bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Antibiotics in Dairy Cattle Farms in Vina, Department of the Adamawa Region in Cameroon
Authors: Alain BODERING , Djibrine MAYORÉ Atéba , Micolt WANKO , Viban TANGWA , Djonimadji ASSIAM , Albert NGAKOU
Published: January 2025

Aims: Antimicrobial resistance is a major risk factor for therapeutic failure and the spread of multi-resistant strains. The misuse of antibiotics in livestock is a practice that promotes the development of resistance. The objective of this work was to evaluate the risk factors linked to the use of antibiotics in dairy farms in the Vina Department (Adamawa - Cameroon).
Place and Duration of Study: The study covered dairy cattle farms identified and distributed between the municipalities of Tchabal and Manwi from July to August 2021.
Methodology: A survey was carried out with 26 farmers to assess practices promoting the selection of resistant bacteria on dairy farms. The questions were answered during an interview with various breeders during visits to the farms. The questionnaire covered the general knowledge of the farmers about antibiotics, their trade names, their origin and how they are used.
Results: Our work revealed the use of antibiotics in self-medication without prior prescription by the veterinarian in all (100%) surveyed farms, due to lack of means (66.66%) and experience (33.34%). We also observed a high rate of systematic self-medication in the presence of an ill animal (83%). The surveys also showed that the choice of antibiotic molecule is 100% dependent on the habits and experience of farmers with a high proportion of use of tetracycline (56.4%) followed by β - Lactamine (31.4%).
Conclusion: The study focused on dairy cattle farms identified in the Vina Department, in the Adamawa region and distributed between the communes of Tchabal and Manwi.
Influence of Levels of Phosphorus and Molybdenum Seed Treatment on Root Growth of Soybean in Vertisols of Telangana, India
Authors: Shahana Firdoz , A.MadhaviLata  , S.N.SudhakaraBabu  , S.Triveni  , Reddy T.Prabhakar
Published: January 2025

Field experiment was conducted during 2018-19 & 2019-20 at the Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University situated at an altitude of 286.3m above mean sea level (MSL) at 180 49’41’ latitude and 78056’45” E longitude, (PJTSAU). The experiment consisted of 16 treatments viz., four levels of phosphorus (0, 30 60, and 90 kg P2O5 ha-1) and four levels of seed treatment with molybdenum (0, 2, 4 and 6 g kg-1 seed) laid out in a randomized block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice. Perusal of mean results of two years indicated phosphorus nutrition of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 13.41 cm,20.80cm and 24.38cm at 15,30 and 45 DAS over other levels of phosphorus. Highest root length of 11.76cm,19.19cm and 22.35cm was observed with Mo seed treatment @ 6g kg-1seed Interaction effect of different P levels and Mo seed treatment on root volume of soybean was significant at 15,30 and 45 DAS. At 15 and 30 DAS.Phosphorus fertilization with 90kg P2O5 ha-1 with all the levels of Mo seed treatment registered statistically similar root volume with maximum value observed with 4g (2.26 and 5.56 cm3) followed byb6g (2.24 and5.48 cm3)and 2g (2.24 and 5.42 cm3 )kg-1 seed  while at 45 DAS  90kg P2O5 ha-1along with Mo seed treatment . Interaction of various phosphorus nutrition levels and Mo seed treatment on root dry weight of soybean indicated that application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 along with Mo seed treatment of 4 g kg-1 seed was effective with maximum root dry weight of (1.67,5.34 and 6.86 g plant-1) on par with Mo seed treatment of 6 g kg-1 seed at same level of phosphorus nutrition(1.64,5.25 and 6.69 g plant-1) over other treatments at 15,30 and 45 DAS.
The Relationship of Physical Activity with Prediabetes: A Cross-sectional Study in Guanajuato, Mexico
Authors: Arias-Morales Michelle , Pérez-Velázquez Luis Ignacio , Villanueva-Méndez Edith Fernanda , Flores-Vargas Gilberto , Gallardo-Luna María de Jesús , Navarro-Olivos Efraín , Duran-Arredondo Erick Olav , Gonzalez-Araiza Juan Carlos , Padilla-Raygoza Nicolás
Published: January 2025

Aims: The objective of this study is to analyze the association between low physical activity levels and the development of prediabetes in a population of adults aged 18-65, belonging to CAISES Pardo in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Study Design: It was designed a cross-sectional study in adults from CAISES El Pardo of Guanajuato, México without Type II Diabetes.
Methodology: It was included 196 patients who signed the informed consent; in them, it was measured fasting glucose levels and capillary glucose; Body mass index was measured as a nutritional status. Physical activity was measured with international physical activity questionnaire. The sample size calculation was assuming that 73.9% of individuals with mild physical activity develop prediabetes, and those with moderate to vigorous physical activity develop it in 53%, the minimum sample size required is 92 for those with mild physical activity and 92 for those with moderate to vigorous physical activity, with 95% precision and 80% power. The statistical analyses were with Chi-squared test and P-value, and then OR (CI95%).
Results: It was a relationship between physical activity mild and prediabetes X2= 54.43, df 1, P=.0001, and strong effect with OR= 16.56, CI95% 6.98 a 39.26. Age shown a confounding effect in the relationship between physical activity level and prediabetes.
The results showed a strong association between low physical activity levels and prediabetes, as well as a significant correlation between plasma glucose levels and capillary glucose levels. It was observed that most of the population is overweight or obese, with a predominantly female demographic.
Conclusion: Diabetes is known to be a significant health problem with high morbidity and mortality rates, underscoring the importance of implementing measures for its prevention, screening, and early detection. This study provides relevant information on the subject and emphasizes the need for implementing programs, training, and measures to reduce new cases of non-communicable chronic diseases and effectively manage existing ones.
Cluster and Stability Analysis for High Oil Yield Performance in Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus Steud)
Authors: Ekka Amita , Tirkey Alice , Kujur Vivek Kumar
Published: January 2025

