bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competence of Entrants and Accounts on the Implementation of Senior High School Pre-Baccalaureate Maritime Program in Negros Occidental
Authors: Batalla Edison T
Published: July 2023

The Philippines is one of the single biggest nationality blocs in the maritime and shipping industries; thus, the country's efforts to improve the Maritime Program in secondary and tertiary education are highly significant. This study aimed to determine the level of competence of Maritime Senior High School students and gather accounts of implementing the maritime program in the basic education system in Negros Occidental. It adopted the mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The paper used mean, standard deviation, and Mann-Whitney for comparing differences between two independent groups for the statistical treatment analysis of the quantitative data. Coding and identifying common themes, patterns, and responses were used in the thematic analysis of the descriptive information provided by the interviewees. The findings revealed that the competence of the SHS students in the pre-baccalaureate maritime program was at the skill level in terms of introduction to maritime careers and introduction to marine transportation and engineering, and at the leadership level in terms of introduction to maritime safety, irrespective of the school enrolled and preferred program. The development of the quality system and support, execution of the curriculum, administration of assessments, and sustained and continuous pursuit of excellence that comprise the ideal practices of the school explained the current findings. Laying the foundation (PSG), Embedding the PSG into the school norms and practices, acting on or carrying out the program, and Determining Outcomes are the four steps that make up the new paradigm for conducting pre-baccalaureate maritime programs known as LEAD.
Impact of Biochar Application on Chemical and Microbial Properties of Soil
Authors: Wigan Minajoy B.
Published: July 2023

Biochar is a carbonaceous solid compound formed by high-temperature of organic waste. The quality of biochar produced is determined by pyrolysis conditions and the type of raw materials. This study focused on the evaluation of the impact of biochar application on soil chemical and microbial properties. Four types of biochar from corn cobs, sawdust, mud press, and rice hull were produced and their chemical composition (pH, Organic Matter, Organic Carbon, Total Nitrogen, Carbon: Nitrogen Ratio, Available Phosphorus, and Exchangeable Potassium) was analyzed.  A pot experiment with five treatments [T1 - Pure Soil; T2 – Soil + corn cob biochar; T3 – soil + sawdust biochar; T4 – soil + mud press biochar; T5 – soil + rice hull biochar] replicated three times was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD). An equal amount of soil was placed in pots and mixed with biochar at a ratio of fifty grams (50g) per one-thousand grams (1000g) of soil. A total of fifteen experimental pots were used in the study where each pot contains a soil-biochar mixture of one-thousand five-hundred grams (1500g). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine how the soils applied with biochar are affected after sixty days of incubation and determine how biochar sources were related. All four biochar from rice hull, corn cobs, mud press, and sawdust are all alkaline and contain comparable amounts of organic matter, organic carbon, pH, soil nitrogen, available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium. The result of the study showed that biochar application significantly improved soil pH, soil organic matter content, soil organic carbon, and soil nitrogen content. Soils amended with biochar showed comparable amounts of available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium. The application of biochar in soils therefore can be considered a potential solution to enhance soil fertility for sustainable crop production.
Learning Co-Creation and Self-Determination: Lessons from Teaching Event Marketing
Authors: Vergara Raymond Allan , Vergara Kimberly Christie
Published: July 2023

The role of learners in the learning process has increasingly evolved in the learning process, leaning towards a more active and participatory role in the learning process. The article explores the value of co-creation of learning and proposes that this value-in-use in the co-creation process is the learner’s intrinsic motivation. The study attempts to extend the self-determination theory by exploring learner experiences and presents a conceptual framework. The study finds that students that co-create their learning experiences in event marketing classes lead to self-motivation.
Literature Teaching Forms Student Character
Authors: Simarmata Radode Kristianto
Published: July 2023

The teaching of literature involves strengthening awareness about ethical attitudes . Literature is considered less important and has less role in society. HKBP University English Education Students Nommensen Pematangsiantar are the young generation, the next generation, who will become the owners of a diverse and unique nation's future . This research aspect (research focus) is to form a commendable moral culture/character in the acquisition of literary teaching which is evident in the influence of the sensitivity factor of a person's feelings who have studied a lot in various literary works in showing which things are valuable and which are not valuable (ethical culture/character noble character/ The Character Building ) with the 3P method (touching, awakening, and developing conscience). object Research (type of material to be studied and research aspects) attitude and character of English Language Education Study Program students at HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar University in teaching literature. The research subjects were 15 English Language Education Students at HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar University. Teaching literature using the 3P method which pivots on motivation has succeeded in changing the mind-set of the way of thinking of English Language Education Students at HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar University so that the character of noble character is formed.
Embracing My Body: Unveiling the Diversity in Body Appreciation among Clustered Groups of Filipina Emerging Adults
Authors: Neves Aerin Paulina B. , Padama Angela Marie D. , Malgapu Mia Gayle S. , Golosino Benecia Loyd V. , Arcinas Myla M.
Published: July 2023

