bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histological characterization of the human scapholunate ligament
Authors: Chato‐Astrain Jesús , Roda Olga , Carriel Víctor , Hita‐Contreras Fidel , Sánchez‐Montesinos Indalecio , Alaminos Miguel , Hernández‐Cortés Pedro
Published: September 2023

The scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) plays a fundamental role in stabilizing the wrist bones, and its disruption is a frequent cause of wrist arthrosis and disfunction. Traditionally, this structure is considered to be a variety of fibrocartilaginous tissue and consists of three regions: dorsal, membranous and palmar. Despite its functional relevance, the exact composition of the human SLIL is not well understood. In the present work, we have analyzed the human SLIL and control tissues from the human hand using an array of histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical methods to characterize each region of this structure. Results reveal that the SLIL is heterogeneous, and each region can be subdivided in two zones that are histologically different to the other zones. Analysis of collagen and elastic fibers, and several proteoglycans, glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans confirmed that the different regions can be subdivided in two zones that have their own structure and composition. In general, all parts of the SLIL resemble the histological structure of the control articular cartilage, especially the first part of the membranous region (zone M1). Cells showing a chondrocyte‐like phenotype as determined by S100 were more abundant in M1, whereas the zone containing more CD73‐positive stem cells was D2. These results confirm the heterogeneity of the human SLIL and could contribute to explain why certain zones of this structure are more prone to structural damage and why other zones have specific regeneration potential.

Research Highlights

Application of an array of histological analysis methods allowed us to demonstrate that the human scapholunate ligament is heterogeneous and consists of at least six different regions sharing similarities with the human cartilage, ligament and other anatomical structures.
Biosynthesis cobalt‐doped nickel nanoparticles and their toxicity against disease
Authors: Alsamhary Khawla , Ameen Fuad , Kha Mansour
Published: September 2023

The nanostructures have the great potential for novel medical and drug delivery applications. In present paper a green approach for the preparation of pure nickel oxide (NiO) and 5% cobalt‐doped NiO (Co╫NiO) nanoparticles (NPs) by using Prosopis fracta extract have been study. The product of Co╫NiO NPs was proved through the PXRD, Raman, UV–Vis, FESEM, and EDX analyses. The results of XRD, EDX, and UV–Visible spectra displayed well doped cobalt in NiO NP. The particle sizes of Co╫NiO NPs were observed to be about 80 nm. The MTT test results for the cytotoxicity of Co╫NiO NPs on breast cancer cells (MCF‐7) affirmed the stronger impact of doped NiO‐NPs on cancer cells compared to NiO NPs. Thus, it is indicated that the doping process on NiO NPs caused an increase in its inhibitory effect against MCF‐7 cells.

Research Highlights

Cobalt‐doped NiO nanoparticles were prepared using ecofriendly synthesis method and their cytotoxicity studied against MCF‐7 cells.
Clinical outcomes after extended 12‐month antiretroviral therapy prescriptions in a community‐based differentiated HIV service delivery programme in South Africa: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lewis Lara , Sookrajh Yukteshwar , van der Molen Johan , Khubone Thokozani , Sosibo Phelelani , Maraj Munthra , van Heerden Rose , Little Francesca , Kassanjee Reshma , Garrett Nigel , Dorward Jienchi
Published: September 2023

Introduction

There is an urgent need for more efficient models of differentiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery for people living with HIV (PLHIV), with the World Health Organization calling for evidence to guide whether annual ART prescriptions and consultations (12M scripts) should be recommended in global guidelines. We assessed the association between 12M scripts (allowed temporarily during the COVID‐19 pandemic) versus standard 6‐month prescriptions and consultations (6M scripts) and clinical outcomes.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study using routine, de‐identified data from 59 public clinics in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. We included PLHIV aged ≥18 years with a recent suppressed viral load (VL) who had been referred for community ART delivery with 6M or 12M scripts. We used modified Poisson regression to compare 12‐month retention‐in‐care (≤90 days late for all visits) and viral suppression (<50 copies/ml) between prescription groups.

Results

Among 27,148 PLHIV referred for community ART during Jun–Dec 2020, 57.4% received 12M scripts. The median age was 39 years and 69.4% were women. Age, sex, prior community ART use and time on ART were similar across groups. However, more of the 12M script group had dolutegravir‐based regimens (60.0% vs. 46.3%). The median (interquartile range) number of clinic visits in the year of follow‐up was 1(1‐1) in the 12M group and 2(2‐3) in the 6M group. Retention was 94.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 94.2%–94.9%) among those receiving 12M scripts and 91.8% (95% CI: 91.3%–92.3%) among those with 6M scripts. 17.1% and 16.9% of clients in the 12M and 6M groups were missing follow‐up VL data, respectively. Among those with VLs, 92.4% (95% CI: 92.0%–92.9%) in the 12M group and 91.4% (95% CI: 90.8%–92.0%) in the 6M group were suppressed. After adjusting for age, sex, ART regimen, time on ART, prior community ART use and calendar month, retention (adjusted risk ratio [aRR]: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05) and suppression (aRR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.99–1.01) were similar across groups.

