bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bleeding assessment following central venous catheter placement, a direct comparison of prospective and retrospective analyses
Authors: van Baarle Floor L. F. , van de Weerdt Emma K. , Raasveld S. Jorinde , Vlaar Alexander P. J. , Biemond Bart J. ,   the PACER Study Group
Published: June 2024

Background

Reported bleeding incidences following central venous catheter (CVC) placement highly depend on methods of bleeding assessment. To determine the direction and magnitude of the bias associated with retrospective data collection, we used data from the PACER randomized controlled trial and a previous retrospective cohort study.

Study Design and Methods

A patient‐level comparison of CVC‐related bleeding severity was made among (1) the prospectively collected clinical bleeding assessment of the PACER trial, (2) centralized assessment of CVC insertion site photographs, and (3) retrospective chart review. Interrater reliability for photographic bleeding assessment and retrospective chart review was assessed using Cohen's κ. The magnitude of underreporting of both methods compared to prospective clinical bleeding assessment at different cutoff points of clinically relevant bleeding was assessed using McNemar's test.

Results

Interrater reliability was acceptable for both methods (κ = 0.583 and κ = 0.481 for photographic assessment and retrospective chart review, respectively). Photographic bleeding assessment led to significant underreporting of bleeding complications at all cutoff points. Retrospective chart review led to significant underreporting of minor bleeding complications, with an odds ratio (95% CI) of 0.17 (0.044–0.51) for the cutoff point grade 1 (i.e., self‐limiting or requiring at most 20 min of manual compression) or higher. There was no significant underreporting of major bleeding complications with retrospective chart review.

Discussion

Centralized photographic bleeding assessment and retrospective chart review lead to biased bleeding assessment compared to prospective clinical bleeding assessment.
Confidence Intervals for Ratio of Percentiles of Birnbaum-Saunders Distributions and Its Application to PM2.5 in Northern Thailand
Authors: Thangjai Warisa , Niwitpong Sa-Aat , Niwitpong Suparat
Published: June 2024

In the statistical literature, the Birnbaum-Saunders distribution has garnered considerable attention as an important fatigue life distribution for engineers. This distribution finds applications in medicine, engineering, and science. A percentile denotes a threshold below which a designated percentage of scores or data points are situated. In particular cases, percentiles are the preferred choice over mean and variance, especially when dealing with skewed data. This paper investigates confidence intervals for the ratio of percentiles of Birnbaum-Saunders distributions. It discusses the generalized fiducial confidence interval, Bayesian credible interval, and the highest posterior density intervals using a prior distribution with partial information and a proper prior with known hyperparameters. To compare the performance of these confidence intervals, the study employs coverage probability and average length measurements. Monte Carlo simulation via the R package is used to calculate the coverage probability and average length. The results indicate that the highest posterior density interval using a prior distribution with partial information outperforms the other confidence intervals. Finally, the paper presents the results of the simulation study and applies them in the field of environmental sciences.
Absolutely Fuzzy Lipschitz p-summing Maps between Fuzzy Pointed Metric Spaces
Authors: Saleh Saleh Manaf Adnan , K. Shaakir Laith
Published: June 2024

Motivated by Lipschitz ideals in the conventional (crisp) theory, we are constructing a new Lipschitz ideal in fuzzy theory. We introduce the notion of fuzzy Lipschitz ideals and give some elementary illustrations. The class of absolutely fuzzy Lipschitz -summing maps  between arbitrary fuzzy pointed metric spaces is a significant category of fuzzy Lipschitz ideals. It is a logical extension of the concept of absolutely (crisp) Lipschitz p-summing maps between arbitrary pointed metric spaces, as established by Farmer Jeffrey and William Johnson. We establish that the fuzzy Lipschitz norm of the previously specified concept is a fuzzy real number. We demonstrate that a complete fuzzy normed fuzzy operator ideal is the resulting class of fuzzy Lipschitz operators between arbitrary fuzzy pointed metric spaces and complete fuzzy normed spaces. Next, we define a basic characterisation of a Lipschitz p-summing map that is completely fuzzy. By demonstrating a fuzzy variant of the nonlinear Pietsch Domination Theorem, this is accomplished. Lastly, we bring forth a few unsolved problems that we find intriguing.
ASSESSMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF MICROORGANISMS CULTURES PROMISSING FOR SUPRESSING ANTIBIOTIC-RESISTANT STRAINS
Authors: Anuarbekova S.S. , Jumagaziyeva A.B. , Amangeldinova D.K. , Sharova D.E. , Kanafina M.A. , Nurgalieva R.K. , Alzhanova G.S. , Tynybayeva I.K. , Sadykov A.M.
Published: June 2024

