bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semaglutide: A Promising Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Patton Chelsi , Brooks Amanda E , Brooks Benjamin D , McKelvey Karma
Published: October 2023

With more than half of U.S. adults reporting alcohol consumption the last 30 days and nearly 6% reporting heavy drinking, alcohol imposes a significant socioeconomic burden. While there are a host of current medications approved to treat alcoholism, they have limited effectiveness and lack support from both providers and patients. Semaglutide, a medication originally developed for obese type 2 diabetics, may offer a distinctly new approach. A survey to assess the impact of semaglutide on alcohol consumption and desire was designed and distributed in semaglutide-user Facebook and Reddit groups. Of those who had reported drinking before starting semaglutide, 21% of respondents (N= 121) ceased drinking altogether, and 88·4% of respondents (N=538) reported a reduction in their desire to consume alcohol after commencing their medication. Respondents also shared further personal accounts of decreased occurrences of compulsive or "addictive" behaviors beyond a reduction in the desire to consume alcohol. Considering the growing number of reports detailing experiences such as these, combined with our survey results indicating a reduction in both frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption, we strongly recommend conducting scientifically rigorous investigations and clinical trials to explore the potential of semaglutide for addressing conditions associated with alcohol use.
Exploring the Essence of Public Financial Accountability in the Public Sector: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Igboke Benson Ogbonnaya , Raj Razaq
Published: October 2023

The concept of public financial accountability, often associated with account-rendering, lacks a clear and comprehensive definition in the realm of accounting literature. Disentanglement the true essence of a phenomenon is essential, as formal definitions can only provide a superficial understanding. This study seeks to delve into the core principles of public financial accountability and their implications for financial reporting in the public sector. Applying a qualitative approach, data was gathered through in-depth interviews with 25 Nigerian scholars, professionals, and public affairs experts. The analysis reveals that the essence of public financial accountability lies in upholding citisens' trust in public officials, ensuring the responsible management of public financial resources for the greater public good, and effectively communicating financial decisions, actions, and outcomes to the public through a transparent reporting mechanism. This study sheds light on the fundamental nature of financial accountability in the public sector, enhancing our understanding of its significance in governance and financial reporting.
Blockchain Architectures for the Digital Economy: Trends and Opportunities
Authors: Pineda Magda , Jabba Daladier , Nieto-Bernal Wilson
Published: October 2023

The digital economy, driven by information and communication technologies (ICT), has profoundly transformed in recent decades. The digitalization of society has given rise to an economic environment in which information, connectivity, and innovation play fundamental roles. In this context, a technology that has emerged as a fundamental pillar of the digital economy is the chain of blocks, commonly known as blockchain.

Blockchain is a technology that has revolutionized the way online data and transactions are managed and shared. Through its ability to create secure, transparent, and decentralized ledgers, blockchain has paved the way for the digital economy, facilitating trust in digital transactions and enabling various applications ranging from cryptocurrencies to supply chain management and intellectual property.

This study will delve into blockchain and its influence on the digital economy. It will explore how this technology has reshaped how companies interact, how consumers access services, and how new business models are developed in a constantly evolving digital environment. Additionally, the challenges and opportunities that blockchain presents in the context of the digital economy will be analyzed, and how it is helping to shape the future of business and society in general.

As the exploration of blockchain and its impact on the digital economy progresses, it becomes evident how these two forces converge, generating a promising digital landscape full of significant opportunities and transformations. This phenomenon is consistently supported by a growing body of research and analysis, which underlines the growing influence of blockchain on the global economy (Smith, 2020; Johnson, 2019).

The dynamic interplay between these two spheres, blockchain and the digital economy, constantly evolves and offers an exciting glimpse into the future regarding innovation and disruption across various sectors (Jones, 2021; Brown, 2018).

As a result, significant opportunities are looming for those seeking to understand and capitalize on these emerging trends (García, 2022).

Throughout this study, the current trends and most intriguing perspectives that shape this landscape will be broken down, offering a deeper insight into how blockchain and the digital economy are shaping an extraordinary digital future
Maternal COVID-19 serological Changes. Comparison between seroconversion Rate in First and Third Trimester of Pregnancy and Subsequent Obstetric Complications: A Cohort Study
Authors: Rayo Maria N , Aquise Adriana , Fernandez-Buhigas Irene , Gonzalez Gea Lorena , Garcia Gonzalez Coral , Sanchez Tudela Mirian , Rodriguez Fernandez Miguel , Tuñon-Le Poultel Diego , Santacruz Belén , Gil María M.
Published: October 2023

Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to respiratory diseases. We aimed to study seroconversion rate during pregnancy in a cohort of consecutive pregnancies tested in the first and third trimesters and to compare maternal and obstetric complications between women who seroconverted in the first versus the third trimester. This is an observational, cohort study carried out at Hospital Universitario de Torrejón, in Madrid, Spain, during the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. All consecutive singleton pregnancies with a viable fetus attending their 11-13 weeks scan between January 1st and May 15th, 2020, were included and monthly follow up until delivery. Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 (IgA and IgG) were analyzed on stored serum samples obtained from the first and third trimester routine antenatal bloods in 470 pregnant women. Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 31 (6.6%) women in the first trimester and in 66 (14.0%) in the third trimester, including 48 (10.2%) that were negative in the first trimester (seroconversion during pregnancy). Although the rate of infection was significantly higher in the third versus the first trimester (p = 0.003), no significant differences in maternal or obstetric complications were observed in women testing positive in the first versus the third trimester.
Apuntes en torno a la ciudad como sujeto político en el performance artivista de las protestas feministas
Authors: Islas Ruiz Alan Suah , López Cortés Dalia
Published: October 2023

En el presente ensayo se plantea un análisis sobre la relación entre la ciudad y las expresiones artísticas de las protestas que caracterizan las variadas manifestaciones de los movimientos feministas en Latinoamérica. En una primera parte se pone en el centro de la discusión la dicotomía poder-performance y el dilema de la representación político-escénica en la ciudad. Después se examina la “liminalidad”, es decir, la frontera teórico-conceptual entre la comprensión del arte protesta o “artivismo”, y su aparición en los espacios públicos de las ciudades, en específico de las instalaciones artísticas y los performances. El argumento central del documento refiere a la ciudad no solo como espacio para la representación de la protesta, sino como sujeto en la dinámica de transformación política contemporánea.
Proceedings from the Basin Sediment Management for Unique Island Topography Workshop, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
Authors: Fields Rhonda , Acevedo-Acevedo Damarys , Suedel Burton , Bourne E. , Deliman Patrick , Ruiz Carlos , Milazzo Jack , Pagán-Trinidad Ismael , Villanueva-Cubero Luis , Hampton Dave , Johnson Billy , Dekker Tim
Published: October 2023

This report summarizes the Basin Sediment Management for Unique Island Topography Workshop hosted in-person and virtually at the University of Puerto Rico Mayagüez (UPRM) Department of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico on 11 March 2022. The workshop was attended by approximately 80 federal, state, local, and academic organizations participants. It focused on Engineering With Nature® (EWN®), green infrastructure (GI) and low impact development (LID) opportunities for unique tropical island topography and included seven presentations from subject matter experts, a discussion on limitations and problems with prior projects, and two concurrent breakout sessions. Preworkshop activities included a field trip to multiple sites in the Añasco watershed conducted 09 March 2022, which served as a base case for the workshop. The field trip provided participants a unique perspective of the island’s topography and post 2017 Hurricane María issues and impacts. During the breakout sessions, participants identified new project opportunities for EWN®-GI and LID at two selected sites from the field trip. Each group developed alternatives for their chosen site and identified concepts that could turn into great opportunities for the surrounding communities and significantly benefit the state of practice in Puerto Rico’s unique tropical island topography.
Energy Atlas—mapping energy-related data for DoD lands : Phase 3—data and portal expansion : Northeast CONUS
Authors: Bigl Matthew , Callaghan, Caitlin , Willan Jacqueline , Lintsai Paulina , Potter Jamie
Published: October 2023

The DoD is a significant land user in northeast United States overseeing approximately 375 k acres of land with a total value of $113 B. The Department of Energy has found that major impacts from climate change will threaten energy infrastructure in the northeast US moving into the future. Current spatial information related to the energy resources and infrastructure on and adjacent to DoD installations can play a vital role in decision-making for sustainable and resilient installation planning in the region. The Energy Atlas (EA) portal provides a secure value-added resource to inform the decision-making process for current and future investment in installation infrastructure, energy management, and improvements to energy resiliency and sustainability. The EA aggregates spatial data for energy, infrastructure, and related environmental resources and facilitates access to that information through a secure online portal. The EA is hosted on a Common Access Card-authenticated portal accessible to DoD decision-makers and their partners through the Intelligence Community Geographic Information System (GIS) portal. The expansion of data coverage within the EA portal helps the DoD account for energy in contingency planning, acquisition, and lifecycle requirements in the northeast US and ensures facilities can maintain operations in the face of disruption.
Bubonic plague: Can the size of buboes be accurately and consistently measured with a digital calliper?
Authors: Bourner Josephine , Randriamparany Ravaka , Rasoanaivo Tsinjo Fehizoro , Denis Emmanuelle , Randremanana Rindra , Vaillant Michel , Salam Alex , Goncalves Bronner , Olliaro Piero
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Conducting clinical research on treatments for emerging infectious diseases is often complicated by methodological challenges, such as the identification of appropriate outcome measures to assess treatment response and the lack of validated instruments available to measure patient outcomes. In bubonic plague, some studies have assessed bubo size as an indicator of treatment success, a measure widely assumed to be indicative of recovery. Evaluating this outcome however is challenging as there is no validated method for measuring bubo size. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy and inter- and intra-rater agreement of artificial bubo measurements using a digital calliper to understand whether a calliper is an appropriate measurement instrument to assess this outcome.
Methods: Study technicians measured 14 artificial buboes made from silicone overlaid with artificial silicone skin sheets over the course of two training sessions. Each artificial bubo was measured by each study technician once per training session, following a Standard Operating Procedure. The objectives of this study are to i) evaluate the accuracy of individual measurements against the true size of the artificial bubo when using a digital calliper, ii) understand whether the characteristics of the artificial bubo influence measurement accuracy and iii) evaluate inter- and intra-rater measurement agreement.
Results: In total, 14 artificial buboes ranging from 52.7mm to 121.6mm in size were measured by 57 raters, generating 698 measurements recorded across two training sessions. Raters generally over-estimated the size of the artificial bubo. The median percentage difference between the measured and actual bubo size was 13%. Measurement accuracy and intra-rater agreement decreased as the size of the bubo decreased. Three quarters of all measurements fell within 25% difference from another measurement. Inter-rater agreement was not modulated by density, size or presence of oedema of the artificial bubo.
Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate the challenges for both individual and multiple raters to repeatedly generate consistent and accurate measurements of the same artificial buboes with a digital calliper.
Comparative assessment of the performance of a 20kWp Solar Photo-voltaic array across five diversified regions of Eastern India
Authors: Pramanick Dipankar , Kumar Jitendra
Published: October 2023

Ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply poses a significant and contemporary challenge for many countries. To address this foremost issue, the utilization of solar photovoltaic power generation emerges as an efficient and viable solution. This approach not only caters the escalating energy demand but also provides a source of environmentally friendly and sustainable power. In light of this context, the paper presents a technical methodology for assessing the performance of solar PV systems within varying climatic conditions across five distinct locations in the West Bengal province of eastern India, namely, Siliguri, Malda, Berhampore, Krishnanagar and Durgapur. Various performance indices such as yield outcomes, losses, performance ratio (PR) and capacity factor (CF) of solar PV panels, have been evaluated for the specified regions using resource management and HOMER pro software. The acquired findings indicate that the annual average final yield, reference yield, array yield, system loss and array capture loss of solar PV panel across five different locations lie within the range of (2.69–3.56) h/d, (4.78–4.99) h/d, (2.83–3.75) h/d, (0.14–0.18) h/d, and (1.05–2.01) h/d, respectively. Aligning with these outcomes, it can be inferred that Krishnanagar emerges as the optimal site for solar PV deployment, with a performance ratio (PR) of 75.32% and a capacity factor (CF) of 14.85%.
RETRACTED: The efficacy of composts as bio-control agents against damping-off disease incidence caused by Fusarium acuminatum and Fusarium solani
Authors: Merah Fatima , Lazreg Fatiha , belabid Lakhdar , Elouissi Mouffek , Sanchez José , Gallego Edwardo , besselma Noureddine , Cárdenas José Antonio Garrido , Carmona José Cebrian
Published: October 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Estimation of the 2D mineralogical distribution in hydrated C3S matrix through coupling of chemical solver with experimental data.
Authors: NEJI Mejdi , Belkhiri R. Hoarau
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a procedure to identify 2D mineralogical distribution in a cement matrix using EDS quantified maps. The results obtained from EDS analysis are combined with the chemical solver GEMS and the thermodynamic database CEMDATA18 to estimate the mineralogical distribution in pixels, while respecting thermodynamic equilibrium. Anhydrous phases are identified through a clustering process applied to the EDS quantified maps. Homogenization schemes are then employed to calculate in on hand the homogenized mechanical distribution in the studied zone and in one other hand the macroscopic homogenized properties. The proposed method is applied to C3S hardened cement paste (HCP) at 28 days of hydration. An accompanying experimental campaign confirms the accuracy of the estimated mineralogical and mechanical distributions using this approach.
Probiotics reshape the coral microbiome in situ without affecting the surrounding environment
Authors: Delgadillo-Ordoñez Nathalia , Garcias-Bonet Neus , Raimundo Ines , García Francisca , Villela Helena , Osman Eslam , Santoro Erika , Curdia Joao , Rosado Joao , Cardoso Pedro , Alsaggaf Ahmed , Barno Adam , Antony Chakkiath , Bocanegra Carolina , Berumen Michael , Voolstra Christian , Benzoni Francesca , Carvalho Susana , Peixoto Raquel
Published: October 2023

Beneficial Microorganisms for Corals (BMCs), or probiotics, enhance coral resilience against stressors in laboratory trials, being the only sustainable treatment currently explored to retain threatened native corals. However, the ability of probiotics to restructure the coral microbiome in situ is yet to be determined. To elucidate this, we inoculated BMCs on Pocillopora verrucosa colonies in situ in the Red Sea for three months. BMCs significantly influenced the coral microbiome, while those of the surrounding seawater and sediment appeared unchanged. The inoculated genera Halomonas and Pseudoalteromonas were significantly enriched in probiotic-treated corals. Furthermore, probiotic treatment correlated with an increase in beneficial groups (e.g., Ruegeria and Limosilactobacillus), while potential coral pathogens, like Vibrio, decreased in abundance. Notably, treated and non-treated corals remained healthy throughout the experiment. Our data indicate the feasibility of using probiotics in real-world conservation efforts through beneficial restructuring of the coral microbiome without off-target changes in the surrounding environment.
Developing the future vision for seamless multi-hazard warnings for volcanic eruptions – outcomes from a workshop at IAVCEI 2023, Rotorua
Authors: Tupper Andrew , Leonard Graham
Published: October 2023

