bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General NILM Methodology for Algorithm Parametrization, Optimization and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Maier Matthias , Schramm Simon
Published: December 2024

The research area of NILM exhibits a high heterogeneity, regarding approaches and characteristics. Especially, in terms of the applied algorithms, measurement data, quantities and features used, as well as congruent appliance event and state definitions. Therefore, performance evaluation and the establishment of comparability is not straightforward. The aim of the presented work was to address these challenges, through the development of an application-oriented, general methodology for parametrization, optimization and performance evaluation of NILM algorithms. The methodology is based on the general NILM framework and applicable to a wide range of NILM approaches and measurement data. Temporary, individual appliance measurements were utilized to build an extended appliance database and for providing a reliable ground truth for common performance evaluation metrics. Therefore, also a congruent event and state definition was formulated. For the application of the methodology, the focus was set on event-based NILM algorithms and measurement data of a commercial building and for one significant appliance, regarding the building´s overall energy demand. The methodology proved to be suitable for the aimed purpose. Two different event detection algorithms could be optimized, regarding their input parameters to be able to identify the appliance operation behavior optimally.
Does Combining Mycoplasma and SARS-CoV-2 Virus Comprise a Binary Biological Weapon? A Psychiatrist’s Perspective
Authors: Sfera Adonis , Anton Jacob J , Hazan Sabine
Published: December 2024

Mycoplasma is the smallest, independently replicating microbe that lacks a cell wall and resembles a liposome because of its sterol-rich cell membrane. Under pathological circumstances, Mycoplasmas cause respiratory and urogenital infections in humans.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is known to be associated with Mycoplasma genitalium, suggesting that viruses may commonly utilize Mycoplasmas to enhance infec-tivity. Along this line, COVID-19 critical illness was documented in individuals with con-comitant Mycoplasma infection, raising the possibility of a symbiotic relationship or binary biological weapon.

Binary biological weapons are comprised of two components that are safe to handle separately but, in combination, be-come lethal. For example, concomitant infection with hepatitis D and B is deadly because the D virus takes advantage of the proteins expressed by the B virus, turning hepatitis B into a fatal disease.

Mycoplasmas have been known for their neuropsychiatric manifestations, including psychosis, anxiety, depressive dis-orders, cognitive impairment, and schizophrenia. This is relevant as mycoplasmas, like many antipsychotic drugs, enter host cells via clathrin-dependent endocytic pathways, often dormant in endosomes. Moreover, Mycoplasmas express aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a transcription factor activated by many ligands relevant to neuropsychiatry, including dopamine, serotonin, melatonin, clozapine, carbidopa, tryptophan, and microbial metabolites. Mycoplasma AhR, like its human counterpart, senses environmental stimuli, including viruses, indicating that it may play a role in the Mycoplas-ma/SARS-CoV-2 symbiosis.

This perspective article examines Mycoplasma and its relationship with COVID-19, premature cellular senescence, and major depressive disorder. We also discuss neuropathology potentially associated with designer pathogens and some therapeutic strategies.
Heterogeneous Links Between Corruption and Innovation in a Global Economy
Authors: Iorio Roberto , Segnana Maria Luigia
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of corruption on innovation in businesses from a comparative standpoint, demonstrating that the relationship is undoubtedly heterogeneous between businesses and nations. There are two primary research questions addressed: i) In the countries under inspection does corruption help or hinder the innovative activities? ii) To what degree is the institutional framework and business strategy (domestic and international presence) influencing the relationship between corruption and innovation? We use the V and VI surveys (2012–2016 and 2018–2019) of EBRD-World Bank Business Environment and Performance Survey, with a balanced panel with 3584 establishments across 22 countries, economies of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The findings show two key points about the link between corruption and innovation: (1) the importance of institutional settings for the link’s strength and even direction when EU and non-EU countries are compared and (2) the diverse effects of corruption at the firm-level, when foreign and domestic ownership is considered: the “greasing” effect is particularly relevant for foreign firms in weak institutional environments but appears useless, if not sanding, for foreign firms in settings with stronger controls over corruption.
Peanut Growth and Yield are Affected by Planting Patterns and Densities
Authors: Yao Yunfeng , Zhu Qiqi , Zhu Rongyu , Zhang Jialei , Liu Zhaoxin
Published: December 2024

Regulation of different density and planting patterns on the yield and growth of peanut cultivar "Huayu 25" were investigated in field conditions. There were four treatments: flat tillage (FL: 240,000 plants/ha, FLH: 300,000 plants/ha) and ridge tillage (RI: 240,000 plants/ha, RIH: 300,000 plants/ha). Results showed that increase density significantly decreased chlorophyll content, leaf area index (LAI), and photosynthetic rate, resulting in a reduced dry matter accumulation and therefore a decreased peanut yield. However, under the same planting density, ridge tillage was conducive to improving canopy apparent photosynthesis characteristic (CAP）by increasing chlorophyll content and leaf area index (LAI). Moreover, compared with FL and FLH, CAP under RI and RIH before ridge sealing increased by 5.5 % and 16.3 %, respectively. In addition, ridge tillage increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), thereby improving physiological metabolism and leaf photosynthesis, delaying leaf senescence. Visibly, ridge tillage effectively improved photosynthetic performance, ultimately increased grain yield, and thus increasing peanut pod yield by 6.8% and 5.7% for RI and RIH, respectively, compared to FL and FLH. In conclusion, ridge tillage alleviates the adverse effects of mutual shading on photosynthesis in furrows and rows, reduced the intraspecific competition, full play to the border advantage.
Assessment of Potential Forest Production Area (PFPA) of Wangdue Phodrang
Authors: Rai Ariti
Published: December 2024