One of the problems in global practical medicine is antibiotic-resistant strains. The problem is that pathogens are resistant to a number of antibacterial drugs and this makes treatment difficult, which can be long and/or ineffective. One solution is to develop drugs based on bacterial lysates. In this article, the objects of study are producers of extended spectrum β-lactamases - Enterobacteriaceae, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Haemophilus, Streptococcus. We assessed the survival, antibiotic resistance and biological compatibility of 25 microbial cultures. Cultures have acceptable viability numbers reguired for industrially valuable strains: more than 106 CFU/ml (109 – 1010 CFU/ml). Antibiotic resistance to various groups of is antibiotics was studied: carbapenems, fluoroguinolones, cephalosporins, macrolides, aminoglycosides, penicillins, chloramphenicols. The choise of antibacterial drugs is based on the freguent use of these antibiotics. The spectrum of antibiotic resistance of each strain is different, from one antibiotic (Ps. aeruginosa 13) to ten antibiotics (S. pneumoniae 5). Cultures are resistant to amoxicillin, ampicillin, benzylpenicillin, erythromycin and cephalosporins. The strains are mostly biocompatible with each other and have antibiotic resistance to a number of antibacterial drugs.
KIBRA anchoring the action of PKMζ maintains the persistence of memory
Authors: Tsokas Panayiotis , Hsieh Changchi , Flores-Obando Rafael E. , Bernabo Matteo , Tcherepanov Andrew , Hernández A. Iván , Thomas Christian , Bergold Peter J. , Cottrell James E. , Kremerskothen Joachim , Shouval Harel Z. , Nader Karim , Fenton André A. , Sacktor Todd C.
Published: June 2024

How can short-lived molecules selectively maintain the potentiation of activated synapses to sustain long-term memory? Here, we find kidney and brain expressed adaptor protein (KIBRA), a postsynaptic scaffolding protein genetically linked to human memory performance, complexes with protein kinase Mzeta (PKMζ), anchoring the kinase’s potentiating action to maintain late-phase long-term potentiation (late-LTP) at activated synapses. Two structurally distinct antagonists of KIBRA-PKMζ dimerization disrupt established late-LTP and long-term spatial memory, yet neither measurably affects basal synaptic transmission. Neither antagonist affects PKMζ-independent LTP or memory that are maintained by compensating PKCs in ζ-knockout mice; thus, both agents require PKMζ for their effect. KIBRA-PKMζ complexes maintain 1-month-old memory despite PKMζ turnover. Therefore, it is not PKMζ alone, nor KIBRA alone, but the continual interaction between the two that maintains late-LTP and long-term memory.
Terahertz control and timing correlations in a transmission electron microscope
Authors: Kuttruff Joel , Nabben David , Zimmermann Ann-Céline , Ryabov Andrey , Baum Peter
Published: June 2024

Ultrafast electron microscopy provides a movie-like access to structural dynamics of materials in space and time, but fundamental atomic motions or electron dynamics are, so far, too quick to be resolved. Here, we report the all-optical control, compression, and characterization of electron pulses in a transmission electron microscope by the single optical cycles of laser-generated terahertz light. This concept provides isolated electron pulses and merges the spatial resolution of a transmission electron microscope with the temporal resolution that is offered by a single cycle of laser light. We also report the all-optical control of multi-electron states and find a substantial two-electron and three-electron anticorrelation in the time domain. These results open up the possibility to visualize atomic and electronic motions together with their quantum correlations on fundamental dimensions in space and time.
Structural characterization of macro domain–containing Thoeris antiphage defense systems
Authors: Shi Yun , Masic Veronika , Mosaiab Tamim , Rajaratman Premraj , Hartley-Tassell Lauren , Sorbello Mitchell , Goulart Cassia C. , Vasquez Eduardo , Mishra Biswa P. , Holt Stephanie , Gu Weixi , Kobe Bostjan , Ve Thomas
Published: June 2024

Thoeris defense systems protect bacteria from infection by phages via abortive infection. In these systems, ThsB proteins serve as sensors of infection and generate signaling nucleotides that activate ThsA effectors. Silent information regulator and SMF/DprA-LOG (SIR2-SLOG) containing ThsA effectors are activated by cyclic ADP-ribose (ADPR) isomers 2′cADPR and 3′cADPR, triggering abortive infection via nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD
+
) depletion. Here, we characterize Thoeris systems with transmembrane and macro domain (TM-macro)–containing ThsA effectors. We demonstrate that ThsA macro domains bind ADPR and imidazole adenine dinucleotide (IAD), but not 2′cADPR or 3′cADPR. Combining crystallography, in silico predictions, and site-directed mutagenesis, we show that ThsA macro domains form nucleotide-induced higher-order oligomers, enabling TM domain clustering. We demonstrate that ThsB can produce both ADPR and IAD, and we identify a ThsA TM-macro–specific ThsB subfamily with an active site resembling deoxy-nucleotide and deoxy-nucleoside processing enzymes. Collectively, our study demonstrates that Thoeris systems with SIR2-SLOG and TM-macro ThsA effectors trigger abortive infection via distinct mechanisms.
H3K9 methylation regulates heterochromatin silencing through incoherent feedforward loops
Authors: Yabe Kannosuke , Kamio Asuka , Oya Satoyo , Kakutani Tetsuji , Hirayama Mami , Tanaka Yuriko , Inagaki Soichi
Published: June 2024

