bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment during clinical education among nursing students using two different assessment instruments.
Authors: Nilsson Tomas , Masiello Italo , Broberger Eva , Lindström Veronica
Published: February 2024

Background: Assessment of undergraduate students using assessment instruments in the clinical setting is known to be complex. The aim of this study was therefore to examine whether two different assessment instruments, containing learning objectives (LO`s) with similar content, results in similar assessments by the clinical supervisors and to explore clinical supervisors’ experiences of assessment regarding the two different assessment instruments.
Method: A mixed-methods approach was used. Four simulated care encounter scenarios were evaluated by 50 supervisors using two different assessment instruments. 28 follow-up interviews were conducted. Descriptive statistics and logistic binary regression were used for quantitative data analysis, along with qualitative thematic analysis of interview data.
Result: While significant differences were observed within the assessment instruments, the differences were consistent between the two instruments, indicating that the quality of the assessment instruments were considered equivalent. Supervisors noted that the relationship between the students and supervisors could introduce subjectivity in the assessments and that working in groups of supervisors could be advantageous. In terms of formative assessments, the Likert scale was considered a useful tool for evaluating learning objectives. However, supervisors had different views on grading scales and the need for clear definitions. The supervisors concluded that a complicated assessment instrument led to limited very-day usage and did not facilitate formative feedback. Furthermore, supervisors discussed how their experiences influenced the use of the assessment instruments, which resulted in different descriptions of the experience. These differences led to a discussion of the need of supervisor teams to enhance the validity of assessments.
Conclusion: The findings showed that there were no significant differences in pass/fail gradings using the two different assessment instruments. The quantitative data suggests that supervisors struggled with subjectivity, phrasing, and definitions of the LO´s and the scales used in both instruments. This resulted in arbitrary assessments that were time-consuming and resulted in limited usage in the day-to-day assessment. To mitigate the subjectivity, supervisors suggested working in teams and conducting multiple assessments over time to increase assessment validity.
High-precision all-in-one dual robotic arm strategy in oral implant surgery
Authors: Sun Meng , Tang Gang , Liu Shibo , Wang Yide , Zhu Weidong , Wang Dongmei , Li Xiang , Wu Hao , Men Shaoyang , Zhang Liangbin , Feng Changfen , Wang Yingfu , Ding Yuehua
Published: February 2024

Dental implantation has emerged as an efficient substitute for missing teeth, which is essential for restoring oral function and aesthetics. Compared to traditional denture repair approaches, dental implants offer better stability and sustainability. The position, angle, and depth of dental implants are crucial factors for their long-term success and necessitate high-precision operation and technical support. We propose an integrated dual-arm high-precision dental implant robot and a corresponding control strategy. Compared with traditional implant robots, the integrated dual-arm design greatly shortens the preparation time before surgery and simplifies the operation process. We propose a novel control flow and module for the proposed structure, including an Occluded Target Tracking Module (OTTM), a Planting Plan Development Module (PPDM), and a Path Formulation Module (PFM). Under the coordinated control of the aforementioned modules, the robot achieved excellent accuracy in clinical trials. The average angular error and entry point error for five patients who underwent implant surgery using the proposed robot were 2.1 degrees and 0.39 millimeters, respectively.
Association Between Life's Essential 8 and Cognitive Function Among US Older Adults
Authors: Zhu Huaxin , Zhou Wu , Tan Jiacong , Zeng Yanyang , Li Meihua , Liu Zheng
Published: February 2024

Background
The American Heart Association(AHA) recently redefined cardiovascular health(CVH) with the introduction of Life's Essential 8(LE8). This study explores the relationships between both the aggregate and individual CVH metrics, as defined by Life's Essential 8, and cognitive function in older adults in the United States.
Methods
This cross-sectional, population-based study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2011 and 2014, focusing on individuals aged 60 years and older. CVH was categorized as low(0–49), moderate(50–79), or high(80–100). Cognitive function was assessed through the CERAD tests, Animal Fluency test, and Digit Symbol Substitution test. Multivariable logistic models and restricted cubic spline models were employed to investigate these associations.
Results
This study included a total of 2,279 older adults in the United States. Only 11% of adults achieved a high total CVH score, while 12% had a low score. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, higher LE8 scores were significantly associated with higher scores on CERAD: delayed recall score(0.02[0.01, 0.03]; P < 0.001), CERAD: total score(3 recall trials)(0.04[0.02, 0.06]; P < 0.001), animal fluency: total score(0.09[0.05, 0.12]; P < 0.001), and digit symbol: score(0.29[0.18, 0.41]; P < 0.001), demonstrating a linear dose-response relationship. Similar patterns were also observed in the associations between health behavior and health factor scores with cognitive function tests.
Conclusion
LE8 scores exhibited positive linear associations with cognitive function. Promoting adherence to optimal CVH levels may prove beneficial in maintaining higher levels of cognitive function in older adults in the United States.
Exploring the chemical properties and microstructural characterisations of hybrid asphalt binders for enhanced performance
Authors: Sani Wan Noor Hin Mior , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra , Masri Khairil Azman , Saptaji Kushendarsyah , Dulaimi Anmar
Published: February 2024

