bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrically Evoked Auditory Brainstem Response Using Extracochlear Stimulation at Different Cochlear Sites: A Comparison With Intracochlear Stimulation
Authors: Sunwoo Woongsang , Goo Woonhoe , Oh Seung-Ha
Published: January 2024

Objectives. The distribution and extent of excitable spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) have been investigated using the electrically evoked auditory brainstem response (EABR) during preoperative and perioperative periods. In this study, we investigated the EABR with extracochlear stimulation (eEABR) as a preoperative test to estimate these factors.Methods. Sixteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this study. Experiments were conducted in nine rats with normal hearing and seven rats that were partially deafened with ouabain treatment. Each experiment involved the following steps: extracochlear stimulating electrode placement at three different sites along the axis of the cochlea and eEABR recordings; cochleostomy and four-channel intracochlear array implantation, followed by EABR recordings with various electrode pair combinations; and after electrophysiological measurements, harvest of the cochleae for histopathological evaluation. The slope characteristics of the amplitude growth function measured from eEABR and EABR, frequency-specific auditory thresholds, and the density of SGNs were compared.Results. Similar trends were observed in slope changes on different sites of stimulation with both types of stimulation in normal-hearing animals—specifically, a monotonically increasing slope with increasing distance between bipolar pairs. In addition, eEABR slopes showed significant correlations with EABR slopes when the expected cochlear regions of stimulation were similar in normal-hearing animals. In partially deaf animals, the auditory thresholds at several frequencies had a significant correlation with the eEABR slopes of each extracochlear electrode at the apical, middle, and basal cochlear positions. This indicated that increasing the regions of cochlear stimulation had a differential impact on eEABR slopes, depending on the neural conditions.Conclusion. Our results indicated that eEABR slopes showed significant spatial correlations with the functionality of the auditory nerve. Therefore, eEABR tests at various cochlear positions might be used for estimating the extent of excitable SGNs in cochlear implant candidates prior to implantation.
Karl HÄRTER, Tina HANNAPPEL & CONRAD TYRICHTER (Hg.), The Transnationalisation of Criminal Law in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Century: Political Crime, Police Cooperation, Security Regimes and Normative Orders, Studien zu Policey, Kriminalitätsgeschichte
Authors: QUESADA MORILLAS YOLANDA
Published: January 2024

Esta obra que reseñamos, The Transnationalisation of Criminal Law in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Century: Political Crime, Police Cooperation,Security Regimes and Normative Orders, pertenece a una serie fundada por Michael Stolleis en 1999 y que en 2012, cambiando su título original Studien zu Policey und Policeywissenschaft porStudien zu Policey, Kriminalitätsgeschichte und Konfliktregulierung, pasó a editarla su fundador conjuntamente con Karl Härter. Toda la serie ha sido publicada por la editorial Klostermann Verlag. La serie se centra en divulgar trabajos sobre las primeras ordenanzas policiales modernas de los territorios del imperio alemán y las ciudades imperiales; también recoge trabajos sobre crímenes históricos y regulación de conflictos.
Consumo de alcohol en estudiantes universitarios de enfermería durante la pandemia por COVID-19
Authors: Méndez-Vallejo Alberto , Salazar-Mendoza Javier , Castellanos-Contreras Edith , González-Angulo Pedro , Onofre-Santiago María de los Ángeles , Conzatti-Hernández María Esperanza , Ortiz-Vargas Israel
Published: January 2024

Objetivo. Determinar el consumo de alcohol en estudiantes universitarios de enfermería durante la pandemia por COVID-19. Método. Investigación cuantitativa, descriptiva y transversal, en una muestra de 309 estudiantes de la Licenciatura en Enfermería, durante agosto 2021 a enero 2022, con muestreo intencional, aplicando la prueba AUDIT y en apego a los aspectos éticos de la Ley General de Salud en Materia de Investigación para la Salud de México. El análisis de datos se desarrolló con el uso de estadística descriptiva, frecuencia, porcentaje y prueba no paramétrica de Chi cuadrado. Resultados. El 25.6% son hombres y 74.4% mujeres, el 72.8% no presentó COVID-19 y 30.7% estuvo en cuarentena, el 70.9% se clasificó con un consumo ocasional, 17.5% son abstinentes, 11% con patrón de riesgo, per- judicial (0.3%) y dependencia alcohólica (0.3%). Conclusión. La mujer es quien más consume alcohol en frecuencia (73.9%) y los hombres en volumen aunque sea en menos ocasiones exponiéndose a mayores riesgos de salud como la dependencia de la sustancia. Durante la pandemia, las personas que confirmaron consumir alcohol, continuaron con el hábito de ingesta de manera normal, aun cuando fueron ellas, las que más enfermaron. El consumo de alcohol se presentó por situaciones secundarias como el encierro en casa, estrés, ansiedad y preocupación, por ello, es im- portante diseñar intervenciones de enfermería ante el fenómeno de drogas e implementarlas al regreso presencial de actividades para limitar el daño y evitar consecuencias en el desempeño académico.
Cambio en los hábitos saludables de los universitarios andaluces durante el confinamiento
Authors: Fernández-Márquez Esther , Pedrero-García Encarnación , González-Cortés María del Carmen , Andrés-Crespo Loreto
Published: January 2024

