bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Accuracy in Estimating Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction by Internal Medicine Trainees: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Santirotjanakul Asama , Assavapokee Taweevat 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
In internal medicine, resident physicians play a crucial role in initial patient assessments, necessitating proficiency in left ventricular ejection function (LVEF) evaluation. Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) offers a potential alternative to formal transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for LVEF assessment, yet its utility among internal medicine residents remains underexplored.
Aims
This prospective observational study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of POCUS performed by internal medicine residents in predicting LVEF compared to formal TTE conducted by sonographers and interpreted by cardiologists.
Method
Thirty-five inpatients underwent both POCUS and formal TTE for LVEF estimation by internal medicine residents and cardiologists, respectively. Internal medicine residents received training sessions on POCUS, consisting of lectures and hands-on practice.
Results
Internal medicine residents demonstrated excellent proficiency in LVEF assessment, achieving a 97.14% accuracy rate in distinguishing between normal and abnormal function. Agreement between residents and cardiologists on abnormality detection was substantial (κ = 0.9249 ; p < 0.001). Additionally, residents accurately categorized LVEF into severity categories in 91.43% of cases, with substantial agreement observed (κ = 0.7831; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Our study highlights the potential of POCUS as a viable alternative to traditional TTE for LVEF assessment in clinical practice. Despite limitations such as sample size and lack of outpatient data, the findings underscore the importance of integrating POCUS training into internal medicine residency programs. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the broader applications of POCUS in cardiovascular care.
New Methods Collection to Identify the Buildingand Decoration Stones Provenance
Authors: Kovářová Kateřina , Matoušková Eva , Cihla Michal , Dáňová Helena , Roháček Jiří 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

When investigating historical building stones, we often encounter an issue concerning the original material provenance identification. Addressing this issue is usually rather complicated due to the unavailability of samples to conduct a petrographic analysis that itself often cannot fully identify the site of acquisition. It is therefore imperative to focus on non-destructive research methods applicable in the field. Great emphasis is placed on interdisciplinarity with experts from a variety of fields contributing to the achievement of relevant results. The reflectance spectroscopy method in the near- and mid-infrared spectral range (1000–2500 nm), a simple and effective method to be applied in situ, is used for non-destructive identification of stone provenance. A unique spectral reflectance curve representing the reflectance in percentages versus the wavelength can be defined for each material. Consequently, the curve can be compared with spectra in the pre-prepared library in order to find the one best corresponding to the investigated curve to identify the material. The applied traceology methods are used to determine the approximate age of the stone elements to specify the achieved results, and not least, they are compared with the results of archival and art history research. Within our research, these methods were applied during the investigation of historical stone artefacts and masonry in St Vitus Cathedral, located in Prague, Czech Republic. The achieved results corroborate a high potential of the selected methods and approaches.
Composition analysis and mechanism of Guizhi Fuling capsule in anti-cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer
Authors: Dou Lei , Lu Enting , Li Fangmei , Tian Dongli , Deng Lei , Zhang Xue , Zhang Rongjin , Li Yin , Zhang Yi , Sun Ye 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Cisplatin is the main chemotherapy drug for advanced ovarian cancer, but drug resistance often occurs. The aim of this study is to explore the molecular mechanism by which Guizhi Fuling capsule inhibits cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer.
Methods
First, differences in cisplatin resistance, PA2G4 gene expression, migration, and invasion in A2780 cells and A2780/DDP cells were analyzed by qRT-PCR, scratch assay, transwell, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. Then, LC-MS/MS analysis of GFC chemical composition. qRT-PCR, scratch tests, transwell, pseudopodium formation, immunofluorescence, and western blotting were used to explore the mechanism by which GFC inhibited A2780/DDP cell migration and invasion. Finally, the anti-tumor efficacy of GFC was verified by in vivo experiments.
