bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Cell-to-cell Transfer of Polystyrene Microplastics Through Extracellular Vesicle-mediated Communication
Authors: Kim Nara , Park Joo Hyun , Lee Inha , Jung Gee Soo , Lee Jae Hoon , Lee Min Jung , Im Wooseok , Cho SiHyun , Choi Young Sik
Published: July 2024

Plastics have become an integral part of human life, and their production is increasing annually. Plastics are broken down into small particles known as microplastics (MPs) with particle size of < 5 mm in the environment because of a variety of factors. MPs are prevalent in the environment and all living organisms are exposed to their effects. In this study, we investigated whether polystyrene (PS)-MPs were transferred from cell-to-cell via extracellular vesicles (EVs). This study showed that cell-derived EVs could transport plastic particles. In addition, using a real-time imaging device, we confirmed that PS-MPs were transported by EVs that accumulated in the cells. This study provides an understanding of the potential effects of PS-MPs on living organisms via EVs and suggests directions for future research.
Hemolytic disease of fetus and newborn course, management and outcomes - an analysis based on the Israeli Maccabi database
Authors: Fallach Noga , Hoshen Moshe , Gazit Sivan , Segal Yaakov , Fitzgibbon Marie , Karmous Wisam , Barthelmes Norma , Iqbal Sofia , Borsi Andras , Noel Wim , Mandel Dror , Yinon Yoav
Published: July 2024

Objective: Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) can cause severe prenatal and postnatal outcomes. The main objective of this study is to understand the clinical impact of HDFN on pregnant women and newborns.
Study Design: A retrospective cohort study was performed on de-identified data extracted from a large nationwide health organization. The cohort included women and newborns diagnosed with HDFN between 1998-2021. Cohort characteristics and outcomes are described.
Result: Over the 24-year study period, incidence rate of HDFN among pregnant women was stable while incidence rate among newborns declined. Severe HDFN was diagnosed in 28.8% of 73 HDFN affected pregnancies. One third of 450 HDFN newborns were diagnosed with anemia or jaundice; 5 cases of kernicterus were observed.
Conclusion: Severe prenatal and postnatal outcomes following HDFN were observed. Further studies are needed to evaluate treatment regimens and assess the association between treatment management and short- and long-term outcomes.
Effect of long-term fertilization on the growth and yield formation of early rice
Authors: Hu Zhihua , Liu Lailou , Xu Xiaolin , Hu Dandan , Song Huijie , Wu Yan , Wu Jianfu
Published: July 2024

Fertilization is crucial for rice growth and yield formation. We conducted a 42-year long-term fixed experiment in southeast China, examining nine treatments. This study focused on three treatments: a combination of chemical N, P, and K (NPK), a double dose of chemical N, P, and K (HNPK), and a combination of chemical fertilizer and organic fertilizers (NPKM). We assessed rice yield, yield components, tiller dynamics, dry matter accumulation, chlorophyll dynamics, and leaf transcriptome at the full heading stage. Results indicated that early rice yield followed the order of NPKM > HNPK > NPK. Compared to NPK, HNPK and NPKM significantly increased spikelet density, effective panicles, and 1000-grain weight, while also promoting tillering. NPKM and HNPK significantly enhanced dry matter accumulation from the full heading stage to the filling stage and facilitated the transport of dry matter from leaves and stems to spikes during the filling to mature stages. NPKM consistently maintained higher chlorophyll content than HNPK and NPK at all stages, significantly reducing chlorophyll decline from the full heading stage to the filling stage. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between yield and both chlorophyll content and dry matter accumulation under long-term fertilization. There was also a significant negative correlation between yield and chlorophyll reduction from the full heading stage to the filling stage. Differential gene expression analysis at the full heading stage showed significant enrichment in photosynthesis and plant senescence metabolism pathways among different fertilization treatments. Overall, the combined application of chemical and organic fertilizers significantly increased early rice yield by enhancing tillering, regulating photosynthesis and senescence-related gene expression, boosting dry matter accumulation from the full heading stage to the filling stage, and improving dry matter transport to spikes from the filling to the mature stage.
Impact of the deletion Glutathione S-Transferase (Class Mu) on lung cancer risk among smokers
Authors: Abdelrazek Gehan Hamdy Labib , Gharib Ahmed , Emara Nahed Abdel Moneim , Attia Eman Mahmoud Hassan , Hussein Mohamed Fathy , Elkorashy Reem Ibrahim , Gomaa Nada Ezzeldin
Published: July 2024

Background: The results of several studies assessing the effect of the Glutathione S-transferase class Mu 1 (GSTM1) null variant on the genetic susceptibility of tobacco-related cancers have been conflicting. In this work, we aim to identify the impact of the deletion of GSTM1 on lung cancer risk among smokers.
Methods: This study was conducted on 20 patients diagnosed with primary lung cancer and 20 healthy individuals as a control group. They were subject to full medical history taking, complete clinical examination and GSTM1 genotyping by PCR.
Results: Both studied groups were matched for age, sex and smoking status. No statistically significant difference was exhibited between the frequency of GSTM1 positive and GSTM1 null in the studied population. No risk of lung cancer associated to GSTM1 null genotype was demonstrated between the patients and control group (n= 14/20 cases) (p = 0.110, OR = 2.852, 95% CI: 0.777-10.467). Additionally, there was no association between the risk of lung cancer and the presence of the gene either in smokers (p = 1, OR =1.8 and 95%CI: 0.124-26.196) or non-smokers; (p = 0.063, OR =4.4 and 95%CI: 0.889-21.78). No statistically significant risk was found between the frequencies of GSTM1 null and the various histopathological types of lung malignancy.
Conclusion: The results of this work demonstrated no association between the occurrence of GSTM1 null variant, even when stratified for smoking status, and the risk of lung cancer.
Effectiveness of single and multiple tuned mass damper in seismic response reduction of RCC Framed Building
Authors: Gupta Kamlesh , Raheem Juned
Published: July 2024

