bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Preschool Children Access Quality Books? Reading Culture of Parents and Teachers and Book Selection for Children
Authors: Teke Nergiz , Baş Tuğba , Çabuk Burcu
Published: July 2024

This correlational study aimed to evaluate the reading cultures of preschool teachers and parents of 3–6-year-old children, and their book selection criteria for preschool children. For this purpose, data were collected from 242 preschool teachers and 247 parents who voluntarily participated in the study. Participants were asked to evaluate their own reading culture and book selection criteria for their preschool children through measurement tools. They were then asked to send them to other parents and teachers they knew through snowball sampling. As a result of the analyses, it was found that there was a positive correlation between both parents' and preschool teachers' reading for individual development, basic reading skills, book choices for themselves and reading culture total scores and physical characteristics, language and character, content and total children's book selection criteria scores. In the light of the findings, suggestions were made to parents and teachers about creating a reading culture and selecting quality books.
Provincial city or regional capital? Concepts and barriers to the rebuilding of Wrocław in 1945–1947 from wartime destruction
Authors: Głowiński Tomasz
Published: July 2024

The destruction suffered by Wrocław as a result of warfare in 1945 threatened the further existence of the city, which from May of that year constituted the largest urbanised area of the western and northern lands ceded to Poland by the Allies. The main challenge faced by the Polish administration in the capital of Lower Silesia in the first period of its functioning, i.e. between 1945 and 1947, was to make an inventory of losses in the urban substance, develop a reconstruction concept for the city and begin its implementation.
Optimization and simulation in infrastructure projects using BIM
Authors: Crippa Julianna , Ugaya Cássia Maria Lie
Published: July 2024

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review focused on optimization and simulation practices in infrastructure projects using Building Information Modeling (BIM). The main objective of this article is to systematically identify methods proposed in the literature that use optimization or simulation with BIM in infrastructure projects and subsequently analyze and correlate these applications. The analysis, involving 22 documents from various journals and conferences, concentrates on bibliometric trends, in which notable sources are "Transportation Research Procedia" and "Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology". The publication count exhibits a fluctuating trend over the years. Italy emerged as a leading contributor, actively engaging in significant international collaboration. Citation analysis reveals 197 citations, in which the most cited publication received 67 citations. Key terms extracted from abstracts included "Building Information Modeling," "Infrastructure Projects," and "Geographic Information System (GIS)". Digital Simulation was the most often applied technique, closely followed by Artificial Intelligence algorithms, particularly the Genetic Algorithm. Autodesk tools, especially Civil 3D and Revit, were widely used alongside interfaces such as Dynamo, Grasshopper and programming languages such as Python. Overall, the research sheds light on the current state of these practices in infrastructure projects using BIM and provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners. The diverse range of objects, objectives, phases, tools, and techniques in the optimization process opens avenues for future investigations in this evolving domain, benefiting various infrastructural contexts.
Initial Sofa Score and Mortality of Sepsis Patients in the Intensive Care Unit of Haji Adam Malik Hospital Medan: Does It Correlate?
Authors: Hanif Raisa Syifa , Hamdi Tasrif , Kadri Alfansuri , Megawati Eka Roina
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction or failure that is the primary cause of death in infectious disease. the Sepsis-3 Task Force recommends The Sequential (Sepsis-Related) Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) Score as a means of Sepsis identification. Objective: To determine the correlation between sepsis patients’ deaths in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Haji Adam Malik Hospital Medan and their initial SOFA score. Materials and Methods: This study uses a cross-sectional study design and an observational analytical investigation. The sample for this study was sepsis patients who were treated in the ICU of Haji Adam Malik Hospital Medan in 2021-2022, and they were selected using the purposive sampling method. After calculating the Slovin formula, 61 samples are required. The researchers obtained the data from patient medical records. The analyses used are univariate and bivariate, with the Independent-T test and Fisher’s exact. Results: From 71 patients, there were 36 patients (50.7%) in the age group of 46-65 years old; 39 patients (54.9%) were male; 50 patients (70.4%) had comorbidities; and 50 patients (70.4%) had non-surgical disease. The average initial SOFA score was 9.89 ± 3.95, with mortality for sepsis patients in the ICU of 74.6%. The findings of the statistical analysis indicated a substantial difference (p<0.001) in the SOFA scores of those who survived and those who did not, as well as a significant correlation (p<0.001) between the initial SOFA score and mortality. Conclusion: There is a correlation between initial SOFA score and the mortality of sepsis patients in the ICU of Haji Adam Malik Hospital.
АНАЛІЗ УСПІШНОСТІ БІЗНЕС-МОДЕЛЕЙ УКРАЇНСЬКИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ НА ЄВРОПЕЙСЬКОМУ РИНКУ НА ПРИКЛАДІ МІЖНАРОДНИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ
Authors: Гавриш Ю. О. , Зозульов О. В. , Симоненко А. Л.
Published: July 2024

