Browse Articles

Pressure-dependent structural, mechanical, and electronic properties of XAu (X = Er, Tm) intermetallic compounds from first-principles calculations

Realist methodologies informing the development, implementation, and scale-up of complex socio-medical interventions: A scoping review protocol

Background Understanding how and why complex socio-medical interventions work across diverse settings is essential for addressing health inequities. Realist methodologies, grounded in realism, provide a framework to explain what works, for whom, in what contexts, and why by focusing on generative mechanisms and contextual conditions. While realist approaches have been extensively applied in implementation science, it is unclear to what extent they have been applied across the development, implementation, and scale-up phases of interventions. This scoping review aims to map how realist methodologies have been applied to inform the lifecycle of complex socio-medical interventions. Methods We plan to follow the framework of Arksey and O’Malley and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) as well as PRISMA-ScR guidelines, to map how realist methodologies have been applied to inform the lifecycle of complex socio-medical interventions. Four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) will be searched, supplemented by grey literature and citation tracking. Two reviewers will independently screen peer-reviewed, English and Spanish-language, realist-informed studies. We will chart data on study characteristics, intervention details, realist findings (e.g., Context-Mechanism-Outcomes, programme theories), and methodological insights. We will include descriptive, thematic, and narrative synthesis, as well as network visualization. The protocol is registered in open science framework (OSF) registries ( https://osf.io/t8z2b/overview ). Discussion We expect to identify how realist inquiry contributes to building explanatory programme theories that guide the development, implementation, and scale-up/adaptation of complex socio-medical interventions. This review will offer practical insights for implementation scientists and healthcare practitioners on how and why complex health interventions work and can be adapted for successful implementation. Understanding the adoption of realist methodologies across the intervention lifecycle will enhance the design, implementation, and effective scale-up of socio-medical interventions in complex settings.

Green synthesis and characterization of manganese oxide nanoparticles using Equisetum diffusum D. Don. extract for efficient dye removal from simulated waste water

Retraction: Optimising barrier placement for intrusion detection and prevention in WSNs

Chemical composition and oral sub-chronic safety of Algerian propolis with in silico targeting of Keap1-Nrf2 and mitochondrial proteins

Retraction: Evaluating modern intrusion detection methods in the face of Gen V multi-vector attacks with fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS

A novel fully implicit method for calculating fluid saturation distribution in immiscible gas flooding and its application

Abstract Compared with water-flooding reservoirs, gas-flooding reservoirs exhibit more complex characteristics, primarily attributed to the significant viscosity difference between the displacing phase and the displaced phase. Under the influence of the equation of state, gas viscosity and deviation factor are binary functions of temperature and pressure. As the reservoir recovery degree increases, regardless of the injection strategy employed, the reservoir pressure will present a complex heterogeneous spatial distribution. When analyzing the variation of gas saturation at different positions during the production process, it is necessary to consider the effects of reservoir pressure at the corresponding location on gas viscosity and compressibility. An extensive literature review reveals that most publicly published studies on fluid saturation in gas-flooding reservoirs are based on numerical reservoir simulation methods, where the gas state equation is introduced for quantitative description. Based on the Buckley-Leverett water-flooding equation, this study proceeds as follows: ① Firstly, a one-dimensional homogeneous radial flow tube model is established. Considering that the fractional flow curve is an S-shaped nonlinear function, a novel fully implicit method is adopted to automatically search and calculate the optimal water saturation value at each spatial step and time step. ② Secondly, considering the heterogeneity of the actual model, a multi-flow tube model accounting for permeability variation is further constructed; the fingering phenomenon of the displacing phase considering heterogeneity can be obtained by averaging the saturation distribution changes of different flow tubes. ③ Thirdly, considering the compressibility and viscosity variation of gas, the volume conservation in the water-flooding mode is converted into the mass conservation in the gas-flooding mode. Subsequently, combined with the Buckley-Leverett equation and the fully implicit solution applied to the multi-flow tube model, the fluid saturation distribution of immiscible gas flooding can be derived. The proposed method in this paper is applied to interpret and analyze the field data of an actual restricted channel gas-flooding case, and the theoretically calculated gas breakthrough time of the oil well is in high agreement with the actual data. This research method features rigorous theoretical derivation and has been verified to be feasible through practical application, thereby providing certain practical guidance and reference significance for reservoir engineering researchers.

