bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D Decreases Susceptibility of CD4+ T Cells to HIV Infection by Reducing AKT Phosphorylation and Glucose Uptake: A Bioinformatic and In Vitro Approach
Authors: Loaiza John D. , Gómez Jose Fernando , Muñoz-Escudero Daniel , Gonzalez Sandra M. , Eubank Timothy Kyle , Rugeles Maria T. , Rodríguez-Perea Ana Lucía , Aguilar-Jimenez Wbeimar
Published: December 2024

Activated immune cells are highly susceptible to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Vitamin D (VitD) induces antimicrobial responses and reduces cellular activation. We investigated VitD effects on HIV-1 replication, glucose uptake, and gene regulation using computational and in vitro approaches. CD4+ T-cells from healthy male donors were treated with VitD and infected with HIV-1. After 72 hours, p24 protein was measured to assess viral replication. VitD effects on anti- and pro-HIV genes were analyzed by a Boolean network model based on curated databases and literature. CCR5 and CXCR4 coreceptor expression, AKT phosphorylation and glucose uptake were evaluated by flow cytometry, and expression of some model-identified genes was quantified by qPCR. VitD reduced p24 by 53.2% (p=0.0078). Boolean network modeling predicted that VitD upregulates antiviral, migration and cell-differentiation related genes, while downregulating genes related to cellular activation, proliferation, glucose metabolism, and HIV replication; notably AKT1, CCNT1, SLC2A1, HIF1A and PFKL. In vitro, VitD reduced AKT phosphorylation by 26.6% (p=0.0156), transcription of CCNT1 by 22.7% (p=0.0391), and glucose uptake by 22.8% (p=0.0039) without affecting classic antiviral genes or coreceptor expression. These findings suggest an anti-HIV effect of VitD, mediated through AKT and glucose metabolism downmodulation, both involved in cell activation and HIV-1 replication.
Embedding Cognitive Bias Modification into 3-D Animated Serious Games to Reduce Negative Interpretive Bias and Adverse Mental Health in Early Aged Adolescents with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Stewart Suzanne , Houghton Stephen John , Macqueen Leslie
Published: December 2024

The difficulties that adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) experience navigating the social nuances of everyday environments make them prone to the cognitive biases that lead to the development of negative thought patterns. Directly tackling the biased interpretive processes that give rise to negative thinking may be effective in reducing mental health problems. Minds Online, a 10-episode 3-D animated serious game embeds cognitive bias modification for interpretation to do this. Using a three-phase multiple baseline design in a school setting, eight adolescents diagnosed with an NDD completed the 10 episodes. Real time data revealed that seven of the eight adolescents altered their negative interpretive bias to a benign bias. Pre- and post-test standardized measures revealed non-significant changes in the desired direction for mental health. Visual analyses of 308 daily self-reported ratings about worry about schoolwork, worry about peer relationships, and feelings of loneliness did not demonstrate a replicated intervention effect. However, when these interrupted time series data were analyzed statistically, significant individual improvements were evident. Engagement with Minds Online was excellent, as was adherence to daily data collection. Minds Online seems to be highly effective in altering the negative interpretive biases of adolescents with NDDs, which is promising because such cognitive biases are involved in the onset and maintenance of psychopathology.
A Heterogeneity-Aware Semi-Decentralized Model to Lightweight IDS for IoT Networks based on Federated Learning and BiLSTM
Authors: AlSaleh Shuroog Saad , Menai Mohamed El Bachir , Al-Ahmadi Saad A.
Published: December 2024

Internet of Things (IoT) networks’ wide range and heterogeneity make them prone to cyberattacks. Most IoT devices have limited resource capabilities (e.g., memory capacity, processing power, and energy consumption) to function as conventional intrusion detection systems (IDSs). Researchers have applied many approaches to lightweight IDSs, including energy-based IDSs, machine learning/deep learning (ML/DL)-based IDSs, and federated learning (FL)-based IDSs. FL has become a promising solution for IDSs in IoT networks because it reduces the overhead in the learning process by engaging IoT devices during the training process. Three FL architectures are used to tackle the IDSs in IoT networks, including centralized (client-server), decentralized (device-to-device), and semi-decentralized. However, none of them has solved the heterogeneity of IoT devices while considering lightweight-ness and performance at the same time. Therefore, we propose a semi-decentralized FL-based model for a lightweight IDS to fit the IoT device capabilities. The proposed model is based on clustering the IoT devices— FL clients—and assigning a cluster head to each cluster that acts on behalf of FL clients. Consequently, the number of IoT devices that communicate with the server is reduced, helping to reduce the communication overhead. Moreover, clustering helps in improving the aggregation process as each cluster sends the average model’s weights to the server for aggregation in one FL round. The distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack is the main concern in our IDS model, since it easily occurs in IoT devices with limited resource capabilities. The proposed model is configured with two deep learning techniques: BiLSTM and WGAN using the CICIoT2023 dataset. The experimental results show that the BiLSTM achieves better performance and is suitable for resource-constrained IoT devices based on model size. We test the pre-trained semi-decentralized FL-based model on three datasets: BoT-IoT, WUSTL-IIoT-2021, and Edge-IIoTset, and the results show that our model has the highest performance in most classes, particularly for DDoS attacks.
Inverse Uncertainty Quantification in Model Calibration Using Probabilistic and Interval Approaches
Authors: Most Thomas
Published: December 2024

