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Segmentation of plateau zokor mounds in alpine meadows from UAV images using an improved UNet network
Drug-related stigma among people who inject drugs – development and validation of the drug use stigma scale (DUSS)
Drug use is a highly stigmatized behavior, and drug-related stigma is a key driver of behavioral risk, lower health care utilization, and associated adverse health outcomes among people who inject drugs (PWID). While instruments exist for measuring drug-related stigma, their applicability to community-based PWID across multiple stigma types (enacted, anticipated, internalized) and settings (health care, society, family) is limited, as most were developed using treatment-based samples and all were developed in urban populations. This study sought to develop a Drug Use Stigma Scale (DUSS) that addresses these limitations. We developed an initial list of 39 items based on literature review and qualitative interviews (N = 27) and three focus groups (N = 28) with PWID recruited from syringe services programs and via peer referral in two predominantly rural West Virginia counties. The scale items were administered in a survey to 336 PWID recruited from the same two counties divided into development and validation samples. Responses to the 39-item scale went through a multidimensional refinement process, including examination of internal consistency, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and a three-factor CFA based on stigma setting. Next, a set of final measurement CFAs were conducted. Finally, the resulting scale was examined for criterion-related concurrent validation. The final DUSS consisted of 16 items with excellent fit statistics for the development sample: SRMR: 0.03, RMSEA: 0.09, GFI: 0.92, CFI: 0.96, NFI: 0.94. Fit attenuated but remained satisfactory for the validation sample. DUSS scores were significantly associated with increased odds of not seeking healthcare when needed (OR: 1.47, p = 0.001; OR: 1.61, p < 0.0001) after controlling for gender and age. Thus, the resulting scale, the DUSS, demonstrates strong validity and internal reliability across multiple stigma mechanisms and settings in a rural population, making it a valuable tool for broadly assessing drug-related stigma and related intervention effectiveness among PWID.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: CO2 mediated optical investigation of pyridine transformation into 2,2′-bipyridine for nitrogen pollutant removal
Abstract Nitrogen containing organic compounds such as pyridine are major industrial water pollutants that pose serious environmental and health risks. This study presents a sustainable, CO 2 mediated process for removing dissolved pyridine from water through its conversion into 2,2′-bipyridine, an insoluble and recoverable compound of industrial value. The highly exothermic transformation was monitored by UV-visible spectroscopy to elucidate its kinetics and underlying mechanism. Characteristic bands at 255 nm and 282 nm were used to track the consumption of pyridine and the formation of bipyridine, respectively. The results show that CO 2 acts as an electron transfer mediator, promoting dehydrogenative coupling of pyridine and accelerating its conversion into bipyridine. This process simultaneously enables the purification of pyridine contaminated water and the production of a valuable heterocyclic compound. Overall, these findings highlight a promising CO 2 assisted pathway for the treatment of nitrogenous organic pollutants and demonstrate the utility of optical spectroscopy for monitoring green water purification reactions.
Cross-national disparities in healthcare workers’ perceptions: Examining fear of infection and confidence in the received COVID-19 vaccines amid emerging variants
Variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can influence transmissibility, virulence, vaccine efficacy, the effectiveness of therapeutic agents, diagnostic accuracy, and the overall success of public health interventions. This study aimed to assess the impact of emerging variants on healthcare workers’ (HCWs) fear related to SARS-CoV-2 new variant infection and to evaluate their confidence in the received vaccines. A globally distributed cross-sectional study was performed using an online anonymous survey and face-to-face interviews between 1 st November and 5 th December 2023. The fear level was assessed by the Fear of Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) Scale (FCS), and the confidence level in the received COVID-19 vaccines was measured using the Arabic Tool for Assessment of Post-vaccination Confidence in COVID-19 vaccines (ARAB-VAX-CONF). A