bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superior Energy Storage Performance up to 200°C in a Self-organized Trirelaxor-antiferroelectric Nanocomposite
Authors: Gao Jinghui , Xu Jingzhe , Liu Yongbin , Wang Dong , He Li , Zhong Lisheng , Wu Ming , Yao Ruifeng , Zhang Nan , Lou Xiaojie , Li Shengtao , Ren Xiaobing
Published: February 2024

Despite extensive efforts over the past decade in enhancing the energy storage properties of dielectric materials, a challenging issue has remained unsolved that a material with good room-temperature-performance usually degrades significantly at higher temperatures. This issue renders many otherwise promising dielectric energy storage materials unusable because significant temperature rise of the energy storage devices is inevitable during their service and some applications are in high temperature environment. The challenge at high temperatures arises from the physical inevitability of vanishing ferroelectric domains that lead to drop in polarization, and exponentially increased charge transport activity which leads to charge leakage and electrical breakdown. Here we report a material strategy to meet this challenge by designing a self-organized nanocomposite (1-x)(Ba,Sr)(Ti,Sn)O3-xBi1.5ZnNb1.5O7 composed of nano-sized antiferroelectric particles embedded into a trirelaxor matrix through a nanoscale phase separation process. At the optimal composition of x=0.11, the antiferroelectric-trirelaxor nanocomposite ceramic exhibits an outstanding energy storage performance from room temperature (energy density=8.5 J/cm3, efficiency=94.8% and a high figure of merit of 167 J/cm3) up to a high temperature of 200°C (energy density ~4.85 J/cm3, efficiency>90% and figure of merit of 49 J/cm3), which outperforms existing Pb-free dielectric materials. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and synchrotron x-ray diffractometry reveal that the coherent nanometric antiferroelectric particles and the trirelaxor nanodomains sustain over a wide temperature range. In-situ piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) observation and phase-field simulations show that the nearly hysteresis-free switching of trirelaxor nanodomains is responsible for enhanced polarization (and hence energy density) and low hysteretic loss. Resistivity shows a 2~3 order of magnitude increase in electrical resistivity accompanying significant increase in breakdown strength up to high temperatures. Thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) measurements suggest that the suppression of charge transport or leakage up to high temperature stems from charge trapping effect at high-density nanointerfaces between antiferroelectric and trirelaxor phases. These favorable effects in the nano-composite are responsible for its high energy storage performance up to high temperatures. Our research may provide a generic approach to achieving advanced dielectrics with outstanding performance at high temperatures.
Reliability Inference for Gompertz Distribution Using Pivotal Method under Block Progressive Type-II Censored Data
Authors: Kumari Rani , Tripathi Yogesh Mani , Gangopadhyay Aditi Kar , Lodhi Chandrakant
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we primarily focus on making important deductions regarding the estimates of survival characteristics in the context of block progressive censored data. Specifically, we examine the reliability function, hazard rate function, median time to failure, and variations among different test facilities. Our analysis is centered on the lifetime of test units following the Gompertz distribution. We derive maximum likelihood estimators for unknown quantities and investigate their properties regarding existence and uniqueness. Additionally, we construct approximate confidence intervals for all survival characteristics using the delta method and likelihood theory. Moreover, we develop point and generalized confidence interval estimators through a pivotal quantity-based method. To evaluate the performance of our proposed approaches, we conduct a simulation study and find that the pivotal quantity-based approach yields superior estimation results. Finally, we apply the proposed estimates to analyze real-world data, demonstrating their effectiveness.
The effects of experimental conditions on extraction of polyphenols from African Nutmeg peels using NADESs-UAE: A Multifactorial Modelling Technique
Authors: OKEKE UDODINMA JUDE , Micucci Matteo , Mihaylova Dasha , Cappiello Achile
Published: February 2024

The extraction of polyphenolic compounds from African nutmeg peels via MFAT using NADESs-UAE was investigated to develop sustainable separation to recover natural antioxidants from food waste biomass. In this study, citric acid-based DESs paired with sucrose, fructose, xylitol, glycerol, glycine, and glucose were explored as potential extractants to evaluate the effects of solvent structure on extraction efficiency. Furthermore, the effects of different operating conditions were evaluated comprehensively to determine the parameters necessary for antioxidant recovery in terms of TPC and TFC, and antiradical scavenging activity based on CUPRAC and FRAP methods. The conditions that gave the highest values of 908.17 mg GAE/g DW, 1431.51 µg QE/g DW, 11.5568 µMTE/g DW, and 14.7903 µMTE/g DW for TPC, TFC, CUPRAC, and FRAP are shown in Figures 2D, 3B, 5B, and 6D respectively using CaFr12, CaGc11, CaFr11, CaXy11 as solvents respectively. These results underscore the potential of using specific NADES formulations to tailor the extraction process for desired antioxidant and antiradical scavenging properties. The findings give insights to the capacity of NADESs as powerful solvents for extraction applications. The lack of literature on extraction of bioactive compounds from African nutmeg materials using DESs with ultrasound techniques proves the originality of the present work.
Psychosocial work aspects, work ability, mental health and infection rates of on-site and remote Brazilian workers during the COVID-19 pandemic – a longitudinal study
Authors: Andrade Marcela Alves , Andrews David M. , Sato Tatiana Oliveira
Published: February 2024

