bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Abundance of Marine Macrodebris on the northern Coast of Jaffna Peninsula, Sri Lanka
Authors: Selvakumar Urmila , Wijesinghe Rajapakshage Dilani Nuwandhika , Arulananthan Ashani 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Marine plastic debris has become a major concern on the northern coast of Jaffna, Sri Lanka, where it poses a threat to marine resources. A preliminary study was conducted to investigate the abundance and characteristics of marine plastic debris at four major fish landing sites in the northern coast of Jaffna, using the Clean Coast Index (CCI) and Plastic Abundance Index (PAI). The results revealed that the average abundance of marine debris and plastic debris were 1.71 ± 0.42 items/m2 and 1.66 ± 0.57 items/m2, respectively. The most common types of plastic debris were plastic rope and net pieces (23.2%), followed by unidentified weathered plastic fragments (16.7%), beverage bottles (16.2%), bottle caps and lids (13%), and styrofoam (14.1%). The recognized sources of plastic debris were mainly fishing-based activities, recreation activities, transboundary sources, and unidentified sources. The cleanliness level of the fish landing sites were categorized as extremely dirty, with high levels of plastic debris, resulting in a CCI above 10 and a PAI value over 8. This study realized the consequence of implementation of a proper plastic waste management framework in the northern coast of Jaffna and highlights the necessity to address buoyant debris on the northern Indian Ocean.
Exploring the Radioactive Nexus: Multidimensional Correlations and Dosimetric Assessment of Elemental Radionuclides
Authors: Hamed Younes , Ncibi Kaouther , Sâad Amina Ben , alaoui Elimame El 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This study examines the radioactivity levels in Tunisia influenced by geological diversity and socio-economic influences. The region's landscapes are characterized by abundant mining and industrial activities, particularly phosphate mining and chemical sectors. Statistical analysis reveals that average radioactivity in the air (0.104 µSv) is lower than in soil (0.158 µSv) due to air dilution. Positive correlations are observed between air and soil radioactivity levels. Spatial distribution mapping shows higher radioactivity concentrations in mining and industrial areas. Radiation risk assessment calculates Ambient Dose Index (ADI), Equivalent Effective Dose Index (EDEI), and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) have been evaluated. ADI values exceed WHO standard for infants and children. EDEI ranges from 0.006 to 0.309, with 54.2% of samples surpassing the standard value of 0.1. ELCR for a 40-year lifespan varies from 0.013 to 0.619. Continuous monitoring and protective measures are vital to reduce health risks associated with ionizing radiation exposure. The study emphasizes the need for safeguarding public health in regions with significant mining and industrial activities and raises awareness of potential health hazards related to high concentrations of radioactive elements.
The Relationship Between Reproductive Hormones with bone mineral density and bone mineral content in a rapidly aging population
Authors: Yang Zhenlei , Li Jiena , Chen Bo , Li xin ning , Han Zhe , Wei Qingjun 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Reproductive Hormones have the potential to affect Bone metabolism. Nevertheless, the correlation between reproductive hormones and levels of bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) in females is still inconclusive. The objective of our research was to examine how reproductive hormones affect bone metabolism in a population that is aging quickly.
Methods: A cross-sectional study of 39,165 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018 was conducted. The researchers conducted both multivariable linear regression modeling and propensity-score matching (PSM).
Results: For analysis, a total of 4415 women who were 20 years old or older were included. In every multivariable linear regression model, BMD and BMC levels were found to have a negative correlation with menopausal status. Consistent results were also obtained after conducting PSM with 114 cases in each group.
Conclusion: It was discovered that BMD and BMC levels were significantly lower in postmenopausal women in comparison to premenopausal women. Examining the correlation between reproductive endocrinology and bone mineral density is crucial for advancing clinical research and developing secure and efficient treatments for osteoporosis in a swiftly aging society.
