bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Diagnosis Strategy of Sarcopenia in Chinese Community Older People according to the 2019 Asian Working Group guideline: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yan Huamei , Chai Yongli , Zhang Yujie , Rong Jiaqi , Zhao Ye , Yuan Weian
Published: September 2024

Background
Most diagnostic studies of sarcopenia in Asian areas follow the 2019 Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) guideline. The guideline proposed separated diagnosis strategies for community vs hospital for difficulty of measuring muscle mass in community settings. Evaluation the whole diagnosis process together with screening instruments in community preventive service setting is serious needed.
Methods
The study is a cross-sectional study. Questionnaire survey was done to evaluate SARC-F and SARC-CalF. Calf circumference(CC), Handgrip strength, gait speed and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were measured. Four scenarios about different diagnosis strategies were simulated, the sensitivity, specificity and AUC of ROC curve were calculated to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy.
Results
A total of 2453 participants were included. The sarcopenia prevalence was 14.1%, separately 15.4% and 13.1% for male and female. According to the diagnosis procedure of community, in case-finding stage, when using CC, SARC-CalF and SARC-F alone or combined three instruments, the sensitivities were separately 0.84,0.23,0.07 and 0.86, the specificities were separately 0.58,0.93,0.99 and 0.57, the AUCs of ROC curve were 0.710,0.581,0.530 and 0.717 respectively. Using CC and combined situations showed acceptable sensitivity and AUC, but SARC-F or SARC-CalF alone had missed most of sarcopenia. In assessment stage, handgrip strength test was added to those positive people in case-finding stage. the sensitivities were 0.61,0.17,0.06 and 0.63 respectively, the specificities were 0.92,0.98,0.99 and 0.92 respectively, the AUCs of ROC curve were 0.768,0.575,0.523 and 0.776. The sensitivity dropped quickly. In diagnosis stage, measurement of BIA and gait speed were added to those positive people in assessment stage, the sensitivities were 0.61,0.17,0.06 and 0.63, the specificities were all 1.00, the AUCs were 0.806,0.587,0.530 and 0.816. For CC, when cut-offs including critical value would extremely improve sensitivity and AUC of ROC curve.
Conclusions
Diagnosing sarcopenia in community, using SARC-F or SARC-CalF alone should not be recommended in case-finding stage, however, using CC and including critical value of cut-offs are more appropriate. In assessment stage, combined using muscle strength and physical performance rather than choosing one are recommended to avoid sharp reduce in sensitivity.
Cultural Competence and Associated Factors Among Nurses in Ethiopia: A systemic review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Wudu Muluken Amare , Wondifraw Endalik Birrie , Getaneh Fekadeselassie Belege , Bekalu Yemane Eshetu , Birhanu Tarikua Afework
Published: September 2024

Background
Despite constituting three-quarters of the healthcare workforce and being frontline providers of extended care to patients and their families, there is no nationally representative data on cultural competence among nurses in Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review was conducted to assess cultural competence and its associated factors among nurses in Ethiopia.
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to the PRISMA guidelines was conducted. The PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and EMBASE databases were searched to identify relevant studies. A Šidák–Jonkman random-effects model was employed to calculate the pooled mean score. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using Cochrane's Q-test and the I² statistic. Funnel plots and Egger's test were used to assess publication bias. The pooled mean score and meta-regression analysis were performed using STATA 17.
Results
A comprehensive analysis of 643 articles yielded six studies involving 2,344 nurses for inclusion. The pooled mean cultural competence score among Ethiopian nurses was 2.79 (95% CI: 2.25, 3.3). Key factors associated with cultural competence included health institution level (β = 2.28; 95% CI: 1.92–2.87; I2 = 0.00%), experience in caring for diverse patients (β = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.1–1.64; I2 = 42.37%), and educational level (β = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.01–2.23; I2 = 0.00%).
Conclusion
The level of cultural competence among nurses was found to be moderate, indicating a substantial need for improvement to achieve the standards of culturally competent nursing care. This study revealed that health institution level, experience in caring for diverse patients, and educational level were associated with nurses' cultural competence. Policymakers prioritize initiatives aimed at enhancing cultural competence among nurses working in lower-level health institutions and within nursing programs at technical and vocational levels.
Initial Clinical Observational Analysis of outer retinal corrugations Changes and Reattachment Morphology in Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Based on SD-OCT
Authors: guo wenjun , li mingbo , liu youli , nie xiaomei , su gang
Published: September 2024

