bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La création de soi dans le théâtre de Jean-Luc Lagarce et de Joël Pommerat
Authors: Παπαγιαννούλη-Ουσουλτζόγλου Δέσποινα
Published: April 2024

Η παρούσα εργασία εξετάζει τη δημιουργία του εαυτού, μέσα από τη διαλεκτική σχέση των θεωριών του Μοντέρνου και Σύγχρονου Θεάτρου, με τους ήρωες που αναδύονται μέσα από τα επιλεγμένα θεατρικά έργα, των δύο υπό μελέτη δραματουργών, του Jean-Luc Lagarce και του Joël Pommerat. Σκοπός της είναι να διαφανεί ο βηματισμός της δημιουργίας του εαυτού των ηρώων, μέσα από τις εκάστοτε μεταβολές του σύγχρονου δράματος που αποτυπώνονται στη θεωρία. Η εργασία διαρθρώνεται σε δύο βασικά μέρη: Στο πρώτο μέρος, αναπτύσσουμε τις θεωρητικές θέσεις του Μοντέρνου και Σύγχρονου θεάτρου, όπως Το Μεταδραματικό θέατρο του Hans-Thies Lehmann, Η Ποιητική του σύγχρονου δράματος του Jean-Pierre Sarrazac και Η Θεατρική αισθητική της Catherine Naugrette, με βάση τη δημιουργία του εαυτού. Επίσης, παρουσιάζουμε τον τρόπο που θα γίνει η σύνδεση του θεωρητικού με το εμπειρικό μέρος που ακολουθεί και που αποτελεί το μεθοδολογικό μας εργαλείο. Στο δεύτερο μέρος, αναδύεται η τελετουργία της δημιουργίας του εαυτού, μέσα από τη σύνδεση θεωρίας και εμπειρίας. Στο τέλος του κάθε κεφαλαίου, υπάρχει μία δική μας συνθετική προσέγγιση, προς διευκόλυνση του αναγνώστη. Τα θεωρητικά στοιχεία που κυριαρχούν σε κάθε έργο, δείχνουν το βασικό βηματισμό του ήρωα, αποτελώντας και τον τίτλο του κάθε υποκεφαλαίου που αντιστοιχεί, στο εκάστοτε έργο. Συμπερασματικά, ο ήρωας, μέσα από το ρόλο του να υποδύεται τους άλλους ρόλους, μέσα του, ανοίγεται στον άλλον και κυρίως στο θεατή που τον ενεργοποιεί και προσπαθεί να συναντηθεί μαζί του. Η συνάντηση επιχειρείται, είτε μέσα στο θέαμα, όπως στο «μεταδραματικό θέατρο», είτε μέσα στο κείμενο, όπως στο δράμα-της-ζωής. Ο βηματισμός, προς τη δημιουργία του εαυτού είναι τελετουργικός. Το απρόσωπο πρόσωπο, όσο πιο πολύ ανοίγεται στον άλλο, τόσο ταυτίζεται με την ανθρωπότητα, πάνω στη σκηνή του «θεάτρου του ανθρωπισμού». Η διαδικασία δημιουργίας του εαυτού, τόσο του απρόσωπου νέου προσώπου, όσο και του νέου δράματος, διαφαίνεται ως μία πολύ γόνιμη, διαρκής και ανοιχτή διαδικασία που ενδύεται τα χαρακτηριστικά των σύγχρονων θεωριών του θεάτρου. Αφήνει στον ερευνητή ένα πεδίο εξαιρετικά ελκυστικό για πολλαπλές προσεγγίσεις, στην περαιτέρω εξέλιξη του «νέου παραδείγματος» του δράματος, που οδηγεί στην «αλλαγή της οπτικής», τόσο μέσα από τον ήρωα του Lagarce, όσο και του Pommerat.
Διαφοροποίηση στην οικογένεια καταγωγής και λήψη επαγγελματικής απόφασης των φοιτητών
Authors: Κουρουπάκη Μαριάννα
Published: April 2024

