bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intergenerational Educational Mobility and Cognitive Trajectories Among Middle-Aged and Older Chinese People: An Application of Growth Mixture and Mobility Contrast Models in Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Shi Songyun , Chen Yu-Chih , Gugushvili Alexi , Yip Paul S F 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Due to statistical challenges in disentangling the mobility effect (i.e., intergenerational educational mobility) from the position effect (i.e., parental and person’s own education), the impact of intergenerational educational mobility on cognitive function remains unclear. We employed a novel approach to identify the mobility effect and investigate the net impact of intergenerational educational mobility on heterogeneous patterns of cognition among middle-aged and older adults in China.

Methods
Participants aged 45 and older were recruited from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, a population-based prospective cohort study between 2011 and 2018. We identified cognitive trajectories using the growth mixture model (GMM) and subsequently employed the mobility contrast model (MCM) to examine the effects of intergenerational educational mobility on cognitive patterns stratified by gender.

Results
Almost two thirds of respondents experienced intergenerational educational mobility, and 55% experienced upward mobility. Men had a higher rate of upward mobility than women. Three population-based cognitive patterns were identified: the low cognitive function with decline group (28%), the moderate cognitive function group (47%), and the high cognitive function group (26%). MCM analysis revealed that both upward and downward intergenerational educational mobility negatively affected cognitive trajectory patterns, extending beyond the influence of individuals’ current and parental education.

Discussion
In future research, the impact of mobility can be studied in longitudinal data sets by combining the GMM and MCM approaches. The net negative effect of intergenerational educational mobility on cognitive trajectory patterns indicates that it should be recognized as an independent predictor of cognitive decline.
GSC: efficient lossless compression of VCF files with fast query
Authors: Luo Xiaolong , Chen Yuxin , Liu Ling , Ding Lulu , Li Yuxiang , Li Shengkang , Zhang Yong , Zhu Zexuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
With the rise of large-scale genome sequencing projects, genotyping of thousands of samples has produced immense variant call format (VCF) files. It is becoming increasingly challenging to store, transfer, and analyze these voluminous files. Compression methods have been used to tackle these issues, aiming for both high compression ratio and fast random access. However, existing methods have not yet achieved a satisfactory compromise between these 2 objectives.

Findings
To address the aforementioned issue, we introduce GSC (Genotype Sparse Compression), a specialized and refined lossless compression tool for VCF files. In benchmark tests conducted across various open-source datasets, GSC showcased exceptional performance in genotype data compression. Compared with the industry’s most advanced tools (namely, GBC and GTC), GSC achieved compression ratios that were higher by 26.9% to 82.4% over GBC and GTC on the datasets, respectively. In lossless compression scenarios, GSC also demonstrated robust performance, with compression ratios 1.5× to 6.5× greater than general-purpose tools like gzip, zstd, and BCFtools—a mode not supported by either GBC or GTC. Achieving such high compression ratios did require some reasonable trade-offs, including longer decompression times, with GSC being 1.2× to 2× slower than GBC, yet 1.1× to 1.4× faster than GTC. Moreover, GSC maintained decompression query speeds that were equivalent to its competitors. In terms of RAM usage, GSC outperformed both counterparts. Overall, GSC’s comprehensive performance surpasses that of the most advanced technologies.