Approximately 3 billion metric tonnes of garbage involving industrial and agricultural waste is expected to be generated by 2030, posing a significant environmental hazard. Notably, recycling or reusing asphalt modification components (palm oil fuel ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust) in pavement construction encounter ongoing challenges. This study comprehensively assessed the chemical characteristics and microstructure analysis of individual wastes and various hybrid asphalt binder mixtures incorporated with these components. The mixture consisted of asphalt grade 60/70 blended with varying amounts (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%) of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were also employed to examine the chemical compositions of the raw waste materials. Meanwhile, the microstructure properties of various hybrid asphalt binder mixtures were analysed utilising Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Consequently, this study presented that the correlation between the 6% POFA, 6% garnet waste, and 6% sawdust substantially impacted the chemical composition and morphology of the mixture. The findings of this study demonstrated that including POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust in a hybrid asphalt binder mixture could enhance performance and engineering properties.
Differential Gene Expression in the Kidneys of SHR and WKY rats after Intravenous Administration of Akkermansia muciniphila-derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Olarinoye Zainab Yetunde , Kim Cheong-Wun , Kim Jee Young , Jang Sungmin , Kim Inkyeom
Published: February 2024

Although Akkermansia muciniphila (Am) plays a beneficial role as a probiotic in the treatment of metabolic syndrome, the mechanisms remain elusive. We tested the hypothesis that Am extracellular vesicles (AmEVs) protect against hypertension through modulation of gene expression in the kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Extracellular vesicles purified from anaerobically cultured Am (1.0×108 or 1.0×109 particles/kg) or vehicles were injected into the tail veins of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs) and SHRs weekly for 4 weeks. Renal cortical tissues isolated from both rat strains were analyzed by trichrome stain and RT-qPCR. AmEVs protect against the development of hypertension in SHRs without a serious adverse reaction. AmEVs increased the expression of vasocontractory Agt and At1ar as well as vasodilatory At2r, Mas1 and Nos2 in the kidneys of both strains. These results indicate that AmEVs have a protective effect against hypertension without a serious adverse reaction. Therefore, it is foreseen that AmEVs may be utilized as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of hypertension.
On optimizing resource allocation: A comparative performance evaluation of resource allocation strategies in 5G
Authors: Dobruna Jeta , Fazliu Zana Limani , Humar Iztok , Volk Mojca
Published: February 2024

Resource allocation continues to be a challenging issue in communication networks and its complexity is continuously increasing with the densification of the networks. Resource allocation strategies are numerous and varied, and the goal is to improve any or a number of targets, such as spectral and energy efficiency and overall throughput, among others. In this paper, selected algorithms for resource allocation in wireless communication networks are analyzed and simulations are executed to compare and highlight the importance of the way the resource algorithms are implemented to achieve efficient usage of the available spectrum. In addition, the performance of selected algorithms is evaluated in a multi-cell heterogeneous network and compared to eICIC, a widely-used interference mitigation technique used by communication networks. The results suggest that there is no single algorithm that visibly outperforms other candidates in terms of all performance criteria. Instead, their efficiency is always a consequence of a strategic choice of goals, and the targeted parameters are optimized at a price. Thus, the development and implementation of resource allocation algorithms must follow concrete usage scenarios and needs of the network and depend heavily on network performance requirements and parameters criteria.
A diagnostic dilemma: distinguishing a sulfasalazine induced DRESS hypersensitivity syndrome from a CD30+ lymphoma in a young patient.
Authors: Aleksandrova Natalija , De Rop Jonas , Camu Frederic , Hubloue Ives , Devue Katleen
Published: February 2024

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe hypersensitivity reaction characterized by cutaneous rash, lymphadenopathy, fever, eosinophilia, leukocytosis, and life-threatening organ dysfunctions. We describe the case of a patient admitted to the Emergency Department for DRESS syndrome after sulfasalazine treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in the right knee. Whole body computer tomography showed multiple neck, chest, and abdominal lymphadenopathy with splenomegaly, massive ascites and severe hepatic cytolysis. Serology results for Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), influenza, measles, rubella, hepatitis A and B were negative. The histologic analysis of skin, lymph node and bone marrow biopsies could not indicate a classical Morbus Hodgkin or iatrogenic immunodeficiency/EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD), Hodgkin type. The relatively small caliber of the CD30 + immunoreactive blastoid cells in the lymph nodes suggested reactive immunoblasts rather than Hodgkin cells. The morphologic aspects of the lymph node biopsies with predominance of T-cells were compatible with the diagnosis of a sulfasalazine-induced DRESS syndrome as the patient had a high RegiSCAR score for DRESS. [1] The patient's complex clinical course, marked by two hospital admissions, highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing DRESS. This case underscores the need for individualized care, close patient monitoring, and further research to better understand DRESS's underlying mechanisms and optimal therapeutic strategies.
SARS-COV-2 Seroprevalence and associated factors among people living in different provinces in Chad
Authors: Dezoumbe Koutaya , Abdelrazakh Fatima , Wondeu Andrillene Laure Deutou , Djarma Oumaima , Atturo Sabrina , Naïbeï Nathan , Cappelli Giulia , Mennec Franck JD , Campagna Denise , Boukar Abdoulaye , Moussa Choroma Ahmat , Mahamat Issa , Armand Nontegyol , Hamad Mahamat Idriss , Honorine Netalar , Frederic Kayanlengar , Moustapha Adam Adami , Daniel Yanda Mberkissam , Alim Adam Moussa , Grene Mahamat , Suitombaye Noubaramadji Yamti , Akouya Amine , Choua Ouchemi , Mathieu Hota , Djimtoïbaye Djallaye , Colizzi Vittorio , Takoudjou Guy Rodrigue , Abakar Mahamat Fayiz , Moussa Mahamat Ali
Published: February 2024