Seismic response reduction of RCC frames is emerging field of interests among researchers. Among these, the use of tuned mass damper (TMD) as energy dissipater of base excitation employs promising role. Previous studies and practical implementation have shown the effectiveness of TMD in seismic response reduction in steel structure. However, research gaps exited on effectiveness of various types TMDs such as spatially distributed at floor level, vertically distributed at building level on RCC frame structure. In this study, high rise structure is designed in ETABS using Indian Standards and is analysed for dynamic responses. Optimised parameter of all TMDs were obtained from previous studies, and tuning of TMDs was done as per modal analysis results obtained on base structure. Total eight modelled were prepared and harmonic as well as Linear time history analysis is conducted in horizontal directions for ElCentro, North Ridge and Loma-Prieta, and responses of structures are obtained in terms of reduction in base shear, joint acceleration, and joint displacement. In comparison to single TMD, multiple placements of TMD were found to perform better in seismic excitations. It was also concluded that location of TMD at floor level also affects its performance.
Global Survey on Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) use in Child Surgery
Authors: Naidoo Gerlin , Salim Mohammed , Jackson Andrew , Handa Ashok , Lakhoo Kokila , Lindert Judith
Published: July 2024

Purpose: To undertake a global assessment of existing ultrasound practices, barriers to access, point-of care ultrasound (POCUS) training pathways, and the perceived clinical utility of POCUS in Child Surgery.
Methods: An electronic survey was disseminated via the GICS (Global Initiative of Children’s Surgery) network. 247 anonymized responses from 48 countries were collated. 71.3% (176/247) worked in child surgery.
Results: Ultrasound was critical to practice with 84% (147/176) of requesting one daily or multiple times per week. Only 10% (17/176) could access emergency ultrasound <1hr from request. The main barrier was a lack of trained personnel. HIC surgeons were more likely to have ultrasound training (24/29; 82.8%) compared with LMICs (74/147; 50.3%) (p= .001319; CI 95%). Self-perceived POCUS competence was associated with regularity of POCUS use (p <0.001; CI 95%). Those who already practice POCUS most commonly use it for trauma, intussusception, and ultrasound-guided procedures. Majority (90%; 159/176) of child surgeons would attend formal POCUS training if available.
Conclusions: Ultrasound is critically important in children’s surgery globally, however, many surgeons experience barriers to timely access. There is strong interest in learning POCUS for relevant pediatric surgical applications. Further research is needed to evaluate the best methods of training, accreditation, and governance.
Health and Ecological Risk Assessments of Some Heavy Metals (Cr, Ni, Pb, Cu and Zn) in the Sediments of Darbandikhan Reservoir, Iraq
Authors: Sarhat Abdulmutalib Raafat , Al-Obaidi Basim Shakir , Ali Shagul A.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the concentrations of some heavy metals HMs in the bottom sediments of Darbandikhan Reservoir in North of Iraq. This study evaluated the contamination of sediments with heavy metals HMs and their ecological risk levels as well as their potential effects on human health. Among the examined metals: Ni, Cr and Zn exceeded the background values in most of the sampling stations. The Enrichment factor EF for the examined HMs in the sediment of the study area showed an order of Ni > Cr > Zn > Pb > Cu. Also, the Potential ecological risk Er mean values of Ni, Cu, Cr, Pb and Zn were 13.64, 2.75, 2.17, 2.02 and 1.01 respectively. Moreover, the mean value of contamination factor CF for Ni was 2.73, which shows that the sediment in Darbandikhan Reservior is in the status of reasonable to significant degree of contamination. The values of hazard quotient HQ for Cr, Zn, and Ni ranged from 1.7x10− 7 to 8.7x10− 4, and 8.1x10− 7 to 2.1x10− 1 for adults and children, respectively, which indicates that the examined HMs would not cause non-carcinogenic risk for children and adults. While, the values of CR for Cr, Ni and Zn on children via accidental ingestion were 2.6x10− 5, 8.3x10− 5 and 4.34x10− 7, respectively; and those of adult were 5.58x10− 5, 1.78x10− 4 and 9.3x10− 7, respectively. This indicated that the CR levels caused by Ni and Cr were not acceptable and may pose risks of cancer in case of accidental ingestion.
Detecting complex infections in Trypanosomatids using whole genome sequencing
Authors: Reis-Cunha João Luís , Jeffares Daniel Charlton
Published: July 2024

