bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning logic programs by explaining their failures
Authors: Morel Rolf , Cropper Andrew
Published: August 2023

Scientists form hypotheses and experimentally test them. If a hypothesis fails (is refuted), scientists try toexplainthe failure to eliminate other hypotheses. The more precise the failure analysis the more hypotheses can be eliminated. Thus inspired, we introduce failure explanation techniques for inductive logic programming. Given a hypothesis represented as a logic program, we test it on examples. If a hypothesis fails, we explain the failure in terms of failing sub-programs. In case a positive example fails, we identify failing sub-programs at the granularity of literals. We introduce a failure explanation algorithm based on analysing branches of SLD-trees. We integrate a meta-interpreter based implementation of this algorithm with the test-stage of thePopperILP system. We show that fine-grained failure analysis allows for learning fine-grained constraints on the hypothesis space. Our experimental results show that explaining failures can drastically reduce hypothesis space exploration and learning times.
Chain-dependent Conditions in Extremal Set Theory
Authors: Nagy Dániel T. , Nagy Kartal
Published: August 2023

In extremal set theory our usual goal is to find the maximal size of a family of subsets of an n-element set satisfying a condition. A condition is called chain-dependent, if it is satisfied for a family if and only if it is satisfied for its intersections with the n! full chains. We introduce a method to handle problems with such conditions, then show how it can be used to prove three classic theorems. Then, a theorem about families containing no two sets such that $$A\subset B$$

A
⊂
B

and $$\lambda \cdot |A| \le |B|$$

λ
·
|
A
|
≤
|
B
|

is proved. Finally, we investigate problems where instead of the size of the family, the number of $$\ell $$
ℓ
-chains is maximized. Our method is to define a weight function on the sets (or $$\ell $$
ℓ
-chains) and use it in a double counting argument involving full chains.
Pragmatic encroachment and justified group belief
Authors: Biebel Nathan
Published: August 2023

The theory of pragmatic encroachment states that the risks associated with being wrong, or the practical stakes, can make a difference to whether one’s evidence is good enough to justify belief. While still far from the orthodox view, it has garnered enough popularity that it is worth exploring the implications when we apply the theory of pragmatic encroachment to group epistemology, specifically to the justificatory status of the beliefs of group agents. When we do, I claim, we discover two novel cases of divergence; cases where a group epistemic agent is justified in believing but none of the members are, and vice versa. Using Jennifer Lackey’s influential Group Epistemic Agent Account as a foil, in particular Lackey’s arguments against previous proposed cases of divergence, the present paper defends the following argument, which I call Pragmatic Encroachment Divergence (PED): (i) Practical stakes make a difference to what an agent (group or individual) is justified in believing. (ii) The practical stakes of a group agent can come apart from the practical stakes of the (operative) members. (iii) Therefore, it is possible for the justified beliefs of a group to diverge from the justified beliefs of its members.
Optimal anti-platelet therapy for older patients with acute coronary syndrome: a network meta-analysis of randomized trials comprising 59,284 older patients
Authors: Zhou Shuang , Li Wenhui , Xiang Qian , Wang Zhe , Zhang Hanxu , Mu Guangyan , Liu Zhiyan , Cui Yimin
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to identify the optimal anti-platelet therapy in older acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with a mean age ≥ 60 years by comparing the efficacy and safety of different anti-platelet therapies. The selection of antiplatelet therapy in older patients with ACS is a clinical challenge. Numerous evidences indicate that the de-escalation of dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) or P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy may reduce bleeding risk without increasing thrombotic events. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews and optimal strategy analysis regarding older ACS patients. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of anti-platelet therapy in older ACS patients were identified. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included all death, cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, stent thrombosis, and trial-defined major bleeding. Frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analyses were conducted. Treatments were ranked on posterior probability. Summary odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using Bayesian network meta-analysis. A total of 12 RCTs including 59,284 older ACS patients treated with five anti-platelet strategies were included. Ticagrelor monotherapy after 3 months DAPT was comparable to the other strategies (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.32–1.6) in terms of MACE risk. Additionally, P score analysis and SUCRA Bayesian analysis showed that it was the most beneficial treatment for all deaths, cardiovascular death and revascularization. For safety, although there was no significant difference in direct comparisons, both SUCRA Bayesian (0.806) and P score (0.519) analysis suggested that ticagrelor monotherapy was the safest strategy. The current evidence demonstrated that ticagrelor monotherapy after 3 months DAPT may be a promising approach for achieving a more favorable balance between risk and benefit for older ACS patients, with a relatively low bleeding risk and without an increased risk of MACE events. Moreover, it remains the preferred option for clinical outcomes such as all death, CV death and revascularization. Further high-quality and long-term studies are required to validate anti-platelet therapies among older ACS patients.
Phonendo: a platform for publishing wearable data on distributed ledger technologies
Authors: Moya Francisco , Quesada Francisco J. , Martínez Luis , Estrella Fco Javier
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, especially wearable devices, are commonly integrated into modern intelligent healthcare software. These devices enable medical practitioners to monitor pervasively patients’ parameters outside the clinical environment. However, the ease of manipulating wearable devices and their data streams raises concerns regarding patient privacy and data trust. Distributed ledger technologies (DLT) offer solutions to enhance resistance against information manipulation and eliminate single points of failure. By leaveraging DLT, wearable-based solutions can be developed with a wider range of capabilities. This paper carries out an analysis of shortcomings, limitations, potential applications and needs in the medical domain, to introduce Phonendo 1.0, a DLT–IoT-based platform designed to capture data streams from wearable devices and publishing them on a distributed ledger technology infrastructure. The architecture and its difference services are justified based on the identified needs and challenges in the medical domain.
Energy consumption reduction in OFDMA wireless sensor networks in existence of interference hazards
Authors: Elgazzar Osama H. , Mahmoud Imbaby I.
Published: August 2023