Background At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, some workers had the opportunity to work from home, while others remained in on-site work. The aim of the present study was to compare the psychosocial aspects, work ability, mental health conditions and infection rates of Brazilian workers in remote and on-site work through a longitudinal study with quarterly follow-up assessments over a 12-month period.Method A total of 1,211 workers from different economic sectors participated in the study, 897 of whom (74.1%) worked from home and 314 (25.9%) remained in on-site work. Psychosocial aspects were assessed using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). Work ability was assessed using the Work Ability Index (WAI) and the Work Ability Score (WAS). Mental health conditions and infection rate were recorded based on self-reported medical diagnoses. Online questionnaires were answered from June 2020 to September 2021, involving two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. The groups were compared using chi-square tests, t-tests, and two-way ANOVA.Results In the first wave of the pandemic, remote workers reported more quantitative demands and work-family conflicts, whereas on-site workers reported more emotional demands, low development of new skills, low commitment, low predictability, low recognition, and low satisfaction. They also reported greater occurrences of unwanted sexual attention, threats of violence, and physical violence. In the second wave, the remote group continued to report high work-family conflicts, whereas the on-site group reported – in addition to the results of the 1st wave – low influence at work, low quality of leadership, and burnout. No significant difference was found between groups with regards to the WAI in either wave (1st wave: P = 0.46; 2nd wave: P = 0.62). Most workers in both groups reported good work ability in both periods. For the WAS, a significant difference was found between the 3rd and 12th months (P < 0.01) in both groups, with a mean reduction of 0.4 points.Conclusions Psychosocial critical aspects differed between groups. Work ability and mental health conditions were similar between remote and on-site workers. The encouragement of remote work could have prevented COVID contamination in the Brazilian population.
WITHDRAWN: Optimization of Accounting Information System in Public sector for Sustainable Risk Management under Big Data Analytics Capabilities. Does Forensic Accountants’ Skill generate differences?
Authors: Pham Quang Huy , Vu Kien Phuc
Published: February 2024

The current manuscript sets its sight to allot an intelligible picture of how to optimize of accounting information system (AIS) in public sector organization (PSO) for sustainability risk management (SRM) under the Big data analytics capabilities (BDAC) and offer in-depth understandings concerning to the role of forensic accountants’ skill (FAS) on these aforementioned interconnections. The structural equation modeling (SEM) and multi-group SEM were wielded to testify the hypothesized model rested on cross-sectional data formulated by a close-ended questionnaire survey distributed to convenience and snowball sample of 583 respondents in PSOs. All of the proffered hypotheses in the theorical model were authenticated by the soundly statistical evidences. The observations of the current study also generated the numerous practical implications for the practitioners in organizational management and policy-makers in building up the strategies and promulgating rules in relation to digital initiatives adoption, accounting practices and risk management toward sustainable development within PSOs.
JEL Classification System: H83, G32
Assessing GERAADA Score Mortality Predictions in Type A Aortic Dissection Patients
Authors: Nampoukime Kan-paatib Barnabo , Monteiro Igwenandji Adeoumi Esperance , Hu Libing , Pan Youmin , Zha Zhengbiao , Nouani Lud Merveil , Gomes Djessica Fortes , Sultani Mustafa Abbas Farhood , Wang Haihao
Published: February 2024

Objective: This study seeks to assess the predictive precision of the GERAADA score for 30-day mortality in patients with Type A aortic dissection.
Methods: A retrospective study analyzed data from 382 survivors and 90 non-survivors, examining demographic, clinical, and surgical variables. GERAADA scores were calculated by a blinded cardiac surgeon using a web-based application.
Results: The overall mortality is 19.06% and 18.18% for GERAADA prediction.
The presence of malperfusion in more than two organs emerged as a significant risk factor for hospital mortality p=0.028. Longer surgery times were significantly associated with elevated mortality p=0.002. Moreover, postoperative ECMO, CPR, and IABP were significantly linked to increased mortality rates. Additionally, ICU stay duration, lung infection, MODS, and respiratory failure p<0.05 independently posed as risk factors for hospital mortality.
Patients with Hemiparesis and peripheral malperfusion experienced no deaths, as predicted by GERAADA score. Additionally, patients with a dissection tear located at the root of the aorta exhibited a lower mortality rate of 7.14%, contrasting the higher 19.87% GERAADA prediction.
Conclusion: GERAADA predictions were mostly accurate, but exceptions occurred with inotrope use, hemiparesis, peripheral malperfusion, and aortic dissection at the root. We suggest enhancing the GERAADA score by incorporating intraoperative and postoperative factors.
Gender differences in skilled performance under failure stress
Authors: Li Chunhua , Zhao Yangqing
Published: February 2024

