bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High–Redshift Quasars at z <span data-mathml="z≥3">≥ 3: Radio Variability and MPS/GPS Candidates
Authors: Sotnikova Yulia , Mikhailov Alexander , Mufakharov Timur , An Tao , Kudryavtsev Dmitry , Mingaliev Marat , Udovitskiy Roman , Kudryashova Anastasia , Stolyarov Vlad , Semenova Tamara
Published: April 2024

We present a study of the radio variability of bright, $S_{1.4}\geq100$ mJy, high-redshift quasars at $z\geq3$ on timescales up to 30--40 years. The study involved simultaneous RATAN-600 measurements at frequencies of 2.3, 4.7, 8.2, 11.2, and 22.3 GHz in 2017--2020. In addition, data from the literature were used. We have found that the variability index $V_S$ of the quasars ranges from 0.02 to 0.96, with about half of the objects in the sample showing a variability index in the range of 0.25--0.50, which is comparable to that of the blazars at lower redshifts. The distribution of $V_S$ at 22.3 GHz is significantly different from that at 2.3--11.2 GHz, which may be attributed to the fact that a compact AGN core dominates at the source's rest frame frequencies greater than 45 GHz, leading to higher variability indices obtained at 22.3 GHz (the $V_S$ distribution peaks around 0.4) compared to the lower frequencies (the $V_S$ distribution peaks around 0.1--0.2). Several source groups with distinctive variability characteristics were found using cluster analysis of quasars. We propose 7 new candidates for gigahertz peaked-spectrum (GPS) sources and 5 new megahertz peaked-spectrum (MPS) sources based on their spectrum shape and variability features. Only 6 out of 23 sources previously reported as GPS demonstrate a low variability level typical of classical GPS sources ($V_{S} < 0.25$) at 4.7--22.3~GHz. When excluding the highly variable peaked-spectrum blazars, we expect no more than 20\% of the sources in the sample to be GPS candidates and no more than 10\% to be MPS candidates.
Preliminary Evaluation of Poly-(Sorbitol-Co-Citrate Adipate) Properties for Application as Biomaterial
Authors: Torres Adriano de Ulhôa , Sarrouh Boutros , Lofrano Renata Carolina Zanetti
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the stability of the Poly-(sorbitol-co-citrate adipate) with potential applica-tion in the biomedical area. Thus, the physical, chemical and microbiological stability of this was investigated. First, the chemical stability in alkaline phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) was evaluated for 5 days. In aqueous solution, the copolymer acidified the medium indicating the presence of residual citric acid. In the moisture absorption test the results obtained followed the pH, reinforcing the presence of citric acid. In the evaluation of the antimicrobial activity the results indicate that the copolymer did not allow the growth of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as the only source of carbon. However, in the cell lysis phase and due to the restriction of access to nutrients in the culture medium, the copolymer showed a loss of mass due to its use by the microorganism. Thus, it presented biodegradability property under extreme conditions of cell culture.
Patients’ Satisfaction regarding Oral Healthcare Services in the North-East Region of Romania: A Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Tibeica Silviu Catalin , Virvescu Dragoș Ioan , Lupu Iulian Costin , Budala Dana Gabriela , Luchian Ionut , Tibeica Andreea , Surlari Zinovia , Carausu Elena Mihaela
Published: April 2024

This research addresses a gap in the literature by conducting a comprehensive analysis of patients’ level of satisfaction with dental care. Methods: By combining quantitative and qualitative survey methods with the PSQ questionnaire this study aims to augment ongoing initiatives to enhance dental patients’ experiences by painting a more comprehensive depiction of patients' level of satisfaction; Results: When asked about their overall level of satisfaction 77,1% of the patients said they received excellent services from the office personnel and 72,2% said they trust their doctors; Conclusions: Assessing patient satisfaction in the realm of dental services quality is crucial for enhancing service quality and accuracy, benefiting both patients and dentists, and ultimately improving public health.
Precise Inverse Kinematic Calculation of the Center of Gravity for Bipedal Walking Robots
Authors: Şanlıtürk İsmail Hakkı , Kocabaş Hikmet
Published: April 2024

Walking of humanoid robots is dependent on precise tracking of the center of gravity and foot trajectories. Trajectory tracking is achieved by mobilizing the robot joints to produce the correct trajectory. Errors are being occurred because of assumptions on tracking the center of gravity and the foot trajectories. In this study, a numerical algorithm has been developed that produces an exact and single kinematic solution in which the center of gravity and foot trajectories can be tracked with the desired precision. The effectiveness of the algorithm was examined with a dynamic simulation and compared with the method given in the literature The main highlight of this study, using the presented algorithm, the robot can walk even if the position of its center of gravity is lower than its hips, resulting tracking error was smaller than reported in the literature.
Strain Effect on Dielectricity of Elastic Thermoplastic Polyurethanes
Authors: Wang Yubo , Yang Huali , Xie Yali , Bao Xilai , Pan Lili , Zhao Dan , Chen Jinxia , Zou Mengting , Tian Tian , Li Run-Wei
Published: April 2024