A half-day workshop was held following the IAVCEI Scientific Assembly in Rotorua, New Zealand, on 5 February 2023, taking advantage of the presence of operationally focused meteorologists, leaders from the World Meteorological Organization and volcanologists (mostly from volcano observatories), for an aviation workshop over the previous two days. Our workshop focused on non-aviation issues but sought to develop the ‘big-picture’ of multi-hazard arrangements, particularly noting the intertwining of the disciplines for many volcanic hazards, and a global push towards better integrated, impact-based multi-hazard early warning systems; including especially the Sendai Framework and the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative. The hazards requiring joint multi-disciplinary arrangements include tsunamis, ashfall and airborne / water-borne ash, rainfall-induced dome collapses, lahars, pumice, glacial floods, and gas. Of these, only airborne ash for aviation users have received much attention. Following an afternoon of presentations, panel discussions, breakout discussion, two summary visualisations were prepared – a future ‘vision’ and a future ‘roadmap’ for multi-hazard operations. These are presented as input towards follow-up actions, including ensuring that volcanic ash for aviation arrangements are embedded within a holistic multi-hazard and multi-user approach.
Paradoxical gender effects in in meat consumption across cultures
Authors: Hopwood Christopher J , Zizer Jahn N , Nissen Adam T , Dillard Courtney , Thompkins Andie M , Graça João , Waldhorn Daniela Romero , Bleidorn Wiebke
Published: October 2023

Men tend to eat more meat than women, but it is not clear why. We tested three hypotheses in cross-cultural design (20,966 individuals in 23 countries across four continents): that gender differences are a) a function of biological differences in dietary needs and are thus universal, b) related to gender roles and thus weaker in countries with higher gender equality, or c) related to opportunities to express gender roles and thus stronger in countries with higher economic development. Across all countries, men tended to consume more meat than women. However, this difference increased significantly in countries with greater human development and gender equality. The paradoxical gender gap in meat consumption aligns with previous research that suggests greater differences in behavior across genders in contexts that are more developed and gender equal. We discuss implications for theories of culture and gender as well as practical implications for global meat reduction.
Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis, characterization and catalytic performance of α-Bi2Mo3O12 in the selective oxidation of propene
Authors: Zeng Xingye , Zhang Xin , Xu Songling , Shan Shufeng , Zhou Rujin
Published: October 2023

Four different samples of pure scheelite α-Bi2Mo3O12 were synthesized by the fast microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. By adjusting the pH in the preparation process, the morphologies and structures of the synthesized catalysts were changed. TG, XRD, SEM, TEM, BET, and XPS analyses were used to investigate the characteristics of the catalyst. The sample of α-Bi2Mo3O12 was prepared at a calcination temperature of 500°C and pH = 1 had the highest specific surface area propylene selective oxidation properties. The conversion of propylene was 28.3% and the selectivity of acrolein was 86.4%. Compared with α-Bi2Mo3O12 prepared by coprecipitation and normal hydrothermal method, α-Bi2Mo3O12 prepared by microwave hydrothermal method has higher propylene oxidizing activity. The conversion of propylene is negatively correlated with the crystallinity of the catalyst. This is due to the fact that higher crystallinity inhibits the lattice oxygen flow between the lattices, thus inhibiting the selective oxidation and reducing the conversion of the reaction. The oxygen mobility of α-Bi2Mo3O12 samples was characterized by XPS. The results showed that the conversion of propylene of α-Bi2Mo3O12 were positively correlated with its oxygen mobility strength. A probable mechanism for the selective oxidation of propylene was proposed. This work not only offers a high-efficiency method for the rapid preparation of bismuth molybdate catalysts, but also extends the application of microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis in the field of selective oxidation of propylene.
Impact of metformin on cardiovascular and kidney outcome based on kidney function status in type 2 diabetic patients: A multicentric, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yi Yongjin , Kwon Eun-Jeong , Yun Gi-Ae , Park Seokwoo , Jeong Jong Cheol , Na Ki Young , Chin Ho Jun , Kim Seok , Yoo Sooyoung , Oh Tae Jung , Kim Sejoong
Published: October 2023