The collected thirty-three germplasm of lemongrass including checks from Chhattisgarh and from different state of India. Experiment was conducted on Research cum instructional farm of IGKV, Raipur in RCBD design in three replications from 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The plant geometry was maintained as 30X30cm. The observation was recorded in randomly selected five plants. The data was analysed for the genetic diversity and were studied using cluster analysis and stability analysis for oil content (%). D2 Statistical analysis bared that thirty-three genotypes were divided into six different cluster in which cluster I consist of maximum genotypes whereas cluster IV, V and VI bear one genotype in each. The distance between cluster III and cluster V has maximum inter cluster distance (1005.88), greater the distance between two cluster the greater the divergence and vice-versa. Maximum inter cluster distance also implies that the hybridization made including parents from these cluster will produce enhance segregates for crop improvement and develop better cultivar. Cluster I and cluster IV inter cluster distance were less, it suggests that these clusters consist are more similar genotypes. In completion of diversity study lemongrass accessions C.G. CF- 4 and C.G. CF-2 have potential to became highest oil yielding variety. Stability analysis was conducted for consecutive data from 2021-2024 in which for oil content (%) among all accessions in which C.G. CF-4 reported with highest oil content (%) among all check with 2.18% oil percentage and found stable genotypes across the environment.
Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Clinical Specimens from Khartoum Hospitals, Sudan
Authors: Ali Nouf I. , Aloob Husham M Taha , Ismail Samia S Mohamed , Arman Amira H , Ali Abdelhakam H.
Published: January 2025

Background: One of the most common causes of nosocomial infection is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antimicrobial resistance has expanded globally as a result of profound changes in microbial genetic ecology caused by the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials.
Objective: The aim of study was to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from clinical specimens.
Materials and Methods: The present study used purposive sampling as the sampling technique. Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from 77 clinical specimens, Susceptibility Test was determined using Kirby-Bauer Disk Diffusion.
Results: The results revealed that and the isolated organism test is Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from all the clinical Specimen by 100%, The results revealed that the frequencies of Cefpodoxime antibiotics for the Urine 32.4% (11/31) was sensitive, while 58.8% (20/31) was resistant., for the wound 20.6% (7/34) was sensitive, while 79.4% (27/34) was resistant., for the Ear 5.9% (2/12) was sensitive, while 29.4% (10/12) was resistant. Resistant average for cefpodoxime was 74.0%, and there is a high statistically significant relation between Cefpodoxime antibiotics and samples (Urine and wound) and a normal relation with Ear.
Conclusion: Drug resistance in P. aeruginosa is a multifactorial increasing phenomenon. Estimated frequencies were between 12-36%. Mechanisms of resistance either through membrane permeability and efflux system or through its virulence factors or acquired genetically by plasmid. Combination of these mechanisms leads to a superbug, which is very difficult to be treated.
DESAFIOS PARA UMA EDUCAÇÃO ANTIRRACISTA: NARRATIVAS DOCENTES SOBRE ESTUDANTES QUILOMBOLAS EM UMA ESCOLA DO MUNICÍPIO DE CRUZ DAS ALMAS-BA
Authors: Santos Dilvana Souza , Santos Silvia Karla Almeida
Published: January 2025

No que tange à questão racial no campo da Educação, ao longo dos séculos movimentos negros e antirracistas reivindicaram a inclusão das populações negras na escola, contudo somente no século XXI com as leis 10.639/03 e a 11.645/08, que se tornou obrigatório, trabalhar a história e cultura africana, afrobrasileira e indígena, no currículo escolar. É preconizado por essas leis que, é de responsabilidade dos docentes, desenvolver uma educação atenta as vivências históricas e culturais desses grupos, de forma a englobar nos conteúdos curriculares suas existências sociais e históricas. Assim, o presente trabalho, teve como objetivo conhecer as narrativas docentes sobre os estudantes oriundos da comunidade quilombola. Em relação à questão metodológica, trata-se de uma pesquisa de campo, de abordagem qualitativa, do tipo descritiva. Foi possível inferir com a pesquisa que ainda existe uma carência muito grande, referente à inclusão dos estudantes oriundos de comunidades quilombolas, no processo de ensino e aprendizagem, na prática docente. Uma educação escolar que contemple as vivências dos alunos quilombolas, é um tema urgente e necessário na agenda da Educação Básica. A questão racial precisa ser discutida na escola, o racismo precisa ser combatido, principalmente, nas séries dos anos iniciais pela sua repercussão no espaço social e familiar, desse modo, a escola poderá colaborara de forma significativa para que se possa desenvolver uma educação séria e antirracista.
Effect of metal implants and metal artifacts on back‐projected two‐dimensional entrance fluence determined by EPID dosimetry
Authors: Cao Zheng , Gao Xiang , Liu Gongfa , Pei Yuanji
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the errors caused by metal implants and metal artifacts in the two‐dimensional entrance fluences reconstructed using the back‐projection algorithm based on electronic portal imaging device (EPID) images.