The study assesses the Potential Forest Production Area (PFPA) of Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan, in the context of sustainable forest management. Using spatial multi-criteria analysis, the study identified 205,779.9 hectares (slope ≤ 45°) and 84,618.3 hectares (slope ≤ 35°) as potential production areas. The analysis revealed a decline in PFPA compared to 2013, attributed to illegal timber harvesting and ineffective regulations. The study emphasizes maintaining Bhutan’s constitutional commitment to 60% forest cover while addressing growing resource demands. The findings highlight the importance of periodic assessments and effective forest management practices for sustainable resource utilization and environmental conservation.
An Investigation into 15 Patients' Experiences with Mini-Midline Catheters and Tubes
Authors: Han Qingbo
Published: December 2024

Objective: To explore the real experiences of patients with mini - midline catheters, thereby providing a basis for comprehensive and effective nursing. Methods: Fieldwork was carried out to recruit 15 patients from the thoracic and cardiac surgery department in a Grade - A hospital in Yunnan Province who had received mini - midline catheters. Results: The patients using mini - midline catheters faced problems such as a lack of product - related knowledge, insufficient information support.
The Sustainability of Employment Quality: A Chinese Perspective on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence Development
Authors: Chen Sonia Chien I , Zhang Chuanming , Own Chung-Ming
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping employment and industrial patterns globally with its significant impact on productivity. However, its impact on employment quality, as well as its potential to displace traditional jobs or cause skill polarization, remains contentious. This study examines the influence of AI on employment quality in China by using data from its prefecture-level cities to empirically assess its regional variations. The study's findings first imply that, even in the face of AI's productivity improvements, regional differences may affect the quality of employment. Second, reducing AI's detrimental effects on the labor market requires strong government regulations. Thirdly, combining policy actions with AI development could be a way to promote sustainable employment. Lastly, helpful suggestions are made to deal with the difficulties encountered in the AI-driven economy.
Assessment of Long-Term Dynamics of the Little Souslik Abundance in the Steppe Plague Foci of the Northern and Northwestern Caspian Sea Region
Authors: Magerramov Sh. V. , Matrosov A. N. , Kuznetsov A. A. , Bocharnikova T. A. , Lidzhi-Garyaeva G. V. , Popov N. V. , Neishtadt Ya. A. , Grazhdanov A. K. , Bammatov D. M. , Kuklev E. V. , Boiko A. V. , Toporkov V. P.
Published: December 2024

The review presents the results of a study of the little souslik population, the main carrier of the plague pathogen, in the foci of the Northern and Northwestern Caspian Sea region. The influence of various factors on the abundance dynamics of this species in the Caspian Northwestern and Volga-Ural steppe natural plague foci is considered. The data of the annual density census of little souslik, the rates of species reproduction, and the average monthly air temperature at the weather stations of Elista for the period of 1960–2024 and Kharabali for the period of 1940–2024 are statistically processed and analyzed. It is emphasized that the population dynamics of the species is determined by a whole range of natural and anthropogenic factors. At the same time, in semi-desert conditions, the distribution of air temperature and precipitation by seasons and years is limiting for little souslik. The effect of temperatures in January and February, which provoke the animal to leave the burrows upon awakening from hibernation, is analyzed. It is noted that the main reason for the decrease in the number of the main plague carrier in the clay semi-desert is not absolute winter temperatures, but the alternation of warm and cold periods during these months. Therefore, if the temperatures of January and February are alike, the consequences of an increase in temperature can be of a different nature. The negative effect of an increase in winter temperatures on the physical condition of animals is manifested mainly in those years when January is “warm”, February is “cold” or when warm and cold periods alternate during the month. When warm and cold periods alternate, early awakened rodents die in large numbers due to lack of food and chills.
Prevalence of Serological and Molecular-Biological HIV-Infection, HBV and HCV Markers among Medical Workers
Authors: Anufrieva E. V. , Ostankova Yu. V. , Serikova E. N. , Shchemelev A. N. , Davydenko V. S. , Reingardt D. E. , Zueva E. B. , Totolian Areg A.
Published: December 2024

