bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Artificial Intelligence Chatbot Aptitude in Detection of Referable Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Tsui Jonathan , Aftab Owais , Khan Hamza , VanderBeek Brian , Scoles Drew , Kim Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Objective: To evaluate ChatGPT’s ability to identify more than mild diabetic retinopathy (mtmDR) and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR) from single fundus images.
Methods: Sixty randomly selected images in equal proportions between normal, mild nonproliferative DR (NPDR), moderate NPDR, severe NPDR or proliferative DR (PDR), blur fundus without PDR, and blur fundus with PDR were utilized from a license-free, publicly available database. Each image was submitted to ChatGPT three times with a standardized prompt regarding mtmDR and VTDR, and its response was recorded. The images were also presented in randomized order to a panel of retina specialists who identified images as readable or unreadable, and potentially as mtmDR or VTDR. The retina specialists’ majority response was considered the gold standard.
Results: ChatGPT was able to read 132/180 (73.33%) of the image prompts, while retina specialists read 158/180 prompts (87.7%) with excellent interrater reliability. For mtmDR, ChatGPT demonstrated a sensitivity of 96.2%, specificity of 19.1%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 69.1%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 72.7%. 110/121 (90.9%) of prompts read by ChatGPT were labeled as mtmDR. For VTDR, ChatGPT demonstrated a sensitivity of 63.0%, specificity of 62.5%, PPV of 71.9%, and NPV of 52.6% compared to the retina specialist consensus. ChatGPT labeled 69/121 (57.0%) of images as VTDR and mislabeled 27/90 (30.0%) of non-VTDR images as VTDR.
Conclusion: ChatGPT demonstrated a modest sensitivity and specificity in the differentiation of mtmDR and VTDR compared to retina specialists.
Improved Steganographic Method with Adaptive and Optimal Pixel Adjustment
Authors: Liu Hsing-Han , Chen Chin-Hsuan
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research is to explore irreversible data hiding techniques in the spatial domain. It combines the adaptive A2MLSB (Adaptive Modified Least Significant Bit Replacement) data hiding method with the Modified Median Edge Detection (MMED) method that has better edge pixel prediction effects. Finally, using the optimal pixel adjustment method for pixel tuning, a data hiding algorithm is designed that can effectively increase the payload of secret messages while maintaining the basic grayscale image carrier quality. In the data hiding method of this research, with the threshold value T = 240, k = 2, 3, 4 for A2MLSB and k = 4, 5 for MMED, the average payloads for testing on 8 images including Lena are 2.7 bpp, 3.42 bpp, and 4.25 bpp, respectively; the average PSNR values are 33.87 dB, 33.18 dB, and 30.64 dB, respectively. After extensive testing, the average payload is 4.25 bpp, and the average PSNR value is 30.18 dB. The stego-images after data hiding are imperceptible to the human eye. Therefore, the data hiding method proposed in this research meets the requirements of imperceptibility and high payload for information hiding and has a better payload than other scholars' methods. Regarding security analysis, the proposed technique has been verified to resist the RS steganalysis and pixel difference histogram analysis techniques.
Vehicle Trajectory Changes on a Closed Road Network due to Major Renewal Works
Authors: Ando Hiroe , Asakura Yasuo , Maruyama Takuya , Nakagawa Shinji
Published: August 2024

Currently, Japan is entering a phase of infrastructure improvement that requires repair of highways and bridges. However, large-scale renewal work that requires long-term road closure is rare. Therefore, this study analyzes the construction activities on the Hanshin Expressway, which involves road closures, to understand its impact on traffic conditions. Understanding the actual situation is useful for improving prediction models and calibrating simulations. This study focused on vehicle-trajectory data, where the ease of data collection, quantity, and accuracy have improved in recent years. The use of vehicle-trajectory data enables the changing behavior of each vehicle to be tracked when road networks are disrupted. This paper presents a method for detecting the impact of roadworks on vehicle trajectories by comparing normal conditions, lane restrictions, and road closures. Specifically, we proposed a special origin and destination (OD) identification procedure and a route-choice variety index corresponding to changes in the set of selectable routes based on road closures. Subsequently, this was used to identify the characteristics of susceptible ODs based on the traffic flow, travel time, and route choice. The results showed that detours were extensive and spread over many routes during OD trips sandwiched between construction sections. The different levels and types of impact caused by the characteristics of ODs could be useful for traffic management in upcoming renewal projects.
Heatwave magnitude quantization and impact factors analysis over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Xiuguo , Zhang Tongchang , Deng Gang , He Yan , Shen Qikai , Chen Qihao
Published: August 2024

