bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and predictors of hearing aid use and benefit in Norway: The HUNT study
Authors: Engdahl Bo , Aarhus Lisa
Published: October 2023

Background:Knowledge on hearing aid use and benefit is important to ensure appropriate and effective treatment. We aimed to assess prevalence and predictors of hearing aid use and benefit in Norway, as well as possible birth cohort changes.Methods:We analyzed two large cross-sectional, nationally representative hearing surveys of 63,182 adults in 1996-1998 and 2017-2019 (the HUNT study). We used multivariable regression models to examine independent predictors of hearing aid use and benefit, including demography, hearing-related variables, risk factors for hearing loss and birth cohort.Results:The nationally weighted use in the adult population increased from 4.2% in 1997 to 5.8% in 2018. The use among individuals with disabling hearing loss (≥35 dB) increased from 46.3% to 64.4%. Most users reported some (47%) or great (48%) help from their hearing aids. In addition to the level of hearing loss and birth cohort, factors associated with hearing aid use included lower age, tinnitus, childhood-onset hearing loss, higher education, marriage, having children, being exposed to occupational noise or impulse noise, recurrent ear infections, and head injury. In addition to the level of hearing loss, factors related to hearing aid benefit included younger age, female gender, unemployment, and higher income. Being bothered by tinnitus reduced the benefit.Conclusion:Our study shows an increase in hearing aid usage over time in Norway, with lower adoption rates and benefits observed among the elderly. The importance of having a spouse and children for hearing aid adoption is evident. These findings emphasize the necessity of customized strategies to address demographic disparities and the need for innovative enhancements in hearing rehabilitation programs.
Comparative transcriptome analysis and genetic dissection of vegetative branching traits in foxtail millet (Setaria italic)
Authors: Liu Tianpeng , Liu Xueying , He Jihong , Dong Kongjun , Zhang Lei , Li Yawei , Ren Ruiyu , Yang Tianyu
Published: October 2023

Vegetative branching including tiller and axillary branch are vital traits affecting both the plant architecture and the biomass in cereal crops. However, the mechanism underlying the formation of vegetative branching in foxtail millet is largely unknown. Here, a foxtail millet cultivar and its bushy wild relative Setaria viridis accession were used to construct segregating population to identify candidate genes regulating tiller number and axillary branch number. Transcriptome analysis using vegetative branching bud samples of parental accessions were performed, and key differentially expressed genes and pathways regulating vegetative branching were pointed out. Bulk segregant analysis on their F2:3 segregating population was carried out, and a major QTL for tiller number (qTN5.1) and two major QTLs for axillary branch number (qAB2.1 and qAB9.1) were detected. Fine-mapping strategy was further performed on F2:4 segregate population, and Seita.5G356600 encoding β- glucosidase 11 were identified as the promising candidate genes for qTN5.1, and eight genes with non-synonymous variation and expression differences in the qAB9.1 interval were finally identified as candidate genes for regulating axillary branching. Findings in this study will help to elucidate the genetic basis of vegetative branching formation of foxtail millet, and lay a foundation for breeding foxtail millet varieties with ideal vegetative branching number.
Surgery combined with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy prolonged overall survival in stage IVC anaplastic thyroid cancer: a SEER-based analysis
Authors: Yin Ying , Wang Linhe , Huang Chiming
Published: October 2023

Background
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare but aggressive malignancy, which accounts for only 1–2% of all thyroid cancers. The median overall survival (OS) time for all stages patients is at about 5 months. The benefit of surgery combined with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy in stage IVC anaplastic thyroid cancer is still controversial. The aim of this study is to investigating surgery combined with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy and survival outcomes in stage IVC ATC patients.
Method
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 2004 to 2016 were used to conduct a cross-sectional study in the analysis. The endpoint of this study was overall survival.
Results
The median OS of the overall population was 2.0 months. Multivariate analysis showed that age (< 67 vs. ≥67 years old, P = 0.017, HR = 1.355, 95% CI: 1.057–1.738), tumor size (< 7cm vs. ≥7cm, P = 0.001, HR = 1.579, 95% CI: 1.202–2.073), Surgery (thyroidectomy vs. non-surgery, P < 0.001, HR = 0.554, 95% CI: 0.401–0.766), radiation therapy (P < 0.001, HR = 0.571, 95% CI: 0.445–0.733) and chemotherapy (P = 0.003, HR = 0.684, 95% CI: 0.531–0.881) were independent prognostic factor for worse OS in stage IVC ATC patients. Surgery combined with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy exhibited the better overall survival time for 4 months.
Conclusions
Surgery combined with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy can improve overall survival in stage IVC ATC patients. We recommend surgical approach with fully evaluation combined with radiation therapy and chemotherapy for selected stage IVC ATC patients.
Combined effects of landscape fragmentation and sampling frequency of movement data on the assessment of landscape connectivity
Authors: Prima Marie-Caroline , Garel Mathieu , Marchand Pascal , Redcliffe James , Börger Luca , Barnier Florian
Published: October 2023

