bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-gene predictive model for the radiation sensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on machine learning
Authors: Li Kailai , Liang Junyi , Li Nan , Fang Jianbo , Zhou Xinyi , Zhang Jian , Lin Anqi , Luo Peng , Meng Hui
Published: September 2024

Radiotherapy resistance is a major obstacle to the long-term survival of nasopharyngeal cancer patients, as it is a primary cause of recurrence and metastasis. Identifying radiotherapy-associated biomarkers can help improve the survival prognosis of nasopharyngeal cancer patients. Consequently, discovering biomarkers associated with radiosensitization is crucial.We evaluated 113 combinations of machine learning algorithms and ultimately selected 48 to construct a radiotherapy sensitivity score (NPC-RSS) that can predict radiosensitivity in nasopharyngeal cancer patients. Furthermore, we analyzed the relationship between NPC-RSS and the expression of genes associated with immune and radiotherapy sensitivity profiles. We employed GSEA and ssGSEA to investigate the connection between NPC-RSS and signaling pathways.We selected the combined model glmBoost+NaiveBayes, which had the best AUC among 48 models, for our subsequent study. The NPC-RSS, built based on the 18 genes included in this model, can predict the results of the public dataset and the in-house dataset of Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, with considerable efficiency. The key genes of NPC-RSS are closely associated with immune characteristics, including chemokine and chemokine receptor families, and histocompatibility complex (MHC), and show more active immune processes. Meanwhile, these key genes were significantly associated with the expression of radiosensitization-related genes. Furthermore, GSVA and GSEA analyses demonstrated that different expression levels of key NPC-RSS genes influenced signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, JAK-STAT signaling pathway,NF-kappa B signaling pathway and T cell receptor signaling pathway, which are associated with immunity and disease progression. The consistency of the expression of key genes SMARCA2 and CD9 with NPC-RSS was validated in in-house cell lines. The radiosensitive group, classified according to NPC-RSS, exhibited a more enriched and activated state of immune infiltration compared to the radioresistant group. Moreover, in single-cell samples, NPC-RSS was higher in the radiotherapy-sensitive group, with immune cells playing a predominant role.In this study, we used machine learning to construct a predictive score, called NPC-RSS, associated with radiosensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients; moreover, NPC-RSS is strongly associated with immune characteristics, expression of radiosensitivity-related genes, and signaling pathways related to disease progression. We hope that the NPC-RCC will enable more precise selection of the NPC population of potential beneficiaries of radiation therapy.
A genetic investigation in five Chinese families with keratoconus
Authors: Lin Qinghong , Wang Xuejun , Peng Xiaoliao , Han Tian , Sun Ling , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhou Xingtao
Published: September 2024

Background

This study investigated the genetic characteristics of five Chinese families with keratoconus (KC).

Methods

In the five families affected by KC, medical records, clinical observations, and blood samples were collected from all individuals. All KC family members (n = 20) underwent both whole exome sequencing of genomic DNA and Sanger sequencing to confirm the variants. Online software was utilized to analyze all variants, and the online server I-TASSER was employed for in silico predictions of the three-dimensional protein structures of the variants. The newly discovered variants and single nucleotide polymorphisms were further examined in 322 sporadic KC patients.

Results

The Pentacam tomographic composite index in those affected first-degree family members of the probands showed a pathological change. Five new variants were detected in the five probands and other affected members in their families: a heterozygous missense variant g.19043832C>T (p.Ser145Asn) in the homer scaffolding protein 3 (HOMER3) gene; a heterozygous missense variant g.99452113G>A (p.Gly483Arg) in the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) gene; a heterozygous missense variant g.55118280G>T (p.Trp843Leu) in the echinoderm microtubule-associated protein like 6 (EML6) gene; a heterozygous frameshift variant c. 1226_1227del (p.Gln410Glufs*17) in the DOP1 leucine zipper-like protein B (DOP1B) gene; and a heterozygous splice-site variant c.7776+2T>A in the neurobeachin-like protein 2 (NBEAL2) gene. These variations were predicted to be potentially pathogenic and associated with KC.