More frequent and intense heatwave events (HWEs) on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) present substantial threats to the ecological and hydrological systems. However, understanding the changes in HWEs is limited, primarily from analyses at individual stations or single elements (glaciers, lakes). Here, using refined data, we quantify the heatwave magnitude by aggregating multiple indicators into a comprehensive index and explore the influence of environmental factors on the heatwave magnitude over the TP. Our findings indicate that the heatwave magnitude has significantly increased since the 21st century, especially in autumn. From 1979-2000 to 2000-2022, the heatwave magnitude hotspots migrated toward the northwestern TP, whereas the regions with the most rapid increase shifted in the opposite direction. During the inter-seasonal, from spring to winter, the migration direction of the heatwave magnitude hotspots changed from the northwest in the first 22 years (1979-2000) to the southeast in the recent 22 years (2001-2022). We also find that downwardshortwave radiation plays a significant role in the spatial heterogeneity of the heatwave magnitude, and the heatwave magnitude is also influenced by elevation and land cover. The elevation-dependence of the heatwave magnitude has become more pronounced in the recent 22 years, with a high heatwave magnitude migrating to the higher elevations. Furthermore, the increase in the heatwave magnitude is most rapid in water bodies during this period, which may impact the utilization of water resources. The findings of this study are essential for mitigating the disaster effects of HWEs.
Validation of the Arabic version of the Embodied Sense of Self Scale (ESSS) in general population adults
Authors: Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Ali Amira Mohammed , Amouchi Ghada , Cheour Majda , Hallit Souheil
Published: August 2024

Background
Although the concept of the embodied sense of self (ESS) has attracted considerable interest from researchers around the world over the past years, research in this field is yet to be initiated in Arab countries. To address this gap, and owing to the important role the ESS construct plays in psychopathology, this study proposes to adapt and validate the Embodied Sense of Self Scale (ESSS) to the Arabic context and language by examining its factor structure, reliability, validity, and measurement invariance across sex.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed between March and May 2024 using an online questionnaire and the snowball sampling technique. A total of 502 participants (mean age of 21.74 years, 64.9% females) were included. The ESSS was translated into Arabic using the forward-backward translation method.
Results
Our study replicated the originally proposed three-factor model (i.e., Ownership, Narrative, and Agency) of the ESSS with an acceptable fit: χ2/df = 683.95/272 = 2.52, RMSEA = .055 (90% CI .050, .060), SRMR = .054, CFI = .859, TLI = .845. The reliability analysis was good for the total score (α = .88) and for the three factors (α = .74 − .80). In addition, measurement invariance across sex was established in our sample at the configural, metric, and scalar levels. Findings also showed that empathy positively and weakly correlated with ESSS scores, thus attesting to divergent validity of the Arabic version of the scale. Significant correlations were found between higher ESSS scores and more severe depression, anxiety and stress, whereas no significant correlation was observed between ESSS and self-esteem.
Conclusion
Findings of the present study indicated that the psychometric properties of our Arabic version of the ESSS were good, suggesting that the scale is valid, reliable and ready for use in Arabic-speaking adults and Arab contexts. The Arabic ESSS can be useful for clinicians and researchers in clarifying the complex role of the ESS in the psychopathology of different mental conditions.
The Impact of a Continuous Care Model Utilizing a Smartphone Application on Quality of Life and Anxiety Levels among Gynecologic Cancer Patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Doosti Pardis , Etemadifar Shahram , Aliakbari Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim:
Patients diagnosed with gynecological cancers often face a range of complications that can impact their quality of life and increase their anxiety. Nursing models combined with mobile phone applications have the potential to improve outcomes for these patients. This study aimed to assess the impact of a continuous care model utilizing a smartphone application on quality of life and anxiety levels among gynecologic cancer patients.
Methods
This study involved two phases: (1) mobile app development and (2) implementation of the intervention. The two-group randomized controlled trial included 70 participants with gynecological cancers referred to medical centers affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The participants were randomized into control or intervention groups (n = 35 per group) on the basis of predetermined criteria, but during the study, there was one dropout in each group. Finally, 68 patients completed the trial. The intervention group received an 8-week intervention incorporating the continuous care model, whereas the control group received routine care. The participants completed the Spielberger state-trait anxiety and quality of life (QLQ-C30) questionnaires before, immediately after, and two months after the intervention. The data were analyzed via the chi-square test, independent samples t-test, analysis of covariance, and repeated-measures ANOVA.
Results
In the first phase, the mobile app was designed to meet patient requirements. In the second phase, the results revealed no significant differences in the baseline data between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed immediately and two months after the intervention (P < 0.05). Intragroup comparisons in the intervention group revealed significant differences in trait anxiety, state anxiety, and quality of life before, immediately after and two months after the intervention (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The intervention improved quality of life and reduced anxiety in patients with gynecological cancers. Therefore, this approach can be incorporated into routine care to support patients, and it is recommended for nurses, health care providers, and physicians.
Trial registration:
The study was registered as a randomized controlled trial in the Clinical Trial Registration Center of Iran. Registration Date: 2024-02-14, Registration Number: IRCT20231107059977N1.
Investigating an Asset-Based Literacy and Leadership Afterschool Program for Minoritized High School Students
Authors: Chung He Len , Richter Sarah , Bhargava Mansi , Hoang Brandon , Inwood Daniel
Published: August 2024