Histone H3 lysine-9 methylation (H3K9me) is a hallmark of the condensed and transcriptionally silent heterochromatin. It remains unclear how H3K9me controls transcription silencing and how cells delimit H3K9me domains to avoid silencing essential genes. Here, using
Arabidopsis
genetic systems that induce H3K9me2 in genes and transposons de novo, we show that H3K9me2 accumulation paradoxically also causes the deposition of the euchromatic mark H3K36me3 by a SET domain methyltransferase, ASHH3. ASHH3-induced H3K36me3 confers anti-silencing by preventing the demethylation of H3K4me1 by LDL2, which mediates transcriptional silencing downstream of H3K9me2. These results demonstrate that H3K9me2 not only facilitates but orchestrates silencing by actuating antagonistic silencing and anti-silencing pathways, providing insights into the molecular basis underlying proper partitioning of chromatin domains and the creation of metastable epigenetic variation.
Nuclear quantum memory for hard x-ray photon wave packets
Authors: Velten Sven , Bocklage Lars , Zhang Xiwen , Schlage Kai , Panchwanee Anjali , Sadashivaiah Sakshath , Sergeev Ilya , Leupold Olaf , Chumakov Aleksandr I. , Kocharovskaya Olga , Röhlsberger Ralf
Published: June 2024

Optical quantum memories are key elements in modern quantum technologies to reliably store and retrieve quantum information. At present, they are conceptually limited to the optical wavelength regime. Recent advancements in x-ray quantum optics render an extension of optical quantum memory protocols to ultrashort wavelengths possible, thereby establishing quantum photonics at x-ray energies. Here, we introduce an x-ray quantum memory protocol that utilizes mechanically driven nuclear resonant
57
Fe absorbers to form a comb structure in the nuclear absorption spectrum by using the Doppler effect. This room-temperature nuclear frequency comb enables us to control the waveform of x-ray photon wave packets to a high level of accuracy and fidelity using solely mechanical motions. This tunable, robust, and highly flexible system offers a versatile platform for a compact solid-state quantum memory at room temperature for hard x-rays.
Reprogrammable and reconfigurable mechanical computing metastructures with stable and high-density memory
Authors: Li Yanbin , Yu Shuangyue , Qing Haitao , Hong Yaoye , Zhao Yao , Qi Fangjie , Su Hao , Yin Jie
Published: June 2024

Mechanical computing encodes information in deformed states of mechanical systems, such as multistable structures. However, achieving stable mechanical memory in most multistable systems remains challenging and often limited to binary information. Here, we report leveraging coupling kinematic bifurcation in rigid cube–based mechanisms with elasticity to create transformable, multistable mechanical computing metastructures with stable, high-density mechanical memory. Simply stretching the planar metastructure forms a multistable corrugated platform. It allows for independent mechanical or magnetic actuation of individual bistable element, serving as pop-up voxels for display or binary units for various tasks such as information writing, erasing, reading, encryption, and mechanologic computing. Releasing the pre-stretched strain stabilizes the prescribed information, resistant to external mechanical or magnetic perturbations, whereas re-stretching enables editable mechanical memory, akin to selective zones or disk formatting for information erasure and rewriting. Moreover, the platform can be reprogrammed and transformed into a multilayer configuration to achieve high-density memory.
The future lies in a pair of tactile hands
Authors: Lepora Nathan F.
Published: June 2024

Advancing robot hand dexterity with optical tactile sensing raises questions about humanoid robotics.
Would you risk humanity’s survival on a robot built in two years?
Authors: Murphy Robin R.
Published: June 2024

Project Hail Mary
reflects real-world technical readiness assessment processes for robotics.
Umbrella review of risk factors for inflammatory bowel disease: a study protocol
Authors: Jian Mingwei , Lu Xiang , Tang Min , Ouyang Zichen , Lai Zhiming , Zhuang Jiamei , Qian Rui
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic idiopathic inflammatory disorder that arises from complex interactions between genetics, environment and gut microbiota. It encompasses Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and IBD-unclassified. The protracted course of IBD imposes a significant burden on patients’ quality of life, economic productivity, social functioning, as well as treatment, hospitalisation and surgery. This study aims to conduct an umbrella review of meta-analyses to systematically evaluate the methodology’s quality, potential biases and validity of all epidemiological evidence focused on risk factors for IBD while providing an overview of the evidence concerning IBD risk factors.

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search, extract and analyse data from reported systematic reviews and meta-analyses that specifically focus on the risk factors of IBD, following the guidelines outlined in Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Reviews. Our search will encompass PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from the initial period up until April 2023 (last update), targeting systematic reviews and meta-analyses based on non-interventional studies. Inclusion criteria allow for systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluating IBD risk factors across all countries and settings, regardless of ethnicity or sex. The identified risk factors will be categorised according to the health ecological model into innate personal traits, behavioural lifestyles, interpersonal networks, socioeconomic status and macroenvironments. To assess methodological quality for each meta-analysis included in our study, two authors will employ a measurement tool to assess the methodological quality of systematic reviews (AMSTAR)-2, Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria along with evidence classification criteria.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this umbrella review. We will seek to submit the results for publication in a peer-reviewed journal or present it at conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023417175.
Mental COP: Mental Health Cohort Of Police officers in Korea
Authors: kim Joungsue , Jang Jungwon , Park Boyoung , Kim Inah
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This cohort study addresses the need for comprehensive and longitudinal research on police officers’ mental health, focusing on the relationship between occupational factors, individual characteristics and mental health status or suicidality. The Mental COP (Mental health Cohort Of Police officers in Korea) research provides important insights by tracking new police officers over time, contributing to evidence-based interventions and policies to improve their overall mental health and working conditions.

