bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of ELPO-PT: A Risk Assessment Scale for Surgical Positioning Injuries in the Portuguese Context
Authors: Salvini Andreia , Silva Elsa , Passos Carmen , Manuel Tânia , Moraes Camila , Sousa Clementina , Alves Paulo
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Surgical procedures carry inherent risks, including injuries from surgical positioning, which impact patient safety and healthcare quality. An instrument to assess and prevent these injuries is essential. This study aimed to validate and culturally adapt the ELPO-PT for the Portuguese population to ensure its applicability and effectiveness in assessing the risk of injury from surgical positioning. Methods: A validation study was conducted with 126 adult patients undergoing surgical procedures at a central hospital in northern Portugal. Statistical analyses, including the calculation of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, assessed the internal reliability of the scale. Additionally, sensitivity and specificity analyses evaluated the ELPO-PT’s diagnostic accuracy in identifying patients at risk of developing positioning-related injuries. Results: The validation showed a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.782, indicating reasonable internal reliability. Sensitivity analysis revealed an 85% accuracy rate in identifying patients at risk of positioning injuries, while specificity analysis demonstrated a 90% accuracy rate for patients not at risk. Conclusions: The ELPO-PT is a valid and reliable instrument for aiding nurses in clinical decision-making, with significant sensitivity and specificity in identifying the risk of positioning-related injuries, including pressure ulcers, in adult patients during the intraoperative period. Its implementation is expected to be beneficial in healthcare settings, contributing to the prevention of complications associated with surgical positioning.
Self-Care Practices and Perspectives in Managing Coronary Heart Disease Patients: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Setyowati Setyowati , Wahyuni Aria , Adriantoro Hananto , Junus Kasiyah , Umar Eric , Fauk Nelsensius Klau , Arifin Hidayat
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Self-care experiences and understanding of coronary heart disease (CHD) play a pivotal role in the management of CHD and can contribute to positive health outcomes. This qualitative study aimed to explore the views and experiences of CHD patients, their families, and Indigenous leaders about self-care practices of CHD. Methods: A qualitative design employing semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion was used. Employing purposive sampling, 49 respondents, comprising 30 patients, 10 family members, and 9 Indigenous leaders, were recruited and interviewed from April to September 2022. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: Five major categories were constructed: (1) inadequate knowledge and early symptom identification; (2) self-care activities for physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs; (3) family and kinship support for self-care efforts; (4) barriers to self-care including physical, psychological, and access issues; and (5) health improvement expectations based on culturally sensitive health education. Conclusions: The study reveals significant gaps in knowledge about CHD and the identification of early symptoms among patients, families, and Indigenous leaders. Despite efforts to meet physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs, self-care is hindered by various barriers, including limited access to healthcare and entrenched habits. The support from family and kinship systems is crucial for self-care. Participants expressed a strong desire for culturally tailored health education and better health control to improve heart health outcomes.
Current Practice and Perspectives on Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy in Patients with Primary Antibody Deficiency Among Specialized Nurses in Poland
Authors: Mizera Dorota , Dziedzic Radosław , Drynda Anna , Matyja-Bednarczyk Aleksandra , Padjas Agnieszka , Celińska-Löwenhoff Magdalena , Jakieła Bogdan , Bazan-Socha Stanisława
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) encompass various congenital disorders, resulting in immunity defects and recurrent infections. Home-based subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement therapy (scIgRT) is the best treatment option for those with primary antibody deficiency (PAD). However, the lack of standardized procedures in patient training remains a challenge. Our study investigates nurses’ practice and perspectives, aiming to identify areas for improvement in at-home scIgRT practice. Methods: We prepared a structured survey regarding scIgRT, including needle choice experience and perception of adverse events, and distributed it among qualified nurses involved in patient training and scIgRT supervising. Results: We included 56 nurses with a median age of 50 years. Among them, 67.9% represented adult care providers, while 32.1% supervised IgRT in children. Most respondents (83.9%) used the classic or assisted with hyaluronidase scIgRT preparations. Single-channel needles were administered most commonly (85.7%). The needle length was mostly chosen solely by a nurse (57.1%) or in cooperation with the patient (23.2%). Next, 9 mm and 12 mm needles were used most often (92.9% and 78.6%, respectively). As expected, the 6 mm needle was more frequently applied for children compared to adults (n = 16, 88.9% vs. n = 11, 28.9%, p < 0.001), while 12 mm was primarily used in adults (n = 35, 92.1% vs. n = 9, 50.0%, p < 0.001). Visual skin fold assessment was the basis for the needle selection (58.9%), followed by the injection site rule (26.8%) or a choice between two available needle types for thinner or thicker patients (25.0%). Results of this survey indicate that, according to nurses’ opinions presented in this survey, the needle length could be associated with local scIgRT adverse events, such as side needle leakage or local burning. Yet, it was likely unrelated to general adverse signs, such as headaches or dizziness. Most respondents (66.1%) indicated that, even if local adverse events occur, patients are reluctant to change scIgRT preparation or needle length. Most participants (69.6%) reported that the optimal administration technique needs to be discussed with the patient before and during scIgRT. Conclusions: This study sheds light on scIgRT practice in Poland, emphasizing deficiency in needle selection technique. Future research should focus on standardized training and advanced needle selection procedures on patient outcomes, investigating the correlation between needle strategies and adverse events, as well as the effectiveness of scIgRT.
Developing Risk Assessment Items of Treatment Interruption Among Vietnamese Patients with Tuberculosis in Japanese DOTS—A Quantitative and Qualitative Survey Using the Delphi Method
Authors: Mori Reiko , Shiratani Kae
Published: November 2024

