bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Futile life-sustaining treatment in the intensive care unit – nurse and physician experiences: meta-synthesis
Authors: Choi Hye Ri , Ho Mu-Hsing , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: November 2023

Background

Continuing futile life-sustaining treatment prolongs patients’ suffering and family members’ and medical staff’s psychological distress. Additionally, continuing futile treatment is inefficient in healthcare resource distribution. Although the withdrawal of futile life-sustaining treatment is ideal, the prevalence is variable.

Objective

To synthesise nurses’ and physicians’ experiences with continuing futile life-sustaining treatment in the intensive care unit.

Design

This meta-synthesis was conducted following the thematic synthesis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses and Enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research statement were used in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research statements.

Methods and data sources

A systematic search was conducted following the inclusion and exclusion criteria in APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science in May 2023. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted the data. The extracted data were analysed using thematic analysis of qualitative research.

Findings

A total of 16 studies were finally included, and 141 quotes were extracted and analysed. The main findings were categorised into four themes: (1) contextual and cultural diversity, (2) perceptions of futile treatment, (3) professional roles and responsibilities, and (4) emotional distress.

Conclusion

The study highlights the influence of culture, religion and family members, as well as perceptions of futile treatment among clinicians, on continuing futile life-sustaining treatment. Also, nurses’ awareness of their roles and responsibilities in ensuring patients’ comfort at end of life was revealed. This study informs future research to explore the experiences of futile life-sustaining treatment across various contexts.
Internal instability of cohesionless soils in upward and downward flow: an experimental verification of theory
Authors: Li Maoxin , Fannin R. Jonathan , Foster Mark , Yan Li
Published: November 2023

Rigid-wall permeameter testing of two potentially unstable gradations established that the critical hydraulic gradient to trigger instability is smaller for upward flow than for downward flow. The experimental finding is explained with reference to the Skempton-Brogan stress reduction factor α in the finer fraction content of the soil. Theory uses the α-factor to define a hydro-mechanical envelope in gradient-stress space that is independent of flow direction, and the experimental results are found to be in good agreement with the theory. Testing with upward flow is recommended to determine the value of α for an internally unstable gradation because, in contrast to downward flow, there is no requirement for an outflow boundary.
Across Time and Space:
Senju
’s Approach for Scaling Iterative Stencil Loop Accelerators on Single and Multiple FPGAs
Authors: Del Sozzo Emanuele , Conficconi Davide , Sano Kentaro
Published: November 2023

Stencil-based applications play an essential role in high-performance systems as they occur in numerous computational areas, such as partial differential equation solving. In this context,
Iterative Stencil Loops (ISLs)
represent a prominent and well-known algorithmic class within the stencil domain. Specifically, ISL-based calculations iteratively apply the same stencil to a multi-dimensional point grid multiple times or until convergence. However, due to their iterative and intensive nature, ISLs are highly performance-hungry, demanding specialized solutions. Here,
Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)
represent a valid architectural choice as they enable the design of custom, parallel, and scalable ISL accelerators. Besides, the regular structure of ISLs makes them an ideal candidate for automatic optimization and generation flows. For these reasons, this article introduces
Senju
, an automation framework for the design of highly parallel ISL accelerators targeting single-/multi-FPGA systems. Given an input description,
Senju
automates the entire design process and provides accurate performance estimations. The experimental evaluation shows remarkable and scalable results, outperforming single- and multi-FPGA literature approaches under different metrics. Finally, we present a new analysis of temporal and spatial parallelism trade-offs in a real-case scenario and discuss our performance through a single- and novel specialized multi-FPGA formulation of the Roofline Model.
Norm-Violating Behavior in Organizations: A Comprehensive Conceptual Review and Model of Constructive and Destructive Norm-Violating Behavior
Authors: Bennett Rebecca J. , Galperin Bella L. , Wang Long , Shukla Jigyashu
Published: November 2023

Norm violations can not only cause harm but also contribute to the well-being of organizations. During the last several decades, two different foci of research on workplace norm violations have generated a host of empirical studies on both constructive and destructive norm-violating behavior (NVB). However, the two closely related bodies of literature have remained in almost complete isolation from each other. Our conceptual review seeks to kindle a new perspective to better understand the general concept of NVB in organizations by combining the bifurcated silos of both constructive and destructive NVB. By conducting a systematic literature review of research on workplace NVBs over the past 30 years, we synthesize the major research findings on both constructive and destructive deviance into a general framework and examine the major antecedents, moderators, mediators, and outcomes as they fit within the major theoretical perspectives. Moreover, we study the commonalities of constructive and destructive NVB, focusing especially on the overlapping and dynamic relationships between the two concepts. To conclude, we propose new lines of inquiry for future research to assist academics and practitioners in understanding and managing different forms of organizational norm violations.
Tailoring Optoelectronic Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles via Incorporation of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Contents on of ZnO/MWCNT Nanocomposites
Authors: Al-Asbahi Bandar Ali
Published: November 2023