Methods

The EPID in the Varian VitalBeam accelerator was used to acquire portal dose images (PDIs), and then commercial EPID dosimetry software was employed to reconstruct the two‐dimensional entrance fluences based on computed tomography (CT) images of the head phantoms containing interchangeable metal‐free/titanium/aluminum round bars. The metal‐induced errors in the two‐dimensional entrance fluences were evaluated by comparing the γ results and the pixel value errors in the metal‐affected regions. We obtained metal‐artifact‐free CT images by replacing the voxel values of non‐metal inserts with those of metal inserts in metal‐free CT images to evaluate the metal‐artifact‐induced errors.

Results

The γ passing rates (versus PDIs obtained without a phantom in the beam field (PDIair), 2%/2 mm) for the back‐projected two‐dimensional entrance fluences of phantoms containing titanium or aluminum (BPTi/BPAl) were reduced from 92.4% to 90.5% and 90.6%, respectively, relative to the metal‐free phantom (BPmetal‐free). Titanium causes more severe metal artifacts in CT images than aluminum, and its removal resulted in a 0.0022 CU (median) reduction in the pixel value of BPTi artifact‐free relative to BPTi in the metal‐affected region. Moreover, the mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE) decreased from 0.0050 CU and 0.0063 CU to 0.0034 CU and 0.0040 CU, respectively (vs. BPmetal‐free).

Conclusion

Metal implants increase the errors in back‐projected two‐dimensional entrance fluences, and metals with higher electron densities cause more errors. For high‐electron‐density metal implants that produce severe metal artifacts (e.g., titanium), removing metal artifacts from the CT images can improve the accuracy of the two‐dimensional entrance fluences reconstructed by back‐projection algorithms.
Enhancement of Microglia Functions by Developed Nano‐Immuno‐Synergist to Ameliorate Immunodeficiency for Malignant Glioma Treatment
Authors: Xu Minjun , Cheng Yunlong , Meng Ran , Yang Peng , Chen Jian , Qiao Zhen , Wu Jing , Qian Kang , Li Yixian , Wang Pengzhen , Zhou Lingling , Wang Tianying , Sheng Dongyu , Zhang Qizhi
Published: August 2023

Resident microglia are key factors in mediating immunity against brain tumors, but the microglia in malignant glioma are functionally impaired. Little immunotherapy is explored to restore microglial function against glioma. Herein, oleanolic acid (OA) (microglia “restorer”) and DPPA‐1 peptide (immune checkpoint blockade) are integrated on a nano‐immuno‐synergist (DPAM@OA) to work coordinately. The self‐assembled OA core is coated with macrophage membrane for efficient blood–brain barrier penetration and microglia targeting, on which DPPA‐1 peptide is attached via acid‐sensitive bonds for specific release in tumor microenvironment. With the enhanced accumulation of the dual drugs in their respective action sites, DPAM@OA effectively promotes the recruitment and activation of effector T cells by inhibiting aberrant activation of Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT‐3) pathway in microglia, and assists activated effector T cells in killing tumor cells by blocking elevated immune checkpoint proteins in malignant glioma. Eventually, as adjuvant therapy, the rationally designed nano‐immuno‐synergist hinders malignant glioma progression and recurrence with or without temozolomide. The work demonstrates the feasibility of a nano‐formulation for microglia‐based immunotherapy, which may provide a new direction for the treatment of brain tumors.
High‐Stability Flexible Patterned Perovskite Optoelectronic Structures Fabricated by a Laser Pyrolysis Assisted Process
Authors: Zhang Qiurui , Wang Yihao , Zhang Haobo , Lei Jincheng
Published: August 2023

Flexible patterned metal halide perovskites (MHPs) are promising to improve the perovskite‐based optoelectronic devices for applications in healthcare monitoring, flexible displays, solar cells, etc. However, their poor environmental stability and device robustness are the main obstacles for commercialization. Herein, a laser pyrolysis assisted process is developed to fabricate flexible patterned CsPbBr3 structures with high stability and flexibility. A CO2 laser is applied to micromachine the designed patterns on the flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates by inducing the pyrolysis of PDMS. The CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) solution is precisely filled into the patterned PDMS substrates, and subsequently sealed by another layer of PDMS on the top. To ensure the surface smoothness of the patterned PDMS for CsPbBr3 QDs embedment, the mechanism of the laser pyrolysis process is investigated by characterizing the PDMS pyrolysis products obtained at different laser energy densities. To demonstrate the high stability of the fabricated flexible patterned CsPbBr3 structures, the photoluminescent (PL) spectra of the samples are monitored for 60 days both in air and in the water. The flexibility of the fabricated structures is estimated by monitoring their PL emission under applied tension and bending. These flexible patterned CsPbBr3 structures are promising for applications in flexible optical/optoelectronic devices.
Engineering residues on C interface to improve thermostability of nitrilase for biosynthesis of Pregabalin precursor
Authors: Lu Xia‐Feng , Tang Xiao‐Ling , Xu Chen‐Hui , Diao Hong‐Juan , Wu Zhe‐Ming , Zheng Ren‐Chao , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: August 2023