Background: Chad with 7,698 confirmed cases of infection and 194 deaths since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemics one of the African countries with the lowest reported cases[i]. However, this figure probably underestimates the actual spread of the virus, due to the low rate of diagnosis. High rate of asymptomatic infections reflects reality of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Chad. In this study, we estimated the seroprevalence and factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Methods: A total of 1,290 samples were taken between September and December 2022 in 10 provinces of Chad. IgG antibodies to the nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-CoV-2 were identified by ELISA method.
Results: The overall seroprevalence was 83.0% [95% CI = 81.6% t- 85.5%], with variations between provinces, ranging from 99.22% [95% CI = 94% - 100%] in Moundou (Southern Chad) to 46.80% [95% CI = 36% -57%] in Biltine (Eastern Chad). Factors associated with the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 were: military occupation (OR= 0.37 CI [0.80-1.77] p=0.025) and group blood (OR= 0.16 CI [0.02-1.06] p=0.058). Other factors, such as gender age, were not statistically associated with seroprevalence.
Conclusion Our results indicates that the seroprevalence of COVID-19 in Chad ranks among the highest in Africa. These estimates could guide the response and public health policy decisions. This could enhance the handling of upcoming outbreaks involving respiratory pathogens.
Application of a new urine collection device in the collection of 24-hour urine specimens from patients--Improving the efficiency of clinical urine specimen collection
Authors: Deng Lili , Zeng Yilin , Wang Dan , Chen Dai , Deng Jia , Huang Yujun , Jian Jinlian
Published: February 2024

Objective To use a new type of urine collection device and stirring system to retain 24h urine specimens from patients, and to explore the effect of its application in the process of clinical 24h urine specimen retention.
Methods One hundred patients admitted to Nephrology Department I of Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital from September 2022 to February 2023 who needed to retain 24h urine protein quantitative specimens were selected as study subjects. The control group used the traditional 24h urine specimen collection method, while the experimental group used a new urine collection device designed by our department to collect specimens. The passing rate of 24h urine specimen collection, the time of collecting 24h urine specimens, and the satisfaction of patients with this device were recorded.
Results The nurses in the test group took less time to collect urine protein specimens than the control group P<0.0001, the number of specimens passed was higher than that of the control group P<0.027, and the patients' satisfaction with 24h urine specimens was higher than the control group.
Conclusion The use of the new urine collection device and stirring system for 24h urine specimen collection and sampling can improve the 24h urine specimen collection rate and improve the patient's satisfaction rate. The use of the new urine collection device and stirring system for 24h urine specimen retrieval and sampling can improve the rate of patients' 24h urine specimen retrieval, reduce the time spent by nurses to collect 24h urine specimens, improve nurses' clinical efficiency, and increase patients' satisfaction with 24h urine specimens.
Genome analysis and classification of a Xanthomonas bacteriophage AhaSv, a new member of the genus Salvovirus
Authors: An Ni , Wu Qingshan , Fang Zheng , Xiang Lan , Liu Qiuping , Tan Leitao , Weng Qingbei
Published: February 2024

Xanthomonas phage AhaSv was isolated from lake water. The genome sequencing showed that the genome was a linear dsDNA genome with a length of 55,576 bp and a G + C content of 63.23%. Seventy-one open reading frames (ORFs) were predicted, and no tRNAs found in the genome. Phylogenetic analysis showed that AhaSv was closely related to the genus Salvovirus of the family Casjensviridae. Intergenomic similarities between phage AhaSv and its homologous phages was up to 90.6%, suggesting that phage AhaSv was a new species.
CCICR-V1.0: An Embeded system for recording Chinese Cuisine Cooker data
Authors: Zhang Jianbao , Wang Deyi , Bao Shiping , Yi Liang
Published: February 2024