Energy consumption reduces Wireless Sensor Network’s (WSN’s) lifetime. Hence, this paper addresses energy saving problematic in cooperative Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing Access (OFDMA) systems for WSNs (COFDMA-WSN). Analytical handlings are implemented. The performance improvement of COFDMA-WSNs is executed by considering two different COFDMA-WSNs schemes. These schemes represent classical COFDMA-WSNs and Relay Supported (R-S) COFDMA-WSNs. Additionally, there are different pondered configurations due to these schemes. These configurations denote classical OFDMA network with classical WSN, R-S OFDMA network with classical WSN, classical OFDMA network with R-S WSN, and R-S OFDMA network with R-S WSN. Moreover, each configuration is applied with four different fractional frequency reuse (FrFR) techniques. These techniques represent strict (St) FrFR technique with Frequency Reuse Factor (FReF) = 3, St FrFR technique with FReF = 4, sectored (Sc) FrFR technique and soft frequency reuse (SoFR) technique. Consequently, there are sixteen different patterns of COFDMA-WSNs are considered. Moreover, closed-form terms (CFTs) for cluster-head’s (C-H’s) signal to interference ratio (SIR) and sensor node’s (SN’s) SIR are presented. Additionally, different metrics are evaluated to contrast the performance of altered patterns using the obtained CFTs. The outcomes demonstrate, that St FrRF4 system outperforms other systems in prime and ensuing links. The cause of this outcome can be credited, to the frequency reuse process decrement due to FReF increment. As a result, the interference sources decrease. Hence, the interfering signals drop. Consequently, St FrRF4 system achieves the highest values of SIR. Moreover, St FrRF3 technique has the second usage priority in the prime link. But, it losses this preference in the ensuing link and SoFR technique that applied in the fourth configuration takes this significance. The work outcomes attain much higher C-H's and SN’s SIR improvements. Accordingly, the packet transmission and protocol behaviour are enhanced. So, the energy consumption is reduced. Consequently, WSN’s lifetime is maximized.
Does physical activity moderate the association between shorter leukocyte telomere length and incident coronary heart disease? Data from 54,180 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Xiang Meiruo , Pilling Luke C. , Melzer David , Kirk Ben , Duque Gustavo , Liu Rui , Kuchel George A. , Wood Andrew R. , Metcalf Brad , Diniz Breno S. , Hillsdon Melvyn , Kuo Chia-Ling
Published: August 2023

Telomere shortening is a biological aging hallmark. The effect of short telomere length may be targeted by increased physical activity to reduce the risk of multiple aging-related diseases, including coronary heart disease (CHD). The objective was to assess the moderation effect of accelerometer-based physical activity (aPA) on the association between shorter leukocyte telomere length (LTL) relatively in the population sample and incident CHD. Data were from the UK Biobank participants with well-calibrated accelerometer data for at least 6.5 days (n = 54,180). Relative mean LTL at baseline (5–6 years prior to aPA assessment) was measured in T/S ratio, using a multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology, by comparing the amount of the telomere amplification product (T) to that of a single-copy gene (S). aPA measures included total number of events (at least 10-s continued physical activity > 32 milligravities [mg]), total volume, mean duration, mean intensity, and peak intensity of all events. LTL, aPA measures, and their interactions were associated with incident CHD (mean follow-up 6.8 years) using Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for covariates. Longer LTL (relative to the sample distribution) was associated with reduced incidence of CHD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 0.94 per standard deviation [SD] increase in LTL, [95% CI, 0.90 to 0.99], P = .010). Incidence of CHD was reduced by higher total volume of aPA (aHR = 0.82 per SD increase in LTL, [95% CI, 0.71 to 0.95], P = .010) but increased by higher total number of events (aHR = 1.11 per SD increase in LTL, [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.21], P = .020) after controlling for other aPA measures and covariates. However, none of the interactions between LTL and aPA measures was statistically significant (P = .171).
Regionalized life cycle inventory data collection and calculation for perennial forage production in Canada: methodological best practices and limitations
Authors: Pogue Sarah J. , Bamber Nicole , Imbeault-Tétreault Hugues , Baudoin Adeline , McPherson Aaron L. , Kega Steven , Tom Madavine , Kröbel Roland , Ominski Kim H. , Beauchemin Karen A. , Grant Brenna , McAllister Tim A.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

In Canada, 95–99% of produced forages are consumed domestically each year, mainly by beef cattle. Despite their importance, their contribution to the Canadian livestock industry and associated ecosystem services has not been investigated. This study developed a life cycle inventory (LCI) of perennial forage production in Canada averaged from 2009 to 2018.