In model calibration, the identification of the unknown parameter values itself but also the uncertainty of these model parameters due to uncertain measurements or model outputs might be required. The analysis of the parameter uncertainty helps to understand the calibration problem better. Investigations on the parameter sensitivity and the uniqueness of the identified parameters could be addressed within the uncertainty quantification. In this paper we investigate different probabilistic approaches for this purpose, which identify the unknown parameters as multivariate distribution function. However, these approaches require the accurate knowledge of the model output covariance which is often not available. Alternatively, we investigate interval optimization methods for the identification of parameter bounds. The correlation or interaction of the input parameters can be modeled by a convex feasible domain which belongs to feasible solution of the model output within given bounds. We will introduce a radial line-search procedure which can identify the boundary of such a parameter domain for arbitrary non-linear dependencies between model input and output.
Nursing Interventions to Reduce Anxiety Before Cataract Surgery: A Comparative Study
Authors: GARCIA ANGUAS MONICA , SEVA-LLOR ANA MYRIAM , CABRERA  BEYROUTI RUBEN , ROSADO FIGUEROLA SILVIA
Published: December 2024

Introduction: People undergo cataract surgery experience anxiety about the surgical process, aggravating complications such as pain, nausea, longer recovery. Presurgical education is essential as part of standardized nursing care. Purpose: to measure the effectiveness of a nursing educational intervention through an informative video to reduce presurgical anxiety. Methods: 147 patients randomly selected into an intervention group (video display) and a control group (standard care). Anxiety was measured using The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) and the Visual Analogue Scale for Anxiety (VAS-A). The impact of the video on the anxiety and post-surgical complications was studied. Findings: 59.2% women, 40.8% men, 77.6% basic studies, 85.7% previous surgeries and 55% moderate anxiety. A 30% reduction in anxiety was observed in the experimental group. Video recommended by 100% of the patients. Conclusions: Audiovisual material is useful in the nursing care process as an educational support tool that improves the surgical experience.
Leadership Philosophy Approach Towards Nurses' Performance In Providing Nursing Care: A Literature Review
Authors: Suhartini Titik , Pandin Moses Glorino Rumambo , Nurs Nursalam
Published: December 2024

Background: Leadership constitutes an endeavor to sway collective actions. Leadership entails the capacity to achieve consensus on shared objectives. Leadership is an attempt to steer others toward attaining specific aims. Leadership represents the most impactful connection between a leader and their followers. While it may be challenging to encapsulate, fundamentally, leadership pertains to the act of one person influencing the actions of others for a specific reason. However, this does not imply that everyone who sways others for a reason qualifies as a leader. Objective: To outline the philosophical viewpoint of leadership in enhancing nurse performance: a literature review methodology.Method: A literature review study utilizing databases from Google Scholar, PubMed, and ProQuest with the search terms "leadership" and "nurse performance." Results: From a philosophical standpoint, leadership is a notion that necessitates profound contemplation regarding the essence, purposes, and fundamental principles that inform an individual's leadership. Philosophical viewpoints emphasize the moral, ethical, and ontological dimensions of leadership, as well as the way individuals perceive their duties and interactions with others.Conclusion: In philosophical terms, leadership revolves around establishing significance, providing guidance, and leading with integrity. Leaders bear the responsibility not only for attaining tangible objectives but also for fostering a more equitable, harmonious, and humane world. This philosophical insight reminds us that leadership transcends mere action; it also involves serving as a model for subordinates in elevating performance.
A Conceptual Model of the System for Tagging Emotional Vocabulary
Authors: Barkovska Olesia , Ivashchenko Heorhii , Zakharov Daniil , Kovalenko Andriy , Botnar Pavlo , Zaitseva Elena , Levashenko Vitaly
Published: December 2024

NLP is currently one of the relevant research areas, including several directions. One of these directions is related to the study of the emotional tone of the text or its emotional coloring. This study proposes a conceptual model of a system for tagging emotionally colored vocabulary, consisting of four modules: emotional classification, recognition of named entities, analysis of emotional coloring, and thematic analysis. With the help of these modules, text summarization, extraction of emotionally colored vocabulary, and identification of topics present in the text are carried out. This approach allows us to understand the text's tone, the emotions, feelings, and experiences present in it, and the topics discussed in it. Based on experimental studies, the following parameters of the DistilBERT neural network with the transformer architecture were obtained: dataset size is about 13,000 records, the batch size is 16, the number of epochs is 3, the optimizer is AdamW, the scheduler is Linear with Warmup, the scaler is GradScaler. Further development of the research is planned to increase the efficiency and accuracy of the developed methods and study their application in various fields, such as social network analysis, public opinion monitoring, marketing research, and many others.
Leadership Axiology and its Impact on Nursing Care Documentation Performance: A Literature Review
Authors: Suhartini Titik , Pandin Moses Glorino Rumambo , - Nursalam
Published: December 2024

