bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health workforce in governmental hospitals Hajjah Governorate -Yemen 2022
Authors: Badr Abdulnaser , Abol-Ghaith Fawz Mohammed 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Backgound
White Army, "They are doctors and nurses and all health care workers in the world." They are crucial for human lives and well-being over the world. Health worker are diverse and has standards regarding loud, demographical characteristics and distribution. Therefore, this paper aimed to identify the size and distribution of the health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah governorate of Yemen.
Method
The descriptive approach was used for the health workforce data set in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate, Yemen. The data was obtained from the Human Resources Department of the Public Health and Population Office. The data was used to determine the workforce size, distribution and most prominent demographic characteristics (hospital, district, qualification, specialization and gender).
Results
The study showed that the total health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah governorate are 431 employees, including 29 doctors and specialists, 15 dentists, 81 nurses, 61 midwives, and 245 medical and health service providers. In percentage (0.07, 0.03, 0.19, 0.14, 0.57), respectively.
The study showed that the majority of health workforce are male, with 294 (68%) male health workers, and with 137 (32%) female health workers.
Most of them have a health diploma above secondary or intermediate, which reached 365 with an average of 85% at the expense of bachelors and specialists, and they are concentrated in central hospitals with 73%, especially in urban areas 63%.
It also reveals the gap in specialists, doctors, midwives and nurses (90%, 38%, 39, 58), respectively. Not to mention the others. This confirms the existence of shortage of health manpower in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate in most specialties, especially women's cadres.
Conclusion
The results showed that the level of the gap in the health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate was high, and the largest percentage was among females. Therefore, Ministry of Health is recommended to develop a plan to qualify and attract the health workforce, including women, to reduce this gap, especially in rural hospitals.
ParaVerse: Co-design of a Parachute Rehearsal and Training Virtual-reality Enhanced Simulator for the Australian Defence Force: Combining a Generative Co-design Framework and an Agile Approach to Development
Authors: Mills Brennen , Masek Martin , Boston Julie , DeSouza Wyatt , Snell Jake , Bender Stuart , Thompson Matthew , Sung Billy , Hansen Sara 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

While co-design methods are crucial for developing digital educational interventions that are user-centred, contextually relevant, inclusive, and effective in meeting the diverse needs of learners and educators, little attention has been paid to the potential value of co-design processes for digital application development in the Defence context. This research gauged the efficacy of combining a generative co-design framework making use of agile and iterative co-design principles in an applied research and development project. The project produced an immersive virtual reality based digital solution in collaboration with the Australian Defence Force Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) Army. Specifically, the ParaVerse project sought to develop a solution considering the advanced tactics, techniques and procedures relevant to special operations soldiers for advanced parachute training. A Defence advisory group consisting of a series of subject matter experts was formulated to consult with the research and development team over the course of the co-design process. End-user testing with 35 SOCOMD personnel demonstrated the value of the ParaVerse application for SOCOMD personnel, speaking to the success of the leveraged generative co-design model. End-users rated ParaVerse as having greater capacity to influence education and training practices for SOCOMD and Defence generally in comparison to a pre-existing virtual parachute simulator. ParaVerse was also rated higher for satisfaction and useability and was associated with fewer instances of motion sickness. The Generative Co-Design Framework leveraged for this research provides one roadmap on how to integrate end-users in innovation design, particularly for projects working across the nexus of Defence and academia.
Effects of soil drought on competitiveness of the invasive weed Aegilops tauschii
Authors: Wang Ning 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Aegilops tauschii, an invasive weed, has a detrimental impact on the winter wheat cultivation areas of China. Understanding how drought influences competitive ability of A. tauschii can help identify traits related to its invasiveness and guide management. Slight, moderate, and severe soil drought stress conditions were established using potted weighing and water control methods. Concurrently, the de Wit replacement experiment was conducted to assess changes in morphological structure, biomass allocation, and physiological characteristics under varying intensities of soil drought stress. Based on observations of alterations in plant height, total leaf area, and total biomass, two-factor variance analysis revealed that soil drought inhibited the growth and development of both A. tauschii and Triticum aestivum L. (‘Xinmai 32’). Furthermore, one-factor variance analysis revealed that A. tauschii and wheat responded to soil drought stress by increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and proline content. However, as drought severity escalated, chlorophyll content in A. tauschii and wheat declined significantly, while relative electrical conductivity (REC) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) content increased markedly. The results of the fuzzy membership function indicated that A. tauschii exhibited greater drought tolerance compared to the tested wheat variety. Lastly, considering adjustments in the corrected index of relative competition intensity (CRCI), it was observed that soil drought amplified the competitive inhibition of A. tauschii on wheat. In short, A. tauschii was more tolerant of the soil drought stress than wheat through the favorable adjustment of morphology, biomass allocation pattern and physiological features, and soil drought intensified its competitive inhibition on wheat.
