bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing an introductory statistics subject for students with diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications
Authors: Kuveke Rupert E.H. , Shaker Amanda J. , Prendergast Luke
Published: April 2024

This is a case study on the design of a first-year undergraduate statistics subject at La Trobe University, entitled Making Sense of Data, which is taken by students from various disciplines. To account for students' diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications, this subject is designed such that all students complete core statistics concepts, while a third of the subject contains stream-specific content. This subject design provides students with a solid foundation in statistics, while addressing the demand for a flexible first-year statistics subject which is accessible and relevant for students enrolled in a variety of tertiary degrees. This structure allows for stream-specific lectures, computer lab material, assessments, and even statistical software programs to be used across different streams. The design also incorporates strategies for addressing statistics anxiety within the curriculum. In this paper, we present the outcomes of this subject design in terms of student performance, engagement and satisfaction. We also present iterative and reflective changes that have been made to the subject over time, in response to student and staff feedback, and discuss the impact these changes have had on student outcomes.
Toward a holistic approach to mathematics support at Munster Technological Universityâ€™s Academic Learning Centre
Authors: Hurley Marian , Casey Deirdre
Published: April 2024

This case study outlines plans for a revised approach to mathematics support at Munster Technological Universityâ€™s Academic Learning Centre. Under this proposed approach, mathematics support â€“ delivered both on a one-to-one basis and in group settings â€“ is to be supplemented by and integrated with learning supports offered by the Academic Learning Centreâ€™s sister programmes, Academic Success Coaching and Navigate Learning Development. This new approach will see the three programmes brought together under the Academic Learning Centre name. In implementing this approach, we have two key objectives: firstly, to determine the impact of this integrated approach on our mathematics support service and on its users â€“ particularly those displaying traits of mathematics anxiety â€“ and, secondly, to assess the extent to which presenting students with one integrated support option may result in increased service access and use.
Using Generative AI to help with statistical test selection and analysis
Authors: Goodale Tom
Published: April 2024

One of the most common questions that students ask statistics advisors is â€˜What test should I do?â€™ This paper explores the use of generative AI chatbots, specifically ChatGPT, as a tool to assist students, in particular those with limited experience in statistics, in selecting appropriate statistical tests for their analyses. Traditional methods, such as flowcharts and online test selectors, require at least a basic understanding of measurement scales and research design, which can be an issue for many students who have limited exposure to statistics on their courses. This research focuses on developing and refining prompts to guide ChatGPT in providing accurate and relevant statistical test recommendations. A hypothetical scenario was used to test the effectiveness of various prompts, ranging from simple, naÃ¯ve questions to more sophisticated ones utilising specific prompt patterns, such as the â€˜context managerâ€™ and â€˜flipped interaction.â€™ These patterns were selected to enhance the chatbotâ€™s responses and ensure the relevance and accuracy of the test suggestions. The findings suggest that while AI chatbots like ChatGPT can be a valuable resource for students, their effectiveness is highly dependent on the quality of the prompts used. The paper concludes with a discussion on the potential of these AI tools in educational settings, acknowledging the limitations of current technology and suggesting directions for future research and development.
Editorial
Authors: Rowlett Peter
Published: April 2024

Editorial
Animal Cruelty and punishment in the United States, and Animal Welfare Act in Korea
Authors:   Korean Association of Public Safety and Criminal Justice, Park MiRang
Published: April 2024

The main purpose of this study was to examine the U.S. animal cruelty prohibition regulations through federal law and the laws of various states, to examine the parts that need inspection among Korea's animal cruelty regulations, and to suggest the direction. The regulations banning animal abuse at the federal level were enacted in 1999 and revised in 2019 to expand the scope of the act, and the punishment standard was also raised to a maximum of 7 years. In the case of state law, with the enactment of South Dakota's Animal Cruelty Act in 2014, all states in the United States now have animal cruelty regulations, and through recent revisions, all acts that were previously considered misdemeanors are treated as felonies, and animal cruelty acts are also strictly punished. The punishment trend is getting tougher. Rather than simply raising the statutory penalty, and treating fine-eligible acts as a comprehensive crime, a fine is imposed for each violation or for each number of animals abused, or in states with low maximum statutory penalties, the fine standard is set significantly higher to punish abusers. Strict financial burdens have also been found. In general, acts that cause unnecessary pain to animals, animal fighting, and sexual abuse against animals were punished most severely. In the case of animal fighting or gambling, not only the instigator but also all those who participated in the process of making the illegal act possible were punished. In addition, dyeing and piercing of pets was prohibited, and removing claws or vocal cords for humans was also prohibited. By reviewing the laws prohibiting animal cruelty in the United States, this study proposed the need to define various types of animal cruelty as prohibited, factors for aggravating punishment, and establishing an independent animal cruelty department for prosecutors and police in Korea.
Effects of starting one lung ventilation and applying individualized PEEP right after patients are placed in lateral decubitus position on intraoperative oxygenation for patients undergoing thoracoscopic pulmonary lobectomy: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Qing-Yuan , Zhou Yang , Wang Mengrui , Jiao Youyou
Published: April 2024

