bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical update of Mediterranean chitons (Mollusca: Polyplacophora) with the description of new taxa
Authors: DELL’ANGELO BRUNO , SOSSO MAURIZIO , TAVIANI MARCO
Published: August 2024

The Mediterranean Sea houses a rather diverse chiton fauna (Mollusca: Polyplacophora). Four are here described as new, all based upon loose valves recovered from biogenic sediments: Leptochiton freiwaldi sp. nov., Hanleya schwabei sp. nov., “Ischnochiton” luquei sp. nov., Acanthochitona barbarae sp. nov. The updated Mediterranean Sea chiton fauna comprehends as many as 47 species, distributed in the families Leptochitonidae (15 species), Hanleyidae (3 species), Ischnochitonidae (7 species), Callistoplacidae (1 species), Chaetopleuridae (1 species), Callochitonidae (3 species), Chitonidae (5 species), Lepidochitonidae (6 species), Tonicellidae (1 species), Acanthochitonidae (5 species). Seven taxa are only known from loose valves: Leptochiton antondohrni, L. freiwaldi sp. nov., Hanleya schwabei sp. nov., “Ischnochiton” luquei sp. nov., Lepidochitona marcoi, Boreochiton ruber and Acanthochitona barbarae sp. nov. Similarly to other deep-sea mollusks described from the Mediterranean basin, some of them could possibly belong to last glacial Pleistocene submerged assemblages. On the contrary, Hanleya schwabei sp. nov. and Acanthochitona barbarae sp. nov. occur also at shallower depths, and are assigned to the modern Mediterranean fauna. The presence of the Atlantic taxon Chaetopleura angulata could be an accidental introduction into the Mediterranean. The species Tegulaplax hululensis, considered a Lessepsian immigrant, is a potentially forerunner of a more massive introduction of tropical Polyplacophora via the Red Sea. This study set a baseline for a better understanding of the evolutionary and biogeographic patterns of the Mediterranean Polyplacophora.
Influence of Temperature on Creep Resistance, Structural and Electrical Characteristics of S9Z1 Eutectic Alloys
Authors: Ali Gobran , Al-Salmi Mohammed
Published: August 2024

In the present study, the structural and creep resistance properties of S9Z1 alloys with Cu-addition in concentrations (0.1 and 0.3% Wt.) have been investigated using x-ray diffractions (XRD) and Creep testing machine respectively. The three samples were prepared from high purity 99.99% by melting technique in the Pyrex tubs with CaCl2 to invaded the oxidation. The obtained samples were rolled drawn (cold rolling) into two groups. The first group was as wires for the creep resistance testing. The second group was as small sheets for structural investigations. Patterns of XRD showed that the S9Z1 alloy was primarily composed of two phases; a body centered tetragonal β-Sn matrix phase, and a secondary phase of hexagonal Zn. while with addition Cu (0.1 and 0.3% Wt.) to S9Z1 Alloys the results showed new peaks in the ternary compositions, such as Cu6Sn5, Cu5Zn8, phases respectively. The average of particle size (D) of β-Sn matrix was decreased with increasing Cu -adding, whereas the dislocation density (δ) increased with increasing addition. Creep properties of S9Z1, S9Z2 and 3 Alloys were examined at different temperatures (25, 40 and 80°C) under two constant loads (σ= 18.7 and 24.94 MPa). The creep behaviors of ternary alloys were higher than the S9Z1 alloys with all different temperatures under two constant loads. Also, the S9Z3 alloy with all different temperatures and two loads exhibited greatest creep resistance, due to the refinement structure and formation of new IMCs. Values of stress exponent (n) were found to be in the range of 1 to 10.55, for all S9Z2 and 3 alloys respectively. Values of activation energy (Q) of alloys were found to be in the range of 36.48 to 37.49 kJ/mol, for σ = 18.7 Mpa and 27 to 34.8 kJ/mol for σ = 24.94 Mpa for the S9Z1 alloys with Cu addition respectively. At room temperature (25°C), the electrical conductivity of the samples was calculated, and its values increased with Cu additions.
Thermal Performance of Clay and Millet Waste Compressed Earth Blocks Stabilized with Cement
Authors: Salifou Garba , Harouna Sani , Makinta Boukar , Madougou Saïdou
Published: August 2024

As a contribution of the building sector to mitigating the effects of climate change, namely rising sea levels, floods, droughts, cyclones, sandstorms, retreat of arable land and forest fires, in anticipation of the objectives of the Paris Agreement, on the one hand, and energy efficiency on the other hand and the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly building materials, this paper presents the thermal characterization of compressed earth blocks using two clays used by the population of MARADI in Niger for the construction of habitats. The clays are mixed with sand (10%), cement (4%) and varying proportions of millet waste from 0% to 10%. The study shows that the thermal conductivity of composites decreases as the amount of millet waste increases. Conversely, the thermal resistance increases with each addition. Conductivity values varies from 0.268 W. m−1.K−1 to 0.644 W. m−1.K−1 for MARADAWA clay (BAM) samples and from 0.275 W. m−1.K−1 to 0.723 W. m−1.K−1 for Jiratawa clay (BAJ) samples. This represents a reduction of 61.96% for Jiratawa clay and 58.39% for MARADAWA clay compared to non-added materials. Composite materials are more effective in terms of thermal insulation.
Earlier Seasonal March of the East Asian Summer Monsoon in the Mid-Pliocene
Authors: He Linqiang , Zhou Tianjun , Chen Xiaolong , Zuo Meng , Zou Liwei
Published: August 2024