The present study demonstrates the tailoring of optoelectronic properties of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) by adding multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at different weight ratios. ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposites were successfully prepared using the solution blending method, and the optical spectra of all samples were determined using a UV–vis spectrometer. An increase in the optical absorption coefficient (α) and extinction coefficient (k) was observed with an increase in MWCNT content, resulting in the significant ability to attenuate incident light in ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposites compared to pure ZnO NPs. The optical band gap of pure ZnO NPs decreased from 3.26 eV to 2.58 eV in the ZnO/50 wt% MWCNT nanocomposite. The refractive index values ranged from 1.66 to 1.61 as the wavelength varied between 400 nm and 700 nm. Furthermore, the incorporation of MWCNTs in the ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposite had an impact on various dispersion parameters related to the refractive index. With increasing MWCNT content, the dielectric constant (ε
0) decreased from 2.40 to 1.96, while the mean oscillator wavelength (λ
0) increased from 157.7 nm to 164.2 nm and the oscillator strength (S0) decreased from 5.93 × 10−5 nm−2 to 3.70 × 10−6 nm−2. The localized density of state (N/m*) increased from 7.45 × 1057 to 20.8 × 1057 (m3 Kg) −1, and the long wavelength refractive index (ε
∞) rose from 3.683 to 4.745. Moreover, the plasma frequency (ω
p) of the electron exhibited an increase from 2.15 × 1031 to 6.01 × 1031 Hz. These findings highlight the potential of tailoring the optoelectronic properties of ZnO NPs through the incorporation of MWCNTs, paving the way for the development of novel materials with improved optoelectronic characteristics for a wide range of applications.
Impact of Fe3O4-CNT Hybrid with Magnetic Field Control on Corrosion Resistance of Inorganic Phosphate Bonded Coating
Authors: Liu Y. , Qiu F. , Zhu G. , Chen C.
Published: November 2023

Fe3O4-CNT nanomaterials were used to enhance the corrosion performance of inorganic phosphate bonded coatings (IPBCs). Firstly, Fe3O4-CNT nanomaterials were prepared through hydrothermal method and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that Fe3O4 nanoparticles relatively evenly distributed on the surface of CNT. Then, Fe3O4-CNT hybrids were added into IPBC as the reinforcing phase, IPBC, IPBC reinforced by Fe3O4-CNT hybrids (IPBC-CNT) and IPBC reinforced by Fe3O4-CNT hybrids with magnetic field control (IPBC-CNT-Mag) were prepared, respectively. And the corrosion performance of the three coatings were analyzed through open circuit potential, polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectrum (EIS) experiments. Results shows the protection efficiency of neat IPBC, IPBC-CNT and IPBC-CNT-Mag is around 80.30, 94.98, 95.64%, indicating adding Fe3O4-CNT nanomaterials as a functional filler to the inorganic phosphate bonded coating can effectively enhance the corrosion resistance of the coating, while Fe3O4-CNT hybrids after magnetic field treatment can further improve the corrosion resistance of IPBCs. That is because with the introduction of magnetic field, Fe3O4-CNT hybrid can be better dispersed in IPBC, so that CNT can be better utilized and played, which resulting the excellent corrosion performance of IPBC-CNT-Mag.
Effect of Different TS-1 on the Electrical Properties of Cross-Linked Polyethylene
Authors: Shi Lirui , Wang Qingyu , Zhou Xin , Xing Zhaoliang , Hao Chuncheng
Published: November 2023

Nano-composite dielectric materials are considered as the most promising insulating materials for HVDC cables. The effects of different concentration of nano-filler and structure of nanoparticle on the electrical properties of crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) composites were studied by using three different chemical treated titanium-silicon molecular sieves TS-1 as nano-filler. The experimental results show that the dielectric properties of the composites increased by 17.76%, 19.16% and 16.36%, respectively, after TS-1 and alkali treatment for 12 h and 24 h. After the addition of the first two fillers, the resistivity was nearly doubled to 46.71% and 47.41%, respectively, and the breakdown field strength was increased by 3.40% and 9.28%, respectively. After 24 h alkali treatment, the volume resistivity and breakdown field strength of TS-1 were lower than that of pure XLPE.
Review— On the Development of Phosphors for Luminescent Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, Applications and Evolution of Phosphors as White-Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Farooq Mudasir , Rafiq Haqnawaz , Shah Aarif ul Islam , Rasool Mir Hashim
Published: November 2023

The manuscript focuses on the concept of nano-phosphors, a remarkable type of material that has been widely explored because of their diverse promising applications. Progress in the development of such nano-phosphors as luminescent materials has received significant research attention. The white-light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) have grown dramatically and represent the most intriguing lighting source of the twenty-first century. The contribution of rare-Earth (RE) ions to lighting technology is explicitly addressed. The additional physical characteristics of white light that are addressed in the present manuscript comprise the correlated color temperature (CCT), the color rendering index (CRI), and the Commission International de’ Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity coordinates. Multiple synthesis methods employed around the globe to produce such industrially important nano-phosphors along with more specialized and impactful techniques to characterize all such materials are thus thoroughly explored. Also, the various technologically significant applications of these materials are described. The evolution of these potentially suitable luminescent materials for WLEDs and their white-light characteristics is also outlined. The manuscript presents a comprehensive overview of the advancement and innovation of nano-phosphors, their application fields and the significant milestones of artificial lighting toward modernization.
Carbon Nanotube-Encased FeNi Alloy/N-Doped Carbon ORR Catalyst: High Efficiency and Stability
Authors: Parkash Anand
Published: November 2023