Background: leadership is an activity that influences group activities. Leadership entails the capability to reach consensus on a shared objective. A leader carries out efforts to guide others in achieving specific goals. Leadership represents a relationship that significantly impacts the interactions between leaders and their followers. It is relatively challenging to generalize, as fundamentally, leadership involves someone shaping the behavior of others for a specific purpose. However, this does not imply that anyone who influences others for a purpose is classified as a leader. Documentation in nursing encompasses complete information regarding the patient’s health condition, nursing care activities, and the patients response to the care they receive.Purpose: to elucidate the axiological perspective of leadership on the performance of nursing care documentation: literature review.Method: literature review study utilizing databases from Google Scholar, PubMed, and ProQuest with the keywords leadershi and nurse performance.Results: Leadership, when considered from an axiological standpoint, involves profound contemplation about the essence, purpose, and fundamental values that guide an individual in leading. The philosophical viewpoint emphasizes the moral and ethical dimensions of leadership, as well as how individuals perceive their responsibilities and relationships with others. Nurses play a crucial role in delivering nursing care, and every action that is planned or has been carried out is documented. The leader's role is vital as a role model for nurses and also acts as a motivator for nurses, thus potentially impacting nurse performance.Conclusion: the axiology of leadership generates meaning, offers guidance, and leads with integrity. Leaders carry the responsibility not only for attaining practical objectives but also for cultivating a more equitable, harmonious, and humane world. This philosophical perspective serves as a reminder that leadership transcends mere action; it also encompasses being an exemplar for subordinates in enhancing nurse performance.
Brain Morphometry and Cognitive Features in Prediction of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Lundervold Arvid , Bjørsvik Ben , Billing Julie , Berentsen Birgitte , Lied Gülen Arslan , Steinsvik Elisabeth K , Hausken Trygve , Pfabigan Daniela M , Lundervold Astri J.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gut-brain disorder characterized by abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and psychological distress. While brain-gut interactions are recognized in IBS pathophysiology, the relationship between brain morphometry, cognitive function, and clinical features remains poorly understood. The study aims to (i) replicate previous univariate morphometric findings in IBS patients and conduct software comparisons; (ii) investigate whether multivariate analysis of brain morphometric measures and cognitive performance can distinguish IBS patients from healthy controls (HCs), and evaluate the importance of structural and cognitive features in this discrimination. Methods: We studied 49 IBS patients and 29 HCs using structural brain MRI and the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Brain morphometry was analyzed using FreeSurfer v6.0.1 and v7.4.1, with IBS severity assessed via IBS-Severity Scoring System. We employed univariate, multivariate, and machine learning approaches with cross-validation. Results: FreeSurfer version comparison revealed substantial variations in morphometric measurements. While morphometric measures alone showed limited discrimination between groups, combining morphometric and cognitive measures achieved 93% sensitivity in identifying IBS patients (22% specificity). Feature importance analysis highlighted the role of subcortical structures (hippocampus, caudate, putamen) and cognitive domains (recall and verbal skills) in group discrimination. Conclusions: Our comprehensive open-source framework suggests that combining brain morphometry and cognitive measures improves IBS-HC discrimination compared to morphometric measures alone. The importance of subcortical structures and specific cognitive domains supports complex brain-gut interaction in IBS, emphasizing the need for multimodal approaches and rigorous methodological considerations. GitHub: https://github.com/arvidl/ibs-brain
Fluorescent Probes to Image the KCa3.1 Channel in Tumor Cells
Authors: Thale Insa , Naß Elke , Vinnenberg Laura , Todesca Luca Matteo , Budde Thomas , Maisuls Ivan , Strassert Cristian A. , Schwab Albrecht , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: December 2024

The Ca2+ activated K+ channel KCa3.1 is not only involved in physiological processes such as immune reactions and control of vascular tone, but is highly expressed in various tumor entities. Thus, imaging of KCa3.1 channels comes into focus for the localization of high channel density, i.e. for tumor diagnosis. For this purpose, the KCa3.1 channel addressing warhead senicapoc was coupled with different fluorescent dyes. In order to increase the polarity and quantum yield of reported fluorescent probes, three strategies were followed: (1) A F-atom at the B-atom of bodipy labeled senicapoc derivatives 9a, 9b, and 15a was replaced by a H3CO moiety, which decreased the logP value by one log-unit. (2) The p-phenylene moiety of the linker was replaced by an aliphatic tetramethylene linker decreasing the lipophilicity by 0.3-0.5 log-units. (3) Instead of bodipy dyes, fluorescein was coupled with the senicapoc warhead resulting in very polar probes 21a and 21b with low logP values of 1.5 and 1.3, respectively. Introduction of an ethyl moiety at the bodipy core increased the quantum yield, which resulted in the best punctate staining pattern of fixed and living A549-3R lung tumor cells with the ethylbodipy-labeled senicapoc derivative 10b. The specificity was shown by various control experiments: Preincubation of fixed and living A549-3R cells with senicapoc made the punctate staining pattern disappear. Furthermore, incubation of HEK cells, which do not express KCa3.1 channels, with 10b, or incubation of A549-3R cells with the azide precursor 7b without the targeting warhead senicapoc did not lead to the punctate staining pattern. Co-staining with 10b and an antibody did not result in overlapping signals. It was concluded that the antibody binds selectively at the closed channel (58.5 %), whereas the senicapoc-bodipy conjugate 10b binds selectively at the open channel (41.5 %). The ratio 58.5 : 41.5 reflects the ratio of the ion channel in the closed and open conformation.
Enhancing Nutritional and Functional Properties of Broccoli Leaves Through Selenium Biofortification: Potential for Sustainable Agriculture and Bioactive Compound Valorization
Authors: Buttarelli Melina Soledad , Céccoli Gabriel , Trod Betiana Soledad , Stoffel María Micaela , Simonutti Marianela , Bouzo Carlos Alberto , Turowski Valeria Rosana , Perez Adrián Alejandro , Llugany Mercè , Sánchez Martín María Jesús , Daurelio Lucas Damián , Guevara María Gabriela , Muñoz Fernando Felipe
Published: December 2024

