bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The metastasis patterns and their prognostic features in patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer of different ages
Authors: Sun Shujuan , Man Xiaochu , Zhou Dongdong , Zheng Fangchao , Zhao Jiuda , Chen Xuesong , Liu Tong , Huang Jie , Tan Qiaorui , Li Na , Li Huihui
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The prognostic outcomes of metastasis patterns in patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer (dnMBC) of different ages are unknown. Our study used a large‐scale data to investigate the metastasis patterns and prognostic features in dnMBC of different ages.

Methods

Total 24,698 women with dnMBC in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database (2010–2018) were divided into three groups by age. Chi‐squared test was used to compare metastasis patterns and logistic regression was performed to investigate the risk of age and specific organ metastases. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were used to compare the overall survival.

Results

In three groups, young group had the largest proportion of liver metastases (35.2% vs. 28.2% vs. 21.1%, p < 0.001), and elderly group had the largest proportion of lung metastases (22.6% vs. 30.0% vs. 35.0%, p < 0.001) and the lowest proportion of bone metastases (65.7% vs. 67.6% vs. 64.4%, p < 0.001). In young group, patients with liver metastases had better prognosis than patients with lung metastases (MST: 34 months vs. 29 months, p = 0.041), but in middle‐aged and elderly groups, the prognosis of lung metastases was better than that of liver metastases (MST in middle‐aged group: 24 months vs. 20 months, p = 0.002; MST in elderly group: 12 months vs. 6 months, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

DnMBC patients at different age have distinct metastasis patterns and prognostic features. The findings lend support to consideration of tailored management and surveillance strategies for different age patients.
An enigmatic presentation of Escherichia coli endocarditis: Emphasizing the role of brain magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Benjanuwattra Juthipong , Bell Amanda L. , Yang Mingxiao V. , Mora Barbara L. , Jenkins Leigh Ann , Sethi Pooja
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Infective endocarditis should be considered in any febrile individual with acute onset neurological symptoms. If suspicion is high, a negative brain computed tomography does not virtually exclude embolism, and magnetic resonance imaging is warranted.

A diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) is often delayed, particularly in those infected with unusual organisms. Hereby, we report a case of a female patient presented with dysarthria, confusion, and altered mental status after being treated for Escherichia coli bacteremia. Computed tomography of the brain was unrevealing; however, scattered embolic phenomena were visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The case underscores the importance of clinical awareness, particularly in the setting of unusual microorganisms, and the role of brain MRI in the diagnosis of IE.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the palate in a patient with a history of neuroblastoma: A case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Aghahosseini Farzaneh , HafeziMotlagh Kimia , Derakhshan Samira , Bahrami Hosna
Published: September 2023

Secondary neoplasms were reported as one of the complicated complications of childhood cancer treatment. Salivary gland carcinoma is rare, and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most prevalent subtype. Secondary neoplasms following neuroblastoma are not often described due to poor long‐term survival. The exact cause of these tumors in children, and adults is not clearly known, but they are often observed after head, and neck radiotherapy and mainly involve main salivary glands, especially the parotid. Hence, we report a case of MEC with telangiectasia in the salivary glands of a 20‐year‐old girl with complaint of a palatal swelling who was treated with chemotherapy (etoposide, G‐CSF, cyclophosphamide) without radiotherapy since childhood (18 months) in terms of neuroblastoma. Based on our knowledge, only three cases of MEC following neuroblastoma have been reported before, all of which involved the major salivary glands. Survivors of primary neoplasms who were treated are at risk of secondary malignant neoplasms, which usually occur at a long interval from the primary neoplasm (5–15 years), which necessitates long and close follow‐up.
Numerical investigation of lateral behaviour of steel‐timber hybrid frames
Authors: Offerman Tom , Bompa Dan V.
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the response of steel‐timber hybrid (STH) lateral stability systems for medium‐rise buildings. A ten‐storey baseline STH structure was designed to codified procedures and compared with a steel‐concrete composite structure. Detailed numerical models were constructed in which specific constitutive representations were assigned to steel‐timber and timber‐timber connections. Parametric investigations on the STH structure were carried out in which the cross laminated timber panel layups, timber shear wall length, and connection characteristics were modified. The study indicated that the STH structure had larger lateral deformations compared to the steel‐concrete structure, both within code limits. For the same design loads, the reduction in self‐weight from the steel‐concrete structure to the STH structure was 73.1%, whilst the floor depth was reduced by 17.2%, respectively. Parametric studies showed that the lateral response of STHs is generally improved with the effective thickness of the timber infill panel and is influenced by the panel layup. Increasing the shear wall length generally enhances the lateral stiffness, yet the overall performance is reduced with the increase of panel connections. The reduction in self‐weight, member sizes and replacement of the concrete with timber led to a reduction in embodied carbon of more than 32.7% whilst achieving similar structural performance.
On predicting the behaviour of an iron‐based shape memory alloy with the Ramberg‐Osgood model
Authors: Silvestru Vlad‐Alexandru , Deng Zhikang , Taras Andreas
Published: September 2023