The Chinese cooking process is complex and involves a wide variety of dishes, contains a large amount of data, which poses a great challenge to the intelligentization of cooking. To address this issue, this paper proposes a versatile, highly reliable, user-friendly, and intelligent data recorder for Chinese cuisine (Chinese Cuisine Intelligent Cooker Recorder-V1.0, CCICR-V1.0), which is designed to record the associated data generated during Chinese cooking and provide data support for intelligent cooking robot systems.CCICR-V1.0 is equipped with an STM32 microcontroller as the control core and integrated with temperature, pressure, and attitude sensors, enabling intelligent collection of data related to dishes, ingredients, and cookware movement during the cooking process. For high-frequency and multi-channel data acquisition tasks, CCICR-V1.0 adopts a multi-task data buffering storage method, effectively allocating CPU resources, and utilizes NAND Flash as the storage medium to ensure secure storage, management, and preservation of data. Through testing, CCICR-V1.0 has demonstrated its capability to achieve multi-channel, high-frequency data acquisition and storage in complex environments, resulting in an automation rate increase of 89.9%. The weighing module of CCICR-V1.0 exhibits a maximum relative error of 0.288%, while the non-contact infrared temperature measurement module shows a maximum absolute error and maximum relative error of only 0.65°C and 0.78%, respectively. The non-contact infrared temperature measurement module also achieves a cost reduction of 91.7% and an accuracy improvement of approximately 40%. CCICR-V1.0 effectively captures Chinese cooking data and possesses significant commercial value for widespread adoption and application.
Survival of patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Norouzi Solmaz , Molaei Alireza , Ahmadi Samira , Farrokhzadeh Fahimeh , Hajizadeh Ebrahim , Naderi Nasim , Mazloomzadeh Saeideh , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) is a chronic syndrome that necessitates patients' active management of symptoms and adherence to a complex medication regimen. Identifying and treating symptoms early are crucial components of heart failure care, aiming to enhance quality of life and reduce the risk of hospitalization and mortality.
Methods and analysis: This review included observational studies or studies that incorporated both interventional and observational phases. Three independent reviewers will search multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. There was no geographical restriction, and the languages of the studies were written in English. The studies were published from August 2018 to August 2023. Three independent reviewers will carry out the literature screening, research selection, and data extraction. Stata 17.0 software was used to construct a funnel map, assess heterogeneity, perform subgroup analysis, and complete sensitivity analysis.
Ethics and dissemination: This systematic review aimed to present the most recent findings regarding the survival rates and prognostic indicators of individuals with HF. By comparing outcomes over time, we seek to gain insights into the influence of evidence-based treatment advancements on the average survival of patients. The outcomes of this review are expected to be advantageous for various stakeholders, such as patient advocacy groups, the medical community, policymakers, and researchers.
PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023456390
Decomposition and Equivalence of General Nonlinear Dynamical Control Systems
Authors: Bricaire E. Aranda , Califano C. , Moog C. H.
Published: February 2024

Projection and equivalence concepts have been widely studied in the literature. In the present paper two nonlinear systems with the same number of inputs, but not the same number of state variables, are considered. Under mild assumptions, necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the existence of a submersion such that the higher dimensional system projects onto the other one locally. The solution to this problem has relevant applications, for instance in robotics. It includes as a special case the equivalence of nonlinear systems with no particular structure.
Silicon accumulation in leaves reduces the population of shoot and fruit borer, Earias vitella (Fab.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and enhances the yield of bhendi
Authors: Ashok Nithish kumar , Periyakaman Chandramani , Ramiah Nalini , Pandian Kannan , Muthu Ananthan , Sriniva Chinnadurai
Published: February 2024

Using organic amendments, such as biochar as a source of silicon can enhance plant resistance to various biotic stresses including insect pests and helps to minimize the overuse of pesticides. A field experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) using a bhendi variety Arka Anamika with twelve treatments and replicated thrice. Treatments involving various rates of basal application of silicon sources such as biochar and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) with the alternate foliar sprays of potassium silicate and azadirachtin to examine the effectiveness of biochar against bhendi shoot and fruit borer. The results of the filed experiments revealed that seed treatment with biochar @ 100 g/kg of seeds + basal application of biochar @ 75 kg/ha + foliar spray of 1% potassium silicate on 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) and 1% azadirachtin on 45 and 75 DAS (T9), showed a significant reduction in the population of bhendi shoot and fruit borer. This might be due to the high amount of silicon content compared to the other treatments. It was followed by seed treatment with biochar @ 100 g/kg of seeds + basal application of RHA @ 75 kg/ha + foliar spray of 1% potassium silicate applied on 30 and 60 DAS and 1% azadirachtin applied on 45 and 75 DAS (T10). The per cent reduction over untreated check observed was 52.28% in the treatment (T9), whereas it was 47.07% in the T10.
Table-Top Tunable Chiral Photonic Emitter
Authors: Wang Lu , Ciappina Marcelo , Brabec Thomas , Liu Xiaojun
Published: February 2024