У статті розглядаються аспекти успішності бізнес-моделей українських компаній на європейському ринку. Через призму аналізу успішних і невдалих виходів українських компаній, таких як Grammarly, AgroFarm, Аврора та ін., виокремлено ключові фактори, що визначають їх конкурентоспроможність на європейському ринку. З метою аналізу успішність бізнес-моделей українських підприємств на європейському ринку у дослідженні було проаналізовано підходи до визначення поняття «бізнес-модель», її роль та місце у загальній функціональності підприємства. Розглянуто економічні, технологічні та міжнародні аспекти успішності бізнес-моделей підприємств. В межах економічного аспекту визначено, що важливою складовою є не лише здатність отримувати прибуток, але й ефективне використання ресурсів та управління витратами. Технологічний аспект вказує на визначальну роль технологій та інновацій у досягненні успіху економічного аспекту бізнес-моделей на європейському ринку. При аналізі міжнародного аспекту виявлено, що важливі виклики українських компаній пов’язані з різноманітністю культур, правових норм і умов ринку в різних країнах. Аналіз кейсів виходу українських підприємств на європейський ринок дозволяє побачити ключові фактори успіху на момент такого виходу. Порівняльний аналіз використовувався для вивчення відмінностей між успішними та неуспішними кейсами. Статистичні дані були використані для підтвердження висновків, зроблених на основі аналізу. Було проаналізовано підходи до визначення поняття «бізнес-модель» та надано власне визначення «бізнес-моделі підприємства» з урахуванням холістичності її впливу на функціональність підприємства. Підкреслено важливість якості продукції, стратегічного маркетингу, соціальної відповідальності, гнучкості та адаптивності у роботі з різними культурними та економічними умовами. Визначено необхідність комплексного підходу до виходу на європейський ринок та постійного вдосконалення стратегій для забезпечення сталого успіху в глобальному бізнес-середовищі. Це підтверджує, що успіх на європейському ринку вимагає більше, ніж просто якісного продукту. Він вимагає стратегічного планування, гнучкості, здатності адаптуватися до нових умов, постійного вдосконалення компанії та продукту. Стаття містить стислий опис кейсів виходу українських підприємств з різними видами економічної діяльності на європейський ринок, що може бути корисним для розуміння того, як українські підприємства можуть досягти успіху на ринку країн ЄС.
ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКИ ЕЛЕКТРОПЕРЕДАВАЛЬНИХ КОМПАНІЙ ЯК СПЕЦИФІЧНОГО ОБ'ЄКТА РОЗВИТКУ І УПРАВЛІННЯ ЙОГО ПОТЕНЦІАЛОМ
Authors: Гнатуш П. Б. , Русин-Гриник Р. Р. , Федорчак О. Є.
Published: July 2024

У статті аргументовано, що електропередавальні компанії відіграють надзвичайно важливу роль у сучасній енергетичній системі, що обумовлено їх ключовими характеристиками та викликами, які вони зустрічають у своїй діяльності. Висока капіталомісткість, технологічна складність, регуляторне середовище, важливість для економіки та національної безпеки, залежність від інновацій, взаємодія з відновлюваною енергетикою та екологічний вплив – ці аспекти визначають електропередавальні компанії як специфічний об'єкт розвитку і управління. Обґрунтовано, що управління цими компаніями вимагає комплексного підходу, який включає стратегічне планування, інновації, відповідальність перед довкіллям та врахування потреб громадськості. Також доведено, що успішна інтеграція відновлюваних джерел енергії та ефективне управління екологічним впливом є не лише технічними, а й соціальними завданнями, що вимагають активної взаємодії з усіма зацікавленими сторонами. У цьому контексті, електропередавальні компанії мають унікальну можливість сприяти сталому розвитку, забезпечуючи надійне та ефективне постачання електроенергії, при цьому мінімізуючи свій вплив на довкілля та сприяючи переходу до більш чистих форм енергетики. Враховуючи викладене, стає зрозумілим, що електропередавальні компанії становлять важливу ланку в енергетичній інфраструктурі країни, відіграючи ключову роль у забезпеченні її енергетичної безпеки, економічного розвитку та екологічної стійкості.
ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЯ МЕТОДОЛОГІЧНИХ ПІДХОДІВ ДО ПРОЄКТНОГО МЕНЕДЖМЕНТУ ВІДПОВІДНО ДО КОНЦЕПЦІЇ ІНДУСТРІЯ 5.0
Authors: Пілюков А. О.
Published: July 2024

У статті розглядається новий трансформаційний підхід до виробничих процесів Індустрія 5.0. Оскільки Індустрія 5.0 представляє наступний етап промислової еволюції, спираючись на досягнення Індустрія 4.0, приділяючи більший акцент інноваціям, орієнтованим на людину, персоналізації, екологічності та інтеграції передових технологій для підвищення людських можливостей, наголошуючи на персоналізації, співпраці між людьми та машинами, екологічності та інтеграції передових технологій. У той час як Індустрія 4.0 все ще зосереджена насамперед на економічних цілях, яких потрібно досягти шляхом цифрової трансформації та автоматизації монотонних робочих процесів, Індустрія 5.0 так само несе соціальні та екологічні цілі. Відштовхуючись від новітніх тенденцій, які запропоновані в Індустрія 5.0, проводиться аналіз змін, які були зроблені у методологічних підходах до управління проєктами на базі останніх редакцій PMBOK Зведення сукупності знань з управління проєктами.
ІНТЕЛЕКТУАЛЬНИЙ КАПІТАЛ В УМОВАХ ЦИФРОВІЗАЦІЇ: МЕТОДИЧНІ ПІДХОДИ ДО ОЦІНЮВАННЯ ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ В СИСТЕМІ УПРАВЛІННЯ ПІДПРИЄМСТВОМ
Authors: Савицька О. М. , Лютенко О. А.
Published: July 2024

