bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Translation Techniques for Translation of Post -Modifier Noun Phrases in “The Frog Prince” Subtitles by EFL Learners
Authors: Iswandi Fedro , Sahronih Siti , Utami Durahman Eva
Published: August 2024

This research aims to identify the structure of post-modifier noun phrases and analyze translation techniques of post-modifier noun phrases in ‘The Frog Prince’ subtitles that translated by EFL learners. This research is a descriptive qualitative method to compare the uses of translation techniques of post-modifier noun phrases translation between A class students and B class students of English Literature at STIBA Invada.  This research used the theory of post-modifier noun phrases based on Aarts (2001) and translation techniques are proposed by Molina & Albir (2002). Then, the technique of collecting data is document analysis. The findings of this research show that there are 4 data of post-modifier noun phrases found in ‘The Frog Prince’ subtitles. Next, there are 4 translation techniques are applied by the A class students and B class student including established equivalent, adaptation, discursive creation, and reduction generally. It can be concluded that translation techniques that we chose between A class student and B class students can influence the meaning and form (structure) of post-modifier noun phrase from source language into target language.
Digital Era Governance Memperkuat Penyelenggaraan Pemerintahan Pasca Pandemi
Authors: Burhan Reksa , Sitti Rabiatul Wahdaniyah  , Ade Irma Surani Haliq
Published: August 2024

Perkembangan digital yang berangsur-angsur berlangsung di desa menyisahkan pertanyaan besar mengenai bagaimana pemerintahan desa harus berbenah sebagai upaya untuk merepson perubahan tersebut. Di beberapa tahun terakhir ini, pertanyaan serupa hampir terdengar di banyak pertemuan-pertemuan baik yang berlangsung oleh praktisi maupun akademisi. Sayangnya, pertanyaan tersebut hanya berhenti pada debat ruang-ruang formal baik oleh praktisi maupun oleh akademisi. Bagi akademisi, merespon perubahan digital sebatas meributkan ide, namun sangat miskin bayangan imajinatif soal apa yang diributkan benar-benra terjadi dilapangan ataukah tidak. Sekaligus pada sisi yang oleh para praktisi, beribut dalam soal pelaksanaan tetapi sangat miskin dengan konsep sebagai pisau analisis sehingga tidak jarang perdebatan berheti dipersimpangan jalan. Penelitian ini akan berlangsung di desa Kambo di Sulawesi Selatan, menggunakan pendekatan Digital Era Governance (DEG). Dengan argumen, bahwa perubahan digital yang berlangsung diluar arena pemerintahan telah berdampak besar terhadap sistem pemerintahan yang ada di Indonesia khususnya di  level terbawah. Penelitian akan menggunakan metode kualitatif, dengan teknik penggumpulan data berupa wawancara dan observasiPenelitian  berlanggsung di kelurahan Kambo. Dan desa Kalukubula
Current Economic Crisis Effect on the Rural Community (By Ritigaha Arawa Village in Rideemaliyadda Divisional Secretariat in Badulla District Sri Lanka)
Authors: Herath Mudiyanselage Ruwan , Upananda D.R.P.
Published: August 2024

Today, Sri Lanka has faced to an economic crisis, and even everyone is suffering from it. COVID pandemic was a reason to expand the crisis, but the economic policy fallowed by Sri Lanka was the main reason for the crisis. The Sri Lankan government announced Sri Lanka as an economically bankrupt country, and Sri Lanka has also stopped the resettlement of foreign loans. Exports, import restrictions, organic policy, taxation, inflation, and a lack of investors are the main reasons for spreading the crisis. The rural community is the most suffering unit of society and the objective of this paper is to examine the effect of the current economic crisis on this community. Mix methodology was used, and questionnaires, discussion, direct observations, and field visits were used to collect the data. Day to day life has been lost to the rural community with the economic crisis, and their income is not enough to fulfill their basic needs. As a result of it, some students have stopped their education, and many young people are suffering their lives with the crisis. Lost job opportunities, and the increasing price of goods are reasons to spreading malnutrition in the rural community,and the crisis has spread all over the rural community in Sri Lanka.
Approximation of misclassification probabilities using quadratic classifier for repeated measurements with known covariance matrices
Authors: de Dieu Niyigena Jean , Ngaruye Innocent , Nzabanita Joseph , Singull Martin
Published: August 2024

Quadratic discriminant analysis is a well-established supervised classification method, which extends the linear the linear discriminant analysis by relaxing the assumption of equal variances across classes. In this study, quadratic discriminant analysis is used to develop a quadratic classification rule based on repeated measurements. We employ a bilinear regression model to assign new observations to predefined populations and approximate the misclassification probability. Through weighted estimators, we estimate unknown mean parameters and derive moments of the quadratic classifier. We then conduct numerical simulations to compare misclassification probabilities using true and estimated mean parameters, as well as probabilities computed through simulation. Our findings suggest that as the distance between groups widens, the misclassification probability curve decreases, indicating that classifying observations is easier in widely separated groups compared to closely clustered ones.
Bacterial Persister Cells and Development of Antibiotic Resistance in Chronic Infections: An Update
Authors: Kunnath Anil Philip , Suodha Suoodh Mohamed , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Chellian Jestin , Palaniveloo Kishneth
Published: August 2024

