bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatores Motivacionais e Perfil de Necessidades de Servidores Públicos Técnico-Administrativos
Authors: De Andrade Farias Laís , Ishikawa Gerson
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: Identificar os principais fatores motivacionais dos servidores técnico-administrativos em educação de uma instituição de ensino superior em função da estratificação do perfil de necessidades adquiridas.
Enquadramento teórico: O estudo teve como base a Teoria dos Dois Fatores de Herzberg e Teoria das Necessidades Adquiridas de McClelland.
Metodologia: A partir de hipóteses de fatores higiênicos e motivacionais de servidores públicos, elaborou-se um questionário com base no modelo de Kano para avaliar os fatores geradores de satisfação e de insatisfação. O questionário foi aplicado de forma eletrônica em um campus de uma universidade federal. Os fatores motivacionais foram analisados em relação ao perfil de necessidades adquiridas desses servidores.
Resultados: O perfil de necessidades dos servidores investigados foi homogêneo, predominando alta necessidade de realização e de afiliação, e necessidade de poder de baixa a moderada. Os principais fatores motivacionais identificados foram, em sua maioria, geradores de satisfação quando presentes, e de insatisfação quando ausentes, e estavam relacionados ao equilíbrio entre vida pessoal e trabalho, gestão transparente e participativa, orgulho e reconhecimento em relação ao trabalho e à instituição, e condições de trabalho favoráveis.
Originalidade: Investigação de fatores motivacionais de servidores públicos que apresentam características distintivas no Brasil em função do marco legal. Analisou-se de forma integrada as teorias de dois fatores e das necessidades adquiridas com a aplicação do modelo de Kano para a avaliação da satisfação dos servidores.
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: A contribuição teórica consiste na viabilidade da utilização do modelo de Kano para investigar fatores que geram satisfação e insatisfação. A contribuição prática está na identificação do perfil de necessidades adquiridas e de fatores motivacionais de servidores públicos federais de forma a subsidiar ações de gestão de recursos humanos no âmbito de instituições de ensino superior.
Relações Entre Suporte e Aprendizagem Organizacional no Setor Cooperativo
Authors: Ramadam Amanda Oliveira , Estivalete Vania de Fátima Barros , Trevisan Marcelo , CAMILA DA SILVA CÁTIA
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: Estabelecer relações entre a percepção de Suporte Organizacional e os fatores potencializadores da Aprendizagem Organizacional identificados na cooperativa estudada.
Enquadramento teórico: Utilizou-se o conceito e os modelos estruturados por Queiroga, Brandão e Borges-Andrade (2015) e Angelim e Guimarães (2003), visto que esses autores trazem a definição mais utilizada nas publicações acadêmicas sobre o assunto.
Metodologia:  Utilizou-se um questionário contendo questões sociodemográficas, a Escala de Percepção de Suporte Organizacional e a Escala de Aprendizagem Organizacional. 262 colaboradores responderam à pesquisa de forma virtual ou impressa. Os resultados foram tabulados no Excel, e a Análise Fatorial Exploratória e coeficiente de Correlação de Pearson por meio do software SPSS.
Resultados: Os resultados deste estudo demonstraram que a cooperativa pode desprender esforços de melhoria em questões voltadas às Práticas de Gestão de Desempenho. Percebeu-se que as ações de caráter mais reflexivo, mais decisivas e de planejamento estão centralizadas nos cargos superiores, desagradando grande parte dos respondentes.
Originalidade: A relevância deste estudo se dá ao passo que as cooperativas proporcionam a introdução de pequenos e médios produtores em mercados competitivos (Ferreira & Braga, 2004). Frente a isso, o suporte organizacional e a aprendizagem organizacional emergem como uma possibilidade para auxiliar no alcance da realização e do bem-estar dos indivíduos no contexto laboral.
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: Os resultados oferecem subsídios para que os gestores da cooperativa agropecuária compreendam a aprendizagem organizacional de seus colaboradores como oriunda de distintos fatores, especialmente as Práticas de Gestão de Desempenho e as Práticas de Promoção e Recompensa. Do ponto de vista teórico, o presente estudo colabora com as pesquisas no campo de comportamento organizacional, identificando questões relativas ao suporte que podem potencializar a aprendizagem organizacional.
Gestão Pública e Desempenho Socioeconômico: uma Análise Municipal
Authors: Sonaly da Silva Kaline , Braga Berenguer de Vasconcelos Renata
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: O presente estudo tem como objetivo geral analisar os efeitos da gestão pública no desempenho socioeconômico dos municípios brasileiros.
Enquadramento teórico: A partir da revisão da literatura, verificou-se que o desempenho da gestão pública municipal pode contribuir para a melhoria dos investimentos em educação, saúde e geração de emprego e renda, possibilitando melhor desempenho socioeconômico.
Metodologia: Buscou-se, portanto, desenvolver um modelo de análise que estabeleça as relações entre a gestão pública, o desempenho fiscal e socioeconômico, investigando possíveis diferenças a partir do tamanho do município. Para tanto, o estudo analisou 5.570 municípios brasileiros e as relações foram avaliadas a partir da modelagem de equações estruturais.
Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que a gestão pública exerce um efeito positivo e significativo sobre o desempenho socioeconômico, e que esta relação é mediada pelo desempenho fiscal. Ademais, também se verificou um efeito moderador do tamanho do município na relação entre a gestão pública e o desempenho fiscal. Os resultados apresentados indicam que o efeito da gestão pública sobre o desempenho fiscal é maior em municípios com menor PIB per capta e número de habitantes, o que ressalta a relevância de uma gestão pública eficaz.
Originalidade: Ainda que indiretamente, o estudo desenvolve um modelo para mensurar os construtos gestão pública, desempenho fiscal e socioeconômico, validando algumas das métricas indicadas pela literatura. Ademais, deve-se destacar que o estudo demonstra os efeitos mediadores e moderadores da gestão fiscal e do tamanho do município, respectivamente, não abordada pela literatura.
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: O estudo contribui para o a literatura aprofundando o debate teórico sobre a eficiência da gestão pública, apresentando novas relações. Ademais, também incentiva a melhoria da qualidade da gestão pública e da importância do cumprimento das regras fiscais para melhoria do bem-estar da sociedade.
Memória Organizacional – uma prática de gestão do conhecimento na Administração Pública Sustentável?
Authors: Bernardino Jean , Strauhs Faimara do Rocio
Published: April 2024

