bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new multiplexed magnetic capture—Droplet digital PCR tool for monitoring wildlife population health and pathogen surveillance
Authors: Tschritter Christina M. , V. C. de Groot Peter , Branigan Marsha , Dyck Markus , Sun Zhengxin , Lougheed Stephen C.
Published: October 2023

Anthropogenic stressors are exacerbating the emergence and spread of pathogens worldwide. In regions like the Arctic, where ecosystems are particularly susceptible, marked changes are predicted in regional diversity, intensity, and patterns of infectious diseases. To understand such rapidly changing host‐pathogen dynamics and mitigate the impacts of novel pathogens, we need sensitive disease surveillance tools. We developed and validated a novel multiplexed, magnetic capture, and ddPCR tool for the surveillance of multiple pathogens in polar bears, a sentinel species that is considered susceptible to climate change and other stressors with a pan‐Arctic distribution. Through sequence‐specific magnetic capture, we concentrated five target template sequences from three zoonotic bacteria (Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Francisella tularensis, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex) and two parasitic (Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella spp.) pathogens from large quantities (<100 g) of host tissue. We then designed and validated two multiplexed probe‐based ddPCR assays for the amplification and detection of the low‐concentration target DNA. Validations used 48 polar bear tissues (muscle and liver). We detected 14, 1, 3, 4, and 22 tissue positives for E. rhusiopathiae, F. tularensis, M. tuberculosis complex, T. gondii, and Trichinella spp., respectively. These multiplexed assays offer a rapid, specific tool for quantifying and monitoring the changing geographical and host distributions of pathogens relevant to human and animal health.
Spatial patterns of reproduction suggest marginal habitat limits continued range expansion of black bears at a forest‐desert ecotone
Authors: Sultaire Sean M. , Montgomery Robert A. , Jackson Patrick J. , Millspaugh Joshua J.
Published: October 2023

Investigating spatial patterns of animal occupancy and reproduction in peripheral populations can provide insight into factors that form species range boundaries. Following historical extirpation, American black bears (Ursus americanus) recolonized the western Great Basin in Nevada from the Sierra Nevada during the late 1900s. This range expansion, however, has not continued further into the Great Basin despite the presence of additional habitat. We aimed to quantify whether reduced reproduction toward the range edge contributes to this range boundary. We analyzed black bear detections from 100 camera traps deployed across black bear distribution in western Nevada using a multistate occupancy model that quantified the probability of occupancy and reproduction (i.e., female bears with cubs occupancy) in relation to changes in habitat type and habitat amount toward the range boundary. We detected a strong effect of habitat amount and habitat type on the probability of black bear occupancy and reproduction. At similar levels of landscape‐scale habitat amount (e.g., 50%), estimated probability of occupancy for adult bears in piñon‐juniper woodlands near the range boundary was 0.39, compared to ~1.0 in Sierra Nevada mixed‐conifer forest (i.e., core habitat). Furthermore, estimated probability of cub occupancy, conditional on adult bear occupancy, in landscapes with 50% habitat was 0.32 in Great Basin piñon‐juniper woodlands, compared to 0.92 in Sierra Nevada mixed‐conifer forest. Black bear range in the western Great Basin conforms to the center–periphery hypothesis, with piñon‐juniper woodland at the range edge supporting ecologically marginal habitat for the species compared to habitat in the Sierra Nevada. Further geographic expansion of black bears in the Great Basin may be limited by lower occupancy of reproducing females in piñon‐juniper woodland. Center–periphery range dynamics may be common in large carnivore species, as their dispersal ability allows them to colonize low‐quality habitat near range edges.
Vertically inherited microbiota and environment‐modifying behaviors indirectly shape the exaggeration of secondary sexual traits in the gazelle dung beetle
Authors: Rohner Patrick T. , Moczek Armin P.
Published: October 2023

Many organisms actively manipulate the environment in ways that feed back on their own development, a process referred to as developmental niche construction. Yet, the role that constructed biotic and abiotic environments play in shaping phenotypic variation and its evolution is insufficiently understood. Here, we assess whether environmental modifications made by developing dung beetles impact the environment‐sensitive expression of secondary sexual traits. Gazelle dung beetles both physically modify their ontogenetic environment and structure their biotic interactions through the vertical inheritance of microbial symbionts. By experimentally eliminating (i) physical environmental modifications and (ii) the vertical inheritance of microbes, we assess the degree to which (sym)biotic and physical environmental modifications shape the exaggeration of several traits varying in their degree and direction of sexual dimorphism. We expected the experimental reduction of a larva's ability to shape its environment to affect trait size and scaling, especially for traits that are sexually dimorphic and environmentally plastic. We find that compromised developmental niche construction indeed shapes sexual dimorphism in overall body size and the absolute sizes of male‐limited exaggerated head horns, the strongly sexually dimorphic fore tibia length and width, as well as the weakly dimorphic elytron length and width. This suggests that environmental modifications affect sex‐specific phenotypic variation in functional traits. However, most of these effects can be attributed to nutrition‐dependent plasticity in size and non‐isometric trait scaling rather than body‐size‐independent effects on the developmental regulation of trait size. Our findings suggest that the reciprocal relationship between developing organisms, their symbionts, and their environment can have considerable impacts on sexual dimorphism and functional morphology.
Long‐term outcome after upgrade to cardiac resynchronization therapy: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Trenson Sander , Voros Gabor , Martens Pieter , Ingelaere Sebastian , Betschart Pascal , Voigt Jens‐Uwe , Dupont Matthias , Breitenstein Alexander , Steffel Jan , Willems Rik , Ruschitzka Frank , Mullens Wilfried , Winnik Stephan , Vandenberk Bert
Published: October 2023

