Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Circadian Typology and Personality Dimensions of Croatian Students of Health-Related University Majors

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between circadian preferences and personality dimensions among 712 students of three different majors from the Faculty of Medicine, Osijek: medical students (MD), nursing students (RN) and medical laboratory diagnostics students (MLD). For the measurement of personality dimensions, the IPIP50 Big-Five questionnaire was used. The circadian preference of students was assessed using the reduced morningness-eveningness questionnaire (rMEQ). Several significant results were observed and there was a significant difference in circadian preference among the three tested groups, with RN students scoring highest on the morningness scale and MLD students scoring the lowest. RN students scored significantly higher on agreeableness and conscientiousness than the other two groups. On the other hand, MD students scored higher on intellect than the MLD students. MLD students scored the lowest on emotional stability scales. Morning type students had higher conscientiousness and emotional stability scores. These results imply that circadian preference and personality traits are crucial elements of medical professionals’ wellbeing. With this paper, we would like to raise awareness about common personality traits and adherence to certain circadian orientations in medical professionals as a motivation to introduce a more flexible view towards strict time and task divisions in everyday practice.
Denoising Autoencoders and LSTM-Based Artificial Neural Networks Data Processing for Its Application to Internal Model Control in Industrial Environments—The Wastewater Treatment Plant Control Case

The evolution of industry towards the Industry 4.0 paradigm has become a reality where different data-driven methods are adopted to support industrial processes. One of them corresponds to Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), which are able to model highly complex and non-linear processes. This motivates their adoption as part of new data-driven based control strategies. The ANN-based Internal Model Controller (ANN-based IMC) is an example which takes advantage of the ANNs characteristics by modelling the direct and inverse relationships of the process under control with them. This approach has been implemented in Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP), where results show a significant improvement on control performance metrics with respect to (w.r.t.) the WWTP default control strategy. However, this structure is very sensible to non-desired effects in the measurements—when a real scenario showing noise-corrupted data is considered, the control performance drops. To solve this, a new ANN-based IMC approach is designed with a two-fold objective, improve the control performance and denoise the noise-corrupted measurements to reduce the performance degradation. Results show that the proposed structure improves the control metrics, (the Integrated Absolute Error (IAE) and the Integrated Squared Error (ISE)), around a 21.25% and a 54.64%, respectively.
Comparisons of three woodland sites in NW Britain differing in richness of the epiphytic Lobarion pulmonariae community and levels of wet acidic deposition

The environment of three Quercus petraea-dominated woodlands differing in species richness of the epiphytic Lobarion pulmonariae alliance was surveyed. Data on occurrence of epiphytes, air pollution and bark- and soil-chemistry are presented. Within a given wood, individuals (of Q. petraea or Fraxinus excelsior) that support the growth of Lobaria spp. were found to have higher bark pH and higher bark Ca, K and Mg contents than individuals lacking these lichens. The most acidic bark was found at Seatoller Wood (Cumbria), a site which experiences strongly acidic rainfall. However, Old Garrock Wood (SW Scotland), although receiving acidic precipitation, had high bark pH and cation contents possibly due to the high levels of exchangeable cations in the soil. The results suggest that while bark pH is important in determining the occurrence of Lobaria spp. , bark chemistry is determined by a combination of factors including tree species, atmospheric chemistry and soil nutrient status.
Qualitative and Semiquantitative Determination of the Atomic and Molecular Tungsten Distributions in Hybrid Hydroxyurethanes–Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Films Containing Phosphotungstates ([PW12O40]3–)

In this study, hybrid poly(dimethylsiloxane)-derived hydroxyurethanes films (PDMSUr-PWA) containing phosphotungstic acid (H3PW12O40/PWA) were characterized using field emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), in attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform mid-infrared mode (ATR FT-MIR), and analyzed using synchrotron radiation micro-X-ray fluorescence (SR-μXRF), synchrotron radiation grazing incidence X-ray fluorescence (SR-GIXRF), laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), and instrumental neutron activation analysis (NAA) in order to correlate the distribution patterns of tungsten and properties of PDMSUr-PWA films. PDMS constitute elastomers with good mechanical, thermal, and chemical (hydrophobicity/non-hygroscopy) resistance. Currently, products based on urethanes (e.g., polyurethanes) are widely used in many applications as plastics, fiber-reinforced polymers, high-performance adhesives, corrosion-resistant coatings, photochromic films, among others. The possibility to combine inorganic and organic components can produce a hybrid material with unique properties. PWA has an important role as agent against the corrosion of steel surfaces in different media, besides exhibiting amazing catalytic and photochromic properties in these films. PWA kept its structure inside of these hybrid films through interactions between the organic matrix of PDMSUr and silanol from the inorganic part (organically modified silica), as was shown using ATR FT-MIR spectra. The FEG-SEM/SR-μXRF/wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS)/X-ray diffraction (XRD)/energy dispersive X-ray results proved the presence of PWA in the composition of domains of PDMSUr-PWA films. At PWA concentrations higher than 50 wt%/wt, tungsten segregation across the thickness is predominant, while that at PWA concentrations lower than 35 wt%/wt, tungsten segregation at surface is predominant. Inhomogeneities in the tungsten distribution patterns (at micrometric and millimetric level) may play an important role in the mechanical properties of these films (elastic modulus and hardness).
Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and Gaming Disorder among Chinese University Students: Impulsivity and Game Time as Mediators