The mid-Pliocene (∼3.3–3 million years ago) has been considered as a potential analog for future climate, but the seasonal march of the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM)—a distinctive feature of the modern EASM characterized by a northward migration of the monsoon circulation and rainband from early to late summer—remains unclear in this regard. Here, based on model simulations mainly from the Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project Phase 2, we find that the seasonal march of the mid-Pliocene EASM is about two pentads earlier than today. It is accompanied by a northward shift of the monsoon circulation and rainband in July, resulting from both extratropical and tropical processes. For the extratropical path, greener vegetation in the midlatitudes enhances the surface warming, which reduces the meridional temperature gradient. The subsequent weakening and northward shift of the subtropical westerly jet lead to weaker zonal topographic Rossby waves, resulting in an anticyclone over East Asia. For the tropical path, exposure of the Sunda and Sahul shelves weakens the Walker circulation, which suppresses the Maritime Continent convection. The subsequent weakening of the local Hadley circulation increases precipitation in the tropical western North Pacific, which excites a Pacific–Japan meridional teleconnection with anticyclonic circulation over northern East Asia. These processes lead to a northward shift of the western Pacific subtropical high and hence the monsoon rainband. Our results unravel the dominant roles of vegetation and geography in the earlier seasonal march of the mid-Pliocene EASM, and its implications for potential future changes in the EASM’s seasonal march are discussed.
A Dynamical Interpretation of the Intensification of the Winter North Atlantic Jet Stream in Reanalysis
Authors: Hermoso Alejandro , Rivière Gwendal , Harvey Ben , Methven John , Schemm Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Jet streams play an important role in determining weather variability and extremes. A better understanding of the mechanisms driving long-term changes in the jet is essential to successfully anticipate extreme meteorological events. This study analyzes the intensification trend of the North Atlantic jet using the ERA5 reanalysis and investigates the dynamical mechanisms involved. The results highlight the importance of an increase in diabatic heating in the free troposphere below the jet entrance over the Gulf Stream sector. This change in diabatic heating modifies the jet directly and produces a local intensification and a slight poleward shift. A two-dimensional frontal-geostrophic model illustrates this mechanism by considering the enhanced diabatic heating associated with the baroclinic growth of extratropical cyclones. The change in diabatic heating also affects the jet indirectly by increasing the mean baroclinicity and subsequent eddy momentum flux convergence. This indirect mechanism has also an effect downstream, where there is an acceleration of the jet core and reduced westerlies along the flanks, reducing the width of the jet. An idealized warming experiment confirms this mechanism by determining the jet response downstream of an idealized land–sea contrast. Finally, using a single-model ensemble of fully coupled climate simulations, we show that the differences in the evolution of the North Atlantic jet are related to the latitude of the increase in baroclinicity, which has a large spread. What emerges from the model hierarchy is a consistent dynamical chain of mechanisms associated with the intensification trend of the North Atlantic jet stream.
Efficacy and safety of teclistamab in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma after BCMA-targeting therapies
Authors: Touzeau Cyrille , Krishnan Amrita Y. , Moreau Philippe , Perrot Aurore , Usmani Saad Z. , Manier Salomon , Cavo Michele , Martinez Chamorro Carmen , Nooka Ajay K. , Martin Thomas G. , Karlin Lionel , Leleu Xavier , Bahlis Nizar J. , Besemer Britta , Pei Lixia , Stein Sarah , Wang Lin Shun Xin , Trancucci Danielle , Verona Raluca I. , Girgis Suzette , Miao Xin , Uhlar Clarissa M. , Chastain Katherine , Garfall Alfred L.
Published: August 2024

