bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors and prognostic model of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in patients with bloodstream infection
Authors: Zeng Ling , Ma Jia-xin , Qiu Jie-hui , Ren Qun , Wei Chunping , Cheng Na
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Infections caused by Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) are increasing annually, with bloodstream infection (BSI) being a significant outcome associated with CRKP, resulting in higher mortality rates. The objective of this investigation was to explore the risk factors for bloodstream infection with CRKP and the factors linked to poor patient prognosis, and to formulate a forecast model for infection and prognosis.
Methods
758 patients with Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) bloodstream infections were collected from September 2017 to June 2022. Using SPSS.25 and R 3.6.1 software, we analysed the data to identify the independent influencing factors of CRKP-BSI in hospitalised patients. Based on the identified risk factors, we constructed a prediction model and visualised the results as a column line graph. The predictive model's discrimination was assessed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve's area under the curve (AUC), while its calibration was assessed through the calibration plot.
Results
Nosocomial infection (OR = 4.257, 95% CI 2.479–7.308), ICU admission (OR = 4.070, 95% CI 2.479–6.682), shock (OR = 2.733, 95% CI 1.488–5.019), APTT (OR = 1.032, 95% CI 1.002–1.063), PTA (OR = 0.984, 95% CI 0.973–0.996), FBG (OR = 1. 301, 95% CI 1.096–1.545), carbapenems (OR = 2.812, 95% CI 1.766–4.479), aminoglycosides (OR = 5.536, 95% CI 2.091–14.654), and beta-lactam (OR = 2.241, 95% CI 1.378–3.621) antibiotic usage had an impact on CRKP bloodstream infections. The model demonstrated an area under the ROC curve of 0.834 in the modelling group, with the calibration curve indicating favourable alignment between the model's predictions and actual observations. The model exhibited significant differentiation in the validation group, with the calibration curve reinforcing its efficacy. The model's efficacy was influenced by admission to ICU (OR = 8.172, 95% CI 4.389–15.216), shock (OR = 3.081, 95% CI 1.836–5.172), and haemodialysis (OR = 3.788, 95% CI 1.337-10.). 738), The study developed a prognostic model for CRKP-BSI patients using blood glucose (OR = 1.133, 95% CI 1.034–1.242) and PTA (OR = 0.977, 95% CI 0.961–0.993). The model's ROC curve had an area of 0.869 and the calibration curve indicated satisfactory predictive accuracy. The external validation group's predictive model ROC curve had an area of 0.826. The calibration curve demonstrated that the predictive and actual value curves of the model corresponded well.
Conclusion
Following the outbreak of CRKP-BSI, healthcare staff must efficiently manage risk factors and recognize high-risk patients with a poor prognosis at the earliest opportunity, and implement suitable interventions to enhance patient prognosis.
Self-esteem and Depressive Symptoms in Diagnosed Psychiatric Patients: A Longitudinal Mediation Model
Authors: Yin Xifan , Li Yifan , Ye Yingying , Wang Yibo , Zha Yichang , Xu Liang , Qin Xiangjie , Wei Shengzhong , Feng Xinyu
Published: August 2024

This study examined the relationship between self-esteem, interpersonal sensitivity, rumination, and depression in patients of MDD or GAD. the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Interpersonal Sensitivity subscale of Symptom Checklist-90, the Chinese version of the Rumination Response Scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire nine-item depression scale (PHQ-9) were used to measure 159 diagnosed adults. The study measured depression, self-esteem and interpersonal sensitivity at T1 and rumination and depression at T2 after a 10–14-day interval. The study found that after controlling for depression at T1, age, gender, and measurement time interval, low self-esteem at T1 could impact on depression at T2 through the mediation of reflection at T2, as well as through the chain mediation of interpersonal sensitivity at T1 and rumination at T2. The results indicated that for patients of MDD or GAD with low self-esteem, we could pay attention to intervening with rumination and interpersonal sensitivity, such as rumination-focused cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy.
Per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances and respiratory health in an Inuit community
Authors: Aker Amira , Courtemanche Yohann , Ayotte Pierre , Robert Philippe , Gaudreau Éric , Lemire Mélanie
Published: August 2024