H διαφοροποίηση του εαυτού, μια δομική κατασκευή της θεωρίας του Bowen, σε σχετικές εμπειρικές μελέτες φαίνεται να είναι προγνωστική της επαγγελματικής ταυτότητας των φοιτητών και της αναποφασιστικότητας στη σταδιοδρομία τους. Ωστόσο, οι συγκεκριμένοι μηχανισμοί που λειτουργούν εντός των οικογενειακών σχέσεων, μεταξύ της διαφοροποίησης του εαυτού και της αναποφασιστικότητας, ως προς την επιλογή σταδιοδρομίας του νέου ατόμου, έχουν τύχει διεθνώς ελάχιστης διερεύνησης. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης, που διενεργείται για πρώτη φορά στα πλαίσια της Ελληνικής πραγματικότητας, είναι να διερευνηθεί εάν η Διαφοροποίηση εαυτού των φοιτητών και των μαθητών στη γονική τους οικογένεια, σχετίζεται με την Αυτοαποτελεσματικότητα και την Τριγωνοποίηση και τελικά πώς αυτοί οι τρεις παράγοντες μπορεί να επηρεάζουν τη λήψη της επαγγελματικής τους απόφασης. Συνολικά, 271 μαθητές Β΄ τάξης Λυκείου και 606 προπτυχιακοί φοιτητές από ποικίλα πανεπιστημιακά τμήματα της ευρύτερης περιοχής Αττικής συμμετείχαν στην έρευνα αυτή. Τα ευρήματα της μελέτης αυτής δείχνουν ότι υπάρχει μια στατιστικά σημαντική σχέση ανάμεσα στις τέσσερις διαστάσεις της Διαφοροποίησης του εαυτού, δηλαδή, της Συναισθηματικής Αντιδραστικότητας, της Συναισθηματικής Αποκοπής, της Συγχώνευσης με τους άλλους, της Προσωπικής Θέσης, και στις 3 διαστάσεις της δυσκολίας λήψης επαγγελματικής απόφασης, δηλαδή, την Ανώριμη Αντιμετώπιση Σταδιοδρομίας, την Έλλειψη Σαφήνειας Ενδιαφερόντων και τα Εμπόδια από το Οικογενειακό Περιβάλλον. Επίσης βρέθηκε ότι κοινός προγνωστικός παράγοντας και για τα δύο δείγματα φοιτητών και μαθητών της επαγγελματικής αναποφασιστικότητας αποτελεί η Τριγωνοποίηση στην πυρηνική οικογένεια. Επιπλέον, διαπιστώθηκε ότι τα υψηλότερα επίπεδα Προσωπικής Θέσης προβλέπουν μικρότερου βαθμού δυσκολία στη λήψη απόφασης, υψηλότερα επίπεδα αυτοαποτελεσματικότητας και χαμηλότερα επίπεδα Τριγωνοποίησης, ενώ η αυτοαποτελεσματικότητα βρέθηκε να συσχετίζεται θετικά με τη Διαφοροποίηση του Εαυτού και αρνητικά με την Τριγωνοποίηση.
Whose Judgement? Reflections on Elicitation in Bayesian Analysis
Authors: French Simon
Published: April 2024

Bayesian statistical, risk, and decision analyses require that one addresses many uncertainties and preferences, modelling those that can be with subjective probabilities and utilities, perhaps supported by sensitivity explorations. Subjective probabilities need eliciting either in their entirety or partially via prior distributions that are updated in the light of data during the analysis. Some uncertainties, however, are not easily modelled probabilistically, either because they are deep or because they relate to uncertainties in the modelling process itself. Preferences also require elicitation, a process which in many cases constructs these by contextualising broader values to the issues at hand. We discuss broader issues of elicitation without getting into specific details of the elicitation process. We also briefly discuss communication because elicitation sets the context for all subsequent communications to the problem owners and stakeholders. In particular, we emphasise the need for the problem owners to be fully acquainted with all the residual uncertainties at the end of the analysis, not just those captured quantitatively within the modelling. Moreover, we also consider whose uncertainties and preferences should be elicited and addressed by the analysis, arguing that the answer may be different in the varied contexts of Bayesian statistical, risk, and decision analyses. Moreover, the model may be constructed from a synthesis of several people’s judgements.
A Review of Anthropological Adaptations of Humans Living in
Extreme Conditions and Health Implications
Authors: Nisipeanu Brad , Lalonde Robert
Published: April 2024

Understanding gene variations in people living under extreme conditions has the potential of curing
diseases caused by exposure to heat, cold, fatty diets, hypoxia, and pathogens. One candidate gene
associated with heat resistance is ACE1, encoding angiotensin-converting enzyme 1. Associations have
also been made between cold resistance or fatty diets and polymorphisms of several genes, including
ACTN3, encoding alpha-actinin-3, and CPTIA, encoding carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A. A prominent
role in resistance to hypoxia has been recognized for polymorphisms of EPAS1, encoding endothelial
PAS domain protein 1, and EGLN1, encoding Egl-9 family hypoxia inducible factor 1. Variants conferring
human resistance to pathogens include HBB, encoding hemoglobin subunit beta, and ACE2, encoding
angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Genetic knowledge concerning such diseases as malaria and conditions
such as hypoxia should continue to promote advances in gene therapy.
Vignetting Effects: a Tool to Characterize a Fourier Ptychographic Microscope
Authors: Meshreki John , Kazim Syed Muhammad , Schneider Jan Philipp , Moeller Michael , Ihrke Ivo
Published: April 2024

Fourier Ptychographic Microscopy (FPM) is a recent technique to
overcome the diffraction limit of a low numerical aperture (NA) objective lens by algorithmic post-processing of several lower resolved images.
It can increase the space-bandwidth product of an optical system by
computationally combining images captured under different
illumination conditions.
Vignetting determines the spatial extent of the bright field and dark
field regions in the captured images that contain information about
low and high frequency image content, respectively.
State-of-the-art analyses treat vignetting as a nuisance that
needs to be reduced or excluded from algorithmic consideration by
means of ad-hoc decision rules.
In contrast, this work investigates vignetting effects as a tool to
infer a range of properties of the optical system.
To achieve this, we characterize the individual system components
of the experimental setup and compare experimental data to both,
geometrical and wave optical simulations.
We demonstrate that using vignetting as an analytical tool enables
the modeling of the geometric and coherence properties of the
optical system as evidenced by the good agreement between our
simulation and experiment.
Moreover, our work investigates pupil aberrations in the FPM setup
and enables their partial characterization, despite not yet encompassing all aspects.
Ultralow-loss polarization-insensitive silicon nitride-assisted double-etched silicon edge coupler with polarization splitting
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhang Huan , Ning Cun-Zheng
Published: April 2024