Metformin is the primary treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to its effectiveness in improving clinical outcomes in patients with preserved renal function, however, the evidence on the effectiveness of metformin in various renal functions is lacking. We performed a retrospective, multicenter, observational study used data of patients with T2DM obtained from three tertiary hospitals’ databases. Patients given metformin within run-in periods and with at least one additional prescription formed the metformin cohort. A control cohort comprised those prescribed oral hypoglycemic agents other than metformin and never subsequently received a metformin prescription within observation period. For patients without diabetic nephropathy (DN), the outcomes included events of DN, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and major adverse kidney events (MAKE). After 1:1 propensity matching, 1,994 individuals each were selected for the metformin and control cohorts among T2DM patients without baseline DN. The incidence rate ratios (IRR) for DN, MACEs, and MAKEs between cohorts were 1.06 (95% CI: 0.96-1.17), 0.76 (0.64-0.92), and 0.45 (0.33-0.62), respectively. In cohorts with renal function of CKD 3A, 3B, and 4, summarized IRRs of MACEs and MAKEs were 0.70 (0.57-0.87) and 0.39 (0.35-0.43) in CKD 3A, 0.83 (0.74-0.93) and 0.44 (0.40-0.48) in CKD 3B, and 0.71 (0.60-0.85) and 0.45 (0.39-0.51) in CKD 4. Our research indicates that metformin use in T2DM patients across various renal functions consistently correlates with a decreased risk of overt DN, MACE, and MAKE.
Improvement the Levelness of Viscose-Cotton Blended Fabric Dyed with Reactive Dye Using Low Temperature Air Plasma
Authors: Shekh Mamun Kabir , Das Sabitry Rani
Published: October 2023

Viscose-Cotton (50/50) blended fabric has different dye-uptake properties caused by uneven dyeing. To improve the levelness of dyeing on viscose-cotton blended fabric, air plasma was used through modification of surface structure. Air plasma was treated by air pressure 0.15 Tor with different plasma treatment times (2,4,6,8 and 10 min) maintained. In addition, FT-IR, XRD and SEM analysis confirmed the crystalline and amorphousness structure of different plasma treated blended fabric. The effectiveness of the air plasma treatment was assessed based on the exhaustion (%) and levelness (%). Air plasma treated viscose-cotton blended fabric was measured by instrumental method and image J analysis. Air plasma treatment afforded superior dyeing levelness compared to untreated viscose-cotton blended fabric. Moreover, air plasma treatment is a sustainable process in terms of levelness properties on viscose-cotton blended fabric.
The efficacy, acceptability and satisfaction of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy with the absence of professional guidance for depression in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Shufeng , Gao Shuhong , Shi Xianfeng , Guo Yuchen , Xu Ting
Published: October 2023

Background
Depression is a high prevalence mental disorder and the global disease burden is substantial. Internet-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy (iCBT) is a means to compensate for the lack of accessibility of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) which is an effective therapeutic measure for depression. However, the characteristic of remote guidance combined with the absence of professional guidance of iCBT leads to an uncertain efficacy for depression.
Methods
We searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and Web of Science from inception to May 2023. The Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) that iCBT with the absence of professional guidance for depression patients were selected. We assessed the risk of bias according to the Rob 2.0. Standardized mean difference (SMD), mean difference (MD) or risk ratio (RR) as well as their 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to evaluate the effect sizes by the software of R 5.4.1. The sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analysis and meta regression.
Results
30 studies involving 10,659 participants were included. Intervention group showed a statistically significant reduction compared with control group for the posttreatment depression symptom scores (SMD: -0.54; 95% CI: -0.64 to -0.44, P < 0.01) and for the depressive symptom scores after the follow-up period (SMD: -0.38; 95% CI: -0.53 to -0.23, P < 0.01). In addition, the depressive symptom scores continued to decrease statistically significantly after the follow-up period (SMD: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.26, P < 0.01) compared with the scores before the follow-up period in intervention group. The drop-out rate of intervention group is higher statistically significantly (Risk Ratio: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.80, P < 0.01) compared with control group. The subgroup and meta regression showed that the covariate of control condition was the main source of heterogeneity to primary outcome 1 and the covariate of support content to primary outcome 3.
Conclusions
ICBT with the absence of professional guidance can relieve symptoms of depression patients and also can maintain a long-term efficacy. In addition, depression patients have a high level of satisfaction with the intervention of iCBT with the absence of professional guidance. However, the drop-out rate of intervention group is higher than control group.
Unraveling the Role of α2δ-1 in Cerebral Hemorrhage: Calcium Overload, Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, and Microglial Apoptosis
Authors: Yu Ning , Li Xiaopeng , Wang Bingqian , Nan Chengrui , Jin Qianxu , Yang Liang , Li Depei , Zhao Zongmao
Published: October 2023