This study explores the gender differences in archers’ ability to cope with adversity. Using data from professional recurve archery competitions held between 2012 and 2021, the Poisson regression analysis reveals that male and female archers' performance dropped significantly after experiencing two consecutive missing bullseyes, which means a cold-hand effect exists. However, although there was no significant difference in the performance of male and female archers on the third arrow, female archers have significantly lower last arrow per set scores than male archers after near poor performance or being in a situation where losing can only be avoided by winning the current set. This finding suggests that female archers are more vulnerable to the potentially negative effects of adversity caused by trailing or recent failures than their male counterparts. In addition, the reason for such a gender gap has been discussed.
Identification of diagnostic biomarkers for diabetes nephropathy by multi-chip integrated bioinformatics combining machine-learning strategies and mendelian randomization
Authors: Su Jiaming , Guo Yan , Hu Jiyuan , Peng Jing , Dong Zhaoxi , Xu Zheyu , Yu Xinhui , Mei Jie , Wang Lin , Zhang Xianhui , Liu Hongfang
Published: February 2024

Background Diabetic nephropathy (DN) represents a significant complication of diabetes, progressively contributing to the global incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Currently, the diagnosis of DN primarily relies on traditional clinical indicators, which may not adequately reflect the progression and prognosis of all DN patients, posing challenges in developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This study aims to identify new molecular and genetic biomarkers closely associated with the onset and progression of DN through bioinformatics and genetic epidemiology analysis methods. Methods Gene expression profiles were obtained from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. The R software was employed to filter differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and to conduct enrichment analyses of these genes. It is remarkable that five distinct machine learning classifiers were utilized to identify diagnostic biomarkers and to formulate a diagnostic model. These biomarkers were further validated in an external validation dataset generated by Nephroseq V5, whereupon a clinical characteristic correlation analysis ensued. In light of the machine learning results, immune infiltration analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing were undertaken. Ultimately, the mendelian randomization method was used to examine the causal relationship between the identified biomarkers and DN. Results Five biomarkers implicated in DN, including AFM, DUSP1, KRT19, TGFBI, and ZFP36, were subjected to external testing and validation, utilizing various machine learning models with high diagnostic efficacy. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the expression of these biomarkers correlated with the deterioration of kidney function, and single-cell RNA sequencing results indicated that the biomarkers were predominantly localized in granulocytes, macrophages, and monocytes. The results from the inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis elucidated that DUSP1 (OR = 0.664) serves as a protective factor for DN, whereas TGFBI (OR = 1.114) constitutes a risk factor for DN, in agreement with bioinformatics analysis. Conclusions The present study may provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying DN onset and progression, as well as the selection of DN diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets.
Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Reducing Pain Score and Healing Time of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Radithia Desiana , Mahdani Fatma Yasmin , Bakti Reiska Kumala , Parmadiati Adiastuti Endah , Subarnbhesaj Ajiravudh , Pramitha Selviana Rizky , Pradny I Gusti Agung Sri
Published: February 2024

Background:
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common chronic inflammatory oral disease which negatively impacts the quality of life. Current therapies aim to reduce pain and healing process yet challenges such as rapid loss due to salivary flushing in topical drugs and adverse effect due to prolonged use of systemic medications require further notice. Low-level laser therapy is reported with immediate pain relief and faster healing thus preserving potential for optimal treatment modalities. This review critically analyses and summarizes the effectiveness of LLLT in reducing pain score and healing time of RAS.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted in ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus using keywords of low-level laser therapy, photo-biomodulation therapy, and recurrent aphthous stomatitis. RCTs between 1967 to June 2022, presenting characteristics of laser and reporting pain score and/or healing time of RAS after irradiation were included. Animal studies and recurrent aphthous ulcer with a history of systemic condition were excluded. Studies were critically appraised using RoB 2 tool. A meta-analysis was performed using inverse variance random effects.
Results:
Fourteen trials with a total of 664 patients were included. Reduced pain was reported in 13 studies, while shortened healing time was presented in 4. The pooling of two studies after CO2 irradiation demonstrated faster healing time compared to placebo (MD: -3.72; 95% CI: -4.18, -3.25).
Conclusion:
Pain score and healing time of RAS were reduced after irradiation with LLLT. RoB resulted in “some concerns” urging well-designed RCTs with larger samples to further assess each laser application for comparison.
Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42022355737.
Roles of the Labrador Current in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation responses to greenhouse warming
Authors: Shan Xuan , Sun Shantong , Wu Lixin , Spall Michael
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic warming is projected to enhance Arctic freshwater exportation into the Labrador Sea. This extra freshwater may weaken deep convections and contribute to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) decline. Here, by analyzing an unprecedented high-resolution climate model simulation for the 21st century, we show that the Labrador Current strongly restricts the lateral spread of freshwater from the Artic Ocean into the open ocean such that the freshwater input has a limited role in weakening the overturning circulation. In contrast, in the absence of a strong Labrador Current, the extra freshwater is allowed to spread into the interior region and eventually shut down deep convections in the Labrador Sea. Given that the Labrador Sea overturning makes a significant contribution to the AMOC in many climate models, our results suggest that the AMOC decline during the 21st century could be overestimated in these models due to the unresolved Labrador Current.
Self-assembled copper-based nanoparticles for enzyme catalysis-enhanced chemodynamic/photodynamic/antiangiogenic tritherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yaping , Zhang Xun , Ma Yunfeng , Zhou Xiaobo , Xu Weijun , Qin Sida , Yang Chengcheng
Published: February 2024