The efficient reduction of oxygen in fuel cell technology using platinum group metals (PGMs) faces challenges like sluggish kinetics, high costs, and poor durability. To overcome these limitations, PGM-free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts are sought after. Transition-metal-based electrocatalysts, specifically metal-nitrogen co-doped carbon (M-N/C, M = Fe, Co, etc.), have emerged as promising alternatives due to their abundant pore structures, high surface area, conductivity, and cost-effectiveness. This review explores various non-precious metal electrocatalysts for ORR, highlighting pyrolyzed transition metal nitrogen-containing complexes on carbon (M–Nx/C) as outstanding candidates, with Fe-N/C demonstrating remarkable performance. In this study, we introduce a novel approach to construct Fe-Nx doped large-diameter carbon nanotubes (Fe,Ni-N/C) by pyrolyzing zeolitic imidazolium frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) functionalized with nickel acetate. This approach capitalizes on strong intercalation between acetate and metal ions, promoting Fe-Nx active site formation while generating large-diameter carbon nanotubes. The resulting catalyst facilitates rapid mass transport and maximizes active site exposure, nearing the performance of Pt/C. Our catalyst exhibits an initial potential of 1.03 V, a half-wave potential of 0.88 V, and a limit current of 5.5 mA cm−2. Remarkably, it retains 85.7% of its initial performance in a 36,000 s chronoamperometry test, demonstrating superior durability and methanol toxicity resistance compared to Pt/C. Large-diameter carbon nanotubes offer a potential alternative electrocatalyst, eliminating the need for templates, simplifying mass production for applications like sensors, supercapacitors, and lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, our Fe,Ni-N/C catalyst outperforms commercial Pt/C, making it a promising choice for ORR applications in fuel cells.
Performance of Low-Pressure-Plasma-Processed RuCo Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Tseng Chia-Yun , Su Yu-Lun , Ni I-Chih , Wu Chih-I , Cheng I-Chun , Chen Jian-Zhang
Published: November 2023

RuCo/acid-treated nickel foam (ANF) has been reported to be an excellent electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In this study, we perform plasma treatment with Ar, Ar/H2 (95:5), and Ar/O2 (95:5) as working gases for surface modification to explore the effect on HER performance. The developed electrocatalysts are tested in an alkaline solution (1 M KOH); the results show that Ar/H2 (95:5) plasma treatment significantly improves the electrocatalytic activity of RuCo/ANF, achieving an overpotential of 98 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry analyses shSow a large reduction in the charge transfer impedance and a significant increase in the electric double-layer capacitance. This study provides a facile strategy to activate RuCo to improve HER performance.
New Information of the Anatomy and Phytochemical Screening of Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze (Caesalpinioideae-Leguminosae) Seeds
Authors: Correia Zelina Ataíde , Gurgel Ely Simone Cajueiro , Ribeiro Olivia , de Andrade Aguiar Dias Ana Cristina , Kumar Ravendra , do Nascimento Luis Adriano Santos , de Aguiar Andrade Eloisa Helena , de Oliveira Mozaniel Santana
Published: November 2023

Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.), whose common name is “pracaxi,” is naturally found in the Amazon region. The present study is aimed at analyzing the anatomy, seed histochemistry, and chemical composition in fatty acid profile of P. macroloba seed oils. Seeds were collected in the cities of Belém, Marituba, and São Domingos do Capim-PA. For the study in light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and histochemistry, seeds were sectioned in cross and longitudinal sections of the embryonic axis and fixed in formaldehyde, acetic acid, and 50% ethyl alcohol; neutral-buffered formalin; and formaldehyde and ferrous sulfate and stored in 70% ethyl alcohol. For the anatomical study, the seeds were subjected to the usual techniques of plant anatomy. Histochemical tests were performed on plant material, freehand sectioned, and embedded in histological paraffin with DMSO. The fatty acid profile was determined for gas chromatography (GC-FID). Integument is divided into three strata, monoseriate exotesta, mesotesta formed by several layers of parenchyma cells, and monoseriate endotesta, formed by compressed cells. Cotyledons are composed of thin-walled parenchyma cells with several secretory cavities and secretory idioblasts. The main metabolic classes are lipids, phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, proteins, and alkaloids. The main fatty acids found in P. macroloba oil are oleic, behenic, lignoceric, and linoleic. P. macroloba seeds have important anatomical characteristics for their circumscription in Leguminosae and also in Caesalpinioideae, and their oil is rich in fatty acids essential to the human diet, providing many benefits to the human health, such as fatty acids belonging to the omega family (linoleic, oleic).
Genetic Variations in the Human Angiotensin-ConvertingEnzyme 2 and Susceptibility to Coronavirus Disease-19
Authors: Talebi Taravat , Masoumi Tannaz , Heshmatzad Katayoun , Hesami Mahshid , Maleki Majid , Kalayinia Samira
Published: November 2023