Background: The number of foreign-born patients with tuberculosis (TB) has been increasing in Japan, and the number of Vietnamese patients was the highest in 2019. Tuberculosis (TB) is the second leading cause of death from infectious diseases after coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). As the prevalence of TB varies widely globally, measures must be tailored to local characteristics. The Directly Observed Treatment (DOTS) short-course was introduced by the World Health Organization as a global strategy to overcome these challenges. The purpose of this study is to develop an original risk assessment for treatment interruption for Vietnamese patients with TB to be used in Directly Observed Treatment (DOTS), a tuberculosis control measure. Methods: The researchers adopted the Delphi method. Public health nurses of mid-career or above (n = 15) who had conducted DOTS for several Vietnamese patients with TB were selected and surveyed about the content and surface validities of the draft risk assessment items for treatment interruption. The survey was conducted three times. The quantification of content validity and the review and modification of responses regarding each item were analyzed by the researchers. Results: The results identified the following risk categories: “physical characteristics”, “background of life during residence”, “treatment environment”, “understanding tuberculosis and disease acceptance”, and “cultural and value trends”. Conclusions: The results suggest the need to provide support for tuberculosis recovery from various perspectives, including the living environment of Vietnamese patients with TB, their social environment in Japan, and the culture and values of their country of birth and upbringing.
Higher and Middle Management Perspectives on Patient-Centered Care in an Oncology Setting: A Qualitative Study
Authors: AL-Ruzzieh Majeda A. , AL-Helih Yahia M. , Haroun Anas , Ayaad Omar
Published: November 2024

Background: Patient center care (PCC) plays a crucial role in achieving the organizational and patient outcomes. Literature suggests that PCC enhance patient’s adherence to treatment, lower the cost of health care organization. This study aimed explore the higher and middle managers’ perceptions of patient-centered care (PCC) in an oncology setting, identify the PCC implementation challenges in the oncology setting, and understand the role of managers in facilitating PCC within the oncology context. Methods: Sampling involved the use of the purposive sampling technique on 17 middle managers and 6 upper managers who had been working in an oncology setting. The six-step thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Results: The interviews identified six main themes and seventeen subthemes: “comprehensive care, partnership, and informed decision-making”, “infrastructure and support systems”, “leadership influence on patient-centered care”, “cultural and operational barriers”, “perceived outcomes”, and “strategies to enhance PCC in oncology”. The subthemes of comprehensive care included fostering partnerships and enabling informed decisions. The infrastructure and support systems encompassed educational empowerment and service integration. Leadership influence highlighted the role of elevating awareness, providing organizational support, and promoting comprehensive care. The cultural and operational barriers addressed the challenges faced in implementation. The perceived outcomes focused on the results of patient-centered care, while strategies to enhance PCC in oncology provided actionable insights for improvement. This provides a comprehensive understanding of the perceptions of middle and higher managers on patient-centered care (PCC) in oncology settings. It identifies key challenges in PCC implementation, highlights the critical role of managers in facilitating PCC, and offers actionable strategies for enhancing PCC.
Three and Twelve Month Body Mass Outcomes After Attendance at a Community-Based Weight Management Intervention in the North West of England
Authors: Broom David R. , Colledge Nick , Flannery Orla
Published: November 2024