Aim

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a cornerstone in the management of chronic heart failure in patients with a broad or paced QRS. However, data on long‐term outcome after upgrade to CRT are scarce.

Methods and results

This international, multicentre retrospective registry included 2275 patients who underwent a de novo or upgrade CRT implantation with a mean follow‐up of 3.6 ± 2.7 years. The primary composite endpoint included all‐cause mortality, heart transplantation, or ventricular assist device implantation. The secondary endpoint was first heart failure admission. Multivariable Cox regression and propensity score matching (PSM) analyses were performed. Patients who underwent CRT upgrade (n = 605, 26.6%) were less likely female (19.7% vs. 28.8%, p < 0.001), more often had ischeemic cardiomyopathy (49.8% vs. 40.2%, p < 0.001), and had worse renal function (median estimated glomerular filtration rate 50.3 ml/min/1.73 m2 [35.8–69.5] vs. 59.9 ml/min/1.73 m2 [43.0–76.5], p < 0.001). The incidence rate of the composite endpoint was 10.8%/year after CRT upgrade versus 7.1%/year for de novo implantations (p < 0.001). PSM for the primary endpoint resulted in 488 pairs. After propensity score matching, upgrade to CRT was associated with a higher chance to reach the composite endpoint (multivariable hazard ratio [HR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.70), for both upgrade from pacemaker (multivariable HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.03–1.70) and implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) (multivariable HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.01–1.95). PSM for the secondary endpoint resulted in 277 pairs. After PSM, upgrade to CRT was associated with a higher chance for heart failure admission (HR 1.74, 95% CI 1.26–2.41).

Conclusion

In this retrospective analysis, the outcome of patients who underwent upgrades to CRT differed significantly from patients who underwent de novo CRT implantation, particularly for upgrades from ICD. Importantly, this difference in outcome does not imply a causal relation between therapy and outcome but rather a difference between two different patient populations.
Modified reptile search algorithm for optimal integration of renewable energy sources in distribution networks
Authors: Hachemi Ahmed T. , Sadaoui Fares , Arif Salem , Saim Abdelhakim , Ebeed Mohamed , Kamel Salah , Jurado Francisco , Mohamed Emad A.
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a Modified Reptile Search Algorithm (MRSA) designed to optimize the operation of distribution networks (DNs) considering the growing integration of renewable energy sources (RESs). The integration of RESs‐based Distributed Generation (DG) systems, such as wind turbines (WTs) and photovoltaics (PVs), presents a complex challenge due to its significant impact on DN operations and planning, particularly considering uncertainties related to solar irradiance, temperature, wind speed, consumption, and energy prices. The primary objective is cost reduction, encompassing electricity acquisition, PV and WTs unit costs, and annual energy losses. The proposed MRSA incorporates two strategies: the fitness‐distance balance method and Levy flight motion, enhancing its searching capabilities beyond standard Reptile Search Algorithm and mitigating local optima issues. The uncertainties in load demand, energy prices, and renewable energy generation are represented through probability density functions and simulated using Monte Carlo methods. Evaluation involves typical bentchmark functions and a real 112‐bus Algerian DN, comparing MRSA's efficacy with other optimization techniques. Results indicate that the proposed DN optimization program with WTs and PVs integration reduces annual costs by 21.43%, from 6.2715E + 06 to 4.9270E + 06 USD, reduce voltage deviations by 21.67%, from 77.1022 to 60.4007 USD, and enhance system stability by 2.59%, from 2.3699E + 03 to 2.4314E + 03 USD, compared with the base case.
Transform diabetes care with precision medicine
Authors: Kannan Sharumathy , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Kow Chia Siang , Ramachandram Dinesh Sangarran , Pandey Manisha , Mayuren Jayashree , Dua Kamal , Candasamy Mayuren
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Diabetes is a global concern. This article took a closer look at diabetes and precision medicine.

Methods

A literature search of studies related to the use of precision medicine in diabetes care was conducted in various databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus).

Results

Precision medicine encompasses the integration of a wide array of personal data, including clinical, lifestyle, genetic, and various biomarker information. Its goal is to facilitate tailored treatment approaches using contemporary diagnostic and therapeutic techniques that specifically target patients based on their genetic makeup, molecular markers, phenotypic traits, or psychosocial characteristics. This article not only highlights significant advancements but also addresses key challenges, particularly focusing on the technologies that contribute to the realization of personalized and precise diabetes care.

