bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Online patient–provider communication and healthy ageing: the roles of health literacy and health self-efficacy
Authors: Liu Piper Liping 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
eHealth involves using digital technologies, like electronic health records and telemedicine, to enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes. For older adults, eHealth helps manage chronic conditions, access services remotely, and engage in preventive health, improving physical and psychological well-being. This study investigates the association between online patient–provider communication (OPPC) and older adults’ quality of life (QoL, i.e. sleep quality, exercise and psychological health). The study also explores how health literacy and health self-efficacy mediate the relationship between OPPC and QoL. This study utilized data from the National Cancer Institute’s Health Information National Trends Survey, collected in 2019 (HINTS 5 Cycle 3), specifically targeting individuals aged ≥ 60 (N = 2587). The associations among variables were analysed using structural equation modelling. OPPC was positively and significantly associated with health literacy (β = 0.53, p &lt; 0.001). Health literacy was positively and significantly related to health self-efficacy (β = 0.02, p &lt; 0.001). Health self-efficacy was significantly related to five dimensions of QoL: sleep quality (β = 0.20, p &lt; 0.001), fruit and vegetable consumption (β = 0.13, p &lt; 0.010), exercise (β = 0.59, p &lt; 0.001), sedentariness (β = −0.58, p &lt; 0.001) and psychological health (β = 0.24, p &lt; 0.001). Besides, health literacy and health self-efficacy also mediated the influence of OPPC on QoL sequentially, being identificators as two serial mediators between OPPC and older adults’ QoL. This study suggests that OPPC plays an important role in older adults’ QoL.
The effect of structured psychoeducation for caregivers of ALS patients on perceived stress, psychological resilience and self-compassion
Authors: Duran Songül , Aydogdu Arzu 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Patients diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) become dependent on caregivers to meet their daily needs and perform personal care activities. For this reason, ALS is a disease that can challenge both the patient and the caregiver physically, mentally and socially. Supporting the caregiver indirectly affects the patient’s quality of care and mental well-being. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of a structured psychoeducation program on coping with stress, psychological resilience and self-compassion in caregivers of ALS patients. This quasi-experimental study with a pre-test–post-test control group was conducted with caregivers of 62 ALS patients in Türkiye. The study was conducted between July 2023 and February 2024. A psychoeducation program was applied to five different groups via zoom application for 6 weeks each. The survey form, Perceived Stress Scale, Brief Resilience Scale and Short Form of Self-Compassion Questionnaire were used as measurement tools. The chi-squared test and paired samples t-test were used to analyze the data. While there was no significant difference between the intervention group and the control group in the pre-test in terms of their mean scores on the coping with stress inventory, short psychological resilience scale and self-compassion scale, at the post-test, psychological resilience and self-compassion scores were significantly higher in the intervention group. This study revealed that psychoeducational programs that support caregivers are effective in increasing psychological resilience and self-compassion.
Epigenome-Wide DNA Methylation in Unipolar Depression: Predictive Biomarker of Antidepressant Treatment Response?
Authors: Schiele Miriam A , Crespo Salvador Oscar , Lipovsek Jan , Schwarte Kathrin , Schlosser Pascal , Zwanzger Peter , Arolt Volker , Baune Bernhard T , Köttgen Anna , Domschke Katharina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the well-documented efficacy of antidepressant agents for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), initial treatment nonresponse rates are high. Recent years have seen an increase in research into predictive biomarkers toward improving diagnosis and individualized treatment. Among those, epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation constitute promising candidate markers in predicting antidepressant treatment response in MDD. The present study sought to address epigenome-wide DNA methylation as a predictor of antidepressant treatment response in the largest sample to date of patients with MDD.

Methods
Epigenome-wide DNA methylation was analyzed using the Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip in peripheral blood of n = 230 Caucasian patients with MDD receiving 6-week antidepressant treatment in a naturalistic in-patient setting as well as in a subsample of n = 107 patients primarily receiving continuous treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Treatment response was assessed by means of the Hamilton Depression Scale.