Conclusion

Five novel variants in HOMER3, IGF1R, EML6, DOP1B, and NBEAL2 genes were identified in this study and may be associated with the pathogenesis of KC. This study provides new information about the gene variants and their protein changes in KC patients. The findings should be explored further and could potentially be applied to the early diagnosis of KC before clinical onset.
The Influence of Ethical Nursing Competence and Positive Nursing Organizational Culture on Person-Centered Care in Intensive Care Unit Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Lee Jae Eun , Jang Hye-Young
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of ethical nursing competence and positive nursing organizational culture on person-centered care among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses.Methods: A cross-sectional research design was adopted for this study. The participants were 156 ICU nurses working at three hospitals in Seoul City and Gyeonggi-do. The data were collected from September 8 to September 30, 2023. The questionnaire consisted of tools for general characteristics, person-centered care, ethical nursing competence, and positive nursing organizational culture.Results: Participants had a mean age of 28.90±5.38 years, and the mean score for person-centered care was 3.65±0.46. Person-centered care was influenced by ethical nursing competence (β=.60, p<.001) and positive nursing organizational culture (β=.21, p=.004). The explanatory power was 32.4% (F=13.36, p<.001, Adj. R2=.324).Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, to improve the performance of person-centered nursing by ICU nurses, it is necessary to provide ongoing, systematic education focusing on ethical nursing. This educational initiative should be designed to address the specific ethical challenges encountered in ICU settings. In addition, strengthening managers’ active leadership and promoting a positive nursing organizational culture can be expected to improve person-centered nursing performance.
COMPETENCIAS ONCOLÓGICAS, HABILIDADES GERENCIALES Y SATISFACCIÓN EN ENFERMEROS (AS) QUE LABORAN EN UNA INSTITUCIÓN ESPECIALIZADA
Authors: Lévano Cárdenas María Gioconda , Hernández Medrano Jean Carlo , Zavaleta Grados Olivia Rita , Meneses-La-Riva Monica Elisa , Turpo Chaparro Josué Edison , Cabanillas-Chavez María Teresa
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. Es crucial invertir en el desarrollo de competencias profesionales con un enfoque integral, no solo beneficiará al personal de enfermería, sino también optimiza la calidad del cuidado que se presta. OBJETIVO. Determinar la relación entre las competencias oncológicas, habilidades gerenciales y satisfacción en enfermeros(as) que laboran en una institución especializada. METODOLOGÍA. Enfoque cuantitativo, tipo predictivo de corte transversal y correlacional, siendo una muestra de 309 profesionales de enfermería que laboran en el área de oncología, se aplicó 3 escalas: “Competencias oncológicas, habilidades gerenciales y satisfacción con una escala de Likert. Los instrumentos fueron validados siendo la confiabilidad de 0.98, 0.97 y 0.96 Alfa de Cronbach respectivamente. RESULTADOS. La mayoría de los profesionales de enfermería obtuvieron niveles medio y bajo en competencias oncológicas y habilidades gerenciales. La satisfacción fue de nivel alto. Para análisis de correlación muestra medidas de asociación para las variables con puntuaciones que no se ajustan a una distribución normal, con valores de 0,704; 0,475; 0,568; los cuales indican una correlación positiva alta y moderada pero significativa (p > 0,01). Además, el análisis de regresión lineal múltiple, demuestra que las competencias oncológicas y las habilidades gerenciales explican el 47,10% de la varianza total de satisfacción. Se concluye que las competencias oncológicas y las habilidades gerenciales deben ser entrenadas para elevar la calidad de los servicios que se brinda, el cual es relevante para mejorar los beneficios y la satisfacción. El desarrollo de competencias oncológicas y habilidades adquiridas de enfermeros no se relacionan con la satisfacción por diversos factores, relacionados a la estabilidad laboral, ingresos económicos, carencia de recursos humanos e insumos, entre otros, son limitantes en el indicador de satisfacción.
CARACTERÍSTICAS PSICOSOCIALES PRESENTES EN EL PERSONAL DE ENFERMERÍA DE UNA INSTITUCIÓN HOSPITALARIA DE QUERÉTARO, MÉXICO
Authors: Guzmán Cervantes Marbella , Juárez Nilo Sarket Gizeh , Rico Sánchez René , Martínez Díaz Adriana , García Gutiérrez María Carlota , Gallegos Torres Ruth Magdalena
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN: El personal de enfermería posee características que se han distinguido de maneras diversas, los cuales pueden afectar la salud del trabajador. OBJETIVO: Analizar las características psicosociales presentes en el personal de Enfermería. METODOLOGÍA: Estudio cuantitativo, transversal y analítico. Se trabajó con el personal de enfermería de una institución pública hospitalaria, de base, de mínimo tres años de antigüedad. Se aplicó el cuestionario extralaboral de la Batería de instrumentos para la evaluación de factores de riesgo psicosocial del Ministerio de la Protección Social Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. Muestreo por conveniencia. Se consideraron los aspectos éticos. RESULTADOS. Se encuestó a 82 enfermeros, 72% era mujer. Promedio de edad de 34.3 años ± 8.12, 45.1% se encontraba casado y 31.7% soltero. 58.5% con licenciatura, 85.4% con un nivel socio económico medio. 59.8% tiene hijos. La antigüedad laboral promedio fue de 7.21 años ± 5.75 Tienen otro trabajo el 13.4%. Con respecto al riesgo psicosocial, se encontró un nivel muy alto en más del 30% de los participantes y alto en el 18%. Se ubicaron sin riesgo 17%. Con la prueba de ANOVA se encontró que hay una diferencia significativa entre las medias de los grupos de antigüedad laboral, con respecto al puntaje global de riesgo, con una p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONES: Las dimensiones con mayor nivel de riesgo fueron las características de la vivienda y el entorno y desplazamiento vivienda-trabajo-vivienda. El sexo y el nivel de estudios no están relacionados con los resultados.
¿EL CONSENTIMIENTO INFORMADO, ES COMPRENDIDO POR ESTUDIANTES UNIVERSITARIOS QUE PARTICIPAN DE UNA INVESTIGACIÓN? UNA REVISIÓN NARRATIVA
Authors: Carrasco Aldunate Paola , Pedrero Castillo Victor , Reynaldos-Grandón Katiuska , Araya Alejandra-Ximena
Published: September 2024