Selenium (Se) biofortification is a promising agronomic strategy to enhance dietary intake of this essential micronutrient, while simultaneously adding value to agricultural by-products like Brassica oleracea L. var. italica leaves. This study evaluated the effects of foliar Se biofortification on a fresh-market broccoli cultivar (‘Belstar’) using selenite and selenate salts (1 and 2 mM). Growth performance, biochemical properties, nutraceutical quality, and phytohormone profiles of broccoli leaves were analyzed, highlighting their potential as functional by-products. Multivariate analysis revealed that 2 mM selenite application was the most effective treatment, significantly improving several parameters. Selenium biofortification with 2 mM selenite increased essential nutrient content, including Se, Ca, S, Fe, Mn, Mg, and Mo. It also enhanced soluble protein content (+2.2-fold), phenolic compounds (+1.5-fold), and total antioxidant capacity (+1.4-fold) compared to control plants. In this sense, the nutraceutical quality of broccoli leaves was markedly improved, supporting their use as a source of bioactive ingredients. Additionally, to assess practical applications, water-extracted Se-enriched broccoli leaves demonstrated antifungal activity against the plant pathogen Fusarium solani, attributed to Se-induced alterations in phytohormone profiles. These findings suggest that Se-biofortified broccoli leaves can serve as a sustainable source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds for the food industry. Furthermore, their antifungal properties position them as potential eco-friendly biopesticides to combat plant pathogenic fungi, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture.
Comparison of the Acute Effects of Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Deep Breathing Exercise on the Autonomic Nervous System Activity and Biomechanical Properties of the Muscle in Healthy People
Authors: Ertürk Çağıl , Özden Ali Veysel
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: We aimed to examine the acute effects of deep breathing exercise and transcutaenous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on autonomic nervous system activation and the characteristics of certain muscle groups and to compare these two methods. Methods: 60 healthy adults between the ages of 18-45 were randomly divided into two groups to receive a single session of taVNS and deep breathing exercises. Acute measurements of pulse, blood pressure, perceived stress scale, autonomic activity and muscle properties were performed before and after the application. Results: A significant decrease was detected in the findings regarding the perceived stress scale, pulse and blood pressure values as a result of a single session application in both groups (p <0.05). In addition, it was determined that the findings regarding autonomic measurement values increased in favor of the parasympathetic nervous system in both groups (p <0.05). In measurements of the structural properties of the muscle, the stiffness values of the muscles examined in both groups decreased (p <0.05), while the findings regarding relaxation increased (p <0.05). As a result of the comparative statistical evaluation between the groups, the increase in parasympathetic activity was found to be greater in the deep breathing group (DB) (p <0.05). In the measurements made with the Myoton®PRO device, a significantly higher decrease in the stiffness value of the erector spinae was detected in the respiratory group (p <0.05). and an increase in the relaxation values was detected in the erector spinae and gastrocnemius muscles (p <0.05). Conclusion: It has been observed that both methods can increase parasympathetic activity and muscle relaxation in healthy people in a single session. However, DB seems slightly superior to taVNS in this respect.
A Multifaceted Computational Approach to Identify PAD4 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Authors: Alturki Mansour S. , Gomaa Mohamed S. , Tawfeeq Nada , Khzem Abdulaziz H. Al , Shaik Mohsina B. , Alshaikh Jafar Murtadha , Alsamen Mohammad , Al-Nahab Hassan , Al-Eid Mohammad , Almutawah Alhassan , Rants’o Thankhoe A. , Ayil Khaled A. G. , Almaghrabi Mohammed
Published: December 2024

