bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equitable Funding Pre- and Post-IIJA in the RAISE Program: A Cognitive Time Series Analysis
Authors: Shaheen Qadri H , Cui Qingbin
Published: November 2024

Since the enactment of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), in 2021, there has been a notable shift in the distribution of federal funding between rural and urban areas through the RAISE grants (formerly known as TIGER grants). An analysis of grant allocations from 2009 to 2024 reveals an evolving trend in equity considerations within funding decisions. Until 2017, urban areas consistently received the majority of funding; however, there was a significant increase in rural allocations thereafter. This shift reflects a growing emphasis on addressing the infrastructure needs of historically underserved rural communities, a critical equity concerns in national transportation policy. The IIJA authorizes $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending, with $550 billion allocated to “new” investments and programs. Notably, rural and urban areas achieved equal shares of funding allocations (50%) for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in federal infrastructure funding equity.
This research employs a financial and equity-oriented framework to evaluate the longitudinal trends of RAISE funding allocations. With rural areas receiving over 53% of allocations annually since the IIJA's implementation, the study explores the financial implications of this shift including the distribution of benefits, burdens, and opportunities for rural communities.
The findings demonstrate a significant transformation in funding distribution following the IIJA and a marked departure from pre-IIJA patterns. The paper offers actionable recommendations for future infrastructure investments aimed at enhancing both financial sustainability and equitable outcomes. Policymakers must balance infrastructure development with equity considerations, ensuring that disadvantaged communities receive their fair share of benefits.
Efficacy of Small-Diameter Core Decompression with Platelet-Rich Plasma in Early Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Tang Haiwei , Lai YaHao , Zhao Enze , Zhou Kai , Chen Gang , Zhou Zongke
Published: November 2024

Background
Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a challenging condition, primarily affecting young and middle-aged individuals, which results in hip dysfunction and, ultimately, femoral head collapse. However, the comparative effectiveness of joint-preserving procedures, particularly in the early stages of ONFH, remains inconclusive. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a novel technique called small-diameter core decompression (CD) combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), for the treatment of early-stage ONFH.
Methods
Clinical data of 40 patients (51 hips) with pre-collapse stage ONFH were retrospectively analyzed. Nineteen patients (23 hips) underwent small-diameter CD (group A) and 21 patients (28 hips) received conventional CD (group B) and follow-up was conducted every 3 months. Hip radiographs (X-rays and MRI) were evaluated using various ONFH staging systems (Preserved Angles, ARCO, JIC, and CHFJ stages). X-rays were performed at each follow-up to assess femoral head collapse and the rate of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Additionally, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Charnley score, SF-36, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used to evaluate hip pain, function, quality of life, and psychological status. These assessments were conducted both preoperatively and at each follow-up visit.
Results
The mean follow-up duration in Group CD + PRP was 11.57 months, with a femoral head survivorship of 82.61%. One hip underwent THA 14 months after the novel procedure. In Group CD, with an average follow-up period of 11.32 months, femoral head survivorship was 60.71% (p = 0.111), and 2 hips required THA (p = 0.999). At the final follow-up, the VAS, stiffness, HHS and Charnley scores of the PRP group showed significant improvements compared to those of the CD group. Quality of life, anxiety and insomnia were also significantly improved in the PRP group compared to CD group.
Conclusion
The application of PRP following CD results in significant pain relief, improved short-term functional outcomes, and enhanced quality of life compared to CD alone. However, whether it hinders disease progression in early ONFH and reduces the conversion rate to THA and femoral head collapse remains uncertain. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up is needed to validate these preliminary findings.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Rebound in Nirmatrelvir Plus Ritonavir Treatment and Control Groups: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kueper Jacqueline , Kottilil Kalyani , Quer Giorgio , Chiang Danielle , Spencer Emily , Purushotham Jyothi , Ramos Edward , Roumani Leila , Andersen Kristian , Topol Eric , Pandit Jay , Mina Michael
Published: November 2024