Objective: To observe and summarize the reattachment morphological features of outer retinal corrugations (ORC) in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) using SD-OCT, providing new evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of retinal detachment surgery.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 64 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who were treated between March 2020 and March 2024. All participants were monitored preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Measurements included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (converted to LogMAR visual acuity from the standard logarithmic visual acuity chart), fundus examination under mydriasis, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) based on spectral interferometry. The study observed and summarized the structural characteristics of the ORC under SD-OCT and postoperative changes in the outer retinal folds (ORF).
Results: A total of 64 eyes had no ORC related manifestations in≤4 and≥42 days, and most of the patients in the middle region were complicated with ORC structural changes (46 / 53; 87%). In the 51 patients involving the macula, the mean visual acuity of patients without ORF structural changes 1 week and 1 month after surgery was better than the group with ORF. There was no significant difference (P> 0.05); The incidence of postoperative ORF in patients with preoperative ORC findings is approximately 60.9%, significant difference compared with patients without preoperative ORC performance (P <0.05); Summarize the three reduction morphological manifestations of ORC, 22 patients / type ORC had no ORF morphology after reduction, The rest are combined with abnormal reduction morphology (21 / 22), However, 24 patients with type I ORC had 6 had abnormal ORF morphology (6 / 24), There was statistical significance (P <0.05); Among the patients with preoperative ORC findings, There were no statistical differences in postoperative ORF performance comparisons among patients with different surgical methods.
Conclusion: SD-OCT can clearly display the morphological characteristics of ave-like changes in the peripheral retina associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Postoperative retinal detachment with abnormal ORC is more likely to show ORF changes. Type I ORC has a better prognosis compared to Types II/III, and some retinal detachment cases in Type I can recover to a normal shape during the repositioning process.
Visual feedback and motor memory contributions to sustained motor control deficits in autism spectrum disorder across childhood and into adulthood
Authors: Shafer Robin L. , Bartolotti James , Driggers Abigail , Bojanek Erin , Wang Zheng , Mosconi Matthew W.
Published: September 2024

Background
Autistic individuals show deficits in sustained fine motor control which are associated with an over-reliance on visual feedback. Motor memory deficits also have been reported during sustained fine motor control in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The development of motor memory and visuomotor feedback processes contributing to sustained motor control issues in ASD are not known. The present study aimed to characterize age-related changes in visual feedback and motor memory processes contributing to sustained fine motor control issues in ASD.
Methods
Fifty-four autistic participants and 31 neurotypical (NT) controls ages 10–25 years completed visually guided and memory guided sustained precision gripping tests by pressing on force sensors with their dominant hand index finger and thumb. For visually guided trials, participants viewed a stationary target bar and a force bar that moved upwards with increased force for 15s. During memory guided trials, the force bar was visible for 3s, after which participants attempted to maintain their force output without visual feedback for another 12s. To assess visual feedback processing, force accuracy, variability (standard deviation), and regularity (sample entropy) were examined. To assess motor memory, force decay latency, slope, and magnitude were examined during epochs without visual feedback.
Results
Relative to NT controls, autistic individuals showed a greater magnitude and steeper slope of force decay during memory guided trials. Across conditions, the ASD group showed reduced force accuracy (β = .41, R2 = 0.043, t79.3=2.36, p = 0.021) and greater force variability (β=-2.16, R2 = .143, t77.1=-4.04, p = 0.0001) and regularity (β=-.52, R2 = .021, t77.4=-2.21, p = 0.030) relative to controls at younger ages, but these differences normalized by adolescence (age x group interactions). Lower force accuracy and greater force variability during visually guided trials and steeper decay slope during memory guided trials were associated with overall autism severity.
Conclusions
Our findings that autistic individuals show a greater rate and magnitude of force decay than NT individuals following the removal of visual feedback indicate that motor memory deficits contribute to fine motor control issues in ASD. Findings that sensorimotor differences in ASD were specific to younger ages suggest delayed development across multiple motor control processes.
Time Driven Cost Analysis of Pediatric Liver Biopsy Completed in Pediatric Sedation Clinic and Operating Room
Authors: Ruprecht Kylie , Furuya Katryn , Swanson Jonathan , Monroe Eric
Published: September 2024

Background
Pediatric ultrasound (US) guided percutaneous liver biopsy is a commonly performed procedure in children, and may be performed in a variety of clinical settings. However, there is little research on the relative costs associated with different sedation methods and locations.
Objective
This study uses time driven activity based costing (TDABC) to identify relevant costs associated with different biopsy sedation techniques and locations to help inform providers and patients as well as guide value-conscious care. This study analyzes the direct costs associated with pediatric liver biopsy performed in an OR versus a dedicated pediatric sedation clinic.
Materials Methods
A single center retrospective review including data from 111 consecutive procedures completed between June 2021 and April 2024 was performed. Exclusions for procedures included multiple procedures being completed (N = 16) and lack of adequate time stamps for analysis (N = 3). Direct costs were calculated using cost capacity rates (CCR) and TDABC methodology. Propensity score matching between procedures performed in sedation clinic versus OR was performed adjusting for age, gender, ASA status, and inpatient status, and subsequent matches were analyzed via paired t-test in SPSS. All procedures achieved technical success and no procedures resulted in complications.
Results
A total of 111 preliminary procedures including male (N = 55) and female (N = 56) pediatric patients undergoing liver biopsy in an OR (N = 71) or sedation clinic (N = 40) were found and considered for analysis (mean age = 9.13, SD = 6.69). A technical success rate of 100% and a complication rate of 0% was observed. Procedures were then propensity score matched between the OR (N = 32) and sedation clinic (N = 32) for a total of N = 64 matched procedures. Notably, pre-procedure times in the sedation clinic were shorter in duration than pre-procedure times in the OR (p < .001). Total procedure times were also shorter in duration in the sedation clinic than the OR (p = .03). In addition, procedures completed in the OR utilized additional anesthesia staff for an average of 71 minutes, contributing to overall cost. The average total direct costs for matched liver biopsy procedures were $353.82 (SD = 129.02) in the sedation clinic and $565.02 (SD = 228.85) in the OR (p < .001).
Conclusions
In this single center retrospective review, liver biopsies completed in the sedation clinic were associated with significantly lower direct costs, and were not associated with higher complication rates. These findings provide evidence for promoting pediatric sedation clinics as a safe and cost-effective location to perform liver biopsies in appropriate patients. Findings also support the need for more research in TDABC cost analysis, and better understanding of the factors that lead to differences in healthcare costs.
Judo and karate in primary school as a means for the improvement of social inclusion for autistic children
Authors: Maussier Nicole , Pierantozzi Emanuela , Manno Renato , Magnanini Angela
Published: September 2024

