bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ethylene/α-olefin homo- and copolymerization using a dinuclear catalyst of nickel
Authors: Nokandi Fatemeh , Zohuri Gholam Hossein , Ramezanian Navid , Hasanpour Hossein , Kimiaghalam Mahsa , Khoshsefat Mostafa 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Considering the essence of high electron density of ligands, frameworks with high electron donating groups are important in the transition-metal catalytic systems. As benzhydrol groups have been investigated for their beneficial electronic effects, a novel homo-dinuclear Ni (II) catalyst based on benzhydrol-substituted ligand was synthesized, characterized, and used for ethylene polymerization. The catalyst was further examined and compared with its mononuclear analogue. The maximum activity for the polymerization was then obtained at molar ratio of Al/Ni: 1500/1, polymerization temperature of 15 ℃ and the monomer pressure of 1.5 bar within 5 min of the polymerization which was 2.64×106 g mol-1Ni h-1. Effects of cocatalyst type (e. g., modified methylalumoxane (MMAO), triisobutylaluminum (TiBA), and triethylaluminum (TEA)) in the polymerization were also investigated wherein MMAO outperformed in terms of the greatest activity. As the polymerization temperature elevated, the polyethylene (PE) microstructure changed from crystalline into amorphous form, while both of the activity of the catalyst and the Viscosity Average Molecular Weight (M̅v) of the obtained polymer were diminished. With regard to increasing of ethylene pressure in the reactor (up to 4 bars), the M̅v increased and reached to the maximum value of 1.44 ×106 g mol-1. The catalyst was also active in the presence of the long-chain α-olefin monomers, such as 1-hexene and 1-octene, the comonomers. The co-monomer addition decreased crystallinity of the polymer (from 25 to 15%) and led to higher branching density of the obtained copolymers.
Prognostic and diagnostic effects of high serum midkine on patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Okada Rei , Otsuka Yuichiro , Kajiwara Yoji , Maeda Tetsuya , Ishii Jun , Kimura Kazutaka , Matsumoto Yu , Ito Yuko , Funahashi Kimihiko , Shimada Hideaki 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

BackgroundMidkine (MK) is a soluble cytokine, and its serum levels strongly correspond with protein expression levels in tumors. This study aimed to clarify the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of serum MK (s-MK) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsSerum samples were obtained before surgery from 123 patients with HCC who underwent surgery between 2012 and 2020. Based on the receiver operating characteristics curve, the best cutoff value for s-MK in differentiating HCC from healthy cases was 426 pg/mL. Patients’ clinicopathological variables and overall survival were compared between the s-MK-positive group and the s-MK-negative group.ResultsThe sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of s-MK were 82.1%, 97.4%, and 88.0%, respectively. An s-MK-positive status was significantly associated with the number of tumors (≥ 2). The positivity rate of s-MK was significantly higher than that of α-fetoprotein and protein induced by vitamin K absence-II. In total, only 28% of the patients were positive for s-MK. The s-MK positive group showed significantly worse overall survival than the s-MK negative group. The multivariate analysis revealed that an s-MK-positive status was independently associated with poor prognosis.Conclusions-MK was useful in detecting early HCC. A s-MK-positive status was associated with the number of tumors and was an independent prognostic risk factor.
Community Perspectives of Ebola Viral Disease in High-Risk Transmission Border Regions of Tanzania: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Metta Emmy , Mohamed Hussein , Kusena Priscilla , Nyamhanga Tumaini , Bahuguna Shalini , Kakoko Deodatus , Siril Nathanael , Araya Awet , Mwiru Alice , Magesa Stanley , Makene Lulu , Rwechungura Allan , Kirakoya Fatimata B , Kazaura Method , Frumence Gasto 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background: Tanzania faces ever-rising concerns due to the recurrence of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. This necessitates a better understanding of the community perspectives in high-risk regions for effective risk communication and preparedness.
Methods: This rapid ethnographic assessment study used explorative qualitative methods to collect data. People from diverse backgrounds participated in 59 in-depth interviews, 57 Key Informant interviews, and 35 focus group discussions. Data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach.
Findings: The study found high awareness of EVD and its symptoms, with radio and television emerging as the primary source of information. However, participants had mixed perceptions of EVD’s cause and transmission, with some believing that bats, monkeys, and wild animal meat caused it. In contrast, others associated the disease with high fever, a dirty environment, changing dietary patterns, and the COVID-19 virus. Physical contact with an infected person, eating cascades of infected wild animals, and contact with an infected person’s fluids were perceived as EVD transmission agents. Due to their daily activities, women, school children, boda-boda riders, and fishermen were perceived as the most susceptible to EVD infection. Preventive measures included avoiding physical contact, touching fluids, and refraining from eating wild animal meat. Prompt reporting of suspected cases to health facilities was reported as crucial for earlier outbreak identification and containment.