Background -
Network theory is largely applied in real-world systems to assess landscape connectivity using empirical or theoretical networks. Empirical networks are usually built from discontinuous individual movement trajectories without knowing the effect of relocation frequency on the assessment of landscape connectivity while theoretical networks generally rely on simple movement rules. We investigated the combined effects of relocation sampling frequency and landscape fragmentation on the assessment of landscape connectivity using simulated trajectories and empirical high-resolution (1 Hz) trajectories of Alpine ibex (Capra ibex). We also quantified the capacity of commonly used theoretical networks to accurately predict landcape connectivity from multiple movement processes.
Methods –
We simulated forager trajectories from continuous correlated biased random walks in simulated landscapes with three levels of landscape fragmentation. High-resolution ibex trajectories were reconstructed using GPS-enabled multi-sensor biologging data and the dead-reckoning technique. For both simulated and empirical trajectories, we generated spatial networks from regularly resampled trajectories and assessed changes in their topology and information loss depending on the resampling frequency and landscape fragmentation. We finally built commonly used theoretical networks in the same landscapes and compared their predictions to actual connectivity.
Results -
We demonstrated that an accurate assessment of landscape connectivity can be severely hampered (e.g., up to 66% of undetected visited patches and 29% of spurious links) when the relocation frequency is too coarse compared to the temporal dynamics of animal movement. However, the level of landscape fragmentation and underlying movement processes can both mitigate the effect of relocation sampling frequency. We also showed that network topologies emerging from different movement behaviours and a wide range of landscape fragmentation were complex, and that commonly used theoretical networks accurately predicted only 30–50% of landscape connectivity in such environments.
Conclusions -
Very high-resolution trajectories were generally necessary to accurately identify complex network topologies and avoid the generation of spurious information on landscape connectivity. New technologies providing such high-resolution datasets over long period should thus grow in the movement ecology sphere. In addition, commonly used theoretical models should be applied with caution to the study of landscape connectivity in real-world systems as they did not perform well as predictive tools.
Exploring nurses' experiences of recommended patient care: a descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Faraji Azam , Jalali Amir , Khatony Alireza , Jalali Rostam
Published: October 2023

Background: caring for recommended patients creates work and emotional challenges for nurses. Nurses are obligated to provide care regardless of the patient's situation. Therefore, knowing the experiences of nurses in dealing with recommended patients in order to provide quality and effective care can be the basis for increasing patient satisfaction. The present study was conducted aimed to explain nurses' experiences of caring for recommended patients.
Methods: This was a qualitative study with descriptive phenomenological approach. Participants were 12 nurses working in different wards of hospitals affiliated to Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, selected by purposive sampling method with maximum diversity. The data collected using semi-structured interviews in face-to-face and audio-recorded methods. MAXQDA 2020 software was used for data management. The analysis of the data was done using the Colaizzi's 7-step method. In order to verify the trustworthiness of the data, Lincoln and Guba criteria were used.
Results: After continuous data analysis, 110 initial codes were extracted. These codes emerged in 18 sub-themes and 6 main themes including: catastrophe, be in decline, be in progress, discrimination, work overload, and poor prognosis.
Conclusions: The findings of this study provide useful information for developing the empowerment and improving the working environment of nurses in the care of recommended patients.
Molecular Characterization of Brassica Species using SSR Markers
Authors: Khan Nadia , Jadoon Sultan Akbar , Ahmad Sheraz , Kakakhel Muhammad Arif
Published: October 2023

Genetic diversity and relationship among F8-populations of brassica species: B. napus, B. rapa and B. juncea were carried out on eight parental-lines along with their 38 introgressed populations using SSR markers to cover the diversity present in them as broadly as possible. Diversity analysis based on three neutral markers formed four distinct clusters with 1, 3, 19 and 22 genotypes, respectively. Based on these finding traits specific markers were employed which further formed six distinct clusters of selected plants with 3, 17, 2, 6, 3 and 14 genotypes. The cluster analysis identified genotypes with desirable biochemical contents i.e. plant 1 of Bnj43 had low glucosinolate, plant 3 of Bnr38 had high oleic acid content, plant 5 of Bnr38 had low linolenic acid, plant 1 of Bnr23 had low erucic acid while plant 2 of Bnr25 had high oil content and plant 2 of Bnj13 had high protein content. Moreover, the polymorphism information content (PIC) value of neutral as well as trait specific SSRs ranged from 0.5 to 0.96 and 0.45 to 0.95, respectively with an overall PIC value for all primers of 0.67. Considerable genetic diversity found among the F8-populations and their parents using SSR markers proved SSR analysis to be a useful tool. Moreover, based on the current findings, populations Bnj50F8, Bnr38F8, Bnj43F8, Bnj3F8 and Bnj25F8 are suggested to be used as source populations for transfer of desirable traits in future Brassica improvement programs.
Tumor-Related mRNA POU5F1: A Novel Predictive Marker in Preeclampsia
Authors: Yang Mei , Wang Menghui , Li Nanfang
Published: October 2023

