bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damage Process Criterion for the Concrete Dam in Geomechanical Model Test
Authors: Xue Jianghan , Lu Xiang , Ding Zelin , Chen Chen , Chen Yuan , Chen Jiankang
Published: October 2024

The geomechanical model test (GMT), a means of intuitively exploring the model’s failure modes and revealing failure mechanisms, is considered an effective approach for studying the structural characteristics of dams under complex geological conditions. However, during the overloading process of the model, the catastrophe trends of monitoring data are unclear, and catastrophe points differ at different monitoring sites. These factors have led to large errors in the judgment of researchers regarding the model’s state and misperception of the structural properties during the damage process. In this study, a comprehensive evaluation method for the model’s state intervals in the damage process is proposed. The criterion employed an interval analysis hierarchy process that considered the differences, consistency, and credibility (CDC‐IAHP) among multiple decision‐makers (DMs), effectively reducing the subjectivity of their judgments. Additionally, this process was combined with cusp catastrophe theory (CCT) to determine whether the model underwent an abrupt change at various overload factors comprehensively. This is the first time that CDC‐IAHP and CCT have been combined as criterion for a comprehensive method on the damage process of concrete dams in GMTs, and was applied to the Wudu gravity dam, indicating its applicability is very good. Compared to the researcher’s judgment, this approach is used to analyze and judge the structural state more accurately and scientifically while reducing subjectivity, which can help to better understand the structural characteristics and bearing capacity of actual engineering projects.
Genetic Evidence for the Causal Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Bidirectional, Two‐Sample Mendelian Randomisation Study
Authors: Zhang Yun , Zhao Lingyun , Jia Yifan , Zhang Xin , Han Yueying , Lu Ping , Yuan Huijuan
Published: October 2024

Aims: According to the gut–kidney axis theory, gut microbiota (GM) has bidirectional crosstalk with the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, empirical results have been inconsistent, and the causal associations remain unclear. This study was aimed at exploring the causal relationship between GM and DKD as well as the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR).

Materials and Methods: Two‐sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis was performed with inverse‐variance weighting as the primary method, together with four additional modes (MR–Egger regression, simple mode, weighted mode, and weighted median). We utilised summary‐level genome‐wide association study statistics from public databases for this MR analysis. Genetic associations with DKD were downloaded from the IEU Open GWAS project or CKDGen consortium, and associations with GM (196 taxa from five levels) were downloaded from the MiBioGen repository.

Results: In forward MR analysis, we identified 13 taxa associated with DKD, most of which were duplicated in Type 2 diabetes with renal complications but not in Type 1 diabetes. We observed a causal association between genetic signature contributing to the relative abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae UCG003 and that for both DKD and GFR. Similarly, host genetic signature defining the abundance of Ruminococcaceae UCG014 was found to be simultaneously associated with DKD and UACR. In reverse MR analysis, the abundance of 14 other GM taxa was affected by DKD, including the phylum Proteobacteria, which remained significant after false discovery rate correction. Sensitivity analyses revealed no evidence of outliers, heterogeneity, or horizontal pleiotropy.

Conclusion: Our findings provide compelling causal genetic evidence for the bidirectional crosstalk between specific GM taxa and DKD development, contributing valuable insights for a comprehensive understanding of the pathological mechanisms of DKD and highlighting the possibility of prevention and management of DKD by targeting GM.
Formation and Physicochemical Properties of Freeze‐Dried Amyloid‐Like Fibrils From Pinto Bean Protein
Authors: Allameh Ameneh , Fazel Mohammad , Sheikhan Nafisehsadat , Goli Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Amyloid nanofibrils are long and thin strands with cross β structures associated by hydrogen bonds. These structures can be formed under suitable conditions commonly at low pH and high temperatures. Fibrillated pinto bean protein isolate (FPBPI) was made by heating pinto bean protein at 85°C in an acidic condition while gently stirring at initial protein solution concentrations of 4 mg/mL, 13 mg/mL, and 21 mg/mL. Freeze‐dried FPBPI’s physicochemical, structural, and thermal characteristics were assessed, and they were compared with a native pinto bean protein isolate (PBPI) as a control. An increase in Congo red spectral absorption at 544 nm was observed following the fibril formation process. The largest concentration of freeze‐dried fibrillated protein exhibited the highest Congo red spectral absorption. Fibrillar proteins’ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrograms with lower wave numbers were seen than the native protein. For native PBPI, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images were globular in shape, but they changed to long and curly morphologies in fibrillated proteins. FPBPI has a lower melting enthalpy than native protein when measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). With the rising initial protein content, the enthalpy rose. Concurrently, semicrystalline structure for native and fibrillated pinto bean proteins was revealed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) findings. As the original protein concentration grew, so did the crystallinity intensity. Water‐holding capacity (WHC) and oil‐holding capacity (OHC) of freeze‐dried FPBPI were higher than those of native protein. So, fibrillation of pinto bean protein helped it to serve as a good thickener in food industries.
Predicting Sepsis‐Related Mortality: Pitt Bacteremia Score is Superior to the Charlson Comorbidity Index
Authors: Durmaz Şenay Öztürk , Sümer Coşkun Ayşenur
Published: October 2024

Aim: To assess the role of Pitt bacteremia score (PBS) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) in predicting mortality among patients with intensive care unit (ICU)–acquired Gram‐negative bacterial sepsis and to investigate other factors associated with mortality.

