bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of Inclusion in an Informal Education Setting
Authors: Neil Nicole , Ibrahim Israa , Withers Abigail , Dimos Tatiana
Published: May 2024

Informal education settings are spaces where learning takes place outside of formal classrooms and include museums, zoos, and science centers. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) continue to experience barriers to inclusion in such community spaces. This study investigated stakeholder perspectives on inclusion at a children’s museum. Thirteen stakeholders, including families with and without children with IDD and staff members, were asked, “What does inclusion at the children’s museum look like?” Participants then engaged in group concept mapping and multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to analyze the data. A seven-cluster solution was obtained reflecting the themes of inclusive learning, representation and inclusion, physical accessibility, targeted accommodations, supportive staff, universal design, and functionality. Ideas from the concept map may support informal education settings in designing inclusive spaces and experiences for people with IDD.
The Representation of Alternative Education in Katherine Rundell's The Girl Savage and David Almond's My Name Is Mina
Authors: Ferguson Rex
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This article focuses on the formally innovative ways that Katherine Rundell's The Girl Savage (2011) and David Almond's My Name Is Mina (2010) represent alternative education. This innovation is interpreted as essential to texts that partially succeed in resisting a mainstream education that is associated with dominant ideology and the realist form of linear narrative.
Whiteness, Coloniality and Distributive Justice in Claudia Llosa’s La teta asustada (2009)
Authors: Renker Tess
Published: May 2024

Abstract: First released in 2009, Peruvian filmmaker Claudia Llosa’s La teta asustada has received “mixed” critical attention. While some accuse Llosa of exotifying Indigenous peoples and traditions, others suggest that the film succeeds in representing the traumatic memory of victims of Peru’s Internal Armed Conflict (~1980–2000). Without necessarily disputing either interpretation, this article explores the filmmaker’s apparent grappling with questions of coloniality, whiteness, and complicity, particularly among Lima’s white elite. Analyzing the tense relationship between the film’s Indigenous protagonist and her white employer, the essay proposes that La teta asustada offers an important critique of Lima’s persistent coloniality, particularly as it relates to limeño responses to rural-to-urban migration and the nation’s recent civil war. Moreover, it suggests that Llosa’s critique of “White Lima” represents an exploration of her own privilege and complicity, as well as a possible reckoning with the problematic Conflict-era musings of her uncle, Mario Vargas Llosa
Heterodoxia en la poesía nacionalista puertorriqueña: reelaboraciones del legado de Pedro Albizu Campos en la obra de Francisco Matos Paoli y Lolita Lebrón
Authors: Romero Suárez Daniel A.
Published: May 2024

RESUMEN: Francisco Matos Paoli y Lolita Lebrón son figuras fundamentales del nacionalismo puertorriqueño, pues, además de sus acciones en favor de la libertad de la isla, escribieron poemas en que expresaron sus creencias patrióticas. Ambos autores coinciden en su fervor hacia el caudillo nacionalista Pedro Albizu Campos. Sin embargo, el análisis comparado de Canto de la locura (1962) de Matos Paoli y Sándalo en la celda (1975) de Lebrón muestra que su adhesión al proyecto albizuista no fue absoluta. Los poemarios sugieren diferencias ideológicas en lo que respecta a la liberación de Puerto Rico, el rol del pueblo en la independencia nacional y la importancia del acervo hispánico. El lenguaje místico de ambos autores sintetiza ambivalentemente el nacionalismo, porque construye a Albizu como una figura cristológica o un amante divino, pero, al mismo tiempo, el énfasis en el encuentro místico individual desliga al sujeto poético del proyecto nacionalista albizuista. Abstract: Francisco Matos Paoli and Lolita Lebrón are fundamental figures of Puerto Rican nationalism, for, in addition to their actions in favor of the island’s freedom, they wrote poems in which they expressed their patriotic beliefs. Both authors coincide in their fervor towards the nationalist leader Pedro Albizu Campos. However, a comparative analysis of Matos Paoli’s Canto de la locura (1962) and Lebrón’s Sándalo en la celda (1975) shows that their adherence to Albizu’s project was not absolute. The books of poems suggest ideological differences regarding the liberation of Puerto Rico, the role of the people in national independence, and the importance of the Hispanic heritage. The mystical language of both authors ambivalently synthesizes nationalism because it constructs Albizu as a Christological figure or a divine lover, but at the same time, the emphasis on the individual mystical encounter distances the poetic speakers from Albizu’s nationalist project.
Effect of transdermal drug delivery patches on the stratum corneum: in vivo inspection with a handheld terahertz probe: publisher’s note
Authors: Hernandez-Serrano Arturo I. , Ding Xuefei , Costa Goncalo , Nurumbetov Gabit , Haddleton David M. , Pickwell-Macpherson Emma
Published: May 2024