Background
Trypanosomatid parasites are a group of protozoans that cause devastating diseases that disproportionately affect developing countries. These protozoans have developed several mechanisms for adaptation to survive in the mammalian host, such as extensive expansion of multigene families enrolled in host-parasite interaction, adaptation to invade and modulate host cells, and the presence of aneuploidy and polyploidy. Two mechanisms might result in “complex” isolates, with more than two haplotypes being present in a single sample: multiplicity of infections (MOI) and polyploidy. We have developed and validated a methodology to identify multiclonal infections and polyploidy using Whole Genome Sequencing reads, based on fluctuations in allelic read depth in heterozygous positions, which can be easily implemented in experiments sequencing genomes from one sample to larger population surveys.
Results
The methodology estimates the complexity index (CI) of an isolate, and compares real samples with simulated clonal infections at individual and populational level, excluding regions with somy and gene copy number variation. It was primarily validated with simulated MOI and known polyploid isolates respectively from Leishmania and Trypanosoma cruzi. Then, the approach was used to assess the complexity of infection using genome wide SNP data from 530 Trypanosomatid samples from four clades, L. donovani/L. infantum, L. braziliensis, T. cruzi and T. brucei providing an overview of multiclonal infection and polyploidy in these cultured parasites. We show that our method robustly detects complex infections in samples with at least 25x coverage, 100 heterozygous SNPs and where 5–10% of the reads correspond to the secondary clone. We find that relatively small proportions (≤ 7%) of cultured Trypanosomatid isolates are complex.
Conclusions
The method can accurately identify polyploid isolates, and can identify multiclonal infections in scenarios with sufficient genome read coverage. We pack our method in a single R script that requires only a standard variant call format (VCF) file to run (https://github.com/jaumlrc/Complex-Infections). Our analyses indicate that multiclonality and polyploidy do occur in all clades, but not very frequently in cultured Trypanosomatids. We caution that our estimates are lower bounds due to the limitations of current laboratory and bioinformatic methods.
Self-Adaptive Learning Using Test Case Selection in Grammatical Evolution for Automatic Design of Digital Circuit
Authors: Gupt Krishn Kumar , Kshirsagar Meghana , Sarma Rajkumar , Sullivan Joe , Ryan Conor
Published: July 2024

In today’s digital age, the demand for increasingly complex digital circuits spans applications ranging from watches to spacecraft. To meet this demand, circuit design automation using Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key solution due to manual processes’ time-consuming and error-prone nature. Among AI techniques, Evolutionary Algorithm (EA), notably Grammatical Evolution(GE), have shown promise. However, the computational cost of these algorithms remains a significant challenge, particularly concerning scalability and the high volume of test cases required for circuit design and synthesis. Balancing the trade-off between the necessity for extensive training data and the computational overhead of GE is crucial. The exponential increase in data volume with circuit complexity presents a challenging obstacle. While utilizing complete training data may ensure accurate circuit design, practical constraints often limit its feasibility. Furthermore, reducing data through selection risks compromising crucial information, while using complete data incurs prohibitively high training costs. This study proposes a novel self-adaptive learning approach within the framework of EAs to utilize training data adaptively and effectively. Our objective is to achieve comparable circuit solutions within a reduced runtime. We apply this technique to GE, naming it Self-adaptive Learning in GE (SLIG). SLIG divides the training data into subsets based on decreasing diversity, ensuring that the model is exposed to highly diverse scenarios early in the evolutionary process and gradually incorporating less diverse data. This method is rigorously evaluated across four digital circuits. The circuits are designed using Hardware Description Language (HDL), facilitating precise and efficient design, simulation, and synthesis. Experimental and statistical results indicate its effectiveness in producing comparable or superior results compared to standard GE, as measured in terms of circuits’ test scores, solution size, runtime efficiency, and performance parameters evaluated by the Cadence Genus Synthesis solution tool.
Rapid assay development for low input targeted proteomics using a versatile linear ion trap
Authors: Searle Brian , Shannon Ariana , Teodorescu Rachael , Song No-Joon , Heil Lilian , Jacob Cristina , Remes Philip , Li Zihai , Rubinstein Mark
Published: July 2024

Advances in proteomics and mass spectrometry enable the study of limited cell populations, where high-mass accuracy instruments are typically required. While triple quadrupoles offer fast and sensitive low-mass accuracy measurements, these instruments are effectively restricted to targeted proteomics. Linear ion traps (LITs) offer a versatile, cost-effective alternative capable of both targeted and global proteomics. Here, we describe a workflow using a new hybrid quadrupole-LIT instrument that rapidly develops targeted proteomics assays from global data-independent acquisition (DIA) measurements without needing high-mass accuracy. Using an automated software approach for scheduling parallel reaction monitoring assays (PRM), we show consistent quantification across three orders of magnitude in a matched-matrix background. We demonstrate measuring low-level proteins such as transcription factors and cytokines with quantitative linearity below two orders of magnitude in a 1 ng background proteome without requiring stable isotope-labeled standards. From a 1 ng sample, we found clear consistency between proteins in subsets of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells measured using high dimensional flow cytometry and LIT-based proteomics. Based on these results, we believe hybrid quadrupole-LIT instruments represent an economical solution to democratizing mass spectrometry in a wide variety of laboratory settings.
Measuring the Prevalence of Fatigue in children with cancer: Evidence from Egypt.
Authors: Abdalkader Nourhan , Zawara Alaa Mahmoud , Lashien Shaimaa , Osman Ahmad Mohamed Yehia
Published: July 2024

