bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The functional evolution of collembolan Ubx on the regulation of abdominal appendage formation
Authors: Liang Yan , Luan Yun-Xia
Published: December 2023

Background: Folsomia candida, a tiny soil-dwelling arthropod within the Collembola, represents a basal hexapod lineage, serving as an outgroup to Insecta. Notably, it features three distinct abdominal appendages: the ventral tube in the first abdominal segment (A1), the retinaculum in A3, and the furca in A4. These structures stand out morphologically from the limbs in the thorax. The specification of these abdominal appendages falls under the responsibility of Collembolan Ubx and AbdA. However, despite their role in appendage specification, these genes are unable to repress the expression of the appendage marker gene Dll. The genetics toolkit involved in appendage formation during collembolan embryogenesis and the molecular mechanisms through which Ubx and AbdA regulate Dll transcription, subsequently shaping appendage development, remain elusive.
Results: To address these gaps, we explored the developmental transcriptomes of F. candida and identified 36 candidate genes implicated in appendage formation, including Ubx (FcUbx). Through rigorous experiments, the electrophoretic mobility shift assays and dual luciferase assays, we unveiled that FcUbx exhibits binding and repression capacities on Drosophila Dll akin to the longest isoform of Drosophila melanogaster Ubx (DmUbx_Ib). Additionally, the regulatory mechanism of the C-terminus of FcUbx on Dll repression mirrors that of the crustacean Artemia franciscanaUbx (AfUbx). These findings collectively demonstrate that the function of collembolan Ubx occupies an intermediate position between that of Insecta and Crustacea.
Conclusion: Our study not only sheds light on appendage formation in F. candida but also contributes to the reconstruction of the functional evolutionary trajectory of Ubx on abdominal appendages, spanning from crustaceans to insects. We propose a model that collembolan Ubx might exert its repression function in abdominal segments in a context-specific manner.
A Generative AI Chatbot in High School Advising: A Qualitative Analysis of Domain-Specific Chatbot and ChatGPT
Authors: Assayed Suha Khalil , Alkhatib Manar , Shaalan Khaled
Published: December 2023

Due to the variety of chatbot types and classifications, students and advisers may experience confusion when trying to select the right chatbot that can more trust it, however, the classification of chatbots depends on different factors including, the complexity of the task, the response-based approach and the type of the domain. Since selecting the most effective chatbot is crucial for high schools and students, a semi-structured interviews in qualitative research were conducted with eight high school students in order to investigate the students ‘perspectives on different seven responses of generative questions from the domain-specific chatbot named HSGAdviser, comparing it with the ChatGPT. All questions were related to students’ advising interests including university applications, admission tests, majors and more. The transcribed data were reviewed and examined by using the thematic analysis. However, the results reveal that most students found that HSGAdviser chatbot is easier, shorter, faster and more concise compared to ChatGPT, especially for Yes/No questions as students expect brief answers. However, some students found that certain crucial questions that can have a significance impact on their future, they would prefer the ChatGPT for more detailed information. The limitation of this study is the limited size of the participants. Nevertheless, in the future research, other high school students from different regions will participate in the study.
Dichotomous frequency-dependent phase synchrony in the sensorimotor network characterizes simplistic movement
Authors: Buch Vivek P. , Brandon Cameron , Ramayya Ashwin G. , Lucas Timothy H. , Richardson Andrew G.
Published: December 2023

It is hypothesized that disparate brain regions interact via synchronous activity to control behavior. The nature of these interconnected ensembles remains an area of active investigation, and particularly the role of high frequency synchronous activity in simplistic behavior is not well known. Using intracranial electroencephalography, we explored the spectral dynamics and network connectivity of sensorimotor cortical activity during a simple motor task in seven epilepsy patients. Confirming prior work, we see a “spectral tilt” (increased high-frequency (HF, 70–100 Hz) and decreased low-frequency (LF, 3–33 Hz) broadband oscillatory activity) in motor regions during movement compared to rest, as well as an increase in LF synchrony between these regions using time-resolved phase-locking. We then explored this phenomenon in high frequency and found a robust but opposite effect, where time-resolved HF broadband phase-locking significantly decreased during movement. This “connectivity tilt” (increased LF synchrony and decreased HF synchrony) displayed a graded anatomical dependency, with the most robust pattern occurring in primary sensorimotor cortical interactions and less robust pattern occurring in associative cortical interactions. These findings support the hypothesis that task-relevant high-frequency spectral activity is stochastic and that the decrease in high-frequency synchrony may facilitate enhanced low frequency phase coupling and interregional communication. Thus, the “connectivity tilt” may characterize behaviorally meaningful cortical interactions.
Three-dimensional assessment of the maxilla after modified surgically assisted rapid expansion: a retrospective study
Authors: Costa Felippe Almeida , Bahia Marcelo Santos , Chabot Priscila Quintino , Sverzut Cassio Edvard , Trivellato Alexandre Elias
Published: December 2023

