bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tropisetron attenuates high glucose‐induced oxidative stress and inflammation in ARPE‐19 cells in vitro via regulating SIRT1/ROCK1 signaling
Authors: Tang Mingxia , Liu Wei
Published: October 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of acquired blindness in diabetic patients. Tropisetron (TRO) exerts potent therapeutic effects against diabetic tissues. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of TRO on retinal injury under diabetic condition. Human retinal pigment epithelial cell line ARPE‐19 was treated with high glucose (HG) for 48 h to mimic hyperglycemia‐induced retinal damage and subsequently treated with multiple concentrations of TRO for therapeutic intervention. Cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were detected to assess cell damage. The production of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress‐related factors was evaluated by corresponding commercial kits. Cell apoptosis was evaluated by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay. The expression of inflammation‐, apoptosis‐, and SIRT1/ROCK1‐related proteins was examined using western blot analysis. Additionally, ARPE‐19 cells were transfected with over‐express ROCK1 (Ov‐ROCK1) or pretreatment with SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 to perform the rescue experiments. TRO alleviated cell damage in HG‐induced ARPE‐19 cells through elevating cell viability and reducing LDH release. HG‐caused excessive production of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6, ROS, malondialdehyde and decreased superoxide dismutase activity were partly inhibited by TRO treatment. HG‐induced cell apoptosis, accompanied with the upregulation of proapoptotic proteins and the downregulation of antiapoptotic proteins, was hindered by TRO treatment. HG led to the loss of SIRT1 and an elevation of ROCK1 in ARPE‐19 cells, which was reversed following TRO treatment. Furthermore, pretreatment with EX527 or transfected with Ov‐ROCK1 partially abolished the protective role of TRO against inflammation, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in HG‐challenged ARPE‐19 cells. TRO exerted a protective role against HG‐caused ARPE‐19 cells inflammation, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis by regulating SIRT1/ROCK1 axis, suggesting that TRO might be therapeutic agent for alleviating retinal pigment epithelial cell damage in DR.
All‐in‐one sphincterotome with high rotation performance and freely bendable blade for endoscopic sphincterotomy in patients with surgically altered anatomy (a case series with video)
Authors: Kunogi Yasuhito , Irisawa Atsushi , Yamamiya Akira , Ishikawa Manabu , Sakamoto Tomoya , Inaba Yasunori , Kashima Ken , Sakuma Fumi , Fukushi Koh , Maki Takumi , Nagashima Kazunori , Abe Yoko , Kitada Shuichi , Yamabe Akane , Tominaga Keiichi
Published: October 2024

A new type of sphincterotome released to the market recently has high rotation performance and a freely bendable blade. It is devised to be singly capable of accommodating not only normal anatomy but also cases with surgically altered anatomy. This study was undertaken for clinical evaluation of the usefulness of this new sphincterotome. Eight cases in a reconstructed intestine for which cannulation or endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) had been performed were extracted from 32 cases for which endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography‐related procedures were performed using the sphincterotome developed during November 2023 through February 2024. The cases were investigated retrospectively. Among these, EST was applied to six cases. Cannulation was performed using the developed sphincterotome in the native papilla in four cases. The primary endpoints were the success rate of cannulation in surgically altered anatomy and the success rate of EST. Secondary endpoints were complications and usability for operators. Usability for operators was evaluated by questionnaire for several items on a 5‐point scale. EST was conducted successfully in all six cases subjected to EST. Mild hemorrhage was observed in one case (17%) as an adverse event after EST. Deep cannulation to the native papilla with the developed sphincterotome was conducted successfully in three cases (75.0%). Evaluation results by operators were 4.4 ± 0.55 for rotation performance, 4.00 ± 0.63 for incision performance, 4.29 ± 0.49 for deep cannulation performance, and 4.07 ± 0.19 for overall evaluation. In conclusion, this developed sphincterotome might be very useful for EST and cannulation in cases with surgically altered anatomy.
Description of the Late Holocene South‐east Saline Everglades, Florida palustrine depositional environment with comparisons to other Holocene environments
Authors: Meeder John F.
Published: October 2024

A transgressive palustrine depositional model is described for the South‐east Saline Everglades, Florida. The origin, development and termination of freshwater carbonate mud (marl) deposition along the very low gradient Late Pleistocene carbonate ramp are responses to changing rates of rising sea level during the Late Holocene. The onset of the Late Holocene is defined by a decrease in the rate of sea‐level rise from between 2 and 3 to <1 mm year−1. Freshwater marl deposition began with this decrease ca 3165 ± 187 year BP, in a shallow (<0.3 m deep), ephemeral wetland that developed landward of a fringing mangrove forest and is maintained by seasonal Everglades water delivery. Sedimentation kept pace with sea‐level rise forming a 1.2 m thick wedge shaped, landward thinning deposit. The rate of global sea‐level rise began to accelerate ca 1900, the Anthropocene Marine Transgression, and presently the regional rate is 9.4 mm year−1. Saltwater encroachment rates >80 m year−1 are driven by sea‐level rise. Saltwater encroachment resulted in retreat and transformation of coastal communities and their biogenic facies, resulting in a decrease in freshwater wetlands and marl production. Inundation ponding, mangrove overstep and the beginning of submergence are the responses to the accelerating rate of sea‐level rise, however, small scale topographic and tidal ingress differences create considerable variability between Biscayne Bay and Florida Bay coastal basins. The freshwater marl producing habitat will probably be lost within 55 years, and submergence within the next century at the present rate of sea‐level rise. The unique South‐east Saline Everglades depositional environment is compared to other Holocene palustrine depositional environments.
Human–Wildlife Conflict in Bardia—Banke Complex: Patterns of Human Fatalities and Injuries Caused by Large Mammals
Authors: Paudel Umesh , KC Rabin Bahadur , Kadariya Rabin , Karki Ajay , Shrestha Bishnu Prasad , Shah Shyam Kumar , Subedi Naresh , Thapa Shyam Kumar
Published: October 2024