The increasing interest in chiral light stems from its spiral trajectory along the propagation direction, facilitating the interaction between different polarization states of light and matter. Despite tremendous achievements in chiral light-related research, the generation and control of chiral pulse have presented enduring challenges, especially at the terahertz and ultraviolet spectral ranges, due to the lack of suitable optical elements for effective pulse manipulation. Conventionally, chiral light can be obtained from intricate optical systems, by an external magnetic field, or by metamaterials, which necessitate sophisticated optical configurations. Here, leveraging the high harmonic generation process, we propose a versatile tunable chiral emitter, composed of only two planar Weyl semimetals slabs, addressing the challenges in both spectral ranges. Our results open the way to a compact tunable chiral emitter platform in both terahertz and ultra-violet frequency ranges. This advancement holds the potential to serve as the cornerstone for integrated chiral photonics.
Assessing Micturition, Sexual Function, and Endoscopic Outcomes One Year After Aquablation: A single center prospective study
Authors: Amparore Daniele , De Cillis Sabrina , Quarà Alberto , Sica Michele , Ortenzi Michele , Piramide Federico , Verri Paolo , Checcucci Enrico , Piana Alberto , Dio Michele Di , Manfredi Matteo , Fiori Cristian , De Luca Stefano , Porpiglia Francesco
Published: February 2024

Background: Even if functionally effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms relief, the morphological changes in the prostatic urethra and bladder cavity resulting from Aquablation treatment are still unknown. This study aims to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of Aquablation within one-year post-surgery, focusing on functional and endoscopic outcomes.
Methods: Prospective enrollment of patients undergoing Aquablation (10/2018–04/2023) included those with baseline International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥10, prostate volume <80 mL, and Qmax ≤12 mL/s. Functional outcomes were evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months using uroflowmetry (Qmax), evaluation of post void residue (PVR), IPSS, Quality of life (QoL)-IPSS, Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM), Male Sexual Health Questionnaire for ejaculatory dysfuncton(MSHQ-EjD) and Incontinence Severity Index (ISI). Cystoscopy at three months assessed ablation quality on a Likert scale (1-poor; 5-excellent). Measurements included cavity length post-treatment (bladder neck to distal prostatic cavity rim) and preserved prostatic tissue length at the apex (distal prostatic cavity rim to the sphincter). Additional evaluations encompassed veru-montanum preservation, presence of residual fluffy tissue or mucous flaps, ureteral orifices and bladder trigone injuries.
Results: Out of 109 enrolled patients, one-year follow-up displayed significant improvements in Qmax (+103.08%), PVR (-75.13%), IPSS (-86.36%), and IPSS-QoL (-80.00%). Aquablation had no impact on erectile function and continence, preserving ejaculatory function in 96.3%. Of the 106 patients undergoing the three-month cystoscopy, prostatic urethra patency was satisfactory to perfect in 96.2%, with a median cavity length of 24 ± 8.2 mm. Residual median lobe occurred in 11.3%, without significant impact on micturition outcomes. Positive outcomes included minimal fluffy tissue and mucosal flaps, and well-preserved ureteral meatuses, verumontanum, and bladder trigone.
Conclusion: Aquablation effectively alleviates BPH-related LUTS with minimal impact on ejaculation up to one year post-surgery. A three-month post-surgery endoscopic evaluation supports its safety, efficacy, and precise ablation planning.
The analysis of the skeletal muscle metabolism is crucial for designing optimal exercise paradigms in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Authors: Akar Elias Abi , Weill Laure , Khoury Mirella El , Caradeuc Cédric , Bertho Gildas , Boutary Suzan , Bezier Cynthia , Clerc Zoé , Sapaly Delphine , Bendris Sabrina , Cheguillaume Flore , giraud nicolas , Eid Assaad A. , Charbonnier Frédéric , Biondi Olivier
Published: February 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease that commonly results from a high-calorie diet and sedentary lifestyle, leading to insulin resistance and glucose homeostasis perturbation. Physical activity is recommended as one first-line treatment in T2DM, but it leads to contrasted results. We hypothesized that, instead of applying standard exercise protocols, the prescription of personalized exercise programs specifically designed to reverse the potential metabolic alterations in skeletal muscle could result in better results.
Methods: To test this hypothesis, we drew the metabolic signature of the fast-twitch quadriceps muscle, based on a combined unbiased NMR spectroscopy and RT-qPCR study, in several T2DM mouse models of different genetic background (129S1/SvImJ, C57Bl/6J), sex and aetiology (high-fat diet (HFD) or HFD/Streptozotocin (STZ) induction or transgenic MKR mice. Three selected mouse models with unique muscular metabolic signatures were submitted to three different swimming-based programs, designed to address each metabolic specificity.
Results: We found that depending on the genetic background, the sex, and the mode of TD2M induction, specific muscular adaptations occurred, including depressed glycolysis associated with elevated PDK4 expression, shift to β-oxidation, or deregulation of amino-acid homeostasis. Interestingly, dedicated swimming-based exercises designed to restore specific metabolic alterations in muscle were found optimal in improving systemic T2DM hallmarks, including a significant reduction in insulin resistance, the improvement of glucose homeostasis, and a delay in sensorimotor function alterations.
Conclusion: The muscle metabolism constitutes an important clue for the design of precision exercises with potential clinical implications for T2DM patients.
Exploring the Impact of Persistent Chemical Vortices on Solution Homogeneity in Laboratory-Scale Reactions
Authors: Farnell Thomas James John
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the impact of persistent chemical vortices in lab scale reactions involving drop-wise addition of reagent, utilising pH indicators to visualise the vortex. Through the comparison of different indicators, Yamada universal indicator emerged as the superior choice. A protocol for acidifying a magnetically stirred solution was developed, allowing precise comparisons of chemical vortex lifetimes across various variables. The study examines the effects of container geometry, bulk solution pH, dropping position, stirring speed, and solution viscosity on vortex dynamics. Notable findings include the significant increase in chemical vortex persistence with larger beaker sizes, a direct relationship between acid concentration and vortex lifetime, and the effect of dropping position on vortex stability which fits the Rankine vortex model. Furthermore, the study reveals a nuanced relationship between stirring speed and vortex persistence, with a loss of dependence observed at higher velocities. Additionally, a significant increase in vortex lifetime was observed with higher solution viscosity, which is explained by the diffusion of momentum expressed by the Javier-stokes equation. Opportunities for further research include refining experimental setups to optimise vortex dynamics and comparative studies between cylindrical beakers and round-bottom flasks to assess their resistance to vortex formation. These insights have implications for improving chemical mixing processes, particularly in small-scale research and development settings.
RETRACTED: The Impact of Hospital-Specific Guidelines on Carbapenem Use and Patient Outcomes in a Setting for High Endemicity with Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacilli
Authors: Boşnak Cemre , Fındık Şeyda Betül , Atay Muhammed , Fakhouri Ward , babazade Sada , Karadoğan Eda , Metan Gökhan , Uzun Ömrüm
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Evaluating the mosquito vector range for two orthobunyaviruses: Oya virus and Ebinur Lake Virus
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Fei , Zaman Wahid , Yang Cihan , Huang Doudou , Ma Haixia , Wang Jinglin , Liu Qiyong , Yuan Zhiming , Xia Han
Published: February 2024