Purpose
This retrospective study aims to assess the three-dimensional dentoskeletal effects and median palatal suture opening pattern in patients undergoing modified surgically assisted maxillary rapid expansion (SARME) without separating the pterygomaxillary suture.
Methods
Twenty-eight patients who underwent modified SARME between 2009 and 2016 were retrospectively evaluated through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Dental and skeletal measurements were taken at three operative times (before the expansion - T0, at the end of the activation of the Hyrax device - T1, six months after the immobilization of the device - T2). Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Pearson's correlation coefficient, were performed using SPSS software.
Results
SARME demonstrated significant transverse maxillary expansion (mean 6.05 mm) with a greater impact on the anterior region. Dental measurements, including canine and molar distances, exhibited significant changes over the operative times. Bone measurements (ANS, PNS) showed small but significant alterations, particularly a slight inferior displacement of ANS during device activation. The width of the nasal floor increased, with a subsequent reduction post-immobilization. The median palatal suture predominantly exhibited Type II (V-shaped) opening.
Conclusions
The modified SARME showed an increase in the transversal direction and a super-lower skeletal displacement, with the anterior region being more affected than the posterior region, but there was no alteration in the anteroposterior direction of the maxilla. There was also an increase in linear dental measurements and a reduction in angular measurement, with a positive correlation between the amount of posterior bone expansion and molar expansion resulting from the treatment in the analyzed period.
A novel mutation of EXT2 gene in a Chinese family with hereditary multiple exostosis
Authors: Jiang Bo , Gao Jin , Sang Qinqqing , Sang Daoqian
Published: December 2023

Objective
This study aimed to identify potential pathogenic mutations in EXT1 and EXT2 genes in a Chinese family with hereditary multiple exostosis (HME).
Methods
We directly sequenced exon regions (1–11 for EXT1 gene and 1–14 for EXT2 gene) after amplification of the genomic DNA extracted from the blood samples of the collected family. DANStar and comoparative analysis were used to confirm possible variants.
Results
The nonsense heterozygous mutation EXT2 c.67C > T, previously unreported in Chinese families, was discovered in all diseased individuals but not in normal family members of the pedigree. The EXT2 c.67C > T variation caused the introduction of a stop codon, leading to functional loss. No mutations were detected in the EXT1 gene.
Conclusions
The nonsense mutation EXT2 c.67C > T may be a possible cause of HME in this family.
Machine Learning-Based Prognostic Models for Long-Term Care in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients Unable to Return Home: A Retrospective Analysis of ICU Admissions
Authors: Nyam Tee-Tau Eric , Tu Kuan-Chi , Chen Nai-Ching , Wang Che-Chuan , Liu Chung-Feng , Kuo Ching-Lung , Liao Jen-Chieh
Published: December 2023

Background
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) research often emphasizes mortality rates or functional recovery, overlooking the critical aspect of long-term care needed by patients reliant on institutional and Respiratory Care Ward (RCW) support. This study employs machine learning techniques to develop predictive models for analyzing the prognosis of this patient group.
Method
Retrospective data from electronic medical records at Chi Mei Medical Center, encompassing 2020 TBI patients admitted to the ICU between January 2016 and December 2021, were collected. A total of 44 features were included, utilizing four machine learning models and various feature combinations based on clinical significance and Spearman correlation coefficients. Predictive performance was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and validated with the DeLong test and SHAP (SHapley Additive explanations) analysis.
Result
Notably, 236 patients (11.68%) were transferred to long-term care centers. XGBoost with 27 features achieved the highest AUC (0.823), followed by Random Forest with 11 features (0.817), and LightGBM with 44 features (0.813). The DeLong test revealed no significant differences among the best predictive models under various feature combinations. SHAP analysis illustrated a similar distribution of feature importance for the top eleven features in XGBoost with 27 features and Random Forest with 11 features.
Conclusion
Random Forest demonstrated clinically meaningful predictive capability under 11-feature combinations. This predictive model provides early insights into patients' subsequent care trends, enabling proactive arrangements for institutional or RCW support.
Percieved Biopsychosocial Problems of Stroke Survivors Undergoing Home Care -A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bhagavathy Manjula G , Ramayiah Rama , Gangadharan Shobhana , Bharathi Bindhu , Hussain Taghreed , Muthugounder Kanthasamy , Jothirajan Deepa , Janakiraman Sivagamasundari A , Kurusar Kalaiselvi , Arrab Mervat Mostafa
Published: December 2023

Background
Stroke causes permanent neurological damage and disability. Depending on the severity and type, stroke can leave a person with residual impairment of physical, psychological and social functions. A recurrent stroke can be avoided through integrated and well-coordinated home care which is possible only if stroke survivors perceived needs and problems are identified. This study is designed to describe the biopsychosocial problems of stroke survivors
Methods
The study used an interpretive qualitative approach by conducting in-depth interviews with 10 stroke survivors who had experienced post stroke deficits within one to three years of stroke. Participants were recruited from an outpatient clinic to gain insights into their biopsychosocial issues. Data were analyzed using Diekelmann's hermeneutical approach to uncover themes.
Results
Stroke is a sudden, stressful occurrence that affects the victim as well as their family. Disease affects physical, psychological, and socioeconomic domain. Themes emerged were categorised into these three areas. Subthemes in physical domain included difficulty with movement, nutrition, elimination, rest and sleep and activities of daily living. Subthemes in psychological domain included emotional, behavioural and cognitive reaction. Social and economic factors formed the subtheme of sociecomonic problem theme.
Conclusion
Recognising the problems patients experience while undergoing home care is essential in planning rehabilitative services for stroke victims. It can guide policies and mobilise resources to provide organised home care and prevent hospital readmissions.
New bioinsecticide based on Streptomyces griseoflavus PAL114 for biocontrol of black bean aphid Aphis fabae
Authors: Benbelkhir Fatma Zohra , Allali Khadidja , Benadjila Abderrahmane , Goudjal Yacine , Medjekal Samir , Zamoum Miyada
Published: December 2023