Human fatalities and injury from wildlife attacks often result in a negative attitude toward conservation. This research was undertaken to investigate the patterns and conflict‐causing factors of human killing and injury by large mammals, especially by Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), common leopard (Panthera pardus), and Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) in the Bardia—Banke Complex of western Nepal. We collected human death and injury records caused by wildlife in the Bardia—Banke Complex between 2019 and 2023, based on relief applications submitted by the victim's family. Additionally, camera trap monitoring was conducted following incidents of human–tiger and human–leopard conflicts. A total of 76 incidents involving human casualties and injuries were considered for analysis. Incidents of livestock depredation, crop raiding, and property damage were excluded from the analysis. Most of the attacks on humans were caused by tigers (75%), followed by elephants (16%) and leopards (9%). Almost all incidents occurred in daytime (97%). The highest number of conflicts were recorded in 2021, with 20 incidents. Most of the cases (84%) occurred within 1 km of forest edge. Khata corridor and the western side of the Bardia National Park, i.e., Karnali River corridor, were identified as high‐conflict areas. The primary causes of the conflict manifested in cattle grazing (28%), grass cutting (28%), firewood collection (11%), fishing (8%), vegetable collection (5%), sand collection (4%), during rescuing friends (3%), grazing captive elephants (3%), highway rides (3%), sleeping in Chaupadi Goth (3%), walking nearby forest areas (3%), playing nearby forest areas (1%), while feeding pig (1%), and working in agricultural lands (1%). To promote human–wildlife coexistence, community‐based patrols (33%), habitat restoration (26%), electric fencing (26%), and insurance (7%) were identified as the preferred strategies. Therefore, we recommend that stakeholders and concerned bodies increase awareness among local community about the use of forest resources, wildlife behavior, and human–wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.
Cardiovascular outcomes with exenatide in type 2 diabetes according to ejection fraction: The EXSCEL trial
Authors: Neves João Sérgio , Leite Ana Rita , Mentz Robert J. , Holman Rury R. , Zannad Faiez , Butler Javed , Packer Milton , Ferreira João Pedro
Published: October 2024

Aims

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists reduce major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and cardiovascular mortality in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, previous studies suggest the effects on heart failure outcomes vary according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). We aimed to evaluate the effects of exenatide on cardiovascular events according to LVEF in people with T2D.

Methods and results

Post‐hoc analysis of the Exenatide Study of Cardiovascular Event Lowering (EXSCEL) trial evaluating the effects of once‐weekly exenatide (EQW) versus placebo on cardiovascular outcomes according to baseline LVEF (<40% or ≥40%). Outcomes were also evaluated according to New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and obesity. The main outcome was hospitalization for heart failure (HHF). A treatment‐by‐LVEF interaction was used. In EXSCEL (n = 14 752), 4749 participants had LVEF available at baseline; 455 (10%) with LVEF <40%, 4294 (90%) with LVEF ≥40%. LVEF modified the EQW effect on hHF: hazard ratio (HR) = 1.52 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.95–2.43) in participants with LVEF < 40% and HR = 0.74 (95% CI = 0.55–1.01) in those with LVEF ≥ 40% (p‐interaction = 0.012). No significant treatment‐by‐LVEF interactions (p‐interaction >0.10) were observed for MACE, cardiovascular death or all‐cause mortality. The risk of HHF was also modified by baseline NYHA class (HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.65–1.27 for NYHA class I/II; HR 1.84, 95% CI 0.95–3.59 for NYHA class III/IV; p‐interaction = 0.062), mostly driven by the LVEF <40% subgroup. Obesity did not modify the effects of EQW on HHF.