Background:Mosquito-borne viruses cause various infectious diseases in humans and animals. Oya virus (OYAV) and Ebinur lake virus (EBIV), belonging to the genus Orthobunyavirus within the Peribunyaviridae family, are recognized as neglected viruses with the potential to pose threats to animal or public health. The evaluation of vector competence is essential for predicting the arbovirus transmission risk.
Methods: To investigate the range of mosquito vectors for OYAV and EBIV, four medically significant mosquitoes —Culex pipiens pallens, Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes albopictus, and Aedes aegypti —were selected to measure their vector susceptibility through blood-feeding infection. The RNA copies and infection rates of various mosquito species were determined using RT-qPCR. Subsequently, susceptible mosquito species were examined to determine their vector competence.
Results: The results revealed that Cx. pipiens pallens can support in vivo infection and multiplication of OYAV, while Cx. quinquefasciatus, Ae. albopictus,and Ae. aegypti exhibit lower susceptibility. Furthermore, Cx. pipiens pallenscan be infected by EBIV, posing a potential risk of virus transmission (with a transmission rate of up to 15.4%) at 7 days post-infection. In contrast, Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. albopictus exhibited poor vector competence.
Conclusions: This study evaluated the possible transmission risk of OYAV and EBIV using four mosquito species. The findings indicate a potential risk of EBIV transmission in Cx. pipiens pallens.
Multi-Label Benthic Foraminifera Identification with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: YAYAN Kübra , BAĞLUM Cem
Published: February 2024

Geological studies are of great importance in order to observe the change of living species over the years, to make inferences by using the information provided by the observed species, and to understand the developing and changing structure of the world we live in over the years. However, the examination and interpretation of fossil specimens is a complex and lengthy process. Especially in thin sections where microfossil studies are carried out, more than one fossil and non-fossil structures are often observed together. The detection and classification of fossil specimens with the help of computers simplifies this process as much as possible compared to manual classification processes. This study represents a comparative analysis of three distinct image classification models: CNN, ResNet, and VGG. We developed a custom Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture aimed at advancing the analysis and classification of geological specimens, particularly focusing on the Endless Forams dataset for the identification of benthic foraminiferas. This approach significantly improves the precision of fossil identification, leveraging deep learning to interpret complex image data efficiently. Additionally, we have identified the ResNet-50 and VGG-16 models as optimal for our research purposes due to their advanced capabilities in handling high-dimensional data and their effectiveness in capturing detailed image features. The findings, application for benthic foraminiferas reveal significant insights into the models' performance, underscored by rigorous statistical evaluation, offering a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and limitations within the realm of image classification.
Analyzing Laterally Loaded Piles in Multi-layered Cohesive Soils: a Hybrid Bnwf Approach With Validation and Parametric Study
Authors: Gendy Mahmoud EL
Published: February 2024

