bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lineage-based scaling of germline intercellular bridges during oogenesis
Authors: Shaikh Umayr , Sherlock Kathleen , Wilson Julia , Gilliland William , Lewellyn Lindsay
Published: August 2024

The size of subcellular structures must be tightly controlled to maintain normal cell function. Despite its importance, few studies have determined how the size of organelles or other structures is maintained during development, when cells are growing, dividing and rearranging. The developing Drosophila egg chamber is a powerful model in which to study the relative growth rates of subcellular structures. The egg chamber contains a cluster of 16 germline cells, which are connected through intercellular bridges called ring canals. As the egg chamber grows, the germline cells and the ring canals that connect them increase in size. Here, we demonstrate that ring canal size scaling is related to lineage; the largest, ‘first-born’ ring canals increase in size at a relatively slower rate than ring canals derived from subsequent mitotic divisions. This lineage-based scaling relationship is maintained even if directed transport is reduced, ring canal size is altered, or in egg chambers with twice as many germline cells. Analysis of lines that produce larger or smaller mature eggs reveals that different strategies could be used to alter final egg size.
Angularly accelerating optical beams
Authors: Μπρίμης Απόστολος
Published: August 2024

Το δομημένο φως έχει πρόσφατα αναδειχθεί ως θέμα ευρύτερου ενδιαφέροντος στην οπτική. Στη γενικότερη περιγραφή του, το δομημένο φως αναφέρεται στην ελεγχόμενη μορφοποίηση μιας δέσμης φωτός με σκοπό τη διαμόρφωση των ιδιοτήτων της κατά τη διάδοσή. Ρυθμίζοντας τη φάση, το πλάτος και την πόλωση του φωτός μπορούμε να ελέγξουμε την ένταση, τη φάση και την κατανομή πόλωσης κατά μήκος της διάδοσης. Αυτή η διατριβή επικεντρώνεται στη θεωρητική μελέτη δεσμών φωτός που συστρέφονται κατά τη διάδοσή τους. Με την εισαγωγή καινοτόμων σχεδιαστικών προσεγγίσεων έχουμε εισαγάγει μια νέα οικογένεια δομημένου φωτός, που αναφέρεται ως Tornado Waves (ToWs), που αυτό-εστιάζουν απότομα ενώ συστρέφονται με επιταχυνόμενο τρόπο. Χρησιμοποιώντας αριθμητικές προσομοιώσεις, αποδείξαμε ότι οι δομές φωτός με χαρακτηριστικά που συστρέφονται και συρρικνώνονται ακολουθώντας τροχιές που μοιάζουν με το σχήμα ενός ανεμοστρόβιλου μπορούν να δημιουργηθούν από δέσμες που φέρουν τροχιακή στροφορμή (OAM). Τα ευρήματά μας δείχνουν ότι τα παραπάνω κύματα μπορούν να παρουσιάσουν γωνιακή επιτάχυνση, ένα μέτρο για το πώς μεταβάλλεται το βήμα της σπειροειδούς τροχιάς κατά μήκος της διάδοσης, που είναι τάξεις μεγέθους υψηλότερες σε σύγκριση με τη βιβλιογραφία. Ομοίως, αποκαλύψαμε την αλληλεπίδραση μεταξύ των ιδιομορφιών φάσης και χαρακτηριστικών έντασης που συστρέφονται συγχρονισμένα στα κύματα Tornado. Τέλος, έχουμε επεκτείνει τη μελέτη μας σε δομημένο πολωμένο φως και πιο συγκεκριμένα σε δέσμες Poincaré που παρουσιάζουν περιελισσόμενες ιδιομορφίες πόλωσης και χειρόμορφα πολωμένες περιοχές.Τα αποτελέσματά μας προσφέρουν νέες ερευνητικές κατευθύνσεις που σχετίζονται με τη σπειροειδή συμπεριφορά του φωτός, όπως οι οπτικές λαβίδες, οπτική ιδιομορφιών, η εγγραφή με λέιζερ, η μη-γραμμική ανάμειξη κυμάτων, η παραγωγή αρμονικών, και η διαμόρφωση μετώπου κύματος και πόλωσης.
Factors influencing patient satisfaction in home care services: A systematic review
Authors: Rahadian Syah Deby Zulkarnain , Yetti Krisna , Novieastari Enie , Gayatri Dewi , Nining Sri
Published: August 2024

Background Home care services are an extension of hospital services provided by hospital staff. The hospital must conduct evaluation, coordination, and education for home care patients to ensure proper care and expedite their recovery. This service also introduces a new concept to the community, as it can help save on costs and equipment Methods A systematic review examined the factors influencing patient satisfaction using home care services by following the PRISMA guidelines. PROSPERO submitted and approved the study protocol with the following numbers: CRD42023482315. Result Researchers have searched articles through the ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Two hundred eighty-eight articles were selected, but 10 met the inclusion criteria. It was found that factors influenced patient satisfaction with home care services and two things that did not affect them: financial aspects and working time. Conclusion Fifteen aspects influence patient satisfaction and two aspects that do not influence patient satisfaction.
Code and Data Repository for Polyhedral Relaxations for Optimal Pump Scheduling of Potable Water Distribution Networks
Authors: Tasseff Byron , Bent Russell , Coffrin Carleton , Barrows Clayton , Sigler Devon , Stickel Jonathan , Zamzam Ahmed S. , Liu Yang , Van Hentenryck Pascal
Published: August 2024