Conclusions

The EQW effect on HHF was influenced by LVEF, with a potentially decreased risk in participants with LVEF ≥40% and increased risk in those with LVEF <40%. The risk of HHF was particularly high in participants with LVEF <40% and NYHA class III/IV. LVEF did not modify the effect of EQW on atherosclerotic outcomes.
Acceptorless Dehydrogenation of Glycerol Catalysed by Ir(III) Complexes with Carbohydrate‐Functionalised Ligands: A Sweet Pathway to Produce Hydrogen and Lactic Acid
Authors: Boccalon Elisa , Menendez Rodriguez Gabriel , Trotta Caterina , Ruffo Francesco , Zuccaccia Cristiano , Macchioni Alceo
Published: October 2024

Glycerol, a by‐product of biodiesel production, has gained prominence as a precious platform chemical. To enhance the economic viability of the biodiesel production process and address the surplus of glycerol production, it is essential to transform it into value‐added products. In this context, homogeneous catalysis offers a promising avenue for glycerol valorisation. In this study, we introduce a family of iridium complexes bearing picolineamidate ligands with glucose‐functionalised substituents as novel homogeneous catalysts for glycerol to hydrogen and lactic acid conversion. These complexes exhibit high activity (conversion up to 53.3 %) and 99 % selectivity after 24 hours of reaction (TOFMAX=159 h−1, TON24h=2498). Notably, the reaction occurs under ambient air and at milder temperature conditions (120 °C) compared to other catalysts. These efforts in glycerol valorisation contribute to reducing biodiesel production costs, increasing the competitiveness of biofuels against petroleum‐based liquid fuels, giving rise to H2, through a global process with negative carbon dioxide emission, and lactic acid utilizable, among other, as a monomer for the synthesis of biodegradable plastics.
Using contribution analysis to assess evaluation capacity outcomes in community organizations
Authors: Bourgeois Isabelle , Buetti David
Published: October 2024

Community organizations face challenges in addressing the needs of their members and beneficiaries, particularly during times of crisis. More than ever, evidence‐informed programming and decision‐making are essential to help organizations “do more with less”; however, community organizations seldom have the individual and organizational evaluation capacity required to conduct and use evaluations to inform decision‐making. This article provides an overview of the evaluation of the LaboEval evaluation capacity building (ECB) intervention, a 5‐year program implemented in 16 organizations. LaboEval brings together direct and indirect individual and organizational ECB activities to enhance evaluation capacity. Contribution analysis (CA) was used as the evaluation approach in this study, assessing the intervention's activities, outputs, outcomes, and assumptions. Data sources include interviews, document reviews, surveys, administrative data, and a literature review. This evaluation contributes to the field by applying CA to a multiyear, multi‐organizational ECB intervention. The findings inform evaluation capacity builders and evaluators interested in CA, showcasing a unique approach to evaluating complex interventions across multiple organizations.
Influence of Brown Rice, Pea, and Soy Proteins on the Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Acceptance of Dairy‐Free Frozen Dessert
Authors: Hasan Towhid , Thoo Yin Yin , Siow Lee Fong
Published: October 2024

Fat and protein derived from milk are prime ingredients in a frozen dessert such as ice cream conferring multiple desirable functionalities. However, this frozen dairy dessert is not suitable for individuals having lactose intolerance, cow milk allergy, or vegans. Hence, the study aimed to formulate dairy‐free frozen desserts using plant oils and plant proteins and compare their physicochemical characteristics and sensory acceptance against an ice cream containing milk fat and milk protein. Results indicated that the types of protein significantly influenced the physicochemical properties and sensory acceptance of the frozen dessert samples. Frozen desserts containing brown rice, pea, and soy protein showed greater resistance to melting (0.29, 0.12, and 0.19%/min vs. 1.95%/min), but they scored lower in sensory quality than ice cream made with milk protein; although they remained at an acceptable level. When compared among the plant proteins, the physicochemical characteristics of frozen desserts containing brown rice, pea, and soy protein varied because of the differences in the respective protein composition. Frozen dessert with brown rice protein showed higher overrun (47.50% vs. 40.78% and 37.8%), lower hardness (20.02 N vs. 22.24 and 26.37 N), and higher melting rate (0.29%/min vs. 0.19 and 0.12%/min) than frozen desserts containing soy and pea protein. Additionally, the brown rice protein frozen dessert received lower sensory acceptance than soy and pea protein frozen desserts. In summary, brown rice, pea, and soy proteins showed potential to be used as viable alternatives to milk protein for dairy‐free frozen dessert applications.
Analysis of European Association of Urology Guidelines 2023 and its adherence to GRADE methodology
Authors: Dahm Philipp , Holten Mathew , Ratanawong John P. , Lauwagie Andrew , Gonzalez‐Padilla Daniel A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The European Association of Urology (EAU) has reported the use of a modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach for developing guideline recommendations since 2018; however, the full adoption of GRADE remains a work in progress.

Methods

Two members of the research team identified and independently abstracted all individual recommendations and summary of evidence statements available from all EAU guidelines published in 2023. We evaluated the current adherence to established criteria for appropriate GRADE use, the proportion of strong and weak recommendations, the underlying strength of evidence, and criteria for appropriate use of GRADE.

Results

We included a total of 20 guideline documents with a total number of 1985 recommendations. The median number of strong recommendations was 46 (interquartile range: 32–87), representing 62.6% of all recommendations. The surgical thromboprophylaxis guideline had the lowest percentage of strong recommendations (18.2%; 30/165), and the neuro‐urology guideline had the highest percentage (95.5%; 42/44). EAU guidelines provided 2580 summaries of evidence statements, of which 1608 reported a level of evidence. The reported levels of evidence were I, II, III and IV/V at 31.8%, 28.5%, 32.4% and 7.3%, respectively. Of the six criteria for the appropriate use of GRADE, criterion 6, which reports the framing of recommendations as strong or weak, was met consistently; all other criteria were met only by a single guideline on thromboprophylaxis.