Iron‐based shape memory alloys (Fe‐SMAs) exhibit the particular characteristic of remembering their initial shape after a phase transformation from austenitic to martensitic. This property, along with the high strength and ductility, recommends such materials for strengthening existing structures and designing highly efficient pre‐stressed structural elements. To achieve this, pre‐strained strips or rods made of Fe‐SMA are anchored to a parent structure in the first step. Afterwards, the activation of the Fe‐SMA is triggered through heating, and the material strives to return to its initial shape. Due to the anchoring, a tensile stress is generated in the Fe‐SMA upon cooling back to room temperature, while in the parent structure, a compressive stress field is obtained. The material behaviour of the Fe‐SMA under uniaxial loading is characterized by a rounded stress‐strain relationship without a pronounced yield point, similar to cold‐formed steels. Moreover, in many currently existing applications, the material is used both in the martensitic phase (pre‐strained form before activation) and in the austenitic phase (after activation). This contribution addressed the suitability of the two‐stage Ramberg‐Osgood model for predicting the uniaxial stress‐strain response of the Fe‐SMA. The key parameters were derived based on uniaxial tensile tests and the suitability of the proposed stressstrain curves for use in advanced finite element simulations was emphasized by simulating these tests.
Effective Modulus Method (EMM) concept applied to thin‐walled steel columns.
Authors: Prola Luís , Gala Pedro , Ruben Rui B. , Monteiro Cristiano , Simões Ana
Published: September 2023

The design of thin‐walled steel members, subjected to compressive stresses, requires complex analysis to account the interaction between local, distortional and global instabilities. There are simplified methodologies that allow simulating the effects of local and distortional post‐buckling behavior in usual structural members. The Effective Width Method (EWM) performs this simulation by changing the geometry of the cross‐section, being the pioneer methodology for the analysis of thin‐walled members. The Direct Strength Method (DSM) allows the determination of resistant forces through simple‐to‐use formulas, eliminating the calculation of the geometric properties of the section as required by the EWM. This paper presents the Effective Modulus Method (EMM) concept, which simulates the effects of local and distortional post‐buckling, to establish simplified design methodologies, desirably leading to more rigorous results than those provided by the available methodologies. In this approach, local and distortional post‐buckling effects are simulated by changing the mechanical characteristics (namely the modulus of elasticity) of the cross‐section of the members. Specifically, the article presents (i) the proposal of the new design methodology and (ii) the comparison with experimental and numerical results obtained by finite element shell models.
Memory‐Steel for Smart Steel Structures: A Review on Recent Developments and Applications
Authors: Wang Sizhe , Mohri Maryam , Li Lingzhen , Izadi Mohammadreza , Jafarabadi Ali , Pichler Niels , Ghafoori Elyas
Published: September 2023

This study reviews the recent works on the development and application of iron‐based shape memory alloy (Fe‐SMA), the so‐called memory‐steel, for steel structures. First, the studies on the material properties of Fe‐SMA in terms of shape memory effect and superelasticity are discussed. Next, the use of Fe‐SMA in prestressed strengthening of steel structures is explained, including the applications in strengthening of steel girders, connections, and fatigue crack repairs. Various strengthening solutions such as using mechanically anchored or adhesively‐bonded Fe‐SMA, as well as the studies on the behavior of the Fe‐SMA‐to‐steel bonded joints, are discussed. The use and application of Fe‐SMA for strengthening of a 113‐years steel bridge has been explained. In addition, studies on the innovative application of the Fe‐SMA as pipe couplers are presented. At the end, innovative ongoing research on the additive manufacturing of architected Fe‐SMA (4D‐printing) are discussed.
Second Generation of Near‐Infrared Cyanine‐Based Photocatalysts for Faster Organic Transformations
Authors: Sellet Nicolas , Clement‐Comoy Leo , Elhabiri Mourad , Cormier Morgan , Goddard Jean‐Philippe
Published: September 2023

A second generation of cyanine‐based near‐infrared photocatalysts has been developed to accelerate organic transformations. Cyanines were prepared and fully characterized prior to evaluation of their photocatalytic activities. Catalyst efficiency was determined by using two model oxidation and reduction reactions. For the aza‐Henry reaction, cyanines bearing an amino group on the heptamethine chain led to the best results. For trifluoromethylation, the stability of the photocatalyst was found to be the key parameter for efficient and rapid conversion.
Design, Synthesis and Catalytic Activity of (Cyclopentadienone)iron Complexes Containing a Stereogenic Plane and a Stereogenic Axis
Authors: Fusi Giovanni Maria , Gandini Tommaso , Gazzola Silvia , Grell Toni , Colombo Valentina , Pignataro Luca , Piarulli Umberto
Published: September 2023

