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Analysis of blood culture practices in multicenter university-affiliated hospitals in Korea: A retrospective study focused on procedural optimization
Background Blood culture is an essential diagnostic tool for detecting bloodstream infections, particularly in patients with suspected sepsis. Routine implementation in healthcare settings necessitates adherence to standardized protocols to ensure diagnostic accuracy. We assessed blood culture practices in university-affiliated hospitals across Korea by analyzing key performance metrics and related indicators. Methods In 2024, a standardized questionnaire was distributed to 14 university-affiliated hospitals. The survey collected data on blood culture practices during 2023, including the total number of cultures performed, the number of sets obtained per episode, the frequency of repeated cultures, the volume of blood collected per bottle, discrepancies in culture results, the types of organisms isolated, and post-test reporting practices. Results In 2023, the median number of blood cultures requested per 1,000 hospitalized patients was 166.6 (43,699 cultures among 241,053 admissions). Two-set collections were most common (median 68.9%), followed by single-set collections (13.0%). Repeat cultures were more frequently performed following negative results (29.2%) than positive ones (5.5%). The median volume collected was 4.0 and 4.3 mL for aerobic and anaerobic bottles, respectively. Only 16.7% of Gram stain results were reported within 2 h. Conclusions Blood culture practices, particularly regarding test ordering and the use of two or more sets per episode, appear generally appropriate. However, specific aspects—including the indications for repeat cultures, adequacy of collected blood volume, and timeliness of Gram stain reporting—require further evaluation and targeted quality improvement efforts.
Digital image quality evaluation based on multi-scale aesthetic features and graph convolutional neural networks
Virtual parking path planning in narrow roads based on fuzzy pure pursuit algorithm
To address the issues of low adaptability and significant tracking errors in parking scenarios when using fixed look-ahead distance Pure Pursuit (PP) algorithms, this paper proposes an automatic parking path tracking control algorithm based on Fuzzy Pure Pursuit (FPP). Considering the influence of road curvature on look-ahead distance, a fuzzy controller is designed to output speed proportionality coefficient and curvature proportionality coefficient. This enables adaptive adjustment of the look-ahead distance according to vehicle speed and road curvature, thereby enhancing path adaptability and tracking accuracy. Prescan/CarSim/Simulink simulation results demonstrate that in vertical parking scenarios, the FPP-based tracking control algorithm outperforms traditional PP algorithms in tracking performance for desired paths and heading angles. The tracking error is reduced by 4.8%, and the heading angle error is reduced by 7.3%. The test results of the Apollo advanced platform show that, under different initial heading angles, the vehicle is able to successfully track the parking path and completes the parking operation without collisions. The tracking control algorithm based on FPP has excellent environmental adaptability.
Significant reverse association between dietary selenium intake and visceral adiposity in the CODING study
Understanding homeowner decision-making through demographics: Barriers to housing retrofit at scale
Housing retrofit is vital for meeting sustainability goals, yet limited homeowner demand remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. While challenges such as skills shortages and supply chain issues also exist, a strong homeowner demand could drive solutions to these obstacles. Despite the availability of grant schemes, homeowner interest in retrofitting remains low, slowing adoption rates and impeding national sustainability targets. Based on data from a questionnaire survey of UK homeowners, this study explores how demographic factors shape homeowner decision-making behaviour. Statistical analysis reveals several key insights: (1) homeowners primarily view retrofitting as an investment, seeking returns through energy bill savings; (2) concern over unintended consequences of retrofitting impacts willingness to participate; and (3) educational level strongly influences homeowner behaviour. These findings offer valuable perspectives for developing large-scale retrofit strategies, addressing the underlying behavioural barriers that have hindered the success of existing retrofit programs.