Dielectric elastomers, such as thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), are widely used as dielectric layer, emulation layer and substrate of flexible and stretchable devices. To construct capacitors and actuators that work stably upon deformation, it has become an urgent need to investigate the evolution of dielectricity under stress and strain. However, the lack of effective methods for estimating the dielectric constant of elastomers under strain poses a big challenge. This article reports a device for in-situ measuring the dielectric constant of TPU under strain. It is found that upon stretching TPU to a strain of 400%, its dielectric constant decreases from 8.47 to 2.94. In addition, combined Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray scattering technique, and atomic force microscopy have been utilized to characterize the evolution of microstructure under strain. The investigation under tensile strain reveals that a decreased density and average size of polarized hard domains, along with a tendency of the molecular chains to align in parallel with the tensile stress. The evolution of the microstructures results in a reduction of the dielectric constant parallel to the electric field in TPU. Our work provides valuable experimental reference for improving the stability of flexible sensors and actuators based on dielectric elastomers.
Fatigue Syndrome (FS) Prevalence among Saudi Medical Students and Its Association with Depressive and Anxious Symptoms
Authors: Alkhamees Abdulmajeed A. , AlGubllan Lamees A. , Alwashmi Ahmad H. , Alamr Deem T. , Alharbi Aeshah M. , Alturaif Norah A.
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Fatigue Syndrome (FS) is described as extreme exhaustion following ordinary activities. Sleep deprivation, the use of antidepressants, autoimmune illnesses, and anemia are also risk factors for FS. Symptoms of FS include headache, dizziness, and dyspnea, among others.
Objective:
This study focused on assessing the prevalence of fatigue syndrome (FS) and its association with depression and anxiety, among the medical students in Saudi Arabia.
Methodology
In this cross-sectional investigation conducted in 2023, 740 medical students participated. Data were gathered using an online survey, which encompassed four key sections: Sociodemographic details, the 11-item Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire (CFQ), the 9-item Primary Health Questionnaire (PHQ) assessing depression, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale. Analyses were performed by the use of SPSS version 25.
Results
A total of 740 students were surveyed, 417 (56.4%) satisfied the diagnostic requirements for fatigue syndrome (FS), with most of them being females. Furthermore, 234 (31.2%) and 296 (40.8%) of the participants reported having significant anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms, respectively. FS was positively correlated with symptoms of anxiety and depression (P
Another Perspective on the Relativistic Expression of Energy
Authors: Bahadurali Fayaz
Published: April 2024

The article aims to present an alternative perspective on the relativistic expression of energy. This perspective is based on the virtual use of a Dempster mass spectrometer. In this spectrometer, it is possible to simulate Alfred Bucherer's experiment and conclude, using Lienard's relativistic equation, that the classical expression of energy predicted by Special Relativity is a more complete expression than the one presented by high school and college physics textbooks.
Artificial Intelligence Tools and the Future of Librarians
Authors: Mukherjee Sankhayan , Patra Swapan
Published: April 2024

The recent advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) tools has had a pervasive effect on every sphere of human existence. Libraries and information centres are not immune to these technological advances. These disruptive technologies have transformed the traditional face of libraries and their operations. There are many available AI tools, for example, chatbots, literature review tools, plagiarism detection tools, and several other developments in the field that have perhaps made the functioning of libraries easier. However, there is growing concern and uncertainty among both traditional library and modern professionals regarding the possible job loss and security issues related to these new technologies, which the professionals must deal with. Librarians and information professionals must be ready to handle the unforeseen situation. However, it is to be observed how libraries cope with these uncertainties, and threats to the integrity, availability of data, and normal library housekeeping functions.
Ekologi Sastra Novel Prau Layar ing Kali Code Karya Budi Sarjono
Authors: Pangestuti Artina Wiludjeng , Anindyarini Atikah , Wijayanti Kenfitria
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan ekologi sastra pada novel Prau Layar ing Kali Code karya Budi Sardjono. Data yang diperoleh pada penelitian yang dilaksanakan berupa novel Prau Layar ing Kali Code karya Budi Sardjono cetakan pertama dan informan. Sumber data berupa novel Prau Layar ing Kali Code yang menjadi sumber data utama. Data ekologi sastra berupa kutipan-kutipan novel yang mengandung unsur lingkungan atau kritik mengenai lingkungan. Penelitian ini menggunakana purposive sampling dalam teknik sampling. Pengumpulan data menerapkan analisis data serta wawancara. Triangulasi teori serta sumber data merupakan teknik yang digunakan untuk uji validitas. Teknik analisis mengunakan model mengalir (flow model) melalui tahap-tahap, yakni (1) pengumpulan data; (2) reduksi data; (3) penyajian data; dan (4) penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian yang telah dilaksanakan dapat diberi simpulan, 1) Mitos dianggap menjadi suatu pertanda; 2) lingkungan berada di pedesaan yang berada di lereng gunung dan sungai yang ada di sekitar Yogyakarta; 3) Interaksi tokoh dengan lingkungan sekitar dapat menimbulkan berbagai macam pengaruh. Hasil penelitian ini setidaknya dapat memberikan wawasan dalam melestarikan lingkungan.
The Waqf of Nûrî Bimaristan in Aleppo in the Mid-16th Century
Authors: Çakar Enver
Published: April 2024

Aleppo has been home to many civilisations, and especially during Zangid, Ayyubid, Mamluk and Ottoman periods, many waqf works were built in the city. One of these buildings, the Bimaristan of Nūrī, was built by Nūr al-Dīn Mahmud, one of the Zangid rulers. This hospital which was known as the Bimaristan of Nurī or the Bimaristan of Nūr al-Dīn Şehīd, was also known as “Bīmāristan-ı ‘Atīq” because a second bimaristan named Ergûn Kâmil was built in the city later on. In this bimaristan, patients were treated free of charge and their medication costs were covered by the waqf budget.