Conclusions

The EAU guidelines adoption of GRADE has been largely limited to the framing of recommendations as strong or weak. In all but one guideline, published guidelines did not meet any of the other criteria for appropriate GRADE use. Increased efforts to fully adopt GRADE, similar to its implementation in the thromboprophylaxis guideline in future editions, may enhance trust and uptake of EAU guidelines, thereby assisting policymakers and improving patient care.
Allogeneic transplantation for adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma in adolescent and young adults and young patients: A nationwide retrospective study by the ATL working group of the Japan society for transplantation and cellular therapy
Authors: Itonaga Hidehiro , Fukushima Takuya , Kato Koji , Nakano Nobuaki , Kato Takeharu , Tanaka Takashi , Eto Tetsuya , Mori Yasuo , Kawakita Toshiro , Uchida Naoyuki , Fujioka Machiko , Nakamae Hirohisa , Ogata Masao , Morishima Satoko , Fukuda Takahiro , Kanda Yoshinobu , Atsuta Yoshiko , Fuji Shigeo , Yoshimitsu Makoto
Published: October 2024

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) provides durable remission for patients with adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL); however, few studies have focused on post‐transplant outcomes in ATL patients ≤49 years. To clarify prognostic factors in ATL among patients <40 years (adolescents and young adult [AYA]; n = 73) and 40–49 years (Young; n = 330), we conducted a nationwide retrospective study. Estimated 3‐year overall survival (OS) rates were 61.8% and 43.1% in AYA and Young patients, respectively (p = 0.005). In the multivariate analysis, Young patients showed worse OS (Hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidential interval] 1.62 [1.10–2.39], p = 0.015), chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD)‐free and relapse‐free survival (CRFS) (HR 1.54 [1.10–2.14], p = 0.011), and GVHD‐free and relapse‐free survival (GRFS) (HR 1.40 [1.04–1.88], p = 0.026) than AYA patients. No significant differences were observed in OS, CRFS, or GRFS between the myeloablative conditioning (MAC) and reduced‐intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens; however, non‐relapse mortality was significantly lower in patients with the RIC regimen than those with the MAC regimen (HR 0.46 [0.24–0.86], p = 0.015). In summary, OS was worse in Young patients than in AYA patients in the allo‐HSCT setting for ATL. Furthermore, the RIC regimen has potential as an alternative treatment option for ATL patients ≤49 years.
The influence of hope and optimism on trajectories of COVID‐19 stress, health anxiety, and wellbeing during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Long Laura J. , Viana Andres G. , Zvolensky Michael J. , Lu Qian , Gallagher Matthew W.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic posed a threat to public health and psychological functioning, with early studies documenting higher rates of psychopathology within the United States and globally. Hope and optimism promote adjustment and are associated with positive physical and mental health outcomes. Thus, individual differences in hope and optimism may also foster resilience during a global health crisis.

Aims

The current study examined how hope and optimism influenced longitudinal health‐focused distress and wellbeing during the pandemic.

Methods

Data were collected from 788 American adults across three periods during Spring‐Summer 2020 using MTurk. Latent growth curve modeling examined whether hope and optimism predicted COVID stress, health anxiety, and wellbeing trajectories.

Results

COVID stress and health anxiety decreased after the onset of the pandemic, whereas wellbeing was stable. Individually, hope and optimism predicted lower initial COVID stress and health anxiety, along with greater initial wellbeing. When examining the combined influence of hope and optimism, optimism was more strongly related to health‐focused distress, though both were strong predictors of wellbeing.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that Americans were resilient and positive expectancies, particularly optimism, predicted better initial adjustment to the early phases of the pandemic. Thus, positive expectancies appear to be protective during a global health crisis.
A comprehensive investigation of oxygen/graphite carbon nitride smart Nano coatings for sustainable maintenance and sacrificial anode protection of mild steel
Authors: Morsy Ashraf , Toderas Monica , El‐marghany Adel , Rana Dipak , Abdelaty Mahmoud , Shokry Fathy , Mohamed M.E. , Abd‐El‐Khalek D.E. , Elkaliuoby Mai.I. , Blall Elsayed G
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

This study enhancing the corrosion resistance of mild steel (MS) by incorporating photo‐catalyst‐doped graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C₃N₄) nano‐sheets containing silver (Ag) and oxygen (O₂) into a solar light‐active photoelectrochemical anticorrosion paint with polyester (PE). The objective is to provide sacrificial anode protection through visible light activation.

