bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible Cumulative Effect of Spice-Consumption on Mortality Rate and the Number of Genomic Variants of SARS-CoV-2: The USA vs. Higher Spice-Intake Countries
Authors: Yusvana Rama
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 mortality rate of the USA was significantly higher than in countries that traditionally consume spicier diet. This study delves into the intriguing relationship between dietary spice consumption and SARS-CoV-2 virus genomic variants, aiming to shed light on potential factors contributing to differing mortality rates across countries with different amount of habitual spice consumption (and its possible cumulative effect) since years before the pandemic began. To achieve this, randomly-selected SRA (Sequence Reads Archive) of DNA sequences were downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. A total 100 samples of DNA sequences from infected individuals of both low and high spice-intake countries were analyzed for the number of genomic variants (sequence reads) and the major type of mutations between the two groups, using bioinformatics platform ‘Galaxy’. Data shows that the approximate spice consumption in the USA has been at all-time lower than the other spice-intake countries. In addition, the latter countries have a lower-mortality rate than the USA. Infected individuals from the US also have fifteen times (15x) higher number of variants in the ‘Spike’ protein region of the virus than individuals from higher-spice group. Most of the mutations in the US were of missense-type. In contrast, frameshift-type mutation predominates in the higher spice-intake individuals resulting in apparent lower-mortality rate. It is possible that after long-term consumption of immune-supporting spices as part of regular dietary nutrition, the higher spice-intake nations could be more resilient to the viral infection compared to the people who consumed American diet.
Utilizing Support Vector Machine Algorithm and Feature Reduction for Accurate Breast Cancer Detection An Exploration of Normalization and Hyperparameter Tuning Techniques
Authors: CHARY VALABOJU SHIVA KUMAR
Published: November 2023

In this work, we will evaluate the impact of independent component analysis (ICA) on a breast cancer decision support system's feature reduction capabilities. The Wisconsin Diagnostic Breast Cancer (WDBC) dataset will be utilised to construct a one-dimensional feature vector (IC). We will study the performance of k-NN, ANN, RBFNN, and SVM classifiers in spotting mistakes using the original 30 features. Additionally, we will compare the IC-recommended classification with the original feature set using multiple validation and division approaches. The classifiers will be tested based on specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, F-score, Youden's index, discriminant power, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. This effort attempts to boost the medical decision support system's efficiency while minimising computational complexity.
Prognostic impact of ultra-restrictive RBC transfusion in extensive burn patients: a retrospective multicenter cohort study running headline: ultra-restrictive transfusion in burns
Authors: Wang Yiran , Zhu Zhikang , Duan Deqing , Xu Wanting , Chen Zexin , Shen Tao , Wang Xingang , Xu Qinglian , Zhang Hongyan , Han Chunmao
Published: November 2023

Background
In recent years, due to the shortage of blood products, some extensive burn patients were forced to adopt an “ultra-restrictive” transfusion strategy, in which the hemoglobin levels of RBC transfusion thresholds were < 7g/dl or even < 6 g/dL. This study investigated the prognostic impacts of ultra-restrictive RBC transfusion in extensive burn patients.
Material and methods
This retrospective multicenter cohort study recruited extensive burns (total body surface area ≥ 50%) from three hospitals in Eastern China between 1 January 2016 and 30 June 2022. Patients were divided into an ultra-restrictive transfusion group and a restrictive transfusion group depending on whether they received timely RBC transfusion at a hemoglobin level < 7 g/dL. 1:1 ratio propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance selection bias. Modified Poisson regression and linear regression were conducted for sensitive analysis. Subsequently, according to whether they received timely RBC transfusion at a hemoglobin level < 6 g/dl, patients in the ultra-restrictive transfusion group were divided into < 6 g/dl group and ≥ 6 g/dl group to further compare the prognostic outcomes.
Results
271 eligible patients with extensive burns were included, of whom 107 patients were in the ultra-restrictive transfusion group and 164 patients were in the restrictive transfusion group. The ultra-restrictive transfusion group had a significantly lower RBC transfusion volume than the restrictive transfusion group (11.5 [5.5, 21.5] vs 17.3 [9.0, 32.5] units, p = 0.004). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of in-hospital mortality, risk of infection, hospital length of stay, and wound healing time after PSM or multivariate adjustment (p > 0.05). Among the ultra-restrictive transfusion group, patients with RBC transfusion threshold < 6 g/dl had a significantly higher hospital mortality than ≥ 6 g/dl (53.1% vs 21.3%, p = 0.001).
Conclusion
For extensive burn patients, no significant adverse effects of ultra-restrictive RBC transfusion were found in this study. When the blood supply is tight, it is acceptable to adopt an RBC transfusion threshold of < 7 g/dL but not < 6g/dL.
Ship pollution promotion – the strong economic incentives of scrubbers
Authors: Hermansson Anna Lunde , Hassellöv Ida-Maja , Grönholm Tiia , Jalkanen Jukka-Pekka , Fridell Erik , Parsmo Rasmus , Hassellöv Jesper , Ytreberg Erik
Published: November 2023