This publisher’s note contains a correction to Biomed. Opt. Express 15, 3064 (2024).10.1364/BOE.513557
Adaptations to nitrogen availability drive ecological divergence of chemosynthetic symbionts
Authors: Morel-Letelier Isidora , Yuen Benedict , Kück A. Carlotta , Camacho-García Yolanda E. , Petersen Jillian M. , Lara Minor , Leray Matthieu , Eisen Jonathan A. , Osvatic Jay T. , Gros Olivier , Wilkins Laetitia G. E.
Published: May 2024

Bacterial symbionts, with their shorter generation times and capacity for horizontal gene transfer (HGT), play a critical role in allowing marine organisms to cope with environmental change. The closure of the Isthmus of Panama created distinct environmental conditions in the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) and Caribbean, offering a “natural experiment” for studying how closely related animals evolve and adapt under environmental change. However, the role of bacterial symbionts in this process is often overlooked. We sequenced the genomes of endosymbiotic bacteria in two sets of sister species of chemosymbiotic bivalves from the genera Codakia and Ctena (family Lucinidae) collected on either side of the Isthmus, to investigate how differing environmental conditions have influenced the selection of symbionts and their metabolic capabilities. The lucinid sister species hosted different Candidatus Thiodiazotropha symbionts and only those from the Caribbean had the genetic potential for nitrogen fixation, while those from the TEP did not. Interestingly, this nitrogen-fixing ability did not correspond to symbiont phylogeny, suggesting convergent evolution of nitrogen fixation potential under nutrient-poor conditions. Reconstructing the evolutionary history of the nifHDKT operon by including other lucinid symbiont genomes from around the world further revealed that the last common ancestor (LCA) of Ca. Thiodiazotropha lacked nif genes, and populations in oligotrophic habitats later re-acquired the nif operon through HGT from the Sedimenticola symbiont lineage. Our study suggests that HGT of the nif operon has facilitated niche diversification of the globally distributed Ca. Thiodiazotropha endolucinida species clade. It highlights the importance of nitrogen availability in driving the ecological diversification of chemosynthetic symbiont species and the role that bacterial symbionts may play in the adaptation of marine organisms to changing environmental conditions.
Gene alterations in the nuclear transport receptor superfamily: A study of head and neck cancer
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Thao , Shimojukkoku Yudai , Kajiya Yuka , Oku Yasunobu , Tomishima Ayami , Shima Kaori , Sasahira Tomonori
Published: May 2024

In cancer cells, the nuclear transport system is often disrupted, leading to abnormal localization of nuclear proteins and altered gene expression. This disruption can arise from various mechanisms such as mutations in genes that regulate nuclear transport, altered expression of transport proteins, and changes in nuclear envelope structure. Oncogenic protein build-up in the nucleus due to the disturbance in nuclear transport can also boost tumor growth and cell proliferation. In this study, we performed bioinformatic analyses of 23 key nuclear transport receptors using genomic and transcriptomic data from pancancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia and found that the total alteration frequency of 23 nuclear transport receptors in 2691 samples of the PCAWG Consortium was 42.1% and a high levels of genetic alterations was significantly associated with poor overall survival. Amplification was the most common type of genetic alterations, and results in the overexpression of nuclear transport receptors in HNSCC compared to normal tissues. Furthermore, our study revealed that seven out of eight cell cycle genes (CDK1, CDK2, CDK4, CDK6, CCNA1, CCNB1, and CCNE2) were significantly and positively correlated with nuclear transport receptor genes in TCGA pancancer and CCLE datasets. Additionally, functional enrichment analysis showed that nuclear transport receptor genes were mainly enriched in the adhesion junction, cell cycle, ERBB, MAPK, MTOR and WNT signaling pathways.
Change in hierarchy of the financial networks: A study on firms of an emerging market in Bangladesh
Authors: Rakib Mahmudul Islam , Alam Md. Jahidul , Akter Nahid , Tuhin Kamrul Hasan , Nobi Ashadun
Published: May 2024

We investigate the hierarchical structure of Dhaka stocks’ financial networks, known as an emerging market, from 2008 to 2020. To do so, we determine correlations from the returns of the firms over a one-year time window. Then, we construct a minimum spanning tree (MST) from correlations and calculate the hierarchy of the tree using the hierarchical path. We find that during the unprecedented crisis in 2010–11, the hierarchy of this emerging market did not sharply increase like in developed markets, implying the absence of a compact cluster in the center of the tree. Noticeably, the hierarchy fell before the big crashes in the Bangladeshi local market, and the lowest value was found in 2010, just before the 2011 Bangladesh market scam. We also observe a lower hierarchical MST during COVID-19, which implies that the network is fragile and vulnerable to financial crises not seen in developed markets. Moreover, the volatility in the topological indicators of the MST indicates that the network is adequately responding to crises and that the firms that play an important role in the market during our analysis periods are financial, particularly the insurance companies. We notice that the largest degrees are minimal compared to the total number of nodes in the tree, implying that the network nodes are somewhat locally compact rather than globally centrally coupled. For this random structure of the emerging market, the network properties do not properly reflect the hierarchy, especially during crises. Identifying hierarchies, topological indicators, and significant firms will be useful for understanding the movement of an emerging market like Dhaka Stock exchange (DSE), which will be useful for policymakers to develop the market.
The impact of post-stroke fatigue on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes: An observational study
Authors: Zeng Hongji , Yang Jiaying , Wu Junfa , Ding Yu , Yuan Shuya , Wang Rui , Zhao Weijia , Zeng Xi
Published: May 2024

Background

Post-stroke fatigue is a typical complication following stroke. However, existing research primarily focused on its underlying mechanisms, and its impact on rehabilitation outcomes has yet to be uncovered.