Purpose Autistic children are often at risk of isolation. Many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of sport interventions for autistic children. Martial arts such as judo and karate are among the most recommended sports, but few studies have been conducted to analyze the benefits of sports in inclusive primary school contests. This research was conducted by "KATAUTISM PROJECT" of the Italian Judo, Wrestling, Karate and Martial Arts Federation (FIJLKAM), whose objective is the inclusion of autistic children through the practice of judo and karate in primary schools.
Methods The study involves 31 ASD children (n=5 girls n= 26 boys) with different level of autism between 6 and 10 years old who all partook in an inclusive judo (n=16) and karate program (n=15) at school with their classmates. Each program includes 2 weekly sessions for 24 weeks, with each session lasting 1 hour. This study analyzes 3 different areas in autistic children: the level of autism, social compromission and gross motor skills
Results. All ASD children completed the program with classmates that yielded statistically significant results (p<0.05) in all 3 areas analyzed.
Conclusion Judo and karate in school contest has favored the inclusion of ASD children within the classroom. Through careful monitoring of autistic mannerisms, hetero and self-aggressive behaviors, emotional regulation and a degree of tolerance, all ASD subjects greatly benefitted from the social inclusion. The study also demonstrated that the comparison groups of judo and karate produce similar average percentage improvements in GARS, SRS and TGMD-3.
Comparative performance of three next-generation sequencing techniques in real clinical lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Li Ziyang , Tan Li , Long Qichen , Lv Xing , Zeng Huihui , Peng Yating , Wang Zeyou , Chen Zhiyang , Guo Zhe , Wu Weimin , Gu Dejian , Liu Hao , Ge Hu , Yan Yu , Hu Min
Published: September 2024

Background
Lower respiratory tract infections, notorious for high mortality, are inadequately addressed by traditional diagnostics, highlighting the need for more effective methods. The advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) offers a promising solution. This study evaluates the performance of three NGS methodologies—metagenomic NGS (mNGS), amplification-based targeted NGS (tNGS), and capture-based tNGS—in identifying pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.
Methods
We compared these methods against conventional microbiological tests and comprehensive clinical diagnosis in 205 patients, focusing on sensitivity, specificity, and pathogen detection capabilities.
Results
Capture-based tNGS demonstrated the highest sensitivity (99.43%) and positivity (90.73%), significantly outperforming the others in samples negative by conventional tests. While mNGS showed broader pathogen coverage, it underperformed in detecting RNA viruses. Amplification-based tNGS, constrained by primer and panel design, missed certain bacteria and DNA viruses. Both tNGS methods effectively identified SARS-CoV-2 genotypes, with capture-based tNGS providing more detailed distinctions. The study also detected several antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors, indicating a broader spectrum of pathogen identification by capture-based tNGS.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that the choice of NGS method should be tailored to specific clinical needs and objectives, with capture-based tNGS showing superior diagnostic utility.
The Iodine-129 Paradox in the Nuclear Fuel Cycle— Is Dilution a Solution?
Authors: Wainwright Haruko , Whiteaker Kate , Gonzalez-Raymat Hansell , Denham Miles , Kaplan Dan , Pegg Ian , Qafoku Nikolla , Wilson Shelly , Wilson David , Eddy-Dilek Carol
Published: September 2024

This study aims to investigate the interplay between waste-management strategies and their environmental impacts. We focus on a highly mobile and persistent radionuclide, iodine-129 (I-129), within spent nuclear fuel (SNF), which is the dominant risk contributor from geological disposal and at existing groundwater contamination sites. Our fuel-cycle results show that the current recycling practice releases more than 90% of I-129 into the present-day biosphere, while the direct disposal of SNF in geological repositories is likely to reduce the release by eight orders of magnitude over one million years. Release from recycling can be reduced by gaseous filters, which are then disposed of in near-surface waste repositories. In addition, our data synthesis of surface-water concentrations near four nuclear facilities shows that the dilution strategy results in lower concentrations than regulatory standards, although the concentrations are significantly higher than the background over a large area and bioaccumulation has been reported. On the other hand, insufficient waste isolation in the past has resulted in locally high concentrations within one site. Our analysis suggests that (1) it is essential to consider effluents more explicitly as a part of the waste, (2) as society moves from dilution to isolation of waste (including CO2), the potential risks of waste isolation to local regions should be carefully evaluated, and (3) excessive burdens of proof could hinder/discourage waste sequestration. Comprehensive waste management strategies—considering not just volume but also mobility, isolation technologies, and ultimate fates—are needed for persistent contaminants.
Immobilization of pullulanase from Bacillus licheniformis on magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes for maltooligosaccharide production
Authors: Varan Nazli Ece , Alagöz Dilek , Toprak Ali , Güvenmez Hatice Korkmaz , Yildirim Deniz
Published: September 2024