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of several chiral (cyclopentadienone)iron complexes (CICs) featuring either two (R)‐BINOL‐derived stereoaxes or a combination of one (R)‐BINOL‐derived stereoaxis and a stereogenic plane. The stereoplane‐containing CICs were obtained as epimer mixtures, which were separated by flash column chromatography and assigned an absolute configuration based on XRD analysis, NMR and order of elution. The library was tested in the asymmetric hydrogenation of ketones showing good catalytic activity and a moderate stereoselectivity which, notably, is mostly imparted by the stereogenic plane. Indeed, the two epimers of each CIC possessing a stereoplane show opposite and equally strong stereochemical preference.
Plasma exchange plus glucocorticoids in the treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐induced myocarditis: A case series and review
Authors: Ke Guibao , Chen Peian , Luo Jing , Huang Junlin , Shang Yuqi , Huang Yongzhang , Fu Ningying , Peng Hongbo , Li Yuan , Wang Bo , Guan Weijie , Peng Yonghua , Yu Xiaomin , Xiao Jie
Published: September 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including antiprogrammed cell‐death (PD)‐1/anti‐PD‐ligand (PDL‐1) monoclonal antibodies, are effective at improving the prognosis of patients with cancer. Among immune‐related adverse events, myocarditis associated with anti‐PD‐1/anti‐PD‐L1 antibodies is rare but lacks effective treatment and mortality is very high. In this study, the authors extracted data from the previous 8 years from electronic medical records housed in the hospital information system to identify patients hospitalized with myocarditis putatively caused by anti‐PD‐1/anti‐PD‐L1 tumor therapy. Clinical data from these patients are reported. Four patients who developed myocarditis after undergoing treatment with anti‐PD‐1/anti‐PD‐L1 antibodies for malignant tumors, all of whom responded favorably to therapy consisting of plasma exchange and glucocorticoids for myocarditis, and all patients improved and were discharged from hospital. Plasma exchange plus systemic glucocorticoids may be effective for treating anti‐PD‐1/anti‐PD‐L1 antibody‐induced myocarditis in patients with cancer.
Pure gravity traveling quasi‐periodic water waves with constant vorticity
Authors: Berti Massimiliano , Franzoi Luca , Maspero Alberto
Published: September 2023

We prove the existence of small amplitude time quasi‐periodic solutions of the pure gravity water waves equations  with constant vorticity, for a bidimensional fluid over a flat bottom delimited by a space periodic free interface. Using a Nash‐Moser implicit function iterative scheme we construct traveling nonlinear waves which pass through each other slightly deforming and retaining forever a quasiperiodic structure. These solutions exist for any fixed value of depth and gravity and restricting the vorticity parameter to a Borel set of asymptotically full Lebesgue measure.
A BODIPY‐Based Molecular Rotor in Giant Unilamellar Vesicles: A Case Study by Polarization‐Resolved Time‐Resolved Emission and Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Jha Keshav Kumar , Prabhakaran Amrutha , Spantzel Lukas , Sia Rengel Cane , Pérez Iván , Arellano‐Reyes Ruben Arturo , Elmanova Anna , Dasgupta Anindita , Eggeling Christian , Börsch Michael , Guthmuller Julien , Presselt Martin , Keyes Tia E. , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin
Published: September 2023

BODIPY and BODIPY‐derived systems are widely applied as fluorophores and as probes for viscosity detection in solvents and biological media. Their orientational and rotational dynamics in biological media are thus of vital mechanistic importance and extensively investigated. In this contribution, polarization‐resolved confocal microscopy is used to determine the orientation of an amphiphilic BODIPY‐cholesterol derivative in homogeneous giant unilamellar vesicles (GUV) made from 1,2‐dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DOPC). The BODIPY‐moiety of the molecule is placed near the polar headgroups, and the cholesterol moiety is embedded in the membrane along the acyl chain of the lipids. The rotational relaxation of fluorophore is conventionally investigated by time‐resolved emission anisotropy (TEA); and this method is also used here. However, TEA depends on the emission of the fluorophore and may not be useful to probe rotational dynamics of the non‐emissive triplet states. Thus, we employ femtosecond transient absorption anisotropy (TAA), that relies on the absorption of the molecule to complement the studies of the amphiphilic BODIPY in DCM and GUV. The photoinduced anisotropy of the BODIPY molecule in DCM decays tri‐exponentially, the decay components (sub‐5 ps, 43 ps and 440 ps) of anisotropy are associated with the non‐spherical shape of the BODIPY molecule. However, the anisotropy decay in homogenous GUVs follows a biexponential decay; which arises from the wobbling‐in‐a‐cone motion of the non‐spherical molecule in the high viscous lipid bilayer media. The observations for the BODIPY‐chol molecule in the GUV environment by TAA will extend to the investigation of non‐emissive molecules in cellular environment since GUV structure and size resembles the membrane of a biological cell.
Are environmental, social and governance (ESG) ratings reliable indicators of emissions outcomes? A case study of the airline industry
Authors: Cregan Charlie , Kelly J. Andrew , Clinch J. Peter
Published: September 2023

