bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relations of coping strategies and cognitive emotion regulation to Chinese children’s academic achievement goals and academic performance
Authors: Chen-Bouck Li , Patterson Meagan M. , Peng Anqi
Published: October 2024

Social–emotional skills (e.g., emotion regulation) influence a variety of academic outcomes among children. This study examined the relations of coping strategies and cognitive emotion regulation (CER) to academic achievement goals and academic performance among Chinese children (N = 401, age M = 10.52 years). Full Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis showed that children’s use of active coping strategies was positively associated with their endorsement of performance approach and mastery avoidance goals. Avoidant and support-seeking coping strategies were not associated with any outcome variables. Maladaptive CER was positively associated with performance approach, performance avoidance, and mastery avoidance goals and negatively associated with academic performance; adaptive CER was positively associated with mastery approach goals but not associated with other outcome variables. The current study provided some preliminary evidence to indicate that active coping strategies, maladaptive CER, and adaptive CER were associated with academic achievement goals and academic performance among Chinese children. Although maladaptive CER was not used as often as adaptive CER by Chinese children, the more they used maladaptive CER, the more likely they were to have academic achievement goals that focused on things other than learning itself, whereas the more Chinese children used adaptive CER, the more likely they were to set an achievement goal to master the knowledge. Therefore, in teaching practices or intervention planning, decreasing maladaptive CER strategies may be as important as cultivating adaptive CER strategies to facilitate academic success among Chinese children.
Effectiveness of a resilience school-based intervention in adolescents at risk: a cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Llistosella Maria , Castellví Pere , García-Ortiz Mercedes , López-Hita Griselda , Torné Clara , Ortiz Ramona , Guallart Erika , Uña-Solbas Estefanía , Carlos Martín-Sánchez Juan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

School offers a key context to promote resilience. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a school-based resilience intervention in 578 at-risk adolescents aged 12 to 15, emphasizing the significance of resilience improving mental health.

Methods

A cluster-randomized controlled trial with parallel arms was conducted during the 2021/22 academic course. A specific training of six 55-minute sessions over 6 weeks was carried out for the students. Each session consisted of 5 minutes of mindfulness, followed by 45 minutes of the corresponding activity: introduction to resilience, self-esteem, emotional regulation strategies, social skills, problem solving, community resources, and peer support. Primary outcomes were assessed by the Child Youth Resilience Measure-32 at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), and then at the 24-week follow-up (T3). Both groups were compared using the Student’s t-test. The effect size was calculated using Cohen’s d and linear regression models were used.

Results

A total of 578 adolescents were included, 323 in the control group and 255 in the intervention group. Significant differences in both crude and adjusted analyses for Child Youth Resilience Measure were observed at 24 weeks follow-up, showing higher resilience for the intervention group [IG, M = 128.7, SD = 14.2; CG, M = 125.3, SD = 18.4; p = 0.027; d = 0.2; p = 0.043, d = 0.16]. Furthermore, in Depressive symptoms, lower values were found for the intervention group in both crude and adjusted analyses [IG, M = 2.3 (SD = 2.5); CG, M = 2.8 (SD = 2.5); p = 0.04; d = −0.20; p = 0.037, d = −0.18].

Discussion

This study contributes to fostering resilience and positive adolescent development. It also reinforces the potential of multicomponent interventions. More continuous follow-up assessments are needed to identify possible long-term changes in resilience.

Clinical Trial Registration

Identifier: NCT05133115. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05133115.
The relationship between BMI and depression: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cui Hongyu , Xiong Ying , Wang Chengmin , Ye Jiaming , Zhao Weisen
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Mental health problems, especially depressive symptoms, are becoming increasingly prominent, posing a significant risk to public health. Changes in the body mass index (BMI) may impact an individual’s mental health, however, the relationship between BMI and depressive symptoms is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between BMI and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Using a multi-stage sampling method, 10,686 adults in Longgang District, Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China, were selected for participation in this study. Surveys were distributed in 2020 and 2021 to measure participant demographic data and health. Binary logistic regression, restricted cubic spline regression, and subgroup analyses were performed to explore the relationship between BMI and depressive symptoms.

Results

The results showed a U-shaped relationship between BMI and depression. Both obesity and underweight increased the risk of depression among the participants, especially in subgroups of participants who were young, highly educated, single and employed.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that adults should try to maintain a normal body weight as a way to prevent depression and maintain their physical and mental health.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of Tumor Treating Fields treatment in Chinese patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Pei Zhengda , Xiao Ningping , Yang Pei
Published: October 2024

Background

The LUNAR trial demonstrated the significant efficacy and safety of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) plus standard-of-care (SOC) [immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and docetaxel (DTX)] for patients with previously treated metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC). However, it remains uncertain as to whether the high costs are justified by the corresponding survival benefits. Here, the cost-effectiveness of using TTFields plus SOC for treating mNSCLC was evaluated from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system.