total of 5843 eligible HCWs completed the survey with a mean age of 32.1 ± 10.8 years. Of them, 42.5% were from the Eastern Mediterranean region, 24.2% were from the African region, 14.4% were from the Western region, and 18.9% were from other regions (Eastern Asia and Latin America). Nearly three-fourths (72.7%) were vaccinated, primarily with Pfizer (40.0%), AstraZeneca (36.8%), and Sinopharm (14.3%). Nearly two-fifths (40.5%) were in extreme fear of catching infection from the COVID-19 emerging variants. Among the HCWs who received COVID-19 vaccines, 41.0% showed good confidence in the received vaccine. Predictors of lower fear included being married [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.8; 95% CI (0.7–0.9)], having a small family of two members [AOR: 0.63; 95% CI (0.5–0.78)] or three members [AOR: 0.62; 95% CI (0.51–0.72)], and being a pharmacist [AOR: 0.75; 95% CI (0.55–0.92)]. Conversely, predictors of increased fear included being divorced or widowed [AOR: 1.3; 95% CI (1.0–1.8)], residing in rural areas [AOR: 1.6; 95% CI (1.4–1.8)] or desert/mountain areas [AOR: 2.5; 95% CI (1.6–4.0)], having insufficient income and in debt [AOR: 2.5; 95% CI (2.2–3.1)], having insufficient income [AOR: 2.4; 95% CI (2.0–2.8)], and having chronic diseases [AOR: 1.2; 95% CI (1.1–1.4)]. Predictors of good confidence in the received vaccine were middle age (30–39 years) [AOR: 1.4; 95% CI (1.1–1.8)], age group 40 years and more [AOR: 1.8; 95% CI (1.4–2.3), rural/other residence [AOR: 1.3; 95% CI (1.1–1.5)], male sex [AOR: 1.3; 95% CI (1.1–1.4)], and small family members of one [AOR: 5.5; 95% CI (4.2–7.2)], two [AOR: 1.5; 95% CI (1.2–1.9)], and three [AOR: 1.3; 95% CI (1.1–1.6)]. On the other hand, having chronic diseases [AOR: 0.82; 95% CI (0.71–0.95)], having mental disorders [AOR: 0.59; 95% CI (0.51–0.69)], high family number of four [AOR: 0.78; 95% CI (0.69–0.89)], personal history of COVID-19 infection [AOR: 0.61; 95% CI (0.53–0.71)], and experiencing side effects of vaccination [AOR: 0.63; 95% CI (0.55–0.72)] were associated with low confidence regarding the received vaccine. In conclusion, HCWs exhibited notable fear of infection with SARS-CoV-2 new variants, along with low confidence in the vaccine. The study suggests realistic approaches, such as targeted interventional programs to address the fear, resolve uncertainties, and promote widespread vaccine confidence among HCWs.
Optimizing energy, downtime, and throughput in footwear production through machine learning
Public knowledge and awareness of obstructive sleep apnea in Saudi Arabia: A population-based study of over 16,000 adults
Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common yet underdiagnosed sleep-related breathing disorder with significant health implications. Despite its clinical relevance, data on population-level knowledge of OSA in Saudi Arabia remain limited. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 28th, 2023, and October 18th, 2024, to assess the level of public knowledge and awareness about OSA among the general population in Saudi Arabia. Results A total of 16,662 participants completed the survey, with a mean age of 31 years. Obesity (15.8%) was the most commonly self-reported health condition. Most respondents rated their sleep quality as good (36.2%) or acceptable (28.9%), while only 7.5% reported consistent physical activity. Overall, only 12.9% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of OSA. Males were more likely to have good knowledge than females (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.07–1.33, p = 0.001). Residents of the Northern region had significantly higher awareness compared to those in the Central region (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.18–1.64, p < 0.001). Lower educational attainment was associated with reduced awareness: diploma holders (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.50–0.68, p < 0.001) and primary/intermediate education (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.47–0.80, p < 0.001). Former smokers were more knowledgeable than current smokers (OR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.69–2.44, p < 0.001). Participants with obesity had significantly higher odds of good knowledge compared to those with normal BMI (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.27–1.88, p < 0.001). Conclusion Public knowledge about OSA in Saudi Arabia is considerably low, with awareness varying significantly by gender, region, education level, smoking status, and BMI. Targeted public health initiatives are essential to enhance understanding, promote early detection, and improve management of OSA across the population.