Methods: This retrospective study was carried out between January 2018 and January 2023. Patients diagnosed with ICU‐acquired sepsis caused by Gram‐negative bacteria were included in the study. Demographics, laboratory data, blood culture results, management, length of ICU stay, mortality, and other clinical data were recorded. PBS and CCI score were calculated based on data collected at time of blood withdrawal. The primary endpoint was mortality in ICU.

Results: Among the 425 patients included in the study, mortality was observed in 268 (63%). Age and sex were distributed similarly in the mortality and survival groups. CCI score with a cutoff value of > 5.5 (AUC = 0.611) and PBS with a cutoff value of > 2.5 (AUC = 0.904) were able to significantly predict mortality. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that mortality was independently associated with having any comorbidity, congestive heart failure, low platelet count, high lactate, high (> 2.5) PBS, and carbapenem resistance (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: PBS was more successful than CCI in predicting mortality in patients with ICU‐acquired sepsis caused by Gram‐negative bacteria. In addition to higher PBS, having any comorbidity (and additionally, congestive heart failure), lower platelet, higher lactate, and carbapenem resistance were risk factors for mortality.
Assessing General Knowledge and Nutritional Knowledge on the Role of Vitamin D, Attitudes, and Behavior Toward Sun Exposure Among Tertiary Students in Oman
Authors: Sampat Neela A. , AlRizeiqi Mohammed , Mohamed Essa Musthafa , Al-Subhi Lyutha , Al-Adawi Samir , Qoronfleh M. Walid
Published: October 2024

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among the Omani population, driven by factors such as urbanization, technology‐driven lifestyles, reduced physical activity, limited sun exposure, unhealthy eating habits, and genetic predispositions. Despite the year‐round availability of sunlight, there is limited understanding of the specific causes of this deficiency and effective strategies to mitigate it.

Aim: This study aimed to develop and validate a knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) questionnaire on vitamin D and measure the KAP levels among students at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in Oman to inform preventive and educational measures.

Methodology: A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a newly developed, self‐administered KAP questionnaire distributed online to a random sample of 1034 Omani students enrolled in various degree programs at SQU. The questionnaire was developed following a standardized protocol, including a literature review, focus group discussions, and expert input. Validity and reliability were assessed using Cronbach’s α coefficient (α ≥ 0.70), and normality was examined with the Shapiro–Wilk test. The 54‐item questionnaire was divided into three domains: general knowledge of vitamin D, nutritional knowledge, and attitudes and behavior toward sun exposure. Descriptive and variance analyses were performed, with qualitative data expressed as numbers and percentages.

Results: The questionnaire demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.8057). Only 20.6% of the students had a good level of knowledge, 62% had an average level, and 17% had a poor level regarding vitamin D and its importance. The mean scores were 8.43 for general knowledge, 5.83 for nutritional knowledge, and 8.09 for attitudes and behavior toward sun exposure.

Conclusions: The constructed questionnaire showed satisfactory validity and reliability. The study identified a generally poor level of knowledge about vitamin D among students, highlighting the need for targeted educational strategies to improve awareness and promote better health outcomes.
The Journey of Antibody–Drug Conjugates: Lessons Learned from 40 Years of Development
Authors: Colombo Raffaele , Tarantino Paolo , Rich Jamie R. , LoRusso Patricia M. , de Vries Elisabeth G.E.
Published: October 2024

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) represent one of the most rapidly expanding treatment modalities in oncology, with 11 ADCs approved by the FDA and more than 210 currently being tested in clinical trials. Spanning over 40 years, ADC clinical development has enhanced our understanding of the multifaceted mechanisms of action for this class of therapeutics. In this article, we discuss key insights into the toxicity, efficacy, stability, distribution, and fate of ADCs. Furthermore, we highlight ongoing challenges related to their clinical optimization, the development of rational sequencing strategies, and the identification of predictive biomarkers.