Background: For patients receiving one lung ventilation in thoracic surgery, numerous studies have proved the superiority of lung protective ventilation of low tidal volume combined with recruitment maneuvers (RM) and individualized PEEP. However, RM may lead to overinflation which aggravates lung injury and intrapulmonary shunt. In most previous studies, RM or PEEP was not applied until atelectasis has already formed. Because atelectasis usually does not develop the moment patients are turned into lateral decubitus position, we hypothesize that applying sufficient PEEP without RM immediately after patients are turned into that position is as effective to prevent atelectasis and thus improve oxygenation as applying PEEP with RM.
Methods: A total of 84 patients scheduled for elective pulmonary lobe resection necessitating one lung ventilation will be recruited and randomized to the study group and the control group. For patients in the study group , one lung ventilation will be initiated right after the position of double lumen tube in lateral decubitus position is adjusted, and then individualized PEEP titration is applied. For patients in the control group, one lung ventilation will not be initiated until pleura is opened; and after the initiation, RM will be performed followed by individualized PEEP titration. The primary endpoint will be oxygenation index. Secondary endpoints will include intrapulmonary shunt, respiratory mechanics, PPCs, and hemodynamic indicators.
Discussion: Numerous previous studies compared the effects of individualized PEEP applied alone with that applied in combination with RM on oxygenation index, PPCs, intrapulmonary shunt and respiratory mechanics after atelectasis was formed in patients receiving one lung ventilation during thoracoscopic surgery. In this study, we will apply individualized PEEP before the formation of atelectasis while not performing RM in patients allocated to the study group, and then we’re going to observe its effects on the aspects mentioned above. The results of this trial will provide a ventilation strategy that not only improves intraoperative oxygenation but also avoids the detrimental effects of RM for patients receiving one lung ventilation.
Trial registration: www.Chictr.org.cn ChiCTR2400080682. Registered on February 5, 2024.
Biometric analysis of the cranial features of common vole s
Authors: Baláž Ivan , Csákiová Žofia , Tulis Filip
Published: April 2024

Although cranial bones reliably identify the features of mammals, these traits can be affected by sex, population size and seasonality. This paper biometrically analyses the cranial features of the common vole. The research sample consisted of adult (n = 134), subadult (n = 57), of western Slovakia. Overall, software based on the highlighted marks measured 29 cranial features. Significant sexual dimorphism was observed for three features in adult subjects (“WMTRR”, “AMdm” and “AMd”) and four features in subadults (“LOSD”, “WMTRR”, “LoM” and “ALLM”). Results showed a significant positive relationship between body weight and cranial size in 24 of the 29 features. They also suggested a weak but significant positive effect of cranium size on common vole abundance (Chitty effect) likewise in 24 of the 29 features. In several cases, this effect influenced also the abundance and age of the individuals.
Assessment of Poly (diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride) and Lime for Surface Water Treatment (Pond, River, and Canal water): Seasonal Variations and Correlation Analyses
Authors: Jabin Shagufta , Kapoor J. K. , Chadha Anupama , Gupta Anjali , Jadoun Sapana
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the basic characteristics of various surface water sources, including pond water, river water, and canal water, across four distinct seasons. The research endeavours to assess the impact of a cationic polyelectrolyte, specifically poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (PDADMAC), utilized as a coagulation aid in conjunction with lime for water treatment purposes. Employing a conventional jar test apparatus, turbidity removal from diverse water samples is examined. Furthermore, the samples undergo characterization utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques. The study also conducts correlation analyses on various parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity of raw water, polyelectrolyte dosage, and percentage of turbidity removal across different water sources. Utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software, these analyses aim to establish robust relationships among initial turbidity, temperature, percentage of turbidity removal, dosage of coagulant aid, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids (TDS) in pond water, river water, and canal water. By elucidating these correlations, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of PDADMAC and lime in water treatment processes across diverse environmental conditions. This research not only enhances our comprehension of surface water treatment methodologies but also provides valuable insights for optimizing water treatment strategies to address the challenges posed by varying water sources and seasonal fluctuations.
Ultrafast Optical Modulation by Virtual Interband Transitions.
Authors: Narimanov Evgenii
Published: April 2024

A new frontier in optics research has been opened by the recent developments in non-perturbative optical modulation in both time and space that creates temporal boundaries generating ``time-reflection'' and ``time-refraction'' of light in the medium. The resulting formation of a Photonic Time Crystal within the modulated
optical material leads to a broad range new phenomena with a potential for practical applications, from non-resonant light amplification and tunable lasing, to the new regime of quantum light-matter interactions. However, the creation of the temporal boundary for light relies on optical modulation of the refractive index that is both strong and fast even on the time scale of a single optical cycle. Both of these two problems are extremely challenging even when addressed independently, leading to fundamentally conflicting requirements for all existing methods of optical modulation. However, as we show in the present work, an alternative approach based on virtual interband transition excitation, solves this seemingly insurmountable problem. Being fundamentally dissipation-free, optical modulation by virtual excitation does not face the problem of heat accumulation and dissipation in the material, while the inherently transient nature of the excited virtual population that modifies the material response only on the time scale of a single optical cycle, ensures that the resulting change in the refractive index is inherently ultrafast. Here we develop the theoretical description of the proposed modulation approach, and demonstrate that it can be readily implemented using already existing optical materials and technology.
Incorporating Hydraulic Gradient and Pumping Rate into GALDIT Framework for Salinity Hazard Assessment in Coastal Aquifers: A Case Study of Urmia Plain, Iran
Authors: Fakhri Mirsajsd , Moghaddam Asghar Asghari , Nadiri Ata Allah , Barzegar Rahim , Cloutier Vincent
Published: April 2024