Conclusions

Among PLHIV referred for community ART with a recent suppressed VL, the use of 12M scripts reduced clinic visits without impacting short‐term clinical outcomes. 12M scripts should be considered for differentiated service delivery programmes.
Factors that influence adolescent girls and young women's re‐initiation or complete discontinuation from daily oral PrEP use: a qualitative study from Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: de Vos Lindsey , Mudzingwa Emily Krogstad , Fynn Lauren , Atujuna Millicent , Mugore Matinatsa , Gandhi Monica , Celum Connie , Hosek Sybil , Bekker Linda‐Gail , Daniels Joseph , Medina‐Marino Andrew
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) face barriers that jeopardize their prevention‐effective use of daily oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We sought to understand factors that influence AGYW's prolonged breaks in PrEP use, and their decisions to re‐initiate or discontinue using PrEP in the context of a community‐based adherence support intervention.

Methods

In‐depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted between December 2019 and April 2021 with purposively selected AGYW (aged 16–25) enrolled in the Community PrEP Study (CPS) in Buffalo City Metro Health District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. AGYW were offered monthly PrEP for 24 months at two community‐based study sites. Interview guides were informed by the Information‐Motivation‐Behavioural Skills Model, and data were analysed using illustrative code reports and a case analysis.

Results

A total of 603 participants were enrolled and initiated on PrEP in the parent study. Fifty‐three IDIs were conducted with 50 CPS participants. Findings revealed that external factors (e.g. local movement, school holidays and medication side‐effects) and social conflicts (e.g. discretion and partner mistrust) directly influenced breaks in PrEP usage. A decrease in one's self‐perception of HIV risk prolonged the duration of these “PrEP breaks.” Once PrEP refill visits were missed, some AGYW delayed returning for refills out of fear of being scolded by study staff. The differences between those participants who eventually re‐initiated PrEP and those who disengaged from PrEP use can be attributed to social support and encouragement, level of familiarity with PrEP, risk perceptions, self‐initiated discussions with staff and diminishing side effects.

Conclusions

Despite implementing a community‐based PrEP delivery platform and behavioural intervention that included support for daily oral PrEP adherence and disclosure, participants struggled with consistent daily oral PrEP use. Unpredictable life events, including local movement and schooling schedules, in addition to being judged for their perceived behaviours, pose a challenge for consistent pill pick‐up for AGYW and habit formation. Long‐acting injectable PrEP may mitigate a number of these external barriers. Interventions that integrate long‐term planning skills, how to navigate existing social judgements and how to access sources of social support may further improve habit formation for PrEP use, regardless of its formulation.
Effects and Tolerance of Protein and Energy‐Enriched Formula in Infants Following Congenital Heart Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cui Yanqin , Li Lijuan , Hu Chunmei , Shi Hui , Li Jianbin , Gupta Ramit Kumar , Liang Huiying , Chen Xinxin , Gong Sitang
Published: September 2023

Background

Nutrition support is important for clinical management to improve outcomes of infants following congenital heart surgery. Protein‐enriched and energy‐enriched formula (PE‐formula) may help provide adequate nutrition and promote wound healing. However, the effects and tolerance of increased protein and energy intakes of these infants have not been well defined.

Objective

To evaluate nutrition effects and tolerance of a PE‐formula compared with the standard formula (S‐formula) in infants in the first 5 days after congenital heart surgery. Methods: Fifty infants were randomly assigned to S‐formula (S‐group, n = 24) or PE‐formula (PE‐group, n = 26). Daily nutrient intakes and tolerance were recorded. Plasma amino acid concentrations were measured. Cumulative energy balance and nitrogen balance were calculated.

Results

Nutrient intakes were significantly higher in the PE‐group after day 1, and all met the adequate intakes as early as day 2. Nitrogen balance in the PE‐group met positive balance from day 2, whereas in the S‐group, this was not until day 5. The PE‐group also had a significantly higher increase in many essential amino acids. With the exception of tolerable diarrhea (multivariate adjusted hazard ratio, 3.16; 95% confidence interval, 1.24–8.01), the PE‐group did not have a significantly higher incidence of intolerable events.

Conclusions

In infants during the early postoperative period after congenital heart surgery, early administration of PE‐formula was as well tolerated as S‐formula and effective in achieving higher nutrition intakes and earlier nitrogen balance. Further research is warranted to support the use of PE‐formula in this special group of infants.
Impact of Early Initiation of Enteral Nutrition on Survival During Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Greathouse Kristin C. , Sakellaris Kelly T. , Tumin Dmitry , Katsnelson Jacob , Tobias Joseph D. , Hayes Don , Yates Andrew R.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Pediatric data related to safety, tolerance, and outcomes of enteral nutrition (EN) for patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are lacking. The objectives of this study were to evaluate early nutrition status and timing of EN initiation on survival during pediatric ECMO.

Methods: A single center institutional review board–approved retrospective chart review was performed on all pediatric patients requiring ECMO from October 2008 through December 2013. Demographics, ECMO variables, laboratory values, vasoactive inotropic score (VIS), and nutrition data on day 5 (d5) were collected. Patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) were compared with those receiving any EN on d5. Analyses were conducted to identify factors influencing survival to completion of ECMO and to discharge.

