Quantitative Analysis Research Articles

Beyond threats, we need more information about action - How individuals see themselves (or not) in complex social-ecological systems.

Beyond threats, we need more information about action - How individuals see themselves (or not) in complex social-ecological systems.

A Quantitative Analysis of Leadership Styles and Organisational Culture: A Data-Driven Study of the South Carolina Army National Guard

The National Guard in South Carolina has a rich culture of organised militiamen, with leadership playing a crucial role in shaping organisational culture. The study investigates the relationship between leadership styles (transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire) and organisational culture within the SCARNG, using the Competing Values Framework to identify dominant cultural dimensions. The study found a significant negative correlation between transformational and Clan culture, a positive correlation between transformational and Adhocracy culture, and a positive correlation between transactional and Adhocracy culture. Transformational leadership style predicted Clan, Market, and Hierarchy culture, while transactional leadership positively impacted market and hierarchy cultures. Laissez-faire leadership did not significantly affect any of the organisational cultures examined. The findings suggest that leadership styles play a crucial role in shaping organisational culture, with transformational and transactional leadership being more effective than laissez-faire leadership in fostering desired cultural outcomes.

Multicentric prospective evaluation of Pneumocystis jirovecii fungal load in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid fractions using qPCR.

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) is the key sample type for diagnosing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, with quantitative PCR (qPCR) providing high sensitivity and specificity. However, sample processing varies considerably between laboratories, and optimal nucleic acid extraction method for BALF remains undetermined. This retrospective multicenter study, conducted in 12 centers as part of the Fungal PCR Initiative, assessed the efficacy of P. jirovecii detection by qPCR in different BALF fractions, including whole (WHO), pellet (PEL), and supernatant (SUP). Samples that were P. jirovecii-qPCR-positive during routine testing were divided into the three predefined fractions prior to nucleic acid extraction and qPCR, comparing detection rates and quantification cycle (Cq) values. Out of 113 P. jirovecii-qPCR-positive BALF samples, 339 qPCR measurements were analyzed. The PEL fraction demonstrated a similar detection rate to the WHO fraction, with positivity rates of 92.9% and 88.5%, respectively. The SUP fraction showed a lower positivity rate of 71.7%, dropping to 47% for high Cq values (Cq>35). Quantitative analysis showed that the SUP fraction consistently yielded higher Cq values, trailing by 3.05 cycles compared to WHO, while PEL showed a smaller deviation (0.49 cycles), confirming its efficiency in retaining P. jirovecii genetic material for qPCR detection. The study concludes that the SUP fraction is suboptimal for P. jirovecii detection due to higher Cq values, suggesting lower fungal loads. The PEL and WHO fractions are comparable, suggesting that the pellet is a viable alternative, permitting the concentration of larger BALF volumes to levels that can be extracted across a range of platforms.

Bromine-Based Derivatization of Carboxyl-Containing Metabolites for Liquid Chromatography-Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry.

The analysis of small carboxyl-containing metabolites (CCMs), such as tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates, provides highly useful information about the metabolic state of cells. However, their detection using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) methods can face sensitivity and specificity challenges given their low ionization efficiency and the presence of isomers. Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), such as trapped ion mobility spectrometry (TIMS), provides additional specificity, but further signal loss can occur during the mobility separation process. We, therefore, developed a solution to boost CCM ionization and chromatographic separation as well as leverage specificity of IMS. Inspired by carbodiimide-mediated coupling of carboxylic acids with 4-bromo-N-methylbenzylamine (4-BNMA) for quantitative analysis, we newly report the benefits of this reagent for TIMS-based measurement. We observed a pronounced (orders of magnitude) increase in signal and enhanced isomer separations, particularly by LC. We found that utilization of a brominated reagent, such as 4-BNMA, offered unique benefits for untargeted CCM measurement. Derivatized CCMs displayed shifted mobility out of the metabolite and lipid region of the TIMS-MS space as well as characteristic isotope patterns, which were leveraged for data mining with Mass Spectrometry Query Language (MassQL) and indication of the number of carboxyl groups. The utility of our LC-ESI-TIMS-MS/MS method with 4-BMA derivatization was demonstrated via the characterization of alterations in CCM expression in bone marrow-derived macrophages upon activation with lipopolysaccharide. While metabolic reprogramming in activated macrophages has been characterized previously, especially with respect to TCA cycle intermediates, we report a novel finding that isomeric itaconic, mesaconic, and citraconic acid increase after 24 h, indicating possible roles in the inflammatory response.