This study examines the body appreciation levels of clustered groups of Filipinas emergent adult  in Metro Manila based on their socio-demographic characteristics (SDCs), body esteem (BE), quality of relationship with their parents (QRP), and quality of interactions with their peers (QIP). Using a purposive non-probability sampling technique, 227 Filipina emerging adults between 18 and 29 from Metro Manila participated in the study. The data was collected through an online survey using a semi-structure questionnaire. Mann-Whitney U-test and Kruskal-Wallis were used to determine the significant difference between clustered groups. Findings show that young Filipinas emerging adults have higher BA levels; college undergraduates have higher BA levels; there is no significant difference in BA levels between income groups; those with high BE have higher BA; those with poor QRP have higher BA; there is no significant difference in BA levels between excellency groups. In conclusion, a statistically significant difference exists between the BA levels of the aggregated categories of BE, QRP, EA, and age. To further examine the body appreciation of Filipina emerging adults, a blended method study can provide depth to the findings generated using the quantitative study.
Designing a Positive Psychological Intervention (PPI) Program for Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs)
Authors: Masanda Argel B.
Published: July 2023

This manuscript explored the integration of positive psychological science in the context of treatment and rehabilitation of persons who use drugs (PWUDs). Banking on the psychological needs of PWUDs based on the initial investigation conducted by Masanda et., al. (2022), this study endeavors to design a Positive Psychology Intervention (PPI) program that aims to harness the Character Strengths and Virtues (CSV) of the PWUDs as supplemental to their drug abuse treatment and rehabilitation. Guided by Positive Psychology, only the exclusive psychologically relevant data were included in creating the comprehensive psychological program. Specifically, the session activities of PPI are designed to enhance the following CSVs of the PWUDs: conformity, hope, self-acceptance, assertiveness, self-esteem, self-regulation, openness to change, motivation, personal strength, patience, happiness, and belongingness. The designed PPI is a 14-session program intended to be delivered once a week within three months. It was subjected to the scrutiny of three expert psychologists with decades of forensic psychological experience. Based on their judgments guided by the evaluation standards stipulated by Yarbrough et al. (2010), the designed PPI serves the psychological needs of the PWUDs in terms of their drug abuse treatment and rehabilitation, with its session activities deemed as realistic, prudent, diplomatic, and frugal. The program also shows and conveys technically adequate activities relative to drug addiction that merits good service. Finally, PPI also secures legal and ethical requirements with due regard for the welfare of the PWUDs and other stakeholders. Pertinent implications and recommendations germane to the designed program are provided.
Tax Management on Income Tax article 21 at PT Cahaya Abadi Lestari
Authors: Wauran Anita Ludia Vivian , Wuwung Milleano Gilbert Ludowyk , Langi Treesje Amelia Clara
Published: July 2023

Tax is a source of state revenue for the implementation of government and development activities as well as a stimulus for economic activity. Revenue from the tax sector greatly supports the implementation of development in various sectors as a form of government service to the community. Income tax is a type of tax collected by the government based on law number 36 of 2008. Income tax has great potential for the government in the taxation sector, income tax (PPh) includes general income tax, PPh 21, PPh 22, PPh 23, PPh 24, PPh 25, PPh 26. The purpose of this study is to find out whether the calculation and reporting of income tax at PT.Cahaya Abadi Lestari is in accordance with law No.36 of 2008. Research Methods, The method used in this research is descriptive quantitative. From the results of this study it is known that with the existence of tax management on PPH 21, the company is able to carry out the process of calculating, recording and reporting taxes in terms of PPh 21 income tax in accordance with the current Tax Law and policies.
Aplicações da saúde digital no cuidado obstétrico: impactos e perspectivas que extrapolam a pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Perez Murilo Pissinati , Oliveira Nathália Cristian Ferreira de , Reis Zilma Silveira Nogueira
Published: July 2023

Introdução: O bem-estar da mulher em uma visão integral do cuidado à saúde feminina, exemplificado pelo cuidado obstétrico e atenção pré-natal, se respalda no acesso aos serviços de saúdes e à informação de qualidade, o que aumenta o empoderamento feminino, reduz complicações e os índices de mortalidade materno-fetais. Impulsionados pelo período de pandemia COVID-19, diversos sistemas informatizados têm se tornado aliados no cuidado à saúde da mulher e ao desenvolvimento da gestação, sendo a telemedicina e os aplicativos em saúde pilares importantes da e-Saúde que facilitam a interface médico-gestante.
Objetivo: Levantar evidências científicas na literatura sobre os impactos da implementação de sistemas de saúde digital na promoção de saúde e atenção à gestante durante o cuidado pré-natal e a validação da informação gerada pela gestante.
Método: Foram utilizadas as bases de dados PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar e BVS no período de 2016 a 2021, com descritores em português e inglês, incluindo artigos de revisão, meta-análises, coortes prospectivas e retrospectivas, assim como os relatos de caso.
Resultado e Discussão: Foram selecionados 13 artigos e analisados sob a perspectiva de três grandes áreas envolvidas na aplicação da saúde digital ao cuidado obstétrico, dentre as quais a validação da informação da gestante constitui uma ferramenta de fomento às políticas públicas e  pesquisas epidemiológicas, sendo a qualidade dessa informação e a participação ativa da gestante pilares importantes para a promoção de saúde materna-infantil; ademais, aplicativos educativos em saúde tem sido uma das formas informatizadas pela qual a telemedicina se populariza dentre os pacientes, inclusive como meio intervencionista nas relações médico-paciente. Assim, ferramentas de saúde obstétrica como o pré-natal se tornaram mais acessíveis e diversificadas, mesmo em um período de pandemia, por meio da e-Saúde. Por fim,o plano de parto mostra-se uma ferramenta eficaz no pré-natal, facilitando a comunicação da gestante com a equipe médica, familiares e amigos acerca das suas preferências quanto ao processo de parto, estimulando a mulher a ser protagonista de seu parto, humanizando-o.
Conclusão: A análise das publicações avaliadas apontam que as tecnologias de informação na área de saúde obstétrica permitem um cuidado integral e próximo por meios eletrônicos como aplicativos digitais, melhorando a atenção e diminuindo barreiras de acesso aos serviços de saúde. Aliadas a um plano de parto consolidado e informatizado, além de partilharem conteúdos educativos, ainda potencializam o poder de decisão feminino.
Genetics of Pulmonary Pressure and Right Ventricle Stress Identify Diabetes as a Causal Risk Factor
Authors: Bagheri Minoo , Agrawal Vineet , Annis Jeffrey , Shi Mingjian , Ferguson Jane F. , Freiberg Matthew S. , Mosley Jonathan D. , Brittain Evan L.
Published: July 2023