Conclusion: The high-risk regions of Tanzania had a high level of awareness and perceived susceptibility to EVD, coupled with varying degrees of misperception about the etiology and its transmission. To improve community perspectives and preparedness in the case of an outbreak, there is a need for ongoing risk communication and involvement in EVD prevention and responses.
The application of three-dimensional printing in the management of a difficult airway due to Treacher Collins syndrome.
Authors: Trincado María , Tapia Blanca , Gutiérrez Alessandro , Aragón Íñigo , Castillo Jose Luis , Cebrián Jose Luis , Uña Rafael 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This article demonstrates the use of 3D printing for precise airway models, focusing on Treacher Collins syndrome. This rare disorder presents challenges in airway management due to facial bone underdevelopment. Customized 3D models, derived from CT scans, successfully simulated and refined intubation techniques. Transparent models provided clear visualization, aiding in risk assessment and instrument sizing. This technology offers a crucial tool for preanesthetic planning, potentially enhancing patient safety during intubation. The article emphasizes the importance of this approach in complex airway scenarios, advocating for its wider adoption in anesthesia practice.
Blue Carbon assessment in the salt marshes of the Venice Lagoon: dimensions, variability and influence of storm-surge regulation.
Authors: Puppin Alice , Tognin Davide , Paccagnella Michela , Zancato Mirella , Ghinassi Massimiliano , D'Alpaos Chiara , Marani Marco , D'Alpaos Andrea 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Salt marshes are intertidal coastal ecosystems shaped by complex feedbacks between hydrodynamic, morphological, and biological processes. These crucial yet endangered environments provide a diverse range of ecosystem services but are globally subjected to high anthropogenic pressures, while being severely exposed to climate change impacts. The importance of salt marshes as ‘blue carbon’ sinks, deriving from their primary production coupled with rapid surface accretion, has been increasingly recognized within the framework of climate mitigation strategies. However, large uncertainties remain in salt-marsh carbon stock and sequestration estimation. In order to provide further knowledge in salt-marsh carbon assessment and investigate marsh carbon pool response to management actions, we analysed organic matter content in salt-marsh soils of the Venice Lagoon (Italy) from 60 sediment cores to the depth of 1 m and estimated organic carbon stock and accumulation rates in different areas. Organic carbon stocks and accumulation rates were highly variable in different marshes, being affected by organic and inorganic inputs and preservation conditions. Our estimates suggest that the studied marshes can absorb the same amount of carbon as 130,000 trees. However, flood regulation may reduce by 33% the annual marsh CO2 sequestration potential.
Satellite Imagery-based Hurricane Debris Assessment: Model Development and Application in Rural Florida
Authors: Antwi Richard Boadu , Takyi Samuel , Ozguven Eren Erman , Volcy Kathy , Alam Md. Shaharier , Kim Kyusik , Horner Mark W. , Mardis Marcia A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The Southeastern United States is hit by hurricanes frequently. To provide a quick response to these natural disasters and expedited recovery, state and federal agencies should be provided with information concerning the severity and extent of hurricane damage, specifically in terms of hurricane debris volume and locations. In this paper, we focused on the post-hurricane debris in Calhoun County, Florida, which was hit by Hurricane Michael in 2018 and provided a macro-level assessment using satellite image collections obtained from the Sentinel-2 satellite in Google Earth Engine (GEE) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The specific focus was the assessment of hurricane debris impact on roadways and communities, which were performed in twofold. Firstly, satellite data was used to assess post-hurricane debris impact in the entire county and its population. Secondly, satellite data was used to assess post-hurricane debris with a focus on roadways and its impact on accessibility. Spectral indices from satellite images were used to derive assessment parameters. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values were obtained for both pre-hurricane and post-hurricane images of the study area and NDVI scores of roadway segments were analyzed. Findings indicate that high volumes of vegetative debris were present in the north-eastern parts of the county, which is occupied by the highest population of county residents. The roadway segments in this region also recorded highest debris volumes, which is a critical information for state and local agencies that need to know highly impacted locations.