Methods

A Markov model with a 15-year time horizon was established and used to comparedeveloped to enable the simulation of treatment-associated costs and patient outcomes when comparing TTFields plus SOC to SOC alone. Primary outcomes for these analyses included total costs, life-years (LYs), quality-adjusted LYs (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) values. The impact of paramere uncertainty on model outcomes was evaluated through sensitivity analyses. Additional subgroup and scenario analyses were also performed to extend these results.

Results

While TTFields plus SOC exhibited a $74,688 increase in total costs relative to SOC ($96,092 vs. $21,404), it was associated with 0.38 additional QALYs (1.08 vs. 0.82 QALYs) for an ICER of $284,490/QALY. This value exceeded the $35,983/QALY willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold selected for these analyses by a wide margin. Relative to ICI and DTX treatment, the incremental costs of TTFields plus ICI and TTFields plus DTX were $78,115 and $71,307, respectively, with corresponding gains of 0.42 and 0.13 QALYs, yielding ICERs of $187,434/QALY, and $546,386/QALY. The parameter that most strongly impacted the results of these analyses was the cost of TTFields.

Conclusion

The results indicated that given current treatment costs, TTFields plus SOC was insufficiently cost-effective in treating patients with mNSCLC in China, although TTFields plus ICI yields substantial health benefits.
Women’s self-reported symptoms of reproductive tract infection, medical consultations, and factors influencing them in less developed regions: perimenopausal and older women in need of urgent attention
Authors: Zhang Ruoyi , Kang Dan , Yang Siyuan , Hu Dehua , Bai Li , Ao Yongping , Chen Jiaojiao , Nie Yuxian , Zhao Xiaowei , Xu Wei , Shi Qiuling
Published: October 2024

Background

Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) represent a critical public health concern impacting women’s health, particularly pronounced in developing countries. We aim to investigates the prevalence of self-reported RTI symptoms in women aged 18 to 65 and the factors influencing gynecological examination behavior and associated risks are explored.

Methods

From May 6, 2022, to September 20, 2022, a comprehensive survey engaged 20,864 women aged 18 to 65 in 19 townships in Lueyang, Shaanxi. Each survey team, comprising a gynecologist, two female health center staff, and a master’s student, conducted face-to-face questionnaire surveys in villages and households. The questionnaire featured three sections: prevalence of self-reported RTI symptoms, gynecological examination history, and factors influencing examination behavior.

Results

The high response rate of 98.69% yielded 20,590 valid questionnaires. Among surveyed women, 42.04% reported RTI symptoms, with a higher prevalence in those aged 30 and above, peaking at 44.88% in the 50–59 age group. Vulvar itching (24.73%), abnormal vaginal discharge (17.41%), and urinary tract irritation signs (11.73%) were most common. Older adult women (≥60) reported higher frequency and longer duration of symptoms. Only 9.88% of symptomatic women underwent gynecological examinations in 2022. Examination likelihood decreased with age, presenting a critical gap in healthcare utilization among older women. Reasons for checkups included routine checkups (47.02%), symptom concerns (41.29%), and the availability of free medical checkup programs (9.82%). Barriers included perceived lack of serious symptoms (23.7%), lack of necessity (4.41%) and lack of time (3.98%). Among those examined, 40.58% had a diagnosis of gynecological disorders, including pelvic inflammatory disease, human papilloma virus infection and cervical cancer.

Conclusion

Widespread RTI symptoms, particularly in perimenopausal and older women, underscore the need for enhanced healthcare. Barriers to gynecological examinations include awareness, education, and accessibility issues. Strategies must prioritize health education, routine examinations, and improved healthcare infrastructure in underdeveloped regions.
Exploring the effectiveness of the Career Guidance and Counseling Program on the perceived readiness for the job market: a lived experience among nursing students
Authors: Alnajjar Hend Abdu , Abou Hashish Ebtsam Aly
Published: October 2024

Background

The current workforce demands that nursing graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform in complex clinical and professional environments. Career guidance can potentially improve students’ job readiness by increasing their confidence in career pursuits, simplifying career decisions, and helping them address decision-making challenges.

Methods

This phenomenological study aimed to explore nursing students and interns’ perspectives on the effectiveness of the Career Guidance and Counseling Program (CGCP) and its impact on their readiness for the job market through their lived experiences while participating in the program. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 28 Saudi university students and continued until data saturation was reached. Thematic analysis was used for the data analysis.

Results

Seven themes emerged: personal experiences with the CGCP, the program’s importance, effectiveness, benefits, strengths, and weaknesses, and recommendations for improvement. Overall, participants expressed gratitude for the CGCP and believed that it would positively impact their future career success. They also felt that the program provided them opportunities to share ideas, information, and concerns, thereby improving their career decision-making and adaptability.