Background
Cerebral hemorrhage is a severe condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Understanding the underlying pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to investigate the role of the dysregulated α2δ-1 protein in cerebral hemorrhage.
Methods
Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses were performed on cerebral hemorrhage tissue and peripheral tissue samples obtained from patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. In BV2 cells, we investigated the effects of α2δ-1-mediated calcium overload on intracellular calcium concentration, phosphorylation of PLCr and IP3R, ERS response, and BV2 microglia apoptosis.
Results
We observed a significant upregulation of α2δ-1 in cerebral hemorrhage tissue. Knockdown of α2δ-1 resulted in decreased intracellular calcium concentration and reduced phosphorylation of PLCr and IP3R in the presence of calcium. Additionally, α2δ-1-mediated calcium overload induced ERS in BV2 microglia, accompanied with increased phosphorylation of PERK and decreased ERS-related proteins levels. Furthermore, α2δ-1 knockdown significantly inhibited BV2 microglia apoptosis and downregulated apoptosis-related proteins in the presence of calcium.
Conclusions
Our study indicates the involvement of α2δ-1 in calcium-mediated signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and BV2 microglia apoptosis. The findings provide a basis for considering α2δ-1 as a potential therapeutic target in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions associated with calcium dysregulation.
Full-scale landscape metabolome map provides insights to convergent metabolite divergence and promotes edible maize breeding
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Li Chunhui , Shi Yaxing , Dong Hui , Xiao Senlin , Zhang Ruyang , Liu Hui , Jiao Yanyan , Su Aiguo , Wang Xiaqing , Zhao Yanxin , Wang Shuai , Xu Li , Fan Yanli , Luo Meijie , Xi Shengli , Yu Ainian , Wang Fengge , Ge Jianrong , Tian Hongli , Yi Hongmei , Lv Yuanda , Li Huihui , Wang Ronghuan , Lu Baishan , Song Wei , Zhao Jiuran
Published: October 2023

Ediblemaize is an important food crop, providing energy and nutrients to meet human health and nutritional requirements. However, how environmental pressures and human activity have shaped the ediblemaizemetabolome remains unclear.In this study, we collected 452 diverse edible maize accessions worldwide, comprising waxy, sweet and field maize. A total of 3020 non-redundant metabolites, including 802 annotated metabolites, were identified by a two-step optimized approach, which generated the most comprehensive annotated metabolites dataset in plants to date. Although specific metabolite divergencewas detected in Field-Sweet and Field-Waxy divergences, convergent metabolite divergencewas the dominant divergence pattern. We identified hub genes in all metabolite classes by mGWAS hotspot analysis. Seventeen and 16 hub genes were selected as the key divergence genes for flavonoids and lipids, respectively. Surprisingly, almost all of these genes were under non-parallel selection, which indicated non-parallel selection was the main genetic mechanism of convergent metabolic divergence. Furthermore, UGT1 and C1 in the flavonoid pathway, and KCS1 and LPP2 in the lipid pathway, played different roles in convergent metabolite divergence. Based on our research, we established the first edible maize metabolome database, EMMDB. We successfully applied EMMDB for precision improvement of nutritional and flavor traits, and an elite inbred line 6644_2 was bred with greatly improved in contents of flavonoids, lysophosphatidylcholines, lysophosphatidylethanolamines, and vitamins. These findings provide insights into the underlying genetic mechanisms of edible maize metabolite divergence and provide a database for the breeding improvement of edible maize flavor and nutritional traits by metabolome precision design.
Enhancing Child Development Through a Physically Active Learning Program to Mitigate the Impact of Physical Inactivity and ADHD Symptoms: A Crossover Trial
Authors: Simard Laurie , Bouchard Julie , Lavallière Martin , Chevrette Tommy
Published: October 2023

Background
A substantial number of school-aged children face developmental vulnerabilities that significantly influence their future educational paths and societal contributions. Childhood physical inactivity, particularly the failure to meet recommended activity levels, is a concern, that negatively impacts holistic child development across cognitive, physical/motor, social, affective, and language domains. Concurrently, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition, presents concerning implications affecting all these developmental domains. Recognizing that physical activity can notably optimize the developmental trajectory of these domains, the World Health Organization underscores the need for effective physical activity interventions within school settings. Promisingly, physically active learning (PAL) programs, seamlessly blending physical activity and learning, offer potential solutions. However, their impact on holistic child development remains incompletely understood. This study sought to evaluate the effect of a PAL program on holistic child development while exploring whether a child's initial physical activity level or the presence of ADHD influenced the intervention's effectiveness.
Methods
Eighty-two children aged 9–11 years, distributed across four classes, underwent random assignment to a PAL program (Group 1) or a no-contact control condition (Group 2), with an eight-week duration for each group before switching conditions. Assessments occurred at baseline (T0), after the first condition (T1), and after the second condition (T2). The intervention's efficacy, along with relevant covariates, was analyzed through ANCOVA.
Results
The PAL program exhibited a positive association with enhanced cardiovascular fitness (VO2max) and a reduction in ADHD symptoms, notably inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Conclusions
PAL interventions hold promise as effective school-based strategies to enrich physical/motor and affective development while mitigating the adverse impact of physical inactivity and ADHD symptoms.
Hormonal Contraception and Hemoglobin Levels in Urban Malawi: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Karra Mahesh , Canning David
Published: October 2023