Observation of COVID-19 rebound after Nirmatrelvir Plus Ritonavir (NPR) has driven important questions surrounding one of the only direct acting antiviral treatments for COVID-19.
This prospective cohort study to investigate rebound incidence enrolled 917 COVID-19 positive outpatients via a digital proctored test-to-treat solution. Among 669 included in evaluation 493 intended to take NPR and 176 did not. Participants were provided frequent proctored COVID-19 tests and symptom surveys for 15 days. Time to initial viral or symptom clearance was not different between groups. Overall, 15-day viral rebound was three-fold higher in the NPR group (15.2% vs 5.4%, p <0.001) and symptom rebound was double (16.4% vs 8.4%, p <0.01). Among those experiencing initial symptom resolution, rebound after resolution was notably higher in the NPR group (43.8% vs 17.5%). This study demonstrates that while COVID-19 rebound occurs in both NPR treated and untreated outpatients, the incidence is higher in the NPR group.
A Statistical Modeling Approach to Assessing the Determinants of FinTech Innovation and Its Impact on Financial Development in Hong Kong
Authors: Ukonu Glory
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of FinTech innovation on financial development in Hong Kong through a quantitative analysis of key economic indicators. Using electronic transactions as a proxy for FinTech adoption, we analyze the relationships between financial development and variables including inflation, broad money (M2) as a percentage of GDP, GDP growth rate, foreign investment, and population growth. Data from the World Bank's development indicators provide the basis for statistical modeling, revealing that electronic transactions positively correlate with economic expansion, while inflation appears to hinder FinTech adoption and growth. Our findings suggest that higher foreign investment levels and GDP growth are positively associated with the advancement of FinTech, contributing to a more robust financial sector. Population growth also emerges as a significant driver, supporting the notion that demographic factors influence FinTech adoption. These insights underscore the potential of FinTech to transform financial services in Hong Kong, offering policy implications for enhancing the digital financial landscape. Future research should explore comparative analyses across regions to validate these findings and understand broader trends.
Precision Prediction of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Efficacy in Breast Cancer: Integrating Multimodal Imaging and Clinical Features
Authors: Chen Xianglong , Yong Luo , Xie Zhiming , Wen Yun , Mou Fangsheng , Zhen Wenbing
Published: November 2024

Objectives To assess the predictive value of combining DCE-MRI, DKI, IVIM parameters, and clinical characteristics for neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) efficacy in invasive ductal carcinoma.
Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 77 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma, analyzing MRI data collected before NAC. Parameters extracted included DCE-MRI (Ktrans, Kep, Ve, wash-in, wash-out, TTP, iAUC), DKI (MK, MD), and IVIM (D, D*, f). Differences between NAC responders and non-responders were assessed using t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests. ROC curves and Spearman correlation analyses evaluated predictive accuracy.
Results NAC responders had higher DCE-Kep, DKI-MD, IVIM-D, and IVIM-f values. Non-responders had higher DCE-Ve, DKI-MK, IVIM-D (kurtosis, skewness, entropy), and IVIM-f (entropy). The mean DKI-MK had the highest AUC (0.724), and IVIM-D interquartile range showed the highest sensitivity (94.12%). Combined parameters had the highest AUC (0.969), sensitivity (94.12%), and specificity (90.70%). HER2 status and lesion margins were independent predictors of poor response.
Conclusions Combining DCE-MRI, DKI, and IVIM parameters effectively predicts NAC efficacy, providing valuable preoperative assessment insights.
Spatial interaction mapping of PD-1/PD-L1 in Head and Neck Cancer reveals the role of Macrophage-Tumour Barriers associated with immunotherapy response
Authors: Naei Vahid Yaghoubi , Tubelleza Rafael , Monkman James , Sadeghirad Habib , Donovan Meg L , Blick Tony , Wicher Agata , Bodbin Sara , Stad Robert , Cooper Caroline , Barnett Catherine , O'Byrne Ken , Ladwa Rahul , Warkiani Majid Ebrahimi , Hughes Brett GM , Kulasinghe Arutha
Published: November 2024

Background
Mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, where the prognosis is poor due to the high rates of recurrence and metastasis [1]. With approximately one million new cases projected in 2024, worldwide mortality of HNSCC is estimated to reach 50% of detected cases the same year [2]. Patients with early-stage tumours showed a 50–60% five-year survival rate in the US. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown promising results in prolonging survival in a subset of patients with recurrent or metastatic disease. However, challenges remain, particularly the limited efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapies. PD-L1 protein expression has been shown to be limited in its predictive power for ICI therapies. Emerging evidence shows that intricate characterisation of the tumour microenvironment (TME) is fundamental to understand interacting cells.
Methods
In this study, we sought to apply a more nuanced approach to understanding cellular interactions by mapping PD-1/PD-L1 interactions across whole-slide HNSCC tissue samples collected prior to ICI therapy. We used a combination of spatial proteomics (Akoya Biosciences) and an in situ proximity ligation assay (isPLA, Navinci Diagnostics) to visualise PD-1/PD-L1 interactions across cell types and cellular neighbourhoods within the tumour TME.
Results
Our findings indicate the existence of isPLA+ PD-1/PD-L1 interactions between macrophages/CD3 T cell-enriched neighbourhoods and tumour cells at the tumour-stroma boundaries in ICI-resistant tumours. The presence of these dense macrophage-tumour layers, which are either absent or dispersed in responders, indicates a barrier that may restrict immune cell infiltration and promote immune escape mechanisms. In contrast, responders had abundant B and T cell aggregates, predominantly around the tumour edges linked to enhanced immune responses to ICI therapy and better clinical outcomes.
Conclusion
This study highlights the utility of isPLA in detecting distinct tumour-immune interactions within the TME, offering new cellular interaction metrics for stratifying and optimising immunotherapy strategies.
Preharvest Calcium Applications Have Little Effect on Mineral Distribution in Ripe Strawberry Fruit
Authors: Makus D.J. , Morris J.R.
Published: November 2024

