bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron folic acid supplementation adherence level and its associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: a multilevel complex data analysis of 2019 Ethiopian mini demographic and health survey data
Authors: Temesgen Habtamu , Woyraw Wubetu , Feleke Fentaw Wassie , Mezgebu Getachew Sale , Taye Kefyalew , Awoke Tadesse
Published: February 2024

Background

Iron and folic acid deficiency is a worldwide public health concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries. In Ethiopia, adherence to iron and folic acid supplements is still very low. Despite the fact that a number of studies on IFA supplementation have been conducted in Ethiopia, they do not indicate a nationwide problem and do not use advanced models to demonstrate clustering effects. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of non-adherence to iron folic acid supplementation and predictors among pregnant women in Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess iron folic acid supplementation adherence level and its associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia using data from the 2019 Mini-Ethiopian demographic health survey.

Methods

The Mini Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2019 data were obtained from the official database website of the Demographic and Health Survey program (http://dhsprogram.com). The analysis included a sample of 2,356 weighted study participants. A multivariable multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was used Variables with p-values less than 5%) was reported as statistically significant variables in the multivariable analysis.

Results

The proportion of mothers who did not adhere to iron and folic acid supplements was 81.03% (95 %CI, 79.39, and 82.56). Birth interval less than 2 years [AOR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.12, 3.66], women ever born less than six children [AOR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.09, 3.64], starting ANC visit during first trimester [AOR: 2.74; 95 %CI: 1.03, 7.30], region [AOR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.10], and having a high no ANC visit in the community [AOR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.08, 2.88] were statistically significant factors. There was Intra-Custer Correlation (ICC = 17.72%), indicating that 17.72% variability in non-adherence levels was due to clusters.

Conclusion and recommendation

In Ethiopia, nearly four out of every five pregnant women did not receive iron folic acid supplementation for the recommended periods. Birth intervals, number of children, timing of ANC visits, region, and community level no ANC service were significant factors for non-adherence IFAS. As a result, the community, govern metal and non-governmental sectors enacting on health should focus on reducing non-adherence through tailored interventions on factors that influence it.
Direct vs. redirected admission of critically ill children to PICU after interfacility transfer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Halgren C. , Annich G. M. , Maratta C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Critically ill children must often be transported long distances for access to critical care resources in Canada. This study aims to describe and compare characteristics and outcomes in patients presenting in the community and requiring inter-facility transport and admission to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of children admitted to the ICU at the Hospital for Sick Children from 2016 to 2019 after inter-facility transport. Characteristics and outcomes were compared between children admitted to the PICU within 24 h from their initial critical care transport request, and children admitted after initial redirection to a non-ICU care setting, 24–72 h from request. The primary outcome was severity of illness at PICU admission. Secondary outcomes included duration of mechanical ventilation, organ dysfunction, PICU length of stay and mortality.

Results

A total of 2,730 patients were admitted after inter-facility transport to either the medical/surgical or cardiac ICU within 72 h of initial critical care transport request. Of these children, 2,559 (94%) were admitted within 24 h and 171 (6%) were admitted between 24 and 72 h. Children admitted after initial redirection were younger and residing in more rural centers. Children who were initially redirected had lower severity of illness (PRISM-IV median score 3 vs. 5, p = 0.047) and lower risk of mortality.

Interpretation

Initial redirection to a non-ICU care setting rather than directly admitting to the PICU did not result in increased severity of illness or mortality. This study highlights the need to better understand which factors influence disposition decision-making at the time of initial transport request. Further research should focus on the impact of transport factors on clinical outcomes after PICU admission.
Predicting pharmacodynamic effects through early drug discovery with artificial intelligence-physiologically based pharmacokinetic (AI-PBPK) modelling
Authors: Wu Keheng , Li Xue , Zhou Zhou , Zhao Youni , Su Mei , Cheng Zhuo , Wu Xinyi , Huang Zhijun , Jin Xiong , Li Jingxi , Zhang Mengjun , Liu Jack , Liu Bo
Published: February 2024

Graphical Abstract

Main steps used to predict PK and PD outcomes of the compounds. (Step 1) Use different AI related simulations to predict the compound’s ADME and physiochemical properties. (Step 2) Predict PK outcomes using the PBPK model. (Step 3) PD models are used to predict how changes in drug concentrations affect gastric acid secretion and gastric pH. E/E0 is the relative activity of H+/K+ ATPase by drug; ksec is the secretion rate constants for intra-gastric H+ concentration; kout is the elimination rate constant for intra-gastric H+ concentration; Hobs is the observed concentration of H+; I (Inhibition) is the current antisecretory effect (or current pH level) of the drug; Imax is the maximum possible effect (or maximum pH level) of the drug can achieve; The term (Imax -I) represents how far the current effect is from its maximum potential.
Transcriptome and volatile compounds analyses of floral development provide insight into floral scent formation in Paeonia lactiflora ‘Wu Hua Long Yu’
Authors: Zhao Qian , Zhang Min , Gu Lina , Yang Zihan , Li Yuqing , Luo Jianrang , Zhang Yanlong
Published: February 2024

Herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is a well-known ornamental plant in China, celebrated for its beautiful flowers that can emit fragrances. However, exact molecular mechanisms governing synthesis of floral volatiles within herbaceous peony remain unclear. To address this gap in knowledge, our study focused on analyzing the transcriptome and the levels of floral volatile compounds in P. lactiflora ‘Wu Hua Long Yu’ at different stages of flower development. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we obtained eighteen major volatile compounds, with monoterpenes being the dominant components among them. Our transcriptome analysis, based on pooled sequencing data, revealed the most differentially expressed genes (DEGs) existed between stages S1 and S3 of flower development. Among these DEGs, we identified 89 functional genes associated with the synthesis of volatile monoterpenes, with 28 of these genes showing a positive correlation with the release of monoterpenes. Specifically, key regulators of monoterpene synthesis in herbaceous peony appear to be 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase (DXS), geranyl pyrophosphate synthase (GPPS), and terpene synthase (TPS). Additionally, our study identified some transcription factors (TFs) that may be involved in the biosynthesis of monoterpenes. These discoveries offer invaluable illumination into the intricate molecular underpinnings orchestrating the generation of floral fragrances in herbaceous peonies, and they offer a foundation for further research to identify and utilize candidate gene resources for this purpose.
Telomere dynamics and oxidative stress in Arabidopsis grown in lunar regolith simulant
Authors: Barcenilla Borja Barbero , Kundel Ishan , Hall Emily , Hilty Nicolas , Ulianich Pavel , Cook Jillian , Turley Jake , Yerram Monisha , Min Ji-Hee , Castillo-González Claudia , Shippen Dorothy E.
Published: February 2024

NASA envisions a future where humans establish a thriving colony on the Moon by 2050. Plants will be essential for this endeavor, but little is known about their adaptation to extraterrestrial bodies. The capacity to grow plants in lunar regolith would represent a major step towards this goal by minimizing the reliance on resources transported from Earth. Recent studies reveal that Arabidopsis thaliana can germinate and grow on genuine lunar regolith as well as on lunar regolith simulant. However, plants arrest in vegetative development and activate a variety of stress response pathways, most notably the oxidative stress response. Telomeres are hotspots for oxidative damage in the genome and a marker of fitness in many organisms. Here we examine A. thaliana growth on a lunar regolith simulant and the impact of this resource on plant physiology and on telomere dynamics, telomerase enzyme activity and genome oxidation. We report that plants successfully set seed and generate a viable second plant generation if the lunar regolith simulant is pre-washed with an antioxidant cocktail. However, plants sustain a higher degree of genome oxidation and decreased biomass relative to conventional Earth soil cultivation. Moreover, telomerase activity substantially declines and telomeres shorten in plants grown in lunar regolith simulant, implying that genome integrity may not be sustainable over the long-term. Overcoming these challenges will be an important goal in ensuring success on the lunar frontier.
Health literacy, eHealth literacy and their association with burden, distress, and self-efficacy among cancer caregivers
Authors: Moore Chloe , Gallagher Pamela , Dunne Simon
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Health literacy skills are vital for cancer caregivers in helping cancer survivors to navigate their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery but little is known. This study explored health literacy and eHealth literacy among cancer caregivers and the relationship between health literacy/eHealth literacy and potential associated factors.

Methods

Informal caregivers who had cared for an individual with cancer completed a survey which collected demographic data and measured caregiver health literacy, eHealth literacy, self-efficacy, burden, and distress.

Results

Seven percent of caregivers had inadequate health literacy. Caregivers scored lowest on health literacy domains related to caregiver social support, information seeking and understanding care recipient preferences. eHealth literacy was associated with self-efficacy and burden while, different health literacy domains were associated with burden (‘Understanding care recipient needs and preferences’), self-efficacy (‘Cancer-related communication with the care recipient’ and ‘Understanding care recipients needs and preferences’) and distress (‘Proactivity and determination to seek information’, ‘Understanding care recipient needs and preferences’, ‘Understanding the healthcare system’).

Conclusion

Findings highlight key areas of need regarding cancer caregiver health literacy which future research can target. Given the observed relationship between aspects of health literacy and burden, distress and self-efficacy future work could be carried out on how to alleviate high levels of burden and distress and how to enhance self-efficacy among cancer caregivers by addressing health literacy skills.

Implications for cancer survivors

Findings from this study will inform the development of health literacy interventions to support caregivers to build their health literacy skills and enable this group to better support cancer survivors as a result.
The bricolage mode of emergency medical teams in China: deficient and in urgent need of transformation—A qualitative study
Authors: Wang Li , Sheng Ya-Wei , Qi Xin-Ye , Li Fang-shi , Qiu Xin-Yu , Shao Shen , Du Yue
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Emergency medical rescue plays a vital role in alleviating the harm of all kinds of emergencies to people's physical and mental health and life safety. The current emergency medical teams (EMTs) formation model is not unified. We focused on the disadvantages of the bricolage mode of China EMTs and put forward empirical-based countermeasures to improve the emergency management ability of EMTs.