Significance: The development and utilization of ADCs have allowed for relevant improvements in the prognosis of multiple cancer types. Concomitantly, the rise of ADCs in oncology has produced several challenges, including the prediction of their activity, their utilization in sequence, and minimization of their side effects, that still too often resemble those of the cytotoxic molecule that they carry. In this review, we retrace 40 years of development in the field of ADCs and delve deep into the mechanisms of action of these complex therapeutics and reasons behind the many achievements and failures observed in the field to date.
Supplementary Table I from Tumor NOS2 and COX2 Spatial Juxtaposition with CD8+ T Cells Promote Metastatic and Cancer Stem Cell Niches that Lead to Poor Outcome in ER− Breast Cancer
Authors: Ridnour Lisa A. , Heinz William F. , Cheng Robert Y.S. , Wink Adelaide L. , Kedei Noemi , Pore Milind , Imtiaz Fatima , Femino Elise L. , Gonzalez Ana L. , Coutinho Leandro L. , Moffat Rebecca L. , Butcher Donna , Edmondson Elijah F. , Li Xiaoxian , Rangel Maria Cristina , Kinders Robert J. , Rittscher Jens , Lipkowitz Stanley , Wong Stephen T.C. , Anderson Stephen K. , McVicar Daniel W. , Glynn Sharon A. , Billiar Timothy R. , Chang Jenny C. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Ambs Stefan , Lockett Stephen J. , Wink David A.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table I summarizes pathological features of tumor immune microenvironment where NOS2+ inflamed regions are significantly higher in tumors from Deceased patients.
Supplementary Figure 2 from Tumor NOS2 and COX2 Spatial Juxtaposition with CD8+ T Cells Promote Metastatic and Cancer Stem Cell Niches that Lead to Poor Outcome in ER− Breast Cancer
Authors: Ridnour Lisa A. , Heinz William F. , Cheng Robert Y.S. , Wink Adelaide L. , Kedei Noemi , Pore Milind , Imtiaz Fatima , Femino Elise L. , Gonzalez Ana L. , Coutinho Leandro L. , Moffat Rebecca L. , Butcher Donna , Edmondson Elijah F. , Li Xiaoxian , Rangel Maria Cristina , Kinders Robert J. , Rittscher Jens , Lipkowitz Stanley , Wong Stephen T.C. , Anderson Stephen K. , McVicar Daniel W. , Glynn Sharon A. , Billiar Timothy R. , Chang Jenny C. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Ambs Stefan , Lockett Stephen J. , Wink David A.
Published: October 2024

Tumor analysis of NOS2 and COX2.
Supplementary Figure 1 from Tumor NOS2 and COX2 Spatial Juxtaposition with CD8+ T Cells Promote Metastatic and Cancer Stem Cell Niches that Lead to Poor Outcome in ER− Breast Cancer
Authors: Ridnour Lisa A. , Heinz William F. , Cheng Robert Y.S. , Wink Adelaide L. , Kedei Noemi , Pore Milind , Imtiaz Fatima , Femino Elise L. , Gonzalez Ana L. , Coutinho Leandro L. , Moffat Rebecca L. , Butcher Donna , Edmondson Elijah F. , Li Xiaoxian , Rangel Maria Cristina , Kinders Robert J. , Rittscher Jens , Lipkowitz Stanley , Wong Stephen T.C. , Anderson Stephen K. , McVicar Daniel W. , Glynn Sharon A. , Billiar Timothy R. , Chang Jenny C. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Ambs Stefan , Lockett Stephen J. , Wink David A.
Published: October 2024

Tumor NOS2 and COX2 expression induced by IFNg and TNFa
Vector space model, term frequency-inverse document frequency with linear search, and object-relational mapping Django on hadith data search
Authors: Taufik Ichsan , Agra Agra , Gerhana Yana Aditia
Published: October 2024

For Muslims, the Hadith ranks as the secondary legal authority following the Quran. This research leverages hadith data to streamline the search process within the nine imams’ compendium using the vector space model (VSM) approach. The primary objective of this research is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the search process within Hadith collections by implementing pre-filtering techniques. This study aims to demonstrate the potential of linear search and Django object-relational mapping (ORM) filters in reducing search times and improving retrieval performance, thereby facilitating quicker and more accurate access to relevant Hadiths. Prior studies have indicated that VSM is efficient for large data sets because it assigns weights to every term across all documents, regardless of whether they include the search keywords. Consequently, the more documents there are, the more protracted the weighting phase becomes. To address this, the current research pre-filters documents prior to weighting, utilizing linear search and Django ORM as filters. Testing on 62,169 hadiths with 20 keywords revealed that the average VSM search duration was 51 seconds. However, with the implementation of linear and Django ORM filters, the times were reduced to 7.93 and 8.41 seconds, respectively. The recall@10 rates were 79% and 78.5%, with MAP scores of 0.819 and 0.814, accordingly.
La primera infancia una rareza que irrumpe en la contemporaneidad
Authors: Cárdenas Forero Óscar Leonardo
Published: October 2024

Hoy la primera infancia aparece expuesta de múltiples formas en el discurso. Aparece enunciada como un periodo crucial de la vida humana, como un momento crítico y sensible del desarrollo humano, como la génesis del valor económico de las naciones y como el tiempo adecuado para las intervenciones, por dar algunos ejemplos. Cada uno de los cuales, ha hecho que se manifieste necesaria, consistente y hasta inobjetable. Dotada de un valor y de un sentido singulares, que hacen que sea reconocida como un sujeto de derechos y salvaguardada por una serie de políticas públicas, de proyectos y de programas tendientes a su cuidado, su atención integral y su protección. Localizándola como efecto de cuestiones asociadas a la voluntad política de los países, a la promulgación de alguna normativa o al establecimiento de una sociedad cada vez más democrática, incluyente y equitativa. Sin embargo, más allá de procurar por un análisis que reafirme su valor y exalte su importancia, este artículo busca arriesgar una perspectiva, basada en la producción de una historia efectiva, en la que se insinúa que la primera infancia es un acontecimiento reciente derivado de la confluencia de prácticas híbridas como la cibernetización, la molecularización de la vida, la informatización, entre otras.
Increased TRPV4 Channel Expression Enhances and Impairs Blood Vessel Function in Hypertension
Authors: Zhang Xun , Buckley Charlotte , Lee Matthew D. , Salaun Christine , MacDonald Margaret , Wilson Calum , McCarron John G.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Endothelial cell TRPV4 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 4) channels provide a control point that is pivotal in regulating blood vessel diameter by mediating the Ca
2+
-dependent release of endothelial-derived vasoactive factors. In hypertension, TRPV4-mediated control of vascular function is disrupted, but the underlying mechanisms and precise physiological consequences remain controversial.