The critical role of groundwater in meeting diverse needs, including drinking, industrial and agricultural, highlights the urgency of effective resource management. Excessive groundwater extraction, especially in coastal regions including Urmia Plain in NW Iran, disrupts the equilibrium between freshwater and saline boundaries within aquifers. Influential parameters governing seawater intrusion – groundwater occurrence (G), aquifer hydraulic conductivity (A), the height of groundwater level above the mean sea level (L), distance from the shore (D), impact of the existing status of seawater intrusion (I), and thickness of the saturated aquifer (T) – merge to shape the GALDIT vulnerability index for coastal aquifers. This study enriches the GALDIT framework by incorporating two additional hydrogeological variables: hydraulic gradient (i) and pumping rate (P). This expansion produces seven distinct vulnerability maps (GALDIT, GAiDIT, GAiDIT-P, GALDIT-i, GALDIT-iP, GALDIT-P, GAPDIT). In the Urmia Plain, the traditional GALDIT index reveals vulnerability values ranging from 2 to 8.1, categorized into six classes from negligible to very high vulnerability. However, the modified indices, GAiDIT and GAiDIT-P, yield a three-class categorization, ranging from low to high vulnerability. The introduction of the 'i' and 'P' parameters in GALDIT-i and GALDIT-iP enhances the precision of vulnerability mapping, altering class distribution and intensifying vulnerability ratings. The eastern, central, and coastal areas of the Urmia Plain demonstrate high to very high vulnerability levels, in contrast to the lower vulnerability observed in the western regions. Both the GALDIT-P (r = 0.82) and GALDIT-iP (r = 0.81) indices show strong correlations with chloride concentration, thereby improving mapping accuracy over the traditional GALDIT index (r = 0.72). A sensitivity analysis highlights the critical influence of the 'i' parameter, suggesting its weighting should be revised. Parameter recalibration serves to amplify the significance of 'G', 'L', 'D', and 'i' parameters, while diminishing others. The integration of multiple hydrogeological variables considerably enhances the precision of groundwater vulnerability assessments.
Origin and implications of He-depleted Afar mantle plume
Authors: Balci Ugur , Stuart Finlay , Barrat Jean-Alix , Grima Antoniette , Zwan Froukje van der
Published: April 2024

Mantle plumes originate in the deep Earth and where they reach the surface tend to produce abnormally hot basaltic lavas. Plume-derived lavas are characterised by enrichments in primordial volatiles that are best tracked by the isotopic composition of the noble gases He, Ne and Xe. In the prevailing paradigm the deep mantle is significantly less degassed thus plume-derived lavas should have higher concentration of primordial He compared to lavas from the more vigorously convecting shallow mantle. Demonstrating this has proved challenging and has led to alternative explanations that question the established Earth model. Here, we show that the 3He/4He ratio of submarine basaltic glasses from the Red Sea and Gulf of Tadjoura displays a coherent relationship with diagnostic trace element ratios and distance from the Afar plume axis. Contrary to the prevailing model the data require that the upwelling Afar mantle plume has 4-10 times less He than the nearby upper mantle despite maintaining high 3He/4He. This contradiction can be resolved in the Afar plume is itself a mix of He-rich, high-3He/4He deep mantle with He-depleted, low-3He/4He oceanic crust that has been subducted in the last 80 Myr. This model places strong constraints on the origin of the slab in the Afar mantle and where it is incorporated into the upwelling mantle. Further, it implies that He-depleted domains may be common in the upper mantle, it may explain why plume-derived lavas have lower He concentrations than mid-ocean ridge basalts and suggests that upwelling plumes with moderately high 3He/4He are unlikely to contain a geochemical signature of the deep mantle.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution Characteristics of Dust Concentration Based on Satellite in Mining Area
Authors: dong xukai , Liu zhigao , Zhang Erhui
Published: April 2024

In order to study the spatial and temporal migration characteristics of dust diffusion and the impact of mining dust on urban environment in Pingshuo mining area, the distribution law of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration in Pingshuo mining area was analyzed by satellite remote sensing monitoring technology. The results show that the correlation coefficients between the monthly average concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 in Shuozhou City obtained by satellite inversion and the monitoring data of national control stations are 0.88 and 0.63, respectively, indicating a high reliability of satellite inversion data. The spatial distribution of dust concentration in Pingshuo mining area shows a low level in summer and autumn, and a high level in winter and spring, with significant dust accumulation phenomenon in winter. The air quality situation in Pingshuo mining area is best from June to September, with an increase in particle concentration in April and May, obvious pollution phenomena in January and March, and poor air quality conditions. The correlation analysis of dust concentration between urban areas and mining areas reveals a significant spatial discontinuity at the boundary between urban areas and mining areas, showing lower levels at the boundary while higher levels are observed within both urban areas as well as mining areas. This indicates that the mining area is not fundamentally responsible for the increase in dust concentration in urban areas, as changes in dust concentration within the mining area have no significant impact on urban areas.
Does Haldane’s rule speciation within mimetic Poison frogs?
Authors: LORIOUX-CHEVALIER Ugo , CHOUTEAU Mathieu , ROLAND Alexandre-Benoit
Published: April 2024