El Consentimiento Informado (CI) es uno de los requisitos éticos de la investigación con seres humanos para garantizar el respeto a las personas y la toma de decisiones autónomas e informadas. Su finalidad es informar los aspectos relevantes del estudio para asegurar la participación voluntaria en la investigación. Objetivo: Identificar, a la luz de la investigación empírica, la comprensión que tienen los estudiantes universitarios del documento de CI para su participación voluntaria e informada en investigaciones. Metodología: revisión de literatura tipo narrativa en base de datos Web of Science (WoS) y PubMed con términos de búsqueda: coercion, comprehension, empiric research, ethical issues, ethical research, students, human subjects, informed consent, students as research participants, y vulnerable population, en octubre de 2023. Resultados: Se seleccionaros 8 artículos, cuyos resultados mostraron que los estudiantes aceptan participar en las investigaciones sin comprender el contenido y/o sin leer el documento de CI. Esto queda en evidencia con las respuestas incompletas o erradas a preguntas relacionadas con el contenido del CI y con el tiempo de lectura que utilizan para firmar su participación. Conclusiones: Los estudiantes universitarios aceptan participar en una investigación, sin leer o comprender el documento de CI. Existe escasa evidencia respecto a investigaciones empíricas sobre esta temática, y si bien se plantean posibles variables que pueden asociarse a esta conducta, es necesario realizar estudios para responder al por qué los estudiantes aceptan participar en un estudio aun cuando no comprenden o no leen el CI. Se proponen algunas recomendaciones para resolver estas situaciones, a partir de la evidencia encontrada.
TRATAMIENTO DE LA HIPOTERMIA ASOCIADA AL TRAUMATISMO EN EL ÁMBITO EXTRAHOSPITALARIO: SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Cardoso Páscoa Andreia Filipa , Nunes de Oliveira Luís Miguel , Faria Lobão Catarina Alexandra Rodrigues
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. La hipotermia es un elemento de la tríada letal del traumatismo, que se produce en el 30-50% de las víctimas de traumatismos graves. El objetivo de este estudio fue mapear las estrategias de manejo de la hipotermia en víctimas de traumatismos en contextos extrahospitalarios, a partir de la pregunta de revisión: "¿Qué estrategias de manejo de la hipotermia se utilizan en víctimas de traumatismos en contextos extrahospitalarios?" MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Se realizó una revisión de alcance basada en el método recomendado por el Instituto Joanna Briggs. La búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos MEDLINE y CINAHL Complete, y en el Repositorio Comum de Acesso Aberto Português (RCAAP). Se incluyeron estudios de cualquier tipo: cuantitativos, cualitativos, mixtos y revisiones bibliográficas, publicados o no, en portugués, inglés y español. RESULTADOS. Siete estudios de diferentes tipos fueron elegibles. DISCUSIÓN. Las estrategias de manejo de la temperatura pueden dividirse en dos grupos principales: medidas pasivas de calentamiento, como retirar la ropa mojada y secar a las víctimas, y medidas activas de calentamiento, como la fluidoterapia calentada. CONCLUSIONES. El desarrollo de estas estrategias por parte de los profesionales extrahospitalarios, especialmente el personal de enfermería, es esencial debido a la relación entre la hipotermia y la morbilidad y mortalidad en las víctimas de traumatismos.
ESTADOS UNIDOS REFERENTE INTERNACIONAL DE LA ENFERMERÍA DE PRÁCTICA AVANZADA: REFLEXIÓN ANALÍTICA
Authors: Escobar Castellanos Blanca , Gómez González Bryan Martín , Montijo Arriola Ana Lucía , Soto Coronado Carolina Angélica
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN: La Enfermería de Práctica Avanzada quien tiene sus orígenes en el siglo pasado en los países de Canadá y Estados Unidos, ha permitido el desarrollo de habilidades específicas de las Enfermeras de Práctica Avanzada en diversos campos de la atención médica, favoreciendo su crecimiento de forma importante en los últimos años. OBJETIVO: Reflexionar sobre el origen de la enfermería de práctica avanzada en Estados Unidos de América como referente internacional. DESARROLLO: La Enfermera de Práctica Avanzada es quien ha adquirido formación adiciona basada en conocimientos expertos, habilidades, toma de decisiones complejas y competencias clínicas para la práctica ampliada, se encuentra regulada por mecanismos y políticas específicas de cada país. CONCLUSIONES: La consolidación de la Enfermería de Práctica Avanzada en Estados Unidos de América se ha logrado con gran esfuerzo a nivel legislativo y de políticas en salud. Estos hechos sin duda representaron grandes desafíos, pero a la vez permitieron el surgimiento del rol de la Enfermera de Práctica Avanzada quien tiene un posicionamiento preponderante debido a su formación de posgrado y capacitación destacada; mismos que le han permitido ejercer de manera más autónoma y con esto mejor la calidad de atención durante el cuidado del paciente, evitar las barreras que limitan su ejercicio profesional, así como la disminución en los costos de la atención. Por ello, para implementar la Enfermería de Práctica Avanzada en los países que necesiten profesionales altamente calificados, Estados Unidos de América puede servir como un referente.
ENFERMERÍA Y LA PREVENCIÓN DE LA MALNUTRICIÓN POR EXCESO EN POBLACIÓN ESCOLAR CHILENA: UNA OPORTUNIDAD PARA INTERVENIR EN EL PROBLEMA
Authors: Loaiza Miranda Susana , Marrodán Serrano María Dolores , Montero de Espinosa Marisa González
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. En Chile existe una epidemia de sobrepeso y obesidad infantil, y el problema es especialmente preocupante en los escolares. En el año 2023, la prevalencia de de sobrepeso en escolares fue 26,8% y 26,2% de obesidad (obesidad más obesidad severa). Existe evidencia suficiente que demuestra la magnitud del problema, sus causas y consecuencias, y la relación con enfermedades no transmisibles de la etapa adulta de la vida. Las estrategias de salud implementadas para disminuir el problema, no han generado los resultados esperados, por ello invitamos a reflexionar sobre el rol que compete a profesionales de enfermería en este problema. CUERPO DE LA REFLEXIÓN. Se analizan los antecedentes epidemiológicos del problema de malnutrición por exceso infantil; la evidencia científica; el marco regulatorio y normativo técnico de salud; las estrategias implementadas en Chile para disminuir el sobrepeso y obesidad; y recomendaciones internacionales y nacionales para implementar en Atención Primaria de Salud y en establecimientos educacionales. Se concluye reconociendo el importante rol del profesional de enfermería en la prevención y supervisión del crecimiento y desarrollo infantil en Chile. CONCLUSIONES. Frente a la epidemia de sobrepeso y obesidad infantil, los profesionales de enfermería tienen una oportunidad única e histórica de intervenir con enfoque integral y preventivo, y así contribuir a disminuir la prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad infantil y enfermedades prevenibles. Para fortalecer dicha función, se fundamenta el ejercicio profesional en espacios escolares, contribuyendo a mejorar la calidad de vida de niños y jóvenes.
EL CUIDADO INTEGRAL DE LA PERSONA CON VIH/SIDA: UNA OPORTUNIDAD PARA ACERCARSE AL MUNDO DEL OTRO
Authors: Andino Ximena , Rumbos Berta Guevara
Published: September 2024