Pile foundations frequently encounter lateral loads originating from various hazards. These types of foundations are commonly utilized in structures like bridges, retaining walls, and high-rise buildings. Analyzing laterally loaded piles presents a complex geotechnical problem that entails considering multiple interrelated design factors. It requires accounting for structural bending behavior, soil-structure interaction, soil nonlinearity, and optimizing for cost-effectiveness. In this paper, the commonly used approach beam on nonlinear Winkler foundation is developed. This methodology involves representing the pile using one-dimensional finite elements in the vertical direction, incorporating nonlinear bending stiffness. Additionally, soil deformation is determined using empirically derived P-y curves, which are obtained from full-scale field tests. By combining the pile stiffness with the soil stiffness considering the full interaction between the pile and the surrounding soil, the complete stiffness matrix of the single pile is formed, leading to a reduction in the number of equations that need to be solved. Both Euler and Timoshenko beams are considered, and the analysis is conducted using both finite elements and finite difference methods. The proposed hybrid approach is validated by comparing its results from analyzing laterally loaded piles in multi-layered soil profiles with those obtained from different models in existing literature and available field measurements. The well-known software ELPLA is equipped with the proposed hybrid technique. Furthermore, a parametric study investigates the behavior of laterally loaded pipe piles in soft and stiff clay, culminating in the presentation of dimensionless curves from this study.
Knowledge-Guided Surgery: Augmented Reality based Registration and Projection for Anatomical Tissues and Preoperative Planned Approaches
Authors: Wang Hongpeng , Chen Jianren , Sun Xiaoxue , Liu Teng , Liang Siquan , Li Haitao , Qin Yanding , Han Jianda
Published: February 2024

To address the challenges of providing real-time guidance during surgical procedures and fully utilizing preoperative lesion data information intraoperatively, we propose an augmented reality-based, knowledge-guided method for surgical procedures. Our method involves designing a semantic segmentation algorithm for medical images to achieve accurate lesion tissues segmentation. With the segmentation results, we localize the tissues and organs, plan the surgical approaches based on safety constraints, and generate a virtual knowledge model containing semantic information of the lesion and the preoperative planned approaches through 3D visualization operations. To align the virtual surgical knowledge model with the patient's lesion site in the real surgical environment, we establish a portable high-precision augmented reality display system with external depth cameras. We use joint calibration, point cloud alignment, and wireless communication transmission to improve the augmented reality device's scene perception capability and achieve the precise integration of virtual and real objects in holographic projection. Our proposed method achieves the goal of knowledge-guided surgery process. This paper presents the personalized 3D representation of medical images and demonstrates the precise application of augmented reality technology in surgery, which provides solutions to the problems of surgery planning and navigation.
Garvicin-SHAMU-LG6, A Novel Bacteriocin from Lactococcus garvieae That Exert Broad Antimicrobial Activity Against Drug-Resistant Pathogens
Authors: Weng Shengnan , Leng Guiyun , Gao Ju , Wang Yawu , Yao Jie , Li Xin , Liu Zhou , Zhou Qiang , Tang Wei
Published: February 2024

Background
Accelerating growth and global expansion of antimicrobial resistance has deepened the demand for discovery of novel antimicrobial agents. Bacteriocins have attracted increasing interest because of their high efficiency, low toxicity and being not easy to cause drug resistance. This study aims to investigate a novel broad-spectrum bacteriocin, contributing to the pharmaceutical fields.
Results
From a human urine specimen, we isolated a strain thatproduced a novel broad-spectrum bacteriocin, which was identified as Lactococcus garvieae SHAMU-LG6. The bacteriocin, termed garvicin-SHAMU-LG6. The Oxford cup methoddemonstrated it could inhibit the growth of various clinically pathogenic and multidrug-resistant pathogens (MDRP). Whole genome sequencing analysis found a putative gene cluster, that shared 10% similarity with the most similar known bacteriocin cluster. In addition, the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of L. garvieae SHAMU-LG6 exerts antimicrobial activity against S. aureus by disrupting the integrity of bacterial cells. Furthermore, garvicin-SHAMU-LG6 was preliminary purified from the CFS of L. garvieae SHAMU-LG6. Its crude extraction showed good pH (pH 3 to 11) and heat stability (30℃ to 121℃) and resistance to the digestion of chymotrypsin, trypsin, proteinase K, and bromelain.
Conclusions
All these studies suggested that garvicin-SHAMU-LG6 has the potential to be used as a therapeutic drug against pathogenic bacteria as well as MDRP in the food and pharmaceutical fields.
Swallowing function and influencing factors in hospitalized patients with mental illnesses: A cross-sectional study of 392 patients in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Ye Junrong , Chen Jiao , Wei Yanheng , Huang Xingxiao , Wu Shengwei , Wang Wen , Zhou Tingwei , Pan Yuanxin , Li Zezhi , Xiao Aixiang
Published: February 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore the swallowing function and influencing factors of hospitalized patients with mental illnesses (PMI).
Methods: A total of 392 hospitalized PMI were selected for this study. Their swallowing function was evaluated using the Standardized Swallowing Assessment (SSA). The data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), and the Activity of Daily Living Scale (ADL).
Results: Most patients (75.0%) had dementia and 332 (84.7%) were over 60 years old. The significant factors influencing the swallowing function among PMI included age, diagnosis, duration of illness, somatic comorbidities, and admission routes (P < 0.05). After subjecting these factors to linear regression analysis, it was revealed that the swallow function of PMI was strongly correlated with dementia (β = 2.405, 95% CI: 1.761–3.05, P < 0.001), ADL (moderate dependence: β =1.764, 95% CI:0.931–2.597, P < 0.001); severe dependence: β = 2.28, 95% CI:1.412–3.149, P < 0.001), somatic comorbidities (β = 1.126, 95% CI: 0.349–1.903, P = 0.005), SSRS (utilization of social support: β = 0.162, 95% CI: 0.035–0.29, P = 0.012; objective support: β = -0.181, 95% CI: –0.298 to 0.063, P = 0.003).
Conclusion The swallowing function of PMI was associated with dementia, the ability to perform daily activities, somatic comorbidities, and social support. Future studies should focus on the recovery of swallowing function and somatic comorbidities, self-care ability, and multi-level social support for PMI.
Capturing sources of health system legitimacy in fragmented conflict zones under different governance models. A case study of northwest Syria
Authors: Alkhalil Munzer , Turkmani Rim , Gharibah Mazen , Patel Preeti , Mehchy Zaki
Published: February 2024