Results
No genome-wide significant hits were observed. Suggestive (P &lt; 1E-5) epigenome-wide evidence was discerned for altered DNA methylation at 6 CpG sites (LOC102724467, LOC100506023, RSPO2, SAG, IL16, PRKCI) to predict response to naturalistic antidepressant treatment. In patients treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, differential DNA methylation at 11 CpGs, for example, mapping to the TIMP2, VDAC1, or SORL1 genes, was suggestively associated with treatment response.

Conclusions
The present results provide preliminary evidence for altered DNA methylation patterns to be associated with antidepressant treatment response in MDD. Provided significant replication in independent and larger samples, the present findings might in the future aid in clinical decision-making toward more individualized and thus more efficacious treatments of MDD.
High Frequency of Artemisinin Partial Resistance Mutations in the Great Lakes Region Revealed Through Rapid Pooled Deep Sequencing
Authors: Wernsman Young Neeva , Gashema Pierre , Giesbrecht David , Munyaneza Tharcisse , Maisha Felicien , Mwebembezi Fred , Budodo Rule , Leonetti Alec , Crudale Rebecca , Iradukunda Vincent , Jean Bosco Ntwari , Kirby Rebecca I , Boyce Ross M , Mandara Celine I , Kanyankole Grace K , Ntaro Moses , Okell Lucy C , Watson Oliver J , Mulogo Edgar , Ishengoma Deus S , Hangi Stan , Karema Corine , Mazarati Jean-Baptiste , Juliano Jonathan J , Bailey Jeffrey A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In Africa, the first Plasmodium falciparum artemisinin partial resistance mutation was Kelch13 (K13) 561H, detected and validated at appreciable frequency in Rwanda in 2014. Surveillance to better define the extent of the emergence in Rwanda and neighboring countries is critical.

Methods
We used novel liquid blood drop preservation with pooled sequencing to provide cost-effective rapid assessment of resistance mutation frequencies at multiple collection sites across Rwanda and neighboring regions in Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Malaria-positive samples (N = 5465) from 39 health facilities collected between May 2022 and March 2023 were sequenced in 199 pools.

Results
In Rwanda, K13 561H and 675V were detected in 90% and 65% of sites, with an average frequency of 19.0% (range, 0%–54.5%) and 5.0% (0%–35.5%), respectively. In Tanzania, 561H had high frequency in multiple sites. 561H appeared at 1.6% in Uganda. 561H was absent from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, although 675V was seen at low frequency. Concerningly, candidate mutations were observed: 441L, 449A, and 469F co-occurred with validated mutations, suggesting that they are arising under the same pressures. Other markers for decreased susceptibility to artemether-lumefantrine are common: P falciparum multidrug resistance protein 1 N86 at 98.0% (range, 63.3%–100%) and 184F at 47.0% (0%–94.3%) and P falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter 76T at 14.7% (0%–58.6%). Additionally, sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine–associated mutations show high frequencies.

Conclusions
K13 mutations are rapidly expanding in the region, further endangering control efforts with the potential of engendering partner drug resistance.
Molecular diversity in fusidic acid–resistant Methicillin Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bivona Dalida , Nicitra Emanuele , Bonomo Carmelo , Calvo Maddalena , Migliorisi Giuseppe , Perez Marianna , Privitera Grete Francesca , Musso Nicolò , Stefani Stefania , Bongiorno Dafne 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The recent emergence of fusidic acid (FA)–resistant Staphylococcus aureus has underscored the importance of active surveillance in isolating these strains. The molecular basis of fusidic acid resistance and the carriage of virulence factors in four borderline oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (BORSA) clinical strains was assessed through phenotypical and genotypical methods.

Methods
All S. aureus clinical strains were obtained from various hospital units in Sicily. In vitro antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted. WGS was performed using the Illumina MiSeq Platform, and data analysis was carried out to determine ST, resistome and virulome profiles.

Results
Genotypic characterization revealed that the strains belong to four STs: ST630, ST8, ST15, and ST1. FA resistance was associated with mutations in the fusA gene or fusB and fusC genes. Additionally, one case exhibited resistance to mupirocin, related to the presence of the mupA gene. Borderline MIC values were observed for cefoxitin in three out of four cases, leading to their categorization as BORSA. Virulence gene content was complex and diversified, with one testing positive for the lukS/F genes, coding for PVL toxin.