Abstract Background and aims Research into the fear of missing out (FoMO) has greatly increased in recent years. Given the negative consequences of gaming disorder (GD) among a small minority of individuals, there is an increasing need for research examining the impact of FoMO on GD. However, little is known about the roles of impulsivity and gaming time as mediators in the relationship between FoMO and GD. The present study examined whether impulsivity and gaming time mediated the relationship between FoMO (trait-FoMO and state-FoMO) and GD among Chinese university students, as well as the prevalence of GD. Methods A total of 1127 university students completed an online survey including the Chinese Trait-State Fear of Missing Out Scale (T-SFoMOS-C), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-Brief (BIS-Brief), gaming time survey, and the Chinese Gaming Disorder Scale (CGDS). Results The prevalence of GD was 6.4% among Chinese university students. Trait-FoMO was found to indirectly impact GD via impulsivity and gamine time, whereas the direct effect of trait-FoMO on GD and the mediation effects of gaming time were not confirmed. State-FoMO impacted on GD both directly, and indirectly via the mediation effects of impulsivity as well as impulsivity and gaming time. Conclusion Trait-FoMO on GD was fully mediated via impulsivity and gaming time, whereas state-FoMO on GD was partly mediated via impulsivity and gaming time. Individuals with high levels of FoMO were more likely to show impulsivity and spend a longer time gaming, and these factors were associated with GD. These findings provide insights to incorporate into health prevention programs to help regulate emotion, control impulsivity, and decrease GD.
Magnetic field effect on trivial and topological bound states of superconducting quantum dot

We investigate the properties of a quantum dot embedded between the normal and superconducting leads which is additionally side-attached to the topological superconducting nanowire, hosting the Majorana modes. This setup enables formation of the trivial (finite-energy) bound states induced in the quantum dot through the superconducting proximity effect, coexisting/competing with the topological (zero-energy) mode transmitted from the topological superconductor. We analyze their interplay, focusing on a role played by the external magnetic field. To distinguish between these bound states we analyze the qualitative and quantitative features manifested in the subgap charge tunneling originating under nonequilibrium conditions from the Andreev (particle to hole) scattering processes.
Effect of complement C1-esterase inhibitor on brain edema and inflammation after mild traumatic brain injury in an animal model

Objective Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by damage to the blood-brain barrier, inflammation, and edema formation. In this pilot study, we aimed to investigate the effects of a complement inhibitor, C1-esterase inhibitor (C1 INH), on brain edema and inflammation in a rat model of mild TBI. Methods Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to control, TBI, or TBI plus C1 INH groups. TBI and TBI plus C1 INH rats received an injection of saline or 25 IU/kg C1 INH, respectively, with TBI using a weight drop model. Control rats received saline only. Rats were subsequently euthanized and their brain tissue harvested for analysis. The primary outcome was the extent of edema as assessed by the brain’s water content. Secondary outcomes included enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to determine levels of pro-inflammatory mediators. Results Tumor necrosis factor-α levels were significantly greater in TBI rats than control rats, indicating that inflammation was generated by the weight drop impact. Brain water content following TBI was significantly different between TBI rats treated with C1-INH (78.7%±0.12), untreated TBI rats (79.3%±0.12), and control rats (78.6%±0.15, P=0.001). There was a significant decrease in C3a and interleukin 2 levels among C1 INH–treated rats compared with untreated TBI rats, but no change in levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and S100β. Conclusion C1-INH inhibited the complement pathway, suggesting that C1-INH may have a therapeutic benefit in TBI. Further studies are needed to investigate the effect of C1-INH on clinical outcomes.
Long-term response of spruce–fir stands to herbicide and precommercial thinning: observed and projected growth, yield, and financial returns in central Maine, USA

Herbicide application and precommercial thinning (PCT) are common silvicultural treatments used across North America and Europe. Despite this widespread use, long-term growth and yield responses from controlled experiments that include both of these treatments are relatively rare. We used 40-year growth and yield responses of spruce–fir stands to various combinations of early herbicide and PCT in a long-term silvicultural experiment in central Maine, USA, to calibrate the Forest Vegetation Simulator (Northeast Variant). Using the calibrated model, we projected rotation-length outcomes for stand development, merchantable wood volumes, and stumpage-based financial returns. Projections indicated gains in total yield (17%–31%) from herbicide treatments at the end of the rotation (∼60 years postharvest) relative to untreated stands. Substantial increases in merchantable wood volume also were achieved with PCT. Twenty-four years after PCT, stand stumpage value averaged $907 USD·ha−1 higher than that for unthinn.
The Role of Iron in Brain Development: A Systematic Review