Results: Forty‐nine patients aged 53 ± 76 months met inclusion criteria. Kaplan‐Meier curves demonstrated greater survival to discharge in patients receiving any EN, compared with only receiving PN (P = .031). EN on d5 of ECMO support (P = .040) and a higher percentage of daily energy intake achieved (P = .013) were protective, whereas a higher VIS was associated with increased mortality (P = .010). Multivariable analysis demonstrated EN was no longer associated with survival to discharge (P = .139), whereas energy intake (P = .021) and VIS (P = .013) remained significant.

Conclusions: Pediatric patients who received nutrition that was closer to goal energy intake, as well as those who received any EN early during ECMO, had improved survival to hospital discharge.
Colloids with reversible stability switched by tris[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl]amine
Authors: Quan Hongping , Luan Huoxin , Guan Dan , Zhang Mingmin , Li Zhengyang , He Xiran , Su Xin
Published: September 2023

The addition of salt can irreversibly disrupt the stability of both emulsions and polymer latex. The reversible conversion of amines into organic ammonium salts can be induced by CO2 stimulation, thereby enabling the switching of colloids. The switchable amine, tris[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl]amine (Me6TRAN), was selected for the study. The electrical conductivity of an aqueous solution of Me6TRAN is modulated by the introduction and removal of CO2. The critical micelle concentration of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) was observed to decrease from 1.0 × 10−3 to 5.0 × 10−4 M upon the introduction of Me6TRAN, as confirmed by surface tension measurements conducted under CO2. The emulsion of crude oil, which comprised of SDBS and Me6TRAN, underwent reversible destruction and restoration upon exposure to CO2 and N2. The PMMA latex exhibited a clear phase separation subsequent to CO2 sparging, but attained homogeneity upon N2 sparging. This study is anticipated to introduce a novel avenue for emulsion or polymer latex that can undergo demulsification and emulsification through CO2 stimulation.
Rapid biosynthesis of biosurfactants by Bacillus tequilensisSL9 isolated from oily sludge: Characterization, optimization, and potential applications
Authors: Su Han , Wang Yujing , Chen Xin , Zhang Mengjun , Li Chunyan , Zhao Feng
Published: September 2023

The demand of biosurfactants is increasing. It is of great significance to obtain nonpathogenic and high‐yielding microorganisms for the industrial‐scale production of biosurfactants. A biosurfactant‐producing strain SL9 was isolated from oily sludge. It was identified as Bacillus tequilensis based on colonial morphology and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. The biosurfactants produced by strain SL9 was extracted by modified acid precipitation method. A mixture of C12, C13, C14 and C15 surfactin homologues was detected based on HPLC–MS analysis. The optimum production of biosurfactants occurs at pH 7.0 and in the presence of 1.0 g/L NaCl. The optimal carbon source and nitrogen source were 40.0 g/L sucrose and 4.0 g/L NaNO3, respectively. The maximum yield of biosurfactants from strain SL9 was up to 1332.68 mg/L. Interestingly, B. tequilensis SL9 can rapidly synthesize biosurfactants with a yield of 739.36 mg/L in 12 h. The extracted biosurfactants reduced the surface tension of water from 72.1 to 27.5 mN/m with a CMC of 33 mg/L. The biosurfactants can also emulsify paraffin with a EI24 value of 57.58% and keep this good emulsifying activity after 96 h. The produced biosurfactants showed antimicrobial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Cladosporium sp. and Alternaria sp. with inhibitory rate of 75.67%, 59.07% and 22.91%, respectively. The isolated strain B. tequilensis SL9 can be a nonpathogenic producer for rapid biosynthesis of biosurfactants with a relative high yield. Strain SL9 and its biosurfactant products are promising for application in the oil exploration, bioremediation, agricultural biocontrol, and pharmaceutical industries.
Properties of Cross‐Linked Poly‐l‐lysine Hydrogels across the Random Coil–Helix Transition
Authors: Wilcox Kathryn G. , Grinevich Alexandra , Linscott Adam , Singh Abhinendra , Morozova Svetlana
Published: September 2023

Hydrogels are key components of biological tissues and have applications in biomedicine and commercial industry. Many biological tissues are known to strain harden due to the semiflexible nature of the chains. Here, the mechancial properties of poly‐l‐lysine (PLL) hydrogels, whose network chains undergo a random coil–helix transition, are studied as a function of the polypeptide's structural changes. PLL is cross‐linked with poly(ethylene glycol)diglycidyl ether at cross‐link percents ranging from 3% to 6%. The conformation change and mechanical properties are investigated with circular dichroism and small and large amplitude oscillatory shear rheology, respectively. As a function of pH at low cross‐link percents, a transition from strain softening to strain hardening is observed as the network chains become helical that is similar to the behavior of biological filamentous gels and consistent with recent theoretical descriptions of network strain hardening. At higher cross‐link densities, the hydrogels become brittle due to stress concentration in inhomogeneous locations in the network, which is studied with dynamic light scattering. Overall, the random coil–helix transition has a significant effect on the nonlinear mechanical properties of PLL hydrogels. By understanding the hydrogel structure and response to environmental changes, their potential can be expanded as functional biomedical materials.
Acquisition of a novel conjugative multidrug‐resistant hypervirulent plasmid leads to hypervirulence in clinical carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains
Authors: Li Gong , Jia Ling , Wan Lei , Xia Lijuan , Gao Ang , Yang Runshi , Sun Ruanyang , Wang Minge , Du Juan , Lian Xinlei , Zhang Rongmin , Fang Liangxing , Liao Xiaoping , Liu Yahong , Liu Bao‐Tao , Sun Jian
Published: September 2023