To explain how populations with distinct warning signals coexist in close parapatry, we experimentally assessed intrinsic mechanisms acting as reproductive barriers within three Ranitomeya poison-frog species. For all species, assortative mating did not occur, nor did a survival disadvantage for inter-population hybrids. However, in Ranitomeya fantastica, these hybrids of the male sex are sterile, an outcome predicted by Haldane’s rule. Our results suggest a possible XY sex determinism in R. fantastica, and show that this process is associated with an extraordinary diversity, leading to speciation.
Establishment of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Cortical Neurosphere Model to Study Pathomechanisms and Drug Sensitivity in Kleefstra Syndrome
Authors: Balogh Andrea , Bódi-Jakus Mária , Karl Vivien Réka , Bellák Tamás , Széky Balázs , Lamberto Federica , Novak David , Fehér Anita , Zana Melinda , Dinnyés András
Published: April 2024

In the present study, we aimed to establish and characterize a mature cortical spheroid model system for Kleefstra syndrome (KS) using patient-derived iPSC. We identified key differences in the growth behavior of KS spheroids determined by reduced proliferation marked by low Ki67 and high CDKN1A expression. Conversely, in the spheroid-based neurite outgrowth assay KS outperformed the control neurite outgrowth due to higher BDNF expression. KS spheroids were highly enriched in VGLUT1/2-expressing glutamatergic and ChAT-expressing cholinergic neurons, while TH-positive dopaminergic neurons were significantly underrepresented. Furthermore, high NMDAR1 expression was detected in the KS spheroid as well, similarly to other patients-derived neuronal cultures, denoting high NMDAR1 expression as a general, KS-specific marker. Control and KS neuronal progenitors and neurospheres were exposed to different toxicants (paraquat, rotenone, bardoxolone, and doxorubicin), and dose-response curves were assessed after acute exposure. Differentiation stage and compound-specific differences were detected with KS neurospheres being the most sensitive to paraquat. Altogether this study describes a robust 3D model system expressing the disease-specific markers and recapitulating the characteristic pathophysiological traits. This platform is suitable for testing developing brain-adverse environmental effects interactions, drug development, and screening towards individual therapeutic strategies.
The long-term efficacy of eltrombopag in children with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Yang Li , Sang Bao-Hua , Yang Chun-Hui , Xiao Zu-Gang , Fang Chun-Lian , Lv Yu , Li Na , Yang Qing , Chai Shu-Min , Tian Xin , Zhang Xian-Wen , Huang Ti-Long
Published: April 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is the most common autoimmune disorder characterized by decreased platelet counts and impaired platelet production. Eltrombopag has been demonstrated to be safe and effective for children with ITP. It is reported eltrombopag can achieve a sustained response off treatment. However, data on its overall efficacy and safety profile are scarce in children. This study aimed to investigate the long-term efficacy of eltrombopag in children with ITP. Treatment overall response (OR), complete response (CR), response (R), durable response (DR), no response (NR), treatment free remission (TFR), and relapse rate, were assessed in 103 children with ITP during eltrombopag therapy. The OR rate, CR rate, R rate, DR rate, NR rate, TFR, and relapse rate were 67.0%, 55.3%, 11.7%, 56.3%, 33.0%, 60%, 36.2%, respectively. Importantly, we discovered that newly diagnosed ITP patients showed a higher DR rate, TFR rate and lower relapse rate compared to persistent and chronic ITP patients. Furthermore, the CR rate, DR rate, and TFR rate of 5 patients under six months were 100%. None of them suffered relapse. The most common adverse event (AEs) was hepatotoxicity (7.77%). Our study highlighted the critical role of eltrombopag as the second-line treatment in children with ITP who were intolerant to first-line therapy.
Impact of Additional Cytogenetic Aberrations at Diagnosis on Prognosis of Adults Patients with Philadelphia Chromosome Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation：A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: zheng Jing , Zhao Yanmin , Luo Yi , Yu Jian , Lai Xiaoyu , Wang Jinuo , Ye Yishan , Liu Lizhen , Fu Huarui , Yang Luxin , Wu Yibo , sun Jie , zheng Weiyan , Song Hejing , Zhao Yi , Wu Wenjun , Cai Zhen , Wei Guoqing , Huang He , shi Jimin
Published: April 2024