Methods

From March to September 2022, 23 leaders of EMTs in North China (Tianjin) were selected by objective sampling method to conduct one-to-half structured in-depth interviews. Nvivo12.0 software was used for three-level coding. The disadvantages of the bricolage model of EMT were analyzed.

Results

Based on the three-level coding, 150 initial concepts, 36 sub-coding, 17 main coding, six categories, and two core categories were sorted out. Management structure, internal stability, and support are recognized as the crucial elements armed with the EMTs.

Discussion

The bricolage EMTs have disadvantages such as a chaotic management structure, weak internal stability, and inadequate support. It is necessary to construct full-time EMTs that incorporate a standardized personnel admission mechanism, full-time training and exercise mechanism, diversified incentive mechanism, and multi-agent cooperation mechanism, etc.
Amplicon and Cas9-targeted nanopore sequencing of Varroa destructor at the onset of an outbreak in Australia
Authors: McFarlane Gus R. , Robinson Katie L. , Whitaker Kim , Webster John , Drysdale Lauren , Brancalion Lillian , Webster Ashlea , O’Rourke Brendon , Bogema Daniel R.
Published: February 2024

Varroa destructor is a major pest of European honey bees (Apis mellifera), causing significant economic and welfare impacts. Australia remained the last continent free from V. destructor. In June 2022, a detection of V. destructor was reported in sentinel colonies at the Port of Newcastle, Australia. Rapid and accurate identification of the species was critical for timely response and management. In this case study, two Nanopore DNA sequencing methods, PCR amplicon sequencing and Cas9-targeted sequencing, were used to rapidly diagnose the species and mitochondrial haplotype of Varroa mites in parasitized colonies. Nanopore PCR amplicon sequencing provided molecular identification of the species and halogroup determination within 24 hours based on a 458 bp amplicon of the mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COXI) gene. We also developed and applied a Cas9-targeted Nanopore sequencing technique that used eight guide RNAs to enrich for 5240 bp of the mitochondrial genome. This method delivered richer data for identification within the same timeframe. Our results underscore the efficacy of Nanopore amplicon sequencing and represent the first reported application of Cas9-targeted Nanopore sequencing within a biosecurity framework. These findings enhance the repertoire of diagnostic tools available for biosecurity applications.
Partnership-building considerations for implementation science in learning health systems: a case study of the Implementation Science Collaborative in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Brooks Stephanie P. , Alba Cody , Thomson Denise , Davison Sara N. , Storey Kate
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Implementation of health innovations is inherently collaborative, requiring trans-sectoral partnerships between implementation researchers, innovation teams, and implementation practitioners. Implementation science has been shown to improve implementation successes; however, challenges that hinder partnerships to advance implementation science continue to persist. Using a whole-system approach to assess and respond to implementation science partnership barriers may shed light on effective responses.

Methods

We conducted a case study of Alberta's learning health system, using semi-structured group and individual interviews to create a nuanced understanding of the considerations required for implementation research collaborations. We interviewed 53 participants representing 21 offices in the health system, academia, professional associations, and government who regularly plan, evaluate, and/or study health system implementation initiatives in Alberta. Using the Partnership Model for Research Capacity Building, we identified current facilitators and challenges for partnerships for conducting and using implementation science, at different levels of Alberta's health-research ecosystem.

Results

Alberta's healthcare system is well set up to readily embed intervention effectiveness and efficacy research. Infrastructure was also in place to strengthen implementation practice. However, weaknesses around exchanging knowledge and skills, providing feedback and mentoring, and accommodating diversity affected the ability of both individuals and teams to build implementation science capacity. Without this capacity, teams could not participate in embedded implementation research collaborations. We report the response of the Alberta Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research SUPPORT Unit to these barriers to provide practical guidance on various program options to strengthen individual- and organization-level implementation science capacity.

Discussion

This study applied a whole-system approach to assess factors across Alberta's health-research ecosystem, which affect partnerships to advance implementation science. Our findings illustrated that partnership considerations go beyond interpersonal factors and include system-wide considerations. With the results, health organization leaders have (1) a method for assessing organizational capability to readily embed implementation research and (2) a catalog of potential responses to create conditions to readily engage with implementation science in their day-to-day implementation processes.
Effects of glycyrrhiza polysaccharides on growth performance, meat quality, serum parameters and growth/meat quality-related gene expression in broilers
Authors: Li Tiyu , Qin Weize , Wu Baiyila , Jin Xiao , Zhang Rui , Zhang Jingyi , Du Liyin
Published: February 2024