Las sociedades estructuradas, desde lógicas conceptuales creadas subjetivamente, mecanizan el pensamiento, considerando al ser humano perfecto, sin embargo, la vulnerabilidad se precisa por la incoherencia entre comportamientos y acciones. Siendo así, la carencia afectiva se refleja cuando el flagelo verbal condicionado por juicios plagados de moralidad disimulada, a quienes se estigmatizan por condiciones socio sanitarias, que se contagian con VIH/SIDA. Las formas de pensamiento, la caracterización social, y las esferas psicológicas, son constructos, asumidos para diferenciar estilos en grupos humanos, sin embargo, estigmas, irrespeto, doble moral, trastocan el contexto perceptivo óntico y ontológico, de quien vive con VIH. Para el ser que vive con la enfermedad, el contexto inhumano no le favorece, la realidad ontológica fundamentado en el estigma interno, estigma externo, y discriminación, trasciende a afectaciones emocionales, originando: temor, ansiedad, soledad. La esencia antropológica, relacionado al ser que vive con VIH, lo dimensiona a asumir su experiencia, a incorporarse a lo cotidiano, por tal razón, debe reconfigurar el estado de salud con un yo-saludable, para fortalecer la esfera holística, es decir: - mente que potencia el pensar y el sentir, - cuerpo, aunque medicalizado se encuentra estable y – espíritu que sosiega y fortalece. Para finalizar, la verdad insoslayable del sentimiento del ser y sentir, del paciente que vive con VIH, implica afirmar la fuerza solidaria, requerida por la vulnerabilidad critica que condiciona la dignidad humana, empatando con solidaridad la inclusión de las personas fragmentadas para incluirlas en nuevas historias cargadas de identidad social con efectos de tipo afectivo-emocional.
Factors Influencing Farmers Purchase Intention toward Insecticides of Rajkot District, India
Authors: Oganja Y. H. , Maheta H. Y. , Kumar Kalpesh , Bharodia C. R.
Published: September 2024

The present study was conducted to identify the factors influencing farmers purchase intention toward insecticide of Rajkot district. A multi-stage random sampling method was used to select the samples during the actual survey. Total 120 insecticide users were selected randomly from Rajkot district. Principal component analysis was used to identify the factors influencing farmers purchase intention towards insecticide of Rajkot district. The result revealed that six components were product performance, financial support, product specifications, sales team influence, feedback and social influence, significantly impact farmers' purchase intentions for insecticides. The study concludes that multiple factors, including Product performance and farmer experience are the most influential, indicating the importance of reliable and effective products.
Balantidium Coli Colitis Revealing a Common Variable Immunodeficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Lakrafi Yassir , Khibri Hajar , Ammouri Wafaa , Hermouch Hicham , Mezalek Zoubida Tazi El , Adnaoui Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Balantidium Coli is a large protozoan parasite, measuring up to 150 micrometers, initially identified in 1857 and later renamed in 1861-1862. It is an animal parasite, with its primary reservoir being pigs (domestic pigs/wild boars), but it can also be found in other animal species such as dogs, cats, hyenas, buffaloes, camels, monkeys, and others. Humans are an accidental host, as they represent a dead-end in the parasitic life cycle. Infection by this parasite is typically asymptomatic or presents with mild symptoms. It becomes pathogenic only in cases of primary or secondary immunodeficiency, where it typically manifests as colitis; however, urinary tract involvement is also possible. In our case, Balantidium Coli infection presented multiple challenges. It is not a well-known parasite in our region, particularly since pig farming is not practiced in Morocco. The parasite was found in both the urine and stool of the patient, who exhibited clear signs of infection which is not usual with this parasite. This led to the "late" discovery of Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) in the patient, a primary immunodeficiency typically diagnosed before the age of 4 and characterized by a deficiency in immunoglobulin production, particularly affecting the IgA and IgG fractions.
Incidence of Candidiasis and Associated Risk in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Iduh Michael Unata , Enitan Seyi Samson , Imam Asiya Umar , Bunza Nura Muhammad , Mahmoud Abdurrahman
Published: September 2024