Objective

This study aims to explore the impact of post-stroke fatigue on rehabilitation outcomes during hospitalization.

Method

This was a prospective multicenter observational study including 46 stroke patients receiving comprehensive rehabilitation treatment. Patients’ basic information was recorded upon admission and patients’ functional independence was assessed with Functional Independence Measure (FIM) both upon admission and discharge. One week after rehabilitation treatment, fatigue, positivity in daily activity, attention, and memory were assessed. Serum biochemical indicators and levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) were assessed weekly following admission. The pain scores were assessed during the first week of hospitalization to calculate the average. Correlation analysis, linear regression and propensity score matching (PSM) were used to analyze the impact of fatigue on FIM scores at discharge and length of hospital stay.

Result

The proportion of patients with low fatigue was 39.13% and significant improvement was revealed in FIM scores upon admissions and discharge [(50.67±18.61) vs. (75.13±21.04), P<0.05]. Positivity in daily activity, attention, and age are factors that influence post-stroke fatigue. After PSM, low-fatigue group (Fatigue score< 3) showed significant higher motor function independence at discharge [(54.39 ± 15.42) vs. (41.89 ± 14.90), P<0.05] and shorter hospital stay [(28.54±9.13)d vs. (37.32 ± 9.81)d, P<0.05] than high-fatigue group. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in level of CRP between the first inpatient week and the third week, with declining trend.

Conclusion

Post-stroke fatigue can affect the rehabilitation outcomes regarding motor function independence and length of hospital stay.
Forest carbon sequestration on the west coast, USA: Role of species, productivity, and stockability
Authors: Chisholm Paul J. , Gray Andrew N.
Published: May 2024

Forest ecosystems store large amounts of carbon and can be important sources, or sinks, of the atmospheric carbon dioxide that is contributing to global warming. Understanding the carbon storage potential of different forests and their response to management and disturbance events are fundamental to developing policies and scenarios to partially offset greenhouse gas emissions. Projections of live tree carbon accumulation are handled differently in different models, with inconsistent results. We developed growth-and-yield style models to predict stand-level live tree carbon density as a function of stand age in all vegetation types of the coastal Pacific region, US (California, Oregon, and Washington), from 7,523 national forest inventory plots. We incorporated site productivity and stockability within the Chapman-Richards equation and tested whether intensively managed private forests behaved differently from less managed public forests. We found that the best models incorporated stockability in the equation term controlling stand carrying capacity, and site productivity in the equation terms controlling the growth rate and shape of the curve. RMSEs ranged from 10 to 137 Mg C/ha for different vegetation types. There was not a significant effect of ownership over the standard industrial rotation length (~50 yrs) for the productive Douglas-fir/western hemlock zone, indicating that differences in stockability and productivity captured much of the variation attributed to management intensity. Our models suggest that doubling the rotation length on these intensively managed lands from 35 to 70 years would result in 2.35 times more live tree carbon stored on the landscape. These findings are at odds with some studies that have projected higher carbon densities with stand age for the same vegetation types, and have not found an increase in yields (on an annual basis) with longer rotations. We suspect that differences are primarily due to the application of yield curves developed from fully-stocked, undisturbed, single-species, “normal” stands without accounting for the substantial proportion of forests that don’t meet those assumptions. The carbon accumulation curves developed here can be applied directly in growth-and-yield style projection models, and used to validate the predictions of ecophysiological, cohort, or single-tree style models being used to project carbon futures for forests in the region. Our approach may prove useful for developing robust models in other forest types.
Prognostic factors of first intimate partner violence among ever-married women in Sub-Saharan Africa: Gompertz gamma shared frailty modeling
Authors: Seifu Beminate Lemma , Asebe Hiowt Altaye , Legesse Bruck Tesfaye , Mulaw Getahun Fentaw , Tebeje Tsion Mulat , Mare Kusse Urmale
Published: May 2024

Background

Violence against women, particularly intimate partner violence, is a significant Concern for public health as well as a violation of the human rights of women especially in low and middle-income countries. However, there was limited evidence how soon an ever-married women experience intimate partner violence in Africa. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the timing of first intimate partner violence (FIPV) among ever-married women in 30 SSA countries and to identify the risk factors of the timing.

Methods

The present study has utilized 125,731 weighted samples, who participated in the domestic violence module of the survey from Demographic and Health Surveys of 30 SSA countries. The Gompertz gamma shared frailty model was fitted to determine the predictors. For model evaluation, the theta value, Akaike Information Criteria (AIC), Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC), and deviance were used. The Adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was reported in the multivariable Gompertz gamma shared frailty model to highlight the strength and statistical significance of the associations.