As an emerging cancer treatment strategy, reactive oxygen species-based tumor catalytic therapies face enormous challenges due to hypoxia and overexpression of glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment. Herein, a self-assembled copper-based nanoplatform, TCCHA, was designed for enzyme-like catalysis-enhanced chemodynamic/photodynamic/antiangiogenic tritherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma. TCCHA was fabricated from Cu2+, 3,3′-dithiobis (propionohydrazide), and photosensitizer chlorine e6 via a facile one-pot self-assembly strategy, after which an aldehyde hyaluronic acid was coated, followed by loading of the antivascular drug AL3818. The obtained TCCHA nanoparticles exhibited pH/GSH dual-responsive drug release behaviors and multienzymatic activities, including Fenton, glutathione peroxidase-, and catalase-like activities. TCCHA, a redox homeostasis disruptor, promotes ⋅OH generation and GSH depletion, thus increasing the efficacy of chemodynamic therapy. TCCHA, which has catalase-like activity, can also reinforce the efficacy of photodynamic therapy by amplifying O2 production. In vivo, TCCHA efficiently inhibited tumor angiogenesis and suppressed tumor growth without apparent systemic toxicity. Overall, this study presents a facile strategy for the preparation of multienzyme-like nanoparticles, and TCCHA nanoparticles display great potential for enzyme catalysis-enhanced chemodynamic/photodynamic/antiangiogenic triple therapy against cancer.
Leveraging Community Health Workers for COVID-19 Response in Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda: Roles, Barriers, and Facilitators
Authors: Namuhani Noel , Babirye Ziyada , Monje Fred , Salawu Mobolaji M , Bosonkie Marc , Bello Segun , Kabwama Steven N , Egbende Landry , Bamgboye Eniola A. , Tusubira Andrew , Kashiya Yves , Kizito Susan , Afolabi Rotimi Felix , Adebowale Ayo S , Dairo Magbagbeola David , Diallo Issakha , Leye Mamadou M. M. , Ndiaye Youssou , Fall Mane , Bassoum Oumar , Seck Ibrahima , Fawole Olufunmilayo I. , Mapatano Mala Ali , Ndejjo Rawlance , Wanyenze Rhoda K , Kiwanuka Suzanne N
Published: February 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic overwhelmed health systems and disrupted the delivery of health services globally. Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in linking communities to health systems, supporting the prevention and control of diseases in many low- and middle-income countries. However, their roles, barriers, and facilitators in the response and control of the COVID-19 pandemic have not been well documented. We described the roles of CHWs in the COVID-19 response including the barriers, and facilitators.
Methods: We assessed the COVID-19 response in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda. This involved key informant interviews with CHWs, and review of documents on the COVID-19 response, and engagement of community health workers. We searched Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed for published and grey literature. Data from the selected documents were extracted into a Google master matrix in MS Excel and analyzed thematically.
Results: In COVID-19 Control, CHWs supported community-based surveillance, contact tracing, risk communication, community mobilization, and home-based care. To support the continuity of other non-COVID-19 services, the CHWs conducted community mobilization, sensitizations, outreaches, referrals, and patient follow-ups. CHWs were challenged by movement restrictions, especially in the initial stages of the lockdown, inadequate PPE, increased workload, low allowances, and motivation. CHW were facilitated by trainings, the development of guidelines, development partners’ support/funding, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools.
Conclusion: CHWs supported both the COVID-19 control and continuity of non-COVID-19 health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. CHWs are a critical resource that must be adequately supported to build resilient health systems.
Gut mycobiome core species causally modulate metabolic health in mice
Authors: Arrieta Marie-Claire
Published: February 2024

