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Seeking a job in science? How hiring practices across industry and academia compare
Correction: Sustainable visions: Unsupervised machine learning insights on global development goals
Drip fertigation with slurry as a promising tool to reduce nitrogen losses under organic maize
Effects of Periodization Core Training on Physical Fitness in College Table Tennis Players
Objective This study aimed to analyze the effects of 12-week periodized core training on the physical fitness of college table tennis players. Methods A randomized controlled experimental design was employed, and 18 college table tennis players (male = 11, female = 7) were randomly assigned to the core training group (CT, n = 9) and the control group (CON, n = 9). The core training group performed periodized core training for 12 weeks. All variables were assessed at three time points: pre-test, mid-test (after 9 weeks), and post-test. Results Significant interactions were found between time and group for muscle endurance, balance, and agility, as demonstrated in Left Side Bridge (p < 0.05), Right Side Bridge (p < 0.001), Plank (p < 0.01), and Edgren Side Step (p < 0.001). However, no significant interactions were observed for speed, muscle strength, or power. Conclusion Periodized core training has a positive effect on the muscle endurance, agility, and balance of college table tennis players. The improvement in agility may be attributed to the integration of sport-specific periodized training. Further research is required to examine its effects on speed and anaerobic capacity. Periodized core training appears to have limited effects on strength and power, suggesting it can be used as a supplementary element within a comprehensive training program to enhance physical fitness and performance among college table tennis players.
A bioinformatics-driven approach to identify biomarkers and elucidate the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes concurrent with pulmonary tuberculosis
Health care professionals intention to use digital health data hub working in East Gojjam Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia: Technology acceptance modeling
Background Digital health data hubs contribute significantly to finding the right solutions to health problems, which forms the basis for achieving sustainable development goals. However, in Ethiopia, the health system has been coming to one central hub for all data, there is limited evidence of health professionals’ intentions to use these systems. Understanding their intentions is crucial, as this can significantly improve the advancement of digital health in healthcare organizations. This study assessed health professionals’ intention to use digital health data hubs in hospitals in East Gojjam, northwest Ethiopia, in 2024. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to conduct the study. Eleven hospitals were included in the study area. Using an a priori structural equation modeling sample size calculator, the total sample size was 616. Stratified proportional allocation sampling was performed. The study participants were selected using a systematic sample. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used for the analysis. Because it is a more powerful multivariate technique for testing and evaluating multivariate causal relationships. The assumptions of SEM-like normality, average variance extracted (AVE), composite reliability (CR), Cronbach’s alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and model specifications were checked using Amos and Stata version 16. Results This study was conducted with a sample size of 616 healthcare professionals; 591 (95.94%) responded to the survey. The results showed that 57.69% (n = 341) of the healthcare professionals intended to use the digital health data hub. Further analysis showed that perceived usefulness (PU: β = 0.576, p = 0.000), perceived trust (PT: β = 0.116, p = 0.022), and attitude (β = 0.143, p = 0.043) significantly and positively influenced health professionals’ intention to use digital health data hubs. Conclusion Overall, the findings showed that 42.31% of health professionals have low intention to use digital health data hubs. These shall be needed to improve their intentions to use digital health data hubs through targeted interventions. Therefore, focusing on critical factors, such as perceived usefulness, trust, and attitude are crucial factors to reinforce their intention to use the system. Additionally, overcoming implementation challenges and building trust is critical to the successful integration and use of digital health data hubs.
Interconnections and global transitions among functional states encode activity-related dynamics as brain topology changes after yoga training
RNA degradation patterns in cardiac tissues kept at different time intervals and temperatures before RNA sequencing
Vast repositories of tissues are available in biobanks worldwide. For these tissues to be used for molecular investigations, such as gene expression analysis, it is important to understand the limitations of pre-analytical variables. Storage times and temperature may influence the integrity of the tissue and thereby affect the results of gene expression analyses. To evaluate the effect of storage time at different temperatures, we performed whole transcriptome sequencing of human right atrial appendage tissues stored at either 4°C or 22°C for zero, one, seven, 14, or 28 days. We observed a temperature-dependent RNA degradation with time, as RNA was more stable at 4°C than 22°C. We found that nuclear protein-coding RNAs appear to degrade faster than RNAs encoded by the mitochondrial genome. The global gene expression profiles were relatively stable for up to 24 hours. However, more than seven days of storage induced widespread changes in the gene expression profiles. These changes may, though, be counteracted by including the RNA integrity number as a covariate in the differential expression analyses. We recommend storing tissues at temperatures below 4°C or limiting storage time at temperatures above 4°C in order to produce reliable gene expression profiles.