Teclistamab is a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)–directed bispecific antibody approved for the treatment of patients with triple-class exposed relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (R/RMM). In the phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study, a cohort of patients who had prior BCMA-targeted therapy (antibody-drug conjugate [ADC] or chimeric antigen receptor T-cell [CAR-T] therapy) was enrolled to explore teclistamab in patients previously exposed to anti-BCMA treatment. At a median follow-up of 28.0 months (range, 0.7-31.1), 40 patients with prior BCMA-targeted therapy had received subcutaneous 1.5 mg/kg weekly teclistamab. The median prior lines of treatment was 6 (range, 3-14). Prior anti-BCMA therapy included ADC (n = 29), CAR-T (n = 15), or both (n = 4). The overall response rate was 52.5%; 47.5% of patients achieved very good partial response or better, and 30.0% achieved complete response or better. The median duration of response was 14.8 months, the median progression-free survival was 4.5 months, and the median overall survival was 15.5 months. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were neutropenia, infections, cytokine release syndrome, and anemia; cytopenias and infections were the most common grade ≥3 TEAEs. Infections occurred in 28 patients (70.0%; maximum grade 3/4, n = 13 [32.5%]; grade 5, n = 4 [10%]). Before starting teclistamab, baseline BCMA expression and immune characteristics were unaffected by prior anti-BCMA treatment. The MajesTEC-1 trial cohort C results demonstrate favorable efficacy and safety of teclistamab in patients with heavily pretreated R/RMM and prior anti-BCMA treatment. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT03145181 and #NCT04557098.
The multiple mediating effects of vision-specific factors and depression on the association between visual impairment severity and fatigue: a path analysis study
Authors: Schakel Wouter , Bode Christina , van de Ven Peter M. , van der Aa Hilde P. A. , Hulshof Carel T. J. , van Rens Gerardus H. M. B. , van Nispen Ruth M. A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Severe fatigue is a common symptom for people with visual impairment, with a detrimental effect on emotional functioning, cognition, work capacity and activities of daily living. A previous study found that depression was one of the most important determinants of fatigue, but less is known about disease-specific factors in this patient population. This study aimed to explore the association between visual impairment severity and fatigue in adults with low vision, both directly and indirectly, with vision-specific factors and depression as potential mediators.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were collected from 220 Dutch low vision service patients by telephone interviews. Fatigue was defined as a latent variable by severity and impact on daily life. Potential mediators included vision-related symptoms, adaptation to vision loss and depression. Hypothesized structural equation models were constructed in Mplus to test (in)direct effects of visual impairment severity (mild/moderate, severe, blindness) on fatigue through above mentioned variables.

Results

The final model explained 60% of fatigue variance and revealed a significant total effect of visual impairment severity on fatigue. Patients with severe visual impairment (reference group) had significantly higher fatigue symptoms compared to those with mild/moderate visual impairment (β = -0.50, 95% bias-corrected confidence interval [BC CI] [-0.86, -0.16]) and those with blindness (β = -0.44, 95% BC CI [-0.80, -0.07]). Eye strain & light disturbance, depression and vision-related mobility mediated the fatigue difference between the severe and mild/moderate visual impairment categories. The fatigue difference between the severe visual impairment and blindness categories was solely explained by eye strain & light disturbance. Moreover, depressive symptoms (β = 0.65, p < 0.001) and eye strain & light disturbance (β = 0.19, p = 0.023) were directly associated with fatigue independent of visual impairment severity.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate an inverted-U shaped relationship between visual impairment severity and fatigue in patients with low vision. The complexity of this relationship is likely explained by the consequences of visual impairment, in particular by strained eyes and depressive mood, rather than by severity of the disability itself.
Connecting the dots: investigating the link between environmental, genetic, and epigenetic influences in metabolomic alterations in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gupta Ishita , Badrzadeh Fariba , Tsentalovich Yuri , Gaykalova Daria A.
Published: August 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for around 90% of all oral cancers and is the eighth most common cancer worldwide. Despite progress in managing OSCC, the overall prognosis remains poor, with a survival rate of around 50–60%, largely due to tumor size and recurrence. The challenges of late-stage diagnosis and limitations in current methods emphasize the urgent need for less invasive techniques to enable early detection and treatment, crucial for improving outcomes in this aggressive form of oral cancer. Research is currently aimed at unraveling tumor-specific metabolite profiles to identify candidate biomarkers as well as discover underlying pathways involved in the onset and progression of cancer that could be used as new targets for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Metabolomics is an advanced technological approach to identify metabolites in different sample types (biological fluids and tissues). Since OSCC promotes metabolic reprogramming influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including tobacco and alcohol consumption, and viral infections, the identification of distinct metabolites through screening may aid in the diagnosis of this condition. Moreover, studies have shown the use of metabolites during the catalysis of epigenetic modification, indicating a link between epigenetics and metabolism. In this review, we will focus on the link between environmental, genetic, and epigenetic influences in metabolomic alterations in OSCC. In addition, we will discuss therapeutic targets of tumor metabolism, which may prevent oral tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.
The disease burden and its distribution characteristics of clonorchiasis in Guangdong Province, Southern China
Authors: Lin Datao , Deng Zhuohui , Chen Zebin , Jiang Kefeng , Zhang Qiming , Zhou Wenjing , Zhang Qixian , Liu Jun , Wu Zhongdao , Guo Lan , Sun Xi
Published: August 2024

Background

Clonorchiasis has significant socioeconomic importance in endemic areas; however, studies investigating the disease burden in specific sub-regions are lacking. This study aims to address the gap by quantifying the current disease burden caused by clonorchiasis in Guangdong province and assessing its distribution characteristics.