The co‐occurrence of plasmid‐mediated multidrug resistance and hypervirulence in epidemic carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae has emerged as a global public health issue. In this study, an ST23 carbapenem‐resistant hypervirulent K. pneumoniae (CR‐HvKP) strain VH1‐2 was identified from cucumber in China and harbored a novel hybrid plasmid pVH1‐2‐VIR. The plasmid pVH1‐2‐VIR carrying both virulence and multidrug‐resistance (MDR) genes was likely generated through the recombination of a virulence plasmid and an IncFIIK conjugative MDR plasmid in clinical ST23 18622 isolated from a sputum sample. The plasmid pVH1‐2‐VIR exhibited the capacity for transfer to the clinical ST11 carbapenem‐resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP) strain via conjugation assay. Acquisition of pVH1‐2‐VIR plasmid directly converted a CRKP into CR‐HvKP strain characterized by hypermucoviscosity, heightened virulence for Galleria mellonella larvae, and increased colonization ability in the mouse intestine. The emergence of such a hybrid plasmid may expedite the spread of CR‐HvKP strains, posing a significant risk to human health.
Design of slotted split‐ring resonator‐based sensor for characterization of oil samples
Authors: Logeswaran J. , Boopathi Rani R.
Published: September 2023

The paper aims to utilize a metamaterial (MTM) structure, specifically the slotted plus‐shapes within a square split‐ring resonator, to analyze the characteristics of the reused oil and also used to classify different oil samples. The proposed MTM structure is designed to operate within the X‐band frequency range of 8–12.4 GHz. The MTM structure is simulated using the high‐frequency EM simulation tool, and the MTM properties are extracted using standard equations. The negative permittivity and permeability characteristics of the proposed MTM structure in the X‐band are studied to verify its suitability for X‐band applications. A sample container is designed to hold the oil samples, and the experiments were carried out using an X‐band waveguide setup with Vector Network Analyzer. The results were analyzed and presented in brief to examine reused oil and classify different oils.
HDAC4 regulates the proliferation, migration, and invasion of trophoblasts in pre‐eclampsia through the miR‐134‐5p/FOXM1 axis
Authors: Xu Yanli , Kang Xiaodi , Jiang Hongli , Liu Huafang , Wang Wenjing
Published: September 2023

Epigenetics, including histone modifications and noncoding RNAs, affects abnormal placental function in pre‐eclampsia (PE). This study was conducted to explore the role of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) in trophoblast invasion and migration. The expression levels of HDAC4, microRNA (miR)‐134‐5p, and forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) in placentas from PE patients and healthy controls and their correlations were examined. HTR8/SVneo cells were cultured and underwent gene intervention. Then, trophoblast proliferation, invasion, and migration were evaluated by 5‐ethynyl‐2ʹdeoxyuridine, Transwell, and scratch assays. The enrichments of HDAC4 and acetylated histone H3 at lysine 9 (H3K9Ac) on the miR‐134‐5p promoter were quantified by chromatin immunoprecipitation. The binding of miR‐134‐5p to FOXM1 was analyzed by dual‐luciferase assay. HDAC4 and FOXM1 were downregulated while miR‐134‐5p was upregulated in PE placentas. HDAC4 downregulation impaired trophoblast proliferation, invasion, and migration while HDAC4 overexpression played the opposite role. Mechanically, HDAC4 deacetylated H3K9Ac to repress miR‐134‐5p expression by erasing H3K9Ac, reduced the binding of miR‐134‐5p to FOXM1, and then promoted FOXM1 transcription. miR‐134‐5p overexpression or FOXM1 downregulation abrogated the promotive role of HDAC overexpression in trophoblast invasion and migration. Our study unraveled a novel mechanism of trophoblast proliferation, invasion, and migration and proposed that HDAC4 may be a promising target for the treatment of PE.
Numerical simulation of fluid‐particle interaction in geomechanics using an extended CFD‐DEM approach with a super‐quadric model of non‐spherical particles
Authors: Wang Yin , Yang Yefeng , Yang Han , Pang Ziyi
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a numerical study of the effects of the particle's shape and its interaction with surrounding fluid on the mechanism of sandpiles formation in air and water, respectively. This study is motivated by the fact that seabed sediments are predominantly deposited in water and consist of non‐spherical particles. In our study, a non‐linear contact model is employed in the Discrete Element Method. At the same time, the void fraction model and drag force model of non‐spherical particles with sharp corners are further improved. Based on the above two advancements, an extended computational fluid dynamics‐discrete element method (CFD‐DEM) approach coupled with the super‐quadric model is developed. It can accurately simulate multi‐collision and interlocking characteristics between non‐spherical particles, as well as particle‐fluid interactions. Subsequently, the validation and applicability of this extended CFD‐DEM approach are proved by comparing the results of experiment and theory models for various cases. The discrepancies induced by particle shape are revealed in terms of repose angles, porosity, and stress distribution. This is due to non‐spherical particles exhibiting a significant occlusal interlocking effect, which enhances inter‐particle friction. Additionally, the influence of ambient water is non‐negligible, as it supports a portion of the upward particle weight during the process of sandpiles formation. The above findings can be substantiated by analyzing the fabric structure of sandpiles. Such coupling of macro‐ with micro‐scale insights into the fundamental geomechanical issues will further extend to wide fields, particularly sea‐water‐flow‐induced seabed instability.
High‐resolution proton metabolic mapping of the human brain at 7 T using free induction decay rosette spectroscopic imaging
Authors: Mahmud Sultan Z. , Denney Thomas S. , Bashir Adil
Published: September 2023

Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) provides information about the spatial distribution of metabolites in the brain. These metabolite maps can be valuable in diagnosing central nervous system pathology. However, MRSI generally suffers from a long acquisition time, poor spatial resolution, and a low metabolite signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). Ultrahigh field strengths (≥ 7 T) can benefit MRSI with an improved SNR and allow high‐resolution metabolic mapping. Non‐Cartesian spatial‐spectral encoding techniques, such as rosette spectroscopic imaging, can efficiently sample spatial and temporal domains, which significantly reduces the imaging time and enables high‐resolution metabolic mapping in a clinically relevant scan time. In the current study, high‐resolution (in‐plane resolution of 2 × 2 mm2) mapping of proton (1H) metabolites in the human brain at 7 T, is demonstrated. Five healthy subjects participated in the study. Using a time‐efficient rosette trajectory and short TR/TE free induction decay MRSI, high‐resolution maps of 1H metabolites were obtained in a clinically relevant imaging time (6 min). Suppression of the water signal was achieved with an optimized water suppression enhanced through T1 effects approach and lipid removal was performed using L2‐regularization in the postprocessing. Spatial distributions of N‐acetyl‐aspartate, total choline, creatine, N‐acetyl‐aspartyl glutamate, myo‐inositol, and glutamate were generated with Cramer–Rao lower bounds of less than 20%.
Association between occupational stress and mental health of nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional research
Authors: Wu Huiying , Qi Kewen , Luan Bonan , Liu Zhengwen , Zhao Qingyun
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study is aimed to explore the association between the occupational stress and mental health among Chinese nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

There were 2913 nurse participants enrolled in the study. Demographic characteristics and other data were measured by a self‐reported questionnaire. Occupational stress was measured by using the effort–reward imbalance (ERI) questionnaire. Mental health was measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 and the General Anxiety Disorder‐7.

Results

Among the participants, 14.32% (417) experienced ERI; 8.1% (237) and 7.2% (210) reported depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively. Compared with a reference group at the lowest quartile of the ERI, participants in the highest quartile had an adjusted odds ratio (OR) (95% CI) of 11.17 (4.42, 28.25) for incident depressive symptoms. For anxiety symptoms, the OR and 95% CI was 2.28 (1.21, 4.29). The ERI was shown to have a detrimental effect on mental health, especially depressive symptoms.
Exploring the barriers to Registered Nurses undertaking clinical teaching in clinical settings: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Hoebes Riana Rolinda , Ashipala Daniel Opotamutale
Published: September 2023

Aim

The study aimed to explore and describe the barriers affecting Registered Nurses in undertaking clinical teaching in clinical settings. The exploration was based on the experiences of Registered Nurses at a selected teaching hospital in Namibia. The researcher intended to identify strategies that could be used to mitigate the negative effects of barriers to effective clinical teaching.

Design

A qualitative explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used.

Methods

Purposive sampling was used to select 16 participants. Data were collected through in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews, which were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Clinical teaching is negatively affected by several barriers that hamper clinical teaching and nursing students' learning outcomes. Seven main themes were identified: (1) participants' understanding of clinical teaching; (2) organizational barriers; (3) patient barriers; (4) Registered Nurse barriers; (5) student barriers; (6) training institution barriers; and (7) strategies to mitigate barriers to clinical teaching.

Conclusion

The findings revealed that several barriers negatively affect clinical nursing education and hamper the clinical teaching and learning of nursing students.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study may assist in the development of targeted interventions that address the barriers that hinder clinical teaching at teaching hospitals. Additionally, this study could assist in improving the health care that is provided by nursing students to patients. The findings may assist with improved quality by reducing nursing students' theory‐practice gap and by promoting collaboration between Registered Nurses and nurse educators in clinical settings.
Production and purification of fumonisins from a stirred jar fermenter
Authors: Miller J. David , Savard Marc E. , Rapior Sylvie
Published: September 2023

The production, isolation and purification of fumonisins from 10 litre liquid cultures are described. Measurements of sucrose, fructose and glucose consumption, oxygen demand, dry weight increase, CO2, and fumonisin production were taken every 48 hours. The specific productivity of fumonisins was found to be similar to that reported for com cultures but purification was much simpler, yielding an 89% recovery. The method developed for the purification of fumonisins from liquid culture was also applied to a corn culture, resulting in a 70.1 % recovery.
Oromandibular dystonia induced by olanzapine and mirtazapine: A case report
Authors: Umezaki Yojiro , Egashira Rui , Motomura Haruhiko , Naito Toru
Published: September 2023

Background

Dystonia has been reported as an adverse effect of antipsychotic medications; however, dentists rarely detect the symptoms because of the complexity of complaints.