Supplemental Ca was supplied to `Cardinal' and `Fern' strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) plants grown in an Enders clayey silt loam soil as a foliar spray of Ca glutarate, as soil incorporated gypsum, as fertigated calcium nitrate (CaNO3), or as a combination of the above. Controls received no Ca. Individual fruits were partitioned into six parts: proximal, distal, inner and outer receptacle, and proximal and distal achenes. Mineral nutrient concentrations (dry mass basis) found in the inner and outer receptacle, and in achenes were, in descending order, K, P, Ca, Mg, Al, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, B, and Cu; K, P, Ca, Mg, Na, Mn, Fe, Zn, Al, B, and Cu; and Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Al, Cu, and B, respectively. Many nutrients, including Ca, tended to occur in greater concentrations in the proximal portion of the fruit than in the distal part. With the exception of Al, nutrient concentration gradients were lowest in the inner receptacle. Fruit Ca concentrations were highest in achenes and lowest in inner receptacle tissue. Differences among cultivars in Ca concentration were found in achenes but not in receptacle tissue. Calcium treatment had no effect on receptacle tissue Ca concentrations, regardless of cultivar, but CaNO3 and combination treatments increased Ca concentrations in the achenes in the proximal half of `Cardinal' fruit. Concentrations of all other nutrients except Mn were unaffected by supplemental Ca treatments.
Higher education for sustainable development in the digital era: Mapping the bibliometric analysis
Authors: Zhavoronok Artur , Kholiavko Nataliia , Popelo Olha , Dubyna Maksym , Verbivska Liudmyla , Fedyshyn Maiia
Published: November 2024

Modern higher education institutions in developed countries are becoming active agents of permanent societal changes. The aim of the study is to map the scientific landscape on the topic of higher education for sustainable development in the context of digitalization. In the research process, bibliometric analysis, an in-built Scopus instrument, and VOSviewer were used. The findings proved that the severe restrictions faced by universities during the COVID-19 pandemic became a powerful impulse to intensify the attention of scientists to the mentioned topic. Visualization maps of keywords and scientific publications showed the existing interdisciplinary nature and the main thematic directions of research on higher education for sustainable development in the digital era. They demonstrated a direct connection between the basic principles of the sustainable development concept, sustainable development goals, higher education, universities, digitization, and digital technologies. The largest number of works on the specified subject belong to scientists from China, Spain, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Ukraine. The study concluded that future publications in the analyzed field would cover the effectiveness of digital technologies in higher education, the development of competencies for the digital economy, inclusiveness, cybersecurity, as well as ethical aspects of the use of technologies to achieve the global sustainable development goals.
AcknowledgmentThis analysis is carried out within the framework of the scientific project “Model of the Post-War Recovery of Border Universities of Ukraine in the Digitalization Era Under the Sustainable Development Concept” with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (Order No 1190 dated 30.12.2022).
Waste stabilization pond modelling using extreme gradient boosting machines
Authors: Ogarekpe Nkpa M. , Agunwamba Jonah C. , Tenebe Imokhai T. , Udodi Obianuju A. , Chinedu Ani D.
Published: November 2024

The integrated solar and hydraulic jump-enhanced waste stabilization pond (ISHJEWSP) has been proposed as a solution to enhance performance of the conventional WSP. Despite the better performance of the ISHJEWSP, there is seemingly no previous study that has deployed machine learning (ML) methods in modelling the ISHJEWSP. This study is aimed at determining the relationships between the ISHJEWSP effluent parameters as well as comparing the performance of extra trees (ET), random forest (RF), decision tree (DT), light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), gradient boosting (GB), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) methods in predicting the effluent biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) in the ISHJEWSP. The feature importance technique indicated that the most important parameters were pH, temperature, solar radiation, dissolved oxygen (DO), and total suspended solids. These selected features yielded strong correlations with the dependent variable except DO, which had a moderate correlation. With respect to coefficient of determination and root mean square error (RMSE), the XGBoost performed better than the other models [coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.807, mean absolute error (MAE) = 4.3453, RMSE = 6.2934, root mean squared logarithmic error (RMSLE) = 0.1096]. Gradient boosting, XGBoost, and RF correspondingly yielded the least MAE, RMSE, and RMSLE of 3.9044, 6.2934, and 0.1059, respectively. The study demonstrates effectiveness of ML in predicting the effluent BOD5 in the ISHJEWSP.
The Influence of Employment Stress On the Academic Performance of Working Students: Perspectives from Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Mehreen , Hassan Waseem , Sadat Mojawir Ahmad , Jehan Noor , Habib Nargis , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: November 2024

One must grasp stress's intricacy to develop and implement stress-reduction strategies. Employment-related stress on academic performance is becoming an acute concern for psychological and mental health in Pakistan. The current research focuses on how employment-related stress interferes with graduate students' academic performance in Parachinar, District Kurram Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This investigation applies quantitative methods—the Govt. Postgraduate College Parachinar, District Kurram, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan, completed a standardized questionnaire to 180 students from various academic disciplines.
The findings illuminate stress's intricacy. It may be utilized to establish and encourage more efficient and achievable strategies or techniques that improve academics and job satisfaction, inspiration, and effectiveness at the individual and organizational levels.
The research study concluded that 81.67% of male students suffered from employment stress. Student stressors include workload (31.67%), lack of time management (9.44%), interpersonal conflicts (20.00%), high study load (21.11%), and financial problems (17.78%), and the coping strategies being adopted by these students; Moral support (13.89%), Social support (30.00%), Financial support (45.00%), and Job enrichment (11.11%). The research concludes that addressing the highlighted concerns, counselling, and other successful coping strategies may alleviate academic and employment stress.
Rondreizende heelkundige specialisten (18de eeuw)
Authors: Van Werveke Alfons
Published: November 2024