Additional chromosomal abnormalities(ACAs) at diagnosis are associated with inferior prognosis in chronic myelogenous leukemia. However, the prognostic significance of ACAs in adult patients with Philadelphia Chromosome Positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph + ALL) receiving TKI-targeted drugs and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(HSCT) is unknown. One hundred eighty-eight adult patients with Ph + ALL were retrospectively analysed, evaluating the effect of ACAs on outcomes of transplantation. One hundred thirty-six patients were included in the study. ACAs are observed in 60 cases (44%). The major-route ACAs are detected in more than 5% are as follows: +der(22), +der(9), + 8, -7 and complex karyotype. The median follow-up was 26.4 months. In the subgroup analyses of major route ACAs, three-year cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) and progression-free survival(PFS) are statistically significant in + 8[66.7% vs.23.7%, P = 0.024; 77.8% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.0087], -7[53.8% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.035%; 61.5% vs. 32.9%, P = 0.033], and complex karyotypes[42.9% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.027; 47.6% vs. 23.7%] compared with isolated t(9;22). Additionally, the 3-year CIR for Ph + ALL with + der(22) is 44% vs. 23.7% for standard Ph + ALL(P = 0.045). The 3-year overall survival (OS) in the − 7 group is 46.5%, which is statistically significant compared with the other groups(P = 0.001). In multivariate analyses, three years CIR and PFS are statistically significant in + der(22), + 8, -7 and complex karyotype compared with standard Ph + ALL(P < 0.05). More importantly, Ph + ALL with − 7 was negatively associated with the rate of 3-year OS(P = 0.012). Partial ACAs at diagnosis appear to have a significant prognostic impact on transplantation outcomes in patients with Ph + ALL.
Application Value of Radiomics Features Based on PSMA PET/CT in Diagnosis of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer: A Comparative Analysis of the PRIMARY and PI-RADS Scores
Authors: Geng Yujun , Zhang Ming , Li Shumei , Li Jingwen , Wang Xinzhi , Tian Junzhang , Ma Xiaofen
Published: April 2024

Objectives: The aim of our study was to explore the role of radiomic features derived from positron emission tomography (PSMA-PET)/computed tomography (CT) images in diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Additionally, we aimed to investigate correlations between these features and other PET/CT parameters. Finally, we compared these radiomic features with the PRIMARY and PI-RADS scores to assess their complementarity and enhance the diagnostic capabilities for prostate cancer.
Methods: A total of 110 patients with a certain pathological diagnosis were included, and a total of 1155 sets of radiomic features were extracted from these images for each patient. We employed the LASSO regression algorithm (Lasso) to select these features and collect MRI interpretation results (PI-RADS v2.1) via consensus reading for each patient. Two clinical physicians with more than three years of experience in nuclear medicine scored the medical images (PRIMARY) for all patients, and a consensus was reached. Finally, we compared diagnostic capabilities between radiomic features and indices/scores based on medical imaging (magnetic resonance (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET/CT)).
Results:After the Lasso algorithm was applied, three sets of radiomic features, log-sigma-1-mm-3D_glcm_Correlation, log-sigma-3-mm-3D_firstorder_Minimum, and wavelet-LLH_glcm_Imc2, marked as RF1, RF2, and RF3, respectively, were included in the analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) for diagnosing csPCa was 0.8744 (95% CI=0.806-0.943), 0.8413 (95% CI=0.762-0.920), and 0.8602 (95% CI=0.625-0.841), with accuracies of 0.8364, 0.8273, and 0.8273, respectively. The kappa values with the maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) were 0.757, 0.779, and 0.737; Gleason scores were 0.696, 0.688, and 0.668 of three radiomics features, respectively. The combined analysis of radiomic features(RF1) and MRI results yielded an accuracy of 0.8727, a recall of 0.8364, and a specificity of 0.9091.
Conclusion: Radiomic features based on PSMA PET/CT images correlate strongly with the SUVmax and pathological diagnostic results (Gleason score) of prostate cancer patients. These methods can compensate for the insufficient specificity of MRI for prostate cancer diagnosis but not for PET/CT.
Multiple potential phase-separation paths in multi-principal element alloys
Authors: Wu Xiao-Lei , Cao Peiyu , Liu Feng , Yuan Fu-Ping , Ma En
Published: April 2024

It is now well established that multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs) offer ample opportunities for exploring new compositions beyond those accessed previously by conventional alloys. However, there is one more realm of possibility presented by MPEAs that has not been touch upon thus far. Here we show that, different from conventional alloys based on a single host element, a given starting MPEA solid solution on its way towards equilibrium can take a rich variety of potential decomposition pathways via multi-stage phase separation, offering a wide range of composition destinations. If/when some of them are reached, assuming kinetically allowed, the multiple phase separation reactions one after another would lead to domains that are compositionally complex and spatially localized. This hypothetical scenario is demonstrated in this paper using a model that mimics Cr-Co-Ni MPEA, showing a preponderance of multiplicity even when assuming only fcc-based phases can form. The complex chemical heterogeneities created as such are expected to be an additional knob to turn for tuning spatially variable composition and chemical order and therefore mechanical properties. Our results thus advocate multiple phase separation possibilities with many potential paths and terminal chemical heterogeneities as yet another important characteristic that distinguishes MPEAs from conventional alloys.
Complications and outcome of Atypical Preeclampsia, and Eclampsia, at Al Saudi Hospital, Sudan.
Authors: Ahmed Manasik Abdaldeen Mohamed , Awad Mustafa Sabir Abakar , Abdelsadig Abdelmhmoud Atalmanan , Rahmtallah Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Background: Atypical presentation of preeclampsia and eclampsia refers to cases where symptoms may not follow the typical signs of high blood pressure and proteinuria rendering them difficult to diagnose leading to potential delays in treatment. Hence our aim was to study the atypical presentations of preeclampsia and eclampsia and their possible outcomes.
Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study conducted from November 2022 to April 2023 at Al Saudi Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan. The study focused on pregnant women with atypical presentations of preeclampsia and eclampsia. A total of 57 participants were included using a total coverage approach. Data was collected using a pre-designed close-ended questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software and results were presented in tables and figures.
Results: A total of 57 patients were included. The majority (78.9%) were between 20 and 35 years old, and most of them (80.7%) resided in urban areas. In terms of education, 56.1% had completed secondary education. In terms of clinical characteristics, 49.1% of the patients received regular antenatal care, and 29.8% had irregular care. Family history of preeclampsia or eclampsia was present in only 8.8% of the participants. All participants (100%) recovered after delivery, with no reported deaths. Maternal complications included abruptio placentae (29.8%). The majority of infants (96.5%) were born alive and well, with few reported cases of preterm birth or birth asphyxia. Cesarean section was the most common mode of delivery (80.7%).
Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate positive maternal and fetal outcomes in the management of atypical preeclampsia and eclampsia cases at Al Saudi Hospital in Khartoum State, Sudan. The high rate of live births and low prevalence of preterm birth and birth asphyxia signify effective healthcare interventions. Further research addressing the risk factors, complications, and long-term consequences of atypical preeclampsia and eclampsia in the Sudanese population is warranted.
Protective efficacy of a recombinant adenovirus expressing novel dual F and HN proteins of bovine parainfluenza virus type 3
Authors: zhang jia qi , Zhu Chenxi , Den Gunan , A-jia Ake , Ma Yuan zhen , He Chun sai , Guo Rui , Lan lan , Zhang Bin
Published: April 2024

Bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPIV3) is a viral respiratory pathogen in cattle that cause significant economic losses. We generated a recombinant adenovirus expressing both the fusion (F) and hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) glycoprotein of BPIV3 based on human adenovirus serotype 5 (rHAd5), named rHAd5-F + HN. Immunization with rHAd5-F + HN induced a notable humoral immune response specific to BPIV3 in both mice and calves. Serum antibodies responses were evaluated by ELISA, hemagglutination inhibition (HI), and neutralizing antibodies (Nab). After boosting immunity with rHAd5-F + HN, mice were able to produce higher levels of antibodies against the BPIV3 genotype A and genotype C strains, significantly exceeding those in the rHAd5-F and rHAd5-HN. The mice splenic CD3+/CD8+T lymphocytes and IL-4+ cytokine percentages were more significant in the rHAd5-F + HN group. The protective efficacy of rHAd5-F + HN was evaluated using a mouse model challenged with BPIV3. Mice immunized with rHAd5-F + HN exhibited significantly lower viral loads in the lungs and tracheas compared to the control group. Furthermore, no significant histopathological changes were observed in the lungs of mice vaccinated with rHAd5-F + HN. Also, the rHAd5-F + HN elicited a humoral immune response in calves, following the booster intramuscular injection with the rHAd5-F + HN, the serum antibodies levels against BPIV3 genotype C strain were 1:20,452, 1:1,024 and 1:426 in calves, as detected by ELISA, HI and Nab, respectively. The HI antibodies and Nab levels against BPIV3 genotype A strain were 1:213 and 1:85 in calves, respectively. These results indicated that rHAd5-F + HN effectively induced robust immunity against BPIV3 infection.
Spatial distribution and barriers to access to health care among women in Ghana
Authors: Dickson Kwamena Sekyi , Okyere Joshua , Ayebeng Castro , Ankomahene Bright , Boateng Ebenezer N.K. , Darteh Eugene Kufuor Maafo
Published: April 2024

Background: This study aims to assess the spatial distribution of barriers to healthcare access among Ghana women. Despite government efforts to reduce barriers such as cost and distance, a significant proportion of women still experience barriers in accessing healthcare. Understanding the spatial distribution is crucial for targeted interventions aimed at addressing the existing barriers that are likely to hinder Ghana from attaining SDG target 3.8.
Methods: The study used a cross-sectional study based on a sample of 20,620 women from the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey. Spatial autocorrelation and hotspot assessment were conducted in the geospatial analysis to determine the spatial distribution of barriers to access to healthcare in Ghana. At the same time, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate associated factors of barriers to accessing healthcare.
Results: This study assessed the spatial distribution of barriers to healthcare access among women in Ghana. Over half of women (55.4%) experienced at least one barrier. The Northern zone emerged as a hotspot, while the Southern zone had cold spots. Wealth, health insurance coverage, education, TV watching, being in a union, and parity were associated with barriers to healthcare access. Targeted policies should be designed to address the spatial disparities, improve healthcare infrastructure, promote education, enhance financial support, and empower women to overcome barriers to healthcare access in Ghana.
Conclusion: We conclude that over half of Ghanaian women encounter barriers in accessing healthcare, with Northern Ghana being a hotspot and Southern Ghana a cold spot. The Government of Ghana and health agencies should prioritise improving healthcare accessibility, particularly in Northern Ghana. Targeted interventions should focus on vulnerable sub-populations such as unmarried women, those with low education, individuals with poor wealth status, and those lacking health insurance coverage. Addressing these barriers will help reduce disparities and ensure equitable healthcare access for all women in Ghana.
Hot Dab Associated Pneumonitis - A Case Report
Authors: Dogra Ratika , Dogra Vallabh , Badyal Himani , Avasthi Salil
Published: April 2024