Methods

Comprehensive measures, including prevalence rates, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and direct medical costs, were used to assess the disease burden of clonorchiasis. To estimate the prevalence rate, the number of infections was divided by the examined population, based on the annual surveillance data on clonorchiasis cases during 2016–2021. The calculation of DALYs was based on the epidemiological parameters according to the definition issued by the World Health Organization. Cost data of clonorchiasis were utilized to quantify the direct medical costs. The distribution characteristics of disease burden were assessed through comparisons of groups of population defined by geographic area, time, and characteristics of people.

Results

In 2021, clonorchiasis posed a significant disease burden in Guangdong Province. The prevalence rate was found to be 4.25% [95% CI (4.02%, 4.49%)], with an associated burden of DALYs of 406,802.29 [95% CI (329,275.33, 49,215,163.78)] person-years. The per-case direct medical costs of patients with clonorchiasis were estimated to be CNY 7907.2 (SD = 5154.4). Notably, while the prevalence rate and DALYs showed a steady decrease from 2016 to 2020, there was a rising trend in 2021. Spatial clustering of clonorchiasis cases and DALYs was also observed, particularly along the Pearl River and Han River. This suggests a concentration of the disease in these regions. Furthermore, significant differences in prevalence rates were found among various demographic groups, including sex, age, occupation, and education level. Additionally, patients with longer hospital stays were more likely to incur higher direct medical costs.

Conclusions

The burden of clonorchiasis in Guangdong Province remains high, despite significant progress achieved through the implementation of the prevention and control programs. It is suggested that measures should be taken based on the distribution characteristics to maximize the effectiveness of prevention and control, with a primary focus on key populations and areas.

Graphical Abstract
Tunable quantum transport in topological semimetal candidates LaxSr1-xMnSb2
Authors: Song Jiangpeng , Li Junbo , Du Zan
Published: August 2024

The magnetic semimetal SrMnSb2 contains a nonsymmorphic crystal symmetry that could protect Dirac crossings, offering the coexistence of a quasi-two-dimensional characteristic, magnetic order and nontrivial topology in bulk single crystals. Here, we report the evolution of Fermi surfaces by probing quantum oscillations in the La
x
Sr1-x
MnSb2 single crystals. Hall measurements reveal that the conduction process changes from a hole-dominated multiband nature to a single hole-band nature after La doping. Compared with parent-SrMnSb2, the Fermi surface corresponding to F

α
is slightly enlarged and the small Fermi surface corresponding to F

γ
appears with a tunable feature in La-doped crystals. The topological semimetal candidates La
x
Sr1-x
MnSb2 provide a fine-tuning platform for potential applications in the future.
Using data to identify at-risk groups: limitations and lessons from COVID-19
Authors: Gandy Rob , Gandy John
Published: August 2024

Lessons learned from a review of the UK COVID-19 vaccination programme included the need for improved data sharing. Achieving this will require a sensitive balance between existing data protection legislation, investment in the replacement of legacy systems and an appreciation of the variation in nomenclature used in different sectors (and even within the same sector). Future pandemics may affect different population groups, and the public and media need to understand the definitional and data constraints that could impact the identification of ‘at-risk’ groups. This is particularly important for any associated vaccination rollout. This article illustrates the complexities that can be involved in these data processes, including definitional practicalities relating to certain potential at-risk groups, existing limitations on available data, the need to ask the right questions, the use of data by the media and pressure groups and the importance of sound data. The authors believe that the points raised can contribute to the ongoing debate.
Prevention of surgical site infections: implementing effective strategies
Authors: Sandy-Hodgetts Kylie
Published: August 2024

Surgical site infections are a substantial global burden for both patients and healthcare organisations. Associate professor Kylie Sandy‑Hodgetts outlines the components of effective preventive strategies, emphasising the importance of multidisciplinary working and a drive for change.
‘Disabled children will now be on the street as soon as they turn 18’: reclaiming advocacy, social rights and social work’s visibility in the public debate
Authors: Gerontaki Nikoleta , Rizopoulou Lefkothea , Bolovina Maria Lamprini
Published: August 2024

An inherent element of capitalism is the creation of refugee crises, and states’ imperialist policies are one of the main reasons for the ‘refugee crisis’, as we have recently seen happening again with the Palestinian population. Simultaneously, states’ social policies and the human rights approach frequently do not promote people’s needs and human dignity. All these are inextricably linked to social justice and are the main concerns of social work. This article briefly mentions the housing policy in Greece for refugee young adults. It also presents the collaboration between the Greek Social Workers Action Network and collectives and the media to promote public intervention. Moreover, it introduces an alternative/critical form of claiming rights through advocacy and activism as a tool for shaping social policy from below. Specifically, we reveal advocacy practices opposing legislation to remove the right to an extension for health reasons for young formerly accompanied minors staying in shelters.
Debuit in te officiosior esse: Power, Place, and Accusations of Prostitution in Late Republican Rome
Authors: Schultz Celia E.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article explores the cognitive link among female autonomy, political activity, sexual status, and place in the late Roman Republic. The intersection of non-elite status and political engagement could shape the public perception of a woman's moral status and, in turn, could make scandalous her presence in certain places—physical and metaphorical. When the political activities of a woman such as Praecia, Chelidon, or Volumnia brought her into contact with the men and women of the city's senatorial elite, she left herself open to accusations—warranted or not—of prostitution.
Design, simulation, and experimental realization of a high-sensitivity polarization-independent electromagnetically induced transparent terahertz metamaterials
Authors: Zhou Xinwei , Li Le , Shen Yun , Hong Lujun , Lin Dongdong , Guo Tianjing , Lei Jiangtao
Published: August 2024

Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) originating from quantum physics can lead to a very narrow-band transparent window, which is sensitive to minor environmental changes. The rational construction of highly sensitive EIT metamaterials facilitates its wide sensing application in the terahertz (THz) range. In this work, we designed what we believe to be a novel polarization-independent EIT terahertz metamaterial sensor composed of four symmetrical Chinese Taichi-like rings and a crossed-shaped structure. The Taichi-like rings excite a high-quality planar toroidal dipole resonator and simultaneously crossed-shaped structure induces electric dipole resonance. The EIT effect is realized by the two strongly coupled resonators. The sensor shows higher sensing characteristics for the ultrathin analyte and refractive index than that of the two resonance models alone. The refractive index sensitivity reaches a maximum value of 331.3 GHz/RIU at a saturated thickness of 10 µm. The sensitivities are higher than that of most reported sensors at the same resonance frequency (range from 0.49 THz to 2.77 THz) and with the same analyte thickness (range from 2 µm to 15 µm). We experimentally fabricated the sensor and demonstrated its fascinating EIT effect. Our results pave the way for the design ideas of new polarization-insensitive and high-performance tuned EIT sensors in the THz band.
Altered brain functional connectivity in patients with resistance to thyroid hormone ß
Authors: Göttlich Martin , Chatterjee Krishna , Moran Carla , Heldmann Marcus , Rogge Berenike , Cirkel Anna , Brabant Georg , Münte Thomas F.
Published: August 2024

To investigate changes in brain network organization and possible neurobehavioral similarities to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), we measured changes in brain resting-state functional connectivity (rs-fMRI) and cognitive domains in patients with resistance to thyroid hormone β (RTHβ) and compared them with those in healthy control subjects. In this prospective case-control study, twenty-one participants with genetically confirmed RTHβ were matched with 21 healthy controls. The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) and ADHD Rating Scale-IV were used to assess self-reported symptoms of ADHD. A voxel-wise and atlas-based approach was used to identify changes in the brain networks. The RTHβ group reported behavioral symptoms similar to those of ADHD. We found evidence of weaker network integration of the lingual and fusiform gyri in the RTHβ group, which was mainly driven by weaker connectivity to the bilateral insula and supplementary motor cortex. Functional connectivity between regions of the default mode network (angular gyrus/middle temporal gyrus) and regions of the cognitive control network (bilateral middle frontal gyrus) was increased in RTHβ patients compared to healthy controls. Increased connectivity between regions of the default mode network and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is frequently reported in ADHD and is interpreted to be associated with deficits in attention. Our finding of weaker connectivity of the lingual gyrus to the bilateral insula (salience network) in RTHβ patients has also been reported previously in ADHD and may reflect decreased habituation to visual stimuli and increased distractibility. Overall, our observations support the notion of neuropsychological similarities between RTHβ and ADHD.
Bartonella spp. infection in people with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A pilot study
Authors: Guirguis Verina , Pupillo Francesca , Rodrigues Siena , Walker Nathan , Roth Heidi , Liedig Chance E. , Maggi Richardo G. , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Frohlich Flavio
Published: August 2024

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a neurological disorder at the transition between normal cognitive decline and dementia. Despite the potential role of neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of MCI, infectious triggers remain mostly unknown. Infection with Bartonella spp., a zoonotic bacterium, has recently been associated with diffuse neurological and psychiatric symptoms. Given the preferential endothelial localization of Bartonella spp. and the role of vascular changes in neurocognitive decline, we hypothesized that there is an association between Bartonella spp. infection and pathologically accelerated decline in cognitive function in aging. To test this hypothesis, we collected serological and molecular markers of past and present Bartonella spp. infection in a sample of older people with and without MCI. Samples were processed in a blinded way to exclude laboratory biases. Contrary to our hypothesis, people with MCI were not more likely than people without MCI to have an active Bartonella spp. infection as measured by droplet digital PCR (p = 0.735) and quantitative PCR (p = 1). In addition, there was no significant difference in positive serological results between cases and controls (p = 0.461). Overall, higher-than-expected active Bartonella spp. infection (37% by ddPCR) and seroreactivity (71% by indirect fluorescent antibody assay) were found in people without MCI. Conclusions require caution, as our study was limited by the small number of cases with MCI. Overall, our results identified a higher than previously recognized rate of exposure and infection with Bartonella spp. in this older study population but does not support a specific role for such infection in MCI.
A comparison of dynamic warm-up and “warm-up” using self-massage tools on subsequent sit-and-reach displacement
Authors: Aquino Michele , DiMenna Frederick , Petrizzo John , Yusuff George , Otto Robert M. , Wygand John
Published: August 2024

Objectives

A dynamic warm-up (DWU) comprising exercise involving rhythmic muscle actions results in an acute increase in range of motion; however, recent findings suggest that a passive one using self-massage techniques might elicit a similar effect. This study’s purpose was to compare the acute effect of leg cycling DWU on sit-and-reach score to the effect of a preparatory regimen of foam rolling (FR) or percussive massage (PM).