Detection of Analytes with the Outer Surface of Solid-State Nanochannels: From pm to μm.

ConspectusAccurately simulating or sensitively monitoring specific substances, such as ions, molecules, and proteins in the life process, is essential for gaining a fundamental comprehension of the underlying biological mechanism, which has been a trending topic for many years. Solid-state nanochannels, inspired by biological ion channels, have been developed for decades and have achieved significant success, representing the forefront of the interdisciplinary fields of bioanalytical chemistry and nanotechnology. Typically, solid-state nanochannels with a pore size of less than 100 nm are selected to construct nanochannel-based biosensors, which can be an excellent platform to analyze small analytes, such as ions and small molecules, in a restricted space and simulate the intricate process of ion transport in living organisms. Furthermore, by integrating functional components that are termed probes into artificial devices, the nanochannel system has emerged as a remarkable tool for label-free and highly sensitive detection in practical applications. Nonetheless, the detection of large substances (more than nanoscale in size) has consistently posed a significant challenge, since previous research on solid-state nanochannels has mainly concentrated on the contribution of probes at the inner wall, which requires the biotargets to enter the nanochannel for successful detection. Moreover, the lack of testing techniques for the chemical and physical properties of probes anchored deep inside confined nanochannels results in an unclear working mechanism, which is another issue that cannot be ignored. The requirement for a more efficient and extensive detection platform has spurred an in-depth study of nanochannels, which provides innovative insight concentrating on the less restricted space on the outer surface (OS) of nanochannels and the probes at the OS (POS).In this Account, several approaches to constructing the OS and modifying POS are briefly summarized. Subsequently, ultrasensitive detection of analytes across a range of sizes, encompassing not only the ions and small molecules from ∼100 pm to ∼2 nm but also the large substances from ∼2 nm to ∼20 μm through the use of POS in the last five years, is introduced. Through the characterization of OS and the precise control of POS, the sensing mechanism, including surface charge and wettability, with POS is discussed unambiguously. Additionally, an intelligent model using dual-signal responses such as electrical and optical to enhance the responsiveness and accuracy of quantitative analysis is discussed, which can distinguish the conformation of an analyte by the exposed single cysteine thiol group. We expect that this timely Account will offer instructive insights into the development of a nanochannel-based platform to facilitate the analysis of biomolecules of varying sizes.

ATG9A vesicles are a subtype of intracellular nanovesicle.

Cells are filled with thousands of vesicles, which mediate protein transport and ensure homeostasis of the endomembrane system. Distinguishing these vesicles functionally and molecularly represents a major challenge. Intracellular nanovesicles (INVs) are a large class of transport vesicles that likely comprises of multiple subtypes. Here, we define the INV proteome and find that it is molecularly heterogeneous, and enriched for transmembrane cargo molecules including integrins, transporters, and ATG9A, a lipid scramblase associated with autophagy. ATG9A is known to reside in 'ATG9A vesicles': small vesicles that contribute to autophagosome formation. Using in-cell vesicle capture assays we found that ATG9A, as well as other ATG9A vesicle cargos, were in INVs. Quantitative analysis showed that virtually all ATG9A vesicles are INVs, but that only ∼20% of INVs are ATG9A vesicles, suggesting that ATG9A vesicles are in fact a subtype of INV, which we term ATG9A-flavor INVs. Finally, we show that perturbing ATG9A-flavor INVs impaired the autophagy response induced by starvation.

Synergistic effect of Ag/MXene for efficient protein ionization in paper spray mass spectrometry.