This archive is distributed in association with the INFORMS Journal on Computing under a BSD license as part of the Multi-Infrastructure Control and Optimization Toolkit (MICOT) project at Los Alamos National Laboratory, LA-CC-13-108. The software and data in this repository comprise a snapshot of similar artifacts used in the production of the article Polyhedral Relaxations for Optimal Pump Scheduling of Potable Water Distribution Networks by B. Tasseff, R. Bent, C. Coffrin, C. Barrows, D. Sigler, J. Stickel, A. S. Zamzam, Y. Liu, and P. Van Hentenryck. This snapshot is based on the specific inputs and software found in the data and src directories, respectively. Snapshots of unprocessed experimental outputs are provided in the subdirectories of results. Finally, various precompilation, execution, batch cluster submission, and analytical postprocessing utilities are provided in the scripts directory.
Code and Data Repository for Solving the Minimum Sum Coloring Problem: Alternative Models, Exact Solvers, and Metaheuristics
Authors: Du Yu , Glover Fred , Kochenberger Gary , Hennig Rick , Wang Haibo , Hulandageri Amit
Published: August 2024

This repository provides data for the problem and scripts for the models. The main folders are 'data', 'scripts', and 'results'. 'data': This folder includes minimum sum graph coloring data sets. 'src': Our metaheuristic solver Q-Card can be found in this folder. 'scripts': This folder provides a running script. 'results': This folder provides the results.
Code and Data Repository for Ranking decomposition for the discrete ordered median problem
Authors: Cherkesly Marilène , Contardo Claudio , Gruson Matthieu
Published: August 2024

This repository provides the source code, data files and detailed results as reported in the article. The main folders are 'data', 'results', 'src' and 'test'. 'data': This folder includes discrete ordered median instances. 'results': This folder contains an excel file with detailed computational results. 'src': The source code. 'test': Tests.
Code and Data Repository for Real-Time Derivative Pricing and Hedging with Consistent Metamodels
Authors: Jiang Guangxin , Hong L. Jeff , Shen Haihui
Published: August 2024

LICENSE: Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted, under the terms of the BSD license. WARNING: These codes are written only for the purpose of demonstration and verification. While the correctness has been carefully checked, the quality such as standardability, clarity, generality, and efficiency has not been we considered.
¿Puedes oírme?: Los sonidos no audibles en mamíferos
Authors: Rojo-Cruz Marcial Alejandro , Iñiguez-Dávalos Luis Ignacio
Published: August 2024

¿Qué tienen en común los chirridos de una maquinaria oxidada y una sinfonía de Mozart? Ambos están compuestos de sonidos que podemos escuchar. Sin embargo, hay sonidos que los humanos no podemos escuchar.
Gestational weight gain trajectories in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Yue , Feng Xinxin , Wang Xia
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background Gestational diabetes mellitus is a common pregnancy complication that affects approximately 14% of pregnancies worldwide and can lead to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the trajectories of gestational weight gain among gestational diabetes mellitus patients and to inform the development of effective weight management strategies.

Methods Demographic and antenatal examination data from 1421 pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus were retrospectively analysed. Quantitative data comparisons were performed using Chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance. Group-based trajectory modelling was employed to identify the trajectories of gestational weight gain among patients with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Results This study revealed that pre-pregnancy body mass index and types of gestational diabetes mellitus significantly influence gestational weight gain (p < 0.05). Group-based trajectory modelling identified three distinct gestational weight gain trajectories. Patients with gestational diabetes mellitus demonstrated a continuous weight gain throughout pregnancy, while women who were overweight or obese before pregnancy were more likely to follow a low-speed growth trajectory. Women in the rapid growth trajectory group were more inclined to deliver by caesarean section and were more likely to give birth to macrosomic infants.

Conclusion Our research underscores the importance of identifying and distinguishing between different gestational weight gain trajectories in pregnant women, thereby identifying high-risk groups, which is crucial for improving the health conditions of both mothers and newborns.
Analysis of electroencephalography characteristics during walking in stroke patients under different conditions: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Ting , Luo Kailiang , Zhou Kun , Hu Zekai , Ji Yating , Feng Wuyi , Ma Shujie , Hu Jun
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background Backward walking is gaining traction in rehabilitation therapy, showing promise as an intervention for stroke patients with walking difficulties. However, the brain activity patterns (neurophysiological mechanisms) underlying backward walking in these patients remain unclear. This study investigated the neurophysiological mechanism in stroke patients within 1 year of their stroke.

Methods Twenty-four subjects walked forward and backward for 5 min on an 8-m track while their electroencephalographic signals were collected. The power values of each frequency band were compared during forward and backward walking, and the delta to alpha power ratio (DAR) was calculated.