One-third of children falter in cognitive development by pre-school age. Iron plays an important role in many neurodevelopmental processes, and animal studies suggest that iron sufficiency in pregnancy and infancy is particularly important for neurodevelopment. However, it is not clear whether iron deficiency directly impacts developmental outcomes, and, if so, whether impact differs by timing of exposure or developmental domain. We searched four databases for studies on iron deficiency or iron supplementation in pregnancy, or at 0–6 months, 6–24 months, or 2–4 years of age. All studies included neurodevelopmental assessments in infants or children up to 4 years old. We then qualitatively synthesized the literature. There was no clear relationship between iron status and developmental outcomes across any of the time windows or domains included. We identified a large quantity of low-quality studies, significant heterogeneity in study design and a lack of research focused on pregnancy and early infancy. In summary, despite good mechanistic evidence for the role of iron in brain development, evidence for the impact of iron deficiency or iron supplementation on early development is inconsistent. Further high-quality research is needed, particularly within pregnancy and early infancy, which has previously been neglected.
A Mixed-Methods Quasi-Experimental Study on Perspectives Among Physicians and Nurses Regarding Use of Palliative Care Teams in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

Background: Nationally, only one-third of children survive to hospital discharge after initial presentation with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Of those children who survive, less than 25% leave the hospital at their functional baseline. Given these poor outcomes, such patients could benefit from palliative care involvement. Aims: To characterize the existing use and identify barriers to seeking palliative care consults in children admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with OHCA. Design: Mixed-methods quasi-experimental study. Participants: Physicians (MD/DO), nurse practitioners, and registered nurses who provide care in the PICU. Results: Overall, nurses felt palliative care was consulted “not nearly enough” (43%), while the majority of physicians (53.9%) perceived palliative care services are requested either “just the right amount” (30.8%) or “too often” (23.1%). The top 3 desired palliative services were (1) patient and family psychosocial support, (2) assistance with determining goals of care, and (3) counseling and education. Barriers to consults were forgetting/not thinking about consulting, and family refusal of palliative care consult. No statistical differences among participant groups were found for likelihood to consult palliative care, unless the patient faced imminent death. Conclusions: Pediatric Intensive Care Unit providers desire assistance from palliative care teams for help with identifying goals of care, providing psychosocial support, as well as education to the patients and their families. Unfortunately, there remains a large discrepancy between physicians and nurses when it comes to how often palliative care is, and should, be consulted.
Assesment of the water quality and prevalence of water borne diseases in Amassoma, Niger Delta, Nigeria

The chemical and microbiological properties were investigated at the bank and midstream of the Ammassoma River used for domestic water consumption. Also, retrospective study was conducted at Amassoma General Hospital to ascertain the extent of water borne diseases by studying the case notes of 100 subjects from 2005 - 2007. The carbon-oxygen demand (COD) and biological-oxygen demand (BOD)5 at the bank and midstream of the river are 3.664 ± 0.289 (mean ± SEM) and 2.112 ± 0.864 mg/L (p The water related diseases that were consistently reported and diagnosed for the period are cholera (3.37%), diarrhea (44.94%), dysentery (16.85%), and typhoid fever (34.83%). The quality of the water and the prevalence of water related diseases in the hospitals were casually related to the contamination of the river in the community.
Bacterial Communities of Biofilms Sampled from Seepage Groundwater Contaminated with Petroleum Oil

The diesel-degrading activities of biofilms sampled from petroleum-contaminated groundwaters in urban subway drainage systems were examined in liquid cultures, and the microbial populations of the biotilms were characterized by denaturing gel gradient electrophoresis (DGGE) and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. Biofilm samples derived from two sites (19 K and 20 K) at subway Station N and Station I could degrade around 80% of applied diesel within 20 and 40 days, respectively, at 15°C, and these results were strongly correlated with the growth patterns of the biofilms. The closest phylogenetic neighbor of a dominant component in the 19 K biofilm was Thiothrix fructosivorans strain Q (100% similarity). Four dominant strains in the 20 K biofilm were closely related to Thiothrix fructosivorans strain Q (100% similarity), Thiothrix sp. CC-5 (100% similarity), Sphaerotilus sp. IF14 (99% similarity), and Cytophaga-Flexibacter-Bcicterioides (CFB) group bacterium RW262 (98% similarity). Three dominant members in the Station I biofilms were very similar to uncultured Cytophagales clone CRE-PA82 (91% similarity), Pseudomonas sp. WDL5 (97% similarity), and uncultured CFB group bacterium LCK-64 (94% similarity). The microbial components of the biofilms differed depending on the sampling site. This is the first report on the isolation of clones highly similar to Thiothrix fructosivorans and Thiothrix sp. from biofilms in petroleum-polluted groundwaters, and the first evidence that these organisms may play major roles in petroleum degradation and/or biofilm-development.
Morphometric study of the genus Senna Mill. in South-western Nigeria.