This research highlights the efficiency of a new bioinsecticide based onStreptomyces griseoflavusPAL114 for black bean aphid control and its effect on fava beans. Three actinobacterial strains were testedin vitrofor their aphicidal activity. The PAL114 strain was then formulated in talc powder at two densities (≈ 106and ≈ 108spore ml− 1) and tested again. Furthermore, the bioinsecticide was applied to the plant in two modes in pot experiments to assess its effect. The results showed that PAL114 was the only strain that significantly influenced mortality (p = .001). It induced a very highly significant mortality when formulated (p˂.001), which exceeded 90% after 58 hours. The influence of both densities didn't differ significantly. There was no adverse effect of bioinsecticide on fava bean; in contrast, there was an improvement in growth especially when combined with soil amendment. The present study opens up prospects for field studies for the biocontrol of this crop pest.
Investigation of the shallow bedrock using the seismic refraction method – A case study in New Qena City, Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Gowad Ahmed M. Abdel , El-Haddad Assem E. , Aglan Mohamed I. , Hamed Ahmed
Published: December 2023

The seismic refraction technique has demonstrated its efficiency as a cost-effective geophysical approach for bedrock investigation, which is very important for major construction projects. In the southern part of New Qena City, in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, construction of many domestic facilities is planned. Therefore, a prior investigation focusing on bedrock is required to validate the site for construction and other projects. In this study, a site investigation of the southern part of New Qena City is conducted using the seismic refraction method to estimate the depth and thickness of the bedrock and to present the subsurface structural features affecting the area. Ten seismic refraction profiles were measured, and the data were used for tomographic inversion. The results revealed a three-layered subsurface, with the bedrock represented by the mudstone unit of the Pliocene Durri Formation. This layer is located at a shallow depth and exhibits relatively low velocities as well as lateral velocity variations. This is attributed to the clay content of the layer, the high degree of fracturing, and the lateral facies variation. Therefore, the layer could undergo geotechnical problems that could affect future construction projects in the area. Four subsurface faults were also detected in the velocity sections.
NP, OP and derivatives in freshwater sediment downstream of textile associated municipal wastewater discharges.
Authors: Lalonde Benoit A. , Garron Christine
Published: December 2023

Alkylphenol ethoxylates comprise of many anthropogenic chemicals such as nonylphenol (NP), octylphenol (OP) and nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs). The objectives of this study were to assess the frequency and magnitude of detections of 4-NP, OP and NPEs in Canadian sediment downstream of textile associated municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWWTPs) to determine if regulatory actions have had a beneficial impact on the receiving environment. Surficial sediments were obtained in four locations in the province of Québec (Canada) and were analysed for nonylphenol, nonylphenol monoethoxylates (NP1EO), nonylphenol diethoxylates (NP2EO) and octylphenol from 2015-18. Individual concentrations of the compounds varied from non detect to 419 ng/g. Of the four compounds analysed, NP was detected the most frequently with a 75% detection rate while OPs were not detected in any of the samples. Since the Canadian regulatory actions have drastically reduced NP/NPEs usage in textile mill factories and manufactured products, the potential source of these compounds in sediment for this study could stem from the outfall from the MWWTPs but not related to textile mills as well as from the usage of these compounds as formulants in pesticide products. Lastly, there were no exceedances to the Canadian Sediment Quality guideline toxic equivalency approach (TEQ) of 1400 ng/g.
Mathematical morphology on directional data
Authors: Hauch Konstantin , Redenbach Claudia
Published: December 2023

We define morphological operators and filters for directional images whose pixel values are unit vectors. This requires an ordering relation for unit vectors which is obtained by using depth functions. They provide a centre-outward ordering with respect to a specified centre vector. We apply our operators on synthetic directional images and compare them with classical morphological operators for grey-scale images. As application examples, we enhance the fault region in a compressed glass foam and segment misaligned fibre regions of glass fibre reinforced polymers.
Desktop 3D Printed Anatomic Models for Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass
Authors: Ravi Prashanth , Burch Michael B. , Giannopoulos Andreas A. , Liu Isabella , Kondor Shayne , Chepelev Leonid L. , Danesi Tommaso H. , Rybicki Frank J. , Panza Antonio
Published: December 2023