Aansluitend bij het verhaal van de wonderen verricht door ambulante ‘tandmeesters’ in GT 2021 nr. 4-5, peilt deze bijdrage naar de achtergrond van het verschijnsel ‘rondreizende heelmeester’ in vroeger eeuwen. We doen dat aan de hand van een bewerkte tekst van Alfons Van Werveke die in de jaren 1930 twee types specialisten beschreef die van stad naar stad trokken om hun kunde en kunst uit te oefenen: zogenaamde ‘steensnijders’ en oogheelkundigen, meer bepaald ‘kataraktlichters’. De reden voor hun rondreizende praktijk is te zoeken in het feit dat er voor hun specialiteit te weinig patiënten per lokaliteit waren. Er was toen, net als nu nog, voldoende ‘patiëntmateriaal’ nodig om ervaring op te doen, handig te worden en te blijven. De reismogelijkheden waren beperkt. Klinieken bestonden nog niet: de hospitalen of gasthuizen deden niet meer dan onderkomen bezorgen aan wie het nodig had. De lijdende kon ook niet naar een bepaalde stad ergens ver weg (naar de normen van die tijd) trekken om zich te laten behandelen. De specialist kwam naar hen toe: hij liet bekend maken dat hij een tijdlang in deze of gene stad zou verblijven en de patiënten ‘stroomden’ toe, althans zij die het konden betalen. Sommigen werden door de Stad betaald om ook hulpbehoevenden te verzorgen. Van Werveke geeft nog een andere reden op voor hun veelvuldig reizen: hun vele falen, hun onkunde in feite.
Zo veroverde de Pierzamamn Cité Tieperie - De introductie van de pyjama in cité Petit Paris (Bagattenstraat)
Authors: Callant en Roghes Alexis
Published: November 2024

In 1968 liet Roghes (Roger Hespel) in de verdwenen krant Vooruit ‘De Pierzaman in Tieperie’ verschijnen. Dat was gebaseerd op een in 1937 verschenen sfeerstukje van Alexis Callant. GT brengt een sterk ingekorte en bewerkte versie van dit verhaal van een vrijgevochten meisje dat in een armzalig beluikje achter de Bagattenstraat als eerste haar tabbaard verving door een pyjama (‘pierzaman’). Vooral haar vader Dokske was ge schokt doordat de jongedame ook overdag paradeerde in een broekkostuum gelijkend op zo’n pyjama. Deze anekdote is voor GT een mooie gelegenheid om de woonomstandigheden in een typisch Gents ‘citeetje’ te illustreren aan de hand van documentatie verzameld door wijlen Roger Moreau.
De brandweerkazerne in de Londenstraat aan de voorhaven
Authors: Steeman Jan
Published: November 2024

In 1902 opende de voorpost van de brandweer aan de voorhaven in de Londenstraat. Deze werd door stadsarchitect Charles van Rysselberghe ontworpen en gerealiseerd volgens de innovatieve inzichten en voorschriften van brandweercommandant Jacques Welsch. De bijhorende pompierswoningen werden opgevat met de bedoeling ze later eventueel te kunnen ombouwen tot sociale woningen, hetgeen effectief gebeurde na de verhuizing naar een nieuwe voorpost bij Roodenhuize.
Twaalfkameren in Gent: hoe Victor Horta de eerste stappen zette in de architectuur
Authors: Boone Catherine
Published: November 2024

Wie eender welke plaats in binnen- of buitenland bezoekt, kan zich niet miskijken op de rijke variatie aan gebouwen en monumenten. Het ene bouwwerk springt meer in het oog dan het andere: een scheve toren, een woning met opmerkelijke glasramen, de materiaalkeuze of een kleurig ornament. Dit zijn slechts enkele voorbeelden maar een ding staat vast: smaken verschillen. Vandaag maken wij kennis met drie woningen van de hand van Victor Horta die wij aantreffen in de Twaalfkameren in het Belgische Gent.
Factors That Affect the Quality of Life of Mothers Caring for Children With Medical Needs at Home: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Nakamura Kanako , Hamada Yuko , Fujita Ayaka , Morokuma Seiichi
Published: November 2024

Background

The number of children requiring daily medical care is on the rise, with many being cared for at home. This situation places a significant burden on mothers, who often serve as the primary caregivers.

Objective

This study aimed to clarify the factors that affect the quality of life of mothers with children who require home health care.

Methods

A questionnaire study was conducted among mothers of children needing medical care at home, with 46 participants responding. The questionnaire included items regarding the child’s condition, the mother’s situation, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-26scale.