The global issue of antimicrobial resistance poses significant challenges to public health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted it as a major global health threat, causing an estimated 700,000 deaths worldwide. Understanding the multifaceted nature of antibiotic resistance is crucial for developing effective strategies. Several physiological and biochemical mechanisms are involved in the development of antibiotic resistance. Bacterial cells may escape the bactericidal actions of the drugs by entering a physiologically dormant state known as bacterial persistence. Recent findings in this field suggest that bacterial persistence can be one of the main sources of chronic infections. The antibiotic tolerance developed by the persister cells could tolerate high levels of antibiotics and may give rise to persister offspring. These persister offspring could be attributed to antibiotic resistance mechanisms, especially in chronic infections. This review attempts to shed light on persister-induced antibiotic resistance and the current therapeutic strategies.
Effect of H2O2-VC degradation on structural characteristics and immunomodulatory activity of larch arabinogalactan
Authors: Qi Huimin , Tang Shuo , Bian Bin , Lai Chenhuan , Chen Yanan , Ling Zhe , Yong Qiang
Published: August 2024

The arabinogalactan in the representative softwood biomass of larch was degraded using an environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide and vitamin C (H2O2-VC) system to improve its immunomodulatory activity. Through the H2O2-VC degradation mechanism, hydroxyl radicals are generated, which then target the hydrogen atoms within polysaccharides, resulting in the breaking of glycosidic bonds. Given the impact of oxidative degradation on polysaccharides, we identified three specific arabinogalactan degradation products distinguished by their arabinosyl side chain compositions. The primary structures of the degradation products were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Congo red staining showed that the degradation products were absent in the triple-helix structure. The results of the in vitro immunological experiments indicated that an appropriate reduction in the molar ratio of arabinose to galactose enhanced the immunostimulatory effects on RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, the immunostimulatory pathway mediated by arabinogalactan was explored by toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibitor (TAK-242) These findings provide novel insights into the understanding of the relationship between the structure of arabinogalactan and its biological activity.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of embryo transfer among women who underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer
Authors: Xu Yangying , Hao Cuifang , Zhang Huimin , Liu Yingxue , Xue Wei
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The infertile patient’s knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward embryo transfer may affect treatment outcomes and the mental health of women who underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). This study aimed to investigate the KAP of embryo transfer among women who underwent IVF-ET.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on women who underwent IVF-ET at our Hospital between May 2023 and November 2023, using a self-designed questionnaire.

Results

A total of 614 valid questionnaires were finally included. The mean KAP scores were 19.46 ± 5.06 (possible range: 0 28), 39.41 ± 5.20 (possible range: 12–60), and 48.02 ± 6.75 (possible range: 0–60), respectively. The structural equation model demonstrated that knowledge has a direct effect on attitude (β = 0.27, p < 0.001) and attitude has a direct effect on practice (β = 0.55, p < 0.001) and anxiety (β = 0.59, p < 0.001). Moreover, multivariable linear regression analysis showed that anxiety score [coefficient = 0.09, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03–0.16, p = 0.003], BMI (coefficient = 0.09, 95%CI: 0.03–0.16, p = 0.003), education (coefficient = 5.65–6.17, 95%CI: 1.09–10.7, p < 0.05), monthly per capita income (coefficient = 1.20–1.96, 95% CI: 0.21–3.07, p = 0.05), reasons for IVF (coefficient = −1.33–1.19, 95% CI: −2.49–0.09, p < 0.05), and more than 5 years of infertility (coefficient = −1.12, 95% CI: −2.11–0.13, p = 0.026) were independently associated with sufficient knowledge. Knowledge (coefficient = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.12–0.26, p < 0.001), anxiety (coefficient = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.34–0.45, p < 0.001), monthly per capita household income >10,000 (coefficient = 1.52, 95% CI: 0.61–2.43, p < 0.001), and three or more cycles of embryo transfer (coefficient = −2.69, 95% CI: −3.94–1.43, p < 0.001) were independently associated with active attitude. Furthermore, attitude (coefficient = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.11–0.30, p < 0.001) and anxiety (coefficient = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.49–0.65, p < 0.001) were independently associated with proactive practice.