Design

Single-blind, randomized, repeated-measures crossover study.

Methods

Thirty-two asymptomatic, physically-active participants (male;n= 17) aged 20.9 ± 1.5 years performed sit-and-reach tests before, immediately following and 10-, 20- and 30-minutes following eight minutes of each of the “warm-ups.” Analyses of variance at each time point across conditions and for the percent change elicited by each intervention were conducted to determine significant differences (p < 0.05).

Results

Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant difference between mean percent difference of sit-and-reach score for FR (8.8 ± 0.5%) compared to DWU and PM (p = 0.046 and 0.048, respectively) while DWU (6.3 ± 0.8%) and PM (6.8 ± 0.5%) did not differ (p = 0.717). There were no differences between scores across interventions at any of the four time points.

Conclusions

A bout of FR or PM resulted in an acute increase in a sit-and-reach score during a test performed immediately post and at 10-, 20- and 30-minutes post that was similar in magnitude to that which was present following leg cycling. These passive “warm-ups” are appropriate alternate strategies that can be employed to improve performance on a sit-and-reach test.
Enhanced DBR mirror design via D3QN: A reinforcement learning approach
Authors: Yu Seungjun , Lee Haneol , Ju Changyoung , Han Haewook
Published: August 2024

Modern optical systems are important components of contemporary electronics and communication technologies, and the design of new systems has led to many innovative breakthroughs. This paper introduces a novel application based on deep reinforcement learning, D3QN, which is a combination of the Dueling Architecture and Double Q-Network methods, to design distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs). Traditional design methods are based on time-consuming iterative simulations, whereas D3QN is designed to optimize the multilayer structure of DBRs. This approach enabled the reflectance performance and compactness of the DBRs to be improved. The reflectance of the DBRs designed using D3QN is 20.5% higher compared to designs derived from the transfer matrix method (TMM), and these DBRs are 61.2% smaller in terms of their size. These advancements suggest that deep reinforcement learning, specifically the D3QN methodology, is a promising new method for optical design and is more efficient than traditional techniques. Future research possibilities include expansion to 2D and 3D design structures, where increased design complexities could likely be addressed using D3QN or similar innovative solutions.
Stroke rehabilitation in urban and rural settings in the Philippines: Protocol for an interview and visual elicitation study
Authors: Buckingham Sarah Ann , Dar Juan Alyssa Marie , Demain Sara , De Vera June Ann , Estrada Myrna , Hermosura-Faeldon Lorraine , Kent Bridie , Linog Maria Teresa Sharon , Navea Roy Francis , Jones Fiona ,   on behalf of the TULAY project team
Published: August 2024

Introduction

There is a lack of community-based rehabilitation for stroke in the Philippines, and research on this topic is limited. Different challenges may be encountered in urban and rural settings. The aim of the Tulong, Ugnayan ng Lingap At gabaY (TULAY) project is to develop a context-appropriate, community-based stroke support programme, consisting of self-management and training resources to augment the rehabilitation and recovery process. An important stage in the development of this programme is to qualitatively explore the experiences and needs of all stakeholders.

Materials and methods

Using co-designed and evidence-based topic guides, in-depth semi-structured interviews will be conducted with people living with stroke, household carers and care providers. We will aim to gain a representation of different regions (within Luzon, Visayas, and Northern Mindanao), socioeconomic levels, and urban and rural locations. For people with stroke and household carers, interviews will be supplemented by auto-photography and visual elicitation to widen access for those that prefer to share their experiences visually or have communication problems. An interpretivist paradigm will be applied across all interview data and the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) will be followed. Thematic analysis will be undertaken using guidance by Braun and Clarke.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind in the Philippines. It has several methodological strengths, including the capture of perspectives from multiple stakeholders in diverse settings, the inclusion of people with communication difficulties, use of visual methods, and analysis in the native language. The findings will have various applications, including the potential to influence policy, practice and guidelines, and to inform the development of the TULAY stroke support programme.
How to get over with medication errors underestimation? Improving indices of medication errors with focus on intravenous medications in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation setting; a direct observation study
Authors: Mansouri Ava , Moazzeni Kiana , Valeh Maryam , Heidari Kazem , Hadjibabaie Molouk
Published: August 2024

Background

The administration of intravenous (IV) medications is a technically complicated and error-prone process. Especially, in the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) setting where toxic drugs are frequently used and patients are in critical immunocompromised conditions, medication errors (ME) can have catastrophic reactions and devastating outcomes such as death. Studies on ME are challenging due to poor methodological approaches and complicated interpretations. Here, we tried to resolve this problem using reliable methods and by defining new denominators, as a crucial part of an epidemiological approach.