Background
Concentrations of plasma per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are elevated in the Inuit population of Nunavik and may be causing adverse effects. Respiratory health outcomes have been associated with PFAS, but has not been explored in Inuit communities. The aim of the study was to examine the association between PFAS and respiratory health outcomes, and the moderating role of nutritional biomarkers.
Methods
We included up to 1298 participants of the Qanuilirpitaa? 2017 survey aged 16–80 years. Generalized regression models were used to estimate the associations between six individual PFAS congeners and four self-reported symptoms, four spirometry measures, and physician-diagnosed asthma. Outcomes associated with PFAS from single chemical models were further explored using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR). The modifying effect of n-3 PUFA in red blood cell quartiles and vitamin D deficiency were examined on the associations between PFAS and respiratory outcomes.
Results
PFNA and PFOS were associated with asthma (odds ratio (OR) 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12, 2.32; OR 1.45 95% CI 1.04, 2.03). PFOA, PFNA, PFDA and PFHxS were associated with a decrease in the ratio between the forced expiratory volume in the first second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC). No associations were observed with self-reported respiratory symptoms. No associations were observed between a PFAS mixture and asthma. Some associations were modified by nutritional factors, namely, stronger associations between PFOA and PFHxS and asthma with lower n-3 PUFA levels and stronger associations between PFDA, PFUnDA and PFOS and FEV1/FVC with vitamin D deficiency.
Conclusion
These findings add to the growing literature on the impacts of PFAS on respiratory health, and the importance of their global regulation. Associations were modified by nutritional factors pointing to the nutritional value of traditional Inuit foods.
Activity Identification via Wi-Fi Channel State Information with Neural Networks
Authors: CHARY VALABOJU SHIVA KUMAR , Venkateswarlu Bellamkonda Satya Sai , Vemuri Saketh , Pasupuleti Venkata Naga Sai Suraj , Burra Vijaya Babu , Tumuluru Praveen
Published: August 2024

Leveraging Wi-Fi Channel State Information (CSI) offers a fresh approach to environmental sensing and detecting human activities (HAR). This technique has diverse safety and security applications, utilizing existing Wi-Fi routers instead of privacy-intrusive visual methods. This study presents a comprehensive pipeline for human activity recognition via Wi-Fi CSI, comparing two deep learning techniques. We explore the impact of hardware setups on Wi-Fi CSI signals and enhance data collection by seamlessly integrating real-life scenarios, improving model assessment. We investigate Inception Time and LSTM models for activity recognition. The code and dataset are publicly accessible for transparency and community-driven research advancement.
The heterogeneous characteristics of the microstructure in cement stone under the effect of self-weight segregation
Authors: Wang Zhiheng , Li Xiuhao , Wang Meng , Gong Yu’an , Liu Rentai , Cheng Bingchuan , Bai Jiwen , Zhu Zhijing
Published: August 2024

Under the influence of self-weight segregation, the microstructure of cement stone exhibits significant heterogeneous characteristics, but the mechanisms of these variations have not been revealed. In this study, the pore size distribution and porosity of the cement stone with various water-to-cement (w/c) ratios and the initial height were measured using NMR methods. The relationships between cement stone porosity and height position were fitted using a simplified self-weight consolidation finite model and a small strain model. The results show that under the same w/c ratios, the density and porosity of the stones formed at the bottom of cement grout columns with different initial heights are essentially consistent. The variation trend in the porosity of cement stone with a lower w/c ratio, such as 0.8, aligns with the predictions of the finite strain model. However, as the w/c ratio increases, like 1.0 or 1.2, the reduction in effective stress between particles delays the self-weight consolidation process, enhancing the influence of cement hydration. The skeletal structure formed by the hydration products results in a decrease in consolidation strain, ultimately making the porosity change more consistent with a small strain model. Additionally, XRD patterns and SEM images show that with increasing height position, the amount of ettringite increases while C-S-H decreases, leading to a looser structure of the cement stone and an increase in porosity.
Syk inhibitor attenuates lupus in FcγRIIb-/- mice through the Inhibition of DNA extracellular traps from macrophages and neutrophils via p38MAPK-dependent pathway
Authors: Leelahavanichkul Asada , Sae-khow Kritsananwan , Charoensappakit Awirut , Udompornpitak Kanyarat , Saisorn Wilasinee , Issara-Amphorn Jiraphorn , Palaga Tanapat
Published: August 2024

Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), an important hub of immune signaling, is activated by several signalings in active lupus which could be interfered by Syk inhibitor but is still not completely evaluated in innate immune cells associated with lupus activity. Hence, a Syk inhibitor (fostamatinib; R788) was tested in vivo using Fc gamma receptor-deficient (FcγRIIb-/-) lupus mice and in vitro (macrophages and neutrophils). After 4 weeks of oral Syk inhibitor, 40 week-old FcγRIIb-/- mice (a full-blown lupus model) demonstrated less prominent lupus parameters (serum anti-dsDNA, proteinuria, and glomerulonephritis), systemic inflammation, as evaluated by serum TNFa, IL-6, and citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3), gut permeability defect, as indicated by serum FITC dextran assay, serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and serum (1→3)-β-D-glucan (BG), extracellular traps (ETs) and immune complex deposition in spleens and kidneys (immunofluorescent staining of CitH3 and immunoglobulin G) than FcγRIIb-/- mice with placebo. Due to the spontaneous elevation of LPS and BG in serum, LPS plus BG (LPS+BG) was used to activate macrophages and neutrophils. After LPS+BG stimulation, FcγRIIb-/- macrophages and neutrophils demonstrated predominant abundance of phosphorylated Syk (Western blotting), and the pro-inflammatory responses (CD86 flow cytometry analysis, supernatant cytokines, ETs immunofluorescent, and flow cytometry-based apoptosis). With RNA sequencing analysis and western blotting, the Syk-p38MAPK-dependent pathway was suggested as downregulating several inflammatory pathways in LPS+BG-activated FcγRIIb-/- macrophages and neutrophils. Although both inhibitors against Syk and p38MAPK attenuated macrophage and neutrophil inflammatory responses against LPS+WGP, the apoptosis inhibition by p38MAPK inhibitor was not observed.
These results suggested that Syk inhibitor (fostamatinib) improved the severity of lupus caused by FcγRIIb defect partly through Syk-p38MAPK anti-inflammation that inhibited both ET formation and cytokine production from innate immune cells.
Association Between Early Sitting and Functional Mobility Recovery After Hip-Fracture Surgery in Old Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study.
Authors: Catalano-Nadakhovskaia Clarissa , Pérez-López Carlos , García-Lerma Esther , Ivanov Laura Alexandra , Macho-Perez Oscar , Rodríguez-Molinero Alejandro
Published: August 2024