Метою дослідження є вивчення інтеграції інноваційних технологічних рішень й сучасних теоретико-методичних підходів щодо оцінювання інтелектуального капіталу з метою підвищення його стратегічної цінності для компаній. З огляду на інтенсивний розвиток цифрових технологій та глобалізацію ринків, які формують нові виклики у сфері управління інтелектуальним капіталом, традиційні методи оцінювання часто не враховують динамічність розвитку інтелектуального потенціалу суб’єктів господарювання. Вивчаючи можливості більш ефективної інтеграції сучасних передових технологій стосовно можливостей оцінювання інтелектуального капіталу, дослідження прагне надати уявлення про необхідність вдосконалення процесів планування управління інтелектуальним капіталом на підприємствах. Результати представленого дослідження мають на меті висвітлити переваги існуючих методів та інструментарію оцінювання інтелектуального капіталу, пропонуючи рекомендації щодо їх оптимізації та адаптації до еволюційних економічних викликів. Практичне значення дослідження полягає у наданні орієнтирів для компаній щодо покращення стратегічного використання їхнього інтелектуального капіталу, тим самим сприяючи інноваціям та конкурентній перевазі у цифрову епоху. Для подальшого вдосконалення існуючих методів необхідні комплексні дослідження, спрямовані на вивчення впливу цифрових інновацій на оцінку інтелектуального капіталу, враховуючи той факт, що в контексті цифровізації з’являються нові форми інтелектуального капіталу, такі як цифрові активи, бази даних, програмне забезпечення та інші технологічні ресурси. У статті зазначено, що при цьому особливу увагу слід приділити інтеграції засобів штучного інтелекту (AI) та машинного навчання (ML) для прогнозування ефективності використання інтелектуальних активів у системі управління компанією, що безпосередньо впливає на ефективність управління інтелектуальним капіталом, загальну вартість підприємства, рівень ефективності управління фінансово-економічною діяльністю, його конкурентоспроможність.
Requirements for Auditor Reporting on the Single European Format of Financial Statements
Authors: BOTEZ Daniel ,   “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacau, Faculty of Economic Sciences, Romania, ENACHI Mihaela ,   “Vasile Alecsandri” University of Bacau, Faculty of Economic Sciences, Romania
Published: July 2024

For the proper functioning of the capital markets it is essential to provide users faithful and relevant information, about the company financial position, its performance, and cash-flows, which to be available in time for the decisionmaking process. In order to increase the transparency of the financial information communicated by the companies traded on a regulated market, the European Union (EU) gave digitalization a special position by requiring the use of a single electronic format for the annual financial reports prepared for years beginning on or after 1 January 2020. The European Single Electronic Format (ESEF), which draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) were prepared by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), implies that issuers prepare their entire annual financial reports in eXtensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML) format and use eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) for the consolidated financial statements prepared under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). It is well known that digital technologies facilitate the process of collecting, preparing, analyzing, and interpreting information, and in this study the authors concentrate on the extent which the Romanian companies traded on Bucharest Stock Exchange (BSE), Regulated Market, introduced the new digital technologies in the reporting process, on a mandatory or a voluntary base, trying to capture specific aspects of the auditor’s reporting on the new statutory requirements in the context of ESEF implementation.
Efficacy evaluation of particle films as oviposition deterrent against Drosophila suzukii in Austrian vineyards
Authors: Krutzler Michael , Brader Günter , Menhart Karl , Madercic Monika , Riedle-Bauer Monika
Published: July 2024

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a polyphagous invasive vinegar fly. Females can penetrate certain soft-skinned grapevine varieties with their strong serrated ovipositor to lay their eggs within berries, which eventually leads to the decay and collapse of grapes. Alternative pest control options were tested in practically oriented field trials set up in two vineyards in Styria. The effect of the mineral particle films diatomaceous earth, kaolin and muscovite mica was compared to an untreated control. All products were complemented with wetting agents to increase the efficacy and/or the rain resistance of the film. Due to the long waiting times after application in organic production, only some of the trials also comprised a comparable insecticide variant (Spinosad). Treatments were applied from the beginning of infestations until harvest, and berries were sampled once to twice a week, depending on pest pressure. Evaluation of treatment effects was based on a microscopic analysis of berries for oviposition and a visual evaluation of the clusters. Both kaolin and diatomaceous earth led to a statistically significant reduction in oviposition and to a significantly improved macroscopic appearance of clusters compared to the control, whereas the effect of muscovite mica was negligible. A direct comparison of particle film and spinosad treatment was only expedient in one experiment, and in this case, the effect of kaolin on oviposition was significantly superior. Kaolin and diatomaceous earth might complement established integrated pest management practices against Drosophila suzukii and contribute to the reduction of chemical plant protection agents in the future.
Testing of Sodium Saccharin Levels in Hard Candy with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Method
Authors: Putri Nezly Nurlia , Ghifari Muhammad Syafa Al , Pujowati Siti Nurlaeni
Published: July 2024

