patel Hema 
Published: October 2023

AbstractObjectivesWe describe an unusual patient with self‐limited epilepsy in childhood to aid in the accurate diagnosis and timely treatment of an atonic variant of self‐limited focal epilepsy of childhood with centrotemporal spikes.MethodsWe reviewed the medical records documenting the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment. We also reviewed the relevant video electroencephalograms (EEGs).Patient DescriptionThis 3‐year‐old girl with self‐limited focal epilepsy of childhood (formerly called benign rolandic epilepsy) began having recurrent falls. Multiple clinical seizures were recorded on video EEG. The video documented generalized loss of tone resulting in falls, while the ictal EEG revealed one‐second paroxysms of 4 Hz spike‐slow‐wave discharges in the left centrotemporal region, followed by a brief generalized electrodecrement for 400 milliseconds. These findings support the diagnosis of an atypical variant of benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS), known as atonic‐BECTS. Valproic acid was maximized. On follow‐up, the patient was seizure‐free with a normal EEG and normal development.DiscussionFew prior publications describe atonic‐BECTS. We present a child with atonic‐BECTS whose ictal video EEG confirms atonic seizures. While atonic seizures typically occur with generalized epilepsies, our report highlights that they can present as an atypical manifestation of self‐limited focal epilepsy in childhood.
Congenital myasthenic syndrome type 2C in a neonate: Redefining the phenotype of CHRNB1‐related myasthenic syndromes
Authors: Gonzalez Zurisadai , Kayyal Simon , Zadeh Neda , Thomas Julian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractObjectiveWe present a neonate with generalized weakness due to autosomal recessive congenital myasthenic syndrome type 2C (CMS2C) resulting from a compound heterozygous mutation in the CHRNB1 gene.Patient descriptionOur patient was determined by multiple methodologies to have a diagnosis of CMS2C (OMIM #616314). Whole‐genome sequencing revealed two distinct variants in the CHRNB1 gene (OMIM *100710): a maternally inherited 2 kb pathogenic microdeletion on chromosome 17p13.1 and a paternally inherited intronic deletion (c.1218‐9_1218‐7) that was reported by the laboratory as a variant of unknown significance.ConclusionsCMS2C is a rare autosomal recessive genetic condition associated with early‐onset muscle weakness. Our patient had a paternally inherited deletion in CHRNB1 (c.1218‐9_1218‐7) that was initially described as a variant of unknown significance. We suggest this finding is “likely pathogenic,” as this aberration has not been commonly described. He also had a partial deletion of CHRNB1 in the maternally inherited allele, which provides further evidence that partial gene deletions may be a more common molecular mechanism than previously known for this condition. The combination of the clinical presentation and electrophysiologic data allowed us to understand the molecular findings and ultimately diagnose CMS2C in our patient.
UV Irradiation of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polypropylene and Detection of Formed Microplastic Particles Down to 1 μm
Authors: Mikac Lara , Csáki Attila , Zentai Benedek , Rigó István , Veres Miklós , Tolić Ana , Gotić Marijan , Ivanda Mile 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe degradation of plastics upon UVC irradiation in aqueous solution and the formation of microplastic (MP) particles were investigated. Polypropylene (PP) and recycled and virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were irradiated with a UV lamp emitting light at 254 nm. Irradiation was performed for 15 and 30 min, respectively, at an intensity of about 0.3 W cm−2. The formation of MP was studied by Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that MP particles were formed after irradiation and that their number was significantly higher in the recycled PET than in the virgin material. The number of PP MP formed was lower compared to PET and was not significantly different after 15 and 30 min. In addition, ethanol was used as an alternative solvent to investigate how its chemical properties and interactions with UVC irradiation affect the degradation of PET and PP plastics. The use of ethanol and recycled PET resulted in a lower number of MP particles at both irradiation times. When ethanol was used after 30 min of irradiation, significantly more PP MP formed. The different chemical structures of PET and PP combined with the different solvent properties of water and ethanol contribute to the differences in their susceptibility to UVC degradation.