In this study, after providing information about bimaristans, the Bimaristan of Nūrī and its founder Nūr al-Dīn Zangi, the waqf assets of the Bimaristan of Nūrī and their income amounts in the Mid-16th century, the waqf and hospital staff, their salaries and other expense items of the waqf are emphasised. The main sources of this study, which aims to reveal the importance of bimaristans in general and the Bimaristan of Nūrī in Aleppo in particular in terms of the history of medicine and architecture and its operating model, are the Aleppo awqaf registers in various funds with waqfs records in the Ottoman Archives.
Geno-Species Composition of Borrelia Circulating on the Black Sea Coast of the Krasnodar Territory
Authors: Zaitseva O. A. , Volynkina A. S. , Vasil’eva O. V. , Chekhvalova E. V. , Kolosov A. V. , Prislegina D. A. , Manin E. A. , Kulichenko A. N.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the study was to assess the current epidemiological situation on Ixodidae tick-borne borreliosis (ITBB) (2017–2022) on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory, to study the species composition of Borrelia.

Materials and methods. Ixodidae ticks, Ixodes ricinus, Haemaphysalis concinna, H. inermis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, were examined for infection with tick-borne borreliosis pathogens, followed by DNA sequencing of isolates. Species identification of Borrelia was carried out based on analysis of the nucleotide sequence of the 16S rRNA gene fragment using BLAST algorithm. Additionally, the OspC genotype was determined for isolates of pathogenic genovariants through comparing the obtained sequences with reference ones in the MEGA 5 program. The data were processed applying the cartographic method using the QGIS 2.18 software.

Results and discussion. Between 2017 and 2022, 101 cases were registered on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory, which accounted for 1.6 % of all ITBB cases in the Krasnodar Territory. The number of complaints with tick bites in Sochi was up to 191.4 per 100 thousand population. During the study, the predominant Borrelia geno-species on the territory of the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory was determined using sequencing – Borrelia lusitaniae (78.1 %). The circulation of geno-species B. garinii (6.8 %), B. valasiana (5.7 %), B. afzelii (3.6 %), B. miyamotoi (2.6 %), B. tanukii, B. bissettii (1.6 % each) was also observed. For Borrelia pathogenic species, appurtenance to OspC geno-groups was ascertained: four isolates were assigned to invasive OspC geno-groups, of which three B. afzelii isolates were genogroup A8, one B. garinii isolate was G7. High rate of infection of ticks with Borrelia was recorded in the surveyed area (up to 94.5 %). Borrelia of pathogenic species account for only 10.4 % of the total number of isolates studied. Mostly, genovariants that rarely cause diseases in humans (B. lusitaniae, B. valasiana, B. bissettii) and non-pathogenic Borrelia (B. tanukii) were found, which indicates a low risk of infection with ITBB pathogens.
Genetic Profile of Brucella melitensis Strains Isolated on the Territory of the Russian Federation, Based on Analysis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Following Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Kuznetsova I. V. , Kovalev D. A. , Pisarenko S. V. , Bobrysheva O. V. , Shapakov N. A. , Zhirov A. M. , Safonova N. S. , Ponomarenko D. G. , Khachaturova A. A. , Zhilchenko E. B. , Serdyuk N. S. , Kulichenko A. N.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the work was to conduct a comparative phylogenetic analysis based on wgSNP of complete genomes of Brucella melitensis strains circulating in the territory of the Russian Federation.

Materials and methods. wgSNP typing of 412 B. melitensis strains of the main genetic lineages of brucella from different regions of the world, including 64 strains isolated in the regions of the European and Asian parts of the Russian Federation, was performed. DNA sequencing was conducted on the “Ion GeneStudio S5 Plus” platform (“Life Technologies”, USA) using the “Ion Plus Fragment Library Kit library preparation” (“Life Technologies”, USA), according to the “Ion 520™ & Ion 530™ Kit – Chef” protocol (Revision D.0).

Results and discussion. It has been established that the strains circulating in Russia belong mainly to genotype II, which has a wide geographical distribution across the territory of Eurasia. At the same time, subgenotype IIh prevails in the regions of Siberia, and Iii – in the European territory of the country. For the first time, sets of specific SNPs have been identified that allow for intraspecific differentiation of B. melitensis strains. The obtained results made it possible to determine the probable routes of introduction of the causative agent of brucellosis into the territory of the Russian Federation from China and the countries of the Middle East. The prospect of using an optimized wgSNP typing scheme to solve urgent problems in the field of molecular epidemiology of brucellosis is demonstrated. It includes determining the genotype and subgenotype of the pathogen associated with the probable geographical region of origin of infection, and identifying the genetic relations between strains with high accuracy.
Detection of Rickettsia species in rodents collected in the Northern provinces of Vietnam, 2020–2022
Authors: Toan Van Trinh , Cuong Viet Vo , Dat Van Nguyen , Lan Anh Thi Phan , Tan Ngoc Nguyen , Hung Viet Pham , Lan Anh Thi Le
Published: April 2024

Rickettsiae, which are obligate intracellular bacterial parasites, have a life cycle commonly associated with arthropod vectors and animal hosts. Rodents are recognized as their natural reservoir hosts and play a role in transmitting the bacteria to humans through arthropod vectors. The true extent of rickettsial infections in Vietnam remains underestimated due to a limited understanding of the disease’s epidemiology, resulting in a significant public health burden.