High-performance silicon-based edge couplers for interfacing with standard single-mode fibers encounter significant challenges due to limitations imposed by the minimum fabrication width. Here, we propose a silicon nitride-assisted double-etched O-band silicon edge coupler with a minimum width of 180 nm. Notably, the polarization splitting function naturally integrates into this edge coupler. Through simulation, the proposed edge coupler, without a cantilever, demonstrates a minimum coupling loss of 0.53/0.82 dB with an average extinction ratio of 42/18 dB for TE/TM polarization. Additionally, this edge coupler exhibits weak polarization dependence with an average difference of only 0.24 dB in the O band. Leveraging a segmented taper shape design, the 0.5-dB bandwidth of coupling loss extends to approximately 100 nm for both TE and TM polarizations, despite the inclusion of two evanescent coupling parts.
SARS-CoV-2 co-detection with influenza and human respiratory syncytial virus in Ethiopia: Findings from the severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) and influenza-like illness (ILI) sentinel surveillance, January 01, 2021, to June 30, 2022
Authors: Shure Wolde , Tayachew Adamu , Berkessa Tsegaye , Teka Gizaw , Biru Mengistu , Gebeyehu Ayele , Woldeab Adane , Tadesse Musse , Gonta Melaku , Agune Admikew , Hailemariam Aster , Haile Bizuwork , Addis Beza , Moges Muluken , Lisanwork Leuel , Gizachew Lehageru , Tigabu Eyasu , Mekuria Zelalem , Yimer Getnet , Dereje Nebiyu , Aliy Jemal , Lulseged Sileshi , Melaku Zenebe , Abate Ebba , Gebreyes Wondwossen , Wossen Mesfin , Abayneh Aschalew
Published: April 2024

SARS-CoV-2 co-infection with the influenza virus or human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may complicate its progress and clinical outcomes. However, data on the co-detection of SARS-CoV-2 with other respiratory viruses are limited in Ethiopia and other parts of Africa to inform evidence-based response and decision-making. We analyzed 4,989 patients’ data captured from the national severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) and influenza-like illness (ILI) sentinel surveillance sites over 18 months period from January 01, 2021, to June 30, 2022. Laboratory specimens were collected from the patients and tested for viral respiratory pathogens by real-time, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at the national influenza center. The median age of the patients was 14 years (IQR: 1–35 years), with a slight preponderance of them being at the age of 15 to less than 50 years. SARS-CoV-2 was detected among 459 (9.2%, 95% CI: 8.4–10.0) patients, and 64 (1.3%, 95% CI: 1.0–1.6) of SARS-CoV-2 were co-detected either with Influenza virus (54.7%) or RSV (32.8%) and 12.5% were detected with both of the viruses. A substantial proportion (54.7%) of SARS-CoV-2 co-detection with other respiratory viruses was identified among patients in the age group from 15 to less than 50 years. The multivariable analysis found that the odds of SARS-CoV-2 co-detection was higher among individuals with the age category of 20 to 39 years as compared to those less than 20 years old (AOR: 1.98, 95%CI:1.15–3.42) while the odds of SARS-CoV-2 co-detection was lower among cases from other regions of the country as compared to those from Addis Ababa (AOR:0.16 95%CI:0.07–0.34). Although the SARS-CoV-2 co-detection with other respiratory viral pathogens was minimal, the findings of this study underscore that it is critical to continuously monitor the co-infections to reduce transmission and improve patient outcomes, particularly among the youth and patients with ILI.
Tuberculosis patients face high treatment support costs in Colombia, 2021
Authors: Cruz Martínez Oscar Andrés , García Ingrid , Puerto Gloria Mercedes , Alvis-Zakzuk Nelson J. , López Martha Patricia , Moreno Cubides Juan Carlos , Sánchez Salazar Ángela María , Trujillo Trujillo Julián , Castro-Osorio Claudia Marcela , Vanessa Rubio Vivian , Castañeda-Orjuela Carlos , Montoro Ernesto , Nguhiu Peter , García Baena Inés
Published: April 2024

Objective

To estimate the baseline to measure one of the three indicators of the World Health Organization (WHO) End TB strategy (2015–2035), measure the costs incurred by patients affected by tuberculosis (TB) during a treatment episode and estimate the proportion of households facing catastrophic costs (CC) and associated risk factors, in Colombia, 2021.

Material and methods

A nationally representative cross-sectional survey was conducted among participants on TB treatment in Colombia, using telephone interviews due to the exceptional context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey collected household costs (direct [medical and non-medical out-of-pocket expenses] and indirect) over an episode of TB, loss of time, coping measures, self-reported income, and asset ownership. Total costs were expressed as a proportion of annual household income and analyzed for risk factors of CC (defined as costs above 20% annual household income).

Results

The proportion of TB-affected households incurring in costs above 20% annual household income (CC) was 51.7% (95%CI: 45.4–58.0) overall, 51.3% (95%CI: 44.9–57.7) among patients with drug-sensitive (DS) TB, and 65.0% (95%CI: 48.0–82.0) among drug-resistant (DR). The average patient cost of a TB case in Colombia was $1,218 (95%CI 1,106–1,330) including $860.9 (95%CI 776.1–945.7) for non-medical costs, $339 (95%CI 257–421) for the indirect costs, and $18.1 (95%CI 11.9–24.4) for the medical costs. The factors that influenced the probability of facing CC were income quintile, job loss, DR-TB patient, and TB type.