Nitrilase‐mediated bioprocesses exhibited great potential in the production of value‐added carboxylic acids. However, poor thermostability of nitrilases usually restricts their industrial applications. Herein, the thermostability of nitrilase BaNITM0 was significantly improved by engineering the amino acid residues on the intersection of two dimers (C interface). Except for simultaneous enhancement of enantioselectivity and activity, the best variant V82L/M127I/L159M/F166Q/C237S/Q260H (BaNITM4) showed a 10.8‐fold increase in half‐life at 30°C compared with BaNITM0. Structural analysis demonstrated that additional hydrogen bonds were formed between the residues on the C interface, which strengthened the interactions of two symmetrical regions and spirals. Subsequently, the engineered nitrilase was immobilized onto epoxy resins LXTE‐603 and the immobilized nitrilase exhibited excellent stability over 12 repeated cycles, which indicated a great industrial potential for biosynthesis of Pregabalin precursor.
Direct Acylation of Unactivated Alkyl Halides with Aldehydes through N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Organocatalysis
Authors: Li Qing‐Zhu , Zeng Rong , Xu Peng‐Shuai , Jin Xin‐Hang , Xie Chuan , Yang Qi‐Chun , Zhang Xiang , Li Jun‐Long
Published: August 2023

Catalytic acylation of organohalides with aldehydes is an ideal strategy for the direct synthesis of ketones. However, the utilization of unactivated alkyl halides in such a transformation remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we developed a cross‐coupling reaction of aldehydes with unactivated alkyl halides through N‐heterocyclic carbene catalysis. With this protocol, various ketones could be rapidly synthesized from readily available starting materials under mild conditions. This organocatalytic system was successfully applied in the late‐stage functionalization of pharmaceutical derivatives. Mechanistic investigations suggest a closed‐shell nucleophilic substitution mechanism for this reaction.
Dearomatization of (Hetero)arenes through Photodriven Interplay between Polysulfide Anions and Formate**
Authors: Tan Eugene Yew Kun , Mat Lani Amirah S. , Sow Wayne , Liu Yuliang , Li Haoyu , Chiba Shunsuke
Published: August 2023

The facile construction of C(sp3)‐rich carbo‐ and heterocyclic compounds is a pivotal synthetic strategy to foster contemporary drug discovery programs. The downstream dearomatization of readily accessible two‐dimensional (2D) planar arenes represents a direct pathway towards accessing three‐dimensional (3D) aliphatic scaffolds. Here, we demonstrate that polysulfide anions are capable of catalyzing a dearomatization process of substituted naphthalenes, indoles, and other related heteroaromatic compounds in the presence of potassium formate and methanol under visible light irradiation. The developed protocol exhibits broad functional group tolerance, operational simplicity, scalability, and cost‐effectiveness, representing a practical and sustainable synthetic tool for the arene dearomatization.
Promoting Solar‐driven Hydrogen Peroxide Production over Thiazole‐based Conjugated Polymers via Generating and Converting Singlet Oxygen
Authors: Cheng Jingzhao , Wan Sijie , Cao Shaowen
Published: August 2023

Solar‐driven synthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from water and air provides a low‐cost and eco‐friendly alternative route to the traditional anthraquinone method. Herein, four thiazole‐based conjugated polymers (Tz‐CPs: TTz, BTz, TBTz and BBTz) are synthesized via aldimine condensation. BBTz exhibits the highest H2O2 production rate of 7274 μmol g−1 h−1 in pure water. Further, the reaction path is analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) and theoretical calculation, highlighting the prominent role of singlet oxygen (1O2). The generation of 1O2 occurs through the oxidation of superoxide radical (⋅O2−) and subsequent conversion into endoperoxides via [4+2] cycloaddition over BBTz, which promotes charge separation and reduces the barrier for H2O2 production. This work provides new insight into the mechanism of photocatalytic O2 reduction and the molecular design of superior single‐polymer photocatalysts.
Diverse Coordination Geometries Derived from Trisaminocyclohexane Ligands with Appended Outer‐Sphere Hydrogen Bond Donors
Authors: Ekanayake Danushka M. , Sheridan Patrick E. , Lindeman Sergey V. , Fiedler Adam T.
Published: August 2023

With the aim of constructing hydrogen‐bonding networks in synthetic complexes, two new ligands derived from cis,cis‐1,3,5‐triaminocyclohexane (TACH) have been prepared that feature pendant pyrrole or indole rings as outer‐sphere H‐bond donors. The TACH framework offers a facial arrangement of three N‐donors, thereby mimicking common coordination motifs in the active sites of nonheme Fe and Cu enzymes. X‐ray structural characterization of a series of CuI‐X complexes (X=F, Cl, Br, NCS) revealed that these neutral ligands (H3LR, R=pyrrole or indole) coordinate in the intended facial N3 manner, yielding four‐coordinate complexes with idealized C3 symmetry. The N−H units of the outer‐sphere heterocycles form a hydrogen‐bonding cavity around the axial (pseudo)halide ligand, as verified by crystallographic, spectroscopic, and computational analyses. Treatment of H3Lpyrrole and H3Lindole with divalent transition metal chlorides (MIICl2, M=Fe, Cu, Zn) causes one heterocycle to deprotonate and coordinate to the M(II) center, giving rise to tetradentate ligands with two remaining outer‐sphere H‐bond donors. Further ligand deprotonation is observed upon reaction with Ni(II) and Cu(II) salts with weakly coordinating counteranions. The reported complexes highlight the versatility of TACH‐based ligands with pendant H‐bond donors, as the resulting scaffolds can support multiple protonation states, coordination geometries, and H‐bonding interactions.
Spatial analysis of streamflow trends in burned watersheds across the western contiguous United States
Authors: Long Will B. , Chang Heejun
Published: August 2023