Case Presentation

A 74‐year‐old woman presented with an open bite and jaw pain. She reported a history of depression and was being treated with medication including olanzapine. We diagnosed the patient with oromandibular dystonia. Her psychiatrist withdrew olanzapine treatment following consultation, and the open bite and jaw pain were resolved.

Conclusion

Dentists should consider oromandibular dystonia when a patient taking antipsychotic medication complains of an open bite. Irreversible procedures should be avoided in these patients.
Study the effect of different fillers on the performance of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber‐based thermal shielding materials
Authors: Mosa M. , Mokhtar M. , Fouda Hany , Gobara Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Polymeric composites are becoming increasingly popular materials due to their wide range of uses in heat shielding materials for solid rocket motors and aerospace applications. Novel polymeric composites are prepared and evaluated containing chopped carbon fibers, glass fibers (GF), and basalt fibers (BF), besides, recently used fillers such as Kevlar fibers (KF), and fumed silica (FS) to study their effects on the mechanical, thermal, and ablative properties of the ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) hybrid composite. Mechanical, chemical, thermal, and ablative tests are performed to show the performance of the prepared polymeric composites. Experimental investigations have shown that the addition of GF to the EPDM matrix has a great influence on raising the tensile strength to 6.570 MPa. By incorporating KFs into EPDM, a solid char layer is formed during ablation, resulting in the best ablative performance with a decrease in the ablation rate of 73%, while the addition of FS, and BF to EPDM gives the best thermal stability results with total weight loss of 80.34%, and 81.77%, respectively.
Hourglass, a rapid analysis framework for heterogeneous bioimaging data, identifies sex disparity in IL‐6/STAT3‐associated immune phenotypes in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Aliar Kazeera , Waterhouse Henry R , Vyas Foram , Krebs Niklas , Zhang Bowen , Poulton Emily , Chan Nathan , Gonzalez Ricardo , Jang Gun Ho , Bronsert Peter , Fischer Sandra E , Gallinger Steven , Grünwald Barbara T , Khokha Rama
Published: September 2023

Integration and mining of bioimaging data remains a challenge and lags behind the rapidly expanding digital pathology field. We introduce Hourglass, an open‐access analytical framework that streamlines biology‐driven visualization, interrogation, and statistical assessment of multiparametric datasets. Cognizant of tissue and clinical heterogeneity, Hourglass systematically organizes observations across spatial and global levels and within patient subgroups. Applied to an extensive bioimaging dataset, Hourglass promptly consolidated a breadth of known interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) functions via its downstream effector STAT3 and uncovered a so‐far unknown sexual dimorphism in the IL‐6/STAT3‐linked intratumoral T‐cell response in human pancreatic cancer. As an R package and cross‐platform application, Hourglass facilitates knowledge extraction from multi‐layered bioimaging datasets for users with or without computational proficiency and provides unique and widely accessible analytical means to harness insights hidden within heterogeneous tissues at the sample and patient level. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Proton diffusion in PAM hydrogels
Authors: Chen Fan , Ren Jie , Xiang Xu
Published: September 2023

Hydrogels are widely used in the field of biomedicine because of their excellent biocompatibility. In most cases, the pH range applicable to drugs is limited, so it is meaningful to study the diffusion of protons in hydrogels. In this work, the diffusion rate of protons in hydrogels was monitored by a self‐made device, and the factors affecting the diffusion rate of protons were studied. The self‐made device consists of a supply chamber and a receiving chamber with a piece of hydrogel sandwiching between them. It was found that the thickness of hydrogel had a great influence on proton diffusion. The thicker the hydrogel is, the slower the proton diffusion rate is. At the same time, the diffusion coefficient of protons in PAM hydrogel was calculated to be 1.28 ± 0.09 × 10−5 cm2/s (HCl, 25°C). The diffusion coefficient is a function of temperature, and its value increases with the increase in temperature. The effect of the solid content of hydrogel on proton diffusion was also considered, but in the range of solid content 1.81%–10.07%, the proton diffusion rate was almost unaffected. Moreover, anions also have a decisive effect on proton diffusion, with smaller anions leading to faster proton diffusion in the hydrogel.
High‐performance vitrimer films containing acylhydrazone dynamic covalent bonds
Authors: Zhao Yanna , Huang Yuqing , Hou Wentong , Zhang Ting , Zhang Yingying , Wang Yuqi , Bai Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

