bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Motor unit behavior of the lower trapezius and serratus anterior in individuals with scapular dyskinesis
Authors: Kuniki Masahiro , Iwamoto Yoshitaka , Konishi Rei , Kuwahara Daisuke , Yamagiwa Daiki , Kito Nobuhiro 
Published: April 2023

AbstractScapular dyskinesis results from weakness of the lower trapezius and serratus anterior, but no studies have investigated the motor unit (MU) behavior required for muscle exertion. This study aimed to classify scapular dyskinesis into raising (SDR) and lowering (SDL) phases and investigated the MU behaviors of the lower trapezius and serratus anterior. Fifty healthy young subjects underwent a scapular dyskinesis test and were divided into Normal, SDR, and SDL groups. The subjects performed submaximal voluntary contractions of the lower trapezius and serratus anterior, and surface electromyography signals were decomposed into the MU action potential amplitude (MUAPAMP), mean firing rate (MFR), and recruitment threshold (RT). The average MUAPAMPand MFR and the slopes and y-intercepts of the linear MUAPAMP-RT and MFR-RT were compared. The MUAPAMP-RT slopes in the lower trapezius (p = 0.049,r = 0.420) and serratus anterior were smaller (p = 0.010,r = 0.490) and the MFR-RT y-intercept in the serratus anterior was lower (p = 0.004,r = 0.540) in the SDR group than in the Normal group. Differences in other parameters between the SDL and Normal groups were not significant. Lower trapezius and serratus anterior MU behavioral changes may cause scapular dyskinesis in the raising phase.
Silicon-mediated growth, physiological, biochemical and root alterations to confer drought and nickel stress tolerance in Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Ishaq Humaira , Waraich Ejaz Ahmad , Hussain Saddam , Ahmad Muhammad , Ahmad Zahoor , ullah Saif 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose Abiotic stresses are the leading environmental factors which adversely affect plant growth and development particularly drought and nickel stress. Maize is susceptible to drought and nickel stress from germination to final kernel development stage. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the role of silicon to improve drought and nickel stress tolerance in maize.Methods Different treatments of the study were i) two drought stress levels (100% field capacity and 60% field capacity) ii) nickel stress (100 mg/kg) and iii) combined stress (drought and nickel stress) were used along with two levels of silicon applications, i) control and ii) 50 mg/kg).Results The result showed that silicon had significant effects on plant growth attributes, including Plant height, Leaf area and Leaf dry weight, stem fresh weight and stem dry weight. Plant height reduced up to 24% under drought stress, and 13% under nickel stress. While silicon application mitigated the adverse effects of these stresses and increased the shoot length upto 35%. Leaf water potential decreased under drought 25% and nickel stress 11% and combined stress showed 53% reduction as compared with control, but silicon application significantly improved the leaf water potential up to 12%. Gas Exchange Parameters i.e, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and respiration rate were significantly reduced under stress conditions. photosynthetic rate showed more reduction in combined stress (drought and nickel stress). as compared with the control (no stress). Silicon application @ 50 mg/kg improved the gas exchange parameters, protein contents, chlorophyll a and b under stress and non-stress conditions. Chlorophyll a and b increased up to 21% and 32% respectively as compared to control (no silicon application). The H2O2 values increased under the drought and nickel stress conditions and decreased in control-no stress. Drought and nickel stress decreased the levels of the catalase (CAT), peroxide dismutase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Soil application of silicon 50 mg/kg improved the values of SOD, POD and CAT.Conclusions In crux, the present investigation suggested that silicon application @ 50 mg/kg mitigated the harmful effects of drought and nickel alone and in combination by improving morpho-physiological, biochemical and antioxidant defense in maize. Si-applied plants significantly improved growth and stronger resistance to stress, which was linked to maintaining plant water status and photosynthetic pigments, lower oxidative damage, and higher activities of antioxidant enzymes under drought and nickel stress.
The application of artificial intelligence for construction project planning
Authors: Victor Nwosu Obinnaya Chikezie 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Any building project's success depends on its planning. Due to the complexity of the construction business and the many aspects to consider, including money, supplies, labour, and timelines, this process may be difficult. AI can speed up and improve planning. This study examines the use of AI for building project planning. The research starts by examining building project planning and its problems. Next, the article covers machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision AI technologies for building project planning. This study examines AI in building project planning. AI might revolutionize construction by improving project efficiency, accuracy, and performance. The study discusses predictive analytics, machine learning, and natural language processing for building project planning. The difficulties and prospects of AI in building project planning are also examined. The study finishes by examining how AI might be used to improve construction project planning and management. The article assesses AI's potential in building project planning and advises practitioners on how to use it. The study article then examines AI-planned construction projects. These examples demonstrate how AI may speed up construction, reduce waste, and streamline projects. Finally, the article discusses the merits and downsides of utilising AI to plan building projects and suggests further research. This study report shows how important AI is for planning construction projects and how these technologies can be used to improve the performance of construction projects.
