bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bacterial contamination of ultrasound probes in emergency departments: A multicenter observational study
Authors: Yamanaka Takahiro , Yamamoto Ryo , Yajima Keitaro , Yamashita Ikutaro , Kurihara Tomohiro , Kujirai Dai , Moritani Kazunori , Kamikura Hanae , Koh Hidefumi , Sasaki Junichi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Ultrasound is frequently used in emergency departments (ED) for patient evaluation and diagnosis. While concerns exist regarding probe contamination due to exposure to body fluids and blood, the specific rate and impact of such contamination in clinical settings remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the bacterial contamination of ultrasound probes in the ED, focusing on the types of hospitals and reprocessing methods used.
Methods: This multicenter prospective observational study was conducted between April and September 2023 at a university hospital, a nonacademic tertiary hospital, and a regional hospital. Samples were collected from phased-array, linear, and convex ultrasound probes used on ED patients. Reprocessing methods included water-moistened wipes alone, water-moistened wipes with ethanol wipes, quaternary ammonium wipes alone, and quaternary ammonium wipes with ethanol or hypochlorite wipes. The primary outcome was the level of bacterial contamination, measured by colony-forming units (CFU). Additionally, resistant bacterial strains and blood contamination were evaluated.
Results: The median CFU was 10 (IQR: 0–50) at the university hospital, 40 (IQR: 10–135) at the nonacademic tertiary hospital, and 30 (IQR: 1–95) at the regional hospital. By reprocessing method, the median CFU was 20 (IQR: 1–90) for water-moistened wipes alone, 10 (IQR: 0–20) for water-moistened wipes and additional ethanol wipe, 90 (IQR: 40–180) for quaternary ammonium wipes alone, and 20 (IQR: 1–50) for quaternary ammonium wipe and additional ethanol or hypochlorite wipe. Resistant bacterial strains, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, were found on 18.2% of probes. Blood contamination was identified at all facilities.
Conclusions: High levels of bacterial contamination were observed on ultrasound probes in the ED, regardless of facility type and reprocessing method. Resistant bacterial strains and blood contamination were also frequently detected.
Partial charges on Fe and Gd atoms and isomer shift in MgCu 2 type compounds
Authors: Vummethala Seshu Bai , Thottathil Akhil , Bhattacharya Devaparna , Pillai Rajasekharan Thankappan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Partial charges on atoms can clarify the nature of bonding in crystalline solids. Charges cannot be measured in intermetallic solids; DFT based QTAIM technique has been used to derive Bader (δ) charges. In the present work, 183 Laves phase compounds of MgCu2 type crystal structure are investigated and the partial charges (Q) on the ions in the compounds are derived from internal radii, following the atom-pair bond method reported recently. The charge values obtained by the two methods are evaluated by studying their ability to predict the variation of 57Fe and 155 Gd Mossbauer isomer shift, as a function of the calculated charges on the Fe and Gd atoms in the compounds. Further, the basic conclusions from the APB model are confirmed by visualizing the bonding in MgCu2 type compounds using the Electron Localization Function (ELF), employing CASTEP software.
Evaluating the quality factors affecting patient satisfaction via the Kano model
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Zhao Miaomiao , Li Ruyu , Kong Xinru , Jiang Xiaobin , Ma Qiang , Gao Yuexia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study was to use the Kano model to explore inpatients’ medical service demands better, as satisfactory services for inpatients in public hospitals could effectively increase their compliance with services, ultimately enhancing the medical service quality and patient loyalty in public hospitals.
Methods
The survey was conducted from January to June 2023 among patients from 15 departments discharged from a tertiary hospital. Through the collected data of hospitalized patients, we introduced traditional Kano model analysis, important-satisfaction matrix analysis as well as an "in-line-of-sight" approach to explore the effect of different services on inpatients’ satisfaction.
Results
Our study adopted the method of convenient sampling and selected 336 inpatients from a public hospital in China for investigation. The analysis revealed that five of the 28 services were classified as “must-be attributes” (visit process, consistent information, privacy protection, informed consent, clear sign), 12 as “one-dimensional attributes” (appointment, convenient process, timely disposal, attention feelings, initiative, communication, etc.), 9 as “attractive attributes” (coordination service, convenient multidisciplinary coordination, timely service, patient participation, active care, dietary service), and 2 as “indifferent attributes” (personalized service, collaborative service). Optimized method results of Kano show that healthcare professional active care boosts satisfaction, and it is no need for major improvement; Disrespect would lead to dissatisfaction among inpatients.. For males, top concern is informed consent realization, then continuous information service from medical staff. Female patients have a medical service demand hierarchy, top is informed consent respect, then privacy protection and consistent team work.
Conclusions
From the traditional Kano attribute classification perspective, attractive and expected services are crucial as they maximize patients' service experience. The optimized classification method enables us to identify the service items that public hospitals should prioritize for improvement, achieving the best results.