Conclusion

For the successful implementation of precision diabetes medicine, collaboration and coordination among multiple stakeholders are crucial.
Management of traumatic brain injury in adult—A cross‐sectional national study
Authors: Modin Albert , Wickbom Fredrik , Kamis Christian , Undén Johan
Published: October 2023

Background

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a common cause for seeking care. Previous studies have shown considerable variations in TBI management. New guidelines may have influenced management routines.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross‐sectional study, collecting data through structured questionnaires. All Swedish emergency hospitals that manage and treat adult patients with mTBI (Reaction Level Scale [RLS] 1–3, Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] 13–15, age > 18 years) for the initial 24 h after injury were included in this study.

Results

The response rate among hospitals fulfilling the study criteria's was 61/67 (91%). We observed a distinct predominance of nonspecialists being responsible for the initial management of these patients, with general surgeons and ED‐physicians being the dominating specialties. A total of 45/61 (74%) of the hospitals use a guideline when managing TBI, with 12 hospitals (20%) stating that no guideline was used.

Conclusion

In general, established guidelines are used for the management of TBI in Sweden. However, some of these are outdated and several hospitals used local guidelines not based upon reliable evidence‐based methodology. Most patients with TBI are managed by nonspecialist doctors, stressing the need of a reliable guideline.
Electrophoretically deposited titanium and its alloys in biomedical engineering: Recent progress and remaining challenges
Authors: Makurat‐Kasprolewicz Balbina , Ossowska Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

Over the past decade, titanium implants have gained popularity as the number of performed implantation operations has significantly increased. There are a number of methods for modifying the surface of biomaterials, which are aimed at extending the life of titanium implants. The developments in this field in recent years have required a comprehensive discussion of all the properties of electrophoretically deposited coatings on titanium and its alloys, taking into account their bioactivity. The development that took place in this field in recent years required a comprehensive discussion of all the properties of coatings electrophoretically deposited on titanium and its alloys, with particular emphasis on their bioactivity. Herein, we attempt to assess the influence of the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process parameters on these coatings' biological and mechanical properties. Particular attention has been addressed to the in‐vitro and in‐vivo studies conducted hitherto. We have seen an increased interest in using titanium alloys without the addition of toxic compounds and gaps in the EPD field such as the uncommon endeavors to develop a “Design of experiments” approach as well as the lack of assessment of the surface free energy and detailed topography of electrophoretically deposited coatings. The exact correlation of coating properties with EPD process parameters still seems explicitly not understood, necessitating more future investigations. Ipso facto, the exact mechanism of particle agglomeration and Hamaker's law need to be fathomable.
The relationship of systemic and pulmonary arterial parameters with HFpEF scores (H2FPEF, HFA‐PEFF) and diastolic dysfunction parameters in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Yavuz Yunus Emre , Soylu Ahmet , Gürbüz Ahmet Seyfettin
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to show the relationship between pulmonary pulse wave transit time (pPTT), pulmonary artery stiffness (PAS), and aortic stiffness parameters measured by non‐invasive methods, HFpEF patients, and HFpEF scores (H2FPEF, HFA‐PEFF).

Method

A total of 101 patients were included in our study, 52 of whom were HFpEF patients and 49 were control groups without heart failure. Echocardiographic parameters for PAS and pPTT were calculated, along with diastolic parameters that support the diagnosis of HFpEF. Aortic stiffness was assessed using a PWA monitor. Demographic features, laboratory findings, aortic stiffness parameters, and echocardiographic findings including pulmonary artery parameters were compared with the control group.

Results

PAS, pPTT, PWV were significantly higher in the HFpEF group than in the control group (p < 0.001). PAS and pPTT correlated positively with HFpEF scores. In linear regression analysis for PAS, a directly positive correlation was found between E/e' and PAS, independent of aortic stiffness.

Conclusion

These parameters can be used as a predictive value in the diagnosis process of patients with suspected HFpEF. A significant relationship between PAS and ventricular stiffness (E/e') was shown independently of aortic stiffness.
Immediate‐use strategy is as safe and effective as delayed‐use strategy following percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hanna David , Makar Michael , Berger Andrea , Johal Amitpal S. , Confer Bradley D. , Khara Harshit S.
Published: October 2023

Background

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is the most common enteral access for long‐term feeding. The aim of our study is to assess the feasibility and safety of immediate PEG tube use after initial placement.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center retrospective cohort study between August 2006 and August 2016. Prior to August 2011, tube feedings were delayed for ≥4 h after initial PEG placement, compared with immediate use (<1 h) after August 2011. Primary outcomes were complication rates within 30 days of placement. Secondary outcomes were impact of morbidity, mortality, length of stay, and need for repeat PEG placement.