Zebrafish as a biological model for assessing water quality along tropical hydrographic river basins in Northeast Brazil.
Authors: Alves Romulo Nepomuceno , Mariz Célio Freire , Alves Maria Karolaine de Melo , Silva Andrea Shirley Xavier da , Zanardi-Lamardo Eliete , de Carvalho Paulo Sérgio Martins 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Tropical rivers are the main destinations for tailings from urban, industrial and agricultural activities. The present study aimed to investigate if early stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) development is a viable biological model to assess the toxicity of surface waters of tropical rivers, and whether that toxicity could be correlated to standard water quality indexes. Embryos were exposed to samples from 55 sites from 10 hydrographic basins of rivers in Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. Lethality rates, sublethal toxicity based on the general morphology score (GMS) and frequencies of abnormalities were analyzed. Significant mortality was observed in samples of 7 basins. The GMS indicated significant delay in embryo-larval development in 50% of the samples. Highest toxicity was detected in basins within Recife metropolitan area, where 61% of the samples caused sublethal toxicity. Most frequent developmental abnormalities included non-inflation of the swim bladder, delayed hatching and blood stasis. Highest frequencies of blood stasis were detected in samples with highest NH3 concentrations, corroborated by a positive correlation suggesting the existence of a causal relationship. A significant correlation was detected between water quality indexes and GMS with a greater toxic effect being observed in samples collected in areas of greater urban density and greater contamination by domestic sewage. This study demonstrates that the early stages of the zebrafish is a viable ecotoxicological model to assess the toxicity of surface waters and can contribute to a better understanding between the chemical composition and the adverse effects suffered by fish early life stages in tropical rivers.
Teachers' perceptions of asthma care in Sub-Saharan Africa: A cross-country qualitative analysis
Authors: Naidoo Kimesh , Dladla Sindiswa , Mphahlele Reratilwe , Mosler Gioia , Muyemayema Sophie , Ssemata Andrew , Mkutumula Elisabeth , Adeyeye Olufunke , Goodman Yinka , Kuyinu Yetunde , Nantanda Rebecca , Addo-Yobo E , Ticklay Ismail , Mujuru HA , Grigg Jonathon , Masekela Refiloe 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background
Asthma is the most common chronic respiratory disease among children and adolescents worldwide. However, the burden of severe asthma is highest in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to explore teachers' perceptions of asthma care across six African countries.
Methods
We conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. FGDs were conducted in Accra (Ghana), Blantyre (Malawi), Lagos (Nigeria), Durban (South Africa), Kampala (Uganda), and Harare (Zimbabwe) between 01 November 2020 and 30 June 2021.
Results
We identified two key themes related to asthma care: (1) barriers to asthma care and (2) suggestions to improve the care of asthma learners. Teachers reported a lack of knowledge and skills among themselves, learners, and caregivers. Some teachers believed that myths about asthma and restrictions on themselves administering care exacerbated challenges faced by learners with asthma. Most teachers identified a need for all-inclusive asthma training programmes for teachers, learners and caregivers, focusing on acute episodes and mitigating triggers. Utilising teachers with personal experiences with asthma to advocate and support these initiatives was suggested. Recommendations were made for annual screening to enable early identification of learners with asthma and clarity on restricting teachers administering asthma medications.
Conclusions
Teachers across African schools identify multiple barriers to asthma care. Structured school education programs and annual asthma screening are key to addressing some barriers to care.
Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and associated factors in the adult population of Belgium: a general population cohort study between March 2021 and April 2022
Authors: Heyden Johan Van der , Leclercq Victoria , Duysburgh Els , Cornelissen Laura , Desombere Isabelle , Roukaerts Inge , Gisle Lydia 
Published: April 2023

AbstractBackground This cohort study assessed seroprevalence trends of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the general Belgian population between March 2021 and April 2022, and explored factors associated with seropositivity among the vaccinated and unvaccinated population. Seroreversion and its potential determinants were also examined. Methods A random sample of the adult population in Belgium was invited to provide a saliva sample and to complete a survey questionnaire. Participants were followed up twice for a new saliva sample and updated information. Antibodies were assessed with a semi-quantitative measure of anti-RBD (Receptor Binding Domain) IgG ELISA. Seven time periods were defined for estimating SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence using post stratification weights to match the population distribution. Seroreversion was defined as passing from a positive to a negative antibody test from one data collection point to the next. Potential determinants of seropositivity were assessed through hierarchical multiple logistic regressions. Results In total 6,178 valid observations were obtained from 2,768 individuals. SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence increased from 25.1% in the beginning of the study period to 92.3% in the end. Among the vaccinated population, factors significantly associated with a higher seropositivity were being younger, having a bachelor diploma, living with others, having had a vaccine in the last 3 months and having received a nucleic-acid vaccine or a combination. Lower seropositivity rates were observed among vaccinated people with a neurological disease and transplant patients. Factors significantly associated with a higher seropositivity rate among the unvaccinated population were having non-O blood type and being non-smoker. Among fully vaccinated people the seroreversion rate was much lower (0.3%) among those who had received their latest vaccine in the last 3 months compared to those who had received their latest vaccine more than 3 months ago (2.7%). Conclusions The rapid increase in antibody seropositivity in the general adult population in Belgium during the study period was driven by the vaccination campaign which ran at full speed during this period. Factors associated with higher and lower seropositivity were identified among the vaccinated and unvaccinated people.