Background: Cancer related fatigue (CRF) is a common side effect of cancer and cancer treatment that impacts quality of life. To our knowledge, the statistics for prevalence in pediatrics are lacking in Egypt. The aim of this study is to record the prevalence of fatigue and its significant predicting factors in pediatric oncology patients.
Methods: we interviewed children aged 8-18 years with cancer, prescribed chemotherapy and not in severe distress. The children personally filled 2 fatigue-related questionnaires (PROMIS Pediatric Short Forms of Fatigue (PROMIS fatigue), pedsQL multidimensional fatigue (PedsQL fatigue)) and 3 symptoms related questionnaires.
Results: 42 children (47.6% female) (mean age 12.1 years (SD 3.3 years)) participated. Reported moderate to severe fatigue in children is between half to third of the children depending on the measurement tool used. The mean T-score for PROMIS fatigue was 53.76 (SD 12.5), and for PedsQL fatigue was 74.27 (SD 21.79). Stepwise standardized multivariant linear regression showed that fatigue following PROMIS fatigue could be predicted by depressive symptoms (𝜷= 0.47, p <0.001) and mobility (𝜷= -0.39, p =0.002) while following PedsQL fatigue, it could be predicted by upper extremity function (𝜷= 0.34, p= 0.005), depressive symptoms (𝜷=-0.49, p <0.001) and treatment status (𝜷=-0.25, p= 0.013).
Conclusion: CRF is multifactorial and prevalent among children and adolescents with cancer. Moreover, predicting factors differed between different tools as they measure different dimensions of fatigue. There is a need to include fatigue screening for pediatric oncology patients and incorporate its management in the medical care plan.
The Role of Energy Equity and Income Inequality in Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Ofori Pamela E. , Ofori Isaac K. , Annan Kenneth
Published: July 2024

Progress in energy equity, income equality, and environmental quality are fundamental to sustainable development. However, studies providing evidence-based recommendations concerning the joint effect of energy equity and income inequality on environmental sustainability in Africa are lacking. This study fills this gap by using a panel dataset covering 41 African countries from 2008-2019. Results from the Driscoll-Kraay standard errors and the dynamic system GMM estimators reveal the following: (1) energy equity promotes environmental quality, whereas income inequality hampers it, and (2) income inequality nullifies the favourable environmental gains of energy equity. These findings remain consistent when we use the ecological footprint as an alternative measure of environmental quality. We conclude that addressing income inequality is essential for ensuring that energy equity enhances environmental quality. Policymakers should prioritise energy equity and fairer income distribution initiatives to achieve sustainable development goals.
JEL Codes: D310; O13; O55; Q40; Q5; Q53
Single and Multi-Mineral Classification using Dual-Band Raman Spectroscopy for Planetary Surface Missions
Authors: Johnsen Timothy K. , Gulick Virginia C.
Published: July 2024

Planetary surface missions have greatly benefitted from intelligent systems capable of semi-autonomous navigation and surveying. However, instruments onboard these missions are not similarly equipped with automated science analysis classifiers onboard rovers, which can further improve scientific yield and autonomy. Here, we present both single- and multi-mineral autonomous classifiers integrated using the results from a co-registered dual-band Raman spectrometer. This instrument consecutively irradiates the same spot size on the same sample using two excitation lasers of different wavelengths (532 nm and 785 nm). We identify the presence of mineral groups: pyroxene, olivine, potassium feldspar, quartz, mica, gypsum, and plagioclase, in 191 rocks. These minerals are among the major rock forming mineral groups and so their presence or absence within a sample is key for understanding rock composition and the environment in which it formed. We present machine learning methods used to train classifiers and leverage the multiple modalities of the dual-band Raman spectrometer. When testing on a novel sample set for single-mineral classification, we show accuracy scores up to 100% (varying by mineral), with a total classification rate (over all minerals) of 91%. When testing on a novel set of samples for multi-mineral classification, we show accuracy scores up to 96%, with a total classification rate of 73%. We end with several hypothesis tests, that demonstrate that dual-band Raman spectroscopy is more robust and improves the scientific yield for mineral classification over single-band spectroscopy, especially when combined with our multimodal neural network.
Interfacial structure and acidity of orthoclase (001) surface: understanding the effect of surface metal cation
Authors: Zhang Xi , Liu Xiandong , Zhang Yingchun , Lu Xiancai
Published: July 2024

Surface acid chemistry is central to interfacial properties of orthoclase. In this study, we report a first principles molecular dynamics (FPMD) study of interfacial structures and acid constants (pKa) of orthoclase (001) with the presence of Na+/K+ cation on the surface. Detailed structural analyses show that Na+ and K+ show similar coordination structures on the surface while the exchange of Na+ for K+ hardly changes hydration structures of surface groups. The surface groups (i.e., ≡SiOH, ≡AlOH, and ≡AlOH2) have pKas of 11.5, 18.5, and 7.8 with K+ on the surface and 5.5, 17.7, and 4.3 with Na+ on the surface, respectively. FPMD derived pKas indicate that with K+ on the surface ≡AlOH2 is the only active group in the common pH range while Na+ decreases surface pKas of surface groups, that makes ≡AlOH2 and ≡SiOH active. Based on the pKas, we derive a PZC (point of zero charge) of 9.7 and 4.9 for orthoclase (001) with surface K+ and Na+, respectively. This means that Na+ significantly enhances surface acid reactivity. The implication for understanding geochemical properties of orthoclase was discussed with the focus on surface complexation of metal cations.
Análisis cientométrico en e-liderazgo y competencias para su desarrollo
Authors: Molina-Moran Ronny , Castañeda-Betancur Santiago , Ardila-Niño Gustavo , Villao-Santos Freddy
Published: July 2024