Conclusions
Resistance to FA is multifactorial, involving point mutations in chromosomal genes or association with mobile genetic elements. Monitoring the resistance to these antibiotics might help to manage and eradicate mupirocin- and FA-resistant S. aureus strains, which are also known to be important carriers of virulence determinants.
A study of solely used phytase or in combination with multi-carbohydrase on growth performance along with tibia mineralization, and carcass traits in broilers fed nutrient-deficient diets
Authors: Sta. Cruz Bernadette G , Yu Myunghwan , Oketch Elijah O , Nawarathne Shan R , Chathuranga Nuwan C , Maniraguha Venuste , Seo Eunsoo , Lee Jeseok , Park Haeeun , Yun Hyungjung , Lee Dohoon , Heo Jung Min 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The objective of this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of phytase alone and in combination with multi-carbohydrase in available phosphorus (AP) and energy-deficient diets on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, tibia traits, and carcass quality of broilers. A total of 288 1-d-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to one of 6 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design, with each treatment having 6 replicates and 8 birds per cage. The treatments were as follows: 1) positive control with adequate nutrition (PC); 2) 0.20% AP-deficient diet without phytase (NC-1); 3) 0.25% AP-deficient diet without phytase (NC-2); 4) NC-1 diet plus 500 FTU/kg phytase (NCP-1); 5) NC-2 diet plus 750 FTU/kg phytase (NCP-2); and 6) NC-2 with 100 kcal/kg ME deficient diet plus 1,000 FTU/kg phytase and multi-carbohydrase: 2,200 U/kg galactomannanase, 30,000 U/kg xylanase, 22,000 U/kg β-glucanase, and 700 U/kg α-galactosidase (NCPM). Broilers in the PC group and those fed enzyme-supplemented diets exhibited greater (P &lt; 0.05) growth performance in terms of body weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio, along with enhanced tibia mineralization through the ash, calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) composition, and tibia breaking strength compared to NC diets throughout the study. Among the treatments, broilers assigned to the NCPM group showed greater (P &lt; 0.05) levels of energy and P digestibility on days 21 and 35. Concerning carcass characteristics, the leg meat yield was greater (P &lt; 0.05) in broilers fed the NCP-2 diet compared to all other treatments on days 21 and 35. Supplementation of phytase at doses of 500 FTU/kg and 750 FTU/kg effectively recovers AP deficiencies of 0.20% and 0.25%, respectively, in broiler diets without compromising the growth performance of broilers. Additionally, combining multi-carbohydrase and phytase led to AP and energy loss recovery, which improved tibia mineralization and nutrient digestibility through their synergistic interaction.
Liquid–liquid extraction solvent selection for comparing illegal drugs in whole blood and dried blood spot with LC–MS–MS
Authors: Aydoğdu Melike , Ertaş Hasan , Ertaş Fatma Nil , Akgür Serap Annette 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This study focused on the simultaneous detection of amphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxy methamphetamine, morphine, benzoylecgonine, and 11-nor-9-carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol in whole blood and dried blood spot (DBS). It is aimed to select a solvent mixture for liquid–liquid extraction technique employing liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS). The obtained DBS results were compared with the whole blood samples results. A simple, rapid, and reliable LC–MS-MS method was developed and validated for all analytes in whole blood and DBS. LC was performed on a Hypersil Gold C18 column with an initial gradient of 0.01% formic acid, 5 mM ammonium format buffer in water, and acetonitrile at 0.3 ml/min with 7.5 min runtime. A methanol:acetonitrile (40:60 v/v) mixture was selected for both matrices. Limit of quantitation (LOQ) values were 10–25 ng/mL; linear ranges were LOQ–500 ng/ml for all analytes; correlation coefficients were greater than 0.99, and all calibrator concentrations were within 20%. Analytical recovery in blood and DBS ranged from 84.9% to 113.2% of the expected concentration for both intra- and inter-day. Analytes were stable for 1, 10, and 30 days after three freeze/thaw cycles. It was determined that the variances of the results obtained with the two matrices in the comparison study were equal for each analyte, and the results were highly correlated (r = 0.9625). A sensitive, accurate, and reliable chromatographic method was developed to determine amphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxy methamphetamine, morphine, benzoylecgonine, and cannabis, by performing the same preliminary steps with whole blood and dried blood spots. It was observed that the results obtained in these two matrices were compatible and interchangeable when statistically compared.