Results

Our study included 1296 patients during the 10‐year period, of which 704 underwent delayed use and 592 underwent immediate use (744 inpatient and 552 outpatient). There were no significant differences between the delayed‐use and immediate‐use PEG with regard to complications (3.4% vs 4.4%; P = 0.76). Subgroup analysis also reflected no significant differences in complications between inpatient and outpatient groups. For inpatients, there were no substantial differences in inpatient mortality (3.9% vs 3.3%; P = 0.70), mortality within 30 days of discharge (13.8% vs 13.1%; P = 0.15), readmissions (38.2% vs 34.3%; P = 0.23), repeat PEG placement (0.7% vs 1.5%; P = 0.46), and length of stay (13.3 vs 13.9 days; P = 0.99).

Conclusion

Patients who received immediate enteral nutrition after PEG tube placement did not have any increased complications, morbidity, or mortality; and it is just as safe when compared with patients who received delayed feeding.
The Association Between Transverse Maxillary Deficiency and Septal Deviation in Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Hutz Michael J. , Thuler Eric , Cheong Crystal , Phung Chau , Evans Marianna , Woo John , Keenan Brendan T. , Dedhia Raj C.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Recent evidence suggests that environmental factors impact craniofacial development. Specifically, the height and width of the maxilla may impact the degree of septal deviation. We sought to determine the relationship between transverse maxillary deficiency and severity of septal deviation.

Methods

A prospective cohort of adult sleep surgery patients were evaluated by standardized CT imaging. Primary outcomes evaluated the relationship of a narrow, high‐arched palate (the palatal height to width ratio) with the degree of septal deviation at the level of the 1st premolar and 1st molar. Secondary outcome evaluated the relationship of the palatal height‐to‐width ratio and nasal obstruction. Both adjusted and unadjusted linear regression were performed, including correction for multiple hypothesis testing.

Results

Ninety‐three patients were included. On average, the cohort was middle aged (54.7 ± 12.7 years), obese (BMI 30.1 ± 4.5 kg/m2), predominantly male (74.2%), White (73.1%), and with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) (AHI 30.0 ± 18.7 events/h). A moderate correlation was observed between both the relative and absolute inter‐premolar palatal height and the degree of septal deviation at the inter‐molar region. No significant correlation was observed between palatal dimensions and NOSE score.

Conclusion

This study found that transverse maxillary deficiency is moderately associated with greater degree of septal deviation among a sample of OSA patients. This contributes to the concept that craniofacial development impacts the nasal airway, promoting a comprehensive evaluation of both endonasal and extranasal structures.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:2464–2470, 2024
A novel boat‐based field application of a high‐frequency conductometric ammonium analyzer to characterize spatial variation in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Richardson Emily T. , Hansen Angela M. , Kraus Tamara E. C. , Downing Bryan D. , Forsberg Don , Stillian John , O'Donnell Katy , Sturgeon Crystal L. , Bergamaschi Brian A.
Published: October 2023

Documenting dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) concentrations and forms at appropriate temporal and spatial scales is key to understanding aquatic ecosystem health, particularly because DIN fuels primary productivity. In addition to point and nonpoint source nutrient inputs, factors such as hydrology, geomorphology, temperature, light, and biogeochemical transformations influence nutrient dynamics in surface waters, allowing for the formation of steep spatial gradients and patchiness. Documenting nutrient variability is also necessary to identify sources, quantify transformation rates, and understand drivers. Because of logistical and cost constraints, it is often unfeasible to measure concentrations of nutrients in surface waters using discrete sampling followed by laboratory analysis at a resolution high enough to identify steep spatial gradients and patchiness. Because of these constraints, data generated from discrete sampling are limited in space and time, often missing key variabilities. Recent advancements of in situ nitrate plus nitrite ( and ) sensor technology have enabled highly temporally and spatially resolved concentration measurements in aquatic ecosystems. However, comparable information about ammonium () concentrations remains unavailable. To address this need, US Geological Survey collaborated with Timberline Instruments to modify their commercially available benchtop TL‐2800 ammonia analyzer to operate in flow‐through mode, enabling rapid continuous concentration measurements at a micromolar (0.5 μM) resolution while receiving water pumped from a moving boat. Although the utility of this method is described for spatial surveys, we anticipate that it would be adaptable to installation at a fixed station for continuous monitoring of concentration.
Rapid approach for assessing an unregulated fishery using a series of data-limited tools
Authors: Gervasi Carissa L. , Karnauskas Mandy , Rios Adyan , Santos Rolando O. , James W. Ryan , Rezek Ryan J. , Rehage Jennifer S.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Fisheries provide countless benefits to human populations but face many threats ranging from climate change to overfishing. Despite these threats and an increase in fishing pressure globally, most stocks remain unassessed and data limited. An abundance of data-limited assessment methods exists, but each has different data requirements, caveats, and limitations. Furthermore, developing informative model priors can be difficult when little is known about the stock, and uncertain model parameters could create misleading results about stock status. Our research illustrates an approach for rapidly creating robust initial assessments of unregulated and data-limited fisheries without the need for additional data collection.

Methods

Our method uses stakeholder knowledge combined with a series of data-limited tools to identify an appropriate stock assessment method, conduct an assessment, and examine how model uncertainty influences the results. Our approach was applied to the unregulated and data-limited fishery for Crevalle Jack Caranx hippos in Florida.