In this study, Fe3O4-coated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-Fe3O4) or nickel oxide-coated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-NiO) were activated with 3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane to create oxirane groups. Pullulanase from Bacillus licheniformis was covalently immobilized on these magnetic MWCNTs to obtain magnetically separable immobilized pullunase preparations (MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul or MWCNT-NiO@Pul) for producing maltooligosaccharides (MOS) from pullulan. The highest recovered activity values were obtained as 78% and 85% respectively, for MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul and MWCNT-NiO@Pul after 24 h of immobilization at pH 7.0. The optimal pH and temperature were found to be 5.5 and 45°C for the free pullulanase, whereas the corresponding values were 5.5 and 50°C for both immobilized pullulanase preparations. The thermal stability of MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul and MWCNT-NiO@Pul increased by 6.2- and 8.2-fold at 50°C. The catalytic efficiencies of MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul and MWCNT-NiO@Pul were calculated to be 0.8- and 1.1-fold that of free pullulanase, respectively. After 24 h of hydrolysis, MOS yields were determined to be 470 and 490 mg MOS/g pullulan for MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul and MWCNT-NiO@Pul, respectively. The remaining activities were 86% and 85% for MWCNT-Fe3O4@Pul and MWCNT-NiO@Pul after 10 reuses, respectively.
Asymmetric Response of Sri Lanka Northeast Monsoon Rainfall to El Niño/La Niña
Authors: Kajakokulan Pathmarasa , Santoso Agus , Zhao Sen
Published: September 2024

Many studies have indicated that an asymmetry in rainfall anomalies over India exists between the warm and cold phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). However, the extent to which the distinctive phases of ENSO influence the asymmetry pattern of Sri Lanka rainfall remains unclear. In this study, utilizing observational/reanalysis datasets for the period 1981–2022, we found that Sri Lanka's winter rainfall response to El Niño/La Niña is asymmetric, with a significant response during El Niño. During the El Niño peak winter, the presence of PSAC (Philippine Sea anomalous anticyclone) results in the prevailing anticyclone over the Bay of Bengal (BoB), suppressing moisture convergence and rainfall over Sri Lanka. On the other hand, the PSCC (Philippine Sea anomalous cyclone), which has shifted westward during the La Niña. This shift enhances cyclone over the BoB, resulting in enhanced moisture convergence and rainfall over Sri Lanka, with a magnitude that is weaker than that of the El Niño-induced PSAC. This results in the emergence of asymmetric rainfall anomaly patterns in Sri Lanka in the El Niño and La Niña peak phases. Thus, this study highlights that the asymmetric circulation of PSAC/PSCC during the ENSO phenomenon contributes to the observed asymmetry in rainfall anomalies between El Niño and La Niña events and has important implications for seasonal forecasting.
Intraseasonal variability of monsoon extremes and its impact on Kharif crop responses in the Western Plains and Kachchh Peninsula agroecological region (WKAER) of northwestern India
Authors: Lal Devi , Kumar Rinku , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Mishra Manoranjan , Shekhar Mayank , Patil Chidanand , Santos Celso Augusto Guimarães , Chand Pritam
Published: September 2024

Rainfall significantly influences climatic conditions and agricultural productivity, particularly in arid ecosystems dependent on rainfed agriculture. This study analyzes monsoon precipitation and its extreme events at an intraseasonal level from 1981 to 2021 in the Western Plains (WP) and Kachchh Peninsula (KP) Agroecological Region (WK AER), primarily encompassing the Kachchh district of Gujarat, the western part of Rajasthan, and the southwestern regions of Haryana and Punjab in northwestern India. The analysis also examines their subsequent responses to Kharif crops across this region. Gridded precipitation datasets from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) (0.25° × 0.25°) and crop productivity data from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, were utilized. Trends from 1981 to 2021 were analyzed using Mann-Kendall (MK), Sen Slope Estimator, and Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA) for each month (June, July, August, and September) and the entire monsoon season. The ITA was exclusively used to assess extremes in rainfall trends as the Sen Slope was found to be ineffective in these instances. Furthermore, the correlation between rainfall extremes and crop productivity (bajra, cotton, groundnut, moong) was examined using Spearman’s rank correlation. Results indicate increased rainfall during June, August, September, and the overall monsoon season, with spatial variations captured through grid-wise analysis. Rainfall and its extremes have notably risen over the Kachchh Peninsula. A positive trend was observed in June, September, and across the monsoon season, except in central and southwestern WP. The July trend declined throughout WP, contrasting with eastern and northeastern WP. The northern WP observed negative ITA values, while the rest of the WP showed positive trends increasing southwards in August. The study highlights the dominance of intraseasonal extremes in shaping regional rainfall patterns, with varying impacts on agricultural productivity. Notably, a low positive correlation exists between monsoon rainfall and crop productivity, with negative correlations observed in Jhunjhunu and Kachchh during August. The results underscore the potential for targeted interventions to enhance agricultural outputs in response to favorable monsoon variations in arid regions, contributing to economic strategies aimed at doubling farmers' incomes.
Unified Ferroelectric/Memristive Memory for Neural Network Inference and Training
Authors: Vianello Elisa , Martemucci Michele , Rummens Francois , Malot Yannick , Hirtzlin Tifenn , Guille Olivier , Martin Simon , Carabasse Catherine , Vincent Adrien , Saighi Sylvain , Grenouillet Laurent , Querlioz Damien
Published: September 2024