: Background/Objectives: Neutrophil cells lysis forms the extracellular traps (NETs) to counter the foreign body during insults to the body. Peptidyl arginine deiminase (PAD) participates in this process and is then released into the extracellular fluid with the lysed cell components. In some diseases, patients with abnormal function of PADs, especially PAD 4, tend to form autoantibodies against the abnormal citrullinated proteins that are the result of PAD activity on arginine side chains. Those antibodies, which are highly distinct in RA are distinctly anti citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA). This study used an in-silico drug repurposing approach of FDA approved medications to identify potential alternative medications that can inhibit this process and address solutions to the current limitations of existing therapies. Methods: We utilized Maestro Schrödinger as a Computational tool for preparing and docking simulations on the PAD 4 enzyme crystal structure that is retrieved from RCSB Protein Data Bank (PDB ID: 4X8G) while the docked FDA-approved medications are obtained from Zinc 15 database. The protein was bound to GSK 199 -investigational compound- as positive control for the docked molecules. Preparation of the protein was done by Schrödinger Protein Preparation Wizard tool. Binding Pocket Determination was done by Glide software and Validation of Molecular Docking carried out through redocking of GSK 199 and superimposition. After that, standard and induced fit docking were done. In molecular dynamics Desmond System Builder was utilized where the receptor-ligand complex was immersed in the TIP3P solvent model with a buffer containing 0.15M NaCl. ADMET properties prediction of hits were run by pkCSM website. Results/Conclusions: Among the four obtained hits Pemetrexed, Leucovorin, Chlordiazepoxide, and Ioversol, which showed the highest XP scores providing favorable binding interactions. The induced-fit docking (IFD) results displayed strong binding affinities of Ioversol, Pemetrexed, Leucovorin, Chlordiazepoxide in the order IFD values -11.617, -10.599, -10.521, -9.988, respectively. This research investigates Pemetrexed, Leucovorin, Chlordiazepoxide, and Ioversol as potential repurposing agents in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as identified as PAD4 inhibitors. Keywords: PAD4; PAD IV; Rheumatoid arthritis; PAD4 activity; PAD4 inhibitor; Citrullination; Peptidyl arginine deiminase.
Identification of Barriers and Needs in the Discontinuation of Benzodiazepine Receptor Agonists in Elderly Patients of a Rural Community—A Qualitative Study
Authors: de Barros Mendes Tiago , Nazha Marta , Neves Ana Luísa , Broeiro-Gonçalves Paula
Published: December 2024

Background. The predictors of successful discontinuation of benzodiazapine agonist receptors (BZRA) in elderly patients are not well known due to lack of research on the subject, and it is appointed the need for further investigation, with more focus from the patients' point of view. No previous studies were identified that have been carried out in Portugal on this subject. Objectives. We proposed to identify the barriers and facilitators in the discontinuation of BZRA from the perceptions of elderly patients under prolonged prescription of BZRA, belonging to the same rural community. The gains in health intended to be the identification of potential intervention targets directed at patients, in order to reduce the prevalence of elderly patients under prolonged prescription of BZRA. Methods. A set of fifteen semi-structured interviews with patients under prolonged prescription of BZRA was carried. Content analysis was done by the main researcher and a reviewer in order to identify original emerging themes for the two underlying domains. Results. Four themes were identified as barriers to discontinuation of BZRA: (1) patient characteristics, (2) clinical factors, (3) medication-related factors, and (4) context and external factors. Seven themes were identified as facilitators to discontinuation of BZRA: (1) motivation, (2) patients' knowledge, (3) perception of BZRA insufficiency, (4) access to written information, (5) access to alternatives, (6) time for decision making, and (7) attitudes of health professionals. Conclusions. The findings highlight the challenging nature of BZRA discontinuation and the range of barriers and facilitators that impact patients’ behaviour towards this purpose.
Some sufficient conditions for the absolute convergence of Fourier series
Authors: Rexhepi Shpetim , Iseni Egzona
Published: December 2024

In the paper, we give some results regarding the sufficient conditions for the absolute convergence of the Fourier series of a function using some of its axiomatic properties and constructive characteristics, such as the best approximation of the function with trigonometric polynomials, the modulus of continuity of the function, and the norm of the function in different spaces. Also, the sufficient conditions for the absolute convergence of the Fourier series of the convolution of two functions are provided.
Aplikasi Limbah Cair Pabrik terhadap Keharaan Tanah dan Tanaman serta Pengaruhnya terhadap Produksi Kelapa Sawit di Tanah Pasiran
Authors: Gunawan Sri , Hidayat Wahyu , Purwoto Harsunu , Wirianata Herry , Renjani Rengga Arnalis
Published: December 2024