Conclusion

The results show that CGCP positively affected participants’ lives by providing support, guidance, and resources for informed career decision-making, developing essential career-related skills, and navigating career transitions. These findings have practical implications for nursing colleges implementing similar programs for better integration into the curriculum and for the continuity of such vital programs to help students. Future studies should explore this topic in different colleges and specialties.
Enhancing infection prevention and control through hand hygiene compliance in six Ugandan hospitals using quality improvement approaches
Authors: Kasujja Hassan , Waswa J. P. , Kiggundu Reuben , Murungi Marion , Kwikiriza Grace , Bahatungire Rony , Kajumbula Henry , Alombah Fozo , Joshi Mohan P. , Konduri Niranjan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Hand hygiene (HH) plays a crucial role in mitigating healthcare-associated infections. Improving HH compliance in healthcare facilities in resource-limited settings is urgently needed.

Methods

We implemented the World Health Organization (WHO) HH improvement strategy using a continuous quality improvement (CQI) approach targeting improvement in HH compliance by healthcare workers (HCWs). An intervention was implemented in six hospitals using a longitudinal study design between May 2019 and April 2023. We set up and monitored infection prevention and control (IPC) and HH programs using WHO’s infection prevention and control assessment framework at the facility level (IPCAF) and hand hygiene self-assessment framework (HHSAF) tools. We implemented HH interventions using CQI techniques while targeting HCW HH knowledge and compliance with the WHO’s Five Moments of HH.

Results and discussion

By the end of the intervention, IPC and HH capacity improved in all six hospitals, from a median score of 547.0 and 252.5 on IPCAF and HHSAF tools at baseline to an advanced score of 635.0 and 350.0 at endline assessment, respectively. Similarly, HCWs’ HH knowledge improved in all hospitals, from a mean score of 45.0% at baseline to 76.0% at endline assessment, most notably among nurses. HH compliance, as assessed using WHO’s HH observation tool, at least doubled in all hospitals, rising from 19.9% to 53.8%, with before touching a patient registering the highest (22-fold) improvement. On linear regression analysis, no significant association was observed between HH compliance and IPCAF b = -0.0004 (95% CI -0.093, 0.93) p = 0.990, HHSAF b = 0.009 (95% CI -.0127, 0.145) p = 0.842 and HCW knowledge on HH/IPC b = -0.165 (95% CI 0.815, 0.485) p = 0.519. This is the first documented comprehensive utilization of CQI approaches to implement HH as an entry point for the development of hospital IPC programs, and evaluation of WHO tools and approaches for IPC and HH improvement in Uganda.

Conclusion

Implementation of the WHO HH improvement strategy using a CQI approach can lead to remarkable improvement in HH capacity, and HCW compliance and knowledge in hospitals within resource-limited settings.
Permanent pastures identification in Portugal using remote sensing and multi-level machine learning
Authors: Morais Tiago G. , Domingos Tiago , Falcão João , Camacho Manuel , Marques Ana , Neves Inês , Lopes Hugo , Teixeira Ricardo F. M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is a vital policy framework implemented by the European Union to regulate and support agricultural production within member states. The Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS) is a key component that provides reliable land identification for administrative control procedures. On-the-spot checks (OTSC) are carried out to verify compliance with CAP requirements, typically relying on visual interpretation or field visits. However, the CAP is embracing advanced technologies to enhance its efficiency.

Methods

This study focuses on using Sentinel-2 time series data and a two-level approach involving recurrent neural networks (RNN) and convolutional neural networks (CNN) to accurately identify permanent pastures.

Results

In the first step, using RNN, the model achieved an accuracy of 68%, a precision of 36%, a recall of 97% and a F1-score of 52%, which indicates the model’s ability to identify all the true positive parcels (correctly identified permanent pasture parcels) and minimize the false negative parcels (non-identified permanent pasture parcels). This occurs due to the difficulty in distinguishing between permanent pastures and other similar land covers (such as temporary pastures and shrublands). In the second step, it was possible to distinguish the permanent pasture parcels from the others. The obtained results improved significantly from the first to the second step. Using CNN, an accuracy of 93%, a precision of 89%, and a recall of 98% were achieved for the “Permanent pasture” class. The F1-score was 94%, indicating a balanced measure of the model’s performance.

Discussion

The integration of advanced technologies in the CAP’s control mechanisms, as demonstrated, has the potential to automate the verification of farmers’ declarations and subsequent subsidy payments.
Integrative prognostic modeling for stage III lung adenosquamous carcinoma post-tumor resection: machine learning insights and web-based implementation
Authors: Liang Min , Li Peimiao , Xie Shangyu , Huang Xiaoying , Li Xiaocai , Tan Shifan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The prognostic landscape of stage III Lung Adenosquamous Carcinoma (ASC) following primary tumor resection remains underexplored. A thoughtfully developed prognostic model has the potential to guide clinicians in patient counseling and the formulation of effective therapeutic strategies.

Methods

Utilizing data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database spanning 2000 to 2018, this study identified independent prognostic factors influencing Overall Survival (OS) in ASC using Boruta analysis. Employing Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, and Neural Network algorithms, predictive models were constructed. Model performance was assessed through key metrics, including Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC), calibration plot, Brier score, and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA).