METHODS:

Here, using a comprehensive array of methodologies, endothelial TRPV4 channel function was examined in intact mesenteric resistance arteries from normotensive Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats.

RESULTS:

Our results show there is a notable shift in vascular reactivity in hypertension characterized by enhanced endothelium-dependent vasodilation at low levels of TRPV4 channel activation. However, at higher levels of TRPV4 activity, this vasodilatory response is reversed, contributing to the aberrant vascular tone observed in hypertension. The change in response, from dilation to constriction, was accompanied by a shift in intracellular Ca
2+
signaling modalities arising from TRPV4 activity. Oscillatory TRPV4-evoked IP
3
(inositol triphosphate)-mediated Ca
2+
release, which underlies dilation, decreased, while the contraction inducing sustained Ca
2+
rise, arising from TRPV4-mediated Ca
2+
influx, increased. Our findings also reveal that while the sensitivity of endothelial cell TRPV4 to activation was unchanged, expression of the channel is upregulated and IP
3
receptors are downregulated in hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS:

These data highlight the intricate interplay between endothelial TRPV4 channel expression, intracellular Ca
2+
signaling dynamics, and vascular reactivity. Moreover, the data support a new unifying hypothesis for the vascular impairment that accompanies hypertension. Specifically, endothelial cell TRPV4 channels play a dual role in modulating blood vessel function in hypertension.
Exclusion of Evidence and Its Impact on Criminal Justice: a Comparative Study
Authors: Al-Shamari Khalid Saleh
Published: October 2024

This article discusses the exclusion of evidence in the Qatari and US legal systems. It focuses on the legal basis on which the exclusion of evidence is established in these two systems. The Qatari legal system is a dual system between Islamic Sharia and Qatari legislation. It relies heavily on the rule of invalidity, which is a procedural penalty that is applied when the conditions stipulated by the law are violated in relation to the procedure that was conducted. Meanwhile, the US legal system relies on the exclusionary rule, as this rule has a judicial source. This research discusses the exceptions to the exclusion of criminal evidence in the Qatari and US legal systems to explore how effective are these exceptions in achieving a balance between the goal of protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals and the goal of punishing criminals to preserve the stability of society.
Sweet Sensation: Humanity, Experimental Medicine and the Philadelphia Animal Cruelty Trial of 1914
Authors: Boddice Rob
Published: October 2024

In June 1913, Dr Joshua Sweet, Assistant Professor of Surgical Research at the University of Pennsylvania, was charged with ‘unnecessary cruelty to dogs’. Sweet’s trial would take place the following April. My account of that trial, its context and its aftermath, is primarily concerned with the contested experience of ‘humanity’: a nebulous concept that incorporates other-oriented feelings and practices, couched in broader social and moral frameworks. Ultimately, it is an account of the contextual entanglement of humane feelings – emotions and senses – with practices, politics, belief systems, knowledge systems, professional networks, gender and class dynamics and moral/ethical imperatives.
Critical notes on grasses (Poaceae) of Madeira, Portugal
Authors: VERLOOVE FILIP , SILVA JUAN J. GONÇALVES , LELIAERT FREDERIK
Published: October 2024

As a result of fieldwork in the island of Madeira (Portugal) in the autumn of 2021 and the spring of 2022, nine non-native grasses are newly reported: Axonopus fissifolius, Chloris pycnothrix, Digitaria radicosa, D. violascens, Eragrostis multicaulis, Nassella hyalina, Paspalum notatum, P. urvillei and Sporobolus aff. fertilis. All are at least locally naturalized in the island of Madeira and, elsewhere in the world, they are often considered invasive species or weeds. In addition, the identity of species from the Hyparrhenia hirta and Setaria verticillata complexes is discussed. Finally, some miscellaneous notes on other noteworthy grasses are also presented.
A new agaricoid species of Porotheleum (Porotheleaceae, Agaricales) from Shandong Province, China
Authors: WANG PAN-MENG , LI ZHUANG , WEI YONG-QI , HUANG ZHI-BO , TIAN WEN-JIE , SHEN JING-XU , HAN DONG-FANG , SHAO XIAO-NA
Published: October 2024

Porotheleum microsporum, a new agaricoid species of the genus Porotheleum (Porotheleaceae, Agaricales), was found growing on the live bark of Salix babylonica in Quancheng Park (Ji’nan City, Shangdong Province, China). This discovery, a testament to our rigorous research, is described and illustrated based on morphological, molecular, and ecological evidence. Our phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 with the 5.8S rDNA (ITS) and the large subunit of nuclear ribosomal DNA (LSU) support the inclusion of this new species in the genus Porotheleum as it forms an independent clade in the phylogenetic tree. Morphologically, P. microsporum differs from any known species by combining a pale-yellow pileus with an ochre-yellow center and relatively small basidiospores.
A One-Dimensional Model for Investigating Scale-Separated Approaches to the Interaction of Oceanic Internal Waves
Authors: Polzin Kurt L. , Lvov Yuri V.
Published: October 2024