Conclusion
GSC balances high compression ratios with rapid data access, enhancing genomic data management. It supports seamless PLINK binary format conversion, simplifying downstream analysis.
Workplace wellness across the lifespan: A pilot program for health promotion in a low- and middle-income country
Authors: Al Bizri Ayah , Walani Salimah , Nassar Anwar , Saab Bassem , Hanna Wakim Rima , Noureddine Abir , Chahrouri Mario , Nakad Pascale , Jaber Dina , Yunis Khalid 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Considering that a sizable segment of the population spends significant amount of time at work, workplaces have been identified as practical platforms for health educational programs. Although employee wellness programs in high-income countries have shown measurable benefits in productivity and physical and mental health, evidence-based programs in low- and middle-income countries, such as Lebanon, are unavailable. The aim is to develop and implement a pilot workplace wellness program focusing on health-related areas to improve health knowledge and behavior among working men and women of reproductive age. In collaboration with March of Dimes, the National Collaborative Perinatal Neonatal Network developed a culturally sensitive health education program focusing on lifestyle, infection, nutrition and family planning. Sessions were delivered by a multidisciplinary team of specialists at a local bank in Lebanon. To assess the impact of the program, participants completed Knowledge and Behavior Assessment Questionnaire (KBAQ) before and after implementation. KBAQ was conducted 6 months after implementation to measure retention and continuing impact. Forty-seven participants completed the program, of whom 44.7% are male, 98% have university degree and 56.5% are married. Total knowledge score improved significantly from 64.2 to 74.3 and remained significant at 6 months post-implementation with a score of 71.7 (p &lt; 0.001). At 6-month follow-up, emotional score improved (p = 0.028), while smoking decreased (p = 0.008). Also, employees’ health knowledge and behavior showed sustained and significant improvement. We plan to implement our program at other sites and among employees from different backgrounds to understand the impact of the wellness program on employees’ knowledge and behaviors at a larger scale.
Evaluation of target area under the concentration–time curve of vancomycin in an initial dosing design: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Iida Moeko , Horita Yasuhiro , Asaoka Minami , Ohashi Kazuki , Noda Masato , Wachino Chiharu , Hirose Toa , Nomura Yuki , Hisada Yoshinori , Nagamizu Masaya , Kawahara Masami , Morishita Nobuyuki , Kondo Masahiro , Hotta Yuji , Nakamura Atsushi , Furukawa-Hibi Yoko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Area under the concentration–time curve (AUC)–guided dosing of vancomycin was introduced in a clinical setting; however, the target range of non–steady-state AUCs, such as Day 1 AUC and Day 2 AUC, remains controversial. Therefore, we sought to determine pharmacokinetic parameter thresholds and identify independent risk factors associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) to establish a safe initial dosing design for vancomycin administration.

Methods
A single-centre, retrospective, cohort study of hospitalized patients treated with vancomycin was conducted to determine the threshold of both non–steady-state AUCs (Day 1 and 2 AUCs) and trough levels at the first blood sampling point (therapeutic drug monitoring, TDM). In addition, independent risk factors associated with AKI were evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results
The thresholds for predicting AKI were estimated as 456.6 mg·h/L for AUC0-24h, 554.8 mg·h/L for AUC24-48h, 1080.8 mg·h/L for AUC0-48h and 14.0 μg/mL for measured trough levels, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, Day 2 AUC ≥ 554.8 mg·h/L [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 57.16; 95% confidence interval (CI), 11.95–504.05], piperacillin/tazobactam (adjusted OR, 15.84; 95% CI, 2.73–127.70) and diuretics (adjusted OR, 4.72; 95% CI, 1.13–21.01) were identified as risk factors for AKI.