Results
A2780/DDP cells had a greater ability to migrate and invade compared to their parents. Cell viability experiments showed that the migration and invasion ability of A278/DDP cells were significantly inhibited with the increase of GFC concentration. qRT-PCR results showed that compared with the blank control group, cisplatin group and GFC group, the transcription level of PA2G4 gene in the combination treatment group was significantly reduced. We also found that GFC combined with cisplatin inhibited the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway by targeting PA2G4 gene expression, inhibited the epithelial-mesenchymal transition signaling pathway, decreased cell adhesion and inhibited the formation of cell pseudopodias.
Conclusion
GFC combined with cisplatin can target PA2G4 gene to regulate PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β Signaling pathway, inhibiting the invasion and migration of cisplatin resistant A2780/DDP cells in ovarian cancer.
Effects of defaunation of large seed dispersers, habitat loss and fragmentation on the population expansion of a tropical palm
Authors: Fernandes Patrick Faria , Pedro Vinícius de Avelar São , Souza Breno de Lima , Moreira-Silva Camila , Portela Rita de Cássia Quitete , Mendes Eduardo Teles Barbosa , Scarascia Pietro de Oliveira , Carvalho Carolina da Silva 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Content
Habitat degradation and hunting are the main causes of the reduction in fauna diversity, richness, and biomass, characterizing defaunation. Large animal species are the most affected by this process, compromising ecosystem services such as seed dispersal.
Objectives
We evaluated the effects of the nonrandomdefaunation of large seed dispersers, habitat loss and fragmentation on the expansion dynamics of tropical palms (Euterpe edulis) populations.
Methods
We modeled the spatial dynamics of the species via RangeShiftR in landscapes with different degrees of habitat percentage and fragmentation, simulating two distinct scenarios: nondefaunated, with a complete assembly of seed dispersers, and defaunated, with an impoverished assembly of large frugivores. Then, we developed linear regression models, and the best model was selected using the Akaike information criterion.
Results
Habitat loss, fragmentation, and defaunation synergistically affect the abundance and density of palm hearts. Furthermore, the interaction effect between defaunation and habitat percentage was significant, indicating that in nondefaunation scenarios, the abundance and occupation of palm hearts increase substantially. Additionally, habitat loss has a greater effect on population expansion than fragmentation, which has a lower predictive power.
Conclusion
These results help addressthe individual and synergistic effects of defaunation, habitat loss and fragmentation on the population expansion of palm hearts. Our models contribute to the strategic planning of actions aimed at the conservation of palm hearts, highlighting habitat loss as a central point in allocating efforts for the protection of this species, as well as the importance of considering fauna data in estimates of the population expansion capacity of plant species.
Online and Hybrid Delivery of a Multi-Group Family Intervention for Families Living with Parental Mental Illness: Qualitative Evaluation Study
Authors: Moltrecht Bettina , Edbrooke-Childs Julian , Labno Angelika , Merrick Hannah , Lange Aurelie M C , Ravaccia Giulia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In the UK 1 in 4 children are exposed to parental mental illness (PMI). Families living with PMI are poorly provided for across social and mental health care settings. Whole-family interventions can reduce associated risks, enhance families’ overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. We evaluated how families experienced a modified version of KidsTime, a whole-family intervention for families living with PMI. KidsTime is normally delivered in-person, here we evaluated a modified version that was delivered online and in a hybrid approach throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a qualitative research design involving semi-structured interviews and focus groups with parents/carers, children and intervention facilitators. We collected and analysed data from 22 families and 6 facilitators. Thematic reflexive analysis was used to analyse the data. The intervention was perceived as acceptable. The hybrid delivery approach was considered to cater for a wider range of families wanting to take part. We generated seven themes that reflect participants’ experiences with the intervention: (1) delivery modes, online, in-person and hybrid; (2) intervention content, structure and format; (3) families’ beliefs, attitudes and feelings; (4) learning; (5) social connection; (6) support and positivity; (7) observed changes and perceived impact. Based on participants’ feedback we provide insights into possible benefits and change mechanisms of the intervention. We give suggestions for clinical practice and how the intervention and its delivery can be improved. Future research should focus on: (1) co-design activities with families to help refine the intervention further and (2) confirming the intervention’s effectiveness in sufficiently powered trials.