Candida causes candidiasis. The genus Candida contains about 200 different species, but only a small proportion of Candida are dangerous and cause more external or internal diseases when they enter the body. Candida albicans is a ubiquitous pathogen, associated with many bacteria in the mouth, throat, and intestines. The immune system and the bacteria present are monitored for Candida, and damage to the immune system or changes in the bacteria can cause Candida to become infected. In general, these infections are limited to the mouth, genital area, and skin, but people with cancer or other serious diseases, such as HIV, have very weak immune systems which make them suffer from more serious diseases.
Tissue Culture in Banana Cultivation: A Review of its Impact on Disease Management, Yield Improvement, and Sustainable Production
Authors: Kumar Dhanesh , Chakradhar P , Ranganna G. , Vimal Vijay Kumar , Raj Ritik , Anusha Chukkamettu , Patra Soumitra , Nagaraju Vankadavath
Published: September 2024

In several tropical and subtropical areas, bananas (Musa spp.) are an important food source and commercial crop. Disease transmission and production uncertainty are common problems with traditional propagation techniques such as suckers. By supplying consistent, high-quality, and disease-free planting material, tissue culture, known as micro propagation, represents a potential alternative. The application of tissue culture has greatly enhanced disease management in banana cultivation. Reducing the incidence of ailments like Fusarium wilt, bacterial wilt, and Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV), pathogen-free plantlets are grown in controlled conditions. This strategy lessens the demand for artificial fertilizers while also promoting healthier crops and lessening the impact on the environment. Micropropagated banana plants demonstrated consistent growth, early fruiting, and increased yield in contrast to conventionally propagated plants. Tissue-cultured plants exhibit strong development and genetic uniformity, which contribute to these advantages and more consistent and dependable harvests. By promoting efficient land use and reducing the need for chemical inputs, tissue culture enhances sustainability in the production of bananas. The growing demand for bananas may be met without requiring the increase of agricultural land thanks to tissue culture techniques, which enable the large-scale production of enhanced banana cultivars at a quick rate. Furthermore, using planting material free of disease lowers input costs and crop losses, supporting more environmentally friendly farming methods.
Enhancing Responsible AGI Development: Integrating Human-in-the-loop Approaches with Blockchain-based Smart Contracts
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Mahesh Vaijainthymala
Published: September 2024

The progression towards Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) presents unprecedented opportunities and risks, necessitating robust, adaptable oversight mechanisms. This paper introduces a novel framework integrating Human-in-the-loop (HITL) approaches with blockchain technology for AGI governance. Our system employs smart contracts to dynamically trigger human oversight based on multi-faceted criteria, including decision confidence, novelty detection, and ethical considerations. It creates an immutable, transparent audit trail of AGI decisions and human interventions, crucial for accountability and continuous improvement. The framework implements a decentralized governance model with token-based incentives, ensuring diverse expert participation and aligning stakeholder interests with responsible AGI development. This approach addresses key challenges in AGI oversight: scalability, transparency, rapid response to emerging behaviors, and adaptive ethical alignment. It offers fine-grained control over AGI systems while allowing for their continued development. The blockchain foundation ensures tamper-resistant record-keeping and enables global coordination with local adaptation, critical for managing AGI in diverse environments. Our solution is designed to evolve alongside AGI capabilities, incorporating machine learning to predict necessary oversight adaptations. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining effective oversight as AGI systems potentially approach and surpass human-level intelligence. By bridging computer science, ethics, governance, and economics, our framework provides a comprehensive approach to responsible AGI development. It has far-reaching implications for various sectors and offers policymakers a concrete tool for implementing AGI regulations. This work represents a significant step towards ensuring that AGI's transformative potential can be realized while mitigating risks, potentially reshaping Human-AGI coexistence.
Assessment of Nasopharyngeal Changes Following MARPE and Self-ligating Appliance Treatments: A CBCT-based Study
Authors: Gomes Andréa Michelle dos Reis , Fialho Tiago , Ramirez Cecilia Maria Marin , Otazu Aldo , Torres Dino Marcelo , Souza José Eduardo Prado de , Valarelli Fabricio Pinelli , Cotrin Paula , Pinzan-Vercelino Célia Regina Maio , Freitas Karina Maria Salvatore
Published: September 2024

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the sagittal area, minimum axial area and volume of the nasopharynx after treatment with MARPE and self-ligating appliances.
Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of documentation and initial and final CT scans of 37 patients with Class I malocclusion treated without extraction, divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (Self-ligating): 21 patients, mean age of 19.55 years (s.d.=1.31), 11 men and 10 women, with moderate dental crowding, presence of maxillary atresia and treated with self-ligating fixed appliance Damon 3MX. Group 2 (MARPE): 16 patients, with a mean age of 24.92 years (s.d.=7.60), 11 women and 5 men, with the presence of maxillary atresia and posterior crossbite and treated with mini-implant anchored rapid maxillary expansion (MARPE). The Dolphin Imaging 3D software was used to assess nasopharyngeal changes using CBCT scans before and after treatment with MARPE and after leveling with self-ligating appliances. Intergroup comparison was performed using the independent t-test.
Results: The MARPE group showed a statistically greater increase in all nasopharyngeal measurements, ie, sagittal area, minimum axial area and volume, with treatment, than the self-ligating group.
Conclusion: Miniscrew-supported rapid maxillary expansion (MARPE) achieved better results with a greater increase in all nasopharyngeal measurements than self-ligating appliances.
Synergistic Strategies for the Management of Thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis in Pomegranate Ecosystem
Authors: Maradi Ramesh M , Jagginavar S. B. , A Keerthana , Doggalli Gangadhara
Published: September 2024