Learning-capable edge artificial intelligence (AI) systems require inference and learning capacities combined with energy efficiency. However, no current memory technology combines all the desirable features for these systems. Memristor arrays are ideal for AI inference but have limited endurance and high programming energy. Conversely, ferroelectric capacitors are ideal for learning, but their destructive read process makes them unsuitable for inference. Here, we present a unified memory stack which functions as both a memristor and a ferroelectric capacitor. It uses a silicon-doped hafnium oxide and a titanium scavenging layer, is integrated into the back end of line of a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) process, and allows digital to analog transfers between memory technologies without a formal digital-to-analog converter. We fabricated and tested an 18,432-device hybrid array (16,384-ferroelectric capacitors and 2,048-memristors) with its on-chip CMOS periphery circuitry. Based on this array, we propose and validate an on-chip learning solution, which, without batching, performs competitively with floating-point-precision software models across several benchmarks. This technology offers possibilities for applications requiring on-chip adaptive local training, allowing tailored tuning of neural network parameters.
Higher Incidence of Postoperative Complications in Patients with Simultaneous Patellar Tendon and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Ruptures Following Single Surgery: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Su Haoran , Gong Xi , Wang Cheng , Wang Haijun , Gao Yitian , Wang Jian , Ma Yong , Wang Jianquan , Shi Weili
Published: September 2024

Background
Patients with simultaneous ruptures of the patellar tendon (PT) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) underwent PT repair and ACL reconstruction in a single or staged surgery. However, due to the limited cases, the design of previous studies was mostly case report with varying conclusions regarding recommended surgical strategy selection, many researchers suggest selecting a surgical strategy based on the surgeon's and patient's preferences.
Methods
10 cases in local institution and 27 cases from 17 studies were included in this study. Demographic information, injury cause, surgical strategy, combined injuries, whether to return to (pre-injury level) sports, postoperative complications, Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score were identified retrospectively or reviewed from previous studies. The Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the incidence of postoperative complications between different surgery strategy groups, and liner logistic regression was used to analyze factors influencing postoperative knee function scores.
Results
15 patients (40.5%) underwent single surgery and 22 patients (59.5%) underwent staged surgery. Postoperative complications occurred in 5 (33.3%) and 0 patients after the single and staged surgery, respectively, with the former being significantly more frequent than the latter (P = 0.007). Linear regression of postoperative knee function scores showed that surgical strategy did not significantly affect postoperative Lysholm and IKDC scores (P = 0.294 and P = 0.270, respectively).
Conclusions
Patients with simultaneous ruptures of PT and ACL had a higher incidence of complications after single surgery than staged surgery. We recommend that patients with this type of injury undergo staged surgery to minimize complications if a quick return to sports is not desired.
Characterization of antibacterial, antibiofilm and antioxidant properties of Exopolysaccharides produced by Lactobacillus casei
Authors: Pouragha Bahareh , Pirouzian Haniyeh Rasouli , Rad Aziz Homayouni
Published: September 2024

Periodontal diseases and tooth decay are the most common oral and dental diseases in the world. Oxidation, habits, diet and bacterial infections are among the effective factors in the mentioned diseases. Streptococcus mutans is the main bacteria that causes tooth decay. New strategies needed in order to prevent these diseases. Bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) could be considered for this purpose. In this study, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum batericidal concentration (MBC) tests were used to determine the antibacterial properties of EPS against S. mutans. Then, using the crystal violet method, the postbiotic effect on the reduction of biofilm formation (adhesion) by S. mutans bacteria was investigated. In addition, the antioxidant properties of these compounds were measured using the DPPH method. The results showed that exopolysaccharide has a significant inhibitory effect against the S. mutans growth. The minimum inhibitory concentration as well as the minimum bactericidal concentration were 18.75 and 37.5 mg/ml, respectively. The concentration of 18.75 mg/ml significantly reduced biofilm adhesion. The results obtained from the evaluation of the antioxidant property showed that EPS indicated good antioxidant properties at much lower concentrations (4 mg/ml).
Microbiome-based conversion of glucose to butyrate and hexanoate: roles and limitations revealed through genome-centered metatranscriptomics
Authors: Stamatopoulou Panagiota , Scarborough Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Background
Chain elongation is emerging as a biotechnological tool to convert waste organics to beneficial fermentation products with wide utility across industrial and agricultural sectors. Glucose, the most abundant sugar on earth, is present in organic feedstocks as both a monomer and as a constituent of complex polymers. In this work, glucose was used as the sole carbon and electron source to enrich a chain elongating microbial community using duplicate bioreactor systems and batch experiments were performed to assess the role of hydrogen supplementation on fermentation.
Results
Hexanoic acid was the most abundant MCCA produced in both bioreactors with steady-state concentrations of about 4 g COD L− 1 while butyric acid was the most abundant carboxylic acid with concentrations of about 5 g COD L− 1. Metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses showed that the microbial communities in the duplicate reactors were very similar, with Caproicibacter sp. 002316805 and Caproicibacterium sp. 002399445 emerging as the most abundant chain elongating bacteria in both bioreactors. The microbiomes also contained a high abundance of lactic acid bacteria, primarily the Coriobacteriaceae Tractidigestivibacter and Olegusella. H2 supplementation with batch experiments resulted in marginal changes in the products compared to controls with N2 supplementation, with butyric acid production being higher than but not hexanoate production. One low-abundance Clostridium_B increased expression of genes for the Wood Ljungdahl pathway during H2 supplementation.
Conclusions
The duplicate bioreactors behaved similarly, with the same abundant species. Combined, Caproicibacter sp. 002316805, Caproicibacterium sp. 002399445, and Tractidigestivibacter sp902834555 accounted for > 65% of the transcriptome and analysis of transcribed genes suggests butyrate and hexanoate originate from both direct sugar conversion by Caproicibacter sp. 002316805 and Caproicibacterium sp. 002399445 as well as initial conversion to lactate by Tractidigestivibacter sp902834555. Further, it was found that Caproicibacter and Caproicibacterium differ in synteny of chain elongation genes. H2 supplementation during batch experiments did not reliably increase hexanoate production.
Reassembly of photosystem II in the repair process involves multiple intermediate complexes associated with TEF30
Authors: Liu Zhenfeng , Wang Yidi , Wang Chenxi , Li Anjie
Published: September 2024