The current study used a qualitative research approach to investigate a reading-intensive afterschool program in an underserved neighborhood that has experienced disproportionate levels of stress, violence, and trauma. Consistent with an asset-based framework, the program viewed students’ identities and experiences as strengths to propel academic achievement and the development of agentic learners. Qualitative one-on-one interviews were conducted with ten high school-aged Black and Hispanic youth who participated in the program during the 2020–2021 academic year. Participants reflected on how the program promoted positive youth development by emphasizing relationship-building, developing a culture of connectedness, and helping them prepare for the future. The program also established literacy as a social practice where the surrounding context appeared to shape academic and social-emotional outcomes. Results suggest that out-of-school time organizations are in a unique position to support adolescent identity development. The implications of study findings are discussed in terms of the power of leadership and literacy programming to center culture and identity for Black and Hispanic youth participating in afterschool programs.
Influence of surface integrity on short crack growth behavior in high-performing welded joints
Authors: Ono Yuki , Remes Heikki
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the influence of surface integrity and the localized fatigue phenomena on the initiation and propagation of short fatigue cracks in high-frequency mechanical impact (HFMI) -treated welded joints. The treated surface region, characterized by a compressive residual stress field, smooth notch geometry, and work hardening layer, improves welded joints' fatigue strength. However, how these surface conditions influence the fatigue damage process zone during short crack initiation, and growth is not yet well known. Therefore, this study systematically investigates the influence of different surface characteristics on fatigue life modeling of HFMI-treated welded joints made of high-strength steel. This is achieved using a microstructural sensitive strain-based crack growth approach and elastic-plastic finite element simulation, explicitly modeling treated surface conditions. The simulated fatigue life is first verified with experiments and then applied to various surface conditions. The simulation results show that most of the fatigue life is spent until a crack size of 0.1 to 0.2 mm. The compressive residual stress field greatly extends both short crack initiation and propagation life, with its degree of contribution highly dependent on loading history and residual stress relaxation. The role of the work hardening layer is mainly concentrated on improving fatigue life during short crack initiation and the very beginning of short crack growth.
Construction and Preclinical evaluation of BCL3-Degrading PROTACs for Enhanced Colorectal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhao Jing , Bi Bo , Li Yongshu , Zhou Shangbo , Wang Qiang , Chen Heng-Xing , Li Zihang , Duan Yunmin , Luo Yixuan , Xu Jiaqi , Qiu Miaojuan , Liu Peng , Wen Yingfei , Li Kuan , Li You , Yin Yuan , Dai Lei , Li Binbin , He Yulong
Published: August 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC), with high incidence and mortality rates, ranks among the most prevalent malignant tumors. Molecular targeted therapies have shown impressive clinical outcomes for CRC therapy. However, the clinical success of targeted treatment of CRC is often limited by resistance. There is a pressing clinical demand for novel targeted therapeutics to enhance the prognosis of CRC patients. B-cell lymphoma 3 (BCL3), an integral constituent of the inhibitory NF-κB (IκB) family, has been reported to be frequently overexpressed in colorectal cancers and involved in the tumor etiology and progression. However, the BCL3 protein lacks “pocket” for covalent inhibitor binding, which prevented the relatively matured covalent inhibitor development. In this study, we have developed a small molecule agent (named PJ1799) targeting and degrading BCL3 via Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) strategy. PJ1799 has been designed to encourage efficient degradation of BCL3 in tumor cells via ubiquitin-proteasome system. As a result, BCL3 demonstrated considerable inhibitory potency for colorectal cancer cells through inactivating multiple key signaling pathways, including the PI3K-AKT and JNK/p38-MAPK pathways. To further enhance the tumor targeting of PJ1799 and address its pharmacological limitations, ligand modification and nanoformulation have been conducted through folic acid conjugate and albumin loading, respectively. The modified PJ1799 drugs possessed promising anti-tumor effects in subcutaneous and intraperitoneal tumor models in vivo without undesired side effects observed. In conclusion, we report here a novel BCL3 targeting PROTAC molecules that may provide potential therapeutic option for colorectal cancer. Besides, PJ1799 serves as a potential probe to explore biological functions of BCL3.
TransMamba:A language model combining Transformer and Mamba
Authors: Zhu Xiaocui , Ruan Qunsheng , Sai Qian , Zhang Miaohui
Published: August 2024

In recent years, State Space Models (SSMs) have achieved significant advancements in the field oflanguage modeling. With the advent of Mamba, these models have garnered even greater attention,surpassing Transformers in certain aspects. Despite Mamba’s unique advantages, Transformers remainindispensable due to their complex computational capabilities and proven effectiveness. This paperproposes a novel model that effectively combines the strengths of both Transformers and Mamba.Specifically, our model employs the Transformer’s encoder for encoding and utilizes Mamba as thedecoder for decoding. We introduce a feature fusion technique that integrates the features generated bythe encoder with the hidden states produced by the decoder. This approach effectively amalgamatesthe advantages of both Transformer and Mamba, resulting in enhanced performance. Extensiveexperiments on various language tasks demonstrate that our proposed model achieves competitiveresults, consistently outperforming existing benchmarks.
On the Computation of Accessibility Provided by Shared On-Demand Mobility
Authors: Diepolder Severin , Araldo Andrea , Chouaki Tarek , Maiti Santa , Hörl Sebastian , Antoniou Constantinos
Published: August 2024