Thrips management in pomegranate cultivation is critical due to the significant damage these pests can inflict on fruit yield and quality. The study was carried out in farmers field at Managuli, Vijayapura, College of Agriculture, Vijayapura, Karnataka during 2020-2021. The integrated management of thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis in pomegranate revealed that the in-situ vermiculture technique along with chemicals (86.93 per cent) and botanicals (59.40 %) found to be more effective in controlling thrips than in-situ vermiculture technique alone (39.22 %). It also revealed that in-situ vermiculture technique influencing only 2-5 % pest reduction along with chemical insecticides. Whereas, in-situ vermiculture technique along with botanical influencing 15-20 % pest reduction and it mainly due to compatibility and positive effect of botanicals on earthworms than chemicals. However, all the treatments recorded higher yield and found significantly superior over untreated control (5.34 t/ha). By integrating these methods, pomegranate growers can achieve effective thrips control, leading to healthier crops, improved yields while promoting sustainable agricultural practices and minimizing environmental impact.
Battery-Operated Power Weeding Machines: Advancements, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Mukhuty Subhadeep , Kothari Sushil Kumar , Das Pijush , Koley Shankha
Published: September 2024

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the development and adoption of battery-operated power weeding machines, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional weed management methods. Previous studies have highlighted several critical benefits of these machines, particularly in reducing labor costs and minimizing environmental impact. Battery-powered weeders have been shown to significantly cut down on manual labor requirements, thus reducing the physical strain on farmers and decreasing the reliance on hired labor. This reduction in operational costs makes them an economically viable option for small and medium-sized farms. Furthermore, the environmental advantages of these machines are notable. Unlike chemical herbicides, which pose risks of soil and water contamination and potential health hazards, battery-operated weeders offer a clean alternative, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals. This aligns with the growing demand for environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. Technological advancements have further enhanced the efficiency and usability of these machines. Modern battery-powered weeders are increasingly equipped with lithium-ion batteries that provide longer operation times, precision sensors for accurate weed targeting, and automated control systems that simplify operation. These innovations have not only improved the effectiveness of weed management but have also made these machines more accessible and user-friendly for farmers. Field trials and studies conducted in various agricultural settings have consistently demonstrated the practicality and reliability of battery-operated weeders, making them a transformative solution in modern agriculture. The integration of these machines into farming practices has been shown to improve productivity, reduce costs, and promote sustainability, solidifying their role as a critical innovation in the future of agriculture. This review article aims to build upon these findings by providing a detailed examination of the design, development, and performance of battery-operated weeding machines, and exploring their broader applications in diverse agricultural environments.
87Sr/86Sr in recent accumulations of calcium sulfate on landscapes of hyperarid settings: A bimodal altitudinal dependence for northern Chile (19.5°S–21.5°S)
Authors: Cosentino N. J. , Jordan T. E. , Derry L. A. , Morgan J. P.
Published: November 2015

An elevation‐dependent relationship of the 87Sr/86Sr ratio of Holocene surface accumulations of sulfate salts is demonstrated for a continental margin hyperarid setting. In the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, gypsum and anhydrite of multiple origins exist widely on superficial materials that originated during the last 10,000 years. An important source of calcium sulfate is from offshore‐generated stratocumulus clouds that are advected onto the continent, where they generate fog that transfers water droplets to the ground surface which, upon evaporation, leaves calcium sulfate crystals. Meteorological measurements of the cloud base and top altitudes average ∼400 m and ∼1100 m above sea level (masl), respectively. The seawater ratio of 87Sr/86Sr (0.70917) is distinctively higher than that reported for weathered mean Andean rock (less than 0.70750). Samples of 28 modern surface salt accumulations for locations between 200 and 2950 masl and between ∼19°30′ and ∼21°30′S verify that 87Sr/86Sr varies as a function of site altitude. Sites below 1075 masl and above 225 masl display calcium sulfate 87Sr/86Sr of mean value 0.70807 ± 0.00004, while the ratio outside this altitudinal domain is 0.70746 ± 0.00010. Thus, the 87Sr/86Sr ratio of Holocene salt accumulations differentiates two altitudinal domains.
3D Biomaterial Microarrays for Regenerative Medicine: Current State‐of‐the‐Art, Emerging Directions and Future Trends
Authors: Gaharwar Akhilesh K. , Arpanaei Ayyoob , Andresen Thomas L. , Dolatshahi‐Pirouz Alireza
Published: November 2015

Three dimensional (3D) biomaterial microarrays hold enormous promise for regenerative medicine because of their ability to accelerate the design and fabrication of biomimetic materials. Such tissue‐like biomaterials can provide an appropriate microenvironment for stimulating and controlling stem cell differentiation into tissue‐specific lineages. The use of 3D biomaterial microarrays can, if optimized correctly, result in a more than 1000‐fold reduction in biomaterials and cells consumption when engineering optimal materials combinations, which makes these miniaturized systems very attractive for tissue engineering and drug screening applications.
Fill Factor Losses in Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1−x)4 Solar Cells: Insights from Physical and Electrical Characterization of Devices and Exfoliated Films
Authors: Tai Kong Fai , Gunawan Oki , Kuwahara Masaru , Chen Shi , Mhaisalkar Subodh Gautam , Huan Cheng Hon Alfred , Mitzi David B.
Published: November 2015