Plant-based chocolate desserts: analysis of consumer’s response according to sensory properties of products and consumer attitude towards meat reduction
Authors: Fontana Franco Darío Della , López-Font Gabriel , Djemaa Moussaoui , Goldner María Cristina , Chaya Carolina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Brea gum is a food additive with potential for economic and environmental sustainability. It may be used in plant-based formulations, such as chocolate desserts, but achieving acceptable sensory characteristics remains challenging. Therefore, the aim was to compare consumers’ response to two plant-based chocolate desserts, on blind and informed conditions about the ingredient formulation. Two plant-based chocolate desserts were used: one made with Brea Gum and Black Carob flour (BG) and a Commercial Soy chocolate dessert (CS). Eight trained judges characterized the sensory properties of both products. 103 consumers (female = 62, aged between 18 and 45) tasted on blind and informed conditions both products and rated their overall liking, and their liking of appearance, odour, texture, sweetness, flavour and vegetable aftertaste. Purchase intention and healthy, processed and sustainable perception were rated too. Participants also completed a questionnaire about attitudes towards reducing meat consumption. BG was described as grittier and with intense vegetal odour and aftertaste, while the CS was described as sweeter, browner and more consistent (p < 0.05). Acceptability was significantly higher in CS than BG (7.1 ± 1.6 and 4.9 ± 2.2, respectively, p < 0.05). BG was perceived as more sustainable than CS (6.6 ± 2.3, 6.1 ± 2.2, respectively; p < 0.05). Information about the samples did not show a significant effect on acceptability. Supporters of meat reduction showed higher acceptability for both desserts than rejecters. Both plant-based desserts’ acceptability was strongly influenced by intrinsic sensory characteristics and by consumers’ attitude towards meat reduction. Improvements in sensory attributes need further development.
A brain-inspired algorithm improves “cocktail party” listening for individuals with hearing loss
Authors: Boyd Alexander , Sen Kamal , Best Virginia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Selective listening in competing-talker situations (restaurants, parties, etc.) is an extraordinarily difficult task for many people. For individuals with hearing loss, this difficulty can be so extreme that it seriously impedes communication and participation in daily life. Directional filtering is one of the only proven ways to improve speech understanding in competition, and most hearing devices now incorporate some kind of directional technology, although real-world benefits are modest, and many approaches fail in competing-talker situations. We recently developed a biologically inspired algorithm that is capable of very narrow spatial tuning and can isolate one talker from a mixture of talkers. The algorithm is based on a hierarchical network model of the auditory system, in which binaural sound inputs drive populations of neurons tuned to specific spatial locations and frequencies, and the spiking responses of neurons in the output layer are reconstructed into audible waveforms. Here we evaluated the algorithm in a group of adults with sensorineural hearing loss, using a challenging competing-talker task. The biologically inspired algorithm led to robust intelligibility gains under conditions in which a standard beamforming approach failed. The results provide compelling support for the potential benefits of biologically inspired algorithms for assisting individuals with hearing loss in “cocktail party” situations.
Born in a brothel: New perspectives on childcare with medieval sex workers
Authors: Poulain Maxime , Bon Céline , Palmer Jessica 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In contrast to predominant narratives of abortion and infanticide with medieval sex workers, this case study testifies to the potential care attributed to prostitutes’ children. It does so through ancient DNA and dietary isotope analysis of an infant buried in a 14th -century brothel in Aalst, Belgium. While no pathogens were identified, elevated δ15N values point in the direction of breastfeeding. Infanticide in strictest understanding of the term, immediately after birth, is therefore highly unlikely. The presence of this infant outside of a regular cemetery is nonetheless remarkable. Based on comparable sites and theological and popular beliefs, this deviant burial is subsequently interpreted within its domestic geography, which is suggestive of attachment and an affective bond between parent and child. In doing so, we nuance the historical focus on abortion and infanticide with medieval sex workers and highlight the multiple roles of these women, of which a caring mother potentially is one.