Revisiting the relationship between impulsivity, apathy, and action control: Bayesian inference from a stop-signal task study

Apathy and impulsivity are multidimensional constructs that shape goal-directed behavior. Although the motivational dopaminergic spectrum hypothesis frames them as opposing ends of a single continuum, questionnaire-based studies consistently show that they positively co-occur in both healthy and clinical populations. An emerging theoretical resolution of this paradox is that apathy and impulsivity relate to distinct components of goal-directed behavior, with co-occurrence potentially arising from domain-general factors and/or partially overlapping neurophysiological networks. Here, we examined this proposal in the domain of action control using the stop-signal task, which provides separable indices of action inhibition (stop-signal response time, SSRT) and action initiation (go response time, goRT) within the independent race model. Based on prior findings and theoretical considerations, we expected SSRT to covary with urgency-related impulsivity and goRT with action-initiation apathy. A large sample of healthy young adults (N = 144) completed a stop-signal task implemented in accordance with consensus recommendations, alongside validated multidimensional measures of impulsivity (UPPS-P impulsive behavior scale) and apathy (Lille Apathy Rating Scale). Bayesian analyses replicated a positive association between global apathy and impulsivity scores. However, SSRT was not associated with urgency, and goRT was not associated with action-initiation apathy, with moderate evidence for the null. Additional exploratory analyses provided moderate evidence against the majority of correlations between stop-signal indices and the remaining scale dimensions, including global scores. Thus, stop-signal indices did not dissociate apathy and impulsivity in action control, highlighting limits of task-based accounts of their co-occurrence.

The quality of artificial grasslands in alpine regions is controlled by crop photosynthesis under different fertilization conditions

Effect of high-intensity interval training in patients with chronic hepatitis B and hepatic steatosis: A randomised controlled trial

Background & aims Having both chronic hepatitis B and hepatic steatosis increases the risk of liver-related morbidity and mortality. We aimed to investigate if high-intensity interval training could decrease the liver fat-fraction and improve liver status, body composition, lipid- and glucose metabolism, and blood pressure in patients with chronic hepatitis B and hepatic steatosis. Methods In a randomised, controlled trial, patients with chronic hepatitis B and hepatic steatosis were randomised 1:1 to high-intensity interval training over 12 weeks or no intervention. The primary outcome was reduction in liver fat-fraction (≥ 2.8%), assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Secondary outcomes were body composition, indices of glucose metabolism, blood lipids, blood pressure, alanine aminotransferase, physical fitness assessed by maximal oxygen consumption (VO 2 max), and self-assessed health. The trial was discontinued before reaching the planned sample size due to slow recruitment. Results Nineteen patients were included, and 14 completed the trial (seven per group). Changes in liver fat-fraction showed a between-group difference of −2.03% [95% CI: −5.5 to 1.4; p = 0.22]. Exercising patients improved VO 2 max by 5.6 mL/kg/min [1.7 to 9.5; p < 0.05] and emotional well-being by 18.07 points [6.6 to 29.6; p < 0.05]. The exercise intervention did not affect total body fat −0.35% [−2.8 to 2.1] or lean body mass 0.6 kg [−0.7 to 1.9]. Changes in glucose tolerance, insulin secretion, Matsuda index −0.89 [−2.5 to 0.5; p = 0.18], cholesterol 0.29 mmol/L [−0.3 to 0.9; p = 0.32] and systolic blood pressure 6.36 mmHg [−6.4 to 19.1; p = 0.29] did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions We did not observe a significant effect of high-intensity interval training on liver fat-fraction in patients with chronic hepatitis B and hepatic steatosis. Due to premature discontinuation and the resulting limited sample size, the study was underpowered, and the findings should be interpreted as exploratory. Nevertheless, the intervention improved physical fitness and emotional well-being.