With growing restrictions on the use of antibiotics in animal feed, plant extracts are increasingly favored as natural feed additive sources. Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide (GP), known for its multifaceted biological benefits including growth promotion, immune enhancement, and antioxidative properties, has been the focus of recent studies. Yet, the effects and mechanisms of GP on broiler growth and meat quality remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of GP on growth, serum biochemistry, meat quality, and gene expression in broilers. The broilers were divided into five groups, each consisting of five replicates with six birds. These groups were supplemented with 0, 500, 1,000, 1,500, and 2,000 mg/kg of GP in their basal diets, respectively, for a period of 42 days. The results indicated that from day 22 to day 42, and throughout the entire experimental period from day 1 to day 42, the groups receiving 1,000 and 1,500 mg/kg of GP showed a significant reduction in the feed-to-gain ratio (F:G) compared to the control group. On day 42, an increase in serum growth hormone (GH) levels was shown in groups supplemented with 1,000 mg/kg GP or higher, along with a significant linear increase in insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentration. Additionally, significant upregulation of GH and IGF-1 mRNA expression levels was noted in the 1,000 and 1,500 mg/kg GP groups. Furthermore, GP significantly elevated serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and globulin (GLB) while reducing blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. In terms of meat quality, the 1,500 and 2,000 mg/kg GP groups significantly increased fiber density in pectoral muscles and reduced thiobarbituric acid (TBA) content. GP also significantly decreased cooking loss rate in both pectoral and leg muscles and the drip loss rate in leg muscles. It increased levels of linoleic acid and oleic acid, while decreasing concentrations of stearic acid, myristic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid. Finally, the study demonstrated that the 1,500 mg/kg GP group significantly enhanced the expression of myogenin (MyoG) and myogenic differentiation (MyoD) mRNA in leg muscles. Overall, the study determined that the optimal dosage of GP in broiler feed is 1,500 mg/kg.
Virtual Physical Prehabilitation in Lung Transplant Candidates: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Bourgeois Nicholas , Lands Larry C. , Prévost Karina , Poirier Charles , Janaudis-Ferreira Tania
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to preliminary test the effectiveness of 12-week virtual physical prehabilitation program followed by a maintenance phase. The main objective was to estimate the extent to which it affects exercise capacity, frailty, lower limb strength and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in lung transplant candidates. The program offered supervised strengthening exercises, independent aerobic exercises and weekly phone calls (maintenance phase). Primary outcome was the six-minute walk distance (6MWD). Secondary outcomes: the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), five-times sit-to-stand test (5STS), the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) for HRQOL. Twenty patients were included (mean age 57.9; 6 women/14 men); fourteen completed the prehabilitation program and 5 completed the maintenance phase. There was no statistically significant improvement in 6MWD, SPPB or SGRQ after the 12-week program. Most patients either maintained or improved the 6MWT and SPPB scores. There was a significant improvement in the 5STS. After the maintenance phase, most patients either improved or maintained their scores in all outcomes except for the sub-score of symptoms in the SGRQ. A 12-week virtual physical prehabilitation program with a 12-week maintenance phase can help lung transplant candidates improve or maintain their physical function while waiting for transplantation.
Enhancing Safety through Optimal Placement of Components in Hydrogen Tractor: Rollover Angle Analysis
Authors: Son Jinho , Kim Yeongsu , Kang Seokho , Ha Yushin
Published: February 2024

Hydrogen tractors are being developed, necessitating consideration of the variation in the center of gravity depending on the arrangement of components such as power packs and cooling modules that replace traditional engines. This study analyzes the effects of component arrangement on stability and rollover angle in hydrogen tractors through simulations and proposes an optimal configuration. Stability is evaluated by analyzing rollover angles in various directions with rotations around the tractor’s midpoint. Based on the analysis of rollover angles for Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 hydrogen tractors, Type 2 demonstrates superior stability compared to the other types. Specifically, when comparing lateral rollover angles at 0° rotation, Type 2 exhibits a 2% increase over Type 3. Upon rotations at 90° and 180°, Type 2 consistently displays the highest rollover angles, with differences ranging from approximately 6% to 12% compared to the other types. These results indicate that Type 2, with its specific component arrangement, offers the most stable configuration among the three types of tractors. It is confirmed that the rollover angle changes based on component arrangement, with a lower center of gravity resulting in greater stability. These findings serve as a crucial foundation for enhancing stability in the future design and manufacturing phases of hydrogen tractors.
Mitochondria Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation in Neurodegeneration: Who Comes First?
Authors: Peggion Caterina , Calì Tito , Brini Marisa
Published: February 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) encompass an assorted array of disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, each characterised by distinct clinical manifestations and underlying pathological mechanisms. While some cases have a genetic basis, many NDs occur sporadically. Despite their differences, these diseases commonly feature chronic neuroinflammation as a hallmark. Consensus has recently been reached on the possibility that mitochondria dysfunction and protein aggregation can mutually contribute to the activation of neuroinflammatory response and thus to the onset and progression of these disorders. In the present review, we discuss the contribution of mitochondria dysfunction and neuroinflammation to the aetiology and progression of NDs, highlighting the possibility that new potential therapeutic targets can be identified to tackle neurodegenerative processes and alleviate the progression of these pathologies.
Operation of Water Supply Systems in the Czech Republic—Risk Analysis
Authors: Caithamlová Martina , Kročová Šárka , Mariňáková Jitka
Published: February 2024