Vitrimer films containing acylhydrazone bonds are synthesized in two steps. Bio‐based vanillin and adipate dihydrazide are used to prepare diols containing acylhydrazone bonds in one step, which are introduced into the reaction system of vitrimer to obtain the final films. The process is concise and easy to operate. By utilizing the rigid structure of vitrimer films and introducing dynamic acylhydrazone bonds, the obtained vitrimer films exhibit strong mechanical strength (maximum tensile strength of 27.10 MPa and maintaining up to 185.52% of the original breaking strength), excellent self‐healing property (tensile strength of 26.26 MPa after 12 h of primary self‐healing and 5.24 MPa after 12 h of secondary self‐healing), and rapid shape memory property (recovery time of about 2 min), strong acid and alkali resistance (not dissolved within 24 h), good thermal stability (no decomposition occurs below 160 °C), and high storage modulus (reaches 1087 MPa). These comprehensive benefits yield a certain reference for the preparation of vitrimer materials with prime properties.
Molecular mass engineering for filaments in material extrusion additive manufacture
Authors: Yost Sierra F. , Pester Christian W. , Vogt Bryan D.
Published: September 2023

3D printing of thermoplastics through local melting and deposition via material extrusion additive manufacturing provides a simple route to the near net‐shape manufacture of complex objects. However, the mechanical properties resulting from these 3D printed structures tend to be inferior when compared to traditionally manufactured thermoplastics. These unfavorable characteristics are generally attributed to the structure of the interface between printed roads. Here, we illustrate how the molecular mass distribution for a model thermoplastic, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), can be tuned to enhance the Young's modulus of 3D printed plastics. Engineering the molecular mass distribution alters the entanglement density, which controls the strength of the PMMA in the solid state and the chain diffusion in the melt. Increasing the low molecular mass tail increases Young's modulus and ultimate tensile strength of the printed parts. These changes in mechanical properties are comparable to more complex routes previously reported involving new chemistry or nanoparticles to enhance the mechanical performance of 3D printed thermoplastics. Controlling the molecular mass distribution provides a simple route to improve the performance in 3D printing of thermoplastics that can be as effective as more complex approaches.
Disparate permafrost terrain changes after a large flood observed from space
Authors: Zwieback Simon , McClernan Mark , Kanevskiy Mikhail , Jorgenson Mark T. , Walker Donald A. , Chang Qianyu , Bergstedt Helena , Toniolo Horacio , Romanovsky Vladimir E. , Meyer Franz J.
Published: September 2023

The 2015 spring flood of the Sagavanirktok River inundated large swaths of tundra as well as infrastructure near Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. Its lasting impact on permafrost, vegetation, and hydrology is unknown but compels attention in light of changing Arctic flood regimes. We combined InSAR and optical satellite observations to quantify subdecadal permafrost terrain changes and identify their controls. While the flood locally induced quasi‐instantaneous ice‐wedge melt, much larger areas were characterized by subtle, spatially variable post‐flood changes. Surface deformation from 2015 to 2019 estimated from ALOS‐2 and Sentinel‐1 InSAR varied substantially within and across terrain units, with greater subsidence on average in flooded locations. Subsidence exceeding 5 cm was locally observed in inundated ice‐rich units and also in inactive floodplains. Overall, subsidence increased with deposit age and thus ground ice content, but many flooded ice‐rich units remained stable, indicating variable drivers of deformation. On average, subsiding ice‐rich locations showed increases in observed greenness and wetness. Conversely, many ice‐poor floodplains greened without deforming. Ice wedge degradation in flooded locations with elevated subsidence was mostly of limited intensity, and the observed subsidence largely stopped within 2 years. Based on remote sensing and limited field observations, we propose that the disparate subdecadal changes were influenced by spatially variable drivers (e.g., sediment deposition, organic layer), controls (ground ice and its degree of protection), and feedback processes. Remote sensing helps quantify the heterogeneous interactions between permafrost, vegetation, and hydrology across permafrost‐affected fluvial landscapes. Interdisciplinary monitoring is needed to improve predictions of landscape dynamics and to constrain sediment, nutrient, and carbon budgets.
Resveratrol prevents Drp1‐mediated mitochondrial fission in the diabetic kidney through the PDE4D/PKA pathway
Authors: Zhu Xia , Deng Zongli , Cao Yanjuan , Zhou Zihui , Sun Wen , Liu Chang , Fan Siwen , Yin Xiao‐Xing
Published: September 2023

To explore the role of PDE4D in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and investigate whether resveratrol protects against DN via inhibiting PDE4D. Diabetic db/db mouse and glomerular mesangial cell line (GMCs) were used to investigate the role of PDE4D and the protective effect of resveratrol on renal fibrosis under high glucose (HG) environment. Resveratrol alleviated the progress of DN via inhibiting mitochondrial fragmentation and restoring the expression of PDE4D, PKA, phosphorylated Drp1‐Ser637 and Drp1 in kidney of db/db mice. In HG‐exposed GMCs, resveratrol treatment decreased the expression of PDE4D, increased PKA level, and inhibited Drp1‐mediated mitochondrial fission. In contrast, PDE4D over‐expression blunted the inhibitory effects of resveratrol on Drp1 expression and mitochondrial fission. Moreover, PKA inhibitor H89 blunted the effects of resveratrol on phosphorylated Drp1‐Ser637 expression and mitochondrial fission in HG‐treated GMCs. Inhibition of mitochondrial fission with Drp1 inhibitor Mdivi‐1 alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction in GMCs under HG. These findings indicate PDE4D plays an important role in the process of DN. Resveratrol attenuates the development of DN by preventing mitochondrial fission through inhibiting PDE4D, which regulates the expression of phosphorylated Drp1‐Ser637 directly.
Assessing proxies of knowledge and difficulty with rubric‐based instruments
Authors: Smith Ben O. , Wooten Jadrian J.
Published: September 2023