Dissecting culm strength in wheat: anatomical, biochemical, and genetic insights into lodging tolerance

Bayesian Uncertainty-aware Deep Learning with noisy labels: Tackling annotation ambiguity in EEG seizure detection

Deep learning is advancing EEG processing for automated epileptic seizure detection and onset zone localization, yet its performance relies heavily on high-quality annotated training data. However, scalp EEG is susceptible to high noise levels, which in turn leads to imprecise annotations of the seizure timing and characteristics. This “label noise” presents a significant challenge in model training and generalization. In this paper, we introduce Bayesian UncertaiNty-aware Deep Learning (BUNDL), a novel algorithm that informs a deep learning model of label ambiguities, thereby enhancing the robustness of seizure detection systems. By integrating domain knowledge into an underlying Bayesian framework, we derive a novel KL-divergence-based loss function that capitalizes on uncertainty to better learn seizure characteristics from scalp EEG. Thus, BUNDL offers a straightforward and model-agnostic method for training deep neural networks with noisy training labels that does not add any parameters to existing architectures. Additionally, we explore the impact of improved detection system on the task of automated onset zone localization. We validate BUNDL using a comprehensive simulated EEG dataset and two publicly available datasets collected by Temple University Hospital (TUH) and Boston Children’s Hospital (CHB-MIT). Results show that BUNDL consistently identifies noisy labels and improves the robustness of three base models under various label noise conditions. We also conduct ablation experiments on uncertainty quantification, evaluate cross-site generalizability to Siena EEG dataset, and quantify computational cost of all methods. Furthermore, we demonstrate that BUNDL improves seizure onset zone localization accuracy. Ultimately, BUNDL presents as a reliable method that can be seamlessly integrated with existing deep models used in clinical practice, enabling the training of trustworthy models for epilepsy evaluation.

Evaluation of aqueous extracts from local vegetation as potential biostimulants for winter wheat

Abstract Plant biomass extracts are increasingly investigated for their potential use in sustainable agriculture due to the presence of bioactive compounds that may stimulate plant growth and reduce reliance on synthetic inputs. This study evaluated the effects of aqueous extracts prepared from locally available vegetation on crop development, with particular focus on winter wheat. Biomass of crimson clover, Persian clover, blue alfalfa, faba bean, on-field weeds, and Sosnowsky’s was collected and used to prepare aqueous extracts at concentrations of 1:10, 1:50, and 1:250. The laboratory experiment demonstrated that extracts from legumes and on-field weeds showed variable and often inhibitory effects at higher concentrations, whereas Sosnowsky’s hogweed extract exhibited the most regular stimulatory response on winter wheat seedlings, particularly at the 1:250 concentration. This treatment increased seedling fresh biomass, height, and root length compared with the water-treated control. Field experiments confirmed the stimulatory potential of the low-concentration hogweed extract. Winter wheat fresh and dry biomass tended to increase by 5.2 and 10.2%, respectively, while chlorophyll and nitrogen concentrations in leaves – by 6.3 and 4.5%, respectively. The treatment numerically increased the number of productive stems by 13–25%, although differences were not statistically significant. Also, ear mass by 19–28%, and grain yield by 18–29%. Higher extract concentrations tended to reduce Septoria intensity on wheat ears. The findings indicate that locally available plant biomass extracts may have potential as plant growth-modulating agents under low-input conditions. However, further long-term studies are necessary to evaluate their effectiveness, safety, and practical applicability.