Management of sandy soil in oil palm plantations requires location-specific technology that prioritizes sustainability principles. Palm oil mill Effluent (POME) has the potential to be a substitute for nutrients for oil palm plantations. This research aims to reveal the role of POME in improving soil and tissue nutrient status and increasing oil palm production on sandy soil. The research was conducted on eleven plantation blocks using POME and six blocks without by-products (30 ha block-1, sandy soil) of 12-13 years palm. Observations were carried out for 3 years, including harvest tonnage, number and weight of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) of palm oil, soil, and tissue nutrient content (N, P, K, Mg, Ca, Cu, and B), CEC, and soil organic carbon. The research results show that POME flatbed system application can increase the nutrient content, pH, CEC, and soil organic carbon in the low to medium range. This application can also increase the tissue nutrient content to the optimal range. Production, quantity, and weight of oil palm FFB on sandy soil applied by POME were increased compared to those without by-product application. This application can also reduce monthly fluctuations in palm oil production on sandy soil.
Asociación entre trastornos del equilibrio y síntomas depresivos en adultos mayores residentes de 12 comunidades altoandinas
Authors:   , Alanya Pineda Maite Tatiana , Bravo Alcantara Ivonne Ashley
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: Estimar la asociación entre trastornos del equilibrio y síntomas depresivos en adultos mayores residentes de 12 comunidades altoandinas. Métodos: Realizamos un análisis secundario de datos de un estudio transversal analítico en adultos mayores residentes de 12 comunidades altoandinas peruanas durante el periodo 2013 a 2019. La variable de exposición fue los trastornos del equilibrio (definida mediante una prueba de alcance funcional menor o igual a 20.32 cm), mientras que la variable de desenlace fue la sintomatología depresiva (definido como un puntaje mayor o igual a dos en la escala de depresión geriátrica de Yesavage de cinco ítems). ‘’Se construyeron modelos de regresión de Poisson para identificar factores asociados con una capacidad de equilibrio deficiente. Se presenta la razón de prevalencia (RP) con intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC95%)’’ (1). Resultados: Analizamos a 417 adultos mayores, el 61.1% (n=255) eran mujeres, con una edad media de 73.2 ± 6.9 años. El 48.9% (n=204) presentó trastornos del equilibrio, mientras que el 52.8% (n=220) presentó sintomatología depresiva. En el modelo de regresión ajustado se halló que los trastornos del equilibrio incrementaron la probabilidad de presentar sintomatología depresiva en adultos con presencia de trastornos del equilibrio (RPa=1.27; IC95%: 1.07-1.51; p=0.006). Conclusión: Hallamos que los trastornos del equilibrio se asociaron a una mayor prevalencia de síntomas depresivos en adultos mayores residentes de las 12 comunidades altoandinas. Se recomienda para las futuras investigaciones epidemiológicas abarquen a los síntomas y trastornos depresivos en poblaciones con mayor tamaño muestral, para la implementación de programas de despistaje temprano en adultos mayores con la finalidad de mejorar su calidad de vida y su acceso a la atención primaria.
Lingual Mucosal Graft Treatment for Recurrent Renal Bleeding after Ureteral Stricture Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Yang Longyuhe , Wang Yueqiang , Yang Jianbing , Zhao Yunliang , Ma Zhen , Su Zhixuan
Published: December 2024

Background
Ureteral stricture is a prevalent and complex condition within the urinary system, often leading to significant complications. In severe instances can result in renal insufficiency and damage. Although various treatment options exist for ureteral strictures,but effectively managing specific cases remains a challenge. Autologous grafts have emerged as a novel surgical approach for ureteral repair and reconstruction. However, due to the specific surgical conditions required, reports of complications associated with these techniques are relatively limited.
Case Presentation
This article presents a case of a long-segment ureteral stricture treated with lingual mucosal graft. The patient experienced postoperative severe renal hemorrhage, prompting a thorough analysis of the factors contributing to this complication. This case highlights the complexities involved in the surgical management of ureteral strictures and underscores the need for careful patient selection.
Conclusion
The use of lingual mucosal grafts in the treatment of ureteral strictures demonstrates potential benefits, but the risk of postoperative complications, such as renal hemorrhage, necessitates further investigation. By refining the selection criteria for patients undergoing surgical intervention and addressing associated complications, this study aims to enhance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.
Association between serum direct bilirubin and the 90-days mortality in patients with ARDS
Authors: Jin Jun , Deng Jiang-Tao , Xu Jiao
Published: December 2024

Objective
The liver plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and resolution of ARDS. Clinically, ARDS patients often present with elevated bilirubin levels, primarily due to an increase in direct bilirubin (DBIL). This study aimed to investigate the association between serum DBIL levels and 90-day mortality in ARDS patients.
Methods
We conducted an analysis of patients diagnosed with ARDS according to the Berlin definition using data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. The primary outcome was 90-day mortality, with in-hospital mortality as the secondary outcome. Multivariable Cox regression assessed the relationship between DBIL and 90-day mortality, while restricted cubic spline regression(RCS) explored potential nonlinear associations. Kaplan-Meier(KM) survival curves compared survival rates between patients with higher and lower DBIL levels.
Results
A total of 714 ARDS patients enrolled, 266 patients died within 90 days of admission to the ICU. The higher DBIL group exhibited significantly worse clinical outcomes, including lower pH, higher lactate, elevated ALT, and increased SOFA scores. KM survival analysis revealed significantly lower survival rates in the higher DBIL group (52.2% vs. 73.7%, P < 0.001). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that higher DBIL levels were independently associated with increased 90-day mortality (HR 1.77, 95% CI: 1.31–2.28, P < 0.001) and in-hospital mortality (HR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.56–2.43, P < 0.001), while indirect bilirubin(IBIL) was not significantly associated with 90-day mortality (HR 0.93, 95% CI: 0.85–1.02, P = 0.127). RCS analysis indicated a nonlinear relationship between DBIL levels and mortality risk. Subgroup analyses showed consistent associations across various patient demographics.
Conclusion
Our study shows that elevated DBIL is independently associated with 90-day mortality in ARDS patients. Clinicians should closely monitor ARDS management and adjust treatment strategies when DBIL levels are elevated.
Atrioventricular Block as a Severe and Unusual Extra-Articular Presentation of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sarsari Mohamed , Elmejjati Aissam , Faraj Raid , Kerrouani Oualid , Fellat Ibtissam , Zarzur Jamila , Cherti Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Background:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition impacting not only joints but also various organs, with potential life-threatening consequences, particularly involving the heart. Pericardial damage is a prevalent cardiovascular manifestation that generally responds well to anti-inflammatory interventions. While atrioventricular block in RA is uncommon, it remains a possibility and poses a threat to vital prognosis in the absence of proper treatment.
Case Presentation:
We present the case of a young female patient with a 23-year history of rheumatoid arthritis, experiencing recurrent syncope episodes associated with complete atrioventricular block. The severity of the condition necessitated the implantation of a dual-chamber pacemaker.
Conclusions
This case holds significance due to the rarity of atrioventricular block in rheumatoid arthritis, its complex pathophysiology, and the essential reliance on cardiac stimulation for treatment, as anti-inflammatory interventions show limited efficacy in this particular scenario.
Diagnostic Efficacy in Dental Caries Assessment: Insights from a CAST-WHO Comparative Study in Dibrugarh, Assam
Authors: Barbhuiya Maruf Hussain , Barman Indrani , Talukdar Alpana , Singh Rishba , Gogoi Antarika , Talukdar Bhaskarjyoti
Published: December 2024

