bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and mortality of patients categorised with non-specific symptoms when dialling the emergency medical number: A register-based cohort study
Authors: Smievoll Vilde Fosso , Folkedal Helene Monsen , Myrmel Lars , Brattebø Guttorm 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
When calling medical emergency number 1-1-3 in Norway, operators in emergency medical communication centres use the decision support tool, the Norwegian Index for Medical Emergency, to categorise the problem and determine the correct handling and urgency level of the situation. The index holds 42 chapters, of which, one is the ‘Non-specific problem’. Studies in Denmark frequently use this chapter; however, there are no published Norwegian studies on the demographics of this patient group. We investigated the characteristics of the patients assigned to this chapter and their outcomes of 1- and 30-day mortality.
Methods
This was a registry-based, retrospective cohort study. Descriptive statistics were used to compare the two groups; t-tests were performed for continuous variables, and data were presented with corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Categorical data were compared using the chi-square test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results
Overall, out of the 25.474 included calls to the emergency medical communication centre in 2022, 1.860 (7.3%) were categorised as ‘Non-specific problem’. Patients in this group had a higher mean age, were more often men, had a shorter hospital stay, and showed more comorbidities than the control group. The use of this chapter was associated with the allocation of a higher urgency level and a reduction in the use of these criteria was observed during the nighttime. Significantly higher 1- and 30-day mortality rates were observed in patients with non-specific symptoms (1.40% and 6.94%, respectively; p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The group presenting symptoms categorised as non-specific comprised older patients, more men, and more patients showing comorbidities than the control group. They typically perceived a high level of urgency. A majority of these patients had a non-specific main diagnosis after hospital admission and a significantly higher mortality rate than those presenting with symptoms categorised as specific.
Credentialed pharmacist-led home medicines reviews targeting treatable traits and their impact on health outcomes in people with COPD
Authors: Sarwar Muhammad Rehan , McDonald Vanessa Marie , Abramson Michael J , Wilson Sally , Holland Anne E , Bonevski Billie , Mahal Ajay , Paul Eldho , Meier Brian , George Johnson 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Patients with COPD should engage in self-management strategies targeting behavioural traits and lifestyle risk factors for optimal outcomes.
Aim
To evaluate the impact of credentialed pharmacist-led home medicines review (HMR) targeting treatable traits (TTs) on health outcomes in COPD in primary care.
Methods
A pre- and post-intervention study was nested within a cluster-randomised controlled trial. A total of 81 participants with COPD from 21 Australian general practices received an HMR with a credentialed pharmacist targeting TTs. Changes in health outcomes at 6 and 12 months from baseline were assessed.
Results
Ten TTs were assessed and targeted during the HMR. At baseline, no-one had a written action plan for managing exacerbations, and medication adherence was sub-optimal in 85% of patients. In addition, 53% of participants demonstrated inadequate inhaler device technique, while 52% were current smokers. At 6-months follow-up, significant improvements were observed in HRQoL (mean SGRQ score = 34.6 versus 39.1 at baseline, p = 0.006), health status (median CAT score = 12 versus 16, p = 0.002), anxiety (median HADS-A score = 2.5 versus 5.0, p < 0.001), depression (median HADS-D score = 1.0 versus 5.0, p < 0.001), self-reported smoking (current smokers 47% versus 51.9%, p = 0.031) and adherence to treatment (median TABS score = 12.5 versus 9.0, p = 0.002). At 12-months: health status, anxiety, depression, smoking abstinence and adherence to treatment, continued to show statistically significant improvements compared to baseline measurements.
Conclusion
HMRs targeting TTs improved health outcomes in people with COPD. Credentialed pharmacists in primary care can work alongside GPs to optimise management of COPD.
Ecological Implication of Changing Irrigation Sources and Farming Practices: Experiences from West Bengal, India
Authors: Pani Amartya , Mishra Pulak , Dutta Mrinal Kanti 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

It is widely acknowledged that the rural economy's agrarian nature, combined with policy biases and institutional limits, has contributed to low productivity and slow growth in the Indian agriculture sector. With changing climate and market conditions, the Indian agriculture sector requires an adequate transition in cropping patterns to ensure the sector's viability and the inclusion of land-constrained farmers in the intensification process. The necessity for crop pattern shift has been emphasized further. Furthermore, input-intensive agricultural practices have resulted in biodiversity losses, groundwater depletion, and soil degradation, raising severe worries about the sector's sustainability, particularly in rainfed areas. This study makes an attempt to do so in the setting of West Bengal, India, which has a substantial population of land-constrained farmers. The objectives of the study include examining the changes in irrigation sources and cropping practices, understanding their implications for the agriculture sector with its local ecology, and assessing the role of the local level institutions in management and use of irrigation facilities and conservation of natural resources. Using standard descriptive statistics from various secondary sources for the period 2004-05 to 2014-15 and graphical techniques, the paper identifies crop diversification, crop concentration, cropping intensification, irrigation source, fertilizer use, rainfall pattern, and changes in wetland area as the major drivers of the agrarian transition in favor of non-food grains. The study, therefore, suggests that initiatives should be taken for guiding the farmers towards appropriate farming practices for judicious use of water and other natural resources. Moreover, the findings appear to point to the need for additional infrastructure development, they also provide insights into designing organic and more resilient policies and institutions to promote ecology-centric and participatory irrigation and farming practices for the agriculture sector's long-term growth.
