bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of novel carriers for enhanced dissolution of lycopene
Authors: Mirahmadi Mahdi , Kamali Hossein , Azimi-Hashemi Shayan , Lavaee Parirokh , Gharaei Sama , Sherkatsadi Kiana , Pourhossein Tahereh , Baharara Hamed , Nejabat Mojgan , Ghafourian Taravat , Hadizadeh Farzin , Nokhodchi Ali
Published: May 2024

Despite the antioxidant properties of lycopene, its poor water solubility reduces its efficiency and bioavailability. The study aimed to enhance the solubility of lycopene to improve its efficiency. To make lycopene more soluble, different carriers were added using physical mixing and solid-dispersion techniques. Then, the mechanisms of this solubility improvement were studied using solid-state characterization and docking studies. Out of 56 polymers and their combinations, isolated protein-whey (IWP) and polyvinylpyrrolidone-K30 (PVP-K30) showed the highest solubility for lycopene. These particles exhibited a more negative surface charge and a lower polydispersity index. Dissolution kinetics revealed that using IPW resulted in the highest release rate of lycopene. It was found that lycopene and β-lactoglobulin, an IPW component, have a hydrophobic bond. This makes a hydrophilic coating around the lycopene molecule. DSC results showed that lycopene could be in an amorphous state in IPW-lycopene formulations. The results of this study show how some food ingredients can improve the bioavailability of drugs that don’t dissolve well in water. This will help with future efforts to deliver drugs.
Diet to Stop Hypertension: Should Fats be Included?
Authors: Nestel Paul J. , Mori Trevor A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

International guidelines emphasize advice to incorporate dietary measures for the prevention and in the management of hypertension. Current data show that modest reductions in weight can have an impact on blood pressure. Reducing salt and marine oils have also shown consistent benefit in reducing blood pressure. Whether other dietary constituents, in particular the amount and type of fat that play important roles in cardiovascular prevention, influence blood pressure sufficiently to be included in the management of hypertension is less certain. In this review, we provide a summary of the most recent findings, with a focus on dietary patterns, fats and other nutrients and their impact on blood pressure and hypertension.

Recent Findings

Since reducing salt consumption is an established recommendation only corollary dietary advice is subject to the current review. Population studies that have included reliable evaluation of fat intake have indicated almost consistently blood pressure lowering with consumption of marine oils and fats. Results with vegetable oils are inconclusive. However dietary patterns that included total fat reduction and changes in the nature of vegetable fats/oils have suggested beneficial effects on blood pressure. Plant-based foods, dairy foods and yoghurt particularly, may also lower blood pressure irrespective of fat content.

Total fat consumption is not directly associated with blood pressure except when it is part of a weight loss diet. Consumption of marine oils has mostly shown moderate blood pressure lowering and possibly greatest effect with docosahexaenoic acid-rich oil.
Modern Approaches to the Treatment of Acute Facial Pain
Authors: Asadauskas Auste , Luedi Markus M. , Urman Richard D. , Andereggen Lukas
Published: May 2024

Purpose of Review

Acute facial pain presents a complex challenge in medical practice, requiring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to its management. This narrative review explores the contemporary landscape of treating acute facial pain, delving into pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and advanced interventions. The significance of tailored treatment strategies, rooted in the diverse etiologies of facial pain, such as dental infections, trigeminal neuralgia, temporomandibular joint disorders, sinusitis, or neurological conditions like migraines or cluster headaches, is underscored. We particularly emphasize recent advances in treating trigeminal neuralgia, elucidating current treatment concepts in managing this particular acute facial pain.

Recent Findings

Recent research sheds light on various treatment modalities for acute facial pain. Pharmacotherapy ranges from traditional NSAIDs and analgesics to anticonvulsants and antidepressants. Non-pharmacological interventions, including physical therapy and psychological approaches, play pivotal roles. Advanced interventions, such as nerve blocks and surgical procedures, are considered in cases of treatment resistance. Moreover, we explore innovative technologies like neuromodulation techniques and personalized medicine, offering promising avenues for optimizing treatment outcomes in acute facial pain management.

Modern management of acute facial pain requires a nuanced and patient-centric approach. Tailoring treatment strategies to the individual's underlying condition is paramount. While pharmacotherapy remains a cornerstone, the integration of non-pharmacological interventions is essential for comprehensive care. Advanced interventions should be reserved for cases where conservative measures prove inadequate. Furthermore, leveraging innovative technologies and personalized medicine holds promise for enhancing treatment efficacy. Ultimately, a holistic approach that considers the diverse needs of patients is crucial for effectively addressing acute facial pain.
Protective Effect of Boric Acid Against Ochratoxin A-Induced Toxic Effects in Human Embryonal Kidney Cells (HEK293): A Study on Cytotoxic, Genotoxic, Oxidative, and Apoptotic Effects
Authors: Tekin Aşkın , Güner Adem , Akkan Tamer
Published: May 2024