Elucidating altered neural molecular mechanisms in mice using transcriptomics underlying metabolic disorders induced cognitive and depressive disorders
Authors: Singh Sachin , Singh Nitesh Kumar , Kottappali SriVidya , Bhat Unis Ahmad , Sowpati Divya Tej , Chakravarty Sumana , Kumar Arvind 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Metabolic disorders (MetDs)are growing at an alarming rate because of lifestyle changes and have cardiovascular and cerebrovascular consequences, in the long run resulting in neuropsychiatric disorders. However, there is a dearth of molecular studies that deal with the underlying neural mechanisms using relevant animal models of MetDs-induced neurological and psychiatric disorders. We modeled MetDs-like condition in C57BL/6 Ncrl mice by feeding a 60% high fructose diet (Hfr) for 56 weeks. Significant changes were observed in various MetD-related physiological parameters between the Hfr diet and the control group except for glucose intolerance. Prolong Hfr diet induced some of the metabolic disorder like phenotype including aging except type-2 diabetes. But 10 days of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) paradigm induced mild insulin intolerance in oral glucose tolerance test. Further the animals were found to develop neurological and cognitive impairment and major depressive disorder like phenotype. Transcriptomic analysis led to uncover underlying molecular changes into the prefrontal cortex region of mice. The pattern of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was strikingly different in the Hfr group compared to the Ctrl group, thus correlating the phenotype, i.e. MetD-induced mood and cognitive disorders. Pathway analysis of the DEGs indicated perturbations in cellular metabolism, inflammation, innate immunity, neurogenesis, vasculogenesis, ion channels, and neuronal signaling. In addition, altered epigenetic regulators appear to mediate the stress-induced precipitation of metabolic and neuropsychiatric disorders. The outcome of our study supports the hypothesis of disease susceptibility due to lifestyle changes involving a high-calorie diet and chronic stress.
Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing Reveals the Profile of Fungal Infections in Kidney Transplant Recipients: a retrosective study
Authors: Wang Qin , Ding Handong , Zhao Yazi , Hao Zongyao , Liao Guiyi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Infection is an important cause of death after kidney transplant surgery. Although fungal infections are relatively rare, they have low detection rates and high mortality rates. The value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in kidney transplant patients with fungal infections remains to be studied, especially in diagnosis and to guide the use of antibiotics.
Methods
From September 2021 to August 2023, a total of 234 patients after kidney transplantation were enrolled, and data of 66 patients with suspected fungal infections were collected. The pathogen detection performance of mNGS and conventional microbiological tests (CMTs) were compared. The impacts of mNGS and CMTs on treatment adjustment were also assessed. Finally, we explored the value of mNGS in donor-derived infections.
Results
A total of 21 fungal species were detected in the 66 patients, of which 18 species of fungus were detected by mNGS and 10 species of fungus were detected by CMTs. mNGS was significantly higher than culture in total positive rate (90.67% vs. 26.67%), especially for multiple fungal infections (9vs0). mNGS identified more candida (26vs12), pneumocystis jirovecii (14vs0), aspergillus (10vs4), mucor (6vs2) organisms compared with CMTs. Fungi from donors were identified in 11(6.7%) patients, including 10 cases of Candida spp. and 1 case of Mucor spp. The anti-infection therapies were adjusted in 28 (24.4%) cases by mNGS.
Conclusion
The mNGS technique showed distinct advantages in detecting fungal infections in kidney transplant patients, which can guide anti-infection strategies and protect grafts. In addition, it has a good identification value for fungal infections from donor sources.
Long-term survival analysis based on tumor location in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreatectomy following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kaluba Benson , Kuriyama Naohisa , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Komatsubara Haruna , Maeda Koki , Noguchi Daisuke , Gyoten Kazuyuki , Ito Takahiro , Hayasaki Aoi , Fujii Takehiro , Iizawa Yusuke , Murata Yasuhiro , Tanemura Akihiro , Kishiwada Masashi , Mizuno Shugo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The study aimed at assessing whether long-term survival outcomes were different based on tumor location in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreatectomy following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT).
Methods
286 patients with localized PDAC were enrolled and divided as head (Ph = 218), body (Pb = 34) and tail (Pt = 34). 5-year survival analyses were performed and independent predictors of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were identified.
Results
Ph patients exhibited a higher incidence of initial clinical stage 3 tumors (48.2%) compared to Pb (29.4%) and Pt (0%), p < 0.001 with more UR-LA cases (22.0%) compared to Pb (11.8%) and Pt (0%), p < 0.001. However, they demonstrated a better response to CRT; Evans grades 3/4 in 49.1% Ph vs. 23.5% Pb and 26.5% Pt, p = 0.015. 5-year DFS were; 26.4% (Ph) vs. 16.5% (Pb) vs. 33.1 (Pt), p = 0.691 and OS; 25.4% (Ph) vs. 27.7% (Pb) vs. 32.0% (Pt), p = 0.341. Significant predictors for both DFS and OS included CA19-9 levels, resection margins and pathological portal vein invasion, with tumor size and nodal invasion also influencing DFS, while pathological stage impacting OS.
Conclusion
Based on tumor location, long-term survival outcomes were comparable and was attributed to a better response to CRT by Ph than the Pb and Pt patients.