Well-preserved fallout basaltic tuff in central Paraná-Etendeka Large Igneous Province: pyroclastic evidence of high fire-fountain eruptions
Authors: Besser Marcell Leonard , Licht Otavio Augusto Boni , Vasconcellos Eleonora Maria Gouvêa 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The Paraná-Etendeka Large Igneous Province (PELIP) is renowned for its massive and rapidly emplaced flood basalts that dominated the center of the Gondwana supercontinent during the Early Cretaceous. However, little is currently understood about mafic explosive eruptions, which often occur simultaneously with effusive activity, as observed in young basaltic volcanism. In this report, we present a well-preserved layer of basaltic tuff interbedded at the base of the high-Ti basaltic lava sequence in the central part of the province, Brazil. The Tapalam Tuff is well-sorted and consists of basaltic juvenile scoriaceous lapilli, vitroclastic coarse ash, and cement containing clays, zeolites, carbonates, and iron oxides. The glassy fragments (sideromelane-palagonite) range from well-rounded with smooth, curved surfaces to highly angular, cuspate-shaped shards. Achneliths morphologies include broken droplets (Pele's tears), thread fragments (Pele's hair), dumbbells, needles, spheres, ovoids and, an extremely rare shape to preserve, the reticulite. Elongated pyroclasts exhibit a flat orientation, and subtle bedding is defined by granulometric alternation. Our findings suggest proximity to the volcanic vent and likely indicate a fallout deposit associated with a fluid-dominated, high-height (hundreds of meters or more than 1 km) fire fountain Hawaiian-type eruption fed by very low viscous basaltic magma. These results reveal that magmatic activity was not exclusively dominated by purely effusive volcanism but also involved explosive eruptions, which can have significant implications for understanding PELIP's volcanic history and its relation to local and global environmental changes.
Multiple intracellular pathogen infections with ocular immune damage associated with adult-onset immunodeficiency due to anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies: A case report
Authors: Ning Yan , Yu Qingliang , Liang Hanlin , Wu Siyao , Liang Xiaona , He Zhiyi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Autoantibodies to interferon-γ（IFN-γ）can inhibit IFN-γ-dependent signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1 phosphorylation thus predispose those patients with susceptibility to infections with normally considered low virulence pathogens, such as Talaromyces marneffei (TM), nontuberculous mycobacteria（NTM）and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. [1][2]But they are not as commonly associated with TM and NTM co-infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Case presentation: Herein, we report a case of a middle-aged woman with a history of recurrent rash, cough, and expectoration. She was successively diagnosed with NTM, TM, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and allergic conjunctivitis without conventional immunosuppression-associated factors in the past. The most conspicuous characteristics were recurrent infection and immune compromission.
Conclusions: High-titer anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies (AIGAs) are strongly associated with severe and disseminated infections, such as NTM, TM and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is characterized by persistently elevated levels of inflammation and immunoglobin.
Thermodynamic Gibb's Free Energy and Enhancement of Double Effect U-Shape solar distiller performance of ZnO/Jackfruit peel with silver steel balls Study
Authors: Sangeetha Anbalazhan , Shanmugan Sengottaiyan , Kabeel Abd-Elnaby 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

To achieve thermal energy storage using a heat transfer carrier, a novel prototype of a double effect U-shape stepped solar distiller (DUSD) of ZnO for Jackfruit peel (ZJP) synthesis is presented. Silver colour steel balls (S) with ZJP are the main component of DUSD, which improves the internal heat transmission process. The Laplacian technique is used to solve the system for the temperature components using Thermodynamic Gibb's free energy. Thermodynamic with simulation process of DUSD utilizing MATLAB SIMULINK revealed the energy efficiency and consumption as per ZJPS performance. The inside basin of the DUSD is lined with silver steel balls, spaced 15 cm apart to increase heat energy. ZJP materials with 6.37 L/m2 yields have been examined as XRD, surface morphology, and DUSD significances from 9.00 am to 5:00 pm. ZJPS achieve of DUSD uses a basin area with a daily reduction of roughly 7.648 L/m2. The design's best energy efficiency, 53.46%, is presented by the thermodynamic Gibb's free energy with the ZJPS Laplacian. This study has significant benefits in thermodynamics Gibb's free energy Laplacian with environmental effect potential and problems compared to existing green synthesis approaches. This study provides theoretical guidance for the conversion of thermal energy cleansing and demonstrates the viability of DUSD of ZJP synthesis.