The present study evaluates the protective properties of boric acid (BA) against the toxic effects induced by ochratoxin A (OTA) in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293). The focus is on various parameters such as cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. OTA is a known mycotoxin that has harmful effects on the liver, kidneys, brain, and nervous system. BA, on the other hand, a boron-based compound, is known for its potential as a vital micronutrient with important cellular functions. The results show that BA administration not only increases cell viability but also mitigates the cytotoxic effects of OTA. This is evidenced by a reduction in the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), indicating less damage to cell membranes. In addition, BA shows efficacy in reducing genotoxic effects, as the frequency of micronucleus (MN) and chromosomal aberrations (CA) decreases significantly, suggesting a protective role against DNA damage. In addition, the study shows that treatment with BA leads to a decrease in oxidative stress markers, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic intervention against the deleterious effects of OTA. These results emphasize the need for further research into the protective mechanisms of boron, particularly BA, in combating cell damage caused by OTA.
Teaching Research Data Management with DataLad: A Multi-year, Multi-domain Effort
Authors: Szczepanik Michał , Wagner Adina S. , Heunis Stephan , Waite Laura K. , Eickhoff Simon B. , Hanke Michael
Published: May 2024

Research data management has become an indispensable skill in modern neuroscience. Researchers can benefit from following good practices as well as from having proficiency in using particular software solutions. But as these domain-agnostic skills are commonly not included in domain-specific graduate education, community efforts increasingly provide early career scientists with opportunities for organised training and materials for self-study. Investing effort in user documentation and interacting with the user base can, in turn, help developers improve quality of their software. In this work, we detail and evaluate our multi-modal teaching approach to research data management in the DataLad ecosystem, both in general and with concrete software use. Spanning an online and printed handbook, a modular course suitable for in-person and virtual teaching, and a flexible collection of research data management tips in a knowledge base, our free and open source collection of training material has made research data management and software training available to various different stakeholders over the past five years.
Association of epicardial adipose tissue volume with heart weight in post-mortem cases
Authors: Aitken-Buck Hamish M. , Moore Matthew K. , Bingham Kyra T. , Coffey Sean , Tse Rexson D. , Lamberts Regis R.
Published: May 2024

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) deposition has been long associated with heart weight. However, recent research has failed to replicate this association. We aimed to determine the association of EAT volume with heart weight in post-mortem cases and identify potential confounding variables. EAT volume derived from post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and heart weight were measured in post-mortem cases (N = 87, age: 56 ± 16 years, 28% female). Cases with hypertrophied heart weights (N = 44) were determined from reference tables. Univariable associations were tested using Spearman correlation and simple linear regression. Independence was determined with stepwise regression. In the total cohort, EAT volume (median 66 ± 45 cm3) was positively associated with heart weight (median 435 ± 132 g) at the univariable level (r = 0.6, P < 0.0001) and after adjustment for age, female sex, and various body size metrics (R
2 adjusted = 0.41–0.57). Median EAT volume was 1.9-fold greater in cases with hypertrophic hearts (P < 0.0001) but with considerably greater variability, especially in cases with extreme EAT volume or heart weight. As such, EAT volume was not associated with heart weight in hypertrophic cases, while a robust independent association was found in non-hypertrophic cases (R
2 adjusted = 0.62–0.86). EAT mass estimated from EAT volume found that EAT comprised approximately 13% of overall heart mass in the total cases. This was significantly greater in cases with hypertrophy (median 15.5%; range, 3.6–36.6%) relative to non-hypertrophied cases (12.5%, 3.3–24.3%) (P = 0.04). EAT volume is independently and positively associated with heart weight in post-mortem cases. Excessive heart weight significantly confounded this association.
Risk Factors of Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia After Oxaliplatin-Containing Chemotherapy for Gastrointestinal Malignancies
Authors: Li Ju , Wang Wanqing , Jiang Kaipeng , Cui Jiuwei , Wang Chang , Liang Tingting , Wang Yizhuo , Liu Shuhan , Zhou Wenshuo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Thrombocytopenia is among the most common chemotherapy-related hematologic toxicities. We aim to determine the predictors of oxaliplatin chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia in patients with gastrointestinal tumors to guide the clinic.

Methods

Clinical data of 750 patients with a malignant gastrointestinal tumor were included as the primary cohort. Basic clinical data, serological indices, and anthropometric indices of these patients were collected. According to the presence or absence of CIT, univariate analysis was performed to identify significant factors for multivariate analysis. In R language software, nomogram was constructed based on the results of multi-factor analysis, and the calibration curve and ROC curve were drawn.

Results

Univariate analysis identified 17 factors as closely related to CIT occurrence, namely age, lymph node metastasis (N) stage, metastasis (M) stage, lung metastasis, other site metastasis, chemotherapy regimen, course of treatment, total dose of oxaliplatin, AST, albumin, neutrophils, monocytes, baseline platelets, transferrin, natural killer (NK) cell, phase angle, and SMI (P < 0.10). The binary logistic multivariate regression analysis revealed five independent risk factors for developing CIT (P < 0.05), including the M stage, total dose of oxaliplatin, albumin, baseline thrombocyte count, and NK cell. Based on the results of multivariate logistic regression analysis, R software was used to establish a nomogram model. The calibration curve shows that the combined predictor has good consistency. The area under the ROC curve was 0.877 and the best cut-off value was 0.3579613 (sensitivity, 78.9%; specificity, 81.8%), which showed the better prediction efficiency.