The aim of our work was to assess the occurrence of serological and molecular-biological markers of HIV, HBV and HCV among medical workers from St. Petersburg. Materials and methods. The study material included 171 blood plasma samples from medical workers from St. Petersburg. The ELISA method was used to qualitatively determine HIV antigen/antibodies (Ag/Ab), HBsAg, antibodies to HBs and HBcore proteins (anti-HBs IgG, anti-HBcore total), and anti-HCV IgG. HIV RNA, HCV RNA and HBV DNA were detected by PCR. For all identified HBV samples, sequencing and subsequent analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the Pre-S1/Pre-S2/S region were performed. Results and discussion. The surveyed group was ranked by age into the following subgroups: 21–35 years (28.07 %), 36–50 years (26.90 %), 51–65 years (31 %) and over 66 years (13.45 %). Serological markers of HBV were detected in 91 (53.22 %) subjects, HCV – in 2 (1.17 %). No markers of HIV were detected. At the same time, markers for HBV and HCV were found in 1 (0.58 %) person. HBV DNA was detected in 4 (2.34 %) medical workers; HCV RNA and HIV were not detected. Significant differences in the prevalence and distribution of the analyzed serological markers between age groups were determined. All HBV isolates belong to genotype D, subgenotypes D1 (50 %) and D2 (50 %). High variability of the Pre-S1/Pre-S2/S region of HBV in the examined group has been shown. The results obtained indicate a relatively low prevalence of HBV and HCV in the examined group. Monitoring of the prevalence of blood-borne infections among medical workers remains an urgent task, primarily in relation to HBV.
Russia’s Contribution to the Formation of the Global Healthcare Architecture
Authors: Popova A. Yu. , Smolensky V. Yu. , Kutyrev V. V. , Shcherbakova S. A. , Ivanova A. V.
Published: December 2024

The current stage of transformation of the global healthcare architecture dictates the need to unite international efforts to create conditions for cooperation and building up the capacity to respond to various biological threats between all participants in the international arena. The paper demonstrates the advantages of Russian approaches to organizing the sanitary and epidemiological service to counteract biological threats. The most striking examples of the country’s participation in the emerging architecture of global healthcare are shown, which include the participation of the Russian Federation in the implementation of interstate programs aimed at eliminating dangerous infectious diseases. The strategy for countering modern biological threats implemented by the Russian Federation in the international arena is outlined, focused primarily on strengthening the methodological, technological, and human resources potential, enhan cing national capabilities for epidemiological surveillance and response to emergencies in the field of sanitary-epidemiological well-being of the population of partner countries. The main areas of cooperation with partner countries are considered. The key results of joint international projects both in the near and far abroad are presented, reflecting significant successes in strengthening the national potential of the partner countries of the Russian Federation in the field of rapid response to emerging threats in the field of biological safety and ensuring sanitary and epidemiological well-being. The achieved results of interstate cooperation in the field of ensuring global biological security and the active participation of the Russian Federation in the development and implementation of global instruments in the field of monitoring and responding to public health emergencies constitute the significant contribution of the Russian Federation to the current formation of the global healthcare architecture.
Spatial Distribution of Epizootic Manifestations of Plague in Connection with Orographic and Edaphic Factors in the Central Caucasian High-Mountain Natural Focus
Authors: Dubyansky V. M. , Mezentsev V. M. , Ashibokov U. M.
Published: December 2024

The aim of this work was to clarify the orographic and edaphic parameters of the spatial distribution of epizootic sites in the Central Caucasian high-mountain natural plague focus for electronic certification within the framework of the State Program “Ensuring chemical and biological safety of the Russian Federation, 2021–2024”, R&D “Electronic certification of natural plague and CHF foci in the south of the Russian Federation”. Materials and methods. Data on the spatial and temporal distribution of epizootic sites were obtained from the archive of the Stavropol Anti-Plague Institute of the Rospotrebnadzor. They include 318 points of detection of plague epizootics between 1984 and 2021 with spatial reference in the form of geographical coordinates. The analysis covered four landscape-epizootiological regions (LER): Verkhne-Kubansky, Kubano-Malkinsky, Malko-Baksansky and Baksan-Chegemsky. The Chegem-Chereksky LER was excluded, since no plague strains have been detected from its territory. Edaphic and orographic factors were obtained from the web-sites https://www.fao.org/ (soil data, including names), https://neo.gsfc.nasa.gov/, https://dwtkns.com/srtm30m/ (digital relief model) and from the archive of the Stavropol Anti-Plague Institute of the Rospotrebnadzor. Results and discussion. The epizootic sites have a pronounced confinement to altitudes from 2000 to 2711 meters above sea level. In the mountain-steppe belt, epizootic areas are more often found on the slopes of the North-North-East – South exposures, in the alpine and subalpine belts – the North-North-West exposure. The favorable level of landscape illumination is medium, closer to high; relatively flat or not heavily dissected areas, with soils: dystric and mollic leptosols and dystric cambisols predominate. Epizootic sites are absent on eutric cambisols, although this may be a random phenomenon.
Plan de negocios para la creación y gestión de una plataforma digital para el cuidado de perros en Lima metropolitana
Authors:   , Baltazar Quincho Elvis Enrique , Cruz Calle Edwin , Tacuri Muñoz Jenifer Katherine , Ayaucan Cuadros Alexis Jhulino
Published: December 2024