The aim of this investigation was to assess the prevalence of Rickettsia in wild-living rodents in Dien Bien, Son La, and Phu Tho provinces of Northern Vietnam between 2020 and 2022.

Materials and methods. A total of 396 wild-living rodents were collected from the Northern provinces of Vietnam during 2020–2022. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect the percentage of Rickettsia-positive specimens. Subsequently, the ompB and 17kDa genes were extracted, amplified, and sequenced from the Rickettsia-positive rodents.

Results and discussion. Among the 396 rodents examined, the majority were Rattus norvegicus (56.1%), followed by R. tanezumi (37.4%), R. nitidus (2.5%), and R. germaini (1.8%). R. korodentsensis and R. argentiverter constituted the remaining rodents, accounting for 2.2% of the total. The real-time PCR analysis revealed that 27 blood samples out of the 396 rodent samples collected, tested positive for Rickettsia (6.81%). R. germaini was shown to have the highest positive rate 1/8 (12.5%), followed by R. nitidus 1/10 (10.0%), R. tanezumi 14/149 (9.5%), and R. norvegicus 11/222 (4.9%). No other tick-borne pathogens were detected in any of the provinces. Sequencing of the positive samples as regards the ompB and 17kDa genes revealed the closest relation to R. felis. These findings highlight the potentially high risk of R. felis infection in humans and animals within the studied areas.
Hybrid Assembly of Complete Genomes of Yersinia pestis Strains
Authors: Fedorov A. V. , Krasnov Ya. M. , Naryshkina E. A. , Sosedova E. A. , Katyshev A. D. , Eroshenko G. A. , Kukleva L. M. , Osina N. A. , Kutyrev V. V.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the study was to assemble full-length nucleotide sequences of the chromosome and plasmids for 13 Yersinia pestis strains from 11 natural plague foci located in the Russian Federation, using data from two sequencing technologies.

Materials and methods. Y. pestis strains were grown on Hottinger’s agar (pH 7.2) at 37 °C. DNA was isolated using phenol-chloroform extraction. For the MinIon genetic analyzer (Oxford Nanopore), DNA fragments were prepared by ligation according to a modified protocol. For the Ion S5 genetic analyzer (IonTorrent), sample preparation was carried out according to the standard protocol for obtaining a library with a DNA fragment size of 400 nucleotide pairs (bp). The resulting single reads were filtered by average quality Q30 for IonTorrent and Q7 for Oxford Nanopore.

Results and discussion. DNA fragments containing 50 000 or more nucleotide pairs were prepared for subsequent sequencing using nanopore sequencing technology (Oxford Nanopore). The Trycycler algorithm was applied for hybrid assembly of the genome of Y. pestis strains and correction of errors arising during this process, allowing the obtainment of full-length nucleotide sequences of the chromosome and plasmids for each genome of the strain. The nucleotide sequences of the chromosomes of 13 Y. pestis strains from 11 natural foci of plague located in the Russian Federation have been deposited in the international genetic database NCBI GenBank. It has been established that to assemble full-length genomes of Y. pestis strains, a significant number of reads with a size of 50 000 bp or more is required, and the use of the Trycycler algorithm allows one to generate a more accurate assembly of complete bacterial genomes.
Epidemiological Situation on Plague around the World. Forecast of Epizootic Activity of Natural Plague Foci in the Russian Federation for 2024
Authors: Popov N. V. , Karnaukhov I. G. , Kuznetsov A. A. , Matrosov A. N. , Ivanova A. V. , Martsokha K. S. , Kuklev E. V. , Korzun V. M. , Verzhutsky D. B. , Chipanin E. V. , Kholin A. V. , Lopatin A. A. , Dubyansky V. M. , Ashibokov U. M. , Gazieva A. Yu. , Kutyrev I. V. , Balakhonov S. V. , Kulichenko A. N. , Kutyrev V. V.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the review was to assess the epidemiological situation in natural plague foci in the Russian Federation, near and far abroad countries in 2023 and to forecast their epizootic activity for 2024. In 2023, cases of plague were registered in five countries worldwide: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (60 cases), the Republic of Madagascar (14), the United States of America (2), the People’s Republic of China (3), and Mongolia (5). A total of 84 cases of plague were recorded, of which 22 (26.2 %) were fatal. In the Russian Federation, in 2023, epidemic risks in epizootically active natural foci were significantly reduced due to the implementation of a set of preventive measures carried out by Rospotrebnadzor institutions, which was the guarantor of ensuring epidemiological well-being as regards plague. Plague epizootics were detected on the territory of two (Gorno-Altai high-mountain and Tuva mountain) out of 11 natural plague foci in the Russian Federation in 2023. Epizootics were reported on the territory of the Kosh-Agach district of the Altai Republic and the Mongun-Taiginsky kozhuun of the Tuva Republic. The total area of epizootics was 731.2 km2 (in 2022 – 248.3 km2). In total, 55 cultures of the antique biovar of the main subspecies Yersinia pestis pestis were isolated in 2023 (19 in 2022). The forecast for continuation of the tense epidemiological situation in the territory of the Altai and Tuva Republics in 2024 is substantiated. The trend of sustained growth in the epizootic potential of the East Caucasus high-mountain and Dagestan plain-piedmont plague foci is outlined. The prospects for introducing an automated electronic system for assessing the epidemic potential of natural plague foci into practice are explained.
West Nile Fever: Analysis of the Epidemiological Situation in the Russian Federation in 2023, Forecast for 2024
Authors: Putintseva E. V. , Udovichenko S. K. , Nikitin D. N. , Boroday N. V. , Antonov A. S. , Toporkov A. V.
Published: April 2024