Besides the open circuit voltage (VOC) deficit, fill factor (FF) is the second most significant parameter deficit for earth‐abundant kesterite solar cell technology. Here, various pathways for FF loss are discussed, with focus on the series resistance issue and its various contributing factors. Electrical and physical characterizations of the full range of bandgap (Eg = 1.0–1.5 eV) Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1−x)4 (CZTSSe) devices, as well as bare and exfoliated films with various S/(S + Se) ratios, are performed. High intensity Suns‐VOC measurement indicates a nonohmic junction developing in high bandgap CZTSSe. Grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction, Raman mapping, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicate the formation of Sn(S,Se)2, Mo(S,Se)2, and Zn(S,Se) at the high bandgap CZTSSe/Mo interface, contributing to the increased series resistance (RS) and nonohmic back contact characteristics. This study offers some clues as to why the record‐CZTSSe solar cells occur within a bandgap range centered around 1.15 eV and offers some direction for further optimization.
Twenty‐two–item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test in a control population: a cross‐sectional study and systematic review
Authors: Farhood Zachary , Schlosser Rodney J. , Pearse Madeline E. , Storck Kristina A. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Soler Zachary M.
Published: November 2015

Background

The 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) is a commonly utilized outcome measure for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, what constitutes a normal score remains poorly defined. The goal of this study was to evaluate SNOT‐22 scores in a control population without CRS and perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of “normal” values.

Methods

Ninety‐nine subjects without CRS were enrolled, with 95 fully completing the SNOT‐22 questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression was used to determine whether demographic factors or medical comorbidities influence SNOT‐22 scores in a population without CRS. A systematic literature search was performed, identifying studies that evaluated the SNOT‐22 in a non‐CRS population and estimates for SNOT‐22 values were pooled.

Results

Thirty‐six males and 59 females were included in the primary analysis with a mean age of 53.4 ± 17.3 years (range, 18–88 years). The mean SNOT‐22 score was 16.4 ± 15.2. Asthma (p = 0.003) and depression (p = 0.002) were found to be independent predictors of higher SNOT‐22 scores. Thirteen articles were identified in the literature search and 1 was provided via author correspondence, with 10 reporting sufficient data to be included in the meta‐analysis. Weighted mean SNOT‐22 score was 11 ± 9.4 (n = 1517). Our data differed significantly from published data (mean difference = 5.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.4 to 7.5; p < 0.0001) likely owing to differences in comorbidities.

Conclusion

SNOT‐22 scores vary in non‐CRS populations depending upon the group queried. Asthma and depression are associated with higher SNOT‐22 scores and should be considered when determining what constitutes a normal value.
Silicium‐Nanokristalle und Silicium‐Polymer‐Hybridmaterialien: Synthese, Oberflächenmodifikation und Anwendungen
Authors: Dasog Mita , Kehrle Julian , Rieger Bernhard , Veinot Jonathan G. C.
Published: November 2015

Aufgrund der hohen Verfügbarkeit in der Erdkruste und seiner geringen Toxizität im Vergleich zu einigen anderen Halbleitern ist Silicium der Vorreiter in der Elektroindustrie. Daher finden Silicium‐Nanokristalle (SiNKs) insbesondere aufgrund ihrer einzigartigen optoelektronischen Eigenschaften ein hohes Interesse in der Halbleiterindustrie und sie haben das Potenzial, die toxischen Quantenpunkte (Elemente der Gruppen II–VI und III–V) zu substituieren. Dennoch erhielten SiNKs wegen ihrer geringeren Photolumineszenz(PL)‐Quantenausbeuten, einer schwierig zu erzielenden monodispersen Partikelverteilung und ihrer Oxidationsanfälligkeit nicht dieselbe Aufmerksamkeit wie ihre schwermetallhaltigen Analoga. Daher wurde vermehrt an der Funktionalisierung von SiNK‐Oberflächen geforscht und die genannten Faktoren im Wesentlichen verbessert. Vor diesem Hintergrund fassen wir in diesem Aufsatz die neuesten Entwicklungen in der Funktionalisierung von SiNK‐Oberflächen, beschriebene SiNK/Polymer‐Hybridmaterialien und deren Anwendungen in den Bereichen Sensorentwicklung, Leuchtdioden, Katalyse und Akkumulatoren zusammen.
Silicon Nanocrystals and Silicon‐Polymer Hybrids: Synthesis, Surface Engineering, and Applications
Authors: Dasog Mita , Kehrle Julian , Rieger Bernhard , Veinot Jonathan G. C.
Published: November 2015

Silicon nanocrystals (Si‐NCs) are emerging as an attractive class of quantum dots owing to the natural abundance of silicon in the Earth's crust, their low toxicity compared to many Group II–VI and III–V based quantum dots, compatibility with the existing semiconductor industry infrastructure, and their unique optoelectronic properties. Despite these favorable qualities, Si‐NCs have not received the same attention as Group II–VI and III–V quantum dots, because of their lower emission quantum yields, difficulties associated with synthesizing monodisperse particles, and oxidative instability. Recent advancements indicate the surface chemistry of Si‐NCs plays a key role in determining many of their properties. This Review summarizes new reports related to engineering Si‐NC surfaces, synthesis of Si‐NC/polymer hybrids, and their applications in sensing, diodes, catalysis, and batteries.
Synthesis of 2‐aryl‐1‐arylmethyl‐1H‐1,3‐benzimidazoles catalysed by ferric ammonium sulfate (NH4Fe(SO4)2) under solvent‐free conditions
Authors: Khazaei Ardeshir , Amini Manesh Abbas , Ahmadian Hossein , Veisi Hojat
Published: November 2015