Internet Use and Cognitive Ability Among Older Adults in China: Results From a National Household Survey
Authors: Zhang Huai-dong , Zhou Min 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Age-related cognitive decline poses a significant threat to both individual well-being and public health and can progress to conditions such as Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Internet use may contribute to protecting against cognitive decline through leisure engagement.
Methods: This study utilizes data from the Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) conducted in 2016 and 2018. Employing the entropy weight method, a comprehensive evaluation index for cognitive ability is constructed. Additionally, we employ both a multiple linear regression model and a single-step multiple mediation model to explore the relationship and mechanism linking internet use to cognitive ability among the elderly, with leisure engagement serving as a mediating factor.
Results: The empirical findings indicate a positive association between internet use and the cognitive ability of older adults. Endogeneity tests and robustness analyses confirm the consistency of this conclusion. Furthermore, mediation analysis reveals that physical activity, recreational engagement, and learning activities serve as mediators in the relationship between internet use and cognitive performance. However, offline social interactions do not exhibit a significant indirect effect.
Conclusion: This study suggests that internet usage may be linked to a reduced risk of cognitive impairment among older adults. To enhance cognitive abilities, governmental efforts should focus on fostering internet-related skills and promoting increased engagement in leisure activities among this demographic.
Exploring the Influence of Human Activities and COVID-19 Lockdown on Urban Air Quality in Rajasthan, India
Authors: Kumar Porush 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationships between human activities, air quality dynamics, and the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown in seven major cities in Rajasthan, India—Ajmer, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Pali, and Udaipur. This study meticulously examined the fluctuations in the concentrations of key pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2) from 2018 to 2022, covering the prelockdown, lockdown, and postlockdown phases. Significant reductions in air pollutant concentrations were observed during the lockdown period, attributed to decreased anthropogenic activities, notably vehicular emissions and industrial operations. However, postlockdown, a rebound effect was observed, indicating challenges in sustaining air quality improvements amid economic resurgence. Notable findings include substantial declines in PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2 levels during the lockdown, followed by increases to varying degrees postlockdown. The cities of Ajmer, Alwar, and Jaipur demonstrated divergent trends in pollutant concentrations, emphasizing the complex interplay between environmental factors and human behavior. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on air quality management by providing insights into the impacts of temporary interventions, such as lockdowns, on urban air quality dynamics. The findings underscore the need for holistic approaches integrating environmental policies, industrial regulations, and public health initiatives to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and safeguard public health and environmental well-being in urban regions.
Flat biofilm of Staphylococcus epidermidis transforms into Spider-web-like thick biofilm in response to collagen, revealed by liquid-phase atmospheric scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Takahashi Chisato , Sato Mari , Sato Chikara 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Collagen layer moisturized by Staphylococcus epidermidis on the skin, protects our body from external pathogens. Moreover, S. epidermidis is well known to contribute to our innate immune system. However, the relationship between vertebrate collagen and the symbiotic bacterium, has not been studied to date. Here, we observed development of S. epidermidis colonies on collagen substrate using liquid-phase atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM). Biofilms were formed on thin-film-windowed ASEM specimen holders with or without collagen coating, fixed by aldehyde, and observed in aqueous buffer using ASEM. Amazingly, an intensive spider-web-like biofilm was constructed on collagen-coated film, whereas flat biofilm on non-coated film. During the process, bacterial cells first adhered to the collagen substrate, multiplied rapidly, secreted micro vesicles, formed delicate web-like intercellular fibril connections, and surrounded by extracellular polymeric substance matrix. Their firm attachment to collagen substrate suggests involvement of the hypothesized collagen-binding proteins. The web-like biofilm of S. epidermidis bacteria in response to collagen, could reflect their life from on vertebrate skin, which could be acquired during the symbiosis. The structure seems to be advantageous to moisturize our skin, and could be important to understanding their role for our innate immune system and further pathogenic processes of the related infectious diseases.
Analysis of Host Factor Networks during Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Primary Human Hepatocytes
Authors: Hwangbo Suhyun , Kim Gahee , Choi Yongwook , Park Yong Kwang , Bae Songmee , Ryu Jae Yong , Hur Wonhee 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects around 250 million people worldwide, causing approximately 887,000 deaths annually, primarily owing to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The current approved treatments for chronic HBV infection, such as interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogs, have certain limitations as they cannot completely eradicate covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Considering that HBV replication relies on host transcription factors, focusing on host factors in the HBV genome may provide insights into new therapeutic targets against HBV. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying viral persistence and hepatocyte pathogenesis, along with the associated host factors, is crucial. In this study, we investigated novel therapeutic targets for HBV infection by identifying gene and pathway networks involved in HBV replication in primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). Importantly, our study utilized cultured primary hepatocytes, allowing transcriptomic profiling in a biologically relevant context and enabling the investigation of early HBV-mediated effects.