Conclusion

Main cost drivers for CC were non-medical out-of-pocket expenses and income loss (indirect costs). Current social protection programs ought to be expanded to mitigate the proportion of TB-affected households facing CC in Colombia, especially those with lower income levels.
Comparison of double chevron-cut and biplanar distal femoral osteotomy techniques: A biomechanical study
Authors: Chen Kuan-Jung , Hsiung Wei , Wang Chien-Yuan , Lee Oscar Kuang-Sheng , Huang Kuo-Kuang , Huang Ye , Yang Jesse Chieh-Szu
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to compare the stability and mechanical properties of the double chevron-cut (DCC) and biplanar (BP) distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) techniques, along with analyzing their respective contact surface areas.

Methods

Biomechanical testing was performed using sawbone and 3D modeling techniques to assess axial and torsional stability, torsional stiffness, and maximum torque of both osteotomy configurations. Additionally, 3D models of the sawbone femur were created to calculate and compare the contact surface area of the DCC, BP, and conventional single-plane DFO techniques.

Results

Axial stiffness and maximum strength did not significantly differ between the two osteotomy techniques. However, in terms of torsional properties, the DCC technique exhibited superior torsional stiffness compared to the BP group (27 ± 7.7 Nm/° vs. 4.5 ± 1.5 Nm/°, p = 0.008). Although the difference in maximum torque did not reach statistical significance (63 ± 10.6 vs. 56 ± 12.1, p = 0.87), it is noteworthy that the DCC group sawbone model exhibited fracture in the shaft region instead of at the osteotomy site. Therefore, the actual maximum torque of the DCC construct may not be accurately reflected by the numerical values obtained in this study. The contact surface area analysis revealed that the BP configuration had the largest contact surface area, 111% larger than that of the single-plane configuration. but 60% of it relied on the less reliable axial cut. Conversely, the DCC osteotomy offered a 31% larger contact surface area than the single-plane configuration, with both surfaces being weight-bearing.

Conclusion

The DCC osteotomy exhibited superior mechanical stability, showing improved rotational stiffness and maximum torque when compared to the BP osteotomy. Although the BP osteotomy resulted in a larger contact surface area than the DCC osteotomy, both were larger than the conventional single-plane configuration. In clinical practice, both the DCC and BP techniques should be evaluated based on patient-specific characteristics and surgical goals.
Predicting ruminal degradability and chemical composition of corn silage using near-infrared spectroscopy and multivariate regression
Authors: Pucetti Pauliane , Valadares Filho Sebastião de Campos , Roque Jussara Valente , da Silva Julia Travassos , de Oliveira Kellen Ribeiro , Silva Flavia Adriane Sales , Cardoso Wilson Junior , e Silva Fabyano Fonseca , Swanson Kendall Carl
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to develop and validate regression models to predict the chemical composition and ruminal degradation parameters of corn silage by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR). Ninety-four samples were used to develop and validate the models to predict corn silage composition. A subset of 23 samples was used to develop and validate models to predict ruminal degradation parameters of corn silage. Wet chemistry methods were used to determine the composition values and ruminal degradation parameters of the corn silage samples. The dried and ground samples had their NIR spectra scanned using a poliSPECNIR 900–1700 model NIR sprectrophotometer (ITPhotonics S.r.l, Breganze, IT.). The models were developed using regression by partial least squares (PLS), and the ordered predictor selection (OPS) method was used. In general, the regression models obtained to predict the corn silage composition (P>0.05), except the model for organic matter (OM), adequately estimated the studied properties. It was not possible to develop prediction models for the potentially degradable fraction in the rumen of OM and crude protein and the degradation rate of OM. The regression models that could be obtained to predict the ruminal degradation parameters showed correlation coefficient of calibration between 0.530 and 0.985. The regression models developed to predict CS composition accurately estimated the CS composition, except the model for OM. The NIR has potential to be used by nutritionists as a rapid prediction tool for ruminal degradation parameters in the field.
eHealth literacy of migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong in the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods study
Authors: Milanti Ariesta , Chan Dorothy Ngo Sheung , Choi Kai Chow , So Winnie Kwok Wei
Published: April 2024

Background

Health communication in the COVID-19 pandemic can be effectively implemented if all members of the populations, including marginalized population such as migrant domestic workers (MDWs), have good eHealth literacy. Lessons learned during this critical period may help improve planning and mitigation of the impacts of future health crises.

Methods

This study aimed to examine and explore the eHealth literacy levels of the MDWs in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic by using a convergent mixed methods research design. A total of 1156 Hong Kong MDWs participated in a paper-based survey using a multistage cluster random sampling design for the quantitative component. eHealth literacy was measured using an eHealth literacy Scale (eHEALS). For the qualitative component, a purposive sampling of 19 MDWs participated in face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analyses were used to carry out the quantitative analysis, while thematic analysis was used for the qualitative analysis. Both quantitative and qualitative data were merged and integrated for mixed-methods analysis.

Results

The meta-inferences of the quantitative and qualitative results mainly confirmed that MDWs in Hong Kong had good levels of eHealth literacy. The use of Instagram, YouTube and WhatsApp as the COVID-19 information sources, in addition to having an interest in the topic of the current spread of COVID-19 together with the Hong Kong government’s policies related to COVID-19, were found to be associated with eHealth literacy.