The gut microbiome causally contributes to obesity; however, the role of fungi remains understudied. We previously identified three core species of the infant gut mycobiome (Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Malassezia restricta and Candida albicans) that correlated with body mass index, however their causal contributions to obesity development are unknown. In gnotobiotic mice, we evaluated the effects of early-life colonization by these fungal species on metabolic health in mice fed standard (SD) or high-fat-high-sucrose (HFHS) diets. Each species resulted in bacterial microbiome compositional and functional differences. R. mucilaginosa and M. restricta increased adiposity in mice fed SD, while only R. mucilaginosa exacerbated metabolic disease. In contrast, C. albicans resulted in leanness and resistance to diet-induced obesity. This phenotype was accompanied by enhanced white adipose tissue inflammation (type 1 and type 17 responses). This work revealed that three common fungal colonizers have distinct causal influences on obesity and metabolic inflammation and justifies the consideration of fungi in microbiome research on host metabolism.
RETRACTED: IoT -Centric Deployment of an Octal Element UWB MIMO Antenna Featuring Spiral Ground Structures
Authors: potti devisowjanya , Balakrishnan Sakthi Abirami , S Baranidharan , S Mohana Praveen
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested the removal of their preprint from Research Square. The author's request does not imply errors or misconduct.
Zeros of Taylor polynomials formed by a three-term recurrence
Authors: Chung Juhoon , Tran Khang
Published: February 2024

From a sequence $\left\{ a_{n}\right\} _{n=0}^{\infty}$ of real numbers satisfying a three-term recurrence, we form a sequence of polynomials $\left\{ P_{m}(z)\right\} _{m=0}^{\infty}$ whose coefficients are numbers in this sequence. We showed that under explicit conditions, the zeros of $P_{m}(z)$, $m\gg1$, lie on one side of the circle whose radius is given by modulus of a zero of the denominator of the generating function of $\left\{ a_{n}\right\} _{n=0}^{\infty}$.
2000 Mathematics Subject Classification. 30C15, 26C10, 11C08.
Local tree cover predicts mosquito species richness and disease vector presence in a tropical countryside landscape
Authors: Farner Johannah E. , Howard Meghan , Smith Jeffrey R. , Anderson Christopher B. , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: February 2024

Context
Land use change drives both biodiversity loss and zoonotic disease transmission in tropical countryside landscapes. Developing solutions for protecting countryside biodiversity, public health, and livelihoods requires understanding the scales at which habitat characteristics such as land cover shape biodiversity, especially for arthropods that transmit pathogens. Evidence increasingly shows that species richness for many taxa correlates with local tree cover.
Objectives
We investigated whether mosquito species richness, community composition, and presence of disease vector species responded to land use and tree cover – and if so, whether at spatial scales similar to other taxa.
Methods
We paired a field survey of mosquito communities in agricultural, residential, and forested lands in rural southern Costa Rica with remotely sensed tree cover data. We compared mosquito community responses to tree cover surrounding survey sites measured across scales, and analyzed community responses to land use and environmental gradients.
Results
Tree cover was positively correlated with mosquito species richness, and negatively correlated with the presence of the common invasive dengue vector Aedes albopictus, particularly at small spatial scales of 80 – 200m. Land use predicted community composition and Ae. albopictus presence. Environmental gradients of tree cover, temperature, and elevation explained 7% of species turnover among survey sites.
Conclusions
The results suggest that preservation and expansion of tree cover at local scales can protect biodiversity for a wide range of taxa, including arthropods, and also confer protection against disease vector occurrence. The identified spatial range of tree cover benefits can inform land management for conservation and public health protection.
An exponential model for strain softening behavior of sensitive clays
Authors: Jacob Sarah , Saeidi Ali , Chavali Rama Vara Prasad , Sadrekarimi Abouzar
Published: February 2024

Strain softening in sensitive clays is a major cause of retrogressive landslides. The assessment of post failure movements like retrogression or run out in such landslides requires detailed data regarding the post peak parameters, especially in terms of stress and strain at remoulded state. The limitations concerning experimental studies in this regard is well known which has often led to the use of mathematical and analytical models in assessing strain softening. Here, an exponential model to predict strain softening is proposed by making use of triaxial testing data. The model is developed through a series of triaxial testing results collected from ten different sites in Eastern Canada. The developed softening equation is governed by the peak undrained shear strength, sensitivity of the clay, ease of strength reduction from the peak to the remoulded state and the strain at remoulded strength. The main advantage is that a quick and reasonable evaluation of the softening behaviour of the sensitive clay maybe carried out through experimental studies. The prediction of strain at remoulded state is an important outcome of this study and is consistent with field data. Keeping in mind the effect of geological and topographical factors in the estimation of post failure movements in retrogressive landslides, an attempt has been made to conduct a preliminary assessment of the retrogression distance through the strain at remoulded state.
What Patients Want to Know About CT Radiation Exposure Harm and What Doctors Actually Tell Them: A Gap in Patient-Doctor Communication
Authors: Alrasheed Abdullah A. , Alammar Abdulrahman M.
Published: February 2024