Result

One-third (31.02%) of ever-married women had reported experiencing IPV. The overall incidence rate of FIPV was 57.68 persons per 1000 person-years (95% CI = 50.61–65.76). Age at marriage, age difference, educational status, employment, residence, women’s decision-making autonomy, husband who drink alcohol and wealth status were significantly associated with the timing of FIPV.

Conclusion

The findings show that ever-married women are at high and increasing risk of violence. Thus, we recommend establishing effective health and legal response services for IPV, strengthening laws governing the sale and purchase of alcohol, empowering women, raising the educational attainment of women, and putting policies in place to combat the culture of societal tolerance for IPV all contribute to the empowerment of women.
Venovenous bypass in adult liver transplant recipients: A single-center observational case series
Authors: Weinberg Laurence , Caragata Rebecca , Hazard Riley , Ludski Jarryd , Lee Dong-Kyu , Slifirski Hugh , Nugraha Patrick , Do Daniel , Zhang Wendell , Nicolae Robert , Kaldas Peter , Fink Michael A. , Perini Marcos V.
Published: May 2024

Background

Very little information is currently available on the use and outcomes of venovenous bypass (VVB) in liver transplantation (LT) in adults in Australia. In this study, we explored the indications, intraoperative course, and postoperative outcomes of patients who underwent VVB in a high-volume LT unit.

Methods

The study was a single-center, retrospective observational case series of adult patients who underwent VVB during LT at Austin Health in Melbourne, Australia between March 2008 and March 2022. Information on baseline preoperative status and intraoperative variables, including specific VVB characteristics as well as postoperative and VVB-related complications was collected. The lengths of intensive care unit and hospital stays as well as intraoperative and in-hospital mortality were recorded.

Results

Of the 900 LTs performed at this center during the aforementioned 14-year period, 27 (3%) included a VVB procedure. VVB was performed electively in 16 of these 27 patients (59.3%) and as a rescue technique to control massive bleeding in the other 11 (40.1%). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of those who underwent VVB procedures was 48 (39–55) years; the median age was 56 (47–62) years in the non-VVB group (p<0.0001). The median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores were similar between the two patient groups. Complete blood data was available for 622 non-VVB patients. Twenty-six VVB (96.3%) and 603 non-VVB (96.9%) patients required intraoperative blood transfusions. The median (IQR) number of units of packed red blood cells transfused was 7 (4.8–12.5) units in the VVB group compared to 3.0 units (1.0–6.0) in the non-VVB group (p<0.0001). Inpatient mortality was 18.5% and 1.1% for the VVB and non-VVB groups, respectively (p<0.0001). There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay or incidence of acute kidney injury, primary graft dysfunction, or long-term graft failure between the two groups. Patients in the VVB group experienced a higher rate of postoperative non-anastomotic biliary stricture compared to patients in the non-VVB group (33% and 7.9%, respectively; p = 0.0003).

Conclusions

VVB continues to play a vital role in LT. This case series highlights the heightened risk of major complications linked to VVB. However, the global transition to selective use of VVB underscores the urgent need for collaborative multi-center studies designed to address outstanding questions and parameters related to the safe implementation of this procedure.
Association between sociodemographics and change in alcohol or tobacco use behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Habtemariam Selam , Hery Chloe M. , Zhang Xiaochen , Yu Mengda , Mays Darren , Adeyanju Toyin , Bernardo Brittany , Paskett Electra D. ,   for the Impact of COVID-19 on Behaviors across the Cancer Control Continuum in Ohio group
Published: May 2024

Objective

To examine the association between various sociodemographic factors with alcohol and tobacco use behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Participants from Ohio and Indiana were asked to participate in the ‘Impact of COVID-19 on the Cancer Continuum Consortium’ study (N = 32,989) from June–November 2020. Those who completed the survey and responded to key study questions were included (n = 5,374). Participants were asked about the frequency and type of alcohol and tobacco product used. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to determine factors associated with the impact of COVID-19 on change in alcohol and/or tobacco use.

Results

Mean age was 57 years old, 68% were female, 90% non-Hispanic white, 75% married, and 31% lived in rural counties. Out of 5,374 participants, 53% used alcohol-only (n = 2,833), 5% used tobacco-only (n = 255), 7% used both alcohol and tobacco (n = 395), and 35% used neither alcohol nor tobacco (n = 1,891). Urban county of residence (vs. rural) was associated with an increase in alcohol-use (p = 0.0001), change in alcohol products (p = 0.023), and an increase in tobacco use (p = 0.05). Among alcohol-only users, those who were younger (OR = 0.97), female (OR = 1.58), married (OR = 1.69), of high socioeconomic status (OR = 1.99), residing in urban counties (OR = 1.65), and had elevated financial (OR = 1.06) and employment concerns (OR = 1.28) were significantly more likely to report increased alcohol-use. Similarly, among tobacco users, those who were younger (OR = 0.97), female (OR = 2.79), married (OR = 2.16) or divorced (OR = 2.83), and had higher levels of neighborhood disadvantage (OR = 2.19) were significantly more likely to report increased tobacco-use.