Dissecting the Population Structure, Diversity and Genetic Architecture of Disease Resistance in Wild Emmer Wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. dicoccoides)
Authors: Adhikari Laxman , Olivera Pablo , Yu Guotai , Raupp John , Sela Hanan , Distelfeld Assaf , Wulff Brande , Steffenson Brian , Poland Jesse 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Wild emmer wheat (WEW) (Triticum turgidum subsp. dicoccoides) is one of the important crops domesticated in the Neolithic revolution that shifted humanity to agrarian societies. Leveraging whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data from 291 accessions at ~ 9.5x coverage, we identified 3.4 million high-quality SNP markers and utilized them for population genetics and evolutionary studies. We also conducted Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for seedling-stage resistance to five races of stem, leaf, and stripe/yellow rust pathogens. We investigated candidate genes using ortholog sequence alignment.
Results
Phylogenetic clustering, principal component analysis, and population structure assessment revealed distinct genetic subgroups within WEW, specifically the Northern Population, Southern Levant (SL) population, and a highly distinct subgroup near the Sea of Galilee, known as race judaicum. Diversity and pairwise FST analyses highlighted varying levels of genetic diversity and distances among these subpopulations. The SL accessions exhibited higher resistance to all races of the three rust pathogens compared to Northern and judaicum populations. GWAS identified 28, 25, and 32 significant loci associated with stem, leaf, and stripe rust resistance, respectively. Major loci explained up to 60% of phenotypic variation and some loci were linked to multiple races and some were novel. Accessions such as TA11204, TA1041, TA1047, TA11196, TA77, TA93, TA1065, and TA66 demonstrated broad resistance to multiple races.
Conclusions
In summary, this study provides rust resistance WEW germplasms and guides future research on the selection and introgression of rust resistance loci from WEW into cultivated bread and durum wheat, contributing to the stable production of these important food crops.
DC Conductivity and Dielectric Studies of (Sb-B-P) 2 O 11 Glasses Doped with MnO, NiO and CoO
Authors: Guntu Ravi Kumar 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The novel investigations on Raman spectra, elastic, electrical and dielectric studies of Sb2O3 inclusive lithium floro borophosphate glasses doped with Mn2+, Ni2+ and Co2+ transition metal ions is needful to introduce novel mechanically flexible, electrically challenging, and valuable dielectric resource. Based on importance, to describe structure employing XRD, EDX, and Raman spectra studies, followed by electrical, elastic, and dielectric studies of glasses, here we have selected the three series of glasses with a chemical composition of P60B10Sb10Li(19.85):Co(0.15), P60B10Sb10Li(19.8):Ni(0.2), and P60B10Sb10Li19.7:Mn(0.3) for the current analysis. Through various characterization, the selected series of glasses are taken for better comparison. The structure of selected series of glasses as compared. Which are found to be amorphous or glassy. The density, elastic modulus, and micro-hardness values e compared in specific. This suggests that lass with 0.2 mol% of MnO exhibits in comparison. The Raman studies are utilized to evaluate the compositional dependence of different vibrational modes and structural units of glasses. The Raman studies suggested a higher degree of nonlinear disorder within the glasses, increasing MnO, NiO, and CoO concentrations. The elastic properties of the selected series of glasses are compared. The density, elastic modulus, and micro-hardness values s are compared in specific., This suggests that the glass with 0.2 mol% of MnO exists exhibits better comparison. The values of D.C conductivity in the selected series of the glasses are compared, which indicates the glass with 0.2 mol% of MnO exhibiting a better D.C. conductivity range in comparison. The value of the density of states, activation energy, and dielectric constant of the selected glasses is compared. Indicates the glass with 0.2 mol% of MnO exhibiting a better dielectric range in comparison. Parallel to this, the edge of dielectric relaxation near the room temperature of the selected glasses is comp. This also suggests the glass with 0.2 mol% of exhibits a better dielectric range in comparison.