Thirteen quantitative characters of the leaves, fruits, seeds and flowers were used in the study of eight Senna Mill. species. The characters include leaflet length, leaflet width, leaflet length/width, Number of leaflets, lamina length, petiole length, pedicel length, petal length, fruit length, fruit width, fruit length/width, seed length and seed width. These characters were measured with the aid of a line ruler and subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results revealed that three out of the thirteen characters employed contributed significantly in differentiating each of the species from the other at 95% level of significance. The species have great similarities hence their grouping under the same genus. Results also showed that Senna hirsuta (Linn.) H. S. Irwin and Barneby and Senna sophera (L.) Roxb. are more closely related, Senna occidentalis (Linn.) Link, Senna siamea (Lam.) H. S. Irwin and Barneby and Senna spectabilis (DC.) Irwin and Barneby all share some resemblance while S. occidentalis is distantly related to S. sophera.
Genetics and Not Shared Environment Explains Familial Resemblance in Adult Metabolomics Data

Abstract Metabolites are small molecules involved in cellular metabolism where they act as reaction substrates or products. The term ‘metabolomics’ refers to the comprehensive study of these molecules. The concentrations of metabolites in biological tissues are under genetic control, but this is limited by environmental factors such as diet. In adult mono- and dizygotic twin pairs, we estimated the contribution of genetic and shared environmental influences on metabolite levels by structural equation modeling and tested whether the familial resemblance for metabolite levels is mainly explained by genetic or by environmental factors that are shared by family members. Metabolites were measured across three platforms: two based on proton nuclear magnetic resonance techniques and one employing mass spectrometry. These three platforms comprised 237 single metabolic traits of several chemical classes. For the three platforms, metabolites were assessed in 1407, 1037 and 1116 twin pairs, respectively. We carried out power calculations to establish what percentage of shared environmental variance could be detected given these sample sizes. Our study did not find evidence for a systematic contribution of shared environment, defined as the influence of growing up together in the same household, on metabolites assessed in adulthood. Significant heritability was observed for nearly all 237 metabolites; significant contribution of the shared environment was limited to 6 metabolites. The top quartile of the heritability distribution was populated by 5 of the 11 investigated chemical classes. In this quartile, metabolites of the class lipoprotein were significantly overrepresented, whereas metabolites of classes glycerophospholipids and glycerolipids were significantly underrepresented.
Tight shoulders: A clinical, kinematic and strength comparison of symptomatic and asymptomatic male overhead athletes before and after stretching

Abstract A tightness of the posterior structures of the throwing shoulder has been hypothesised to be associated with injuries and pain because of alterations of the scapular kinematics and muscular imbalances. The aims of this study were to identify the clinical and biomechanical profile of symptomatic and asymptomatic overhead athletes with a tight shoulder and to evaluate the efficiency of a self-applied stretching program. Twenty male overhead athletes were recruited. Half of them reported a painful shoulder at the beginning of the study. For four weeks, the volunteers performed daily stretching exercises. Before and after the stretching program, gleno-humeral mobility, scapular kinematics, rotator muscles strength and pain were evaluated. Before stretching, the main difference between the groups was more impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tendon lesion positive tests in the symptomatic group (p < 0.027, effect size = 0.51). After the program, pain reported by the symptomatic volunteers was reduced by approximately 40% and the gleno-humeral internal rotation bilateral difference was significantly reduced by 77.6% (p < 0.009, effect size = 0.84). In the symptomatic group, the scapula at rest was significantly more posteriorly tilted (p = 0.027, effect size = 0.69) after the stretching; a position that has been shown to limit the risk of impingement. The absence of significant differences of the profiles of the symptomatic and asymptomatic overhead athletes before stretching may indicate that the initiation of early prevention programs, including self-applied stretching, should not rely solely on biomechanical and clinical parameters and might be recommended to all players with a tight shoulder.
Real-world evaluation of a novel technology for quantitative simultaneous antibody detection against multiple SARS-CoV-2 antigens in a cohort of patients presenting with COVID-19 syndrome† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/d0an01066a

An evaluation of a rapid portable gold-nanotechnology measuring SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgA and IgG antibody response to spike 1 (S1), spike 2 (S) and nucleocapsid (N) antigens using serum from 74 RNA(+) patients and RNA(+) 47 control patients.