Background. Health and economies are both affected by the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) global pandemic. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a polymorphic enzyme that is a part of the renin-angiotensin system, and it plays a crucial role in viral entry. Previous investigations and studies revealed that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and ACE2 have a considerable association. Recently, ACE2 variants have been described in human populations in association with cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions. In this study, genetic susceptibility to COVID-19 in different populations was investigated. Methods and Results. We evaluated the identified variants based on the predictive performance of 5 deleteriousness-scoring methods and the 2015 American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines. The results indicated 299 variants within the ACE2 gene. The variants were analyzed by different in-silico analysis tools to assess their functional effects. Ultimately, 5 more deleterious variants were found in the ACE2 gene. Conclusions. Collecting more information about the variations in binding affinity between SARS-CoV-2 and host-cell receptors due to ACE2 variants leads to progress in treatment strategies for COVID-19. The evidence accumulated in this study showed that ACE2 variants in different populations may be associated with the genetic susceptibility, symptoms, and outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
CTSK and PLAU as Prognostic Biomarker and Related to Immune Infiltration in Pancreatic Cancer: Evidence from Bioinformatics Analysis and qPCR
Authors: Ding Yuntao , Li Zhangzuo , Wang Huizhi , Wang Qi , Jiang Han , Yu Zhengyue , Xu Min
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a malignancy with the highest mortality rate worldwide. There is a pressing need for novel biomarkers that can facilitate early detection and serve as targets for therapeutic interventions beyond the commonly utilized CA199 marker. This study utilized microarray datasets (GSE15471, GSE62165, and GSE28735) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and construct a protein-protein interaction network using STRING and Cytoscape. Hub genes were selected using BiNGO. Expression profiles and clinical data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were then used to compare the expression levels of CTSK and PLAU in pancreatic cancer and healthy pancreatic tissues via the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, with further validation using qPCR. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to explore potential signaling pathways and biological functions. Prognostic values were assessed by the Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses, and an overall survival (OS) nomogram was created to predict 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival after cancer diagnosis. The infiltration of immune cells was evaluated by single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. The methylation status of both genes was analyzed using the UALCAN and MethSurv databases. The results demonstrated that CTSK and PLAU were overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and that the hypomethylation status of both genes was associated with a poor prognosis. The overexpression of both genes was positively correlated with various immune cells, and functional enrichment analysis revealed that they were associated with immune cell infiltration. Besides, the effects of PLAU on the migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells were also verified by scratch and transwell experiments. Consequently, CTSK and PLAU have potential as prognostic biomarkers for pancreatic cancer.
Effects of Apple Polyphenols and Taurine on Growth Performance, Tissue Morphology, and Lipid and Glucose Metabolism in Rice Field Eel (Monopterus albus) Fed High Oxidized Fish Oil
Authors: Wu Shanshan , Li Jiamin , Deng Yao , Fang Peng , Lei Wei , Luo Ao , He Zhengwei , Xiong Liufeng , Yang Gang , Kumar Vikas , Peng Mo
Published: November 2023

The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects of apple polyphenols (AP) and taurine (TA) on the growth performance, tissue morphology, and lipid and glucose metabolism in rice field eel fed diets with high oxidized fish oil (OFO). A 10-week feeding experiment was conducted using juveniles (initial body weight 16.66 ± 0.02 g) fed five different diets. Three diets were formulated with various levels of OFO at 9.5, 600, and 800 meq·kg−1 and named as Control, POV600, and POV800 diet, respectively. The other two diets were POV600 and POV800 supplemented with 0.5% AP and 0.2% TA, respectively. Compared to the Control group, only the eels fed POV800 exhibited an increase in weight gain and specific growth rate along with a reduction in feed conversion ratio. AP and TA did not affect growth performance; juveniles fed AP, however, showed a decrease in liver weight. Both POV600 and POV800 decreased nuclei number and increased vacuoles size in the liver. POV800 damaged the intestinal structure integrity and reduced goblet cells number. AP repaired the liver damage on nuclei number and vacuoles size in fish fed with POV600 diet, while TA mitigated intestinal histopathological damage on intact structure and goblet cells number. The mRNA expression level of liver ampkα in fish fed AP was upregulated, while dietary TA upregulated the mRNA expression levels of liver ampkα and accα. In the muscle, POV600 downregulated mRNA expression levels of accα, cpt1, and lipin, whereas POV800 upregulated mRNA expression levels of accα, pparα, and lipin. Dietary AP and TA could counteract the effects of POV600 and POV800 diet on muscle lipid metabolism. Both POV600 and POV800 diets upregulated mRNA expression levels of liver pck1 and gsk3α. AP and TA both downregulated mRNA expression level of liver pck1, while only TA downregulated the expression of liver gsk3α. AP increased the mRNA expression level of gsk3α in muscle. In summary, inclusion of AP and TA did not affect growth performance but showed a potential to alleviate liver or intestinal damages induced by a high OFO diet. Dietary AP and TA were also found to regulate mRNA expression of genes related to lipid and glucose metabolism.
Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, and Retention in Atlantic Salmon, Salmo salar L., Fed Diets with Fermented Sugar Kelp, Saccharina latissima
Authors: Sartipiyarahmadi Sahar , Philip Antony J. Prabhu , Sveier Harald , Steinsund Silje , Lock Erik-Jan , Madaro Angelico , Hansen Tom Johnny , Wiech Martin , Strand Øivind , Jakobsen Jan Vidar , van der Heide Marleen E. , Nørgaard Jan Værum , Remø Sofie C.
Published: November 2023