Background
Hip fractures significantly impact elderly individuals, leading to compromised mobility and various adverse outcomes. The importance of early post-surgery mobilization in regaining pre-fracture levels of mobility is recognized, but lacks standardized definitions and implementation strategies. This study aimed to assess the impact of early sitting position 24 hours after hip-fracture surgery on functional mobility recovery after 30 days using data from the Spanish National Hip Fracture Registry (RNFC).
Methods
Prospective cohort study, including patients aged ≥ 74 years admitted for hip-fracture surgery between 2017 and 2020 at Sant Camil Residential Hospital. Data from the RNFC were analyzed, and linear regression models were developed to assess the association between early sitting after surgery (ESAS) and mobility recovery at 30 days after surgery.
Results
Of 486 identified patients, 321 were included, with an estimated ESAS prevalence of 38.32% (95% CI: 32.97–43.88). ESAS was significantly associated with improved mobility recovery at 30 days. Multivariate regression models consistently revealed ESAS as a modest independent predictor of better post-surgery mobility. Factors such as age, cognitive capacity, and general health also impacted mobility recovery.
Conclusion
The ESAS effect, while modest, emerges as a significant predictor of hip mobility recovery among elderly patients with hip fractures 30 days after surgery. These findings underscore the potential of this low-risk, low-cost intervention in enhancing functional mobility recovery strategies and emphasize the need for further research to uncover its broader implications in post-operative care. Implementation of early sitting could be enhanced, as only a third of patients in our study underwent this simple intervention.
Professional competency and moral courage among staff nurses
Authors: Ali Eman Hassan Mohamed , Khalifa Marwa Abdelrahman Gaber
Published: August 2024

Background: Nurses must possess professional competency and moral courage to ensure the excellence of care and safety for customers, communicate effectively with other healthcare staff, and promote the establishment of consistent and universal care.
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between professional competency and moral courage among staff nurses.
Methods: A descriptive correlational study design was conducted with 172 staff nurses. The researchers used structured equation modeling.
Results: This study revealed that more than three-fifths of the studied subjects reported a moderate level of professional competency (followed by a low level), and two-thirds of the studied subjects reported a moderate level of moral courage, followed by a low level).
Conclusion: This study concluded that the professional competency of staff nurses was positively correlated and significantly correlated with moral courage among nurses (r =.637**, p =0.000).
Trial Registration Number [TRN] The study protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University (code number: NUR 24.2.129).
Risk of Estrogen-Driven Malignancies in Females on 5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors
Authors: Rohan Thomas , Turchetta Grace , Yang Sherry
Published: August 2024

Importance:
It is hypothesized that 5α-reductase inhibitors (5aRI) increase aromatase-mediated conversion of testosterone to estrogen, which may facilitate development of estrogen-driven malignancy. Previous studies in male patients receiving 5aRI treatment failed to demonstrate an increased risk of breast cancer; however, similar data in females are lacking.
Methods
We utilized the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network, which provides access to electronic medical records from ~ 145 million patients. Both cohorts included females with an ICD-10 diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), non-scarring hair loss, or cicatricial alopecia and excluded patients with prior diagnoses of estrogen-driven malignancies. The study cohort included patients with at least 6 months of finasteride of dutasteride use, while the control cohort excluded any-time use of these medications. A 1:1 matched propensity score analysis was performed for confounding risk factors.
Results
After matching, there were 5,156 patients in each cohort (median age 57.8 ± 14.3). Ten years after first medication use, patients taking 5aRI had a 27.6% decreased risk of having a breast cancer diagnosis compared to controls (95% CI: 0.532–0.985, p = 0.0389). The study cohort had a 31.9% decrease in lifetime breast cancer risk compared to the control patients (95% CI: 0.503–0.923; p = 0.0126). Between the 5aRI and control groups, there was no significant difference in risk of developing ovarian or endometrial cancer (95% CI: 0.317–1.605; p = 0.4126 and 95% CI; 0.025–1.13; p = 0.09367 respectively).
Conclusions
The data show that there is no increased risk of estrogen-driven malignancies for women taking 5aRI for alopecia, and that 5aRI use may be protective against breast cancer.
Construction Of High Energy Density and Long Cycle Life Zinc-ion Hybrid Capacitors Based on Wedelia Chinensis-Derived Biomass Porous Carbon
Authors: Liu Miaomiao , Wan Shenteng , Wang Letong , Pang Zengwei , Yao Tong , niu xiaohui , Wang Kunjie , Li Hongxia
Published: August 2024