Conclusion

The total dose of oxaliplatin, M stage, albumin, baseline platelet count, and NK cell was independent risk factors for CIT. The sequentially constructed histogram model had a good predictive effect on the risk of thrombocytopenia caused by oxaliplatin chemotherapy in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies.
Satisfaction with life and its predictive factors in a cohort of fathers 24-months postpartum
Authors: Cabañero-Martínez María José , Oliver-Roig Antonio , Richart-Martínez Miguel , Escribano Silvia , Fernández-Alcántara Manuel
Published: May 2024

Satisfaction with life is considered an essential indicator of quality of life and has implications not only for parents but also for the general health of society. It is relevant to know the factors that could explain differences in parents’ satisfaction with life. The objectives of this study were to analyse the degree of satisfaction with life of a cohort of fathers 13–24 months after the birth of their child and to analyse the predictive capacity of sociodemographic, physical, psychological, and social factors on their long-term life satisfaction. This was a longitudinal study with follow-up at 6–12 months and at 13–24 months (n = 152 fathers). The Fatigue Assessment Scale, Athens Insomnia Scale, Parental Stress Scale and short version of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale were completed online at 6–12 months. Finally, Satisfaction with Life Scale was assessed between 13 and 24 months after birth. The mean score of life satisfaction of the participants 13–24 months after the birth of their child was 18.72 (SD = 3.71) and was negatively correlated with fatigue, insomnia, and stress (p < 0.01), and positively correlated with dyadic adjustment (p < 0.01). The final hierarchical regression model showed that educational levels and insomnia were the main predictive variables for life satisfaction during the second-year postpartum. This work has important implications for clinical practice because it allows health professionals to understand the factors influencing satisfaction with life and health among fathers and to plan more effective antenatal and postnatal care.
Adolescent Perspectives on Distance Learning and Schools’ Impact on Subjective well-being
Authors: Stefes Till
Published: May 2024

Aim of this study is to see how youths and adolescents (12–17 years) have experienced their education during lockdowns in 2021, and how school affects subjective well-being (SWB). Grounded in Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, it explores the interconnectedness of social environments and subjective well-being. Data were collected through a survey in Germany, capturing subjective well-being, social resources, and educational outcomes before and during times of school closures (2019 and 2021). The present study evaluates responses from two towns, two years and more than 1700 adolescents in total. Quantitative analyses reveal positive associations between academic success, supportive environments, perceived affluence, and well-being. Findings highlight which dimensions of supportive environments are driving youth well-being and underscore the importance of school as central piece in adolescent life. School as a supportive environment plays a major role in adolescent lives and has a lot of potential to compensate for structural disadvantages affecting SWB.
Specific convulsions and brain damage in children hospitalized for Omicron BA.5 infection: an observational study using two cohorts
Authors: Pei Yuan-Yuan , Wang Hong-Li , Yin Gen-Quan , Xu Yi , Tan Jian-Hao , Liang Xin-Hua , Wu Hui-Ying , Yin Xun-Tao , Fang Chun-Xiao , Peng Jun-Zheng , Wu Zhi-Yuan , Sun Yi , Dang Run , Liang Yu-Feng , Tang Hong-Mei , Li You-Yi , Qiao Zhong-Xiang , Liang Zhi-Cheng , Tang Jian-Ping , Zeng Fan-Sen , Zheng Ke-Lu , Zeng Yi-Ru , Cao Xiao-Jun , Xia Hui-Min , Wei Jian-Rui , Tang Jin-Ling , Gong Si-Tang
Published: May 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 continues to mutate over time, and reports on children infected with Omicron BA.5 are limited. We aimed to analyze the specific symptoms of Omicron-infected children and to improve patient care.

Methods

We selected 315 consecutively hospitalized children with Omicron BA.5 and 16,744 non-Omicron-infected febrile children visiting the fever clinic at our hospital between December 8 and 30, 2022. Specific convulsions and body temperatures were compared between the two cohorts. We analyzed potential associations between convulsions and vaccination, and additionally evaluated the brain damage among severe Omicron-infected children.

Results

Convulsion rates (97.5% vs. 4.3%, $$P$$
P
< 0.001) and frequencies (median: 2.0 vs. 1.6, $$P$$
P
< 0.001) significantly differed between Omicron-infected and non-Omicron-infected febrile children. The body temperatures of Omicron-infected children were significantly higher during convulsions than when they were not convulsing and those of non-Omicron-infected febrile children during convulsions (median: 39.5 vs. 38.2 and 38.6 °C, both $$P$$
P
< 0.001). In the three Omicron-subgroups, the temperature during convulsions was proportional to the percentage of patients and significantly differed ($$P$$
P
< 0.001), while not in the three non-Omicron-subgroups $$(P$$

(
P

= 0.244). The convulsion frequency was lower in the 55 vaccinated children compared to the 260 non-vaccinated children (average: 1.8 vs. 2.1, $$P$$
P
< 0.001). The vaccination dose and convulsion frequency in Omicron-infected children were significantly correlated ($$P$$
P
< 0.001). Fifteen of the 112 severe Omicron cases had brain damage.

Conclusions

Omicron-infected children experience higher body temperatures and frequencies during convulsions than those of non-Omicron-infected febrile children. We additionally found evidence of brain damage caused by infection with omicron BA.5. Vaccination and prompt fever reduction may relieve symptoms.