In response to stricter regulations on ship air emissions, many shipowners have installed exhaust gas cleaning systems, known as scrubbers, allowing for use of cheap residual heavy fuel oil. Scrubbers produce large volumes of acidic and polluted water that is discharged to the sea. Due to environmental concerns, the ban of scrubbers has been discussed within the International Maritime Organization. Real-world simulations of global scrubber-vessel activity, applying actual fuel costs and expenses related to scrubber operations show that 51% of the global scrubber-fitted fleet reached economic break-even by the end of 2022, with a surplus of 4.7 billion €2019. Within five years after installation, more than 95% of the ships with most common scrubber systems reach break-even. However, the marine ecotoxicity damage cost, from scrubber water discharge in the Baltic Sea Area 2014–2022, amounts to > 680 million€2019, showing that private economic interests come at the expense of marine environmental damage.
Effect of technological voids on hydro-mechanical behavior of compacted bentonite
Authors: Tan Yunzhi , Hu shixiang , Li Hui , Ming Huajun , Wu Jun
Published: November 2023

In the high-level radioactive waste geological disposal, the gaps between the waste canisters, buffer layer, and surrounding rock, will affect the hydro-mechanical behavior of bentonite blocks. In this paper, the gaps between the buffer layers were simulated by setting different technological void widths. The interaction between technological void width and the swelling pressure and hydraulic conductivity of compacted bentonite was investigated. Meanwhile, the effect of different boundary conditions on the hydration process of compacted bentonite simulated through stepwise pre-set technological void (SV) and completely pre-set technological void (CV) was studied. The results showed that, compared with specimens without technological voids, the swelling pressure of compacted bentonite blocks with 33% voids remained unchanged, while the hydraulic conductivity increased by 10%. Comparing the SV with CV specimens, the swelling pressure was similar, but the hydraulic conductivity of the latter increased by 6%. Microstructural test results indicated differences in overall homogeneity between compacted bentonite blocks with 33% technological voids and those without voids after complete hydration, and distinct differences were also observed between the void and block areas in specimens with voids. The SV method reduced the cumulative pore volume in the void area, resulting in a more uniform hydration process.
Single-cell RNA sequencing unveils tumor heterogeneity and immune microenvironment of acral melanoma
Authors: Wang Panpan , Ma Yangyang , Li Yong , Zhao Yige , Tang Chenyu , Wang Shiwen , Jin Sha , Wang Jiaqi , Zhu Mengyan , Xie Bo , Wang Ping
Published: November 2023

Background Acral melanom (AM) is a subtype of melanoma with high prevalence in East Asians. AM is characterized by greater aggressiveness and lower survival rates. However, there are still fewer studies on immune mechanisms of AM especially subnodal melanoma (SM) versus non-subnodal melanoma (NSM). In order to explore tumor heterogeneity and immune microenvironment in different subtypes of AM, we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to 24,789 single cells isolated from the SM and plantar melanoma (PM) patients. Methods The Cell Ranger software pipeline (version 5.0.0) provided by 10×Genomics was used to demultiplex cellular barcodes. Differentially expressed genes (CNVs) was used to differentiate malignant melanocytes. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the FindMarkers function(test.use = presto) in Seurat. RcisTarget package was identified transcription factor (TF). Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) package was used to assign pathway activity estimates to individual cells. The CellChat package was conducted to analyze the cell-cell interaction. We determined the developmental pseudotime with the Monocle2 package. Finally, we verified gene expression by immunofluorescence. Results Aspects of tumor heterogeneity, melanocytes from PM and SM had significant differences in gene expression, CNV and pathways in which tumor-associated such as NF-kb and Wnt were involved. Regarding the immune microenvironment, PM contained more fibroblasts and T/NK cells. The EPHA3-EFNA1 axis was expressed only in cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) and melanocytes of PM, and the TIGIT-NECTIN2 axis was expressed in both AM subtypes of T/NK cells and melanocytes. Conclusions Altogether, our study helps to elucidate the tumor heterogeneity in AM subpopulations and provides potential therapeutic targets for clinical research.
Assessing the Influence of Forest Fires on the Well-being of Watersheds through SAR Technology
Authors: Rai Komal , Singh Gulab
Published: November 2023

Watersheds are interconnected systems in charge of gathering, storing, and transferring water. Forests constitute a key part of these systems. A healthy forest functions like a natural sponge, soaking up rain and snowmelt and then slowly releasing it to control the flow and prevent floods. Additionally, by filtering pollutants and sediments before they enter streams and rivers, trees contribute to the maintenance of water quality. Thus, there is a close relationship between the health of watersheds and the sustainability of forest ecosystems. Understanding forest fires' effects on watershed health is crucial since they continue to pose a serious danger to our ecosystems and water supplies. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology provides a thorough and effective way to examine the damage left behind by these fires, supplying vital information to direct efficient conservation and restoration activities. We can improve our comprehension of forest fire dynamics and their effects on watersheds by additional study and implementation of SAR technology, ultimately resulting in more sustainable management practices and the preservation of our precious water supplies for future generations. This chapter will be focusing on the effects of forest fires on the health of the watershed ecosystem and methods that could be used to mitigate the same.
Duck swarm algorithm: theory, numerical optimization, and applications
Authors: Zhang Mengjian , Wen Guihua
Published: November 2023