Zinc ion hybrid capacitors (ZIHCs) have received much attention due to their low cost, safety and green features. However, its development is seriously restricted by defects such as low energy density and insufficient cycle life. The selection of suitable capacitive materials can effectively enhance their electrochemical performance. Porous carbon materials become the choice of capacitive materials for ZIHCs due to their high ion adsorption capacity and fast kinetic behavior. In this paper, an oxygen-enriched biomass-derived nanoporous carbon was prepared by pyrolysis of Wedelia chinensis combing the chemical activation. The oxygen-rich functional groups on the surface of this nanoporous carbon can provide additional pseudocapacitance and improve the wettability of the material. The excellent electrochemical performance of the material in aqueous electrolyte was verified by assembling symmetrical capacitors (SCs) and ZIHCs devices. Specifically, as high as 151 W h kg− 1 of energy density and 18 kW kg− 1 of power output as well as 25000 cycles of long cycle life with 97.4% of capacity retention were demonstrated by as-assembled ZIHC.
The Effects of Acute Kidney Injury on COVID-19 related Clinical Outcomes and Mortality in a Hispanic Population
Authors: Khalafi Seyed , Helmsdoerfer Kristen , Evans Justin , Lumbreras Tyson , Tiula Kira , Dwivedi Alok Kumar , Dihowm Fatma
Published: August 2024

The effect of coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 has been severe in minority communities across the United States, especially in Hispanics. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is observed as a significant factor to worsening outcomes in patients with COVID-19. In this retrospective observational study, clinical outcomes related to renal impairment were assessed among Hispanic patients with COVID-19 by screening all patients hospitalized between March, 2020 and March, 2021 at a tertiary care hospital in El Paso, Texas, resulting in a total of 1,478 patients. The cohort consisted of 385 (26%) with renal impairment, including 195 (13.2%) AKI, 128 (8.7%) chronic kidney disease, and 60 (4.0%) end stage renal disease. Patients with any form of renal impairment with COVID-19 had an increased mortality risk. AKI yielded increased mortality and ICU transfer than other forms of renal impairment. Mitigation strategies and proactively monitoring of renal impairment patients with COVID-19 need to be implemented in Hispanics.
Association of sleep problems with suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization in adults with chronic diseases: the role of mental illness
Authors: Wen Chen , Wei Zheng , Chalghaf Nasr , Woldegerima Woldegebriel Assefa , Wu Jianhong , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Garbarino Sergio
Published: August 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between sleep problems and suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization in Canadian adults with chronic diseases, and the mediating role of mental illness.
Methods: Data were drawn from the Canadian Community Health Survey, 2015-16, from Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan– the provinces that selected the survey module on sleep. A total of 22,700 participants aged ≥18 years () and diagnosed with chronic diseases were enrolled in the study. Sleep problems referred to extreme sleep durations (either <5 or ≥10 hours) and insomnia. Mental illness was defined as a self-reported mood or anxiety disorder.
Results: Of the 6,318,400 participants, higher prevalence of all suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization outcomes were found in participants with extreme sleep durations (compared with 7 to <8 hours), and in participants with insomnia (compared with no insomnia). After multivariate adjustment, extreme sleep durations and insomnia were still independently associated with increased odds of suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization. Mediation analyzes showed that mental illness partly mediated the associations of extreme sleep durations and insomnia with suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, both extreme sleep durations and insomnia were associated with increased odds of suicidal behaviors and healthcare utilization outcomes in adults with chronic diseases, whereas mental illness partially mediated the association.
DeepSecure Net: An Ensemble DPATMFNet approach with Enhanced Feature Selection for Advanced SDN Network Intrusion Detection System
Authors: Saikam Jalaiah , Ch Koteswararao
Published: August 2024

By enabling the control and administration of the entire network from a single location, a Software-Defined Network (SDN) was created to streamline network administration. SDN controllers find intruders appealing because they make good targets. Attackers can take control of an SDN controller and use it to route traffic according to their requirements, which can have disastrous effects on the network. Although integrating SDN with deep learning strategies opens up novel avenues for IDS deployment defense, the detection models' efficacy depends on the quality of the training data. While deep learning for non-identifiable detection systems (NIDSs) has yielded promising results recently for several problems, most studies overlooked the impact of imbalanced and redundant datasets. Therefore, to improve the detection of network intrusions via binary and multiclass categorization, we proposed a novel enhanced ensemble DL-based Dual Parallel Attention Transformer (DPAT) with a Modular Deep Fully Convolutional Network (MDFCN), termed DPATMFNet approach. An Enhanced AlexNet method extracts the features from the input data. The Boosted Binary Meerkat Optimization Algorithm (BBMOA) is applied to choose the key features. The proposed system categorizes attacks, separates malicious from benign traffic, and identifies outstanding performance sub-attack types. Three of the most current realistic datasets were used for training and evaluation to demonstrate the effectiveness of the suggested system. We examined and contrasted its performance with that of other IDSs. The experimental findings indicate that the proposed system performs better than others at identifying various attacks. The suggested datasets achieve accuracy, detection rate, and precision above 99% compared to existing approaches. The results show how effective the proposed model is at obtaining high accuracy while requiring a shorter training period.
Does heart rate variability predict patient prognosis and influence known prognostic factors in women with ovarian cancer?
Authors: Toledano-Hacohen Mirit , Gidron Yori , Dahli Heba , Younes Grace , Lavie Ofer , Sagi-Dain Lena , Segev Yakir
Published: August 2024