Background:
Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has impacted many clinical applications across medicine. However, 3D printing for Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB) has not yet been reported in the peer-reviewed literature. The current observational cohort study aimed to evaluate the impact of half scaled (50% scale) 3DP anatomic models in the pre-procedural planning of MIDCAB.
Methods:
Retrospective analysis included 12 patients who underwent MIDCAB using 50% scale 3DP between March and July 2020 (10 males, 2 females). Distances measured from CT scans and 3DP anatomic models were correlated with Operating Room (OR) measurements. The measurements were compared statistically using Tukey’s test. The correspondence between the predicted (3DP & CT) and observed best InterCostal Space (ICS) in the OR was recorded. Likert surveys from the 3D printing registry were provided to the surgeon to assess the utility of the model. The OR time saved by planning the procedure using 3D printed anatomic models was estimated.
Results:
All 12 patients were successfully grafted. The 3DP model predicted the optimal ICS in all cases (100%). The distances measured on the 3DP model corresponded well to the distances measured in OR. The measurements were significantly different between the CT and 3DP (p < 0.05) as well as CT and OR (p < 0.05) groups, but not the 3DP and OR group. The Likert responses suggested high clinical utility of 3D printing. The mean estimated OR time saved was 40 minutes.
Conclusion:
The 50% scaled 3DP anatomic models demonstrated high utility for MIDCAB and saved OR time while being resource efficient. The subjective benefits over routine care that used 3D visualization for surgical planning warrants further investigation.
The effect of family APGAR on alexithymia in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes: The mediating role of fear of progression
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wu Chunyan , Zhao Rui , Zeng Yuting , Sha Yankun , Li Hongyu , Wang Ru
Published: December 2023

Objectives
This study would investigate the role of fear of progression in mediating the relationship between family APGAR and alexithymia.
Methods
A convenience sampling method was used to survey 402 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes in a hospital of Liaoning province. They were surveyed using the general demographic questionnaire, twenty-item Toronto alexithymia scale (TAS-20), family APGAR scale, and fear of progression questionnaire-short form (FoP-Q-SF).
Results
Family APGAR has a negative correlation with alexithymia (r=-0.364, p < 0.01). The fear of progression was positively correlated with alexithymia (r = 0.777, p < 0.01). The mediating effect of fear of progression accounted for 61.17% of the total effect.
Conclusions
This study had shown that the fear of progression plays a mediating role in reducing alexithymia in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.
TiRobot-assisted modified sacroiliac screw combined with LC-II screw for dislocation of Day type II crescent fracture of the pelvis
Authors: Li Renjie , Wang Xiaopan , Guan Jianzhong , Zhao Peishuai , Liu Leyu , Wu Min
Published: December 2023

Purpose
To explore the clinical effect of modified sacroiliac screw and provide a new idea for the clinical treatment of Day type II crescent fracture of the pelvis.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed 42 patients undergoing surgical treatment for Day type II crescent fracture-dislocation from January 2020 to January 2023. TiRobot-assisted modified sacroiliac screws combined with LC-II screws was performed in 21 patients, and TiRobot-assisted traditional sacroiliac screws combined with LC-II screws was performed in other 21 patients. The patient characteristics, fracture classification, lengths of the iliac and sacral segments of the sacroiliac screws, distances between the sacroiliac screw entry point and the iliac fracture line, reduction quality, postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes were compared.
Results
There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, age, cause of injury, fracture classification, time from injury to surgery, or intraoperative blood loss (P > 0.05). The average length of the iliac segment of sacroiliac screws in Group A was 3.71 ± 0.85 cm, which was longer than that in the control group (2.12 ± 0.47 cm, P < 0.01). The average length of the sacral segment for the sacroiliac screws in Group A and Group B was 5.65 ± 0.79 cm and 6.09 ± 0.70 cm, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.066). The average distance between the sacroiliac screw entry point and the iliac fracture line in Group A was 3.31 ± 0.88 cm, which was longer than that in the control group (1.22 ± 0.64 cm, P < 0.01). The reduction quality in Group A was better than that in Group B (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the Majeed score and incidence of postoperative complications at the final follow-up between the two groups.
Conclusion
TiRobot-assisted modified sacroiliac screws combined with LC-II screws is safe and effective in the treatment of Day type II crescent fracture-dislocations of the pelvis, it is worthwhile to be promoted in clinical treatment.
Essential and non-essential elements levels in fish species highly consumed in the middle Miranda River, Brazilian Pantanal
Authors: Quintela Fernando , Silva Fabiano , Correa Fabiano , Carvalho Fernando , Galiano Daniel , Pires Mel , Galatti Ulisses
Published: December 2023

The Miranda River basin spreads over about 40.000 km² and consists of one of the central systems acting in the Pantanal flooding regime in the upper Paraguay River basin. The middle Miranda River has great socioeconomic importance as a source of fishery resources highly exploited by riverine communities, in addition to sustaining very significant fishing tourism in southern Pantanal. The present study investigated the levels of As, Ag, Al, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Pb, Se, and Zn in muscle samples of six fish species (Pygocentrus nattereri, Serrasalmus marginatus, Mylossoma duriventre, Leporinus friderici, Pimelodus argenteus, and P. pantaneiro) highly consumed by local riverine and non-resident people in a highly exploited stretch of middle Miranda River. Interspecific significant differences were detected for Ba, Fe, Mn, and Zn levels. However, these seem unrelated to species' feeding habits once pairwise comparison detected significant differences in element levels between species with similar diets. Significant correlations between body size and concentrations were found for Ba in P. nattereri (moderate positive correlation), and for Mn in M. duriventre (weak positive correlation) and P. argenteus (moderate negative correlation). Levels exceeding tolerable daily intake (TDI) were found for Pb maximum concentrations in P. nattereri, M. duriventre, L. friderici, P. argenteus, and P. pantaneiro, and for Cd maximum concentration in P. argenteus. Adopting a Pb monitoring program in biotic and abiotic compartments in Miranda River is strongly recommended.
Wildlife Resilience in an Urban Landscape: Understanding Land–Use Impacts in Cape Town
Authors: Oladimeji Akinwale , Woodgate Zoë , O’Riain M. Justin
Published: December 2023