Background: Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Owing to the poor understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease, an effective treatment forpreeclampsia is unavailable. Thus, accurate prediction of preeclampsia continues to be a clinical and research priority. The purpose of our study was to explore whether significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the blood circulation of preeclampsia patients can predict the development of disease and explain the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
Methods: First, the microarray dataset GSE48424 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GEO2R was used to identify the DEGs. Functional enrichment analyses were performed by the R package. A protein‒protein interaction network (PPI) was constructed, and module analysis was performed using STRING and Cytoscape. R language was used for the visualization of the results. GraphPad Prism was used to generate graphs. logFC (fold change) >0.58 and adj. P values<0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 178 DEGs were obtained, consisting of 121 downregulated genes and 57 upregulated genes. Five tumor-related hub genes were identified and considered to be significant according to scores calculated by Cytoscape. Receiver operating (ROC) curves were generated for diagnosis. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to verify the expression levels of the hub genes.
Conclusion: POU5F1 may be a key tumor-related mRNA in the pathogenesis of
preeclampsia. Thisstudy may provide a theoretical and experimental basis for revealing the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and improving the diagnosis of preeclampsia.
Microbial Isolates and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns in Adults with Inborn Errors of Immunity: A Comprehensive Analysis of Sputum Cultures
Authors: Karabiber Esra , Özen Ahmet
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Individuals with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are prone to infections, especially in the respiratory tract. They frequently receive prolonged broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat infections, which can lead to antibiotic resistance. We aimed to identify respiratory pathogens and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns.
Methods
We collected clinical and demographic data from adult IEI patients. We included patients with available positive sputum cultures between 2014 and 2023. Data from electronic health records covered hospitalizations, respiratory infections (especially pneumonia), yearly antibiotic prescriptions, past sputum cultures, and antibiotic sensitivities.
Results
We analyzed 314 positive sputum cultures from 36 IEI patients. Patients had a median age of 23.5 years (range: 21-29.5), with 61% being male. The most common bacterial isolates were Haemophilus influenzae (159 isolates), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (51 isolates), and Streptococcus pneumonia (29 isolates). We recorded 992 symptomatic exacerbations (averaging 3.04 per patient per month) necessitating antibiotic treatment, along with 43 pneumonia-related hospitalizations. Haemophilus influenzae showed high resistance rates to cefuroxime (82%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (66%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (59%), and ampicillin/sulbactam (49%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa displayed significant resistance to ciprofloxacin (85%), ceftazidime (42%), and aminoglycosides (23–33%). All Streptococcus pneumonia isolates were tetracycline-resistant, and high resistance rates were observed for penicillin (95.6%), clindamycin (92.3%), and erythromycin (89.6%). It's essential to highlight the substantial resistance of common pathogens to oral antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, cefuroxime, clindamycin, and erythromycin.
Conclusion
Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern among vulnerable IEI patients. We suggest conducting similar investigations in other regions to address this issue. The findings should inform future infection management guidelines for IEIs.
Overexpression of PavbHLH28 from Prunus avium enhances tolerance to cold stress in transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Cao Xuejiao , Wen Zhuang , Shen Tianjiao , Cai Xiaowei , Hou Qiandong , Shang Chunqiong , Qiao Guang
Published: October 2023

Background
The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) gene family is one of the largest transcription factor families in plants. It plays an important role in the regulation of plant growth and abiotic stress response.
Results
In this study, we determined that PavbHLH28 gene participated in cold resistance. The PavbHLH28 gene was located in the nucleus and could be induced by low temperature. Under the treatment of ABA, PEG, and GA3, the transcript level of PavbHLH28 was affected. At low temperature, overexpression of the PavbHLH28 gene enhanced the cold resistance of plants with higher proline content, lower electrolyte leakage (EL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Compared with the WT plants, the transgenic plants accumulate less reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the activity and expression levels of antioxidant enzymes were significantly increased. The expression of proline synthesis enzyme genes was up-regulated, and the transcripts levels of degradation genes were significantly down-regulated. The transcripts abundance of the cold stressed-related genes in the C-repeat binding factor (CBF) pathway were not significantly different between WT plants and transgenic plants after cold stress. Moreover, the PavbHLH28 can directly bind to the POD2 gene promoter and promote its gene expression.
Conclusions
Overall, PavbHLH28 enhanced cold resistance of transgenic plants through a CBF-independent pathway, which may be partly related to ROS scavenging.
Comparative analysis of machine learning algorithms and scales for estimating boreal forest above ground biomass in the Qilian Mountains, China
Authors: Song Jie , Duan XueJiao , Wu Jun , Ma Biao , Liu Xuelu
Published: October 2023