The proteomic changes induced by Norcantharidin were quantified using LC-MS/MS in macrophages infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Wu Yi-Lin , Li Yuan-Ting , Liu Gan-Bin , Wu Jin-Lin , Liu Xiao-Ran , Gao Xin-Xuan , Huang Qi-Dan , Liang Jin , Ouyang Jia-Yi , Ding Yi-Ran , Wu Jun-Yi , Lu Yuan-Bin , Gao Yu-Chi , Cai Xiao-Zhen , Zhang Jun-Ai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Tuberculosis drug resistance contributes to the spread of tuberculosis. Immunotherapy is an effective strategy for treating tuberculosis, with the regulation of macrophage-mediated anti-tuberculosis immunity being crucial. Norcantharidin (NCTD), a drug used in tumor immunotherapy, has significant immunomodulatory effects. Thus, NCTD may have an anti-tuberculosis role by regulating immunity. Understanding how NCTD affects the proteome of Mtb-infected macrophages can provide valuable insights into potential treatments. This study aimed to investigate the impact of NCTD (10 μg/mL) on the proteome of macrophages infected with Mtb H37Ra using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. A total of 69 differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) were identified, with 28 up-regulated and 41 down-regulated in the NCTD-treated group. Validation of six DRPs (CLTCL1, VAV1, SP1, TRIM24, MYO1G, and WDR70) by Western blot analysis confirmed the accuracy of the LC-MS/MS method used in this study. NCTD modulates various protein expressions involved in chromatin-modifying enzymes, RHO GTPases activating PAKs, Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis, T cell receptor signaling pathway, and antigen processing and presentation. Overall, the research provides new insights into the effects of NCTD on the proteome of Mtb-infected macrophages. The identified changes highlight potential targets for future therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing host immunity against Mtb infection or developing new anti-TB drugs based on these findings.
Improving germinability leads to enhanced seedling establishment at low temperatures in rice through QTL pyramiding
Authors: Satoh Tomohiro , Kawamoto Tomohiko , Takahasgi Hidekazu , Watanabe Akio , Ueda Kenji , Sakurai Kenji , Akagi Hiromori 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Low-temperature germinability is a crucial trait for seedling establishment at low temperatures, which is essential for the direct-sowing culture of rice. We pyramided four quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for germinability at low temperatures in the genetic background of the Japanese cultivar Akitakomachi. In the QTL pyramiding lines, the accumulated QTLs additively increased the low-temperature germination rate, despite the weak effects of the individual QTLs. This can be observed when considering the QTL qLTG3-2, which alone did not increase the germination rate at low temperatures but further enhanced the germination rate when combined with either qLTG3-1 or qLTG11-1. Low-temperature germinability remarkably improved in proportion to the number of accumulated QTLs. Thus, QTL pyramiding was an effective method to enhance this trait. Furthermore, the improved low-temperature germinability in the lines that accumulated the four QTLs also enhanced the seedling establishment compared to Akitakomachi. Seedling establishment at low temperatures is a complex trait that involves continuous growth from seed germination to seedling development. The remarkable improvement in low-temperature germinability is likely to contribute to the improved seedling establishment at low temperatures. However, the four QTL pyramiding line exhibited a reduced brown rice appearance quality. To avoid the introduction of undesirable traits, pyramiding using new QTLs for low-temperature germinability is expected to develop a superior rice variety suitable for direct-sowing cultivation.
Building Clinician Well-Being in Academic Family Medicine: A Mixed-Methods Study of Physician Wellness through Voice and Organizational Redesign
Authors: Çelebi Julie , Ruiz Jonathan , Tai-Seale Ming 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Physician burnout is a pervasive challenge facing most health care organizations. The objective of this study is to document perspectives of family medicine physician faculty and administrators on institutional factors contributing to physician burnout and efforts to change organizational structure and processes to enhance physician wellness.
Methods
Twenty family medicine physicians at an academic health system completed semi-structured interviews between November 2021 and January 2022. Interview transcripts were coded thematically. Additional data came from a survey of physicians’ perceptions and experience with departmental wellness-oriented activities and two research needs assessment surveys in 2020 and 2022.