Using low trophic marine resources such as sugar kelp (Saccharina latissimi) is of great interest to increase the circular food production in the ocean. Sugar kelp does, however, contain high levels of carbohydrates and iodine and does not have considerable levels of protein and lipids, which may make it less suitable as a feeding ingredient. A 10-week feeding trial was done to investigate the effect of graded dietary inclusion levels of fermented sugar kelp (FSK), on growth performance, digestibility, retention of nutrients, and mineral composition in postsmolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.). The experimental diets were made to simulate a standard grower feed for salmon postsmolts in SW with ∼63% plant-based ingredients vs ∼34% marine ingredients and increasing concentrations of FSK between 0% (control feed) and 4% of the diet. During the feeding trial, the weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) decreased linearly with increasing dietary FSK levels, where the SGR was slightly reduced from 1.2% for the fish given the control feed to 1.1% in the fish given feeds containing 3% and 4% FSK. This resulted in a lower weight gain of up to 9% in the fish given 4% FSK compared to the control. Feed intake and feed conversion ratio were, however, similar in all diet groups, and FSK inclusion did not influence the digestibility of macronutrients or minerals, except for lipid. The reduced growth is likely related to a lower digestible energy level in the diets, and the retention of both lipids and energy was affected by FSK inclusion. Inclusion of FSK also influenced iodine availability and retention, as well as increasing iodine status in whole body and muscle in a dose-dependent manner until reaching a plateau, which corresponds to 124 mg I kg−1 WW (135 mg I kg−1 DW), at 3% FSK inclusion.
Mortality and Morbidity of Heart Failure Hospitalization in Adult Patients With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Agasthi Pradyumna , Van Houten Holly K. , Yao Xiaoxi , Jain C. Charles , Egbe Alexander , Warnes Carole A. , Miranda William R. , Dunlay Shannon M. , Stephens Elizabeth H. , Johnson Jonathan N. , Connolly Heidi M. , Burchill Luke J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Little is known about outcomes following heart failure (HF) hospitalization among adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) in the United States. We aim to compare the outcomes of HF versus non‐HF hospitalizations in adults with CHD.

Methods and Results

Using a national deidentified administrative claims data set, patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) hospitalized with and without HF (ACHDHF+, ACHDHF−) were characterized to determine the predictors of 90‐day and 1‐year mortality and quantify the risk of mortality, major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, and health resource use. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to compare ACHDHF+ versus ACHDHF− for risk of events and health resource use. Of 26 454 unique ACHD admissions between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2020, 5826 (22%) were ACHDHF+ and 20 628 (78%) were ACHDHF−. The ACHD HF+ hospitalizations increased from 6.6% to 14.0% (
P
<0.0001). Over a mean follow‐up period of 2.23 ± 2.19 years, patients with ACHDHF+ had a higher risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.86 [95% CI, 1.67–2.07],
P
<0.001), major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (HR, 1.73 [95% CI, 1.63–1.83],
P
<0.001) and health resource use including rehospitalization (HR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.05–1.14],
P
<0.001) and increased postacute care service use (HR, 1.56 [95% CI, 1.32–1.85],
P
<0.001). Cardiology clinic visits within 30 days of hospital admission were associated with lower 90‐day and 1‐year all‐cause mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.62 [95% CI, 0.49–0.78],
P
<0.001; OR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.58–0.83],
P
<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

HF hospitalization is associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity with high health resource use in patients with ACHD. Recent cardiology clinic attendance appears to mitigate these risks.
Association Between Onset Age of Coronary Heart Disease and Incident Dementia: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liang Jie , Li Chenglong , Gao Darui , Ma Qian , Wang Yongqian , Pan Yang , Zhang Wenya , Xie Wuxiang , Zheng Fanfan
Published: November 2023

Background

The association of age at coronary heart disease (CHD) onset with incident dementia remains unexplored. This study aimed to examine whether younger onset age of CHD is associated with a higher risk of incident dementia.

Methods and Results

Data were obtained from the UK Biobank. Information on the diagnosis of CHD and dementia was collected at baseline and follow‐ups. Propensity score matching method and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between different ages at CHD onset and incident dementia. A total of 432 667 adults (mean±SD age, 56.9±8.1 years) were included, of whom 11.7% had CHD. Compared with participants without CHD, participants with CHD exhibited higher risks of developing all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia. More importantly, younger age at CHD onset (per 10‐year decrease) was significantly associated with elevated risks of all‐cause dementia (hazard ratio [HR], 1.25 [95% CI, 1.20–1.30];
P
<0.001), Alzheimer's disease (HR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.20–1.38];
P
<0.001), and vascular dementia (HR, 1.22 [95% CI, 1.13–1.31];
P
<0.001). After propensity score matching, patients with CHD had significantly higher risks of all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia than matched controls among all onset age groups, and the HRs gradually elevated with decreasing age at CHD onset.

