bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Thermal and Mechanical Properties: Nanofibrillated Cellulose - Reinforced PHB/PBAT 3D Filaments for Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Jeffri Noorfarisya Izma , Fazita Mohammad Rawi Nurul , Haafiz Mohamad Kassim Mohamad , Peng Leh Cheu , Abdullah Che Ku , Kosugi Akihiko , Arai Takamitsu 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Melt extrusion was used to create three-dimensional (3D) filaments reinforced with nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) in blends of polyhydroxybutyrate/polybutylene-co-adipate terephthalate (PHB/PBAT) in various ratios (0.5%, 1%, and 2%). A twin-screw extruder was used to extrude filaments with an approximate diameter of 3mm. Consequently, these filaments were analyses for their rheological, thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties. The PHB/PBAT/NFC blends and neat PHB were compared to assess the effect of blending PHB with PBAT and reinforcing it with NFC. The inclusion of PBAT and the reinforcing effect of NFC were investigated by thermal analysis, which resulted in an improvement in thermal behaviour and stability. However, as illustrated by the result of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the incorporation of PBAT reduced PHB’s crystallinity. This correspondingly affected its rheological and mechanical strength. The desired tensile properties necessary for three-dimensional (3D) printing can be maintained with the addition of NFC. The highest tensile properties were achieved by the lowest loading of NFC. Additionally, it is proved from the result of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis, for 0.5% NFC loading exhibited a better two-phase system and effective dispersion of NFC. This research expands the potential applications of PHB, including PHB/PBAT blends and PHB/PBAT/NFC composites.
Do elderly patients with locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma benefit from radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy?
Authors: Li Na , Xu Liangfu , Yin Zhaosheng , Zhong Guihua , Yang Qinan , Wang Zhiqiang , Xia Yunfei , Liu Zhigang 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: The study aims to clarify whether elderly patients with locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC) can benefit from radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy.
Methods: The clinical variables of 441 patients aged ≥70 years old with no-metastasis NPC who underwent either radiotherapy or chemotherapy between 2000 and 2020 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The primary endpoint is overall survival (OS). The risk factors of different treatment mode were evaluated using Cox-regression analyses. The selected variables were used to construct the nomogram to evaluate the 1-year, 3-year, 5-year probability of OS. The discrimination and calibration of the nomogram were assessed using concordance index (C-index), area under curve (AUC), and calibration plots. We compare OS of different treatment mode using Kaplan-Meier method. Subgroup analysis of different age were explored.
Results: Factors including marital status, chemotherapy and radiation use were associated with OS. Sex, histology, radiation, chemotherapy, race, marital status were used to the nomogram for predicting the probability of survival. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.725 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.695 - 0.756). AUC for 1- , 3- and 5-year were 0.769 ( 95% CI: 0.720 - 0.819), 0.747 ( 95% CI: 0.699 - 0.796) and 0.708 (95% CI: 0.650 - 0.766), respectively. Chemotherapy alone, radiotherapy alone and chemoradiotherapy offered a significant survival benefit in LA-NPC aged ≥70 years old (all p < 0.05). Notebly, subgroup analysis showed that patients over 75 years and 80 years old still benefit from chemoradiotherapy. ( p < 0.0001).
Conclusions: Radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy has significant survival benefit in elderly LA-NPC patients aged ≥70 years old. Nevertheless, it requires careful comorbidity assessment and further clinical trials.
Nuclear Transformation In Metalloenzyme. A Novel And High Potential Cancer Treatment Research