During oxygenic photosynthesis, photosystem II (PSII) utilizes light energy for oxidizing water and reducing plastoquinone. It is susceptible to photodamage and the damaged PSII is repaired through a sophisticated biological process assisted by numerous auxiliary proteins. Here we report the cryo-EM structures of four different PSII-repair complexes associated with the Thylakoid Enriched Fraction 30 (TEF30) protein, namely a TEF30-associated PSII core monomer (TEF30-C), two types of TEF30-associated PSII core dimers (types I and II, TEF302-C2-I and TEF302-C2-II) and a TEF30-associated C2S-type PSII-LHCII supercomplex (TEF30-C2S; S, strongly-associated light-harvesting complex II trimer). Intriguingly, TEF30 mediates the assembly of CP43 with RC47 module by clamping on the stromal surfaces and prevents the premature association of peripheral antennae with PSII-C. In the transition from TEF302-C2-I to TEF302-C2-II, TEF30-C2S and mature C2S2, one PSII core slides along the dimerization interface against the adjacent one by 22-35 Å, generating a zigzagged surface for accommodating the peripheral antennae. The results suggest that the PSII repair process undergoes multiple TEF30-mediated intermediate states to form intact PSII-LHCII supercomplexes.
Multi-scale dynamics influence the division potential of stomatal lineage ground cells in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bergmann Dominique , Fung Hannah , Amador Gabriel , Dale Renee , Gong Yan , Vollbrecht Macy , Erberich Joel , Mair Andrea
Published: September 2024

During development, many precursor lineages are flexible, producing variable numbers and types of progeny cells. What factors determine whether a precursor cell differentiates or retains the capacity to divide? Here, we leverage the developmental flexibility of the stomatal lineage ground cell (SLGC) in Arabidopsis leaves as a model for how flexible decisions are regulated. Using a quantitative approach that combines long-term live imaging and statistical modeling, we discover that cell size is a strong predictor of SLGC behaviour: larger SLGCs divide less often than smaller cells. We propose that cell size is linked to division behaviour at multiple spatial scales. At the neighbourhood scale, cell size correlates with the strength of cell-cell signaling, which affects the rate at which SPEECHLESS (SPCH), a division-promoting transcription factor, is degraded. At the subcellular scale, cell size correlates with nuclear size, which modulates the concentration of SPCH in the nucleus. Our work shows how initial differences in SPCH levels are canalized by nuclear size and cell-cell signaling to inform the behaviour of a flexible cell type.
Innovative Enhancements in Quantum Key Distribution Using Multi-Decoy States, Advanced Bit Recovery, and Adaptive Filtering with ML
Authors: Ajlouni Naim
Published: September 2024

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) stands as a ground breaking approach to secure communication, exploiting the principles of quantum mechanics to achieve theoretically unbreakable encryption. Despite substantial progress, challenges in optimizing key rates and ensuring robustness, particularly in high-loss environments, persist. This research proposes an advanced QKD method that integrates multiple decoy states with optimized intensity levels and pulse probabilities, advanced bit recovery techniques, and adaptive machine learning (ML) filtering to enhance signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The proposed framework leverages ML-driven adaptive filtering to dynamically reduce noise, thereby improving the accuracy of gain and error rate calculations for decoy states and enhancing the efficiency of bit recovery. The bit recovery process incorporates permutation-based enhancement techniques, optimizing the recovery of unused quantum bits (RUQB). The proposed method is thoroughly evaluated through comparative analysis against leading QKD protocols, including E91, BBM92, B92, Six-state, Decoy State, and DSP protocols. The results demonstrate significant improvements in secure key rates, the percentage of correctly recovered bits, and overall system robustness, especially in challenging conditions. This research contributes to the advancement of QKD by providing a more resilient and efficient approach, addressing key limitations of existing methods, and paving the way for enhanced secure quantum communication systems.
Osteoporosis in males and its causative factors in Damascus Hospital
Authors: IbraheemTalib Ali , Al-Doori Ihab Arif , Hamoud Taghreed
Published: September 2024