A Synthetic Approach for Oxadiazole‐Decorated Azobenzene Photoswitches
Authors: Dobre Adela F. , Hanganu Anamaria , Nicolau Ioana , Popescu Codruta C. , Paun Anca , Mădălan Augustin M. , Tablet Cristina , Mirea Anca G. , Matache Mihaela 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis work reports the design and synthesis of novel oxadiazole‐decorated azobenzenes, structural analysis of the resulting compounds and behavior under light irradiation. The synthetic strategy involved constructing amino functionalized heterocyclic key intermediates which were used either to yield electrophilic diazonium salts able to react with phenol moieties or as nucleophilic partners in Bayer‐Mills reaction with nitroso‐substituted derivatives. The amino‐derived oxadiazole intermediates were investigated by absorption and emission spectroscopy providing blue and green emitted light. The target oxadiazole‐decorated azobenzenes were structurally characterized, including solid‐state structures, and subsequently used in irradiation experiments in order to take advantage of the azo group known to provide photoswitching abilities. We noticed quenching of the emissive properties in presence of the azo group; however, all compounds were very stable to repeated cycles of light irradiation. In addition, according to structural diversification we could obtain half‐lives of the meta stable isomers within hours to hundreds of hours range. The experimental results were very well correlated with DFT calculations.
Analytical computation of driving point impedance in mutually coupled inhomogeneous ladder networks
Authors: Lakshmi Prasanna K. , Mondal Mithun 
Published: October 2023

SummaryElectrical systems are traditionally modeled as homogeneous ladder networks, disregarding the inherent inhomogeneity found in real‐world systems. This can result in inaccuracies in analysis and design. The driving point impedance (DPI) is a crucial parameter for studying electrical systems, as it can be conveniently measured at the terminals. However, existing methods for calculating DPI have limitations, including increased complexity, high computational demands, convergence issues, and challenges in capturing high‐frequency effects. A new approach for computing DPI of inhomogeneous ladder networks, reducible to series and shunt impedance circuit form, is introduced in this research. The method is based on state‐space formulations and projective matrix analysis. It offers improved accuracy as compared with existing methods and can be applied to a wide range of networks. Simulation results from a six‐section mutually coupled inhomogeneous ladder network validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. This research addresses the disregarded factors of inhomogeneity and mutual coupling within traditional approaches, presenting a significant advancement in the analysis and design of electrical systems.
Leukotriene antagonists reduce epileptic seizures‐related hospitalization in older adult populations with allergic rhinitis or asthma: A population‐based cohort study using the Shizuoka Kokuho database: The Shizuoka study
Authors: Imaichi Yutaro , Nakatani Eiji , Fukutomi Yuma , Kuriyama Nagato , Mori Kiyoshi , Sugawara Akira 
Published: October 2023

AbstractObjectiveManaging the risk of epileptic seizures in older adults is increasingly important as the population ages. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are commonly used to treat asthma or allergic rhinitis. Preclinical studies suggest that LTRAs have antiepileptic effects; however, few population‐based etiological studies on this topic have been available. Our study explored whether LTRAs reduce hospitalization risk associated with epileptic seizures in older individuals with asthma or allergic rhinitis.MethodsWe conducted a new‐user design analysis using the Shizuoka Kokuho database. We included all individuals aged 60‐89 years who had at least one episode of allergic rhinitis or asthma during the study period. We compared individuals who newly started LTRAs with those who did not take LTRAs. Propensity score matching was used to balance the baseline characteristics of the participants. We compared the hazard ratios for seizure‐related hospitalization between new LTRA users and non‐users and performed subgroup analyses.ResultsOur matched cohorts consisted of 64 724 new users and non‐users of LTRAs who were aged 60‐89 years and had asthma or allergic rhinitis. During the observation period, 377 (0.58%) and 595 (0.92%) incidents were observed in the LTRA new‐user and non‐user groups, respectively. The hazard ratio for seizure‐related hospitalization was 0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.62‐0.92) in the LTRA new‐user group compared