Results
Interviewees reported that faculty leaders’ advocacy regarding a collaborative physician-administration shared governance model was essential in organizational decision-making that directly affected faculty wellness. Joint accomplishment of a well-organized, successful primary care response to the pandemic proved the effectiveness of this new partnership. New programs such as prescription refill support, nurse practitioner inbox coverage, and support from the population health program were regarded as effective in reducing burnout and improving wellness. Wellness survey respondents reported improved levels of wellness. Noted areas for improvement included centralized appointment scheduling and uneven support for the tripartite mission of academic medicine due to competing clinical demands.
Conclusions
Despite the mounting challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, faculty in the Department of Family Medicine noted enhancement of their well-being. More holistic support for academic physicians, including mentorship and compensation for teaching and research, is needed. Advocacy and subsequent organizational changes provide a model for academic family medicine departments to use to turn pandemic-related adjustments into long-term, wellness-inducing changes.
Target rule exploration of drug combination based on directed weighted network
Authors: Bai Jinwei , Xiang Rongwu , Li Yuhang , Shen Zhenhua , Huang Can , Xiao Shen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
In the realm of drug discovery, deciphering the interaction rules of drug combinations at the target level within biological networks is pivotal for developing effective therapeutic strategies. This study introduces a novel method for identifying drug combinations using a directed weighted network model. This model is developed by analyzing drug-directed information, target-directed information, and potential dynamic global changes in drug action within the network.
Results
By leveraging network topology relationships, the target regularity of drug combinations is investigated, and a corresponding discriminant algorithm is designed. Comparative analysis with existing models demonstrates the superior prediction accuracy of our approach. The results highlight the efficacy of our method in identifying various types of drug combinations, bridging the gap between current research on biological network-based drug combinations and actual drug action information. Furthermore, our approach reveals potential synergistic or antagonistic mechanisms underlying these combinations, providing valuable insights for the development of combination therapies.
Conclusions
Our findings confirm that the proposed method effectively identifies different types of drug combinations and provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind these combinations. The study offers a robust tool for the rational design of drug combinations, potentially enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing adverse effects.
Knowledge and Perceptions of men towards Vasectomy among men of reproductive age in Otuke District-a cross-sectional study
Authors: Auma Anna Grace , Madira Emmanuel , Namukwana Beth , Izaruku Ronald , Kabunga Amir , Wmicheal Tamrat Endale 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective:This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perceptions of vasectomy as a family planning method among men in rural northern Uganda.
Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 624 participants. Sociodemographic characteristics, use of vasectomy, number of children, and knowledge of vasectomy were assessed. Perceptions of vasectomy were measured, focusing on cultural, religious, and gender-related aspects.
Results:The study revealed a predominantly adult, married, and Catholic population with low educational attainment. Only 2% of participants had undergone vasectomy, indicating limited utilization. While approximately half demonstrated awareness of vasectomy, negative perceptions prevailed, with 63.5% expressing unfavorable opinions. Cultural and religious beliefs, along with concerns about promiscuity, played a significant role in shaping negative perceptions. The majority believed in male dominance in family planning decisions, and a considerable portion endorsed sterilization exclusively for women.
Conclusion: This study highlights the low utilization and predominantly negative perceptions of vasectomy among men in rural northern Uganda, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address cultural and religious misconceptions and enhance education on family planning options. Public health campaigns should focus on dispelling misconceptions about vasectomy, particularly addressing cultural and spiritual concerns. Educational programs should target men and their communities, emphasizing the benefits of shared family planning decisions. Further research incorporating qualitative methods could provide a deeper understanding of the cultural aspects influencing vasectomy perceptions in this population.
GEDG: Gene Expression Database of Grape
Authors: Sun Wen , Chen Siyu , Tan Lina , Liu Yanglin , Zhang Xinyuan , Xiang Yan , Zheng Han , Yan Hanwei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Grapes are one of the oldest cultivated fruit species in the world, known for their high nutritional value. Grapes and grape products, including wine, are significant to many economies worldwide. Both abiotic and biotic stresses significantly impact the growth and reproduction of grapevines. RNA-Seq is a key tool for studying gene expression patterns under various conditions, such as stress responses, growth and developmental stages. However, there has been no comprehensive database available to providing gene expression profiles and traits of grape.
Description:
We have developed the gene expression database for grapes (GEDG), an online resource that encompasses data on 9 types of abiotic (including heat, cold, hormones, light, climate, nitrogen, frozen) and biotic (disease and pests) stresses and different developmental stages. A total of 32 datasets were related to stress, 20 to growth and development, and one to chromosomal ploidy. The primary objective of GEDG is to expand and utilize transcriptome data to better understand stress responses in grapes. GEDG is the comprehensive database to integrate transcriptome and traits on grape.