Objective
Vagal nerve activity, indexed by heart rate variability (HRV), may play a protective role in many cancers. For example, high HRV was found to predict better overall survival in patients with liver, lung, pancreatic and breast cancers. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of HRV in ovarian cancer.
Methods
This was a retrospective comparative cross-sectional study. All patients with histologically proven ovarian cancer treated at one tertiary center between 2014 and 2021 were included. HRV was derived and analyzed from patients’ electrocardiograms at the time of diagnosis. The primary outcome was overall survival.
Results
The final cohort included 104 women aged 64.7±12.3 years. Most of the patients (83.8%) had advanced disease stages (stages III and IV). Using multivariate logistic regression, controlling for age, cancer stage, surgical outcomes, and treatment type, log-HRV significantly predicted survival in patients younger than 60 years (OR = 0.01; 95% CI: 0.00–0.93, p < 0.05). Finally, examination of the effects of HRV on the influence of known prognostic factors revealed that tumor stage tended to predict survival only for patients with low HRV, whereas surgical outcomes and treatment type significantly predicted survival only in patients with high HRV.
Conclusions
Our study confirmed that vagal nerve activity, indexed by HRV, might predict survival in patients with ovarian cancer, especially in women younger than 60 years. In addition, HRV may determine the effects of known prognostic factors on survival. The results of our study suggest that the HRV should be considered when estimating patient prognosis and treatment success in patients with ovarian cancer.
Network public opinion evolution simulation modeling based on generative adversarial network and SEIR model
Authors: Wang Jintao , Yin Yulong , Wei Lina
Published: August 2024

It is often accompanied by the spread of network public opinion events when an emergency occurs, which is easy to cause obvious emotional fluctuations in society. Therefore, how to build a more realistic evolution model of public opinion, so as to grasp and predict the development trend of public opinion in time, is an urgent issue. Based on the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) and SEIR model, this paper constructs the GAN-SEIR model for the simulation of the evolution of public opinion in social networks. Firstly, an evolution model of network public opinion is constructed by referring to the SEIR epidemic model. Secondly, based on the generative adversarial network, the relationship between the interaction of each element in the system is determined, so that the information propagation in the GAN-SEIR model is more consistent with the complexity of actual propagation. Then, the system dynamics module of Anglogic platform is used to simulate the evolution trend of public opinion. By simulating the logical structure of each related element in the network public opinion system, and the future development trend of the network public opinion is obtained from the internal motivation of the public opinion event system. Finally, the actual data of China Eastern Airlines 3.21 accident was used as a real case support for verification. The results show that the error between the predicted data and the actual data is within 3%, which proves that the model can effectively predict and track the development of network public opinion.
Capparis erythrocarpos (Isert) leaf and its principal constituent betulinic acid, elicit anti- malarial activity via immunomodulatory action and alleviation of thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kumatia Emmanuel Kofi , Tung Nguyen Huu , Asase Alex
Published: August 2024

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease which kills more than half a million people annually. This has made the search for novel anti-malarial agents to complement the current ones an issue of global importance. Capparis erythrocarpos is used to treat various diseases in traditional medicine. However, its anti-malarial activity and individual constituents of its leaf are not known. This study described anti-malarial activity of the 70% ethanol extract of C. erythrocarpos leaf (CEL) and its major constituent, betulinic acid (BA). BA was isolated from CEL and characterized using NMR and LC-MS spectroscopies. Anti-malarial activity was evaluated using the curative test against Plasmodium berghei in mice. CEL (30–150 mg/kg p.o.) and BA (10–25 mg/kg p.o.) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced Percentage parasitemia with anti-malarial activity of 42.26–72.86%. Lonart (10 mg/kg p.o), the reference drug, produced anti-malarial activity of 47.66%. CEL and BA also, increased (P < 0.05) WBCs, platelets, body weight loss and MST whereas, reducing RBCs and hemoglobin concentration. In conclusion, CEL and BA possessed remarkable anti-malarial activity by activation of the immune system and reversing thrombocytopenia without protecting against weight lost and anemia. CEL and BA could therefore be developed as new anti-malarial agents.
ϑ-Spiral Discovery Reveals a New Class of Biological Building Block
Authors: Garton Michael
Published: August 2024