Impact of Dietary Different Trace Mineral on Performance, Egg Quality, Oxidation Status, and Immune Responses of Female Broiler Breeders
Authors: Cheng Hao , Liu Wuxiong , Chen Juan , Qu XiangYong Y. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This study aims to compare the effects of different forms of minerals on the performance, egg quality, oxidation status, and immune response of female broiler breeders. A total of 432 healthy Hubbard white feather female broiler breeders were randomly divided into 3 groups (6 replicates of 24 birds each). Group A was fed a basal diet supplemented with inorganic trace elements, Group B with methionine hydroxyl analog chelated trace minerals, and Group C with proteinate trace minerals for a 56-day feeding trial period. There were no significant differences observed in performance and egg quality between the dietary inorganic and organic trace elements (P > 0.05). However, the inclusion of organic trace elements in the diet led to improved activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as reduced concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma and eggs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, compared to Group A, Groups B and C exhibited enhanced concentrations of E2, PROG, and LSH in plasma, and Group C showed improved levels of IgA and IgM (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the inclusion of dietary organic trace elements, specifically metal methionine hydroxyl chelates and metal proteinate, has been shown to enhance antioxidation and immune function in female broiler breeders. Therefore, the use of proteinate trace elements is recommended in broiler breeder diets.
Effect of ABS secondary microplastics on survival, mortality rate, life expectancy and fecundity of the freshwater cladocerans Moina macrocopa
Authors: Manríquez-Guzmán Diana , Chaparro-Herrera Diego de Jesús , Ramírez-García Pedro 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Microplastics are a ubiquitous pollutant and ingested by living beings, mainly aquatic organisms. Among freshwater organisms, zooplankton is susceptible to the ingestion of microplastics. The cladoceran Daphnia magna is used in most experiments with freshwater zooplankton, and other genera, such as the genus Moina, receive scarce attention. Likewise, are used primary polystyrene and polyethylene microplastics with the same shape, and other types of plastics are rarely used, such as secondary ones, which arise by fragmentation of larger ones. The objective was to determine the possible effects on survival, mortality, life expectancy, and fecundity of Moina macrocopa at different concentrations of secondary microplastics of the Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene type. We exposed groups of 10 neonates to a diet of microalgae and microplastics. There were four groups of cladocerans, each with a different concentration of microplastics (5, 10, and 20 mg/L) and a control. Daily we count individuals alive, dead, and their offspring until the last individual of the original cohort died. We demonstrated that microplastics may block the digestive tract and adhere to the carapace of M. macrocopa, thereby disrupting swimming activity. In addition, survival, mortality, life expectancy, and fecundity were negatively affected when exposed to the minimum concentration of microplastics; conversely, there are no significant changes in medium and high concentrations. The decline in neonates could alter the dynamics of M. macropa populations in the long term. Microplastics may be an emerging cause of the alteration of the zooplankton community and violate the base of the trophic webs.
Factors of concern and reluctance to accept foreign care workers in native care workers in geriatric facilities: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tei-tominaga Maki , Tanaka Masae , Nakanishi Miharu 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background
Owing to a shortage of care workers because of rapid population aging, geriatric care facilities hiring foreign care workers (FCWs) have increased in many countries. To resolve potential obstacles for FCWs’ acceptance and retention, we aim to clarify the acceptance of FCWs and the factors influencing native care workers’ concerns and reluctance towards FCWs.
Methods
Self-report questionnaires were distributed to all care workers (N = 1,060) in 30 geriatric residential care facilities in Japan (response rate = 71%). The questionnaire covered basic attributes, work and organisational characteristics, wage adequacy perceptions, concerns, ideas towards accepting FCWs, work environment assessment scales, and job stressors. We used data from 589 participants (67.2% women, Mage = 42.63 ± 12.16 years) for analysis, and a multivariable logistic regression analysis focusing on participants who worked in facilities without FCWs was conducted.
Results
The ratio of concerns and reluctance regarding acceptance of FCWs among native care workers showed a significant difference by the presence of FCWs at a facility, while basic attributes, work and organisational characteristics, and wage adequacy did not show any significant differences between the facilities. The multivariate logistic regression analyses for participants without FCWs revealed that those who were in managerial positions (odds ratio [OR] = 1.99), perceived wage inadequacy (OR = 1.75), and more job stressors (OR = 1.13) were more likely to have concerns about FCWs as compared to their counterparts. Those who worked more than 50 hours per week on average (OR = 0.30) and perceived higher ethical leadership (OR = 0.75) were less likely to be reluctant towards FCWs’ acceptance as compared to their counterparts. When the variable of concerns was entered the equation, those who expressed concerns were more likely be reluctant (OR = 3.50), while the significance of working hours remained constant (OR = 0.28), and the significance level of ethical leadership decreased (OR = 0.78).
Conclusions
To formulate strategies to accept FCWs in facilities, countermeasures towards pre-existing issues such as work conditions, leadership, and native care workers’ concerns are required.