Introducción. Entre los aspectos más afectados a partir de la pandemia mundial por la COVID-19 se encuentra el bienestar físico y emocional de la ciudadanía. Objetivo. Analizar cómo a partir del obligado confinamiento domiciliario se han modificado los hábitos alimenticios y la actividad física, y delimitar si se han mantenido a posteriori, realizando una investigación con estudiantes de 6 Universidades públicas andaluzas, durante los cursos académicos 2020/2021 y 2021/2022. Método. Se aplicó un cuestionario de 30 ítems a una muestra de 458 sujetos, 73% mujeres, 25% hombres y un 2% no binario con una edad media de 23 años. Resultados. El aislamiento impuesto socialmente, ha favorecido en la mayoría de los casos una concienciación de la necesidad de cuidado y mejora de la salud, tanto a nivel general (46%) como desde el punto de vista de la alimentación (por ejemplo, el 60% toma fruta o verdura entre horas) y la actividad física (52%) y como beneficio añadido se encuentra que dichos hábitos se mantengan tras el confinamiento (67%). Conclusiones. Se han mejorado los hábitos saludables a partir del confinamiento, en aspectos relacionados tanto con la alimentación como con la actividad física, adquiriendo esta última una elevada relevancia desde la pandemia.
Respondiendo a la persuasión narrativa sobre el consumo abusivo de cannabis: Un estudio cualitativo
Authors: Herrera-Sanchez Isabel María , Rueda-Mendez Samuel , Cuenca-Martinez Jose
Published: January 2024

Los efectos persuasivos de las narrativas se han estudiado en diferentes ámbitos. Uno de los mecanismos más estudiados ha sido el contraargumento desde un enfoque cognitivo o metacognitivo. El objetivo del estudio es analizar la resistencia a la persuasión en un contexto interpersonal para conocer cómo los/as jóvenes generan argumentos ante mensajes persuasivos narrativos para la prevención del consumo de cannabis. Se organizaron dos grupos focales por género de 6 estudiantes cada uno entre 16 y 20 años (n=24) que participaron en un debate tras ver un vídeo donde el personaje mostraba una transición desde el inicio del consumo de cannabis hasta su abandono. El análisis cualitativo permitió encontrar una categoría central “responder a la persuasión narrativa”, con cuatro estilos de respuestas: a) elaboración; b) contraargumentación; c) reelaboración; y d) refutación. Para apoyar estas respuestas, los/as participantes introdujeron elementos narrativos referidos a experiencias personales o de otras personas, así como elementos inferenciales al introducir nuevas cuestiones en la discusión; también se identificaron los esquemas argumentativos que se utilizaron para justificar las diferentes posiciones adoptadas. El estudio tiene implicaciones teórico-prácticas en aquellas investigaciones e intervenciones que usen la persuasión narrativa como herramienta para la prevención del uso del cannabis en jóvenes
Complement detection on trophozoite stage Plasmodium falciparumparasites using flow cytometry or Western blot
Authors: Opi Herbert , Beeson James
Published: January 2024

Pathogen-specific antibodies that recruit complement have been associated with protection in several diseases, including malaria. Antibodies bind to C1q via their Fc-region, initiating the classical complement cascade. This involves the sequential recruitment of serum complement proteins including C3, which is cleaved to form the opsonising fragment C3b, and C5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, which form a membrane attack complex and lyse parasites. This protocol describes two methods to measure complement-fixing antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum parasites, specifically antibodies targeting P. falciparuminfected red blood cell surface expressed antigens during the trophozoite stage of development (e.g. PfEMP1). Briefly, parasites are incubated with antibodies and a source of complement (e.g. fresh normal human serum) to allow antibody binding/opsonization and resultant complement-fixation to the antigen-antibody complex. Antibody-bound complement is detected using complement-specific antibodies via either flow cytometry or Western blot. This assay can be used to specifically measure C1q-recruitment by antibodies, or downstream complement activation by assessing C3 or C5 – 9 components.
Recognition of Higher Fullerene Isomers with Low-Symmetry Coordination Cages
Authors: Sun Qing-Fu , Guo Xiao-Qing , Yu Pengwei , Zhou Li-Peng , Hu Shao-Jun , Duan Xiao-Fang , Cai Li-Xuan , Bao Lipiao , Lu Xing
Published: January 2024

The discovery of buckminsterfullerene (C60) marked a significant milestone in exploring three-dimensional carbon materials. However, exponentially increasing isomerism on higher fullerenes pose a considerable challenge in their recognition and separation. Herein, we designed two pseudo-cubic metal-organic cages (MOCs, T and S4) with distinct cavity microenvironments, which showcase remarkable recognition specificity toward higher fullerene isomers. Compared to cage T, a symmetry shift from S4 to C2 emerges upon encapsulating an ellipsoidal D2-C76 guest, due to the precise shape matching curtails guest rotation. Furthermore, cage S4 demonstrates heightened sensitivity toward distinguishing a pair of highly similar constitutional isomers of C2v-C78. The approach of reducing symmetry positions MOCs as promising candidates for encapsulating and identifying a broader spectrum of fullerene isomers, paralleling the selectivity observed in biological systems.
Efficacy of Advance Care Planning Support by Decision Aid in Intensive Care Patients: A Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: YAMAMOTO Kanako
Published: January 2024