Accurate and up-to-date maps of the aboveground biomass (AGB) of boreal forests have become the key to global climate change research in recent years. Although Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS) data is a powerful tool for forest AGB estimation, the data coverage dispersion often means they need to be combined with auxiliary data to map wall-to-wall forest AGB distribution. Exploring the proper estimation approach and mapping scale for estimating boreal forest AGB distribution is critical. In this study, four machine learning algorithms (XGBoost, LightGBM, SVR and RF) and four mapping scales (15 × 15, 30 × 30, 60 × 60 and 90 × 90 m) are compared regarding their ability to estimate the AGB of boreal forest over the Qilian Mountains in northwestern China based on field measurements, spaceborne LiDAR and optical and environmental data. The results showed that the two GBDT AGB models (XGBoost and LightGBM) had better performance in AGB estimation and the LightGBM AGB model yielded superior results (R2 = 0.41, RMSE = 19.40Mg/ha). The results also indicated that 90 × 90 m was the best resolution for the AGB distribution map in this region. Moreover, an appropriate mapping scale can further improve the accuracy of AGB estimation.
Magnitude and Factors Associated with Undernutrition Among Children on Antiretroviral Therapy in the East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Shibiru Tesfaye , Arulandhu Anthonisamy
Published: October 2023

Background: Insufficient food intake and infectious diseases cause undernutrition. Undernutrition in children is a severe public health issue globally, especially in low-resource areas. Among the most vulnerable to these challenges, children affected by HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia are at risk of undernutrition, which links to increased child morbidity and mortality. Despite the significance of the issues, there is no report in the East Wollega Zone of Ethiopia. Therefore, the present study aims to assess the magnitude and determinants of undernutrition among children receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the east Wollega zone of Ethiopia.
Methods: From June to July 2022, a survey was carried out in the East Wollega Zone of Ethiopia to collect the data. The study sample comprised 380 children aged ≤ 15 years who were being treated with ART. A systematic questionnaire and anthropometric measurements were used to collect the data. Epi data 3.1 and SPSS version 26.0 was used for the input data, and data analysis respectively. The relationship between independent variables and undernutrition was identified using logistic regression analysis.
Results:The study revealed that the magnitude of undernutrition (WFH <-2 Z-score) was 36.8% with a 95% CI (32.1, 41.8). Having acute disease two weeks before the survey (AOR = 5.82, 95% CI: 2.86, 11.84), CD4 level (AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.06, 3.25), treating water at home (AOR = 3.30, 95% CI: 1.8, 6.05), duration of follow-up (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.11, 3.47), food insecurity (AOR = 3.55, 95% CI: 2.03, 6.19), and latrine unavailability (AOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.39, 5.36) were statistically significant associations with undernutrition among children with ART.
Conclusions: The magnitude of undernutrition is a significant problem among pediatric populations affected by HIV/AIDS in the eastern Wollega zone of Ethiopia. The factors associated with undernutrition include acute disease, low CD4 levels, non-treated water at home, duration of follow-up, food insecurity, and latrine unavailability. Public health facilities should implement measures to address these factors to improve the dietary status of children living with HIV/AIDS.
Osmotic Demyelination syndrome after presumed coronavirus (COVID-19) infection: A case report
Authors: Wang Wenying , Liu Jinjing , Gao Changyue , Li Yong
Published: October 2023

Osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS) is a rare and rapidly progressive metabolic demyelinating disease with poor prognosis. This article describes a case of a 61-year-old female who had a history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection 10 days prior to the onset of symptoms. The patient presented with fever, poor appetite, vomiting and gradually developed consciousness impairment. Based on the clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, a diagnosis of ODS was made, with both central pontine myelinolysis and extrapontine myelinolysis observed. After receiving treatment with dexamethasone, nutritional support and systemic rehabilitation, the patient's consciousness improved and speech,swallowing and limb strength all improved. Here we report, the human case linking a presumed SARS-CoV-2 infection to the development of ODS.
Can Human Brain Connectivity explain Verbal Working Memory?
Authors: Carriere Maxime , Tomasello Rosario , Pulvermüller Friedemann
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Humans are able to learn and use a broad range of words and other symbols, whereas Monkeys are limited to acquiring small vocabularies of signs, including sounds and gestures. Although evolutionary changes on network architecture and connectivity features within the left-perisylvian regions has been reported, their functional contribution on symbol formation and verbal working memory are poorly understood.Methods: Here, we used brain-constrained neural network of the frontotemporal and occipital cortices mimicking key neuroanatomical distinctions between human and non-human primates.Results: Our comparative analysis of models shows that the human model, characterized by denser inter-area connectivity, gives rise to larger cell assemblies with distinct semantic-specific topography compared to the less densely connected monkey models. Additionally, by simulating auditory word recognition, we observed the emergence of verbal working memory by longer neural reverberation activity in the human architecture compared to those of monkeys. Interestingly, these observations are consistent across different model types, including a basic meanfield and a spiking neural model.Conclusions: These findings shed light on the structural underpinnings of human-specific verbal working memory, a crucial feature for the acquisition of an expansive vocabulary.
Agent-based modelling of commuting patterns in Geneva, Switzerland, towards portraying urban expansion and land cover changes.
Authors: Chambers Flann , Cruz Christophe , Serugendo Giovanna Di Marzo
Published: October 2023