Results The results showed a significant increase in α-band activity within the frontal cortex during backward walking (p < 0.05). This increase correlated positively with scores on the Fugl-Meyer lower extremity motor function assessment scale. Similarly, α-band activity showed significant enhancement within the right parietal cortex during backward walking (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between forward and backward walking states in δ, θ, and β wavebands across the entire brain region (p > 0.05). Additionally, the DAR was significantly lower during backward walking than during forward walking (p < 0.05).

Conclusion This study suggests that backward walking may more effectively activate neural activity in the prefrontal and right posterior parietal cortices. This finding supports the potential of backward walking to enhance motor execution and walking function in stroke patients, thereby supporting its application as a rehabilitation method.
Deep Learning-Based System Combining Chest X-Ray and Computerized Tomography Images for COVID-19 Diagnosis
Authors: Ding Hui , Fan Lingyan , Zhang Jingfeng , Gao Guosheng
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the need for accurate and efficient diagnostic methods. This study aims to improve COVID-19 detection by integrating chest X-ray (CXR) and computerized tomography (CT) images using deep learning techniques, further improving diagnostic accuracy by using a combined imaging approach.

Methods: The study used two publicly accessible databases, COVID-19 Questionnaires for Understanding the Exposure (COVID-QU-Ex) and Integrated Clinical and Translational Cancer Foundation (iCTCF), containing CXR and CT images, respectively. The proposed system employed convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for classification, specifically EfficientNet and ResNet architectures. The data underwent preprocessing steps, including image resizing, Gaussian noise addition, and data augmentation. The dataset was divided into training, validation, and test sets. Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) was used for model interpretability.

Results: The EfficientNet-based models outperformed the ResNet-based models across all metrics. The highest accuracy achieved was 99.44% for CXR images and 99.81% for CT images with EfficientNetB5. The models also demonstrated high precision, recall, and F1 scores. For statistical significance, the p-values were less than 0.05, indicating that the results are significant.

Conclusion: Integrating CXR and CT images using deep learning significantly improves the accuracy of COVID-19 diagnosis. The EfficientNet-based models, with their superior feature extraction capabilities, show better performance than ResNet models. Grad-CAM Visualizations provide insights into the model’s decision-making process, potentially reducing diagnostic errors and accelerating diagnosis processes. This approach can improve patient care and support healthcare systems in managing the pandemic more effectively.
Metastatic clear cell sarcoma of the pancreas: An overview
Authors: Ait Addi Rachid
Published: August 2024

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a rare soft-tissue sarcoma that accounts for less than 1% of all cases and was originally reported in 1965. The incidence of CCS is estimated to be approximately 0.014/100000 depending on the surveillance, epidemiology and end results databases. CCS is a highly invasive type that mainly metastasizes to the lungs, followed by the bones and brain; however, pancreatic metastasis is relatively rare. It has a high probability of recurrence or metastasis and has a poor prognosis with a high mortality rate. Finally, even after recovery, it is fundamental to keep regular postoperative follow-up for CCS patients.
Combination treatment with telitacicept, mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids for immunoglobulin A nephropathy: A case report
Authors: Shen Yan , Yuan Jin , Chen Shuang , Zhang Yong-Feng , Yin Ling , Hong Qin , Zha Yan
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Telitacicept reduces B cell activation and abnormal immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody production by inhibiting the activity of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), thereby decreasing IgA deposition in the glomeruli and local inflammatory response. This ultimately protects the kidneys from damage. This mechanism suggests that Telitacicept has potential efficacy in the treatment of IgA nephropathy.

CASE SUMMARY

We present the case of a 24-year-old female who was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy due to significant proteinuria and mild renal impairment. Pathologically, she exhibited focal proliferative glomerulonephritis. Treatment with angiotensin II receptor blocker, hormones, and mycophenolate mofetil did not lead to a significant improvement in her condition. However, upon the addition of telitacicept, the patient’s renal function recovered and her proteinuria rapidly reduced. Hormones were swiftly tapered and discontinued, with no occurrence of severe infections or related complications.

CONCLUSION

Telitacicept combined with hormones and mycophenolate mofetil may be a safe and effective induction therapy for IgA nephropathy.
Comprehensive interventions for adult cyclic vomiting syndrome complicated by superior mesenteric artery syndrome: A case report
Authors: Liu Bo , Sun Hui , Liu Yang , Yuan Min-Lan , Zhu Hong-Ru , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder involving the gut–brain interaction that is characterized by recurring episodes of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and interspersed complete normal periods. Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome (SMAS) is a vascular condition in which the horizontal portion of the duodenum is compressed due to a reduced angle between the aorta and the SMA. This condition presents with symptoms similar to CVS, posing challenges in distinguishing between the two and often resulting in misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment.

CASE SUMMARY

A 20-year-old female patient presented with recurrent episodes of vomiting and experienced a persistent fear of vomiting for the past 2 years. She adopted conscious dietary restrictions, which led to severe malnutrition. Initially, she was diagnosed with SMAS, as revealed by computed tomography angiography. Despite efforts to increase the angle between the aorta and the SMA through weight gain, her vomiting did not improve. Finally, she was diagnosed with comorbidities including CVS, SMAS and anxiety disorder. She underwent comprehensive interventions, including enteral and parenteral nutritional supplementation, administration of antiemetic and anti-anxiety agents, and participation in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. The patient eventually experienced a notable improvement in both body weight and clinical symptoms.