An analysis of the epidemiological situation on West Nile fever (WNF) in the Russian Federation in 2023 has revealed an increase in the number of cases (210) relative to the year 2022 by 6.3 times, the long-term average value by 1.2 times. Manifestations of the epidemic process were characterized by a significant expansion in the number of territories, where cases of the disease were confirmed (24 constituent entities, including in 13 – for the first time); a long epidemic season; an increase in the proportion of cases with a severe clinical course and fatality rate, which significantly exceeded the long-term average across Russia (8.5 and 1.2 %, respectively). Patients with fever and other similar manifestations of WNF were examined for the presence of the disease markers in 50 entities of the Russian Federation. Continued trend towards a decrease in the volume of diagnostic studies carried out by medical organizations and an increase in the time required for the etiological deciphering of disease cases has been established. Serological examination of sample groups of healthy population was performed in 65 entities. Epizootiological monitoring was carried out in 74 entities, rate of infection of carriers and vectors with West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed in 14 entities. In the territory of the European part of Russia and the North Caucasus, the circulation of WNV lineages 1, 2 and 4 with the dominance of WNV lineage 2 has been established. Data on the genetic heterogeneity of WNV lineage 2 strains that circulated in Russia in 2023 have been obtained. Based on an analysis of climatic factors, a forecast of WNF incidence in the Russian Federation for 2024 was prepared.
An Integrated Framework for Reference Site Selection and Benchmarking Soil Health Studies in the United States
Authors: Das Saurav , Hird Aaron , Maharjan Bijesh , Stephenson Mitchell , Kariyawasam Lithma
Published: April 2024

Comparative soil health studies are critical in soil conservation and gauging the success of different management practices in soil health improvement. A primary challenge in these studies is the selection of a consistent natural reference site. Current choices vary widely, from minimally disturbed areas to pristine prairies. This methodological paper underscores the need for deliberate and thoughtful reference site selection for benchmark soil properties. Utilizing the State &Transition models, the study introduces a framework for this selection, drawing upon the ecological site (ES) and reference plant communities detailed in an ecological site description (ESD) within a respective Major Land Resource Area (MLRA). This study advocates for a localized classification within the framework of the Cropland Reference Ecological Unit (CREU), emphasizing the significance of local precipitation and soil data to ensure unbiased comparisons. Soil samples from eastern (MLRA 106) and western (MLRA 67A) Nebraska were collected, representing distinct pedogenetic and climatic differences. Analysis of soil organic matter between MLRAs displayed substantial variations, suggesting potential biases and complexities in soil health gap calculations when using reference sites and croplands not in the same MLRA, soil types (texture class), or precipitation zones. However, refining the comparisons by delineating the MLRA, soil, and precipitation zones within the framework of CREU yielded more consistent and realistic comparative data. Integrating the MLRA and ES, complemented by granular soil and precipitation data, provides a robust method for establishing soil health benchmark data.
Workplace bullying and turnover intention among male nurses: A cross-sectional study in Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Anjan Kumar , Akter Masuda , Akter Nahida , Hossain Md Ikbal , Akter Shimpi , Akter Sopon , Chowdhury Saifur Rahman , Kabir Humayun
Published: April 2024

Background: Workplace bullying (WPB) and nurses’ turnover intention (TI) are important challenges in the healthcare sector, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing targeted interventions to improve retention and well-being among male nurses in Bangladesh. Thus, this study aimed to explore the relationship between WPB and TI among Bangladeshi male nurses.
Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 379 Bangladeshi registered male nurses between April 26 and July 10, 2021. The study sites included indoor or outdoor settings where nurses provide healthcare. We used the Short Negative Acts Questionnaire-9 (S-NAQ-9) to measure WPB and the Turnover Intention Scale-6 (TIS-6) to assess TI. We performed a multiple linear regression model to explore the association of WPB and other variables with TI.
Results: The study participants were predominantly young male nurses, with a significant proportion employed in urban settings and holding a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree. The study found a significant positive association between WPB and TI, suggesting that higher levels of WPB were related to increased TI. Likewise, some other factors such as educational degree, smoking status, job types, professional titles, timely payment, and violence-related training showed significant associations with TI.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for focused interventions to reduce WPB and enhance working conditions for male nurses in Bangladesh. Addressing WPB, as well as improving work satisfaction through targeted initiatives, is critical for reducing TI among this demographic.
Relationship Between Hypertransmission Defect Size and Progression in Eyes with Intermediate Age-related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Sadda SriniVas , Nanegrungsunk Onnisa , Corradetti Giulia , Phinyo Phichayut , Choovuthayakorn Janejit
Published: April 2024