Introduction Legitimacy and trust are crucial for resilient health systems in fragmented conflict zones. This study evaluates the legitimacy of public health authorities in northwest Syria under different governance models.Methods Using a deductive and inductive mixed-methods approach, the research team developed a framework with 4 indices and 18 indicators to assess the legitimacy of public health authorities that operate under different health governance models – top-down, bottom-up, and hybrid – in the context of the response to the earthquake that hit Syria in February 2023. The study includes surveys, workshops, stakeholder consultations, and an expert panel conducted in northwest Syria and online.Results The findings indicate that bottom-up health governance model is perceived as the most legitimate, followed by the mixed model, while top-down model is perceived as the least legitimate. This preference is measured across all legitimacy source indices, including legality, justification, consent and performance and across the overall Health Sector Legitimacy Index (HSLI). However, the hybrid governance approach showed limited superiority at the sub-source level regarding long-term health system response.Conclusion This study highlights the importance of considering the legitimacy of the health system in fragmented conflict zones. It helps explaining the effectiveness of the bottom-up approach and community-based governance in enhancing trust, cooperative behaviour, health interventions and achieving sustainability. Additionally, the study highlighted the role of legitimate public authorities in practising civic virtue and promoting social justice, thus contributing to peace-building efforts. These insights are crucial for policymakers and development donors to strengthen health systems in challenging contexts.
Do we invest as we are? The role of early non-cognitive skills on household savings in adulthood
Authors: Martínez-Gabaldón Eduardo
Published: February 2024

Household face a variety of financial products when making decisions about investing their money, from simple bank accounts to financial products more sophisticated like stocks, funds, or bonds. Getting a greater understanding of the factors influencing the financial household decisions could enhance their financial well-being. The aim of this paper is to examine the link between early non-cognitive skills and household saving decisions in adulthood. Our results suggest that certain early non-cognitive skills are predictors of savings decisions in later life. Specifically, higher level of conscientiousness and neuroticism increases the probability of investing in any financial product, while high level of neuroticism, extraversion, and agreeableness increase the probability of holding financial products with risk. Moreover, the effect of non-cognitive skills was different across monthly income decile. For conscientiousness and neuroticism, a negative gradient effect was found, while this gradient effect was positive for agreeableness and extraversion These findings may be relevant from a policy perspective since boosting non-cognitive skills in childhood through educational policies could improve financial well-being in adulthood.
JEL classification: D14 D91 G11
Dynamics, diversity, and roles of bacterial transmission modes during the first asexual life stages of the freshwater sponge Spongilla lacustris
Authors: Paix Benoit , Valk Elodie van der , de Voogd Nicole J.
Published: February 2024

Background: Sponges-associated bacteria play important roles in the physiology of their host, whose recruitment processes are crucial to maintain symbiotic associations. However, the acquisition of bacterial communities within freshwater sponges is still unexplored. Spongilla lacustris is a model sponge widely distributed in European rivers and lakes, producing dormant cysts (named gemmules) for their asexual reproduction, before winter. Through an in vitroexperiment, this study aims to describe the dynamics of bacterial communities and their transmission modes following the hatching of these gemmules.
Results: An overall change of bacterial β-diversity was observed through the ontology of the new juvenile sponges. These temporal differences were potentially linked first to the osculum acquisition and the development of a canal system, and then, the increasing colonization of the Chlorella-like photosymbionts. Gemmules hatching with a sterilized surface were found to have a more dispersed and less diverse microbiome, revealing the importance of gemmule epibacteria for the whole holobiont stability. These epibacteria were suggested to be vertically transmitted from the maternal tissues to the gemmule surface. Vertical transmission through the incorporation of bacterial communities inside of the gemmule, was also found as a dominant transmission mode, especially with the nitrogen fixers Terasakiellaceae. Finally, we showed that almost no ASVs were shared between the free-living community and the juveniles, suggesting that horizontal recruitment is unlikely to happen during the first stages of development. However, the free-living bacteria filtered are probably used as a source of nutrients, allowing an enrichment of copiotrophic bacteria already present within its microbiome.
Conclusions: This study brings new insight for a better understanding of the microbiome acquisition during the first stages of freshwater sponge development. We showed the importance of epibacterial communities on gemmules for the whole holobiont stability, and demonstrated the near absence of recruitment of free-living bacteria during the first stages.