Methods

LCI data were sourced or calculated from up-to-date, regionally resolved sources and models. Inputs to perennial forage production included the following: concrete, steel, and plastic usage; machinery fuel consumption; electricity, natural gas, and water use for irrigation; and synthetic and organic fertilizer, lime, and herbicide use. Assessed emissions included ammonia and nitrous oxide (N2O); carbon dioxide from energy use; herbicide, nitrate, and phosphate losses; and soil carbon accumulation. Results were expressed per metric tonne of harvested perennial forage dry matter at provincial and regional scales—Western Canada [British Columbia (BC), Alberta (AB), Saskatchewan (SK), Manitoba (MB)] and Eastern Canada [Ontario (ON), Québec (QC)].

Results and discussion

Rates of inputs varied, with generally lower nutrient but higher herbicide application in West vs. East. Irrigation was highest in BC, followed by AB and SK; energy consumption was highest in BC and lowest in QC. Higher N2O losses and nutrient losses via leaching and runoff in the East were partially due to greater soil moisture. Although total harvested perennial forage area declined from 6.43 to 5.23 million hectares from 2009 to 2018, these lands continued to accumulate soil carbon. The time period used to calculate average yields affected LCI estimates, as prairie yields were lower 1994–2003/1999–2008 due to drought. Furthermore, soil carbon sequestration estimates were affected by the annual change coefficients employed, underscoring the need for careful interpretation of LCI outputs. Results were compared to other studies and highlighted the importance of the choice of data and methods in creating LCI, and the need for transparency.

Conclusions

This first national LCI of perennial forage production in Canada provides a baseline for LCI inputs and outputs associated with this sector, highlighting provincial and regional differences. Outputs can be used to conduct future life cycle assessments to assess the environmental impacts of forage production and generate recommendations to improve sustainability, and for education and marketing purposes. This study demonstrates methodological best practices for LCI data mining and calculations, within available data and model limitations, thereby identifying gaps and providing a roadmap for other countries or sectors to develop detailed forage LCI.
Transformationsprozesse gestalten und evaluieren: Wirkmodelle als Ansatz um strategische Personalentwicklung mit Organisationsentwicklung zu verbinden
Authors: Berg Ann-Kathleen , Schulte Eva-Maria , Schultz Antonia , Kauffeld Simone
Published: August 2023

Angesichts der Dringlichkeit ökologischer, ökonomische und sozialer Transformationsprozesse in deutschen Unternehmen gewinnen wirksame Personal- und Organisationsentwicklungen zunehmend an Bedeutung. Dieser Beitrag in der Zeitschrift Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. (GIO) führt Wirkmodelle als Instrument zur Klärung von Wirkungen von transformativen Personal- und Organisationsentwicklungsmaßnahmen ein. Mithilfe solcher theoriebasierter Evaluationsansätze lässt sich die Wirkweise komplexer Maßnahmen systematisch entwickeln und bewerten. Die Evaluation ermöglicht zudem einen Beitrag zur Gestaltung von Transformationsprozessen auf Mitarbeiterebene, im Unternehmen und der Gesellschaft abzuleiten. Anhand eines Fallbeispiels (Weiterbildungsformat VeränderungsMacher) wurde ein Wirkmodell für eine integrierte Personal- und Organisationsentwicklungsmaßnahme konstruiert und in einem Pilotprojekt mit 16 Fachkräften getestet. Durch induktive und deduktive Interviewanalysen mit Führungskräften (N = 13) wurde die Weiterbildung evaluiert, um den Soll- und Ist-Zustand der Lern- und Kompetenzzuwächse der Fachkräfte zu eruieren und die entwickelte Wirkmodellstruktur zu überprüfen. Deskriptive Daten von teilnehmenden Fachkräften (N = 24) bestätigen die angenommenen Wirkmechanismen dieser transformativen Weiterbildung. Die Ergebnisse werden hinsichtlich der Nützlichkeit von Wirkmodellen und der Contribution Analysis zur Gestaltung und Evaluation von Transformationsprozessen diskutiert. Zudem werden praktische Implikationen für die Anwendung der programmtheoretischen Methoden in Unternehmen aufgezeigt.
Zu heiß für Demokratie? Eine Neubetrachtung Montesquieus politischer Klimatheorie
Authors: Beckstein Martin
Published: August 2023

Montesquieus politische Klimatheorie findet in der Politikwissenschaft wenig Anerkennung. Sie gilt als abwegig. Wenn sie nicht ins Lächerliche gezogen wird, dann vor allem deshalb, weil sie in einer Tradition eurozentrischer und rassistischer Stereotypisierung und Rechtfertigung kolonialer Ungerechtigkeit zu stehen scheint. Eine Neubetrachtung Montesquieus Klimatheorie ist jedoch mindestens aus drei Gründen geboten. Erstens ist die Theorie komplexer und zweitens plausibler als gemeinhin angenommen wird. Drittens wirft sie interessante Fragen über die integrationswissenschaftlichen Herausforderungen politikwissenschaftlicher Forschung sowie den Umgang mit dem anthropogenen Klimawandel auf.
Hydrozoans (Cnidaria) from the estuarine zone of the International Minho River, NW Iberian Peninsula, Atlantic Europe
Authors: de Araújo Costa Dimítri , Antunes Carlos , Rocha Sónia , Gomes Nuno
Published: August 2023

