bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Fast and Accurate DE-Formula Algorithm to Evaluate Ambartsumian-Chandrarasekhar H-Function for Isotropic Scattering
Authors: Kawabata Kiyoshi 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
In the present work, a compact, fast, and yet accurate algorithm is developed to calculate the numerical values of the Ambartsumian-Chandrasekhar’s H-function for isotropic scattering and its moments on the basis of the double exponential (DE) formula of Takahashi and Mori (1974, RIMS, Kyoto Univ., Vo. 9, 721). The main improvementmade in the new method is an elimination of the iterative procedure for automatic adjustment of the step-size of integrations carried out with the DE-formula. Instead, a set of optimal values for the upper limit of integration Tmax and the number of division points NT to specify the step-size of the quadrature is predetermined for calculations of the Hfunction with a 15-digit accuracy, and also another for the evaluations of the moments with an accuracy of 14-digits or better. FORTRAN90 subroutines HFISCA for the H-function and HFMOMENT for the moments of arbitrary degrees are subsequently constructed (their source codes and a driver together with a sample set of output are shown in Appendix A of this paper). Tables of sample calculations of the H-function and its moments of degree -1 through 6 carried out by these programs are also presented. The routines HFISCA and HFMOMENT should prove usefulnot only in astrophysical applications but also in other disciplines of science such as the electron transports in condensed matter and remotesensing data analyses. A request for a copy of the Fortran 90 source code of the program can be made by writing to kawabata@rs.kagu.tus.ac.jp.
Major dominant invasive alien plant species, land uses types and their management practice in Shashemene district, Ethiopia
Authors: Zemede Juhar , Mekuria Tegenu 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
Even though Ethiopia has great geographic diversity, macro and micro-climatic variability, invasive alien species are deliberately or unintentionally introduced outside their natural habitat and establish themselves, invade, out-compete natives and take over the new environment and threatening to biodiversity, ecosystem services, social, ecological and economical impacts of the country.
Materials and methods
Primary data were generated and collected comprehensive assessment technique from preliminary survey, interview and observations were used for the primary data collection which conducted from June 6, 2021 to April 10, 2022 in three rounds to collect basic information and observation of invasive species. Fifteen representative sites were selected using purposive sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics and Microsoft-Excel spread sheet were used for data presentation and analysis.
Results
Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana camara, Argemone ochroleuca, was the most dominant invasive species. Invasive species differently distributed over land use types, non-cultivated land roadside and grazing land were the most dominantly affected land use type in the woreda.
Conclusion
Invasive alien plant species invaded in the district, they are highly intensive on non-cultivated, crazing land and road side type on land use types and affecting natural resource, human and livestock health problem.
A parametric investigation of the influence of knots on the flexural behaviour of wood beams
Authors: Saad Khaled , Lengyel András 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
The presence of knots significantly influences the mechanical behaviour of timber. This research presents a parametric finite element analysis of the effect of knot characteristics on the flexural capacity of wood beams. Parameters include knot radius, longitudinal and vertical positions, length, and diving angle. The generation of the FE model is based on a technique developed in a previous research stage, and bending tests on a set of beams were employed for the validation. The numerical model accurately recreates the three-dimensional geometry of the knot and related fibre deviations. The capacity of the beams under bending is evaluated via the Tsai--Wu failure criterion. Findings reveal that the presence of knots in the tension zone leads to an early tensile failure and insufficient utilization of compression capacity. The decrease of bending capacity may rise to 39\%, and the knot inclination may positively or negatively influence the behaviour depending on the diving angle.
Association Between Diet Quality &amp; Gestational Weight Gain Rate Among Pregnant Women in Dhulikhel, Nepal
Authors: Martin Kelly , Radler Diane Rigassio , Sackey Joachim , Zhang Cuilin , Shrestha Kusum , Shrestha Abha , Shrestha Archana , Barrett Emily S. , Rawal Shristi 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
Despite promising data from high-income countries, the impact of diet quality on gestational weight gain (GWG) has not been investigated in the context of many low-income countries including Nepal.