Cost-effectiveness of hypofractionated radiation therapy versus conventional radiation therapy for unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer
Intersectional stigma and adherence to antiretroviral (ART) among sexual minority men (SMM) living with HIV in Nigeria: A Qualitative Inquiry
Background Sexual minority men (SMM) living with HIV in Nigeria experience suboptimal outcomes on the HIV care continuum. Experiences of intersectional stigma has been linked to lower likelihood of engagement in HIV services, but little is known about the effects of intersectional stigma on HIV care outcomes for SMM in Nigeria. The current study explored experiences of intersectional stigma among SMM living with HIV in Lagos, Nigeria and its’ impact on engagement in HIV care. Methods Between January and February 2022, we conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 30 SMM living with HIV in Lagos, Nigeria and 38 healthcare providers that provide HIV prevention and care services to SMM. Results We found that while participants described experiencing both HIV and sexual minority stigma, they believed sexual minority identity stigma to be more common than HIV-related stigma. Additionally, most participants believed they experience intersectional stigma, especially enacted and anticipated stigma, from their HIV status and sexual minority identity. Respondents utilized various strategies, both negative and positive, to cope with stigma including substance use, identity concealment, social isolation, support systems, and engaging in various hobbies as a form of self-care. Lastly, while most healthcare providers believe that stigma negatively influenced SMM ability to fully engage in HIV care, most SMM believed stigmatization had minimal to no effect on their engagement in HIV care. Discussion Our findings underscore the importance of developing community (SMM specifically) informed, evidence-based health interventions aimed at reducing the effect of stigma on engagement in HIV care among Nigerian SMM living with HIV, to improve their overall health and quality of life.
A real time action scoring system for movement analysis and feedback in physical therapy using human pose estimation
Abstract Human Pose Estimation (HPE) has become an essential tool in physical therapy, enabling automated movement analysis and rehabilitation monitoring. However, existing HPE techniques often suffer from limitations such as motion blur, occlusions, inconsistent keypoint visibility, and sensitivity to variations in camera angles and subject positioning. This makes the movement assessment very challenging, particularly in home-based rehabilitation settings where real-time supervision is limited. To address these issues, a novel action-scoring algorithm that integrates angular-based movement analysis with keypoint normalization techniques is presented in this study. Specifically, the proposed method employs Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) and Normalized Cross-Correlation (NCC) for precise movement comparison, alongside a fixed bounding box strategy to improve tracking stability. Additionally, a new repetition counting mechanism based on angular calculations is introduced to ensure accurate assessment of repetitive exercises. The proposed approach primarily aims to minimize the angular noise such as motion blur. Hence, the proposed system can be easily integrated with existing human pose estimation systems. Experimental validation demonstrates that the proposed approach achieves high accuracy in joint angle measurements and repetition detection while offering increased robustness against occlusions. A comparative evaluation with RepNet, a state-of-the-art video-based repetition counting model, shows that the proposed method outperforms RepNet in both accuracy and computational efficiency, making it more suitable for real-time rehabilitation feedback. These findings highlight the potential of the proposed design to improve movement analysis reliability, optimize rehabilitation outcomes, and expand access to automated physical therapy assessment tools.
Exploring transnational LGBTQI+ solidarities: A scoping review protocol on the complexities, theories, and models
On August 28, 2022, the Government of Canada unveiled its first Federal Action Plan to promote LGBTQI+ equality, committing to significant international investments and diplomatic initiatives. While these initiatives are viewed positively by some experts, others critique them as manifestations of homonationalism or homocolonialism, perpetuating colonial legacies and neoliberal norms. These debates underscore the complexities of transnational LGBTQI+ solidarity, particularly within the Majority World, shaped by colonial histories. This scoping review protocol aims to critically assess the empirical literature on transnational LGBTQI+ solidarities, to map, compare, and contrast various configurations of LGBTQI+ transnational solidarities, while also highlighting the different theories and methodologies employed in research on these topics. We will systematically search social science databases for relevant studies, emphasizing literature from peer-reviewed journals. In the study selection process, we will include research using primary sources and systematic reviews, while excluding the grey literature and non-peer-reviewed sources. Data will be charted using the COVIDENCE software, with rigorous inclusion criteria and a detailed data extraction process. The review will synthesize findings to identify key themes, gaps in knowledge, and provide policy and practice recommendations. Our goal is to map and compare different LGBTQI+ transnational solidarity strategies, contributing to a deeper understanding of these complex issues, ultimately informing future research and policy development in the field of LGBTQI+ rights on a global scale. The results will help develop a comprehensive understanding of the issues and propose a future research agenda.