Predictors of functional status and disability among patients living with chronic kidney diseases at St Paul’s hospital millennium Medical College, Ethiopia; findings from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Deme Sisay , Janakiraman Balamurugan , Alamer Abayneh , Wayessa Dechasa Imiru , Yitbarek Tesfalem , Sidiq Mohammad 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
The rise in risk factors like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus has partly led to the increase in the number of patients affected by chronic kidney disease, affecting an estimated 843 million people which is near about 10% of the general population worldwide in 2017. Patients with CKD have an increased risk of functional difficulties and disability. This study aimed to assess the level of functional status and disability and its associated factors among patients with chronic kidney attending Saint Paul Hospital, Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 302 enrolled study participants through systematic random sampling techniques. Face-to-face interviews and chart reviews were used to collect data using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from works of literature. The Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) was used to assess the functional status and disability of the participants. Data was entered into EPI info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was employed with a p-value less than 0.25. Finally, those variables having a p-value less than 0.05 with 95% CI in multivariate analysis were taken as statistically significant.
Results
A total of 219 (72.5%) CKD patients had moderate to severe functional limitation and disability (HAQ-Di > 0.5-3). Age > 50 years [AOR = 1.65; 95% CI (1.23, 3.15)], being at stage 2 and 3 CKD [AOR = 4.05; 95% CI (1.82, 9.21), being at stage 4 and 5 CKD [AOR = 2.47; 95% CI (1.87, 4.72)], and having MSK manifestations [AOR = 2.97; 95% CI (1.61, 5.55)] were significantly associated with functional status and disability.
Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that CKD-associated functional disabilities are common. The advanced stage of CKD, higher age, and presence of musculoskeletal manifestations appear to be important variables predicting self-reported functional status. Healthcare professionals treating CKD shall be vigilant about the CKD-associated disability, the modifiable predictors, and interventions to limit the CKD-related disability.
Association of the universal free school lunch program with body mass index among Korean high school students, 2018-2021
Authors: Kim Jinhyun , Kim Hyunkyu , Park Eun-Cheol , Shin Jaeyong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background:
We aimed to analyze the association between universal free school meal (UFSM) and body mass index (BMI) among Korean high school students, compared to selective free school meal programs for low-income households (conventional school meal [CSM] programs).
Methods:
Data from Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey (KYRBS) conducted in 2018–2021 were utilized. We analyzed the likelihood of being underweight, overweight and obese before and after the UFSM introduction using multinomial logistic regression. The annual meal expenses per one student borne by school foodservice were considered. The year, grade, family composition, economic status, academic performance, eating habits, physical activity, sedentary time, sleep duration, self-reported health status, perceived stress level, drinking status, and smoking status were adjusted.
Results:
This study included 85,043 high school students from KYRBS were analyzed, including 43,424 boys (51.1%) and 41,619 girls (48.9%). Only girls under the UFSM program showed a higher likelihood of being overweight and obese (adjusted odds ratio: 1.181, confidence interval = 1.066–1.308). Female students with middle and high economic status and under the UFSM program had higher likelihood of overweight and obesity compared with those under the CSM program. Both male and female participants under the UFSM program with high meal expenses had higher likelihood of overweight and obesity.
Conclusions:
UFSM could be associated with adolescent overweight and obesity, particularly in girls. Due to possible concerns about overnutrition, further assessment and appropriate intervention should be considered.
Epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response in a multi-hazard context: COVID-19 pandemic as a point of reference
Authors: Kamalrathne Thushara , Amaratunga Dilanthi , Haigh Richard , Kodituwakku Lahiru , Rupasinghe Chintha , Ranaweera Prasad , Herath Heamantha 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
Infectious diseases which manifest in the form of epidemics or pandemics not only cause devastating impacts on public health systems but disrupt the functioning of the entire socio-economic architecture. Further, risks associated with pandemics and epidemics become exacerbated with coincident compound hazards. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a broader understanding of cascading and systemic challenges posed by epidemics and pandemics amidst compound hazards. This study explains key elements and components of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response systems, aligned to key interventional phases, focusing to a multi-hazard context.