Conclusions

Findings suggest targeted intervention and prevention strategies for young, female participants with elevated financial and employment concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic are necessary to mitigate risks associated with higher odds of alcohol and tobacco use. Our findings on alcohol and tobacco use may be a result of the unique social and economic influence of the pandemic on women.
A Hybrid convolution neural network for the classification of tree species using hyperspectral imagery
Authors: Wang Jian , Jiang Yongchang
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the advancement of hyperspectral remote sensing technology has greatly enhanced the detailed mapping of tree species. Nevertheless, delving deep into the significance of hyperspectral remote sensing data features for tree species recognition remains a challenging endeavor. The method of Hybrid-CS was proposed to addresses this challenge by synergizing the strengths of both deep learning and traditional learning techniques. Initially, we extract comprehensive correlation structures and spectral features. Subsequently, a hybrid approach, combining correlation-based feature selection with an optimized recursive feature elimination algorithm, identifies the most valuable feature set. We leverage the Support Vector Machine algorithm to evaluate feature importance and perform classification. Through rigorous experimentation, we evaluate the robustness of hyperspectral image-derived features and compare our method with other state-of-the-art classification methods. The results demonstrate: (1) Superior classification accuracy compared to traditional machine learning methods (e.g., SVM, RF) and advanced deep learning approaches on the tree species dataset. (2) Enhanced classification accuracy achieved by incorporating SVM and CNN information, particularly with the integration of attention mechanisms into the network architecture. Additionally, the classification performance of a two-branch network surpasses that of a single-branch network. (3) Consistent high accuracy across different proportions of training samples, indicating the stability and robustness of the method. This study underscores the potential of hyperspectral images and our proposed methodology for achieving precise tree species classification, thus holding significant promise for applications in forest resource management and monitoring.
Determinants of sputum culture conversion time in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients in ALERT comprehensive specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Abebe Muluye , Atnafu Abay , Tilahun Melaku , Sero Nejmia , Neway Sebisib , Alemu Mekdes , Tesfaye Getachew , Mihret Adane , Bobosha Kidist , Wan Chengsong
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The treatment response of multi-drug resistance tuberculosis (MDR-Tuberculosis) patients is mainly dictated by the sputum culture conversion. An earlier culture conversion is a remarkable indicator of the improvement in the treatment response. In this study, we aimed to determine the time to culture conversion and its associated factors among MDR-Tuberculosis patients in All Africa Leprosy, Tuberculosis and Rehabilitation Training Center (ALERT) Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 120 MDR-Tuberculosis patients attending ALERT Hospital from 2018–2022. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to determine the time to initial sputum culture conversion. All relevant laboratory, socio-demographic characteristics, and other clinical data were collected by chart abstraction using a structure data extraction form. The log-rank test was used to determine the survival rate. To identify the predictors of culture conversion, bivariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used. The hazard ratio (HR) with a 95% confidence interval was used to estimate the effect of each variable on the initial culture conversion. A test with a P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

From the total of 120 study participants, 89.2% (107/120) have shown a successful culture conversion. The median age of the participants was 30 years (IQR = 12). The study participants were followed for 408.6 person-months (34.05 person-years). The median time to initial sputum culture conversion was 80 days. The median time to initial sputum culture conversion among HIV-positive and HIV-negative participants was 61 days (IQR = 58–63.5) and 88 days (IQR = 75–91), respectively. HIV-negative and patients with previous treatment history were shown to be the predictor for a prolonged time to initial sputum culture conversion, (aHR = 0.24 (95% CI: 0.1–0.4), P value <0.001) and (aHR = 0.47 (95% CI: 0.31–0.71), P value <0.001) respectively.

Conclusion

The median time to sputum culture conversion for HIV positive was found to be 61 days in our study. Notably, patients with a history of previous anti-tuberculosis treatment, HIV-negative status, and higher bacillary load at baseline exhibited delayed culture conversion. These findings underscore the importance of considering such patient characteristics in the management of MDR-TB cases, as tailored interventions and close monitoring may lead to more favorable treatment outcomes. By identifying individuals with these risk factors early in the treatment process, healthcare providers can implement targeted strategies to optimize patient care and improve overall treatment success rates in MDR-TB management programs.
Association between (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP and in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia: A secondary analysis
Authors: Chen Youli , Li Huangen , Lin Jinhuang , Su Zhiwei , Lin Tianlai
Published: May 2024

Background

The arterial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)/inspiratory fraction of oxygen (FiO2) is associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. ΔPaO2/FiO2 [the difference between PaO2/FiO2 after 24 h of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and PaO2/FiO2 before IMV] is associated with in-hospital mortality. However, the value of PaO2 can be influenced by the end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). To the best of our knowledge, the relationship between the ratio of (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP and in-hospital mortality remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate their association.

