The Scientific World Journal最新文献

A computational model enables the extraction of two critical myocardial tissue properties: activation time (AT) and contractility (Con) from recorded cardiac strains. However, interference between these parameters reduces the precision and accuracy of the extraction process. This study investigates whether leveraging features in the parameter space can enhance parameter extraction. We utilized a computational model to simulate sarcomere mechanics, creating a parameter space grid of 41 × 41 AT and Con pairs. Each pair generated a simulated strain pattern, and by scanning the grid, we identified cohorts of similar strain patterns for each simulation. These cohorts were represented as binary images-synthetic fingerprints-where the position and shape of each blob indicated extraction uniqueness. We also generated a measurement fingerprint for a strain pattern from a patient with left bundle branch block and compared it to the synthetic fingerprints to calculate a proximity map based on their similarity. This approach allowed us to extract AT and Con using both the measurement fingerprint and the proximity map, corresponding to simple optimization and enhanced parameter extraction methods, respectively. Each synthetic fingerprint consisted of a single connected blob whose size and shape varied characteristically within the parameter space. The AT values extracted from the measurement fingerprint and the proximity map ranged from -59 to 19 ms and from -16 to 14 ms, respectively, while Con values ranged from 48% to 110% and from 85% to 110%, respectively. This study demonstrates that similarity in simulations leads to an asymmetric distribution of parameter values in the parameter space. By using a proximity map, this distortion is considered, significantly improving the accuracy of parameter extraction.

This study was conducted in the Mandara Mountains in Cameroon and aimed to assess the effects of human activities on woody vegetation in gallery forests, based on floristic inventories and observations made by the government. Firstly, the inventories were carried out in 150 plots of 1000 m² each, installed on the banks of watercourses following the band of plant formations. In each plot, woody species were counted and those showing at least one sign of degradation were noted. Secondly, the survey was conducted in 18 administrative structures made up of delegations (MINFOF, MINADER, MINEPDED, and MINEPIA) and town halls. One hundred woody species, grouped into 63 genera and 30 families, have been inventoried, in which 45 species showed at least one sign of damage caused by human being. The species most affected are Anogeissus leiocarpus (67 stems), Azadirachta indica (46 stems), Diospyros mespiliformis (43 stems), Acacia albida (42 stems), Andira inermis (30 stems), Acacia sieberiana (23 stems), Khaya senegalensis (19 stems), Ficus sycomorus (13 stems), and Acacia polyacantha (10 stems). The most recurrent activity in the gallery forests is pruning (212 stems), followed by cutting (93 stumps), then picking (71 individuals). However, there are fewer debarked trees (11) and trees with fire trail (6). According to the responses provided, logging (77.78%), agriculture (72.22%), population growth (44.44%), grazing (33.33%), and bush fires (33.33%) are the main causes of the degradation of plant formations in the Mandara Mountains. These main factors could have a negative impact on biodiversity if appropriate integrated management measures are not taken. To maintain these vital ecosystems, an integrated management plan must be put in place, limiting human activities to a minimum.

Precision agriculture technologies (PATs) transform crop production by enabling more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. These technologies utilize data-driven approaches to optimize the management of crops, soil, and resources, thus enhancing both productivity and environmental sustainability. This article reviewed the application of PATs for sustainable crop production and environmental sustainability around the globe. Key components of PAT include remote sensing, GPS-guided equipment, variable rate technology (VRT), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Remote sensing and drones deliver high-resolution imagery and data, enabling precise monitoring of crop health, soil conditions, and pest activity. GPS-guided machinery ensures accurate planting, fertilizing, and harvesting, which reduces waste and enhances efficiency. VRT optimizes resource use by allowing farmers to apply inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides at varying rates across a field based on real-time data and specific crop requirements. This reduces over-application and minimizes environmental impact, such as nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions. IoT devices and sensors provide continuous monitoring of environmental conditions and crop status, enabling timely and informed decision-making. The application of PAT contributes significantly to environmental sustainability by promoting practices that conserve water, reduce chemical usage, and enhance soil health. By enhancing the precision of agricultural operations, these technologies reduce the environmental impact of farming, while simultaneously boosting crop yields and profitability. As the global demand for food increases, precision agriculture offers a promising pathway to achieving sustainable crop production and ensuring long-term environmental health.