Graphical abstract
Dietary changes seen through the isotope analysis of the La Tène burial site of Prosmyky (Bohemia, 4th-3rd century BCE)
Authors: Vytlačil Zdeněk , Danielisová Alžběta , Velemínský Petr , Blažek Jan , Drtikolová Kaupová Sylva
Published: May 2024

Dietary reconstruction using carbon and nitrogen isotopes has been applied to the La Tène population buried at Prosmyky, a large cemetery of the 4th-3rd centuries BCE in northwest Bohemia. The analysis of bone collagen from 55 individuals showed a diet that did not differ noticeably from other contemporary sites in the region. However, chronologically sensitive development in diet, with gradually increasing δ13C values, was present, signifying a growing reliance on millet for sustenance through the cemetery’s lifespan. Moreover, a rather unusual higher δ15N in individuals older than ca. 30 years of age was also observed. Possible explanations are examined, along with a comparison with other published data from the region, suggesting the influence of regionally based developments that might be linked with the societal shifts that led towards the Late La Tène period.
Capturing students’ LMS experience: measurement invariance across Chinese and English versions
Authors: Jiang Juming , Simon Patricia D. , Fryer Luke K.
Published: May 2024

Learning management systems (LMS) have emerged as a standard component of higher education institutions for the web-based delivery and management of courses. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the value of LMS in facilitating online teaching and learning. However, the significance of examining the factors that impact LMS use success during the pandemic has been underestimated. Moreover, despite previous attempts to evaluate students’ LMS experience, most research failed to connect the actual use of LMS to students’ learning success. To address these gaps, we developed and validated an empirical and theory-based instrument measuring students’ LMS experience. The choice of constructs was informed by a scoping review of LMS measures and interviews with a representative sample of students and teachers about their LMS use. By adding constructs that are relevant to learning in the LMS, the current study provided a more comprehensive measurement that captures students’ learning experience in the platform. We provided evidence for the measurement invariance of the scales with their Chinese translation as well. By addressing the limitations and building on this study’s findings, researchers can further advance our understanding of LMS experiences and contribute to developing more effective e-learning systems to support teaching and learning in higher education.
The Roles of Race and Mental Health in the On-scene Outcomes of Public Mass Shootings
Authors: Franklin Sarah , Isom Deena A.
Published: May 2024

Mass shootings are most frequently committed by white men. Yet, these white perpetrators often do not meet the same fatal fate as Black people who have committed lesser crimes, particularly in the United States. Furthermore, Black people with mental health issues in such situations are more commonly met with lethal force. This study investigates if disparities exist in the likelihood of being apprehended, taking one’s own life, or being killed by police or others during a public mass shooting incident based on one’s race and known mental health status. Using the Violence Project data, this study aids understanding of the causes and consequences of mass violence.
Opportunities to improve goat production and food security in Botswana through forage nutrition and the use of supplemental feeds
Authors: Cooke Andrew S. , Machekano Honest , Ventura-Cordero Javier , Louro-Lopez Aranzazu , Joseph Virgil , Gwiriri Lovemore C. , Takahashi Taro , Morgan Eric R. , Lee Michael R. F. , Nyamukondiwa Casper
Published: May 2024

Goats fulfil a central role in food and nutritional security across Africa with over half of households owning or rearing goats in rural areas. However, goat performance is poor and mortality high. This study assessed the nutritional quality of commonly used feeds and proposes feed-baskets to enhance goat nutrition and health. Feeds were collected from 11 areas within the Central District of Botswana, and macronutrient analyses were conducted, including crude protein, fibre fractions, ash, and metabolizable energy (ME). Forage nutrition was compared across seasons and soil types. Additionally, seasonal supplementation trials were conducted to evaluate consumption rates of various supplements, including crop residues, pellets, Lablab purpureus, and Dichrostachys cinerea. Each supplement was provided ad libitum for a 24-h period, and consumption rates determined. Findings revealed significant differences in nutrition among various feed sources, across seasons, and in relation to soil types (p < 0.001). Consumption rates of supplements were higher during the dry season, possibly due to reduced forage availability. Supplement consumption rates varied across supplement type, with crop residues accounting for approximately 1% of dry matter intake, compared to up to 45% for pellets, 13% for L. purpureus, and 15% for D. cinerea. While wet season feed baskets exhibited higher ME values compared to dry-season feed-baskets, the relative impact of supplementation was more pronounced during the dry season. These results highlight the potential for optimizing goat diets through improved grazing and browsing management, especially during the reduced nutritional availability in the dry season in Botswana. Such diet optimisation may improve goat health and productivity, which may positively impact the food and financial security of smallholders by providing both increased yields and increased resilience. Importantly, rural communities can experience some of the lowest food security levels in the region. The interventions explored in this study utilise natural capital, often freely available, which can be deployed through existing husbandry systems, potentially making them accessible and practical to smallholders.
Op weg naar een ‘animictielijst’?
Authors: Schlatmann Florine W. M. , Smeenk Stella C. , van Balken Michael R.
Published: May 2024

Samenvatting

Introductie

De mictielijst is een veelgebruikt diagnostisch instrument in de urologie. Voor het verkrijgen van een betrouwbaar klinisch beeld is het essentieel dat deze correct wordt ingevuld. Uit eerdere onderzoeken bleek dat dat niet altijd probleemloos verloopt. Dit kwalitatieve onderzoek ging na of een geanimeerde invulinstructie het begrip van de manier waarop de mictielijst moet worden ingevuld meer vergroot dan een tekstuele invulinstructie.