Background: Research suggests that commercial weight management services are efficacious in helping people manage their body mass, but they typically only include education and advice on physical activity. The objective of this analysis was to assess 3- and 12-month body mass after attendance at a community-based weight management programme delivered by a commercial slimming group, which included the provision of tailored physical activity sessions by a local leisure trust between January 2009 and November 2014. Methods: After institutional ethical approval and participants giving informed consent, a retrospective analysis of a 12-week multi-component intervention, tier 2 community weight management service for adults in Wigan, North West England, United Kingdom, was undertaken. Participants’ (n = 8514) mean ± SD age was 47.4 ± 14.3 years and starting body mass was 86.7 ± 14.3 kg. The main outcome measure was body mass (kg) at 0 months (baseline), 3 months (immediately post intervention) and 12 months. Significant differences in body mass were ascertained if p < 0.05 using repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test, with effect sizes calculated using partial eta squared. To confirm and account for missing data, the Last Observation Carried Forward (LOCF) approach was used. Results: Repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant effect of time (p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.36). Post hoc tests revealed there was a significant reduction in body mass from baseline to 3 months (86.7 ± 14.3 kg vs. 81.2 ± 13.6 kg) and baseline to 12 months (79.7 ± 14.0 kg). The difference between 3 months and 12 months was also significant. LOCF confirmed a significant effect of time (p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.42), with all previously highlighted significant differences remaining. Conclusions: Significant reductions in body mass were reported at 3 and 12 months, providing evidence for the efficacy of the community weight management programme that included tailored physical activity opportunities for participants. Whilst comparisons to a resting control group cannot be made, partnerships between commercial slimming groups and local leisure providers should be encouraged and explored nationally.
Screening Activity of Brain Cancer-Derived Factors on Primary Human Brain Pericytes
Authors: McCullough Samuel , Albers Eliene , Anchan Akshata , Yu Jane , Connor Bronwen , Graham E. Scott
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Brain cancers offer poor prognoses to patients accompanied by symptoms that drastically impact the patient and their family. Brain tumours recruit local non-transformed cells to provide trophic support and immunosuppression within the tumour microenvironment, supporting tumour progression. Given the localisation and supportive role of pericytes at the brain vasculature, we explored the potential for brain pericytes to contribute to the brain cancer microenvironment. Methods: To investigate this, primary brain pericytes were treated with factors commonly upregulated in brain cancers. Immunofluorescent labelling identified changes to brain pericyte cell signalling, cytometric bead array measured inflammatory secretion, and flow cytometry investigated brain pericyte phagocytosis. Results: The TGFβ superfamily cytokines TGFβ and GDF-15 activated SMAD2/3 and inhibited C/EBP-δ, revealing a potential mechanism behind the pleiotropic action of TGFβ on brain pericytes. IL-17 induced secretion of IL-6 without activating NFκB, STAT1, SMAD2/3, or C/EBP-δ signalling pathways. IL-27 and IFNγ induced STAT1 signalling and significantly reduced brain pericyte phagocytosis. The remaining brain cancer-derived factors did not induce a measured response, indicating that these factors may act on other cell types or require co-stimulation with other factors to produce significant effects. Conclusions: We identify several brain cancer-secreted factors which alter relevant brain pericyte functions. This reveals mechanisms through which brain tumours may regulate brain pericyte activity and these data start to uncover the supportive role these cells may play in brain cancers.
Diffusion and Spectroscopy of H2 in Myoglobin
Authors: Käser Jiri , Töpfer Kai , Meuwly Markus
Published: November 2024

The diffusional dynamics and vibrational spectroscopy of molecular hydrogen (H2) in myoglobin (Mb) is characterized. Hydrogen has been implicated in a number of physiologically relevant processes, including cellular aging or inflammation. Here, the internal diffusion through the protein matrix was characterized, and the vibrational spectroscopy was investigated using conventional empirical energy functions and improved models able to describe higher-order electrostatic moments of the ligand. Depending on the energy function used, H2 can occupy the same internal defects as already found for Xe or CO (Xe1 to Xe4 and B-state). Furthermore, four additional sites were found, some of which had been discovered in earlier simulation studies. Simulations using a model based on a Morse oscillator and distributed charges to correctly describe the molecular quadrupole moment of H2 indicate that the vibrational spectroscopy of the ligand depends on the docking site it occupies. This is consistent with the findings for CO in Mb from experiments and simulations. For H2, the maxima of the absorption spectra cover ∼20 cm−1 which are indicative of a pronounced Stark effect of the surrounding protein matrix on the vibrational spectroscopy of the ligand. Electronic structure calculations show that H2 forms a stable complex with the heme iron (stabilized by ∼−12 kcal/mol), but splitting of H2 is unlikely due to a high activation energy (∼50 kcal/mol).
Use of the Micro-Agar Larval Development Test to Differentiate Resistant and Susceptible Cooperia spp. Isolates in Cattle Within the Context of Parasite Population Replacement
Authors: Fuentes Mariana Elisabet , Lloberas Mercedes , Bernat Gisele , Riva Eliana , Junco Milagros , Fernández Silvina
Published: November 2024

Gastrointestinal nematode infections are a global concern in grazing cattle production systems, even more so due to the widespread problem of anthelmintic resistance. In response, early anthelmintic resistance detection methods, such as the micro-agar larval development test (MALDT), and parasite management strategies, such as the replacement of resistant parasite populations with susceptible ones, have been developed. This study aimed to characterize ivermectin-susceptible and -resistant isolates of Cooperia spp. using MALDT in the context of a parasite population replacement strategy. Three Cooperia spp. field isolates were evaluated: a susceptible one (Coop-S), a resistant one (Coop-R), and a post-replacement one (Coop-PR). The MALDT was performed in 96-well plates with 12 known concentrations of eprinomectin (EPR) on an agar base. Each test was performed in quadruplicate. Data analysis included nonlinear regression to determine EC50, EC90, and EC99 values, resistance ratios (RRs), and R2. The results showed clear differentiation between the isolates, with RR values of 5.78 and 1.28 for Coop-R and Coop-PR, respectively, compared to Coop-S. The MALDT proved to be a reliable tool for differentiating ivermectin-susceptible from ivermectin-resistant isolates of Cooperia spp., and future evaluations of this test in mixed nematode populations are recommended for routine diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance.
Neurosyphilis-Induced Psychosis in Europe: A Systematic Review of Case Reports
Authors: Jarocki Adam , Klimczyk Kinga , Łysakowska Monika E. , Bielec Filip , Pastuszak-Lewandoska Dorota
Published: November 2024