Chronic alcohol consumption downregulates TRPA1 ion channel and the main peptidergic messengers of the Edinger-Westphal nucleus
Preclinical safety and burn wound healing activity of “Novostron”, a novel topical iodine-based therapeutic
Iodine-based antiseptics are essential in wound care but are often limited by cytotoxicity, instability, and rapid iodine release. Novostron is a novel polymer–iodine complex incorporating dextrin, polyvinyl alcohol, and metal ions, designed to enable controlled iodine release. Structural integrity and composition were confirmed by ¹H and 13 C NMR spectroscopy and physicochemical analysis, indicating a molecular weight of ~9500 g/mol, a pH of 4.23, and an iodine content of 8.13%. Pharmacokinetic analysis in rabbits demonstrated that following a single dermal application, systemic iodine absorption was minimal, with peak blood iodine concentrations remaining within physiological limits and rapid elimination within 24 hours. Evaluation of thyroid function revealed no significant changes in serum T₃, T₄, or TSH levels compared with those of the controls, confirming that topical application of Novostron does not disrupt thyroid homeostasis. In compliance with OECD guidelines in rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats, Novostron showed no signs of dermal irritation, skin sensitization, or systemic toxicity (LD₅₀ > 2000 mg/kg). In a rat cotton pellet granuloma model, Novostron significantly reduced the inflammatory mass (23.65% inhibition), supporting its anti-inflammatory potential. In a murine burn model, Novostron accelerated wound contraction (25.95% at day 10), increased epidermal thickness, and enhanced collagen deposition (~44%), outperforming controls and matching or exceeding betadine. These findings suggest that Novostron promotes tissue repair by modulating inflammation. Overall, Novostron demonstrated a favourable preclinical safety and efficacy profile, and its polymer–iodine composition, which enables controlled release and localized activity highlights its potential as a promising topical therapeutic. However, the study was limited to animal models and short-term observation; further long-term and clinical investigations are needed to confirm its translational potential in human wound healing.
Alkalinity enhancement with sodium hydroxide in coastal ocean waters
Abstract Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) is increasingly recognised as essential for achieving net zero emissions to limit the impacts of climate change. Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) presents a potentially scalable marine CDR (mCDR) technique. Here we report on the first OAE field trial in Australia, conducted at a coastal site in Tasmania using continuous addition of aqueous sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The resulting plume of modified seawater was effectively tracked, and changes in surface carbonate chemistry were quantified using a containerised laboratory. At the point of NaOH release, partial pressure of CO $$_2$$ ( p CO $$_2$$ ) decreased by up to 370 $$\mu$$ atm with alkalinity increasing by approximately 545 $$\mu$$ mol kg $$^{-1}$$ . Maximum downstream decreases in p CO $$_2$$ ranged from 22 to 77 $$\mu$$ atm, corresponding to signal strengths of < 1 - 5 $$\%$$ . This small-scale field trial confirmed that the dispersion of a plume of modified seawater occurs rapidly and within meters of the site of addition, and that with appropriate tools, these changes can be measured directly in a coastal ocean location. These results suggest that the deployment of shore-based OAE, in combination with local coastal infrastructure and regional models, have potential as an mCDR approach.
Tag-mediated effect on the dynamics of social influence
The dynamics of social influence carry significant sociological and economic implications and have been examined across various disciplines. However, the dynamics of social influence within tag-mediated systems remains underexplored. This study proposes a generalized networked urn model that incorporates tagging effects, extending current understandings of self-reinforcing and self-correcting mechanisms in social dynamics. Mathematical derivations show that tag-related parameters—the share of individuals with a given tag, the probability of being tag-driven, and the effect of tag difference—interact with social influence to shape convergence outcomes. Depending on context, tags can either reinforce early advantages or act as a corrective force that drives outcomes toward balance. Simulation results further indicate that tagging effects may weaken path dependence under certain conditions, reducing market inequality and improving predictability, while in other cases they may sustain disparities. These findings underscore the moderating role of tags in collective dynamics, offering theoretical insights into the social influence processes.