BackgroundPatients treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) may sometimes undergo abrupt transitions to the end of life. In the past, supporting treatment decisions for such patients has been a challenge. Researchers have developed a patient decision aid (PtDAs) to support advance care planning (ACP) in critical care patients during the perioperative period. Clinical feasibility studies showed that patient PtDAs can be implemented clinically. A pilot randomized trial was conducted to evaluate the PtDA’s clinical diffusion and efficacy.MethodsThe PtDAsintervention was developed according to international standards. This study used an online panel from a private Japanese research company. Participants completed surveys in March and April 2023. The patients were treated in the intensive care unit after surgery. The control group was provided with a pamphlet explaining the ACP procedure, and the intervention group was provided with a decision aid. The measures used in the study included the SURE test, which assesses the quality of decision-making, understanding of life-sustaining treatments, and the need to arrange ACP. The survey was conducted from March–April 2023.ResultsThe intervention group had a significantly higher quality of decision-making regarding life-sustaining treatment than the control group (p< .05). However, there was no difference in their understanding of life-sustaining treatments. Both groups were aware of the need for further medical explanations regarding the treatment details related to assisted circulation devices and dialysis in the ICU. The participants had to be witnessed by a medical provider when discussing ACP with a surrogate decision-maker. Additionally, there is a need for mental support from surrogate decision-makers and families following ACP discussions.ConclusionsDecision-aided ACP support can help patients undergoing intensive care after surgery make satisfactory decisions. In this case, the inclusion of counseling and coaching by the medical provider might facilitate the sharing of thoughts and feelings between the patient and the surrogate decision-maker. Discussing desires regarding ACP between the patient and surrogate decision-maker can reduce the burden on the surrogate decision-maker when life-sustaining treatment decisions must be made.
Comparison of Fracture Resistance among Different Post Placement Strategies and Core Build-up Materials in Endodontically Treated Maxillary Premolars: In Vitro Study
Authors: Alshali Shatha , Mously Hisham , Abulhamael Ayman , Shikdar Narmeen
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The aim was to compare the fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars reinforced by one or two fiber-reinforced composites and different core build-up materials. Materials and methods: 40 double rooted maxillary premolars were collected and divided into four groups (n=10). After endodontic treatment, teeth were prepared and received fiber posts as follow: group #1: single fiber post with Luxacore Z as luting cement and core build-up material, group #2: two fiber posts with Luxacore Z as luting cement and core build-up material, group #3: single fiber post cemented with RelyX Unicem followed by packable composite as a core build-up material, group #4: two fiber posts cemented with RelyX Unicem followed by packable composite as a core build-up material. The specimens were placed in the Universal testing machine for testing of the fracture resistance. Specimens were axially loaded on the center of the occlusal surface. Results: Group 4 (two fiber posts with resin cement & packable composite resin) had significantly higher fracture resistance (1051.7 N) compared to group 1 and 2 (single and double posts with luxacora Z build up) respectively at p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: The restoration of endodontically treated double rooted premolars using two fiber posts luted with resin cement, followed by packable composite build up showed promising performance regarding fracture-resistance.
Investigating perceptions and attitude toward telenursing among undergraduate nursing students for the future of nursing education: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mun Minji , Choi Subin , Woo Kyungmi
Published: January 2024

Background
Telenursing is poised to emerge as a novel healthcare delivery system in the digital age. Hence, understanding nursing students' perspectives and readiness is pivotal for its effective implementation. This study investigated nursing students' perceptions regarding and attitudes toward telenursing and the factors that influenced their attitudes based on the technology acceptance model.
Methods
This study used a cross-sectional descriptive approach. The participants were nursing students (first to fourth year) enrolled in the College of Nursing in Korea. Differences in attitudes toward telenursing were analyzed using independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to examine the correlations between the main variables. Factors that influenced attitudes toward telenursing were analyzed using multiple regression.
Results
Of the participants, 65.4% lacked substantial awareness of telenursing and 19.1% had prior telenursing experience. Although prospects on telenursing indicated that 90.4% had an optimistic view, face-to-face nursing was heavily preferred for both satisfactory and favored healthcare delivery. Many cited the Internet as their source of knowledge, and only 18.6% had received telenursing education. Attitude toward telenursing was significantly more positive among those with telenursing education and experience and experience of observing telenursing during clinical practice. The regression model was statistically significant (F = 67.445, p < .000). Factors, such as perceived usefulness, social influence, innovativeness, and self-efficacy, influenced attitudes toward telenursing.
Conclusions
Nursing students exhibited a lack of substantial awareness of telenursing; however, they simultaneously displayed a positive outlook. This lack of comprehensive understanding could stem from the absence of formal education in telenursing. Understanding and utilizing the potential of telenursing could be significantly aided by nursing students' education and knowledge. Thus, including telenursing education in the nursing curriculum is necessary. The skills and knowledge required for telenursing clinical practice can be developed through telenursing education. Such preparedness will affect nurses’ attitudes and intentions and the quality of telenursing offered to patients in the future.
Value Added Decomposition of Iran's Gross Exports
Authors: Jahangard Esfandiar , Jahangard Alireza
Published: January 2024