Materiaal en methoden

Volwassenen beoordeelden een mictielijst met de reguliere tekstuele invulinstructie (TML) of met een geanimeerde invulinstructie (AML). We maakten gebruik van de thinking-aloud-methode en interviews. Vooraf gedefinieerde items werden gescoord.

Resultaten

AML-participanten hadden een beter begrip van hoe de ML moet worden ingevuld dan de TML-participanten van de mictielijst, wat vooral gold voor deelnemers met een laag opleidingsniveau. Zij scoorden beter bij het benoemen van de mictie, vochtinname, incontinentie en aandrang. Anderstaligen waardeerden de visuele ondersteuning.

Conclusie

Tekstuele invulinstructies voor mictielijsten zijn moeilijk te begrijpen voor deelnemers van alle opleidingsniveaus vanwege de terminologie en lay-out. Een geanimeerde invulinstructie verbetert het begrip en de invulkwaliteit, waardoor betrouwbaardere informatie wordt verkregen.
Recent Progress in Sodium-Ion Batteries: Advanced Materials, Reaction Mechanisms and Energy Applications
Authors: Wu Yujun , Shuang Wei , Wang Ya , Chen Fuyou , Tang Shaobing , Wu Xing-Long , Bai Zhengyu , Yang Lin , Zhang Jiujun
Published: May 2024

For energy storage technologies, secondary batteries have the merits of environmental friendliness, long cyclic life, high energy conversion efficiency and so on, which are considered to be hopeful large-scale energy storage technologies. Among them, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been commercialized and occupied an important position as secondary batteries due to their high energy density and long cyclic life. Nevertheless, the uneven distribution of lithium resources and a large number of continuous consumptions result in a price increase for lithium. So, it is very crucial to seek and develop alternative batteries with abundant reserves and low cost. As one of the best substitutes for widely commercialized LIBs, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) display gorgeous application prospects. However, further improvements in SIB performance are still needed in the aspects of energy/power densities, fast-charging capability and cyclic stability. Electrode materials locate at a central position of SIBs. In addition to electrode materials, electrolytes, conductive agents, binders and separators are imperative for practical SIBs. In this review, the latest progress and challenges of applications of SIBs are reviewed. Firstly, the anode and cathode materials for SIBs are symmetrically summarized from aspects of the design strategies and synthesis, electrochemical active sites, surrounding environments of active sites, reaction mechanisms and characterization methods. Secondly, the influences of electrolytes, conductive agents, binders and separators on the electrochemical performance are elucidated. Finally, the technical challenges are summarized, and the possible future research directions for overcoming the challenges are proposed for developing high performance SIBs for practical applications.

Graphical abstract
Reflection of Waves in a Two-Temperature Magneto-fiber-Reinforced Solid with Memory-Dependent Derivative Using Different Theories
Authors: Said Samia M. , Abd-Elaziz El-sayed M. , Othman Mohamed I. A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The problem is concerned with the analysis of the reflection of the waves through a fiber-reinforced thermoelastic medium under the effect of the magnetic field, gravity, and the initial stress. The problem is discussed in the context of the three-phase-lag model and Green-Naghdi theory of type II and III with the memory-dependent derivative and variable thermal conductivity.

Methods

The harmonic representation of waves is used to find the solution to the problem. Based on the solution, it is concluded that after reflection three quasi-waves propagate through the medium.

Results

Numerical computations were performed using MATLAB software. The reflection coefficient ratio variations with the angle of the incident are shown graphically.

Conclusion

Comparisons are made with the results predicted for different values of the thermal conductivity parameter, two-temperature parameter, initial stress, gravity field, and different values of the magnetic field.
Improved financial forecasting via quantum machine learning
Authors: Thakkar Sohum , Kazdaghli Skander , Mathur Natansh , Kerenidis Iordanis , Ferreira–Martins André J. , Brito Samurai
Published: May 2024

Quantum algorithms have the potential to enhance machine learning across a variety of domains and applications. In this work, we show how quantum machine learning can be used to improve financial forecasting. First, we use classical and quantum Determinantal Point Processes to enhance Random Forest models for churn prediction, improving precision by almost 6%. Second, we design quantum neural network architectures with orthogonal and compound layers for credit risk assessment, which match classical performance with significantly fewer parameters. Our results demonstrate that leveraging quantum ideas can effectively enhance the performance of machine learning, both today as quantum-inspired classical ML solutions, and even more in the future, with the advent of better quantum hardware.
Fertilizer Addition Modifies Utilization of Different P Sources in Upland Rice on Strongly P-fixing Andosols
Authors: Mundschenk Eva , Remus Rainer , Augustin Jürgen , Wissuwa Matthias , Staudinger Christiana , Oburger Eva , George Eckhard , Holz Maire
Published: May 2024

Aims

High Phosphorus (P) efficiencies such as internal P utilization efficiency (PUE) and P acquisition efficiency (PAE) are crucial for upland rice production, particularly on highly P-fixing soils like Andosols. While the effect of root traits associated with high PAE in upland rice has been studied intensively, less attention has been given to the origin of P (native soil-P versus fertilizer-P) taken up by plants when evaluating differences in P efficiency. Here we aim to evaluate the efficiency of different upland rice genotypes to acquire native soil-P and fertilizer-P.