Background
Dabbing is recently getting popular in young adults. It is a new method of using the most active form of marijuana where large amount of concentrated tetrahydrocannabinol is inhaled. Tetrahydrocannabinol is associated with a feeling of ‘High’ which make the user feel joyous and relaxed. With increasing use of such technique, dabbing becomes an important differential for evaluation of acute respiratory failure with pneumonitis specially in adult population.
Case presentation
We present a case report of 51 years old Caucasian male who presented to hospital with chest pressure and shortness of breath. Patient was noted to be hypoxic desaturating down to 82-83% on nasal cannula oxygen. Imaging revealed concern for multifocal pneumonia. Patient required use of high flow oxygen. Patient was started on broad spectrum antibiotics and intravenous corticosteroids. Patient had gradual improvement in his symptoms and was able to come off oxygen completely. Patient was discharged home on prednisone taper.
Conclusions
Dabbing is a newer technique which has been gaining popularity for marijuana usage. With legalization of marijuana newer techniques are getting popular. Our case report emphasizes the importance of keeping dabbing as a differential when patient presents with respiratory failure and has concerns for pneumonitis. Patients might not reveal until specifically asked about their practices.
Causal association of immune cells and endometritis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Jing-wei , Wan Ren-tao , Liu Qing-dong , Xu Hong-lin , Chen Qi
Published: April 2024

Background: Research exploring the link between immune cell profiles and the development of endometritis remains scant. This gap necessitates further study to decode the complex interrelations influencing this condition.
Methods: In this analysis, we leveraged two-sample Mendelian randomization to examine the causal ties between the phenotypes of immune cells and the incidence of endometritis. Our evaluation hinged on data from 3,757 participants hailing from Sardinia, focusing on a diverse array of 731 immune phenotypes, and cross-referenced with endometritis data sourced from the UK Biobank. To ensure rigor, we performed sensitivity analyses, utilized MR-Egger and MR-Presso to check for pleiotropy, and applied Cochran's Q test for assessing the heterogeneity of our findings.
Results: Our investigation identified numerous immune characteristics associated with endometritis. For certain immune traits, a lower risk of endometritis was observed, including: Absolute Counts of CD39+ CD4+ T cells, CD25+ CD39+ CD4 regulatory T cells, and CD25++ CD8+ T cells; Absolute Counts of Switched Memory B cells; CD19 expression on IgD+ CD38dim and Switched Memory B cells; CD20 expression on IgD+ CD38- Unswitched Memory B cells; percentage of Switched Memory B cells among lymphocytes; CD16-CD56 expression on HLA DR+ Natural Killer cells; percentage of CD11c+ CD62L- monocytes; CD86 expression on monocytes; CCR2 expression on CD14+ CD16+ monocytes; and CD14 expression on Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells, with Odds Ratios (ORs) between 0.413 and 0.703. On the contrary, increased risks of endometritis were linked with: the percentage of Effector Memory CD4+ T cells within the CD4+ T cell population; percentages of HLA DR+ T cells and HLA DR+ CD8+ T cells among T cells; CD4 expression on CD28+ CD4+ T cells; CD20 expression on CD20- CD38- B cells; percentage of IgD+ CD24+ B cells within the B cell population; CD62L expression on CD62L+ myeloid Dendritic Cells; and Absolute Counts of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells, with ORs from 1.473 to 2.677, indicating these traits potentially elevate the risk of developing endometritis.
Conclusion: Our research delineates distinct causal links between specific immune cell phenotypes and endometritis, offering groundbreaking perspectives that could contribute to the pinpointing of new therapeutic avenues for this condition.
Evaluating Diversity and Stereotypes Amongst Healthcare Providers Using Generative AI
Authors: Agrawal Anjali , Gupta Gauri , Agrawal Anushri , Gupta Himanshu
Published: April 2024

Generative AI provides synthetic simulation of existing societal data. We hypothesized that Generative AI output may be used to evaluate diversity and stereotypes amongst healthcare providers. Dall-E 3, a text-to-image generator, was used to generate a total of 360 images based on pre-defined healthcare provider terms. Consensus scoring was performed to evaluate diversity parameters in images. Google Vision was used to generate image labels that were then categorized to analyze differences among race and sex cohorts. Sex and race diversity for various doctor and nurse terms was modest: 3.2 and 2.8, respectively, on a qualitative 5 point scale (where 5 represents equal diversity). These results are consistent with recently reported statistics, demonstrating that Generative AI reflects real-world data. We also identified stereotypes related to appearance, facial expressions, and clothing associated with sex and race. Our study, which is the first of its kind, provides a unique framework incorporating Generative AI and ML tools to quantify diversity and societal perceptions of healthcare providers. The proposed framework provides real-time intelligence on biases in the healthcare workforce.
Investigation and optimization of naringin-loaded in MOF-5 encapsulated by liponiosomes as smart drug delivery, cytotoxicity, and apoptotic on breast cancer cells
Authors: Elbeltagi Shehab , Alharbi Hanan M. , Aodah Alhassan H. , Eldin Zienab E.
Published: April 2024