Our entire living world is constructed from just seven major protein secondary structures: α-helices, β-sheets, 310-helices, π-helices, turns, bends, and polyPro-helices. All other polypeptide is classified as unstructured coil. Because only a tiny fraction of theoretically possible protein sequences have ever been sampled by evolutionary processes, it is conceivable that other secondary structures remain undiscovered. Using physical and mathematical modelling, we identified an unprecedented structure with spiral geometry. Upon using this to search uncharted polypeptide sequence space in silico, we discovered sequences that appeared to support the spiral structure. Theta-spirals (ϑ-spirals) were confirmed in vitro using NMR spectroscopy, becoming the eighth protein secondary structure, and revealing a new class of biological building block: noncanonical protein secondary structures.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Voluntary Blood Donation Among University Students in Nigeria: Ambrose Alli University as a Case Study
Authors: Saka Sulymon A. , Marvis Eromosele E. , Mezu Nneoma M. , Isiaka Ayotunde A. , Asogwa Collins O. , Odafen Perpetua I. , Akhigbe Marvelous E. , David Nzomiwu C. , Emekolom Obiajulum N.
Published: August 2024

Background
Adequate and safe blood supply has remained a challenge in developing countries, including Nigeria. Young students can play a fundamental role in blood donation, saving the lives of many people; hence, studying their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to blood donation is essential.
Objective
The objectives of this study were to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of voluntary blood donation among Ambrose Alli University students and the factors associated with the prevalence of blood donation.
Methodology:
This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. A total of 250 students were recruited. Pretested questionnaires were used to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to voluntary blood donation.
Statistical analysis
The responses were collated and analysed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v21. The associations between blood donation practices and the gender of the respondents and the age, year of study, department, and employment status of the parents were tested via chi-square tests where appropriate; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Result
The study revealed that the mean age of the respondents was 22.3 ± 9.049) years, with females accounting for 51.6% of the sample. A total of 34% (85) have good knowledge, and the respondents have a positive attitude (mean 3.23) toward donation; however, only 13.6% have donated blood with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1. The study revealed significant associations between knowledge of blood donation and several sociodemographic features, including age (p = 0.003), year of study (p = 0.025), faculty of the respondents (p < 0.001) and employment status of the father or male guardian (p = 0.035). Furthermore, blood donation practices were significantly associated with the year of study (p = 0.028) and faculty (p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed that senior students were less likely to donate blood than first-year students were. Fourth-year students had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.20 (95% CI: 0.05–0.87, P = 0.032), and fifth-year students had an OR of 0.23 (95% CI: 0.06–0.93, P = 0.039).
Conclusion
Despite having a fair level of knowledge regarding blood donation as well as a positive attitude toward it, the respondents portray a poor practice culture with respect to blood donation.
Evaluating Generative AI to Extract Qualitative Data from Peer-Reviewed Documents
Authors: Spillias Scott , Ollerhead Katherine , Andreotta Matthew , Annand-Jones Ruby , Boschetti Fabio , Duggan Joseph , Karcher Denis , Paris Cecile , Shellock Rebecca , Trebilco Rowan
Published: August 2024

Uptake of AI tools in knowledge production processes is rapidly growing. Here, we explore the ability of generative AI tools to reliably extract qualitative data from peer-reviewed documents. Specifically, we evaluate the capacity of multiple AI tools to analyse literature and extract relevant information for a systematic literature review, comparing the results to those of human reviewers. We address how well AI tools can discern the presence of relevant contextual data, whether the outputs of AI tools are comparable to human extractions, and whether the difficulty of question influences the performance of the extraction. While the AI tools we tested (GPT4-Turbo and Elicit) were not reliable in discerning the presence or absence of contextual data, at least one of the AI tools consistently returned responses that were on par with human reviewers. These results highlight the utility of AI tools in the extraction phase of evidence synthesis for supporting human-led reviews and underscore the ongoing need for human oversight.
Evidence of spatial clustering pattern of malaria distribution in Epe, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Abdulrahman Babatunde , Hassan Adesola Adebolade
Published: August 2024

Investigation of the spatial distribution patterns of malaria with the goal of detecting intense transmission areas and clustering is prerequisite to planning an effective targeted malaria intervention. Parasitological sampling was done in 24 settlements: 12 from 6 wards in Epe community and 12 from 3 wards in Orimedu constituency, Lagos, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from 360 participants with georeferenced residences, selected through multistage systematic sampling technique. Each study area was delineated into 3 zones, namely; very high (red), high (yellow) and low (green) malaria risk zones according distances of 500m, 1000m and 1500m respectively away from perennial water bodies using Global Moran’s Index Spatial Autocorrelation analysis. Clustering and Outlier analysis was carried out to generate predictive malaria risk maps. Overall malaria prevalence was 32.2%., being significantly higher in Orimedu (52.6%) than Epe (47.4%), p < 005 There was statistically significant variation in the spatial distribution of malaria in Epe and Orimedu wards, p < 005 and settlements, p < 005. Prevalence was 28%, 32% and 50% in the red, yellow and green zones respectively in Epe. Yellow zone accounted for the highest prevalence (67%), in Orimedu, followed by the red zone (39%) while the green zone was uninhabited. Malaria clustering was detected in Uraka, Iberikodo and Sagidan settlements in Epe (Moran’s Index = 062, p < 005) while Orimedu has a random distribution pattern (Moran’s Index = 008, p > 005). The multiple distinct malaria risk zones coupled with the characteristic steep topographic may be responsible for forcing malaria to localize and cluster in Epe compared to Orimedu.
Machine Learning Approaches for Predicting Company Bankruptcy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ali Umair , Fahad Shah , Ali Ammar
Published: August 2024