In agriculture, barley holds significant importance as a vital crop with multiple uses. It provides a variety of advantages, including weed suppression, erosion management, nutrient recycling, and improved soil structure. The nutritional and functional composition of barley varieties' samples were analyzed using AOAC methods. The moisture content of the samples ranged from 7.3% to 12.8%, while the ash content varied from 0.5% to 13%. The crude fiber content ranged from 0.5% to 1.5%, and the crude protein content ranged from 0.73% to 3.4%. Furthermore, the crude fat content ranged from 0.11% to 0.8%. The carbohydrate content of the samples were found to be between 69.5% and 82.5%, with an energy value ranging from 338.2 to 382.02 kcal/100 g. In terms of mineral content, the samples exhibited varying levels of calcium (310-670 mg/100 g), iron (34.9-65 mg/100 g), zinc (8.9-16 mg/100 g), and magnesium (Mg) (520-1122 mg/100 g). In addition, the range of the total phenolic content was 1.2 to 3.1 mg/100 g, while the range of the total flavonoid content was 0.41 to 0.55 mg/100 g. Therefore, barley, a selenium-rich food, acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage, reducing inflammation, and reducing the risk of chronic illnesses. The highest content of stearic acid (3.4 g/100 g) followed by myristic acid (2.6 g/100 g) were found in barley varieties. Barley amino acids are essential nutrients for various biological processes, muscle repair, immunological system function, neurotransmitter generation, and detoxification.

Medicinal plants are rich sources of bioactive compounds with diverse pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial activities. This study aimed to assess the antibiofilm potential of methanol and ethanol extracts from nine selected medicinal plants, as well as their synergistic effects with doxycycline against Bacillus strains. Standard procedures were employed to determine the phytochemical composition, total phenolic, and flavonoid contents of the extracts. The antibacterial activity was evaluated using the broth microdilution method, while biofilm formation was assessed via the microtiter plate method. Antibiofilm activity was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium-bromide (MTT) assay. Combination studies were conducted using the checkerboard microdilution method. All extracts contained phenols, flavonoids, steroids, triterpenes, and anthraquinones. The methanolic extract of Psidium guajava exhibited the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents (90.48 ± 0.55 mg GAE/g), while the ethanolic extract of Olax subscorpioidea showed the highest flavonoid content (6.48 ± 0.33 mg QE/g). Ethanol extracts of Eucalyptus globulus and Psidium guajava and methanolic extract of Syzygium jambos demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus anthracis 34F2 Sterne strains, with a MIC value of 64 μg/mL. Biofilm formation in Bacillus strains was notably enhanced in the presence of glucose. The methanolic extract of O. subscorpioides exhibited the highest biofilm imbibition (85%), while Picralima nitida methanolic extract showed the most effective biofilm eradication (79%). The combination of Solanum torvum ethanol extract with doxycycline displayed synergistic effects against biofilm formation inhibition and eradication in all tested Bacillus strains. Taken together, Solanum torvum ethanol extract shows promise for developing new combination antibacterial therapies.

Nurses are at the frontline, dealing with people's most immense healthcare needs in stressful and demanding work environments. Consequently, it is essential to thoroughly examine how various coping mechanisms might affect the relationship between stress and quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to examine the mediation effect of both problem-focused coping (PFC) and emotion-focused coping (EFC) mechanisms on mitigating the effect of stress on the QOL among Jordanian nurses. A multisite cross-sectional descriptive correlational design was used in this study. An online survey was completed by 203 nurses using a convenience sampling technique between October 2023 and January 2024. The study included nurses working in different Jordanian healthcare sectors including governmental, private, and university-affiliated hospitals. Several measures were used to collect data, including questionnaires on sociodemographics, QOL, coping, and stress. Two models were hypothesized for this study. The two models were analyzed using Andrew Hayes Process Macro Model 4 for testing the mediation effects. Additionally, descriptive and correlational analyses were run prior to the main analysis. The results showed that coping significantly mediated the relationship between stress and QOL with variations between PFC and EFC. In conclusion, psychological distress symptoms were common among Jordanian nurses; psychological distress, coping, and QOL are correlating variables. Nurses' stress levels and coping modalities can predict QOL with a superior effect of PFC compared with EFC. Strategies should be put in place to improve effective coping to improve nurses' QOL. The results of this study have important implications for nursing education, practice, future research, and policy.