Conclusions
We identified thresholds for both AUCs in the non–steady-state and trough levels at the first TDM. Our results highlight the importance of monitoring not only the AUC but also trough levels during vancomycin treatment to reduce the likelihood of AKI.
Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) across the world: a comparative analysis—what lessons can we learn?
Authors: Reidy Paul , Breslin Tara , Muldoon Eavan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a comparative analysis of Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) structures and delivery options across different countries. OPAT, a cost-effective alternative to inpatient care for patients requiring IV antimicrobial therapy, has demonstrated multiple benefits such as patient satisfaction, economic cost savings, and reduced hospital-acquired infections. Despite these advantages, there is considerable international variation in OPAT use and implementation. By examining the OPAT structures of multiple countries, we aim to identify areas of variation and explore opportunities for expansion and improvement of OPAT services.
Evaluation of knowledge and practices on antibiotic use: a cross-sectional study on self-reported adherence to short-term antibiotic utilization among patients visiting level-1 hospitals in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Kampamba Martin , Hamaambo Bubala , Hikaambo Christabel Nang’andu , Mwanza Boris , Bambala Andrew , Mutenda Mukumbi , Mukumbuta Jean M , Mudenda Steward 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health problem affecting healthcare systems. Short-term antibiotic non-adherence is thought to be one of the factors contributing to antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge and practices towards short-term antibiotic use on self-reported adherence among patients visiting level-1 hospitals in Lusaka, Zambia.MethodsThis was a multicentre institutional-based cross-sectional study conducted among 385 adult participants from 11 September to 30 September 2023 using an adopted structured questionnaire. Analysis of the data involved descriptive and inferential statistics, where significance was determined at P &lt; 0.05.ResultsOf the 335 participants, 56.7% displayed good knowledge and 77.3% low adherence towards antibiotic use. 54.6% thought that antibiotics were effective for viral infections, and 43.9% correctly recognized the definition of AMR. Being in formal employment (crude OR: 2.5, CI: 1.08–5.78, P: 0.032) was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of good knowledge about antibiotics while being divorced (adjusted OR: 2.5, CI: 1.23–6.10, P: 0.013) and having good knowledge (adjusted OR: 2.9, CI: 1.73–5.10, P = 0.048) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of adherence to antibiotics. Regarding antibiotic practices, half (50. 0%) of the respondents had utilized antibiotics in the previous year while 58.2% had taken antibiotics for addressing a common cold. Furthermore, 74% reported to have bought antibiotics without a prescription.ConclusionsThis study found that participants attending level-1 hospitals had relatively good knowledge and poor adherence towards antibiotic use. Additionally, the participants demonstrated poor antibiotic use practices in almost all statements related to antibiotic usage.
Synthesis of aspartic acid and tyrosine by the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora is not required for proliferation on apple flower stigmas or virulence in fruitlets
Authors: Schultes Neil P , Sinn Judith P , Swenson Eric S , McNellis Timothy W 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Aims
The Gram-negative bacterium Erwinia amylovora (Ea) is the causal agent of fire blight, a devastating disease of apples and pears. In the fire blight disease cycle, Ea grows in different plant tissues, each presenting a distinct nutrient environment. Here, we investigate the ability of aspartate and tyrosine double auxotroph Ea lines to proliferate on apple flower stigma surfaces representing the epiphytic growth stage of Ea and in developing fruitlets representing one endophytic growth stage of Ea.

Methods and results
Heterologous complementation studies in an Escherichia coli aspartate and tyrosine auxotroph verify that Ea aspartate aminotransferase (AspC) and tyrosine aminotransferase (TyrB) act as aspartate and tyrosine amino transferases. Growth analysis reveals that Ea aspC tyrB mutants multiply to near-wild-type levels on apple flower stigmas and immature fruitlets.