A reliable supply of quality drinking water is a fundamental prerequisite for a healthy society and its economic development. Public ownership of water infrastructure is prevalent in most European countries. In the Czech Republic, however, water infrastructure is highly fragmented, which entails multiple risks. The fragmentation of the sector leads to a low economic efficiency of operations, the unstable quality of service provision, and significant price differences. The aim of the paper is to use the IFE matrix to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different ways of operating water supply systems in the Czech Republic. Furthermore, through the FMEA method (failure mode and effects analysis), this paper tries to identify the risks and threats to drinking water supplies for selected operators (representing the most frequently used operating models) and, subsequently, it proposes measures to mitigate the identified risks. The topic was addressed in the form of a case study of selected water system operators in the Czech Republic, and the findings indicate the compartmentalized model to be the most appropriate operating model.
Predicting the Distribution of Ground Vibration Acceleration Induced by Mining Activities Taking into Account the Directionality of Vibration Attenuation
Authors: Bańka Piotr , Szuła Łukasz , Wyganowska Małgorzata
Published: February 2024

Entrepreneurs carrying out mining works under seismic hazard conditions are obliged to conduct studies in the field of engineering geophysics, including measuring, interpreting and evaluating the effects of rock mass tremors on ground vibration parameters, and thus the occurrence of harmful impacts on surface objects. However, for technical reasons, this is a difficult task to implement at all points subject to the influence of mining activities. Therefore, it becomes expedient to look for solutions that would provide greater accuracy in forecasting the distribution of ground vibration parameters. This paper proposes a method for forecasting the distribution of peak ground accelerations (PGAs) induced by mining activities, taking into account the directionality of vibration attenuation. In many cases, the explanation of the variation in the magnitude of recorded ground surface vibrations after a rock mass tremor cannot always be explained by only the variation of epicentral distances and the value of the vibration amplification factor by quaternary formations. Therefore, it is reasonable to take into account the directionality of vibration attenuation. The authors analyzed and evaluated the accuracy of predicting the distribution of ground vibration accelerations induced by mining activities, taking into account the directionality of vibration attenuation, using three models: the first, a classical model assuming isotropic vibration attenuation; the second, a model taking into account the anisotropy of vibration attenuation with elliptical isolines; the third, a model without assuming the shape of the isolines of vibration intensity parameters. For both models that took into account anisotropy of vibration attenuation, better results (more accurate descriptions of observed ground vibration accelerations) were obtained than for the model assuming isotropy. The most accurate estimates of vibration magnitude were obtained using the latter model.
ARDS Mortality Prediction Model Using Evolving Clinical Data and Chest Radiograph Analysis
Authors: Cysneiros Ana , Galvão Tiago , Domingues Nuno , Jorge Pedro , Bento Luis , Martin-Loeches Ignacio
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Within primary ARDS, SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS (C-ARDS) emerged in late 2019, reaching its peak during the subsequent two years. Recent efforts in ARDS research have concentrated on phenotyping this heterogeneous syndrome to enhance comprehension of its pathophysiology. Methods and Results: A retrospective study was conducted on C-ARDS patients from April 2020 to February 2021, encompassing 110 participants with a mean age of 63.2 ± 11.92 (26–83 years). Of these, 61.2% (68) were male, and 25% (17) experienced severe ARDS, resulting in a mortality rate of 47.3% (52). Ventilation settings, arterial blood gases, and chest X-ray (CXR) were evaluated on the first day of invasive mechanical ventilation and between days two and three. CXR images were scrutinized using a convolutional neural network (CNN). A binary logistic regression model for predicting C-ARDS mortality was developed based on the most influential variables: age, PaO2/FiO2 ratio (P/F) on days one and three, CNN-extracted CXR features, and age. Initial performance assessment on test data (23 patients out of the 110) revealed an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.862 with a 95% confidence interval (0.654–0.969). Conclusion: Integrating data available in all intensive care units enables the prediction of C-ARDS mortality by utilizing evolving P/F ratios and CXR. This approach can assist in tailoring treatment plans and initiating early discussions to escalate care and extracorporeal life support. Machine learning algorithms for imaging classification can uncover otherwise inaccessible patterns, potentially evolving into another form of ARDS phenotyping. The combined features of these algorithms and clinical variables demonstrate superior performance compared to either element alone.
Time-Delayed Anticancer Effect of an Extremely Low Frequency Alternating Magnetic Field and Multimodal Protein–Tannin–Mitoxantrone Carriers with Brillouin Microspectroscopy Visualization In Vitro
Authors: Abalymov Anatolii A. , Anisimov Roman A. , Demina Polina A. , Kildisheva Veronika A. , Kalinova Alexandra E. , Serdobintsev Alexey A. , Novikova Nadezhda G. , Petrenko Dmitry B. , Sadovnikov Alexandr V. , Voronin Denis V. , Lomova Maria V.
Published: February 2024