Discussion

Women who underwent IVF-ET had inadequate knowledge and negative attitudes but proactive practice toward embryo transfer, which were affected by anxiety, income, and reasons for IVF. It is necessary to strengthen the continuous improvement of patient education to improve the management of embryo transfer.
Risk factors for postoperative delirium in frail elderly patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery and development of a prediction model—a prospective observational study
Authors: Ding Yinyin , Gao Ju , Ge Yali , Huang Tianfeng , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2024

Background

To identify the risk factors for postoperative delirium (POD) after cardiac surgery in frail elderly patients and develop a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) prediction model to confirm the effectiveness.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study, patients were assessed preoperatively according to the frailty index (FI) scale. Cerebral (SctO2) was assessed at different time points using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). On the basis of the occurrence of POD within 7 days after surgery, patients were divided into POD and non-POD groups. Risk factors were analyzed using logistic regression analysis, while their predictive values were evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

POD was significantly associated with frailty, lower preoperative MMSE scores, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, lower hemoglobin level, lower albumin level, longer operation time, longer CPB time, lower SctO2 at T5, and lower SctO2baseline (P < 0.05). SrtO2 and SmtO2 did not differ significantly between groups. FI, preoperative MMSE score, and operation time as independent risk factors (P < 0.05). Significant predictive value was demonstrated in all 3 variables (P < 0.001; respectively). Among them, high sensitivity and specificity were observed with the FI (cut-off value 0.27, sensitivity 75%, specificity 73.5%) and operation time (cut-off value 237.5, sensitivity 62.5%, specificity 78.6%).

Conclusions

The FI, preoperative MMSE score, and operation time were independent risk factors for POD in elderly patients after cardiac surgery, with high predictive value observed with the FI and operation time. Cerebral oxygen saturation was associated with POD but was not an independent risk factor.

Clinical Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trail Registry, No: chictr2200056038.
Enhancing the effectiveness of digital transformation on teaching in higher education in Kuwait
Authors: Alkandari Fouad , Alsaber Ahmad , Al-Kandari Anwaar , Alboloushi Bedour , AlMutairi Shihanah
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the digital citizenship behavior (DCB) and behavioral intention (BI) of faculty members at the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET) colleges in Kuwait. The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of technology in teaching and provide a case study of higher educational institutions in Kuwait. The study’s theoretical framework focuses on four key factors: performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), and facilitating conditions (FC), examining their impact on faculty readiness (RED) through the mediation of both BI and DCB. A total of 28 hypotheses were tested, exploring direct and indirect relationships among these variables.

Methods

A survey was conducted among 122 faculty members from PAAET colleges in Kuwait. The questionnaire measured the participants’ perceptions of PE, EE, SI, and FC, along with their BI and DCB. The study employed statistical methods to analyze the data and test the 28 hypotheses, aiming to identify significant paths of relationships that contribute to faculty readiness for technology use in education.

Results

The findings confirmed eight significant paths of relationships, highlighting the importance of inputs such as effort and social influence and their impact on performance as an output in determining faculty readiness. However, the study raised empirical doubts about the remaining 20 hypotheses, providing new evidence that challenges the currently established relationships between technology acceptance and digital citizenship.

Discussion

The study offers valuable insights into the factors influencing the effective use of technology in higher education institutions in Kuwait. It suggests that while some pathways, such as effort and social influence, significantly contribute to faculty readiness, other expected relationships may not hold as previously thought. This new evidence calls for a reevaluation of the existing models of technology acceptance and digital citizenship. The results have important implications for policy and practice, offering guidance on enhancing technology use among faculty members in educational settings. The study contributes to the broader discussion on digital transformation in education, providing a comprehensive understanding of the key factors that affect faculty readiness for adopting new technologies.
Association between atherogenic dyslipidemia and muscle quality defined by myosteatosis
Authors: Kim Hwi Seung , Cho Yun Kyung , Kim Myung Jin , Kim Eun Hee , Lee Min Jung , Lee Woo Je , Kim Hong-Kyu , Jung Chang Hee
Published: August 2024

Background

Myosteatosis, ectopic fat accumulation in skeletal muscle, is a crucial component of sarcopenia, linked to various cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the association between dyslipidemia and myosteatosis using abdominal computed tomography (CT) in a large population.

Methods

This study included 11,823 patients not taking lipid-lowering medications with abdominal CT taken between 2012 and 2013. Total abdominal muscle area (TAMA), measured at the L3 level, was segmented into skeletal muscle area (SMA) and intramuscular adipose tissue. SMA was further classified into normal attenuation muscle area (NAMA: good quality muscle) and low attenuation muscle area (poor quality muscle). NAMA divided by TAMA (NAMA/TAMA) represents good quality muscle. Atherosclerotic dyslipidemia was defined as high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) less than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) greater than 160 mg/dL, triglycerides (TG) greater than 150 mg/dL, small dense LDL-C (sdLDL-C) greater than 50.0 mg/dL, or apolipoprotein B/A1 (apoB/A1) greater than 0.08.