In environmental impact studies conducted in coastal regions, the survey of biodiversity is crucial in areas that are subject to interventions. As the characterization of aquatic invertebrates may indicate important issues that need to be addressed. In this regard, hydrozoans (Class Hydrozoa, Phylum Cnidaria) are recognised as important bioindicators. These organisms are characterized by biradial, tetramerous, or polymerous symmetry, a simple gastrovascular system, and non-cellular mesoglea. The aim of the present study was to perform the first descriptive survey of hydrozoan species found in the estuary of the International Minho River (shared by Portugal and Spain), which is classified as an Important Bird Area and is a site of the Natura 2000 network. Specimens were collected from the tidal marine, brackish and tidal freshwater wetland zones through 1) glass eel fishing bycatch using stow nets at flood tides around the new moon (length of float lines: 10 m; bottom anchored lead line: 15 m; height: 8 m; mesh size: 1–2 mm); 2) beam trawl fishing (bottom trawling for 10 min), including species associated with bivalves; 3) Van Veen grab sampler for sediment sampling; 4) on wood fragments in the saltmarsh of the Coura River (tributary of the Minho River); and 5) individuals on the leaves of aquatic plants. A total of 19 species were identified, four of which were first occurrences for Portugal, six for the mainland coast of the country, and one for Southern Europe [Diphasia fallax (Johnston, 1847)]. Three neotypes are also proposed for the species Hydra viridissima, Hydra oligactis and Gymnangium montagui based on the criteria of the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature. As these organisms are considered bioindicators, the diversity of the hydrozoan community in the Minho River may indicate good water quality.
A review on the formation and remediations of polychlorinated dibenzo p-dioxins and dibenzo-furans (PCDD/Fs) during thermal processes with a focus on MSW process
Authors: Themba Nomathemba , Sibali Linda L. , Chokwe Tlou B.
Published: August 2023

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzo-furans (PCDD/Fs) are notorious pollutants classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which even at trace levels can bio-accumulate in the environment and have negative effects on organisms. Due to their adverse health effects, countries around the globe have introduced stringent emission standards to reduce the formation of PCDD/Fs. Using data in the literature over the past two decades (2001 to 2023), this review discussed the PCDD/F emissions from incineration facilities, E-waste recycling, iron sintering, secondary metal smelting plants, and crematories. But the review only focused on pollutants and remediation strategies from the incineration processes. There are two heterogeneous mechanism pathways that lead to the formation of PCDD/Fs, firstly, the De novo phase, using macromolecules of carbon or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to begin the synthesis, and secondly, the condensation reaction beginning with the rearrangement of the molecular structure of the precursor compound. On the remediation strategies, adsorption injections were the most preferred method; however, recent studies reported other strategies such as catalytic filtration systems, an electron beam system, and good combustion practices. This review concluded that a lot has been done to manage and prevent PCDD/F formation efficiently to the level which no longer poses a hazard to human health and the environment.

Graphical abstract
Study on the Mechanism of Eerdun Wurile’s Effects on Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction by the TLR4/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Qiao Yun , Li Huiru , Li Yan , Su Enboer , Wang Zhe , Che Limuge , Du Yiri
Published: August 2023

The object of our work was to observe whether the Mongolian medicine Eerdun Wurile (EW) improve postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) by affecting the TLR4/NF-κB. Mice (6–8-week-old male C57BL/6 J) were selected to establish an animal model of POCD by combining intracerebroventricular injection of lipopolysaccharide and nephrectomy; EW formulation and EW basic formulation were administered intra-gastrically for 7 consecutive days. The cognitive performance was assessed by Morris water maze test. H&E staining was examined to detect alterations in hippocampal tissue. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate MyD88, NF-κB, TLR4, iNOS, and IBA-1 expressions; Western blotting and RT-qPCR were performed to evaluate MyD88, NF-κB, and TLR4. The expressions of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α were evaluated by ELISA. Intracerebroventricular injection of lipopolysaccharide combined with nephrectomy induced cognitive dysfunction in mice, stimulated TLR4/NF-κB and microglia, and promoted the secretion of murine TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. EW formulation and EW basic formulation treatment are able to suppress the TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation and microglia, and the serum cytokine secretions related to proinflammation, and restore the cognitive performance. EW formulation and EW basic formulation can improve POCD in mice, and TLR4/NF-κB pathway seems to be one of the important mechanisms in EW’s improvement of POCD.
Heart Failure with Recovered Ejection Fraction in Patients with Vinculin Loss-of-function Variants
Authors: Zahavich Laura , Akilen Rajadurai , George Kristen , Mital Seema
Published: August 2023

Predictors of myocardial recovery in heart failure (HF) are poorly understood. We explored if vinculin (VCL) variants are associated with myocardial recovery in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Six infants with DCM with a VCL loss-of-function (LOF) variant were identified. Median age at diagnosis was 2 months, median LV ejection fraction was 24%, and median LV end-diastolic diameter z-score was 10.8. All patients received HF medications. Five patients (83%) showed normalization of LV function at a median age of 2.7 years. One patient progressed to end-stage HF requiring heart transplant. This case series identified a unique phenotype of HF with reduced ejection fraction at presentation that evolved to HF with recovered EF in over 80% of infant DCM cases with LOF VCL variants. These findings have prognostic implications for counseling and management of VCL-associated DCM and highlight a possible genetic basis for HF with recovered ejection fraction.