Methods

This was an observational, cross-sectional study. A total of 525 episodes of IV medication administration were reviewed by a pharmacist using the disguised direct observation method to evaluate the preparation and administration processes of 32 IV medications in three HSCT wards. We reported errors in 3 ratios; 1) Total Opportunities for Error (TOE; the number of errors/sum of all administered doses observed plus omitted medications), 2) Proportional Error Ratio (the number of errors for each drug or situation/total number of detected errors) and, 3) Corrected Total Opportunities for Errors (CTOE; the number of errors/ Sum of Potential Errors (SPE)).

Results

A total of 1,568 errors were observed out of 5,347 total potential errors. TOE was calculated as 2.98 or 298% and CTOE as 29.3%. Most of the errors occurred at the administration step. The most common potential errors were the use of an incorrect volume of the reconstitution solvent during medication preparation and lack of monitoring in the administration stage.

Conclusion

Medication errors frequently occur during the preparation and administration of IV medications in the HSCT setting. Using precise detection methods, denominators, and checklists, we identified the most error-prone steps during this process, for which there is an urgent need to implement effective preventive measures. Our findings can help plan targeted preventive measures and investigate their effectiveness, specifically in HSCT settings.
Latent toxoplasmosis, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes Simplex Virus infections and risk of motorcycle accidents: A case-control study in a county with a high rate of motorcycle injuries in Iran
Authors: Rayatdoost Esmail , Chegin Mahdi , Taghipour Ali , Shadmand Enayat , Rezaei Fatemeh , Falahi Shahab , Kenarkoohi Azra , Badri Milad , Solhjoo Kavous , Abdoli Amir
Published: August 2024

Background

Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are among the most important issues worldwide. Several studies reported that infection with the neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) increased the risk of car accidents. In this study, our objective was to investigate the possible associations among latent T. gondii, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections with the risk of motorcycle accidents in Jahrom (Fars Province), which is a county with a high rate of motorcycle accidents in Iran.

Methods

In the setting of a case-control study; 176 motorcyclist men, including 88 survivors of motorcycle accidents and 88 motorcyclist without accidents, were considered as case and control groups, respectively. Rates of latent infections with T. gondii, CMV, and HSV were assessed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Eleven of 88 (12.5%) in the case group and 22 of 88 (25.0%) in controls were positive for anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies, this difference was statistically significant (OR = 0.42; CI: 0.19–0.95, p = 0.03). The general seroprevalence of CMV (94.3% in the case group vs. 87.5% in the control group, OR = 2.37; CI: 0.78–7.13, p = 0.12) and HSV (63.6% in the case group vs. 62.5% in the control group, OR = 1.05; CI: 0.57–1.94, p = 0.87) were not significantly different between the case and control groups.

Conclusions

Although latent toxoplasmosis has been associated with traffic accidents in recent reports, we found a negative association between latent toxoplasmosis and motorcycle accidents among survivors of these accidents. As such, latent CMV and HSV infections did not differ significantly between the cases compared to the control groups.
Pharmaceutical products, drugs and personal care products in European waters: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Serrano Valera Manuel , Martínez-Alcalá Isabel , Piuvezam Grasiela , Mateo-Ramírez Francisco , Pimenta Isac Davidson Santiago Fernandes , Vela Nuria
Published: August 2024

This study aims to describe a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis that assesses the detection and concentration of pharmaceutical products, drugs, and personal care products in European waters. This study protocol was developed following the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-P) statement and the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We will include studies conducted on European waters of various origins (watersheds, aquifers, rivers, seas, springs, wastewaters, and drinking water). A comprehensive search strategy will be implemented in the following databases: PubMed (Medline), EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers will conduct all study selection procedures, data extraction, and methodological evaluation. Any disagreements will be referred to a third reviewer. If the studies are sufficiently homogeneous, we will conduct a meta-analysis to summarize the data. We will use the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) to assess the certainty of the evidence. The systematic review and meta-analysis will provide valuable information about the presence and concentration of these types of contaminants in water, aiding in the development of public policies regarding prevention and decontamination measures to enhancing water quality in Europe.
PredIL13: Stacking a variety of machine and deep learning methods with ESM-2 language model for identifying IL13-inducing peptides
Authors: Kurata Hiroyuki , Harun-Or-Roshid Md. , Tsukiyama Sho , Maeda Kazuhiro
Published: August 2024