Methods
We prospectively examined the association between diet quality and GWG rate among a cohort of singleton pregnant women (n = 101; age 25.9 ± 4.1 years) from a community-based periurban hospital in Dhulikhel, Nepal. Diet quality was assessed from the adapted Nepali version of the 21-item PrimeScreen questionnaire in the 1st trimester. The diet quality score is based on consumption frequency of 21 food group components (score ranging 0–42), categorized as healthy (12 groups) versus unhealthy (9 groups), with higher scores indicative of better overall diet quality. The GWG rate was calculated as the measured weight at early-to-mid 3rd trimester (28–35 wks) minus the weight at 2nd trimester (13–25 wks), divided by the number of weeks in between. Linear regression estimated the association between diet quality and GWG rate, adjusting for a priori covariates (i.e. age, education, ethnicity, pre-pregnancy BMI, and nausea/vomiting.)
Results
The mean GWG rate in mid-to-late pregnancy was 0.46 ± 0.2 kg/wk and the mean diet quality score was 23.6 ± 2.5. Based on pre-pregnancy BMI, 49.4% of women had excessive GWG rate, while nearly equal numbers had either adequate GWG or inadequate GWG rate. There was no significant association between diet quality and GWG rate [adjusted β (95% CI) = -0.02 (-0.05, 0.01); p = 0.14]. The mean GWG rate was marginally higher (0.57 vs. 0.44 kg/wk; p = 0.06) among those with high versus low (2 + servings vs. 0–1 serving/wk) intake of red meat; similar findings were seen when comparing red meat intake between women with excessive versus adequate GWG (Cramer's V = 0.2; p = 0.06).
Conclusions
While overall diet quality is not related to GWG among Nepali women, a high intake of red meat may be a potential risk factor for excessive GWG in this population.
Influence of a biliary stent in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with modified FOLFIRINOX
Authors: Yoshikawa-Kimura Akie , Taira Koichi , Maruyama Hirotsugu , Ishikawa-Kakiya Yuki , Yamamura Masafumi , Tanoue Kojiro , Hagihara Atsushi , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Enomoto Masaru , Kimura Kenjiro , Tanaka Shogo , Amano Ryosuke , Takemura Shigekazu , Ohfuji Satoko , Tanaka Fumio , Nagami Yasuaki , Fujiwara Yasuhiro 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Purpose
We aimed to elucidate the effects of biliary stents on the survival in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX).
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with mFFX between January 2014 and April 2020. In the analysis, we compared the overall survival (OS) of patients with and those without biliary stent during the mFFX treatment, and examined the independent effect on mortality by means of propensity score-matching.
Results
Overall, we included 89 patients (stent group, n = 24; non-stent group, n = 65). The proportion of patients with pancreatic head cancer was significantly higher in the stent group than in the non-stent group (p < 0.01). Stratification analysis in patients with pancreatic head cancer revealed that OS was significantly shorter in the stent group than in the non-stent group (p = 0.03). After propensity score-matching, 19 pairs of patients in each group were analyzed. The stent group revealed a significantly shorter survival than the non-stent group (median OS, 10.3 vs. 24.9 months, respectively; p < 0.01). The incidences of febrile neutropenia (p = 0.01) and biliary tract-related events (p < 0.01) were significantly higher in the stent group than in the non-stent group. Stent insertion was an independent risk factor for overall mortality.
Conclusions
Biliary stents may reduce survival in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Although they are essential for treating malignant biliary obstruction and for safe chemotherapy, we need to assess the patient’s condition with discretion and develop a treatment strategy with the short prognosis in mind after stent insertion.