Participants

Mental Cop is a prospective open cohort study designed for new police officers for police recruitment, expected to graduate after 8 months of education at the Central Police Academy. To date, 6752 individuals have completed the baseline survey and are enrolled in the cohort.

Finding to date

The study data in Mental COP covered a wide range of issues for first responders, including personal factors, various mental health problems, occupational factors and measured biomarkers of allostatic load, including Heart Rate Variability. The main findings indicate a lower prevalence of mental health problems among those selected as new police officers compared with the general population with notable gender differences. Therefore, closer monitoring of women is required. Furthermore, the study revealed cohort-based differences in mental health, highlighting increased risk related to occupational factors (field training) and the management of vulnerable groups.

Future plans

Another wave of Mental COP is scheduled for December 2023, with plans for future cohort expansion. Additionally, it will establish a more comprehensive and systematic scientific framework for future investigations by integrating broader medical examinations and National Health Insurance Service Data.
Qualitative study on the problems and potential solution strategies for part-time clinical pharmacists’ clinical services work in a tertiary hospital in China
Authors: Jia Xuedong , Zhang Wan , Si Fang-Ying , Yang Xi , Wen Linlin , Wang Mingxia , Zheng Jinqian , Yin Zhao , Kang Jian , Du Shuzhang
Published: June 2024

Objective

To provide an initial understanding of problems and potential solution strategies for part-time clinical pharmacist work in China, and provide references for the training of part-time clinical pharmacists.

Methods

The study was conducted in a tertiary teaching hospital in China, and the project lasted 6 months. Phenomenological methods were used to guide the research design. Research data were obtained by conducting one-to-one semistructured interviews with part-time clinical pharmacists, and interview data were coded and analysed through thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 21 pharmacists were interviewed in a semistructured manner, and the results showed that following problems exist in the work of part-time clinical pharmacists: the existing professional knowledge is not adequate to meet the demands of clinical service; the career orientation of part-time clinical pharmacists is not clear; lack of professional self-confidence in clinical pharmacy practice; there is no suitable entry point to carry out pharmacy service work; it is difficult to communicate effectively, and for in addition, 17 potential solution strategies are proposed for the current problems, which can provide reference for the development of part-time clinical pharmacists’ work.

Conclusions

The work performed by part-time clinical pharmacists is currently immature and the strategies derived from this study may serve as potential solutions to resolve the part-time clinical pharmacy practice challenges.
Effectiveness of a modified behavioural activation treatment training program for primary medical staff to manage depressive symptoms among rural elderly in Hunan Province, China: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Qin Ning , Luo Yating , Wang Sha , Li Yuxuan , Li Jing , Luo Juan , Zhou Jian , Zhang Qiuxiang , Xie Jianfei , Cheng Andy S K
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Depression is a major global health problem, with high prevalence rates of depressive symptoms observed among the elderly population in China, particularly exacerbating in rural areas. Due to a lack of professional mental health training and inadequate psychotherapy capacity within primary medical staff, rural elderly individuals grappling with depressive symptoms often encounter challenges in receiving timely diagnosis and treatment. In this landscape, the modified behavioural activation treatment (MBAT) emerges as a promising approach due to its practicality, ease of therapist training and application, patient acceptability, and broad applicability. However, existing evidence for MBAT mainly hails from developed countries, leaving a gap in its adaptation and implementation within rural China. This study aims to develop an MBAT training programme for primary medical staff to manage depressive symptoms among rural elderly and evaluate its effectiveness.

Methods and analysis

A cluster randomised controlled trial will be conducted in 10 randomly selected township hospitals in Lengshuijiang and Lianyuan, Hunan Province. We aim to recruit 150 participants, with 5 township hospitals selected for each group, each consisting of 15 participants. The intervention group will implement the MBAT training programme, while the control group will receive usual care training programme. Depressive symptoms, psychosocial functioning, quality of life and satisfaction will be measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at 3 and 6 months post-intervention. Effectiveness will be assessed using linear or generalised linear mixed models.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has obtained approval from the Institutional Review Board of the Third Xiangya Hospital, Centre South University (No.: 2022-S261). Results will be disseminated through publication in international peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300074544.
Automatic Alignment of Ring-Grid Laser Images based on an Improved Classical Iterative Algorithm
Authors: Wang Xiaofen
Published: June 2024

Real-time simulation of ring-grid laser images using the conventional method has several drawbacks, including weak edge fitting, poor clarity, low image recognition rates, uneven brightness distribution, and significant ring-grid laser image interference from the surrounding environment. In this research, we develop the diagonalizable and readily invertible Hessian matrix, offer an enhanced Newton projection iteration algorithm, and use the degenerate gradient magnitude as the constraint set. We also develop a real-time re-illumination model appropriate for modeling ring-grid laser maps and suggest a method for simulating ring-grid laser maps based on it. The simulations demonstrate that the suggested method successfully matches ring-grid laser pictures in real time with little relative error and deviation, a high signal-to-noise ratio, and pleasing aesthetic effects.
A Video Action Recognition Method via Dual-Stream Feature Fusion Neural Network with Attention
Authors: Han Jianmin , Li Jie
Published: June 2024