A swarm intelligence-based optimization algorithm, named Duck Swarm Algorithm (DSA), is proposed in this study. This algorithm is inspired by the searching for food sources and foraging behaviors of the duck swarm. The performance of the DSA is verified by using eighteen benchmark functions, where its statistical (best, mean, standard deviation, and average running-time) results are compared with seven well-known algorithms like Particle swarm optimization (PSO), Firefly algorithm (FA), Chicken swarm optimization (CSO), Grey wolf optimizer (GWO), Sine cosine algorithm (SCA), and Marine-predators algorithm (MPA), and Archimedes optimization algorithm (AOA). Moreover, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Friedman test, and convergence curves of the comparison results are used to prove the superiority of the DSA against other algorithms. The results demonstrate that DSA is a high-performance optimization method in terms of convergence speed and exploration-exploitation balance for solving high-dimension optimization functions. Also, DSA is applied for the optimal design of six engineering constraint problems and the node optimization deployment task of the Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). Overall, the comparison results revealed that the DSA is a promising and very competitive algorithm for solving different optimization problems.
Identifying and characterising digital behaviour change interventions to improve fruit and vegetable intake in low-socioeconomic status primary school children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Froome Hannah , Cheung Kei Long , Martin Wendy , Norris Emma
Published: November 2023

Background: Digital behaviour change interventions aiming to increase dietary intakes; specifically fruit and vegetable intake, in low-socioeconomic children are being developed and tested. However there is currently no synthesis of the characteristics or reported effectiveness of these interventions. This systematic review aims to: (1) identify existing digital interventions targeting fruit and vegetable intake in low-socioeconomic status children, (2) identify and synthesise characteristics or reported effectiveness of these interventions using the Behaviour Change Intervention Ontology.
Method: CINAHL, ERIC, PubMed, Cochrane Library, ACM Digital Library and Scopus were searched from December 2021 – February 2022. Inclusion criteria for studies were: 1) children of low-SES families, aged between 5-11 years old; 2) Digital intervention to improve fruit and vegetable intake; 3) Comparison groups could be digital or non-digital; 4) Outcome measures were fruit and vegetable intake and antecedents to diet behaviours; 5) Randomised controlled trials (cluster and parallel designs). Characteristics of identified studies were coded using the Behaviour Change Techniques Taxonomy and Modes of Delivery, Setting and Source ontologies of the Behaviour Change Intervention Ontology.
Results: Five studies met all inclusion criteria, with majority reporting significant effects of interventions on improving fruit and vegetable intake. Most common Behaviour Change Techniques found were Goal Setting (k=4), Problem Solving (k=3), Instruction on how to perform a Behaviour (k=3), and Prompts and Cues (k=3). Characteristics relating to intervention source were unclear.
Conclusions: Digital interventions had positive outcomes; specifically in fruit and vegetable intake in children. Characteristics in digital interventions which have direct effects on child fruit and vegetable intake in low-socioeconomic families should be further investigated. This could tailor an intervention to target a specific population group. Furthermore, a need for clearer reporting on intervention characteristics is needed.
Machine learning approach in diagnosis and risk factors detection of pancreatic fistula
Authors: Potievskiy Mikhail Borisovich , Petrov Leonid Olegovich , Ivanov Sergei Anatolyevich , Sokolov Pavel Viktorovich , Trifanov Vladimir Sergeevich , Moshurov Ruslan Ivanovich , Shegai Petr Viktorovich , Kaprin Andrei Dmitrievich
Published: November 2023

Purpose.
The aim of the study is to develop a predictive ML model of development of postoperative pancreatic fistula and biochemical leak and to detect the main risk factors of the complications.
Methods.
We performed a single-centre retrospective clinical study. 150 patients, who underwent pancreatoduodenal resection in FSBI NMRRC, were included in the study. We developed CatBoost ML models, basing on the 1 and 3–5 postoperative days data. Binary model classes were no fistula and biochemical leak or fistula B/C. 3-dimentional model distinguished no fistula, biochemical leak and fistula B/C. The risk factors of pancreatic fistula were evaluated with model parameter “importance” and Kendall correlation, p < 0.05.
Results.
We detected significant positive correlation of blood and drain amylase level increase in association with biochemical leak and pancreatic fistula B/C. Binary model, roc auc 71%, detected the main risk factors of all the fistulas on the first postoperative day: tumor vascular invasion, age and BMI. Risk factors of fistula B/C were BMI, age, tumor volume and vascular invasion, the 3-dimensional model roc auc 70%. Basing on the 3–5 days data, binary model risk factors were blood and drain amylase levels, blood leukocytes, roc auc 86%. Fistula B/C risk factors were the same, the 3-dimensional model roc auc 75%. BMI and age were also important.
Conclusion.
We developed sufficient quality ML models of postoperative pancreatic fistulas. Blood and drain amylase level increase were the major risk factors of fistula B/C. Young age and high tumor volume were common factors of fistulas development.
The Molecular Effects of Detergents and Soaps on Biological Stains: Implications for Forensic Investigations
Authors: Judah Gbayisomore Tolulope , Temitope Ogunjobi Taiwo , .I. Ologbonjaye Kehinde
Published: November 2023