Background

Epidemiologic studies have identified risk factors associated with pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure, but causative drivers of pulmonary hypertension and right heart adaptation are not well known. We sought to leverage unbiased genetic approaches to determine clinical conditions that share genetic architecture with pulmonary pressure and right ventricular dysfunction.

Methods and Results

We leveraged Vanderbilt University's deidentified electronic health records and DNA biobank to identify 14 861 subjects of European ancestry who underwent at least 1 echocardiogram with available estimates of pulmonary pressure and right ventricular function. Analyses of the study were performed between 2020 and 2022. The final analytical sample included 14 861 participants (mean [SD] age, 63 [15] years and mean [SD] body mass index, 29 [7] kg/m
2
). An unbiased phenome‐wide association study identified diabetes as the most statistically significant clinical
International Classifications of Diseases
,
Ninth Revision
(
ICD‐9
) code associated with polygenic risk for increased pulmonary pressure. We validated this finding further by finding significant associations between genetic risk for diabetes and a related condition, obesity, with pulmonary pressure estimate. We then used 2‐sample univariable Mendelian randomization and multivariable Mendelian randomization to show that diabetes, but not obesity, was independently associated with genetic risk for increased pulmonary pressure and decreased right ventricle load stress.

Conclusions

Our findings show that genetic risk for diabetes is the only significant independent causative driver of genetic risk for increased pulmonary pressure and decreased right ventricle load stress. These findings suggest that therapies targeting genetic risk for diabetes may also potentially be beneficial in treating pulmonary hypertension and right heart dysfunction.
Cigarette Smoking as a Risk Factor for Hematoma Expansion in Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Analysis From a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Schupper Alexander J. , Khorasanizadeh Mirhojjat , Rossitto Christina P. , Foster Lydia D. , Kellner Christopher P. , Suarez Jose I. , Qureshi Adnan I. , Majidi Shahram , Qureshi Adnan I. , Palesch Yuko Y. , Martin Renee L. , Barsan William G. , Silbergleit Robert , Hanley Daniel F. , Moy Claudia S. , Hsu Chung Y. , Steiner Thorsten , Suarez Jose I. , Toyoda Kazunori , Wang Yongjun , Yamamoto Haruko , Yoon Byung‐Woo
Published: July 2023

Background

Cigarette smoking is a well‐known risk factor for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. We evaluated the impact of smoking status on hematoma expansion and clinical outcome in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods and Results

This is a post hoc exploratory analysis of the ATACH (Antihypertensive Treatment at Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage)‐2 trial. Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage were randomized into intensive blood pressure lowering (systolic blood pressure, <139 mm Hg) versus standard blood pressure lowering (systolic blood pressure, 140–179 mm Hg) in this study. We compared the demographic characteristics; hematoma size, location, and expansion rate; and clinical outcome based on subjects' smoking status. Of a total of 914 patients in the trial with known smoking status, 439 (48%) patients were ever smokers (264 current smokers and 175 former smokers). Current and former smokers were younger and more likely to be men. Baseline Glasgow Coma Scale score and initial hematoma size did not vary based on smoking status. Ever smokers had higher rates of thalamic hemorrhage (42% versus 34%) and intraventricular hemorrhage (29% versus 23%); this rate was highest among former smokers versus current smokers (49% versus 35%, respectively). Ever smokers had a higher rate of hematoma expansion in 24 hours (adjusted relative risk [RR] [95% CI], 1.46 [1.08–1.96]) compared with nonsmokers on multivariate analysis. There was no significant difference in the rate of death and disability at 90 days between the 2 groups (adjusted RR [95% CI], 1.18 [0.998–1.40]).

Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrates cigarette smoking as an independent predictor for hematoma expansion. There was no significant difference in death and disability based on smoking status.
Regional Borders, Commuting and Transport Network Integration
Authors: Loumeau Gabriel
Published: July 2023

This paper exploits spatial quasi-experimental variation around French departmental borders to provide novel evidence that regional borders disturb surrounding economic activity; namely, commuting flows, catchment areas, and residential density. The lack of integration of local transport networks at regional borders – leading to a 4.5km travel distance penalty when crossing borders – explains the observed border effects. Using a spatial quantifiable equilibrium framework and accounting for construction costs, a policy simulation exercise shows that integrating local transport networks leads to a 6.36% average growth in real per capita residential income.
Financial Constraints, Sectoral Heterogeneity, and the Cyclicality of Investment
Authors: Howes Cooper
Published: July 2023

While investment in most sectors declines in response to a contractionary monetary policy shock, investment in the manufacturing sector increases. Using manually digitized aggregate income and balance sheet data for the universe of US manufacturing firms, I show this increase is driven by the types of firms which are least likely to be financially constrained. A two-sector New Keynesian model with financial frictions can match these facts; unconstrained firms take advantage of the decline in the user cost of capital caused by the monetary contraction, while constrained firms are forced to cut back. Removing firm financial constraints in the model dampens the response of manufacturing output to monetary shocks by about 25%.
Is the Patent System Sensitive to Incorrect Information?
Authors: Freilich Janet , Kim Soomi
Published: July 2023

We investigate whether participants in the patent system are sensitive to information quality by examining how they treat inaccurate information. We use a novel approach to identify patents with inaccurate information: patent-paper pairs where the paper has been retracted and the corresponding patent contains the retracted material. Despite containing inaccurate information, we find that these patents are prosecuted and maintained by many applicants, are not rejected by examiners, and continue to be cited by some downstream readers after retraction. Insensitivity to inaccurate information may lead to erroneous decisions during examination and has implications for patent quality, disclosure, and knowledge flows.
Typifications in Scleria subgenus Scleria section Hymenolytrum (Cyperaceae)
Authors: SCHNEIDER LAYLA JAMYLLE COSTA , SIMÕES ANDRÉ OLMOS , DIAS ANA CRISTINA ANDRADE DE AGUIAR , GIL ANDRÉ DOS SANTOS BRAGANÇA
Published: July 2023

Scleria subgenus Scleria section Hymenolytrum currently comprises 15 accepted species. Seven lectotypes (Scleria boivinii, S. poeppigii, S. porphyrorhiza, S. reflexa var. surinamensis, S. stipularis, S. tonduzii and S. violacea) and one neotype (S. vaginata) are proposed here to promote the taxonomic stability of this group.
Pottingeria acuminata Prain (Celastraceae): A new generic and species record for the flora of Vietnam
Authors: BON TRINH NGOC , SAVINOV IVAN A. , HA DO THI THANH , ZIMMER HEIDI , SON NGUYEN THANH , SON HOANG THANH
Published: July 2023

Pottingeria acuminata Prain (Celastraceae), collected from Son La Province, northern Vietnam near Laos is reported here as a new genus and species record for the flora of Vietnam. The species differs from all other Celastraceae very well by its leaves which are distichous, venation basally triplinerved, other nerves not distinct. Taxonomic notes, descriptions, photographs are provided, together with short notes on the distribution, ecology and phenology of Pottingeria acuminata.
A new subfamily Calasterelloideae and new genus Calasterella for a phylogenetically and morphologically distinct member of the Aytoniaceae
Authors: LONG DAVID G. , ZHENG TIAN-XIONG
Published: July 2023

Based on a phylogenetically and morphologically distinct species, a new genus Calasterella is established. A new subfamily, Calasterelloideae, is also proposed to contain this genus.
On the taxonomy of genus Endotricha Zeller (Pyralinae, Pyralidae, Lepidoptera) with description of three new species from India
Authors: RANJAN RAHUL , SINGH NAVNEET , KIRTI JAGBIR SINGH
Published: July 2023

Herein, we deal with the taxonomy of 12 species of Endotricha including three new species: Endotricha sikkima Ranjan, N. Singh & Kirti, sp. nov., E. fuscosimilata Ranjan, N. Singh & Kirti, sp. nov. and E. lii Ranjan, N. Singh & Kirti, sp. nov. from India. Endotricha dumalis Wang & Li, 2005 and E. valentis Kirpichnikova, 2003 are reported for the first time from India. Synonymy (if any), diagnosis, material examined, distribution, and illustrations of the male adults and genitalia are provided for all the studied species, and female adults and their genitalia for four species. For the new species, a detailed description is also given.
A new species of the genus Onychopterocheilus Blüthgen, 1955 from the Altai Mountains, with the re-description and new records of the closely related O. kiritshenkoi (Kostylev, 1940) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae)
Authors: FATERYGA ALEXANDER V. , BUYANJARGAL BATCHULUUN
Published: July 2023