Objective To examine the comparability of the CAST index with the established WHO criteria across diverse populations and age groups.Methods and Material: In the Dibrugarh district of Assam, India, 728 schoolchildren between the ages of 5, 12 and 15 participated in a cross-sectional survey. Examiners received calibration and training in order to apply the CAST index. The CAST index was used for the first examinations, and after a set amount of time, the WHO 2013 criteria were used for the second examination. For every exam, the amount of time required was noted. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test evaluated the mean investigation time for the CAST index & WHO standards, while the Mc Nemar test compared caries experiences.Results The caries experience of children aged 5, 12 and 15 using the CAST index (52%, 48%, 54.6%) and the WHO criteria (42.3%, 40.0%, 26.7%), statistically significant differences were found (p < 0.05). In comparison to the WHO standards (60.56 ± 16.48 seconds and 59.27 ± 8.22 seconds) for primary and permanent dentition, the average examination duration for the CAST index (94.12 ± 23.68 seconds and 107.13 ± 8.39 seconds) was longer (p < 0.05).Conclusions Despite the CAST index requiring an extended investigation time, it provided more precise information, aiding researchers in treatment development that encompasses prevention of early lesions, restoration & rehabilitation.Clinical Relevance: The CAST index facilitates early diagnosis and targeted treatment planning, enabling preventive interventions for early lesions and appropriate restorative care, thus improving oral health outcomes in children.
Evaluations on Degraded and Natural Estuaries: "The Case of Kızılırmak and Yeşilırmak" and New Records for Macroinvertebrate Fauna of Turkey
Authors: Melih Rüzgar , Aysun Gümüş
Published: December 2024

This research examines the river mouth ecosystems of Kizilirmak and Yeşilirmak, discharging significant quantities of freshwater and nutrients to the Samsun Shelf area along the mid-southern Black Sea. The objective was to ascertain the current ecological status and detect any significant variation between two river mouth ecosystems (rehabilitated-Kizilirmak and natural-Yeşilırmak) in terms of macroinvertebrate communities and environmental variables. Sampling was conducted seasonally between February 2017 - November 2017. A total of 52206 individuals belonging to 90 taxa were identified. In Kızılırmak river mouth 51 species were identified and 60 species belonging to Yeşilırmak. All identified taxa are new records for the study area and Orthocladius (Orthocladius) dentifer, O. (O.) clarkei, O. (O.) dorenus, O. (O.) wetterenesis, O. (O.) mixtus and Mystacides longicornis were found to be new records for the macrobenthic fauna of Turkey. The distribution of macroinvertebrates was compared by means of season, area, particle size, and station groups. It is found that Kızılırmak and Yeşilırmak river mouth ecosystems are represented by a narrow habitat fragment. In Kızılırmak river mouth habitat a high level of similarity among stations and a significant loss of diversity across the site was determined. This phenomenon is believed to be the natural outcome of reconstruction activities along the downstream resulting in ecosystem destruction. The Yeşilirmak river mouth habitat is determined to a have a relatively more diverse macrobenthic community and seemed to be well preserved than the Kızılırmak area.
Living in the city: Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a novel threat to an urban population of Florida burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia floridana) in south Florida
Authors: Jones Håkon , Nemeth Nicole M. , Piersma Brittany , Hardman Rebecca , Shender Lisa A. , Boughton Raoul K. , Garrett Kayla B. , Castleberry Nikole , Deitschel P. J. , Teo Xuan Hui , Radisic Rebecca , Dalton Martha Frances , Yabsley Michael J.
Published: December 2024