Methods: PHHs were infected with HBV virion particles derived from HepAD38 cells at 80 HBV genome equivalents per cell (Geq/cell). For transcriptomic sequencing, PHHs were harvested 1, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 7-days post-infection (dpi). After preparing the libraries, clustering and sequencing were conducted to generate RNA-sequencing data. This data was processed using Bioinformatics tools and software to analyze DEGs and obtain statistically significant results. Furthermore, qPCR was performed to validate the RNA-sequencing results, ensuring consistent findings.
Results: We observed significant alterations in the expression patterns of 149 genes from days 1-7 after HBV infection. The top 100 DEGs associated with mRNA metabolism, alternative splicing regulation, and spliceosomes were downregulated during HBV infection. Conversely, among the upregulated genes, significant changes were primarily related to endopeptidase inhibitor and UDP glucuronosyltransferase activity genes. We identified RNA-binding proteins involved in mRNA metabolism and alternative splicing regulation during HBV infection. We found RBM14 and RPL28 to be potential biomarkers for HBV-associated HCC.
Conclusions: Transcriptome analysis of gene expression changes during HBV infection in PHHs provided valuable insights into chronic HBV infection. Additionally, understanding the functional involvement of host factor networks in the molecular mechanisms of HBV replication and transcription may facilitate the development of novel strategies for HBV treatment.
Fibrinogen signalling in human iPSC-derived microglia
Authors: Cosker Katharina , Boorman Emily , Vasilopoulou Foteini , Mallach Anna , Piers Thomas M , Pocock Jennifer M 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and multiple sclerosis (MS), microglia are exposed to the blood protein fibrinogen (FG), and we showed previously the response of primary-cultured rat microglia to FG. Here, we show human iPSC-derived microglia (iPS-Mg) respond to FG, inducing secretion of a range of cytokines and chemokines and activation of stress pathways. An increased pro-caspase 4/5 (and active caspase-4/5) expression was independent of ER stress. Furthermore, unlike LPS/ATP which led to canonical NLRP3 inflammasome pathway activation including caspase 1 activity and IL-1β secretion, FG, with or without ATP did not activate the classical inflammasome pathway, indicating FG induced cytokine secretion in human iPS-Mg through non-canonical NFκB pathways. We also investigated how the late-onset AD (LOAD) TREM2 risk factor R47H may influence these responses. Soluble TREM2 was not shed with FG, in contrast to LPS stimulation, but the presence of FG reduced Aβ1−42 phagocytosis by iPS-Mg and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation but not glycolysis. Stress pathway proteome analyses indicated FG induced expression of many proteins in TREM2 common variant (Cv) iPS-Mg some of which more highly expressed in the R47H variant. These findings point to discrete activation pathways in iPS-Mg in response to FG and suggest targets for intervention where blood-brain barrier dysfunction may allow parenchymal FG accumulation.
Gene Amplification of Mediator Subunit 30 Redirects the MYC Transcriptional Program and Oncogenesis
Authors: Jin Chunyu , Zhao Linjie , Zhao Guofeng , Liu Yujia , Ma Wubin , Ma Shenghong , Yao Likun , Liu Yuan , Wu Qiulian , Yuan Huairui , Yang Kailin , Ohgi Kenneth , Rich Jeremy N. , Rosenfeld Michael G. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies. Here, we investigate the co-amplification of MED30 and MYC across diverse cancer types and its impact on oncogenic transcriptional programs. Transcriptional profiling of MYC and MED30 single or both overexpression/amplification revealed the over amount of MED30 lead MYC to a new transcriptional program that associate with poor prognosis. Mechanistically, MED30 overexpression/amplification recruits other Mediator components and binding of MYC to a small subset of novel genomic regulatory sites, changing the epigenetic marks and inducing the formation of new enhancers, which drive the expression of target genes crucial for cancer progression. In vivo studies in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) further validate the oncogenic potential of MED30, as its overexpression promotes tumor growth and can be attenuated by knockdown of MYC. Using another cancer type as an example, MED30 knockdown reduces tumor growth particularly in MYC high-expressed glioblastoma (GBM) cell lines. Overall, our study elucidates the critical role of MED30 overexpression in orchestrating oncogenic transcriptional programs and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target for MYC-amplified cancer.