Interleukin (IL)-13 has emerged as one of the recently identified cytokine. Since IL-13 causes the severity of COVID-19 and alters crucial biological processes, it is urgent to explore novel molecules or peptides capable of including IL-13. Computational prediction has received attention as a complementary method to in-vivo and in-vitro experimental identification of IL-13 inducing peptides, because experimental identification is time-consuming, laborious, and expensive. A few computational tools have been presented, including the IL13Pred and iIL13Pred. To increase prediction capability, we have developed PredIL13, a cutting-edge ensemble learning method with the latest ESM-2 protein language model. This method stacked the probability scores outputted by 168 single-feature machine/deep learning models, and then trained a logistic regression-based meta-classifier with the stacked probability score vectors. The key technology was to implement ESM-2 and to select the optimal single-feature models according to their absolute weight coefficient for logistic regression (AWCLR), an indicator of the importance of each single-feature model. Especially, the sequential deletion of single-feature models based on the iterative AWCLR ranking (SDIWC) method constructed the meta-classifier consisting of the top 16 single-feature models, named PredIL13, while considering the model’s accuracy. The PredIL13 greatly outperformed the-state-of-the-art predictors, thus is an invaluable tool for accelerating the detection of IL13-inducing peptide within the human genome.
«Ghostly plants of damaged words»
Authors: Armet Alizée
Published: August 2024

«Ghostly plants of damaged world» -a biomedia installation- offers a particular vision of the crossroads between technology and ecology. Biomedia refers to any media system with attitudes similar to those of the non-human.Through invocations of scientific knowledge and techniques, this research-creation raises the limits of our understanding of what constitutes soil typology. By presenting the mutation of an albino plant and the mutualism of mycorrhizae, the work reminds us that ecology is not just an attention to our uses, but a relational attention. From this approach, we will focus on the research methodology and creative stages involved in the work, and the knowledge contributed.
-87, propuesta de producción artística hacia la carbono neutralidad
Authors: Vargas Trigo Antonio
Published: August 2024

En el presente articulo se toma como marco referencial la carrera hacia un mundo carbono neutral en 2050, a partir de allí se busca cuestionar y analizar las limitaciones en su implementación, así como explorar el papel del artista contemporáneo en dicho escenario. Se indaga en la responsabilidad y compromiso individual como artista asumiendo una implicación tangible en este contexto. El trabajo plantea el abordaje de una investigación de carácter estético de alcance transdisciplinar que articule problemáticas relacionadas con la acción artística y con el análisis cuantitativo de las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero.
Optimal and Tolerant Conditions for Alginate and Calcium Chloride for the Semen Encapsulation of Pasundan Bull
Authors: Khan Ayesha , Manan Muhammad Abdul , Samsudewa Daud , Pamungkas Fitra Aji , Zulfiqar Hamza , Irfan Saad , Haidari Kiran , Wulandari Vidi , Hadi Didik Nurul
Published: August 2024

The study aimed to determine the tolerance of Pasundan bull's sperm with different alginate and calcium chloride (CaCl2) concentrations to identify optimal conditions for sperm encapsulation. Semen samples were collected weekly with artificial vaginas from pasundan bulls. Pooled semen was divided into 9 equal volumes. The first sample was diluted with tris egg yolk extender (control), 4 samples were diluted with tris egg yolk extender supplemented with different concentrations of alginate (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1%), and 4 other samples with CaCl2 (2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mM). Evaluation of semen was determined after 5 min incubation at room temperature and after overnight storage at 5 °C. Results showed that after 24h of refrigerated storage, the values for total motility and progressive motility in the groups with 2.5 mM CaCl2 and 0.25% alginate showed no difference compared to the control group. In contrast, a significant difference (P0.05) was found between the other groups with  CaCl2 and alginate. The progressive motility value in the group with alginate concentration greater than 0.25% decreased significantly (P0.05). There was no difference between the groups (both alginate and CaCl2) in the spermatozoa viability and plasma membrane integrity variable. In conclusion, sperm with 2.5 mM calcium chloride and 0.25 % alginate was more tolerant of appropriate prolonged exposure and the sperm encapsulation process.
Vaccination against Herpes zoster in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory rheumatic diseases: new data
Authors: Muravyova N. V. , Belov B. S.
Published: August 2024

Patients with immune-mediated inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IIRD) are more likely to develop herpes zoster (HZ) than individuals in the general population. Live attenuated vaccines and inactivated recombinant vaccines with adjuvant are available to prevent the disease and its complications. Live attenuated vaccine can be used in patients with IIRD if certain conditions are met, although these cannot always be fulfilled. The advantage of the inactivated recombinant adjuvant vaccine is that it can be used against a background of anti-rheumatic therapy. The review analyzes foreign studies on the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of recombinant adjuvant vaccine against HZ in patients with IIRD.
Management of patients with infective endocarditis: current state-of-art. Part II: treatment, prevention
Authors: Belov B. S. , Tarasova G. M. , Muravyova N. V.
Published: August 2024

The problem of infective endocarditis (IE) remains relevant due to the high mortality rate and the development of severe complications. IE is a polyetiological disease, which can be caused by an extremely extensive list of pathogens, which is replenished almost annually. At the same time, effective antimicrobial therapy is made considerably more difficult by the increasing resistance of IE pathogens to antibiotics and the growing etiological role of infectious agents that were previously very rare. Part II of the article presents the basic principles of treatment and prevention of IE, considering the latest recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology 2023.