Results

The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of dyslipidemia according to the HDL-C and sdLDL definitions were greater in both sexes in the lower quartiles (Q1~3) of NAMA/TAMA compared with Q4. As per other definitions, the ORs were significantly increased in only women for LDL-C and only men for TG and ApoB/A1. In men, all lipid parameters were significantly associated with NAMA/TAMA, while TG and ApoB/A1 did not show significant association in women.

Conclusion

Myosteatosis measured in abdominal CT was significantly associated with a higher risk of dyslipidemia. Myosteatosis may be an important risk factor for dyslipidemia and ensuing cardiometabolic diseases.
User perceptions of intelligent offloading diabetic footwear
Authors: Hemler Sarah L. , Sommerich Carolyn M. , Correia Jorge C. , Pataky Zoltan
Published: August 2024

Aims

Adherence to therapeutic footwear is vital for effective diabetic foot ulcer prevention and treatment. Understanding the key adherence factors and potential barriers is important for footwear design and implementation. Our team is creating intelligent offloading footwear to prevent lower extremity amputations in people living with diabetes (PLwD). This exploratory study assessed the ability of the established Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to predict behavioral intention to use or recommend this intelligent offloading footwear by PLwD, caregivers of PLwD, or medical professionals treating PLwD.

Methods

Online and paper questionnaires were implemented to assess the impact of the UTAUT model factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions) and psychosocial factors (attitude, anxiety, self-efficacy) on the overall behavioral intention to use the footwear. Furthermore, factors influencing potential acceptance and rejection of the footwear were explored.

Results

Patients (4.0/5) and medical professionals (4.1/5) showed a behavioral intention to “agree” to use or recommend the footwear when it becomes available. Structural equation modeling showed that the UTAUT constructed model may not be the best indicator for behavioral intention here based on a lack of statistical significance. However, the logistic regression modeling showed that the social influence for PLwD (p=0.004) and the attitude toward the footwear for medical professionals (p=0.001) may be the most important when designing and implementing the footwear, though several other factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, facilitating conditions, and self-efficacy) were also important for one or both of these populations. Additionally, cost and clinician support were shown to be important factors influencing potential acceptance of the footwear.

Conclusions

The study found promising intention to use the intelligent footwear in the future. This highlights the need to continue future development and implementation of the footwear to incorporate these results, thus improving the likelihood of high adherence of the footwear.
A comparative evaluation of bioequivalence of Gan & Lee glargine U300 and Toujeo® in Chinese healthy male participants
Authors: Li Xiaoli , He Anshun , Liu Bingyan , Shan Rongfang , Zhu Juan , Li Xiaoyue , Xie Tian , Li Yue , Chen Mengmeng , Su He , Zhang Chaoyang , Li Lufeng , Cheng Dongmei , Chen Juan , Wang Ying , Su Yue , Xu Yuanyuan , Li Zhuoran , Zhou Huan , Chen Wei , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: August 2024

Background

To assess the bioequivalence between Gan & Lee (GL) glargine U300 and Toujeo® regarding pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and safety in Chinese healthy male participants.

Methods

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, single-dose, two-preparation, two-sequence, four-cycle repeated crossover design study was performed to compare GL glargine U300 and Toujeo® in 40 healthy participants. The primary PK endpoints were the area under the curve of glargine metabolites, M1 concentration from 0 to 24 hours (AUC0-24h), and the maximum glargine concentration within 24 hours post-dose (Cmax). The primary PD endpoints were the area under the glucose infusion rate (GIR) curve from 0 to 24 hours (AUCGIR.0-24h) and the maximum GIR within 24 hours post-dose (GIRmax).

Results

GL Glargine U300 demonstrated comparable PK parameters (AUC0–24h, Cmax, AUC0–12h, and AUC12–24h of M1) and PD responses [AUCGIR.0–24h, GIRmax, AUCGIR.0–12h, and AUCGIR.12–24h] to those of Toujeo®, as indicated by 90% confidence intervals ranging from 80% to 125%. No significant disparities in safety profiles were observed between the two treatment groups, and there were no reported instances of serious adverse events.

Conclusion

The PK, PD, and safety of GL glargine U300 were bioequivalent to that of Toujeo®.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn/, identifier CTR20212419.
Cloud-edge collaborative high-frequency acquisition data processing for distribution network resilience improvement
Authors: Dang Sanlei , Zhang Jie , Lu Tao , Zhang Yongwang , Song Peng , Zhang Jun , Liu Rirong
Published: August 2024