The tertiary stage of syphilis appears to be the most diverse of the three recognized, with a number of cardiovascular, gummatous, neurological and psychiatric symptoms. This systematic review’s aim is to analyze cases of organic psychoses secondary to tertiary syphilis, inspect the diagnostic procedures and assess the effectiveness of treatment. Case studies from Pubmed and MEDLINE Ultimate were sought out with the Boolean expression ‘((neurosyphilis) OR (syphilis) OR (treponema pallidum)) AND (case report) AND ((psychosis) OR (psychotic))’ to later undergo screening for exclusion criteria (according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines). Each report was accepted independently by two authors. Case reports were later appraised using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Reports. Finally, 11 case reports were included in the study. The most frequently reported psychiatric symptoms were delusions (91%) and hallucinations (81%), disorientation (about 42%) and sleep disturbances and memory loss (36%). Several inconsistencies in diagnostic processes were found in some of the case reports, while treatment procedures were more in line with the guidelines. A disease as complex as neurosyphilis requires great awareness and cooperation between various medical specialties. Despite its mimicry and variability in presentation, the discussed case reports prove that it can be successfully dealt with.
Estimating the Current Routes of Transmission in HIV-1 F1 Subtype Infected Persons in Romania: Differences Between Self-Reporting and Phylogenetic Data
Authors: Hohan Robert , Paraschiv Simona , Nicolae Ionelia , Oțelea Dan
Published: November 2024

Monitoring the HIV epidemic in Romania has proven challenging due to many factors, including the reluctance of newly diagnosed patients to disclose relevant epidemiological aspects during the clinical interview, such as sexual orientation or the existence of previous issues with injectable drug usage. We propose in this study a molecular approach to mitigate this problem with the help of bioinformatic tools, such as cluster analysis of phylogenetic trees. Both a maximum likelihood estimation, as implemented with FastTree, and a Bayesian approach, as used in BEAST, have been applied to our data set of 312 HIV subtype F1 pol gene sequences. ClusterPicker was used in order to identify groups of sequences and indicate similarities possibly related to the route of transmission. An important observation from this analysis is that transmission between men who have sex with men (MSM) is likely occurring in networks significantly larger than previously assessed by self-reported data (65% from the phylogenetic tree versus 37% from self-declared affiliation). Cluster analysis can help identify risk factors, reveal transmission trends, and, consequently, advise prevention programs.
Efficacy of UV-C 254 nm Light and a Sporicidal Surface Disinfectant in Inactivating Spores from Clostridioides difficile Ribotypes In Vitro
Authors: Blau Khald , Gallert Claudia
Published: November 2024