Characterization of 3D printed re-entrant midsole structure with various infill density and print direction
Relationships between upper extremity neuromuscular function and patient-reported outcomes among individuals with a history of glenohumeral labral repair
Background Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are essential components of contemporary healthcare practices, which allow clinicians to effectively monitor clinical outcomes. Objectively measured neuromuscular impairments have been reported among individuals with glenohumeral labral repair, yet their relationship with PROs is unclear. Understanding those relationships would help clinicians explain clinical meaning of such impairments from a patient-oriented perspective. The objective of this study was to determine the relationships between objective metrics of upper extremity neuromuscular function and PROs in individuals with glenohumeral labral repair. Methods 16 individuals with a history of glenohumeral labral repair (13 males/3 females, age: 24.1 ± 5.5 years, time from surgery: 36.3 ± 33.3 months) volunteered. Neuromuscular functions, characterized by shoulder abduction and wrist flexion maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque, Hoffmann reflex (spinal pathway), and active motor threshold (AMT, corticospinal pathway) of the upper extremity muscles, were assessed bilaterally. Pain, physical activity level, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), and Veteran’s Rand 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) were used to quantify self-reported upper extremity function and global health, encompassing both mental and physical components. Bivariate correlations and multiple linear regression were used to identify the variance explained by neuromuscular outcomes in each PRO. Results Involved limb wrist flexion MVIC torque moderately correlated with DASH ( r = −.523, p = .045). AMT of middle deltoid moderately correlated with OSS (ρ = .570, p = .021). Age and current activity level explained 73.2% variance in the VR-12 physical component (adjusted R 2 = .732, p < .001). Age moderately correlated with the VR-12 mental component (ρ = .550, p = .027). Conclusions Greater involved limb wrist flexor strength, corticospinal excitability of the middle deltoid, as well as greater age and lesser activity level explained better perceived function and health. These results support the clinical relevance of muscle strength and neural function to patient recovery from glenohumeral labral repair.
Egg mass gelatinous envelopes of yellow goosefish Lophius litulon protect the internal eggs and larvae from salinity stress and desiccation
Unveiling the wealth-bone connection: How socioeconomic status influences trabecular bone health
Background Currently, the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and trabecular bone score (TBS) remains unclear. This study uses existing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to test the hypothesis that SES, measured by the poverty income ratio (PIR), is associated with TBS among adults in the United States of America. Methods This study analyzed the relationship between SES and TBS in 7,832 adults using data from the 2005–2008 NHANES. The TBS data were obtained from pre-existing lumbar spine DXA scans collected in the NHANES database. The study employed a multivariable linear regression model, adjusting for various confounding factors, to examine the association between the PIR and TBS. Additionally, demographic characteristics were described, stratified analyses, single factor analysis, smooth curve fitting, and interaction analysis were conducted. Results Results showed that PIR was positively correlated with TBS (β = 0.0019, 95% CI 0.0002–0.0035, P < 0.05), and high-income individuals had a TBS 0.018 higher than low-income individuals (95% CI 0.0106–0.0254, P < 0.001). Smooth curve fitting analysis revealed a linear relationship between PIR and TBS. Stratified analysis showed that this positive correlation was particularly evident among adults aged 50 and older, observed specifically in Mexican Americans and individuals of European and African ancestry. Conclusions Our research shows that there is a significant positive correlation between adult SES and TBS. Higher household income levels correspond to better TBS levels, which can help prevent osteoporosis and fractures. When developing strategies for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, healthcare professionals and policymakers should consider the impact of socioeconomic inequalities.
Network pharmacology and molecular dynamics simulation elucidate the potential mechanism of Batatasin-III in Bletilla striata against ulcerative colitis
Whole-genome analysis of Lysinibacillus boronitolerans MSR1: A dairy-isolated multidrug-resistant and non-pathogenic strain
Lysinibacillus boronitolerans MSR1, a bacterium isolated from yogurt, was characterized through a detailed genomic and phylogenetic analysis. The strain demonstrated the ability to grow in MRS broth at pH 5–8 and exhibited positive activity in citrate utilization, catalase, oxidase, Methyl Red–Voges Proskauer (MR-VP), and Triple Sugar Iron (TSI) tests while being negative for amylase degradation and sulfide production. Whole-genome sequencing and Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) analysis revealed a close genetic relationship between MSR1 and previously reported L. boronitolerans strains, with ANI values ranging from 95.25% to 98.30%, particularly for L. boronitolerans strain NBRC103108. Phylogenetic analyses based on whole-genome and 16S rRNA sequences confirmed the taxonomic placement of MSR1 within the L. boronitolerans species. A circular genome comparison highlighted the presence of unique genomic regions in MSR1, notably around the 3500 kbp mark, indicating the acquisition of novel genes that may contribute to its distinct phenotypic traits. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed a high level of resistance in MSR1 to glycopeptides and aminoglycosides, while the strain remained susceptible to imipenem, with in silico analysis identifying key antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes, including qacJ , vanW , vanT , and FosBx1 , which confer resistance to disinfectants, vancomycin, and fosfomycin through efflux pumps and target modification mechanisms. Five distinct biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) regions were identified in the MSR1 genome, encoding genes for lanthipeptide-class-iii, RiPP-like, T3PKS, beta-lactone, terpene, and NRPS-like clusters. Pan-genome analysis suggested that L. boronitolerans possesses an open pan-genome, with a substantial proportion of accessory and unique genes. Functional annotation of core, accessory, and unique genes revealed that core genes are predominantly associated with metabolic processes, while accessory and unique genes are involved in information processing, storage, and defence mechanisms. These findings enhance our understanding of the genomic diversity, evolutionary dynamics, and potential adaptive strategies of L. boronitolerans MSR1, providing new insights into its ecological and functional roles.