The present study explores the utilization of machine learning classifiers for the purpose of forecasting firm bankruptcy. The dataset consisted of financial metrics and was used to evaluate six different classifiers which included; Support Vector Classifier, Logistic Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, Naive Bayes, Decision Tree, and Random Forest. In terms of accuracy in the original data (96.77%) and scaled data (96.70%), Random Forest Classifier emerged as the best performing classifier. This research indicates that careful choice of a model is crucial and also implies that machine learning has a great potential in improving risk management and financial decision making. The implications of these result for various domains in finance suggest that hybrid models should be researched and explained in better detail by future work to further improve accuracy and transparency. Furthermore, the use of machine learning can raise predictive accuracy among financial institutions, which will lower risks thereby increasing overall performance that contributes to financial stability.
Biochemical and Mechanical Impact of Storage Techniques on Ovine Temporomandibular Joint Discs
Authors: Trindade Daniela , Calado Cecília R. C. , Silva João C. , Maurício Ana C. , Alves Nuno , Moura Carla
Published: August 2024

The temporomandibular joint disc plays a fundamental role in daily activities, and when it is compromised, severely disturbs oral health and quality of life. Decellularization is gaining interest in tissue engineering (TE) applications, but requires maintaining the native structure and composition to mimic human disc properties. This study characterizes the native ovine disc and compares conservation protocols to preserve its morphology, biochemical content (sulfated glycosaminoglycans, total and soluble collagen), and mechanical and thermal behavior. Three storage protocols were tested: (i) freezing at -20°C in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and thawing at 4°C (PBS + 4°C); (ii) freezing at -20°C in PBS and thawing at room temperature (RT) (PBS + RT); and (iii) wrapping the discs in PBS-embedded gauze, freezing at -20°C, and thawing at RT (Gauze + RT). Protocols were evaluated at 1, 7, and 14 days, and compared with a native disc, and a collagenase-treated discs. All conservation protocols caused changes, though less pronounced than degradation. The PBS + 4°C and PBS + RT protocols maintained original morphology, yet highlighted, a contrasting biochemical and mechanical outcome based on the thawing method. Thermal analysis revealed collagen structure changes within the first 7 days of freezing. The Gauze + RT protocol showed no significant biochemical changes over time, but the disc became dehydrated and with a higher compression modulus. For TE approaches involving decellularization, it is crucial to consider these alterations. For powdered tissue applications, the Gauze + RT method for 14 days is recommended due to minimal structural impact.
Taxation and Foreign Direct Investments: a Revisionist study
Authors: silva emmanuel marques , Martinez Antonio Lopo , Zanoteli Eduardo Jose , Neto Alfredo Sarlo
Published: August 2024

This study revisits research on Taxation and Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), highlighting their critical impact on economic growth and technological advancement in transitioning economies. Utilizing bibliometric analysis through the Proknow-C method, it delves into how taxation shapes FDI. The focus is on key areas such as determinants, countries, institutions, and incentives. It specifically acknowledges the scholarly contributions of Devereux M. P. among others. The study exposes the intricate dynamics between taxation and FDI, aiming to broaden the understanding and inform future research, with profound implications for developing effective policy-making in emerging economies.
Optimization of Technological Parameters for Cold Spraying Using the Response Surface Method
Authors: Hu Wenjie , Shorinov Oleksandr
Published: August 2024

Cold spray technology can obtain coatings in a solid state, which is suitable for deposition protective and restorative coatings. Currently, most of the research in cold spraying is based on a single-factor analysis to explore the law. However, the interaction effect of multiple factors is more scientific. In this study, the response surface method (RSM) was used to optimize the technological parameters of cold spraying. A multi-factor and multi-level quadratic regression model was established for gas temperature, pressure, and particle diameter of outlet velocity, and the process parameters were optimized. The results showed that the gas temperature, particle diameter, and gas pressure have significant effects under a single factor. Also, under the interaction of multiple factors, the P-value of the quadratic regression model was less than 1·10–4, and the R2 of the model was 0.9626, indicating that the curve fitting is good and the model has good credibility. The interaction between gas pressure and gas temperature is significant, while the interaction between gas temperature and powder diameter, gas pressure, and powder diameter are insignificant. Moreover, the parameter error between the optimized parameters through response surface analysis and the actual numerical simulation is 0.76 %, indicating high accuracy.
The dugout canoe from São Tomé and Príncipe Islands: from the tree to the sea
Authors: Lopes Gonçalo , Baço Joana , Vieira Marta
Published: August 2024