Shared Mobility Services (SMS), e.g., demand-responsive transit or ride-sharing, can improve mobility in low-density areas, often poorly served by conventional Public Transport (PT). Such improvement is mostly quantified via basic performance indicators, like wait or travel time. However, accessibility indicators, measuring the ease of reaching surrounding opportunities (e.g., jobs, schools, shops, ...), would be a more comprehensive indicator. To date, no method exists to quantify the accessibility of SMS based on empirical measurements. Indeed, accessibility is generally computed on graph representations of PT networks, but SMS are dynamic and do not follow a predefined network. We propose a spatial-temporal statistical method that takes as input observed trips of a SMS acting as a feeder for PT and summarized such trips in a graph. On such a graph, we compute classic accessibility indicators. We apply our method to a MATSim simulation study concerning demand-responsive transport in Paris-Saclay.
Evaluating the Lateral Capacity of Flexible Pile Group Subjected to Lateral Load in Sloping Ground
Authors: V Sivapriya S , Gandhi Shailesh R
Published: August 2024

The lateral capacity of pile group found on a stable slope reduces as the foundation faces reduced passive resistance. An experimental 1g model and numerical study is carried in to evaluate the reduction in the lateral capacity of pile and pile group in slope. The parameters varied are shear strength (30, 50, 100 and 150 kPa) with a spacing of 3 and 4 times the pile diameter in a slope of 1V:2H, 1V:2.5H and 1V: 3H and various pile positions (at the crest, 1R and 2R, where R- stiffness factor) from the slope crest. When the steepness of the slope and the relative stiffness factor increase, the capacity reduces to a maximum of 42%. The bending moment is high for lower consistency and spacing and it is high for higher slope angle and larger stiffness factor. The depth of maximum bending moment increases when the pile moves along the slope. A non-dimensional chart is proposed to find the lateral bearing capacity of the pile group with the above-studied conditions for prescribed displacement.
Demoralization and related factors in patients with chronic kidney disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dong Li , Wu Yunlian , Chai Yong , Liu Lixia , Cheng Changxia , OuYang Mingqiu , Li Li
Published: August 2024

Objective
This study aimed to investigate demoralization in patients with chronic kidney disease and identify associated factors.
Methods
Participants (N = 345) with chronic kidney disease in a tertiary hospital completed anonymous questionnaire surveys. Measures included the Demoralization Scale - Mandarin Version, the Spiritual Coping Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Resilience Scale-14. Data were analyzed with SPSS 22.0 software, pearson correlation and linear regression analysis were used to explore factors associated with demoralization.
Results
Respondents returned 324 (93.9%) of the 345 questionnaires. The total DS -MV score was 24.55 ± 8.67. Associated factors of demoralization (R2 = 0.602, F = 68.394, p < 0.001) were the duration since CKD diagnosis, spiritual coping, sleep quality, and resilience.
Conclusions
The demoralization of patients with CKD should be considered by health care providers. In this cohort, high demoralization is associated with short time since CKD diagnosis, poor sleep quality, low spiritual coping, and low resilience. Interventions to enhance spiritual coping, increase resilience ,and improve sleep quality may promote mental health of patients.
Mineral Composition Of Four Wild Harvested Edible Insects Consumed By The Indonesian People With An Updated List Of Edible Insects In Indonesia
Authors: AYDOĞAN ZEYNEP , Taşer Ahmet , İncekara Ümit , PRASTİWİ Artina
Published: August 2024

The use of edible insects as food is gaining attention. This study evaluated the toxic elements and minerals composition for four dried edible insects: Phyllophaga helleri (Hope, 1837), Valanga nigricornis (Burmeister, 1838), Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer, 1773, Hyblaea puera (Cramer, 1777). Element content (As, Cd, Hg, Pb, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn and Se) in the selected edible insects were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). This study also contributes to revising the current taxonomic list of edible insects consumed by Indonesians. Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca) and Zinc (Zn) concentrations were highest in Hyblaea puera (Cocoon). Iron (Fe) concentration was highest in Hyblaea puera (Adult). Copper (Cu) concentrations were highest in Valanga nigricornis. Selenium (Se) concentration was highest in Gryllus bimaculatus. The investigated insect species to be considered as a uniform source of Ca, K, Zn, Cu and Fe. These edible insects may be a source of mineral nutrition. Taxonomic analysis of edible insects from Indonesia was presented. A list of 133 edible insects was compiled and updated. Of the edible insects, Coleoptera accounting for about 21%, followed by Hymenoptera (19%), Orthoptera (18%), Hemiptera (10%), Lepidoptera (10%), Odonata (10%), Isoptera (6%), Mantodea (3%), and the least are Psocodea (1%) and Ephemeroptera (1%), Phasmatodea (1%).
Impact of K2SiO3 and Luminosity in the Nutrition and Growth of Genipa americana
Authors: Oliveira Marcos Aurélio , Santos Cleberton Correia , Jardim Rafaela Gomes , Ribeiro Leonardo Meotti , Dias José Ricardo Palácio Caldeira
Published: August 2024