The objective of this article is the implementation of various methodological approaches for decomposing the value-added of Iran's gross exports and calculating the differences in the results of these approaches in the Iranian economy. This paper provides a systematic analytical framework and evaluates different methodologies and their fundamental differences in the Iranian economy. The Borin, Mancini (2023) decomposition method, utilizing a resource-based approach and the perspective of the exporting country, is considered as the foundational analysis for the value-added decomposition in gross exports. The contribution of this paper can be summarized in the following four contexts: Firstly, it presents a brief overview of computations using various methodologies for the value-added decomposition of Iran's gross exports. Secondly, it utilizes inter-country input-output database (ICIO) for the year 2016, considering Iran, for empirical documentation. Thirdly, among the proposed theoretical frameworks, it focuses on the Borin, Mancini (2023) framework with a resource-based approach and the perspective of the exporting country. Fourthly, it provides a structural interpretation of all methods for the Iranian economy in 2016.
JEL Classification: D57, F14
Targeting mosquito X-chromosomes reveals complex transmission dynamics of sex ratio distorting gene drives
Authors: Papathanos Philippos , Haber Daniella , Arien Yael , Lamdan Lee , Alcalay Yehonathan , Zecharia Chen , Krsticevic Flavia , Yonah Elad , Avraham Rotem , Krzywinska Elzbieta , Krzywinski Jaroslaw , Marois Eric , Windbichler Nikolai
Published: January 2024

Engineered sex ratio distorters (SRDs) have been proposed as a powerful component of genetic control strategies designed to suppress harmful insect pests. Two types of CRISPR-based SRD mechanisms have been proposed: X-shredding eliminates X-bearing sperm, while X-poisoning eliminates daughters inheriting disrupted X-chromosomes. These differences can have a profound impact on the population dynamics of SRDs when linked to the Y-chromosome: an X-shredder is invasive constituting a classical meiotic Y-drive, whereas X-poisoning is self-limiting, unable to invade but also insulated from selection. Here, we established the first X-poisoning strains in the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae targeting three X-linked genes during spermatogenesis resulting in male bias. Surprisingly, we found that sex distortion was primarily driven by a loss of X-bearing sperm with limited evidence for postzygotic lethality of daughters. By leveraging a Drosophila melanogaster model, we show unambiguously that engineered SRD traits can operate differently in these two insects. Unlike X-shredding, X-poisoning could theoretically operate at early stages of spermatogenesis. We therefore explored premeiotic Cas9 expression to target the mosquito X-chromosome. We find that, by pre-empting the onset of meiotic sex chromosome inactivation, this approach may enable the development of Y-linked SRDs if mutagenesis of spermatogenesis-essential genes is functionally balanced.
The Effect of Telemedicine on Readmissions of Patients with Heart Failure and/or COPD: a Systematic Review
Authors: Stergiopoulos Georgios M. , Elayadi Anissa N. , Chen Edward S. , Galiatsatos Panagis
Published: January 2024

Background Hospital readmissions pose a challenge for modern healthcare systems. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of telemedicine incorporating telemonitoring technologies in decreasing hospital readmissions with a focus on specific patient populations particularly prone to rehospitalization: patients with heart failure (HF) and/ or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through a systematic review.
Methods Three major electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest’s ABI (Abstracted Business Information)/INFORM Global, were searched for trials employing telemedical technologies and quantifying the effect on the readmission rates in the HF and/or COPD populations. Our search was limited to English-language articles published between 2012 and 2022.
Results Eighteen scientific articles referencing seventeen different clinical trials were isolated. Most studies were randomized controlled trials and the readmission related outcome most studied was all-cause readmissions followed by HF and acute exacerbation of COPD readmissions. 47% of the studies suggested that telemedicine might decrease the readmission related burden, while most of the remaining studies suggested that telemedicine had a neutral effect on hospital readmissions. Comparative analysis of studies focusing on the COPD or HF populations resulted in the observation of a clearer association in the reduction of the readmission-related burden in patients with COPD compared to patients with HF (83% vs 27%). Data regarding other relevant outcomes often assessed including all-cause mortality emergency department visits, healthcare costs, quality of life, medication adherence and reconciliation were extracted and qualitatively assessed.
Conclusion This systematic review highlights the uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of telemedicine in reducing the readmission rates of high-risk patients with chronic illnesses, with much of the uncertainty linked to the variability of the deliverable of telemedicine. Nonetheless, the fact that almost all trials found that patients receiving telemedicine benefited to some extent and the strong association in the reduction of readmissions in the COPD population are encouraging. Conduction of more high-quality studies is necessary to draw definitive conclusions.
Preoperative risk factors and cumulative incidence of temporary ileostomy non-closure after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: He Fan , tang Chenglin , Yang Fuyu , Chen Defei , Xiong junjie , Zou yu , zhao Dongqin , Qian Kun
Published: January 2024