Clostridioides difficile is widely recognised as one of the most common causes of healthcare-associated C. difficile infections due to the ability of spores to survive for prolonged periods in the hospital environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of UV-C 254 nm light in the inactivation of the spores of different C. difficile ribotypes on brain heart infusion (BHI) agar plates or in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) with varying spore densities. Furthermore, the effectiveness of a sporicidal surface disinfectant against C. difficile spores was determined on different surfaces. Spore suspensions of different C. difficile strains in the range of 105–107 colony-forming units (CFUs) mL−1 were inoculated on BHI agar plates or in PBS and exposed to UV-C light for up to 30 min. Additionally, a spore suspension of 103–105 CFUs was spread over a 1 cm2 test area on different surfaces, and sporicidal surface wipes were used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The findings demonstrated that spores of C. difficile ribotypes exhibited a complete reduction in log10 CFU on BHI agar plates and PBS following 20 min of exposure to a UV-C dose of 2208 mJ cm−2. The surface wipes with sporicidal properties demonstrated efficacy in reducing the number of C. difficile spores on the Formica, stainless steel, and plastic surfaces by 2.03–3.53 log10. The present study demonstrates that moist surfaces or liquids can enhance the efficacy of UV-C treatment in reducing C. difficile spores. This approach may be applicable to the surfaces of healthcare facilities and to water disinfection systems.
Therapeutic Effect of Shikimic Acid on Heat Stress-Induced Myocardial Damage: Assessment via Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, and In Vitro Experiments
Authors: Gu Yan , Zhang Jingyi , Zheng Haohong , Qin Yuyang , Zheng Min , Hu Yanchun , Xin Jialiang
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Background: Rising global temperatures have been linked to an increased incidence of heat stress (HS)-induced myocardial damage. Methods: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of shikimic acid (SA) on HS-induced myocardial damage using network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and in vitro experiments. Results: Network pharmacology analysis indicated that SA significantly attenuates the inflammatory response to HS by modulating 60 targets, including TNF, IL-6, and STAT3, which are enriched in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Molecular docking and MD simulation analyses demonstrated that SA forms stable complexes with TNF (−6.642 kcal/mol) and IL-6 (−7.261 kcal/mol), with no significant conformational changes over a 100 ns simulation period. In vitro experiments demonstrated that SA, within the concentration range of 250 μM to 31.25 μM, significantly promoted the proliferation of normal HL-1 cells by an average of 31.0%. Moreover, it enhanced the survival rate of HL-1 cells exposed to 43 °C for 3 h by approximately 59.9% and downregulated the expression of Hsp90 and Hsp70. Additionally, this concentration range of SA reduced the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, TLR2, and COL1A1. Conclusions: These findings offer evidence for the therapeutic potential of SA in HS-induced myocardial damage.
Plyometric and Resistance Training: A Dual Approach to Enhance Physical Fitness in 12–15-Year-Old Girls
Authors: Petrušič Tanja
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week combined plyometric and resistance training program on the physical fitness (PF) of adolescent girls aged 12 to 15 years. The objective was to determine whether combined training (CT) would yield greater improvements in performance measures compared to resistance training (RT) alone. Methods: Forty-seven adolescent girls were randomly assigned to either the CT group or the RT group. Performance measures such as the 20 m sprint, squat jump, vertical jump, handgrip strength, and flexibility (sit and reach test) were assessed before and after the 8-week intervention. Changes in these measures were analyzed to compare the effects of the two training approaches. Results: The CT group showed a significant reduction in sprint time (−6.5%) compared to the RT group (−4.1%), although the difference was not statistically significant. Squat jump height improved significantly by 5.6% in the CT group compared to 1.1% in the RT group (p < 0.05). Similarly, vertical jump height increased by 6.7% in the CT group and by 2.4% in the RT group (p < 0.05). Handgrip strength improved by 7.5% in the CT group and 4.6% in the RT group, with no significant differences between the groups. Flexibility showed slight, non-significant improvements in both groups. Conclusions: The findings suggest that a combined plyometric and RT program is more effective in enhancing explosive power, specifically squat and vertical jump performance, in adolescent girls compared to RT alone. These results highlight the potential of CT programs for improving overall physical performance in this population.
Stress-Inducible Expression of HvABF2 Transcription Factor Improves Water Deficit Tolerance in Transgenic Barley Plants
Authors: Al-Sayaydeh Rabea , Ayad Jamal , Harwood Wendy , Al-Abdallat Ayed M.
Published: November 2024

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), a major cereal crop grown in arid and semi-arid regions, faces significant yield variability due to drought and heat stresses. In this study, the HvABF2 gene, encoding an ABA-dependent transcription factor, was cloned using specific primers from water deficit-stressed barley seedlings. Gene expression analysis revealed high HvABF2 expression in developing caryopses and inflorescences, with significant induction under stress conditions. The HvABF2 coding sequence was utilized to generate transgenic barley plants with both stress-inducible and constitutive expression, driven by the rice SNAC1 and maize Ubiquitin promoters, respectively. Selected transgenic barley lines, along with control lines, were subjected to water deficit-stress experiments at seedling and flag leaf stages under controlled and greenhouse conditions. The transgenic lines exhibited higher relative water content and stomatal resistance under stress compared to control plants. However, constitutive overexpression of HvABF2 led to growth retardation under well-watered conditions, resulting in reduced plant height, grain weight, and grain number. In contrast, stress-inducible expression mitigated these effects, demonstrating improved drought tolerance without adverse growth impacts. This study highlights that the stress-inducible expression of HvABF2, using the SNAC1 promoter, effectively improves drought tolerance while avoiding the negative pleiotropic effects observed with constitutive expression.
Repurposing ABS to Produce Polyamide 6 (PA6)-Based Blends: Reactive Compatibilization with SAN-g-MA of a High Degree of Functionalization
Authors: Torquato Jonathan Vinícius Moreira , Luna Carlos Bruno Barreto , dos Santos Filho Edson Antonio , do Nascimento Emanuel Pereira , de Mélo Tomás Jeferson Alves , Wellen Renate Maria Ramos , Araújo Edcleide Maria , Morais Dayanne Diniz de Souza
Published: November 2024

In this study, recycled acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer (ABSr) was reused to produce polyamide 6 (PA6)-based blends. This was achieved through reactive compatibilization using styrene-acrylonitrile-maleic anhydride (SAN-g-MA) copolymer with a high degree of functionalization (6–10% MA). The PA6/ABSr and PA6/ABSr/SAN-g-MA blends were prepared through melt processing and injection molding and then analyzed for their rheological, mechanical, thermomechanical, thermal, and structural properties, as well as morphology. The torque rheometry revealed a maximum reactivity of the PA6/ABSr (70/30 wt%) blend with low SAN-g-MA (5 phr—parts per hundred resin) content, while above this threshold, torque began to decline, indicating compatibilizer saturation in the interface. These findings were further substantiated by the increase in complex viscosity and the lower melt flow index (MFI) of the PA6/ABSr/SAN-g-MA (5 phr) blend. The 5 phr SAN-g-MA reactive compatibilization of the PA6/ABSr blends significantly enhanced its impact strength, elongation at break, tensile strength, and heat deflection temperature (HDT) by 217%, 631%, 12.6%, and 9.5%, respectively, compared to PA6/ABSr. These findings are promising for the plastic recycling field, paving the way for the production of new tailor-made materials at a reduced price.
Auricularia Auricula Polysaccharide-Mediated Green Synthesis of Highly Stable Au NPs
Authors: Liu Haoqiang , Gu Liyu , Ye Yuanzhen , Zhang Minwei
Published: November 2024