Urbanisation is rapidly transforming and fragmenting natural habitat, disrupting ecosystems and negatively impacting biodiversity. The city of Cape Town (CoCT) is situated in a global biodiversity hotspot but sustained anthropogenic activities have resulted in the local extirpation of most medium and large mammals. A recent survey of mammals within urban protected areas of CoCT revealed that only a few, mostly medium–sized generalist species, persist. What is not known is what native mammal species, if any, are living in unprotected green belts and parks in suburban and urban areas of the city. A total of 37 camera trap sites were established along four transects for a period of four weeks between the 31st of January and 31st of May in 2022. A total of 12 terrestrial mammal species were detected, nine of which were wild native mammals with three domestic species. Most detections were in natural habitat followed by suburban with urban areas having the lowest detection rate of native wildlife. Single season hierarchical multi–species occupancy models revealed that tree cover had a significant positive effect on both community and individual species occupancy. Contrary to our predictions, neither human population density nor the extent of the impervious surface at sites had a significant effect on occupancy. Cape grysboks (Raphicerus melanotis) were significantly more likely to occur at sites with a higher proportion of impervious surfaces supporting other recent research which showed this species together with water mongoose and Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) are one of only a few native mammals that appear to persist and even thrive in human–modified landscapes. Our findings underscore the complexity of urban biodiversity conservation and the species–specific responses to environmental factors, emphasizing the importance of tree cover in urban wildlife management.
Role of committees in bank valuation: Evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Nitya Nand Tripathi  , Naseem Ahamed  , Richa Gupta
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of corporate governance mechanisms on bank performance in general and the effect of board-constituted committees on bank performance in particular. Primarily, two questions are addressed in the context of the banking sector of India. First, does corporate governance mechanisms reduce the quantum of non-performing assets (NPAs)? Second, does the internal committee affect bank performance? Hence, this paper determines whether independent directors strengthen corporate boards and whether committees affect bank performance. The panel data ordinary least square regression analysis is used for this study. We also use logistic regression models for various committees to find their relationship with bank performance and NPAs. Tobin’s Q is used as proxy for bank performance. Independent variables are board size (BSIZE), proportion of independent directors on the board (PERIND), number of board meetings per year (BMEET), size of the audit committee (AUC), and two measures of the bank business (asset size and loan), and one control variable is time. We use financial and corporate governance data from 2005 to 2018, the study finds that independent directors play a major role on the board. It finds a positive and significant relationship between board independence and bank performance. The performance also increases with the increase in board size but after a point, the curve declines forming and an inverted U-shaped curve is formed. The mandatory internal committees have a crucial role to play, which is demonstrated by their effect on the reduction of NPAs. The significance of a well-functioning board and internal committees in discharging their fiduciary duties is highlighted in this study. An internal committee comprising a majority of independent directors is found to positively affect the performance of banks. They can help managers disburse good-quality loans and keep a check on risk-laden ventures.
AHMAD MARZUQI AL-BĀTĀWĪ’S THOUGHTS IN FAḌL AL-RAḤMĀN BOOK AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION ON DETERMINING ISLAMIC CALENDAR IN INDONESIA
Authors: Yaqin Ahmad Ainul , Rohman Khabib Syaikhu , Faza Ricka Ulfatul
Published: December 2023

Criteria for the visibility of the new moon have been initiated by Betawi ulama, one of which is found in the book Faḍl al-Raḥmān by Ahmad Marzuqi al-Bātāwī. Ahmad Marzuqi's criteria are very different from those used by the Indonesian Ministry of Religion, giving rise to several differences. Using literature research and interviews as a data collection method, this paper finds that Ahmad Marzuqi al-Bātāwī's thoughts in the book Faḍl al-Raḥmān state that the minimum limit for imkān al-rukyah is 7° without using a telescope. This idea of imkān al-rukyah is still currently being implemented by the al-Marzūqiyyah congregation in Cipinang Muara, East Jakarta, in determining the start of the lunar month so that if the height of the new moon is less than 7° it causes differences with the government.
Regionalization of flow duration curves for catchments in southern India using a hierarchical cluster approach
Authors: Hiremath Chandrashekarayya G. , Nandagiri Lakshman
Published: December 2023