To realize transparent monitoring and resilience improvement of low-voltage distribution network, both the data acquisition scope and frequency have been greatly expanded. Cloud-edge collaboration leverages the edge server’s real-time response capabilities and the cloud server’s robust data processing power to enhance the performance of high-frequency data acquisition processing. Nonetheless, it continues to confront challenges such as the entanglement of optimization variables, the presence of uncertain information, and a lack of awareness regarding acquisition frequencies. In this paper, we propose a machine learning-based cloud-edge collaborative data processing optimization algorithm to minimize the weighted sum of data processing delay and device energy consumption for distribution network resilience improvement. The joint optimization problem is decoupled into device-edge data offloading subproblem and edge-cloud data splitting subproblem, which are solved by the proposed upper confidence bound (UCB) based frequency-aware device-edge data offloading optimization algorithm and the exponential-weight algorithm for exploration and exploitation (EXP3) based edge-cloud data splitting optimization algorithm, respectively. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is superior to existing algorithms in performances of energy consumption and total processing delay.
The emerging role of neutrophil extracellular traps in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Long Dan , Mao Chenhan , Xu Yin , Zhu Ying
Published: August 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic non-recessive inflammation of the intestinal mucosa involving both innate and adaptive immune responses. Currently, new targeted therapies are urgently needed for UC, and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are new therapeutic options. NETs are DNA-based networks released from neutrophils into the extracellular space after stimulation, in which a variety of granule proteins, proteolytic enzymes, antibacterial peptides, histones, and other network structures are embedded. With the deepening of the studies on NETs, their regulatory role in the development of autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases has received extensive attention in recent years. Increasing evidence indicates that excess NETs exacerbate the inflammatory response in UC, disrupting the structure and function of the intestinal mucosal barrier and increasing the risk of thrombosis. Although NETs are usually assigned a deleterious role in promoting the pathological process of UC, they also appear to have a protective role in some models. Despite such progress, comprehensive reviews describing the therapeutic promise of NETs in UC remain limited. In this review, we discuss the latest evidence for the formation and degradation of NETs, focusing on their double-edged role in UC. Finally, the potential implications of NETs as therapeutic targets for UC will be discussed. This review aims to provide novel insights into the pathogenesis and therapeutic options for UC.
Evaluating the significance of ECSCR in the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and drug efficacy assessment
Authors: Feng Bin , Zhang Yanqiu , Qiao Longwei , Tang Qingqin , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Sheng , Qiu Jun , Zhou Xianping , Huang Chao , Liang Yuting
Published: August 2024

Background

The main challenge in diagnosing and treating ulcerative colitis (UC) has prompted this study to discover useful biomarkers and understand the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, transcriptomic data from intestinal mucosal biopsies underwent Robust Rank Aggregation (RRA) analysis to identify differential genes. These genes intersected with UC key genes from Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). Machine learning identified UC signature genes, aiding predictive model development. Validation involved external data for diagnostic, progression, and drug efficacy assessment, along with ELISA testing of clinical serum samples.

Results

RRA integrative analysis identified 251 up-regulated and 211 down-regulated DEGs intersecting with key UC genes in WGCNA, yielding 212 key DEGs. Subsequently, five UC signature biomarkers were identified by machine learning based on the key DEGs—THY1, SLC6A14, ECSCR, FAP, and GPR109B. A logistic regression model incorporating these five genes was constructed. The AUC values for the model set and internal validation data were 0.995 and 0.959, respectively. Mechanistically, activation of the IL-17 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in UC was indicated by KEGG and GSVA analyses, which were positively correlated with the signature biomarkers. Additionally, the expression of the signature biomarkers was strongly correlated with various UC types and drug efficacy in different datasets. Notably, ECSCR was found to be upregulated in UC serum and exhibited a positive correlation with neutrophil levels in UC patients.

Conclusions

THY1, SLC6A14, ECSCR, FAP, and GPR109B can serve as potential biomarkers of UC and are closely related to signaling pathways associated with UC progression. The discovery of these markers provides valuable information for understanding the molecular mechanisms of UC.
Using sea lion-borne video to map diverse benthic habitats in southern Australia
Authors: Angelakis Nathan , Grammer Gretchen L. , Connell Sean D. , Bailleul Frédéric , Durante Leonardo M. , Kirkwood Roger , Holman Dirk , Goldsworthy Simon D.
Published: August 2024

Across the world’s oceans, our knowledge of the habitats on the seabed is limited. Increasingly, video/imagery data from remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) and towed and drop cameras, deployed from vessels, are providing critical new information to map unexplored benthic (seabed) habitats. However, these vessel-based surveys involve considerable time and personnel, are costly, require favorable weather conditions, and are difficult to conduct in remote, offshore, and deep marine habitats, which makes mapping and surveying large areas of the benthos challenging. In this study, we present a novel and efficient method for mapping diverse benthic habitats on the continental shelf, using animal-borne video and movement data from a benthic predator, the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea). Six benthic habitats (between 5-110m depth) were identified from data collected by eight Australian sea lions from two colonies in South Australia. These habitats were macroalgae reef, macroalgae meadow, bare sand, sponge/sand, invertebrate reef and invertebrate boulder habitats. Percent cover of benthic habitats differed on the foraging paths of sea lions from both colonies. The distributions of these benthic habitats were combined with oceanographic data to build Random Forest models for predicting benthic habitats on the continental shelf. Random forest models performed well (validated models had a >98% accuracy), predicting large areas of macroalgae reef, bare sand, sponge/sand and invertebrate reef habitats on the continental shelf in southern Australia. Modelling of benthic habitats from animal-borne video data provides an effective approach for mapping extensive areas of the continental shelf. These data provide valuable new information on the seabed and complement traditional methods of mapping and surveying benthic habitats. Better understanding and preserving these habitats is crucial, amid increasing human impacts on benthic environments around the world.
Microplastics in sea surface waters in the Southern Bight of the North Sea
Authors: Hoehn Danja P. , McGoran Alexandra R. , Barry Jon , Russell Josie , Nicolaus E. E. Manuel , Bakir Adil
Published: August 2024