Background
Temporary ileostomy (TI) has proven effective in reducing the severity of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery; however, some ileostomies fail to reverse over time, leading to conversion into a permanent stoma (PS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the preoperative risk factors and cumulative incidence of TI non-closure after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a meta-analysis after searching the Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases from their inception until November 2023. We collected all published studies on the risk factors related to TI non-closure after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.
Results
A total of 1610 studies were retrieved, and 13 studies were included for meta-analysis, comprising 3026 patients. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the identified risk factors included older age (p = 0.03), especially > 65 years of age (p = 0.03), male sex (p = 0.009), American Society of Anesthesiologists score ≥ 3 (p = 0.004), comorbidity (p = 0.001), and distant metastasis (p < 0.001). Body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin, preoperative albumin, preoperative carcinoma embryonic antigen, tumor location, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, smoking, history of abdominal surgery, and open surgery did not significantly change the risk of TI non-closure
Conclusion
We identified five preoperative risk factors for TI non-closure after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer. This information enables surgeons to identify high-risk groups before surgery, inform patients about the possibility of PS in advance, and consider performing protective colostomy or Hartmann surgery.
WITHDRAWN: Investigation of Turbulence Flow Field and Pressure Pulsation in 3D Impeller Axial Pump Based on Inner Dynamic Simulation and Vibration Technique Analyses
Authors: Al-Obaidi Ahmed Ramadhan , Alhamid Jassim
Published: January 2024

The axial pump's big flow and low head features make it a popular choice for pumping station installationsThe purpose of this study is to determine how transiently changing flow circumstances affect the relative flow channel between the impeller and the flow field, thereby affecting pulsation. Through the use of physical model testing, the reliability of both experimental and numerical simulations of the device's flow channel was verified. The analysis conducted in the study focused on investigating the flow field and pressure pulsation characteristics of the impeller across different flow rates, while also exploring the impact of blade angle (-3°, 0°, and 3°) under five distinct operational conditions, ranging from optimal to flow conditions at best efficiency point (QBEP) plus value. According to the study, the axial pump's flow stability declined with decreasing flow rate, which resulted in increased pressure pulsations across various flow regions. Additionally, Most flow regions were affected by an increase in flow instability, levels of the pressure pulsation, and frequencies of the dominant rotor-stator interaction when the blade angle was increased from -3° to 3°. As a result of these findings, it may be possible to optimize axial flow pump device designs and enhance their stability. Furthermore, they are helpful for researchers and engineers interested in improving their understanding of pump flow dynamics.
Association of accelerometer-determined physical activity and sedentary behavior with the gut microbiome in middle-aged women: A compositional data approach
Authors: Pérez-Prieto Inmaculada , Migueles Jairo H. , Molina Nerea M. , Sola-Leyva Alberto , Salas-Espejo Eduardo , Arffman Riikka K. , Nurkkala Marjukka , Niemelä Maisa , Lüll Kreete , Org Elin , Franks Stephen , Tapanainen Juha S. , Salumets Andres , Piltonen Terhi T. , Ortega Francisco B. , Altmäe Signe
Published: January 2024

The beneficial effects of physical activity (PA) on gut microbiome have been reported, nevertheless the findings are inconsistent, with the main limitation of subjective methods for assessing PA. It is well-accepted that using an objective assessment of PA reduces the measurement error and allows also objective assessment of sedentary behavior (SB). We aimed to study the associations between accelerometer-assessed behaviors (i.e., SB, light-intensity physical activity -LPA- and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity -MVPA) with the gut microbiome using compositional data analysis, a novel approach that enables to study these behaviors accounting for their inter-dependency. This cross-sectional study included 289 women from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966. Movement behaviors were measured during 14 days by wrist-worn accelerometers. Analyses based on the combined effect of MVPA and SB, and compositional data analyses in association with the gut microbiome data were performed. The microbial alpha- and beta-diversity were not significantly different between the MVPA-SB groups, and no differentially abundant microorganisms were detected. Compositional data analysis did not show any significant associations between increasing one behavior while proportionally reducing the others on microbial alpha-diversity. Butyrate-producing microbes such as Agathobacter and Lachnospiraceae CAG56 were significantly more abundant when reallocating time from LPA or SB to MVPA (γ = 0.609 and 0.113, both p-values = 0.007). While PA and SB did not seem to have a significant effect on microbial diversity, we found associations of these behaviors with specific gut bacteria, suggesting that PA of at least moderate intensity (i.e., MVPA) could exert beneficial effects on short-chain fatty acids-producing microbes.
Uptake and correlates of influenza vaccine among older adults residing in rural regions of China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhao Peizhen , Xu Wenqian , Wang Jinshen , Liang Peng , Li Haiyi , Wang Cheng
Published: January 2024

Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the extent of influenza vaccine coverage and identify the factors influencing vaccine uptake among older adults in rural regions of China.
Design
A cross-sectional study utilizing convenience sampling was conducted.
Setting
Two rural sites in Guangdong Province.
Participants
Individuals needed to meet specific inclusion criteria: (1) attainment of 60 years of age or older; (2) originating from rural households; (3) demonstrating a voluntary desire to partake in the survey, either through written or verbal informed consent.
Outcome measure
The rate of influenza vaccination in the past year.
Results
A total of 423 participants were ultimately included in this study, with the majority falling within the age range of 60 to 75 years (81.3%). Only one-third of the participants had received an influenza vaccine in the past year (30.0%, 127 out of 423). Notably, more than half of the older adults exhibited no hesitancy towards influenza vaccination (54.9%, 232 out of 423). The multivariable analysis revealed that rural elderly individuals with a robust understanding of influenza vaccines and a positive attitude towards them (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41–4.81), along with a high level of trust in vaccination service providers (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.01–6.63), were positively associated with receiving influenza vaccination in the past year.
Conclusion
This study reveals a low rate of influenza vaccine uptake among older adults residing in rural areas of China. Given the limited adoption of influenza vaccination and the significant threat it poses, there is an urgent imperative to devise precise interventions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of influenza vaccination programs.
Immunoinflammatory Features and Cognitive Function in Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: Unraveling Distinct Patterns in Clozapine-Resistant Patients
Authors: Li Yanzhe , Zhu Minghuan , Dong Yeqing , Liu Nannan , Wang Xinxu , Yang Bing , Li Zezhi , Li Shen
Published: January 2024

Patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), particularly those resistant to clozapine (CTRS), pose a clinical challenge due to limited response to standard antipsychotic treatments. Inflammatory factors like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 2 (IL-2), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) are implicated in schizophrenia's pathophysiology. Our study examines cognitive function, psychopathological symptoms and inflammatory factors in TRS patients, focusing on differences between CTRS and non-CTRS individuals, as well as healthy controls. A cohort of 115 TRS patients were recruited, assessing IL-2, IL-6 and TNF-α. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was applied to assess psychopathological symptoms, while the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) was applied to assess cognitive functioning. CTRS patients showed lower visuospatial constructional score (p = 0.015), higher PANSS scores, higher levels of IL-2 and reduced TNF-α than non-CTRS patients (p < 0.05). Notably, IL-2 was independently associated with psychopathology symptoms in CTRS patients (Beta = 0.268, t = 2.075, p = 0.042), while IL-6 was associated with psychopathology symptoms in non-CTRS patients (Beta = -0.327, t = -2.109, p = 0.042). Sex-specific analysis in CTRS patients revealed IL-2 associations with PANSS total and positive symptoms in females, and TNF-α associations with PANSS positive symptoms in males. Furthermore, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α displayed potential diagnostic value in TRS patients and CTRS patients (p < 0.05). Clozapine‑resistant symptoms represent an independent endophenotype in schizophrenia with distinctive immunoinflammatory characteristics, potentially influenced by sex.
COMPETÊNCIAS DIGITAIS DOCENTES: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA DA LITERATURA COM ENFOQUE EM TRABALHOS INTERNACIONAIS
Authors: Siqueira Raquel Almeida Ferreira , Vasconcelos Francisco Herbert Lima
Published: January 2024

As Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação (TDIC) engendram novas maneiras de se relacionar com os conhecimentos e de reSsignificar o papel dos professores. No âmbito educacional, o desenvolvimento das competências digitais docentes são urgentes diante desse cenário de transformação. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi compreender como as competências digitais docentes são discutidas nos mais diversos países e se há uma conceituação comum relacionada a esse contexto educacional a nível internacional. Como método foi utilizada uma Revisão Sistemática da Literatura (RSL), modelo proposto por Kitchenham e Charters (2007). Nessa perspectiva, foram analisadas 17 publicações correspondentes ao período entre 2016 a 2021, nos seguintes repositórios: Biblioteca Digital do IEEE, Sciense Direct e ERIC - Educational Resources Information Centre. A string de busca utilizada foi digital competence AND teacher AND learning. Os resultados apontam que os conceitos de competências digitais docentes se estruturam na capacidade dos professores em resolver problemas profissionais e metodológicos utilizando as tecnologias digitais. A partir da incorporação de novas práticas e ressignificação do seu papel promovem não somente o seu próprio desenvolvimento profissional, bem como favorecem as competências digitais aos educandos.
POTENCIAL USO DE SUBPRODUTOS INDUSTRIAIS DA REGIÃO METROPOLITANA DE FORTALEZA NA PRODUÇÃO DE CIMENTOS ÁLCALI-ATIVADOS
Authors: Costa Heloina Nogueira , Cabral Eduardo Bezerra , Nogueira Ricardo Emílio Ferreira Quevedo
Published: January 2024