The effect of an extremely low frequency alternating magnetic field (ELF AMF) at frequencies of 17, 48, and 95 Hz at 100 mT on free and internalized 4T1 breast cancer cell submicron magnetic mineral carriers with an anticancer drug, mitoxantrone, was shown. The alternating magnetic field (100 mT; 17, 48, 95 Hz; time of treatment—10.5 min with a 30 s delay) does not lead to the significant destruction of carrier shells and release of mitoxantrone or bovine serum albumin from them according to the data of spectrophotometry, or the heating of carriers in the process of exposure to magnetic fields. The most optimal set of factors that would lead to the suppression of proliferation and survival of cells with anticancer drug carriers on the third day (in comparison with the control and first day) is exposure to an alternating magnetic field of 100 mT in a pulsed mode with a frequency of 95 Hz. The presence of magnetic nanocarriers in cell lines was carried out by a direct label-free method, space-resolved Brillouin light scattering (BLS) spectrometry, which was realized for the first time. The analysis of the series of integrated BLS spectra showed an increase in the magnetic phase in cells with a growth in the number of particles per cell (from 10 to 100) after their internalization. The safety of magnetic carriers in the release of their constituent ions has been evaluated using atomic absorption spectrometry.
Outcomes after Surgical Treatment of Oesophagogastric Cancer with Synchronous Liver Metastases: A Multicentre Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: van Hootegem Sander J. M. , de Pasqual Carlo A. , Giacopuzzi Simone , Van Daele Elke , Vanommeslaeghe Hanne , Moons Johnny , Nafteux Philippe , van der Sluis Pieter C. , Lagarde Sjoerd M. , Wijnhoven Bas P. L.
Published: February 2024

Approximately 10–12% of patients with oesophageal or gastric cancer (OGC) present with oligometastatic disease at diagnosis. It remains unclear if there is a role for radical surgery in these patients. We aimed to assess the outcomes of OGC patients who underwent simultaneous treatment for the primary tumour and synchronous liver metastases. Patients with OGC who underwent surgical treatment between 2008 and 2020 for the primary tumour and up to five synchronous liver metastases aiming for complete tumour removal or ablation (i.e., no residual tumour) were identified from four institutional databases. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), calculated with the Kaplan–Meier method. Secondary outcomes were disease-free survival and postoperative outcomes. Thirty-one patients were included, with complete follow-up data for 30 patients. Twenty-six patients (84%) received neoadjuvant therapy followed by response evaluation. Median OS was 21 months [IQR 9–36] with 2- and 5-year survival rates of 43% and 30%, respectively. While disease recurred in 80% of patients (20 of 25 patients) after radical resection, patients with a solitary liver metastasis had a median OS of 34 months. The number of liver metastases was a prognostic factor for OS (solitary metastasis aHR 0.330; p-value = 0.025). Thirty-day mortality was zero and complications occurred in 55% of patients. Long-term survival can be achieved in well-selected patients who undergo surgical resection of the primary tumour and local treatment of synchronous liver metastases. In particular, patients with a solitary liver metastasis seem to have a favourable prognosis.
TiO2/Zeolite Composites for SMX Degradation under UV Irradiation
Authors: Mergenbayeva Saule , Abitayev Zhanibek , Batyrbayeva Milana , Vakros John , Mantzavinos Dionissios , Atabaev Timur Sh. , Poulopoulos Stavros G.
Published: February 2024

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is a common antibiotic that is considered an emerging pollutant of water bodies, as it is toxic for various aquatic species. TiO2-based photocatalysis is a promising method for SMX degradation in water. In this work, TiO2/zeolite (Z-45 loaded with TiO2 labeled as TZ and ZSM-5 loaded with TiO2 labeled as TZSM) composites were prepared by mechanical mixing and liquid impregnation methods, and the photocatalytic performance of these composites (200 mg·L−1) was investigated toward the degradation of SMX (30 mg·L−1) in water under UV light (365 nm). The pseudo-first-order reaction rate constant of the TZSM1450 composite was 0.501 min−1, which was 2.08 times higher than that of TiO2 (k = 0.241 min−1). Complete SMX degradation was observed in 10 min using the UV/TZSM1450 system. The mineralization ability in terms of total organic carbon (TOC) removal was also assessed for all of the prepared composites. The results showed that 65% and 67% of SMX could be mineralized within 120 min of photocatalytic reaction by TZSM2600 and TZSM1450, respectively. The presence of Cl− and CO32− anions inhibited the degradation of SMX, while the presence of NO3− had almost no effect on the degradation efficiency of the UV/TZSM1450 system. The electrical energy per order estimated for the prepared composites was in the range of 68.53–946.48 kWh m−3 order−1. The results obtained revealed that the TZSM1450 composite shows promising potential as a photocatalyst for both the degradation and mineralization of SMX.
BCG and Alternative Therapies to BCG Therapy for Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Lidagoster Sarah , Ben-David Reuben , De Leon Benjamin , Sfakianos John P.
Published: February 2024