La secuela de la pandemia de COVID-19 ha presenciado un aumento exponencial en la literatura sobre el e-liderazgo, estableciéndolo como un tema de investigación destacado tanto en organizaciones industriales como académicas. Sin embargo, la literatura existente permanece dispersa, con una ausencia notoria de estudios que conecten de manera cohesiva las principales contribuciones con las subáreas actuales. El objetivo principal de esta investigación es delinear la evolución del e-liderazgo y su conexión con las competencias, y proporcionar una visión general desde una perspectiva cienciométrica. La metodología empleada se bifurca en dos secciones: la sección inicial aclara la producción científica anual, las contribuciones específicas por país, las publicaciones en revistas y el análisis de colaboración entre autores. Posteriormente, desplegamos el algoritmo Árbol de la Ciencia para discernir las raíces, el tronco y las ramas del e-liderazgo. Los hallazgos revelan una notable trayectoria de crecimiento desde 2020, con tres subáreas principales emergentes: e-liderazgo en el contexto educativo, competencias de equipos virtuales e innovación en liderazgo. Las implicaciones de este estudio son fundamentales para los gerentes, ayudándoles a identificar las habilidades cruciales requeridas en esta floreciente era digital.
Marketing emprendedor en acción: impacto multidimensional y aplicaciones sectoriales
Authors: Quintero-Arango Luis Fernando , Betancur-Arias Juan Diego , Machado Cristiano , Rojas-Quiceno Guillermo
Published: July 2024

El propósito de este artículo es identificar la dinámica de la producción científica sobre el Marketing Emprendedor (ME) y su influencia en el desempeño de las organizaciones. Para alcanzar este objetivo, se realizaron dos consultas, una en Scopus y otra en Web of Science. Los resultados mostraron que en los últimos 7 años ha tenido un crecimiento de la producción científica del 52 % mostrando la importancia en el mundo académico y empresarial. Se identificaron tres grandes tendencias; la primera sobre las diferentes métricas que se han utilizado para medir las dimensiones del ME. La segunda son las aplicaciones en diferentes contextos del ME y, la tercera, son los fundamentos teóricos sobre ME. Este estudio es útil para los investigadores que quieran entender mejor el ME y para los emprendedores que quieran una introducción sencilla y desde una perspectiva científica sobre el tema. También es útil para los profesores que deseen integrar en sus asignaturas el tema de ME.
Patient Perception of Patient-centeredness in Orthodontic Consultation of Patients from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Shammary Nawaf Hamad
Published: July 2024

Background

Patient-centered care involves respecting patients' dignity and actively including them in decision-making processes. However, its assessment remains quite challenging. This study aimed to assess patients’ perception of patient-centered care in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 430 patients seeking orthodontic care at different government and private clinics in Saudi Arabia. An online Revised Patient Perception of Patient-Centeredness (PPPC-R) questionnaire that consisted of 18 questions was filled in by the patient immediately after the initial or treatment planning consultation with an orthodontist and asked to rate the scores from 1 to 4. The final PPPC-R scores were calculated and compared between gender and age groups (adolescents and adults).

Results

A total of 270 responses were obtained with a response rate of 62.79%, and all responses were complete. The mean age of participants was 22.53 years (range 18 to 65 years), and among them, 132 were male. The average score for the questions ranged from 2.26 to 3.58, and the Mann-Whitney test showed no significant differences in the scores between gender (Z = -0.897, p-value 0.370) and age group (Z = -0.092, p-value 0.927). Similar insignificant differences were noted between gender and age group when compared at the level of three factors from the questionnaire.

Conclusion

Patients who are scheduled for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning perceived a high level of patient-centeredness. There were no significant differences in the PPPC-R scores between the age group and gender of the participants when measured across each factor level and in total.
Performance of Impulse Oscillometry in Identifying Restrictive Lung Defects in a Veteran Cohort
Authors: Glick Danielle R. , Brown Clayton H. , Li Lan , Gucer Patricia , Gaitens Joanna M. , McDiarmid Melissa A. , Hines Stella E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Impulse oscillometry (IOs) is a technique used to evaluate lung function that uses sound waves imposed over tidal breathing to characterize the airways and lung parenchyma. IOs has been particularly useful in the identification of obstructive lung defects. The present analysis seeks to explore the use of IOs in the identification of restrictive lung physiology among a group of Gulf War I veterans exposed to depleted uranium (DU).

Methods

A total of 36 out of a dynamic 85-veteran cohort attended in-person surveillance visits in 2019 and completed both IOs and PFTs. Performance on IOs was evaluated in a cross-sectional analysis of the group overall and in those identified as having restrictive lung defects defined by either spirometry (FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN and FVC < LLN) or lung volumes (TLC < LLN).

Results

A total of 6 individuals were identified as having restriction (4 based on spirometry alone and an additional 2 by lung volumes). When restriction was present, IOs values of both resistance and reactance were significantly more abnormal.

Conclusion

In the assessment of lung function, IOs may be advantageous over PFTs because it is faster to perform and effort-independent. Although little is known about the utility of IOs in identifying restrictive lung physiology, our results support its use.
Association between Health Literacy and Self-care Behaviors with Traditional Thai Medicine during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Silangirn Pongsaton , Thummayot Sarinthorn , Sadjapong Uratcha , Thongtip Sakesun
Published: July 2024

Background

Health literacy is a multidimensional concept that can lead to changing self-care behaviors.