Results

Factors influencing the quality of life of mothers included whether the child attended daycare or school (β=.274; P=.04), the duration of home care (β=.305; P=.02), and the presence or absence of position changes (β=–.410; P=.003). The presence or absence of position changes had the most significant impact (adjusted R2=.327).

Conclusions

The most significant factor affecting the quality of life of mothers of children requiring home medical care is the presence or absence of positional changes.
Patient Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging (Preprint)
Authors: Glenning Jeffry , Gualtieri Lisa
Published: November 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into medical imaging has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes. However, its successful adoption may depend not only on technological advancements but also on how AI is perceived and understood by patients. This paper explores patient perspectives on AI in medical imaging, with a focus on trust, human interaction, and ethical considerations such as data privacy and accountability. Studies suggest that while some patients recognize AI’s potential to enhance diagnostic processes, others are concerned about losing the empathy and nuanced judgment of clinicians. Concerns about bias in AI, particularly for underrepresented patient populations, and the financial implications of adopting these technologies also emerge as key issues. The paper proposes that increasing transparency about AI use in diagnostics—such as informing patients when AI has contributed to their care—could help address these concerns. Additionally, offering patients more information and choice regarding the AI tools used in their diagnostic processes may foster greater trust. A patient-centered approach that considers these perspectives may help guide the responsible integration of AI in medical imaging. N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
The Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) for Everyone controlled before-and-after (CBA) trial: trial protocol and baseline results (Preprint)
Authors: Chidziwisano Kondwani , Panulo Mindy , Macleod Clara , Vigneri Marcella , White Blessings , Ross Ian , Morse Tracy , Dreibelbis Robert
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Community-based behaviour change interventions are a common approach to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). Yet, published evaluations of how these interventions work in district-wide approaches are rare.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a district-level Community-led Total Sanitation (CLTS) intervention compared to the additional integration of local Care Groups on sanitation coverage and use and hygiene behaviours in Chiradzulu District, Malawi.

METHODS

This study is a controlled before-and-after trial with two treatment arms and a control group. Clusters are rural villages in three Traditional Authorities (TAs). One arm receives CLTS and the Care Group Model, one arm receives CLTS only, and one serves as the control group. The trial is part of the wider WASH for Everyone (W4E) project, led by World Vision Malawi which aims to expand access to WASH services across the entire district by 2025. Study participants were selected from the three TAs. Systematic sampling procedures were used to select 20 households per cluster with a total of 1,400 households at both baseline and endline. The primary outcome is sanitation coverage. Secondary outcome measures include sanitation use, safe disposal of child faeces, observed handwashing facility, and Sanitation-related Quality of Life index (SanQoL-5).

RESULTS

Data collection was completed in April 2024 and the development of data analysis plan has been completed in October 2024 with analysis of data to be conducted between November to December 2024. Baseline results show a no difference for primary and secondary outcomes between arms. We noted low coverage of handwashing facilities with soap and water in all the three arms (i.e., CLTS only = 7%; CLTS and Care Groups = 4%; and control = 10%). Further, there was a slight variation (p= .08) in handwashing practice and sanitation coverage among the study arms.

CONCLUSIONS

The baseline observations indicate a balanced distribution of potential demographic confounders in the trial arms. The trial intervention has been completed, and the evaluation report is expected to be published in 2025.

CLINICALTRIAL

The study protocol, which includes data collection tools, participant information sheets and consent forms, have been approved by the National Commission for Science and Technology (P01/23/718) in Malawi. The study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05808218).
AlzMeta.2.0: A Webserver for Prediction of Risks, Benefits and Clinical Relevance of Novel Alzheimer’s Drugs in Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Jeremic Danko , Navarro-Lopez Juan D. , Jimenez-Diaz Lydia
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The risk/benefit profile and clinical relevance of anti-amyloid antibodies in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is uncertain, with no scientific basis for choosing one treatment over another.

OBJECTIVE

We developed AlzMeta.app 2.0 (https://alzmetaapp.shinyapps.io/ALZMETA_APP_2/), web application that allows everyone to evaluate these drugs by pair-wise, frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analyses of phase II and III trial-level data (30/09/2024).

METHODS

We followed PRISMA-NMA and GRADE guidelines for reporting and rating the certainty of evidence. Studies with < 20 sporadic AD patients and modified Jadad score < 3 were excluded. Relative risks and benefits are available with confidence, credible and prediction intervals for all outcomes.

RESULTS

For significant results, the interventions are ranked in frequentist and Bayesian framework, and their clinical relevance can be determined by absolute risks per 1,000 people and Number-Needed-to-Treat (NNT) for expected control responses. Among seven treatments tested in 21,236 patients (26 studies with low risk of bias or with some concerns), Donanemab was the best-ranked on cognitive and functional measures, almost 2x more effective than Aducanumab and Lecanemab, and significantly more beneficial (p < 0.05) than other treatments on Clinical Dementia Rating Sum-of-Boxes (NNT = 10; 95% CI: 8; 16). Caution is required regarding cerebral edema and microbleeding, due to clinically relevant risks of edema for Donanemab (NNT = 8; 95% CI: 5; 16), Aducanumab (NNT = 10; 95% CI: 6; 17), and Lecanemab (NNT = 14; 95% CI: 7; 31).