Deep generative model-based synthesis framework of four-bar linkage mechanisms with target conditions
Authors: Lee Sumin , Kim Jihoon , Kang Namwoo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This paper proposes a deep generative model-based framework for synthesizing four-bar linkage mechanisms that satisfy specified kinematic and quasi-static conditions. We define two objective functions for crank-rocker mechanisms using kinematic workspaces and geometric configurations. Our approach utilizes a conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN) modified for mechanism synthesis, which learns the relationship between mechanism requirements and linkage lengths. The results demonstrate that the proposed model successfully generates multiple distinct mechanisms meeting specific kinematic and quasi-static requirements. We compare our cGAN approach to traditional optimization methods and other deep learning-based generative models. Our method offers several advantages over traditional design approaches, enabling efficient generation of diverse yet feasible design candidates while exploring a large design space. By considering both kinematic and quasi-static requirements, the proposed model can produce more effective mechanisms for real-world applications. This makes it a promising tool for linkage mechanism design, offering designers a way to efficiently generate multiple viable design options that satisfy key performance criteria.
Entropy optimization in Casson tetra-hybrid nanofluid flow over a rotating disk with nonlinear thermal radiation: a Levenberg–Marquardt neural network approach
Authors: Sakkaravarthi K , Reddy P Bala Anki , Sakthi I 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This research employs a neural network, specifically the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm, to characterize the entropy optimization performance in the electro-magneto-hydrodynamic flow of a Casson tetra-hybrid nanofluid over a rotating disk. The problem was formulated mathematically using equations for momentum, continuity, and temperature. This study converts ordinary differential equations (ODEs) into partial differential equations (PDEs) by a self-similarity transformation. The equations are resolved via the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method in combination with a shooting technique for obtaining the required datasets. Using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (LMA), these datasets are characterised as training, testing, and validation. The proposed outcomes are presented in multiple tables and graphs. This trained neural network is then utilized to predict the heat flow velocity and Nusselt number of the rotating disk. The developed model was evaluated using mean square error, error analysis, and regression analysis, thereby confirming the consistency, accuracy, and reliability of the designed technique. The best validation performance for skin friction and the Nusselt number for the Casson tetra-hybrid nanofluid flow across a rotating disk is 8752e-05 at epoch 95 and 0.00033239 at epoch 37. Training, validation, testing, and all performance metrics of the artificial neural network model are close to unity. As magnetic field strength increases, temperature profiles rise in di-hybrid, ternary-hybrid, and tetra-hybrid nanoparticle scenarios. Tetra-hybrid nanofluids are considered superior fluids when compared to di-hybrid, ternary-hybrid, and tetra-hybrid nanofluids. This optimization method holds promise for diverse applications in biotechnology, microbiology, and medicine, offering significant potential for various fields.
Long-term causal inference under persistent confounding via data combination
Authors: Imbens Guido , Kallus Nathan , Mao Xiaojie , Wang Yuhao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
We study the identification and estimation of long-term treatment effects by combining short-term experimental data and long-term observational data subject to unobserved confounding. This problem arises often when concerned with long-term treatment effects since experiments are often short-term due to operational necessity while observational data can be more easily collected over longer time frames but may be subject to confounding. In this paper, we tackle the challenge of persistent confounding: unobserved confounders that can simultaneously affect the treatment, short-term outcomes, and long-term outcome. In particular, persistent confounding invalidates identification strategies in previous approaches to this problem. To address this challenge, we exploit the sequential structure of multiple short-term outcomes and develop several novel identification strategies for the average long-term treatment effect. Based on these, we develop estimation and inference methods with asymptotic guarantees. To demonstrate the importance of handling persistent confounders, we apply our methods to estimate the effect of a job training program on long-term employment using semi-synthetic data.