Effectiveness of Active release technique, Positional release technique and Myofascial Release technique on Pain, Range of Motion, Functional Disability as against conventional treatment in Patients with Cervicogenic Headache: Four arm parallel randomized study
Authors: Patil Deepali 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Introduction- Unilateral pain is important symptom of cervicogenic headache. If this condition persists resulted in reduced neck range of motion (ROM). CGH occurs because of disease of the cervical region bony, disc, and/or soft tissue component with or without neck pain. Reduced neck range of motion, unilateral headache, aggravation of pain with exterior burden crossways the same side upper neck, and initiation of attacks by various components (3)..
Methodology- Patients with cervicogenic headache will receive one conventional treatment, three myofascial procedures, and one other treatment in this four-arm parallel study. While active release technique is a new approach in this disease, positional release and myofascial release technique have both been researched in this condition.
Discussion- This research compares the effects of MFR, ART, and PRT on patients with cervicogenic headaches.
Conclusion- Conclusions will be made based on how three techniques affect pain, ROM, and function in people with cervicogenic headaches, which will assist patients and the therapist in taking a better approach to rehabilitation.
Rapid analysis of Radix Astragali using a portable Raman spectrometer with 1064-nm laser excitation and data fusion with PLS-DA
Authors: Lu Hanzhi , Wang Yi , Zhu Jianyong , Huang Jin , Li Fulun 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background Radix Astragali is a medicinal herb with various physiological activities and a long history of use dating back 2,000 years. Tens of thousands of tonnes of Radix Astragali are sold worldwide each year. Their clinical applications are affected by many factors, including geographical origin. Conventional microscopic examination and chromatography-based fingerprinting of Radix Astragali roots are tedious extraction procedures, resulting in loss of their original form. Raman spectroscopy is a non-invasive and non-destructive technique that can be used in the in-situ analysis of herbal samples. In this study, we investigated the potential of a 1064 nm-excited portable Raman spectrometer and data fusion for the rapid analysis of Radix Astragali samples from different sources and origins.Results A portable Raman spectrometer was used for the analysis of certified and counterfeit Radix Astragali samples as well as for the determination of their geographical origin. Dispersive Raman scattering, excited at 1064 nm, produced minimal fluorescence background and facilitated easy detection of the weak Raman signal. By moving the Raman probe point-by-point from the centre of the sample to the margin, the spectral fingerprints, composed of dozens of Raman spectra representing the entire Radix Astragali samples, were obtained. Principal component analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were applied to the Radix Astragali spectral data to compare the classification results, leading to efficient discrimination between genuine and counterfeit Radix Astragali. However, there were high similarities among Radix Astragali samples from different regions owing to the similarities in their main chemical compositions. In the PLS-DA model using data fusion combined with different pre-processing methods, the samples from Shanxi Province were separated from those belonging to other habitats.Conclusion Using a combination of 1064-nm excitation and point-by-point spectral collection mode, the fused Raman spectral data can effectively improve the recognition rate and accuracy of herbal samples, which can be a valuable tool for the identification of genuine medicinal herbs.
Key age-friendly components of municipalities that foster social participation of aging Canadians: results from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Levasseur Mélanie , Dubois Marie-France , Généreux Mélissa , Naud Daniel , Trottier Lise , Menec Verena , Roy Mathieu , Gabaude Catherine , Couturier Yves , Raina Parminder 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Municipalities can foster the social participation of aging adults. Although making municipalities age-friendly is recognized as a promising way to help aging adults stay involved in their communities, little is known about the key components (e.g., services and structures) that foster social participation. This study thus aimed to identify key age-friendly components (AFC) best associated with the social participation of older Canadians. Secondary analyses were carried out using baseline data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (n=25,411) in selected municipalities (m=110 with ≥30 respondents), the Age-friendly Survey, and census data. Social participation was estimated based on the number of community activities outside the home per month. AFC included housing, transportation, outdoor spaces and buildings, safety, recreation, workforce participation, information, respect, health and community services. Multilevel models were used to examine the association between individual social participation, key AFC, and environmental characteristics, while controlling for individual characteristics. Aged between 45 and 89, half of the participants were women who were engaged in 20.2±12.5 activities per month. About 2.5% of the variance in social participation was attributable to municipalities. Better outdoor spaces and buildings (p<0.001), worse communication and information (p<0.01), and lower material deprivation (p<0.001), were associated with higher social participation. Age was the only individual-level variable to have a significant random effect, indicating that municipal contexts may mediate its impact with social participation. This study provides insights to help facilitate social participation and promote age-friendliness, by maintaining safe indoor and outdoor mobility, and informing older adults of available activities.