Polysaccharide-functionalized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) exhibit a promising application in biomedical fields due to their excellent stability and functional properties. The Au NPs from Auricularia auricula polysaccharide (AAP) were successfully synthesized using a straightforward method. By controlling the mass fraction of AAP, pH, reaction temperature, reaction time, and concentration of gold precursor, the highly dispersed spherical AAP-functionalized Au NPs (AAP-Au NPs) were prepared. The Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated that the synthesis mechanism of AAP-Au NPs was as follows: the molecular chain of AAP undergoes a glycosidic bond breakage to expose the reduction terminus in the presence of gold precursor, which reduced Au(III) to Au(0), and itself was oxidized to carboxylate compounds for maintaining the stability of AAP-Au NPs. Additionally, based on the electrostatic interactions and steric forces, as-prepared AAP-Au NPs exhibit excellent stability at various pH (5–11), temperature (25–60 °C), 5 mmol/L glutathione, and 0.1 mol/L Na+ and K+ solutions. Furthermore, AAP-Au NPs retained the ability to scavenge DDPH and ABTS radicals, which is expected to expand the application of Au NPs in biomedical fields.
Sedimentary Environment and Organic Matter Accumulation of Continental Shales in Xiahuayuan Formation in Xuanlong Depression, Yanshan Area
Authors: Jiang Wei , Hu Yang , Wu Peng
Published: November 2024

The shale sedimentary environment is crucial for evaluating shale gas reservoirs and sweet spot zones. The Xiahuayuan Formation in the Xuanlong Depression of the Yanshan area is an important exploration and development region for shale gas due to its multi-layer dark shale. The paleosedimentary environment and organic matter accumulation mechanism of organic-rich shale were discussed through geochemical methods such as total organic carbon (TOC) content and elemental analysis. The results indicate that the shale exhibits a high TOC content. The Mo content and the P/Al and P/Ti ratios indicate that the primary productivity of the ancient lake is high. The Ceanom, V/(V + Ni) ratio and MoEF-UEF covariation model reveal that the sedimentary environment of shale is characterized by anoxic conditions. The ratios of K/Al and Ti/Al suggest significant variations in the input of fine-grained clay clastics and terrigenous clastics. The Ca/(Fe + Ca) and Sr/Ba ratios suggest that the paleowater was a freshwater environment. The paleoclimatic conditions, as indicated by CIA, Sr/Cu, and C-value, suggest a range from semi-humid to humid. The ratios of Rb/K and Mn/Ti reflect that the water primarily existed in a shore–shallow lake environment. The correlation analysis between organic matter accumulation and sedimentary environment parameters indicates that the primary factors influencing the organic matter accumulation in the Xiahuayuan Formation shale are redox conditions, terrigenous clastic input, paleoclimate conditions, and paleowater depth. The organic matter accumulation is characterized by a “preservation condition” pattern. This study provides theoretical support for the accumulation mechanism, potential evaluation of resources, and optimal selection of favorable regions for Jurassic shale gas in the Xuanlong Depression.
Materials That Do Not Form Any Defects After WEDM
Authors: Mouralova Katerina , Fries Jiří , Benes Libor , Houska Pavel
Published: November 2024

Wire Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM) is an unconventional machining technology that uses electrical impulses to generate very high temperatures to cut material. The WEDM process hence causes some unfortunate defects, such as cracks and burnt cavities, which can impact the correct functionality of the machined pieces and shorten their service life. This study was carried out to understand which materials remain defect-free after WEDM. The examined materials were the Ampcoloy 35 copper alloy, the high-entropy steels FeCoCrMnNi and FeCoCrMnNiC0.2, and the B1914 and Nimonic 263 nickel alloys. The influence of the machining parameters, namely the pulse off time, gap voltage, discharge current, pulse on time, and wire feed, on the cutting speed and the surface topography of the machined piece was investigated. The surface morphology, the state of the subsurface layer in a cross-section, and the number of diffused elements from the wire electrode were analysed. All the analysed materials were found completely suitable for WEDM machining as they do not form any surface or subsurface defects.
A Multidisciplinary Review into the Evolution of Risk Concepts and Their Assessment Methods
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Reniers Genserik , Yang Ming
Published: November 2024