We analyse environmental ratings and emissions scores for commercial airlines from several major environmental, social and governance ratings providers. Specifically, we investigate whether emissions scores capture and predict absolute carbon emissions and emissions intensity levels, and whether scores are consistent across providers. This builds on existing literature by evaluating the predictive ability of ratings over significantly longer periods than past studies, examining within‐industry ratings disagreement for carbon emissions scores, and using an industry‐specific emissions intensity metric. Data covers 57 airlines from 2012 to 2021. Cross‐sectional and panel regressions are estimated to investigate whether ratings capture and predict carbon emissions data. We find no evidence that emissions scores capture or predict reported carbon emissions, and find that scores from different providers diverge substantially. Persistent shortcomings may undermine trust in the ratings industry, create trade‐offs between emissions abatement and ratings improvement, and hinder the incorporation of climate‐related information in capital allocation decisions.
Differences in predictors of incident heart failure according to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease status
Authors: Dawson Luke P. , Carrington Melinda J. , Haregu Tilahun , Nanayakkara Shane , Jennings Garry , Dart Anthony , Stub Dion , Kaye David
Published: September 2023

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality, related to a broad range of sociodemographic, lifestyle, cardiometabolic, and comorbidity risk factors, which may differ according to the presence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We assessed the association between incident HF with baseline status across these domains, overall and separated according to ASCVD status.

Methods and results

We included 5758 participants from the Baker Biobank cohort without HF at baseline enrolled between January 2000 and December 2011. The primary endpoint was incident HF, defined as hospital admission or HF‐related death, determined through linkage with state‐wide administrative databases (median follow‐up 12.2 years). Regression models were fitted adjusted for sociodemographic variables, alcohol intake, smoking status, measures of adiposity, cardiometabolic profile measures, and individual comorbidities. During 65 987 person‐years (median age 59 years, 38% women), incident HF occurred among 784 participants (13.6%) overall. Rates of incident HF were higher among patients with ASCVD (624/1929, 32.4%) compared with those without ASCVD (160/3829, 4.2%). Incident HF was associated with age, socio‐economic status, alcohol intake, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist–hip ratio, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and low‐ and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C and HDL‐C), with non‐linear relationships observed for age, alcohol intake, BMI, waist circumference, waist–hip ratio, SBP, LDL‐C, and HDL‐C. Risk factors for incident HF were largely consistent regardless of ASCVD status, although diabetes status had a greater association with incident HF among patients without ASCVD.

Conclusions

Incident HF is associated with a broad range of baseline sociodemographic, lifestyle, cardiometabolic, and comorbidity factors, which are mostly consistent regardless of ASCVD status. These data could be useful in efforts towards developing risk prediction models that can be used in patients with ASCVD.
An Amplified Salp Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Maximum Power Point Tracking Control of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Injarapu Edukondala Sanyasi Naidu , Sambana Srikanth , Chilukoti Varaha Narasimha Raja , Yerramilli Butchi Raju
Published: September 2023

The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), one of the many fuel cell varieties on the market, is distinguished by its low temperatures of operation, high reliability, and extended lifespan. The fuel cell system's maximum output can only be achieved at one specific operating point under varying operating circumstances. Hence, it is essential to get the most power possible from the PEMFC for improved functioning and optimal exploitation of grid systems. Thus, the design of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller for a PEMFC power system using an amplified salp swarm optimization (AS2O) algorithm is focused on. Here, an interleaved Luo converter is also used to produce a regulated output voltage with less switching stress and frequency. Moreover, the proposed work intends to effectively satisfy the energy demand of grid systems by obtaining the maximum electrical energy from the PEMFCs with less harmonics and low system complexity. The simulation and performance results of the proposed AS2O‐MPPT controlling model are validated and compared using several parameters using MATLAB/Simulink tool. Using the proposed controlling technique, the total harmonics distortion is reduced up to 1.16%, with the settling time of 0.0062 s, rise time of 0.0010 s, and peak overshoot of 0.255 W.
Numerical Investigation of the Impact of the Partial Anode Channel Blockage on the Enhanced Mass Transfer and Performance of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Yahya Abir , Naji Hassane , Dhahri Hacen
Published: September 2023

This study aims to numerically reveal and assess the influence of inserts of different shapes partially obstructing the anode flow channel on flow characteristics, heat and mass transfer, and planar solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) performance. To this end, a lattice‐based Boltzmann method is taken. Within this setting, trapezoidal, circular, and triangular shapes and inserts’ heights have been deemed. It turns out that trapezoidal and circular obstacles increase the fuel mass transport to the anode/electrolyte interface and effectively improve the SOFC's power density. As for triangular obstacles, their impact is negligible in terms of performance. Through the findings, it can be stated that it is the trapezoidal design that is better than the other designs. Further, the effect of the inserts’ height has also been assessed to set the optimal performance. It is found that the SOFC performance increases by 4% when using five trapezoidal obstacles with a 90% blocking rate compared to the unobstructed channel. However, in the case of the circular design with five blocks and a 90% blocking rate, the power density improves only about 2.3%. To sum up, improving SOFCs’ power density by designing the anode channel can be adopted to achieve optimal operations.
Stock picking with machine learning
Authors: Wolff Dominik , Echterling Fabian
Published: September 2023