Objectives To determine the associations between the presence of various-sized hypertransmission defects (hyperTDs) and progression to incomplete retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and outer retinal atrophy (iRORA) and complete RORA (cRORA) in eyes with intermediate age-related macular degeneration (iAMD).Methods Optical coherence tomography (OCT) data from consecutive iAMD patients, were retrospectively reviewed. All of iAMD eyes with or without iRORA (but not cRORA) at baseline were included. Graders evaluated the presence of hyperTDs at baseline (small: 63–124 µm; medium: 125–249 µm; large: ≥ 250 µm in diameter on choroidal en face OCT) and the progression two years later.Results Of the 145 eyes that not developed neovascular AMD at two years, the eyes that progressed to or developed iRORA or cRORA included 13 eyes (10.7%), 5 eyes (83.3%), 9 eyes (81.8%), and 6 eyes (85.7%) in the groups with no, small, medium, and large hyperTDs at baseline, respectively (P-value < 0.001). The odds ratios (95% CI) for progression were 41.6 (4.5–383.6), 37.4 (7.3–192.0), and 49.9 (5.6–447.1) in the small, medium, and large hyperTDs groups, compared to no hyperTDs (P-value ≤ 0.001). Eyes with ≥ 2 hyperTDs also showed more frequent progression than eyes with one or no hyperTDs (100% vs. 16.4%; P-value < 0.001).Conclusions While most iAMD eyes with no hyperTDs remained stable on OCT over two years, eyes with hyperTDs of any size appeared to be at a higher risk for progression. HyperTDs may provide an important OCT biomarker for identifying high-risk iAMD patients.
Vitamin D has therapeutic effects on obesity and hyperandrogenemia in PCOS mouse model induced by low dose DHEA and high-fat diet
Authors: Xu Huiling , Qiu Shumin , Lin Peiyang , Liao Xiuhua , Lin Yunhong , Sun Yan , Zheng Beihong
Published: April 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most complex and common reproductive endocrine disease among reproductive age women. This study aimed to investigate the effects of vitamin D (Vit.D) in PCOS mouse model. Prepubertal female mice were divided into 4 groups randomly: control, PCOS, PCOS with low dose Vit.D(LDVD), and PCOS with high dose Vit.D༈HDVD༉ groups(n = 10 per group). PCOS model was induced by high-fat diet, and subcutaneous injection with 6mg/kg/day dehydroepiandrosterone. After 30 days, 1,25(OH)2D3 was intend to be administered by intraperitoneal injection for 40 consecutive days, 1.3µg/kg/week in LDVD group, and 13µg/kg /week in HDVD group. However, all mice in HDVD group died within two weeks following the Vit.D injections. The body weight of mice and the testosterone levels in PCOS group were significantly higher than those in the control and LDVD groups (P < 0.001). The total cholesterol levels in the control group were lower than those in PCOS and LDVD groups (P < 0.001). Further, the ratio of liver to body weight was different among groups (P < 0.001). Our data illustrates that Vit.D has therapeutic effects on obesity and hyperandrogenemia in PCOS, which may occur through regulation of liver metabolism. However, over dose of Vit.D is poisonous.
Detection of circulating tumor cells in patients with lung cancer using a Rare Cell Sorter: a pilot study
Authors: Sugai Kazuto , Mori Tomoko , Bilal Turan , Furukawa Atsuko , Sekine Yasuharu , Kobayashi Naohiro , Kikuchi Shinji , Goto Yukinobu , Ichimura Hideo , Masuda Taisuke , Arai Fumihito , Sato Yukio , Matsusaka Satoshi
Published: April 2024

Background
We developed a Rare Cell Sorter (RCS) for collecting single cell including circulating tumor cells (CTCs). This single-institution pilot study evaluated the ability of this device to detect tumor-like cells in patients with lung cancer and confirmed their genuineness based on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation concordance with tissue samples.
Methods
This study included patients treated for lung cancer from September 2021 to August 2022 in University of Tsukuba Hospital. Peripheral blood samples were obtained before surgery or during periodic medical checks for patients treated with drugs. We used the RCS to capture cells based on size. The cells were stained, and the Hoechst-positive, CD45-negative, and epithelial celladhesion molecule (EpCAM)- positive cells were defined as CTCs, were collected. The presumptive CTCs were counted and tested using digital droplet polymerase chain reaction for EGFR mutations and compared with the tissue EGFR status to check concordance.
Results
Eighteen patients were included in this study and CTCs were detected in 6 patients (33%). The CTCs from three patients showed EGFR mutation, and the EGFR mutation status of CTCs concorded with that of tissue samples in 83% of the cases (5/6). Only one CTC showed a different status from the tissue, and the concordance rate of EGFR status between CTCs and the tissue was 96% (24/25).
Conclusion
The ability of the RCS to detect CTCs in patients with lung cancer was demonstrated based on the concordance of EGFR status in this pilot study. This novel hybrid method of CTC recovery using the RCS has the potential to recover a wide range of CTCs regardless of EpCAM. Further validation through a large-scale study is needed.
Serotonin, cortisol, and DHEA-S levels in anxious and depressive pregnant women living with HIV
Authors: Meza-Rodríguez María del Pilar , Leff-Gelman Philippe , Medina-Bastidas Diana , Avila-García Miroslava , Damián Ricardo Figueroa , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio
Published: April 2024