Objective

This study aimed to assess health literacy, self-care behaviors, and factors related to self-care behaviors in traditional Thai medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 422 participants. The questionnaire consisted of sociodemographic characteristics, health literacy of traditional Thai medicine with COVID-19, and self-care behavior with traditional Thai medicine in relation to COVID-19. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent-sample test, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

The mean score for communication to promote health was high (34.6±8.4). The mean score of overall health literacy was moderate (156.8±20.7), followed by self-care behavior (45.6±6.0), access to health information and services (30.5±5.2), and health knowledge and understanding (26.7±2.6). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis showed that there were significantly positive self-care behaviors, namely, access to health information and services (P-value < 0.001), communication to promote health (P-value < 0.001), media and information literacy (P-value < 0.043), and overall health literacy (P-value < 0.003), while informed decision-making was significantly negatively associated with self-care behaviors (P-value < 0.004).

Conclusion

Increasing overall health literacy and each dimension was associated with self-care behaviors. The findings suggest that interventional programs to develop health literacy are required to improve self-care behaviors.
Investigating the Relationship between Lipid Profiles of Stroke Patients at the Time of Admission and Their Outcome
Authors: Rajabpour Mohadeseh , Ala Alireza , Sadeghi-Hokmabadi Eliyar , Amiri Hasan , Rostamnezhad Sara , Vahdati Samad Shams
Published: July 2024

Hyperlipidemia is one of the critical risk factors for cerebrovascular disease. Many studies have emphasized that controlling the lipid level can decrease the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. In this article, we studied all types of lipids in stroke patients and wanted to consider any relation between lipid level in admission and outcome. This retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at Imam Reza Research and Training Hospital. It was performed on a sample of 2165 patients who visited the emergency department and were admitted with a diagnosis of acute stroke (ischemic, hemorrhagic, subarachnoid hemorrhage) from 20th 2020 up to 20th 2023. Patients with underlying neoplastic disease, trauma, or coagulation disorders, who visited the emergency department with non-stroke signs and symptoms, and also who had incomplete documents were excluded from the study. The data of this study was extracted from the Tabriz stroke registry. In this study, 2165 patients were included. There is a significant relationship between age and other variables with most outcomes, but it does not show a strong relationship. There is a substantial relationship between the modified Rankin Scale and other variables with most outcomes, but it does not show a strong relationship. Between the follow-up modified Rankin Scale and other variables, there is a significant relationship with most of the outcomes, but it does not show a strong relationship. With most outcomes, there is a substantial relationship between the outcome and other variables, but it does not show a strong relationship. The initial lipid profile of patients at the time of entering the emergency department did not show a significant relationship with the outcome and length of the patient’s hospitalization of none of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. None of the candidate patients had received thrombolytic therapy.
An Exploration of the English Translation Strategy
Authors: Liu Baowei
Published: July 2024

In translation studies, the role of the translator is becoming more and more conspicuous. Despite the fact that translation is a transfer from one language to another, especially a semantic one, the role of the translator is, on no account, a simple proxy of technological communication or a passive transcultural mediator. During recent years, scholars have conducted an array of researches on translation process, from the perspective of linguistics, cognitive psychology, psychological linguistics, etc. As for translation process, it is imperative that the translator take various questions into consideration, such as the characteristics of the target language, the cultural factors of the target language, the perception of the original text, the translator’s habits, etc. The English translation of Yuewei Caotang Biji by Yi Izzy Yu and John Yu Branscum has been conceived of as popular in the English world, and has achieved superb effect of transcultural communication. This translated work’s strategy of translating as editing has substantial effects in its’ success, which renders this book easily available to readers in the target culture.
Multifactor Authentication: Protecting Privacy in the Digital World
Authors: Gawde Akshay Nishikant
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In today’s world, digitalization decisively penetrates all the sides of the modern society. One of the key enablers to maintain this process secure is authentication. With the rapid evolution of wireless communication technology, user authentication is essential to ensure the security of wireless communication technology. It assists humans to interact with everything by enabling services that are faster, user-friendly and reliable for authentication. As from conducted surveys, a common user may have multiple online accounts which requires passwords. As an evolution in wireless communication, the user authentication plays an important role. In the process of authentication, passwords plays an important role. Importance of MFA ensures the user’s account does not get easily attacked by the attackers and also ensures that the sensitive information of the user remains safe. The objective of the system outcome is to enhance the current login authentication system. It provides solutions for making password breaking more difficult as well as convinces users to create passwords that are hard to break. This research delves into the effectiveness of MFA in diverse contexts, including its role in preventing phishing attacks, enhancing security, and adapting to emerging threats. MFA goes beyond conventional password protection, requiring users to authenticate through a combination of knowledge-based factors (Passwords, Pins), possession- based factors(Tokens, Smart-phones), and inherence-based factors(Bio-metrics). This paper explores the concept of MFA, which means combining the various types of authentication factors to enhance user security.
Android-Based Wireless Single-Lead Electrocardiogram: Heart Rate Measurement and ECG Signal Visualization
Authors: Novitasari Atika , Nuryani Nuryani , Darsono Darsono
Published: July 2024