Risk is a complex and multi-faceted concept defined and addressed differently across disciplines. Recent years have seen a growing recognition of the need for a more comprehensive and integrated risk perspective combining insights from various disciplines. However, those works have rarely been analyzed in literature reviews. This article explores the possible way of advancing how we assess and manage risks by reviewing the theories, approaches, models, and other fundamental aspects of different disciplines relevant to risk concepts. Additionally, we compare the origins, connections, and differences between state-of-the-art risk science and risk concept research in various disciplines. Some suggestions and future directions are provided for improving risk assessment. This paper helps to deepen the understanding of the risk concept and advance the development of the risk management arena.
Design and Technical-Economic-Environmental Evaluation of a Biorefinery Using Non-Marketable Edible Mushroom Waste
Authors: Lazaro-Molina Brenda , Lopez-Arenas Teresa
Published: November 2024

Edible mushrooms are gaining popularity as functional foods, not only for their distinctive taste and subtle flavor but also for their potential health benefits. They are rich in essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. However, it is estimated that up to 30% of total mushroom production generates non-marketable waste, which is currently used as animal feed, fertilizer, or compost. From a circular economy perspective, the objective of this work is to propose a conceptual design for a biorefinery to produce high-value-added products from non-marketable edible mushroom waste and to conduct a comprehensive assessment using modeling and simulation tools for process engineering. The general approach first involves identifying high-potential products, then determining the best processing routes, followed by developing a process flowsheet diagram for a case study (A. bisporus), and ultimately conducting a comprehensive assessment of the biorefinery to evaluate its sustainability. As a result, the proposed biorefinery may produce chitin, citric acid, and fertilizer, demonstrating the technical feasibility of waste valorization in terms of product yields, with positive profitability in terms of the rate of return on investment and payback period, and low environmental impact in terms of water and energy consumption as well as CO2 emissions.
Analyzing Data Sharing Policies in Library and Information Science: Journal Metrics, Open Access Status, and Publisher Volume
Authors: Kim Eungi , Tabogoc Kristine Joy , Chae Jang Won
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study is to explore the prevalence and characteristics of data sharing policies in library and information science (LIS) journals, focusing on their relationship with journal metrics, publisher volume (number of journals managed by the publisher), and open access (OA) status. The study examined the link between data sharing policies and journal metrics in LIS journals indexed in Scopus. Using secondary data from the SJR portal and qualitative data from author guidelines, the study revealed several key findings: First, a positive relationship existed between publisher volume and the presence of data sharing policies, with high-volume publishers consistently implementing such policies. Second, 50.2% of LIS journals lacked data sharing guidelines, indicating a significant gap. Third, journals that encouraged or required data sharing under certain conditions tended to perform better in metrics such as quartiles, h-index, and citation impact. Fourth, data sharing policies were more common in higher-ranked journals and were linked to better journal metrics. Fifth, higher-ranked journals were more likely to include details on data statements, DOIs, and repositories than lower-ranked journals. Lastly, non-OA journals were more likely to encourage practices such as including data repositories and supplementary files in submissions, compared to OA journals, revealing unexpected disparities. In conclusion, data sharing policies in LIS journals showed associations with journal ranking and publisher volume, with non-OA journals showing higher presence of certain data sharing practices.
Synthesis of the Sex Pheromones of the Pine Caterpillar, Dendrolimus punctatus (Walker)
Authors: Lin Chuanwen , Ma Sijie , Sun Xiao , Bian Qinghua , Zhong Jiangchun
Published: November 2024

The pine caterpillar, Dendrolimus punctatus (Walker), is a notorious forest pest. An efficient and convenient synthesis of the sex pheromones of this pest has been achieved. In our synthetic approach, a Wittig coupling of an aldehyde with an ester-bearing phosphonium salt was used to construct the Z-alkene, whereas the E-alkene was prepared via a stereoselective reduction of an alkyne with LiAlH4. The synthetic sex pheromones would be useful for integrated pest management of the pine caterpillar.
The Regulation and Function of the Amino Acid Transporters LAT1, ASCT2, xCT in Urological Cancers
Authors: Zhao Xue , Sakamoto Shinichi , Saito Shinpei , Pae Sangjon , Yamada Yasutaka , Kanaoka Sanji , Wei Jiaxing , Goto Yusuke , Sazuka Tomokazu , Imamura Yusuke , Anzai Naohiko , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: November 2024