Methods

Four upland rice genotypes with varying PAE were grown in an Andosol at low- and high-P fertilization level and harvested 9 and 34 days after emergence. Fertilizer-P was labeled with 33P to distinguish between the efficiency to acquire P originating from native soil and fertilizer by measuring plant P uptake.

Results

Increased fertilizer supply enhanced native soil-P uptake. Under low-P conditions the genotype DJ123 showed a superior PAE and an increased acquisition of native soil-P while AB199 was identified to have a superior internal PUE under P deficient conditions. Differences between genotypes in overall PAE under high-P conditions were not significant but the distinction of P sources showed that genotype DJ123 acquired significantly more native soil-P per unit root than all other genotypes.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that variations in PAE among genotypes are associated with their ability to access native soil-P. DJ123 emerged as the most adept genotype in acquiring sparingly soluble native soil-P and future studies should unravel the rhizosphere processes underlying increased PAE of native soil-P.
Alzheimer’s Disease Detection via Multiscale Feature Modelling Using Improved Spatial Attention Guided Depth Separable CNN
Authors: Tripathy Santosh Kumar , Nayak Rudra Kalyan , Gadupa Kartik Shankar , Mishra Rajnish Dinesh , Patel Ashok Kumar , Satapathy Santosh Kumar , Bhoi Akash Kumar , Barsocchi Paolo
Published: May 2024

Early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is critical due to its rising prevalence. AI-aided AD diagnosis has grown for decades. Most of these systems use deep learning using CNN. However, a few concerns must be addressed to identify AD: a. there is a lack of attention paid to spatial features; b. there is a lack of scale-invariant feature modelling; and c. the convolutional spatial attention block (C-SAB) mechanism is available in the literature, but it exploits limited feature sets from its input features to obtain a spatial attention map, which needs to be enhanced. The suggested model addresses these issues in two ways: through a backbone of multilayers of depth-separable CNN. Firstly, we propose an improved spatial convolution attention block (I-SAB) to generate an enhanced spatial attention map for the multilayer features of the backbone. The I-SAB, a modified version of the C-SAB, generates a spatial attention map by combining multiple cues from input feature maps. Such a map is forwarded to a multilayer of depth-separable CNN for further feature extraction and employs a skip connection to produce an enhanced spatial attention map. Second, we combine multilayer spatial attention features to make scale-invariant spatial attention features that can fix scale issues in MRI images. We demonstrate extensive experimentation and ablation studies using two open-source datasets, OASIS and AD-Dataset. The recommended model outperforms existing best practices with 99.75% and 96.20% accuracy on OASIS and AD-Dataset. This paper also performed a domain adaptation test on the OASIS dataset, which obtained 83.25% accuracy.
The Effect of HIV on the Association of Hyperglycaemia and Active Tuberculosis in Zambia, a Case–Control Study
Authors: Bailey Sarah Lou , Floyd Sian , Cheeba-Lengwe Maina , Maluzi Kwitaka , Chiwele-Kangololo Kasanda , Kaluba-Milimo Deborah , Amofa-Sekyi Modupe , Yudkin John S. , Godfrey-Faussett Peter , Ayles Helen
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To determine if HIV modifies the association between hyperglycaemia and active tuberculosis in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods

A case–control study among newly—diagnosed adult tuberculosis cases and population controls in three areas of Lusaka. Hyperglycaemia is determined by random blood glucose (RBG) concentration measured at the time of recruitment; active tuberculosis disease by clinical diagnosis, and HIV status by serological result. Multivariable logistic regression is used to explore the primary association and effect modification by HIV.

Results

The prevalence of RBG concentration ≥ 11.1 mmol/L among 3843 tuberculosis cases was 1.4% and among 6977 controls was 1.5%. Overall, the adjusted odds ratio of active tuberculosis was 1.60 (95% CI 0.91–2.82) comparing those with RBG concentration ≥ 11.1– < 11.1 mmol/L. The corresponding adjusted odds ratio among those with and without HIV was 5.47 (95% CI 1.29–23.21) and 1.17 (95% CI 0.61–2.27) respectively; p-value for effect modification by HIV = 0.042. On subgroup analysis, the adjusted odds ratio of smear/Xpert-positive tuberculosis was 2.97 (95% CI 1.49–5.90) comparing RBG concentration ≥ 11.1– < 11.1 mmol/L.