The Influence of Kyphoplasty on the Progression of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Tiemure , Han Xiao , Tian Wei , Wang Lifang , Wang Chao 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: The effect of kyphoplasty or rather Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) on adjacent intervertebral discs is still controversial. The evidence from experimental study to clinical study presents bipolar conclusions. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) on adjacent intervertebral discs degeneration (IDD).Methods: The adjacent intervertebral discs of vertebral treated by PKP procedure are classified as experimental group, and the adjacent intervertebral discs of non-traumatized vertebral are included in the control group. The intervertebral disc height are compared by using the Mann-Whitney U test. Modified Pfirrmann Scores (MPS) differences were compared by using simple regression analysis after eliminating the influence of time. The relationship between the quantity of intradiscal cement leakage and the progression rate of disc degeneration was assessed by using MPS differences and Z Klezl and S Patel (ZK and SP) classification with simple regression analysis. Results. 264 intervertebral discs of 66 people were finally selected for the study. The comparison of intervertebral disc height differences results with a p-value of > 0.05. Comparing with MPS differences between 2 groups, in terms of upper disc scores difference, the degree of degeneration (MPS differences) increases by 0.394 compared with the control group, regardless of lower disc scores difference, MPS differences increases by 0.333 compared with the control group. Comparing the ZK and SP grade and the MPS differences of upper / lower intervertebral disc, each increase of the grade will increase the MPS differences by 0.123 / 0.155 compared with the previous level. Conclusion: PKP procedure can accelerate adjacent IDD but would not cause disc height changes in the early stage. The quantity of cement leaking into the disc space is positively correlated with the rate of progression of disc degeneration.
Tactical application of zonal defenses in football between teams Jelen Super League of Serbia and Premier League of England for the season 2015 / 2016
Authors: Živanović Vladimir 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Purpose: The aim of study was to determine the scope of difference in successfully and unsuccessfully formed zonal defenses in modern football (high, medium-central, mids-laterals, deep-central and deeps-laterals zones) with the their entire specifics. Methods: The analyzed is a six matches, i.e., three matches of “Jelen Super League” and three matches of “Premier League” for the season 2015 / 2016. The data were collected by observing the video tapes, with personal presentation of selected variables. The descriptive statistics is determined by the frequency distribution in the form of nominal statistical scale (mean, SD, cV, and standard variance), while in comparisons were used parametric and nonparametric discriminant procedures. Results: The results shows greatest differences in favor of the teams „PL“ of England in variables unsuccessfully established medium-laterals zones (32.6), unsuccessful high zones (25.0) and unsuccessful medium-centrals zones (23.0). The minimal statistical differences were found in the variables successful medium-centrals zones with a duel game and lower-laterals zones with a sliding in favor of the teams „JSL“ of the Serbia, values (0.6 and 1.0) as well as lower-centrals zones with a ball interruption in favor of the teams „PL“ of England (1.0). Conclusions: The analyzed teams had a major problem in the areas of high and mediums-centrals-laterals zones to cease the opponent’s attack and when in fact they could not do that, they defend with the available methods in central and lower central`s zone, with the models of duels, interruptions and slidings as the lowest use parameter in the tactics of defense.
Centering Resiliency and Capturing Covitality: Patterns of Well-Being among Former Youth in Foster Care
Authors: PAZ JENNICA L , Arch Dina Naji , Kazee Traviana 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
While innumerable factors may impede a former foster student’s educational or vocational success, less empirical attention has focused on systemically exploring psychosocial attributes among this resilient population. Utilizing a Strengths-Based Assessment (SBA) framework, this study expands upon recommendations for holistic and resiliency-informed assessments among former students in foster care. This pilot study informs a longitudinal investigation to systematically identify patterns of well-being among a highly resilient group of students pursuing post-secondary degrees. An exemplar multifaceted, strength-based framework with robust psychometric properties and international applications, known as Covitality, offers a promising framework for measuring well-being from the college student’s perspective. Partnering with a community organization aims of this study include: (a) uncover patterns of well-being among a culturally rich and resilient population using a holistic measure of well-being (i.e., SEHS-HE), (b) identify positive psychological interventions uniquely tied to Covitality data, and (c) highlight qualitative feedback to amplify student voice and well-being promotion. 156 former foster youth responded to the SEHS-Higher Education (SEHS-HE) survey across two periods (Spring 2019, n = 80, and Spring 2021, n = 76). Data analytic methods included (1) descriptive statistics and parametric testing at wave one and (2) longitudinal analyses. Results from wave one participants indicate statistically significant differences (p < .05) in total Covitality by ultimate career goal, and Covitality significantly predicted life satisfaction among former foster youth. Implications for practice, positive psychological interventions, limitations, and future directions are offered to propel efforts towards centering resiliency, well-being, and educational success.