Ti3C2Tx (MXene) was coated with silver (Ag) nanoparticles using a bio-inspired surface coating method. The resulting composite material, Ag/MXene (AgMX), was applied in paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS) for efficient protein ionization. The intensity of protein obtained by AgMX PSI-MS was enhanced about 3-6 times when compared to conventional PSI. AgMX PSI-MS demonstrated strong potential for quantitative analysis and exhibited good salt tolerance.

Comparison of Outcomes Between Staged and Same-Day Circumferential Spinal Fusion for Adult Spinal Deformity: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a prevalent condition often treated with circumferential spinal fusion (CF), which can be performed as staged or same-day procedures. However, evidence guiding the choice between these approaches is lacking. This study aims to compare patient outcomes following staged and same-day CF for ASD. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, and Scopus. Eligibility criteria included studies comparing outcomes following staged and same-day CF in adults with ASD. Searches were exported to Covidence, and records were deduplicated automatically. Title and abstract screening, full-text review, and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers, with all conflicts being resolved by a third reviewer. A meta-analysis was conducted for outcomes reported in 3 or more studies. Seven studies with 741 patients undergoing CF for ASD were included in the review (staged: n=331, 44.7% and same-day: n=410, 55.3%). Four studies that had comparable outcomes were merged for the quantitative meta-analysis and split based on observed measures. The meta-analysis revealed significantly shorter hospital length of stay (mean difference 3.98, 95% CI 2.23-5.72 days; P<.001) for same-day CF. Three studies compared the operative time between staged and same-day CF, with all reporting a lower mean operative time for same-day CF (mean between 291-479, SD 129 minutes) compared to staged CF (mean between 426-541, SD 124 minutes); however, inconsistent reporting of mean and SD made quantitative analyses unattainable. Of the 4 studies that compared estimated blood loss (EBL) in the relevant groups, 3 presented a lower EBL (mean between 412-1127, SD 954 mL) in same-day surgery compared to staged surgery (mean between 642, SD 550 to 1351, SD 869 mL). Both studies that reported intra- and postoperative adverse events showed more intraoperative adverse events in staged CF (10.9% and 13.6%, respectively) compared to same-day CF (9.1% and 3.6%, respectively). Four studies measuring any perioperative adverse events showed a higher incidence of adverse events in staged CF than all studies combined. However, quantitative analysis of EBL, intraoperative adverse events, and perioperative adverse events found no statistically significant difference. Postoperative adverse events, reoperation, infection rates, and readmission rates showed inconsistent findings between studies. Data quality assessment revealed a moderate degree of bias for all included studies. Same-day CF may offer shorter operating time and hospital stay compared to staged CF for ASD. However, there was marked heterogeneity in perioperative outcomes reporting, and continuous variables were inconsistently presented. This underscored the need for standardized reporting of clinical variables and patient-reported outcomes and higher evidence of randomized controlled trials to elucidate the clinical superiority of either approach. PROSPERO CRD42022339764; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=339764. RR2-10.2196/42331.

Camera traps unable to determine whether plasticine models of caterpillars reliably measure bird predation.

Sampling methods that are both scientifically rigorous and ethical are cornerstones of any experimental biological research. Since its introduction 30 years ago, the method of using plasticine prey to quantify predation pressure has become increasingly popular in biology. However, recent studies have questioned the accuracy of the method, suggesting that misinterpretation of predator bite marks and the artificiality of the models may bias the results. Yet, bias per se might not be a methodological issue as soon as its statistical distribution in the samples is even, quantifiable, and thus correctable in quantitative analyses. In this study, we focus on avian predation of lepidopteran larvae models, which is one of the most extensively studied predator-prey interactions across diverse ecosystems worldwide. We compared bird predation on plasticine caterpillar models to that on dead caterpillars of similar size and color, using camera traps to assess actual predation events and to evaluate observer accuracy in identifying predation marks a posteriori. The question of whether plasticine models reliably measure insectivorous bird predation remained unanswered, for two reasons: (1) even the evaluation of experienced observers in the posterior assessment of predation marks on plasticine models was subjective to some extent, and (2) camera traps failed to reflect predation rates as assessed by observers, partly because they could only record evidence of bird presence rather than actual predation events. Camera traps detected more evidence of bird presence than predation clues on plasticine models, suggesting that fake prey may underestimate the foraging activity of avian insectivores. The evaluation of avian predation on real caterpillar corpses was probably also compromised by losses to other predators, likely ants. Given the uncertainties and limitations revealed by this study, and in the current absence of more effective monitoring methods, it remains simpler, more cost-effective, ethical, and reliable to keep using plasticine models to assess avian predation. However, it is important to continue developing improved monitoring technologies to better evaluate and refine these methods in order to advance research in this field.