Result

Results suggested a steady increase in exploitation and a decline in stock biomass over time, with the stock currently overfished and undergoing overfishing. These findings highlight a need for management action to prevent continued stock depletion.

Conclusion

Our approach can help to streamline the initial assessment and management process for unregulated and data-limited stocks and serves as an additional tool for combating the many threats facing global fisheries.
Lithium metal anode: Past, present, and future
Authors: Huang Wen‐Ze , Xu Pan , Huang Xue‐Yan , Zhao Chen‐Zi , Bie Xiaofei , Zhang Hao , Chen Aibing , Kuzmina Elena , Karaseva Elena , Kolosnitsyn Vladimir , Zhai Ximin , Jiang Tao , Fan Li‐Zhen , Wang Deping , Zhang Qiang
Published: October 2023

Over the past three decades, lithium‐based batteries have greatly influenced our daily lives. However, their limited energy density poses challenges in meeting growing demand. To increase energy density, lithium metal anode is considered critical. This review systematically examines the history of lithium metal anode development, highlights notable advances in fundamental understandings, materials design, and characterization techniques. Forthcoming opportunities are discussed to promote the practical applications of lithium metal anodes.
Approximate controllability of higher order Riemann–Liouville fractional systems via cosine family
Authors: Haq Abdul , Sukavanam N.
Published: October 2023

This work studies the controllability of a class of Riemann–Liouville fractional differential equations of order
in a new Banach space
using fractional cosine family. To derive the existence of solutions, we construct the definition of mild solutions of the system using Laplace transform theory. Then, by assuming the approximate controllability of corresponding linear equation, we prove that the nonlinear dynamical system is approximately controllable using an iterative technique. Lastly, we give an example to illustrate the established theory.
Stochastic response analysis of 3D vibro‐acoustic systems with geometrical uncertainties based on the extended finite element method
Authors: Ma Houbiao , Zhang Yahui
Published: October 2023

Unlike uncertainties such as loads and material parameters, geometrical uncertainties caused by errors in the geometry and differences in equipment installation locations of the vibro‐acoustic system can significantly alter the solution domain, resulting in nominally identical vibro‐acoustic systems exhibiting large response dispersions. To solve such problems, this study introduces the extended finite element method/finite element method (XFEM/FEM) and the direct probability integration method (DPIM) to construct a novel stochastic response analysis scheme for 3D vibro‐acoustic systems. Furthermore, it examines the impact of geometric uncertainties on system responses. The XFEM/FEM can accurately capture the non‐smooth solution at the geometrical interface by constructing enriched functions without modifying the original mesh, and it allows the introduction of random parameters to describe the geometrical modifications. The input probability space of the parameters is partitioned, and the Dirac function is smoothed, yielding statistical properties like the probability density function of system responses, which are derived by summing responses from each representative point. The computational performance of the proposed scheme is validated with both single and multiple uncertain geometries, while also discussing the impact of these uncertain geometries on the responses of the vibro‐acoustic system.
High‐resolution numerical simulations of polymer injection molding: Analysis of mesh size and refinement
Authors: Ferrer‐Fabón Blanca , Alms Jonathan , Behr Marek , Hopmann Christian
Published: October 2023

Accurate and high‐resolution numerical simulations are crucial for preventing manufacturing defects during polymer injection molding. However, achieving efficient and precise simulations in this field remains a subject of ongoing research. In this study, we develop a macro‐scale numerical model to describe the behavior of melted polymer during the filling phase. Employing our in‐house finite‐element solver, XNS, we simulate the polymer and air flows as a two‐phase flow using the level‐set method. This formulation involves significant discontinuities across the interface, therefore a high mesh resolution along the interface becomes necessary. Furthermore, to accurately capture the polymer behavior along the wall, we apply a variable Navier slip condition that is dependent on the mesh size. To assess the impact of mesh size on the solution, we compare the results obtained with different levels of mesh refinement. Additionally, we investigate the effects of localized mesh refinement at the wall boundary and conclude that refinement in the interior of the channel is also required. Through our analysis, we highlight the importance of high‐resolution meshing and appropriate wall boundary conditions in achieving accurate simulations of polymer injection molding. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts in improving the understanding of the complex phenomena involved in this manufacturing process.
Synthesis and transport potential study of A2B type double chain amphiphilic architectures
Authors: Aarti  , Krishna  , Syeda Saima , Chandel Rishima , Sharma Antara , Shrivastava Anju , Sharma Sunil K.
Published: October 2023