CONCLUSION

We present a rare case of CVS in an adult complicated with SMAS and propose additional treatment with nutritional support, pharmacological intervention, and psychotherapy.
High-precision defocus detection through a bevel-axial stripe pattern projection method
Authors: Gao Tianyu , Wei Jingsong , Xu Xiaozhong , Huang Zhihong , Xue Yalong , Wei Wei , Liu Yongjun
Published: August 2024

Fine micro/nanopattern structures are widely applied to optical elements such as gratings and metasurface elements. These structures are generally fabricated through a high numerical aperture (NA) laser-writing lithography system. During the laser writing, the sample will defocus due to the up-and-down motion errors of the motorized stage. In this work, a high-precision defocus detection module with a bevel-axial stripe pattern projection method has been established. The theoretical calculations and experimental results indicate that, for a laser-writing system with a projection light source wavelength of 405 nm and objective lens with an NA of 0.80, the defocus detection accuracy is 40 nm and the defocus detection range is 20 µm, which can meet the requirements for a high NA laser-writing system. This work can be applied to autofocusing or autotracking of a direct laser-writing lithography system.
Propagation dynamics of multi-Gaussian Schell model beams in strongly nonlocal nonlinear media
Authors: He Li , Zhang Naiyue , Yu Hong , Ji Xiaoling
Published: August 2024

The analytical propagation formulae of a single multi-Gaussian Schell model (MGSM) beam and two MGSM beams in strongly nonlocal nonlinear media (SNNM) are derived, and the optical breather characteristics of a single MGSM beam and two MGSM beams in SNNM are studied, respectively. It is found that a MGSM soliton is never formed because of the self-shaping feature of MGSM beams, but a MGSM breather can be formed. Furthermore, for a MGSM breather, the Gaussian-like profile and the flat-top profile alternate periodically during propagation. On the other hand, even if the separation distance is large enough, two MGSM breathers can be combined into a single breather due to nonlinearity when the threshold critical power arrives. Furthermore, the relationship between the threshold critical power and the MGSM beam parameters is also investigated.
Design and fabrication of all-solid anti-resonant silicate fibers for Yb ASE suppression in Er/Yb fiber amplifier
Authors: Cheng Yue , Yang Qiubai , Zhu Yiming , Wu Dakun , Yu Chunlei , Sun Yan , Chen Yichong , Zhou Qinling , Wang Xin , Yu Fei , Hu Lili
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we report the design, fabrication, and characterization of a passive silicate-glass-based all-solid anti-resonant fiber (AS-ARF) for ∼1 µm transmission suppression. Simulation results demonstrate that the AS-ARF achieves a first high higher order mode (HOM) suppression ratio of over 25 dB in a 26-63 µm core diameter at 1550 nm. Using the drilling and rod-in-tube technique, an AS-ARF was fabricated with a core diameter of 43 µm, a core NA of 0.023, and high-refractive-index capillaries (HRICs) thickness of 1.4 µm. Furthermore, a wide transmission window around 1.5 µm, and a high-loss resonant band ranging from 1 µm to 1.1 µm were measured, which agrees well with the simulation. By fusion spliced a 12 cm-long AS-ARF in the EYDF amplifier, amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) and parasitic oscillations of Yb3+ ions are effectively suppressed, and the loss at 1030 nm is 12.3 dB higher than that at 1550 nm. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that an AS-ARF can achieve ∼1 µm transmission suppression and single-mode propagation in the 1.5 µm band. The fiber structure option holds potential for further application in rare-earth-doped fiber amplifiers and lasers, including those doped with Nd, Yb, Er, Tm, and other rare-earth elements.
Polarization purity and dispersion characteristics of nested antiresonant nodeless hollow-core optical fiber at near- and short-wave-IR wavelengths for quantum communications
Authors: Afxenti Ivi , Yu Lijun , Shields Taylor , Faccio Daniele , Bradley Thomas , Caspani Lucia , Clerici Matteo , Dada Adetunmise C.
Published: August 2024

Advancements in quantum communication and sensing require improved optical transmission that ensures excellent state purity and reduced losses. While free-space optical communication is often preferred, its use becomes challenging over long distances due to beam divergence, atmospheric absorption, scattering, and turbulence, among other factors. In the case of polarization encoding, traditional silica-core optical fibers, though commonly used, struggle with maintaining state purity due to stress-induced birefringence. Hollow core fibers, and in particular nested antiresonant nodeless fibers (NANF), have recently been shown to possess unparalleled polarization purity with minimal birefringence in the telecom wavelength range using continuous-wave (CW) laser light. Here, we investigate a 1-km NANF designed for wavelengths up to the 2-μm waveband. Our results show a polarization extinction ratio between ~−30 dB and ~−70 dB across the 1520 to 1620 nm range in CW operation, peaking at ~−60 dB at the 2-μm design wavelength. Our study also includes the pulsed regime, providing insights beyond previous CW studies, e.g., on the propagation of broadband quantum states of light in NANF at 2 μm, and corresponding extinction-ratio-limited quantum bit error rates (QBER) for prepare-measure and entanglement-based quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols. Our findings highlight the potential of these fibers in emerging applications such as QKD, pointing towards a new standard in optical quantum technologies.
Preparation and optical properties of Bi3+-doped K4SrGe3O9 as a UVA phosphor
Authors: Hosseini Hossein Ebrahim , Cao Jiangkun , Ding Yicong , Ghadamyari Marzieh , Galusek Dušan , Klement Róbert , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: August 2024