Video action recognition is a technique for automatically determining the category of a video action. It is necessary to design an efficient video action recognition algorithm to predict video labels. This work proposes a video action recognition model based on dual-stream information fusion with attention mechanisms (DSIFAM), which consists of three different sub-modules. First, this proposes an improved keyframe extraction method (IKFE). Based on K-means clustering, this uses convolutional features to calculate the similarity between video frames instead of pixel points. After obtaining preliminary clustering results, the method performs secondary optimization to obtain more representative keyframes. Second, this proposes a video action recognition model based on dual-stream information fusion (DSIF). The method introduces ConvLSTM in the spatial stream and uses P3D instead of the original convolutional network in the temporal stream, which can better extract spatial-temporal information and improve the classification performance. Third, this designs a multi-scale attention mechanism (MSAM) to enhance the feature extraction stage and obtain higher quality classification features. The resulting features are more prominent and have stronger representation capabilities. Finally, this work conducts systematic experiments on different datasets, the results verify the superiority of DSIFAM for video action recognition.
A Data‐Driven Method for Supporting Self‐Adapt Large‐Scale Group Decision‐Making: A Case Study on Resilient Design of Firm’s Product
Authors: Xia Houxue , Liu Mingwei , Jiao Jingyao , Tong Huagang , Zhang Haifeng
Published: June 2024

Large‐scale group decision‐making (LSGDM) has emerged as a prominent research area in various domains, such as high technology and complex engineering problems. The advent of machine learning techniques has revolutionized LSGDM by introducing new data‐driven approaches. First, recurrent neural networks (RNNs) have been proposed as a data‐driven method to effectively learn and predict experts’ preferences. Second, a self‐adaptive method has been devised to optimize clustering parameters, considering their influence. The consensus‐reaching process facilitates the reverse optimization of these parameters. Third, a novel approach called analysis target cascading (ATC) has been suggested to address the limitations of traditional weighing methods used in previous LSGDM studies. ATC comprehensively investigates the potential game among multiple subgroups, thereby resolving the consensus‐reaching problem (CRP). Lastly, an improved artificial bee colony algorithm has been proposed to tackle the optimization problem presented in this study. This enhanced algorithm incorporates the levying mechanism and searching method from the gravity search algorithm. To validate the efficacy of the proposed methods, a case study involving a large‐scale interdisciplinary team has been conducted.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease as a Potential Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dehghani Firouzabadi Mohammad , Poopak Amirhossein , Sheikhy Ali , Dehghani Firouzabadi Fatemeh , Moosaie Fatemeh , Rabizadeh Soghra , Momtazmanesh Sara , Nakhjavani Manouchehr , Esteghamati Alireza
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disorder in western countries. Although the etiology of NAFLD is unknown, insulin resistance is a key mechanism of lipid deposition in hepatocytes leading to steatosis and potentially steatohepatitis in patients with diabetes. These factors accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis and development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Methods and Results. In this prospective cohort study, 1197 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) were divided into two groups (360 patients with NAFLD and 847 without NAFLD) and were followed for a median of 5 years for the incidence of CVD. Cox regression analysis was used to assess the association between NAFLD, liver enzyme level, aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), and the incidence risk of CVD and its subgroups (i.e., myocardial infarction, chronic heart disease, coronary artery bypass grafting, and percutaneous coronary intervention). There was a significant positive association between CVD incidence and NAFLD (HR = 1.488, 95% CI = 1.041–2.124, p value = 0.029). Although patients with NAFLD had higher levels of ALT and AST levels (p value = <0.001), there was no significant association between liver enzymes and the incidence risk of CVD when adjusted for different variables. Furthermore, NAFLD was associated with NAFLD APRI Q (2), APRI Q (3), and APRIQ (4) (1.365 (1.046–1.781), 1.623 (1.234–2.135), and 3.373 (2.509–4.536)), respectively. Conclusion. NAFLD increased the incidence risk of CVD in T2D. However, there was no association between liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALK‐P, and GGT) and a higher incidence risk of CVD in T2D when adjusted for confounding variables.
Convective Drying of Pumpkin Flower (Cucurbita maxima): Effect of Temperature and Airflow on Carotenoid Content
Authors: Niño Alfredo Domínguez , Valladares Octavio García , Gómez Ana María Lucho , Velázquez Paulina Guillén , Sánchez César Antonio Ortiz , Téllez Beatriz Castillo , Solano Guadalupe Luna
Published: June 2024