Background
Studies have highlighted potential non-contraceptive benefits from women’s use of hormonal, reversible contraceptive methods. Given the physiological pathways through which hormonal contraception may interact with menstruation, a growing body of work has documented the extent to which hormonal method use might be associated with increased hemoglobin levels and reductions in the risk of anemia in women. While these findings are promising, the scope for causal inference from these studies is restricted by their cross-sectional design, which limits the extent to which bias from individual-level confounding can be mitigated.
Methods
We assess the relationship between women’s use of hormonal contraception and their risk of anemia using three years of annual woman-level panel data on 2143 women from urban Malawi controlling for individual woman fixed effects. We compare our panel results with cross-sectional estimates from the same sample.
Results
We find that hormonal method use is associated with increased levels of hemoglobin in women, though the effects are different for different hormonal methods.. Adoption of an injectable is associated with a 3.7 g/cL increase, and adoption of an implant a 5.7 g/cL increase, in hemoglobin levels. Our estimates are consistent across cross-sectional and panel model specifications, suggesting that existing cross-sectional estimates may be reliable.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight potential health benefits from hormonal contraceptive use that extend beyond pregnancy prevention. These benefits, in turn, have significant implications as to how women are counseled on contraception both within family planning and nutrition programs.
Trial Registration
This trial was registered at the American Economics Association Registry for randomized controlled trials on May 7, 2015 (AEARCTR-0000697) and at the Registry for International Development Impact Evaluations (RIDIE) on May 28, 2015 (RIDIE-STUDY-ID-556784ed86956).
Factors influencing doctors’ acceptance of artificial intelligence-enabled clinical decision support systems in tertiary hospitals in China
Authors: Yang Xiaotao , Man Dongliang , Yun Ke , zhang Shuang , Han Xiaoxu
Published: October 2023

Artificial intelligence-enabled clinical decision support systems (AI-CDSSs) can enhance decision-making ability to improve healthcare performance and efficiency by introducing new AI technologies such as deep neural networks and knowledge graphs. This study aimed to analyze the factors influencing doctors’ acceptance of AI-CDSSs in tertiary hospitals in China. We proposed a hypothesized model based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, and developed a 25-item measurement scale. 187 doctors completed the web-survey, who’s from four tertiary hospitals in four provinces in China. We used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the data. The Cronbach α value was 0.932, the corrected item to total correlation values ranged from 0.467 to 0.744, and the average variance of extracted values ranged from 0.628 to 0.782. The standardized root mean square residual value was 0.055, the squared Euclidean distance and geodesic distance were 0.995 and 0.566, respectively. The model had explained 73.1% of doctors’ acceptance. Doctors’ acceptance of AI-CDSSs is strongly influenced by effort expectancy, is moderately influenced by trust in AI and is weakly influenced by social factors. Trust in AI as an important new factor is moderately influenced by social factors and is weakly influenced by effort expectancy and performance expectancy. Compared to the performance of decision-making, doctors are more interested in improving efficiency. Moreover, improving the ease of use, focusing on doctors' trust in AI technology, and enhancing the introduction of AI-CDSSs will encourage doctors to accept AI-CDSSs.
Body appreciation is associated with optimism/pessimism in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Results from a cross sectional study and validation of the Arabic version of the Optimism–Pessimism Short Scale–2
Authors: Moussa Maroun Hajj , Hachem Nay El , Sebaaly Ziad El , Moubarak Perla , Malaeb Diana , Hallit Rabih , Khatib Sami El , Hallit Souheil , Obeid Sahar , Fekih-Romdhane Feten
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients encounter many obstacles that affect their physical and psychological well-being. The primary objective of the present study was to investigate potential correlates of optimism/pessimism in a sample of patients with CKD, including socio-demographics, body appreciation and disordered eating symptoms. As a secondary objective, we proposed to examine the psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the Optimism–Pessimism Short Scale–2 (SOP2) before its use in our sample.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out between April and May 2023, enrolling 108 participants from three hospitals in Lebanon providing insights into their sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity levels, body appreciation, optimism, pessimism, and eating attitudes.
Results: Results indicated that the Arabic-language adaptation of the SOP2 has good reliability coefficients. The two facets of the scale displayed strong correlation to each other, and highly similar correlations with external study variables (i.e., household crowding index, physical activity, body appreciation, disordered eating), suggesting that the SOP2 can be interpreted as a unidimensional measure for the psychological dispositional optimism as proposed by the developers. Furthermore, findings revealed a strong positive correlation between body appreciation and optimism, suggesting that CKD patients who appreciate their bodies tend to exhibit a more optimistic outlook on life. Conversely, higher body appreciation is associated with lower pessimism, indicating that a positive body image may mitigate feelings of hopelessness and despair in CKD patients.
Conclusion: This study contributes to the literature in two ways. First, it offers the Arabic SOP2 as a quick to complete, easy to administer, and psychometrically sound instrument that can be useful for clinical and research purposes. Second, it unveils a clear correlation between higher body appreciation and a more optimistic, less pessimistic mindset in patients with CKD.
Enhanced Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Effects of Thiolated Chitosan-Encapsulated Nisin and Selenium Nanoparticles: A Potential Nanotechnology-Based Solution for Antibiotic- Resistant Bacterial Infections
Authors: Sefidi Mozhgan Derakhshan , Bakhshi Bita
Published: October 2023