Despite increasing magnitude and frequency of wildfire, understanding hydrological processes contributing to changes in streamflow is not well examined for the entire western contiguous United States (WCONUS). This study provides insight into whether considering spatially varying watershed characteristics, including burn severity patterns, can better explain streamflow trends at broad spatial and temporal scales. Standard geographically weighted regression (GWR) and multi‐scalar (MS) GWR were benchmarked against ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to determine if spatially varying coefficients could better explain spatially varying patterns and processes of peak flow, low flow, center timing of flow, and flashiness trends in burned watersheds. In most cases, GWR reduced spatial autocorrelation and provided insight into regional factors explaining streamflow trends. Both OLS and GWR models did not find burn severity‐based metrics significant in explaining streamflow trends, except the peak flow trends model that included the spatial arrangement of high severity patches quantified using landscape shape index (LSI). Positive peak flow trends coincided with increasing LSI values in Northern California and negative peak flow trends with increasing LSI in the southern WCONUS. This research could guide regionally specific post‐fire response and inform the development of new spatial metrics that could better represent post‐fire hydrological processes.
Nitrogen removal performance in roadside stormwater bioretention cells amended with drinking water treatment residuals
Authors: Betz Carl , Ament Michael R. , Hurley Stephanie E. , Roy Eric D.
Published: August 2023

Bioretention cells, a type of green stormwater infrastructure, have been shown to reduce runoff volumes and remove a variety of pollutants. The ability of bioretention cells to remove nitrogen and phosphorus, however, is variable, and bioretention soil media can act as a net exporter of nutrients. This is concerning as excess loading of nitrogen and phosphorus can lead to eutrophication of surface waters, which green stormwater infrastructure is intended to ameliorate. Drinking water treatment residuals (DWTR), metal (hydr)oxide‐rich by‐products of the drinking water treatment process, have been studied as an amendment to bioretention soil media due to their high phosphorus sorption capacity. However, very few studies have specifically addressed the effects that DWTRs may have on nitrogen removal performance within bioretention cells. Here, we investigated the effects of DWTR amendment on nitrogen removal in bioretention cells treating stormwater in a roadside setting. We tested the capacity of three different DWTRs to either retain or leach dissolved inorganic nitrogen in the laboratory and also conducted a full‐scale field experiment where DWTR‐amended bioretention cells and experimental controls were monitored for influent and effluent nitrogen concentrations over two field seasons. We found that DWTRs alone exhibit some capacity to leach nitrate and ammonium, but when integrated into sand‐ and compost‐based bioretention soil media, DWTRs have little to no effect on the removal of nitrogen in bioretention cells. These results suggest that DWTRs can be used in bioretention media for enhanced phosphorus retention without the risk of contributing to nitrogen export in bioretention effluent.
Molecular epidemiology of rotavirus among children in Western Canada: Dynamic changes in genotype prevalence in four consecutive seasons
Authors: Zhuo Ran , Freedman Stephen B. , Xie Jianling , Charlton Carmen , Plitt Sabrina , Croxen Mathew A. , Li Vincent , Tarr Gillian A. M. , Lee Bonita , Ali Samina , Chui Linda , Luong Jasper , Pang Xiaoli
Published: August 2023

Rotavirus molecular surveillance remains important in the postvaccine era to monitor the changes in transmission patterns, identify vaccine‐induced antigenic changes and discover potentially pathogenic vaccine‐related strains. The Canadian province of Alberta introduced rotavirus vaccination into its provincial vaccination schedule in June 2015. To evaluate the impact of this program on stool rotavirus positivity rate, strain diversity, and seasonal trends, we analyzed a prospective cohort of children with acute gastroenteritis recruited between December 2014 and August 2018. We identified dynamic changes in rotavirus positivity and genotype trends during pre‐ and post‐rotavirus vaccine introduction periods. Genotypes G9P[8], G1P[8], G2P[4], and G12P[8] predominated consecutively each season with overall lower rotavirus incidence rates in 2016 and 2017. The demographic and clinical features of rotavirus gastroenteritis were comparable among wild‐type rotaviruses; however, children with G12P[8] infections were older (p < 0.001). Continued efforts to monitor changes in the molecular epidemiology of rotavirus using whole genome sequence characterization are needed to further understand the impact of the selection pressure of vaccination on rotavirus evolution.
Amino Acid‐Derived Smart and Functional Polymers for Biomedical Applications: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kumar Devendra , Sahu Bhanendra , Banerjee Sanjib
Published: August 2023