Authors: Tran Van Luyen , Hoang Tuan Truong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this study, we have introduced a novel approach to cancer treatment involving the deactivation of metalloenzymes through the utilization of radioisotopes. The concept of leveraging radioisotopes to interact with metalloenzymes represents a groundbreaking theoretical advancement. Through simulations utilizing the MIRD code and based on the consistent concentration of stable Mg within stage 2A cancerous tissue, we have quantified the potential success rates. To conduct these simulations, we employed 0.1 nanograms (ng) of stable Mg, which corresponds to an activity of 19.7 MBq of Mg-28. This data was input into the MIRD calculations to estimate the absorbed doses within various organs, employing diverse methods of radioisotope administration into the body. Remarkably, even with a mere 1‰ probability of effectively reaching the intended cancerous tissues, this quantity of Mg-28 demonstrates the capability to render billions of Mg-containing metalloenzymes inactive. The remarkable efficiency achieved through precise radioisotope targeting underscores the promise of this methodology. Nevertheless, the findings underscore the necessity of undertaking both in vitro and in vivo research initiatives prior to embarking on clinical trials.
Perspective Matters: A Systematic Review of Immersive Virtual Reality to Reduce Racial Prejudice
Authors: Higgins Sarah , Alcock Stephanie , De Aveiro Bianca , Daniels William , Farmer Harry , Besharati Sahba 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of social justice movements, increased attention has been directed to levels of intergroup tension worldwide. Racial prejudice is one such tension that permeates societies and creates distinct inequalities at all levels of our social ecosystem. Whether these prejudices present explicitly (directly or consciously) or implicitly (unconsciously or automatically), research suggests that manipulating body ownership by embodying an avatar of another race using immersive virtual reality (IVR) can reduce racial bias. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this systematic review encompassed 12 studies that employed IVR and embodiment techniques to investigate racial attitudes. Subsequently, two mini meta-analyses were performed on four and five of these studies, respectively — both of which utilised the Implicit Association Test (IAT) as a metric to gauge these biases. This review demonstrated that IVR allows not only the manipulation of a sense of body ownership but also the investigation of wider social identities. However, despite the novelty of IVR as a tool to help understand and possibly reduce racial bias, our review has identified key limitations in the existing literature. Specifically, we found inconsistencies in the measures employed, as well as demographic characteristics within both the sampled population and the embodiment of avatars. Future studies are needed to address these critical shortcomings by appropriately utilising implicit and explicit measures of racial prejudice, ensuring diverse sample representation, and considering a broader spectrum of embodied social groups.
Derivate OJIP Variables in Sugarcane to Predict Cane Weight, Sucrose Content, and Sugar Yield
Authors: - Parnidi , Mahayu Weda Makarti , Murianingrum Mala , - Abdurrahman , Yulaikah Sri , - Djumali , Heliyanto Bambang , Herwati Anik , Purwati Rully Dyah , Mahfud Moch. , Rochman Fatkhur , - Marjani , RS Taufiq Hidayat , Riajaya Prima Diarini , Kadarwati Fitriningdyah Tri , Santoso Budi , - Supriyono , Suhara Cece 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Cane weight, sucrose content, and sugar yield represent carbohydrate accumulation available for cane throughout its life cycle. The carbohydrate content is the result of photosynthesis; in other words, we can predict cane weight, sucrose content, and sugar yield from the photosynthesis process. Chlorophyll fluorescence or the OJIP test is one of the benchmarks for expressing the amount of photosynthesis. This study aimed to obtain the dominant OJIP variable as a predictor of cane weight, sucrose content, sugar yield, and measurement time. The study was conducted at the Asembagus Experimental Station, Situbondo Regency, East Java, Indonesia, from December 2016 to October 2017. The study used 18 sugarcane clones in a Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. OJIP variables were measured in the stalk elongation phase and the maturity phase. The results showed that OJIP variables other than Fv/Fm, cane weight, sucrose content, and sugar yield were influenced by sugarcane clones. The right time for measuring OJIP variables was during the maturity phase. The dominant OJIP variables as predictors of cane weight and sugar yield were TRo/RC, DIo/CS, ABS/RC, and PI (79.4 and 76.0%). The dominant predictors of yield were RC/CSo, RC/CSm, DIo/CS, PI, ABS/RC, and ETo/RC (92.9%).
DenMerD: A Feature Enhanced Approach to Radar Beam Blockage Correction with Edge-Cloud Computing