Methods

The study was conducted in southern Peru from April 2020 to April 2021. A total of 200 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia requiring IMV were included in the present study. We analyzed the association between (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP and in-hospital mortality by Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

The median (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP was 11.78 mmHg/cmH2O [interquartile range (IQR) 8.79–16.08 mmHg/cmH2O], with a range of 1 to 44.36 mmHg/cmH2O. Patients were divided equally into two groups [low group (< 11.80 mmHg/cmH2O), and high group (≥ 11.80 mmHg/cmH2O)] according to the (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP ratio. In-hospital mortality was lower in the high (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP group than in the low (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP group [18 (13%) vs. 38 (38%)]; hazard ratio (HR), 0.33 [95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.17–0.61, P < 0.001], adjusted HR, 0.32 (95% CI, 0.11–0.94, P = 0.038). The finding that the high (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP group exhibited a lower risk of in-hospital mortality compared to the low (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP group was consistent with the results from the sensitivity analysis. After adjusting for confounding variables, we found that each unit increase in (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP was associated with a 12% reduction in the risk of in-hospital mortality (HR, 0.88, 95%CI, 0.80–0.97, P = 0.013).

Conclusions

The (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP ratio was associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. (ΔPaO2/FiO2)/PEEP might be a marker of disease severity in COVID-19 patients.
Facial modeling and measurement based upon homologous topographical features
Authors: Wisetchat Sawitree , Stevens Kent A. , Frost Stephen R.
Published: May 2024

Measurement of human faces is fundamental to many applications from recognition to genetic phenotyping. While anthropometric landmarks provide a conventional set of homologous measurement points, digital scans are increasingly used for facial measurement, despite the difficulties in establishing their homology. We introduce an alternative basis for facial measurement, which 1) provides a richer information density than discrete point measurements, 2) derives its homology from shared facial topography (ridges, folds, etc.), and 3) quantifies local morphological variation following the conventions and practices of anatomical description. A parametric model that permits matching a broad range of facial variation by the adjustment of 71 parameters is demonstrated by modeling a sample of 80 adult human faces. The surface of the parametric model can be adjusted to match each photogrammetric surface mesh generally to within 1 mm, demonstrating a novel and efficient means for facial shape encoding. We examine how well this scheme quantifies facial shape and variation with respect to geographic ancestry and sex. We compare this analysis with a more conventional, landmark-based geometric morphometric (GMM) study with 43 landmarks placed on the same set of scans. Our multivariate statistical analysis using the 71 attribute values separates geographic ancestry groups and sexes with a high degree of reliability, and these results are broadly similar to those from GMM, but with some key differences that we discuss. This approach is compared with conventional, non-parametric methods for the quantification of facial shape, including generality, information density, and the separation of size and shape. Potential uses for phenotypic and dysmorphology studies are also discussed.
The portrayal of antimicrobial resistance in Bangladeshi newspapers during 2010–2021: Toward understanding the narrative
Authors: Haque Tahmidul , Imtiaz Syed Hassan , Hossain Md. Imran , Khan Sazzad Hossain , Alam Md. Mahfuj , Alam Zahidul , Rokonuzzaman S. M. , Pulock Orindom Shing , Pinky Susmita Dey , Arbi Ataul Karim , Murshid Haroon Bin , Homaira Nusrat , Hassan Md. Zakiul
Published: May 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global public health crisis and around the last decade, newspapers were one of the main sources of public dissemination of information for so. This study highlights how Bangladeshi mainstream newspapers represented AMR-related news and how they created the narrative of AMR in Bangladesh.

Methods

We conducted both quantitative and qualitative content analysis on 275 AMR-related news articles published in the twelve highest circulated dailies (January 2010 to September 2021). We divided the articles into report, opinion, and editorials and analyzed how their contents built the narrative of AMR in Bangladesh.

Results

Bangladeshi newspapers reported misuse of antibiotics by the consumers the most (32.2%), followed by selling without prescriptions (29%), and over-prescription by the health providers (26.1%). There were hardly any news reports describing the impact of pharmaceutical companies in prescribing and selling antibiotics. Around 45% of the news articles were event-oriented. Moreover, they suggested inadequate recommendations to battle AMR.

Conclusion

Valid, consistent, and reliable AMR news coverage can play a crucial role in creating mass awareness, making providers accountable, and supporting national action plan in mitigating AMR threat. The Bangladeshi journalists interested in reporting AMR-issues should focus on disseminating more Bangla articles with scientific information, and reporting causes and recommendations responsibly.
A study on the "Porter Hypothesis" effect of the regulatory measures of the environmental protection tax law in the post-pandemic era
Authors: Tao Wei , Zhou Jian-ya
Published: May 2024