Morpho-physiological and biochemical insights into phytoremediation of lithium by sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) and napier grass (Cenchrus purpureus Schumach.)
Abstract Phytoremediation is a green and cost-effective strategy used to clean up metal pollutants from contaminated soils. Recently, non-crop species have gained attention for their ability to adapt to and thrive in contaminated environments, making them promising candidates for phytoextraction. However, their effectiveness in accumulating lithium (Li) is not well understood. This study explored the potential of sunn hemp ( Crotalaria juncea L.) and napier grass ( Cenchrus purpureus Schumach.) for phytoextraction of lithium a challenging and emerging soil contaminant under controlled greenhouse conditions. Inductively coupled plasma‒mass spectrometry (ICP‒MS) was used to measure uptake of lithium and compartmentalized in plant tissues at different contamination levels. Both sunn hemp and napier grass showed notable capacities for lithium uptake, demonstrating their potential for lithium phytoextraction. The accumulation pattern revealed significantly higher lithium concentrations in roots than in shoots, indicating limited translocation within these plant species. The highest lithium accumulation was recorded in the 1500 µM treatment group in the roots, reaching 7.37 mg/g DW ( p < 0.001) in sunn hemp and 4.69 mg/g DW ( p < 0.001) in napier grass. Lithium treatment led to alterations in growth (length and weight of shoots and roots and root architecture), photosynthetic efficiency, gas exchange, and various biochemical traits (total protein and proline contents). Biochemical analysis, including measurements of antioxidant enzyme activities, provided insight into how these plants mitigate lithium-induced oxidative stress. Markedly increased proline levels were detected in both species under lithium stress, suggesting an adaptive, protective mechanism against oxidative damage. The highest proline concentration was recorded in sunn hemp at 1000 µM Li (0.24 mg/g FW) ( p < 0.01). In this study napier grass exhibited better phytoremediation potential compared to sunn hemp. This comprehensive study highlights the potential of integrating weeds into phytoextraction strategies for the remediation of lithium-contaminated soils. These findings enhance our understanding by use of weeds as effective agents for phytoextraction and sustainable soil remediation techniques and provide crucial insights for the development of weed-based phytoremediation approaches.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices toward artificial intelligence among pediatricians in India: A cross-sectional web-based nationwide survey
Background Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing in healthcare and has the potential to transform patient care. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding AI among pediatricians in India. Methods A cross-sectional, web-based nationwide survey was conducted, with participants recruited via pediatric WhatsApp groups between 23 March, 2024 to 1 April 2024. A validated 25-item questionnaire, comprising multiple-choice, open-ended, yes/no, and five-point Likert scale questions, was administered using Google Forms. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses. Results A total of 116 pediatricians participated in the survey. The calculated sample size for the study was 114. As we had 116 responses on day 10, the survey was withdrawn accounting to a response rate of 6.7%. Most participants (91.4%) understood the concept of AI; however, only 33.6% were familiar with AI applications in pediatric practice. The majority (83.6%) anticipated the integration of AI in pediatrics within the next decade, and 90.5% expressed interest in learning more about AI applications. Notably, 25.9% reported concerns regarding AI use, and 48.3% perceived their workplaces as currently not adequately equipped to implement AI tools. Commonly used AI tools included ChatGPT, Canva AI, Neonatal AI, Google AI, Trusted Computing Base (TCB), and Voicera. Conclusion While awareness of AI and its potential impact was high, knowledge and formal training were limited. Nevertheless, there was considerable enthusiasm among pediatricians to acquire further knowledge and adopt AI applications in their practice.