Knowledge, perceptions and uptake of human papilloma virus vaccine among adolescent girls in Kampala Capital City Authority, Uganda; A cross-sectional school-based survey
Authors: Bitariho Kakuru Glet , Tuhebwe Doreen , Tigaiza Arnold , Nalugya Aisha , Ssekamatte Tonny , Kiwanuka Suzanne N 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge, accounting for substantial morbidity and mortality. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination is the recommended primary intervention for HPV prevention. There’s however limited evidence on the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of stakeholders on HPV vaccination in Kampala city, Uganda. This study assessed stakeholders’ knowledge, perceptions, and practices towards HPV vaccination program in Kampala, Uganda to guide programs aimed at improving uptake of the vaccine.
Methods
A cross-sectional study using mixed data collection methods was conducted in Kampala, Uganda. A structured questionnaire was administered to 524 adolescent girls. In addition, 6 Focus group discussions, and 13 key informant interviews (teacher and parents) were conducted. Multistage and purposive sampling were used for the quantitative and qualitative participants respectively. Quantitative data were entered using epidata, and cleaned and analyzed in Stata v14. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis in atlas ti version 8.
Results
About 49.2% (258/524) of the girls had low knowledge of HPV. Qualitatively, knowledge was lacking among teachers and parents especially concerning the target age group, dosage, and vaccine interval. Girls residing in rural areas (aPR = 0.35, C. I = 0.14–0.85, P -value = 0.028) had lower knowledge levels compared to those in urban areas. About 51.9% (272/524) of girls had negative perceptions towards HPV vaccination. Parents expressed negative perceptions, beliefs, superstitions, and safety concerns of the vaccine. Only 8.6% (45/524) of the girls had completed the HPV vaccine schedule. Girls whose mothers were healthcare providers (aPR = 1.94, C. I = 1.10–3.41, P -value = 0.021), girls with high knowledge levels (aPR = 1.79, C. I = 1.21–2.63, P -value = 0.003) and positive perceptions (aPR = 2.87, C. I = 1.93–4.27, P -value = 0.000) had higher odds of vaccination.
Conclusion
All stakeholders generally had low levels of knowledge, negative perceptions, and poor uptake and practices toward HPV vaccination. We recommend sensitization campaigns in schools and communities to improve awareness, perceptions, and practices of stakeholders towards HPV vaccination.
Has SARS-CoV-2 evolved and adapted to circulate at high temperatures?
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Mattiuzzi Camilla , Henry Brandon M. 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: Since SARS-CoV-2 has undergone a considerable genetic evolution over time, we investigated its infectivity in the province of Verona (Italy), during the month of July of the first three pandemic years (i.e., 2020, 2021 and 2022).Methods: The daily number of new COVID-19 diagnoses in the province of Verona between July 1-27 of the years 2020, 2021 and 2022 was retrieved from the database of the Regional Healthcare Service, whilst the mean daily air temperature during the same period in the same area was downloaded from an official Italian meteorological website. Results: The mean July air temperature in Verona was 24±2°C in 2020, 25±2°C in 2021 and 28±2°C in 2022. The daily number of new COVID-19 diagnoses in the province of Verona increased from 2.5±5.7 in July 2020, to 106.0±71.8 in July 2021, up to 1287.4±509.9 in July 2022. The number of new COVID-19 diagnoses made in the province of Verona in July 2022 has increased by 519- and 12-fold in 2022 compared to the same month of the previous two years, despite the fact that the mean air temperature also notably increased by 18% and 15% compared to the years 2020 and 2021, respectively.Conclusion: The results of this analysis suggest that the strong evolutive pressure placed on SARS-CoV-2 over time may have fostered the accumulation of mutations that have contributed to evolve and adapt the virus to circulate even at high temperatures, thus calling for reinforcing preventive measures and healthcare preparedness even during the warmest periods of the year.