Considering the classification of Genipa americana L. in the ecological succession, excessive exposure to light can be stressful condition, and promotes changes on mineral metabolism and morphophysiology. Foliar application of potassium silicate (K2SiO3) has demonstrated to be a promising alternative for induced tolerance. We aimed to evaluate the effect of applying K2SiO3 on nutrition and growth of G. americana seedlings under two luminous ambiences. Four doses of K2SiO3 via foliar spray were tested: 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mL L–1, and cultivation under full sun or shade. Assessments of nutritional status, growth and quality of seedlings were carried at 45 and 90 days after 1st application of K2SiO3. We observed higher N content in seedlings under full sun at 45 days, and decreased with increased K2SiO3 doses in same ambience at 90 days, while P, K, Ca, and Mg were higher in shaded seedlings and with 10.0 mL L–1 K2SiO3 at 45 and 90 days. The order of nutritional requirements for most seedlings, regardless of cultivation conditions, was K > N > Ca, with inversion of Mg to P requirement with 10.0 mL L–1 K2SiO3. Shaded seedlings showed better growth characteristics at 45 and 90 days, but K2SiO3 contributed to photoassimilates accumulation under full sun. Foliar application 5.0 mL L–1 K2SiO3 contributed to greater stem diameter, leaf area, and Dickson quality index. Foliar application of K2SiO3 alleviated the stressful effects of full sun and favored the nutrition and quality of G. americana seedlings.
The effect of methacrylate ternary polymer on the low-temperature flowability of coal-based diesel
Authors: Wan Shun-li , Liu Jing-mei , Zhou Xiao-dong , Hu Qing-yun , Ma Chun-mei , Sun Peng-tao , Su Yong-guo , Ma Rui-tao
Published: August 2024

In this study, tetradecyl methacrylate-maleic anhydride-benzylidene acetone (C14MC-MA-MCA) terpolymers were synthesized via free radical polymerization and evaluated as pour point depressants (PPDs) for coal-based diesel. The findings indicate that the C14MC-MA-MCA (3:1:1) terpolymer exhibited the most effective inhibition of the solid point (SP) at 1500 ppm concentration. Specifically, it reduced the SP of coal-based diesel from − 4 ℃ to -42 ℃, marking a significant decrease of 38 ℃. Furthermore, the crystallization behavior and SP reduction mechanism of C14MC-MA-MCA in coal-based diesel were investigated using viscosity analysis and polarized optical microscopy (POM).
Nucleotide sequence survey of perilla mosaic virus isolates in Japan unveils complex genetic structure and conserved RNA segments encoding homologous protein groups
Authors: Kubota Kenji , Chiaki Yuya
Published: August 2024

Perilla mosaic virus (PerMV) is a fimovirus that harbors ten RNA segments (RNAs 1, 2, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6a, 6b, 6c, and 7). The presence of PerMV was first reported in Kochi, followed by Ibaraki, Aichi, and Oita prefectures in Japan, and most recently from South Korea. To understand the genetic diversity of these PerMV isolates, partial nucleotide sequences of RNAs 1 to 4 from 21 Japanese isolates were determined. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the segments of the isolates are divided into two clades: the Eastern clade (isolates in Ibaraki) and the Western clade (isolates in Kochi, Oita, and South Korea). Isolates in Aichi appeared to be reassortants of both; RNAs 1 and 3b belonged to the Eastern clade, while the others were of the Western clade. Isolates lacking RNA2, found in four prefectures, suggest RNA2 is not essential for plant infection. Near-complete nucleotide sequences from four isolates in Ibaraki, Aichi, and Oita were determined. They maintained ten RNA segments, including RNAs encoding proteins of P3s, P6s, and P7. This indicates that these proteins, encoded by an apparently redundant segment, are crucial for PerMV’s infection and transmission cycles.
Temperature dependent rotation of protonated methyl groups in otherwise deuterated proteins modulates DEER distance distributions
Authors: SCHMIDT THOMAS , Stadnytskyi Valentyn
Published: August 2024

Temperature-dependent DEER effects are observed as a function of methyl rotation by either leucine- or nitroxide-specific protonated methyl groups. Both species induce a site specific enhancement in the apparent Tm-relaxation of the paramagnetic nitroxide label. The presence of a single protonated methyl group in close proximity (4–10Å) to only one of the two nitroxide rotamer ensembles in protein A results in a selective and substantial decrease in Tm, manifested by differential decay of the peak intensities in the bimodal P(r) distance distribution as a function of the total dipolar evolution time, temperature or both. Temperature assisted Tm filtering will capture the DEER structural analysis of biomolecular systems heterogenic conformations, including complexes involving multimeric proteins.
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol stratification reveals differential impact of TyG index on arterial stiffness: a secondary analysis from a Japanese cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Zuonian , Wang Zhiye , Zhang Lihua , Ni Mengyuan , Ding Wei , Fang Kai , Pan Xijin , Lu Zhaomin , Liu Junjun
Published: August 2024