Optical materials with UV emission have diverse applications, for example, in phototherapy, anti-counterfeiting, disinfection, and photocopying. Yet, these materials are mainly activated by rare earth ions with narrow and inflexible emission characteristics. Here, we report on UVA emission from a Bi3+-doped K4SrGe3O9 phosphor synthesized by conventional high-temperature solid state reaction at ambient atmosphere. The structure, morphology and luminescent properties of the material were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence spectroscopy, demonstrating broadband emission of ultraviolet-A (UVA) light peaking at 353 nm (FWHM ∼ 46 nm) when stimulated by ultraviolet radiation at a wavelength of 304 nm. The maximum emission intensity was found for K4SrGe3O9:0.001Bi3+, with a quantum yield of 46% and a lifetime of 477 ns.
Prediction of Material Removal Rate in Bonnet Polishing Using Bayesian Optimization Deep Neural Network
Authors: Yun Zhang , shixiong Xiang , Deng Yonghong , Hu yue , chen zhongjun
Published: August 2024

The material removal mechanism in robotic bonnet polishing is complex and influenced by multiple factors, necessitating an appropriate method to establish a material removal model. This study employs a Bayesian Optimized Deep Neural Network (BO-DNN) to explore the intricate relationship between polishing parameters and Material Removal Rate (MRR) using multiple sets of polishing spot experimental data as the dataset. The Tree-structured Parzen Estimator (TPE) method was employed to identify the optimal model configuration, enhancing the model's convergence speed and accuracy. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is utilized to assist in inverse verification. The results demonstrate that the BO-DNN model excels in predicting polishing outcomes, with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.0293 and 0.0241, respectively, for the validation set, and a Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC) of 99.42%. For the inverse set, the RMSE and MAE are 0.0410 and 0.0382, respectively, with a PCC of 99.33%. These results demonstrate a strong correlation between the predicted and actual values, suggesting the model's potential for accurate predictions and supporting its reliability. This study offers theoretical insights and practical references for advancing robotic bonnet polishing technology.
Putting self at stake by telling a story: Storyteller’s narcissistic traits modulate physiological emotional reactions to recipient’s disengagement
Authors: Koskinen Emmi , Henttonen Pentti , Harjunen Ville , Krusemark Elizabeth , Piispanen Matias , Voutilainen Liisa , Wuolio Mariel , Peräkylä Anssi
Published: August 2024

Telling a story to a disengaged recipient induces stress and threatens positive self-image. In this study, we investigated whether storytellers with overly positive and fragile self-images (e.g., individuals with grandiose and vulnerable narcissism) would show heightened behavioral, emotional, and psychophysiological reactivity to recipient disengagement.Building on Bavelas, Coates, and Johnson [1] we conducted a conversational experiment instructing the participants to tell about a “close call” experience to a previously unknown co-participant. We modified the co-participant’s level of interactional engagement by asking them either to listen to the story carefully or to simultaneously carry out a counting task that distracted them from the content of the story. We found that the distraction condition was unrelated to the storytellers’ narration performance, but a significant positive association was found between the story-recipients’ observed lack of affiliation and the tellers’ narration performance. The distraction of recipients was also associated with increased self-reported arousal in the tellers, indicating disengagement-induced stress in the tellers. Moreover, tellers higher in grandiose narcissism reacted with higher skin conductance response to disengagement, and vulnerable narcissism was associated with higher heart rate during narration in general. Our experiment thus showed that grandiose narcissists are emotionally sensitive to their co-participants’ disengagement.
Geospatial patterns, and individual and community levels factors of cesarean section deliveries in Ethiopia: A spatial and multilevel analysis
Authors: Endawkie Abel , Kebede Shimels Derso , Kebede Natnael , Mihiretu Mengistu Mera , Bekele Enyew Ermias , Ayele Kokeb , Asmare Lakew , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Arefaynie Mastewal , Tsega Yawkal
Published: August 2024

Background

Cesarean Section (CS) is the most popular surgery worldwide in obstetric care to save a mother’s or the fetus’s life. The prevalence of CS delivery in Ethiopia was 0.7% and 1.9% in 2000 and 2016 respectively and its spatial distribution and variation in Ethiopia are limited. This study provides evidence for healthcare providers and pregnant women on the national CS geospatial distribution and variation to promote evidence-based decision-making and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to determine geospatial patterns and individual and community-level factors of CS deliveries in Ethiopia.

Method

A secondary data analysis of 5,527 weighted samples of mothers using the 2019 Ethiopian mini demographic and health survey was conducted. The spatial hotspot analysis using Getis-Ord Gi* hot spot analysis of ArcGIS version 10.7.1 was used to show the spatial cluster of CS and multilevel mixed effect logistic regression analyses were employed. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05 and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported.