In forensic investigations, the precise quantification of DNA from biological stains is essential because it offers helpful details for identifying people and connecting them to crime scenes. However, the presence of contaminants in biological stains, such as detergents and soaps, can impact the DNA quantification procedure and jeopardize the accuracy of the findings. The objective of this study was to assess how different soaps and detergents affected the quantification of DNA from biological stains. For this experiment, a number of detergent and soap solutions were chosen, including standard household detergents and industrial cleaners. By applying known amounts of blood stains to fabric swatches, biological stain samples were created. After that, the stains were treated with various ratios of each detergent or soap solution. For comparison, control samples made up of untreated stains were also used. After treatment, DNA was recovered according to a conventional extraction process from the stained cloth swatches. Utilizing a sensitive fluorescence based technique that offered precise and trustworthy measurements of DNA concentration, the isolated DNA was measured. To evaluate the effect of the detergents and soaps on DNA recovery, the DNA quantitation findings from the treated samples and the control samples were compared. According to preliminary studies, the detergent or soap used had a substantial impact on how much DNA could be quantified from biological stains. Higher detergent and soap concentrations often result in increased DNA loss, so these concentrations also had an impact.
Internal brace augmentation in ACL reconstruction increases structural strength and stiffness: a biomechanical study in a porcine model
Authors: Chen Siqi , Wang Junyuan , You Junhua , Li Wenxuan , Lv Yuhang , Zhang Hangzhou
Published: November 2023

This study was to compare the biomechanical outcomes of three ACL graft tibial fixation. Biomechanical testing was performed on 36 fresh porcine tibias and flexor profundus tendon divided into three groups: interference screw group (n = 12), internal brace group (n = 12) and combined group (n = 12). The samples underwent cyclic loading at 1 Hz at 50–250 N for 1000 cycles, following by load-to-failure testing (200mm /min). The cyclic displacement, stiffness and ultimate failure loads were compared between the techniques. No sample failed during cyclic load test. The mean periodic displacement of the combined group(1.97 ± 0.32mm)was significantly lower than both the internal brace group (2.85 ± 0.43mm; p < 0.05) and interference screw group (2.48 ± 0.31 mm; p༜0.05), but there was no significant difference between two fixation alone groups. The mean failure load of combined fixation (821.71 ± 78.39N) was higher than that with interference screw (631.97 ± 109.96N; p < 0.01) or internal brace (566.04 ± 57.68 N; P < 0.01) fixation alone. The combined group showed greater pullout stiffness (217.79 ± 36.66 N/mm) than both the interference screw (151.69 ± 30.28 N/mm; p < 0.01) and internal brace (162.94 ± 35.42 N/mm; p < 0.01) groups. The ultimate failure load and stiffness of soft tissue grafts fixed with internal brace and interference screw were significantly higher than those fixed alone.
Pattern and Functional Outcome Of Floating Knee Injury Treated Surgically at Tertiary Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A Retrospective Study
Authors: Asefa Biniam , Ayalew Kalkidan , Ousman Seman Kedir , Tesfaye Eyoel , Benti Senayad
Published: November 2023

Introduction:
Floating knee injuries, ipsilateral femur, and tibial fractures are uncommon, and the exact frequency is unclear. These complicated injuries have a significant complication rate and may result in a poor prognosis.
Methods
A retrospective hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among patients with floating knee injuries at AaBET hospital. 71 patients with floating knee injuries were treated at AaBET hospital from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2021. Binary and multivariate logistic regression was used. The functional results of these injuries were evaluated using the Karlström and Olerud criteria. We assessed functional outcomes at 12-month post-operative follow-up. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
In this study, 71 patients with floating knee injuries were included. Of these, 51 (71.8%) had satisfactory results, 69 (97.2%) were the result of road traffic accident (RTA), 41 (57.7%) had open fractures, 50 (70.4%) had simultaneous injuries, and 20 (28.2%) had postoperative complications, the most common of which were wound and pin site infections (17% ).In binary logistic regression, open floating knee patients with associated injuries, patients with type 2 Fraser’s class floating knee injuries, patients who had a femur fracture treated with an external fixator, patients who underwent repeat surgery, and patients whose repeated surgery done after two weeks and patients with complication are associated with an unsatisfactory outcome. Multivariate analysis showed patients with type 2 Fraser’s classification of floating knee injuries were 8.9 times more likely than those with type 1 to experience a poor outcome (AOR 95% CI: 8.94 (1.81, 44.07), p = 0.007).
Conclusion
Involvement of the knee joint in floating knee injuries is the most important predictor of an unsatisfactory outcome.
Chemokine CCL14 is a potential biomarker associated with immune cell infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Bai-er , Yuan Zai-xin , Wang Meng-jiao , Xu Li-qin , Chen Jing-jing
Published: November 2023