A Corpus-Based Approach in Vocabulary Research: Defining the Word of the Year 2023 in Kazakh

The Word of the Year (WOTY) is an event held in various countries and regions to determine the most relevant, significant, and popular words and expressions that reflect not only the linguistic but also the socio-cultural aspects of the country. This paper aims to identify the most frequently used words/phrases in Kazakh for 2023 to be nominated for the WOTY title. The research methods include media discourse analysis and quantitative analysis using a corpus-based approach. A computer program, #LancsBox 6.0, generated a dataset—a research corpus consisting of 500 texts published on Kazakh news platforms throughout 2023. The results indicated that: 1) the conjunction “jáne” [and] had the highest frequency and occurrence in the research corpus; 2) the extracted words with high frequency indicators might serve as candidates for WOTY 2023, such as “Kazakhstan”, “jana” [new], “jyly” [year], “kerek” [need], “jumys [work]”; 3) WOTY “artificial intelligence” named by other global sources showed a high frequency indicator in Kazakh media texts. The study contributed with the generated corpus of media texts in Kazakh for 2023. The significance of our study is highlighted by the pioneering linguistic assessment in Kazakh language, which involves the analysis of media discourse publications based on corpus outcomes.

The impact of the social determinants of health on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review.

The impact of the social determinants of health on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review.

Physicochemical stability of bevacizumab biosimilar CT-P16 (Vegzelma) concentrate for solution stored in original vials after first opening

ObjectiveAfter patent expiry of the bevacizumab originator product, several biosimilars were approved by the European Medicines Agency. In centralised preparation units, product-specific in-use stability data must be considered. Based on...

Public Health Emergency Response and Recovery in Limited Resource Setting: Lesson learned from Hanang District Floods and Landslide in Tanzania.

In December 2023, floods and landslides in Hanang District, Northern Tanzania, caused severe casualties, infrastructure damage, and community displacement. We describe the public health emergency response and lessons learnt during this disaster to guide future mitigations. Retrospective data collection during the disaster was made through quantitative (description of casualties) and qualitative (interviews and focus groups) approaches to provide insights into psychosocial support, coordination, and other response pillars. Microsoft Excel (2019) was used for quantitative data analysis, and MAX Qualitative Data Analysis was used to manage qualitative data. Soft tissue injuries, bruises, and lacerations were the most common (60.43%), with 87.77% of casualties recovering and a notable fatality rate of 12.23%. Mental health and psychosocial support reached over 3300 individuals, offering depression assessments and family reconnections. Establishing a dual-level public health response team and implementing the Incident Management System demonstrated the country's response efficiency. The public health emergency response to the 2023 floods and landslides in Hanang District was largely effective. This demonstrated strong coordination, capacity, and resilience of Tanzania health system; however, the fatality rate highlighted a need for further investment to improve future disaster prevention, preparedness, and response.

Preliminary diagnostic assessment process and case studies for existing residential regeneration

As China intensifies its efforts to renovate older residential areas, the renewal of housing built between 1980 and 2000 has reached a critical juncture, necessitating a shift from broad-brush approaches to more refined, precision-oriented renovation strategies. However, standardized diagnostic evaluation criteria and decision-making frameworks for pre-renovation assessment remain underdeveloped. This study builds upon existing research in building regeneration, constructing a diagnostic evaluation process for existing residential buildings from an architectural perspective. The process comprises three phases: data collection and integration, visual model construction, and diagnostic evaluation and analysis. Focusing on key residential components—roofs, walls, exterior windows, and shading elements—the research integrates Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to propose a diagnostic grading system based on renovation intensity. It employs a comprehensive assessment method combining qualitative diagnostics with quantitative indicator analysis, culminating in the development of a diagnostic evaluation template. The methodology is then applied to two typical residential buildings in Shenzhen, encompassing the collection, integration, and diagnosis of key element information, followed by further evaluation based on diagnostic conclusions to guide renovation design. This research provides scientific guidance and decision-making direction for the refined renewal of existing housing and the formulation of related standards and guidelines, enhancing decision-making efficiency with advanced demonstrative effects and forward-looking insights.