The implementation of the Environmental Protection Tax Law was a significant milestone in China’s environmental tax reform. The implementation of this law was influenced throughout the three-year period of epidemic prevention and control (from early 2020 to the end of 2022). Heavily polluting enterprises are the primary focus of regulations under the Environmental Protection Tax Law. This study conducts an empirical analysis using a structural equation model, leveraging sample data obtained from heavily polluting enterprises in China. The findings indicate that during the three-year period of epidemic prevention and control, the Porter Hypothesis effect was realized in terms of tax fairness but not in terms of tax rationality. Therefore, environmental tax law reforms should be pursued and tax authorities in China should make vigorous efforts to enhance the rationality of environmental taxation. This would improve the comprehensiveness of the “Porter Hypothesis” effect, fully harnessing the dual functions of environmental protection and the economic driving force embodied by the Environmental Protection Tax Law.
Mapping climate adaptation corridors for biodiversity—A regional-scale case study in Central America
Authors: McCullough Ian M. , Beirne Christopher , Soto-Navarro Carolina , Whitworth Andrew
Published: May 2024

Climate adaptation corridors are widely recognized as important for promoting biodiversity resilience under climate change. Central America is part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot, but there have been no regional-scale analyses of potential climate adaptation corridors in Central America. We identified 2375 potential corridors throughout Central America that link lowland protected areas (≤ 500 m) with intact, high-elevation forests (≥ 1500 m) that represent potential climate change refugia. Whereas we found potential corridors in all Central American countries, potential corridors in Panama, Belize, and Honduras were most protected (medians = 64%, 49%, and 47%, respectively) and potential corridors in El Salvador were least protected (median = 10%). We also developed a corridor priority index based on the ecological characteristics and protected status of potential corridors and their associated start and end points. Compared to low- and medium-priority corridors, high-priority corridors (n = 160; top 7% of all corridors) were generally more protected, forested, and distributed across wider elevational gradients and more Key Biodiversity Areas, but also generally linked larger lowland protected areas to target areas that were larger, more protected, and spanned wider elevational gradients. For example, based on median values, high-priority corridors were 9% more protected and overlapped with 2–3 more Key Biodiversity Areas than low- and medium-priority corridors. Although high-elevation targets spanned considerably wider elevational gradients than lowland protected areas (medians = 695 vs. 142 m, respectively) and thus may be more likely to support refugia, they were considerably smaller than lowland protected areas (medians = 11 vs. 50 km2 respectively) and mostly unprotected (median = 4% protection). This initial, regional assessment can help prioritize locations for finer-scale research, conservation, and restoration activities in support of climate adaptation corridors throughout Central America and highlights the need for greater conservation of potential high-elevation refugia.
Determination of Metals in Children’s Plastic Toys using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Ahmed Hafiz Omer , Attaelmanan Attaelmanan Gaffar , Mousa Muath Khairi
Published: May 2024

Children’s health and safety may be compromised if exposed to metals through contaminated toys. Hence, evaluation of the quality of the toys available in markets is essential to protect children. This study undertaken to identify the presence of metals contents in plastic toys and compares the results with the national and international limits. For this purpose, 56 types of popular children’s toys marked were purchased from the UAE markets and the metal contents were estimated in 156 toy samples by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) technique. The results reveal that Ti, Fe, Zn and Mg were present in all types of toys. At the same time, other metals such as K and Na in 54 types of toys, Cr in 51 types of toys, Al in 50 types of toys, B, Ba and Ca in types of 49 toys, Mn in 41 types of toys, Cd in 40 types of toys, Ag in 39 types of toys, Ni in 25 types of toys, Pd in 23 types of toys, Cu in 18 types of toys, Bi in 4 types of toys and Co in 3 types of toys were also detected. Furthermore, Pd and B concentrations in 3 types of toys, while Zn and Ba concentrations in two types of toys exceeded the permissible limits. Toxic stabilizers and colours added to PVC during manufacturing are responsible for the existence of such elements in plastic toys. However, additional research is required to establish the role of metals in toys, identify potential risks to children’s health and propose regulations.
Novel Carbazoles as AChE Inhibitors: Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Dynamic Simulation Studies
Authors: Khare Ekta , Fatima Zeeshan , Tiwari O.P. , Patra Jeevan , Kushavah Unnati
Published: May 2024

Extensive exploration of N-substituted carbazole derivatives is underway as these compounds possess the therapeutic potential to address the neurological problems. The main aim of this study is to synthesize a series of N-substituted carbazole derivatives and investigate it’s in vitro and in silico ability to act as AChE inhibitors. The two-step synthesis was carried out that resulted in the development of novel carbazoles and then these were subsequently subjected to in vitro evaluation for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity. Further to comprehend the binding interactions and establish a plausible binding mechanism, the molecular docking, molecular dynamics and computational ADME predictions were employed. Based on its IC50 value of 14.14 µM, -7.327 Kcal/mol binding energy and occupancy of the egg yolk region, which suggests the potential for brain entry, compound 4c was determined to be an active one among the synthesized compounds. Thus, compound 4c has the potential to be an AChE inhibitor and effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Heterocycle based Chalcone Derivatives
Authors: Geetha D. , Basavaraju Y.B. , Roopa K.
Published: May 2024