An Investigation on Mechanical and Durable Properties of Eggshell Based Geopolymer Concrete using Flyash and GGBS
Authors: Chary Konnoju Saikumar , Munilakshmi Nijagala 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This research work represents an investigation of the mechanical, durable properties and microstructure of geopolymer concrete mixed using Eggshell powder, class F fly ash (FA) and Ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS). An optimal combination of FA, GGBS and Eggshell powder was determined using the compressive strength tests of geopolymer pastes and to find the durable properties like acid attack test and sorptivity test were conducted with various different replacements of FA with GGBS and Eggshell powder. The test results are to be taken on the mix proportions of geopolymer concrete various mix to be taken at 28,56, and 90 days respectively. This paper aims to examine the effects of chemical changes of reaction generating liquid on the strength and durable properties done to analyse the microstructure of the mortar through SEM, XRD, FT-IR and porosity assessments. The porosity analysis enabled us to indirectly verify the remarkable mechanical performance obtained by the activation of polymerization according to the chemical components of the Reaction Generating Liquid.
Integrative Rare Disease Biomedical Profile based Network Supporting Drug Repurposing, a case study of Glioblastoma
Authors: McGowan Erin , Sanjak Jaleal , Mathé Ewy A. , Zhu Qian 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and common malignant primary brain tumor; however, treatment remains a significant challenge. This study aims to identify drug repurposing candidates for GBM by developing an integrative rare disease profile network containing heterogeneous types of biomedical data.Methods We developed a Glioblastoma-based Biomedical Profile Network (GBPN) by extracting and integrating biomedical information pertinent to GBM-related diseases from the NCATS GARD Knowledge Graph (NGKG). We further clustered the GBPN based on modularity classes which resulted in multiple focused subgraphs, named mc_GBPN. We then identified high-influence nodes by performing network analysis over the mc_GBPN and validated those nodes that could be potential drug repositioning candidates for GBM.Results We developed the GBPN with 1,466 nodes and 107,423 edges and consequently the mc_GBPN with forty-one modularity classes. A list of the ten most influential nodes were identified from the mc_GBPN. These notably include Riluzole, stem cell therapy, cannabidiol, and VK-0214, with proven evidence for treating GBM.Conclusion Our GBM-targeted network analysis allowed us to effectively identify potential candidates for drug repurposing. This could lead to less invasive treatments for glioblastoma while significantly reducing research costs by shortening the drug development timeline. Furthermore, this workflow can be extended to other disease areas.
High normal alanine aminotransferase is an indicator for better response to antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Cai Chao , Shang Wen-Xuan , Lin En-Hua , Jiang Yu-Chun , Xu Ke , Chen Lu , Chen Rui-Cong , Cai Yi-Jing , Lin Ji , Cai Ting-Chen , Lin Xiu-Li , Zhang Lei , Yang Nai-Bin , Zhang Hui-Fang , Lu Ming-Qin 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Objective:To investigate liver histologic disease in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal ALT (<40U/L), as well as to evaluate the potential benefits of antiviral therapy for these patients, and to establish a management strategy for them.
Methods:We retrospectively examined 1352 patients who underwent liver biopsy from 2017 to 2021 and then obtain their 1-year follow up data to establish a predict model of 1-year HBVDNA clearance rate through Logistic regression.
Results:The proportion of patient with significant histological disease (significant liver necroinflammation or fibrosis) in the high nALT group was significantly higher than that in the low nALT group (56.43% vs 43.82%, p < 0.001, Table 1). HbeAg negative, GGT and ALT value (OR 0.024, 95% CI 0.011–0.055, p < 0.001; OR 1.027, 95% CI 1.006–1.050, p = 0.013; OR 1.993,95% CI 1.115–3.560, p = 0.020, Table 4) were independent predict factors. High normal ALT is an indicator of 1-year HBVDNA clearance after antiviral treatment.
Conclusion: CHB patients with high-normal ALT have significantly higher histological disease rates, and these patients may benefit better from antiviral therapy. We suggest should undergo histological evaluation of liver disease as soon as possible. We also propose these patients should be offered antiviral therapy when feasible.