Background: Osteoporosis is a silent disorder characterized by low bone density and structural deterioration of bone microarchitecture leading to fragility and increased risk of fractures. It has been considered primarily a postmenopausal condition, due to the known effects of low estrogen on bone mass loss in females. However, recognition of the burden of osteoporosis in the male population has grown in the past decades, associated with an increase in fragility fractures in the population, likely due to the worldwide longevity, a more sedentary lifestyle, and an increased prevalence of risk factors. The aim of the study was to evaluate osteoporosis in males and its causative factors in Damascus Hospital.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Damascus Hospital (Al-Mujtahid), during the period from 20/6/2024 to 15/8/2024. Patient files were studied in the Department of Endocrinology, between 2013 and 2024, and the number of patients studied was 73 patients diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Results: Our study included 73 patients diagnosed with osteoporosis, aged 60-97 with a mean age of 77 years. The majority of patients were rural residents (61.6%). Chronic diseases suffered by patients were: hypertension (23.3%), followed by diabetes (15.1%). More than half of the patients were smokers (74%). A small percentage (8.2%) consumed alcohol. The majority of patients (67.1%) were not physically active. The common primary causes were: family history (35.6%), vitamin D deficiency (32.9%), lack of physical activity (15.1%), advanced age (9.6%). Secondary causes were: medications (42.5%), then underlying medical conditions (9.6%).
Conclusion: Osteoporosis in men is caused by a complex interaction between hormone deficiency, medication use, lifestyle choices, and genetic factors. Understanding these causes is critical to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Our study found that the most important causes of osteoporosis were long-term steroid use and a family history of osteoporosis.
Assessing Explainability in Large Language Models Through Soft Counterfactual Analysis: A Comparative Study of Google Gemini and OpenAI ChatGPT
Authors: Penicig James , Chen Benjamin , Wilson Scott , Garcia Sophia
Published: September 2024

The increasing integration of large language models into various domains has heightened the demand for transparency and interpretability in the decision-making processes of complex models. Traditional methods for achieving explainability have often fallen short, particularly when applied to sophisticated models like Google Gemini and OpenAI ChatGPT, which require novel approaches to fully unravel their internal logic. This paper introduces a comprehensive evaluation of model explainability through the innovative use of soft counterfactual analysis, a method that systematically generates minimally altered input scenarios to probe the consistency, sensitivity, and attribution mechanisms within the models. Empirical results indicate that while both models maintain a high degree of consistency and exhibit responsiveness to subtle input variations, challenges remain in ensuring transparency in tasks involving creative reasoning and numerical precision. Through detailed attribution mapping, the study further illuminates how different input features contribute to the models' outputs, revealing potential biases and guiding future improvements. The findings demonstrate the value of integrating explainability into the design and deployment of language models, advocating for the continued development of methods that enhance model transparency, user trust, and ethical AI use.
Editorial: Beiträge wissenschaftlicher Weiterbildung zur Hochschulentwicklung
Authors: Kil Monika , Schlögl Peter , Pausits Attila
Published: September 2024

Bisher wurde wissenschaftliche Weiterbildung oft nicht ausreichend systematisch als Ressource für die Hochschulentwicklung erkannt. Die neue Ausgabe der ZFHE beleuchtet, wie sie dennoch entscheidend zur Hochschulentwicklung beitragen kann. Im Fokus steht die Rolle der wissenschaftlichen Weiterbildung als agiles Element hochschulischer Praxis. Dabei werden ihre frühzeitige Bedarfsorientierung, die besonderen Gestaltungsfreiräume im Vergleich zu Regelstudiengängen sowie ihre ausgeprägte Service- und Leistungsorientierung hervorgehoben. Die praxisorientierten alle mit empirischer Evidenz hinterlegten Konzepte in dieser Ausgabe bieten wertvolle Anregungen, die auch auf andere Hochschulen übertragbar sind. Diese Ausgabe lädt dazu ein, über die zukünftige Entwicklung der Hochschulbildung nachzudenken und neue Perspektiven zu gewinnen.
Aufbau eines hochschuldidaktischen Weiterbildungsprogrammes mit Bordmitteln
Authors: Smetana Jan , Zupanic Michaela , Ehlers Jan
Published: September 2024

Durch den Qualitätspakt Lehre wurde die Verbesserung der Betreuung von Studie­renden und der Lehrqualität an staatlichen Hochschulen gefördert. Gerade viele kleine Hochschulen haben jedoch bislang keine eigenen hochschuldidaktischen Weiterbildungen aufbauen können. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt, wie der Aufbau eines zertifizierten hochschuldidaktischen Weiterbildungsprogramms an einer kleinen Universität mit jährlich 63 Workshopangeboten und rund 500 Teilnahmen ohne finanzielle Fördermittel gelang. Eine Evaluation über die Jahre 2016 bis 2020 zeigt zudem hohe Zufriedenheit der Teilnehmenden und einen hohen subjektiven Lern- und Umsetzungserfolg.
Transdisziplinäre Entwicklung einer Fortbildung für Praxisausbildner:innen im EdgeLab
Authors: Kreis Annelies , Zsindely Piroska , Pirovino Liana , Wick Jeannette , Braun Astrid , Lutz Nina , Pehlke-Milde Jessica
Published: September 2024