Conclusions

The eHealth literacy level of MDWs in Hong Kong was shown to be good and it was influenced by the use of popular social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp. It is realistic to suggest that such platforms should be harnessed for health communication during the pandemic. Yet, regulations to combat false information on these media are also urgently needed.
Publication authorship: A new approach to the bibliometric study of scientific work and beyond
Authors: Blaschke Steffen
Published: April 2024

Bibliometric studies offer numerous ways of analyzing scientific work. For example, co-citation and bibliographic coupling networks have been widely used since the 1960s to describe the segmentation of research and to look the development of the scientific frontier. In addition, co-authorship and collaboration networks have been employed for more than 30 years to explore the social dimension of scientific work. This paper introduces publication authorship as a complement to these established approaches. Three data sets of academic articles from accounting, astronomy, and gastroenterology are used to illustrate the benefits of publication authorship for bibliometric studies. In comparison to bibliographic coupling, publication authorship produces significantly better intra-cluster cosine similarities across all data sets, which in the end yields a more fine-grained picture of the research field in question. Beyond this finding, publication authorship lends itself to other types of documents such as corporate reports or meeting minutes to study organizations, movements, or any other concerted activity.
DairyCoPilot—Automated data compilation and analysis tools for DairyComp data assets
Authors: Aravamuthan Srikanth , Dopfer Dorte , Walleser Emil
Published: April 2024

Modern dairy farm management requires meaningful data and careful analysis to maximize profitability, cow health, and welfare. Current data platforms, such as DairyComp, lack robust integrated data analysis tools. Producers and consultants need dedicated tools to turn collected data sets into assets for informed decision-making processes. The DairyCoPilot app allows users to rapidly extract health and production data from DairyComp, then compile and analyze the data using a menu-driven point-and-click approach. Prospects for training consultants in applied data analysis skills make DairyCoPilot a tool to identify farm management bottlenecks with less time spent for data analysis, improving cow health, and dairy production. The DairyCoPilot Dashboard R Shiny application is published using RStudio Connect: https://connect.doit.wisc.edu/dairy-copilot/.
Effectiveness of a videoconferencing group-based dyad acceptance and commitment therapy on the quality of life of chronic heart failure patients and their family caregivers: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Xuelin , Ho Grace W. K. , Mak Yim Wah
Published: April 2024

Background

Chronic heart failure (CHF) poses a significant burden on both patients and their family caregivers (FCs), as it is associated with psychological distress and impaired quality of life (QOL). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports QOL by focusing on value living and facilitates acceptance of psychological difficulties by cultivating psychological flexibility. A protocol is presented that evaluates the effectiveness of a dyad ACT-based intervention delivered via smartphone on QOL and other related health outcomes compared with CHF education only.

Methods

This is a single-center, two-armed, single-blinded (rater), randomized controlled trial (RCT). One hundred and sixty dyads of CHF patients and their primary FCs will be recruited from the Cardiology Department of a hospital in China. The dyads will be stratified block randomized to either the intervention group experiencing the ACT-based intervention or the control group receiving CHF education only. Both groups will meet two hours per week for four consecutive weeks in videoconferencing sessions over smartphone. The primary outcomes are the QOL of patients and their FCs. Secondary outcomes include psychological flexibility, psychological symptoms, self-care behavior, and other related outcomes. All outcomes will be measured by blinded outcome assessors at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at the three-month follow-up. Multilevel modeling will be conducted to assess the effects of the intervention.

Discussion

This study is the first to adopt an ACT-based intervention for CHF patient-caregiver dyads delivered in groups via smartphone. If effective and feasible, the intervention strategy and deliverable approach could be incorporated into clinical policies and guidelines to support families with CHF without geographic and time constraints.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04917159. Registered on 08 June 2021.
Design of a novel intelligent computing framework for predictive solutions of malaria propagation model
Authors: Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Anjum Muhammad Wajahat , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: April 2024

The paper presents an innovative computational framework for predictive solutions for simulating the spread of malaria. The structure incorporates sophisticated computing methods to improve the reliability of predicting malaria outbreaks. The study strives to provide a strong and effective tool for forecasting the propagation of malaria via the use of an AI-based recurrent neural network (RNN). The model is classified into two groups, consisting of humans and mosquitoes. To develop the model, the traditional Ross-Macdonald model is expanded upon, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the intricate dynamics at play. To gain a deeper understanding of the extended Ross model, we employ RNN, treating it as an initial value problem involving a system of first-order ordinary differential equations, each representing one of the seven profiles. This method enables us to obtain valuable insights and elucidate the complexities inherent in the propagation of malaria. Mosquitoes and humans constitute the two cohorts encompassed within the exposition of the mathematical dynamical model. Human dynamics are comprised of individuals who are susceptible, exposed, infectious, and in recovery. The mosquito population, on the other hand, is divided into three categories: susceptible, exposed, and infected. For RNN, we used the input of 0 to 300 days with an interval length of 3 days. The evaluation of the precision and accuracy of the methodology is conducted by superimposing the estimated solution onto the numerical solution. In addition, the outcomes obtained from the RNN are examined, including regression analysis, assessment of error autocorrelation, examination of time series response plots, mean square error, error histogram, and absolute error. A reduced mean square error signifies that the model’s estimates are more accurate. The result is consistent with acquiring an approximate absolute error close to zero, revealing the efficacy of the suggested strategy. This research presents a novel approach to solving the malaria propagation model using recurrent neural networks. Additionally, it examines the behavior of various profiles under varying initial conditions of the malaria propagation model, which consists of a system of ordinary differential equations.
Deep phenotyping of dementia in a multi-ethnic cardiovascular cohort: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Ostovaneh Mohammad R. , Hughes Timothy M. , Wu Colin O. , McClelland Robyn L. , Casanova Ramon , Bluemke David A. , Tracy Russell P. , Shea Steven , Heckbert Susan R. , Lima João A. C. , Ambale-Venkatesh Bharath
Published: April 2024