Objective
This study is to investigate the relationship between the triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) and arterial stiffness, with a specific focus on examining how this relationship varies across distinct levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).
Methods
This investigation leverages data extracted from a Japanese cross-sectional study involving 912 adult participants. Arterial stiffness was identified via brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) exceeding 1400 cm/s. Participants were divided into low-LDL-C (n = 498) and high-LDL-C (n = 414) groups, with the former having LDL-C levels below and the latter at or above the standard of 130mg/dL. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the association between TyG and arterial stiffness, incorporating covariates selected by backward stepwise regression analysis to adjust for confounding. Interaction tests examined the synergistic interplay of TyG with LDL-C levels in an arterial stiffness context.
Results
High-LDL-C participants exhibited significantly higher TyG values, baPWV measurements, and prevalence of arterial stiffness compared to their low-LDL-C counterparts (all P < 0.05). Univariate logistic regression initially suggested a positive correlation between TyG and arterial stiffness in both low- and high-LDL-C groups (all P < 0.05). Post-adjustment in the multivariate model, however, this correlation was sustained significantly only within individuals with low LDL-C (OR = 2.142, 95% CI: 1.03–4.46, P = 0.042), losing significance in the high-LDL-C counterparts. The interaction test confirms a synergistic effect between TyG index and LDL-C levels on arterial stiffness (P for interaction = 0.01).
Conclusion
Our research accentuates the pivotal role of concurrently assessing LDL-C and TyG in estimating arterial stiffness, shedding light on TyG's elevated predictive efficacy, especially in subjects exhibiting low LDL-C concentrations. These insights enhance our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying arterial stiffness and offer a scientific basis for tailored preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions.
Capacity Building for Evidence-Based Practice in the Health Sector: Results from Training Needs Assessment for an Implementation Science Program in Tanzania
Authors: Kacholi Godfrey , Mushi Lawrencia , Welty Susie , Packel Laura , Mchome Agness , Amani Paul , Said Christen , Mollel Henry , McCoy Sandra I , Swai Idda Lyatonga , Anasel Mackfallen , Liu Jenny
Published: August 2024

Background: The gap between evidence-based interventions and real-world healthcare practices remains a public health challenge, particularly in low-resource settings like Tanzania. Building the capacity of health professionals in implementation science is crucial to bridging such gaps. This study aimed to identify training needs for healthcare professionals in implementation science to inform the development of a training program in Tanzania.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional mixed-methods study to establish health professional skill gaps in implementation science. The study used a mix of purposive and convenience sampling to recruit 148 participants. A combination of self-administered questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data.
Results: The findings confirmed the need for an implementation science training program for healthcare professionals in Tanzania. A blended mode of delivery (online modules and workshops) with flexible durations to cater to busy professionals was proposed. Three exit qualification levels (master's, diploma, certificate) were proposed to target participants at different stages of their education and careers. In addition to the three exit levels, a short course training was also proposed.
Conclusions: Knowledge and skills in implementation science among health professionals are highly needed to fill the existing individual gaps and health system demands. The results of this TNA will be instrumental in designing an evidence-based and reflective implementation science training program that is context-specific and relevant. The engagement of key stakeholders in the design and development process was critical for the ownership, effective implementation, and sustainability of the implementation science program.
Effectiveness of Psycho-social Nursing Intervention on Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Well-being of Adolescent Childrens of Substance Abusive Parents
Authors: parwanda Geeta , shankar Archana , bhardwaj priya
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: According to WHO that children of parents with an SUD were found to be of lower socioeconomic status and had more difficulties in academic, social, and family functioning when compared with children of parents who do not have an SUD. These children are also more likely to have higher rates of mental and behavioral disorders.1 Children who are exposed to a parent with SUDs are more likely to develop SUD symptoms themselves.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
1. To assess the emotional intelligence and psychological well-being of adolescent childrens of substance abusive parents in experimental and control group.
2. To assess the effect of psycho-social nursing intervention on emotional intelligence and psychological well-being of adolescents childrens of substance abusive parents in experimental group.
3. To compare the post test score of effectiveness of psycho-social nursing intervention on level of emotional intelligence in experimental and control group.
4. To find out the association between post test score on level of emotional intelligence and psychological well-being of adolescent childrens with their selected demographic variables in experimental group.
METHOD: A quasi experimental study was done on 60 adolescent childrens of substance abusive parents, 30 in both experimental and control group selected by non-probability purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by using Structured questionnaire of psychosocial nursing intervention on emotional intelligence and psychological well-being Structured questionnaire on emotional intelligence and psychological well-being pre-test and post-test was taken from both experimental and control group, video assisted teaching was given only in experimental group.
RESULT: Finding revealed that by administered psycho-social nursing intervention to experimental group improve the emotional intelligence and psychological well-being confirmed by unpaired “t” test (t=8.83 and P=<0.001%).
CONCLUSION: The study concluded that the video assisted teaching was effective to improve the knowledge regarding emotional intelligence and psychological well-being of adolescent childrens of substance abusive parents in selected community area at Meerut.
Intra-seasonal Variability and Physical Characteristics of Break and Active Phases in the Mainland Indochina Southwest Monsoon
Authors: OO KYAW THAN , Jonah Kazora
Published: August 2024