We analyze machine learning algorithms for stock selection. Our study builds on weekly data for the historical constituents of the S&P500 over the period from January 1999 to March 2021 and builds on typical equity factors, additional firm fundamentals, and technical indicators. A variety of machine learning models are trained on the binary classification task to predict whether a specific stock outperforms or underperforms the cross‐sectional median return over the subsequent week. We analyze weekly trading strategies that invest in stocks with the highest predicted outperformance probability. Our empirical results show substantial and significant outperformance of machine learning‐based stock selection models compared to an equally weighted benchmark. Interestingly, we find more simplistic regularized logistic regression models to perform similarly well compared to more complex machine learning models. The results are robust when applied to the STOXX Europe 600 as alternative asset universe.
Comparison of improved relevance vector machines for streamflow predictions
Authors: Adnan Rana Muhammad , Mostafa Reham R. , Dai Hong‐Liang , Mansouri Ehsan , Kisi Ozgur , Zounemat‐Kermani Mohammad
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the feasibility of relevance vector machine tuned with dwarf mongoose optimization algorithm in modeling monthly streamflow. The proposed method is compared with relevance vector machines tuned by particle swarm optimization, whale optimization, marine predators algorithms, and single relevance vector machine methods. Various lagged values of hydroclimatic data (e.g., precipitation, temperature, and streamflow) are used as inputs to the models. The relevance vector machine tuned with dwarf mongoose optimization algorithm improved the efficiency of single method in monthly streamflow prediction. It is found that the integrating metaheuristic algorithms into single relevance vector machine improves the prediction efficiency, and among the input combinations, the lagged streamflow data are found to be the most effective variable on current streamflow whereas precipitation has the least effect.
Exploring the nutritional and sensory potential of karonda fruit: Physicochemical properties, jam production, and quality evaluation
Authors: Rafique Nagina , Mamoona Turfa , Ashraf Nazish , Hussain Sheraz , Ahmed Faisal , Ali Shah Tawaf , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Mekonnen Amare Bitew , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: September 2023

Karonda is an indigenous berry fruit known for its unique sour taste and high nutritional value. The lack of awareness portrays the fruit as undervalued and neglected, despite its vast nutritional benefits. The study aimed to explore the physicochemical properties of fresh and dried karonda fruit and its application in formulating a jam product. The physicochemical parameters, including pH, acidity, reducing sugars, moisture content, ash content, and others, were analyzed for both fresh and dried fruits. The phytochemical characteristics, such as vitamin C, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, flavonoids, and anthocyanin content, were examined. The fruit extract was also subjected to antibacterial test using the well plate method. The fresh karonda berries have the highest levels of vitamin C, total phenolic, and anthocyanin contents, which can enhance the immune system and improve overall health. Jam formulations were created using varying proportions of karonda and apple pulp. These formulations were subsequently analyzed for their physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensory quality attributes. The results indicated that the pH, moisture content, ash content, ascorbic acid content, total phenolics, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of the jams fell within the acceptable range as outlined by the Codex Alimentarius. Furthermore, the inclusion of apple pulp can enhance the taste and color of the jam while preserving its nutritional value. The sensory evaluation results revealed that T3, consisting of 50% karonda and 50% apple, followed by T4, comprising 25% karonda and 75% apple, were favored in terms of taste and color. This research offers significant insights for both the food industry and consumers, emphasizing the karonda fruit's potential as a valuable source of phytochemical compounds and its possible utilization in the creation of jams and other food products. This discovery promotes the consumption of this indigenous fruit due to its nutritional value and potential health benefits.
The effect of form and method of flavoring on microbiota of olive oil
Authors: Kacalova Tereza , Jarosova Alzbeta , Cwikova Olga , Franke Gabriela , Soumarova Tereza
Published: September 2023