High-frequency wave propagation in near-inertial wave shear has, for four decades, been considered fundamental in setting the spectral character of the oceanic internal wave continuum and for transporting energy to wave breaking. We compare idealized ray-tracing numerical results with metrics derived using a wave turbulence derivation for the kinetic equation and a path integral to study this specific process. Statistical metrics include the time-dependent ensemble mean vertical wavenumber, referred to as a mean drift; dispersion about the mean drift; time-lagged correlation estimates of wavenumber; and phase locking of the wave packets with the background. The path integral permits us to identify the mean drift as a resonant process and dispersion about that mean drift as nonresonant. At small inertial wave amplitudes, ray tracing, wave turbulence, and the path integral provide consistent descriptions for the mean drift of wave packets in the spectral domain and dispersion about the mean drift. Extrapolating these results to the background internal wavefield overpredicts downscale energy transports by an order of magnitude. At oceanic amplitudes, however, the numerics support diminished transport and dispersion that coincide with the mean drift time scale becoming similar to the lagged correlation time scale. We parse this as the transition to a non-Markovian process. Despite this decrease, numerical estimates of downscale energy transfer are still too large. We argue that residual differences result from an unwarranted discard of Bragg scattering resonances. Our results support replacing the long-standing interpretive paradigm of extreme scale-separated interactions with a more nuanced slate of “local” interactions in the kinetic equation.
Application of central composite design to optimization of Yellow Tartarazine and Methylene Blue environmentally clean adsorption by untreated walnut shells
Authors: Trachi Mahmoud , Abbas Moussa , Trari Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Climate change poses a real threat to the water security by altering the precipitation patterns and other weather variables, desirability function (df) was used to determine the interactive effects and optimize with the Central Composite Design (CCD) of important variables such as initial dyes concentration (Co : 20–100 mg L–1), solution pH (1.5–11), temperature (20–60 °C) and adsorbent dosage (0.1–1.3 g L–1) for the removal of toxic Yellow Tartarazine (YT) and Methylene Blue (MB) onto Untreated Walnut Shells (UWS). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied for the treatment of experimental data, fitted by a second-order polynomial equation and multiple regression analysis. The ideal conditions optimized according to the response surfaces are initial concentration (COyt = 60 mg L–1, pHYT = 1.5, DYT = 0.7 g L–1 and TYT = 40 °C for YT and (Co MB = 60 mL–1, pHMB = 8.5, DMB= 0.7 g L–1 and TMB = 40 °C for MB). Experimental confirmation allowed to accurately determine the maximum eliminations (76.15) for YT and (76.81%) for MB under optimal conditions. Several error analysis equations were used to measure the goodness of fit. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption kinetic data are well modeled by a pseudo-second-order model. Among the different models used to fit the experimental isotherms, the Langmuir model gave the best correlation with capacities qmax of 55.55 and 50.00 mg/g, for YT and MB respectively at 40 oC. The effect of temperature on the adsorption isotherms allowed to arrive at the thermodynamic functions, the negative values of free energy ( ΔG°), enthalpy ( ΔH°) and entropy ( ΔS°) indicate a spontaneous and exothermic adsorption of physical nature, confirmed by the activation energy ( Ea) for both dyes. The elimination of pollutants by new-generation adsorbents has proven to be very effective by application of statistical methodology, Central composite design and the desirability function.
Enhancing constructive communication in the digital age through “textual healing,” a mindfulness app
Authors: Trub Leora , Ahokas Rashelle , Hubert Zachary M. , Starks Tyrel J.
Published: October 2024

Texting has become a primary mode of communication across relationship types, particularly amongst women, despite its vulnerability to miscommunication and associated social consequences. Whereas there is a robust literature on the mechanics and the importance of constructive communication, little is known about how these findings generalize to text-based forms of communication. Using a sample of 71 Black women between the ages of 18–29, the present study examined how the content of text messages changed in response to a short mindfulness-based intervention delivered via a smartphone application. Findings revealed that these women used the intervention to modify maladaptive communication to be more constructive, as well as to enhance neutral communication. They were also less likely to send maladaptive messages after composing them and going through the intervention. In addition to emphasizing the relevance of existing communication theories to text-based communication, this study highlights the potential for the phone to be used as a vehicle for mindful communication amongst a variety of relationship types despite its potential for misuse.
A Qualitative Assessment of Changes in Occupational Exposures Among Healthcare Facility Workers
Authors: Gimeno Ruiz de Porras David , Patel Jenil , Conway Sadie , Pompeii Lisa , Mitchell Laura E. , Carson Arch , Whitehead Lawrence W. , Han Inkyu , Zock Jan-Paul , Henneberger Paul K. , Patel Riddhi , De Los Reyes Joy , Delclos George L.
Published: October 2024