The present study on the hydrologic regionalization was taken up to evaluate the utility of hierarchical cluster analysis for the delineation of hydrologically homogeneous regions and multiple linear regression (MLR) models for information transfer to derive flow duration curve (FDC) in ungauged basins. For this purpose, 50 catchments with largely unregulated flows located in South India were identified and a dataset of historical streamflow records and 16 catchment attributes was created. Using selected catchment attributes, three hydrologically homogenous regions were delineated using a hierarchical agglomerative cluster approach, and nine flow quantiles (10–90%) for each of the catchments in the respective clusters was derived. Regionalization approach was then adopted, whereby using step-wise regression, flow quantiles were related with readily derived basin-physical characteristics through MLR models. Cluster-wise performance analysis of the developed models indicated excellent performance with an average coefficient of determination (R2) values of 0.85, 0.97, and 0.8 for Cluster-1, -2, and -3, respectively, in comparison to poor performance when all 50 stations were considered to be in a single region. However, Jackknife cross-validation showed mixed performances with regard to the reliability of developed models with performance being good for high-flow quantiles and poor for low-flow quantiles.
Revisiting minority stress theory to understand psychological distress among Czech sexual minorities
Authors: Pitoňák Michal , Csajbók Zsófia
Published: December 2023

Minority stress theory explains psychological vulnerability in sexual minorities; however, data is scarce in the Central and Eastern European region. Combining the minority stress model with the Psychological Mediation Framework, we tested a theoretically developed path model. Participants were 1452 (Mage = 24.9 years) Czech sexual-minority individuals (38.7% gay, 27.1% lesbian, 18.7% bisexual women). The model explained 55.5% of the variance of psychological distress in the overall sample, representing a total effect of 9.75% (p < .001) increase in measurement units by the modeled associations. Within the subsamples, the associations were similar between harassment and rejection, stigma awareness, and rejection sensitivity, as well as emotional dysregulation, rumination, and psychological distress. However, internalized homonegativity was a stronger factor of psychological well-being in gay men and lesbian women than in bisexual women. Bisexual women may have experienced less social support and more emotional dysregulation due to more concealment and rejection sensitivity, respectively. While we confirmed that the minority stress model applies to the Czech context and explained well psychological distress in sexual minorities, our data highlights notable differences between bisexual women who reported highest rates of distress compared to gay men and lesbian women.
PCM1: A Potential Prognostic Biomarker Correlated with Immune Infiltration in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Guo Zhihua , Liang Jinghao , Zhang Xin , Ai Qing , Xie Zixian , Zhao Haonan , Wu Fayuan , Tan Zhaofeng , Yin Weiqiang , Ji Linghua
Published: December 2023

Background:

Recent studies have validated the role of Pericentriolar Material 1
(PCM1) in several malignant tumour cell lines, but its specific biological function in lung adenocarcinoma
(LUAD) remains unclear.

Objective:

To address this gap, this study analyzed 411 LUAD and control samples to evaluate the
prognostic value of PCM1 using Cox regression analysis.

Methods:

Multiple genes co-expressed with PCM1 were also analyzed to investigate the biological
processes and roles involved in PCM1. An endogenous competitive network with PCM1 as the
key gene was constructed to uncover its regulatory and competitive relationships in LUAD. The
study further explored the immunological characteristics of PCM1 in different expression groups
based on immune infiltration analysis.

Results:

These findings indicated that higher PCM1 expression levels were associated with better
survival prognoses, possibly due to its antagonistic effects on RHOC. Immunological infiltration
analysis revealed a significant correlation between PCM1 and various immune cell infiltration levels,
including CD4+ T cells, naïve B cells, M2 macrophages, and mast cells. However, there was
no significant relationship between PCM1 and MSI, TMB, or stemness, although it was positively
correlated with m6A genes. Patients with lower PCM1 expression responded better to CTLA-4
therapy. The study also estimated that some chemotherapeutic and targeted agents might be effective
in treating patients with high PCM1 levels. PCM1 was mainly expressed in the cytoplasmic
and membranous structures.

Conclusion:

PCM1 shows potential as a prognostic biomarker for LUAD due to its strong correlation
with immune cell infiltration and its ability to enhance anticancer treatment sensitivity.
Leveraging ChatGPT in Law Enforcement
Authors: Pandey Shubham , Patel Archana
Published: December 2023

The advent of powerful tools like ChatGPT has opened up exciting new possibilities
for augmenting law enforcement capabilities, elevating its efficiency and expanding its capacity.
The AI-driven capabilities of ChatGPT can be harnessed to usher in novel applications in
diverse areas such as language translation, customer service, content generation, and even law
enforcement. In the realm of law enforcement, ChatGPT's potential is boundless, ranging from
the generation of detailed reports and the transcription and translation of vital documents to the
profiling of criminals and the automation of legal documents. However, the deployment of
such technology in law enforcement raises critical issues of privacy, safeguarding fundamental
rights, and the perpetuation of societal biases. Furthermore, the deployment of emerging technologies
like ChatGPT could also open up new avenues for committing cybercrimes. Therefore,
it is crucial to address these issues and establish regulatory frameworks that govern the
use of such advanced technologies. In this paper, we provide legal and technical recommendations
to regulate the use of ChatGPT and mitigate the potential risks associated with its usage,
including the perpetration of various cybercrimes.
Assessing and Improving Data Integrity in Web-Based Surveys: Comparison of Fraud Detection Systems in a COVID-19 Study
Authors: Bonett Stephen , Lin Willey , Sexton Topper Patrina , Wolfe James , Golinkoff Jesse , Deshpande Aayushi , Villarruel Antonia , Bauermeister José
Published: December 2023

Background

Web-based surveys increase access to study participation and improve opportunities to reach diverse populations. However, web-based surveys are vulnerable to data quality threats, including fraudulent entries from automated bots and duplicative submissions. Widely used proprietary tools to identify fraud offer little transparency about the methods used, effectiveness, or representativeness of resulting data sets. Robust, reproducible, and context-specific methods of accurately detecting fraudulent responses are needed to ensure integrity and maximize the value of web-based survey research.