Background:
CT scan utilizes ionizing radiation poses a danger to the patient's health. Thus, telling the patient about ionizing radiation would be critical in promoting shared decision-making and improving patient-doctor communication. However, few studies have examined this topic broadly.
Objectives: study was conducted to identify the frequency of physicians informing patients about the radiation risk before ordering a CT scan, as well as to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and preferences of patients undergoing CT scans in regard to radiation risk.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed between September 2020 and January 2021. The sample was 387 patients who underwent a CT scan at a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. We randomly selected every other name using the patient list for a physician to contact them by telephone. Verbal informed consent was obtained.
Results: When examining knowledge, 58% of patients knew that CT involves harmful radiation. This knowledge was significantly associated with higher education level and previous experience with CT scans. Regarding doctors’ practice of providing information to patients about the scan, 344 (88.9%) patients indicated that their doctor had explained to them why they needed the scan. Only 28 (7.2%) patients stated that their doctor had mentioned the amount of radiation, and 74 (19.1%) patients indicated that doctors mentioned the risks associated with the radiation of the scan. Almost all patients (96.9%) preferred to be told about why they needed a CT scan. About 94.3% of patients expected to be told about the risks associated with CT scans, and 78.6% preferred to know about the radiation dose.
Conclusions: The vast majority of patients who underwent CT scans did not receive enough information about the harm of the scans. However, most of them preferred to know about this harm. Therefore, filling this gap in doctor-patient communication is highly needed.
Effect of Akkermansia muciniphila on pancreatic islet β-cell function in rats with prediabetes mellitus induced by a high-fat diet
Authors: Yan Shuai , Chen Lin , Li Na , Wei Xiaohui , Wang Jingjing , Dong Weiping , Wang Yufan , Shi Jianxia , Ding Xiaoying , Peng Yongde
Published: February 2024

Prediabetes is an important stage in the development of diabetes. It is necessary to find a safe, effective and sustainable way to delay and reverse the progression of prediabetes. Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) is one of the key bacteria associated with glucose metabolism. Recent studies mainly focus on the effect of A. muciniphila on obesity and insulin resistance, but there is no research on the effect of A. muciniphila on pancreatic β-cell function and its mechanism in prediabetes. In this study, we investigated the effects of A. muciniphila on β-cell function, apoptosis and differentiation, as well as its effects on the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier, metaflammation and the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced prediabetic rat model. The effect of A. muciniphila was compared with dietary intervention. The results showed both A. muciniphila treatment and dietary intervention can reduce metaflammation by repairing the intestinal barrier in rats with prediabetes induced by an HFD and improve b-cell secretory function, apoptosis and differentiation through signaling pathways mediated by TLR2 and TLR4. Furthermore, A. muciniphila elevates b-cell secretion, attenuates apoptosis and improves differentiation and the TLR signaling pathway independently of diet.
FedIoTect: Federated Machine Learning for Collaborative Internet of Things Threat Detection
Authors: Gitanjali Gitanjali , Misra Er. Rajani
Published: February 2024

This paper explores a novel privacy-preserving approach using federated learning techniques to develop an intrusion detection system for Internet of Things (IoT) networks. The aim is to enable collaborative learning across decentralized IoT devices to build robust intrusion detection models, while avoiding direct transmission of network traffic data to preserve data privacy. The paper investigates the application of differential privacy and secure aggregation protocols to further enhance privacy. A federated learning framework is implemented to evaluate and optimize the training of deep neural network models for intrusion detection. Results demonstrate significant improvements in detection accuracy and communication efficiency compared to standalone models trained locally on individual devices. The customized modeling augmented with shared knowledge from the federated learning process is shown to achieve the best of both centralized and localized learning approaches.
Critical appraisal of the adoption of minimally-invasive pancreatoduodenectomies at a single institution: initial experience with the first 120 consecutive cases
Authors: Chua Darren W. , Chong Yvette , Wang Zhong Kai , Tan Ek-Khoon , Koh Ye-Xin , Goh Brian K. P.
Published: February 2024