Amino acid‐derived smart and functional polymers have emerged as a promising class of biomaterials for diverse biomedical applications. In recent years, a wide range of such polymers with different compositions, macromolecular architectures, and chain‐end functionalities are prepared. Such polymers exhibit responsiveness to different external stimuli like chemical, physical, or biochemical stimuli. These stimuli include temperature, pH, metal ions, light, glucose, redox, or a combination of these factors. Thus developed smart and functional amino acid‐derived polymers are employed in different biomedical and biotechnological applications including but not limited to tissue engineering, drug delivery, wound healing, gene delivery, and biosensors. Herein, current state‐of‐the‐art and future perspectives of such amino acid‐derived smart and functional polymers are described, which may be useful for researchers working toward the development of new amino acid‐derived polymeric materials for the construction of the next generation of smart materials.
Superhydrophobic Thermoplastic Polyurethane Foam Fabricated by Phase Separation and Silica Coating for Oil‐Water Separation
Authors: Wang Xiaolong , Zhang Jingna , Wang Yiding , Qin Shengxue , Pan Yamin , Tu Yongqiang , Liu Xianhu
Published: August 2023

Oil spills and the presence of oily wastewater have resulted in substantial ecological damage. Superhydrophobic polymer foam with selectivity and adsorption capacity is a promising candidate for efficient oil‐water separation. In this study, a method that combines phase separation and silica coating to produce superhydrophobic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) foam is proposed. The TPU foam demonstrates superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 155.62°, and exhibits a maximum saturated adsorption capacity of 54.11 g g−1. Furthermore, the foam can be utilized as a filter for oil‐water separation, maintaining its filtration efficiency (41.2 m3 m2 h−1) even after ten filtration cycles.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Artifact Associated With Transcutaneous Bone Conduction Implants: Cholesteatoma and Vestibular Schwannoma Surveillance
Authors: Nassiri Ashley M. , Messina Steven A. , Benson John C. , Lane John I. , McGee Kiaran P. , Trzasko Joshua D. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate the magnetic resonance (MR) image artifact and image distortion associated with the two transcutaneous bone conduction implants currently available in the United States.

Study Design

Cadaveric study.

Methods

Two cadaveric head specimens (1 male, 1 female) were unilaterally implanted according to manufacturer guidelines and underwent MR imaging (General Electric and Siemens 1.5 T scanners) under the following device conditions: (1) no device, (2) Cochlear Osia with magnet and headwrap, (3) Cochlear Osia without magnet, and (4) MED‐EL Bonebridge with magnet. Maximum metal mitigation techniques were employed in all conditions, and identical sequences were obtained. Blinded image scoring (diagnostic vs nondiagnostic image) was performed by experienced neuroradiologists according to anatomical subsites.

Results

All device conditions produced artifact and image distortion. The Osia with magnet produced diagnostic T1‐ and T2‐weighted images of the ipsilateral temporal bone, however, non‐echo planar imaging diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) was nondiagnostic. The Osia without magnet scanned on the Siemens MR imaging demonstrated the least amount of artifact and was the only condition that allowed for diagnostic imaging of the ipsilateral temporal bone on DWI. The Bonebridge produced a large area of artifact and distortion with the involvement of the ipsilateral and contralateral temporal bones.

Conclusion

In summary, of the three device conditions (Osia with magnet, Osia without magnet, and Bonebridge), Osia without magnet offered the least amount of artifact and distortion and was the only condition in which diagnostic DWI was available for the middle ear and mastoid regions on the Siemens MR imaging scanner.
Does Geographic Region of Away Rotations Predict Otolaryngology Match Outcomes?
Authors: Benjamin William J. , Lenze Nicholas R. , Mihalic Angela P. , Brenner Michael J. , Bohm Lauren A. , Thorne Marc C. , Kupfer Robbi A.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To assess whether the geographic region where medical students complete an away rotation predicts the same site, region‐specific, or overall interview offers and match success in otolaryngology.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

US medical schools.

Methods

We queried the Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency database to analyze outcomes of otolaryngology applicants during the 2018 to 2020 and 2022 match cycles. Outcomes included a number of interviews offered, geographic location of interviews, and match results, including region‐specific and overall match success rate.

Results

Of 455 otolaryngology applicants, 402 (90.3%) completed an away rotation. Among these, 368 (91.8%) were offered an interview and 124 (30.9%) matched to the program where they completed an away rotation. Applicants who completed away rotations outside their home region received more interview offers from that region than those who did not (Northeast: 4.2 vs 2.9; South: 4.3 vs 3.0; Central: 4.8 vs 3.0; West: 3.8 vs 1.6, P < .01 for all). Completing a remote away rotation increased the odds of receiving an interview from and matching within that region. After excluding programs where an away rotation was completed, a remote away rotation increased the odds of receiving an interview in the central and western regions (Central: odds ratio [OR]: 1.2 [1.1, 1.5]); West OR: 1.9 [1.7, 2.2]; and the odds of matching in the western region (OR: 2.9 [1.2, 7.4], all P < .01).