This study evaluated the change in the carotenoid content and colorimetric properties of the pumpkin flower (Cucurbita maxima) in convective drying. Three factors were studied: drying temperature (45, 50, and 55°C), airflow (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 m/s), and shape of the flower (whole, half, and petals). The initial lightness value of 64.38 tends to decrease with drying temperature and time; however, the lightness increases as the pumpkin flower shape passes from the petals to the whole shape because of the high moisture content. During drying, the a and b parameters ranged from 16.61 to 30.03 and 34.61 to 61.46, respectively. An increment in a value indicates that the pumpkin flower tends to be redder, and the increase in b values indicates a yellow color movement. The hue angle increased when the airflow goes from 0.3 to 0.9 m/s and when the drying temperature increased from 50 to 55°C; therefore, the pumpkin flower tended to be more yellow when the drying temperature passed from 50 to 55°C. The best properties of pumpkin flowers were obtained during the drying process at a temperature ranging from 50 to 55°C. At this temperature range, moisture content was around 3.11% to 10.2% and water activity was from 0.225 to 0.334, respectively. It was also noted that drying at higher temperatures leads to loss of color and carotenoid content because of the presence of heat‐sensitive molecules, which is also why low drying temperature is used in this process.
Assessment of Noise Levels and Perceptions of Its Health Impact at Kejetia Market in Ghana
Authors: Sackey Lyndon N. A. , Agyemang Lawrencia S. Y. , Acheampong Patrick E. , Owusu Michael Afriyie , Amoah Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Noise pollution in developing countries such as Nigeria and Ghana is causing adverse effects on citizens, including hearing impairment, sleep disturbances, adverse social behavior, and cardiovascular diseases. This study assessed noise levels at the Kejetia Market in Ghana and the perceptions of health impact. A sound level meter (JD‐801A) was used to measure the noise levels at the various points in the market. Results showed that noise exposure levels were not within Ghana Environmental Protection Agency standards 2008, with sources including loud music, advertisements, human congestion, and vehicles. Respondents perceived noise pollution sources as annoyance, mental stress, sleep disturbances, lack of concentration, hearing, and cardiovascular effects. The study suggests that stakeholders and authorities should educate the public on the health effects of noise pollution.
Optimizing Nursing Productivity: Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence, Technology Integration, Competencies, and Leadership
Authors: Alenezi Atallah , Alshammari Mohammed Hamdan , Ibrahim Ibrahim Abdullatif
Published: June 2024

Background. In the rapidly evolving healthcare management landscape, technology integration and artificial intelligence utilization play pivotal roles in shaping employee productivity. This research investigates these dynamics within Riyadh Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, focusing on the relationships between technology integration, the use of artificial intelligence in nursing profession, nursing workforce competencies, technological leadership, and employee productivity. Methods. A quantitative approach was employed, involving 329 nurses from five hospitals in Riyadh Province. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling facilitated comprehensive analysis of direct and indirect relationships among variables. Results. Findings reveal that technology integration significantly enhances nursing productivity, while the use of artificial intelligence initially presents disruptions before yielding productivity gains. Nursing workforce competencies mediate these relationships, emphasizing the critical role of workforce readiness in harnessing technology’s benefits. Surprisingly, technological leadership did not significantly moderate these effects. Conclusions. This research offers vital insights for healthcare organizations, advocating strategic technology integration and workforce development. It underscores the significance of nursing competencies in navigating technological transformations and affirms the enduring importance of leadership in guiding these changes. As healthcare evolves, these findings provide guidance for optimizing technology and artificial intelligence to enhance employee productivity and patient care.
Gut Microorganism‐Mediated Neutralization of Mycotoxins: A Promising Approach to Combat Fungal Toxicity
Authors: Islam Md Minarul , Mahbub Nasir Uddin , Islam Mohammad Amirul
Published: June 2024

Mycotoxins, derived from fungi, pose significant threats to both human health and livestock well‐being. Their contamination of food and feed supplies results in substantial economic losses annually. Various chemical and physical methodologies are employed to mitigate the toxicity associated with these toxins. However, the utilization of microorganism‐mediated biotransformation presents a particularly promising and actively researched avenue for addressing the challenges posed by mycotoxins and enhancing food safety protocols. The intestinal microbiota engages in a dynamic interplay with mycotoxins, wherein mycotoxins disrupt the microbial equilibrium within the intestines and elevate epithelial barrier permeability, thereby impacting the intestinal ecosystem. Conversely, beneficial gut microbes possess the capacity to enzymatically degrade or sequester mycotoxins, thereby converting them into metabolites of reduced or negligible toxicity. This review encapsulates significant advancements in the biological detoxification of mycotoxins as evidenced by prior research endeavors. The discussion encompasses the repercussions of mycotoxin exposure on both human and animal health, alongside an examination of gut microbial‐based strategies for mycotoxin detoxification.
Supplementary Figure 3 from Transcriptome Deconvolution Reveals Absence of Cancer Cell Expression Signature in Immune Checkpoint Blockade Response
Authors: Guo Yu Amanda , Kulshrestha Tanmay , Chang Mei Mei , Kassam Irfahan , Revkov Egor , Rizzetto Simone , Tan Aaron C. , Tan Daniel S.W. , Tan Iain Beehuat , Skanderup Anders J.
Published: June 2024

Identification of genes that are differentially expressed between responders and non-responders consistently across discovery cohorts.
FIGURE 6 from Transcriptome Deconvolution Reveals Absence of Cancer Cell Expression Signature in Immune Checkpoint Blockade Response
Authors: Guo Yu Amanda , Kulshrestha Tanmay , Chang Mei Mei , Kassam Irfahan , Revkov Egor , Rizzetto Simone , Tan Aaron C. , Tan Daniel S.W. , Tan Iain Beehuat , Skanderup Anders J.
Published: June 2024