Adult-onset asthma, notably prevalent among healthcare professionals, especially nurses, is often attributed to occupational factors such as exposure to cleaning agents. Studies consistently underscore the substantial role of such exposure in work-related asthma among hospital staff. We aimed to (a) identify and characterize current practices in cleaning and aerosolized medication administration; (b) assess changes in practices since a similar 2003 study of Texas healthcare workers; and (c) identify factors contributing to diverse exposures within healthcare job categories. We conducted focus groups with 38 participants in 6 healthcare settings, analyzing current practices, changes since 2003, and factors contributing to exposure diversity. We used a three-step approach for data analysis, including sociodemographic characterization, a scissor-and-sort technique for exposure description, and qualitative content analysis. Participants were primarily healthcare providers (76%) and housekeepers/cleaners (11%) who reported exposure to aerosolized medications, cleaning products, adhesives, and solvents. Participants reported transitioning from cleaning practices to new formulas with reduced odors and shifting from spray cleansers to wipes. Personal protective equipment (PPE) used during cleaning tasks varied, with training differing among job categories. Aerosolized medication administration varied among facilities, with reported medication types and protocol changes over time. The results emphasized the significance of maintaining uniform protection, disseminating knowledge, and consistently adhering to PPE protocols in the healthcare environment. Addressing the identified gaps in comprehension and potential sources of exposure variability requires additional focus on occupational health and safety initiatives.
Autograft Choice and Jumping Performance After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Comparative Study on Professional Athletes
Authors: Torre Guglielmo , Vasta Sebastiano , Rocchi Jacopo , Papalia Rocco , Paolo Mariani Pier
Published: October 2024

Background:

The extensor apparatus of the knee is of paramount importance in generating the torque needed for a countermovement jump (CMJ), especially in jumping athletes. In anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) procedures, graft harvesting from the extensor apparatus may dramatically affect extensor strength and jumping performance.

Hypothesis:

The focused jump training of professional jumping athletes would increase the likelihood of restoring jumping performance after ACLR, despite the graft choice (autologous bone-patellar tendon-bone [BPTB] or hamstring [HS] tendon).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective evaluation of prospectively collected data was carried out. Only professional athletes were included, and all surgical procedures were performed by a single experienced surgeon. Data collection considered the type of surgery, sports activity, and functional evaluation at 3 months after surgery. From the functional evaluation, data on single-leg hop (SLH) test, triple hop (TH) test, and CMJ were extracted. Limb symmetry index (LSI) for maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the quadriceps and for each of the jumping tests was calculated. Multiple analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) models were used to assess mean differences among groups for the LSI in CMJ, SLH, and TH and estimate the effect of confounders.

Results:

From a subsequent series of 208 athletes, 44 professional athletes were included for data collection. Of these, 26 were male and 18 were female. A jumping sport (basketball, volleyball) was played by 17 athletes, while a running sport (soccer, judo, rugby, tennis, ski) was performed by 27 athletes. The mean time from injury to surgery was 17.8 ± 14.5 days. At 90 days from surgery, the overall mean LSI for CMJ was 85.3% ± 8.9%, for SLH was 92.2% ± 6.4%, and for TH was 90.8% ± 6.1%. When ANCOVA was fitted using the interaction term with BPTB autograft and jumping sport, a nonsignificant effect on LSI for CMJ ( P = .56), SLH ( P = .72), and TH ( P = .98) was observed.

Conclusion:

The results of the present investigation on professional athletes showed that no difference occurred within the study cohort in overall jumping performance between jumping and running athletes undergoing ACLR either with BPTB or with HS tendon grafts. Although some evidence suggests that quadriceps strength may be dramatically affected by the harvesting of BPTB, the overall performance of the jump was not compromised.
A brief overview of the unearthed “Analects” documents in East Asia over the past 50 years
Authors: Chu Daqing
Published: October 2024

From the perspective of newly unearthed inscriptions of the “Analects” of Confucius in East Asia over the past 50 years, it can be seen that it is a “living” text (活体) or “hypertext” (超文体) that is constantly developing and changing in time and space, often filtered and reconstructed due to subjective and objective needs. By the middle of the Western Han Dynasty, the differentiation and standardization of the “Qi Analects” (齐论语), “Gu Analects” (古论语), and “Lu Analects” (鲁论语) had not been completed, indicating that the compilation of the “Analects” had not been finalized. With the expansion of the Han and Tang empires and external exchanges, the “Analects” had spread to regions such as the Western Regions, Xinjiang, and Yunnan, as well as the Korean Peninsula and the Japanese archipelago. This also marked the gradual formation and establishment of the East Asian Sinicized cultural sphere centered around Confucianism and its ideological concepts with the “Analects” as the core.
The impact of frailty on the use of social services, medication and mortality risk: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kleinenberg-Talsma Nanda , van der Lucht Fons , Jager-Wittenaar Harriët , Krijnen Wim , Finnema Evelyn
Published: October 2024

Background

Frailty is a common condition in older people, and its prevalence increases with age. With an ageing population, the adverse consequences of frailty cause an increasing appeal to the health care system. The impact of frailty on population level is often assessed using adverse health outcomes, such as mortality and medication use. Use of community nursing services and services offered through the Social Support Act are hardly used in assessing the impact of frailty. However, these services are important types of care use, especially in relation to ageing in place. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to assess the impact of frailty on use of Social Support Act services, use of community nursing services, medication use, and mortality.