Background: Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, is a metastrongyloid parasite that uses rodents as definitive hosts, mollusks as intermediate hosts, and a wide range of invertebrate and vertebrate species as paratenic hosts. Although this parasite poses a significant public health concern in many regions of the world, it can also cause disease in numerous domestic and wildlife aberrant host species. When parasite larvae are ingested by one of these aberrant hosts, larval migration in the central nervous system causes extensive damage, resulting in spinal cord and/or brain damage and inflammation, leading to potentially fatal neurological disease. We describe the detection of A. cantonensis in a novel host, the Florida burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana) on Marco Island, Collier County, Florida. The Florida burrowing owl is a state-listed species that has experienced steep population declines across its range, primarily due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Many populations are now restricted to urban environments, which pose novel threats to the owls, such as exposure to anticoagulant rodenticides and novel pathogens, increased risk of predation, vehicular strike, and increased disturbance at nest sites.
Methods and Results: Through diagnostic evaluation of carcasses and select tissues submitted to the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study from 2019 to 2023, we diagnosed nine confirmed or suspected cases of angiostrongylosison Marco Island. Microscopic examination and PCR testing confirmed parasite identification. Additionally, ancillary testing ruled out other potential causes of neurological disease, such as rodenticides, West Nile virus, and highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.
Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of surveillance and monitoring efforts for A. cantonensis, particularly in regions where novel hosts may serve as indicators of public health risk. Additionally, as urbanization and habitat fragmentation continue encroaching upon wildlife habitats, understanding the dynamics of host-parasite interactions becomes crucial for mitigating the spread of zoonotic diseases.
Exploring themes to inform an education module on cerebral palsy upper limb management for novice healthcare professionals
Authors: Rane Tirtha Deepak , Parsons Dave , Bhugeloo Lubna , Chng Yuwen , Tan Zi Yang , Garbellini Simon
Published: December 2024

Introduction/Background
Novice healthcare professionals can feel inadequately prepared to manage upper limb impairment in people with cerebral palsy due to a gap between the complexity of varied upper limb presentations and limited knowledge and experience. There is a need to identify the components required for a cerebral palsy upper limb education module for novice healthcare professionals to bridge the knowledge gap and improve service provision.
Methods
An exploratory qualitative study design comprising of semi-structured interviews was conducted with 14 participants. Reflexive thematic analysis framework by Braun and Clarke, (2019) was adopted for data analysis.
Results
Analysis of 14 interviews generated five main themes, 1) bridging the knowledge and clinical practice gap; 2) knowledge toolbox; 3) essential knowledge; 4) education module components; and 5) hands-on experience.
Conclusion
Findings suggest that a CP upper limb education module with integrated practical training would increase the clinical knowledge and preparedness of novice healthcare professionals entering the field. The themes from this study could be used as a model for other clinical education packages.
Nanoscale structural alteration of collagen fibril in response to strain and bleomycin injury
Authors: Deyhle Richard T. , Krüger Robin , Fardin Luca , Persson Irma Mahmutovic , Cercos-Pita Jose Luis , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Menzel Andreas , Bech Martin , Olsson Lars E. , Bayat Sam
Published: December 2024

The link between the structural organization of the fibrillar components of lung extracellular matrix (ECM), local tissue stiffness and global viscoelastic behavior is not known. Here we investigated the effect of injurious mechanical ventilation on the local lung tissue stiffness using 4D synchrotron phase-contrast micro-CT, in normal lung and 7 days after intratracheal bleomycin induced lung injury in anesthetized rats. Quantitative maps of local lung strain (e) were computed within aerated lung acini, using a stepwise image registration method. Fibrillar organization of collagen and elastin at the nanoscale was measured using synchrotron small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS). Local microscopic tissue e was reduced in the aerated acini of normal lungs post injurious ventilation and in bleomycin-injured lungs and was associated with an increase in dynamic elastance (H). The scattering peak angle (q) which is inversely related to fibril d-spacing, was decreased by injurious ventilation indicating an elongation of the collagen fibrils in both normal and bleomycin-injured lung. There was a positive relationship between collagen periodicity and global tissue elastance, while an inverse relation was observed with tissue hysteresis. Our data demonstrate the effect of both bleomycin-induced lung injury and high-strain mechanical ventilation on the nanoscale fibrillar organization of collagen and for the first time, a link between collagen d-spacing and global lung tissue stiffening and viscoelastic behavior.
Experimental study on normalized characteristics of secondary consolidation of organic soil improved by bioenzyme
Authors: zhang yixin
Published: December 2024

Based on the secondary consolidation test of organic soil improved by bioenzyme, the normalization characteristics of strain-time relationship of improved organic soil was studied. Under different loading ratios, the normalized equation of strain-time relationship for improved organic soil based on ratios of bioenzyme was proposed. Through the secondary consolidation test of improved organic soil with different ratios of bioenzyme, the strain-time relationship curve was an obvious hyperbola. Based on the fitting method of hyperbolic model parameters, the influence of ratios of bioenzyme on related parameters was analyzed. The expression of the relationship between the ratios of bioenzyme and related parameters was proposed. Using the secondary consolidation strain limit value \(\:{\epsilon\:}_{\text{u}\text{l}\text{t}}\) as the normalization factor, the normalization characteristics of the strain-time relationship of the improved organic soil under different ratios of bioenzyme and different consolidation loads were analyzed. The normalized degree of strain-time relationship was high. The established normalization equation of strain-time relationship was used to predict the strain-time curve of organic soil improved by bioenzyme. The test value was in good agreement with the prediction value. It could better predict the strain-time relationship of organic soil improved by bioenzyme under different loading ratios, different ratios of bioenzyme and different loads.