Amino acid transporters play pivotal roles in cancer biology, including in urological cancers. Among them, L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1), alanine-serine-cysteine transporter 2 (ASCT2), and cystine-glutamate transporter (xCT) have garnered significant attention due to their involvement in various aspects of tumor progression and response to therapy. This review focuses on elucidating the regulation and functions of these amino acid transporters in urological cancers, including prostate, bladder, and renal cancers. Understanding the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing these amino acid transporters is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, exploring their interactions with signaling pathways and microenvironmental cues in the context of urological cancers may uncover novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. This comprehensive overview highlights the importance of amino acid transporters, particularly LAT1, ASCT2, and xCT, in urological cancers and underscores the potential of their inhibitors as therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
Recycled Carbon Black/High-Density Polyethylene Composite from Waste Tires: Manufacturing, Testing, and Aging Characterization
Authors: Billotte Catherine , Romana Laurence , Flory Anny , Kaliaguine Serge , Ruiz Edu
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the global issue of recycling used vehicle tires, typically burned out or trimmed to be reused in playground floors or road banks. In this study, we explore a novel environmentally responsive approach to decomposing and recovering the carbon black particles contained in tires (25–30 wt.%) by vacuum pyrolysis. Given that carbon black is well known for its UV protection in plastics, the objective of this research is to provide an ecological alternative to commercial carbon black of fossil origin by recycling the carbon black (rCB) from used tires. In our research, we create a composite material using rCB and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In this article, we present the environmental aging studies carried out on this composite material. The topographic evolution of the samples with aging and the oxidation kinetics of the surface and through the thickness were studied. The Beer–Lambert law is used to relate the oxidative index to the characteristic depth of the samples. The UV photons are observed to penetrate up to 54% less with the addition of 6 wt.% of rCB compared to virgin HDPE. In this work, the addition of rCB as filler for HDPE used for outdoor applications has demonstrated to be an antioxidant for UV protection and a good substitute for commercial carbon black for industrial goods.
Vox populi (Dei), vox Dei: Pope Francis’ Theology of the People of God, the Priesthood of All Believers and Democracy
Authors: von Sinner Rudolf
Published: November 2024

The Holy See is an absolute monarchy, both as a political and as a spiritual entity. The Second Vatican Council indicated, retrieving biblical terms and metaphors, a new way of giving value to the whole people of God, the laity (laos theou), constituted by baptism. Rather than a societas perfecta in a pyramidal system, the intention was to declericalise and in this sense democratise the church and its decision-making, not least seeking to secure its witness in an ever more secular world. Even if a sacramental and ontological difference is maintained, this indicates clergy are no longer a first class of believers against which the laity would be a second class; rather, they are rooted and stand with and within the whole people of God with their specific vocation and ordination. The notion of the royal and universal priesthood of believers, taken from 1 Peter 2:9 and emphasised by Luther and other reformers as they distributed power between ordained and not ordained leaders, was visible in the Second Vatican Council and finds new enactment in the synodality process which culminated in the Ordinary Synod in Rome, in October 2024. Based on his own theology of the people of God, developed during the dictatorship and economic oppression in Argentina, with strong cultural and religious connotations, Pope Francis seeks to further major involvement of the laity and especially of women in the church’s administration and transformation processes. Not surprisingly, this process has been receiving criticism both from those who find it is not going far enough and from those who believe the process has already gone far too far. Based on bibliographical and documental research, the intention of this article is to describe and analyse the notion of the people of God as proposed by Pope Francis and its forms of concretisation including its deficiencies, as well as, in dialogue with ongoing debates on populism, highlight the precariousness of any “people” as a concept and as a reality. A dynamic notion of “people” and a theological accountability of the people and the clergy towards each other, towards God and towards the world can do justice to both the ambiguities and the irreplaceability of the people as citizens of the church as well as the world.
Pembrolizumab Induced Recall Dermatitis Occurring 5 Years After Radiotherapy
Authors: Cushman Caroline J. , Abaleka Fuad , Ibrahim Andrew F. , Yalamanchili Kiran , Thirumala Seshadri , Quick Donald
Published: November 2024

Background and Clinical Significance: Radiation recall dermatitis (RRD) following immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has been infrequently reported. Case Presentation: We present a 47-year-old female patient who developed RRD of the breast following three doses of pembrolizumab administered as an adjuvant treatment post-nephrectomy for Stage III renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Notably, the affected breast had previously undergone external beam radiotherapy 247 weeks earlier for Stage IA invasive ductal carcinoma. She had received no prior chemotherapy at any point. RRD manifested as breast induration, erythema, and peau d’orange, and contraction of breast volume was noted following three cycles of pembrolizumab on week 17 (400 mg dose every 6 weeks). The dermatitis responded rapidly to systemic corticosteroids and no treatment interruption was needed. Conclusions: To date, this is the longest reported interval from completion of radiotherapy to RRD. A literature search underscores the variability in presentation and management of ICI-associated RRD.
The Relationship Between CEO Power, Labor Productivity, and Company Value in the Iraqi Stock Exchange
Authors: kadhim Hamad Hamad Aqeel , Salehi Mahdi , Barrak Jasim Idan , Khudhair Anmar Adnan , Amran Naji Al-Refiay Hussen
Published: November 2024

The current study investigates the relationship between the CEO’s power, the workforce’s productivity, and the company’s value in Iraqi stock exchange companies. A sample of 34 companies listed on the Iraqi Stock Exchange from 2016 to 2021 was tested using a multiple regression model, a panel data approach, and a fixed effects model. CEO power is measured by the busing factor analysis approach, which integrates four indices: CEO salary, CEO ownership, CEO tenure, and CEO control over board members. The findings indicate a positive and significant relationship between CEO power and labor productivity. Also, there is a negative and significant relationship between CEO power and the stickiness of labor costs. On the other hand, we found a positive and significant relationship between the CEO power and firm value. In addition, labor cost stickiness has a positive effect on firm value. By highlighting the CEOs’ power, this research tries to increase companies’ attention to this issue and its effect on improving employment productivity, cost management, and firm value.