RESULTS

The developed paint forms a uniform film on the MS surface, effectively providing anodic protection under visible light. Characterization techniques, including energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis spectroscopy, confirm the molecular structure of the nano‐sheets. Corrosion resistance, assessed through weight loss measurements and open circuit potential (OCP) tests, shows significant improvement with the addition of Ag/g‐C₃N₄ and Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ nano‐sheets at an optimized concentration of 15 mg. The protection efficiency is ranked as follows: O₂‐g/C₃N₄ > O‐g/C₃N₄ > Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ > Ag‐g/C₃N₄ > g‐C₃N₄. After 28 days of immersion in seawater, MS coated with O₂/g‐C₃N₄ exhibited the least weight loss, with an inhibition efficiency of up to 99%. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) further demonstrated enhanced coating resistance for the O₂/g‐C₃N₄ coating (Rct = 3.76 kΩ.cm2, Rcoat = 1.69 kΩ.cm2) compared to pure PE (Rct = 0.005 kΩ.cm2, Rcoat = 0.096 kΩ.cm2).

CONCLUSION

The synthesized O₂/g‐C₃N₄ and Ag‐O₂/g‐C₃N₄ nano‐sheets exhibit high surface areas and enhanced water dispersibility, which contribute to significant corrosion protection of MS. The electrochemical performance, including weight loss and OCP measurements, highlights the potential of these nano‐sheet photo‐catalysts in advancing corrosion resistance technologies, with broad implications for materials science and engineering applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Psychosocial impact on individuals who received negative test results from predictive testing for Huntington's disease: An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Osawa Harumo , Matsukawa Manami , Yoshida Akiko , Torishima Masako , Murakami Hiromi , Haruyama Sayoko , Wada Takahito , Kosugi Shinji
Published: October 2024

Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease with autosomal dominant inheritance, and no radical cure for HD has been established. Qualitative studies are necessary to investigate the psychological state of individuals who underwent predictive testing for HD, because the psychosocial impact on noncarriers remains unclarified in Japan. Herein, we elucidated the psychosocial impact on the noncarriers for HD and the role of genetic counseling for predictive testing and follow‐up after testing by examining their experiences with predictive testing. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with eight individuals participating in this study. Interview data were transcribed verbatim and evaluated according to thematic analysis. As a result, 4 themes were generated from 21 categories of 46 codes: (1) Diversity of perceptions concerning the test results, (2) Views on life as a noncarrier, (3) Changes in feelings toward and relationships with family members, and (4) Sharing information within the family. After receiving the negative results, the noncarriers felt not only relief but also surprise, doubt, relief from tension, and regret. It was shown that noncarriers felt survivor's guilt toward many unspecified individuals, which was not only a sense of guilt but also a sense of mission or responsibility. Additionally, they conducted altruistic behavior as members of their family and society, that may be related to the Japanese collectivism. Some participants were concerned about sharing information with their siblings. Noncarriers for HD can experience complex psychological states, and Japanese people who prefer high‐context communication may find it difficult to express their feelings and thoughts. It is important to understand their true feelings before and after the predictive genetic testing, reconsider the impact of being a noncarrier and whether it is a burden for them from both subjective and objective perspectives, and conduct long‐term follow‐up as needed.
Interhospital transfer among US veterans admitted to community and veterans affairs hospitals for acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Vaughan‐Sarrazin Mary S. , Miell Kelly Richardson , Beck Brice F. , Mecham Bradley , Bailey George , Wardyn Shylo , Mohr Nicholas , Ohl Michael
Published: October 2024

Background

Veterans Health Administration (VHA) enrollees may use community hospitals for inpatient care and sometimes require transfer to larger community or VHA hospitals. Little is known about interhospital transfer patterns among veterans using community and VHA hospitals or how coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) case surges affected transfer.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study among veterans age 65+ admitted to community and VHA hospitals for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or acute ischemic stroke (AIS) during 2018–2021. We examined associations between COVID‐19 case density in regional hospital referral networks and the likelihood of transfer.

Results

A total of 8373 (23.6%) veterans with AMI and 4630 (13.1%) with AIS were transferred in the prepandemic period. Transfer was especially common for rural veterans (36% with AMI, 20% with AIS). Most transfers (88%) were between community hospitals and 6% from community to VHA. Among AMI patients, transfer was less likely among patients age >90 (relative to age 65–69), those with non‐White race/ethnicity, and females. Transfer was more common among patients initially seen in rural hospitals (AMI, odds ratio [OR] = 2.73, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.90–3.74; AIS, OR = 2.43; 95% CI, 2.24–2.65). During 2020–2021, transfer among AMI patients was less likely during COVID‐19 case density surges affecting the admitting hospital's referral network (OR = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78–0.96 for highest compared with lowest quartile of COVID‐19 cases).