Para el presente plan de negocio que se presentara a continuación se busca dar a conocer nuestros planes para llegar a la apertura de nuestra plataforma virtual con ello su crecimiento en el mercado de la búsqueda de cuidadores de perros. Para lograr este objetivo y nuestros planes se utilizará las herramientas de gestión y análisis como la Matriz de Porter, LA matriz de Ansoff, la Matriz BCG, entre otras. Las cuales ayudaron a poder identificar y obtener estrategias adecuadas. En nuestra área de Marketing se desarrollaron planes digitales y y también los tradicionales los cuales ayudaran a que podamos hacer cosas diferentes con el único objetivo de tener presencia en el mercado hasta posicionarnos como una marca estable. En el área de operaciones se está implementando un plan de seguimiento para garantizar la eficiencia de nuestra plataforma digital. Con respecto al área de recursos humanos tenemos implementado el plan de seleccionar personal eficiente para generar fidelizarlos con empresa. En los términos legales de la empresa se está cumpliendo los planes que ya tenemos establecidos mediante un cronograma de actividades. En nuestra área de TI que es tecnología e información estamos identificando nuestras prioridades tecnológicas para la plataforma. Finalizando nuestro resumen ejecutivo podemos indicar que Pet Garden tiene una estrategia estable para lograr los objetivos que ayudaran a nuestro servicio de cuidado de perros. Todas las ideas y planes que tenemos están respaldadas por un estudio financiero que garantizarán nuestra rentabilidad del negocio.
Asociación entre patrones de sueño y masa muscular esquelética en población adulta de Tumbes
Authors:   , Agurto Garcia Renzo Alberto
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Evaluar si existe asociación entre ciertos patrones del sueño y la masa muscular esquelética (MME) en población adulta de Tumbes. Métodos: Se realizó un análisis de datos secundarios de la línea de base de una intervención poblacional realizada en una región peruana. La variable dependiente de interés fue la MME estimada mediante una fórmula validada e información de un dispositivo de bioimpedancia, mientras que las variables independientes fueron los patrones de sueño: duración del sueño autoreportada (horas de sueño, sueño corto, normal y largo) y alteraciones (dificultades para dormir y despertares nocturnos) recogidos mediante cuestionarios validados. Se utilizaron modelos de regresión lineal crudos y ajustados para evaluar las asociaciones de interés, reportando coeficientes (β) e intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC 95%). Resultados: Se analizaron los datos de 2,309 participantes, con una edad media de 43.4 (±17.2) años y un 50.3% de mujeres. La media de horas de sueño fue de 7.8 (±1.3) horas, mientras que la duración corta y larga del sueño estaba presente en el 15.3% y el 11.7%, respectivamente. Además, el 24.1% tenía dificultades para dormir y el 25.1% señaló despertarse por la noche. En el modelo multivariable, las horas de sueño se asociaron con la masa muscular esquelética (β = -0.13; IC 95%: -0.21 a -0.04), al igual que en el caso de la duración corta del sueño (β = 0.51; IC 95%: 0.17 a 0.85) en comparación con aquellos con una duración normal del sueño. Conclusiones: Según nuestros resultados, existe evidencia de una asociación inversa entre las horas de sueño con la masa muscular esquelética en la población adulta. La corta duración del sueño se asoció con una mayor masa muscular esquelética.
Prevalencia de neuropatía diabética periférica dolorosa y asintomática en sujetos con Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 del Hospital María Auxiliadora 2015-2020
Authors:   , Cuadra Minchan Karen Sophia , Rivera Grimaldo Luisa Steffany
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de la neuropatía periférica (NP) dolorosa y asintomática en sujetos con Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) y sus características asociadas. Métodos: Estudio transversal-descriptivo de fichas clínicas de pacientes del Programa de Pie en riesgo del servicio de Endocrinología del Hospital María Auxiliadora (HMA). Incluimos pacientes con DM2 atendidos entre el 2015 al 2020. Definimos NP según el consenso de Toronto por la evaluación de 3 componentes: síntomas, signos o reflejo aquíleo. Calificando la certeza como posible y probable según su combinación. Para síntomas se aplicó el Puntaje Total de Síntomas (Total Symptom Score,TSS), para signos el monofilamento y el diapasón de 128 Hz. Calculamos la prevalencia de NP según la combinación de dolor, certeza del diagnóstico y comparamos las características clínicas entre los grupos. Resultados: Incluimos a 1006 sujetos con edad media de 60,5 años y el 69,3% fueron mujeres. Según el sistema jerárquico un 33,5% tuvo NP posible y 48,8% NP probable. Según sintomatología, un 60,5% presentó NP dolorosa y un 21,8% NP asintomática. Al subclasificarse según certeza y dolor, el mayor grupo fue del NP probable dolorosa con 42%. Estos cuatro grupos presentaron distribuciones diferentes respecto a sexo, tiempo de diabetes, antecedente de úlcera, enfermedad arterial periférica y control glicémico. Conclusión: En pacientes del servicio de endocrinología del HMA, seis de cada diez y dos de cada diez presentaron NP dolorosa y asintomática respectivamente. La relación entre tipos de NP y sus características implica una evaluación integral para un manejo óptimo.
Diseño y validación de un cuestionario para evaluar comportamiento alimentario en estudiantes de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Científica del Sur
Authors:   , Gutierrez Nieto Cindy Sofia , Moroco Luciano Leidy Vanessa
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Evaluar la validez y fiabilidad de un cuestionario para medir el comportamiento alimentario de los estudiantes de la Universidad Científica del Sur. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal. Participaron 523 universitarios del área de ciencias de la salud del octavo ciclo hacia adelante. Se diseñó un instrumento mediante la revisión conceptual, evaluación por un grupo de expertos, una prueba piloto y una validación final. Para la base de datos se utilizó Excel versión 2022 y Programa R versión para los datos estadísticos. Resultados: Se concretó con 346 mujeres y 177 hombres con una edad media de 24,6 años. Se aplicó la prueba de Barlett para rechazar la hipótesis nula con un valor de p<0,01, así como también se obtuvo un Kaiser Meyer Olkin (KMO) de 0,85 para verificar que los datos obtenidos son adecuados para las variables. Para obtener la versión final del CECAU (Cuestionario para evaluar el comportamiento alimentario en universitarios), se aplicó el análisis factorial confirmatorio y se dividió en cinco factores mediante el Programa R. Para seleccionar las preguntas finales se consideró un valor factorial mayor de 0,5, por lo cual se culminó con 25 de 35 inicialmente. Asimismo, se obtuvo un alfa de Cronbach de 0,705, siendo un valor aceptable y significativo para la consistencia interna del instrumento. Conclusión: El CECAU comprueba ser una herramienta útil para medir el comportamiento alimentario en estudiantes universitarios de la Científica del Sur del área de ciencias de la salud. La validez y confiabilidad aceptables respaldan las variables de este cuestionario para futuras investigaciones.
WITHDRAWN: Performance evaluation of an automated Terminal Aerodrome Forecast verification tool over Indian Meteorological Watch Offices
Authors: Singh Neeti , Mishra Anoop Kumar , Tomar C. S. , Kumar Gajendra
Published: December 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Identification of patients at risk for pancreatic cancer in a 3-year timeframe based on machine learning algorithms
Authors: Zhu Weicheng , Aphinyanaphongs Yindalon , Kastrinos Fay , Simeone Diane , Pochapin Mark , Stender Cody , Razavian Narges , Gonda Tamas
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims:
Early detection of pancreatic cancer (PC) remains challenging largely due to the low population incidence and few known risk factors. However, screening in at-risk populations and detection of early cancer has the potential to significantly alter survival. In this study, we aim to develop a predictive model to identify patients at risk for developing new-onset PC at two and a half to three year time frame.
Methods
We used the Electronic Health Records (EHR) of a large medical system from 2000 to 2021 (N = 537,410). The EHR data analyzed in this work consists of patients’ demographic information, diagnosis records, and lab values, which are used to identify patients who were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and the risk factors used in the machine learning algorithm for prediction. We identified 73 risk factors of pancreatic cancer with the Phenome-wide Association Study (PheWAS) on a matched case-control cohort. Based on them, we built a large-scale machine learning algorithm based on EHR. A temporally stratified validation based on patients not included in any stage of the training of the model was performed.
Results
This model showed an AUROC at 0.742 [0.727, 0.757] which was similar in both the general population and in a subset of the population who has had prior cross-sectional imaging. The prevalence of pancreatic cancer in those in the top 5 percentile of the risk score was 6 folds higher than the general population.
Conclusions
Our model leverages data extracted from a 6-month window of time in the electronic health record to identify patients at nearly 6-fold higher than baseline risk of developing pancreatic cancer 2.5 to 3 years from evaluation. This approach offers an opportunity to define an enriched population entirely based on static data, where current screening may be recommended.
Genetic Counselling for Psychiatric Conditions: exploring current perceptions of family physicians and psychiatrist in Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Bibiana , de Melo Inês Homem , Sequeira Ana , Moldovan Ramona , Paneque Milena
Published: December 2024