Conclusions

Overall, no evidence of association between hyperglycaemia and active tuberculosis was found, though among those with HIV and/or smear/Xpert-positive tuberculosis there was evidence of association. Differentiation of hyperglycaemia caused by diabetes mellitus and stress-induced hyperglycaemia secondary to tuberculosis infection is important for a better understanding of these findings.
Electronic medical information systems and timeliness of care in the emergency department: a scoping review
Authors: Lacasse Melissa L. , Hendel Ericha T. , Farhat Nawal , Kelly Dayton J. , Mah Emily M. , Campbell Alanna , Ansell Dominique R. , Bourdon Christopher A. , Christie Tyler S. , Volpini Steve , Liu Lisa J. W. , Cragg Jacquelyn J. , Crispo James A. G.
Published: May 2024

Background

Although many emergency department (ED) settings have implemented an electronic medical information system (EMIS) and EMIS tools in an effort to improve timeliness of care outcomes, there remains a paucity of scientific information on this topic. We therefore performed a scoping review to describe the range of EMIS interventions and their impacts on time-based outcomes in the ED.

Methods

We searched four bibliographic databases to identify potentially relevant records published after 2014 in English. Two reviewers assessed records for eligibility using a two-step screening process. We then extracted data on the type of EMIS, outcomes assessed, and reported results. Findings were summarized in tabular form and grouped by time-based outcome.

Results

Twenty-five studies met the eligibility criteria, with approximately half being retrospective studies. Interventions varied among studies; they generally included a new or updated EMIS, EMIS tools related to disease diagnosis and/or management, triage tools, or health information exchange platforms. Included studies compared interventions with relevant comparator groups, such as prior versions of an EMIS, absence of an EMIS, pen-and-paper documentation, and/or communication via telephone and fax. The most common outcomes reported were length of stay (n = 17 studies) and time to medication (n = 6 studies), followed by time to order, time to provider, and time from result to disposition. Reported effects of the interventions were generally inconsistent, showing either improvements, delays, or no change in examined outcomes.

Conclusions

Additional research is needed to determine how electronic medical information may be used in the ED to improve timeliness of care. Findings from this review can be used to inform future systematic reviews that evaluate the impact of these systems and tools on specific quality of care measures.
Investigation of the contamination behavior in water and soil of an inactive dump from chemical analysis and geophysical method
Authors: Netto Leonides Guireli , Guimarães Camila Camolesi , Barbosa Alexandre Muselli , Gandolfo Otávio Coaracy Brasil
Published: May 2024

In rapidly growing urban areas of developing countries, inappropriate urbanization practices near water bodies lead to significant environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil impermeabilization, and direct waste discharge into rivers and streams. This not only compromises water quality and ecosystem health but also exacerbates flood risks for nearby communities. Dumpsites, common in these regions due to inadequate waste management infrastructure, pose significant environmental threats, including soil and groundwater contamination. Our study employed a frequency-domain electromagnetic survey on an inactive dumpsite adjacent to one of Brazil’s major rivers. This geophysical method provided critical insights for geoenvironmental investigations, facilitating the collection of soil and groundwater samples to understand leachate behavior. We found that the shallower electrical conductivity map aligned with the waste disposal area's boundaries, verified by on-site surveys and excavations. Historical aerial images supported this interpretation and helped explain conductive electrical anomalies in the deeper conductivity map, linked to old irregular housing and waste disposal around the dumpsite. Moreover, the electrical conductivity maps revealed NE-oriented percolation at depth in the study area. Groundwater monitoring wells and soil analyses identified chemical elements exceeding standards set by Brazilian and international environmental agencies in this flow direction. These findings highlight the importance of using investigation techniques with superior spatial resolution compared to traditional environmental monitoring approaches. Electromagnetic methods prove effective in enhancing understanding and management of contamination in dumpsite environments.
Legalizing the Revolution
Authors: Dasgupta Sandipto
Published: May 2024

Anticolonial movements of the twentieth century generated ambitious ideas of freedom. Following decolonization, the challenge was to give an institutional form to those ideas. Through an original account of India's constitution making, Legalizing the Revolution explores the promises, challenges, and contradictions of that task. In contrast to derived templates, Dasgupta theorizes the distinctively postcolonial constitution through an innovative synthesis of the history of decolonization and constitutional theory. The book traces the contentious transition from the tumult of popular anticolonial politics to the ordered calculus of postcolonial governance; and then explains how major institutions – parliament, judiciary, rights, property – were formed by that foundational tension. A major contribution to postcolonial political theory, the book excavates the unrealized futures of decolonization. At the same time, through a critical account of the making of the postcolonial constitutional order, it offers keys to understanding the present crisis of that order, including and especially in India.
Psychosocial impacts of Baby Friendly Spaces for Rohingya refugee mothers in Bangladesh: A pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nguyen Amanda J. , Murray Sarah M. , Rahaman Kh Shafiur , Lasater Molly E. , Barua Suzit , Lee Catherine , Schojan Matthew , Tonon Brigitte , Clouin Laetitia , Le Roch Karine
Published: May 2024

Background

This study evaluated the effectiveness of Baby Friendly Spaces (BFS), a psychosocial support program for Rohingya refugee mothers of malnourished young children in Bangladesh. Because BFS was already being implemented, we examined the benefit of enhancing implementation supports.

Methods

In matched pairs, 10 sites were randomized to provide BFS treatment as usual (BFS-TAU) or to receive enhanced implementation support (BFS-IE). 600 mothers were enrolled and reported on maternal distress, functional impairment, subjective well-being and coping at baseline and 8-week follow-up. Data were analyzed using multilevel linear regression models to account for clustering; sensitivity analyses adjusted for the small number of clusters.