An efficient procedure for the synthesis of novel chalcones containing heterocyclic ring by Claisen-Schmidt condensation of 2-acetyl thiophene with heterocyclic carboxaldehyde, substituted benzaldehyde in the presence of aqueous alkaline bases produced chalcones in good yield (3a-f) is developed. These chalcones undergoes hydroamination with N-protected N-Boc piperazine followed by deprotection with trifluoroacetic acid gives corresponding amino derivatives with good yield (7a-f). The synthesized compounds were characterized by melting point, FTIR, 1H & 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data. The synthesized compounds were also evaluated in vitro for their antibacterial activity against different bacterial and fungal species. Among the sythesized compounds, compound 7c showed the maximum potent antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Subjetividad, memoria y verdad: Safo en una «historia política de las veridicciones»
Authors: Routier Pablo Martín
Published: May 2024

El presente artículo ofrece una interpretación del fr. 94 (Neri) de Safo en vínculo con la genealogía del sujeto desarrollada por Michel Foucault. En las conferencias de Dartmouth del año 1980, Foucault distingue dos modos de constitución del sí mismo a partir de la relación entre subjetividad y verdad. El primero, «sí mismo gnómico», se corresponde con la práctica de veridicción estoica; el segundo, «sí mismo gnoseológico», es el efecto de las técnicas de confesión cristianas. La primera parte del presente artículo describe esta contraposición. La segunda parte se consagra al estudio del «yo poético» en el fragmento 94 destacando tres dimensiones consideradas constitutivas: la temporalidad, la ritualidad y la intersubjetividad. Este análisis pretende argumentar en favor de una interpretación del «yo poético» sáfico en términos de un «sí mnémico» a los fines de extender la indagación foucaultiana a un corpus poético inexplorado por el autor. El «sí mnémico» propuesto será entendido en términos de restitución de una experiencia común, a través de la memoria poética.
Development of Motion Graphic Video on Class XI Colloid Materials in Increasing Students' Interest in Learning
Authors: Abd.latif
Published: May 2024

Colloidal material is an abstract material that causes students to have difficulty learning it. The difficulty of colloidal material causes students' interest in learning to decrease. This research aims to produce motion graphic video-based learning media on colloid system material to increase students' interest in learning. This research uses research and development (R&D) methods with a 4-D model, which consists of four stages, namely define, design, develop, and disseminate. However, this development is limited to the development stage only. The product was reviewed by the supervisor and four peer reviewers and then validated by one material expert and one chemist. The quality of the media was assessed by four reviewers (high school/MA chemistry teachers) and responded to by 10 high school/MA students. The Linkert scale is used as a product quality assessment questionnaire sheet and the Guttman scale is used as a student response questionnaire sheet. The product produced in this research is a chemistry learning video on colloid system material. The assessment results from material experts obtained an ideal percentage of 80% and were included in the good category. The results of the media expert assessment obtained an ideal percentage of 85% and were included in the very good category. The assessment results from the reviewers (four SMA/MA chemistry teachers) obtained an ideal percentage of 91.36% and were included in the very good category. The results of the responses of ten high school students obtained an ideal percentage of 95%. Based on the assessment results, it can be concluded that the motion graphic video developed can be used as an alternative learning media for colloid system material to increase interest in learning
Sundanese Perceptions and Preferences Towards Lalaban Menu: an Ethnoscience Study in Learning
Authors: Maryanti Sri , Sriyati Siti , Liliawati Winny
Published: May 2024

Lalapan, a typical Sundanese side dish, has cultural significance and high nutritional value for its people. The purpose of the study was to gain insight into how Sundanese people perceive and like the lalaban menu, the traditional menu in their culture as well as their preferences in terms of taste and presentation. This study, reveals the meaning and cultural values inherent in the lalaban menu in Sundanese culture, as well as identifying specific elements of the lalaban menu by scientific principles. This study will also analyze the needs of students in science learning in junior high schools and use these findings as a basis for designing ethnoscience-based learning models that incorporate Sundanese local wisdom around the lalaban menu. This research is expected to help improve understanding of the meaning and value of Balaban culture in Sundanese culture. The research method is an explorative survey with observation techniques through the dissemination of questionnaires with an ethnoscientific approach. Data were collected through observation of 350 participants from 10 cities/districts. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that Balaban was already known to the public, lalapan has a taboo that people believe as a myth. However, there is a scientific explanation from the perspective of ethnoscience, fresh vegetables are important and consumed not just for cultural heritage but there are benefits that can be obtained, types of fruits, vegetables, or plants that are used as potential fresh vegetables that can be consumed, nutritional studies of fresh vegetables, characteristics or inventory of plants used as fresh vegetables, have symbolic meaning as balance, simplicity, and closeness to nature. Other perceptions of tehadap fresh vegetables according to surveys that have been conducted variously. Preference for fresh vegetables is influenced by taste, texture, and nutritional value. In conclusion, the perception and preference of lalaban are not only based on taste and texture but also influenced by cultural significance and nutritional value.