Microplastic pollution in the marine environment is of concern, with evidence of harmful effects on marine biota and ecosystems. There is still a knowledge gap of the mass of plastics supplied to the ocean and plastics observed in the ocean, indicating a missing sink. Therefore, baseline and monitoring data are needed to inform policy and regulatory measures. The goal of this study was to collect harmonised data of microplastics from the surface of the ocean using the Neuston Microplastic Catamaran. This study shows that the surface water of the coastal ocean in the North Sea holds/sustains high concentrations of microplastic, which exceed previously recorded measurements from the North-East Atlantic and Scottish Waters, indicating that the total stock of plastics might be much higher than previously determined. Microplastics were detected in all samples with concentrations ranging from 857 to 25,462 items km−2. The majority of microplastics analysed were fragments of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene in the size range of 1,000–5,000 µm. Mesoplastics (>5,000 µm) mainly in the form of filaments were found with concentrations ranging from 0 to 2,139 items km−2, and macroplastics (>5,000 µm) in the form of fragments and filaments were also found with concentrations ranging from 0 to 1,078 items km−2. These fragments and filaments likely originate from the break-up of common macrolitter items in the environment, such as plastic bags, bottles, and fishing gears, which are commonly comprised of similar polymers to those found in the present study. Our findings demonstrate that litters of all size classes are abundant in surface water, highlighting that it is a key compartment for the transport of marine litter and should be monitored to better our understanding of the fate and danger of plastic contamination in our ocean.
The future of medicine: an outline attempt using state-of-the-art business and scientific trends
Authors: Agyralides Gregorios
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Currently, there is a lot of discussion about the future of medicine. From research and development to regulatory approval and access to patients until the withdrawal of a medicinal product from the market, there have been many challenges and a lot of barriers to overcome. In parallel, the business environment changes rapidly. So, the big question is how the pharma ecosystem will evolve in the future.

Methods

The current literature about the latest business and scientific evolutions and trends was reviewed.

Results

In the business environment, vast changes have taken place via the development of the internet as well as the Internet of Things. A new approach to production has emerged in a frame called Creative Commons; producer and consumer may be gradually identified in the context of the same process. As technology rapidly evolves, it is dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI), its subset, Machine Learning, and the use of Big Data and Real-World Data (RWD) to produce Real-World Evidence (RWE). Nanotechnology is an inter-science field that gives new opportunities for the manufacturing of devices and products that have dimensions of a billionth of a meter. Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning (DL) are mimicking the use of the human brain, combining computer science with new theoretical foundations for complex systems. The implementation of these evolutions has already been initiated in the medicinal products’ lifecycle, including screening of drug candidates, clinical trials, pharmacovigilance (PV), marketing authorization, manufacturing, and the supply chain. This has emerged as a new ecosystem which features characteristics such as free online tools and free data available online. Personalized medicine is a breakthrough field where tailor-made therapeutic solutions can be provided customized to the genome of each patient.

Conclusion

Various interactions take place as the pharma ecosystem and technology rapidly evolve. This can lead to better, safer, and more effective treatments that are developed faster and with a more solid, data-driven and evidence-concrete approach, which will drive the benefit for the patient.
Comparison of effect and safety of phacoemulsification surgery performed by resident and attending physicians
Authors: Wu Siteng , Yao Dongwei , Hua Shanshan , Li Xiangzhe , Shi Yan
Published: August 2024

Aim

The objective of this study is to compare the effect and safety of phacoemulsification surgery performed by resident and attending physicians.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Eyes with cataract who underwent phacoemulsification surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University between January 2021 and December 2023 were reviewed. All the patients were followed up for at least 12 months and were divided into two groups according to the surgery performer. SPSS was used to analyze data, considering p < 0.05 significant.