Conclusion
The Gene Expression Database of Grape (GEDG) was created to serve as a free resource platform for researchers, offering a comprehensive collection of genetic expression profiles for grape varieties based on RNA-seq data. The database is available at http://www.gedg-vitis.cn/.
Impact of a Mental Fatigue Protocol on Performance in Extreme Conditioning Programs
Authors: Silva Vinícius Jordão , Neto Antônio Ribeiro , Sousa Douglas Felipe , Bertolini Gladson Ricardo Flor , Bertoncello Dernival 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess whether mental fatigue can influence the perception of effort and the performance of individuals engaged in extreme conditioning programs. A cross-sectional, experimental, and randomized study was conducted with 25 CrossFit® practitioners randomly divided into two groups: Stroop Group (n = 13; 28.9 ± 4.9 years; 172 ± 0.1 cm; 74 ± 12.5 kg; 3.4 ± 1.8 years of practice; 5.5 ± 0.5 days of training per week) and Neutral Group (n = 12; 29.8 ± 5.3 years; 168 ± 0.1 cm; 69.89 ± 16.1 kg; 2.9 ± 1.4 years of practice; 5.2 ± 0.6 days of training per week). The first group underwent a mental stress protocol using the Stroop Color and Word Test, while the second group watched a neutral content video. Subsequently, both groups performed an adapted "Angie" exercise session. The Stroop Group, after just one application of the protocol, showed increased perception of effort (p = 0.0169) and completed the exercise session in a longer time (p = 0.038), compared to the Neutral Group. The Stroop Group also presented a higher Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score after the mental stress protocol (p = 0.0005). A single application of a mental fatigue protocol had an immediate effect on the performance of practitioners during a training session.
Inter-Mesh Routing Algorithms in LEO Satellite Constellations Networks
Authors: Elbehiry Eman , Tag.ElDien Heba A. , Elhalawany Basem M. , Fares Ahmed 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In the quest for the sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication system, global coverage is paramount. Low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations (SatCon) play a pivotal role. The Walker-Delta SatCon architecture, with satellites in opposing meshes, shows promise. However, high satellite speeds often neglect inter-mesh connections, impacting end-to-end delay. This study explores inter-mesh link scheduling algorithms like uniform cost search (UCS) and Bellman-Ford (BMF) to enhance SatCon performance. Filtering possible inter-mesh links based on distance and angular velocity maximizes topology duration. Linkages, via Edmond’s, UCS, or BMF algorithms, are constructed, and Dijkstra’s algorithm determines the end-to-end route. Key considerations include connection distance, rotational velocity, link setup time, and switching frequency. Simulations demonstrate significantly reduced average end-to-end time with manageable system overhead. Integrating IoT with LEO satellites improves global connectivity, crucial in remote areas. LEO satellites' low latency and broad coverage meet IoT’s connectivity needs, ensuring reliable communication for smart cities, agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. This integration enables seamless connectivity, reduces delays, and enhances data transmission reliability, fostering real-time monitoring and innovation across sectors.
Model informed approach to estimate treatment effect in placebo- controlled clinical trials using an artificial intelligence based propensity weighting methodology to account for non-specific responses to treatment
Authors: Gomeni Roberto , Bressolle-Gomeni Francoise 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In randomized, placebo controlled clinical trials (RCT) in major depressive disorders (MDD), treatment response (TR) is estimated by the change from baseline at study-end (EOS) of the scores of clinical scales used for assessing disease severity. Treatment effect (TE) is estimated by the baseline adjusted difference at EOS of TR between active treatments and placebo. The TE is function of treatment-specific and, non-specific (NSRT) effect (referred as placebo effect), and placebo response. The conventional statistical approaches used to estimate TE does not account for the potentially confounding effect of NSRT. This pragmatic approach is equivalent to assuming that TE is independent of NSRT even if this assumption is not true, leading to potential risks of inflating false negative/positive results in presence of high proportion of subjects with high/low NSRT. The objective of this study was to develop a model informed framework to analyze the outcomes of RCTs using data driven models, non-linear-mixed effect approach, artificial intelligence, and propensity score weighted methodology (PSW) to control the confounding effect of treatment non-specific response on the estimated TE. The secondary objective was to explore the impact of relevant covariates (including the assessment of a dose-response relationship) on the outcomes of pooled data from two RCTs. The proposed PSW approach provides a critical tool for controlling the confounding effect of treatment non-specific response, to increase signal detection and to provide a reliable estimate of the ‘true’ treatment effect by controlling false negative results associated with excessively high treatment non-specific response.