Genetic counselling emerged as a specialized healthcare discipline in the 1960s, and since then, various sub-specialties have developed globally, namely and more recently, psychiatric genetic counselling. This study provides a pioneering exploration of family physicians and psychiatrists’ perceptions regarding genetic counselling provision and its potentialities in the context of psychiatric illnesses in Portugal. A qualitative methodology with semi-structured interviews was used. Among the participants, five were family physicians, and six were psychiatrists. Thematic analysis revealed three themes: (1) the role of genetics in healthcare, (2) barriers to psychiatric genetic counselling implementation, and (3) perceived benefits associated with its implementation. Results show that while the importance of genetics in psychiatric disorders is acknowledged, there is low literacy about genetic counselling practice from the professional groups interviewed. Also, the availability and mainstreaming of genetic testing seem to influence how genetic counselling is perceived and utilized. There is a perceived need for training and guidelines that foster the dissemination of genetics into healthcare, specifically mental healthcare. A holistic and patient-centred approach is considered essential in managing psychiatric disorders and, by extension, in psychiatric genetic counselling, as it addresses both medical and psychosocial factors. Although psychiatrists and family physicians are keen to integrate psychiatric genetic counselling into their patients’ care, it seems that certain fundamental challenges still persist in genetic healthcare provision. Future research should contribute for a more comprehensive evaluation of the readiness for psychiatric genetic counselling implementation in the country.
Altered functional connectivity and hyperactivity of the caudal hippocampus in schizophrenia Compared with Bipolar Disorder：a resting state fMRI study
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Wenli , Ruan Yuan , Li Zhiyong , Sun Le , Ji Gong-Jun , Tian Yanghua , Wang Kai
Published: December 2024