Objective

This study aims to describe a multilayered fraud detection system implemented in a large web-based survey about COVID-19 attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors; examine the agreement between this fraud detection system and a proprietary fraud detection system; and compare the resulting study samples from each of the 2 fraud detection methods.

Methods

The PhillyCEAL Common Survey is a cross-sectional web-based survey that remotely enrolled residents ages 13 years and older to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted individuals, neighborhoods, and communities in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Two fraud detection methods are described and compared: (1) a multilayer fraud detection strategy developed by the research team that combined automated validation of response data and real-time verification of study entries by study personnel and (2) the proprietary fraud detection system used by the Qualtrics (Qualtrics) survey platform. Descriptive statistics were computed for the full sample and for responses classified as valid by 2 different fraud detection methods, and classification tables were created to assess agreement between the methods. The impact of fraud detection methods on the distribution of vaccine confidence by racial or ethnic group was assessed.

Results

Of 7950 completed surveys, our multilayer fraud detection system identified 3228 (40.60%) cases as valid, while the Qualtrics fraud detection system identified 4389 (55.21%) cases as valid. The 2 methods showed only “fair” or “minimal” agreement in their classifications (κ=0.25; 95% CI 0.23-0.27). The choice of fraud detection method impacted the distribution of vaccine confidence by racial or ethnic group.

Conclusions

The selection of a fraud detection method can affect the study’s sample composition. The findings of this study, while not conclusive, suggest that a multilayered approach to fraud detection that includes conservative use of automated fraud detection and integration of human review of entries tailored to the study’s specific context and its participants may be warranted for future survey research.
Extending cBioPortal for Therapy Recommendation Documentation in Molecular Tumor Boards: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Renner Christopher , Reimer Niklas , Christoph Jan , Busch Hauke , Metzger Patrick , Boerries Melanie , Ustjanzew Arsenij , Boehm Dominik , Unberath Philipp
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

In molecular tumor boards (MTBs), patients with rare or advanced cancers are discussed by a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals. Software support for MTBs is lacking; in particular, tools for preparing and documenting MTB therapy recommendations need to be developed.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to implement an extension to cBioPortal to provide a tool for the documentation of therapy recommendations from MTB sessions in a secure and standardized manner. The developed extension should be embedded in the patient view of cBioPortal to enable easy documentation during MTB sessions. The resulting architecture for storing therapy recommendations should be integrable into various hospital information systems.

METHODS

On the basis of a requirements analysis and technology analysis for authentication techniques, a prototype was developed and iteratively refined through a user-centered development process. In conclusion, the tool was evaluated via a usability evaluation, including interviews, structured questionnaires, and the System Usability Scale.

RESULTS

The patient view of cBioPortal was extended with a new tab that enables users to document MTB sessions and therapy recommendations. The role-based access control was expanded to allow for a finer distinction among the rights to view, edit, and delete data. The usability evaluation showed overall good usability and a System Usability Scale score of 83.57.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates how cBioPortal can be extended to not only visualize MTB patient data but also be used as a documentation platform for therapy recommendations.
Towards Ambulatory Baroreflex Sensitivity: A Comparison between Indices of Arterial Line and Photoplethysmography (Preprint)
Authors: Witteveen Jolanda , Beutel Fabian , Hermeling Evelien
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The ability of the body to adjust heart rate to control blood pressure is represented as baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). BRS is traditionally quantified by measuring heart rate changes (obtained via an ECG) following a change in arterial pressure (conventionally measured through an arterial line). The invasiveness of arterial line necessitates alternatives, like the volume clamp method and the less invasive pulse photoplethysmography (PPG). The PPG method is also suitable for continuous and free-living conditions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to better understand which PPG-based features for BRS determination perform best in comparison to BRS based on the volume clamp method and gold standard arterial line and in extension, the feasibility of assessing BRS patterns over 24h by means of a single volunteer.

METHODS

Twenty eight male volunteers (age 52±7 years, BMI 27±4kg/m2) equipped with four sensing modalities: 1. arterial line, 2. infrared PPG, 3 volume clamp finger pressure and 4. ECG, performed a protocol of three repetitive sessions in supine position. For the extended feasibility on continuous BRS measurement, ECG and PPG data were acquired for 24 hours in free-living conditions from a normotensive male volunteer (33 years).
BRS index was calculated in the low frequency window (0.04-0.15 Hz) taking the average over all trials per intervention per subject. A transfer function was estimated with systolic blood pressure or it’s surrogate as input and heart rate (from the ECG) as output.