Objective: C-C motif chemokine ligand 14 (CCL14) is constitutively expressed in tissues. We aimed to investigate the relationship between CCL14 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs), and explore the prognostic role in LUAD.
Materials and methods: Oncomine and TCGA databases were analyzed to examine the expression of CCL14 in LUAD. Kaplan-Meier plotter and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA, version 2) were conducted to evaluate the prognostic value in LUAD. Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and GEPIA2 were used to explore the relationship between CCL14 and TIICs. Gene functional enrichment was performed by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The expression and function of CCL14 were investigated in vitro. miR-CCL14 overexpression vector plasmids were transfected into cells. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion assays were conducted to explore CCL14 biological function in LUAD cell lines.
Results: Low-expression level of CCL14 was associated with poor-prognosis in LUAD. In vitro, the mRNA expression of CCL14 in lung epithelial cells was statistically higher than in LUAD cell lines. Upregulating the expression of CCL14 suppressed cell proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities. Immune infiltration analysis displayed there were positive correlations between CCL14 expression and TIICs (including CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, B cells, neutrophils, etc.). Markers of TIICs exhibited different CCL14-related immune infiltration patterns. GSEA analysis showed that the low-expression of CCL14 was related to histone deacetylases (HDACs), G2/M checkpoints and Notch signaling pathways.
Conclusions: CCL14 may be an anti-oncogene by regulating TIICs and is expected to become a potential prognostic indicator and therapeutic target in LUAD.
The Magnetic Microbolometer detection chain: A proposed detection system to observe the B modes of the Cosmic Microwave Background
Authors: Platino Manuel , Redondo Manuel Elías García , Muscheid Timo , Gartmann Robert , Salum Juan Manuel , Ferreyro Luciano Pablo , Müller Nahuel Agustín , Bonilla-Neira Jesús David , Geria Juan Manuel , Bonaparte Juan José , Almela Daniel Alejandro , Ardila-Pérez Luis Eduardo , Hampel Matías Rolf , Fuster Alan Ezequiel , Sander Oliver , Weber Marc , Etchegoyen Alberto
Published: November 2023

Several experiments are currently carried out to measure the magnitude of the B mode polarization of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB). It is a strong indicator of the presence of gravitational waves from the early universe inflationary epoch. As the average variations of the B mode components of the CMB are expected to be of the order of a few tens of nK or below, the detection of these polarized signals requires an ultra sensitive system. This article is focused on instruments that take advantage of an interferometer stage, followed by a bolometer stage sensitive to frequencies around the 150 GHz band of the EM spectrum, which corresponds to the measured CMB temperature of 2.7 K. The bolometers in the focal plane of these experiments are usually coupled to an array of direct current Superconducting Quatum Interference Devices (SQUIDs), that allow the highly sensitive detection requirements for observing the B modes. We propose a detection system for these kinds of instruments based on a Software Defined Radio (SDR) that uses Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM), a Goertzel channelizer and a radio frequency SQUID micro multiplexer (uMUX) working at the cryogenic temperatures of 320 mK. These interfaces are used to read an array of 1024 Magnetic Microbolometers (MMBs) as detectors that are photon limited for CMB detection in the band of interest. As part of the requirements for these measurements, we introduce a design of the detection and read out chain, show its expected performance and potential implementation. The proposed system can read the desired number of detectors from an array in a modular way, which allows future expansions, and its frequency division multiplexing (FDM) system improves the cooling capacity of the cryostat by minimizing the amount of active cryogenic electronics.
Comparing Population-Level Humoral and Cellular Immunity to SARS-Cov-2 in Bangalore, India
Authors: Malani Anup , Aiyar Jayashree , Sant Andrea , Kamran Neha , Mohanan Manoj , Taneja Saloni , Woda Bartek , Zhao Wanran , Acharya Anu
Published: November 2023

Two types of immunity, humoral and cellular, offer protection against COVID. Humoral protection, contributed by circulating neutralizing antibodies, can provide immediate protection but decays more quickly than cellular immunity and can lose effectiveness in the face of mutation and drift in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Therefore, population-level seroprevalence surveys used to estimate population-level immunity may underestimate the degree to which a population is protected against COVID. In early 2021, before India began its vaccination campaign, we tested for humoral and cellular immunity to SARS-Cov-2 in representative samples of slum and non-slum populations in Bangalore, India. We found that 29.7% of the pooled samples had antibodies to the spike protein and 15.51% had neutralizing antibodies, but at least 55.7% showed evidence of cellular immunity. We also find that prevalence of cellular immunity is significantly higher in slums than in non-slums. These findings suggest (1) that a significantly larger proportion of the population in Bangalore, India, had cellular immunity to SARS-CoV-2 than had humoral immunity, as measured by serological surveys, and (2) that low socio-economic status communities display higher frequency of cellular immunity, likely because of greater exposure to infection due to population density.
Delabeling of allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics in hospitalized patients: A prospective study evaluating cost savings.
Authors: Sobrino-García Miriam , Muñoz-Bellido Francisco Javier , Moreno-Rodilla Esther , Martín-Muñoz Rita , García-Iglesias Aránzazu , Dávila Ignacio
Published: November 2023