Enhancing Radiological Emergency Response through Agent-Based Model Case 2: Time Required for Staff Assemble
Authors: Kim Geon , Park Jinkyun , Heo Gyunyoung 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

As society becomes more complex, the importance of quick and effective emergency response systems gets more emphasized. This paper introduces a way to reduce the time it takes for emergency staff assembly to be handled during radioactive accidents, which is one of significant factors to manage early-stage situations. By using a type of computer modeling called agent-based modeling (ABM) on the NetLogo software, we examine how emergency responses are carried out, focusing on how emergency staff assembly workers are sent out and how they work together in a simulated setting. By integrating traffic and path-finding models, along with real-world GIS (Geographic Information System) data, our methodology allows for more realistic evaluation of response times under various scenarios, including harsh weather conditions (e.g., Heavy snow) and infrastructural disruptions (e.g., Earthquake). The findings reveal significant variability in emergency staff assembly times, underscored by the impact of environmental factors. This research not only contributes to the understanding of emergency response mechanisms but also provides a practical framework for improving the efficacy of disaster management systems, thereby enhancing public safety and resilience against future radiological events.
Enhancing Game Customer Churn Prediction with a Stacked Ensemble Learning Model
Authors: Guo Rui , Xiong Wen , Zhang Yungang , Hu Yanfang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

With the rapid growth of mobile internet and smart devices, China's mobile game market has become highly competitive. Game companies face increasing costs in promoting games and acquiring new customers. In response, this paper proposes a stack-based model for game customer churn prediction. This model utilizes a comprehensive set of user features, including static, dynamic, and social network data extracted from game logs. To correct the imbalance between positive and negative examples in our dataset, we applied the Neighborhood Cleaning Rule (NCL). We then constructed the model using a stacking approach that integrates multiple machine learning models into a cohesive binary classification framework. This method systematically predicts customer churn by processing these features. Our approach was rigorously tested on a large-scale real-world dataset, comparing it against nine standard baseline methods. The results reveal that the stack-based model significantly outperforms these methods, achieving a prediction accuracy of 94%.
La 3+ -Schiff base Complex for the Degradation of Rhodamine B: Kinetic Studies and Reactive Species Identification
Authors: Yadav Vaishali , Bhardwaj Vimal K. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The research investigates the nature of the La-H2L complex using molar conductivity experiments and UV-visible spectroscopy, subsequently exploring its photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. Photocatalytic degradation of RhB was evaluated under UV light, with optimization studies conducted for pH, initial dye concentration, and catalyst dosage. The decay proceeded according to pseudo-first-order kinetics, exhibiting a rate constant of 0.0169 min− 1. Scavenger studies identified hydroxyl radicals as the main reactive species along with holes and superoxide radicals. HRMS spectra revealed intermediate products formed during degradation, elucidating plausible degradation pathways. The La-H2L complex demonstrated high stability and reusability, maintaining significant degradation efficiency over four cycles. XRD and FTIR spectra confirmed the stability of the complex after degradation. These findings highlight the potential of the La-H2L complex as an efficient and stable photocatalyst for environmental remediation applications.
Adipose tissue insulin resistance index was inversely associated with gluteofemoral fat and skeletal muscle mass in Japanese women
Authors: Minato-Inokawa Satomi , Honda Mari , Tsuboi-Kaji Ayaka , Takeuchi Mika , Kitaoka Kaori , Kurata Miki , Wu Bin , Kazumi Tsutomu , Fukuo Keisuke 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Associations of adipose tissue insulin resistance index (AT-IR, a product of fasting insulin and free fatty acids) with body fat mass and distribution and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) were compared with results of homeostasis-model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in 284 Japanese female university students and 148 their biological mothers whose BMI averaged <23 kg/m2. Although mothers compared with daughters had higher BMI, body fat percentage and trunk fat to body fat (TF/BF) ratio and lower leg fat to body fat (LF/BF), AT-IR and HOMA-IR did not differ. We had multivariable linear regression analyses which included TF/BF ratio, LF/BF ratio, weight-adjusted ASM (%ASM), height-adjusted ASM index (ASMI), fat mass index (FMI) and body fat percentage. In young women, AT-IR was independently associated with LF/BF ratio (Standardized β [Sβ]: -0.139, p=0.019) and ASMI (Sβ: -0.167, p=0.005). In middle-aged women, LF/BF ratio (Sβ: -0.177, p=0.049) and %ASM (Sβ: -0.205, p=0.02) emerged as independent determinants of AT-IR. HOMA-IR was associated with TF/BF ratio and FMI, a proxy of abdominal and general adiposity, respectively, in both young and middle-aged women. Inverse association of AT-IR with leg fat may support the notion that limited peripheral adipose storage capacity and small skeletal muscle size are important etiological components in insulin-resistant cardiometabolic disease in Japanese women.