NH4Fe(SO4)2 was found to be a mild and effective catalyst for the selective synthesis of 2‐aryl‐1‐arylmethyl‐1H‐1,3‐benzimidazoles under solvent‐free conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of magnetic poly(styrene–glycidyl methacrylate) microspheres for highly efficient protein adsorption by two‐stage dispersion polymerization
Authors: Zhao Xinwei , Guan Yueping , Xia Changfu , Xia Tingting , Qiu Xiaolin , Wang Chuhang , Guo Chen
Published: November 2015

Micrometer‐sized superparamagnetic poly(styrene–glycidyl methacrylate)/Fe3O4 spheres were synthesized by two‐stage dispersion polymerization with modified hydrophobic Fe3O4 nanoparticles, styrene (St), and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA). The morphology and properties of the magnetic Fe3O4–P (St‐GMA) microspheres were examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, thermogravimetric analysis, and attenuated total reflectance. The average size of the obtained magnetic microspheres was 1.50 μm in diameter with a narrow size distribution, and the saturation magnetization of the magnetic microspheres was 8.23 emu/g. The magnetic Fe3O4–P (St‐GMA) microspheres with immobilized iminodiacetic acid–Cu2+ groups were used to investigate the adsorption capacity and selectivity of the model proteins, bovine hemoglobin (BHb) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). We found that the adsorption capacity of BHb was as high as 190.66 mg/g of microspheres, which was 3.20 times greater than that of BSA, which was only 59.64 mg/g of microspheres as determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. With a rather low nonspecific adsorption, these microspheres have great potential for protein separation and purification applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43005.
Epoxidized soybean oil‐plasticized poly(lactic acid) films performance as impacted by storage
Authors: Xing Cheng , Matuana Laurent M.
Published: November 2015

This study examined the effect of storage time at room temperature on the melt viscosity, thermal, and tensile properties of epoxidized soybean oil plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA) films manufactured through a cast extrusion process. Infrared results indicate that plasticizer migration to the surface of the film occurred after only 30 days of storage, which significantly affected the performance of plasticized films. While the melt viscosity, glass transition temperature, degree of crystallinity, tensile strength, and modulus increased, the elongation at break and energy to break decreased with storage time up to 30 days and all properties remained constant thereafter. However, the ability of stored plasticized film to cold crystallize remained unaffected since both the cold crystallization temperature and melting temperature were not affected during storage. Although plasticized film lost some flexibility after only 30 days of storage due to plasticizer migration to the surface of the film, sufficient plasticization performance still remained in plasticized PLA films for flexible packaging application even after a long storage period at ambient conditions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43201.
Precipitation trend analysis of Sindh River basin, India, from 102‐year record (1901–2002)
Authors: Gajbhiye Sarita , Meshram Chandrashekhar , Singh Sudhir Kumar , Srivastava Prashant K. , Islam Tanvir
Published: November 2015

The study of long‐term precipitation record is critically important for a country, whose food security and economy rely on the timely availability of water. In this study, the historical 102‐year (1901–2002) rainfall data of the Sindh River basin (SRB), India, were analyzed for seasonal and annual trends. The Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope model were used to identify the trend and the magnitude of the change, respectively. Spatial interpolation technique such as Kriging was used for interpolating the spatial pattern over SRB in GIS environment. The analysis revealed the significantly increasing precipitation trend in both seasonal and annual rainfall in the span of 102 years.
Tyrosinase immobilized on a hydrophobic membrane
Authors: Algieri Catia , Donato Laura , Giorno Lidietta
Published: November 2015

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane surfaces were ad hoc functionalized chemically to make them suitable for enzymatic immobilization. The process was performed by grafting the membrane surface with 1,4‐diaminobutane and subsequently by activating it with glutarhaldehyde. The chemico‐physical properties of the original PVDF membrane and of the modified membranes were studied by infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and static contact angle measurements. The activated membranes were used as a support for covalent immobilization of tyrosinase. The activity of free and immobilized enzyme was studied and compared. The experimental data showing the specific activity of the immobilized enzyme are similar to the value obtained with the free one. This means that the immobilization procedure did not alter the catalytic properties of the tyrosinase. In addition, the surface modification of the PVDF made it a promising material to use in enzyme or biomolecule immobilization processes.
Bifunctional Ionic Liquids for the Multitask Fixation of Carbon Dioxide into Valuable Chemicals
Authors: Saptal Vitthal B. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: November 2015

A series of task‐specific ionic liquids (ILs) such as mono‐, dicationic, and polymer‐supported ILs were synthesized. These ILs were applied as multitasking organocatalysts for transformations of carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals through a range of reactions, including (i) cycloaddition reactions of CO2/CS2 with epoxides to form cyclic carbonates and 1,3‐oxathiolane‐2‐thiones, (ii) transesterification of cyclic carbonates with methanol to form dimethyl carbonate, and (iii) synthesis of quinazoline‐2,4(1 H,3 H)‐diones and quinazoline‐2,4(1 H,3 H)‐dithiones from 2‐aminobenzonitriles and CO2/CS2. The developed methodology is transition‐metal free, solvent free, and additive free. Remarkably, the developed ILs were recyclable in up to seven consecutive cycles; thus, making this protocol green and cost effective.