Schizophrenia patients frequently present with structural and functional abnormalities of the hippocampus (Hipp). Further, these abnormalities are often associated with specific symptom profiles. we examined basal activation state and functional connectivity (FC) in four subregions of the bilateral Hipp: left caudal (cHipp_L), right caudal (cHipp_R), left rostral (rHipp_L), and right rostral (rHipp_R). Resting-state functional magnetic resonance images were obtained from 62 schizophrenia patients, 57 bipolar disorder (BD) patients, and 45 healthy controls (HCs), and analyzed for fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) as a measure of basal neural activity and for whole-brain FC with the aforementioned hippocampal subregions as seeds. The schizophrenia group exhibited greater fALFF in bilateral cHipp and rHipp subregions compared to BD and HC groups as well as greater FC between the bilateral cHipp and multiple brain regions, including the thalamus, putamen, middle frontal gyrus, parietal cortex, and precuneus. Moreover, fALFF values of the bilateral cHipp were positively correlated with the severity of clinical symptoms as measured by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. These findings confirm a crucial contribution of hippocampal dysfunction, especially of the cHipp, in schizophrenia. Further, hyper-connectivity and hyperactivity of the cHipp could serve as a biomarker for therapeutic development.
N20 amplitude can predict awakening from coma
Authors: Huang Li , Li Zhi-han , Ai Mei-lin , Liu Qi , Peng Qian-yi , Peng Mi-lin , Zhao Chun-guang , Zhang Li-na
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
To evaluate the relationship between the N20 amplitude of short-latency somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and neurologic outcomes in patients in a coma state.
Methods
We retrospectively enrolled neurocritical patients who were older than 18 years, admitted to the Department of Critical Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, from Jan 2017 to Jan 2021 for 1–3 days, had a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ≤ 8, had a body temperature ≥ 35°C and had SSEP records. A good outcome was defined as a cerebral performance category (CPC) score of 1–3 at 1 year. The specificity and sensitivity of different SSEP patterns and amplitudes were calculated.
Results
A total of 457 patients were included in this study. An N20 amplitude > 4.53 µV predicted awakening, with a sensitivity of 29.5% and a specificity of 80% in 420 patients who had SSEPs. The N20 amplitude can be used for predicting outcomes for traumatic brain injury (TBI) (AUC = 0.70, P = 0.0077), aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) (AUC = 0.69, P = 0.005), intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) (AUC = 0.69, P = 0.005) and cardiac arrest (CA) (AUC = 0.72, P = 0.0077).
Discussion
N20 amplitude can predict awakening in patients in a coma state at 1 year. Different diseases have different cut-off values for predicting awakening.
Extended LUTS Medication Use Following BPH Surgical Treatment: a US Healthcare Claims Analysis
Authors: Kaplan Steven , Kaufman Ronald , Elterman Dean , Chughtai Bilal , Roehrborn Claus
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND Postoperative medication use is an important yet relatively unexplored element of the benign prostatic hyperplasia patient journey. We assessed and compared the percentage of patients who required medication postoperatively after the three most common BPH surgeries in the real world: transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), photovaporization procedure with GreenLight Laser (PVP), and prostatic urethral lift (PUL) with the UroLift system.METHODS Within a random representative sample of US Medicare and commercial insurance claims, patients with at least one year of follow-up data available after an outpatient TURP, PVP, or PUL procedure were linked to pharmaceutical claims to elucidate rates of continuous and de novo use of alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, or combination medical therapy. Periods of interest were perioperative (use within three months postoperatively and not beyond) and one and five years postoperatively.RESULTS 36 629 men diagnosed with BPH underwent outpatient TURP (n = 20 319), GreenLight PVP (n = 10 517) and PUL (n = 5 793) procedures within the claims dataset. The rate of medical therapy use through one year was lowest for PUL (4.1%) compared to TURP (6.2%) and PVP (6.6%), and was equivalent between procedures through five years (10.6% TURP, 10.4% PVP, and 10.3% PUL).CONCLUSIONS Patients who undergo surgery to treat BPH may desire to discontinue or bypass BPH medications. However, these data suggest that approximately 10% of BPH patients use medication through five years postoperatively and that a more invasive procedure does not necessarily result in reduced rates of medication use.
The Role of Serum Vaspin Level in the Early Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia Induced in Experimental Animal Model
Authors: Çelik Ömer , Doğan Uğur , Ellidağ Hamit Yaşar , Etli Özlem , Çakır Remzi Can , Yıldız Turan Can , Aydemir Erhan , Eyvaz Kemal
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI) is one of the abdominal surgical emergencies with high mortality and morbidity and early diagnosis and treatment are of vital importance. We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of serum vaspin level as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of AMI in an experimental animal model.
Materials and Methods
Sixty female Wistar-Albino rats were divided into 6 groups. Ischaemia groups (1, 3, 5) underwent SMA dissection and ligation, while control groups (2, 4, 6) did not. Blood and intestinal tissue samples were collected at 30 min, 2 h, and 6 h.Vaspin (ng/ml), TAS (Total antioxidant capacity, µmol Trolox equiv. /L), TOS (Total oxidant capacity, µmol H2O2 equiv. /L), ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase, U/L), AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase, U/L) and OSI (TOS/TAS) ratio of these biochemical values were studied.
Results
Vaspin levels were compared at 30 min, 2 h, and 6 h in ischaemia and control groups. No significant difference was found at 30 min and 2 h (p > 0.05), but a significant increase was observed at 6 h (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the Vaspin (ng/ml) measurements of the ischaemia groups at three different times (p < 0.05). The highest Vaspin (ng/ml) value was obtained at the 6th hour and the lowest at the 30th minute.
Conclusion
In our study, a statistically significant increase in vaspin levels was detected with increasing ischaemia duration and necrosis. These findings suggest that vaspin may be a potential biomarker in the early diagnosis of AMI.
Correlation of Middle Ear Risk Indices and Hearing Outcome in Tympanoplasty
Authors: P Shrinath D Kamath , Gulla Drishti
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND
Chronic Otitis Media is a permanent abnormality of the pars tensa or pars flaccida which is predisposed by a middle ear pathology.1 Most important clinical feature is conductive hearing loss.
The treatment of choice is reconstructive surgery in the form of tympanoplasty which is performed once ear is dry to prevent graft failure.
There are various risk factors which influence graft uptake and hearing outcome following tympanoplasty. Most important risk factors are ear discharge, presence of cholesteatoma, erosion of ossicles, history of previous surgery or smoking.
Middle Ear Risk Index is one such prognostic tool which helps in predicting the outcome following tympanoplasty in patients of Chronic Otitis Media.
OBJECTIVE
To correlate middle ear risk indices and hearing outcome in patients undergoing tympanoplasty with/without mastoidectomy.
METHODLOGY
This study was conducted in the department of Otorhinolaryngology at KS Hegde Charitable Hospital. Subjects diagnosed with Chronic Otitis Media who underwent tympanoplasty with/without mastoidectomy were included in this study after written informed consent. Details were recorded in the performa. All cases were subjected to Pure Tone Audiometry and findings were recorded. Based on the details, Middle Ear Risk Index was calculated. 3 months post-operatively, patients were assessed on parameters such as graft uptake by otoscopy, evaluation of hearing, tinnitus, any other complaints and repeat PTA was done. These findings were then evaluated and compared with preoperative findings. All data was tabulated in an Excel sheet and analysed.
RESULT
Study was conducted on 82 subjects diagnosed with Chronic Otitis Media who underwent tympanoplasty with/without mastoidectomy. Age of subjects ranged from 19 to 69 years. Subjects were divided into 3 categories according to Middle Ear Risk Index. 43 subjects were in mild category, 29 subjects were in moderate category and 10 subjects were in severe category. Subjects undergoing tympanoplasty with/without mastoidectomy showed statistically significant graft uptake as well as hearing improvement in both left and right ear for all three categories of Middle Ear Risk Index.
CONCLUSION
According to our study, MERI may not accurately predict the outcome in patients under undergoing tympanoplasty with/without mastoidectomy. The individual risk factors of MERI can also be used as prognostic indicators.
Multi-enzyme reaction inspired cascade photocatalysis for solar-driven CO2 reduction to ethane
Authors: Wang Jianji , Wang Huiyong , Liu Zhimin , Zhang Qian , Gao Shuaiqi , Zhao Xiao , Guo Yingying
Published: December 2024