Onychopterocheilus (Asiapterocheilus) proshchalykini Fateryga, sp. nov. is described from the Altai Republic (Russia). The new species is closely related to O. (A.) kiritshenkoi (Kostylev, 1940) but distinctly differs from it by the structure of the clypeus, the female vertex and scutellum, the male genitalia, as well as the coloration. In addition, O. proshchalykini has somewhat larger body size. Onychopterocheilus kiritshenkoi is re-described. Both species have the northernmost distribution among 13 currently recognized species of the Central Asian subgenus Asiapterocheilus. Onychopterocheilus chinensis Gusenleitner, 2005 is transferred to this subgenus from the nominotypical one. Onychopterocheilus kiritshenkoi is recorded from the Altai Republic for the first time; two new localities of this species from Mongolia are also reported. Females of O. kiritshenkoi were observed at flowers of two species of Fabaceae: Caragana bungei Ledeb. and Vicia costata Ledeb. The wasps acted as primary nectar robbers, i.e., they made holes in the calyx to access nectar with their relatively long proboscises.
Anthrenus (s. str.) semipallens sp. nov., a new species from Spain (Coleoptera: Dermestidae: Anthreninae)
Authors: HOLLOWAY GRAHAM J. , HERRMANN ANDREAS
Published: July 2023

During an examination of Spanish Anthrenus spp. held in Andreas Herrmann’s private collection, four specimens of a new species were noted: Anthrenus (Anthrenus) semipallens. Images of habitus features, including antenna, are presented and compared with other Anthrenus species thought to occur in Spain. A. semipallens is small so some comparison species could be eliminated courtesy of size. Although A. semipallens doesn’t resemble the colour pattern of any other species, the possibility that A. semipallens is an unknown colour variant of a comparison species was considered. The A. semipallens specimens were dissected and the aedeagus compared with aedeagi from all other possible species. There was no similarity. Anthrenus semipallens is a valid new species.
First record of the Zebra Grasshopper Zebratula (Acrididae: Catantopini) in Queensland, Australia
Authors: CONNORS MATTHEW G.
Published: July 2023

Australia’s grasshopper fauna is among the most distinctive in the world, and yet the majority of species remain undescribed, and there is still much to learn even about relatively well-documented genera and species. Here I present the first record of the genus Zebratula, the Zebra Grasshoppers, in Chillagoe (Queensland), representing a range extension of almost 900 km. Additionally, I comment on the specific identity of this specimen and the likelihood that it represents an undescribed species, as well as discuss the importance of Chillagoe as a biodiversity hotspot.
Fluoralforsite, Ba5(PO4)3F – a new apatite-group mineral from the Hatrurim Basin, Negev Desert, Israel
Authors: Krzątała Arkadiusz , Skrzyńska Katarzyna , Cametti Georgia , Galuskina Irina , Vapnik Yevgeny , Galuskin Evgeny
Published: July 2023

Fluoralforsite, ideally Ba5(PO4)3F, (space group P63/m (#176), Z = 2, a = 10.0031(2) Å, c= 7.5382(2) Å and V = 653.23(3) Å3), is a new mineral species of the apatite group – a Ba-analogue of fluorapatite and a F-analogue of alforsite. It was discovered in rankinite paralava filling cracks in pyrometamorphic gehlenite hornfels near the tributary of wadi Zohar and Gurim Anticline, Hatrurim Basin, Negev Desert, Israel. Fluoralforsite occurs in small intergranular spaces between large gehlenite and garnet crystals and in enclaves inside large rankinite crystals with other Ba minerals such as walstromite, zadovite, bennesherite, gurimite, mazorite, barioferrite and baryte. It forms tiny transparent, colourless crystals up to 50 μm with a white streak and a vitreous lustre. The cleavage was not observed. It exhibits a brittle tenacity and a conchoidal fracture. The estimated Mohs hardness is 4–4½, and its calculated density is 4.57 g/cm–3. Fluoralforsite is uniaxial (–) with refractive indices (589 nm) nω = 1.689(3) and nɛ = 1.687(3). The empirical crystal-chemical formula for the holotype calculated on the basis of 8 cations is: (Ba3.81Ca0.97Na0.07K0.05Sr0.05Fe0.05)Σ5(P5+2.32V5+0.29S6+0.22Si0.17)Σ3O12(F0.85Cl0.13)Σ0.98. The crystal structure was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data with R1 = 0.0192. The structural investigation indicated an ordered arrangement of Ba/Ca at the M1 site within individual columns running along the c-axis, but a disordered distribution among adjacent columns throughout the structure, which enables the maintenance of the P63/m space group. Fluoralforsite was formed at the final stage of crystallisation as a result of a reaction between the primary mineral assemblages and residual melt.
Palaeomagnetic and mineral magnetic analyses of the Deckenschotter of northern Switzerland and southern Germany
Authors: Scheidt Stephanie , Buechi Marius W. , Egli Ramon , Biedermann Andrea R. , Deplazes Gaudenz
Published: July 2023