Hard candy is a processed food resulting from the boiling of a mixture of sugar with food additives (BTP). The use of BTP is restricted in processed food. One type is sodium saccharin. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of sodium saccharin in hard candy with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) instrument. The test procedure consists of making a solution of standard solution (standard), test solution (sample), spike solution and phosphate buffer solution pH 6.8 as the mobile phase. Saccharin sodium levels in hard candy were calculated and determined using a calibration curve with a straight line equation. Then the detected solution was calculated to the treatment level, theoretical, recovery, average treatment level, Relative Percent Difference (RPD) (%) or relative difference, and 2/3 CV Horwitz using spike solution. The test results of saccharin sodium levels in hard candy are eligible for an acceptable %Recovery of 90-107% with SP 1 results of 103.86% and SP 2 of 100.51%. The test results were not detected in the chromatogram of solution (01 L; 07; 08), but were detected in the standard solution and spike solution, namely at λ 221 nm with Rt of 22.255 minutes (standard solution) and 22.258 minutes (spike solution). In addition, the data obtained is accurate (meets the precision requirements of %RPD < 2/3 CV Horwitz) with the results of 3.3313% < 4.3357. And the standard curve has met the linearity requirements (r ≥ 0.999) with the result of r = 0.99994
Diagnosis for integrating the main Iberian networks of solar radiation meteorological stations
Authors: Roca-Fernández Catalina , Ninyerola Casals Miquel , Pons Fernández Xavier
Published: July 2024

This work carries out a diagnosis of the data from the two main networks of solar radiation stations in the Iberian Peninsula: the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET, Spain, with daily data 1980–2020), and the Sistema Nacional de Informação de Recursos Hídricos (SNIRH, Portugal, with hourly data 2001–2020). One of the goals is to advance towards the synergistic use of the two networks and, hence, to improve the integrated knowledge of solar radiation in this interesting territory. The diagnosis was carried out considering measured magnitudes and instruments, error filtering and number of available stations, data completeness results for the networks and for each meteorological station, and territorial representativeness. An important finding is that it is necessary to guarantee greater temporal completeness for the two networks, which is sometimes very low (SNIRH, 35.1 %). Furthermore, it is necessary to increase spatial completeness in the AEMET network to avoid some large territorial gaps (with points located 140 km from the nearest station). Quality control (QC) should be reinforced in the SNIRH network and diffuse radiation data provided. Solar radiation is a key factor in atmospheric dynamics and climatic phenomena (including drought), and with this study we aim to contribute to the knowledge on solar radiation and provide elements to stimulate the consistency of data in a territory as sensitive and complex as the Iberian Peninsula.
Prevalence of Cerebral Visual Impairment in Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Perinelli Martina Giorgia , Abbott Megan , Balagura Ganna , Riva Antonella , Amadori Elisabetta , Verrotti Alberto , Demarest Scott , Striano Pasquale
Published: July 2024

Background
Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs) are defined by drug-resistant seizures and neurodevelopmental disorders. Over 50% of patients have a genetic cause. Studies have shown that patients with DEEs, regardless of genetic diagnosis, experience a central visual function disorder known as Cerebral (cortical) Visual Impairment (CVI). The prevalence of CVI in DEE patients is currently unknown. A quantitative synthesis of existing data on prevalence rates of this condition would aid in understanding the magnitude of the problem, outlining future research, and suggesting the need for therapeutic strategies for early identification and prevention of the disorder.
Methods
This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol adheres to the PRISMA-P statement and utilizes the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis, focusing on the prevalence of cerebral visual impairments in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Eligibility criteria are established following the CoCoPop framework. Comprehensive database searches will include MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Direct, Scopus, PsychINFO, Wiley, Highwire Press, and the Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews. The risk of bias will be assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies reporting prevalence data. Heterogeneity will be evaluated using Cochran’s Q statistic and the I2 statistic. Summary tables and narrative text will present characteristics of the included studies. Pooled prevalence estimates will be calculated using a random-effects model and presented graphically in forest plots. If heterogeneity is high, a narrative summary will be provided. The quality of evidence will be assessed using the GRADE methodology.
Discussion
This protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to identify, collect, evaluate, and integrate epidemiological knowledge related to the prevalence of CVI in patients with DEEs. To the best of our knowledge, no other systematic review and meta-analysis has addressed this specific issue. The results will provide useful information for understanding the extent of the problem, outlining future research, and suggesting the need for early identification strategies.
Systematic review registrations:
This Systematic Review Protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023448910).
Electrocatalytic upcycling of high-pressure captured CO2
Authors: Lu Xu , Huang Liang , Gao Ge , Zhao Jiwu , Roberts William
Published: July 2024