Agent-based modelling has been used in many studies of urban expansion, land use and land cover change patterns. Indeed, this method represents a powerful tool for depicting and formulating predictions about the evolution of interconnected complex systems. We present an agent-based model developed in GAMA for analysing commuting patterns in the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, and fully document our modelling methodology, to provide inspiration and a materials and methodology basis for future modelling efforts. All datasets and codes related to this work are distributed in open access, and a general methodology for adapting the model to other use cases is discussed. Main findings revolve around the analysis of the impact of public transportation offer changes on journey by tram length. With our given set of initial conditions, when decreasing tram offer on the major Cornavin-Meyrin-CERN axis, journey-to-work length skyrockets for a handful of commuters. This phenomenon is correlated with an observed increase in overcrowded trams in the system. Furthermore, increasing tram offer alongside the emergence of a new large eco-district helps dampen the steady increase in journey length caused by the influx of new commuters and the saturation of the network. The model presented in this paper is early work in developing agent-based models for simulating urban expansion and land cover change dynamics.
Memory loss induced by lisdexamphetamine in the rat: A Behavioral, Electrophysiological, and Histopathological Study
Authors: Nourirad Seyedeh Naghmeh , Bayat Amir-Hossein , Sani Mojtaba , Beirami Amirreza , Hasanzadeh Maral , Moghaddam Meysam Hassani , Fathi Mobina , Vakili Kimia , Parvardeh Siavash , Meftahi Gholam Hossein , Sarahian Nahid , Khodagholi Fariba , Aliaghaei Abbas , Abbaszadeh Hojjat-Allah
Published: October 2023

Lisdexamphetamine (LDX) is one of the drugs commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, its neurological side effects, particularly on cognition, are not fully understood. The present study focused on memory in rats treated with LDX. We compared them with controls in terms of behavioral responses and electrophysiological and histological properties in the hippocampus. Almost all behavioral results showed the destructive properties of LDX. Although LDX did not alter population spike (PS) amplitude, it increased the field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) slope of evoked potentials of LTP components. The number of microglia and astrocytes increased significantly in the LDX group. Sholl analysis showed increased soma size and total process length in hippocampal astrocytes and microglia. Taken together, LDX may disrupt memory-related variables. However, more research is needed to clarify this.
Using fragmenting enchytraeid species in ecotoxicological tests: regeneration as a new endpoint
Authors: Assis Orlando , Niva Cintia C. , Brown George G.
Published: October 2023

Enchytraeids (potworms) are widely distributed oligochaetes highly useful as bioindicators of soil quality and for ecotoxicological tests to assess non-target effects of contaminants. However, the standard and most widely-used species (Enchytraeus albidusandEnchytraeus crypticus) are not well representative of potworms living in agricultural soils subjected to pesticide use in temperate and tropical regions. Fragmenting species likeEnchytraeus bigeminusmay be more ecologically relevant, and their rapid reproduction mode (fragmentation) may reduce assay time, offering faster and more economical results. In the present study we provide first results of ecotoxicological tests using the reference substance Boric Acid and the regeneration ofE. begeminusfragments as a new end-point. Decreases in regeneration after 7 days exposure were observed with higher concentrations of boric acid and EC50 value was 9.12 mg kg-1. Regeneration was easily visible and rapidly assessed using a Ludox® and white paint solution, making this fragmenting species and endpoint particularly interesting for further standardization efforts.
Relationships between psychological capital, professional commitment, and academic burnout among nursing students: A cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Kong Chang , Wang Jinfang , Chen Dongfeng , Li Yan , Qin Yuting , Li Na
Published: October 2023

Background: College students generally experience academic burnout, seriously affecting their normal learning as well as physical and mental well-being. This paper aims to examine the level of academic burnout among nursing students from traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM ) universities, and to determine whether professional commitmentacts as a mediator between psychological capital and academic burnout.
Methods: This cross-sectional study used convenience sampling to recruit 733 voluntary student participants from a four-year undergraduate nursing program at a TCM university in Shandong Province, China, from April to June 2020. All participants completed self-reported questionnaires online. The mediating role of professional commitment was evaluated using the bootstrap method.
Results: Psychological capitaland professional commitmenthad a significantly negative correlation academic burnout (both p < 0.01), and psychological capital was positively related to professional commitment (p < 0.01). Additionally, psychological capital and academic burnout were partially mediated by professional commitment (b = -0.223, 95% Confidence Interval = -0.282–0.168).
Conclusions: It was found that psychological capitaland professional commitment contribute to reducing academic burnout, while psychological capitalenhances professional commitment. Moreover, professional commitment was a mediator between psychological capital and academic burnout. Thus, Effective strategies should be implemented to strengthen psychological capital and professional commitment and alleviate academic burnout.
Witbier craft beer with added acerola pulp (Malpighia emarginata): characterization and analysis
Authors: de Sousa Cecila Leal , Costa Lilian Suelane Maia da , Ferreira Lorena Pereira , Silva Karita Juliana Sousa , Azevedo Marcia Mourão Ramos , Bressan Cléo Rodrigo , Gul Kashif , Malik Sumeet , Taube Paulo Sérgio
Published: October 2023