Results

Among 241 eligible patients, seven clinical parameters—age, sex, primary tumor size, N stage, primary tumor site, chemotherapy, and systemic therapy—were identified as significant predictors of OS. Advanced age, male gender, larger tumor size, absence of chemotherapy, and lack of systemic therapy were associated with poorer survival. The Random Forest model outperformed others, achieving 3- and 5-year AUCs of 0.80/0.79 (training) and 0.74/0.65 (validation). It also demonstrated better calibration, lower Brier scores (training: 0.189/0.171; validation: 0.207/0.199), and more favorable DCA. SHAP values enhanced model interpretability by highlighting the impact of each parameter on survival predictions. To facilitate clinical application, the Random Forest model was deployed on a web-based server for accessible prognostic assessments.

Conclusions

This study presents a robust machine learning model and a web-based tool that assist healthcare practitioners in personalized clinical decision-making and treatment optimization for ASC patients following primary tumor resection.
Evaluating the efficacy of probiotics and ascorbic acid as anti-stress agents against heat stress in broiler chickens
Authors: Sumanu Victory Osirimade , Naidoo Vinny , Oosthuizen Marinda Catharina , Chamunorwa Joseph Panashe
Published: October 2024

Heat stress poses a substantial challenge to poultry production worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for effective management strategies. This study investigated the efficacy of probiotics (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and ascorbic acid as antistress agents using cloacal and body surface temperatures (CT and BST) as heat stress biomarkers in broiler chickens. A total of 56 broiler chicks were used for the experiment and were divided into four distinct groups: control, probiotics (1 g/kg of feed), ascorbic acid (200 mg/kg of feed) and the combination of probiotics and ascorbic acid (1 g/kg and 200 mg/kg of feed, respectively). The study lasted 35 days; measurements were taken for ambient temperature (AT), CT, and BST. The ambient temperature in the pens consistently exceeded the thermoneutral zone (TNZ) established for broiler chickens. The CT values for broiler chickens in the probiotic group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. Additionally, the BST values in the probiotic and probiotic + ascorbic acid groups were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those in the control group. The findings suggest that incorporating probiotics, with or without ascorbic acid, can effectively reduce CT and BST values in broiler chickens thereby, enhancing thermoregulation when compared to the control group. This implies that using probiotics in poultry diets may enhance health and growth performance, potentially leading to better feed efficiency and reduced reliance on antibiotics. Implementing these dietary strategies could improve the productivity and welfare of broiler chickens in commercial settings.
Moláris fog helyreállítása hibrid kerámiabetéttel
Authors: Suta Gábor András , Hegedűs Csaba
Published: October 2024

A fogászati CAD/CAM technológia fejlődésének köszönhetően a fogak helyreállítása során ma már számos anyag közülválaszthatunk, mint például a marással előállítható hibrid kerámiák vagy más néven rezin-mátrix kerámiák különböző típusaiközül. Közös jellemzőjük, hogy szervetlen, kerámiatartalmuk mellett szerves, polimer tartalommal is rendelkeznekeltérő arányban. A kerámia, mint összetevő rész szerkezetében, méretében és összetételében is mutatkoznak különbségektermékenként. A hibrid kerámiák elsősorban szóló fogművekként, például koronákként, héjakként és betétekkéntalkalmazhatóak sikeresen. A közleményben egy alsó gyökérkezelt moláris fog helyreállítása kerül bemutatásra Vita Enamic(Vita Zahnfabrik, Németország) hibrid kerámiabetét segítségével. Hibrid kerámiarestaurátumok segítségével sikeresenállíthatóak helyre fogak indirekt módon mind esztétikai, mind biomechanikai szempontból.
Into the Groove: A Multitechnique Insight into the DNA–Vemurafenib Interaction
Authors: Cavalieri Gabriele , Pison Riccardo , Marson Domenico , Laurini Erik , Pricl Sabrina
Published: October 2024

This study explores the interaction between Vemurafenib (VEM), a potent BRAF inhibitor, and calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) using a comprehensive array of biophysical and computational techniques. The primary objective is to understand the potential off-target effects of VEM on DNA, given its established role in melanoma therapy targeting the BRAF V600E mutation. The investigation employed methods such as ultraviolet–visible absorption spectroscopy, steady-state fluorescence, circular dichroism, isothermal titration calorimetry, and advanced molecular dynamics simulations. The results indicate that VEM interacts with DNA primarily through a minor groove-binding mechanism, causing minimal structural disruption to the DNA double helix. Viscosity measurements and melting temperature analyses further confirmed this non-intercalative mode of binding. Calorimetry data revealed an exothermic, thermodynamically favorable interaction between VEM and ctDNA, driven by both enthalpic and entropic factors. Finally, computer simulations identified the most probable binding site and mode of VEM within the minor groove of the nucleic acid, providing a molecular basis for the experimental findings.
Orphan GPCRs in Neurodegenerative Disorders: Integrating Structural Biology and Drug Discovery Approaches
Authors: Kim Jinuk , Choi Chulwon
Published: October 2024

Neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, continue to challenge modern medicine despite therapeutic advances. Orphan G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have emerged as promising targets in the central nervous system, offering new avenues for drug development. This review focuses on the structural biology of orphan GPCRs implicated in these disorders, providing a comprehensive analysis of their molecular architecture and functional mechanisms. We examine recent breakthroughs in structural determination techniques, such as cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography, which have elucidated the intricate conformations of these receptors. The review highlights how structural insights inform our understanding of orphan GPCR activation, ligand binding and signaling pathways. By integrating structural data with molecular pharmacology, we explore the potential of structure-guided approaches in developing targeted therapeutics toward orphan GPCRs. This structural-biology-centered perspective aims to deepen our comprehension of orphan GPCRs and guide future drug discovery efforts in neurodegenerative disorders.
Exploring the Gene Expression and Plasma Protein Levels of HSP90, HSP60, and GDNF in Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Sokolowski Igor , Kucharska-Lusina Aleksandra , Miller Elzbieta , Poplawski Tomasz , Majsterek Ireneusz
Published: October 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by immune-mediated inflammation and neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). In this study; we aimed to investigate the gene expression and plasma protein levels of three neuroprotective genes—heat shock proteins (HSP90 and HSP60) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)—in MS patients compared to healthy controls. Forty patients with relapsing-remitting MS and 40 healthy volunteers participated in this study. Gene expression was measured using reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR, and protein levels were assessed via ELISA. The results showed a significant increase in HSP90 (1.7-fold) and HSP60 (2-fold) gene expression in MS patients compared to controls, along with corresponding increases in protein levels (1.5-fold for both HSP90 and HSP60). In contrast, GDNF gene expression and protein levels were significantly reduced in MS patients, with a 7-fold decrease in gene expression and a 1.6-fold reduction in protein levels. Notably, a non-linear relationship between GDNF gene expression and protein concentration was observed in MS patients, suggesting complex regulatory mechanisms influencing GDNF in the disease. The upregulation of HSP90 and HSP60 in MS highlights their roles in immune regulation and stress responses, while the reduction in GDNF indicates impaired neuroprotection. These findings suggest that HSP90, HSP60, and GDNF could serve as biomarkers for disease progression and as potential therapeutic targets in MS, offering promising avenues for future research and treatment development.
Diversity of Improved Diploids and Commercial Triploids from Musa spp. via Molecular Markers
Authors: Sampaio Juliana Rodrigues , Oliveira Wanderley Diaciso dos Santos , Junior Luiz Carlos de Souza , Nascimento Fernanda dos Santos , Moreira Ricardo Franco Cunha , Ramos Andresa Priscila de Souza , Santos-Serejo Janay Almeida dos , Amorim Edson Perito , Jesus Renata Darilia Moraes de , Ferreira Claudia Fortes
Published: October 2024

Banana breeding consists of obtaining diploid, triploid, and tetraploid intra- and interspecific hybrids by conventional breeding methods with the objective of aggregating characteristics of agronomic and commercial interest. Given the narrow genetic base of bananas, Embrapa’s Banana Genetic Breeding Program (BGBP) aims at crosses between improved diploids (ID) (ID × ID) and between improved diploids (ID) and commercial triploids (ID × CTP) and tetraploids (ID × CTT), in order to increase the genetic base and variability in bananas regarding agronomic traits of interest and resistance to main biotic and abiotic factors. These improved diploids are resistant to main fungal diseases such as yellow (YSD) and black Sigatoka (BSD) disease and Fusarium wilt (race 1 and subtropical race 4), the latter being one of the most devastating diseases in bananas. The genetic diversity between 22 improved diploids and seven commercial banana triploids was analyzed using DNA molecular markers. Five IRAP (Inter-Retrotransposon Amplified Polymorphism, 7 ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats) and 12 SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) markers were used. The genetic dissimilarity matrix was based on the Jaccard dissimilarity index; clusters were separated using the UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method With Arithmetic Mean) method and cophenetic correlation of 0.8755. This study of the genetic diversity between improved diploids and commercial triploids, based on the genetic dissimilarity matrix, revealed that the most dissimilar diploids were DM23 and DM15 (74%) and DM16 and DM15 (74%). The smallest genetic distances between the improved diploids and commercial triploids were between TCGN25 and DM17 (50%) and TCN26 and DM17 (50%). The genetic distance matrix also revealed important genotypes to be used in crosses in order to maintain good characteristics in commercial triploids when crossed with improved diploids. The results of our study provide better breeding strategies for one of the largest banana-breeding programs worldwide focused on the development of banana varieties resistant to main biotic and abiotic factors.
Comprehensive Analysis of Improved Hunter–Prey Algorithms in MPPT for Photovoltaic Systems Under Complex Localized Shading Conditions
Authors: Li Zhuoxuan , Fu Changxin , Zhang Lixin , Zhao Jiawei
Published: October 2024