Result

The prevalence of CS delivery in Ethiopia was 5.4% with 95%CI (4.6%, 6.4%). The spatial autocorrelation shows CS was clustered in Ethiopia (global Moran’s index = 1.009, and p-value<0.001). Spatial hotspot indicates CS was prevalent in Addis Ababa, Diredewa, Oromo, and Somali regions. The odds of CS delivery were higher among mothers aged 24–35: AOR = 1.98, 95% CI (1.3, 3.1), and 35–49: AOR = 3.7, 95% CI(2.2, 6.1), live with female household heads: AOR = 1.9, 95% CI (1.2, 3.1), mothers with primary AOR = 1.6, 95% CI (1.07, 2.7), secondary: AOR = 2.4, 95% CI (1.3, 4.25) and higher education: AOR = 2.06, 95% CI (1.03, 4.2), multiple births: AOR = 8.1, 95% CI (3.4, 19.74), mothers in Addis Ababa: AOR = 3.4, 95% CI (1.1, 11.9) and Diredewa: AOR = 7, 95% CI (1.23, 40.7) as compared to their counterparts.

Conclusion

In Ethiopia, CS deliveries remain below the World Health Organization estimate with distinct geospatial variation. Geographically, CS delivery is concentrated in urban areas like Addis Ababa and Diredewa, as well as in parts of the Somali and Oromia regions. Maternal age, female household head, Muslim religion, higher educational status, and multiple births at the individual level, and region at the community level were factors of CS delivery in Ethiopia. Therefore, efforts should be geared towards strategies and interventions to ensure fair access to CS delivery in line with WHO recommendations, especially in the regions where the CS delivery rate is below WHO estimates in Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and Benishangul Gumze regions.
Feeding sows milk biofortified with n-6 and n-3 modulates immune status of sows and drives positive transgenerational effects
Authors: Reis Leriana Garcia , de Azevedo Ruiz Vera Letticie , Massami Kitamura Simone Maria , Furugen Cesar Andrade André , de Oliveira Bussiman Fernando , Daiana Poleti Mirele , Coelho da Silveira Juliano , Fukumasu Heidge , Faccioli Lúcia Helena , Marzocchi-Machado Cleni Mara , de Francisco Strefezzi Ricardo , Neves Garcia Edna , Casey Theresa , Netto Arlindo Saran
Published: August 2024

The risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, inflammation, obesity, and autoimmune disease is linked to the quality of dietary fats, with lower intake of saturated and higher intake of n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) considered beneficial to health. This study investigated the effect of supplementing sows’ diets with cow’s milk biofortified with n-6 or n-3 PUFA, at varying n-6/n-3 ratios (8.26, 7.92, and 2.72) during their growing phase and throughout gestation and lactation on their reproductive performance and immune-inflammatory status. Specifically, we analyzed circulating cholesterol and fatty acid profiles of serum, colostrum and milk, sow body weight, and neonate colostrum intake, Apgar scores, muscle composition, and embryo viability. Analysis of circulating immunoglobulins (Ig), interleukins, and eicosanoids and complement system hemolytic activity were used to evaluate inflammatory and immune responses of sows and piglets. Expression of lipolysis and lipogenic genes in the liver were investigated in sows and piglets, with additional investigation of hypothalamus genes regulating appetite in sows. Feeding sows milk biofortified with n-6 and n-3 PUFA altered serum fatty acid profiles, reduced triglycerides (TG), increased embryo total number, increased early gestation backfat, and reduced colostrum IgG. Piglets of biofortified sow had higher circulating IgA, IgM and TNF-α, and lower IL-10. Sows fed n-3 biofortified milk had higher very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and TNF-α in circulation. Offspring from sows fed n-6 versus n-3 biofortified milk had lower IL-10 and expression levels of SREBP-1. N-3 versus n-6 also lowered arachidonic acid (ARA) levels in sow’s milk and piglet viability 1. Findings offer insights into the potential health benefits of dietary supplementation with biofortified milk in swine, which serve as good model of diet-nutrition studies of humans, and therefore can potentially be considered in dietary recommendations both human and animal populations.
Older patients with vertebral and pelvic fractures: Study protocol of a clinical cohort
Authors: Roigk Patrick , Leonhardt Rebekka , Lindemann Ulrich , Abel Bastian , Büchele Gisela , Rothenbacher Dietrich , Koschate Jessica , Schlotmann Julia , Elsayed Mohamed , Zieschang Tania , Laurentius Thea , Bollheimer Cornelius , Becker Clemens , Rapp Kilian
Published: August 2024

Background

Vertebral and pelvic fractures are associated with a significant burden of negative health and psychosocial outcomes. The number of vertebral and pelvic fractures is increasing in an aging society. Vertebral and pelvic fractures are increasingly significant injuries for individuals and society. However, few epidemiological studies have examined the clinical course of vertebral and pelvic fractures. This is the protocol for a study that observes patients who have been admitted to the hospital with an incident vertebral or pelvic fracture for a period of 12 months.

Methods

The observational cohort study is conducted at three study sites in Germany. Patients affected by vertebral or pelvic fractures are recruited within the first few days of hospital admission. Data collection takes place at four-time points: baseline, before discharge, after 4 months, and after 12 months after admission to the hospital. Particular emphasis is laid on the assessment of the fall mechanisms, physical function, physical activity, life space, mobility, treatment approach, and quality of life. The hospital stay involves the collection of biomaterials (blood and urine).