Results

Overall, 316 patients with cataract in group 1 (surgery performed by resident physician, n = 181) and group 2 (surgery performed by attending physician, n = 135) were reviewed. There were no statistically significant differences in patient demographics variables and cataract grade between the groups. The resident surgeon used more cumulative dissipate energy (15.00 ± 7.25 vs. 10.83 ± 6.52, p < 0.001) and operation time (20.46 ± 5.69 vs. 12.59 ± 4.61 min, p < 0.001) to complete the surgery. Also, the ECL in group 1 was higher (14.87 ± 5.00 vs. 10.77 ± 4.46, p < 0.001). The eyes had significant visual improvement in both groups postoperatively (p < 0.05), but at the 12-month follow-up, eyes in group 2 had better best-corrected visual acuity [0.10 (0.00, 0.22) vs. 0.10 (0.10, 0.22) logMAR, p = 0.039]. Except for month 1, the intraocular pressure was no statistical difference in group 1 and group 2 (14.65 ± 2.52 vs. 15.30 ± 2.34 mmHg, p = 0.019). Cases in group 1 were more likely to undergo intraoperative and postoperative complications (37 vs. 14, p = 0.031), including cornea edema (p = 0.025), capsule tear (p = 0.044), and posterior capsular opacification (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The effect of phacoemulsification surgery performed by the resident physician is satisfying, but compared to the attending physician, the higher probability of complications should be paid more attention.
A study exploring the causal relationship between glaucoma and anxiety disorders
Authors: Lin Bin , Xu Meng , Chen Long-long , Li Dong-kan
Published: August 2024

Background

Glaucoma, a leading cause of global blindness, is characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss. Previous studies have suggested a potential association between glaucoma and anxiety disorders. However, the causal relationship between these two conditions remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a Mendelian Randomization analysis to investigate the causal relationship between glaucoma and anxiety disorders. We sourced Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) datasets for glaucoma and anxiety with the largest sample sizes from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit OpenGWAS (IEU OpenGWAS) project website. Instrumental variables were selected based on specific criteria, and statistical analyses were performed using the R programming language.

Results

After filtering and merging the datasets, a total of 60 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained for analysis. Regression models were applied to assess the causal relationship between glaucoma and anxiety disorders. The results from all four methods indicated that glaucoma does not cause anxiety disorders (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Through rigorous Mendelian Randomization analysis, our findings indicate that glaucoma is not a causative factor for anxiety, with minimal influence from confounding factors in this study. These findings enhance our understanding of the relationship between glaucoma and anxiety.
Quality evaluation of selected expired fluoroquinolones medicines obtained from the public hospitals in Jimma zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Getahun Habtamu , Belew Sileshi , Hasen Gemmechu , Tefera Guta , Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Suleman Sultan
Published: August 2024

Background

The problem of medicine expiration presents a notable obstacle, resulting in considerable financial losses. Nevertheless, there is currently limited data indicating that certain medications do not experience a significant decrease in effectiveness after their expiration date. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the physico-chemical quality of expired fluoroquinolone antibiotics.

Methods

The expired samples of fluoroquinolone antibiotics were purposively collected from public hospitals in the Jimma zone of the Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. A World Health Organization quality evaluation sampling strategy was employed. Then, simple random sampling techniques were utilized for the selection of tablets for the laboratory quality control test. The assay, identification, and dissolution were performed in accordance with the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) guidelines, as well as failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) techniques.

Results

The finding revealed that about 100% (7/7) expired samples passed pharmacopeia quality specifications for identity and assay tests. However, of the seven expired brands, about 14.3% (1/7) of the sample (Code-002) was unable to release its API content within the USP criteria of 30 min. The risk-based quality evaluation revealed that assay was the most critical quality attributed to ciprofloxacin tablets (RPN = 189), followed by identity (RPN = 100). Assay was also the most critical quality attribute (RPN = 378), followed by identity (RPN = 100) for Norfloxacin tablets. The risk-based desirability function approach showed that 75% (3/4) of ciprofloxacin products were of good quality, and 25% (1) were found to be of acceptable quality, while the desirability function of norfloxacin tablets was found to be excellent 1 (33.3%), good 1 (33.3%), and acceptable 1 (33.3%).

Conclusion

The study revealed that medications can maintain their quality beyond their labeled expiration date. By combining pharmacopeial standards with risk-based approaches like failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA), the study provides a comprehensive evaluation framework. This approach not only confirms the continued effectiveness of expired fluoroquinolone antibiotics but also underscores the potential waste reduction and cost-saving benefits. This could significantly contribute to addressing healthcare challenges in low-resource settings, promoting more efficient pharmaceutical resource utilization.
Role and potential of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography-computed tomography in large-vessel vasculitis: a comprehensive review
Authors: Collada-Carrasco Javier , Gómez-León Nieves , Castillo-Morales Valentina , Lumbreras-Fernández Blanca , Castañeda Santos , Rodríguez-Laval Víctor
Published: August 2024