The fields of psychometrics, economic education, and education have developed statistically‐valid methods of assessing knowledge and learning. These methods include item response theory, value‐added learning models, and disaggregated learning. These methods, however, focus on multiple‐choice or single response assessments. Faculty and administrators routinely assess knowledge through papers, thesis presentations, or other demonstrations of knowledge assessed with rubric rows. This paper presents a statistical approach to estimating a proxy for student ability and rubric row difficulty. Moreover, we have developed software so that practitioners can more easily apply this method to their instruments. This approach can be used in researching education treatment effects, practitioners measuring learning outcomes in their own classrooms, or estimating knowledge for administrative assessment. As an example, we have applied these new methods to projects in a large Labor Economics course at a public university.
Dual Optimization of Interface Defects and Hole Transporting Layers with Tetrathiafulvalene Derivatives for Antimony Selenosulfide Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Shuangting , Wu Jing , Guo Fuling , Ji Denghui , Li Xiuling , Chen Wangchao , Shi Chengwu
Published: September 2023

Modification of hole transporting layers (HTLs) to reduce the interface defects is an important strategy to promote hole extraction and suppress charge recombination for Sb2(S,Se)3 (antimony selenosulfide) solar cells. Herein, a simple doping method with the tetrathiafulvalene derivatives (MeS‐TTF and Cyano‐TTF) is developed to reduce the dangling bonding defects on the surface of Sb2(S,Se)3 films and improve the photovoltaic performances of Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells. The studies show that the tetrathiafulvalene derivatives can effectively passivate the ionic defects through the chelation mechanism with Sb atoms and suppress the nonradiative recombination. Meanwhile, the MeS‐TTF dopant can also enhance the hole mobility of HTLs and improve the hole transport. The results indicate that the MeS‐TTF can achieve the dual function of interface defect passivation and hole mobility improvement. As a result of the dual‐function dopant, a significant increase in efficiency from 7.73% to 8.45% can be obtained. The outcomes of this study highlight that this dual‐function doping strategy is an effective method to passivate the interface defects and enhance the hole mobility for the excellent photovoltaic performances of Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells.
Advances in Gas Therapeutics for Wound Healing: Mechanisms, Delivery Materials, and Prospects
Authors: Ding Jiayi , Xu Kang , Xu Hongtao , Ji Jiansong , Qian Yuna , Shen Jianliang
Published: September 2023

Wound repair, particularly chronic nonhealing wound repair, is a global health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. As an effective and safe therapeutic reagent, gas molecules in tissue repair have attracted considerable attention. Recent studies have shown that gas therapy (GT) plays an essential role in all phases of wound repair, including anti‐inflammatory and antimicrobial modulation, cell proliferation and migration, proangiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. This review aims to summarize recent progress in developing GT for wound repair. The characteristics of gas molecules with therapeutic functions, such as oxygen, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and others (such as sulfur dioxide, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and plasma) in wound healing are introduced. GT has transitioned from pure gases to inorganic/organic materials as gas‐releasing materials, including gas‐producing and gas‐loaded materials, and controlled/long‐lasting stable‐releasing biomaterials. Finally, the limitations and prospects in the field of GT are analyzed and summarized.
A methodology for occupational exposure assessment of organic pollutants emitted through aerosols from recycling of e‐waste
Authors: Lasithiotakis Michael , Psanis Christodoulos , Triantafyllou Eleni , Sinioros Panagiotis
Published: September 2023

Emission of airborne particulate matter is produced by the industrial processes of metal extraction from electronic waste (e‐waste). These aerosols can transport organic contaminants, such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polybrominated biphenyls. These pollutants are proven to have long‐term effects on workers' health. In this work, we characterize aerosol particles and dust deposited from a recycling process of printed circuit boards in a recycling plant. This study also explores the significance of the secondary aerosol sources, and their importance, as an additional burden compared to primary sources. A Scanning Mobility Particles Counter and Sizer (SMPCS) was used to measure the size distributions of ultrafine particles. A Micro‐Orifice Uniform Deposition Impactor (MOUDI) collected aerosol particle samples for chemical analysis. All plant compartments checked are subject to high particulate matter concentrations during work hours. Concentrations of organic pollutants in the machinery compartments do not pose a short or long‐term health risk according to US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA). The application of the model presented in this work revealed that the accumulation of contaminants in other compartments should be considered in an occupational exposure assessment because it can present an equally important burden to workers’ health.