The Deckenschotter is a fluvial to glaciofluvial gravel unit in northern Switzerland and southern Germany. The deposits are considered the oldest preserved glacial to interglacial Quaternary deposits in the northern Alpine foreland and are thus important geomorphological markers for landscape evolution. Nevertheless, the age of the deposits is only approximately known and subject to controversial debates. This study presents the results of an extensive palaeomagnetic investigation carried out on intercalated fine-grained sediments at 11 sites of the Höhere Deckenschotter (HDS) and at 5 sites of the Tiefere Deckenschotter (TDS). The HDS show reversed and normal magnetisations, indicating deposition > 0.773 Ma, while the TDS exhibit only normal directions. Age constraints for the different sites are discussed in the light of evidence from other studies. The study therefore clearly supports the efforts to determine the age of the Deckenschotter. As data from previous palaeomagnetic studies on the HDS and TDS have not been published or preserved, this is in fact the only data-based palaeomagnetic study available.
Effect of a nitrogenous nanocomposite on leaching and N content in lettuce in soil columns
Authors: Rojas-Velázquez Ángel N. , Guillén-Castillo Oscar I. , Alcalá-Jauregui Jorge A. , Loredo-Osti Catarina , Ramírez-Tobías Hugo M. , Romero-Méndez Mauricio J. , Méndez-Cortés Heriberto , Hernández-Montoya Alejandra
Published: July 2023

Nanofertilizers could promote nutrient efficiency with slow release compared to conventional fertilizers (CF). Most of the applied nitrogen is lost on the soil by leaching, due to the rapid release behavior of CF. Clays can function as a nanosized porous structure to retain and slowly release nutrients. The objective of this study was to evaluate a nitrogenous nanocomposite (NCN) and its effect on leaching and N content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa). The treatments applied were: 100% conventional fertilizer, 100% nitrogenous nanocomposite and the mixture in percentage of CF/NCN 25/75, 50/50, 75/25 and 25/0, 50/0 75/0% on columns of soil with lettuce for 45 days. Leachates at the end of the cycle increased in treatments with NCN. Treatments with NCN have higher N content in the leaf. In regard to biomass growth, leaf area, leaf N, drained variables, electrical conductivity and NO3− content, it was possible to show that the doses of 50 and 75% of NCN match the characteristics of the crop compared to the control, which allows us to use lower doses than those recommended with CFs.
Biofilms and their role on diseases
Authors: Gondil Vijay Singh , Subhadra Bindu
Published: July 2023

Biofilms are complex, three-dimensional structures that provide a long-established survival mechanism for microorganisms. Biofilms play a substantial role in pathogenesis as they can evade the immune response and be highly resistant to conventional antimicrobials, thus impacting the human health and healthcare system. To address this issue, BMC Microbiology invites submissions to the collection ‘Biofilms and its impact on disease’.
Effects of targeted mild hypercapnia versus normocapnia on cerebral oxygen saturation in patients undergoing laparoscopic hepatectomy under low central venous pressure: a prospective, randomized controlled study
Authors: Lv Huayan , Xiong Chang , Wu Bo , Lan Zhijian , Xu Duojia , Duan Dingnan , Huang Xiaoxia , Guo Jun , Yu Shian
Published: July 2023

Background

Laparoscopic hepatectomy under low central venous pressure (LCVP) is associated with intraoperative organ hypoperfusion, including cerebral hypoperfusion. We hypothesized that a ventilation strategy designed to achieve targeted mild hypercapnia (TMH) (end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure [PetCO2] of 45 ± 5 mmHg) rather than targeted normocapnia (TN) (PetCO2 of 30 ± 5 mmHg) would increase regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) during laparoscopic hepatectomy under LCVP.

Methods

Eighty patients undergoing laparoscopic hepatectomy under LCVP were randomly divided into the TMH group (n = 40) and the TN group (n = 40). Mechanical ventilation was adjusted to maintain the PetCO2 within the relevant range. Cerebral oxygenation was monitored continuously using the FORE-SIGHT system before anesthetic induction until the patient left the operating room. Patient and surgical characteristics, rSO2, intraoperative hemodynamic parameters (CVP, mean artery blood pressure [MAP], and heart rate), PetCO2, intraoperative blood gas analysis results, and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results

No significant differences were observed in CVP, MAP, and heart rate between the two groups during surgery. The rSO2 was significantly lower in the TN group on both the left and right sides during the intraoperative period (P < 0.05), while the TMH group had a stable rSO2. In the TN group, the mean rSO2 decreased most during liver parenchymal transection when compared with the baseline value (P < 0.05). The mean (standard deviation) percentage change in rSO2 from baseline to parenchymal transection was − 7.5% (4.8%) on the left and − 7.1% (4.6%) on the right. The two groups had a similar incidence of postoperative complications (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that rSO2 is better maintained during laparoscopic hepatectomy under LCVP when patients are ventilated to a PetCO2 of 45 ± 5 mmHg (TMH) than a PetCO2 of 30 ± 5 mmHg (TN).

Trial registration

ChiCTR2100051130(14/9/2021).
The predictive value of relative wall thickness on the prognosis of the patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhang Ying , Qiao Shuaihua , Hao Han , Li Qiaoling , Bao Xue , Wang Kun , Gu Rong , Li Guannan , Kang Lina , Wu Han , Wei Zhonghai
Published: July 2023

Objective

The study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of relative wall thickness (RWT) in the patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

A total of 866 patients with STEMI admitted in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School from November 2010 to December 2018 were enrolled in the current study retrospectively. Three methods were used to calculate RWT: RWTPW, RWTIVS+PW and RWTIVS. The included patients were divided according to the median values of RWTPW, RWTIVS+PW, and RWTIVS, respectively. Survival analysis were performed with Kaplan–Meier plot and multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was established to evaluate the adjusted hazard ratio of the three kinds of RWT for all cause death, cardiac death and MACE (major adverse cardiac death).