Pregnancy in women living with human immunodeficiency virus (WLWH) represents an important challenge for maternal-fetal health. Various pregnant WLWH present anxiety (Anx) and depression (Dep). Imbalances in serotonin (5-HT), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and cortisol (CORT) levels can contribute to Anx and Dep manifestations. Currently, there is not enough data about the neuroendocrine and neurochemical changes in pregnant WLWH with affective disorders.
The objective of this study was to characterize 5-HT, DHEA-S, and CORT plasma levels in pregnant WLWH presenting Anx/Dep. A total of 42 adult pregnant women were recruited during the third trimester of gestation. These patients were divided into three groups: 1) pregnant WLWH with Anx/Dep (n=16), 2) pregnant without HIV but with Anx/Dep (n=12), and 3) healthy pregnant women without Anx/Dep (n=14). Infected and non-infected pregnant women with Anx/Dep presented a marked reduction in 5-HT and DHEA-S levels compared with the healthy group. The lowest 5-HT levels were observed in WLWH with Anx/Dep. Anx and Dep symptoms were inversely correlated with 5-HT and DHEA-S levels. Interestingly, no significant differences were observed in CORT levels among the three groups. Our results suggest the presence of a disbalance in 5-HT and DHEA-S levels in pregnant WLWHwith affective symptoms.
Assessment of the knowledge, attitude and practices of the informed consent process in oral healthcare among dental students in Makerere University Dental Hospital, Uganda
Authors: NONO DAVID , Mwebesa Ernest , Bagenda Godfrey , Okullo Isaac , Rwenyonyi Charles Mugisha , Williams Simon , Nono David
Published: April 2024

Introduction:
Informed consent is an ethical and legal component of healthcare. It ensures patient autonomy and allows patients to make decisions regarding their treatment. In dental care, informed consent is particularly important because most dental procedures are invasive. Since dental students are future dentists, they need to learn about their ethical obligations and accountability through the informed consent process as this is critical to the patient’s well-being. The present study aimed to determine dental students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices of informed consent for oral health care in Makerere University Dental Hospital, Uganda.
Study Methodology:
This was a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study that was carried out at Makerere University Dental Hospital. Third, fourth, and fifth-year students (n = 102) pursuing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme took part in a survey. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices of informed consent for oral health care. Collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1, where it was cleaned, coded, and imported to STATA version 14 software for statistical analysis.
Results
Of the 102 participants, 65.7% were males. The mean age was 25 (SD = 3.21) years. The majority (90%) of the students had a high level of knowledge of the informed consent process. About 80% had a positive attitude towards informed consent and 85% most often practiced the informed consent process. Based on bi-variate analysis, training on informed consent, year of study, age, and sex were significantly associated with the informed consent process. However, there was no significant risk factor associated with informed consent in multiple logistic regression analysis.
Conclusion
The study findings highlighted high levels of knowledge, positive attitude, and practice of the informed consent process among the clinical dental students. Continuous in-service training for dentists and other oral healthcare workers on the informed consent process is highly recommended.
Adaptive Finite Element Method for Magnetotelluric Forward Modeling with Gradient Recovery
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Ji Naixuan , Wang Zhishui , Guo Chen , Miao Xuhuang
Published: April 2024

In the frequency domain electromagnetic method such as magnetotelluric method, finite element method is the main numerical simulation method because it can better simulate the complex physical distribution and complex boundary shape of the geoelectric model. In the finite element method, the quality and quantity of mesh generation will directly affect the accuracy and efficiency of the solution. Theoretically, the accuracy of the finite element solution will gradually approach the real solution with the mesh encryption, but the increase of the mesh number will directly affect the speed of the finite element solution and computer memory. In addition, in the frequency domain electromagnetic method, the decay speed of electromagnetic waves is different at different frequencies, and the use of the same grid at different frequencies will also cause errors. The adaptive finite element method based on a posteriori error estimation can overcome the above shortcomings and improve the calculation accuracy and efficiency of forward modeling. In this paper, starting from the principle of superconvergent patch recovery algorithm, the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm is deduced in detail, the processing of the boundary element in the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm is used as the indicator factor of the adaptive finite element posterior error estimation, and a mesh encryption strategy is proposed, the encryption strategy is simple and reliable. Finally, using the characteristics of the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm, it is used in the calculation of auxiliary field of magnetotelluric method. Through the forward modeling of three geoelectric models. It is verified that the adaptive finite element method based on the a posteriori error of the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm combined with the auxiliary field calculation method of the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm can effectively improve the accuracy and feasibility of the finite element forward modeling of the superconvergent patch recovery algorithm.
Single-cell Landscape of Malignant Transition: Unraveling Cancer Cell-of-Origin and Heterogeneous Tissue Microenvironment
Authors: Luo Ruihan , Liu Jiajia , Wen Jianguo , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: April 2024