Resource Allocation of Massive MIMO NOMA Networks with SWIPT-NOMA Technology
Authors: Shirzad Amirreza , Andargoli Seyed Mehdi Hosseini 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Massive Multi Input Multi Output (MIMO) and Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) techniques have emerged as revolutionary techniques to improve the spectrum efficiency for 5G systems. In this paper, user grouping and power allocation are investigated in NOMA based massive MIMO networks with Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer (SWIPT). We use the Zero Forcing (ZF) beamforming method to group users then the NOMA technique is applied to establish multiple access for the users of each group. In order to cluster the users, we propose a novel method for cluster head selection and user assignment to the group in which challenges related to Successive interference Cancellation (SIC) implementation are considered. In the following, we formulate the sum rate maximization problem based on jointly optimizing power allocation and power splitting factors. Since the formulated optimization problem is a non-convex optimization problem, it is converted to the convex form by some lemmas and relaxations. The relaxed problem is solved by the CVX toolbox of MATLAB software. Simulation results show that proposed strategies improve the sum rate in comparison with benchmark algorithms while the NOMA requirements are satisfied and the implementation challenges are handled.
Radiomics analysis of 18F-FDG PET/CT for visceral pleural invasion in non-small cell lung cancer with pleural attachment
Authors: Li Yi , Li Qiang , Shen Mengjun , Zhang Fengxian , Li Yuan , Zhao Qingping , Hao Liyan , Wu Xiaodong , Zhao Long , Wang Yin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
The aim of this study was to establish and validate a preoperative model that integrates clinical factors and radiomic features from 18F-FDG PET/CT for the prediction of visceral pleural invasion (VPI) in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with pleural attachment.
Methods
A total of 814 NSCLC patients with radiological pleural attachment were included in this retrospective study. VPI was confirmed in 350 cases, and non-VPI was confirmed in 464 cases through histopathological examination. The patients were randomly divided into a training set and a test set. Clinical data and 101 radiomic features (51 PET features and 50 CT features) were collected. The optimal predictors from these radiomic features were selected using the Mann-Whitney U test and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm, resulting in the creation of the radiomics score (Rad-score) for the PET/CT radiomics model. Meaningful clinical factors and Rad-scores were incorporated into a combined PET/CT radiomics-clinical model through multivariate logistic regression analysis. The predictive performance and clinical utility of the models were assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA). Finally, a nomogram was developed based on the best-performing model.
Results
The combined PET/CT radiomics-clinical model to predict VPI status achieved the areas under the ROC curve (AUCs) of 0.840, 0.890, and 0.884, in the training set (n = 569), test set (n = 245), and patients with a maximum tumor diameter (Dmax) ≤ 3 cm (n = 437), respectively, which were significantly higher than 0.763, 0.747, and 0.813 of the clinical model, and 0.723, 0.763, and 0.719 of the PET/CT radiomics model. The DCA showed that the combined model had the highest standardized net benefit among the models in predicting VPI. Subsequently, a nomogram based on the combined model was developed with well-fitted calibration curves.
Conclusions
The combined PET/CT radiomics-clinical model offers an advantage in the prediction of VPI in NSCLC with pleural attachment.
Effect of tDCS Concurrent With VR-based Robot on Hemiplegic Upper Limb Function After Ischemic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Guo Chuan , Geng Ayan , Sui Youxin , Zhu Shizhe , Wang Qinglei , Kan Chaojie , Xu Sheng , Zhuang Ren , Wang Tong , Shen Ying 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Upper limb hemiplegia faces the challenge of slow and difficult recovery. A “closed-loop method” based on brain plasticity has been proposed, combining central and peripheral interventions to enhance the upper limb function. Based on the theory, we aimed to investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) concurrent with virtual reality (VR)-based robot intervention on the enhancement of upper limb function recovery and the change of cortical excitability.
Methods
In this single-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial, 40 patients with subacute stroke were recruited and randomized to experimental (tDCS concurrent with VR-based robotic intervention) and control (sham tDCS concurrent with VR-based robotic intervention) groups. All patients received 15 sessions for 20 minutes per day. Outcome measures included the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Limb Scale (FMA-UL), the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and activities of daily life (ADL).
Results
Thirty-four patients completed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) examinations. Both groups showed meaningful enhancements in FMA-UL, ARAT, and modified Barthel index (MBI) scores following the training. When the two groups were compared, the FMA-UL and ARAT scores showed greater improvement in the examination group compared to the control group, but the MBI difference was not statistically significant. An analysis of fNIRS results revealed that the activation of the ipsilesional primary motor cortex (iM1) and contralesional prefrontal cortex (cPFC) increased after training in the experimental group, while it decreased in the control group. The activation of iM1 and cPFC in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group.
Conclusions
Compared with the control group, tDCS concurrent with VR-based robot intervention can effectively enhance upper limb function and promote activation of iM1 and cPFC in subacute patients with stroke. However, there was no obvious advantage in improving ADL.
Trial registration:
The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registration Center (ChiCTR2100047442) on June 18, 2021.