Flavoring olive oil is an increasing trend in olive oil processing. Growing consumer interest in flavored olive oils by natural material brings the need to evaluate the key limiting factors which is its microbiological stability. The present research compares the microbiological quality of olive oil flavored by 3 flavors (rosemary, garlic, and lemon), prepared by 3 methods to determine changes during storage. The comprehensive microbiological analyses (total number of microorganisms [TCM], anaerobic sporulates, yeasts, molds, bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae, bacteria of the genus Salmonella spp., Clostridium botulinum, and lactic acid bacteria) were conducted during 12 months of storage. The best results in TCM were observed in the oil flavored by fresh garlic (0.24 log CFU/mL). The highest counts of anaerobic sporulates were detected in the dried rosemary olive oil (1.10 log CFU/mL). The flavoring materials have significantly higher counts of microorganism than flavored oils (p < .05). The obtained results demonstrated that microorganisms are capable to survive in flavored olive oil and the method of flavoring can affect their growth in a selective way according to the chemical characteristics.
Compressed primary‐to‐transmodal gradient is accompanied with subcortical alterations and linked to neurotransmitters and cellular signatures in major depressive disorder
Authors: Xiao Yang , Zhao Lei , Zang Xuelian , Xue Shao‐Wei
Published: September 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been shown to involve widespread changes in low‐level sensorimotor and higher‐level cognitive functions. Recent research found that a primary‐to‐transmodal gradient could capture a cortical hierarchical organization ranging from perception and action to cognition in healthy subjects, but a prominent gradient dysfunction in MDD patients. However, whether and how this cortical gradient is linked to subcortical impairments and whether it is reflected in the microscale neurotransmitter systems and cell type‐specific transcriptional signatures remain largely unknown. Data were acquired from 323 MDD patients and 328 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls derived from the REST‐meta‐MDD project, and the human brain neurotransmitter systems density maps and gene expression data were drawn from two publicly available datasets. We investigated alterations of the primary‐to‐transmodal gradient in MDD patients and their correlations with clinical symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as  their paralleled subcortical impairments. The correlations between MDD‐related gradient alterations and densities of the neurotransmitter systems and gene expression information were assessed, respectively. The results demonstrated that MDD patients had a compressed primary‐to‐transmodal gradient accompanied by paralleled alterations in subcortical regions including the caudate, amygdala, and thalamus. The case–control gradient differences were spatially correlated with the densities of the neurotransmitter systems including the serotonin and dopamine receptors, and meanwhile with gene expression enriched in astrocytes, excitatory and inhibitory neuronal cells. These findings mapped the paralleled subcortical impairments in cortical hierarchical organization and also helped us understand the possible molecular and cellular substrates of the co‐occurrence of high‐level cognitive impairments with low‐level sensorimotor abnormalities in MDD.
Women healthcare professionals' experiences and needs regarding the COVID‐19 pandemic from a gender perspective
Authors: Bahar‐Özvarış Şevkat , Yıldırımkaya Gökhan , Ağduk Meltem , Erdost Türküler
Published: September 2023

Background

Accounting for 70% of healthcare workers worldwide, and 56% in Turkey, women continue to be the frontline fighters in the battle against the COVID‐19 pandemic. Their needs may be overlooked as a result of their growing responsibilities both in their professional and private lives. This descriptive study aimed at identifying the gendered needs and experiences of women healthcare workers in Turkey throughout the pandemic.

Method

This study consists of 1082 healthcare professionals' responses of various positions across several provinces and facilities, collected through a web‐based survey of 50 questions.

Results

Almost all participants (94%) expressed feeling anxious over the pandemic regardless of their working units. Four out of ten (38%) respondents noted working for 41 h or more on average weekly, and most of the participants who worked for long hours were assigned in COVID‐19 units. Non‐clinical personnel reported less difficulty in work/life balance. 64% of the respondents reported not having gone through any training on COVID‐19, and eight out of ten (81%) said they had information needs. Research findings suggest that 92% of participants' needs remained unmet. While 74% of the respondents pointed out not having an income that is worthwhile, 72% referred to the need for psychosocial support, 58% need for support in domestic work and 37% support for child care as their primary needs.

Conclusion

Results of the research highlighted the gendered needs of women healthcare professionals during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and disseminate protective and preventive health policies and practices through a gender responsive approach.
Seasonal variations and sources of the dew from stable isotopes in alpine meadows
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Fawei , Du Yangong , Cao Guangmin , Wang Bin , Guo Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

The dew is closely related to the micro‐use water of plants and the large‐scale hydrological processes, its formation on grassland plays a vital role especially in maintaining the eco‐hydrological cycle. We used structural equation modelling to investigate how environmental factors would affect dew formation on alpine graminoid‐Kobresia meadow in northern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. The stable isotope information of dew, ambient vapour, soil water, plant water, creek water and precipitation were tracked to explore the source of dew, the dew transport route of the six dominant species by Mix SIAR model. Our results showed that the frequency of dew on the graminoid‐Kobresia meadow in 2020 and 2021 was 42.86% and 45.83%, respectively. Both atmospheric pressure (r = 0.4) and temperature (r = 0.382) showed significant positive effects dew formation while wind speed (r = −0.309) had a negative effect. The contribution rates of soil water, plant water and ambient water vapour to dew were 48.20 ± 5.46%, 38.30 ± 5.07%, and 13.50 ± 1.82%, respectively. The proportion of dew utilization in the dominant species had no significant species differences. Our results provided an improved understanding of dew formation based on isotope technology on alpine meadow in northern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau.
A case of neuroendocrine tumor at the external urethral meatus after total cystectomy
Authors: Miki Koji , Fujita Kazutoshi , Kuwahara Ken , Adomi Shogo , Minami Takafumi , Nozawa Masahiro , Yoshimura Kazuhiro , Kojima Misa , Maenishi Osamu , Uemura Hirotsugu
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The histological types of urethral cancer are mainly squamous cell or transitional cell carcinoma. Neuroendocrine tumor is extremely a rare type of urethral cancer.