Conclusion

Interhospital transfer was common for veterans with AMI and AIS, especially among rural veterans. Few transfers were to VHA hospitals. COVID‐19 case surges were associated with decreased transfer for veterans with AMI, potentially limiting access to needed care.
Thalamocortical Dysconnectivity in Treatment‐Resistant Depression
Authors: Tu Pei‐Chi , Lin Wei‐Chen , Chang Wan‐Chen , Su Tung‐Ping , Li Cheng‐Ta , Bai Ya‐Mei , Tsai Shih‐Jen , Chen Mu‐Hong
Published: October 2024

Thalamocortical connectivity is associated with cognitive and affective processing. The role of thalamocortical connectivity in the pathomechanism of treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) remains unclear. This study included 48 patients with TRD and 48 healthy individuals. We investigated thalamocortical connectivity by performing resting‐state functional MRI with the bilateral thalamus as the seed. In addition, patients with TRD were evaluated using the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Compared with the healthy individuals, the patients with TRD exhibited increased functional connectivity (FC) of the thalamus with the insula and superior temporal cortex and reduced the FC of the thalamus with the anterior paracingulate cortex and cerebellum crus II. Our study may support the crucial role of thalamocortical dysconnectivity in the TRD pathomechanism. However, the small sample size may limit the statistical power. A future study with a large sample size of patients with TRD would be required to validate our findings.
Use of ivabradine in children with junctional ectopic tachycardia after pediatric cardiac surgery; two‐centre experience
Authors: Kamali Hacer , Öztürk Erkut , Çiftçi Mehtap , Kafali Hasan Candas , Şahin Gülhan Tunca , Haydin Sertaç , Hatemi Ali Can , Tanıdır İbrahim Cansaran , Güzeltaş Alper , Ergül Yakup
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Although amiodarone is traditionally used in the treatment of postoperative junctional ectopic tachycardia (JET), the search for new treatments is ongoing. We present our experience with ivabradine at two medical centers.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2022 and January 2023, patients who developed JET after pediatric cardiac surgery were prospectively followed up and documented. The diagnosis of JET was made with the support of the electrophysiology team and treatment was based primarily on whether JET disrupted hemodynamics.

Results

This study was conducted at two high‐volume centers, which record a total of 1130 pediatric cardiac surgeries within a year. The study recruited 26 patients with median heart rate 180 beats per minute, and 10 (38%) patients had impaired hemodynamics. Out of the 26 study participants, 14 (54%) cases were treated with ivabradine alone, 10 (38%) cases were treated with amiodarone + ivabradine, and 2 patients (8%) with high heart rates and prolonged junctional arrhythmia were treated with ivabradine and flecainide. The median time to ventricular rate control was 12 h, and the median time to sinus rhythm conversion was 55.5 h. No ivabradine‐related side effects were observed in any of the patients, and no patient experienced JET recurrence after discontinuing treatment.

Conclusion

Ivabradine seems to be a safe and effective medical treatment that can be used as the primary treatment in patients with stable hemodynamics, as an adjunctive therapy to amiodarone in patients with impaired hemodynamics.
How Will Artificial Intelligence (AI) Evolve Organizational Leadership? Understanding the Perspectives of Technopreneurs
Authors: Zaidi Syed Yasir Abbas , Aslam Muhammad Faisal , Mahmood Faisal , Ahmad Bilal , Raza Sadia Bint
Published: October 2024

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has made it an indispensable tool for organizations, transforming how leaders make decisions and promising to revolutionize team dynamics. Despite the growing importance of AI at the organizational leadership level, there is a lack of reliable scientific research on how it will change current leadership practices. To address this gap, this study conducted expert interviews with 10 IT companies in Pakistan to better understand how AI impacts organizational leadership. The findings suggest that AI will bring about significant changes in leadership practices, including shifting towards intelligent approaches, making leaders tech‐savvy, expanding human capabilities, learning and unlearning traditional managerial competencies, fostering AI‐congruent leadership characteristics, benchmarking sustainability, and coaching leaders for the future. AI fundamentally alters how leaders make decisions and holds the potential of transforming future team dynamics. These findings have important implications for the future of organizational leadership practices and research.
Potential of Hyperspectral Data Combined With Optimal Band Combination Algorithm for Estimating Soil Organic Carbon Content in Lakeside Oasis
Authors: Yang Jixiang , Li Xinguo , Ma Xiaofei , Ge Xiangyu
Published: October 2024

Accurate estimation of soil organic carbon (SOC) content is essential for promoting regional sustainable agriculture and improving land quality. Visible and near‐infrared (Vis‐NIR) near‐Earth remote sensing spectroscopy has become an effective alternative to the traditional time‐consuming and costly methods due to its high‐resolution and nondestructive application, but it is vulnerable to the redundancy of spectral information and the overlap between bands. This study delves into the potential of optimal spectral parameters for estimating SOC in arid lakeside oases, using Bosten Lake in Xinjiang, China, as a focal point. Soil samples (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, 20–30 cm, 30–40 cm) were collected, and their SOC content and hyperspectral reflectance were measured. The spectral data underwent preprocessing techniques, including continuum removal (CR), standard normal variate (SNV), and continuous wavelet transform (CWT). SOC content was predicted using back propagation neural network models constructed based on one‐dimensional (1D), two‐dimensional (2D), and three‐dimensional (3D) correlation coefficients. Results showcased the effectiveness of the CWT method in accentuating potential spectral information and enhancing variable correlation. Among the indices, 3D exhibited the highest performance (R2 = 0.82, RPD = 2.02 for TDI‐1 at 0–10 cm; R2 = 0.85, RPD = 2.28 for TDI‐2 at 10–20 cm; R2 = 0.83, RPD = 2.24 for TDI‐1 at 20–30 cm; R2 = 0.86, RPD = 2.53 for TDI‐4 at 30–40 cm), followed by 2D and then 1D. These insights offer guidance for future strategies in hyperspectral data preprocessing and spectral index determination, facilitating SOC spatial distribution mapping and advancing sustainable agricultural planning. They also have implications for determining the spatial distribution of SOC content based on spatial interpolation, which would contribute to regional agricultural planning and sustainable development.
Quantum Weak Value Enabled Quantitative Phase Imaging
Authors: Yang Qiang , Shou Yichang , Chen Shizhen , Wen Shuangchun , Luo Hailu
Published: October 2024