Predictive modeling of response to immune checkpoint inhibition. A, Schematic of data and methods used in model training and testing. B, Top ranked features of ICB response selected by LASSO logistic regression. C, Comparisons of the performance of the IOselect model and the 3-feature model (TMB+IFNG+FCER1A) with existing biomarkers in six independent test cohorts. The differences between the mean AUCs of IOSelect and other models were computed using a paired t test. **, P-value <0.01; *, P-value <0.05; P-value <0.1. D, Kaplan–Meier curves of PFS for patients with high versus low predicted scores (greater than or less than median); P-values from log-rank test shown.
Falácias do “destino crístico”: o mito de Ourique (1139) e as respostas anticlericais de Alexandre Herculano (1810-1877)
Authors: Mendes Eduardo Soczek
Published: June 2024

As tentativas de uma investigação científica da História, tema muito caro ao século XIX, foram levadas a cabo, em Portugal, por Alexandre Herculano (1810-1877), que, em 1846, iniciou a publicação de História de Portugal. Contudo, a obra gerou descontentamento, principalmente de setores reacionários do clero luso e, em 1850, irrompeu na denominada Polêmica de Ourique: Herculano remeteu cartas públicas ao Cardeal-Patriarca de Lisboa, D. Guilherme Henriques de Carvalho (1793-1857), bem como ao redator do periódico católico A Nação e a um escritor e oficial do Exército Português, defensor do Absolutismo, António Lúcio Maggessi Tavares (1806-1877). Há, ainda, uma missiva pessoal ao padre Francisco Recreio (1800-1857), que não fora coligida pelo autor nos opúsculos publicados posteriormente. Essas mensagens se originam porque o historiador omitiu propositalmente em sua obra o mito de Ourique, segundo o qual Cristo teria, milagrosamente, aparecido ao primeiro rei lusitano, D. Afonso Henriques (1109?-1185), antes da peleja contra os mouros – a Batalha de Ourique (25 de Julho de 1139) – e, dessa forma, com a vitória cristã, o Portugal medieval teria sido fundado “pela vontade de Deus” e com um “destino crístico”, ou seja, de um predileto ungido. Sob as propostas de Eduardo Lourenço, a quem rendemos homenagem neste ano de seu centenário, mas também de Ana Isabel Buescu e de Luís Machado de Abreu, analisaremos, neste estudo, o significado da crença no milagre medieval para o período oitocentista e os discursos das correspondências de Herculano em meio à polêmica. Verificaremos, sobretudo, o teor da missiva ao arcebispo de Lisboa e a carta ao padre Recreio, bem como o seu conteúdo anticlerical.
Measuring people’s attitude towards conservation of Leopard Panthera pardus (Mammalia: Carnivora) in the foothills of Himalayan region
Authors: Rani Megha , Singh Sujeet Kumar , Allen Maximilian L. , Pandey Puneet , Singh Randeep
Published: June 2024

Measuring people’s attitudes about the large carnivores involved in human-wildlife interface, also termed conflict or interaction, is an essential aspect of developing effective conservation and management planning for human-carnivore coexistence. Human-leopard (Panthera pardus) interaction is widespread and one of the most pressing conservation issues within the global range of leopards. However, there is a scarcity of information on local people’s opinions and attitudes concerning carnivores in human-dominated areas. Our current study focused on understanding the human dimensions of human-leopard interactions in the multi-purpose landscape situated in the foothills of Shiwalik Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. Between January and May 2022, we conducted a semi-structured questionnaire survey (N = 266) to understand how socio-demographic factors impact the attitudes of local people toward leopard conservation in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand, India. Overall, 61.7% of respondents had positive attitudes toward leopards and supported leopard conservation, primarily attributed to the aesthetic value of leopards. Using ordinal logistic regression models, we found that male respondents and individuals with higher education had a positive attitude towards leopard conservation. The majority of respondents who conveyed positive attitudes towards leopard conservation belonged to the more educated socio-demographic groups. As a follow-up, specific studies need to be conducted on local people’s attitude about compensation or compassionate payments, often disbursed as compassionate payments, the response of the forest department to prevailing conflict, and current awareness programs. These can be crucial factors towards shaping the attitude of local respondents and promote human-leopard coexistence.
Factors influencing the occurrence of the House Sparrow Passer domesticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves: Passeriformes: Passeridae) in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India
Authors: Patel Foram P. , Dodia Pravinsang P. , Mehta Deven M.
Published: June 2024