with the non‐user group. Subgroup analysis revealed that the hazard ratio was weak in diabetic patients (1.31; 95% CI: 0.72‐2.38).SignificanceThis study indicated that LTRAs reduced seizure‐related hospitalization in older adult patients with allergic rhinitis or asthma. We could not evaluate the severity and related diseases of epileptic seizures during LTRAs. Further studies, including observational studies, detailed multicenter prospective studies, and clinical trials, are needed to validate these findings.Plain Language SummaryThis study examined if leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs), commonly used for asthma or allergies, could lower seizure risk in older adults. Analyzing health records of 60‐89 year‐olds with asthma or allergies, we found a reduced rate of seizure‐related hospitalizations in those starting LTRAs, though this was not as evident in diabetic patients. Our results suggest potential benefits of LTRAs in preventing seizures in older adults with respiratory issues, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Microbial modulation of hormone signaling, proteomic dynamics, and metabolomics in plant drought adaptation
Authors: Kaya Cengiz 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe symbiotic synergy between proteome shifts in plants and microbial colonization orchestrates adaptive responses. This thorough review delves into the less explored domain of proteomic and metabolomic changes triggered by drought stress, shedding light on how they are influenced by interactions with microbiota. Notably, microbial mediation at the crossroads of hormone signaling, proteomic and metabolomic dynamics in drought adaptation emerges as a crucial focal point. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms that orchestrate these complex interactions offers a holistic view of the molecular foundation underlying a plant's ability to endure water scarcity. The insights gained from this exploration hold the potential to reshape agricultural practices and enhance drought‐tolerance through microbiota‐mediated mechanisms, supported by proteomic and metabolomic insights. As this review seamlessly integrates the latest developments in understanding drought stress responses, microbiota dynamics, proteomics and metabolomic, it reveals the interconnected molecular basis that underlies these aspects. Specifically, the review emphasizes the crucial role of microbial mediation at the crossroads of hormone signaling, proteomic and metabolomic dynamics during drought adaptation. This enhanced understanding of the intricate interactions among these components presents new opportunities for envisioning sustainable agricultural approaches in the face of the escalating challenges presented by intensifying drought scenarios.
Exploring stakeholders' response to travel needs of commuters with disability in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly
Authors: Odame Prince Kwame , Amoako‐Sakyi Regina Obilie , Abane Albert , Zuidgeest Mark 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAccess to public transport increases vulnerable people's social mobility, facilitates economic integration and improves general well‐being. This is possible given the low vehicular acquisition and low cost required to enjoy public transport services. Unfortunately, the discourse on the responsiveness of public transport services to the disability community in the Global South has been viewed from users' perspectives, leaving out key stakeholders whose actions impact persons with disability (PWDs') mobility needs. This study seeks to fill the gap by exploring stakeholders' responses to the travel needs of commuters with disability in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly. Employing an exploratory research design, this study purposively engaged five national stakeholders on transport and disability issues. All interviews and transcripts were transcribed using MaxQDA. The qualitative data analysis was iterative as the study adopted a thematic analytical approach to explore participants' opinions. From the data, all stakeholders did not have a disability‐inclined transport agenda or policy despite making various attempts to meet the travel needs of PWDs. Some attempts include the reliance on one's discretion as seen in the case of transport operators, while other stakeholders appeared to offer little support due to financial and administrative bottlenecks. Transport‐oriented stakeholders cared little about PWD while disability‐oriented stakeholders cared little about transport issues. This study recommends a consultative action framework to guide all stakeholders in ensuring the delivery of barrier‐free transport services to the disability community.