Background
Patients with a penicillin allergy label have an associated increase in adverse antibiotic events and hospitalization costs.
Aim
We aimed to study the economic savings derived from the correct diagnosis and delabeling of inpatients with suspected beta-lactam allergy.
Method
We prospectively evaluated patients admitted to the University Hospital of Salamanca who had been labeled as allergic to beta-lactams and performed a delabeling study on them. Subsequently, the difference in costs between the antibiotics administered before and after the allergy study and between the costs derived from those patients who received alternative antibiotics during admission and those who switched to beta-lactams after the allergy study were calculated.
Results
One hundred seventy-seven inpatients labeled as allergic to beta-lactams underwent a delabeling study, and 34 (19.2%) of them were confirmed to have an allergy to beta-lactams. Of the total number of patients, 136 (76.8%) received antibiotic treatment during their hospitalization involving a mean (SD) cost of €203.07 (318.42). After delabeling, in 85 (62.5%) patients the antibiotic treatment was changed to beta-lactams. In this group of patients, the mean cost (SD) then decreased from €188.91 (351.09) before the change to 91.31 (136.07) (p < 0.001) afterward, so the mean cost (SD) total decreased in these patients to €142.07 (200.50), p = 0.000. This cost reduction was also significant when compared to the mean (SD) cost of patients in whom treatment was not changed to beta-lactams (€226.66 (256.43)) (p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Delabeling hospitalized patients, when possible, represents a cost-saving measure for treating patients labeled as allergic to beta-lactams.
Empowering Nurses: Exploring Self-Managed Organizations in Indian Healthcare
Authors: Malik Elham , Shankar Shail
Published: November 2023

Background
Given India’s high patient load on the existing healthcare setup, as well as political, social, and organizational challenges, the nursing sector is facing various problems, therefore leading to substandard nursing experiences leading to poor patient care at the parallel healthcare setups, specifically homecare. This paper presents self-managed organizations (also referred to as horizontal management structures) as an effective alternative to existing hierarchical management structures overladen with bureaucracy. Therefore, we are exploring the strategies at self-managed homecare organizations that can make nursing a better and meaningful experience.
Method
This research paper employs semi-structured interviews to explore the strategies that help create a better nursing experience in horizontal organizational structures. The interviews focused on various aspects, including finances, organizational structure, value system, information flow, concept, and purpose of self-managed homecare organizations that might influence the nursing experience. Theoretical sampling was used to include seven nurses, fifteen patients and twelve management members to examine the nursing experience at self-managed homecare organizations.
Results
The themes and subthemes revealed what we term the Qualitative Success Enablers (QSEs) of self-managed organizations in the Indian setting emerged from thematic analysis of data. The reflexive thematic analysis yielded three themes: Insightfulness, Enhancing Nursing Experience through Job Enrichment, and Autonomy-Enabled Intrapreneurship. The findings indicate that the horizontal management structure represented by the studied organization in India has shown considerable success in times laden with uncertainties during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during the delta wave, which revealed the frailty of existing healthcare infrastructure. The organization successfully maintained a better nursing experience and gained patient and employee satisfaction, as revealed by in-depth semi-structured interviews and their analysis.
Conclusion
In a world of unique challenges, we stand on the brink of significant transformations. Self-managed organizations (SMOs) are vital in India's homecare sector for enhancing nursing experiences and overall organizational performance. Fostering a trust-based environment within SMOs is integral to delivering effective services. The autonomy to design nursing jobs, insightfulness, and innovativeness in the nursing job through suitable training activities, various job enrichment methods, and finding meaningfulness in a job through softer aspects of caregiving result in enhanced nursing experience at SMOs.
An abattoir study of the prevalence of foot lesions and claw measurements in water buffalo in Egypt
Authors: Salem Shebl , Refaai Walid , Raouf Mustafa Abd El , Hamed Mohamed , Ezzeldein Shimaa , Eisa Eslam , Mesalam Ayman , Maddox Thomas , Monir Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Background
Lameness has been associated with compromised animal welfare and reduced productivity in dairy cattle herds worldwide. However, little is known about the prevalence of claw lesions in the dairy buffalo population in Egypt. Furthermore, the optimum measurements for claw trimming in buffalo are unknown. A cross-sectional cadaver study was conducted where 135 pair buffalo hind feet were collected from 4 slaughterhouses and examined for the presence of claw lesions. The proportion and associated 95% confidence interval (CI) of each type of lesion were calculated. A separate set of healthy claws (n = 26) underwent ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (CT). The agreement between US and CT measurements was assessed using Passing–Bablok regression and intraclass correlation coefficient. The CT measurements were used to calculate trimming recommendations.
Results
At least one lesion was identified in 242 claws (89.6%, 95% CI = 85.4–93.0). In healthy claws, poor to moderate agreement was identified between US and CT measurements. The average ± standard deviation (SD) minimum recommended external wall length of the lateral and medial claws in heifers was 7.1 ± 0.36 cm and 7.5 ± 0.35 cm, respectively. The average ± SD minimum recommended external wall length in buffaloes over five years of age was 8.2 ± 0.27 cm and 8.4 ± 0.39 cm for the lateral and medial claws, respectively.
Conclusions
The study found a high prevalence of claw lesions in buffalo in Egypt, the clinical significance of which requires further elucidation. Recommended measurements will help guide claw trimming in buffalo to minimise lesions.
Timing and clinical risk factors for early acquisition of gut pathogen colonization with multidrug resistant organisms in the intensive care unit
Authors: Shamalov Loren , Heath Madison , Lynch Elissa , Green Daniel A. , Gomez-Simmonds Angela , Freedberg Daniel E.
Published: November 2023