Methods
A systematic literature review was used to collect data through peer-reviewed journal articles. Manuscript search was conducted using three electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect. Thirty-eight research papers were included in the analysis and 17 experts were involved in the validation, which was conducted using three rounds of consultative meetings and a validation workshop.
Results
Epidemiological surveillance and early detection, risk and vulnerability assessments, preparedness, prediction and decision making, alerts and early warning, preventive strategies, control and mitigation, response, and elimination were identified as key elements associated with epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response systems amidst a multi-hazard context. All elements appear integrated within three interventional phases, identified as upstream, interface and downstream that are dedicated to specific interventions, ranging from decision-making to disease elimination. A conceptual framework on epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response systems was developed capturing key elements and interventional phases that relate to several epidemic and pandemic stages.
Conclusions
A holistic approach with a focus on all interventional phases is required for preparedness and response to pandemics and epidemics to counter their cascading and systemic effects. Further, a paradigm shift in the preparedness and response for multi-hazards during an epidemic or pandemic is essential due to the multiple challenges posed by concurrent hazards.
Protocol for cost-effectiveness analysis of a randomised trial of mHealth coaching (Bump2Baby and Me) compared to usual care for healthy gestational weight gain and postnatal outcomes in at-risk women and their offspring
Authors: Nørmark Laura Pirhonen , McAuliffe Fionnuala M , Maindal Helle Terkildsen , O’Reilly Sharleen , Davies Anna , Burden Christy , Skinner Timothy , Vrangbaek Karsten , Callander Emily 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and overweight are associated with an increased likelihood of complications during birth and for the newborn baby. These complications lead to increased immediate and long-term healthcare costs as well as reduced health and wellbeing in women and infants. This protocol presents the health-economic evaluation to investigate the cost-effectiveness of Bump2Baby and Me (B2B&Me), which is a health coaching intervention delivered via smartphone to women at risk of gestational diabetes.
Methods
Using data from the B2B&Me randomised controlled trial, this economic evaluation compares costs and health effects between the intervention and control group using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Direct healthcare costs, costs of pharmaceuticals and intervention costs will be included in the analysis, body weight and quality-adjusted life years will serve as the effect outcomes. To investigate the long-term cost-effectiveness of the trial, a Markov model will be employed. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis will be employed.
Discussion
GDM is a growing public health concern affecting both short and long-term health outcomes and healthcare costs. Identifying cost-effective options for prevention is an international global priority. This protocol describes the methods for calculating the short-term and long-term cost-effectiveness of an intervention aimed at preventing GDM, overweight and obesity amongst women during pregnancy and the first year postpartum.
Trial registration
Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12620001240932. Registered on 19th November 2020
Inverse problems for climate policy mixes including geoengineering
Authors: Bodai Tamas , Lembo Valerio , Aneesh Sundaresan , Lee Sun-Seon , Ishuzu Miho , Franz Matthias O. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

There is a palpable shift in mainstream attitude towards geoengineering, seen now as a potential part of a climate policy mix. Still, no-one wants to get on a slippery slope, compounding the risks, and, therefore, we should ask ourselves what is the minimal geoengineering that we can get away with. Such questions lead mathematically to inverse problems. Solving them is feasible only with lightweight models of the climate system, various types of which are nowadays often referred to as emulators – some more accurate than others. Here we develop an emulator using nonlinear response theory and apply it to two paradigmatic inverse problems relevant to climate policy. First, we investigate the attainability of the coveted Paris15 temperature targets. Second, through a simple multi-stable model, we determine what it takes to save the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) as we know it. Our results suggest, first, that solar radiation management (SRM) geoengineering, most commonly envisaged as sulfate aerosol injection, will likely have to be part of our climate policy mix, because realistic CO2 abatement effort to come alone cannot restrict global temperatures below 1.5 ◦C change or below even higher levels of change. Minimal sulfate use for a threshold target is achieved by immediate and abrupt deployment. Second, we demonstrate also the importance of precisely knowing not only the stable but also the unstable so-called Melancholia states of climate tipping elements, such as the GrIS, as miscalculations can lead to acting too late – whether it is CO2 abatement on the short term or SRM geoengineering deployed in the far future.