Dielectric Nanoceramics for S-Band Applications: Zinc Aluminate Enhanced with Titanium and Magnesium
Authors: Siragam Srilali 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A straightforward sol-gel technique was used to prepare a nanoceramic composite material consisting of 89Wt%(ZnAl2O4TiO2) and 11Wt%MgTiO3 (ZTMg), designed to enhance dielectric properties for miniature patch antennas in wireless applications. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed anatase-rutile phases in TiO2, a wurtzite hexagonal shape in ZnAl2O4 (Gahnite), and MgTi2O5 phases. Raman spectroscopy identified distinct vibration modes corresponding to ZnO at 346 cm⁻¹ and TiO2 at 717 cm⁻¹. The morphological structure of ZTMg was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), showing the formation of agglomerated spherical nanoparticles. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) displayed elemental peaks of Zn, Ti, Al, O, and Mg. The calculated mean grain size was 19.26 nm. The conductivity of the ZTMg nanoceramic composite material increased with frequency at various temperatures. As the operating frequency rose, the nanoceramic composite dielectric material exhibited commendable dielectric properties ranging from 13.46 to 19.39, with a reduced dielectric loss (0.25–0.64) in the temperature range of 30–150°C, making it suitable for microwave applications. The fabricated prototype antenna showed excellent performance in both measured and simulated results, with return loss (RL) values of -20.51/-12.53 dB, bandwidth (BW) of 1.36/2.02 GHz, and resonant frequency (fr) of 3.25/3.30 GHz.
Fluorescence detection for enrofloxacin by using Aptamer and fluorophore SYBR Green I
Authors: Li Chen-Chen , Kong Wei-Chuang , Cui Jia-Le , Li Xin-Long , Meng Ya-Li , Jia Xiao-Juan , Zhang Xiao-Lei , Kang Yan-Fei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Enrofloxacin (ENR), as a type of antimicrobial, is commonly used in animal sterilization. However, excessive ENR residues in food will seriously harm human health. Therefore, in this work, we developed a quantitative fluorescence method for ENR based on aptamer and SYBR Green I (SG-I). DNA aptamers with G-quadruplex space structure can be recognized and inserted by SG-I to emit intense green fluorescence. In the presence of ENR, the aptamer preferentially recognized and bound specifically to ENR resulting in the change of aptamer conformation, which prevented the SG-I from inserting into the aptamer to cause fluorescence quenching. The aptamer sensor can quantitatively detect ENR with linear concentration range of 0-600 nM, and the limit of detection was 0.158 nM. The aptamer sensor was used detecting ENR in chicken, fish and pork samples with recovery rate from 99.74–104.02%, and relative standard deviation (RSD) of ENR of less than 6%. Therefore, this aptamer-based sensor provided the fluorescence detection method for ENR in food safety.
Factors associated with having one or more risky sexual behaviors among adolescent girls and young women in Rwanda: population-based survey using 2018/2019 RPHIA data
Authors: Iradukunda Ange Joseline , Ikuzo Basile , Nzeyimana Zephanie 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15 to 24 years present disproportionately higher risk of HIV acquisition and unintended pregnancies (Ups) across the globe. The risks mainly due to risky sexual behaviors (RSBs) like sex for money or favor and sex without condom among others.
Methods
This study was conducted to assess factors associated having one or more RSBs among AGYW. Using STATA version 15, we analyzed Rwanda population-based HIV impact Assessment (RPHIA) survey data. Data were analyzed at univariable, bivariable, and multiple logistic regression analysis levels. Statistical significance was set at p value less than 0.05.
Settings:
Population based survey conducted in Rwanda, Eastern Africa.
Results
Of the 6,753 AGYW enrolled in RPHIA, 19.4% had one or more risky sexual behavior(s) including sex without a reliable method of contraception (11.0%), extra- marital sex without a condom (5.9%), sex before age of 15 (5.1%), sex for gifts/favor/money (4.4%), having multiple sexual partners (4.0%), transgenerational sex (0.7%), and anal sex (0.3%). Factors determining having one or more RSBs among AGYW include ever been pregnant [aOR: 19.2 with 95% C.I:15.8–23.4], pregnant by the time of interview [aOR: 10.5 with 95% C.I:7.5–14.6], sex before age of 15 [aOR: 2.1 with 95% C.I: 1.5–2.8], being married [aOR: 1.6 with 95% C.I:1.1–2.2], and cohabiting [aOR: 1.4 with 95% C.I:1.1–1.8].