The Hunter–Prey Optimization (HPO) algorithm represents a novel population-based optimization approach renowned for its efficacy in addressing intricate problems and optimization challenges. Photovoltaic (PV) systems, characterized by multi-peaked shading conditions, often pose a challenge to conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques in accurately identifying the global maximum power point. In this research, an MPPT control strategy grounded in an improved Hunter–Prey Optimization (IHPO) algorithm is proposed. Eight distinct shading scenarios are meticulously crafted to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed MPPT method in capturing the maximum power point. A performance evaluation is conducted utilizing both MATLAB/simulation and an embedded system, alongside a comparative analysis with alternative power tracking methodologies, considering the diverse climatic conditions across different seasons. The simulation outcomes demonstrate the capability of the proposed control strategy in accurately tracking the global maximum power point, achieving a commendable efficiency of 100% across seven shading conditions, with a tracking response time of approximately 0.2 s. Verification results obtained from the experimental platform illustrate a tracking efficiency of 98.75% for the proposed method. Finally, the IHPO method’s output performance is evaluated on the StarSim Rapid Control Prototyping (RCP) platform, indicating a substantial enhancement in the tracking efficiency of the photovoltaic system while maintaining rapid response times.
Exploring Academic Emotions Using Design Thinking Applied to Elementary School Learning Stress Adaptation
Authors: Lin Fang-Suey , Chen Gui-Shu
Published: October 2024

Background: Students’ learning stress adaptation is crucial. Research on design thinking in stress adaptation and academic emotions is still lacking. Methods: This study developed “Stress Relief Design” instructional activities using a mixed-method research design, including student academic emotion journals and a stress relief agreement survey for data collection. This study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee and conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines. Participants were 24 students, aged 10 to 12, recruited through open enrollment. The instructional activities were conducted in a holiday workshop format, consisting of fifteen sessions over 5 days, with three sessions per day. Results: The results indicated that students predominantly experienced positive academic emotions (joy, pride, hope, and relaxation), with negative emotions (anxiety and boredom) being less common. Students reported that the course helped them relieve psychological stress. Conclusions: Therefore, design thinking is suitable for application in stress adaption courses and creates a learning environment that supports students’ academic emotions, making it a critical learning focus for modern students. This study contributes to the academic research on the application of design thinking in elementary school health education and learning stress adaptation, as well as on academic emotions.
Use of Beta-Blockers as a First-Line Treatment for Primary Hypertension
Authors: Izadi Maryam , Shafabakhsh Shiva , Mirnateghi Amir
Published: October 2024

Background: Even though beta-blockers had been used as a first-line therapy for hypertension, since the late 1960s, the Eighth Joint National Committee, JNC 8, decided to recommend them no longer. This decision was based on relatively weak evidence from previous studies, which found that first-line beta-blockers were less effective in reducing stroke and heart failure, the main outcomes of hypertension. Despite the general perception, the most common events caused by hypertension are death and MI, not stroke or heart failure. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify beta-blocker efficacy by incorporating the data from all relevant beta-blocker trials, using the composite outcome of major cardiovascular events. Method: A search was conducted on MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, restricted to published, peer-reviewed, human, meta-analysis, and controlled clinical trials. The term words used were “beta-blockers or adrenergic beta antagonists”, “hypertension”, and “death or coronary heart disease or stroke or congestive heart failure or myocardial infarction”. For this research, we selected six randomized controlled trials, and three meta-analyses were also chosen. Results: The results showed that beta-blockers were as effective as other first-line medications in younger hypertensive patients. On the other hand, in the patients aged above 60, the results were mixed. Beta-blockers were more effective than diuretics, but inferior to angiotensin receptor blockers. Also, beta-blockers were as safe and effective as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in reducing coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and sudden death. However, beta-blockers were inferior to calcium channel blockers in reducing strokes. Conclusions: Beta-blockers were found to be the most effective in many aspects except for strokes. Further studies are needed to assess beta-blockers’ effectiveness in treating primary hypertension.
Zonal Reconstruction of Daylighting in Historic Built Environments: A Workflow to Model and Evaluate Light in Spatial and Temporal Domains
Authors: Grobe Lars Oliver , Noback Andreas , Wasilewski Stephen William , Mächler Claudia
Published: October 2024