Discussion

The study aims to enhance understanding of the clinical progression and outcomes in patients with fractures in the vertebrae or pelvis.
Vaccine practices, literacy, and hesitancy among parents in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Barqawi Hiba Jawdat , Samara Kamel A. , Kannas Samah Mohamed , Habbal Omar , AlSarraf Nada A. , Dreezi Mohammad A. , Abu-Gharbieh Eman
Published: August 2024

Background

Immunisation is one of public health’s greatest success stories, yet, annually, 20 million children miss out entirely or partially on routine immunisation. National immunisation estimates have the United Arab Emirates (UAE) lagging behind with 4% of children under the age of 1 not having received any vaccines. Vaccine hesitancy is considered one of the biggest barriers to vaccination. This study aims to evaluate the UAE’s parents’ vaccination attitudes and practices as well as estimate vaccine hesitancy’s prevalence and determinants.

Methodology

This cross-sectional, descriptive study collected data from parents across the UAE during the months of March and April 2024. The 60-item questionnaire included the Parental Attitudes towards Childhood Vaccines scale (PACV), the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale, and the Digital Vaccine Literacy (DVL) scale. Univariate, bivariate (chi-squared test), and multivariate (logistic regression) analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 550 responses were retained. 84.55% of participants were female (n = 465/550), half were middle-aged (31–45 years old), and 21.09% (n = 116/550) were healthcare workers. 94.36% (n = 519/550) had their child/children receive all mandated vaccines. Only 39.82% (n = 219/550) found their level of knowledge about childhood vaccinations to be good/excellent. 70.11% (n = 386/550) of participants had high digital vaccine literacy. More than 95% had positive attitudes towards measles, meningitis, and pertussis vaccines. 14.00% (n = 77/550) were identified as vaccine-hesitant according to the PACV. Overall, using general practitioner/ paediatrician as a knowledge source, digital vaccine literacy, perceived children’s vaccine knowledge, and nationality were associated with lower vaccine hesitancy status.

Conclusion

Vaccine hesitancy exists and is prevalent in the UAE; however, the majority of participants reported high trust in vaccines, the local healthcare systems and physicians. Vaccine hesitancy can be tackled but will require tailored solutions and proactive healthcare workers.
Wood dust and risk of leukemia: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Soleimani Yaser , Daraei Mahdi , Sadeghi Parniyan , Khazali Alireza , Rostami Hanieh , Mahmoudi Sheyda , Jarrahi Alireza Mosavi , Taherian Mohammad Reza , Jorjani Goljamal , Bahari Nasser
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between wood dust exposure and leukemia. The objectives included synthesizing available evidence, assessing its quality, identifying potential sources of heterogeneity, and drawing conclusions regarding the association between wood dust and leukemia.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies meeting that report on the association between wood dust and leukemia. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools were employed to ensure robust quality assessment. Meta-analysis, using random-effects models, synthesized evidence from studies with low risk of bias. Overall odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Subgroup analyses explored potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

The meta-analysis included a comprehensive review of various study types, encompassing 7 studies that examined the association between wood dust exposure and leukemia risk. The analysis revealed a statistically significant positive association, with an overall odds ratio (OR) of 1.56 (95% CI: 1.15–2.12). This indicates that individuals exposed to wood dust are 1.56 times more likely to develop leukemia compared to those not exposed, with the 95% confidence interval ranging from 1.15 to 2.12, highlighting a substantial risk elevation across different study designs. Quality assessment using The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools demonstrated a low risk of bias across all included studies, enhancing the credibility of the observed association. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity within the studies. Notably, subgroup analysis based on the year of the study revealed significant differences, as indicated by an I^2 value of 87%. The robustness of these results underscores the importance of addressing wood dust exposure as an occupational hazard, particularly in industries related to woodworking and forestry.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis provides robust evidence supporting an increased risk of leukemia associated with wood dust exposure implying proactive measures in people exposed to dust.
A reproducible approach for the use of aptamer libraries for the identification of Aptamarkers for brain amyloid deposition based on plasma analysis
Authors: Meehan Cathal , Lecocq Soizic , Penner Gregory
Published: August 2024

An approach for the agnostic identification and validation of aptamers for the prediction of a medical state from plasma analysis is presented in application to a key risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. brain amyloid deposition. This method involved the use of a newly designed aptamer library with sixteen random nucleotides interspersed with fixed sequences called a Neomer library. The Neomer library approach enables the direct application of the same starting library on multiple plasma samples, without the requirement for pre-enrichment associated with the traditional approach. Eight aptamers were identified as a result of the selection process and screened across 390 plasma samples by qPCR assay. Results were analysed using multiple machine learning algorithms from the Scikit-learn package along with clinical variables including cognitive status, age and sex to create predictive models. An Extra Trees Classifier model provided the highest predictive power. The Neomer approach resulted in a sensitivity of 0.88. specificity of 0.76. and AUC of 0.79. The only clinical variables that were included in the model were age and sex. We conclude that the Neomer approach represents a clear improvement for the agnostic identification of aptamers (Aptamarkers) that bind to unknown biomarkers of a medical state.
Embracing telepharmacy: Unveiling Malaysians’ perceptions and knowledge through online survey
Authors: Ahmad Azlina , Gnanasan Shubashini , Karuppannan Mahmathi
Published: August 2024