Electrochemical upcycling of captured CO2 – typically under high pressure – holds significant potential to bridge between CO2 emissions and hydrocarbon commodities. However, this conceptual CO2 value chain is yet to be demonstrated. Here, we showcase the valorization of gas-phase high-pressure captured CO2 (HP-cCO2) into ethylene (C2H4) through electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2R). Guided by theoretical calculations, we devise a single-atom In alloyed Cu catalyst (In1/Cu), which, when integrated into a custom-built high-pressure membrane electrode assembly (MEA) under 20 bar, affords up to 85% Faradaic efficiency (FE) and up to 750 mA cm−2 partial current density toward C2H4. The interplay of theory and high-pressure operando methods links the exceptional performance to the pressure-modulated adsorption configuration of the *CO intermediate, and the elevated CO2 coverage. We also reveal the pivotal role of pressure in mitigating the salt precipitation – a long-standing challenge in the field – by relocating the bicarbonate formation to the catalyst-membrane interface. This was agreed upon by C2H4 FE that is sustained above 80% for 1,500 hours at 600 mA cm−2 under 20 bar. This proof-of-concept, by electrochemically producing C2H4 from HP-cCO2 and re-capturing the residue CO2, delivers industrial grade 99.9% purity C2H4 and exhibits prospect of turning the otherwise costly CO2 capture process into a profit. Energy analysis suggested that directly valorizing HP-cCO2, instead of depressurizing it to accommodate conventional ambient-pressure CO2R and repressurizing the effluents for gas product separation, is essential to minimize the energy consumption.
Portal Venous Gas from Decompression Sickness – Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Koujah Dalia , O'Neill Liam , Patel Tarang
Published: July 2024

Purpose To present a case report involving a rare case of a scuba diver presenting with portal venous gas (PVG) from decompression sickness (DCS).Methods Patient records were reviewed for clinical presentation, imaging findings, treatment course, and symptomatic resolution. A literature review was conducted to provide support for the case and provide background information for the unique presentation.Results We present a case of PVG secondary to DCS in an experienced scuba diver after repeated dives to depths greater than 150 meters. Patient presented with nausea, vomiting, confusion, nystagmus, ataxia, and a rash on the upper chest and back. After PVG was identified on CT, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was initiated. Symptoms resolved within the span of 3 days.Conclusion PVG is a rare and easily treatable phenomenon in DCS. It is important to identify the etiology of the PVG in the case of DCS to enact appropriate treatment.
DNA data storage: a generative tool for data encoding motifs
Authors: Brunmayr Samira , Sella Omer Shimon , Heinis Thomas
Published: July 2024

DNA possesses extremely high information density and durability. In order to become a commercially viable medium such as magnetic tape and hard disk drives, the cost per bit has to decrease considerably, while the write bandwidth needs to increase. Both are governed by DNA synthesis, the process of writing data to DNA, which is currently very expensive and slow. Assembly of DNA strands from motifs, i.e. short DNA sequences, is an economical and faster way of representing data using DNA. Each motif carries a letter in an alphabet. Trading the quaternary alphabet {A,C,T,G} for longer fragments, namely motifs, allows an increase in write bandwidth and reduces cost. The success of the underlying chemistry, specifically with the assembly of motifs into polymers that faithfully represent the source binary data, is sensitive to the formation of secondary structures and the correct annealing of the motifs in a unique way. In this work, we develop a mathematical framework and a method to generate a set of motifs that agree with a predefined set of constraints regardless of the order they are combined. We show that our approach generates motifs that always conform to the constraints with high probability, contrary to randomly generated motifs.
Amyloid deposition and its association with depressive symptoms and cognitive functions in late-life depression: A longitudinal study using amyloid- β PET images and neuropsychological measurements
Authors: Kim Kiwon , Jang Yoo Jin , Shin Jeong-Hyeon , Park Mi Jin , Kim Hyun Soo , Seong Joon-Kyung , Jeon Hong Jin
Published: July 2024

Background: Although depression is linked to an increased risk of dementia, the association between late-onset depression (LOD) and amyloid burden remains unclear. This study aimed to determine amyloid deposition in patients with LOD compared to healthy controls (HC) using amyloid-beta (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET) images and neuropsychological assessments.
Methods: Forty patients first diagnosed with major depressive disorder after the age of 60 (LOD) and twenty-one healthy volunteers (HC) were enrolled. Depression and anxiety were evaluated using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and Clinical Global Impression Scale. Cognitive function was assessed using the Korean versions of the Mini-Mental Status Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery at baseline and 3-month follow-up. 18F-florbetapir PET images were co-registered with T1-weighted magnetic resonance images.
Results: There was no significant difference in Aβ deposition between LOD and HC groups. No significant correlation between Aβ burden and depressive symptom severity was found in LOD patients. Higher somatic anxiety was correlated with lower Aβ burden in multiple brain regions, including the left inferior frontal lobe (p = 0.009), right anterior cingulate (p = 0.003), and right superior frontal lobe (p = 0.009). Despite cognitive recovery in areas such as attention (Digit Span Forward, p = 0.026), memory (Auditory Verbal Learning Test Recall Total, p = 0.010; Rey Complex Figure Test Delayed Recall, p = 0.039), and frontal executive function (Contrasting Program, p = 0.033) after three months of antidepressant treatment, cognitive improvement showed no association with amyloid deposition.
Conclusions: These findings suggest distinct mechanisms may underlie amyloid deposition in neurodegenerative changes associated with depression. While amyloid burden in specific brain regions negatively correlated with somatic anxiety, it showed no significant correlation with the severity of depression or overall cognitive function.
ATPIF-1 knockout attenuates mitochondrial mPTP opening but does not diminish cardiac ischemic/reperfusion injury.
Authors: Westenbrink B. Daan , Sánchez-Aguilera Pablo , Saucedo-Orozco Huitzilihuitl , Schouten Marloes , Lavandero Sergio , de Boer Rudolf , Silljé Herman , Puspitarani R.A.D.A
Published: July 2024