Conclusion

Away rotations are associated with increased odds of interviewing and matching at that away program, with possible associations across the region, most evident for the West coast.
Functional and structural insights into human N‐deacetylase/N‐sulfotransferase activities
Authors: Vallet Sylvain D. , Annaval Thibault , Vives Romain R. , Richard Emeline , Hénault Jerome , Le Narvor Christine , Bonnaffé David , Priem Bernard , Wild Rebekka , Lortat‐Jacob Hugues
Published: August 2023

Heparan sulfate (HS) is a linear polysaccharide composed of a glucuronic acid (GlcA)‐N‐acetyl‐glucosamine (GlcNAc) disaccharide repeat motif, polymerized by the EXT1–EXT2 complex. It is extensively modified by a series of Golgi localized enzymes, that generate distinct saccharide sequences involved in the binding and the regulation of numerous protein partners. N‐deacetylase/N‐sulfotransferase (NDST), of which four isoforms have been identified in mammals, are involved in the first step of this process and catalyze both the N‐deacetylation of the GlcNAc residues into GlcNH2 and its re‐N‐sulfation into GlcNS residues. Further modifications of the HS chain depend on this first maturation event, NDST action is, therefore, key to HS biosynthesis. However, although the sulfotransferase domain of NDST1 has been characterized at the structural level some 20 years ago, information on the overall structure and activity of the enzyme are still lacking. Here, we report the characterization of the two most expressed NDSTs in humans, NDST1 and NDST2, and a model structure of NDST1 homodimer using cryoelectron microscopy combined with AlphaFold2 modeling. Structure‐driven mutagenesis along with two bioassays to follow the protein activities allowed us to characterize the kinetics of the deacetylation and sulfoaddition and to identify the residue H529 as necessary for N‐deacetylation. These results shed light on a poorly understood family of enzymes and will help deciphering the molecular basis for HS and heparin maturation.
Development of quantitative detection method for mass spectrometry coupled to an infrared laser spectroscope (Picarro) to monitor in nitrogen matrix a complex gas mixture of H2, He, CO, N2, Ne, O2, Ar, CO2, H2S, CH4, C2H4, C2H6, C3H6, C3H8, i‐C4H10, n‐C4H10, and C5H12
Authors: Keita Seny , Noirez Sonia , Berthe Guillaume , Vinsot Agnes , Kim Byeong Seok , Mascle Matthieu , Lundy Mélanie , Garcia Bruno
Published: August 2023

Rationale

The deep geological repository is considered the international reference for radioactive waste management. All gas exchanges must be understood in the context of the feasibility of such a repository. The technological challenge is to continuously monitor a wide range of gaseous molecules at low concentrations in confined spaces.

Methods

A gas monitoring station, composed of two complementary analyzers, was developed: an electron impact quadrupole mass spectrometer (HPR‐20 R&D Hiden Analytical) and an infrared laser spectroscope (Picarro). The spectrometer was calibrated using simple mixtures (i.e., C2H6 in N2) and multiple mixtures (i.e., H2, He, CO2, CH4, and O2 in N2) at different concentrations to correct interferences. A matrix calculation is proposed to calculate the relative concentrations.

Results

The method developed allows the measurement of gaseous species: light hydrocarbons, noble gases, sulfides, greenhouse gases, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen in the same mixture. For each gas, the SDs and the limits of detection and quantification were calculated. The method was validated by comparing the concentrations of the measured gas species with the reference values of two standard gas cylinders.

Conclusions

Calibration of a complex gas mixture remains a challenge because fragmentation of molecules, especially hydrocarbons, reduces the sensitivity of the method. The method developed is suitable for continuous gas monitoring in a confined environment and can be implemented to perform experiments in underground structures: galleries, microtunnels (cells), and boreholes.
Atypical distal tracheal fibrous bridge and bronchial stenosis in an adult patient with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Wadiwala Ishaq J. , Yu Lee‐Mateus Alejandra , Alhayek Bakr , Abia‐Trujillo David , Chadha Ryan , Hazelett Britney N. , Fernandez‐Bussy Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Tracheobronchial stenosis (TBS) in adults derives from congenital and acquired conditions, including prolonged mechanical intubation, expiratory central airway collapse, infectious or inflammatory disease, and malignancy. The most common clinical presentation is shortness of breath, recurrent infections, and chronic cough. TBS is usually diagnosed via computed tomography or bronchoscopy, with the latter doubling as a therapeutic tool. We present a case of an atypical fibrotic bridge connecting the walls of the distal trachea and fibrotic bronchial stenosis treated with electrocautery knife and balloon dilation, in an adult patient with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Analysis on key parameters in subretinal injection facilitating a predictable and automated robot‐assisted treatment in gene therapy
Authors: Huang Ching‐Wen , Yang Hung‐Yu , Chen Ta‐Ching , Chen Cheng‐Wei
Published: August 2023

Background

Subretinal injection (SRI) has become an important surgical method for treating vitreoretinal diseases. Nevertheless, the optimisation of bleb formation in SRI, for the attainment of desired therapeutic outcomes, still requires further investigation.

Methods

This study analysed the influence of surgical parameters on SRI using a robotic setup. The surgical procedure was automated using visual guidance. A predictive model for bleb formation was established through regression analysis. To validate the model, we compared the clinical data's target area with the simulated SRI's actual area using parameters determined by the predictive model.

Results

The insertion angle dominated the eccentricity and area of the bleb. The injection speed dominated the axial angle. Automated SRI increased success rate and produced predictable outcomes.