Microsporum audouinii: Emergence of an etiological agent of tinea capitis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2012–2019)
Authors: Santino Mariana Franco Ferraz , de Melo Cecilia Siqueira , Melo Analy Salles de Azevedo , Lima Soraia Lopes , Paixão Marilene do Nascimento , Akiti Tiyomi , Barreiros Gloria , Falcão Eduardo Mastrangelo Marinho , Barbosa Simone Saintive 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The etiology of tinea capitis changes over time, mainly due to trends in migration. We report 19 cases of tinea capitis caused by Microsporum audouinii, an uncommon agent in South America, all of them confirmed by molecular methods. All patients were male. The average age was 6.1 years. Fifteen patients were residents of Rio de Janeiro city and four were from neighboring cities. Among the patients submitted to follow-up, griseofulvin was prescribed for eight of them. Due to medication shortages, terbinafine was prescribed for five patients, needing to be switched in three cases, with a bigger total average time until clinical improvement. The study reaffirms the emergence of a new etiological agent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Implications for galaxy property estimation revealed by CO luminosity-FWHM relations in local star-forming galaxies
Authors: Wu Yi-Han , Wang Jun-Feng , Li Xiao-Hu , Jiang Xue-Jian , Tsai Chao-Wei , Wu Jing-Wen , Shi Kun-Peng , Zhu Lin , Zhong Wen-Yu 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
This study explores a relationship between the $\rm {CO}$ luminosity-full width at half-maximum linewidth linear relation (i.e. the $\rm {CO}$ LFR) and mean galaxy property of the local star-forming galaxy sample in the xCOLDGASS data base, via a mathematical statement. The whole data base galaxies were separated into two subsamples based on their stellar masses and redshifts, being a help to examine the dependence issue of the $\rm {CO}$ LFR. Selecting the galaxy data with a stringent requirement was also implemented in order to assure the validly of the $\rm {CO}$ LFR. An algorithm of the linear regression was conducted with the data of the subsample. An assessment about the linear correlation manifested a valid $\rm {CO}$ LFR occurs in the selected galaxy of the subsample, and the intercept of the $\rm {CO}$ LFR may be related with the mean galaxy properties such as the molecular gas fraction and galaxy size. For the finding on the intercept of the $\rm {CO}$ LFR, we aligned that intercept with those galaxy properties via the involvement of a $\psi$ parameter. On evaluating the $\psi$ value with our local star-forming galaxy sample, we numerically determined a relationship between the statistical result and the galaxy property in a different stellar mass range. It also shows a possible method on estimating galaxy property.
Optical and γ-ray variability analysis of BL Lacertae object TXS 1902+556
Authors: Li Huai-Zhen , Qin Long-Hua , Gong Yun-Lu , Liu Fen , Guo Di-Fu , Gao Quan-Gui , Yi Ting-Feng , Liu Hong-Tao 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
The variability data for the BL Lacertae object TXS 1902+556 in the optical and $\gamma$-ray wavebands were obtained from the 0.76-m Katzman Automatic Imaging Telescope and the Fermi Large Area Telescope (Fermi-LAT), covering periods of 14.4 and 14.7 yr, respectively. The variability properties were systematically analysed, with particular emphasis on the first comprehensive investigation of radiation variation in the optical waveband. Four well-established techniques were employed for this purpose: the Lomb–Scargle periodogram, REDFIT program, Jurkevich method, and discrete correlation function (DCF) approach. The optical waveband exhibits quasi-periodic oscillations (QPO) with a time-scale of $P_{\rm O}=276.8\pm 6.1$ d at a significance level $3.87\sigma$, while the $\gamma$-ray waveband does not exhibit any significant periodicity. However, it should be noted that the QPO time-scale is consistent with the Sun-gaps in the optical light curve within 2$\sigma$ uncertainties. The optical QPO behaviour is most likely attributed to the helical motion of the jet driven by the orbital motion in a supermassive black hole binary system. Moreover, we have provided an explanation for the absence of QPO in the $\gamma$-ray light curves. Furthermore, utilizing the DCF method, a weak correlation between the variability in the optical and $\gamma$-ray wavebands was observed, suggesting that the emission of TXS 1902+556 may be generated through a combination of synchrotron self-Compton (SSC) and external Compton (EC) processes, or a leptonic–hadronic hybrid process.