Background Microbiome restitution therapies are being developed to prevent gut pathogen colonization among patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and in other select populations. If preventive therapies are to be effective, they must be administered prior to pathogen acquisition. The timing and risk factors for early acquisition of gut pathogen colonization (within 72 hours) are currently unknown and could be helpful to guide ICU trial design.Methods This was a prospective cohort study. Patients in the ICU had deep rectal swabs performed at the time of ICU admission and exactly 72 hours later. Early gut pathogen colonization was classified as the new presence (based on culture of rectal swabs) of one or more of the following organisms of interest: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant (VRE), and Gram negative bacteria that showed multidrug resistance (MDR) or third generation Cephalosporin resistance (Ceph-R). Clinical risk factors for early acquisition of gut pathogen colonization were captured using the APACHE IV scoring system.Findings Among 131 patients who were swabbed at ICU admission and 72 hours later, the rates of gut pathogen colonization at ICU admission were 11.4%, 10.6%, 38.6%, and 8.3% for MRSA, VRE, MDR and Ceph-R Gram negatives respectively. Among the patients who were negative for a given pathogen at ICU admission, the rates of early acquisition of gut pathogen colonization were 7.8% for MRSA (95% CI 3.6 to 14.2%), 7.7% for VRE (95% CI 3.6 to 14.1%), 11.3% for MDR Gram negatives (95% CI 4.4 to 18.8%), and 4.2% for Ceph-R Gram negatives (95% CI 1.4 to 9.5%). There were no clinical risk factors which independently predicted early acquisition of gut pathogen colonization.Interpretation Early gut pathogen colonization is common in the ICU and may represent a target for future trials. Clinical risk factors are not likely to be useful in pre-selecting patients for trials.
Demonstrating Large Low Noise Transition Edge Sensor Arrays for Future FIR Space Missions
Authors: Staguhn Johannes , Sharp Elmer , Brown Ari , Devasia Archana , Doriese William , Durkin Malcolm , Fixsen Dale , Staggs Suzanne , Petit Felipe Colazo , Denis Kevin , DiPirro Mike , Duff Shannon , Glenn Jason , Harrop Bert , Maher Stephen , Mikula Vilem Mikula Vilem , Nagler Peter , Wollack Edward
Published: November 2023

The Astrophysics 2020 Decadal Report recommended a line of Probe missions with far-infrared imaging or spectroscopy capabilities. The achievable sensitivity of these FIR missions will be enabled by advanced cryogenic detector technologies, potentially resulting in up to three orders of magnitude improvement in sensitivity and mapping speeds up to more than a million times of those achieved so far with past missions.
We have obtained NASA funding to build and demonstrate Transition Edge Sensor (TES) based kilopixel arrays with the properties that match the requirements for cryogenic far-infrared space missions: the arrays are very closely tileable in one direction and with a moderate gap in the other direction. This array architecture can meet the sampling- and pixel number requirement of a few 104 pixels. Many details of the architecture have already been demonstrated individually, and the detector board will be optimized for the use of the latest cryogenic NIST 2-D time domain SQUID readout multiplexers with a high density fanout scheme. Additionally, we will use flex-lines that are very similar to those developed at Princeton University for the ACT project. This method allows virtually unlimited tileability of the detector arrays and thus a compact detector/readout design for future FIR instrumentation requiring large pixel counts. We already have a pixel design which, if implemented with TES operating at less than 100mK, will meet the continuum sensitivity requirements for a cryogenic space mission. Furthermore, our array design will be compatible with lower noise TES designs for spectroscopy that already have been demonstrated.
An Integrated Federated Learning with CRSO of Attention-based LSTM Framework for Efficient IoT DataStream Prediction
Authors: El-Saied Asma M.
Published: November 2023