The term ``break`` is traditionally applied only to dry spells occurring after the monsoon onset in the region. Simply put, the daily rainfall of the monsoon is paused over the region, for a few days, called a “break spell.” The researchers have suggested that the standardized anomalies of three consecutive days of rainfall should prevail to categorize the active and break spells. This study examined break spells and active spells on the inter-annual, intra-seasonal, and decadal scales by examining the frequency and spatial distribution of daily rainfall occurrences of different intensities linked to break and active events over the mainland Indochina region. The difference in the vertical meridional circulation between the active spells with moist convection and intense break events with heat through circulation was explained by various atmospheric parameters. La Niña encourages more break days than active days, and the distinction in vertical meridional circulation between intense break events with a heat trough type circulation and active spells with moist convection is crucial for developing suitable prediction tools.
Potential Association Between Triglyceride-Glucose Related Indices and Type 2 Diabetes-Related Complications: Insights from the National Metabolic Management Center and MIMIC-IV 3.0 Databases
Authors: Zhang Yue-Yang , Bai Xue , Chen Bing-Xue , Wan Qin
Published: August 2024

Background
The triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) and its related indices are predominantly utilized for the effective assessment of insulin resistance. However, their predictive value concerning type 2 diabetes-related complications remains uncertain. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential association between TyG-related indices and type 2 diabetes-related complications through a retrospective analysis of two distinct populations.
Methodss
Established in 2016, the National Metabolic Management Center (MMC) serves as a comprehensive platform designed for the standardized diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up of metabolic diseases, encompassing nearly 300 hospitals across various regions of China. Out of 8,669 initially hospitalized patients, 2,194 were selected for subsequent analysis. Patients were stratified into three groups according to the tertiles of TyG-related indices, with circulatory abnormalities (CA), diabetic kidney disease (DKD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) serving as the primary outcomes. Logistic regression, restricted cubic splines, and subgroup analyses were employed to evaluate the association between TyG-related indices and complications associated with type 2 diabetes. Finally, a validation analysis was performed on 9,715 samples from the MIMIC-IV 3.0 database to bolster the reliability and generalizability of the findings.
Results
Logistic regression analysis of patients in the MMC database revealed that, in fully adjusted models, each 1 SD increase in TyG and TyG-WC was significantly associated with an elevated risk of DKD. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis indicated a non-linear inverse L-shaped relationship between TyG and DKD risk, while TyG-WC demonstrated a distinct dose-response relationship with DKD risk. Validation analysis conducted in the MIMIC-IV database further corroborated the significant association between TyG-related indices and the risk of DKD.
Conclusions
The findings of this study, involving both Chinese and American populations, indicate that TyG-related indices may serve as robust and independent potential biomarkers for assessing the risk of DKD in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Enhancing AI Chatbot Responses in Healthcare: The SMART Prompt Structure in Head and Neck Surgery
Authors: Vaira Luigi Angelo , Lechien Jerome R. , Abbate Vincenzo , Gabriele Guido , Frosolini Andrea , De Vito Andrea , Maniaci Antonino , Yanez Miguel Mayo , Boscolo-Rizzo Paolo , Saibene Alberto Maria , Maglitto Fabio , Salzano Giovanni , Califano Gianluigi , Troise Stefania , Chiesa-Estomba Carlos Miguel , De Riu Giacomo
Published: August 2024

Objective. To evaluate the impact of prompt construction on the quality of AI chatbot responses in the context of head and neck surgery. Study design. Observational and evaluative study. Setting. International collaboration involving 16 researchers from 11 European centers specializing in head and neck surgery. Methods. A total of 24 questions, divided into clinical scenarios, theoretical questions, and patient inquiries, were developed. These questions were inputted into ChatGPT-4o both with and without the use of a structured prompt format, known as SMART (Seeker, Mission, AI Role, Register, Targeted Question). The AI-generated responses were evaluated by experienced head and neck surgeons using the QAMAI instrument, which assesses accuracy, clarity, relevance, completeness, source quality, and usefulness. Results. The responses generated using the SMART prompt scored significantly higher across all QAMAI dimensions compared to those without contextualized prompts. Median QAMAI scores for SMART prompts were 27.5 (IQR 25–29) versus 24 (IQR 21.8–25) for unstructured prompts (p < 0.001). Clinical scenarios and patient inquiries showed the most significant improvements, while theoretical questions also benefited but to a lesser extent. The AI's source quality improved notably with the SMART prompt, particularly in theoretical questions. Conclusions. The study suggests that the structured SMART prompt format significantly enhances the quality of AI chatbot responses in head and neck surgery. This approach improves the accuracy, relevance, and completeness of AI-generated information, underscoring the importance of well-constructed prompts in clinical applications. Further research is warranted to explore the applicability of SMART prompts across different medical specialties and AI platforms.
Analysis of shoreline dynamics of Lake Sibaya in South Africa between 1986 and 2020 using the Landsat series and DSAS algorithm
Authors: Kemp Fallon Kagney , Xulu Sifiso , Gebreslasie Michael
Published: August 2024