Conclusions

We could provide accurate SRI on phantom models by adjusting surgical parameters based on the patient's clinical information. Automatic robot‐assisted SRI is a promising surgical technique with highly predictable results.
Protective role of resilience on the associations between childhood maltreatment and internalising and externalising problems
Authors: Cao Juan , Xu Xiaodan , Man Xiaochen , Fu Xuewei , Shen Zijiao , Wang Shuo
Published: August 2023

Different types of childhood maltreatment have negative effects on individual mental and behavioural outcomes. However, most of previous studies investigated their effects separately. Little is known about the effects of co‐occurring maltreatment profiles on adolescents' developmental outcomes and the potential protective factor. The current study sought to identify distinct profiles of childhood maltreatment and examine the effects of profiles of childhood maltreatment on internalising and externalising problems and the protective role of resilience based on two‐wave longitudinal data, which was collected from a sample of 670 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 15.50, SDage = 0.75, 48.4% boys). Four profiles of childhood maltreatment, that is, No maltreatment (67.9%), High neglect (23.0%), High abuse and neglect/Low sexual abuse (5.0%), and Multi‐maltreatment (4.1%), were identified. Adolescents in High neglect, High abuse and neglect/Low sexual abuse, and Multi‐maltreatment profiles were more likely to report internalising and externalising problems. Further, significant moderating effects of resilience only emerged for the association between the High neglect profile and internalising problems, such that high levels of resilience may weaken the association between the High neglect profile and internalising problems. Our findings revealed the importance and utility of identifying maltreatment profiles to tailor treatment based on specific maltreatment experiences. Resilience‐oriented intervention could be considered for Chinese adolescents who have experienced high neglect.
Urinary retention: how can we unblock NHS waiting lists?
Authors: Whiting Danielle , Hindley Richard
Published: August 2023

Growing NHS waiting lists have led to patients waiting longer than ever for their surgery. This has a significant impact on the quality of life of catheterised men awaiting bladder outlet obstruction surgery – a modern‐day men's health crisis that needs to be urgently addressed.
Two faces of vulnerability: Distinguishing susceptibility to harm and system resilience in climate adaptation
Authors: Shockley Kenneth
Published: August 2023

In the climate adaptation literature, we can distinguish two seemingly distinct frameworks for the concept of vulnerability. We might think of vulnerability in terms of susceptibility to harm. Some discussions of vulnerability accordingly focus on the risk posed to well‐being. Alternatively, we might think of vulnerability in terms of a system's responsiveness to adverse conditions, often spelled out in terms of resilience. This article highlights and distinguishes these frameworks through a brief survey of climate adaptation literature. Understanding the relationship between these two frameworks is vital not only for conceptual clarity, but also for developing adaptation strategies that respond to the different sorts of vulnerabilities posed by climate change. Mitigating the vulnerability of an individual at risk of harm might well complicate efforts at mitigating the vulnerabilities of systems in which that individual is embedded. Humans are clearly at risk of harm from a changing climate, and changing climate challenges the resilience of systems on which humans depend. The paper concludes with a brief consideration of the vulnerabilities that arise from the dissociation of people from their environments. Dissociation, whether through the migration of people or through changes to environmental background conditions not only makes clear the dual nature of vulnerabilities, but also serves as a lens through which we might consider the prospects for integrating a more cohesive account of vulnerability into successful climate adaptation strategies.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Ethics and Climate Change

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change > Values‐Based Approach to Vulnerability and Adaptation
Minimal degree, base size, order: selected topics on primitive permutation groups
Authors: Maróti Attila
Published: August 2023

In this survey article, we discuss the minimal degree, the base size, and the order of a finite primitive permutation group, along the lines of an article by Martin W. Liebeck.
Resilienz Kritischer Infrastruktur im Krankenhaus
Authors: Hübner Rico U. , Küsel Cornelia , Oestmann Jörg W.
Published: August 2023

Hintergrund

Die Kritische Infrastruktur in Krankenhäusern (KRITIS) ist durch die Auswirkungen der COVID-19-Pandemie und auch der Ereignisse in der Ukraine in den Fokus der Resilienzforschung gerückt. Die vorliegende Grundlagenuntersuchung analysiert Gesamtzusammenhänge, kategorisiert und quantifiziert diese. Bisherige Forschungen untersuchten Schadenslagen begrenzten Ausmaßes mit geringer KRITIS-Beteiligung: Worst-Case-Studien fehlen.

Fragestellung

Ist es möglich, ein kategorisiertes und gewichtetes Modell zur Selbstbewertung der Resilienz Kritischer Infrastruktur in Krankenhäusern für das exemplarische Szenario eines längeren überregionalen Stromausfalls zu erstellen und zu bewerten?

Material und Methoden

Das Forschungsdesign ist explorativ. Mit Expert*innen aus 8 Kliniken unterschiedlicher Versorgungsstufen wurde in einer qualitativen Systemanalyse das Modell anonym erstellt, gewichtet und getestet. Der Resilienzindex wurde dann mithilfe von adaptierten Interdependenzanalysen berechnet

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 7 Kategorien und 24 Unterkategorien identifiziert. Die Netzersatzanlage (E1) hat die größten Auswirkungen auf alle anderen Bereiche. Das Pflegepersonal (P2) ist für seine Arbeit am stärksten von allen anderen abhängig. Die kritischsten Elemente sind das Lagezentrum/der Führungsstab (Z1) und Technisches Personal (P3), von denen das gesamte System abhängt. Aus den gewichteten Einzelelementen lässt sich eine Gesamtresilienz für ein Krankenhaus berechnen (Resilienzindex).

Diskussion

Die Kategorisierung und Quantifizierung der KRITIS in Krankenhäusern mit dem Ziel der Resilienzmessung und Optimierung ist möglich. Das erarbeitete Modell erlaubt eine schnelle Anpassung an sich wandelnde Ausgangslagen und kurz- sowie mittelfristig realisierbare Resilienzsteigerungen.