The inefficient delivery of drugs having low efficacy to their target sites is significantly hampering the treatment of many diseases and putting enormous pressure on the healthcare system. In this endeavor, the non‐ionic amphiphilic nanotransporters are drawing increasing attention over the past decades. Herein, we report the synthesis of a newer A2B type non‐ionic double chain amphiphilic nanotransporters by using dimethyl 5‐hydroxy isophthalate based central core prepared by propargylation followed by ester hydrolysis. The core was subsequently decorated with hydrophobic alkyl (C8/C20/perfluoro alkylated Cf8) chains via esterification. Monomethoxy polyethylene glycol (mPEG) moiety (Mn: 750/1000) was then incorporated by click chemistry approach to confer hydrophilicity. The aggregation behavior of synthesized non‐ionic amphiphiles in aqueous medium was evaluated by using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The nanotransport potential of the synthesized amphiphiles was studied by using model hydrophobic guests, that is, the dye Nile red and the drugs nimodipine and curcumin by using ultraviolet–visible (UV/Vis) and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques. Evaluation of the viability of amphiphiles synthesized against HeLa cells showed them to be well tolerated up to the concentration studied. Stimuli responsive release of encapsulated Nile red from the inner core of amphiphile was successfully carried out in the presence of an immobilized enzyme Candida antarctica lipase (Novozym 435). In nutshell, the results obtained from this study may be instrumental in the design and development of promising nanotransporters for biomedical applications.
Social and non‐social reward processing in subclinical depression
Authors: Chen Yu , Huang Yi‐hang , Wang Ling‐ling , Hu Hui‐xin , Chu Min‐yi , Lui Simon S. Y. , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: October 2023

This study applied two incentive delay tasks involving social and non‐social incentive types to 76 pairs of participants with high and low depressive symptoms. The results suggest that higher levels of depressive symptoms are correlated with abnormalities in social and non‐social reward processing even in the healthy populations.
The role of self‐compassion and compassion toward others in burnout syndrome in a sample of medical students
Authors: Ramos‐Vidal Ignacio , Ruíz Érika
Published: October 2023

Burnout produces negative effects on academic performance, and, in turn, feelings of inefficiency that are detrimental to students' psychosocial well‐being. The aim of this research is to determine the effects that self‐compassion and compassion toward others have on various burnout dimensions in a sample of medical students. A total of 235 medical students (61.7% women) aged between 16 and 32 years old (M = 19.82;SD = 2.37) belonging to a Colombian university participated. A cluster analysis to segment the population according to burnout was carried out along with nonparametric contrasts to identify differences in the levels of self‐compassion and compassion toward others between each profile. A series of regression analyses was designed to find out how each type of compassion was associated with burnout on each profile. The cluster analysis allowed us to identify three profiles. The low‐involvement profile (n = 51) is characterized by low depersonalization, intermediate levels of emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment and exhibits low levels of self‐compassion and compassion fatigue compared with the other profiles. The positive‐adaptation profile (n = 104) is characterized by low depersonalization levels, intermediate degrees of emotional exhaustion and high levels of personal accomplishment and exhibits the highest levels of self‐compassion and compassion fatigue compared with the other profiles. The high‐demand profile (n = 104) is characterized by intermediate depersonalization levels, medium–high levels of emotional exhaustion and high levels of personal accomplishment and exhibits intermediate levels of self‐compassion and low levels of compassion fatigue. Establishing profiles based on burnout allows students to be segmented and for precise knowledge to be acquired about the effects that both types of compassion have on the dimensions of burnout.
Perifoveal and peripheral attentional modulation on order perception
Authors: Luo Yingrui , He Ying , Bao Yan
Published: October 2023

The present study demonstrates that spatial attention modulates temporal order perception differently in the perifoveal and peripheral regions, with a more pronounced effect in the left peripheral visual field, suggesting a dissociation in attentional systems for event timing at the sub‐second level.
Cancer patients' expectations of advance care planning: A typological content analysis of qualitative interviews
Authors: Pedrosa Anna J. , Demel Lara , Riera Knorrenschild Jorge , Seifart Carola , von Blanckenburg Pia
Published: October 2023

Background

Advance care planning (ACP) can help to elicit cancer patients' preferences in a discussion process to promote person‐centred medical decision‐making. Expectations are known to be highly relevant determinants of decisional processes. So far, however, little is known about cancer patients' expectations of ACP that lead to acceptance or refusal of the programme. The presented study, therefore, aims to explore cancer patients' expectations of ACP.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 27 cancer patients consenting to or refusing a newly implemented ACP programme in a German university hospital. Data were analysed using typological content analysis.

Results

We identified five different expectation clusters in relation to ACP. Consenting participants held expectations about the impact of ACP that were either ‘ego‐centred’ or ‘family‐centred’. Refusers had expectations based on ignorance and misinformation, or—if they had already completed an advance directive—expectations to avoid unpleasant redundancy, perceiving no additional benefit but a burden from ACP. Finally, refusers in particular expressed expectations of delegated responsibility at the end of life, including anticipation of proxy decision‐making.