Solar-driven photocatalytic CO2 conversion into value-added chemicals and fuels is an emerging solution to the challenges of traditional energy and environmental/climate concerns. However, photocatalytic synthesis of two-carbon (C2) compounds is quite challenging due to the high activation barrier of C-C coupling reaction and low content of intermediates. Herein, inspired by the tandem synthesis in multi-enzyme reactions, Cu-N4 and Mo-N4 active sites have been designed and integrated in CuPor-POP-Mo as cascade dual metal sites for efficient photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to ethane (C2H6) for the first time. Significantly, an excel-lent C2H6 production rate of 472.5 µmol g− 1 h− 1 and a high product selectivity of 87.5% (electron selectivity ~ 97.5%) have been achieved, which are the record high values in photocatalytic C2H6 production by using porous polymer catalysts. In-situ spectral characterizations and DFT calculations indicate that unlike the electrocatalytic CO2 to C2 products reported previously, the Cu site mainly catalyzes *CO production, and the Mo site triggers the C-C coupling reaction between *CO intermediates, thus Cu and Mo sites synergistically boost CO2 photoreduction to C2H6. Our work provides new insights into the rational design of photocatalysts for the effective production of C2 and C2+ products from CO2.
Investigation into crosslinking kinetics, physical properties, and thermal conductivity of humic acid epoxy composite
Authors: Shnawa Hussein
Published: December 2024

Natural and renewable materials, such as lignin, for high value products has become part of the research of increasing importance due to the phenomenon of global warming there has been a lot of interest in the development of composites based on renewable resources for a variety of applications. This paper seeks by a series of FT-IR spectroscopy, gravimetry, and DSC experiments to address the curing behavior, thermo-physical properties (glass transition temperature (Tg)), thermal conductivity (TC), and moisture absorption (MA) of bio-composites made of commercial epoxy resin (E) with humic acid (HA). It is observed that in almost all cases, the prepared composites (HAE) have similar curing behavior to that of (E) with higher activation energy, Tg, and MA. In addition, TC decreases for 5 and 10 wt% HAE, while it increases for 20 wt% HAE. Conversely, by increasing the amount of humic acid, the Tg and MA ability of the composites increased. Concerning TC, the presence of HA at 5 and 10 wt% results a slight decrease in the TC of the composites. A bio-based and valuable composite have been produced from epoxy and humic acid by commonly simple mixing process which might be easily transferable to commercial production process.
Radiological method and findings in pediatric cranial firearm injuries
Authors: Arslan İlknur , Koç Ayşe Selcan , Yöntem Ahmet
Published: December 2024