Conclusion
Overall RSBs remain a major public health threat in Rwanda. Thus, the need for sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS) appropriate to AGYW focusing condom use, delaying age of sexual debut, and contraception use to prevent their risks to HIV and unintended pregnancies.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Active Hexose Correlated Compound as an Adjuvant in Reducing Recurrence After Condyloma Cauterization
Authors: Atlıhan Ufuk , Yavuz Onur , Ata Can , Avsar Huseyin Aytug , Bildaci Tevfik Berk , Erkilinc Selcuk 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction
One of the most prevalent sexually transmittedxillnesses is considered to be Humanipapillomavirus (HPV). HPV is responsible for genital condyloma lesions. A durable and effective systemic treatment regimen has not been established for HPV-related infections. In the present study, our purpose was to analyse by evaluating the role of activexhexose correlatedxcompound (AHCC) in preventing relapse in patients who underwent cauterization for condyloma accuminata.
Materials and Methods
A total of 244 individuals who were hospitalized to our hospital in the interval from January 2019 to June 2022, were diagnosed as having condyloma acuminata, and underwent condyloma cauterization were evaluated retrospectively In this study; 133 individuals who met the criteria were taken in the investigation. In our study, patients who received AHCC were scheduled for follow-up examinations at regular intervals. For a year, they were scheduled for follow-up appointments every three months. Patients who did and did not use AHCC were divided into two groups and analyzed.
Results
The age average of AHCC non-users was significantly greater than AHCC users (p < 0.01). The number of condylomas and the maximum condyloma diameter of AHCC users before treatment were found to be significantly higher than in AHCC non-users (p = 0.006 and p = 0.004, respectively). In participants with recurrence, the number of condylomas and the condyloma diameter in AHCC users were significantlyilower than in AHCC non-users (p = 0.019 and p = 0.042, respectively).
Conclusion
Although the usage of AHCC is not expected to help prevent recurrence after cauterization of condylomata acuminate in all patients, physicians may consider AHCC as a nutritional supplement and supportive therapy in the absence of other systemic treatments. Consequently, the duration of AHCC support necessary to optimize the effect of AHCC use on relapse prevention requires further evaluation on the basis of both target IFN-βilevels and HPV infectionistatus.
Adverse Childhood Experience, Self-Compassion and Suicidal Ideation among Young Adults in Bangladesh: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mirdha Ginia , Ferdowshi Nafiza , Mirdha Shantana 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the relationship of childhood adverse experience, self-compassion and suicidal ideation among young adults in Bangladesh.
A cross sectional study was conducted on 120 young adults from two public universities in Dhaka city. Among them, 61 were male and 59 were female. Participants were selected by convenient sampling technique and data were collected by using Adapted Bangla Version of Comprehensive Child Maltreatment Scale (CCMS) for Adults (Ferdous, Roy, & Islam, 2020), Bangla Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSS) (Uddin et al., 2013), and Adapted Bangla Version of Self-Compassion Scale (Habib & Naher, 2020). The obtained data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, t-test and correlation.
The findings reveal that all forms of childhood maltreatment: psychological maltreatment, physical abuse, witnessing family violence, neglect, and sexual abuse were significantly negatively correlated with self-compassion. Correlation for total maltreatment score and SCS was also significant (r = -.499, p < .01). Findings also reveal that each of the five subscales were significantly positively correlated with suicidal ideation. Moreover, there were significant positive inter-correlations among the five subscales of CCMS. The findings also reveal that there are significance gender differences of all forms of childhood maltreatment, self-compassion and suicidal ideation among young adults. The results were interpreted based on prior research.
Findings of the research may help gaining insight about the harmful impact of maltreatment to develop appropriate preventive and intervention strategies.