Heart rate (HR) is vital for medical and healthcare purposes. This study presents an Android-based heart rate measurement system utilizing a single-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Three electrodes placed on the arm in lead I configuration capture the ECG signals. An AD8232 sensor amplifies the signal, which is then digitized by Arduino Nano and transmitted to an Android device via HC-05 Bluetooth. The Android application processes the ECG data using the Pan-Tompkins algorithm with an optimized threshold coefficient to extract HR information. The system displays the ECG waveform and the calculated HR on the user interface. Our evaluation demonstrates high accuracy with an error rate of only 0.042%, sensitivity of 99.84%, and positive predictive value of 97.06%. This research suggests the potential of this system for convenient and reliable HR monitoring using readily available smartphones.
Constructing the Wicked Witch: Discourses of Power in the Witch-Hunts of Early Modern Germany
Authors: Hanna Sharon
Published: July 2024

Sharon Hanna was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, and attended the University of Windsor pursuing a degree in Arts and Science. As an interdisciplinary student, Sharon focused on history but also enjoyed a minor in biological sciences. Influenced by undergraduate research into inner colonization and ethnic identity, Sharon will be pursuing a Masters in History beginning in Fall 2013 at the University of Windsor.
Network quantum steering enables randomness certification without seed randomness
Authors: Sarkar Shubhayan
Published: July 2024

Quantum networks with multiple sources allow the observation of quantum nonlocality without inputs. Consequently, the incompatibility of measurements is not a necessity for observing quantum nonlocality when one has access to multiple quantum sources. Here we investigate the minimal scenario without inputs where one can observe any form of quantum nonlocality. We show that even two parties with two sources that might be classically correlated can witness a form of quantum nonlocality, in particular quantum steering, in networks without inputs if one of the parties is trusted, that is, performs a fixed known measurement. We term this effect as swap-steering. The scenario presented in this work is minimal to observe such an effect. Consequently, a scenario exists where one can observe quantum steering but not Bell non-locality. We further construct a linear witness to observe swap-steering. Interestingly, this witness enables self-testing of the quantum states generated by the sources and the local measurement of the untrusted party. This in turn allows certifying two bits of randomness that can be obtained from the measurement outcomes of the untrusted device without the requirement of initially feeding the device with randomness.
SoSe2024 - Why Noise Really Matters (WIP)
Authors: Alameddine Adel Akram
Published: July 2024

will follow.
Slovnica jezika bosanskoga Franje Vuletića i njezino mjesto među hrvatskim slovnicama
Authors: Baković Matijas , Novaković Šimun
Published: July 2024

U radu se analizira rukopis Franje Vuletića Slovnica jezika bosanskoga za srednja učilišta iz 1885., koji je tiskan 1890. pod naslovom Gramatika bosanskoga jezika za srednje škole. Dio I. i II. Nauka o glasovima i oblicima. Autori prikazuju kako je došlo do promjena u rukopisu i koje je korekcije u izvorni rukopis Vuletićeve Slovnice unio Davorin Nemanić. Da bi se lakše pratile Nemanićeve intervencije u tekst, rukopis se uspoređuje s tiskanim izdanjem Gramatike bosanskoga jezika iz 1890. S obzirom na to da je Vuletić u Bosni i Hercegovini propagirao Karadžić-Daničićeve jezične poglede, ali i to da je u tiskano izdanje ušlo dosta elemenata jezika zagrebačke filološke škole, usporedit će se koliko izvorni rukopis slijedi dotadašnju hrvatsku gramatičarsku tradiciju ili odudara od nje i može li se s tih pozicija Gramatika bosanskoga jezika smatrati hrvatskom (vukovskom) gramatikom, kako ju neki istraživači svrstavaju. Također, budući da je Gramatika tiskana bez navođenja imena autora, razmotrit će se kulturno-političke okolnosti koje su dovele do njezina nastanka i objavljivanja u takvu obliku.
Mreža javne zdravstvene službe u Slavoniji tijekom 19. stoljeća
Authors: Čandrlić Slavko
Published: July 2024

U radu se prikazuje pravno uređenje javnozdravstvenoga sustava i stvaranje mreže javne zdravstvene službe u Slavoniji, zbog čega se kronološki objašnjava povijesni slijed počevši od terezijanskih pa sve do Mažuranićevih zdravstvenih reformi. U preglednom dijelu rada razmatra se važnost donošenja Općega zdravstvenog pravilnika iz 1770. te objašnjava odnos između Ugarskoga namjesničkog vijeća s nižim ustrojbenim upravnim i zdravstvenim organizacijama. Jedna od takvih bio je gradski fizikat slobodnoga i kraljevskoga grada Osijeka, koji je kao stručni organ gradskoga poglavarstva bio zadužen za poslove javnoga zdravstva. U nastavku rada prikazat će se zdravstvene djelatnosti, uređenje protuepidemijskoga sustava i zdravstvenih ustanova. Upozorit će se i na važnost Hrvatsko-ugarske nagodbe iz 1868. godine, kojom su stvoreni preduvjeti da se javnozdravstveni sustav samostalno uredi. Takav rasplet događaja omogućio je da se provede reorganizacija uprave utemeljena na poštovanju načela vladavine prava te se donose novi i moderniji zakoni, od kojih su najvažniji bili Zakon o uređenju zdravstva iz 1874. i Zakon o uređenju zdravstvene službe u kraljevinama Hrvatskoj i Slavoniji iz 1894. godine.
1245-P: GDM Patients and Prognostic Factors for Subsequent Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—An Electronic Cohort Review
Authors: KIM RYUNG S. , LI LIHUA , ISASI CARMEN R. , PHILIS-TSIMIKAS ATHENA , MOON JEE-YOUNG , LIU JUNXIU , WOLFE DIANA S. , LEVY CAROL J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: GDM affects 8-10% of pregnancies in the US and nearly 50% of these women have subsequent diabetes diagnosis. However, research on the prognostic factors of T2D incidence among women with GDM is scarce, due to the limited sample sizes. We aim 1) to construct a large electronic cohort of GDM and 2) to build a prognostic model for T2D incidence among patients with GDM.