The present study aims to understand key factors influencing the House Sparrow population across different habitat scales in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India. Correspondingly, different variables such as changes in habitat composition, sound levels, and density of mobile phone base stations were considered with reference to the occurrence of the House Sparrows across the study area. During the study period (December 2016 to November 2018), the number of House Sparrows was recorded through point count without distance estimate method. Non-parametric tests were employed to assess variations in different variables and their correlation with the presence of House Sparrows, revealing that changes in local habitat composition significantly influence their occurrence. Shrubby vegetation, cowsheds, and old/traditional structures emerged as crucial predictors positively impacting House Sparrow’s presence, particularly in urban areas where suitable habitat patches are scarce due to urbanization and modern lifestyles. The decline in these habitats has significantly impacted House Sparrow populations. To counter this decline, implementing strategies like providing artificial nest sites is being considered. However, it’s crucial to ensure that there are adequate shelter and food resources available to effectively conserve the species.
Waterbird diversity of Saman Wetland Complex in Uttar Pradesh: a crucial site for the India’s National Action Plan on migratory birds
Authors: Joshi Omkar , Singh Nisha , P. Sathiyaselvam
Published: June 2024

The Saman Wetland Complex is formed by five major wetlands present in Etawah and Mainpuri districts of Uttar Pradesh. The habitat is majorly a wetland system with scrub vegetation along the edges and surrounded by agricultural fields; attracting a diverse group of bird species. These wetlands are an ideal habitat for Sarus Crane and are also Important Bird Areas. In the past two decades, the anthropogenic activities have deteriorated the habitat and wetlands no longer support the earlier congregation of birds. The study conducted during 2020–2021 provides baseline information on the present status of the Saman wetland complex, waterbird diversity, threats faced by the wetlands & waterbirds, and suggests future management/ conservation strategies.
First record of Garra kempi Hora, 1921 (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) from Lohandra River of Nepal
Authors: Limbu Jash Hang , Dipak Rajbanshi  , Laxman Khanal  , Adhikari Ram Chandra
Published: June 2024

Nepal holds a high ichthyofaunal diversity, nevertheless, the molecular study of Nepalese fish is still in its early stages. The first record of a cyprinid fish species the Garra kempi Hora, 1921 for Nepal was reported from eastern Nepal’s Lohandra River. Both morphology and molecular data affirmed the existence of G. kempi in Nepal’s aquatic system. This species was previously reported from China (Tibet) and northern India. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis and pairwise genetic distance based on Kimura 2 parameters using cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) segment sequences (665 bp) also confirmed the identity of the species as G. kempi. The COI sequences of specimens from Nepal formed a monophyletic clade with the sequence of G. kempi from northeastern India and the two contained a pairwise genetic distance of 1.8% only. The new record of G. kempi from Nepal warrants a detailed ichthyofaunal survey for documenting the fish diversity in Nepal.
First record of Croaking Gourami Trichopsis vittata (Cuvier, 1831) from West Bengal, India
Authors: Sujal Dutta  , Bakul Biswas  , Bibhas Guha
Published: June 2024

The Croaking Gourami Trichopsis vittata (Cuvier, 1831) is a native fish to southeastern Asia and Sundaland, with introduction reports from the USA, Philippines, and many other countries including India. In India, this species was first reported from Chembarampakkam Lake situated in Chennai during the year 2015. This study reports the presence of this fish for the first time in the Magra Beel, a wetland in the district of Nadia, West Bengal, in 2021, 2022, 2023. The laboratory evaluated the fish samples taken from the marsh to determine their fin ray counts and morphometric data. The results identified the species as T. vittata and supported previous research.
Addition to the liverwort flora (Marchantiophyta) of Arunachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Nonya Chimyang  , Pherkop Mossang  , Dhyani Anshul , Heikham Evelin  , Prem Lal Uniyal  , Devendra Singh  , Meghna Paul  , S.K. Nasim Ali
Published: June 2024

The present study identified 20 liverwort species from Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh, India, marking the first ever documentation of bryophytes from the region. The specimens were collected from various locations within the study area and subsequently brought to the laboratory. Micromorphological and anatomical characteristics of the specimens were analysed and identified by consulting relevant literatures. Three species, viz. Plagiochila himalayana Schiffn., P. khasiana Mitt., and Solenostoma lanigerum (Mitt.) Váňa & D.G.Long, are newly reported for the first time from the state of Arunachal Pradesh. The species were found to be an integral part of ecosystem growing in association with various plant species, providing soil stability, and shelter for other organisms. The study is important for understanding bryophyte diversity and ecosystem health of the region. In addition, it will also help in planning conservation strategy and sustainable management of bryophytes, their habitat or host species and the overall biodiversity in the region.
Comparing Humans and Large Language Models on an Experimental Protocol Inventory for Theory of Mind Evaluation (EPITOME)
Authors: Jones Cameron R. , Trott Sean , Bergen Benjamin
Published: June 2024

We address a growing debate about the extent to which large language models (LLMs) produce behavior consistent with Theory of Mind (ToM) in humans. We present EPITOME: a battery of six experiments that tap diverse ToM capacities, including belief attribution, emotional inference, and pragmatic reasoning. We elicit a performance baseline from human participants for each task. We use the dataset to ask whether distributional linguistic information learned by LLMs is sufficient to explain ToM in humans. We compare performance of five LLMs to a baseline of responses from human comprehenders. Results are mixed. LLMs display considerable sensitivity to mental states and match human performance in several tasks. Yet, they commit systematic errors in others, especially those requiring pragmatic reasoning on the basis of mental state information. Such uneven performance indicates that human-level ToM may require resources beyond distributional information.