Results

There was no significance for the survival analysis between the low and high groups of RWTPW, RWTIVS+PW and RWTIVS at 30 days and 12 months. Nonetheless, the cumulative incidence of all cause death and cardiac death in the low group of RWTPW and RWTIVS+PW was higher than those in the high group at 60 months. The cumulative incidence of MACE in the low group of RWTPW was higher than the high group at 60 months. Multivariate Cox regression model showed that RWTPW were inversely associated with long-term cardiac death and MACE in STEMI patients. In the subgroup analysis, three calculations of RWT had no predictive value for the patients with anterior myocardial infarction. By contrast, RWTPW was the most stable independent predictor for the long-term outcomes of the patients with non-anterior myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

RWTPW, RWTIVS+PW and RWTIVS had no predictive value for the long-term clinical outcomes of patients with anterior myocardial infarction, whereas RWTPW was a reliable predictor for all cause death, cardiac death and MACE in patients with non-anterior myocardial infarction.
Methylated SEPT9 combined with AFP and PIVKA-II is effective for the detection of HCC in high-risk population
Authors: Zheng Kepu , Dai Leiyang , Zhao Yingpeng , Li Laibang , Li Wang , Zhang Xibing , Su Qiuming , Wu Ruichao , Jiang Yizhou , Chen Yonglin , Ran Jianghua
Published: July 2023

Background

The methylation SEPT9 (mSEPT9) appeared to be effective for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection. However, its performance in high-risk population has not been validated. We designed a pilot study and aimed to investigate the performance of mSEPT9, AFP, PIVKA-II and their combination in hepatic cirrhosis (HC) population.

Methods

A training cohort was established including 103 HCC and 114 HC patients. 10 ml blood was collected from each patient with K2EDTA tubes, and 3–4 ml plasma was extracted for subsequent tests. The performance of mSEPT9, AFP, PIVKA-II and their combination was optimized by the training cohort. Test performance was prospectively validated with a validation cohort, including 51 HCC and 121 HC patients.

Results

At the optimal thresholds in the training cohort, the sensitivity, specificity and area under curve (AUC) was 72.82%, 89.47%, 0.84, and 48.57%, 89.92%, 0.79, and 63.64%, 95.95%, 0.79 for mSEPT9, AFP and PIVKA-II, respectively. The combined test significantly increased the sensitivity to 84.47% (P < 0.05) at the specificity of 86.84% with an AUC of 0.91. Stage-dependent performance was observed with all single markers and their combination in plasma marker levels, positive detection rate (PDR) and AUC. Moderate correlation was found between mSEPT9 and AFP plasma levels (r = 0.527, P < 0.0001). Good complementarity was found between any two of the three markers, providing optimal sensitivity in HCC detection when used in combination. Subsequent validation achieved a sensitivity, specificity and AUC of 65.31%, 92.86%, 0.80, and 44.24%, 89.26%, 0.75, and 62.22%, 95.27%, 0.78 for mSEPT9, AFP and PIVKA-II, respectively. The combined test yielded a significantly increased sensitivity of 84.00% (P < 0.05) at 85.57% specificity, with an AUC at 0.89.

Conclusions

The performance was optimal by the combination of mSEPT9, AFP, PIVKA-II compared with any single marker, and the combination may be effective for HCC opportunistic screening in HC population.
Effects of a prenatal mindfulness program on longitudinal changes in stress, anxiety, depression, and mother–infant bonding of women with a tendency to perinatal mood and anxiety disorder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pan Wan-Lin , Lin Li-Chiu , Kuo Li-Yen , Chiu Mu-Jung , Ling Pei-Ying
Published: July 2023

Background

Stress is a risk factor for poor physical and mental health, affecting new mothers’ ability, especially those with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, to maintain their everyday lives. Over the past 50 years, global incidences of depression and anxiety disorders have increased, reaching pandemic levels. These incidences represent major public health issues that are challenging to detect and treat. Mindfulness programs are viable for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The present study evaluates mindfulness intervention effects on stress, anxiety, depression, and mother–infant bonding.

Methods

We collected data on 102 women participating in a prenatal mindfulness program between July 2021 and March 2022; they were parallel and randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. The intervention group received an 8-week course in a prenatal mindfulness program, and the control group received usual standard prenatal care. The self-reported stress, pregnancy-related anxiety, and depression were assessed before and after the intervention and at 36 weeks of gestation. At 2 and 4 months postpartum, all participants provided self-reported their levels of stress, depression, and quality of mother-infant bonding.

Results

Compared to the control group, the experimental group that received the prenatal mindfulness intervention experienced reduced prenatal stress, anxiety, and depression and reduced postnatal stress and depression. Despite this, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the quality of mother-infant bonding.

Conclusions

Mindfulness prenatal programs are convenient and effective methods of decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression during the perinatal period. Based on our findings, prenatal mindfulness may play a role in mitigating mood and anxiety disorders and should be considered in future approaches to preventing psychological distress.