Graphical abstract
Die Männerpartei: distinktiver Organisationstypus nur für Rechtsaußenparteien?
Authors: Höhne Benjamin
Published: August 2023

In der Populismusforschung dient der von Cas Mudde vergleichend herausgearbeitete Begriff der „Männerpartei“ zur Beschreibung rechtspopulistischer Parteien. Daran anknüpfend geht dieser Artikel auf Basis einer quantitativen Befragung aktiver Parteimitglieder im Vorfeld der Bundestagswahl 2017 (N = 7923) der Frage nach, inwiefern dieses Konzept auf die „Alternative für Deutschland“ übertragen werden kann und welche Unterschiede und Gemeinsamkeiten zu den sechs anderen im Deutschen Bundestag vertretenen Parteien bestehen. Während zum Wahlverhalten und zur Programmatik rechtspopulistischer Parteien schon länger internationale Forschungsarbeiten vorliegen, stellt die geschlechtliche Verfasstheit von rechten Parteiorganisationen ein Forschungsdesiderat dar. Die 2013 gegründete AfD ist ein besonders interessanter Forschungsgegenstand, da sie sich vom traditionellen Erscheinungsbild von Rechtsaußenparteien unterscheidet, insbesondere bei ihrer inklusiven innerparteilichen Demokratie sowie ihrer zumeist paritätischen Doppelspitze. Diese Genderanalyse zeigt, dass sich die AfD bei der Mitgliedschaft, den Einstellungen und der Partizipation zumeist von den anderen Parteien unterscheidet. Zwar weisen auch die verglichenen Parteien maskuline Prägungen auf, jedoch in abgeschwächter Intensität. Eine graduelle Differenzierung der AfD von den anderen Parteien erscheint hinsichtlich der Geschlechterdimension daher sinnvoller als eine distinktive. Ausgehend von den empirischen Befunden wird vorgeschlagen, die unpräzise Klassifikation der „Männerpartei“ durch eine mehrdimensionale Typologie zu ersetzen, die relationale Aussagen zur Genderdimension von Parteiorganisationen und deren Anti-Feminismus treffen kann. Diese parteienvergleichende Analyse möchte sowohl zur politikbezogenen Genderforschung als auch zur Parteienforschung, die populistische Parteiorganisationen fokussiert, beitragen.
Social Identity and Online Support Groups: A Qualitative Study with Family Caregivers
Authors: Daynes-Kearney Rosemary , Gallagher Stephen
Published: August 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to explore whether a sense of collective or shared group identity was developed in one established online social support group for family caregivers and, if so, what did group identification mean for the group members and how was this cultivated in the group.

Methods

Eighteen semi-structured interviews were carried out with members of a family caregiver online support group in Ireland. Inductive and deductive reflexive thematic analysis drawing on the social identity approach (SIA) generated four main themes and several related subthemes.

Results

The first main theme generated was The group are a Tribe and the Tribe gets it, with subthemes: Invisibility as a common experience, my Tribe understands I am more than just a carer and Just being part of the Tribe can be enough. The second main theme generated was the Tribe is a lifeline and life-changing, with related subthemes: Our connection relieves experiences of loneliness and social isolation and Sharing knowledge, experience and support made me feel visible. The third and fourth main themes generated were The leadership of group moderators helped create the Tribe identity and Lessons that can be learnt. These findings are discussed in relation to the social identity approach, social isolation and loneliness.

Conclusions

We concluded that group identity can be cultivated through considered, active and balanced moderation, creating a safe, welcoming and supportive space where family caregivers are able to have fun and seek information, advice and emotional support, which helps relieve loneliness and social isolation.
DNAJB4 suppresses breast cancer progression and promotes tumor immunity by regulating the Hippo signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Yanru , Li Jingjia , Pu Lulan , Hu Jinghua , Fang Lingyu , Zhou Fangfang , Zhang Hongying , Yang Yi , Rong Xinxin , Deng Shishan , Hou Lingmi
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. Low DNAJB4 expression levels are strongly correlated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. However, the molecular mechanism by which DNAJB4 regulates breast cancer progression is unclear.

Methods

The expression of DNAJB4 was validated in human breast cancer tissues, normal human breast tissues, and breast cancer cell lines. CCK-8, colony-forming, and wound healing assays were used to assess the biological effect of DNAJB4 overexpression on cell proliferation and migration in MCF-7 cell lines. Bioinformatic analysis was used to identify the DNAJB4 related pathways in breast cancer. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related biomarkers and Hippo pathway components were quantified by Western blots. Luciferase and Western blot assays were used to validate which miRNA regulates DNAJB4. In addition, the effects of DNAJB4 on in vivo tumor growth were assessed in xenograft models.