Conclusions
Ea AspC and TyrB are reciprocally complementing for aspartate and tyrosine synthesis in Ec and in Ea. Ea aspC and tyrB mutants obtain sufficient aspartate and tyrosine to support multiplication on stigma surfaces and virulence in immature fruitlets.
Initial timing of alfalfa hay supplementation manipulates blood parameters, rumen gene expression, and epithelial microbiota in pre-weaning lambs
Authors: Li Kenan , Du Haidong , Guo Wenliang , Na Meila , Na Renhua 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the impact of initiating alfalfa supplementation at either 14 d or 42 d of age on growth performance, blood parameters, rumen tissue gene expression, and epithelial microbiota in pre-weaning lambs. A total of 42 seven-day-old male Hu lambs (3.88 ± 0.92 kg) were selected for this study. After 7 d of adjustment period, 6 lambs were slaughtered at 14 d of age to establish a baseline control. The remaining 36 lambs were randomly allocated to 2 treatment groups, every 3 lambs were considered a unit, including fed milk replacer, starter pellets, and either alfalfa hay fed at 14 (EAF) or 42 d of age (LAF). Body weight and feed intake were recorded for lamb until 70 d of age. Blood samples, rumen tissue samples, and epithelial microbiota samples were collected from the lambs at 42, 56, and 70 d of age. The results indicated that average daily gain, starter intake, and total dry matter intake were greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group from 14 to 42 d of age (P &lt; 0.01), but no significant differences from 43 to 70 d of age or during the entire trial. Treatment and age interactively affected the alfalfa intake (P = 0.02) from 43 to 70 d of age. The concentration of serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) (P &lt; 0.01) and the expression of the rumen gene insulin-like growth factor-1 (P &lt; 0.01) were greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group at 42 d of age. Furthermore, the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.03), albumin (P &lt; 0.01), total protein (P = 0.03), urea (P = 0.04), lipopolysaccharide (P &lt; 0.01), β-hydroxybutyric acid (P = 0.02), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (P &lt; 0.01), IL-4 (P &lt; 0.01), and tumor necrosis factor-α (P &lt; 0.01) were affected by age. The abundance of Prevotella was lower (P &lt; 0.05), whereas Megasphaera (P &lt; 0.05) was greater in the EAF group compared to the LAF group at 42 d of age. The early addition of alfalfa promotes rumen epithelial microbiota colonization. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that alfalfa provision at 14 d of age promotes growth performance in lambs, but this effect disappeared at 43 to 70 d of age. Moreover, provision of alfalfa at 14 d of age enhances the immune response, promotes rumen tissue cell proliferation, and affects dynamical changes of rumen epithelial microbiota. Meanwhile, our findings showed that the rumen undergoes significant physiological challenges during the transition from a liquid diet to a solid diet.
Genotype-by-gestational thermal environment interaction and its impact on the future performance of tropical composite beef cattle offspring
Authors: Cardoso Matheus Gomes Rodrigues , Bignardi Annaiza Braga , Pereira Rodrigo Junqueira , Eler Joanir Pereira , Ferraz José Bento Sterman , Brito Luiz Fernando , Santana Mário Luiz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
With global warming, there are growing challenges for raising taurine and composite beef cattle populations in tropical regions, including elevated temperatures, limited forage availability, parasite infestation, and infectious diseases. These environmental factors can trigger specific physiological responses in the developing fetus, which may have long-term implications on its performance. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to assess the influence of naturally induced thermal stress during the gestation period on the subsequent performance of tropical composite beef cattle progeny. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate the impact of genotype-by-gestational thermal environment interaction (G×Eg) on traits under selection pressure in the breeding population. A total of 157,414 animals from 58 farms located in various Brazilian states were recorded for birth weight (BW), preweaning weight gain (PWG), yearling weight (YW), hip height (HH), scrotal circumference (SC), and days to first calving (DFC). We first applied a linear regression model to the BW data, which revealed that the last 40 d of gestation were suitable for calculating the mean temperature humidity index (THIg). Subsequent regression analyses revealed that for every 10-unit increase in THIg, detrimental effects of approximately 1.13% to 16.34% are expected for all traits evaluated. Genetic parameters were estimated through a reaction norm model using THIg as the environmental descriptor. The posterior means of heritability estimates (SD) were 0.35 (0.07), 0.25 (0.03), 0.31 (0.03), 0.37 (0.01), 0.29 (0.07), and 0.20 (0.09) for the direct effect of BW, PWG, YW, HH, SC, and DFC, respectively. These estimates varied along the range of THIg values, suggesting a variable response to selection depending on the thermal environment during gestation. Genetic correlation estimates between more divergent THIg values were low or negative for YW, PWG, and DFC, indicating that the best-performing individuals at low THIg values may not perform as well at high THIg values and vice versa. Overall, thermal stress during gestation impacts the future performance of beef cattle offspring. Our results indicate the need for developing effective breeding strategies that take into account G×Eg effects and the re-ranking of breeding animals along the THIg scale, particularly for traits such as DFC that are highly sensitive to thermal stress.