Methods

We used a frailty index, the FI-HM37, that was based on data from the Dutch Public Health Monitor 2016, for which respondents ≥ 65 years of age were included (n = 233,498). The association between frailty, the use of Social Support Act services, community nursing services and medication use was assessed using the Zero Inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression method. Survival analysis using Cox proportional hazards regression was conducted to estimate the hazard ratios for the association between frailty and mortality.

Results

The ZIP regression with a final sample size of 181,350 showed that frailty affected care use even after correcting for several covariates mentioned in the literature. For each unit increase in frailty index (FI) score, the relative probability of using zero Social Support services decreased with 7.7 (p < 0.001). The relative chance of zero community nursing services decreased with 4.0 (p < 0.001) for each unit increase in FI score. Furthermore, for each unit increase in FI score, the likelihood of zero medication use decreased with 2.9 (p < 0.001). Finally, for each unit increase in FI score, the mortality risk was 3.8 times higher (CI = 3.4–4.3; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

We demonstrated that frailty negatively affects the use of Social Support Act services, the use of community nursing services, medication use, and mortality risk. This study is the first to demonstrate the impact of frailty on Social Support Act services and community nursing services in the Netherlands. Findings emphasize the importance of frailty prevention for older people and public health policy.
Clinical significance of blood cell ratios in healthy and sick Leishmania infantum-seropositive dogs
Authors: Donato Giulia , Baxarias Marta , Solano-Gallego Laia , Martínez-Flórez Icíar , Mateu Cristina , Pennisi Maria Grazia
Published: October 2024

Background

The accuracy of blood cell ratios (BCRs) as cost-effective and easily accessible diagnostic and prognostic markers of inflammatory conditions has been investigated in veterinary medicine in recent years.

Methods

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte (MLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR) ratios were studied in 195 dogs clinically evaluated and tested for anti-Leishmania infantum (Li) antibodies (Li-seronegative (Li−), n = 10; Li-seropositive clinically healthy (Li+healthy), n = 100; Li-seropositive with clinical and/or clinicopathological abnormalities (Li+sick), n = 85). The Li+sick dogs were classified in LeishVet stages IIa/IIb (Li+IIa/IIb) (n = 66) and III/IV (Li+III/IV) (n = 19). BCR relationships with LeishVet clinical stage, antibody levels, and serum protein electrophoretic fraction concentrations were investigated.

Results

Higher NLR values were found in Li+, Li+healthy, and Li+IIa/IIb sick dogs compared to Li− dogs (P < 0.001). Higher NLR and MLR were found in Li+sick (NLR, P < 0.001; MLR, P = 0.034) and Li+III/IV dogs (NLR, P < 0.001; MLR, P = 0.005) compared to Li− dogs, and in Li+III/IV dogs (NLR, P = 0.002; MLR, P < 0.001) compared to Li+healthy. All three BCRs were higher in Li+sick (NLR, MLR, P < 0.001; PLR, P = 0.023) and Li+IIa/IIb dogs (NLR P < 0.001; MLR P = 0.001; PLR, P = 0.012) compared to Li+healthy dogs. The BCRs failed to distinguish dogs with moderate (Li+IIa/IIb) and severe or very severe disease (Li+III/IV). BCRs demonstrated weak positive correlations with serum globulin fractions and antibody levels, and weak negative correlations with serum albumin level were found. Li+sick dogs presenting hypoalbuminemia showed higher MLR ratios (P = 0.001) than those with normal albumin values.

Conclusions

This study shows that BCR measures provide useful information for differentiating antibody-positive healthy and sick dogs at diagnosis. Dogs with hypoalbuminemia showed higher MLR values despite monocytosis being very rare.

Graphical Abstract
The association between teacher distress and student mental health outcomes: a cross-sectional study using data from the school mental health survey
Authors: De Rubeis Vanessa , Repchuck Ruth , Halladay Jillian , Cost Katherine T. , Thabane Lehana , Georgiades Katholiki
Published: October 2024

Background

Few studies have examined the inter-relationships between teacher and student mental health. We aimed to examine associations between teacher distress and student mental health difficulties and if student perceptions of school safety moderate these associations.

Method

Data from 23,568 students in grades 6–12 and 1,478 teachers from 268 schools participating in the School Mental Health Surveys in Ontario, Canada, were used. Three-level (student, classroom, school) multivariable linear regression models were fit to examine associations between teacher distress and student internalizing and externalizing symptoms by elementary (grades 6–8) and secondary (grades 9–12) school. Statistical interactions were used to evaluate effect modification.

Results

Small but statistically significant, positive associations were found between teacher distress and internalizing (b = 0.02; 95% CI [0.01, 0.04], p < 0.05) and externalizing symptoms (b = 0.03; 95% CI [0.01, 0.05], p < 0.001) among elementary students only. Student perceptions of school safety moderated the association between teacher distress and externalizing symptoms among elementary students, whereby the positive association was magnified among students reporting lower school safety.