Authors: Liu Qi , Sun Jiawei , Zhang Yonghong , Liu Xiaodong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In the field of meteorological, the global radar network is indispensable for detecting weather phenomena and offering early warning services. Nevertheless, radar data frequently exhibit anomalies, including gaps and clutter, arising from atmospheric refraction, equipment malfunctions, and other factors, resulting in diminished data quality. Traditional radar blockage correction methods, such as employing approximate radial information interpolation and supplementing missing data, often fail to effectively exploit potential patterns in massive radar data, for the large volume of data precludes a thorough analysis and understanding of the inherent complex patterns and dependencies through simple interpolation or supplementation techniques. Fortunately, edge computing possesses certain data processing capabilities and cloud center boasts substantial computational power, which together can collaboratively offer timely computation and storage for the correction of radar beam blockage. To this end, an edge-cloud collaborative driven deep learning model named DenMerD is proposed in this paper, which includes dense connection module and merge distribution (MD) unit. The model improves the key metrics such as CSI and POD by 30.7% and 30.1%, respectively, and performs well in SSIM metrics compared to the existing models. These findings underscore the efficacy of the design in improving feature propagation and beam blockage accuracy, and also highlights the potential and value of mobile edge computing in processing large-scale meteorological data.
Menstrual Hygiene Management in Schools in South Africa: Knowledge, experience and impact on school attendance
Authors: Beksinska Mags , Milford Cecilia , Devaki Renjini , Zulu Bongiwe , Mona Amanda , Cavanagh Tammany 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
In many countries, girls face significant challenges when it comes to managing menstruation, particularly in school settings. Lack of access to adequate menstrual hygiene products, sanitation facilities, and information about menstruation can lead to absenteeism, poor academic performance, and ultimately impact dropout rates among school-age girls.
Methods
The study was conducted in senior primary schools in three districts of three provinces in South Africa. A mixed method study design included– in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), an anonymous survey and a sanitation audit of female learner toilet facilities in a sample of schools in each participating district. Participants included male and female learners, parents and key stakeholders. Questions focused on source of water and sanitation facilities, education, knowledge and experience of the menstrual cycle including impact on school attendance. Descriptive analysis was conducted for the anonymous survey and sanitation audit. FGDs and IDIs were audio recorded, transcribed and translated and thematically coded. Deductive and inductive coding was done.
Results
A total of 332 anonymous surveys were completed by learners (241 females, 91 males). The survey found that fewer than two thirds of learners (61.1%; n = 203) had been educated on their menstrual cycle and a third of those who had started menstruation did not know which passage the blood passes through. Almost half of participants (44.8%; n = 34) had no menstrual product available at first menses. Half of female learners (50%, n = 38) reported they had “ever missed school” for reasons relating to their menstrual cycle, with the main reason relating to pain. Qualitative data from the FGDs and IDIs confirmed and supported the survey data. Results of the school sanitation survey demonstrated that condition and type of toilet facilities varied considerably between provinces. The school free sanitary pad distribution programme was also implemented in different ways and often supply was inconsistent.
Conclusions
Findings suggest a lack of knowledge relating to menstruation, and a lack of access to menstrual products among senior primary learners. Absenteeism from school was common during mensus. This study highlights the need for more consistent implementation of existing school life skills education and sanitary product programmes.
Straightforward slope stability prediction under seismic conditions using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Barkhordari Mohammad Sadegh , Barkhordari Mohammad Mahdi , Armaghani Danial Jahed , Mohamad Edy Tonnizam , Gordan Behrouz 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
One of the most significant and crucial issues in geotechnical engineering works, such as earth dams, embankments, and landfills to name a few, is slope stability assessment. Better methods are required to anticipate slope collapse because of its fatal effects. The goal of this research is to create a straightforward machine learning (ML) model for examining slope stability under seismic conditions. Four ML algorithms are examined, including Logistic Regression (LR), Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). The models are trained and tested on the database containing 700 slopes. 10-fold cross validation is utilized for parameter tuning, model training and performance estimating of machine learning models using training set. The best model is interpreted using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method, which is built on game theories. Among the studied models, the LGBM model is the most accurate model based on ranking technique. Most influential features for slope stability prediction under seismic conditions are detected by the SHAP method as follows: peak ground acceleration, friction angle, and angle of inclination.