Ischemic conditions can flip the action of mitochondrial ATP-synthase from an ATP producing to an ATP consuming enzyme. The mitochondrial protein ATPase inhibitory factor 1 (ATPIF-1) prevents ATP-synthase reversal, thereby preserving ATP during ischemia. Recent evidence suggests that ATPIF-1 may also have detrimental effects on mitochondrial calcium (Ca2+) handling and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening under ischemic conditions, challenging conventional views on the function of ATPIF-1.
To determine the role of ATPIF-1 during myocardial ischemia we studied Ca2+ retention capacity, cardiac injury and cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI) in ATPIF-1 knockout (ATPIF-1 KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates. Mitochondrial Ca2+ retention capacity of isolated cardiac mitochondria of ATPIF-1 KO of ATPIF1-KO mice displayed a 1.3-fold higher threshold for mPTP opening compared to WT mice. However, when subjected 45 minutes left coronary artery (LCA) ligation followed by 48 hours of reperfusion, myocardial infarct size, left ventricular function and remodeling were all comparable between genotypes. Moreover, when subjected to permanent LCA ligation loss of ATPIF-1 KO also did not influence cardiac function or cardiac remodeling. Instead, ATPIF-1 KO mice displayed a 57.3% increase in interstitial fibrosis compared to WT mice. In conclusion, ATPIF-1 KO attenuates mPTP formation, however it does not mitigate myocardial I/R injury or post-MI remodeling. These findings challenge the concept that ATPIF-1 is critical for the response to I/R injury.
The evolution and maintenance of trioecy with cytoplasmic male sterility
Authors: Nguyen Mai Thu , Pannell John
Published: July 2024

Trioecy, the co-existence of females, males and hermaphrodites, is a rare sexual system in plants. Previous models have identified pollen limitation as a necessary condition for the evolution of trioecy from hermaphroditism, whereby the seed-production and pollen production of females and males, respectively, relative to those of hermaphrodites are compromised by self-fertilization by hermaphrodites under pollen- limitation. Here, we investigate the evolution of trioecy via the invasion of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) into androdioecious populations in which hermaphrodites co-occur with males and where the male determiner is linked to a (partial) fertility restorer. We show that the presence of males renders invasion by CMS more difficult. However, the presence of males also facilitates the maintenance of trioecy even in the absence of pollen limitation by negative frequency-dependent selection whereby males reduce the fitness of females by siring sons that cannot transmit CMS. We discuss our results in light of empirical observations of trioecy in plants.
RETRACTED: Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Reliability of the Inventory of Vicarious Posttraumatic Growth and research of its influencing factors: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cai Yitong , Li Yifei , Zou Jie , Zhang Jie , Qu Chaoran , Zhang Jingping , Luo Weixiang
Published: July 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Low-dose rituximab regimen does not increase severe COVID-19 risk in patients with neuroimmune diseases during the pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Lin , Yao Dan , Li Chuan , Hao Yunfeng , Zhao Chao , Yan Qi , Zhou Xuan , Li Ying , Dang Yuting , Han Lin , Zhang Rong , Liu Juntong , Zhu Wenping , Liu Shuyu , Gao Lan , Du Ying , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2024

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the impact of low-dose rituximab (RTX) regimen on the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in patients with neuroimmune diseases (PwNIDs) at Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University from July 2017 to December 2022. A total of 70 PwNIDs were enrolled, of which 39 contracted COVID-19. The co-residents of these PwNIDs, serving as the control group, comprised 94 individuals, among whom 56 contracted COVID-19. However, there was no significant difference in the severity of COVID-19, including severe cases or death, between the two groups. Among PwNIDs, there were no notable differences observed in age, sex, underlying conditions, comorbidities, cumulative RTX dosages, or the duration since the last RTX infusion between the infected and uninfected groups. Among the PwNIDs who contracted COVID-19, 89.7% (35/39) stated that the virus had no influence on their existing conditions. Only 10.3% (4/39) reported worsened previous symptoms without requirement of hospitalization, and none developed new-onset neurological symptoms requiring acute-phase treatment. The administration of a low-dose RTX regimen does not increase the risk of COVID-19 or severe illness in PwNIDs, irrespective of the cumulative RTX dosages or the duration since the last RTX infusion. Moreover, COVID-19 does not seem to significantly exacerbate underlying neuroimmune disorders in these individuals.
The Effect of Stingless Bee Honey Mouthrinse on Dental Plaque Accumulation: A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Hayei Nur Ayman Abdul , Reduan Misya Humaira , Zulkaflee Nor Suhaira , Baharin Nor Haliza Mat , Sabarudin Muhammad Annurdin , Azis Nik Madihah Nik
Published: July 2024