CONCLUSIONS

AlzMeta.app 2.0 allows predictions of absolute risks and benefits of treatments based on clinical trial results, different prior choices, and assumptions of baseline risks of decline and adverse events. Our results show that Donanemab is more effective, yet with safety profile similar to Aducanumab and Lecanemab.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Stock Market Investments: A Neomarxist Approach to Alternative Socioeconomic Funding Agendas for National State Revenue Accumulation
Authors: Garfoot Alan Peter , Gowda Sameep
Published: November 2024

In the contemporary economic, sociological and political landscape, the successful integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer programs into the predicted behaviour of stock market value in the financial markets represents a profound burgeoning frontier in economics, with profound implications for both wealth generation and national budget resource allocation. This paper explores the potential sociopolitical economic strategy of using AI-driven stock market prediction predictions to cumulatively accumulate capital funded for by taxpayer sourced representative income. As the baseline return accumulates in the form of investment potential then as a means of revenue accumulation for the state then the burden of the national budget upon its citizens decreases then ceases. This is the theorisation of the establishment of a Marxist economic social superstructure for the funding of social institutions through the powerful potential of artificial intelligence. By leveraging a portion of the national budget on advanced AI technologies, this strategy could dramatically facilitate the financial sustenance of political budgets aimed at social equity and economic justice. Through a critical review of sociological and economic theories, this theoretical research delineates exactly how such an approach could potentially reconfigure the mode of production and contribute to the reformation of a sustainable socialist economy.
Natural Antimicrobial Monoterpenes as Potential Therapeutic Agents in Vaginal Infections: A Review
Authors: Singh Preeti , Sardana Satish , Yadav Shiv Kr , Aggarwal Navidha , Chopra Hitesh , Dhama Kuldeep
Published: November 2024

The recurrence and relapse of vaginal infections in women is a major issue and a challenging pathway to identify and develop new approaches to treatment. In the case of antibiotic therapy, contraceptives, and dietary changes, the recurrence of vaginitis is more common these days. Anaerobic bacteria, Candida spp., and trichomonas in the vaginal microflora cause both symptomatic and asymptomatic vaginitis, which includes vaginal inflammation. It changes the vaginal microbiota and decreases Lactobacilli spp. growth, which is maintaining the vaginal pH (3.5-4.5) through lactic acid production, antimicrobial peptides, bacteriocin, and bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances. The remarkable antimicrobial activity of plant’s producing metabolites like alkaloids, tannins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and terpenoids for several vaginal infections have been reported in previous studies. Presented review focuses on the pivotal role of monoterpenes, providing a detailed description of thymol, geraniol, limonene, eugenol, eucalyptol, and α-terpineol as antimicrobial molecules in the treatment of vaginal infections. These monoterpenes are very good at killing E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus niger, Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans which are the main microbes that cause vaginitis. Future research could explore the latent combinations of such monoterpenes as synergistic antimicrobial agents to treat bacterial and fungal vaginal infections, trichomoniasis, among other conditions.
Utilizing Analytical Hierarchy Process for Evaluating the Performance of Straw Mushroom (Volvariella spp.) Farmers in North-Eastern Region of Karawang, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Tuti Nur'aeni  , Abadi Slamet , Wijaya I Putu Eka
Published: November 2024

Producers of Straw Mushroom (Volvariella spp.) in the North-Eastern region of Karawang, West Java, Indonesia predominantly operate within the sub-districts of Cilamaya Kulon, Cilamaya Wetan, and Banyusari. A noticeable decline in Straw Mushroom cultivation has been observed in this region, which can be ascribed to various factors including suboptimal farming practices, diminished seed quality, and erratic weather conditions impacting production outcomes. It is imperative to enhance the efficiency of mushroom farming across multiple stages encompassing planning, procurement of raw materials, processing, Maintenance, harvesting, marketing, shipping, handling returns, and ensuring consumer satisfaction. This study aims to evaluate the productivity of mushroom farmers, with a specific focus on the top-performing farmers in the North-Eastern region of Karawang. Proportionate stratified random sampling was employed as the sampling technique, and data were collected through structured interviews utilizing a questionnaire. Quantitative analysis, employing the Analytical Hierarchy Process method, was utilized for data analysis. The findings reveal that planning criteria hold the highest priority value of 0.306, whereas satisfaction criteria have the lowest priority value of 0.018. The top-performing farmers achieved a score of 2.08, while the lowest performing farmers attained a score of 1.10
Examining the Impact of Production Factors on Palm Oil Production Levels
Authors: Huda Ismul , Usma  , Asman  , Setiowati Yuli , Widyawati Weni , Puspita Ella
Published: November 2024