The aim of this work was to produce and evaluate the quality of craft beers of the Witbier type, with different levels of acerola pulp (Malpighia emarginata) added. The production process involved milling, mashing, boiling, and adding hops, coriander, and acerola pulp, followed by yeast inoculation, fermentation, carbonation, bottling, and maturation. The physical-chemical analyses carried out included soluble solids content, pH, total acidity, dry matter, mineral matter, foam stability, color, determination of phenolic and total flavonoid contents, antioxidant activity, and acceptability testing. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four treatments and four repetitions, namely T1, T2, T3, and T4, with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20% (v/v) of pulp inclusion, respectively. The addition of acerola resulted in beers with higher acidity and lower pH, a higher percentage of mineral matter, and more stable foam. There were no significant differences in the dry matter and flavonoid content between the beers. The antioxidant activity and phenolic compound content increased linearly with the increase in acerola concentration.
Molecular epidemiology of the HIV-1 epidemic in Fiji
Authors: Sudhakar Atlesh , Wilson Donald , Devi Rachel , Balak Dashika Anshu , Singh Jenni , Tuidraki Kesaia , Gaunavinaka Lavenia , Turuva Waisale , Naivalu Taina , Lawley Blair , Tay John H , Giallonardo Francesca , Duchene Sebastian , Geoghegan Jemma L.
Published: October 2023

Very little is known about the HIV-1 epidemic in Fiji, nor the wider South Pacific region more generally, yet new reported HIV-1 infections are on the rise. As of 2023, there are an estimated 2,000 cases of HIV-1 in Fiji with heterosexual contact the primary route of transmission. In this study, we used a molecular epidemiological approach to better understand the genetic diversity of the HIV-1 epidemic in Fiji and reveal patterns of viral transmission. Between 2020 and 2021, venous blood samples were collected from people who had previously been diagnosed with HIV-1. We generated molecular data from 53 infections, representing ~ 2–3% of reported cases, to identify HIV-1 subtypes and determine the outbreak’s trajectory. Among the 53 HIV-1 cases, we used Bayesian inference to estimate six separate introductions with at least two of these introductions leading to sustained transmission forming large, nation-wide clusters of HIV-1 subtype C. We found that since the introduction of public health interventions circa 2014, the effective reproductive number, Re, decreased among the major clusters identified from an average of 2.4 to just below 1. Molecular epidemiological analysis suggested that public health efforts aimed at decreasing the spread of the disease were at least somewhat effective. Nevertheless, with a recent rise in reported HIV-1 cases, this study demonstrates the utility of molecular data to inform a more targeted public health approach for controlling its spread.
A nonhuman primate model with Alzheimer's disease-like pathology induced by hippocampal overexpression of human tau
Authors: Jiang Zhouquan , Wang Jing , Luo Bin , Bai Fan , Qin Yongpeng , Wei Huiyi , Zhang Shaojuan , Wei Junjie , Ding Guoyu , Ma Long , He Shu , Chen Rongjie , Wang Lu , Xu Hao , Wang Xiangyu , Chen Gong , Lei Wenliang
Published: October 2023

Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most burdening diseases of the century with no disease-modifying treatment at this time. Nonhuman primates (NHPs) share genetic, anatomical and physiological similarities with humans, making them ideal model animals for investigating the pathogenesis of AD and potential therapies. However, the use of NHPs in AD research has been hindered by the paucity of AD monkey models due to their long generation time, ethical considerations and technical challenges in genetically modifying monkeys.Methods Here, we developed an AD-like NHP model by overexpressing human tau in the bilateral hippocampi of adult rhesus macaque monkeys. We evaluated the pathological features of these monkeys with immunostaining, Nissl staining, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and behavioural tests.Results We demonstrated that after hippocampal overexpression of human tau, these monkeys displayed multiple pathological features of AD, including 3-repeat (3R)/4-repeat (4R) tau accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, tau propagation, neuronal loss, hippocampal atrophy, neuroinflammation, Aβ clearance deficits, blood vessel damage and cognitive decline. More interestingly, the accumulation of both 3R and 4R tau is specific to NHPs and is not found in adult rodents.Conclusions This work establishes a human tau-induced AD-like NHP model with many key pathological and behavioural features of AD. In addition, our model may potentially become one of the AD NHP models most widely adopted by researchers worldwide since it can be generated within 2 ~ 3 months through a single injection of AAVs into the monkey brains. Hence our model NHPs may facilitate mechanistic studies and therapeutic treatments for AD.
In Vitro Assessment of FSH and LH Effects on Progesterone Levels in Human Granulosa-Theca Cell Culture Running Title: Effect of FSH and LH on progesterone level in granulosa-theca cell culture
Authors: Akcay Neslihan Coskun , Gunes Ali Can , Zirh Selim , Bozdag Gurkan , Mumuşoglu Sezcan , Akcin Oytun Portakal , Muftuoglu Sevda Fatma , Sokmensuer Lale Karakoc
Published: October 2023