Results

Significant within-group improvements in BFSIE were observed for distres (−.48, p = .014), functional impairment (−.30, p = .002) and subjective well-being (.92, p = .011); improvements in BFS-TAU were smaller and not statistically significant. Between-group comparisons favored BFS-IE for distress (β = −.30, p = .058) and well-being (β = .58, p = .038). Sensitivity adjustments produced p-values above .05 for all between-group comparisons.

Discussion

Feasible adjustments to implementation can improve program delivery to increase impact on maternal distress and well-being. Although results should be interpreted with caution, study design limitations are common in pragmatic, field-based research.
New occurrences of mammals from McKay Reservoir (Hemphillian, Oregon)
Authors: Orcutt John D. , Schmer Christiana J. , Lubisich Jeffrey P. , Abrams Lacy T. , Famoso Nicholas A.
Published: May 2024

Encompassing global cooling, the spread of grasslands, and biogeographic interchanges, the Hemphillian North American Land Mammal Age is an important interval for understanding the factors driving ecological and evolutionary change through time. McKay Reservoir near Pendleton, Oregon is a natural laboratory for analyses of these factors. It is remarkable for its small vertebrate fauna including rodents, bats, turtles, and lagomorphs, but also for its larger mammal fossils like camelids, rhinocerotids, canids, and felids. Despite the importance of the site, few revisions to its faunal list have been published since its original description. We expand on this description by identifying taxa not previously known from McKay Reservoir based on specimens collected during fieldwork and through reidentification of previously collected fossils. Newly identified taxa include the borophagine canid Borophagus secundus (Matthew and Cook, 1909), the camelids Megatylopus Matthew and Cook, 1909 and Pleiolama Webb and Meachen, 2004, a dromomerycid, and the equids Cormohipparion Skinner and MacFadden, 1977 and Pseudhipparion Ameghino, 1904. Specimens previously assigned to Neohipparion Gidley, 1903 and Hipparion de Christol, 1832 lack the features necessary to diagnose these genera, which are therefore removed from the site's faunal list. The presence of Borophagus secundus, Cormohipparion, and Pseudhipparion is especially important, because each occurrence represents a major geographic range extension. This refined understanding of the fauna lays the foundation for future studies of taphonomy, taxonomy, functional morphology, and paleoecology—potentially at the population, community, or ecosystem levels—at this paleobiologically significant Miocene locality.
The Cambrian (Paibian–Jiangshanian; Steptoean) dokimocephalid trilobite Deckera Frederickson, 1949 in Laurentian North America
Authors: Welch Katie F. , Westrop Stephen R.
Published: May 2024

The Cambrian dokimocephalid trilobite genus Deckera Frederickson, 1949 is a minor component of Steptoean (Jiangshanian) faunas of Laurentian North America. The original diagnosis emphasized strongly inflated palpebral areas of fixed cheeks and elevated palpebral lobes as important and novel characters. An appraisal of archival and new specimens from Oklahoma, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Utah, and Newfoundland show that the genus is geographically widespread and likely represented by as many as nine species, although only two of them are named formally. Deckera cf. D. aldenensis Frederickson, 1949 from Nevada extends the stratigraphic range of Deckera down to the base of the Jiangshanian Stage, and new species from Nevada and Newfoundland take the genus down farther, into upper Paibian strata. Paibian species show that some basal members of the genus have weakly inflated, nearly flat palpebral areas with palpebral lobes that sit well below the crest of the glabella. A revised diagnosis of Deckera focuses on the broad cranidium with width across the palpebral lobes much greater than the sagittal length. Pygidia are known for a few species and all of them have an unusual flexure of the posterior margin and border. Lectotype and paralectotype specimens are designated for Deckera completa.
Supporting resilient communities in the Pacific
Authors: Murray S.
Published: May 2024

Pacific Island communities are disproportionally impacted by the effects of climate change, and as teina (younger sibling) to our Pacific tuakana (older sibling), it is our responsibility to ensure these communities have resilience through co-developed solutions to these real-world problems. We focus on marine and freshwater ecosystems, understand their intrinsic links to Pacific communities, while, in partnership with science, empower and enable local knowledge to steer the waka. With more than 20 years’ experience of supporting Pacific communities, we deliver our positive impact through knowledge exchange, capability and capacity development, and problem solving. We strive to learn and grow our own capability, while brokering knowledge between Aotearoa, the Pacific, and our world leading research partners. Our aim is that Pacific Island communities gain a deeper scientific understanding of their aquatic systems, have the tools to rejuvenate and conserve these ecosystems, are empowered to transform their food systems towards more healthy, sustainable, and resilient pathways, and can adapt to the impacts of climate change. We take a systems approach that incorporates adaptive solutions, which are community-led, thereby ensuring a long-lasting positive impact into the future. Our Kete is filled with world-leading expertise from different organizations, which ensures a greater collective impact where it is needed most. This presentation will cover the seven themes within our Pacific Impact area, with a particular focus on food safety and security in relation to ciguatera poisoning (the number one cause of non-bacterial seafood illness affecting Pacific Island communities) (1,2), analytical laboratory development, and transforming food systems.