This study aims to investigate the influence of various factors on oil palm production levels. Specifically, it seeks to analyze the effects of production range, fertilizer expenses, and labor on oil palm production. Furthermore, it intends to evaluate the impact of production variables, namely oil palm production zone, fertilizer costs, and labor, on oil palm production levels. Factors such as land area, fertilizer expenses, and workforce are critical variables affecting oil palm production, significantly influencing its productivity. Data was collected through observations, interviews, and surveys. The decision to conduct tests followed the purposive sampling approach, involving 26 respondents. The production components notably influence the production rate, particularly labor and fertilizer costs. However, the land area's production rate does not exhibit a significant effect. Approximately 92.5% of the production rate is attributable to the substantial contribution of production variables, with the remaining 7.5% influenced by other factors. Among these variables, fertilizer costs emerge as the most influential factor affecting oil palm productivity in Suliliran Baru.
TRANSTORNOS MENTAIS COMUNS EM PESSOAS COM CONDIÇÕES CRÔNICAS: Análise cartográfica de um caso na Atenção Primária à Saúde
Authors: Junges José Roque , Dall’Osto Paloma Mendes , Steffens Igor
Published: November 2024

The psychological consequences of chronic diseases still poorly explored, but there are data, pointing to their importance. The study aims analyze the presence of common mental disorders in users with chronic conditions in Primary Care services in a city in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. The research used cartography as a methodology. Interviews were conducted with users of the Network and focus groups with the responsible teams. From the interviews, a case was highlighted for discussing. Two results are pointed out: the relationship between emotional factors and the chronic condition perceived by the user and the care centered on physical health performed by the responsible professionals. The association between anxiety / depression and chronic condition is discussed based on the concepts of catastrophist thoughts and internalized stigma and presents their respective coping strategies, aided by person-centered care.
Why vernacular language planning matters for preserving Acehnese languages?
Authors: Syahputera Iskandar , Ginting Siti Aisah , Saragih Amrin , Sibarani Berlin , Ginting Immanuel Prasetya , Lubis Fauziah Khairani , Natsir Muhammad , Indah Pane Isli Iriani
Published: November 2024

Language planning policy is essential for language preservation, yet research rarely addresses vernacular or local languages specifically. This study examines how vernacular language planning policies can contribute to the preservation and revitalization of local languages, focusing on the case of Aceh, a province in Indonesia with a rich variety of local languages requiring preservation efforts. The study’s primary goal is to identify an effective framework for vernacular language planning in Aceh that can serve as a practical reference for language policymakers, planners, and researchers in Indonesia and beyond. Utilizing a systematic review method, this research analyzes literature on language vitality, endangerment, revitalization, and planning policy. Key findings reveal a newly developed vernacular language planning framework tailored to the current vitality status of Acehnese languages, offering a suitable model for their preservation and revitalization. This framework has the potential to serve as a foundational tool for efforts to sustain and revive Acehnese and other vernacular languages more broadly.
Artificial intelligence for language learning and teaching: A narrative literature study
Authors: Butarbutar Ranta , Butarbutar Ranta
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine teachers' beliefs, the factors that influence the use of AI tools, and the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities, and threats of artificial intelligence in language learning and teaching. To accomplish this, the study used a narrative literature review and ATLAS.ti 9 to analyze the data. The results of the study showed that teachers believed that Artificial Intelligence in Language Learning and Teaching (AILLT) included assessing student needs, developing appropriate learning resources, promoting collaboration among resources, providing real-time assessment tools to improve the educational process, and increasing teaching efficiency and effectiveness. Second, AI tools for writing tools, including Paperpal, Quillbot, Jenni AI, ChatGPT, Elicit, as well as in applications to improve speaking skills, such as Speeko and Vocaroo, and "Siri and Say It" for listening and pronunciation skills. Third, factors that may influence students' use of AI-based language learning tools include adaptability, engagement, motivation, autonomy, immediate or direct feedback, accessibility and inclusivity, and teacher and parent support. This research found that AI enhances accessibility, adaptability, personalization, and immediate feedback, but it also has limitations, such as dependence on technology, inadequate human interaction, limited contextual understanding, and algorithmic biases. In addition, AILLT faces potential threats such as quality control, privacy concerns, and job or task displacement. Narrative literature studies provide theoretical insights, and it is expected that future studies at different levels of language learning will incorporate empirical evidence from experimental and case study-based research.
Leveraging Canva to create a biographical recount text for vocational secondary students in ESP instruction
Authors: Pratiwi Wahyuni
Published: November 2024

Integrating technology into English for Specific Purposes (ESP) instruction is essential for adapting to rapid technological advancements, and Canva offers significant potential in this area. However, research on Canva has mainly focused on general English instruction, with limited examination of its application in ESP. This study explores how vocational secondary school teachers used Canva to teach biographical recount texts in an ESP context, along with the rationale behind this choice. A qualitative study was conducted at SMKN 13 Malang, West Java, within the Merchant Nautical Ship Department. Data were collected through classroom observation and interviews with an experienced English teacher. Observations revealed the structured steps of using Canva to teach biographical recount texts, enabling more active students’ participation in class. Canva was chosen for its practical benefits, including students’ familiarity with the platform, ready-to-use templates, and the potential to boost students’ creativity, all of which support its effective use in vocational education.
Coexistencia de anticuerpos anti-GD1a y anti-Gq1b en un paciente con fenotipo mixto entre variante faringo-cérvico-braquial y Miller Fisher
Authors: Merchan del Hierro Xavier , Tripodi Diego , Adamec Darío Sergio , Pantaleón Nieto Gonzalo
Published: November 2024