Background

Our understanding of the specific aspects of vascular contributions to dementia remains unclear.

Objectives

We aim to identify the correlates of incident dementia in a multi-ethnic cardiovascular cohort.

Methods

A total of 6806 participants with follow-up data for incident dementia were included. Probable dementia diagnoses were identified using hospitalization discharge diagnoses according to the International Classification of Diseases Codes (ICD). We used Random Forest analyses to identify the correlates of incident dementia and cognitive function from among 198 variables collected at the baseline MESA exam entailing demographic risk factors, medical history, anthropometry, lab biomarkers, electrocardiograms, cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, carotid ultrasonography, coronary artery calcium and liver fat content. Death and stroke were considered competing events.

Results

Over 14 years of follow-up, 326 dementia events were identified. Beyond age, the top correlates of dementia included coronary artery calcification, high sensitivity troponin, common carotid artery intima to media thickness, NT-proBNP, physical activity, pulse pressure, tumor necrosis factor-α, history of cancer, and liver to spleen attenuation ratio from computed tomography. Correlates of cognitive function included income and physical activity, body size, serum glucose, glomerular filtration rate, measures of carotid artery stiffness, alcohol use, and inflammation indexed as IL-2 and TNF soluble receptors and plasmin-antiplasmin complex.

Conclusion

In a deeply phenotyped cardiovascular cohort we identified the key correlates of dementia beyond age as subclinical atherosclerosis and myocyte damage, vascular function, inflammation, physical activity, hepatic steatosis, and history of cancer.
Vocal signatures affected by population identity and environmental sound levels
Authors: Fandel Amber D. , Silva Kirsten , Bailey Helen
Published: April 2024

Passive acoustic monitoring has improved our understanding of vocalizing organisms in remote habitats and during all weather conditions. Many vocally active species are highly mobile, and their populations overlap. However, distinct vocalizations allow the tracking and discrimination of individuals or populations. Using signature whistles, the individually distinct calls of bottlenose dolphins, we calculated a minimum abundance of individuals, characterized and compared signature whistles from five locations, and determined reoccurrences of individuals throughout the Mid-Atlantic Bight and Chesapeake Bay, USA. We identified 1,888 signature whistles in which the duration, number of extrema, start, end, and minimum frequencies of signature whistles varied significantly by site. All characteristics of signature whistles were deemed important for determining from which site the whistle originated and due to the distinct signature whistle characteristics and lack of spatial mixing of the dolphins detected at the Offshore site, we suspect that these dolphins are of a different population than those at the Coastal and Bay sites. Signature whistles were also found to be shorter when sound levels were higher. Using only the passively recorded vocalizations of this marine top predator, we obtained information about its population and how it is affected by ambient sound levels, which will increase as offshore wind energy is developed. In this rapidly developing area, these calls offer critical management insights for this protected species.
Twenty-Four week Taichi training improves pulmonary diffusion capacity and glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Zhu Huan , Peng Yong , Liu Yaofeng , Shi Xiangrong
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the effect of 24-week Taichi training and Taichi plus resistance band training on pulmonary diffusion capacity and glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Forty-eight patients with T2DM were randomly divided into three groups: Group A—Taichi training: practiced Taichi 60 min/day, 6 days/week for 24 weeks; Group B—Taichi plus resistance band training: practiced 60-min Taichi 4 days/week plus 60-min resistance band training 2 days/week for 24 weeks; and Group C–controls: maintaining their daily lifestyles. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was applied to predict diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) by fasting blood glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), von Willebrand Factor (vWF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nitric oxide (NO), endothelin-1 (ET-1), vascular endothelial growth factor, and prostaglandin I-2. Taichi with or without resistance band training significantly improved DLCO, increased insulin sensitivity, eNOS and NO, and reduced fasting blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c, TNF-α, vWF, IL-6, ICAM-1, and ET-1. There was no change in any of these variables in the control group. DLCO was significantly predicted (R2 = 0.82) by insulin sensitivity (standard-β = 0.415, P<0.001), eNOS (standard-β = 0.128, P = 0.017), TNF-α (standard-β = -0.259, P = 0.001), vWF (standard-β = -0.201, P = 0.007), and IL-6 (standard-β = -0.175, P = 0.032) in patients with T2DM. The impact of insulin sensitivity was the most important predictor for the variation of DLCO based on the multiple regression modeling. This study demonstrates that 24-week Taichi training and Taichi plus resistance band training effectively improve pulmonary diffusion capacity and blood glycemic control in patients with T2DM. Variation of DLCO is explained by improved insulin sensitivity and endothelial function, and reduced inflammatory markers, including TNF-α, vWF, and IL-6.
Boosting or inhibiting - how semantic-pragmatic and syntactic cues affect prosodic prominence relations in German
Authors: Baumann Stefan , Lorenzen Janne
Published: April 2024