Conclusion

Our study results suggest that expectation‐modifying measures could be taken to positively influence cancer patients' expectations and thus the acceptance of ACP. In this respect, reducing ignorance and misguided expectations plays a decisive role. Especially in family constellations with expected delegation of responsibility and dependence at the end of life, it might be important to promote ACP as a family‐intervention to improve family outcomes.
Beauveria bassiana biogenic nanoparticles for the control of Noctuidae pests
Authors: Guilger‐Casagrande Mariana , Migliorini Bianca Bertolini , Germano‐Costa Tais , Bilesky‐José Natália , Harada Liliam Katsue , Campos Estefânia Vangelie Ramos , Gonçalves Kelly Cristina , Polanczyk Ricardo Antonio , Fraceto Leonardo Fernandes , Lima Renata
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Biogenic metallic and oxide metal nanoparticles have potential as alternatives for several current problems in agriculture, such as the control of caterpillars which cause huge losses in the production of important crops. In the present study, capped and uncapped silver, iron oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles were synthesized from the filtrate of Beauveria bassiana and evaluated in regard to physico‐chemical characteristics, capping composition, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and biological activity on Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera frugiperda caterpillars.

RESULTS

A difference in the physico‐chemical parameters of the capped and uncapped nanoparticles was observed, with larger aggregation and lower stability of the uncapped. In regard to the study of the capping, the presence of functional groups of biomolecules as well as the activity of B. bassiana hydrolytic enzymes were observed. Cytotoxic effects on the tested cell lines were not observed and DNA damage levels increased with more intense effects of the uncapped nanoparticles. In regard to the biological activity against Noctuidae pests, the uncapped and capped iron oxide, and uncapped titanium dioxide nanoparticles occasioned higher mortality (76%, 60% and 51%, respectively) but no differences in LC50 were recorded. Moreover, sublethal effects were reported on Helicoverpa armigera whereas Spodoptera frugiperda showed low susceptibility to the nanoparticles.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that biogenic metallic and oxide metal nanoparticles might show promising effects for the control of caterpillars which cause damage on important agricultural crops. Further investigations are necessary to understand the mechanisms of action and optimize the biological activity of these new nanomaterials. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Carrier Injection Tailoring and Electroluminescence Properties of Carbon Dots in Electroluminescent Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Qu Jincheng , Yao Dengli , Yi Zichuan , Chi Feng , Liu Liming , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: October 2023

Fantastic carbon dots (CDs) are demonstrated as carrier injection tailoring and emitters of electroluminescent light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Using N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone as a carbon source, CDs are facilely synthesized by hydrothermal method. Transmission electron microscopy, X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and photoluminescence measurements confirm that the CDs show good film morphology and particular electronic properties. With CDs‐doped poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) tailoring hole injection, the 2‐(4‐biphenyl)‐5‐(4‐tert‐butylphenyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐based UV organic LED (OLED) gives maximum radiance of 2.34 mW cm−2 and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 1.51%. With CDs as electron injection layer, the inverted UV OLED shows a maximum radiance of 1.13 mW cm−2 and EQE of 0.38%. The hole/electron injection characteristics are further elucidated using current–voltage characteristics and impedance spectroscopy. Electroluminescent LEDs using pure CDs and CDs‐doped poly(9‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK) as emitters are demonstrated. The CDs‐based electroluminescent LED shows superior electro‐optical properties with a maximum luminance of 48.67 cd m−2 at 8 V, luminous efficiency of 0.022 cd A−1, power efficiency of 0.023 lm W−1, and EQE of 0.023%, owing to the energy transfer from PVK to CDs. The research paves an alternative approach for broadening CDs applications and advancing novel electroluminescent LEDs.
Kids Mod PAH trial: A multicenter trial comparing mono‐ versus duo‐therapy for initial treatment of pediatric pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Collaco Joseph M. , Abman Steven H. , Austin Eric D. , Avitabile Catherine M. , Bates Angela , Fineman Jeffrey R. , Freire Grace A. , Handler Stephanie S. , Ivy Dunbar D. , Krishnan Usha S. , Mullen Mary P. , Varghese Nidhy P. , Yung Delphine , Nies Melanie K. , Everett Allen D. , Zimmerman Kanecia O. , Simmons William , Chakraborty Hrishikesh , Yenokyan Gayane , Newell‐Sturdivant Allison , Christensen Eric , Eyzaguirre Lindsay M. , Hanley Daniel F. , Rosenzweig Erika B. , Romer Lewis H.
Published: October 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a significant health problem that contributes to high morbidity and mortality in diverse cardiac, pulmonary, and systemic diseases in children. Evidence‐based advances in PH care have been challenged by a paucity of quality endpoints for assessing clinical course and the lack of robust clinical trial data to guide pharmacologic therapies in children. While the landmark adult AMBITION trial demonstrated the benefit of up‐front combination PH therapy with ambrisentan and tadalafil, it remains unknown whether upfront combination therapy leads to more rapid and sustained clinical benefits in children with various categories of PH. In this article, we describe the inception of the Kids Mod PAH Trial, a multicenter Phase III trial, to address whether upfront combination therapy (sildenafil and bosentan vs. sildenafil alone) improves PH outcomes in children, recognizing that marked differences between the etiology and therapeutic response between adults and children exist. The primary endpoint of this study is WHO functional class (FC) 12 months after initiation of study drug therapy. In addition to the primary outcome, secondary endpoints are being assessed, including a composite measure of time to clinical worsening, WHO FC at 24 months, echocardiographic assessment of PH and quantitative assessment of right ventricular function, 6‐min walk distance, and NT‐proBNP levels. Exploratory endpoints include selected biomarkers, actigraphy, and assessments of quality of life. This study is designed to pave the way for additional clinical trials by establishing a robust infrastructure through the development of a PPHNet Clinical Trials Network.
Acute pneumonitis caused by oral intake of incense
Authors: Yamasaki Kei , Shigemi Saki , Chiba Yosuke , Kawaguchi Takako , Dosaka Hiroki , Ishiguro Yutaka , Yatera Kazuhiro
Published: October 2023