Computer simulation allows to study daylight conditions in the past that afforded activities in antique buildings. The Python module phos4dtools implements the efficient computation of zonal daylight metrics that are considered to indicate affordances. It was employed to solve horizontal and vertical illuminance for different orientations and elevations in the House of the Priestesses, a unit of the Hadrianic Garden Houses complex in Ostia. A reconstruction model of the unit was produced by collating an existing, detailed 3D documentation with other sources and our own survey data. The spatially and temporally resolved results of daylight simulation employing phos4dtools were imported into a GIS database. Assuming typical reflectance properties, illuminance thresholds were determined that are required for the perception of contrast detail and colour differences. Integration over temporal periods and spatial zones that are eligible for residential activities was implemented by queries to the database. First, preliminary results indicated different distributions of affordances by daylight, depending on the characteristics of the considered visual tasks. Horizontal illuminance decreases quickly with increasing distance to the aperture, suggesting that activities bound to a horizontal work plane were constraint to the immediate adjacency of windows and potentially open doors. Vertical illuminance, on the other hand, reaches deep into the building when the receiving surface is oriented to a window, particularly in the absence of exterior obstructions. The exemplary application of phos4dtools shows its potential in the interdisciplinary research on daylight and its implications on living practice in antique buildings.
Gut Microbiome as a Target of Intervention in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Hetta Helal F. , Ramadan Yasmin N. , Alharbi Ahmad A. , Alsharef Shomokh , Alkindy Tala T. , Alkhamali Alanoud , Albalawi Abdullah S. , El Amin Hussein
Published: October 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic complicated inflammatory gut pathological disorder and is categorized into ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). Although the cause of IBD is unclear, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is thought to be a key factor in the disease’s progression. The gut microbiome serves as a metabolic organ and promotes wellness by carrying out several biological activities. Any modification in the makeup of the gut microbiome leads to several pathological conditions, including IBD. In this review, we emphasize the key metabolic processes that control host–microbiome interaction and its impact on host health. We also discuss the association between microbiome dysbiosis (bacteriome, virome, and mycobiome) and the progression of IBD. Finally, we will highlight microbiome-based therapy as a novel and promising strategy to treat and manage IBD.
Few-Shot Methods for Aspect-Level Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Wawer Aleksander
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we explore the approaches to the problem of cross-domain few-shot classification of sentiment aspects. By cross-domain few-shot, we mean a setting where the model is trained on large data in one domain (for example, hotel reviews) and is intended to perform on another (for example, restaurant reviews) with only a few labelled examples in the target domain. We start with pre-trained monolingual language models. Using the Polish language dataset AspectEmo, we compare model training using standard gradient-based learning to a zero-shot approach and two dedicated few-shot methods: ProtoNet and NNShot. We find both dedicated methods much superior to both gradient learning and zero-shot setup, with a small advantage held by NNShot. Overall, we find few-shot to be a compelling alternative, achieving a surprising amount of performance compared to gradient training on full-size data.
Life Cycle Assessment of Banned Single-Use Plastic Products and Their Alternatives
Authors: Goodrum Rebecca , Bartokova Bibiana , Roy Poritosh
Published: October 2024

Plastic and microplastic contamination continue to be growing problems across the globe for both ecosystems and human health. Canada has banned single-use plastic products such as bags, cutlery, and foodservice ware (containers) to address and mitigate plastics and microplastic contamination. This study evaluates the life cycle of banned plastic products and their alternatives to determine whether environmental impacts can be mitigated. The environmental impacts of bags (plastic, paper, cotton), cutlery (plastic, wooden, biodegradable), and containers (plastic, styrofoam, biodegradable) were determined considering both domestic and imported products. The bag study saw paper bags having the highest environmental impacts and cotton bags with the lowest due to their reusability. For the cutlery study, plastic cutlery was the most impactful across all categories except for eutrophication and ozone depletion, where biodegradable cutlery was the most impactful by 25% and 35%, respectively. In the case of foodservice ware (containers), styrofoam was found to be the least impactful. Similar to cutlery, the plastic containers had the greatest impact except where the biodegradable container contributed more to ozone depletion and eutrophication by 25% and 45%, respectively. Local production reduced impacts across all categories. Furthermore, on a local scale, biodegradable cutlery had a greater impact on the smog and respiratory effects categories than plastic by 10% and 30%, respectively. The results of this study indicate that future regulations should focus on promoting and educating consumers on the use of reusable products over single-use products, funding research to mitigate challenges associated with waste management, and consider an informed ban on all single-use products and not just those made of plastic material to mitigate environmental impacts.
Determining Aligner-Induced Tooth Movements in Three Dimensions Using Clinical Data of Two Patients
Authors: Filippon Ignacio , Tanner Christine , von Jackowski Jeannette A. , Schulz Georg , Töpper Tino , Müller Bert
Published: October 2024

The effectiveness of a series of optically transparent aligners for orthodontic treatments depends on the anchoring of each tooth. In contrast with the roots, the crowns’ positions and orientations are measurable with intraoral scans, thus avoiding any X-ray dose. Exemplified by two patients, we demonstrate that three-dimensional crown movements could be determined with micrometer precision by registering weekly intraoral scans. The data show the movement and orientation changes in the individual crowns of the upper and lower jaws as a result of the forces generated by the series of aligners. During the first weeks, the canines and incisors were more affected than the premolars and molars. We detected overall tooth movement of up to about 1 mm during a nine-week active treatment. The data on these orthodontic treatments indicate the extent to which actual tooth movement lags behind the treatment plan, as represented by the aligner shapes. The proposed procedure can not only be used to quantify the clinical outcome of the therapy, but also to improve future planning of orthodontic treatments for each specific patient. This study should be treated with caution because only two cases were investigated, and the approach should be applied to a reasonably large cohort to reach strong conclusions regarding the efficiency and efficacy of this therapeutic approach.
Glycosyl Mobile Radical Structures of Folic Acid Receptors Impact the Internalization of Functionalized Folate Amphiphilic Alternating Copolymer in Cancer Cells
Authors: Aucoin Emilyn B. , Skapinker Elizabeth , Yaish Abdulrahman M. , Li Yunfan , Kombargi Haley L. , Jeyaraj Daniel , Garg Pankaj , Mendonza Nicole , Malardier-Jugroot Cecile , Szewczuk Myron R.
Published: October 2024