RETRACTED: Synergistic Roles of Selenium and Vitamin D in Modulating Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Health
Authors: Salduz Zeyneb İrem Yuksel , Özder Aclan , Turgut Rana , Yıldız Tuğçe , Pasin Özge 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Exploring DNA methylation profiles in the pathogenesis of human osteoporosis via whole-genome bisulfite sequencing
Authors: Zhang Yinyin , Zhong Yeling , Li Chunmei , Zhang Yukai , Xiong Shishuo , Li Qihuo , Guo Haiwei , Li Ying 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Osteoporosis is a prevalent bone metabolic disorder characterized by reduced bone mass, disruption of bone microarchitecture, and increased bone fragility, leading to a heightened risk of fracture. This condition significantly impairs patients' quality of life and increases mortality risk. Emerging evidence suggests that DNA methylation may play a crucial role in regulating the expression of genes related to bone metabolism, thereby influencing the development of osteoporosis. However, the precise relationship between DNA methylation and osteoporosis remains unclear and warrants further investigation.
Results
Our study revealed significant differences in both the quantity and ratio of DNA methylation between individuals with osteoporosis and healthy controls, with differences predominantly occurring in CpG islands. GO/KEGG enrichment analyses highlighted distinct osteoporosis-related gene pathways. Notably, we identified two genes, TF and TGFB1, located on chromosomes 3 and 19, respectively, that are potentially involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and are broadly involved in various diseases and biological processes.
Conclusions
These findings indicate distinct methylation patterns between osteoporosis patients and healthy individuals, with differential methylation levels in genes associated with osteoporosis. This research offers new insights into the epigenetic mechanisms underlying osteoporosis.
Lactarius crocogalum (sp.nov.): A new ectomycorrhizal species of Lactarius subgen. Lactarius from the peat swamp forest of Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Hafazallah Khalid , Helbert Helbert , Verrone Valeria , Retnowati Atik , Muzahiq Hizbullah Al , Nugroho Teguh Willy , Swarup Sanjay 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We discovered a new species of Ectomycorrhizal Lactarius belonging to the Russulaceae family: Lactarius crocogalum. The fruit body and root-tip specimens were collected in the tropical peat swamp forest of Sebangau National Park (Central Kalimantan, Indonesia). The fruit bodies were assessed by microscopic and macroscopic morphology features, as well as molecular screening of two nuclear genes, ITS and LSU, whereas the DNA extracted from the root tips was used to validate the ectomycorrhizal ecology of the fungus and to identify the tree host. The obtained ITS and LSU sequences were blasted against a customized database of available sequences of closely related Lactarius strains. The results validate both the taxonomy novelty and the ecological role of Lactarius crocogalum as ectomycorrhizal symbiont of a fagaceous tree.
Agricultural Waste to Potential High-Performance Fibers: Impact of Dry and Wet Pretreatment on Extraction and Properties of Novel Fibers from Grapevine Shoots.
Authors: Rana Princy , Sethi Sabina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study focuses on Vitis vinifera (grape), one of the world's largest crops and an ancient dietary staple, for the development of novel biodegradable and sustainable fibers. Grapevine shoots, post-pruning, are an abundant agricultural residue with little economic value as they are mainly used as fuel or fertilizer. The prime objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of dry and wet pre-treatment on the extraction and physical properties of novel lignocellulosic fibers derived from both the bark and core of waste grapevine shoots, respectively. It was found that, as compared to the dry pre-treatment, extraction done after wet pre-treatment required lower chemical concentrations as well as time and still enhanced fiber length, fineness, strength, and elongation. Physical characterization showed that compared to traditional fibers including jute, flax, kenaf, hemp, ramie, sisal, and coir, these extracted fibers demonstrated superior elongation, tenacity, and length characteristics while maintaining a moderate and comparable fineness. These distinct features make them appropriate for potential manufacturing of yarn and composite materials. Furthermore, the valorization of this otherwise discarded agricultural waste into marketable goods would reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with its decomposition.
Synergizing CNNs and Transformers for Accurate Face Age Estimation
Authors: Chami Ahmed Chaouki , Ajgou Riadh , Taleb-Ahmed Abdelmalik 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Estimating the actual and perceived age of human faces has garnered significant interest for its wide-ranging practical applications. Various intelligent scenarios stand to gain from these computational systems capable of accurately predicting individuals’ ages. Automated age estimation systems are particularly valuable in fields such as medical diagnostics, facial product development, casting for films, assessing the impact of cosmetic procedures, and anti-aging treatments. In the realm where deep networks have demonstrated their supremacy as the fron-trunners among machine learning tools, Our approach integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) with Transformers. This novel system enhances information extraction by utilizing transformer attention mechanisms, rather than solely depending on features extracted from convolutional neural networks for estimating age. Based on the experiments conducted, the system effectively captures the sequential progression and continuous nature of the aging process. Furthermore, the proposed model surpasses the cutting-edge model by delivering exceptional results, achieving the lowest mean absolute errors of 2.31 for MORPH II, 5.35 for CACD, and 2.91 for AFAD.