Shadows of Return
Authors: Sayatz Nella 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In Germany, the prosecution of female Islamic State (IS) returnees for property offences under international criminal law has become increasingly important in recent years. These prosecutions give reason for critical reflections on the basis and limits of protection of property in international criminal law in general and its application in practice, in particular under the German Code of Crimes Against International Law (Völkerstrafgesetzbuch). This article argues that despite a well-established normative basis for and legitimacy of protecting property in international criminal law, there are considerable deficiencies in the application of the relevant offence in German jurisprudence. These deficiencies concern, first, the distinction between the different modalities of war crimes against property; secondly, the phenomenon of so-called multiple appropriations; and, thirdly, requirements for determining the gravity of property crimes. The article criticizes the fact that legal practice has so far only insufficiently evaluated the international dimension of property offences, warranting a presumption as an international crime. It argues the need for the criminal justice system to take greater account of the aims and functions of international criminal law in legal practice.
The UPC CoA’s first substantive order—central issues clarified, but on a high level
Authors: Leistner Matthias , Berns Sebastian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In its decision, the UPC Court of Appeal confirms the application of key principles of patent claim interpretation for unitary patents. With regard to the inventive step, a tentative path is chosen that does not clearly follow the problem–solution approach of the European Patent Office and instead, comprehensively takes the state of the art into account at the outset. The standard for the necessary probability of infringement and validity is set at a preponderance of probability (sufficient degree of certainty, ie more likely than not). Furthermore, the temporal and factual necessity of the injunction is also important in determining whether a preliminary injunction should be ordered. Ultimately, the granting of injunctive relief hinges on an overall weighing of the interests.
Unveiling the ‘author’ of international law — The ‘legal effect’ of ICJ’s advisory opinions
Authors: Rezadoost Vahid 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
While it is universally accepted that the advisory opinions rendered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ or Court) are not binding as such, scholarly discourse continues to ponder upon whether these opinions can confer any definitive legal effects. The scope of the legal implications stemming from such opinions is considerably broad, encompassing statements of solely evidentiary significance, determinations demanding due consideration, through to authoritative ‘givens’ that are beyond contestation. Examples elucidating these diverse interpretations permeate both academic literature and international practice with the most recent example being the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) Special Chamber’s Mauritius/Maldives Judgment, wherein the findings presented in the Chagos Advisory Opinion were treated as authoritative pronouncements of international law with opposable legal effects. This article posits a departure from the mainstream standpoint, contending that while the ICJ’s advisory determinations are non-binding, they are capable of being authoritatively definitive in declaring what international law is in a specific context. The article also suggests that the authority vested in a judicial pronouncement, determining the content of international law, may go beyond its bindingness contingent upon the stature of the authoring entity.
Serum autotaxin level: a promising diagnostic biomarker in differentiating Graves’ disease and thyroiditis
Authors: George Angel , Mariya Anns , Eappen Manu , Karthikeyan Marimuthu , Sreenath Ravindranath 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Recent studies have suggested that serum autotaxin (ATX) may be a promising diagnostic biomarker in differentiating between Graves’ disease (GD) and thyroiditis, as well as serving as a monitoring biomarker for GD. This study will evaluate the use of serum ATX as a diagnostic biomarker in these conditions.

Methods
In this prospective interventional study, blood samples were collected from the patients who met both inclusion and exclusion criteria, and serum ATX levels were measured by using the MyBioSource human Autotaxin ELISA kit.

Results
A total of 32 patients were enrolled, of which 18.8% were newly diagnosed with GD, 21.9% were thyroiditis, and 59.3% were on treatment for GD. Serum autotaxin antigen was significantly higher in GD patients than in thyroiditis (603.3217 ± 444.24 v/s 214.74 ± 55.91, P = &lt;.005). Serum ATX measurement successfully discriminated GD patients from thyroiditis (AUC = 0.952, 95%CI: 0.00–1.00) with an optimal cutoff value of ≥257.20 ng/L (sensitivity = 100 and specificity = 81.71). Monitoring the efficacy of serum ATX was analyzed and showed a significant difference.

Conclusion
The serum ATX was higher in subjects with GD as compared to thyroiditis, and ATX levels were found to be decreased during the treatment period. In conclusion, serum ATX can be used as a diagnostic and monitoring biomarker in GD.