Results

DNAJB4 was expressed at low levels in human breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cell lines and correlated with poor prognosis. DNAJB4 overexpression significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration in vitro by activating the Hippo pathway. The dual-luciferase assay showed that hsa-miR-183-5p targeted DNAJB4. Moreover, the effects of DNAJB4 could be reversed by miR-183-5p. In addition, the expression of DNAJB4 was strongly correlated with immune infiltration levels. Notably, DNAJB4 overexpression markedly enhanced CD4 + and CD8 + T cells and reduced PD-L1 levels in 4T1 tumors via the Hippo pathway, which retarded tumor growth in a subcutaneous xenograft tumor mouse model of 4T1 cells.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that DNAJB4 overexpression inhibited the malignant biological behavior of breast cancer by regulating the Hippo pathway and tumor immunosuppressive environment.
Synthesis, Biological Activity, and the Effect of Ionization Radiation on the Spectral, XRD, and TGA Analysis of Cu(I), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) Complexes
Authors: Aly Samar A. , Hassan Safaa S. , El-Boraey Hanaa A. , Eldourghamy Ayman , Abdalla Ehab M. , Alminderej Fahad M. , Elganzory Hussein H.
Published: August 2023

New complexes of molecular formulae of [Cu(H2L1)I] (B1), [Cu(H2L)2(ClO4)2](B2), [Zn (H2L)2(H2O)]SO4(B3) and [Cd(H2L)Cl]Cl(B4) of ligand N-phenyl-2-(p-tolylglycyl)hydrazine -1-carbothioamide (B) have been prepared and characterized by 1H-NMR, Mass spectra, FT-IR, elemental analyses, molar conductance, UV–visible spectra, magnetic susceptibility measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG) and X-ray powder diffraction before and after irradiation. Elemental analyses indicate that the metal complexes have 1:1 (metal/ ligand) (B1 and B4) or 1:2 stoichiometry for complexes (B2 and B3). The results confirmed that gamma ray enhanced the stability of irradiated compounds as compared to non-irradiated compounds. XRD patterns proved that increasing the crystallinity of the samples and the particles is in nanosize range before and after gamma irradiation. These studies revealed that Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes adopted octahedral geometry, and Cu(I) and Cd(II) complexes were found to be tetrahedral. The theoretical conformational structure analyses were performed using density functional theory for ligand and complexes at B3LYP functional with 6–31G basis set for ligand and LANL2DZ basis set for complexes. The ligand (B, A) and complexes (B1–B4) and (A1–A4) before and after irradiated have been tested for their inhibitory effect on the growth of bacteria against gram-positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli). Molecular docking investigation proved that the Zn(II) complex had interesting interactions with active site amino acids of topoisomerase II DNA gyrase enzymes (code: 2XCT).
Proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits and atypical pathological findings treated with corticosteroid and rituximab
Authors: Mori Machi , Tanaka Akihito , Maeda Kayaho , Saito Shoji , Furuhashi Kazuhiro , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: August 2023

A 16-year-old girl with fever that appeared after taking the second COVID-19 vaccine presented to the clinic with a serum creatinine of 0.89 mg/dL and C-reactive protein of 6.9 mg/dL. She had proteinuria and microscopic hematuria, with slowly worsening kidney function. Her kidney biopsy showed fibrocellular crescents in seven of nine glomeruli that were observed under light microscopy. Another glomerulus showed endocapillary hypercellularity and mesangial cell proliferation. Electron-dense deposits were significant in the mesangial area, with monoclonal IgG1-κ and C3 deposition by immunofluorescence. The patient was diagnosed with proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits (PGNMID) and atypical pathological finding of diffuse crescent formation. The treatment regimen for PGNMID has not yet been established, and the appropriate duration of treatment is unknown. In our case, considering that rituximab acts by binding to CD20 on the surface of B cells through its crystallizable fragment, it was administered in addition to prednisolone, which successfully decreased the proteinuria over time.
Steane enlargement of entanglement-assisted quantum error-correcting codes
Authors: Galindo Carlos , Hernando Fernando , Matsumoto Ryutaroh
Published: August 2023

We introduce a Steane-like enlargement procedure for entanglement-assisted quantum error-correcting codes (EAQECCs) obtained by considering Euclidean inner product. We give formulae for the parameters of these enlarged codes and apply our results to explicitly compute the parameters of enlarged EAQECCs coming from some BCH codes.
The role of qualification and quality management in the prescription of antipsychotics and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) in nursing home residents in Germany: results of the HIOPP-3-iTBX study
Authors: Stolz Regina , Krause Olaf , Junius-Walker Ulrike , Thürmann Petra , Fuchs Angela , Wilm Stefan , Wollny Anja , Rebentisch Franziska , Wiese Birgitt , Joos Stefanie , Haumann Hannah
Published: August 2023

Background

Nursing home residents (NHR) show high rates of polypharmacy. The HIOPP-3-iTBX study is the first cRCT on medication optimization in nursing homes (NH) in Germany. The intervention did not result in a reduction of PIM and/or antipsychotics. This analysis looks at structure quality in the HIOPP-3-iTBX study participants.

Aims

Evaluation of structure quality as part of a cluster-randomized controlled intervention study.

Methods

Structure quality in multiprofessional teams from n = 44 NH (n = 44 NH directors, n = 91 family doctors (FD), and n = 52 pharmacies with n = 62 pharmacists) was assessed using self-designed questionnaires at baseline. Main aspects of the questionnaires related to the qualification of participants, quality management, the medication process and size of the facilities. All completed questionnaires were included. number of PIM/antipsychotics was drawn from the baseline medication analysis in 692 NHR. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and mixed model logistic regression.