Assessing the Yuli Surface Deformation from the 20220918 Chishang Earthquake: An Integrated RTK GPS Network Approach
Authors: Widiatmoko Fajar Rizki , Yen Jiun-Yee , Yen I-Chin , Huang Shao-Yi , Shih Nai-Wun 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The 2022 0918 Taitung earthquake, or Chishang earthquake, impacted the Yuli area in eastern Taiwan, situated at the Philippine Sea Plate and Eurasian Plate boundary. This study uses RTK GPS measurements to characterize the earthquake's effects, revealing different coseismic displacement patterns in the Central Range, Coastal Range, and Longitudinal Valley blocks. Ruptures were mainly in the Longitudinal Valley, extending into Yuli downtown. The influence on these geological formations highlights the complex interactions between the structures and underlying tectonic forces. Data show the Central Range block experienced a 1.05 m SW horizontal displacement and 1.32 m vertical uplift, while the Coastal Range block displayed a 1.45 m NW horizontal displacement and 0.16 m subsidence. The Longitudinal Valley block was divided by recent ruptures, with its western part impacted by the Central Range block, experiencing a 0.74 m SW displacement and 0.97 m uplift, and its eastern part influenced by the Coastal Range block, experiencing a 0.96 m NW displacement and 0.14 m uplift. This suggests the seismic events were related to the Yuli Fault, a west-side up, reverse left-slip fault, likely triggered by the Central Range Fault, hinting at a Yuli Fault westward dip potentially connected to the Central Range Fault. Comparing our results with previous studies, we analyze Yuli's structural and tectonic features in Taiwan's broader geological context, contributing to the region's seismology, tectonics, and dynamic geology.
Protect the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerves in US-guided Microwave Ablation of Thyroid Nodules at Zuckerkandl tubercle: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hu Ziyue , Wang Lu , Lu Man , Yang Wei , Wu Xiaobo , Xu Jinshun , Zhuang Min , Wang Shishi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of US-guided microwave ablation in patients with thyroid nodules at Zuckerkandl tubercle.
Methods: 113 consecutive patients with thyroid nodules at Zuckerkandl tubercle (ZTTN) were enrolled in this study from November 2017 to August 2021. Prior to the surgery or US-guided microwave ablation (MWA), preoperative ultrasound visualization of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and ZTTN was performed, the size and the position relationship between them were observed. Patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after MWA and the volume reduction rates (VRR) of the thyroid nodules were analyzed.
Results: All patients successfully had the RLN and ZTTN detected using ultrasound before surgery or ablation with a detection rate of 100%. For the 103 patients, the majority of ZTTN grades were categorized as grade 2, with the distance from the farthest outside of ZTTN to the outer edge of thyroid ranging between 6.0 and 10.0 mm. The position relationship between ZTTN and RLN was predominantly type A in 100 cases, with type D observed in 3 cases. After MWA, the median nodule volume had significantly decreased from 4.61 (2.34, 8.70) ml to 0.42 (0.15, 1.41) ml and the VRR achieved 84.36±13.87% at 12 months. No nodules regrew throughout the 12-month follow-up period. Of the 11 patients experienced hoarseness due to RLN entrapment before ablation, 7 recovered immediately after separation of the RLN and ZTTN during MWA, 2 recovered after one week, and the other 2 recovered after two months.
Conclusions: The RLN is closely related to ZTTN and mainly located at the back of ZTTN. The RLN can be separated from ZTTN by hydrodissection during MWA.US-guided MWA is a safe and effective treatment for ZTTN.