Background: Mouthrinses are recommended as an adjunct to mechanical methods in oral hygiene procedures for the prevention and management of periodontal diseases. Stingless bee honey (SBH) is a natural food with many health benefits. It has been reported to be beneficial for the oral cavity such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and has healing properties making it a potential therapeutic agent in periodontal therapy. This study aims to investigate the ability of stingless bee honey mouthrinse to reduce plaque accumulation and to assess the patients’ acceptance towards its use. Methods: This is a pilot randomised clinical trial performed on volunteers (N=30) with healthy gingiva and/or mild gingivitis randomly prescribed with SBH, chlorhexidine (CHX) or normal saline (NS) mouthrinse without oral hygiene practice for three days. Plaque accumulation and patient perception were recorded post-intervention using plaque score and visual analogue scale (VAS) respectively.
Results: Post-intervention after three days, there was no significant change in plaque score in SBH and NS groups (p>0.05) compared to baseline. Significant plaque score reduction was found in the CHX group (p<0.05) compared to the baseline. A significantly better taste and lower burning sensation were reported in the SBH group compared to the NS and CHX groups respectively.
Conclusions: SBH mouthrinse effectively prevented a significant increase in plaque accumulation in the absence of oral hygiene, with less burning sensation. However, chlorhexidine has a better ability to prevent plaque accumulation.
Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered on 24/1/2024 at ClinicalTrials. gov (No. NCT06223243).
Integrating Immune Multi-Omics and Machine Learning to Improve Prognosis, Immune Landscape, and Sensitivity to First- and Second-Line Treatments for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yin Ji , Xu Lin , Wang Shange , Zhang Linshuai , Zhang Yujie , Zhai Zhenwei , Zeng Pengfei , Jiang Tao
Published: July 2024

Background: In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has emerged as a fundamental component of the standard treatment regimen for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, accurately predicting the treatment effectiveness of ICIs for patients at the same TNM stage remains a challenge.
Methods: In this study, we first combined over ten types of omics data and clustering algorithms, successfully identifying two distinct cancer subtypes (CSs) (CS1 and CS2). Subsequently, immune-regulated genes (IRGs) and machine learning algorithms were utilized to construct a consensus machine learning-driven prediction immunotherapy signature (CMPIS). Further, the prognostic model was validated and compared across multiple datasets, including clinical characteristics, external datasets, and previously published models. Ultimately, the response of different CMPIS patients to immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy was also explored.
Results: First, Two distinct molecular subtypes were successfully identified by integrating immunomics data with machine learning techniques, and it was discovered that the CS1 subtype tended to be classified as "cold tumors" or "immunosuppressive tumors", whereas the CS2 subtype was more likely to represent "hot tumors" or "immune-activated tumors". Second, 303 different algorithms were employed to construct prognostic models and the average C-index value for each model was calculated across various cohorts. Ultimately, the StepCox [forward] + Ridge algorithm, which had the highest average C-index value of 0.666, was selected and this algorithm was used to construct the CMPIS predictive model comprising 16 key genes. Third, this predictive model was compared with patients' clinical features, such as age, gender, TNM stage, and grade stage. The findings indicated that this prognostic model exhibited the best performance in terms of C-index and AUC values. Additionally, it was compared with previously published models and it was found that the C-index of CMPIS ranked in the top 5 among 94 models across the TCGA, GSE27020, GSE41613, GSE42743, GSE65858, and META datasets. Lastly, the study revealed that patients with lower CMPIS were more sensitive to immunotherapy and chemotherapy, while those with higher CMPIS were more responsive to radiation therapy and EGFR-targeted treatments.
Conclusion: In summary, our study identified two CSs (CS1 and CS2) of HNSCC using multi-omics data and predicted patient prognosis and treatment response by constructing the CMPIS model with IRGs and 300 machine learning algorithms, which underscores the importance of immunotherapy biomarkers in providing more targeted, precise, and personalized immunotherapy plans for HNSCC patients, significantly contributing to the optimization of clinical treatment outcomes.
End of Weight Stigma: A Proposal for a Multilevel Classification of its Components for Intervention Purposes
Authors: de Souza Gabriela Cristina Arces , Laus Maria Fernanda , Penaforte Fernanda Rodrigues de Oliveira , Santos Lucas Brandão dos , Japur Camila Cremonezi
Published: July 2024

Background Weight stigma is a complex construct formed by various components. This study aimed to compile these components and classify them into the multilevel intervention levels of stigma (structural, interpersonal, and intrapersonal).Methods A non-systematic literature review was conducted to identify the most commonly used definitions of weight stigma components. Subsequently, a proposal was made to classify these components into different intervention levels as proposed (Structural, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal). The components were categorized based on their definitions and specificities at each level. A panel of experts evaluated the proposal, and the degree of agreement was assessed using Fleiss' Kappa coefficient (₭). Values of ₭ between 0.40 and 0.60 indicated moderate agreement; between 0.61 and 0.75, good agreement; and above 0.75, excellent agreement.Results Ten terms were identified and classified in the different levels of stigma, except “Weight stigma” and “Weight bias”. At the structural level were included "fatphobia" and "weight-based stereotypes"; at the interpersonal level, "weight discrimination" and "explicit weight bias"; and at the intrapersonal level, "implicit weight bias", "lipophobia," "fat stigma", and "internalized weight bias". Agreement among the experts' responses for the structural and interpersonal levels was 100% (₭ = 1.0). For the components allocated at the intrapersonal level, there were some disagreements in the classification of the “Fat stigma” component (₭ = 0.4), and “Lipophobia” and “Implicit weight bias” were considered inappropriate by one specialist (₭ = 0.6).Conclusion The proposed classification of weight stigma components across multi-level interventions is novel and deemed appropriate by the experts. In future studies, this classification can help assess associations between weight stigma components across inter- and intra-levels and guide interventions across different levels for more effective outcomes in combating weight stigma.
Genome sequence and comparative analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis resourced from Pakistan and global lineage strains insights into the virulence and drug resistance
Authors: Arif Saba , Shafiq Aatiqa , Javed Rafia , Hasan Ahmed , Hussain Annam , Alonazi Wadi B , Ibrahim Muhammad , Shen Jian
Published: July 2024