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) has been a powerful approach in bioimaging because it can protect specimens from staining and quantify important physical properties of biological specimen, such as local thickness and refractive index. Here, a simple mechanism is proposed to implement QPI based on the quantum weak‐value theory. Two weak values are employed. One is momentum weak value, which inherently gives the phase gradient of the cells and tissues, and the other is polarization weak value leading to the biased imaging. Following the essence of weak value amplification in precision metrology, the weak value can also enhance the contrast in imaging. By combining two converse bias images and a phase gradient intensity image to capture phase gradient data, the original phase of the specimen can be quantitatively reconstructed. A proof‐of‐principle experiment is conducted by imaging the phase targets and unstained Paramecium cells. The ability to capture quantitative phase data is validated through imaging various samples with a phase resolution, demonstrating height deviations of less than 10 nm compared to atomic force microscopy (AFM). This work proposes weak‐value‐based QPI that possess the potential for improving the measurement precision and provides deep insights into physics and applications of weak value.
On‐Demand Generation and Control of Giant Terahertz Nonlinearity with Metasurfaces
Authors: Wang Chen , Wen Yongzheng , Tan Yong , Zhao Shiqiang , Yu Kaixin , Sun Jingbo , Zhou Ji
Published: October 2024

Simultaneous control of the optical linearity and nonlinearity of the materials plays key roles in next‐generation electronics and optics as it offers the potential of manipulating the fundamental properties while generating new frequencies of light. Such control is exceedingly challenging at the technologically important terahertz (THz) frequencies due to the severe scarcity of high‐performance nonlinear materials. Here, a unique method is introduced for achieving THz second‐order nonlinearity through Lorentz force‐driven anharmonic oscillations of free electrons in metasurfaces. It does not depend on natural nonlinear materials and provides ultrahigh design freedom. Using this approach, efficient THz second harmonic generation (SHG) is experimentally demonstrated with remarkably large values of the effective nonlinear susceptibility at room temperature. By engineering the geometry of the metasurfaces, the generation and suppression of the second harmonics can be controlled and customize their polarization states at will. This efficient, configurable, room‐temperature, and ultra‐compact platform for THz SHG provides new perspectives for developing high‐performance THz sources, frequency multipliers, and other nonlinear devices.
Nanogels in Biomedical Engineering: Revolutionizing Drug Delivery, Tissue Engineering, and Bioimaging
Authors: Dehchani Atieh Janmaleki , Jafari Aliakbar , Shahi Farangis
Published: October 2024

Nanogels represent a significant innovation in the fields of nanotechnology and biomedical engineering, combining the properties of hydrogels and nanoparticles to create versatile platforms for drug delivery, tissue engineering, bioimaging, and other biomedical applications. These nanoscale hydrogels, typically ranging from 10 to 1000 nm, possess unique characteristics such as high water content, biocompatibility, and the ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules. The review explores the synthesis, structural configurations, and stimuli‐responsive nature of nanogels, highlighting their adaptability for targeted drug delivery, including across challenging barriers like the blood–brain barrier. Furthermore, the paper delves into the biomedical applications of nanogels, particularly in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and bioimaging, demonstrating their potential to revolutionize these fields. Despite the promising preclinical results, challenges remain in translating these technologies into clinical practice, including issues related to stability, scalability, and regulatory approval. The review concludes by discussing future perspectives, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize the properties and applications of nanogels, ultimately aiming to enhance their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
Comparing personality traits of healthcare workers with and without long COVID: Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sakai Keiko , Tarutani Seiichiro , Okamura Takehiko , Yoneda Hiroshi , Kawasaki Tatsuhito , Takeda Masatoshi
Published: October 2024

Aim

Pathological mechanisms of “long COVID” after recovery from the main symptoms of COVID‐19 are unclear. We compared psychological differences between individuals with and without long COVID symptoms after initial COVID‐19 infections.

Methods

This study includes medical workers with and without history of COVID‐19. We assessed the degree of depression, health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), the degree of anxiety and fear of COVID‐19, and we used an original questionnaire. In the COVID‐19 group, we also assessed personality traits and anxiety. The COVID‐19 group was subclassified into those with and without long COVID to examine differences in circumstantial and psychological examinations.

Results

Of 310 participants (141 men, 169 women, median age: 40 years), 167 had history of COVID‐19 (83/84, 37 years) and 143 did not (58 men/85 women, 46 years). In the COVID‐19 group, 26 had long COVID (12/14, 32 years) and 141 did not (71/70, 37 years). Fewer participants in the COVID‐19 group had had COVID‐19 vaccinations. The long COVID group had higher number of symptoms at time of illness and higher NEO Five Factor Inventory Neuroticism scores than the non‐long COVID group. They also had poorer mental health according to HRQOL than those without.