Case presentation

A 72‐year‐old man visited with an erythema at the external urethral meatus. After 3 months, a 1‐cm reddish solid tumor was found on the external urethral meatus. He had a history of bladder cancer (pTa with carcinoma in situ), including the prostatic urethra, and underwent radical cystectomy with urethrectomy and ileal conduit construction 11 years ago. After 3 months, a 1‐cm reddish solid tumor was found on the external urethral meatus. The pathological diagnosis was a neuroendocrine tumor. Partial penectomy was performed.

Conclusion

Small cell neuroendocrine tumor could occur on urethral remnant after radical cystectomy with urethrectomy for urothelial cancer. Inspection of the penis and urethral meatus is important during regular follow‐up of patients after radical cystectomy.
Subchronic toxicity evaluation of Huobahuagen extract and plasma metabolic profiling analysis combined with conventional pathology methods
Authors: Long Chengyan , He Peilin , Tu Ruxia , Song Xiaoxian , Li Henghua , Huang Wentao , Liu Jianyi , Zhang Li , Guo Yanlei
Published: September 2023

Huobahua, namely, Tripterygium hypoglaucum (Levl.) Hutch, known as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, especially its underground parts, has been widely developed into several Tripterygium agents for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. It has sparked wide public concern about its safety, such as multi‐organ toxicity. However, the toxic characteristics and damage mechanism of Huobahuagen extract (HBHGE) remain unclear. In the present study, subchronic oral toxicity study of HBHGE (10.0 g crude drug/kg/day for 12 weeks) was performed in male rats. Hematological, serum biochemical, and histopathological parameters, urinalysis, and plasma metabolic profiling were assessed. The single‐dose subchronic toxicity results related to HBHGE exhibited obvious toxicity to the testis and epididymis of male rats. Furthermore, plasma metabolomics analysis suggested that a series of metabolic disorders were induced by oral administration of HBHGE, mainly focusing on amino acid (glutamate, phenylalanine, and tryptophan) metabolisms, pyrimidine metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Moreover, it appeared that serum testosterone in male rats treated with HBHGE for 12 weeks, decreased significantly, and was susceptible to the toxic effects of HBHGE. Taken together, conventional pathology and plasma metabolomics for preliminarily exploring subchronic toxicity and underlying mechanism can provide useful information about the reduction of toxic risks from HBHGE and new insights into the development of detoxification preparations.
Supervisor versus self‐assessment of trainee competence: Differences across developmental stages and competency domains
Authors: Gonsalvez Craig J. , Riebel Tanya , Nolan Laura J. , Pohlman Sonja , Bartik Warren
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This research aimed to systematically examine supervisor–trainee differences in assessments of trainee competencies across domains and developmental stages.

Methods

Trainees and supervisors (N = 141 dyads) independently rated trainee performance at the end of placements using the Clinical Psychology Competencies Rating Scale. Based on the number of placement hours completed at the time competence was assessed, the 141 trainees were assigned to three developmental levels (61, 42, and 31 in the groups, respectively). Trajectories of 10 different competencies and trainee–supervisor differences for these competencies were examined across three developmental levels.

Results

Compared to their supervisor ratings, trainees underestimated their competence during early stages of training, with this discrepancy reducing at Level 2 and reversing into an overestimation at Level 3. Compared to their own ratings for overall competence, trainees rated Relational and Communication, Reflective Practice, and Professionalism domains as relative strengths, and rated their competence on assessment and intervention domains as relative weaknesses.

Conclusion

Growth trajectories derived from supervisor assessments were much flatter than trajectories derived from trainee assessments. As predicted by the impostor theory of practitioner development, trainees significantly underestimated their competence early in training. The trend for trainees to overestimate their competence toward the end of their training is a potential concern that warrants further research.
Do physicians know when to refer patients for genetic testing?
Authors: Presutti R. John , Pujalte George G. A. , Woodruff Amelita , Agarwal Anjali , Robinson Chase N. , Reese Robyn L. , Helmi Haytham , Wight Jeff T.
Published: September 2023