The current study unveiled the drug susceptibility profiling of randomly selected 102 out of 1,323 archives samples of Mycobacterium tuberculosis collected between 2020 to 2022 from the south Punjab province of Pakistan followed by genome sequence, In silico comparative analysis of genome, virulence, and drug resistance genes and analysis of molecular basis of niche adaptation. Out of 102 isolates, 15 (~ 12%) were culture-negative, 71 (69%) were culture-positive, and 16 (~ 15%) were contaminated. The 65 isolates were resistant to at least one drug, while the remaining six were sensitive to all drugs. The genome of M. tuberculosis strain MNPK1 has a size of 4.33 Mbp with greater than 95% similarity to strain H37RV, MNPK, and SWLPK. It encodes 4,321 coding genes including virulent, drug-resistant, PPE/PE, and HSPs associated genes. Molecular structure analysis of GroEL, grpE, and dnaK indicates the most conserved nature except minor differences in loop regions compared to H37Rv confirming evolutionary conservation of HSPs in M. tuberculosis strain MNPK1 and its lineages with reference strain H37Rv. Moreover, differential gene expression of HSPs-associated genes has revealed a significantly higher expression level under host-simulated conditions and sputum compared to growth conditions in 7H9 media revealing the role of HSPs in virulence and niche adaption. Overall, the study unveiled M. tuberculosis strain MNPK1 encodes virulent and MDR features, especially in relation to the Beijing genotype strain H37Rv, SWLPK, and strain MNPK and vital addition in ongoing research focused on therapy and diagnosis of M. tuberculosis not only locally but globally.
Lipoprotein Apheresis: An Established Therapeutic Modality for Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia Patients Refractory to PCSK9 Inhibitors: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: guan mingjing , wang hao , wang fang , Liang Shichu , Ling Li , Wang Bo , Zhang Ling
Published: July 2024

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), is a rare genetic disorder characterized by dual mutations in the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene, leading to dysfunctional or absent LDLRs, often accompanied by severe premature Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) and exhibiting refractoriness to aggressive pharmacological interventions. Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP), a form of lipoprotein apheresis (LA), has been effectively utilized as an adjunctive treatment modality to reduce serum LDL-C levels in refractory cases of HoFH. Here, we report a case of a 36-year-old female with HoFH who developed xanthomas on her limbs and waist at age 7. Despite maximum-tolerated doses of statins from age 32, combined with ezetimibe and evolocumab, her LDL-C levels remained critically elevated at 12-14 mmol/L. Her genetic testing confirmed a homozygous LDLR mutation. At 35 years old, she experienced exertional chest pain, and percutaneous coronary intervention revealed severe calcific left main stenosis, necessitating stent implantation. Subsequently, she initiated once every 1-2 months DFPP. Pre-DFPP, her LDL-C and total cholesterol (TC) levels were 13.82±3.28 and 15.45±0.78 mmol/L, respectively. Post-DFPP, her LDL-C and TC levels significantly decreased to 2.43±0.33 mmol/L (81.76±4.11% reduction) and 3.59±0.41 mmol/L (76.76±2.75% reduction), respectively. Lipoprotein (a) and triglycerides also decreased by 89.10±1.39% and 42.29±15.68%, respectively. Two years later, there was no progression of coronary artery disease, and her symptoms and xanthomas regressed significantly. Collectively, DFPP effectively reduces LDL-C levels in refractory cases of HoFH and contributes to delaying ASCVD progression, representing an efficacious adjunctive therapeutic modality.
Community health worker knowledge and perceptions of neonatal jaundice in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Wolski Ann , Moyer Cheryl A. , Amoah Rexford , Otoo Benjamin , Kaselitz Elizabeth , Bakari Ashura
Published: July 2024

Background: This study sought to understand community health workers’ (CHW) knowledge and perceptions of community beliefs surrounding neonatal jaundice (NNJ), a treatable but potentially fatal condition prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods: In this cross-sectional qualitative study, CHWs in Kumasi, Ghana, completed in-depth interviews with trained research assistants using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using grounded theory methodology.
Results: Knowledge of NNJ varied widely among the 23 respondents: 74% knew NNJ could cause death, 57% knew how to screen for NNJ. 35% of CHWs favored home treatment (sunlight therapy or watchful waiting). Three main themes emerged: CHWs perceived that caregivers prefer home treatment, equating hospital care with death; sunlight and herbs are the most common home treatments; and caregivers attribute NNJ to supernatural causes, delaying jaundice diagnosis.
Interpretation: Incomplete understanding of NNJ among trained CHWs and local communities will require improved education among both groups to improve outcomes.