Introducción: el síndrome de Miller Fisher y la variante faringo-cérvico-braquial han sido catalogados como formas independientes del síndrome de Guillain-Barré. Actualmente, podrían considerarse entidades vinculadas con manifestaciones que pueden superponerse. Además, los anticuerpos antigangliósidos son un marcador serológico útil para definir su evolución y pronóstico.
El objetivo de este trabajo ha sido presentar y analizar el caso clínico de un paciente con un síndrome paralítico cráneo-bulbar, consecuencia del fenotipo mixto entre Miller Fisher y la variante faringo-cérvico-braquial, asociado con anticuerpos anti-GD1a y anti-GQ1b.
Presentación del caso: paciente masculino de 43 años que ingresó a la guardia de emergencia por disfagia, disartria, oftalmoplejía, debilidad facial y de miembros superiores y arreflexia, síntomas que evolucionaron hacia la insuficiencia respiratoria. El estudio con conducción nerviosa mostró polineuropatía mixta axonal y líquido cefalorraquídeo con disociación proteína-células. El panel de anticuerpos antigangliósidos resultó fuertemente positivo para anti-GD1a y positivo para anti-GQ1b. Se inició tratamiento con inmunoglobulina endovenosa, que debió reemplazarse por plasmaféresis por alteración renal, y tras cinco semanas, el paciente recuperó la autonomía respiratoria y fue derivado a un centro de rehabilitación, con recuperación total a los seis meses.
Discusión: el diagnóstico diferencial del síndrome paralítico cráneo-bulbar incluye enfermedades de la unión neuromuscular, lesiones estructurales del tronco encefálico o de las meninges y polirradiculoneuropatías inflamatorias. Los hallazgos electrofisiológicos de este caso son consistentes con una polineuropatía axonal. La detección de anticuerpos anti-GQ1b y anti-GD1a aporta información relevante en la comprensión de este fenotipo poco frecuente.
Conclusión: este caso ilustra los mecanismos, el diagnóstico diferencial y las manifestaciones electrofisiológicas y serológicas de la superposición de distintos fenotipos clínicos.
Assessing the availability of banking services in Russia: a regional aspect
Authors:   AO Raiffeisenbank, Stetskaya Tatiana
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The sustainable development of the financial sector in any country creates favorable conditions for economic development and improv- ing the life quality of the population. In Russia, in recent years, in order to improve the efficiency of their activities, credit institutions have greatly reduced their physical presence in settlements, and regional banks with a wide network have become very rare. As a result, the opportunities for busi- nesses and citizens to receive financial services have been limited. This requires an assessment of the financial services availability, which is the purpose of the study. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the financial accessibility of banking services in the Russian Federation. Methods. The study is based on using the data from Rosstat and the Bank of Russia. During the re- search, the author uses logical techniques, system- atic and critical approaches, methods of economic and statistical analysis. The study was conducted in the context of federal districts. The scientific novelty of the study. The author identifies the defects in the methodological ap- proach used by the Bank of Russia to assess the availability of financial services in the constituent 3entities of the Russian Federation. The author proposes and tests a system of indicators for con- ducting such an assessment. Its advantage is that only relative indicators are used, which allows for cross-regional comparisons. Results and conclusions. The results obtained differ greatly from the estimates of the Bank of Russia, according to which the highest level of infrastructure development for the provision of financial services is characteristic of the North Caucasus Federal District, in which, as established during the analysis, the lowest indicators of provi- sion of elements of financial infrastructure, taking into account the population, as well as the lowest indicators of Internet use in the country. According to our estimates, the greatest availability of finan- cial services is in the Central Federal District, which, according to the estimates of the Bank of Russia, occupies the penultimate place. The reduction in the network of credit institutions observed in the country has a negative impact on the activities of enterprises and the life quality of people. With the current level of financial services digitalization, it is necessary to maintain the physi- cal presence of credit institutions in the regions, for which special measures should be taken by the financial regulator. Given the very high profitability of financial activities in Russia, this will not pose a threat to the weakening of the banking sector.
CALCULATION OF NUCLEAR STOPPING POWER
Authors: BÁLINT Zsuzsánna , NAGY Ladislau
Published: November 2024

Fast charged particles interact with matter mainly by interaction with the electron shell of the atoms causing ionization and excitation, i.e. inelastic scattering. However, for lower velocity projectiles an important part of the energy loss is due to elastic scattering on the nuclei, which is called nuclear stopping. In the present paper we calculate the nuclear stopping cross section of protons and antiprotons in different materials. The obtained results are compared with calculations by other groups and with the electronic stopping cross sections. The difference between the results for protons and antiprotons is explained.