Dental care accessibility is subject to a dentist's qualification, practice and intention to treat patients, regardless of whether those patients have special healthcare needs (SCN) and should receive treatment in a dental setting. This multicentre study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of patients with SCN, their access to dental care and behaviour towards dental care from their caregiver's perspective. In addition, the perspective of dental care providers who care for patients with SCN and the factors affecting the provision of treatment was also appraised. The Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia served as the site of this cross-sectional study from 1 February 2020 to 31 January 2022. Caregivers of 272 patients with SCN, regardless of age and gender, were recruited in the study. The caregiver's proforma sought information on the demographic characteristics, type of disability, cooperation, medical history, occupation of the parent and patient's behaviour towards oral hygiene and dental healthcare. The second proforma had the dental care provider's perspective about the common disabilities, factors that affect the decision to provide treatment, difficulties patients face in getting their dental treatment and, from the dentist's experience, recommendations to improve the access to dental care for patients with SCN. Statistical analysis was carried out by using SPSS version 22.0. The demographic features, caregiver's perception about oral healthcare accessibility and dental professional's point of view were presented as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was applied to compare the proportions. The majority of the caregivers were satisfied with the dental service providers (91.9%) for their patients with SCN. The dental care provider's survey results indicated a shortage of dentists (54.7%) in the region and other factors that pose challenges to special care, like the severity of the disability of patients with SCN (50%), family structure (46.7%), treatment cost (35.6%) and transportation (32.8%). Patients with SCN in Saudi Arabia had a high appraisal of access to dental care and were very satisfied with dental treatment results. However, the presence of a dental care provider in the same rehabilitation centre was a major concern. The severity of the disability and the patient's cooperation were the major factors that may have affected the decision of the dental care provider.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of vitamin D3 levels on bone density, primary dental implant stability, and successful osseointegration. Materials and Methods: Clinical and radiological examination with a standardized cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) machine and laboratory investigation for serum levels of vitamin D3 were performed for all patients. Only patients in need of single or multiple straightforward dental implant surgery in either jaw with no history of systemic disease or condition that may interfere with bone healing were included in this study to receive the dental implant by the same oral and maxillofacial surgeon, which re-opened 4 months later to assess the osseointegration and to complete the prosthetic part. Results: One hundred twenty-eight dental implants were inserted into 108 patients. Most of the patients in the study had insufficient vitamin D3 levels. The prognosis of dental implants regarding successful osseointegration 4 months after implant placement had a weak positive association with the insertion torque and bone mineral density and a statistically significant positive correlation with the serum vitamin D3 level. Conclusion: Preoperatively, it is advisable to request the serum vitamin D3 level of the patients along with the standard clinical and radiological examination. Severe vitamin D3 deficiency could be associated with early dental implant failure despite the favorable bone density and primary dental implant stability achieved. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: TCTR20200304001.

Medicinal plants have constituted a fundamental aspect of human health and wellness for millennia. The objective of this study was to document medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments in the Tehuledere District. The data were collected using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations with local informants. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and informant consensus factor were used for data analysis. A total of 63 medicinal plant species belonging to 59 genera and 41 families were documented. The predominant families identified were Lamiaceae and Asteraceae, each containing 6 and 5 species, respectively. Of the recorded medicinal plants, 53 (80.95%) species were used for human ailments, whereas 12 (19.05%) species were used for animal health issues. Among the recorded medicinal plant species, shrubs constitute the highest number with 35% species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, accounting for 59% of remedies targeting human ailments. The administration of herbal treatments was primarily oral, aimed at addressing various diseases. The most significant threat to these medicinal plants was attributed to agricultural expansion, followed by the collection of firewood. The aim of documenting the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diseases was to capture traditional practices, with species such as Eucalyptus globulus, Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, and Lepidium sativum serving as the foundational basis for future pharmacological studies. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of Laggera tomentosa and Urtica simensis to safeguard biodiversity and the cultural traditions associated with these endangered species. Engaging local communities in the management and conservation of plant resources, along with the preservation of their traditional knowledge, presents a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

Fiber-reinforced elastic laminated composites are extensively used in several domains owing to their high specific stiffness and strength and low specific density. Several studies were performed to ascertain the factors that affect the composite plates' dynamic properties. This study aims to derive a mathematical model for the dynamic response of the processed composite material in the form of an annular circular shape made of polyester/E-glass composite. The mathematical model was developed based on modified classical annular circular plate theory under dynamic loading, and all its formulas were solved using MATLAB 2023. The mathematical model was also verified with real experimental work involving the vibration test of the fabricated composite plate. The composite plate was processed by reinforcing the polyester matrix with E-glass fibers with a 50% volume fraction each by using the handy lay-up method. After fabrication, the composite plate was tested with a universal vibration tester, where the plate was impacted and released to free vibration, and the deflection was measured experimentally to compare it with the theoretical value calculated from the derived model. The plate was tested under two boundary conditions, namely, simply and built-in supported. The findings show good agreement between theoretical and experimental plate deflections at different angles, particularly at built-in supported boundary conditions. Also, a higher natural frequency was recorded at this condition compared to others, and this may be ascribed to the higher shear stresses involved due to large moments at the ends along with supporting. Meanwhile, the real experimental spectrum of the built-in condition was higher than others, as the sig view curve revealed.