Ameliorative effect of Fagonia indica-coated chitosan nanoparticles on the ovulatory pattern in PCOS rat model.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with wide-range prevalence, affecting 5-18% of females of reproductive age, and its substantive role as a primary etiological factor in anovulatory infertility, with up to 80% of such cases attributed to this syndrome having particular significance. The current research delineates the outcomes of a meticulous inquiry into the efficacy of Fagonia indica-coated chitosan nanoparticles (FICNPs) in ameliorating the prevalent and clinically consequential PCOS in female Wistar rats. FICNPs were synthesized by using a methanolic extract of F. indica and chitosan via the ion gelatin method. The nuanced interplay of hormonal profiles, ovarian histology, and miRNA expression in response to FICNPs intervention was investigated. Notable findings include an obvious decrease in luteinizing (LH) and testosterone hormone levels with high-dose FICNPs-treated subjects (100mg/kg) compared to their untreated counterparts. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin levels were markedly decreased in the untreated PCOS rat models, whereas, histopathological examination revealed augmented oocyte diameters in FICNP-treated rats, suggesting pronounced improvements in ovarian morphogenesis and follicular maturation. Additionally, real-time quantitative PCR analysis revealed disparate miRNA expression profiles, prominently implicating rno-miR-30c-2-3p, rno-miR-146b-5p, rno-miR-486, and rno-miR-3586-3p in the therapeutic efficacy of FICNPs. Notably, the progeny of FICNPs-treated subjects (F1 generation) showed normalized ovulatory activity, substantiating the sustained therapeutic potential of FICNPs. Collectively, these findings underscore the auspicious promise of FICNPs as a paradigm-shifting therapeutic modality for mitigating the complex pathophysiology of PCOS, thereby addressing its formidable prevalence and clinical import, with the potential to surpass conventional pharmacotherapy modalities.

Forecasting embodied carbon emission: case of two-storey residential buildings in Sri Lanka

PurposeWith the use of increased number of measures and strategies towards mitigating operational carbon emissions, a greater emphasis has now been placed on reducing the resultant embodied carbon (EC). However, the assessment practice seems cumbersome due to variation in data and methodologies. To this end, this study aims to develop a basis that would facilitate early-stage EC assessment for a proposed building.Design/methodology/approachThis study primarily involved a quantitative analysis of 50 Bill of Quantities (BOQs) of two-story house projects. Additional information such as materials, vehicle and plant and equipment used in construction was obtained from technical specifications, industry practiced norms and databases. The EC emission was calculated using basic statistics.FindingsThe total EC emission in the construction of a two-storey residential building is equivalent to 0.0607 tCO2e per square feet of Gross Internal Floor Area (GIFA). Concrete is the highest contributor in the material production with 36% of emission in the production stage that is responsible for 94% of total EC. The excavation and earthwork is the highest EC emitter during the material transportation stage (93% of total EC emission in transportation stage). During the construction stage, reinforcement shows the highest emission of 85% of total EC emission in construction. The study concludes that the distribution of carbon emission among elements contributes efficient resource allocation towards achieving sustainability in buildings.Originality/valueThis study provides a basis to forecast the EC emitted during cradle-to-end-of-construction stage of a proposed building. From the implication perspective, it is expected that the basis which the study provides would enable to determine the appropriate carbon tax to account the potential client for his contribution to GHGs.

Managing Ammonia for Multiple Benefits Based on Verified High-Resolution Emission Inventory in China.