Conclusions

Younger onset age of CHD is associated with higher risks of incident all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia, underscoring the necessity to pay attention to the neurocognitive status of individuals diagnosed with CHD at younger age to conduct timely interventions to attenuate subsequent risk of incident dementia.
An Analysis of Bülent Ecevit’s Policies, Decisions, and Attitudes Towards the European Union Membership Process of Türkiye
Authors: YILDIRIM Umut Turgut
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on the analysis of the EU membership policy of Bülent Ecevit and scrutinized his attitudes through the lens of continuity and change, seeking to trace the imprints of influential factors and dynamics in the decision-making process. In this way, this study contributes to the scholarly literature by not only revealing the limited influence of leaders on Türkiye's EU accession process but also explaining the effects of Ecevit's ideological orientations on the course of Türkiye-EU relations. As a result, it is understood that Ecevit's stance on the EU was shaped by various internal and external factors, such as economic crises in the country, the attitudes of EU leaders, and individual factors such as ideological inclinations. Nevertheless, it is claimed that Ecevit's decisions regarding the EU generally followed the fundamental principles of Turkish foreign policy.
Effect of gait on, and repeatability of heart rate and heart rate variability measurements in exercising Warmblood dressage horses
Authors: Frippiat T. , van Beckhoven C. , van Gasselt V.J. , Dugdale A. , Vandeweerd J.M.
Published: November 2023

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a non-invasive measurement of the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation to the myocardium. Used as an indicator of health, welfare and fitness level, its measurement during exercise has been suggested to be helpful in sport horses. The aims of this study were to assess the within- and between-day repeatability of time-domain HRV-measurements during exercise, and to evaluate the effect of gait (as a factor of increasing exercise intensity) on HRV. Heart rate (HR), root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) between normal heartbeats and the standard deviation of normal (R-R) intervals (SDNN) were assessed during a standardised exercise test (SET) on five consecutive days in a sample of 21 healthy Warmblood dressage horses. All variables showed good between-day repeatability (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient), while only RMSSD showed reliable within-day repeatability (Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Increase of exercise intensity was significantly associated with increased HR and decreased RMSSD and SDNN, with a negative correlation between HR and the two HRV-measurements. HR and HRV values varied significantly with intensity of exercise (rest, walk, trot, canter and whole SET), though HRV at rest was not different to that at walk, and HRV at trot was not different to that at canter. In conclusion, the results of this study support the use and show the repeatability of time-domain HRV-measurements during exercise in Warmblood dressage horses. Further investigation for use of HRV in other equestrian disciplines, levels and health state is warranted.
Metabolic effects of training endurance horses in a field setting
Authors: Downer M.E. , Hodgson D.R. , Grant B.D. , Davis M.S. , Bayly W.M.
Published: November 2023

Changes in serum biochemistry and skeletal muscle of horses in response to individual endurance rides of varying distance have been reported, as have the effects of submaximal treadmill training. This study evaluated the effects of a controlled field endurance training programme on energy metabolism. Five Arabian horses 6.8 ± 2.0 years (mean ± standard deviation) were trained for 16 weeks over progressively longer distances. The biceps femoris, triceps long head, and semitendinosus muscles were biopsied before and after 4-weekly runs of 10, 20 and 30 miles, respectively, and before and after 10, 20, 30 and 50 miles of a fourth run at the end of the training programme to measure 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA-dehydrogenase (HAD) and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activities and triglyceride (TG) and glycogen concentrations in those biopsies. Blood samples were obtained simultaneously to measure serum TG, free fatty acid (FFA), glycerol, glucagon, insulin, and cortisol concentrations. Data were analysed using RM-ANOVA for effects of training and distance. was considered significant. Training increased resting glycogen and TG concentrations in the biceps (, ), triceps (, ) and semitendinosus (, ), respectively. Both HAD and SDH activities increased in the biceps femoris (; ) and triceps (; ), respectively, but not in the semitendinosus. There was no training effect detected on serum hormone responses to exercise distance although serum glycerol (), glucagon () and cortisol () concentrations increased with increasing run distance, while insulin concentration decreased (). Glucagon and cortisol concentrations were correlated (r = 0.67; ). Serum TG decreased with exercise but at a slower rate following training, and serum FFA were higher during exercise following training when compared to the partially trained state. Overall, endurance training enhanced peripheral mobilisation of fat and its utilisation by working muscle, and resting muscle glycogen stores increased.
Single bout of a long-duration running treadmill increases myoglobin but not haemoglobin and interleukin 6 levels in mice (Mus musculus)
Authors: Yuliastrid D. , Kusnanik N.W. , Purwanto B. , Noordia A. , Purwoto S.P. , Pranoto A.
Published: November 2023