Bladder cancer is a heterogeneous disease. Treatment decisions are mostly decided based on disease stage (non-muscle invasive or muscle invasive). Patients with muscle-invasive disease will be offered a radical treatment combined with systemic therapy, while in those with non-muscle-invasive disease, an attempt to resect the tumor endoscopically will usually be followed by different intravesical instillations. The goal of intravesical therapy is to decrease the recurrence and/or progression of the tumor. In the current landscape of bladder cancer treatment, BCG is given intravesically to induce an inflammatory response and recruit immune cells to attack the malignant cells and induce immune memory. While the response to BCG treatment has changed the course of bladder cancer management and spared many “bladders”, some patients may develop BCG-unresponsive disease, leaving radical surgery as the best choice of curative treatment. As a result, a lot of effort has been put into identifying novel therapies like systemic pembrolizumab and Nadofaragene-Firadenovac to continue sparing bladders if BCG is ineffective. Moreover, recent logistic issues with BCG production caused a worldwide BCG shortage, re-sparking interest in alternative BCG treatments including mitomycin C, sequential gemcitabine with docetaxel, and others. This review encompasses both the historic and current role of BCG in the treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, revisiting BCG alternative therapies and reviewing the novel therapeutics that were approved for the BCG-unresponsive stage or are under active investigation.
Unrecognised Ant Megadiversity in the Australian Monsoonal Tropics III: The Meranoplus ajax Forel Complex
Authors: Andersen Alan N. , Brassard François , Hoffmann Benjamin D.
Published: February 2024

Australia’s monsoonal (seasonal) tropics are a global centre of ant diversity, but are largely unrecognised as such because the vast majority of its species are undescribed. Here we document another case of undescribed hyper-diversity within a taxon that is formally recognised as a single, widespread species, Meranoplus ajax Forel. We recognise 50 species among 125 specimens of M. ‘ajax’ that we CO1-barcoded, integrating CO1 clustering and divergence, morphological differentiation and geographic distribution. A large proportion (44%) of these species are represented by single records, indicating that very many additional species are yet to be collected in this extremely remote and sparsely populated region. Sampling has been concentrated in the Northern Territory, where 27 of the 50 species occur. If diversity in Western Australia and Queensland were similar to that in the Northern Territory, as appears likely, then the M. ajax complex would comprise >100 species. In 2000, when Australia’s monsoonal ant fauna was estimated to contain 1500 species, Meranoplus ajax was considered to represent a single species. Our previous analyses of a range of other taxa have shown that their diversity has been similarly under-appreciated in this estimate. Our findings suggest that the total number of ant species in monsoonal Australia is several thousand, which would make the region by far the world’s richest known.
Disentangling the Anacondas: Revealing a New Green Species and Rethinking Yellows
Authors: Rivas Jesús A. , De La Quintana Paola , Mancuso Marco , Pacheco Luis F. , Rivas Gilson A. , Mariotto Sandra , Salazar-Valenzuela David , Baihua Marcelo Tepeña , Baihua Penti , Burghardt Gordon M. , Vonk Freek J. , Hernandez Emil , García-Pérez Juán Elías , Fry Bryan G. , Corey-Rivas Sarah
Published: February 2024

Anacondas, genus Eunectes, are a group of aquatic snakes with a wide distribution in South America. The taxonomic status of several species has been uncertain and/or controversial. Using genetic data from four recognized anaconda species across nine countries, this study investigates the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Eunectes. A key finding was the identification of two distinct clades within Eunectes murinus, revealing two species as cryptic yet genetically deeply divergent. This has led to the recognition of the Northern Green Anaconda as a separate species (Eunectes akayima sp. nov), distinct from its southern counterpart (E. murinus), the Southern Green Anaconda. Additionally, our data challenge the current understanding of Yellow Anaconda species by proposing the unification of Eunectes deschauenseei and Eunectes beniensis into a single species with Eunectes notaeus. This reclassification is based on comprehensive genetic and phylogeographic analyses, suggesting closer relationships than previously recognized and the realization that our understanding of their geographic ranges is insufficient to justify its use as a separation criterion. We also present a phylogeographic hypothesis that traces the Miocene diversification of anacondas in western South America. Beyond its academic significance, this study has vital implications for the conservation of these iconic reptile species, highlighting our lack of knowledge about the diversity of the South American fauna and the need for revised strategies to conserve the newly identified and reclassified species.
Reliability of Binocular Esterman Visual Field Test in Patients with Glaucoma and Other Ocular Conditions
Authors: Fujimoto Shuhei , Ikesugi Kengo , Ichio Takako , Tanaka Kohei , Kato Kumiko , Kondo Mineo
Published: February 2024