Large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation of the aorta and its main branches, which includes giant cell arteritis (GCA), polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), and Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK). These conditions pose significant diagnostic and management challenges due to their diverse clinical presentations and potential for serious complications. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET-CT) has emerged as a valuable imaging modality for the diagnosis and monitoring of LVV, offering insights into disease activity, extent, and response to treatment. 18F-FDG-PET-CT plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of LVV by allowing to visualize vessel involvement, assess disease activity, and guide treatment decisions. Studies have demonstrated the utility of 18F-FDG-PET-CT in distinguishing between LVV subtypes, evaluating disease distribution, and detecting extracranial involvement in patients with cranial GCA or PMR phenotypes. Additionally, 18F-FDG-PET-CT has shown promising utility in predicting clinical outcomes and assessing treatment response, based on the correlation between reductions in FDG uptake and improved disease control. Future research should focus on further refining PET-CT techniques, exploring their utility in monitoring treatment response, and investigating novel imaging modalities such as PET-MRI for enhanced diagnostic accuracy in LVV. Overall, 18F-FDG-PET-CT represents a valuable tool in the multidisciplinary management of LVV, facilitating timely diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.
Clinical predictive value of pre-pregnancy tests for unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Jinming , Li Dan , Guo Zhenglong , Ren Yanxin , Wang Li , Liu Yuehua , Kang Kai , Shi Weili , Huang Jianmei , Liao Shixiu , Hao Yibin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Early prediction and intervention are crucial for the prognosis of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (uRSA). The main purpose of this study is to establish a risk prediction model for uRSA based on routine pre-pregnancy tests, in order to provide clinical physicians with indications of whether the patients are at high risk.

Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted at the Prenatal Diagnosis Center of Henan Provincial People’s Hospital between January 2019 and December 2022. Twelve routine pre-pregnancy tests and four basic personal information characteristics were collected. Pre-pregnancy tests include thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine thyroid (FT4), thyroxine (TT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab), thyroid globulin antibody (TG-Ab), 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH) D], ferritin (Ferr), Homocysteine (Hcy), vitamin B12 (VitB12), folic acid (FA). Basic personal information characteristics include age, body mass index (BMI), smoking history and drinking history. Logistic regression analysis was used to establish a risk prediction model, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to evaluate the performance of prediction model.

Results

A total of 140 patients in uRSA group and 152 women in the control group were randomly split into a training set (n = 186) and a testing set (n = 106). Chi-square test results for each single characteristic indicated that, FT3 (p = 0.018), FT4 (p = 0.048), 25-(OH) D (p = 0.013) and FA (p = 0.044) were closely related to RSA. TG-Ab and TPO-Ab were also important characteristics according to clinical experience, so we established a risk prediction model for RSA based on the above six characteristics using logistic regression analysis. The prediction accuracy of the model on the testing set was 74.53%, and the area under ROC curve was 0.710. DCA curve indicated that the model had good clinical value.

Conclusion

Pre-pregnancy tests such as FT3, FT4, TG-Ab, 25-(OH)D and FA were closely related to uRSA. This study successfully established a risk prediction model for RSA based on routine pre-pregnancy tests.
Impact of AI-assisted CXR analysis in detecting incidental lung nodules and lung cancers in non-respiratory outpatient clinics
Authors: Kwak Se Hyun , Kim Kyeong Yeon , Choi Ji Soo , Kim Min Chul , Seol Chang Hwan , Kim Sung Ryeol , Lee Eun Hye
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for chest X-ray (CXR) analysis is becoming increasingly prevalent in medical environments. This study aimed to determine whether AI in CXR can unexpectedly detect lung nodule detection and influence patient diagnosis and management in non-respiratory outpatient clinics.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients over 18 years of age, who underwent CXR at Yongin Severance Hospital outpatient clinics between March 2021 and January 2023 and were identified to have lung nodules through AI software, were included. Commercially available AI-based lesion detection software (Lunit INSIGHT CXR) was used to detect lung nodules.

Results

Out Of 56,802 radiographic procedures, 40,191 were from non-respiratory departments, with AI detecting lung nodules in 1,754 cases (4.4%). Excluding 139 patients with known lung lesions, 1,615 patients were included in the final analysis. Out of these, 30.7% (495/1,615) underwent respiratory consultation and 31.7% underwent chest CT scans (512/1,615). As a result of the CT scans, 71.5% (366 cases) were found to have true nodules. Among these, the final diagnoses included 36 lung cancers (7.0%, 36/512), 141 lung nodules requiring follow-up (27.5%, 141/512), 114 active pulmonary infections (22.3%, 114/512), and 75 old inflammatory sequelae (14.6%, 75/512). The mean AI nodule score for lung cancer was significantly higher than that for other nodules (56.72 vs. 33.44, p < 0.001). Additionally, active pulmonary infection had a higher consolidation score, and old inflammatory sequelae had the highest fibrosis score, demonstrating differences in the AI analysis among the final diagnosis groups.

Conclusion

This study indicates that AI-detected incidental nodule abnormalities on CXR in non-respiratory outpatient clinics result in a substantial number of clinically significant diagnoses, emphasizing AI’s role in detecting lung nodules and need for further evaluation and specialist consultation for proper diagnosis and management.