Methods: We extracted EMRs of patients diagnosed with GDM between 2016 and 2022 from two health systems in NYC: Montefiore (MMC) and Mt. Sinai. Only MMC patients were analyzed in this report. Prognostic factors during pregnancy included 32 baseline & pregnancy characteristics, 76 office visit variables, 418 lab tests, and prescription of 31 drugs. Time from GDM diagnosis to T2D was analyzed using proportional hazards models.

Results: We collected EMRs of 6,014 GDM patients at MMC who were racially diverse with a median age of 32, BMI of 31.8 kg/m2. Among them, 355 (5.9%) later developed T2D, yielding a high T2D incidence rate (21.1 per 1,000 PY). There was an immediate heightened risk: T2D incidence proportions were 3.8% by 1 year after GDM diagnosis, and 11.9% by 5 years. The risk was elevated in Hispanic White (HR=2.3), Hispanic Non-White (HR=2.0), and Black (HR=2.3) compared to non-Hispanic White (p<0.00001). The risk was associated with higher BMI during pregnancy, insulin or oral-agent control compared to diet therapy, younger gestational age at GDM diagnosis, and Caesarean delivery. Lab findings associated with T2D risk included maternal glucose levels, erythrocyte MCH, monocytes, and ketone. T2D incidence was also associated with prescription of insulin therapy, oral treatment, aspirin, and iron supplements likely indicating underlying obstetric complications.

Conclusions: A large electronic cohort of GDM patients identified potential prognostic factors of subsequent T2D. Future directions include calibration of 2 cohorts to establish the largest electronic cohort of GDM to date and building prognostic models for T2D risk.

Disclosure

R.S. Kim: None. L. Li: None. C.R. Isasi: None. A. Philis-Tsimikas: Advisory Panel; Dexcom, Inc., Lilly Diabetes, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, Medtronic, Bayer Inc. J. Moon: None. J. Liu: None. D.S. Wolfe: None. C.J. Levy: Research Support; Dexcom, Inc. Consultant; Dexcom, Inc. Research Support; MannKind Corporation, T1D Exchange, Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc., Abbott, Insulet Corporation.

Funding

New York Regional Center for Diabetes Translation Research Pilot & Feasibility Project
1308-P: A Voice-Based AI Algorithm Can Predict Type 2 Diabetes Status—Findings from the Colive Voice Study on U.S. Adult Participants
Authors: ELBEJI ABIR , PIZZIMENTI MÉGANE , AGUAYO GLORIA A. , FISCHER AURELIE , AYADI HANIN , MAUVAIS-JARVIS FRANCK , RIVELINE JEAN-PIERRE , DESPOTOVIC VLADIMIR , FAGHERAZZI GUY
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Reducing undiagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D) cases worldwide is an urgent public health challenge. Most current screening methods are invasive, lab-based, and costly. Meanwhile, there is a growing focus on noninvasive T2D detection through advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology. This study explores the feasibility of using a voice-based AI algorithm to predict T2D status in adults, a preliminary step toward innovative screening tools.

Objective: To develop and assess the performance of a voice-based AI algorithm for T2D status detection in the adult population in the US.

Methods: We analyzed text reading voice recordings from 607 US participants from the Colive Voice study, adhering to the CONSORT AI standards. We trained and cross-validated algorithms with BYOL-S/CvT embeddings for each gender, evaluating them on accuracy, precision, recall, and AUC. Performance of the best models was stratified by age, BMI, and hypertension, and compared to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) score for T2D risk assessment using a Bland-Altman analysis.

Results: We analyzed 323 females and 284 males; Females with T2D (age: 49.5 years, BMI: 35.8 kg/m²) vs without (40.0 years, 28.0 kg/m²). Males with T2D (47.6 years, 32.8 kg/m²) vs without (41.6 years, 26.6 kg/m²). The voice-based algorithm achieved good overall predictive capacity (AUC=75% for males, 71% for females) and correctly predicted 71% of male and 66% of female T2D cases. It is enhanced in females aged 60 years (AUC=74%) or older but also with the presence of hypertension for both genders (AUC=75%). We observed an overall agreement above 93% with the ADA risk score.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates the feasibility of detecting T2D using exclusively voice features. It is the first step toward using voice analysis as a first-line T2D screening strategy. While the findings are promising, further research and validation are necessary to specifically target early-stage T2D cases.

Disclosure

A. Elbeji: None. M. Pizzimenti: None. G.A. Aguayo: None. A. Fischer: None. H. Ayadi: None. F. Mauvais-Jarvis: None. J. Riveline: Board Member; Abbott, Novo Nordisk A/S, Sanofi, Eli Lilly and Company, Medtronic, Dexcom, Inc., Insulet Corporation, Air Liquide, AstraZeneca. V. Despotovic: None. G. Fagherazzi: Speaker's Bureau; Sanofi. Advisory Panel; Timkl, SAB Biotherapeutics, Inc., Vitalaire, Roche Diabetes Care.