The aim of this article and the research mission that originated the work described here is to evaluate the scientific potential of the maritime cultural heritage of São Tomé and Príncipe. Based on the available data, only one article on the archaeological potential of the islands has been published, in 2022. The work presented here focuses on the study of São Toméan canoes, documenting and understanding their manufacturing process from the cutting of the tree to their use on the water. Therefore, this work has more to do with ethnography than with nautical and maritime archaeology in its genesis. The symbiosis between these disciplines arises from the necessity to document traditions, ways of life, and vessels that are rapidly disappearing on a daily basis. The tradition of crafting crafts from trees is disappearing due to the loss of forests and the difficulty in finding suitable trees and species. Additionally, younger generations lack interest in this tradition, and fibreglass has been introduced as an alternative. This study aims to analyze and compare an almost forgotten island reality that struggles to survive.
Social Capital in the Patron-Client Dimension towards the Sustainability of Seaweed Cultivation Businesses in Rural Areas, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Arief Andi , Agusanty Harnita , Novianty Marlini , Mustapa Dalvi , Nadir Nadir
Published: August 2024

The system of livelihoods in seaweed cultivation becomes the subject of study because of the factor of production, and the distribution of the output of production requires a strategy of merging between something material and non-material that involves interaction with various actors in society. The social capital awakened by the actors in the seaweed cultivation business through the patron-client dimension is an effort to ensure the sustainability of the business. The study aims to characterize the components of social capital that bind, bridge, and connect in the context of the relationship between actors in seaweed cultivation, including the important role of the combination of these three types of social capital in the sustainability of the seaweed cultivation business. The Research methods use qualitative descriptive approaches. Data is collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed with open, axial, and selective encoding. The results show that actors in seaweed cultivation enterprises combine the social capital components of bonding, bridging, and linking selectively, depending on the interests behind each interaction with different actors. Social bonding capital is owned by seaweed farmers in their interactions to gain access to financial capital (in the form of cash and loans). The patron-client relationship pattern is the most prominent of the reciprocity relationships, where the patron is the provider of corporate capital and the guarantor of subsistence is the cultivator. The social bridging and linking capital is owned in its interaction to gain access to social assistance and political support as well as networking. Mechanisms of sale of seaweed production are dominated by marketing networks using intermediary services (middlemen) through the concept of personalized exchange. In such market trading, the symptoms of “boro” (guarantees) are detected through subscription relationships between sellers and buyers characterized by regular personality contacts and through credit mechanisms known as “take now, pay later”. Therefore, social capital plays an important role in the sustainability of seaweed farming in the countryside. In a situation of economic or environmental change, social capital can help the farmer adapt and survive in his business and household life. We found that social capital plays an important role in the rural habitat system, where access to livelihoods depends on social relationships. Thus, support is needed to strengthen the capacity of social capital in societies because the configuration of the social capital elements can inherit the cognitive social capital, the social structural capital and the social relational capital necessary for the improved social, economic and cultural development of societies.
Maritime Culture of Bantik Ethnic Group From North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Kepel Terry , Warouw Maya , Undap Nani , Sumolang Steven , Daulat August , Tondo Fanny
Published: August 2024

Indonesia is well known as an archipelagic country on the equator with a huge population and diverse cultures where up to 70% of its area constitutes a maritime continent. This study investigates the maritime culture of Indonesia, a nation comprising 16,771 islands, 1,331 ethnicities, and 4,735 coastal villages, with a particular focus on the Bantik Ethnic Group in North Sulawesi Province. The primary objective of this study is to identify and document maritime cultural elements and local knowledge of the Bantik group, alongside assessing their past and current status. Employing a descriptive analysis through thematic coding of data collected via focus group discussions (FGD), in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis, the study reveals that the Bantik has a rich maritime culture rooted in agrarian coastal life and historical ocean connections. However, urbanization poses significant threats to their traditional practices and language, while rural Bantik communities remain largely unaffected by these changes. This research underscores the importance of preserving the Bantik's intrinsic cultural values amidst modern challenges.
Enhancing Tourism Sustainability of Archipelago Countries: A Bibliometric Exploration of the Triple Helix Concept
Authors: Gravitiani Evi , Wicaksono Rayhan , Indriawati Ratna , Diswandi Diswandi
Published: August 2024

This study employs a comprehensive bibliometric approach to unravel the intricate economic, ecological, and social linkages in sustainable tourism within archipelago countries. Utilizing bibliographic methodologies, the research endeavours to map the literature related to this specified theme, with Scopus serving as the primary data source. The VOS-viewer analysis tool is employed to delineate and characterize the identified keywords. A total of 1,380 documents related to the research theme were meticulously gathered, with the study specifically limiting the recorded country areas to selected archipelago countries. Authorship analysis spotlights Hall C.M. as the foremost contributor based on the analyzed sample data, and the literature journal "Governance, the State and Sustainable Tourism: A Political Economy Approach" emerges as the most-cited publication. The United Kingdom takes centre stage as the primary contributor among countries. At the same time, the School of Business and Economics at Linnaeus University, Sweden, stands out as the institution making the most substantial contribution to publications concerning the economic, ecological, and social linkages of sustainable tourism in archipelago countries. This study significantly contributes to the mapping of literature on economic, ecological, and social interconnections, providing valuable insights into sustainable tourism in archipelago countries over the past 12 years.