Conclusion

Risk factors for long COVID may include the number of symptoms at the time of illness and neurotic tendency on NEO Five Factor Inventory. Participants with long COVID had poorer mental health according to HRQOL. People with long COVID might be especially sensitive to and pessimistic about the symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, resulting in certain cognitive and behavioral patterns. They may benefit from early psychiatric intervention.
A 2‐year longitudinal study of the association between unhealthy lifestyle factors and the development of depressive symptoms in university students
Authors: Furihata Ryuji , Ishida Mami , Nakagami Yukako , Yanase Maya , Uwatoko Teruhisa , Okabayashi Satoe , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kawamura Takashi
Published: October 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between unhealthy lifestyle factors and the development of depressive symptoms with adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics in university students using health checkup data.

Methods

Among information obtained from university student health checkups conducted in 2017 and 2019, we analyzed both the clinical data and responses to questionnaires. The subjects used for analysis were 3190 individuals (2382 men and 808 women, mean age 19.0 years) who had been free of depressive symptoms in the 2017 survey and were available for a 2‐year follow‐up. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐2) was used as a self‐rating scale for depressive symptoms. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between lifestyle factors (such as body mass index, self‐rated health, whether breakfast was taken, degree of exercise, satisfaction with sleep, smoking, and alcohol drinking) in the 2017 survey and any development of depressive symptoms revealed in the 2019 survey, adjusting for sociodemographic variables and other lifestyle factors.

Results

Multivariable logistic analysis showed that poor satisfaction with sleep (odds ratio [OR), 4.09; 95% confidence interval [CI), 1.96–8.53; p < 0.01) and female gender (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.01–4.60; p = 0.05) were significantly associated with the development of depressive symptoms 2 years later.

Conclusion

This study has revealed an association between poor satisfaction with sleep and the development of depressive symptoms. We believe that these findings may be useful for the prevention and treatment of depressive symptoms in university students.
Evaluation of the effects of a team‐based systematic prevention and management program for postoperative orthopedic older patients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yamaguchi Fumitake , Inomata Chie , Yoshinaga Naoki , Sawada Hirotake , Shimamoto Kazuko , Haruta‐Tsukamoto Ayaka
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate a team‐based systematic prevention and management program for delirium (a multicomponent intervention addressing potentially modifiable risk factors based on the DELirium Team Approach [DELTA]) in older patients undergoing orthopedic surgery within a real‐world clinical setting. The DELTA program was initiated at our hospital in January 2019.

Methods

A retrospective before–after study was conducted during a preintervention period (January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2018) and a postintervention period (January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021) at orthopedic wards of an advanced acute care hospital in Japan. A total of 787 inpatients were evaluated before the preintervention period, and 833 inpatients were evaluated after the postintervention period.

Results

After the DELTA program's implementation, a significant decrease in benzodiazepine receptor agonist prescriptions (odds ratio [OR], 0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.29–0.53) and an increase in prescriptions of either melatonin receptor agonists or dual orexin receptor antagonists (OR, 3.83; 95% CI, 2.49–5.88) were observed. However, no significant difference was observed in the incidence of falls, self‐extubation, or required level of medical and nursing care, including risky behavior and inability to follow medical or care instructions following the intervention, despite a reduction in the length of hospital stay and institutionalization.

Conclusion

Implementing the DELTA program for older patients undergoing orthopedic surgery contributed to optimizing the prescription of hypnotics; however, the impact on other patient outcomes, such as falls, self‐extubation, and required level of medical and nursing care was limited.
Impact of Adsorption on the Vapor Availability of Contained Explosives and Drugs
Authors: Calabrese Emma , Alexis Sierra , Furton Kenneth G. , DeGreeff Lauryn E.
Published: October 2024

Detection canines are used to locate explosives, drugs, and other contraband based on the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with the target items, even when attempts have been made to contain them in layers of packaging. It is important to understand the extent to which different materials impact vapor availability through adsorption or absorption and therefore the ability of canines to detect target materials. This study considered how the attenuation of vapor components associated with explosives and drugs (hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD), trinitrotoluene (TNT), triacetone triperoxide (TATP), and cocaine) by commonly used concealment and storage materials (metal, glass, plastic, and cardboard). Adsorption/desorption affinity was measured using a quartz crystal microbalance which can measure nanogram level mass changes as vapor from an analyte is flowed over and interacts with a sensor coated in a material of interest. Headspace analysis using solid phase microextraction (SPME) with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry or electron capture detector (GC/MS or ECD) measured the VOCs over time as each analyte of interest was exposed to either 50 cm2 or 100 cm2 of each material. Overall, the results demonstrated that the amount of sorption and vapor suppression varies based on the material, with the greatest attenuation of analyte vapor by cardboard, followed by polystyrene, and then glass. Furthermore, it also depends on the analyte, as demonstrated by minimal sorption of TATP, particularly to polystyrene, and the compounds in HMTD having different affinities resulting in an altered vapor profile.