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are commonly approached with concerns involving patient genetics. This is a challenge because most PCPs lack expertise in genetic testing compared to their genetic counselor counterparts. Currently, the recommended best practice is to refer patients for genetic testing based on cancer‐related family history questionnaires with a genetic counseling referral to discuss their results and any implications. However, the extent to which PCPs are using these questionnaires for this purpose remains poorly understood. In this cross‐sectional study, PCPs were presented with the American Cancer Society's seven recommended family history questions to determine the percentage who consider each to be an indicator for referral to a genetics specialist. Questionnaires were completed by 88 of 260 attending PCPs at a national primary care review conference. The main outcome was the percentage of PCPs who identified each question as a trigger for genetic testing. Secondary outcomes included correlations with years of practice, genetics training, and methods used to obtain patient family history. Only two of the seven questions were considered triggers by most PCPs (range, 76–83%). The remaining five had lower percentages (range, 22–55%). Years of practice did not influence the number of triggers identified (Spearman correlation coefficient test: r = 0.05, p = 0.68). Few PCPs (3.4%) felt they had good to excellent genetics training during residency. Only 44.3% had genetics specialists available for referral. Overall, low percentages of PCPs consider the American Cancer Society questions to be triggers for genetic testing referrals. Furthermore, many do not have a genetics specialist or counselor available for referral. Addressing these concerns may help PCPs understand the basics of genetic testing and use standardized questionnaires to make appropriate referrals to genetic specialists, thereby reducing inappropriate referrals and improving appointment access to this precious resource for those who truly need it.
Variability and changes of the height and duration of snow cover on the Gąsienicowa Glade (Tatras)
Authors: Kędzia Stanisław , Chrustek Paweł , Kubacka Danuta , Pyrc Robert
Published: September 2023

The oldest meteorological station in the Polish Tatra Mountains is that on the Gąsienicowa Glade (1520 m). In this study, two series of observations for the years 1927–1938 and 1947–2020 are presented for the number of days with snow cover higher than 1 cm (SCD—from 142 to 228 days), maximum snow depth (HSmax—from 43 to 271 cm) and average snow depth (HSmean—from 10 to 93 cm). For the remaining meteorological parameters discussed in this article, the observation series is slightly shorter. From 1927 to 2020, the number of days with snow cover show downward trends (SCD—from nearly 200 days in 1927/1928 to about 175 days in 2019/2020). The decrease in the values of SCD discussed is due to an increase in air temperature and an upward trend in the percentage of the number days with rain over the number of days with snowfall. The increase in mean air temperature started in the 1980s. The strongest temperature trends were recorded in spring (TG in June—from 8.2°C in 1927 to 10.0°C in 2020) and in summer (TG in August—from 9.7°C in 1927 to 12.0°C in 2020). The last two decades, in particular, are exceptional for the Tatra Mountains, both in terms of air temperature, days with snow cover, maximum and mean snow depth. Since the beginning of observations in the Gąsienicowa Glade, no such strong decade‐long increases in temperature and decreases in the number of days with snow cover and in maximum and mean snow depth have been recorded. The observed trends in days with snow cover and maximum and mean snow depth in the Tatras are similar to those observed in studies conducted in the Alps.
A retrospective study investigating the management, risk factors, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile infection
Authors: Vongphakdi Mitt M. , Ah Yui Nicholas , OCallaghan Kevin
Published: September 2023

Background

The rate of clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) in Australia has increased by more than 8% between 2016–2018. This can be attributed to multiple factors including an ageing population, widespread antibiotic and proton‐pump‐inhibitor usage.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the management, risk factors and outcomes for CDI to identify strategies to reduce its incidence.

Method

A single‐centre retrospective audit was completed using medical records for patients admitted to a 250‐bed regional Queensland hospital with CDI in 2020–2021. Data surrounding CDI management for each patient was analysed against the Therapeutic Guidelines. This study was approved by The Prince Charles Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference No: LNR/HREC/QPCH/81287).

Results

There were 72 cases with CDI during the study timeframe. Recent antibiotic prescription, proton‐pump‐inhibitor (PPI) use and antibiotic allergy labels were common. Thirty‐five per cent of cases were treated appropriately. Eight per cent died, and nine per cent had relapsed CDI within 12 weeks of diagnosis. Common gaps found in the results included inappropriate selection of antibiotics based on the severity of disease and lack of documentation surrounding CDI cases left untreated.

Conclusion

There are multiple opportunities for pharmacists to improve the care of patients with CDI which range from promoting guideline adherence, influencing prescriber antibiotic selection based on disease severity, prompting review of PPIs upon CDI diagnosis and prompting provider follow‐up of CDI laboratory results pending at the point of patient discharge. The results of this study have prompted antimicrobial stewardship service review of all CDI admissions at the study site and indicates the need for a larger multiple‐site study to raise awareness of CDI risk factors and severity criteria.
Is it a disaster once the celebrity endorser for a tourist destination is involved in a controversial scandal? Testing the concept of image‐to‐image influence
Authors: Yang Ting , Tam Chi Man , Lai Ivan Ka Wai
Published: September 2023

This study aims to (1) examine whether scandals about the endorsers affect their image (in terms of believability and attractiveness) and (2) compare any difference in the destination image (in terms of cognitive, affective, and conative images) between destinations where their endorsers have and do not have scandals. The research results indicate that having scandals negatively affects endorsers' believability and attractiveness, believability positively affects affective destination image, and attractiveness positively affects cognitive destination image. This study generalizes the concept of image‐to‐image association and provides a research framework to evaluate how endorser image influences destination image in a negative context.