Os cimentos álcali-ativados têm recebido destaque nos últimos anos. Primeiro, por ser um possível substituto ecológico do cimento Portland. Segundo, pelo potencial uso de materiais residuais locais em sua produção. No entanto, é necessário que esses resíduos correspondam a fontes de aluminossilicatos e tenham a capacidade de formar uma matriz aglomerante ao ser alcalinamente ativados. Portanto, o objetivo deste artigo é investigar o potencial de cinzas do carvão mineral e escórias de aciaria, gerados na Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza (RMF), para aplicação como precursor de cimento álcali-ativado (CAT). No estudo experimental, a cinza volante, a cinza pesada, a escória de forno básico de oxigênio (BOF) e a escória de dessulfuração (KR) foram processadas para adequação granulométrica, e suas características químicas, físicas e mineralógicas foram investigadas. Realizou-se o ensaio de resistência à compressão em pastas ativadas com hidróxido e silicato de sódio. Os resultados indicam que a cinza volante apresenta composição química e finura adequadas para a álcali-ativação. Enquanto, a cinza pesada e as escórias precisam de adequação granulométrica, além disso, o teor de óxido de alumínio desses materiais é inferior ao observado na literatura, assim como, o teor de óxido de silício das escórias. Contudo, a resistência à compressão das pastas apresentou valores factíveis de uso como aglomerante na construção civil. O maior valor obtido foi de 23,7 MPa com uso de cinza volante, seguido de 15,8 MPa com uso de cinza pesada. Por fim, atesta-se a viabilidade do uso de subprodutos industriais da RMF como precursor de CAT.
UM MÉTODO DE APOIO À GESTÃO PARA ANÁLISE DAS CONDIÇÕES DE ADERÊNCIA EM PAVIMENTOS AEROPORTUÁRIOS
Authors: Maia Aldaianny de Oliveira , Oliveira Francisco Heber Lacerda de , Silva Carlos Augusto Uchôa da
Published: January 2024

Em termos do gerenciamento eficiente das condições de aderência dos pavimentos aeroportuários brasileiros, a inexistência de uma adequada organização e compreensão dos dados coletados, com vistas à obtenção de informações precisas e confiáveis, ainda é uma dificuldade a ser superada. Diante disso, o objetivo deste estudo é analisar os dados disponíveis das condições de aderência, em pistas de pouso e decolagem de pavimentos aeroportuários nacionais. Realizou-se um estudo de caso, usando-se dados de três pistas de pouso e decolagem (PPD) de diferentes aeroportos. Iniciou-se com uma investigação preliminar dos dados existentes, com recorte temporal de 2015 e 2021. A escolha dos aeroportos ocorreu mediante sua espacialização no território brasileiro e, da quantidade de relatórios disponíveis. Usou-se diferentes técnicas estatísticas e de análise visual para uma melhor compreensão e visualização das informações. Para as PPD avaliadas os dados de coeficiente de atrito tiveram maior homogeneidade, com menores coeficientes de variação, em relação à macrotextura, fato que pode estar relacionado à forma de execução do ensaio utilizado para a obtenção da macrotextura. Com base na distribuição dos dados e a alta quantidade de valores extremos (outliers), considera-se que a mediana pode representar melhor os dados de aderência. Assim, a reestruturação do banco de dados possibilitou a criação de um Dashboard e, a consequente visualização das informações para o período considerado. Portanto, a adequada sistematização permitiu uma melhor compreensão dos dados disponíveis, de modo a auxiliar no processo de tomada de decisão, quanto às atividades de fiscalização, regulação e manutenção dos pavimentos aeroportuários.
Physiological and Biochemical Responses to Heavy Metals Stress in Plants
Authors: JORJANİ Sarah , PEHLİVAN KARAKAŞ Fatma
Published: January 2024

Heavy metal (HM) toxicity is a severe abiotic stress that can cause significant harm to plant development and breeding, posing a challenge to sustainable agriculture. Various factors, including cellular toxicity, oxidative stress, osmotic stress, imbalance in the membrane, and metabolic homeostasis cause negative impacts on plant molecular, physiology and biochemistry. Some heavy metals (HMs) are essential micronutrients that play important roles in various plant processes, while excessive amounts can be harmful and have negative impacts on plant growth, metabolism, physiology, and senescence. Phytotoxicity with HMs and the deposition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and methylglyoxal (MG), can lead to lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, enzyme inactivation, DNA damage, and harm to other vital components of plant cells. Generally, HM toxicity as environmental stress led to response of plant with different mechanisms, first, the stimulus to external stress, secondly all signals transduction to plant cell and finally it beginning to find appropriate actions to mitigate the adverse stress in terms of physiological, biochemical, and molecular in the cell to survive plant. The purpose of this review is to better understand how plants respond physiologically and biochemically to abiotic HM stress.
Error-correcting codes for fermionic quantum simulation
Authors: Chen Yu-An , Gorshkov Alexey V. , Xu Yijia
Published: January 2024