Study of cadmium toxicity in iron-supplemented hydroponic solutions on growth parameters, nutritional value and oxidative damage of Beta vulgaris
Are climate change perceptions related with plastic policy support? Effects of climate change skepticism, guilt, and efficacy on the acceptance of the plastic tax
Achieving a circular economy requires solutions to plastic pollution problems. Plastic waste poses significant threats to both human and biological systems globally. Plastics are closely related to climate change because their production is based on fossil fuels. Plastic taxation is one approach to reducing plastic use. This study aimed to analyze how the climate change perception is related to the preference for plastic tax. A model was developed to examine the impacts of 11 variables in value, risk perception, and planned behavior acting as predictors on the support for plastic tax as the predicted variable. In particular, we focused on both direct and indirect association of the three variables in planned behavior, that is, climate skepticism, guilt, and efficacy about climate change crisis , on support for the plastic tax. The results showed that among value variables, environmentalism, altruism, and egalitarianism had a significantly positive relationship with the willingness to pay the plastic tax and materialism had a significant negative relationship. Regarding risk perception, perceived risk, knowledge, and trust had a significantly positive association with the willingness to pay the tax. Regarding planned behavior, skepticism, guilt, and efficacy had a significant association with willingness-to-pay the plastic tax, with climate change skepticism having a negative effect and guilt and efficacy having positive relationship. Regarding the moderation effect, skepticism had an interaction effect on materialism and emotion; guilt is associated with the impact of environmentalism, altruism, egalitarianism, perceived risk on the support for plastic tax; and efficacy is associated with the association of altruism and perceived risk with preference for plastic tax. These results suggest that climate change risk perception is associated with plastic reduction behaviors.
Novel aminothiazole grafted cellulose composite for efficient removal of Hg(II) from wastewater in single and multicomponent systems
Abstract The pollution of mercury is a widespread and growing problem, as it poses significant environmental and health issues. Investigating adsorbents with high adsorption capacity is an urgent need to solve this issue. The current investigation introduces a novel aminothiazole Schiff base grafted cellulose (DAC@AHTT) adsorbent for Hg(II) removal from various water samples. The DAC@AHTT adsorbent was synthesized by the modification of dialdehyde cellulose (DAC) with 4-amino-5-hydrazinyl-4 H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (AHTT) Schiff base. Moreover, the prepared DAC@AHTT adsorbent was characterized by physical, chemical, and morphological techniques, and its performance was systematically obtained. The maximum adsorption capacity of 495.7 mg.g − 1 was achieved at the optimum conditions of pH (6–8), a dose of 0.002 g, and 240 min. Hg(II) adsorption follows pseudo-2nd -order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm models, revealing the spontaneous, exothermic, and monolayer chemisorption. The DAC@AHTT material was successively employed for the Hg(II) removal from real water samples, with a recovery (Re, %) exceeding 98%. The DAC@AHTT adsorbent has a good recycling efficiency of 85% after three adsorption-desorption cycles. The adsorption mechanism of Hg(II) onto DAC@AHTT adsorbent has been elucidated, showing that N and S atoms are the main binding sites. The adsorbent was successfully employed for the adsorption of Hg(II), Ni(II), Pb(II), and Cu(II) in multicomponent systems by applying the Plackett-Burman design of experiments (PBD). These findings suggest that DAC@AHTT is a promising, efficient, and sustainable adsorbent for water treatment applications.
FtsZ phosphorylation modulates tail-core binding to tune cell division in Bacillus subtilis
The cell division protein FtsZ contains an intrinsically disordered C-terminal tail whose function remains poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that this tail serves as an autoinhibitory element through intramolecular interaction with FtsZ’s globular core. In Bacillus subtilis , we show that FtsZ’s tail is phosphorylated at serine 333 by the kinase PrkC during vegetative growth. We establish that the tail binds specifically to the core’s C-terminal polymerization surface through a molecular recognition element spanning L330-H337. Using NMR spectroscopy, we reveal that phosphorylation of S333 induces structural collapse of the I334-K335 motif, sequestering these key residues from their binding sites and disrupting the tail-core interaction. Mutations at S333 reduce the critical concentration for polymerization and enhance GTPase activity in vitro while altering cell length in vivo . Competition experiments demonstrate that tail-core binding occludes the division inhibitor MinC from the polymerization surface, with S333 mutations restoring MinC binding. Our findings reveal that FtsZ’s tail gates access to the polymerization surface for other FtsZ monomers as well as regulatory proteins, with phosphorylation serving as a molecular switch that coordinates licensing of division regulators and FtsZ polymerization dynamics during the cell cycle.