In this exploratory study, we investigate the influence of several semantic-pragmatic and syntactic factors on prosodic prominence production in German, namely referential and lexical newness/givenness, grammatical role, and position of a referential target word within a sentence. Especially in terms of the probabilistic distribution of accent status (nuclear, prenuclear, deaccentuation) we find evidence for an additive influence of the discourse-related and syntactic cues, with lexical newness and initial sentence position showing the strongest boosting effects on a target word’s prosodic prominence. The relative strength of the initial position is found in nearly all prosodic factors investigated, both discrete (such as the choice of accent type) and gradient (e.g., scaling of the Tonal Center of Gravity and intensity). Nevertheless, the differentiation of prominence relations is information-structurally less important in the beginning of an utterance than near the end: The prominence of the final object relative to the surrounding elements, especially the verbal component, is decisive for the interpretation of the sentence. Thus, it seems that a speaker adjusts locally important prominence relations (object vs. verb in sentence-final position) in addition to a more global, rhythmically determined distribution of prosodic prominences across an utterance.
Analysis of football research trends using text network analysis
Authors: Kim Jongwon
Published: April 2024

This study was aimed to identify football research trends in various periods. A total of 30,946 football papers were collected from a representative academic database and search engine, the ‘Web of Science’. Keyword refinement included filtering nouns, establishing synonyms and thesaurus, and excluding conjunctions, and the Cyram’s Netminer 4.0 software was used for network analysis. A centrality analysis was conducted by extracting the words corresponding to the top 2% of the main research topics to obtain the degree and eigenvector centralities. The most frequently mentioned research keywords were injury, performance, and club. Keyword performance showed the highest degree centrality (0.294) and keyword world and cup showed the highest eigenvector centrality (0.710). The keyword with the highest eigenvector degree changed from injury in the 1990s and world in the 2000s to cup since the 2010s. Although various studies on football injuries have been conducted, research on the sport itself has recently been conducted. This study provides fundamental information on football trends from research published over the past 30 years.
Therapeutic education of patients with coronary heart disease: Impact of digital platform monitoring in preventing major cardiovascular events in Tunisia: Study protocol
Authors: Ghali Hela , El Hraiech Aymen , Ben Souda Hend , Karray Majdi , Pavy Bruno , Zedini Chekib
Published: April 2024

Background

Faced with the increase in the number of chronic diseases with the aging of the population, and with the observation of the insufficiency of therapeutic control, a new need has emerged, that of having a patient as a partner in care.

Methods

This study is a randomized controlled trial. Patients with coronary heart disease will be recruited from one clinical site and randomly assigned into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. All participants will be followed up for a total of one year (with three-time points for data collection). Patients who are assigned to the intervention group will receive therapeutic education at first. The digital platform will then allow healthcare providers to accompany them outside the hospital walls. The primary outcome is the incidence of major cardiovascular events within one year of discharge. Main secondary outcomes include changes in health behaviors, medication adherence, and quality of life score. The digital platform is a multi-professional telemonitoring platform that allows care teams to accompany the patient outside the hospital walls. It allows the collection and transmits information from the patient’s home to the therapeutic education team. All data will be secured at a certified host. The patient application provides data on compliance, adherence to physical activity (number of steps taken per day), adequate diet (weight gain, food consumed during the meal, compliance with low-salt or salt-free diet, diabetic diet), smoking cessation, as well as medication adherence. Access to educational tools (digital media) is provided to all initial program participants. These tools will be updated annually by the rehabilitation team on the recommendations. The platform also offers the possibility of organizing an individual or group remote educational session (videoconference modules allowing group and individual sessions), a secure integrated caregiver-patient messaging system. The control group will receive the usual controls at the hospital.

Discussion

To offer a complete solution of care to our patients, we have thought of setting up a digital platform that aims to monitor the patient and strengthen their abilities to manage their condition daily. This pilot experience could be generalized to several services and disciplines. It could be used in several research works.

Trial registration

Trial registered with the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202307694422939). URL: https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=24247.
Associations between frailty and mild cognitive impairment in older adults: Evidence from rural Chiang Mai Province
Authors: Kitro Amornphat , Panumasvivat Jinjuta , Sirikul Wachiranun , Wijitraphan Tanasit , Promkutkao Tharnthip , Sapbamrer Ratana
Published: April 2024