The administration of LH just prior to the ovulation trigger could lead to new ideas for restore levels of excess progesterone level in the systemic circulation. This study aim to investigate the effect of applied r-LH on progesterone levels in human granulosa-theca tissue culture in response to various doses of administered r-FSH. The study enrolled 15 patients with normal menstrual cycles, aged between 18–38 in the reproductive period and underwent laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy at the Gynecology and Obstetrics department of Hacettepe University. Healthy ovarian tissue isolated from excised cyst tissue was cultured in vitro and basal levels (0th hour) of estrogen and progesterone release were determined. Afterwards, ovarian tissues were cultured with different concentrations of hormones in three groups, Group A;12.5 mIU/ml FSH; Group B;18.75 mIU/ml FSH; and Group C; 18.75 mIU/ml FSH + 6.25 mIU/ml LH. In the same way, hormone evaluation was performed at 24. and 48. hours, and the groups were compared. histopathological scoring was performed and immunofluorescence labeling was done using aromatase and cytochrome P450 for specific labeling of granulosa and theca cells, and Ki67 antibody was used to evaluate cell proliferation. Biochemical hormone analysis revealed no significant differences in the concentrations of progesterone or estrogen among the groups. Meanwhile, no significant differences were detected in the intensity measurements of aromatase, cytochrome P450 and Ki67 antibodies. Administering low or high dosages of FSH combined with LH therapy did not appear to have a significant impact on progesterone production.
An Efficient Model for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks using Machine Learning and High- Performance Computing
Authors: Tripathi Animesh , Prakash Shiv , Tiwari Pradeep Kumar , Lloret Jaime , Shukla Narendra Kumar
Published: October 2023

Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are recent advancement that permits vehicles to communicate with one another and with infrastructure, improving road safety and traffic efficiency. One of the difficulties in constructing and maintaining VANETs is dealing with the consequences of blockage, which can occur when buildings, trees, or other obstructions block radio signals between vehicles. However, the presence of vehicles as obstacles can severely impact the performance of VANETs. In this paper, an efficient machine learning (ML)-based technique is used to identify the impact of vehicle obstacles in VANETs. The proposed Tree-based models showed better results in comparison to the state-of-the-art models in all the tests conducted. The findings of the proposed model outperform the existing models and demonstrate that the proposed models can precisely predict and classify data, which makes it an important tool for various applications where accurate classification is crucial.
Improving of a Perovskite Solar Cell Structure by Optimizing Several Simulation Parametric Factors in SCAPS-1D Program
Authors: Delibas Nagihan
Published: October 2023

Utilizing ABX3-based perovskites for solar cell applications proved to be a sustainable choice for solar cell applications. Using the data screening, the present study has concentrated on selecting the suitable PSC structure among some considered common organic-inorganic solar cell structures through the SCAPS-1D simulation tool. After good data selection, the optimization process was begun. However, it occurred in several phases including PSCs’ layer property, working point, and configuration optimization. The results of active layers’ property optimization represented that, choosing a cell with relatively high absorber thicknesses, low transporting materials thicknesses, and low active layers doping densities is better. Regarding working point optimization, the simulation results suggested lower temperatures, series resistances, and higher shunt resistances. Final I-V results indicated that the cell using tandem ETM layer, composite HTM layer, and single perovskite layer reports relatively more suitable performances. The optimization process employed in this study lead to a 1% efficiency increment.
Nomograms for stratified prognosis prediction of gastric cancer by integrating programmed death ligand 1 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells
Authors: Qi Xiumin , Guo Yi-Xuan , Wan Jiayi , Xiao Yan , Pan Xiang , Zhou Yongping , Chen Fang-Ming
Published: October 2023