Control Compounds for Preclinical Drug-Induced Liver Injury Assessment: Consensus-driven systematic review by the ProEuroDILI Network
Authors: Segovia-Zafra Antonio , Villanueva-Paz Marina , Serras Ana Sofia , Matilla-Cabello Gonzalo , Bodoque-García Ana , Zeo-Sánchez Daniel Enrique Di , Niu Hao , Álvarez-Álvarez Ismael , Sanz-Villanueva Laura , Godec Sergej , Milisav Irina , Andrade Raúl J , Lucena María Isabel , Checa José Carlos Fernández , Cubero Francisco Javier , Miranda Joana , Nelson Leonard 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a complex and unpredictable event caused by different drugs, herbal, and dietary supplements. The early identification of human hepatotoxicity at the preclinical stages remains a major challenge, in which the selection of validated in vitro systems and test drugs has a significant impact. This systematic review aims to analyse the compounds used in hepatotoxicity assays and establish a unified list of DILI positive and negative control drugs for validation of in vitro models of DILI, supported by literature and clinical evidence and endorsed by a committee of experts from the COST Action ProEuroDILI Network (CA 17112). This systematic review was performed in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. Original research articles focused on investigating DILI occurrence using in vitro human models performing at least one hepatotoxicity assay with positive and negative control compounds were included. A modified version of the "Toxicological Data Reliability Assessment Tool" (ToxRTool) was used to assess the bias of the included studies. A total of 2,936 studies were retrieved from the different databases. Of these, 51 met the inclusion criteria, with 30 categorized as reliable without restrictions. Diclofenac and buspirone were the most commonly used DILI-positive and DILI-negative control drugs, respectively. Although there was a broad consensus on the positive compounds, the selection of negative control compounds remained less clear. Regarding the models used, the 2D monoculture of primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) was the favoured choice. However, there was no clear consensus on the drug concentrations. Short acute exposure times were mostly utilised, and cytotoxicity was the preferred endpoint. The extensive analysis of included studies highlighted the lack of agreement on appropriate control compounds for the in vitro assessment of DILI. Therefore, following comprehensive in vitro and clinical data analysis together with input from the expert committee, an evidence-based consensus-driven list of 10 positive and negative drugs is proposed for validating new in vitro models for improving preclinical drug safety testing regimes.
A critical review of risk matrices used in water safety planning: improving risk matrix construction
Authors: Lane Kaycie , Hrudey Steve E. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Risk matrices are used in water safety planning to prioritize improvements to drinking water systems. While water safety plans (WSPs) are promoted globally, no study has evaluated whether risk matrices are comprehensively constructed to accurately assess risk. We used risk matrix criteria adapted from previous risk matrix research to evaluate risk matrices found in twelve templates across global jurisdictions. WSP templates were found using the WSPortal website and definitions of likelihood and impact were extracted from each template to assist in the evaluation of WSP risk matrices. Application of the criteria developed from a detailed mathematical analysis by revealed that 11 of 12 risk matrices evaluated contravene at least one of the risk matrix criteria. Furthermore, definitions of likelihood and impact varied widely across different jurisdictions, due in part to the system specific nature of the WSP methodology. To improve risk matrix construction, we recommend: setting clearer risk level boundary criteria, aligning specific impact category definitions with water system objectives, and selecting specific impact categories as opposed to defining impact in several ways. Finally, we recommend risk matrix construction be reviewed as part of the WSP process to ensure accurate identification of key risks in a water system.
Wearable Activity Trackers That Motivate Women to Increase Physical Activity: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Peterson Neil E , Bate Danielle A , Macintosh Janelle LB , Trujillo Tanner Corinna 
Published: November 2023