The expansion of information technologies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has notably increased the use of remote services, including telehealth. Telepharmacy, a subset of telehealth, offers remote pharmaceutical care services, benefiting patients by providing advice and consultations without the need for physical pharmacy visits. This study aimed to assess public perceptions and awareness of telepharmacy in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from Nov 2022 to May 2023, involving 387 Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above. Data collection utilised Google Forms distributed via social medias, covering demographics, technological readiness, awareness, perceptions, and willingness related to telepharmacy. The study demonstrated high digital readiness among respondents, owning smartphones and being adept in utilising various digital features. However, there was a lack of awareness regarding the concept of telepharmacy. Despite predominantly positive perceptions of its potential, only 48.1% of respondents showed willingness to utilise telepharmacy services. While respondents exhibited readiness for digital engagement, there was a notable deficit in understanding telepharmacy. Though perceptions were positive, willingness to embrace telepharmacy was moderate. Addressing the knowledge gap through targeted education initiatives might enhance acceptance. Future research should focus on integrating telepharmacy into healthcare systems considering public preferences, thereby evaluating its actual implementation and outcomes among diverse demographics.
Self-inhibition of growth and allelopathy through volatile organic compounds in Fusarium solani and Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Takeuchi Takae , Suzuki Takahito , Kimura Tomoko , Kiuchi Masato
Published: August 2024

Microbial volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from fungi are known as their secondary metabolites from environmental sources. However, their physiological roles remain to be unclear. Even though the roles are still unknown, VOCs are deliberately released to convey information to both homologous and non-homologous organisms. We investigated the effects of single VOCs (hexanal, benzaldehyde, heptanal, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, 3-octanone, 2-undecanone, 3-octanol, 2-Phenylethanol, 2-phenyl-2-propanol, phenylbenzaldehyde, 2-pentadecanone, β-trans-bergamotene, β-bisabolene, 2-methyl-5 -(1-methylethyl)pyrazine) on the fungal growth. In parallel, application of the co-culturing system in a growth chamber allowed free gas and VOCs exchange between emitter colonies of Fusarium solani and Aspergillus fumigatus, or between colonies of different growth stages of the same species. Distinct self-inhibition occurred by the emitters of fungal growing colonies against receiver ones on the stage of conidial germination or against the younger colonies at an earlier stage in both fungi. Similarly, the phenomenon of allelopathy appeared to work between growing colonies of F. solani and the germinating conidia or young colonies of A. fumigatus or vice versa. Solid phase microextraction—gas chromatography/mass spectrometry revealed VOCs compounds of each fungi. In F. solani, hexanal and benzaldehyde appeared to be significant inhibitors for colony growth. Benzaldehyde inhibited filamentous growth but not conidial germination. In A. fumigatus, heptanal seemed to be an equivalent effector. The inhibitory effect of benzaldehyde was more distinct on the A. fumigatus conidial germination than its filamentous growth.
Zooplankton responses to simulated marine heatwave in the Mediterranean Sea using in situ mesocosms
Authors: Zervoudaki Soultana , Protopapa Maria , Koutsandrea Andriana , Jansson Anna , von Weissenberg Ella , Fyttis Georgios , Sakavara Athanasia , Kavakakis Kostas , Chariati Charitomeni , Anttila Katja , Bourdin Pauline , Mostajir Behzad , Vidussi Francesca , Engström-Öst Jonna
Published: August 2024

Globally, marine heatwave frequency, intensity, and duration are on the rise, posing a significant threat to plankton communities, the foundational elements of the marine food web. This study investigates the ecological and physiological responses of a temperate plankton community in the Thau lagoon, north-western Mediterranean, to a simulated +3°C ten-day heatwave followed by a ten-day post-heatwave period in in-situ mesocosms. Our analyses encompassed zooplankton grazing, production, community composition in water and sediment traps, as well as oxidative stress and anti-oxidant biomarkers. The results revealed increased abundances of harpacticoid copepods and polychaete larvae during the simulated heatwave and post-heatwave event. Sediment trap data indicated elevated mortality, particularly dominated by polychaete larvae during the post-heatwave period. Oxidative stress biomarker (lipid peroxidation LPX) levels in the plankton community correlated with temperature, signaling cellular damage during the heatwave. LPX increased and proteins decreased with increasing salinity during the experiment. Offspring production peaked during the post-heatwave phase. Notably, the calanoid copepod Acartia clausi exhibited a preference for ciliates as its primary prey, constituting 20% of the overall available prey. Our findings suggest a potential shift in coastal zooplankton communities during future marine heatwaves, transitioning from calanoid mesozooplankton dominance to a system featuring meroplankton and/or harpacticoid copepods. Although species preying on microzooplankton may gain advantages in such conditions, the study underscores the damaging impact of heatwaves on organismal lipids, with potential consequences for reproduction, growth, and survival within marine ecosystems.