Purpose
To develop nomograms for predicting disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of gastric cancer (GC) by integrating programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and tumor-infiltrating immune cells.
Materials and methods
Immunohistochemistry for PD-L1, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and CD68+ macrophages was performed on 126 surgically-resected GC. The expression of PD-L1 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, in combination with multiple clinicopathologic features, was used to formulate nomograms for predicting DFS or OS based on the results of multivariate Cox regression analysis. The performance of the nomograms for DFS or OS was verified in the 10-fold cross-validation of the study cohort and measured by Harrell's concordance-index (C-index).
Results
High PD-L1 expression (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–3.43), high CD8 + T-cells population (HR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.15–0.81), high CD68 + macrophages population (HR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.17–2.89), and microsatellite instability-high (HR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.20–0.83) were independently associated with DFS. High PD-L1 expression (HR = 2.64, 95% CI 1.61–4.34]), high CD4 + T-cells population (HR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.21–3.24), high CD8 + T-cells population (HR = 0.23 95% CI 0.07–0.73), high CD68 + macrophages population (HR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.43–3.74), microsatellite instability-high (HR = 0.26, 95% CI 0.12–0.60) and tumor–node–metastasis stage (stage III vs stage I + II, HR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.01–2.56) were independently associated with OS. These factors were then selected to establish nomograms for DFS and OS individually. The established nomogram for DFS yielded a corrected C-index of 0.679 by 10-fold cross-validation. Similarly, the established nomogram for OS yielded a corrected C-index of 0.755.
Conclusions
The developed prognostic nomograms for gastric cancer offer a more personalized and precise prediction of DFS and OS for patients, which can help to improve prognostic stratification.
Is Public Education Expenditure Pro-cyclical In India?
Authors: Ramanjini Ramanjini , Gayithri K
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the cyclicality of public education expenditure of Indian states using recent data (pre-Covid 19) and advanced estimation techniques. The present study has drawn the required data from Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India and Reserve Bank of India. The study adopted System GMM (one-step) to assess the cyclicality of public education expenditure. The empirical results suggest that public education expenditure is pro-cyclical with respect to states’ GSDP. Expenditure on higher levels of education shows a relatively higher degree of pro-cyclicality than lower levels of education. Economic downturns seem to have hampered public investment on education and more specifically public investment on higher levels of education across Indian states, as pro-cyclicality of education expenditure is symmetrical. On the other hand, the fiscal transfers from the Union government are not enabling the state governments to protect the expenditure levels of the education sector during economic downturns. Hence, there is a need for incorporating relevant instruments in the intergovernmental transfer system that enables the states to provide minimum levels of public services such as education and healthcare.JEL:I220, E62, E63.
The expression patterns and prognosis value of methylation modification of m6A regulators in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jinqiu , Luo Jin , Dai Yongping
Published: October 2023

Background
The incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been increasing year by year, and its pathogenesis is not clear yet. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulation has been proved to be related to the occurrence and development of the malignant tumors, but their expression patterns and prognostic effects in PTC remains unclear.
Methods
Data of 397 patients with PTC was downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. R language was used to analyze the relationship between the expression level of m6A RNA methylation regulators and clinicopathologic in PTC. LASSO Cox regression analysis was conducted to construct the risk prediction model and the area under ROC curve (AUC) was employed to evaluate the prediction accuracy of the model.
Results
Seventeen genes were screened out and identified as important regulators of m6A RNA methylation. It was found that m6A RNA methylation regulators were significantly correlated with T and N stage of PTC. The prediction model consisting of IGF2BP1, YTHDC2 and YTHDF3 genes was established by LASSO Cox regression analysis. Through univariate and multivariate analysis, IGF2BP1 was found to be an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of PTC.
Conclusions
The m6A RNA methylation regulators are involved in the development and progression of PTC. Furthermore, the risk signature composed of three selected m6A RNA methylation regulators can be used as potential marker to predict prognosis in PTC.
S0-equivalent classes, a new direction to find better weightwise perfectly balanced functions, and more
Authors: Gini Agnese , Méaux Pierrick
Published: October 2023

We investigate the concept of S0 equivalent class, n-variable Boolean functions up to the addition of a symmetric function null in 0n and 1n, as a tool to study weightwise perfectly balanced functions. On the one hand we show that weightwise properties, such as being weightwise perfectly balanced, the weightwise nonlinearity and weightwise algebraic immunity, are invariant of these classes. On the other hand, we analyse the variation of global parameters inside the same class, showing for example that there is always a function with high degree, algebraic immunity, or nonlinearity in the S0 equivalent class of a function. Finally, we discuss how these results extend to other equivalence relations and their applications in cryptography
MSC Classification: 94A60 , 94D10
The Impact of Temperature on the Formation, Release Mechanism, and Degradation of PLGA-based In-Situ Forming Implants
Authors: Shafiee Kimia , Bazraei Saeid , Mashak Arezou , Mobedi Hamid
Published: October 2023

This study explores the impact of varying temperatures on the release behavior of Triptorelin Acetate (TA) from a PLGA-based in-situ forming implant (ISFI) and polymer degradation. Formulations were prepared using the in situ forming method in an acetate buffer (pH=6.8) and then exposed to temperatures of 4 to 60°C. The drug release and polymeric depot behavior were evaluated using HPLC, SEM, GPC, Rheometer, and pH measurements. A modified Gallagher-Corrigan Model-based mathematical model was applied to fit the in-vitro data, and the activation energy for peptide release in diffusional and erosional phases was calculated using the Arrhenius equation. The results revealed that matrices formed at 37, 45, and 53°C exhibited a highly porous structure, resulting from rapid phase inversion and surface pore closing. This led to a reduction in TA burst release, observed as 38%, 27%, and 15% at 37°C, 45°C, and 53°C respectively. Conversely, matrices at 4 and 25 °C demonstrated a faster initial release, followed by the formation of dense structures. The accelerated drug release profiles at 45 and 53°C showed a shortened ultimate drug release duration and a good correlation with the real-time results at 37°C. Due to the discernible PLGA matrices degradation at different temperatures, biphasic and tri-phasic release patterns were observed. The experimental release results aligned well with the proposed mathematical model, and the drug release kinetic parameters were estimated. Thus, in in-vitro studies, the release medium temperature plays a significant role in the drug-release behavior of ISFIs.