Results

The presence of a nurse with one of the additional qualifications pain nurse or Zertifiziertes Curriculum (Zercur) Geriatrie in the participating NH was associated with a lower risk for the prescription of PIM/antipsychotics. No association between any characteristic in the other participants at baseline was observed.

Conclusions and discussion

The results support the known role of nursing qualification in the quality and safety of care. Further studies need to look more closely at how use is made of the additional qualifications within the multiprofessional teams. Perspectively, the results can contribute to the development of quality standards in NH in Germany.
Hybrid BWRO/FO system for high recovery in-land brackish water desalination: techno-economic assessment
Authors: Sewilam Hani , Al Bazedi Ghada
Published: August 2023

Several hybrid Forward osmosis (FO) systems for seawater and brackish water desalination have been developed in recent years. This study investigates two approaches of integrated systems comprising brackish water reverse osmosis desalination (BWRO) and forward osmosis (FO) systems. These approaches aim to minimize the environmental effect of inland reject brine disposal while enhancing total water recovery. Experiments were performed using different draw solution (DS) concentrations of KCl and MgCl2.6H2O (0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 Molar) to reach maximum recovery. In scheme (A), feed water is directed to BWRO with recovery 45% and 97% rejection, while the brine water is directed to the FO system as FS stream. In scheme (B), the feed water is divided into two streams, one of which is directed to the BWRO with recovery 75% and 98% rejection and the other stream is sent to the FO unit as FS stream. KCl DS displayed higher flux rate of an average 28.5 L/(m2.h) using 2 M concentration, while MgCl2.6H2O 2M solution shows an average flux of 23.5 L/(m2.h) during the first 100 min of operation. Scheme A shows 81% total system recovery, while scheme B shows 78% total system recovery. The cost indicators for desalination system with small capacity of 10 m3/d showed that scheme (A) has lower capital cost 55,732$ for scheme (A), while total capital cost was 59,400 $ for scheme (B).
A Prospective, Longitudinal Study of Caregiver-Reported Adaptive Skills and Function of Individuals with HNRNPH2-related Neurodevelopmental Disorder
Authors: Davis Thomas J. , Salazar Rachel , Beenders Sarah , Boehme Amelia , LaMarca Nicole M. , Bain Jennifer M.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study presents a cohort of individuals in a natural history study with de novo pathogenic missense variants in HNRNPH2 causative of HNRNPH2-related neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) to describe individuals’ adaptive functional abilities.

Methods

We measured adaptive function using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS-III). Results were compared using inferential statistics and regression analysis.

Results

Sixty-seven individuals carried known pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in HNRNPH2. Thirty-five participants (2.89–42.04 years, 83% female) and caregivers completed PEDI-CAT assessments with 25 of these participants completing the VABS-III. Sixteen, three and two participants completed a follow-up PEDI-CAT assessment at one, two and three years respectively. Individuals had mean normative scores less than age-matched peers across all domains on both PEDI-CAT and VABS-III measures, with 91% participants < 5th percentile on both the PEDI- CAT and VABS-III. Verbal and ambulatory participants had significantly higher PEDI-CAT scores across all domains, using both raw and normative data. There was no significant change in PEDI-CAT scores over 3 years.

Conclusions

Overall scores, both raw and normative, are low across all individuals with HNRNPH2-related NDD using both the PEDI-CAT and VABS-III. PEDI-CAT normative scores do not likely represent the clinical variability, but raw scores may be able to capture functional variability. In a small sample, longitudinal data from the PEDI-CAT domain scores demonstrate stability in performance at 3 years.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03492060.
A scoping review on drone technology applications in forensic science
Authors: Mohd Sabri Natassya Ezzaty , Chainchel Singh Mansharan Kaur , Mahmood Mohd Shah , Khoo Lay See , Mohd Yusof Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera , Heo Chong Chin , Muhammad Nasir Muhammad Dzulfiqri , Nawawi Hapizah
Published: August 2023

Drones, formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are versatile technology increasingly associated with many modern-day applications. The advancements in technology have brought about a revolution in drones, extending their applications in various fields, including forensic science. Despite their potential, the full extent of drone capabilities in forensic science remains unclear and limited by a lack of defined evidence. Therefore, this article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current literature on the use of drones in forensic science, while also highlighting the challenges and limitations of their deployment. This review seeks to identify areas for further research and development in the use of drones in forensic science by exploring the key issues. The use of Arksey and O’Malley’s framework updated by Joanna Briggs Institute for Scoping Reviews methodology shows that drones have proven to be a valuable technology in various forensic-related events, including clandestine graves detection, crime scene investigations, traffic accident investigations, disaster assistance, and pollution detection. However, there is still inadequate information on the use of drones in forensic science, particularly in enhancing the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) procedure during the initial phase of a disaster. Therefore, this paper aims to provide insights into the potential applications of drones in forensic science and promote their integration into related fields.
Embracing off-the-grid samples
Authors: López Oscar , Yılmaz Özgür
Published: August 2023