The health care experiences of people with head and neck cancer: A scoping review
Authors: Checklin Martin , O'Halloran Robyn , Foster Abby M. , Hutchison Alana , Wilson Thomas , Bowen Alanna , Vat Laura , Lawson Nadine , Lenne Priscilla , Packer Rebecca L. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundUnderstanding health care experience in head and neck cancer (HNC) is becoming increasingly important due to changes in the disease profile, survivorship, and a greater appreciation of patient health care experience as an important outcome measure. People with HNC encounter many different types of health care professionals and health care touchpoints.MethodThrough systematic database searching, this scoping review of qualitative English‐language studies describes the self‐reported care experiences of those with HNC across the health care continuum, and describes the current state of the literature.ResultsOverall, the 95 studies identified were heterogeneous and investigated a broad range of topics. Trends across studies showed research centered on hospital‐based care, conducted in developed countries, with more studies on feeding than other aspects of care. Generic qualitative research frameworks, with individual interviews, were the preferred method of data collection.ConclusionDespite identifying many studies, there are significant gaps in our understanding of the HNC patient experience.
Revitalizing hope for older adults: The use of the novel Arexvy for immunization against respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Abbasi Haleema Q. , Oduoye Malik O. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIntroductionRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an RNA virus of the family Paramyxoviridae, is the most common cause of respiratory tract diseases, including upper and lower respiratory tract infections in adults. Researchers worldwide have been working for decades to develop an RSV vaccine that is both safe and cost‐effective.AimThis correspondence aims to highlight the recent breakthroughs in the immunization against RSV for older adults (60 years and above), encompassing the newly sanctioned prophylactic agent by the FDA, drawing attention to its side effects that need to be taken care of and providing clear recommendations to maximize the potential influence of these advancements on RSV‐related diseases globally.MethodologyWe did a literature search on RSV among older adults and its treatment on PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and FDA databases within 10 years. Keywords used for our search were; “Respiratory Syncytial Virus,” “Older adults,” “FDA,” “Arexvy,” and “Immunization.”ResultWe found approximately 6000–10,000 lives and 60,000–160,000 hospital admissions among adults aged 65 years and older each year in the world, especially in the United States of America. Currently, there is no vaccine or targeted treatment for RSV for the most affected individuals, that is, the older adults, who are given supportive care. Recently, the USA‐ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Arexvy (a recombinant subunit RSV vaccine) based on its encouraging results demonstrating acceptable safety and efficacy in a large‐scale multi‐centered Phase 3 trial.ConclusionAuthorization of Arexvy, although a breakthrough in the field of research, needs to be approached with a blend of optimism tempered by caution. Robust studies, including large‐scale randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies and systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, need to be conducted to ascertain its safety and efficacy.
Assessing body mass index stages, individual diabetes and hypertension history effects on the risk of developing hypertension among Ghanaians: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Iddrisu Abdul‐Karim , Adam Mohammed 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsThis study aimed to understand the relationship between body mass index (BMI), diabetes and hypertension history, and other risk of hypertension among Ghanaians.MethodsThe BMI data are categorized according to the World Health Organization (WHO) definition. The data were obtained from the WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (WHO SAGE) Ghana Wave 2. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the variables, and the association between these variables and hypertension was assessed using the χ². Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between hypertension and different BMI levels and other variables.ResultsObesity class II individuals have about a 4‐fold higher risk of developing hypertension compared to underweight individuals. Obesity class III, class I, and preobesity individuals have approximately a 3‐fold higher risk. Normal weight is associated with increased hypertension risk. Both males and females show a significant increase in hypertension risk across all BMI categories. History of hypertension is linked to a 2.2‐fold increased risk. Diabetes history is associated with hypertension when considering other factors. Elevated hypertension risk is observed among married, divorced, and widowed males then never married males. Only widowed females showed an increased risk. Older age significantly increases hypertension risk, particularly in females. Vegetable servings reduce hypertension risk, while fruit servings are associated with an increased risk. Vigorous exercise increases hypertension risk, particularly in females.ConclusionRegular check‐ups are recommended for married, divorced, and widowed males, focusing on blood pressure (BP) levels. Regular exercise from young age helps lower BP in later years. Individuals with a history of hypertension should follow BP control measures. Encouraging the consumption of the right combination of vegetables and fruits can help lower BP. Female tobacco smoking should be strongly discouraged due to a 54% increased risk of developing hypertension.