Influence of copy number variation of unknown significance on the pregnancy outcomes
Vertical ground reaction force variables derived from Loadsol® insoles during overground walking are valid and reliable
Force sensing insoles for measuring vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) have several advantages over laboratory-based force plates. Data can easily be collected in real-world environments and long duration trials with multiple steps are feasible. However, the sampling rate of insoles is lower and only vertical force is recorded. The reliability and validity of Loadsol® force sensing insoles have been evaluated for treadmill walking, but not overground walking. The purpose of the study was to determine criterion-related validity and test-retest reliability of Loadsol® compared to gold standard force plates. Twenty healthy young adults walked overground across force plates while wearing insoles for two blocks of five trials. Variables of interest were extracted from each trial and averaged across trials and participants. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) determined criterion-related validity for Loadsol® variables compared to force plate variables. ICCs also determined within session test-retest reliability for Loadsol® and force plates. Bland Altman plots were generated to assess bias and 95% limits of agreement. Additionally, standard error of measurements (SEMs) and minimum detectable differences (MDDs) were calculated. Excellent validity and minimal bias with Loadsol® was found for passive peak, active peak, instantaneous loading rate, impulse, and stance time, with good validity and an overestimation bias for average loading rate. Excellent test-retest reliability comparable to force plate reliability was also found for all variables. The SEMs and MDDs reported here help to inform researchers about whether the Loadsol® are suited to answering their research questions. By comparing the anticipated changes in a VGRF variable with the MDD of that variable, researchers can determine if Loadsol® are appropriate for the context of their study.
Intelligent delignification: leveraging explainable AI for ozone transport modeling and optimization
Abstract Biomass is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, where lignin is almost one-third of the amount of biomass. Lignin is removed from the biomass matrix because its complex, recalcitrant structure acts as a physical and chemical barrier, impeding the accessibility of reagents and enzymes to cellulose and hemicellulose. Lignin sterically hinders hydrolysis and can also non-productively bind enzymes, thereby reducing overall efficiency in biofuel production. Several techniques are used to remove lignin from the biomass matrix, where ozonation is the most novel, emerging, and ecofriendly technique. This study investigates the application of machine learning (ML) techniques to predict lignin removal efficiency during ozonation pretreatment an emerging and eco-friendly delignification method. Experimental data from ozonation-based lignin removal were used to train and evaluate 19 regression models using the PyCaret framework. Among these, the Extra Trees Regressor demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy for delignification outcomes. Feature importance was further interpreted using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to quantify the contribution of each process variable. The results reveal that ML models can effectively capture the complex relationships governing ozonation-based delignification, offering valuable insights into optimizing operational parameters. This work highlights the potential of ML as a predictive and interpretative tool in chemical engineering, paving the way for more efficient, data-driven approaches to biomass valorization and sustainable biofuel.
Motor unit behavior of lumbar multifidus during a forward trunk bending task performed under different speeds and loads in asymptomatic participants
A novel FeTiZn ternary oxide nanocomposite for spontaneous and efficient adsorptive removal of hexavalent chromium from polluted water
Influence of cement soil column on soil behavior
Abstract The present study is mainly based on the determination of the effect of cement soil on improving the bearing capacity of weak soil and decreasing the settlement. The program consists of installing a cement soil column with a fixed diameter (D = 0.1 m), various percentages of cement (0 ,3, 6, 9 and 12%) of soil weight and fixed length (L = 1.0 m). The column is supported by a circular steel plate with a diameter of 0.45 m and thickness 0.25 m to ensure the load is distributed uniformly from the hydraulic jack to the cement soil column in a very fine-sandy soil with traces of clay in El-Arish region placed in a soil chamber, and subjected to compressive axial load. The displacement underneath the plate was measured with a 2- dial gauge. Finite element package of a PLAXIS 3D version 2021 (A finite element code for soil analysis) has been done for the experimental program to compare the theoretical and experimental results. The obtained experimental test results indicated that increasing the percentage of cement has a significant effect on decreasing the settlement of soil and enhancing the bearing capacity of soil. As the untreated soil exhibited high compressibility, reaching a settlement of 1.65 cm under a stress of 4 kg/cm 2 . This was reduced to 0.9 cm with 12% cement (demonstrating 45% reduction in settlement). Also, Study the effect of increasing number of cement column in the same area theoretically where (N = 1,2,3and4) cement column on settlement. On the other hand, studying the effect of spacing between cement soil column for 4 cement columns with various spacing S = (2.5D,3D,3.5D,4D) has been done theoretically. It was found that the settlement can be reduced by increasing the number of columns in a group but is adversely affected by increasing the spacing between them.