Praxissituierte Ausbildungen haben in professionsorientierten Studiengängen Tradition. Zwei Hochschulen für Lehr- resp. Gesundheitsberufe initiierten die gemeinsame Entwicklung einer Fortbildung für Ausbildner:innen der Berufspraxis, die dazu befähigen soll, Studierende bei der Bewältigung komplexer Anforderungen in der Praxis zu unterstützen. Kooperiert wurde in einer transdisziplinären Arbeitsgruppe (EdgeLab) mit Mitwirkenden beider Hochschulen und Praxisfelder. Die Methode, die neue Perspektiven eröffnet und nachhaltiges Netzwerklernen und Innovation fördert, wird im Beitrag beschrieben. „EdgeLab“ innoviert die Entwicklung hochschuldidaktischer Lernumgebungen in professionsbezogenen Studiengängen.
Extensão e pesquisa para promoção e sustentabilidade da agricultura familiar no município de Conceição da Feira - Ba
Authors: SANTANA Thiago Pires , MATIAS Rogério Gomes , COSTA Ianca Rodrigues , SILVA FILHO Aloísio Machado da , DIAS Rui Manuel Teixeira Santos , ZEBENDE Gilney Figueira
Published: September 2024

Este artigo descreve, no âmbito da pesquisa e extensão universitária, as ações desenvolvidas na associação rural de moradores e agricultores do Cruzeiro, Tábua, Timbó e Adjacências situada na região de Conceição da Feira, Bahia-Brasil. A proposta de trabalho foi discutir economia, agricultura familiar, formação e capacitação nesta associação. A agricultura familiar desempenha um papel essencial nas pequenas comunidades rurais, colaborando e promovendo o desenvolvimento sustentável, a geração de renda e a segurança alimentar. Partir deste entendimento e neste cenário, desenvolvemos na associação rural rodas de conversa para discutir economia, agricultura familiar, formação e capacitação. As rodas de conversa foram estruturadas em dois encontros, almejando promover e fortalecer a agricultura familiar dessa localidade. Identificamos que a comunidade da associação rural não é autossuficiente e não está inserida diretamente na produção avícola, que é o principal vetor econômico da região. Porém, existe interesse da comunidade em capacitar-se por meio atividades presenciais e inserir-se nesse nicho econômico. Identificamos que, para alcançar o desenvolvimento sustentável é necessário a colaboração de instituições públicas e privadas que possam apoiar a comunidade na superação de suas necessidades.
EL PROCESO ADMINISTRATIVO Y SU INCIDENCIA EN EL COMPORTAMIENTO ORGANIZACIONAL EN LA COMPAÑÍA DE TRANSPORTE TRANSMOVISA DEL CANTÓN MONTECRISTI
Authors: Delgado Delgado Hecber Washington , Rodríguez Bravo Argenis Gabriel
Published: September 2024

Este estudio aborda la problemática del impacto del proceso administrativo en el comportamiento organizacional en la Compañía de Transporte TRANSMOVISA del cantón Montecristi, cuyo objetivo principal fue analizar cómo el proceso administrativo influye en el comportamiento organizacional de la empresa, diagnosticando los factores que afectan este proceso y determinando el estado actual del comportamiento organizacional. La metodología empleada fue mixta, combinando enfoques cuantitativos y cualitativos. Los resultados de las encuestas indican que el 76% de los empleados reconocen la relación entre el proceso administrativo y el comportamiento organizacional. Además, el 57% identificó la falta de capacitaciones como el principal factor que afecta el proceso administrativo, mientras que el 60% calificó el manejo del comportamiento organizacional como “regular”.
RENTABILIDAD FINANCIERA Y SU INCIDENCIA EN LA TOMA DE DECISIONES DE EMPRESA EMBOTELLADORAS DE AGUA
Authors: Mendoza de la Cruz Wendy Joesly , Lucio Pillasagua Adela del Jesús
Published: September 2024

El estudio sobre la rentabilidad financiera y su incidencia en la toma de decisiones en la embotelladora de agua Cantaro Water, ubicada en el cantón Portoviejo, aborda la problemática de la falta de análisis detallado de rentabilidad que revele la situación financiera real de la empresa, afectando la eficiencia en la gestión de recursos y resultando en decisiones inadecuadas. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar cómo la rentabilidad financiera influye en las decisiones estratégicas de la empresa. Se empleó una metodología cuali-tantiva, incluyendo investigación descriptiva, bibliográfica y de campo, con entrevistas al personal gerencial, administrativo y financiero. Los resultados mostraron que los costos operativos y de producción aumentaron significativamente, afectando la rentabilidad. En 2021, los activos corrientes representaron el 42% del total de activos, mientras que en 2022 aumentaron al 46%.