Conclusions

Findings from this study highlight the importance of concurrently addressing the mental health needs of educators and students. School safety represents a modifiable target for prevention and intervention efforts in schools that could serve to promote student mental health and mitigate potential risk factors in schools.
Dadnet: dual-attention detection network for crack segmentation on tomb murals
Authors: Wu Meng , Chai Ruochang , Zhang Yongqin , Lu Zhiyong
Published: October 2024

Many tomb murals have punctate losses, cracks, and craquelure due to underground subsidence and changes in their physical support. Visual non-destructive detection techniques enable rapid assessment of how much tomb murals are affected by cracking, providing suggestions for their conservation. However, tomb murals are typically created by sketching outlines and then colored. Detailed sketches can easily interfere with crack detection work, requiring the use of deep learning network to better learn crack features and improve detection accuracy. At the same time the limited data of tomb mural presents a challenge to build a deep learning network. To address these issues, this paper introduces a novel dual-attention detection network (DADNet) for crack segmentation of tomb murals. In this work, a customized dataset is first constructed by collecting mural images from the Tang Dynasty tombs. Then the ConvNeXt framework serves as the basis for feature extraction, enhancing the process. Lastly, a dual-attention module utilizing neighborhood attention and biaxial attention is employed to accurately identify the crack regions. Neighborhood attention performs a local self-attention operation around the pixel point, addressing the limitations of self-attention. This approach significantly reduces computational demands as the image size increases. Biaxial attention performs attention calculations in the horizontal and vertical directions. This compensates for the limitation of neighborhood attention in capturing global dependencies. Our DADNet outperformed the competing methods, achieving the highest recorded scores of 78.95% for MIoU and 61.05% for the Jaccard index.
Determinants of Healthcare Expenditure: A Cross-Sectional Analysis at the Country Level
Authors: Malinowski Piotr
Published: October 2024

This study examines the determinants of healthcare expenditure through a cross-sectional analysis of 153 countries using 2018 data. The research employs a classical linear regression model to identify key socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing healthcare spending per capita, expressed in PPP (Purchasing Power Parity). The results show that GDP per capita, public health expenditure as a percentage of GDP, physician availability, and out-of-pocket healthcare costs are statistically significant determinants of healthcare spending. Specifically, the analysis highlights the non-linear relationship between GDP and healthcare expenditure, where wealthier nations tend to spend disproportionately more on healthcare. Public investment in healthcare and the availability of medical professionals also play crucial roles in shaping national healthcare expenditures. Out-of-pocket expenses by households further increase overall healthcare costs, especially in countries with lower public funding. The proposed model explains 96.5% of the variation in healthcare expenditure, suggesting that the selected variables are strong predictors of healthcare spending. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, particularly in the context of balancing public healthcare financing and improving access to medical services while managing overall costs.
Ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting - impact on body weight and various diseases
Authors: Kuźniar Julia , Kozubek Patrycja , Czaja Magdalena , Sitka Hanna , Wegenko Cezary
Published: October 2024

Introduction and purpose: Obesity affects every age group and is associated with many negative health effects. Various diets are used to remove excess body weight. Recently, popular became two diets - intermittent fasting and ketogenic diet.  
Material and Method: This paper reviews various types of research documents published since 2018. Its main aim is to summarize the latest knowledge of ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, including contraindications, side effects, impact on body weight and many diseases. It is also aimed to highlight the need for future research of the effects of both diets on various diseases and body weight reduction.  
Results: Both diets may be effective in weight loss and show other health benefits. Both ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting have proven to be effective in weight reduction. In the case of intermittent fasting the biggest impact on weight loss is calorie restriction. Ketogenic diet is effective as a result of calorie restriction, increased gluconeogenesis and loss of free water through increased diuresis. They can be used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, neurological disorders or potentially cancer. However, they cannot be administered by everyone and may cause dangerous side effects. 
Conclusion: Ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting are successful strategies for body weight reduction. Moreover, both of them may be used as an additional therapy for various diseases. However, patients should be under supervision.
Physical activity and supplementation as alternative methods in migraine prophylaxis -literature review
Authors: Aleksandrowicz Daria , Głąbień Marta , Miłkowski Paweł , Kuśnierz Anna , Jakubczak Zofia , Kondratowicz Aneta , Śliwiak Patryk , Kusiak Karolina , Zimniak Maria Weronika , Wieczorek Olga
Published: October 2024

Migraine is a common and debilitating neurological disorder. It is crucial to realize that migraines are distinguished from other types of headaches. People suffering from migraine are often unable to function normally, neglecting work and daily duties. The associated costs burden not only the patients but also their family and social life. What is more, many psychiatric comorbidities are common in migraine patients. Because of all these factors, preventive treatment is essential because it can decrease migraine frequency and improve quality of life. There are many preventative medications but satisfactory improvement in reducing the frequency of migraine attacks may not be achieved without modification of lifestyle including taking care of physical activity and supplementation. Many studies have shown that moderate physical activity and supplementation of vitamins B2, D, coenzyme Q10 and magnesium has a positive effect on reducing duration and frequency of the migraine attack.