Background: We analysed the evolution and outcomes of minimally-invasive pancreatoduodenectomy (MIPD) during our initial adoption of this approach. We also compared the outcomes between the different approaches used to perform the pancreatic anastomoses.
Methods: A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent MIPD between 2013 to 2022 was performed. Comparison of pancreato-enteric anastomotic outcomes were performed using one-to-one propensity matched analysis.
Results: 120 patients underwent MIPD including 14 (11.7%) total pancreatectomies (TP) and 17 (14.2%) with concomitant vascular reconstructions. The number of patients who had laparoscopic (L) or robotic (R) PD were 77 (64.2%) and 43 (35.8%) respectively. There were 32 (26.7%) patients with post-operative pancreatic fistulas (POPF), of which 28 (23.3%) were grade B and 4 (3.3%) were grade C. There were no 30-day mortalities. Comparisons between open and minimally invasive pancreatojejunostomy (PJ) showed a higher likelihood of intra-operative blood loss (500mls vs 275mls, p<0.001) and intra-operative blood transfusion (12(40%) vs 3(10%), p=0.015). Patients who had robotic PJ reconstruction demonstrated fewer pseudoaneurysms (1(4%) vs 7(28%), p=0.049) and lesser intra-operative blood loss (250mls vs 300mls, p = 0.023) when compared to laparoscopic PJ reconstruction, but tended to be associated with a longer operation time (665min vs 550min, p<0.001). Comparison with international benchmark outcomes for open PD demonstrated that except for a higher-Grade B POPF rate; the postoperative morbidity, major morbidity, Grade C POPF and in-hospital mortality rates of MIPD were within international benchmark cutoffs.
Conclusion: Our initial experience demonstrated that MIPD can be safely adopted. Robotic reconstruction may reduce the risk of pseudoaneurysm compared to laparoscopy.
Effectiveness of Magnesium Supplementation on Sleep Quality and Related Health Outcomes for Adults with Poor Sleep Quality: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Breus Michael J. , Hooper Stephanie , Lynch Tarah , Hausenblas Heather
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Conduct a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial on adults with nonclinical insomnia symptoms to examine the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation on sleep quality and mood.
Methods: Participants (N = 31 adults, M age = 45.49) were randomized to either the Magnesium (1 g/d) or Placebo Condition for 2 weeks. Following a two-week washout, participants engaged in the alternative condition. Standardized self-reports (i.e., Insomnia Severity Index, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Berlin Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Restorative Sleep Questionnaire, Pain and Sleep Questionnaire, Flinders Fatigue Scale, Trait Anxiety Inventory, Perceived Stress Scale, Profile of Mood States) were completed at Baseline and Post Conditions along with daily objective measures of sleep/activity (i.e., Oura Ring). ISRCTN registry is ISRCTN70584524.
Results: Magnesium supplementation resulted in significant improvements compared to Placebo for sleep quality, mood, and activity outcomes (e.g., sleep duration, deep sleep, sleep efficiency, readiness, activity balance, and HRV Readiness), p’s < .05. Nonsignificant improvements for the magnesium condition compared to the placebo condition were evidenced for the Restorative Sleep Questionnaire, Anxiety, Perceived Stress, and Flinder’s Fatigue Scale, p’s > .05. No adverse events were reported and adherence was 100%.
Conclusion: Magnesium may be an effective nonpharmacological intervention to promote sleep and mental health. Longer term clinical trials conducted in a variety of populations and settings are encouraged.
Configurational mechanics in granular media
Authors: Nicot Francois , Lin Mingchun , Wautier Antoine , Wan Richard , Darve Felix
Published: February 2024

Granular materials belong to the class of complex materials within which rich properties can emerge on large scales despite a simple physics operating on the microscopic scale. Most notable is the dissipative behaviour of such materials mainly through non-linear frictional interactions between the grains which go out of equilibrium. A whole variety of intriguing features thus emerges in the form of bifurcation modes in either patterning or un-jamming. This complexity of granular materials is mainly due to the geometrical disorder that exists in the granular structure. Diverse configurations of grain collections confer to the assembly the capacity to deform and adapt itself against different loading conditions. Whereas the incidence of frictional properties in the macroscopic plastic behavior has been well described for long, the role of topological reorganizations that occur remains much more elusive. This paper attempts to shed a new light on this issue by developing ideas following the configurational entropy concept within a proper statistical framework. As such, it is shown that contact opening and closing mechanisms can give rise to a so-called configurational dissipation which can explain the irreversible topological evolutions that granular materials undergo in the absence of frictional interactions.
In vitro effect-based monitoring of water, sediment and soil from a floodplain restoration site
Authors: Kuschik-Maczollek Nina , Glock Malte , Schmitz Markus , Hollert Henner , Krauss Martin , Piotrowska Aleksandra , Brack Werner , Oehlmann Jörg
Published: February 2024

Background
Floodplains are biodiversity hotspots and provide numerous ecosystem services. In recent decades, however, 70–90% of Europe's floodplains have been structurally degraded. Accordingly, many (inter-)national programs aim to restore and protect floodplain ecosystems. The success of such measures also depends on the chemical contamination, especially of floodplain soils and sediments, which serve as sinks and sources for a variety of pollutants. In this study, we assess the current ecotoxicological status of a floodplain restoration site along the Main river (Frankfurt am Main, Germany) and estimate its development potential with respect to the influence of a local industrial plant and potential legacy contaminations. We therefore use in vitro effect-based methods (EBMs) testing for baseline toxicity, mutagenicity, dioxin-like and estrogenic activities, coupled with chemical analysis.
Results
Of all water bodies analyzed, the overall toxicity was highest in two flood depressions. In the respective water phase, estrogenic activities exceeded the environmental quality standard and sediment samples were positive for all tested endpoints. Chemical analysis of these sediments revealed high concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Soil samples from frequently flooded areas showed the highest mutagenic potential for both frameshift and point mutations with and without metabolic activation. The industrial effluent showed baseline toxic, mutagenic, and dioxin-like activities, that were highly diluted in the Main river. Respective sediments, in turn, showed significantly elevated activities and chemical contamination downstream of the industrial discharge.
Conclusion
Based on the results of this study, we rate the overall ecotoxicological status of a recently established tributary and groundwater-fed ponds as good, and identified two flood depressions near the Main river as hot spots of contamination. We assume that the observed mutagenicity in the floodplain soils is related to legacy contaminations from former aniline and azo dye production. In terms of the development potential of the floodplain restoration site, we emphasize considering the remobilization of pollutants from these soils and suppose that, in the long term, pollution of the Main river and the local industrial plant may negatively impact sediment quality in its tributaries. With this study, we confirmed the utility of in vitro EBMs for identifying chemically and ecotoxicologically relevant sites.
The Effects of Response Time on Older and Young Adults’ Interaction Experience with Chatbot
Authors: Lo Chi-Wen , Wang Ya-Ling
Published: February 2024