Utilizing the framework of \mathbb{Z}_2ℤ2 lattice gauge theories in the context of Pauli stabilizer codes, we present methodologies for simulating fermions via qubit systems on a two-dimensional square lattice. We investigate the symplectic automorphisms of the Pauli module over the Laurent polynomial ring. This enables us to systematically increase the code distances of stabilizer codes while fixing the rate between encoded logical fermions and physical qubits. We identify a family of stabilizer codes suitable for fermion simulation, achieving code distances of d=2,3,4,5,6,7, allowing correction of any \lfloor \frac{d-1}{2} \rfloor⌊d−12⌋-qubit error. In contrast to the traditional code concatenation approach, our method can increase the code distances without decreasing the (fermionic) code rate. In particular, we explicitly show all stabilizers and logical operators for codes with code distances of d=3,4,5. We provide syndromes for all Pauli errors and invent a syndrome-matching algorithm to compute code distances numerically.
Harlequin Ichthyosis: Case series
Authors: Ezveci Huriye , Dogru Sukran , Akkus Fatih , Gezginc Kazim
Published: January 2024

Objective: Harlequin ichthyosis (HI) is an autosomal-recessive inherited disorder. The incidence is extremely rare and is reported to range from 1/300 000 to 1/1 000 000. Some risk factors include preterm births and consanguinity. Prenatal DNA testing for the ABCA12 mutation aids in diagnosis. Although ultrasonography helps the diagnosis, the diagnostic value of a single ultrasound is low. It is fatal for the affected newborn after the first few days after birth, but few long-term survivals have been recorded. The hallmark of with disease is severely keratinized skin. This study aims to evaluate the prenatal and postnatal outcomes of cases with HI.
Study Design: The study includes instances of HI that were diagnosed at the clinic throughout 2018–2023. The week of diagnosis, ultrasonographic findings, week of birth, and findings at the time of delivery for all patients were acquired via electronic reports and archival data. Data regarding the condition of viable fetuses was acquired using telephonic means.
Results: The study included a total of five patients. There were prenatal ultrasonography findings in three cases. There were no prenatal ultrasound findings in the remaining two patients. Cordocentesis was applied to a single case using prenatal ultrasound diagnosis, and a normal genetic result was obtained. The remaining two cases refused to opt for the option of prenatal invasive testing. The termination option was not accepted in three cases with an intrauterine diagnosis. Prenatal ultrasonography revealed features showing skin thickening, ectropion, eclabion, oligohydramnios, and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Histological examination results of fetal skin biopsies in three cases showed consistent findings of epidermolytic HI, thus confirming the diagnosis of HI. The histological diagnosis of the remaining two patients was inconclusive. All cases are alive.
Conclusion: It is advisable to conduct a methodical evaluation based on the clinical manifestations of the condition during the third trimester of gestation to diagnose HI, particularly in instances where there is no familial predisposition.
The risk of imbalance in the population composition of lymphocytes and specific sensitization in children living under exposure to airborne ben-zo(a)pyrene in the arctic zone of Russia
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Dolgikh O.V. , Nikonoshina N.A. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: January 2024

Climatic and geographical determinants of the Arctic zone can aggravate effects of technogenic chemical factors and induce health disorders in children even at low exposure levels. 1291 children aged 3–6 years were examined. Group A included 608 children living in an urbanized area in the Arctic zone. Group B consisted of 204 children from a conventionally clean area of the Arctic zone. Group C included 308 children from an urbanized middle latitude area. Group D consisted of 171 children from a conventionally clean middle latitude area. Benzo(a)pyrene levels in ambient air and in blood were determined by HPLC. Identification of T-(CD3+) and B-lymphocytes (CD19+) was carried out by flow cytofluorometry. Exposure to airborne benzo(a)pyrene (0.6 average daily MPL) in the Arctic zone in a daily dose equal to 7.11•10-3 µg/(kg•day) results in blood of exposed children being contaminated with benzo(a)pyrene and in lower levels of Т-lymphocytes (СD3+) (OR (CI) = 2.99 (2.00–4.46); RR (CI) = 1.94 (1.47–2.56); p = 0.024) against hyperexpression of B-lymphocytes (CD19+) (OR (CI) = 2.55 (1.83–3.56); RR (CI) = 1.68 (1.36–2.06); p = 0.019) and IgG to benzo(a)pyrene (OR (CI) = 53.33 (27.56–103.20); RR (CI) = 15.11 (8,24–27.72); p = 0.001) in comparison with children living on a conventionally clean territory (p < 0.05). Similar disorders are identified in children in case benzo(a)pyrene is introduced in a dose equal to 87.6•10-3 µg/(kg•day) under airborne exposure (7.4 average daily MPL) in the middle-latitude zone (p > 0.05). Thus, children who live in the Arctic zone and are exposed to airborne benzo(a)pyrene in an average daily dose equal to 7.11•10-3 µg/(kg•day) face an elevated risk of imbalance in the population composition of lymphocytes as per basic cell differentiation clusters (CD3+ and CD19+; RR = 1.68–1.94; p = 0.024–0.019) and specific sensitization (IgG to benzo(a)pyrene; RR = 15.11; p = 0.001). This risk is comparable with effects of exposure to airborne benzo(a)pyrene in an average daily dose equal to 87.6•10-3 µg/(kg•day) in the middle-latitude zone. These findings confirm the hypothesis on effects of technogenic chemical factors being potentiated by specific climatic and geographic conditions (low average annual temperatures and photoperiodic asymmetry). Their additive effects induce early manifestations of pathological phenotypic health disorders in children even under low levels of exposure to benzo(a)pyrene.