Atmospheric ammonia (NH3) has multiple impacts on the environment, climate change, and human health. China is the largest emitter of NH3 globally, with the dynamic inventory of NH3 emissions remaining uncertain. Here, we use the second national agricultural pollution source censuses, integrated satellite data, 15N isotope source apportionment, and multiple models to better understand those key features of NH3 emissions and its environmental impacts in China. Our results show that the total NH3 emissions were estimated to be 11.2 ± 1.1 million tonnes in 2020, with three emission peaks in April, June, and October, primarily driven by agricultural sources, which contributed 74% of the total emissions. Furthermore, employing a series of quantitative analyses, we estimated the contribution of NH3 emissions to ecosystem impacts. The NH3 emissions have contributed approximately 22% to secondary PM2.5 formation and a 16.6% increase in nitrogen loading of surface waters, while ammonium deposition led to a decrease in soil pH by 0.0032 units and an increase in the terrestrial carbon sink by 44.6 million tonnes in 2020. Reducing agricultural NH3 emissions in China would contribute to the mitigation of air and water pollution challenges, saving damage costs estimated at around 22 billion US dollars due to avoided human and ecosystem health impacts.

НАУЧНО-ИССЛЕДОВАТЕЛЬСКАЯ ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТЬ НИНЫ АЛЕКСЕЕВНЫ ТЮГАЕВОЙ: БИБЛИОМЕТРИЧЕСКИЙ АНАЛИЗ

The article analyzes the research activities of the famous Russian teacher, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, professor, Honored Worker of the Higher School of the Russian Federation, Honorary Professor of the Academy of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia N. A. Tyugaeva. The study is based on the methodology developed by V. I. Belopolsky A. A. Kostrigin using methods of quantitative analysis of the full list of scientific publications of the scientist. The main stages of Professor Tyugaeva's scientific activity are highlighted, a chronological analysis of works by types of publications is carried out.

Religious Inequality in America: The View from 1916

AbstractThe Censuses of Religious Bodies contain detailed information about early 20th‐century American religious groups. However, these data have not been used to their full potential—likely because until recently, most of the data in these volumes had not been digitized. We undertook a large data entry initiative to make these data available to contemporary researchers. This research note introduces scholars to the data set and presents the first quantitative analysis of the wealth held (and not held) by American religious groups a century ago. By quantifying the vast historical disparities between religious traditions, we provide new empirical support for complex religion theory, which argues that religion has been and continues to be a site of stark social inequalities. We hope our findings and work digitizing these data will spur future research into how socioeconomic disparities between religious groups have persisted or been disrupted over time.

Spatiotemporal evolution of scouring and silting in Made Island port channel (2015–2023)

This paper, based on channel topographic survey data from 2015 to 2023, analyzes the scouring and silting evolution characteristics of the Made Island port channel, port basin, outer anchorage, and empty ship anchorage. By conducting a quantitative analysis of water depth variations and scouring and silting phenomena across different years, this paper investigates the effects of water flow, topographic changes, and human dredging activities on the topographic evolution of the port area. The study utilizes bathymetric survey data collected at two-year intervals using the MV SEA PRINCESS survey vessel, equipped with a Positioning, Motion and Heading Unit, Bathymetric Equipment for Sounding, Sound Velocity Profiler, Single Beam Echosounder, and Transducers. The monitoring methodology involved interpolating and subtracting multi-year bathymetric data to assess sediment transport dynamics. The results indicate that the Made Island port channel exhibits a dynamic alternation of scouring and silting, with significant sediment accumulation in shallow areas, especially after dredging operations. Notably, the outer anchorage experiences the highest silting rates in years with increased sediment supply, whereas the port basin generally maintains deeper water levels, ensuring its functionality despite localized siltation. The empty ship anchorage shows strong correlations between water flow speed variations and sediment deposition, leading to navigational constraints in certain conditions. The findings indicate that the scouring and silting phenomena in the port area are the result of multiple interacting factors. The paper recommends regular topographic monitoring and the implementation of necessary dredging and maintenance measures to ensure the efficient operation and navigational safety of the port.