Relationship between Corvis ST tonometry parameters and mean blur rate in the optic nerve head tissue area in healthy eyes

This study investigated the relationship between Corvis ST tonometry parameters and mean blur rate in the optic nerve head tissue area (MBR-T) in healthy eyes. Corneal biomechanical properties and MBR-T were measured in 100 eyes from 56 healthy participants in Japan using Corvis ST tonometry and laser speckle flowgraphy, respectively. Axial length, central corneal thickness, and intraocular pressure were also recorded. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to evaluate the associations between corneal biomechanical properties and MBR-T. Model selection was performed using the second-order bias-corrected Akaike Information Criterion (AICc). The optimal predictive model for MBR-T was as follows: MBR-T = 21.1607 (intercept) – 1.6317 × Sex (Male) – 4.8626 × A2 deformation amplitude – 5.7932 × HC deformation amplitude (AICc = 409.9). In healthy eyes, greater corneal deformability was associated with lower MBR-T.

A LAMP-based assay for rapid detection of human scabies using clinical skin scraping specimens

Contamination of Hospital Inanimate Surfaces with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing bacteria at Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria are the most common contaminants on hospital surfaces. Hospitalized patients, especially those with cancer, have a higher likelihood of acquiring hospital-associated infections in a contaminated environment. Outbreaks of MRSA and ESBL-producing bacteria linked to contaminated inanimate hospital surfaces are a well-documented threat. Cancer patients, who often have prolonged hospital stays, are particularly at risk of acquiring these multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections. The immunosuppressed state of cancer patients further increases their susceptibility, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality associated with these infections. This study assessed the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and factors associated with contamination of inanimate hospital surfaces by MRSA and ESBL-producing bacteria. Materials and methods This was cross-sectional study conducted at Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es salaam, Tanzania in March and April 2023. The surfaces were conveniently selected, and a total of 247 inanimate surface samples were collected using a sterile swab pre-moistened with sterile Trypticase soy broth. A structured data collection checklist was used to record key variables for each sampled surface. The samples were cultured on Mannitol salt agar and MacConkey agar containing 2 mg/ml of ceftazidime. Identification of the isolates were done by using VITEC MS. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria were confirmed phenotypically through testing with a 30 µg cefoxitin disk and the combination disk method, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Logistic and modified Poisson regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with contamination. Results A total of 247 swab samples were collected from six predetermined items; bed rails, computer keyboards, door handles, hand-washing sinks, nursing station tables, and trolleys. The proportions of MRSA and ESBL producing bacteria’ contamination were 21 (8.5%) and 63 (25.5%), respectively. Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the predominant ESBL producing bacteria each accounting for 38 of the 84 isolates (45.2%). All Staphylococcus aureus isolates were identified as MRSA and were non-susceptible to at least one antimicrobial agent in three or more antibiotic classes; however, all isolates showed 100% susceptibility to linezolid. Klebsiella pneumoniae demonstrated resistance to piperacillin-tazobactam, cefepime, and ciprofloxacin, with rates ranging from 92.1% to 97.4%. Resistance to meropenem was observed in 52.6% of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates. Hand-washing sinks were the only surface independently associated with contamination by ESBL-producing bacteria (APR 5.8, P < 0.001). Conclusion A significant proportion of inanimate hospital surfaces were contaminated with MRSA and ESBL-producing bacteria. The findings imply a need to improve infection prevention and control practices.

Health-related quality of life in community-acquired pneumonia: a prospective cohort study

Leveraging design thinking to tackle contemporary admissions challenges in health professions education