Key message

Incense is typically burned for use, with bronchitis and pneumonia reported as potential side effects. Physicians should be cautious as inappropriate oral ingestion of incense can lead to acute pneumonitis.
Sperm DNA fragmentation testing in clinical management of reproductive medicine
Authors: Adler Ava , Roth Bradley , Lundy Scott D. , Takeshima Teppei , Yumura Yasushi , Kuroda Shinnosuke
Published: October 2023

Background

Approximately 8%–12% of couples worldwide face infertility, with infertility of individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB) contributing to at least 50% of cases. Conventional semen analysis commonly used to detect sperm abnormalities is insufficient, as 30% of AMAB patients experiencing infertility show normal results in this test. From a genetic perspective, the assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is important as a parameter of sperm quality.

Methods

In this narrative study, we review and discuss pathophysiological causes, DNA repair mechanisms, and management of high SDF. We then summarize literature exploring the association between SDF and reproductive outcomes.

Main Findings

Recent systematic reviews and meta‐analyses have revealed a significant association between high SDF in AMAB individuals and adverse reproductive outcomes including embryo development, natural conception, intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization. However, the association with live birth rates and pregnancy rates following intracytoplasmic injection remains inconclusive. The disparities among quantitative assays, inconsistent reference range values, absent high‐quality prospective clinical trials, and clinical heterogeneity in AMAB patients with elevated SDF represent the main limitations affecting SDF testing.

Conclusion

The evaluation and management of SDF plays an important role in a subset of AMAB infertility, but widespread integration into clinical guidelines will require future high‐quality clinical trials and assay standardization.
Consideration of utilizable amino acid content in the context of dietary protein quality assessment
Authors: Adhikari Shiksha , de Boer Imke J. M. , van Hal Ollie , Huppertz Thom
Published: October 2023

Current evaluation systems for protein quality focus only on indispensable amino acids (IAAs) and do not consider the dispensable amino acids (DAAs). However, at excess levels of IAAs, DAAs may become limiting. Here, we used published ileal amino acid digestibility data determined in growing pigs and currently assumed protein and IAA recommendations to estimate utilizable, oxidized, and non‐absorbed amino acids in different dietary protein and to compare these utilizable amino acid values to digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) values. For dietary protein sources with a DIAAS value <90, the amount of calculated utilizable amino acids increased proportionally with the DIAAS value according to “utilizable amino acids (mg/g protein) = DIAAS × 10”; for dietary protein sources with a DIAAS value >90, the amount of utilizable amino acid stays within the range 800–1000 mg/g protein. Cereals contained the lowest levels of utilizable amino acids and the highest amount of oxidized amino acids. Dairy and meat have the highest amount of utilizable amino acids followed by nuts and pulses. For many mixtures of protein sources, the highest value for utilizable amino acids, which considers both IAAs and DAAs, occurred at a different ratio of protein sources than the maximum DIAAS value, which only considers IAAs. From this theoretical study and based on the assumptions made, we conclude that estimation of utilizable amino acids from data typically reported in DIAAS studies further enables complementary insights next to DIAAS values. Careful consideration of protein and IAA requirements is critical in further work.
Bemessungsvorschlag für geschraubte, polygonale Endplatten bei runden Hohlprofilen unter Zug
Authors: Timmers Ralph , Lang Robert
Published: October 2023

Runde Hohlprofile unter Zugbelastung werden üblicherweise auch durch runde Endplatten miteinander verbunden. Eine einfach zu fertigende Alternative stellen polygonale Endplatten mit 4, 6, 8, 12 Ecken bzw. Schrauben dar. Zur Bemessung kann das sog. T‐Stummel‐Modell der EN 1993‐1‐8 verwendet werden. Allerdings fehlen in der Norm die hierfür erforderlichen effektiven Längen der Fließlinien. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die Traglasten und die kinematischen Versagensmechanismen solcher Verbindungen mit der Discontinuity Layout Optimization (DLO) Methode ermittelt. Die Mechanismen werden analytisch aufgearbeitet und die effektiven Längen der Fließlinien in Form eines praxistauglichen Bemessungsmodells angegeben. Ein Vergleich des Bemessungsvorschlags mit den Traglasten der DLO‐Methode zeigt eine gute Übereinstimmung, mit vereinzelten Abweichungen von maximal 10 % zur unsicheren Seite.