Understanding disease progression and sophisticated tumor ecosystems is imperative for investigating tumorigenesis mechanisms and developing novel prevention strategies. Here, we dissected heterogeneous microenvironments during malignant transitions by leveraging data from 1396 samples spanning 13 major tissues. Within transitional stem-like subpopulations highly enriched in precancers and cancers, we identified 30 recurring cellular states strongly linked to malignancy, including hypoxia and epithelial senescence, revealing a high degree of plasticity in epithelial stem cells. By characterizing dynamics in stem-cell crosstalk with the microenvironment along the pseudotime axis, we found differential roles of ANXA1 at different stages of tumor development. In precancerous stages, reduced ANXA1 levels promoted monocyte differentiation toward M1 macrophages and inflammatory responses, whereas during malignant progression, upregulated ANXA1 fostered M2 macrophage polarization and cancer-associated fibroblast transformation by increasing TGF-β production. Our spatiotemporal analysis further provided insights into mechanisms responsible for immunosuppression and a potential target to control evolution of precancer and mitigate the risk for cancer development.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Generic vs Brand-Name Meropenem for Anti-infective Use in Real-world
Authors: Hu Qi , Long Enwu , Zhu Baoqiang , Hu Jiaqiang , Wei Yuankui , Li Wenyuan , You Qiang
Published: April 2024

There is little information on whether generic meropenem can be as safe and effective as brand-name meropenem. This retrospective study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of generic vs brand-name meropenem for infection treatment. Patients (aged ≥18 years) prescribed generic or brand-name meropenem between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, were identified from the hospital information system database of Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital and Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences. The efficacy outcomes included clinical efficacy, changes in laboratory testing indicators related to infection, and bacterial clearance rate. Safety outcomes included incidence of adverse reactions, abnormal liver and kidney function indicators, and abnormal blood system indicators. A total of 2288 patients (1414 [61.8%] males and 874 [38.2%] females, mean [IQR] age 66 [52-77] years) were eligible for analysis, of whom 1234 were prescribed generic meropenem. Both the generic and the brand-name groups included 600 patients (729 [60.8%] female, mean [IQR] age, 63 [51-76] years) after propensity score matching. The generic meropenem was comparable to the brand-name drug about efficacy (447 [74.5%] vs 462 [77.0%]; P = 0.360). The generic meropenem was associated with lower rates of bacterial clearance (83 [13.8%] vs 120 [20.0%]; P = <0.001). The brand-name may have a better elimination effect on Escherichia coli compared with its generic counterpart (6 [20.0%] vs 25 [55.6%]; P = 0.002). The risks of adverse reactions were not significantly different between the two groups (20 [3.3%] vs 25 [4.2%]; P = 0.447). In conclusion, the generic meropenem was as effective and safe as brand-name meropenem in adult hospitalized patients diagnosed with serious bacterial infections.
Elevated Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Levels of Interleukin-4 Related to Poor Prognosis of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Hu Xuemei , Zhao Mingyang , Wang Meixue , Wang Dongsen , Zhu Liangzhen , Su Chunhai , Wu Qingjian
Published: April 2024

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease that seriously jeopardizes human life and health. Some studies have shown that although Interleukin-4 (IL-4) acts as an anti-inflammatory factor, IL-4 levels are elevated when the disease occurs. This study focuses on exploring the relationship between IL-4 concentrations in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and poor prognosis in patients with aSAH. 210 aSAH patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups according to their mRS scores, and 210 healthy people were selected as controls. The IL-4 concentration was quantitatively determined with enzyme-linked adsorption assay (ELISA). We can draw a conclusion that Serum and CSF IL-4 concentrations are generally elevated in patients with poor prognosis(P < 0.05), and the CSF IL-4 concentration decreased gradually over the progress of time(P < 0.05). The IL-4 concentration in the CSF was positively correlated with age, platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), C-reactive protein (CRP), Hunt-Hess grade, mRS score, and World Federation of Neurological Surgeons score (WFNS) (P < 0.0001). Additionally, IL-4 concentrations in the CSF were correlated with complications(P < 0.05). Elevated serum and CSF concentrations of IL-4 may affect the prognosis of patients with aSAH and may be a candidate early biomarkers for a poor prognosis of aSAH.
The relationship between physical exercise and interpersonal adjustment of college students: the chain mediating role of self-control and personal growth initiative
Authors: Guo Feng , Guo Kelei
Published: April 2024

Interpersonal adaptation refers to the positive interaction between individuals and the environment and groups, and the establishment of social relations. Physical exercise plays an important role in promoting interpersonal adaptation of college students, but there are few literatures on the influence of physical exercise on interpersonal adaptation of college students and its relationship mechanism. In this study, 1290 college students completed the physical exercise scale, self-control scale, personal growth initiative scale, interpersonal adjustment scale and questionnaire adjustment. The results show that physical exercise is positively correlated with interpersonal adaptation, and self-control and personal growth initiative have independent mediating and chain mediating effects between physical exercise and interpersonal adaptation. This study discusses the relationship between physical exercise and interpersonal adaptation of college students. The results reveal the relationship mechanism between physical exercise and interpersonal adaptation of college students, and provide a preliminary basis for the study of the causal relationship between the two. The results of this study also provide a theoretical basis for promoting the interpersonal adaptation of college students.