RESULTS

PPG based BRS features, rise-decay time ratio (RDRatio) and pulse arrival time (PAT), show intra-subject precision of respectively 44% and 23% with inter-subject variation of 91% and 53% respectively. The correlation of BRSPAT,P and BRSRDRatio,P to the gold standard BRSSBP,A is 0.66 and 0.56 respectively. During intervention, the correlations remain high for BRSRDRatio,P (rest: 0.75, Paced-breathing: 0.50, handgrip: 0.46) and BRSPAT,P (rest: 0.69, Paced-breathing: 0.52, Handgrip: 0.62).
On the 24h data the BRSPAT,P and BRSRDRatio,P show changes during the day which are expected considering the activity and correspond to the changes seen in the systolic blood pressure. During the night a cyclic rhythm can be seen for both BRSPAT,P and BRSRDRatio,P.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates PPG-based PAT and RDRatio BRS as suitable surrogates for gold standard BRS derived from arterial line, showing the highest correlation and comparable intra subject coefficient variation, as well as expected changes during controlled activities and a 24-hour feasibility test in free-living conditions.

CLINICALTRIAL

Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg in Genk, Belgium (ethical committee approval number 16/039U)
Manajemen Anestesi pada Percutaneus Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD) dengan Dexmedetomidine
Authors: Sari Djayanti , Wisudarti Calcarina Fitriani Retno , Ferdiansyah David
Published: December 2023

Pasien usia 49 tahun dengan diagnosis Hernia Nucleosus Pulposus (HNP) vertebra lumbal 4-5. Pasien dijadwalkan menjalani prosedur PELD. Teknik anestesi yang digunakan adalah total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) dengan agen dexmedetomidine. Dosis yang digunakan loading 1 mcg per Kgbb dalam 10 menit dilanjutkan dengan titrasi 0,2-0,7 mcg/kgbb/jam. Selama prosedur operator memerlukan konfirmasi dari pasien untuk mencegah adanya komplikasi cedera saraf. Tindakan berlangsung sekitar 2 jam dengan posisi prone. Tingkat sedasi dinilai dengan Ramsay scale score. Hemodinamik selama prosedur stabil dan pasien cukup merasa nyaman.
Hubungan Indeks ROX dengan Mortalitas Pasien COVID-19 di RSUP Dr. Sardjito
Authors: Naomi Diah Anis , Wisudarti Calcarina Fitriani Retno , Widodo Untung
Published: December 2023

Latar belakang: Pada Desember 2019, muncul penyakit infeksi baru yang disebabkan oleh virus corona bernama SARS-CoV-2. Penyakit COVID-19 mengakibatkan kegagalan multiorgan yang terjadi di paru dan ekstraparu, sepsis, bahkan kematian. Gangguan paru yang sering terjadi pada pasien COVID-19 adalah ARDS. Pengenalan dini ARDS dapat dilakukan dengan menilai kondisi klinis pasien dan parameter RR dan SpO2. Indeks ROX adalah suatu penghitungan (SpO2/FiO2)/RR. Indeks ROX berpotensi menjadi salah satu prediktor mortalitas pasien COVID-19

Metode: Penelitian observasional dengan pendekatan kohort retrospektif terhadap pasien COVID-19 yang dirawat inap di RSUP Dr. Sardjito pada bulan Juli 2020 sampai Juni 2021. Pasien COVID-19 tanpa terapi oksigen atau dengan terapi oksigen nasal kanul, NRM, atau HFNC yang dirawat inap, dihitung indeks ROX pada hari pertama perawatan lalu dinilai mengenai hubungan indeks ROX dengan mortalitas pasien dan lama rawat di rumah sakit. Data diambil dari rekam medis di Instalasi Catatan Medis di RSUP Dr. Sardjito.

Hasil: Didapatkan 953 subjek penelitian dengan rata-rata usia 51 (± 15,5) tahun, wanita 479 (50,3%) dan pria 474 (49,7%). Terdapat hubungan bermakna antara indeks ROX £ 15,06 dengan mortalitas pasien COVID-19 (p < 0,001, HR=2,15, CI 95% 1,57-2,94). Faktor lain yang berkaitan dengan mortalitas pasien COVID-19 adalah usia, terapi oksigen dengan HFNC, hipertensi, diabetes melitus, gagal ginjal kronis, dan penyakit kardiovaskular. Waktu ketahanan hidup subjek dengan indeks ROX £ 15,06 adalah 24 hari, lebih pendek dibandingkan kelompok indeks > 15,06 yaitu 31 hari (p < 0,001). Indeks ROX tidak memiliki hubungan bermakna terhadap lama rawat di rumah sakit. Rerata lama rawat inap pada kelompok indeks ROX £ 15,06 adalah 17 hari, lebih lama dibandingkan kelompok indeks > 15,06 yaitu 14 hari (p=0,002). Faktor yang berhubungan dengan lama rawat adalah usia ³ 65 tahun, riwayat hipertensi dan diabetes melitus.

Kesimpulan: Terdapat hubungan bermakna indeks ROX dengan mortalitas pasien COVID-19 di RSUP Dr. Sardjito.