Background
Firearm Injuries are growing problem due to rising civil wars, terrorist acts, and the spread of personal armament. Notably, there has been a reported rise in firearm injury and fatal cases among children and young people, who are particularly vulnerable to widespread violent behavior. Early diagnosis and treatment, including radiological imaging after initial intervention, can reduce mortality and morbidity in firearm injury cases
Objective
To explore the demographic characteristics and computerized tomography findings of pediatric patients with cranial firearm injuries and comparing the advantages and disadvantages of conventional radiography and tomography.
Materials and methods
This study included cases of cranial firearm injuries presented to the pediatric emergency department of XXX City Training and Research Hospital between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021. Data recorded for each case included age, gender, clinical course, and weapon type. Cranial tomography images were reviewed for entry and exit wounds, bullet trajectory, brain damage, bone fractures, distribution of bone fragments, bullet core fragments and their distribution.
Results
Of the 12 cases included in this study, 10 were male, 2 were female, with a mean age of 143 ± 46.5 months. In the five cases injured by a shotgun, subcutaneous pellets were seen in the penetration area at bone and parenchymal doses on cranial tomography axial images. In 2 cases of handgun injury, a subcutaneous bullet core was found in the temporal region while another bullet core had penetrated the skin and bone in the frontal region without causing any brain tissue damage. In four cases with handgun injuries, the bullet core penetrated the skin and cranial bones, causing brain tissue damage. Seven cases with subcutaneous pellets or bullet cores identified radiologically were treated in emergency department. Five patients with firearm injuries required hospitalization, of which two did not survive.
Conclusion
Cranial tomography has many advantages over x-ray ımaging. Axial images provide essential information on the bullet core, entry and exit wounds, primary and secondary parenchymal damage, hemorrhage, edema, bone fractures, and bullet or pellet residue. This imaging modality aids clinicians in deciding on medical or surgical interventions, selecting treatment types, monitoring treatment efficacy, and predicting mortality. It is an effective, recommended method that offers forensic physicians rapid and reliable insights into weapon type, bullet core trajectory, and skull fractures, thereby facilitating both clinical and forensic assessments.
Multiomics analysis of CXCL9+ macrophages in the immunotherapy response of bladder cancer
Authors: Zhou Lin , Yu Guopeng , Zheng Zhongpeng , Liu Yushan , Xu Bin
Published: December 2024

Background:
Macrophages, key players in the immune system, are prevalent across diverse tissues. Within the tumor microenvironment, their functional roles drive the coevolution of the cancer ecosystem during tumor development, metastasis, and therapeutic responses.
Methods:
This study investigated the role of CXCL9 + macrophage in predicting ICI efficacy through integrated immunological analysis, including single-cell RNA (scRNA), spatial transcriptomics RNA (stRNA), and multi-omics analysis.
Results:
From 16 patients, 113,905 cells were classified into distinct clusters, with myeloid cells further sub-clustered into four primary macrophage populations: Macro-CCL4, Macro-CXCL9, Macro-FOLR2, and Macro-SPP1. Macro-CXCL9 was identified as pivotal in early macrophage differentiation and tumor immunity regulation. Spatial transcriptomics and transcription factor analyses revealed Macro-CXCL9's unique interactions and regulatory roles. The study employed CIBERSORTx for immune classification, highlighting Macro-CXCL9's association with improved immunotherapy responses. Pan-cancer analysis underscored the heterogeneity of immune cell interactions across cancer types. In bladder cancer, five distinct subtypes were identified, with Class E showing a higher abundance of Macro-CXCL9. A risk model, Mscore, was developed using Macro-CXCL9 marker genes to predict immune checkpoint blockade efficacy.
Conclusions:
High Mscores correlated with poorer survival and reduced treatment response, establishing Mscore as a robust prognostic indicator. Our findings provide insights into the role of Macro-CXCL9 in bladder cancer and suggest its potential as a biomarker for patient stratification and therapeutic targeting in precision immunotherapy. Further validation in clinical trials is warranted.
Variation of ventilation in the North Atlantic over the past three decades - a climate change signal
Authors: Guo Haichao , Koeve Wolfgang , Kriest Iris , Frenger Ivy , Tanhua Toste , Brandt Peter , He Yanchun , Xue Tianfei , Oschlies Andreas
Published: December 2024

The North Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) ventilates a large part of the world ocean via the formation of mode waters and North Atlantic Deep Water. Whether human activities have altered this ventilation system remains uncertain. To assess the temporal variations of ocean ventilation in the North Atlantic, we calculated the "age" of seawater, that is the duration since its last contact with the ocean surface, from both observed and simulated chlorofluorocarbon-12 and sulfur hexafluoride concentrations. Results suggest enhanced ventilation in the intermediate waters and slowing-down ventilation in the deep waters over the past three decades. We propose such ventilation change is a climate change signal because (i) the observed ventilation evolution pattern consistently emerges in historical simulations across different Earth System models where each model might be in a different phase of natural climate variability, (ii) the pattern intensifies with ongoing climate change in model projections under a high-emission scenario, indicating it is an anthropogenically forced signal, and (iii) observed and simulated ventilation changes in the North Atlantic seem to be part of a broader global trend, with enhanced upper-ocean ventilation, and slowing deep-ocean ventilation also in other ocean basins.