Endurance was essential to perform an activity for as long as possible. Previously, haemoglobin, myoglobin, lactate and interleukin (IL)-6 level played a key role in determining endurance. This study aims to analyse the differences in the duration of running a treadmill on the levels of haemoglobin, myoglobin, lactate, and IL-6 in mice (Mus musculus). The mice were forced to run on the treadmill for as long as possible. They were divided into 3 groups, namely Short (n = 12; ≤12.5 min treadmill running), Moderate (n = 12; 12.5-40 min treadmill running), and Long (n = 12; ≥40 min treadmill running). Haemoglobin and lactate levels were evaluated, respectively, using the Quick-check Plus Hb Haemoglobin Testing System and Accutrend® Plus system. Analysis of myoglobin and IL-6 levels used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Statistical analysis used the one-way ANOVA, and LSD post-hoc tests with a significance level of 5%. The results showed that only the myoglobin level characterised endurance. Higher myoglobin levels were found at longer duration of running. Haemoglobin, lactate and IL-6 levels did not differ between groups. Based on the results of the study it was concluded that a longer duration of running was found a higher level of myoglobin. Myoglobin but not haemoglobin represented as an essential characteristic for endurance among runners in mice. High-affinity binding between myoglobin and oxygen was essential for oxygen storage in muscle.
Effects of exercise and training on plasma and blood volumes in Thoroughbreds and endurance horses
Authors: Israel J. , Leguillette R. , Parry B.W. , Hodgson D.R. , Grant B.D. , Bayly W.M.
Published: November 2023

Exercise-and training-induced changes in plasma (PV) and blood volumes (BV) have been well documented in racehorses but not in endurance horses. We aimed to determine and compare the effects of training and exercise on BV and PV in Thoroughbred racehorses and endurance horses. Six endurance horses underwent a 4-month training program under saddle and 11 Thoroughbreds completed a racehorse-appropriate interval training program for 3-4 months on a racetrack. PV and BV were measured before and after training at rest and post-exercise using the indocyanine green dilution technique. For the Thoroughbreds, exercise consisted of a 1000 m breeze on a racetrack. The endurance horses completed rides of 10, 20 and 30 miles during training and 50 miles when fully trained. Data were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, Mann-Whitney test and paired t test, with significance set at . Although absolute PV and BV were greater in Thoroughbreds, mass-specific PV and BV were mostly greater in endurance horses. Untrained endurance horses had a greater mass-specific PV and BV at rest (PV: 65 ± 4.1 vs 54 ± 5.7 ml/kg, ; BV: 101 ± 8.0 vs 83 ± 8.8 ml/kg; ) and a greater PV (60 ± 3.8 vs 44 ± 4.8 ml/kg; ) but not BV (108 ± 2.0 vs 112 ± 14.3 ml/kg) after exercise. Training induced an increase in resting PV and BV to 73 ± 4.3 and 116 ± 14.1 ml/kg, respectively, in endurance horses (), and an increase in PV and BV after 30 miles endurance exercise (PV: 60 ± 3.8 vs 80 ± 15.8 ml/kg; ; BV: 108 ± 2.0 vs 139 ± 26.5 ml/kg; ). Resting and post-exercise PV and BV increased following training in the Thoroughbreds: resting PV = 57 ± 5.1 ml/kg (), resting BV = 89 ± 8.3 ml/kg (); post-exercise PV = 49 ± 4.8 ml/kg (), post-exercise BV = 112 ± 14.3 ml/kg (untrained) vs 124 ± 18.2 ml/kg (trained), ). PV increased in response to exercise in endurance horses but decreased in Thoroughbreds. Endurance horses had smaller absolute PV and BV but greater mass-specific resting PV and BV than Thoroughbreds.
The impact of high-intensity interval training and alternate-day fasting on glucose metabolism in rats on a high-fat diet
Authors: Banitalebi H. , Nasiri E. , Bazgir B. , Abbasi B. , Samadi A.
Published: November 2023

The effect of lifestyle modifications in the form of exercise training and fasting intervention on glucose metabolism in subjects on a high-fat diet is not completely understood. The present study aimed to examine the effects of alternate-day fasting (ADF) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on serum levels of C-peptide, fructosamine, and glucose in rats under a high-fat diet. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were initially fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks, then randomised into the following four groups: HIIT, ADF, HIIT + ADF, and control (CON). The HIIT and ADF interventions were conducted 3 days per week for 6 weeks. The HIIT induced a significant reduction in serum fructosamine levels compared to other groups (), as well as there was a significant reduction in serum glucose levels compared to the ADF and HIIT + ADF groups (). ADF and HIIT + ADF did not cause any significant changes in fructosamine, glucose, and C-peptide serum levels compared to the CON group (). In subjects under a high-fat diet, HIIT but not ADF or HIIT + ADF may be associated with favourable improvements in glucose metabolism markers.
Effect of upper extremity kinesio tape application on hand function, wrist joint position and grip strength in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy
Authors: Yılmaz D.A. , Yıldız M. , Yıldırım M.S. , Karaoğlu B.
Published: November 2023