Background
Physical inactivity is a significant public health concern, particularly among women in the United States. Wearable activity trackers (WATs) have been proposed as a potential solution to increase awareness of and engagement in physical activity (PA). However, to be effective, WATs must include features and designs that encourage daily use.

Objective
This study aims to explore the features and designs of WATs that appeal to women and determine whether devices with these attributes are effective motivators for women to be physically active.

Methods
A mixed methods study guided by the self-determination theory was conducted among 15 women. Participants trialed 3 WATs with influence in their respective accessory domains: Apple Watch for the wrist; Oura Ring for the finger; and Bellabeat Leaf Urban for multiple sites (it can be worn as a bracelet, necklace, or clip). Participants documented their daily PA levels and rated their satisfaction with each device’s comfort, features, and motivational effect. Focus groups were also conducted to gather additional feedback and experiences within the a priori areas of comfort, features, and motivation.

Results
Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire–2 scores indicated that most participants (14/15, 93%) were motivated at baseline (amotivation score: mean 0.13, SD 0.45), but on average, participants did not meet the national minimum PA guidelines according to the self-reported Physical Activity Vital Sign questionnaire (moderate to vigorous PA score: mean 144, SD 97.5 min/wk). Mean WAT wear time was 16.9 (SD 4.4) hours, 19.4 (SD 5.3) hours, and 20.4 (SD 4.7) hours for Apple Watch, Bellabeat Leaf Urban, and Oura Ring, respectively. During focus groups, participants reinforced their quantitative ratings and rankings of the WATs based on personal experiences. Participants shared a variety of both activity-related and non–activity-related features that they look for in a motivating device. When considering what the ideal WAT would be for a woman, participants suggested features of (1) comfort, (2) extended battery life, (3) durability, (4) immediate PA feedback, (5) intuitive PA sensing, and (6) programmability.

Conclusions
This study is the first to specifically address women’s experiences with and preferences for different types of WATs. Those who work with women should realize how they view WATs and the role they play in motivation to be active.
Evaluation of Opening Offers Early for Deceased Donor Kidneys at Risk of Nonutilization
Authors: Kilambi Vikram , Barah Masoud , Formica Richard N. , Friedewald John J. , Mehrotra Sanjay 
Published: November 2023

Background
Reducing nonutilization of kidneys recovered from deceased donors is a current policy concern for kidney allocation in the United States. The likelihood of nonutilization is greater with a higher kidney donor risk index (KDRI) offer. We examine how opening offers for organs with KDRI >1.75 to the broader waitlist at varying points of time affects usage rates.

Methods
We simulate kidney allocation using data for January 2018 to June 2019 from Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. For the simulation experiment, allocation policy is modified so that KDRI >1.75 organs are offered to all local candidates (same donation service area) after a set amount of cold time simultaneously. Open offers to candidates nationally are similarly examined.

Results
Simulation results (n=50 replications) estimate that opening offers locally for KDRI >1.75 after 10 hours yields a nonutilization rate of 38% (range: 35%–42%), less than the prevailing rate of 55% of KDRI >1.75 kidneys. Opening offers after 5 hours yields 30% (range: 26%–34%), reducing the prevailing nonutilization rate by 45%. Opening offers nationally after 10 and 5 hours yields nonutilization rates of 11% (range: 8%–15%) and 6% (range: 4%–9%) for KDRI >1.75 kidneys, respectively.

Conclusions
Simulation findings indicate that opening offers and adjusting their timing can significantly reduce nonutilization of high-KDRI kidneys.