Trial registration number

This trial has been prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04693130) and the first registration date was 12/24/2020.
Network Evolution Model-based prediction of tumor mutation burden from radiomic-clinical features in endometrial cancers
Authors: Tan Qing , Wang Qian , Jin Suoqin , Zhou Fuling , Zou Xiufen
Published: July 2023

Background

Endometrial Cancer (EC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies that affect the female population globally. In the context of immunotherapy, Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB) in the DNA polymerase epsilon (POLE) subtype of this cancer holds promise as a viable therapeutic target.

Methods

We devised a method known as NEM-TIE to forecast the TMB status of patients with endometrial cancer. This approach utilized a combination of the Network Evolution Model, Transfer Information Entropy, Clique Percolation (CP) methodology, and Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification. To construct the Network Evolution Model, we employed an adjacency matrix that utilized transfer information entropy to assess the information gain between nodes of radiomic-clinical features. Subsequently, using the CP algorithm, we unearthed potentially pivotal modules in the Network Evolution Model. Finally, the SVM classifier extracted essential features from the module set.

Results

Upon analyzing the importance of modules, we discovered that the dependence count energy in tumor volumes-of-interest holds immense significance in distinguishing TMB statuses among patients with endometrial cancer. Using the 13 radiomic-clinical features extracted via NEM-TIE, we demonstrated that the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) in the test set is 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.95–1.00), surpassing the performance of existing techniques such as the mRMR and Laplacian methods.

Conclusions

Our study proposed the NEM-TIE method as a means to identify the TMB status of patients with endometrial cancer. The integration of radiomic-clinical data utilizing the NEM-TIE method may offer a novel technology for supplementary diagnosis.
Development and validation of prognostic nomogram for T1-3N0M0 non-small cell lung cancer after curative resection
Authors: Mei Weijian , Yao Wang , Song Zhengbo , Jiao Wenjie , Zhu Lianxin , Huang Qinghua , An Chaolun , Shi Jianguang , Yu Guiping , Sun Pingli , Zhang Yinbin , Shen Jianfei , Xu Chunwei , Yang Han , Wang Qian , Zhu Zhihua
Published: July 2023

Background

Radical resection plus lymph node dissection is a common treatment for patients with T1-3N0M0 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Few models predicted the survival outcomes of these patients. This study aimed to developed a nomogram for predicting their overall survival (OS).

Materials and methods

This study involved 3002 patients with T1-3N0M0 NSCLC after curative resection between January 1999 and October 2013. 1525 Patients from Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center were randomly allocated to training cohort and internal validation cohort in a ratio of 7:3. 1477 patients from ten institutions were recruited as external validation cohort. A nomogram was constructed based on the training cohort and validated by internal and external validation cohort to predict the OS of these patients. The accuracy and practicability were tested by Harrell's C-indexes, calibration plots and decision curve analyses (DCA).

Results

Age, sex, histological classification, pathological T stage, and HI standard were independent factors for OS and were included in our nomogram. The C-index of the nomogram for OS estimates were 0.671 (95% CI, 0.637–0.705),0.632 (95% CI, 0.581–0.683), and 0.645 (95% CI, 0.617–0.673) in the training cohorts, internal validation cohorts, and external validation cohort, respectively. The calibration plots and DCA for predictions of OS were in excellent agreement. An online version of the nomogram was built for convenient clinical practice.

Conclusions

Our nomogram can predict the OS of patients with T1-3N0M0 NSCLC after curative resection. The online version of our nomogram offer opportunities for fast personalized risk stratification and prognosis prediction in clinical practice.
Association between the use of weight management strategies and weight change among Australian adults over 12 months: an observational study
Authors: Singh Ben , Olds Timothy , Curtis Rachel , Ferguson Ty , Matricciani Lisa , Brown Wendy J , Dumuid Dorothea , Esterman Adrian , Maher Carol
Published: July 2023

Background

Obesity is a growing, global public health issue. This study aimed to describe the weight management strategies used by a sample of Australian adults; examine the socio-demographic characteristics of using each strategy; and examine whether use of each strategy was associated with 12-month weight change.

Methods

This observational study involved a community-based sample of 375 healthy adults (mean age: 40.1 ± 5.8 years, 56.8% female). Participants wore a Fitbit activity monitor, weighed themselves daily, and completed eight online surveys on socio-demographic characteristics. Participants also recalled their use of weight management strategies over the past month, at 8 timepoints during the 12-month study period.

Results

Most participants (81%) reported using at least one weight management strategy, with exercise/physical activity being the most common strategy at each timepoint (40–54%). Those who accepted their current bodyweight were less likely to use at least one weight management strategy (Odds ratio = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.22–0.64, p < 0.01) and those who reported being physically active for weight maintenance had a greater reduction in bodyweight, than those who did not (between group difference: -1.2 kg, p < 0.01). The use of supplements and fasting were associated with poorer mental health and quality of life outcomes (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The use of weight management strategies appears to be common. Being physically active was associated with greater weight loss. Individuals who accepted their current body weight were less likely to use weight management strategies. Fasting and the use of supplements were associated with poorer mental health. Promoting physical activity as a weight management strategy appears important, particularly considering its multiple health benefits.