Folate receptor alpha (FRα) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) membrane-anchored protein containing three N-glycosylated residues at the N47, N139, and N179 termini. These glycosylation sites have been reported to be crucial for the receptor’s structural integrity and its ability to bind and internalize FA. Here, we investigated the role of FRα glycosylation in the binding and internalization efficacy of FA–DABA–SMA in pancreatic PANC-1 cancer cells. There is a strong association of the FA copolymer with FRα with a Pearson coefficient R-value of 0.7179. PANC-1 cancer cells were pretreated with maackia amurensis lectin II (MAL-2), sambucus Nigra lectin (SNA-1), peanut agglutinin (PNA), and wheat germ agglutinin lectin (WGA) at different doses followed by 20 kDa and 350 kDa FA–DABA–SMA loaded with coumarin 153 (C153). Increasing the dosage of MAL2, SNA-1, PNA, and WGA concomitantly and significantly increased the internalization of C153-loaded FA–DABA–SMA in the cells. The half maximal effective lectin concentrations (EC50) to induce cellular internalization into the cytoplasm of the lectins for MAL-2 were 35.88 µg/mL, 3.051 µg/mL for SNA-1, 7.883 µg/mL for PNA, and 0.898 µg/mL for WGA. Live cell imaging of the internalization of 20 kDa and 350 kDa FA copolymers indicated an aggregation of 350 kDa copolymer with FRα in the cytoplasm. In contrast, the 20 kDa FA copolymer remained in the membrane. The data indicate for the first time that the mobile positions of the glycosyl radical groups and the receptor tilt in generating steric hindrance impacted the individual FRα receptors in the binding and internalization of 350 kDa FA–DABA–SMA in cancer cells.
Photoelectrochemical and Structural Insights of Electrodeposited CeO2 Photoanodes
Authors: Molina-Lozano Alberto E. , Lanza Marcos R. V. , Ortiz Pablo , Cortés María T.
Published: October 2024

Cerium dioxide (CeO2) is a promising material for photoelectrochemical applications, requiring a thorough understanding of the interplay between its properties and structure for optimal performance. This study investigated the photoelectrochemical performance of CeO2 photoanodes immobilized by electrodeposition on glass substrates, focusing on the correlation between the annealing temperature and structural, optical, and electrical changes. CeO2 coatings were obtained via chronoamperometry in an aqueous solution of 25 mM CeCl3 and 50 mM NaNO₃. The photoelectrochemical characterization included the evaluation of photoactivity, current density, stability, and recombination using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and chronoamperometry (CA). Charge transfer resistance, flat-band potential, and capacitance were assessed through impedance spectroscopy. The optimal annealing temperature for this material was found to be 600 °C as it resulted in the lowest charge transfer resistance and increased photocurrent, which was attributed to enhanced crystallinity and variations in the Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio.
Prevalence of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B and C Among Blood Donors in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mexico
Authors: Mejía Domínguez Ana María , Soster-Contreras María de los Ángeles , Campos-Morales Nayelli , Sánchez-Díaz María del Rocío , Chavira-Trujillo Gabriel , Cruz-Hervert Luis Pablo , Jiménez-Corona María Eugenia
Published: October 2024

The prevalence of transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) among blood donors is critical for ensuring blood safety. Aim: To provide an updated assessment of TTIs at a tertiary care hospital in Mexico over a ten-year period. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study. Blood samples were analyzed from potential donors at tertiary care hospital between 2012 and 2022. Donors completed a questionnaire and were screened for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C using nucleic acid testing and serological tests. Prevalence and trends were estimated. Among the 117,756 donors analyzed, 0.48% were positive for syphilis, with a significant annual decrease of −5.9% (p < 0.001), although notable fluctuations occurred, including a peak in 2021. HIV showed a significant annual increase of 9.8% (p = 0.029), with a peak in approximately 2019–2020. Hepatitis C maintained a stable trend, with a slight annual decrease of −5.6% (p = 0.170). Hepatitis B consistently decreased, with an annual decrease of −11.3% (p = 0.06). This study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and screening of blood donors to ensure blood safety. These findings underscore the need for localized public health interventions, particularly to address the increasing incidence of HIV. Further research should focus on enhancing donor screening practices and public health strategies to reduce the prevalence of TTIs.