Background:Chatbots, text-based systems such as Siri, Alexa, and ChatGPT, have been integrated into various domains, serving roles from customer service to personal companionship. These systems have significantly transformed human-computer interactions. However, there remains a lack of clarity on how their interaction dynamics, especially response time, affect user satisfaction across populations of different ages.
Methods: This study examines the impact of chatbot response times on user experiences, focusing on differences between older and younger adults. Our investigation involved 160 Taiwanese participants, divided into young and older adults, interacting with chatbots under two conditions: instant and delayed response times. The study aimed to assess the impact of response time on user experience, compare interaction experiences across age groups, and explore age-related preferences in response times.
Results: Results revealed a general preference for instant responses across both groups, associated with higher user satisfaction. However, older adults displayed a notable preference for delayed responses, contrasting with the younger cohort's inclination towards immediacy. This suggests a need for adaptive chatbot designs, considering varied user expectations and preferences, especially in an aging society.
Conclusions: This study provides key advantages in understanding chatbot interactions, it sheds light on the critical role of response time in user satisfaction, revealing how different age groups perceive and interact with chatbots, this may help set a foundation for further exploration of chatbots in more global and diverse aspects.
AMMI and GGE-biplot Analysis of the Yield Performance and Stability of Medium-Mature Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Genotypes in Southern and Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Amogne Asmamaw , Malede Molla , Tefera Gezahegn
Published: February 2024

The aim of this research was to examine the genotype‒environment relationship for soybean genotype yield by employing AMMI and GGE biplot analysis and to identify stable genotypes in southwestern Ethiopia. Twenty-three recently introduced soybean genotypes, including two controls, were tested during two seasons, in 2020 and 2021, at four separate test sites. A simple lattice design was used to set up the experiment. Using additive main effects and multiplicative interactions (AMMIs) and genotype main effects and a genotype × environment interaction (GGE), the adaptability and stability of the soybean genotypes were examined. Significant (p < 0.01) genotype, environmental, and genotype × environment interaction effects were found through AMMI analysis. According to the analysis of variance, 56.9% of the soybean yield was explained by the environment, 6.3% by genotype differences, and 36.7% by the GE interaction. The overall yield variability of the soybean genotypes exhibited considerable variation in the first four PCAs. The 10 (Tgx-2010-3F), 16 (Tgx-2007-11F), and 17 (TgX-2007-8F) genotypes were suggested for these particular tested environments because they were adaptive to the PW200, PW21, and AR20 environments according to the AMMI and GGE results. However, the 22 (Tgx-1989-19F) and 5 (Tgx-1987-10F) genotypes were found to be relatively stable and adaptable.
The Swedish version of the Barrier and Facilitator Assessment Instrument: translation, adaptation, and initial psychometric testing in a large and nationwide sample
Authors: Santesson Anna Helena Elisabeth , Gustafsson Peik , Holmberg Robert , Jarbin Håkan , Perrin Sean , Bäckström Martin
Published: February 2024

Background
Few scales designed to assess factors that facilitate and/or impede the uptake of guidelines in routine care are valid, reliable, and cover multiple domains. The Barriers and Facilitators Assessment Instrument (BFAI) measures barriers on four scales: Innovation, Provider, Patient, and Context and is one of few evaluated for psychometric properties, primarily in the context of adult health care. This study aimed to contribute to the development and cross-validation of the BFAI by examining a Swedish version as part of a larger depression guideline implementation across child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). The study also explored the relationship between attitudes toward evidence-based practice, as measured by the Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale (EBPAS), and perceived barriers to guideline implementation.
Methods
The BFAI was translated, adapted, and completed by 440 CAMHS clinicians (52% response rate) across Sweden. Items were tested and scales’ internal consistency and dimensionality were examined using Cronbach alpha and exploratory factor analyses.
Results
Items satisfied criteria set by developers. The internal consistency and dimensionality of the four scales were supported. The Patient and Innovation scales had the best psychometric properties, while the Context scale had some issues due to the intra- and interdomain correlations. Correlations between BFAI and EBPAS scales were in the expected direction (negative) but weak.
Conclusion
The Swedish version of the BFAI exhibited acceptable psychometric properties; single items can be used for tailoring local strategies in implementation programs. The BFAI scales might also be suitable for research by providing more specific information about guideline implementation challenges than the EBPAS.