The protective effects of propolis against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver injury by modulating serum metabolites and gut flora
Wireless transmission of internal hazard signals in Li-ion batteries
Nonlinear association between C-reactive protein and severity of diabetic foot infection in patients with diabetes: A retrospective cohort study with clinical implications
Objective Diabetic foot infection(DFI) is a frequent complication of diabetes and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. These are huge economic health burdens for patients, countries, and the world. Timely diagnosis and accurate assessment of the severity of DFI based on sensitive inflammatory biomarkers is critical, with considerable benefits for debridement procedures and antibiotic use. This study aimed to examine the association between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the severity of DFI in patients with diabetes. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, we investigate the association between CRP levels and the severity of DFI in patients with diabetes. Multivariable logistic regression modeling, a generalized additive model, and a two-piecewise linear regression model were conducted to explore the relationship between CRP levels and DFI severity. Results Based on inclusion exclusion criteria, A total of 301 patients with Wagner stage 3 or higher diabetic foot ulcers combined with moderate to severe infections were included in the study at last. CRP levels were independently associated with the severity of DFIs after accounting for potential confounding factors. A nonlinear relationship was observed between CRP level and DFI severity, with a threshold of approximately 105 mg/L. The odds ratio for severe diabetic foot infection was 1.039 (95% confidence interval: 1.019–1.06, P < 0.001) in patients with DFI and CRP < 105 mg/L. Conclusion The relationship between CRP and the severity of DFI was nonlinear; as CRP levels remained below 105 mg/L, the severity of DFI increased with an increase in CRP.
Overexpression MsJAR1 gene increased lateral branches and plant height in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genomes of two sea cucumbers, Deima validum and Oneirophanta mutabilis (Holothuroidea, Synallactida, Deimatidae): Insight into deep-sea adaptive evolution of Deimatidae
The deep-sea is the largest and most extensive ecosystem on our planet with limited food availability, extreme pressure reaching hundreds of bars, perpetual darkness, frigid temperatures, and minimal oxygen levels. Mitochondria plays a key role in energy metabolism and oxygen usage, thus it may undergo adaptive evolution in response to pressures from extreme harsh environments. In this study, we present the mitochondrial genome sequences of the sea cucumbers Deima validum and Oneirophanta mutabilis collected from the South China Sea. To our knowledge, they are the first reported mitogenomes from the family Deimatidae. Similar to other sea cucumbers, both mitogenomes contain 13 PCGs, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes (including duplication of trnS and trnL) and 1 non-coding regions. The genes in both species are distributed on the positive and negative strands, with six genes encoded on the L-strand and 31 genes encoded on the H-strand. We compared the order of genes from the 13 available holothurian mitogenomes and found a novel gene arrangement in D. validum. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that D. validum clustered with O. mutabilis, forming the deep-sea Deimatidae clade. The analysis of individual genes revealed the presence of three sites (90 L, 147 S, 192 V) in nad2 and one site (28 S) in nad5 with high posterior probabilities indicating positive selection. By comparing these features with those of shallow sea cucumbers, we predict that nad2 and nad5 may provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms at the mitochondrial level involved in Deimatidae's adaptation to the deep-sea habitat.
Constructing a prognostic model for osteosarcoma based on centrosome-related genes and identifying potential therapeutic targets of paclitaxel
Korean medicine registry for cognitive disorder: A protocol for prospective observational multi-center study
Objective Despite the rapid increase in dementia and cognitive impairment incidence in Korea, research on integrative treatment for cognitive impairment using Korean medicine (KM) is still in its infancy. Thus, prospective studies with systematic data collection are required. This study aims to systematically collect and explore data from patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who visit KM institutions. The data collected will include the participants’ baseline characteristics, cognitive impairment severity, KM diagnosis and treatment status, as well as the factors influencing their choice of integrative medical treatment. Materials and methods This registry study will be conducted from the time of registration in 2024 until December 31, 2029, at Wonkwang University Korean Medicine Hospital, Wonkwang University Jangheung Integrated Medical Hospital, and Daejeon Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University. Approximately 300 participants will be enrolled and visit the hospital annually for data collection. The collected data will include sociodemographic characteristics, laboratory tests, medical device inspections, long-term care information, and various questionnaires related to dementia and cognitive impairment. No predefined interventions or restrictions on treatment will be imposed. Standard and KM treatments for cognitive impairment, including combination therapies, are permitted. As a registry study, the purpose is to investigate the participants’ characteristics as outlined in the study objectives, including severity, KM diagnosis and interventions, and clinical outcomes. This epidemiological study is designed to include additional statistical analyses in response to research questions that emerge over time. Discussion This study represents a pioneering effort in the KM field establishing the first registry of its kind focusing on dementia and MCI. This study aims to identify the characteristics of patients with dementia and MCI who visit KM institutions, explore the factors influencing KM treatment, and observe clinical outcomes according to KM pattern identification, providing evidence based on real-world data.