NLRP3 in tumor-associated macrophages predicts a poor prognosis and promotes tumor growth in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Lei , Wan Shu-Cheng , Mao Liang , Huang Cong-Fa , Bu Lin-Lin , Sun Zhi-Jun 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
The NLRP3 inflammasome plays cell- and tissue-specific roles in cancer, meaning that its activation in different tumors or cells may play different roles in tumor progression. We have previously described the tumor-promoting function of tumor-intrinsic NLRP3/IL-1β signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but its role in immune cells remains unclear. In this study, we found that NLRP3 was highly expressed in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in both mouse and human HNSCC, and the expression of NLRP3 was positively correlated with the density of TAMs according to immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry analyses. Importantly, the number of NLRP3high TAMs was related to worse overall survival (OS) in HNSCC patients. Knocking out NLRP3 inhibited M2 macrophage differentiation in vitro. Moreover, the carcinogenic effect induced by 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) was decreased in Nlrp3-deficient mice, which had smaller tumor sizes. Genetic depletion of NLRP3 reduced the expression of protumoral cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and CCL2, and suppressed the accumulation of TAMs and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in mouse HNSCC. Thus, activation of NLRP3 in TAMs may contribute to tumor progression and have prognostic significance in HNSCC.
The diagnosis and management of septic cavernous sinus thrombosis in a previously healthy paediatric patient: case report
Authors: Musleh Mohammud , Ahmed Kiran , Richardson David , Khan Taufiq , Khan Aldrin 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a rare complication of local or systemic infection. Despite aggressive antibiotic treatment, it can be associated with significant rates of mortality and morbidity. Case Presentation We report a left sided traumatic septic CST and internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion complicated by third, fourth and sixth nerve palsies in a healthy boy. This was treated conservatively with intravenous antibiotics and anticoagulants with near complete resolution of ocular movement deficit Conclusion Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis is a rare complication of the spread of untreated infection, predominantly of facial or paranasal origin. A high clinical suspicion in at-risk patients of early symptoms and signs, such as persistent fever and meningism, should prompt diagnostic neuroimaging and early intervention prior to the onset of advanced features such as cranial nerve palsies. In our experience, a timely multi-disciplinary approach with intensive parenteral antibiotics and anti-coagulants is associated with good clinical outcomes.
Regionalization of flow duration curves in Colombia
Authors: Gaviria Carlos , Carvajal-Serna Fernando 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
It is essential to know the streamflow behavior in hydrological basins for appropriate water resource planning and management. In Colombia, where there is a considerable water resource potential, there is a need to generate hydrological modeling for many ungauged catchments. Thus, this study presents the regionalization of flow duration curves (FDC) in Colombia. Daily flow time series from 655 gauging stations were used to define homogenous hydrological regions, considering geological, topographic, and climatic information. Fifteen hydrological regions were delimited by cluster analysis using the K-means algorithm, all of which exhibited high spatial heterogeneity. Multiple linear regressions were used to estimate characteristic dimensionless flows as a function of each basin's attributes. A set of equations that allow the reconstruction of simulated dimensionless FDC for each cluster was determined, and regression (R2) values of 0.5–0.9 were obtained. The percentage error of the mean, maximum, and minimum discharge of the simulated FDC compared with observed values were approximately 9, 30, and 50%, respectively.