The binocular Esterman visual field test (EVFT) of 120 points was the first method to quantify the defects in the binocular visual field. It is used in many parts of the world as a standard test to determine whether an individual has the visual capabilities to drive safely. In Japan, it is required for the grading and issuance of visual disability certificates. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of the EVFT results. We studied 104 patients who had undergone the binocular EVFT at Mie University Hospital. Their mean age was 68.0 ± 11.4 years, and the best-corrected visual acuity of the better eye was 0.18 ± 0.38 logMAR units. The EVFT was performed twice on the same day, and the results of the first and second tests were compared. The mean Esterman scores for the first and second test were 89.3 ± 30.5 and 89.1 ± 30.2, respectively, and the test times were 338.9 ± 86.8 and 336.7 ± 76.4 s, respectively. The differences were not significant (p = 0.69 and p = 0.33). In the Bland–Altman analyses (second–first test) of the Esterman scores, the mean difference was 0.38 without significant fixed errors (p = 0.20) or proportional errors (p = 0.27). The limits of agreement within the 1.96 standard deviation were −8.96 to +9.45 points. The agreement rate for the most peripheral 24 test points was significantly lower than the agreement rate for the other 96 test points (p < 0.01). The agreement rate of the upper visual field was significantly lower than that of the lower field (p < 0.01). The overall reliability rate of the EVFT is acceptable, but the peripheral and upper test points have relatively low reliability rates. These findings are important for interpretations of the EVFT results.
Democratisation and Educational Inclusion during Lockdown Times: Perceptions of Portuguese Teachers
Authors: Torres Leonor L. , Alves Mariana Gaio
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on school education, as confirmed by numerous studies produced at the international level. One of the most profound effects was the potential change to the political mandates of schools and resulting alterations in professional teaching practices, given the proliferation of remote (online and blended) teaching. This article aims to explore the extent to which the pandemic crisis has reconfigured schools’ educational priorities, with an emphasis on democratisation and inclusion at the expense of learning outcomes and meritocratic approaches. Based on an extensive study as part of a wider international project, the results of a questionnaire survey of Portuguese teachers (n = 3983) during the initial lockdown period in 2020 are analysed. The empirical evidence suggests that the pandemic resulted in a strengthening of the democratising pole, underpinned by the principles of equal opportunities, inclusion, and social justice, even though the practices and priorities of teachers as a whole are not homogeneous. This heterogeneity reflects pre-existing professional and school cultures, which vary depending on level of education, gender, school type, and career length, among other important factors.
Joint User Association and Power Control in UAV Network: A Graph Theoretic Approach
Authors: Alnakhli Mohammad , Mohamed Ehab Mahmoud , Abdulkawi Wazie M. , Hashima Sherief
Published: February 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have recently been widely employed as effective wireless platforms for aiding users in various situations, particularly in hard-to-reach scenarios like post-disaster relief efforts. This study employs multiple UAVs to cover users in overlapping locations, necessitating the optimization of UAV-user association to maximize the spectral and energy efficiency of the UAV network. Hence, a connected bipartite graph is formed between UAVs and users using graph theory to accomplish this goal. Then, a maximum weighted matching-based maximum flow (MwMaxFlow) optimization approach is proposed to achieve the maximum data rate given users’ demands and the UAVs’ maximum capacities. Additionally, power control is applied using the M-matrix theory to optimize users’ transmit powers and improve their energy efficiency. The proposed strategy is evaluated and compared with other benchmark schemes through numerical simulations. The simulation outcomes indicate that the proposed approach balances spectral efficiency and energy consumption, rendering it suitable for various UAV wireless applications, including emergency response, surveillance, and post-disaster management.
Design and Assessment of Track Structures in High-Frequency Planar Inductors
Authors: Kolahian Pouya , Zarei Tazehkand Mehdi , Baghdadi Mehdi
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the effect of different designs and arrangements of conductors on the operational parameters of a planar inductor. Accordingly, it is suggested that there is no one-size-fits-all design that can achieve all desired parameters in every application, and the best design should be determined by the needs of the application. In order to have a comprehensive study, four different structures are considered and compared. Numerous design parameters such as track width, track length, location of the conductors between the central limb and the lateral limb, and number of transposition points among subtracks for both air-core and ferrite-core inductors are considered. Each structure is evaluated according to AC resistance, RAC/RDC, and inductance. Measurement results reveal that it is critical to take into account all three characteristics when deciding the suitable structure for the conductors. Studies are carried out based on measurement results for experimental prototypes in the frequency range of 10 Hz–1 MHz, and a set of guidelines is provided with regard to the design of planar inductors to achieve desired characteristics.
Prediction of Hydrogen Adsorption and Moduli of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Using Machine Learning Strategies
Authors: Borja Nicole Kate , Fabros Christine Joy E. , Doma Bonifacio T.
Published: February 2024

For hydrogen-powered vehicles, the efficiency cost brought about by the current industry choices of hydrogen storage methods greatly reduces the system’s overall efficiency. The physisorption of hydrogen fuel onto metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is a promising alternative storage method due to their large surface areas and exceptional tunability. However, the massive selection of MOFs poses a challenge for the efficient screening of top-performing MOF structures that are capable of meeting target hydrogen uptakes. This study examined the performance of 13 machine learning (ML) models in the prediction of the gravimetric and volumetric hydrogen uptakes of real MOF structures for comparison with simulated and experimental results. Among the 13 models studied, 12 models gave an R2 greater than 0.95 in the prediction of both the gravimetric and the volumetric uptakes in MOFs. In addition, this study introduces a 4-20-1 ANN model that predicts the bulk, shear, and Young’s moduli for the MOFs. The machine learning models with high R2 can be used in choosing MOFs for hydrogen storage.