Purpose This study illustrates the use of design thinking (DT) as a structured, participatory approach to explore contemporary complex challenges in health professions admissions, including the rise of generative AI, remote interviews, and the elimination of standardized admissions tests. This work focuses on stakeholder-driven problem framing and idea generation rather than evaluating outcomes. Methods A two-hour workshop engaged 15 purposively sampled stakeholders, including faculty, staff, application readers, and student ambassadors, in collaborative problem framing, ideation, and rapid prototyping of admissions concepts. Generative artifacts (brainstorming outputs, reflection worksheets, facilitator notes) and post-session surveys were analyzed using thematic synthesis and descriptive statistics to characterize emergent ideas and participant perspectives. Major findings Participants generated ideas that clustered into three major themes: interview restructuring, GenAI integration and compliance, and broadening of admissions criteria, illustrating how stakeholders reframed challenges and proposed diverse solution pathways. Survey responses reflected descriptive indicators of participant experience, suggesting the workshop supported creative problem solving (Mean 4.7 ± 0.5), idea generation (4.8 ± 0.4), and collaboration (4.4 ± 0.5). Conclusions Findings suggest that DT offers a structured, iterative framework for stakeholder-driven idea generation and problem reframing in an evolving admissions context. The workshop demonstrates the potential of collaborative, reflective processes to surface assumptions and generate diverse perspectives to inform future exploration of admissions practices.

Metagenomic peek into a corn mummy

Abstract Numerous studies have shown that metagenomics has opened a dimension in reading the contents of archaeological remains as time capsules. Corn mummies are ritual objects from ancient Egypt, created by forming human-shaped figures from cereal grains grown in a mixture of water and earth. The aim of our study was to determine whether ancient DNA could be preserved in the mummy, and if so, which organisms it might have originated from. To find answers, we performed metagenomic analyses on samples taken from a corn mummy dating to the second half of the third century BC. Alongside a number of clearly modern contaminants, we identified organisms that cannot be excluded as being of historical origin. Besides considerable amounts of bacterial sequences belonging to the genus Bacillus , Mesobacillus , Metabacillus , Neobacillus , Niallia , Peribacillus and Paenibacillus , we also found traces of plants, animals, and humans. Sequences assigned to the genus Triticum showed the highest similarity to ancient T. turgidum ssp. dicoccum specimens from Egypt and the southern Levant. The fragments identified as of Lepidopteran origin showed the greatest similarity to Sphingidae genomes. Analysis of the human-derived sequences revealed L3 (mtDNA), E, and J (Y chromosome) haplotypes, which are common lineages in Africa today.

Physical and emotional health among nurses in protracted crisis settings in Lebanon and Jordan: A cross-sectional study

Objectives Nurses working in crisis-affected and refugee-hosting settings face demanding conditions that may compromise their physical and emotional health. Evidence on the prevalence and determinants of these outcomes in such contexts remains limited. This study assessed nurses’ physical and emotional health in Lebanon and Jordan and identified key associated factors using regression and random forest models. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among hospital nurses providing care to Syrian refugees in Lebanon (n = 976; response rate 52%) and Jordan (n = 2,012; response rate 80.5%). Back pain, general weakness and emotional exhaustion outcomes were assessed alongside sociodemographic, work-related, and psychosocial work variables. Logistic, linear regression and random forest models were performed on merged and country-specific datasets. Results Nearly six in ten nurses in Lebanon and more than seven in ten in Jordan reported strong general weakness, and over 60% in both countries experienced strong back pain. Emotional exhaustion was prevalent and higher among Jordanian nurses (4.13, SD = 1.39) compared to Lebanese nurses (3.49, SD = 1.70). Age, gender, working hours, and work unit were significant demographic and occupational predictors, while job conflict, self-perceived workload, lack of job preparation, and workload stress emerged as important work environment factors. Nursing resources and teamwork were consistently protective. Random forest models confirmed the relative importance of workload-related factors and highlighted the close association between physical health and emotional exhaustion. Conclusion Hospital nurses caring for refugees in Lebanon and Jordan experience high levels of physical and emotional health strains associated with workload, work unit, psychosocial strain, and organizational resources. Findings highlight the need for system-level workforce policies, including workload regulation, staffing optimization, and strengthened organizational support to promote nurse well-being and enhance health system resilience in refugee-hosting and resource-constrained settings.