Lake Sibaya is the largest nearshore freshwater lake in South Africa. It is ecologically and socioeconomically linked to the human development agenda in the northeastern coastal region of the country. It is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the first proclaimed World Heritage Site in the country and the only water resource serving surrounding areas. However, Lake Sibaya is reportedly drying up rapidly for various reasons (e.g., commercial forestry), yet the extent and pattern of this drying are unidentified. Here, we used the Landsat satellite data series and the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) algorithm to analyze the changes in the shoreline of Lake Sibaya between 1986 and 2020. The study results indicate that Lake Sibaya displayed major retracting changes from 70.6 km2 in 1986 to 49.5 km2 in 2020, with marked erosional changes in the regions of the southeastern basin and northern arm. This occurred with a net shoreline displacement of − 1338 m and an end point rate of − 39 m/year, averaging ± 6 m/year. Our results projected further lake retreat from 49.5 km2 in 2020 to 39.1 km2 in 2030. We observed vegetation growth on sandbanks separating the southeastern basin from the main system, threatening to isolate these systems entirely. Improved rainfall is expected to reconnect these basins because they rely heavily on groundwater recharge. Otherwise, activities served by the southeastern basin will be affected. We recommend further research to accurately quantify the levels of abstraction by different users, including fine-scale mapping of planted forests surrounding this lake.
Mode-shell correspondence, a unifying phase space theory in topological physics - Part I: Chiral number of zero-modes
Authors: Jezequel Lucien , Delplace Pierre
Published: August 2024

We propose a theory, that we call the , which relates the topological zero-modes localised in phase space to a invariant defined on the surface forming a shell enclosing these zero-modes. We show that the mode-shell formalism provides a general framework unifying important results of topological physics, such as the bulk-edge correspondence, higher-order topological insulators, but also the Atiyah-Singer and the Callias index theories. In this paper, we discuss the already rich phenomenology of chiral symmetric Hamiltonians where the topological quantity is the chiral number of zero-dimensional zero-energy modes. We explain how, in a lot of cases, the shell-invariant has a semi-classical limit expressed as a generalised winding number on the shell, which makes it accessible to analytical computations.
One-dimensional Fermi polaron after a kick: Two-sided singularity of the momentum distribution, Bragg reflection and other exact results
Authors: Gamayun Oleksandr , Lychkovskiy Oleg
Published: August 2024

A mobile impurity particle immersed in a quantum fluid forms a polaron - a quasiparticle consisting of the impurity and a local disturbance of the fluid around it. We ask what happens to a one-dimensional polaron after a kick, i.e. an abrupt application of a force that instantly delivers a finite impulse to the impurity. In the framework of an integrable model describing an impurity in a one-dimensional gas of fermions or hard-core bosons, we calculate the distribution of the polaron momentum established when the post-kick relaxation is over. A remarkable feature of this distribution is a two-sided power-law singularity. It emerges due to one of two processes. In the first process, the whole impulse is transferred to the polaron, without creating phonon-like excitations of the fluid. In the second process, the impulse is shared between the polaron and the center-of-mass motion of the fluid, again without creating any fluid excitations. The latter process is, in fact, a Bragg reflection at the edge of the emergent Brillouin zone. We carefully analyze the conditions for each of the two processes. The asymptotic form of the distribution in the vicinity of the singularity is derived.
A non-unitary bulk-boundary correspondence: Non-unitary Haagerup RCFTs from S-fold SCFTs
Authors: Gang Dongmin , Kim Dongyeob , Lee Sungjay
Published: August 2024

We introduce a novel class of two-dimensional non-unitary rational conformal field theories (RCFTs) whose modular data are identical to the generalized Haagerup-Izumi modular data. Via the bulk-boundary correspondence, they are related to the three-dimensional non-unitary Haagerup topological field theories, recently constructed by a topological twisting of three-dimensional N=4 rank-zero superconformal field theories (SCFTs), called S-fold SCFTs. We propose that, up to the overall factors, the half-indices of the rank-zero SCFTs give the explicit Nahm representation of four conformal characters of the RCFTs including the vacuum character. Using the theory of Bantay-Gannon, we can successfully complete them into the full admissible conformal characters of the RCFTs.
Mean-field theory of first-order quantum superconductor-insulator transition
Authors: Poboiko Igor , Feigel'man Mikhail V.
Published: August 2024

Recent experimental studies on strongly disordered indium oxide films have revealed an unusual first-order quantum phase transition between the superconducting and insulating states (SIT). This transition is characterized by a discontinuous jump from non-zero to zero values of superfluid stiffness at the critical point, contradicting the conventional “scaling scenario” typically associated with SIT. In this paper, we present a theoretical framework for understanding this first-order transition. Our approach is based on the concept of competition between two fundamentally distinct ground states that arise from electron pairs initially localized by strong disorder: the superconducting state and the Coulomb glass insulator. These ground states are distinguished by two crucially different order parameters, suggesting a natural expectation of a discontinuous transition between them at T=0T=0. This transition occurs when the magnitudes of the superconducting gap \DeltaΔ and the Coulomb gap E_CEC become comparable. Additionally, we extend our analysis to low non-zero temperatures and provide a mean-field “phase diagram” in the plane of (T/\Delta,E_C/\Delta)(T/Δ,EC/Δ). Our results reveal the existence of a natural upper bound for the kinetic inductance of strongly disordered superconductors.