Although kinesio taping (KT) is frequently used in musculoskeletal disorders, there is not enough data on the effectiveness of holistic KT application on the upper extremity in spastic hemiparetic children. Our study aims to evaluate the effect of KT application on spasticity, range of motion, dexterity and hand grip strength in these patients. Twenty patients diagnosed with spastic hemiparetic cerebral palsy, aged 5-17 years, who were trained and treated in a private educational institution, were included in the study. Between November 2021 and January 2022, in addition to neurodevelopmental therapy for 12 weeks, KT was applied from the lateral epicondyle region to the end of the metacarpals, with 15-25% tension, to the dorsal face of the hand, with the taping direction facilitation technique (starting direction is the origin of the muscle). Spasticity, range of motion, dexterity and hand grip strength were evaluated as pre-test and post-test. It was determined that the mean score difference between the pre-test and post-test range of motion (ROM) shoulder abduction, ROM supination, ROM wrist flexion, ROM wrist extension and hand grip strength of the individuals was statistically significant (). It was determined that the individuals’ pre-test-post-test Jebsen hand function test (JHFT) Writing, JHFT card flipping, JHFT small objects, JHFT nutrition simulation, JHFT backgammon checkers stamps, JHFT large light objects, JHFT total score average difference was statistically significant (). These results indicate that KT application positively affects upper extremity functions in the rehabilitation of hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Longitudinal studies are recommended in patients with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.
Lessons learned from 16 editions of the World Mycotoxin Forum 50 years after the first international conference on mycotoxins
Authors: Krska R. , Elliott C.
Published: November 2023

On-going research and interdisciplinary networking among scientists and stakeholders are still needed for the development of affordable and practical tools for farmers and food processors to efficiently manage the risk of mycotoxin contamination along food and feed chains. In order to facilitate appropriate actions, thematic interlaboratory projects have been initiated, professional networking-organisations have been founded, dedicated journals have been started and mycotoxin conferences have been organised. The World Mycotoxin Forum (WMF) has established itself as a leading international networking conference series on mycotoxins where food and feed industry representatives meet with representatives from government, food authorities, food and feed industry and with people from universities and other research institutions from around the world. The WMF has gradually moved from food and feed related technological topics to international and regulatory issues and to mitigation strategies based on fungal and plant genetics, big data based decision support tools and sustainable solutions in view of climate change. Over all these years, the conclusions made from each WMF have been summarised by the general conference chair(s) as the ‘top 5 lessons learned’ on the last day of each conference. 50 years after the first international conference on mycotoxins organised by IPUAC in 1972, this article has compiled all ‘top 5 lessons learned’ presented at the 16 editions of the WMF and joint WMF/IUPAC events organised between 2001 and 2022. Since the first international conference on mycotoxins, much progress has been made in the prevention, reduction and control of mycotoxins. However, continuous attention and further efforts are still needed in order to tackle the complex issues of mycotoxin contamination especially in view of climate change and other global challenges on the horizon.
Effect of two larval diets on the reproductive parameters of the housefly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera, Muscidae)
Authors: Abellán M. , Ruano F. , Rojo S. , Martı́nez-Sánchez A.
Published: November 2023

Deep understanding of the optimal reproductive and biological parameters is necessary to obtain the maximum egg production in captive rearing of Musca domestica, the common housefly. The effect of larval diet is explored in this study, using two different media: poultry manure and an artificial medium based on cereals mixed with meat. The preimaginal mortality and development time, with other reproductive parameters that indirectly affect adult fecundity as: ovary and wing size, fluctuating asymmetry, and cuticular hydrocarbon composition, were analysed. The results show that poultry manure was related with better efficacy values, lower larval mortality rate, and a sex-dependent effect in fecundity. Asymmetry fluctuation and different hydrocarbon composition was detected in females. The females from larvae that grew on manure presented bigger ovaries and oocytes, but a smaller number of ovarioles per ovary. Their morphological asymmetry was also lower; and the cuticular hydrocarbon composition was distinct from the rest of the adults, with more alkanes and less alkenes than males or females related with the artificial diet. As conclusion, the effect of larval substrate on the survival and fecundity parameters is evident. The implications for the mass production of the house fly as animal feed are also indicated.
Limited hydrolysis combined with glycation modification of silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) proteins: structure-function relationship
Authors: Xie S.Y. , Wang X.L. , Zhou Y. , Ma L. , Hou Y. , Soladoye O.P. , Zhang Y.H. , Fu Y.
Published: November 2023

In order to explore the impacts of limited hydrolysis combined with glycation modification on the structure, functional properties, allergenicity, and volatile compounds of silkworm pupae protein, the crude silkworm pupae protein was firstly extracted by alkaline-solution method, followed by Alcalase-treated limited hydrolysis for 10-30 min. Xylose was subsequently added and reacted for 1 h at 95 °C. Afterwards, the structure, functionality, allergenicity, and volatile compounds before and after modification were analysed. The molecular weight of modified silkworm pupae protein was remarkably decreased. The solubility was improved from 4.7 to 28.6%. The foaming ability was elevated by 21%. The in vitro digestibility was elevated by 34.0-44.4%. Furthermore, the abundance of six potential allergic proteins was remarkably reduced. In addition, the contents of off-flavour compounds in modified silkworm pupae proteins substantially decreased. Overall, limited hydrolysis combined with glycation modification can improve the functionality and flavour of silkworm pupae protein, while reduce the allergenicity.