Nanotechnology holds significant promise in the battle against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The aim of this study was to assess the bactericidal and antibiofilm effects of nisin and selenium encapsulated within thiolated chitosan (TC), a biodegradable and nontoxicderivative of chitosan, against common multidrug-resistant clinical enteric pathogens, including Vibrio cholerae O1 Eltor, Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, Shigella dysenteriae, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, andStaphylococcus aureus, using in vitro evaluations.
TC-nisin-selenium nanoparticles (TCs-N-SeNPs) were synthesized using ionic cross-linking,and their formation was confirmed through various tests. The synthesized nanoparticles were subjected to assessment of their antibacterial properties and antibiofilm activity using micro broth dilution and the crystal violet method, respectively. Furthermore, their potential inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties were examined by measuring the release of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and TGF-β in vitro.
Nanoparticle synthesis confirmatory tests, along with the brick red color, validatedthe synthesis process and confirmedthe formation of TCs-N-SeNPs. The primary result indicates that TC-N-SeNPs exhibited a significant antibacterial and antibiofilm effect at concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 200 μg/mL. Due to disulfide linkages that keep nisin and selenium from being destroyed by lower pH, the effective release of nanosystems at alkaline pH is enhanced. The synergistic impact of uniform TCs-N-SeNPs compared to TCs-NNPs and TCs-SeNPs was evaluated successfully.
In conclusion, TCs-N-SeNPs have promising potential as an effective therapeutic approach against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, with synergistic action, improved stability and enhanced bioavailability, antibacterial and antibiofilm properties.
The patient decision aid ‘Diagnostic testing for dementia or not’: Early uptake and first impressions
Authors: Linden Iris , Heins Pascale , Wolfs Claire , Weijden Trudy van der , Dirksen Carmen , Ponds Rudolf , Perry Marieke
Published: October 2023

Background
The decision on diagnostic testing for dementia in general practice should be guided by patients’ preferences. To improve shared decision-making (SDM), a web-based patient decision aid (PtDA) was developed. This study aims to provide insights into the PtDA’s early uptake and first impressions after its’ online launch.
Methods
The following data were collected: (1) post-PtDA survey and semi-structured interviews with online users, (2) web metrics of the PtDA, (3) uptake numbers in selected general practices, (4) semi-structured interviews with general practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses. Early implementation outcomes (acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, and feasibility) were used to guide data collection and analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis.
Results
Online users, GPs, and practice nurses were predominantly positive about the PtDA’s user-friendliness and its ability to enhance patient autonomy and preference deliberation. In the five months after its launch, 1980 users completed the PtDA. However, uptake in general practices (n = 20) was modest (45%) and online use seemed to decrease over time. The PtDA’s adoption in general practice depended on GPs’ perceived necessity of using the PtDA and/or SDM. For GPs, the PtDA’s perceived appropriateness depended on patient characteristics such as age, health status and awareness of cognitive impairment. GPs and practice nurses expressed diverse approaches to using the PtDA and barriers in time, skills, and practical issues related to its’ (early) feasibility.
Conclusions
While the PtDA’s early uptake and first impressions are generally positive, our findings highlight the need for a targeted implementation strategy for use in daily general practice in addition to the PtDA’s integration into a well-known and widely-used medical information website.
Parental Satisfaction and Acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride Treatment for Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in Pediatric Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al-Nerabieah Zuhair , AlKhouli Muaaz , Dashash Mayssoon
Published: October 2023

The study aimed to investigate parental satisfaction and acceptance of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) treatment for permanent molars affected by Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH). In this cross-sectional study, a validated questionnaire employing a 5-point Likert scale was used to evaluate Aesthetics, ease of application, pain perception, and taste acceptability. Participants included 100 parents or guardians of children aged 6 to 9 years who had received SDF treatment in the past year. The findings of this study revealed high satisfaction levels (77.5%) with the treatment. Parents expressed contentment with the appearance of their child's molars after SDF application (58% agreed or strongly agreed) and found the application process easy and pain-free (100% agreed or strongly agreed). However, taste acceptability posed a challenge, with over half of the parents (53%) finding it unacceptable. Regression analysis underscored the significant impact of Aesthetics, ease of application, pain perception, and taste on parental satisfaction. Moreover, parents with higher education levels (graduate or postgraduate) exhibited higher acceptance rates compared to those with lower education levels (63.1% vs. 33.6%). Notably, parental gender and age did not significantly influence SDF treatment acceptance. This study provides critical insights into parental satisfaction and acceptance of SDF treatment for MIH-affected permanent molars. Despite concerns about tooth discoloration, the high satisfaction levels suggest that SDF holds promise as an effective treatment option. Parental education significantly influenced acceptance rates. This research highlights the importance of considering parental perspectives and tailoring communication strategies in pediatric dentistry, ultimately contributing to improved care for young patients with MIH.