Thailand entered an aged society phase in 2000, with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and frailty becoming prevalent among the older adult population. However, no studies have yet examined these issues specifically within rural communities. This study aims to explore the relationship between frailty and MCI among older adults in rural Thailand. It was a cross-sectional study conducted between December 2022 and June 2023. A questionnaire was administered by trained village health volunteers. The survey targeted older adults aged 60 years and above, residing in rural Chiang Mai, Thailand, with those having a history of dementia, depression, and brain injury being excluded from participation. Nine hundred eighty-four participants among the older adults were available for analysis. The mean age was 69.8 (SD 7.9) with 62.2% females (n = 612). The median frequency of exercise was three days (0–7). The prevalence of MCI and frailty among rural older adults in the community was 35.6% (n = 350) and 8% (n = 79), respectively. There were four factors associated with an increased risk of MCI, including age (aOR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09, p < 0.001), smoking cigarettes (aOR 1.95, 95% CI 1.27–2.98, p = 0.002), feelings of loneliness (aOR 1.43, 95% CI 1.01–2.03, p = 0.043), and the presence of frailty (aOR 1.92, 95% CI 1.10–3.35, p = 0.022). There were two factors associated with a lower risk of MCI: a higher education level (aOR 0.90, 95% CI 0.86–0.94, p <0.001) and engaging in frequent exercise (aOR 0.9, 95% CI 0.86–0.95, p < 0.001). Frailty exhibited an association with an elevated risk of MCI among older adults in rural communities. Enhancing screening through health volunteers and primary healthcare professionals, coupled with bolstering community-driven health promotion initiatives, becomes imperative.
Response of human peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (PBMM) to demineralized and decellularized bovine bone graft substitutes
Authors: Rani K. G. Aghila , Al-Rawi Ahmed M. , Al Qabbani Ali , AlKawas Sausan , Mohammad Mohammad G. , Samsudin A. R.
Published: April 2024

The performance of apparently biocompatible implanted bovine bone grafts may be compromised by unresolved chronic inflammation, and poor graft incorporation leading to implant failure. Monitoring the intensity and duration of the inflammatory response caused by implanted bone grafts is crucial. In this study, the ability of demineralized (DMB) and decellularized (DCC) bovine bone substitutes in initiating inflammatory responses to peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (PBMMs) was investigated. The response of PBMMs to bone substitutes was evaluated by using both direct and indirect cell culture, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, apoptosis, immunophenotyping, and cytokine production. Analysis of DMB and DCC substitutes using scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed a roughened surface with a size ranging between 500 and 750 μm. PBMMs treated with DMB demonstrated cell aggregation and clumping mimicking lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated PBMMs and a higher proliferation ability (166.93%) compared to control (100%) and DCC treatments (115.64%; p<0.001) at 24h. This was associated with a significantly increased production of intracellular ROS in PBMMs exposed to DMB substitutes than control (3158.5 vs 1715.5; p<0.001) and DCC treatment (2117.5). The bone substitute exposure also caused an increase in percentage apoptosis which was significantly (p<0.0001) higher in both DMB (27.85) and DCC (29.2) treatment than control (19.383). A significant increase in proinflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α: 3.4 folds; p<0.05) was observed in DMB substitute-treated PBMMs compared to control. Notably, IL-1β mRNA was significantly higher in DMB (21.75 folds; p<0.0001) than control and DCC (5.01 folds). In contrast, DCC substitutes exhibited immunoregulatory effects on PBMMs, as indicated by the expression for CD86, CD206, and HLDR surface markers mimicking IL-4 treatments. In conclusion, DMB excites a higher immunological response compared to DCC suggesting decellularization process of tissues dampen down inflammatory reactions when exposed to PBMM.
Effects of Cucurbita Moschata squash (Butternut) seed paste in improving zinc and iron status in children attending Early Childhood Development centres in Limpopo province, South Africa
Authors: Motadi Selekane Ananias , Mbhenyane Xikombiso Gertrude , Zuma Mthokozisi Kwazi , Freeland Graves Jeanne H.
Published: April 2024

Cucurbita moschata (Butternut squash) seeds are a rich source of nutrition containing nutrients including iron, zinc, copper, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. The aim of this study was to determine if Cucurbita Moschata squash seed paste improves zinc and iron status, anthropometric status, and dietary intake in preschool children. A pretest-posttest control group trial using cluster randomisation was conducted over 6 months. Four preschools were randomly assigned to receive 100 g of intervention or 100 g of a placebo as the control to enhance iron and zinc status. A total of 276 preschool children were recruited from eight government registered Early Childhood Development centres in Limpopo province, South Africa. The control group consumed Cucurbita moschata flesh twice-weekly, while the intervention group consumed Cucurbita moschata seed paste twice-weekly during a six-month period. Iron (serum iron, transferrin, transferrin saturation, ferritin) and zinc (serum zinc) status and anthropometric indices such as weight, height and mid upper arm circumference for children were evaluated at baseline and the endpoint. Iron and zinc-rich food consumption was measured using a 24-hour dietary recall and food record during the study, and dietary intake was estimated using a food frequency questionnaire which was conducted at the beginning and endpoint. The intervention group significantly improved in the mean serum iron 0.23 μg/dL (95% CI: 0.11;0.33); ferritin 0.21μg/dL (95% CI: 0.13;0.39), transferrin saturation 0.33% (0.23;0.74) and zinc 0.16 μmol/dl (95% CI: 0.13;0.25) at the end of the study. In addition, the intervention group exhibited greater mean weight for age of 0.13 z-score (95% CI: 0.28; 0.34) and weight for height of 0.04 z-score (95% CI: 0.12,0.05), as well as the consumption of iron (p < 0,001), zinc (p < 0,001), and vitamin C (p < 0.001). At the end of the trial, fiber (p < 0.001), riboflavin (p = 0.001), vitamin B6 (p < 0.001), and vitamin B12 (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the control group. Thus, the inclusion of intervention in the diet of children in an impoverished area of South Africa improved the iron and zinc status of these children. This supplement could be a cost effective and sustainable approach to improve nutrient status in rural South Africa.

Trial registration: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202308740458863).