Real-time data stream processing presents a significant challenge in the rapidly changing Internet of Things (IoT) environment. Traditional centralized approaches face hurdles in handling the high velocity and volume of IoT data, especially in real-time scenarios. In order to improve IoT DataStream prediction performance, this paper introduces a novel framework that combines federated learning (FL) with a competitive random search optimizer (CRSO) of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models based on attention. The proposed integration leverages distributed intelligence while employing competitive optimization for fine-tuning. The proposed framework not only addresses privacy and scalability concerns but also optimizes the model for precise IoT DataStream predictions. This federated approach empowers the system to derive insights from a spectrum of IoT data sources while adhering to stringent privacy standards. Experimental validation on a range of authentic IoT datasets underscores the framework's exceptional performance, further emphasizing its potential as a transformational asset in the realm of IoT DataStream prediction. Beyond predictive accuracy, the framework serves as a robust solution for privacy-conscious IoT applications, where data security remains paramount. Furthermore, its scalability and adaptability solidify its role as a crucial tool in dynamic IoT environments.
Simultaneous estimation and variable selection for a non-crossing multiple quantile regression using deep neural networks
Authors: Shin Jungmin , Gwak Seunghyun , Shin Seung Jun , Bang Sungwan
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present the DNN-NMQR estimator, an approach that utilizes a deep neural network structure to solve multiple quantile regression problems. When estimating multiple quantiles, our approach leverages the structural characteristics of DNN to enhance estimation results by encouraging shared learning across different quantiles through DNN-NMQR. Also, this method effectively addresses quantile crossing issues through the penalization method. To refine our methodology, we introduce a convolution-type quadratic smoothing function, ensuring that the objective function remains differentiable throughout. Furthermore , we provide a brief discussion on the convergence analysis of DNN-NMQR, drawing on the concept of the neural tangent kernel. For a high-dimensional case, we propose the (A)GDNN-NMQR estimator, which applies group-wise L1-type regularization methods and enjoys the advantages of quantile estimation and variable selection simultaneously. We extensively validate all of our proposed methods through numerical experiments and real data analysis.
Optimal Tax Administration under Fake Residency and Tax Avoidance
Authors: Esteller-Moré Alejandro , Galmarini Umberto
Published: November 2023

In a two-country model, the citizens of a ‘big home country’ can either fictitiously
move residence to a ‘small foreign country’ where residence-based taxes are lower
(external avoidance), or under-report the tax base at home (internal avoidance).
The home and the foreign government compete on tax rates, with the former
also setting two types of administration policies, each one targeting one type of
tax avoidance. Although tax revenue is maximized by employing both types of
administration policies, the optimal policy faces a tradeoff in terms of fiscal outcomes:
in fiscal environments with large intrinsic opportunities of tax avoidance,
internal avoidance increases and external avoidance decreases, while the reverse
occurs in environments with small opportunities.
Light channel signal analysis with the lithium molybdate crystal R\&D detectors for AMoRE-II experiments
Authors: Sharma B. , Kim S.C. , Kim W.T. , Bhandari B. , Mailyan B. , Kim M.B. , Kim Y.D. , Kim Y.H. , Lee H.J. , Lee M.H.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a comparative study of various light detectors (LDs) developed for different phases of the AMoRE neutrinoless double beta decay experiment. We analyze the performance of these detectors in terms of characteristics such as time response, light collection, and energy resolution. Our primary focus is on evaluating the performance of the AMoRE-II light detector (LD), which is integral to the forthcoming AMoRE-II experiment. It is found that AMoRE-II type LDs outperform other previous light detector types. The best-performing LD exhibits FWHM energy resolution of 99 eV, 185 eV, 182 eV, and 493 eV for baseline and 55Fe X-ray energies of 5.9 keV, 6.5 keV, and 17.5 keV molybdenum X-ray, respectively. We adopted a convolution method to estimate the energy of the scintillation signals from 2.615 MeV gamma rays fully absorbed in a lithium molybdate crystal. The measured energy of scintillation light with AMoRE-II type LDs falls in the range of 2.1--2.5 keV, which corresponds to 0.80--0.96 keV/MeV. This measured energy is approximately 14–39% higher than that measured with previous LD types for the experiments.
The impact of restrictive blood transfusion on the safety of patients with esophageal varices after endoscopic variceal ligation
Authors: Chen Yufeng , Ming Wen , Chen Jingjing , Wang Xi , He Guobin
Published: November 2023

Background:To study the effect of restrictive blood transfusion on the safety of early rebleeding after endoscopic variceal ligation(EVL) in patients with liver cirrhosis.Methods:The patients with cirrhosis and esophageal varices who underwent endoscopic variceal ligation at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College from September 2021 to March 2023 were collected. The clinical data such as serum albumin level, hemoglobin level, liver function classification and the incidence of early rebleeding were recorded. The patients were divided into restrictive red blood cell transfusion group and non transfusion group according to whether there was red blood cell transfusion during hospitalization. The influence of restrictive transfusion and non transfusion group on the postoperative safety of endoscopic variceal ligation was observed.Results:A total of 246 cirrhotic patients were included in the analysis. There were significant differences in hemoglobin level, liver function classification, early rebleeding rate, hospitalization days, and hospitalization expenses between the restrictive transfusion and the non transfusion groups. The early rebleeding rate was significantly different between the groups with different hemoglobin levels after operation. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that postoperative hemoglobin level(OR=0.964, 95%CI: 0.956–0.971;P<0.001) and preoperative albumin level(OR=0.910, 95%CI: 0.892–0.929;P<0.001) were independent influencing factors of early rebleeding.Conclusions:The higher the hemoglobin level of cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices after endoscopic variceal ligation, the lower the incidence of early rebleeding, and restrictive blood transfusion appeared to increase the risk of early rebleeding, which needs be further confirmed in future research.