A randomised trial of pleuran in paediatric acute gastroenteritis
Comparison of different auxiliary techniques used during root canal filling removal in terms of the amount of apically extruded debris: In vitro study
Background One of the main challenges in endodontic retreatment is managing apical debris extrusion, which can influence both healing and patient comfort. Different retreatment methods result in varying levels of extrusion. This study aims to quantitatively compare the extent of apical debris extrusion caused by different auxiliary techniques during the extraction of root canal fillings in mandibular molars, to help guide the selection of an optimal endodontic approach. Materials and methods Sixty mandibular molar teeth scheduled for extraction due to periodontal reasons, such as advanced bone loss and periodontal disease, which rendered them non-restorable, were collected. All extractions were performed with prior informed consent from the patients, ensuring adherence to ethical standards. Preparation was performed with the Protaper Next file system, focusing on X3 files according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Teeth were filled using the lateral compaction technique with AH Plus sealer and stored at 100% humidity at 37°C for two weeks for the sealant to set. The samples were divided into four groups (n = 15 each): Protaper Universal Retreatment (PTUR), Ultrasonic + PTUR, Orange Oil + PTUR, and System B + PTUR, with PTUR procedural steps followed to attain working length. During preparation, 15 ml of distilled water was used, followed by 1 ml of distilled water for debris collection post-procedure. The debris was incubated at 68°C for five days to evaporate the water, and tube weights were recorded and compared statistically across groups. Results The study assessed debris extrusion during endodontic retreatment. The PTUR group showed the least extrusion (average 1.1 mg, SD ± 1.05 mg), indicating a more controlled approach. The Ultrasonic + PTUR group exhibited higher extrusion (average 4.2 mg, SD ± 2.12 mg), reflecting a more invasive technique with a greater potential for debris extrusion. The Orange Oil + PTUR group displayed moderate extrusion levels (average 2.5 mg SD ± 1.46 mg), reflecting the solvent’s effect. The System B + PTUR group had the highest extrusion (average 4.3 mg, SD ± 1.87 mg), indicating it as the method associated with the greatest debris displacement. Statistically significant differences were found between the PTUR group and the other groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was observed between the Orange Oil + PTUR group and both the Ultrasonic + PTUR and System B + PTUR groups (P < 0.05). No significant difference was noted between the System B + PTUR and Ultrasonic + PTUR groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion The study concludes that auxiliary methods used during root canal filling removal significantly impact the degree of apical debris extrusion, with some methods leading to greater extrusion than others.
Integrating bioinformatics and machine learning to identify glomerular injury genes and predict drug targets in diabetic nephropathy
Association of sarcopenia with generalized anxiety disorder in Korean middle-aged and older adults: Results from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2022
We highlighted sarcopenia’s association with psychiatric disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and aimed to explore correlations between the detection and prevention of GAD using population-based data of middle-aged and older Korean adults. This cross-sectional study data was collected through standardized surveys and physical examinations including GAD assessment survey and sarcopenia examination through muscle strength and mass assessments. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the association between sarcopenia and GAD, adjusting for relevant confounders. Data from the 2022 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were analyzed for sarcopenia and GAD in individuals aged ≥40 years, employing the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria and GAD-7 scale, respectively. Overall, 2960 individuals were selected, focusing on sarcopenia and GAD-7 scores, and regression analyses explored sarcopenia and GAD associations. Notably, 3.7% and 14% of participants had sarcopenia and GAD, respectively. The relationships between sarcopenia, possible sarcopenia, and GAD were found for females, suggesting sex-specific risks. In females, after adjusting for marital status and smoking, sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia showed correlation coefficients (β) of 0.145 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.025–0.266) and 0.096 (95% CI: 0.004–0.189), respectively, with GAD. After further adjustment for physical activity variables, only sarcopenia remained significantly associated with GAD in females (β=0.132, P = 0.033). Sarcopenia was significantly associated with GAD severity. Individuals with sarcopenia were 1.051 times more likely to experience mild GAD (95% CI: 0.554–1.992) and 2.480 times more likely to experience moderate to severe GAD (95% CI: 1.232–4.990) compared to those without sarcopenia. This study found a significant correlation between sarcopenia and GAD in the examined demographics, emphasizing the importance of integrative physical and mental health interventions. Early detection and management of sarcopenia may contribute to GAD management, advocating a holistic approach to healthcare in aging populations.