Many empirical studies suggest that samples of continuous-time signals taken at locations randomly deviated from an equispaced grid (i.e.,off-the-grid) can benefit signal acquisition, e.g., undersampling and anti-aliasing. However, explicit statements of such advantages and their respective conditions are scarce in the literature. This paper provides some insight on this topic when the sampling positions are known, with grid deviations generated i.i.d. from a variety distributions. By solving a square-root LASSO decoder with an interpolation kernel we demonstrate the capabilities of nonuniform samples for compressive sampling, an effective paradigm for undersampling and anti-aliasing. For functions in the Wiener algebra that admit a discretes-sparse representation in some transform domain, we show that$${\mathcal {O}}(s{{\,\mathrm{poly\,\hspace{-2pt}log}\,}}N)$$O(spolylogN)random off-the-grid samples are sufficient to recover an accurate$$\frac{N}{2}$$N2-bandlimited approximation of the signal. For sparse signals (i.e.,$$s \ll N$$s≪N), this sampling complexity is a great reduction in comparison to equispaced sampling where$${\mathcal {O}}(N)$$O(N)measurements are needed for the same quality of reconstruction (Nyquist–Shannon sampling theorem). We further consider noise attenuation via oversampling (relative to a desired bandwidth), a standard technique with limited theoretical understanding when the sampling positions are non-equispaced. By solving a least squares problem, we show that$${\mathcal {O}}(N\log N)$$O(NlogN)i.i.d. randomly deviated samples provide an accurate$$\frac{N}{2}$$N2-bandlimited approximation of the signal with suppression of the noise energy by a factor$$\sim \frac{1}{\sqrt{\log (N)}}.$$∼1log(N).
Misinformation and entropic acceleration: algorithms’ departure from life
Authors: Li Shiqiao
Published: August 2023

While algorithms have become lifelike in their capability to generate original information with large data sets and processing power, they depart from life in their parallel production of misinformation and entropic acceleration. Cell evolution on earth over billions of years has to some extent prophesied the most effective evolutionary paths of digital technology: generating original information from normalization of large number of atoms and random variation through genetic mixing in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Yet, cell evolution seems to operate according to the second law of thermodynamics in which entropy defines life processes. Algorithms have so far not responded to the subversion of life through misinformation and entropic acceleration. If we were to reverse misinformation and entropic acceleration, algorithms must return to life to merge the underlying principles of life on earth with the production of original information. Biology must take precedence over mathematics in our twenty-first century metaphysical formulations and materials production.
AQIPred: A Hybrid Model for High Precision Time Specific Forecasting of Air Quality Index with Cluster Analysis
Authors: Yasmin Farhana , Hassan Md. Mehedi , Hasan Mahade , Zaman Sadika , Angon Jarif Huda , Bairagi Anupam Kumar , Changchun Yang
Published: August 2023

The discipline of forecasting and prediction is witnessing a surge in the application of these techniques as a direct result of the strong empirical performance that approaches based on machine learning (ML) have shown over the past few years. Especially to predict wind direction, air and water quality, and flooding. In the context of doing this research, an MLP-LSTM Hybrid Model was developed to be able to generate predictions of this nature. An investigation into the Beijing Multi-Site Air-Quality Data Set was carried out in the context of an experiment. In this particular scenario, the model generated MSE values that came in at 0.00016, MAE values that came in at 0.00746, RMSE values that came in at 13.45, MAPE values that came in at 0.42, and R2 values that came in at 0.95. This is an indication that the model is functioning effectively. The conventional modeling techniques for forecasting, do not give the level of performance that is required. On the other hand, the results of this study will be useful for any type of time-specific forecasting prediction that requires a high level of accuracy.
Scorpion Stings in Minas Gerais (Brazil): A Monocentric Retrospective Study Evaluating All Envenoming Cases of Local Scorpionism
Authors: Ornelas Rachel C. , Silva Letícia D. , de Macedo Leandro R. , de Matos Ione M.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

We aim to provide better insights into the demographic, epidemiological, and seasonal characteristics of scorpion envenomation reported in the Rio Doce Valley, Brazil.

Methods

We conducted this monocentric retrospective descriptive study with data on Investigation Forms of Accidents by Venomous Animals, only envenoming cases of scorpion stings, between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2020, belonging to the compulsory notification system of the Municipal Hospital of Governador Valadares.

Results

There were 3032 accidents, and the male-to-female ratio was 1.17:1 (male, 54%; females, 46%). Accidents occurred every month, but there was an increase in June, July, and October to January. In most cases, the time between the scorpion sting and medical care was between 1 and 3 h (n=1304; 43%). The most frequent clinical and systemic manifestations were pain at the bite site (94%) and vagal symptoms (7%). Cases were mild (n=2750, 91%), moderate (n=221, 7%), and severe (n=56, 2%). Children younger than 10 y constituted the most cases, 522 (17%). There was a significant difference between clinical severity and age ( P<0.01). Ten patients developed acute pulmonary edema. Two 4-y-old children died. All severely envenomated patients as well as 74% and 2% of mild and moderately envenomated patients, respectively, received specific scorpion antivenoms.

Conclusions

Scorpion envenomation is of greater severity in children aged <10 y. The clinical presentation includes mainly local pain associated with vagal symptoms. Accidents occur every month, but there was an increase in June, July, and October to January.