Tumors are considered dangerous due to their significant global mortality rate, with breast cancer (BC) being a major contributor to this statistic, impacting almost all tumor patients worldwide. Conventional methods for BC treatment, such as special naringin (NG) chemotherapy based on nanotechnology components, have been insufficient, and a new approach has been used to improve drug delivery (DD) to cancer. Herein, developed biocompatible nanoparticles (NPs) comprising NG-loaded zinc metal-organic framework-5 (NG-MOF-5) encapsulated with liponiosomes (LNs) to create NG-MOF-5@LNs. Various biophysical characteristics of free NG, MOF-5, and NG-MOF-5@LNs NPs were studied, including XRD, FTIR, TEM, SEM, zeta potential (ZP), hydrodynamic size, PDI, loading efficiency (LE), encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug release (DR), and drug-release kinetics. TEM images showed that NG-MOF-5@LNs NPs consisted of monodispersed spherical-like particles with average diameters of 122.5 nm (*P < 0.05). The optimized NG-MOF-5@LNs exhibited a particle size (PDI: 139.8 nm) and a ZP (+ 21 mV). The EE and LE for NG-MOF-5@LNs were 89.15% and 14.05%, respectively. Four kinetic models were examined to understand the NG release mechanism at pH 6.9, with the Higuchi model indicating excellent fit (R2 = 0.9988). The MTT cell viability assay demonstrated anti-cancer activity against MCF-7 BC cells, with inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 231.9, 188.2, and 21.6 µg/mL (*P < 0.05) for MOF-5, NG, and NG-MOF-5@LNs, respectively, indicating an apoptosis effect on MCF-7 cells. NG-MOF-5@LNs is expected to emerge as a novel long-term-release anticancer agent. NG-MOF-5@LNs may represent a superior option for BC therapy compared to conventional NG formulations.
A new RNN-based method of automatically pick out the coseismic groundwater-level change
Authors: Li Junyi , Li Yang , Ye Wujian , Zheng Yingcong , Yang Dongdong
Published: April 2024

The coseismic groundwater-level change in Odawara well which located in Kanagawa Prefacture, south Japan, has been recoded from 2011. The sampling rate of the groundwater level is 1Hz. In the long time observation, some ‘abnormal’ change has been checked by artificial. In these ‘abnormal’ groundwater level change, same can be related to earthquake waves as coseimic groundwarer level change. To pick out the coseismic groundwater level changes, We applied a new method based on Recurrent Neural Network(RNN) process to automatically pick out the coseismic groundwater-level change. In the RNN model, we applied a simple geomodel to relate the atmospheric pressure and groundwater level as a weight parameter in the neural network. We use a whole year of 1Hz sampling data to train the RNN model. As the result of the method, the accuracy of the all validation is 0.949, the accuracy of the seismic groundwater level events is 0.966 and the accuracy of the normal groundwater level is 0.971. This method show high accuracy to pick out the short-term secimic groundwater-level change which the change time is less than 45 minutes.
Mortality from nervous system diseases and cancer in agriculture workers: a case-control study in Italy
Authors: Gariazzo Claudio , Marinaccio Alessandro , Consonni Dario , Miligi Lucia , Massari Stefania
Published: April 2024

Background
Population working or living in agriculture settings may experience important exposure to pesticides and other agents. Some health effects associated with them are well known (e.g. skin cancer due to solar radiation) while for others (e.g., neurological diseases and lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue cancers) additional epidemiological evidence is needed. We aim to investigate mortality for neurological diseases and cancer in workers employed in agriculture in Italy.
Methods
We performed a case-control study based on countrywide Italian mortality data 2005–2018 linked with National Social Insurance data to retrieve information on working histories. Adjusted cancer specific mortality odds ratios (MOR) were calculated. We modelled occupational exposure as “ever/never been employed” in agriculture, using the service sectors as reference. Analysis was stratified for gender and length of employment.
Results
About 64,000 workers employed in agriculture were analyzed in comparison with a control group of 107,000 workers of the service sector. We found elevated risk in agriculture workers for mortality from spinal muscular atrophy (MOR 1.26, 95% CI: 1.03–1.56; 261 deaths) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) (MOR 1.16, 95% CI:1.00-1.34; 742 deaths). As for cancer mortality, positive associations were found for non-follicular lymphoma (NFL) (MOR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03–2.46; 82 deaths), multiple myeloma (MM) (MOR 1.42, 95% CI: 1.22–1.65; 546 deaths) and myeloid leukemia (ML) (MOR 1.36, 95% CI:1.16–1.60; 474 deaths), as well as for stomach (MOR 1.30, 95% CI:1.20–1.41; 1,732 deaths), prostate (MOR 2.03, 95% CI:1.85–2.24, 1,582 deaths), and brain and central nervous system cancer (MOR 1.30, 95% CI:1.13–1.50, 601 deaths). PD, NFL and ML, as well as cancers of skin, connective and soft tissue, prostate and brain were found to involve mainly men.
Conclusions
Long-term employment in agriculture was demonstrated associated with several health risks, some of which could be explained by exposure to pesticides. Although the use of the different agronomic categories of pesticides has been changed over time and some active ingredients were prohibited or limited, their health effects remain of concern for their large use, demanding for further focused investigations and preventive measures.