Objetivo da pesquisa: Mapear na Administração Pública do sul do país – estados do Paraná, Santa Catarina e Rio Grande do Sul, as ações e as práticas de Memória Organizacional que contribuem com a Sustentabilidade Organizacional.
Enquadramento Teórico: As ações e as práticas de Gestão do Conhecimento são entendidas como elementos apoiadores de processos sistêmicos, capazes de otimizar a Sustentabilidade Organizacional e garantir a construção da Memória Organizacional, fundamentadas em um modelo teórico integrativo e relacional unindo pessoas e tecnologias de informação e gestão.
Metodologia: Pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, com propósito descritivo e paradigma interpretativista. A coleta de dados foi em documentos primários, com tratamento misto, fundamentada na Revisão Sistemática da Literatura, com procedimentos de Análise de Conteúdo.
Resultados: Estabeleceu-se um panorama das práticas de Gestão do Conhecimento e das ações de Sustentabilidade Organizacional na Região Sul do país, estabelecendo-se correlações entre o campo empírico e o conceitual, verificando o distanciamento real entre ambos, apesar da existência de uma forte discussão acadêmica e gerencial relatada.
Originalidade: A Gestão do Conhecimento e a Sustentabilidade Organizacional são espaços de constante discussão, inclusive na Administração Pública, no entanto ainda carecem de estudos práticos que relacionem as duas temáticas.  O estabelecimento de um quadro real entre os dois temas, com estudo extensivo da Região Sul do país estabelece a originalidade deste estudo.  
Contribuições teóricas e práticas: O cenário levantado serve como referencial de base gerador de dados, permitindo novas análises e proposições a exemplo da real situação da Gestão de Dados e Informações na Administração Pública setorial, bem como da Sustentabilidade Organizacional e suas atuais lacunas.
Palavras-chave: Práticas de Gestão do Conhecimento, Administração Pública, Sustentabilidade Organizacional, Memória Organizacional. Região Sul.
Calcium Imaging in Drosophila Organs
Authors: Gazzo David V. , Zartman Jeremiah J.
Published: April 2024

Ex vivo calcium imaging in Drosophila opens an expansive amount of research avenues for the study of live signal propagation through complex tissue. Here, we describe how to isolate Drosophila organs of interest, like the developing wing imaginal disc and larval brain, culture them for extended periods, up to 10 hours, and how to image the calcium dynamics occurring within them using genetically encoded biosensors like GCaMP. This protocol will enable the study of complex calcium signaling dynamics, which is conserved throughout biology in such processes as cell differentiation and proliferation, immune reactions and wound healing, and cell-to-cell and organ-to-organ communication, among others. These methods will also allow pharmacological compounds to be tested to observe effects on calcium dynamics with the applications of target identification and therapeutic development.
Endocannabinoids and their receptors modulate endometriosis pathogenesis and immune response
Authors: Tayade Chandrakant , Lingegowda Harshavardhan , Zutautas Katherine , Wei Yuhong , Yolmo Priyanka , Sisnett Danielle , McCallion Alison , Koti Madhuri
Published: April 2024

Endometriosis (EM), characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, is the leading cause of chronic pelvic pain and infertility in females of reproductive age. Despite its high prevalence, the molecular mechanisms underlying EM pathogenesis remain poorly understood. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is known to influence several cardinal features of this complex disease including pain, vascularization, and overall lesion survival, but the exact mechanisms are not known. Utilizing CNR1 knockout (k/o), CNR2 k/o, and wild-type (WT) mouse models of EM, we reveal the contributions of ECS and these receptors in disease initiation, progression, and immune modulation. Particularly, we identified EM-specific T cell dysfunction in the CNR2 k/o mouse model of EM. We also demonstrate the impact of decidualization-induced changes on ECS components and the unique disease-associated transcriptional landscape of ECS components in EM. Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) analysis revealed distinct features of the microenvironment between CNR1, CNR2, and WT genotypes in the presence or absence of decidualization. This study, for the first time, provides an in-depth analysis of the involvement of the ECS in EM pathogenesis and lays the foundation for the development of novel therapeutic interventions to alleviate the burden of this debilitating condition.
Impact of Habituation and Gene Silencing on Blood Biochemical Indicators and Welfare in Local Chickens
Authors: Mahmood O. K. , Abdulateef Salwan M. , Alnori H. M. , Tatar A.
Published: April 2024

Chickens respond to the signals of other chickens, and as the signals are repeated, the chicken's reactions adapt over time. In studies of chickens responding to repeated playbacks of recorded chicken signals, the word "habituation" has been used to describe both overt behaviours and behavioural responses during specific tests in both field and laboratory settings. Gene silencing, on the other hand, is the regulation of gene expression in a cell that inhibits a particular gene from expressing. The current study aimed to reduce the stress responses of a breed of local chickens by changing their behavioural or genetic factors, and assessed blood traits that reflect their level of welfare. The study used 120 hen chickens obtained at 22 weeks old, divided into six treatments, with four replicates for each treatment (20 chicks per treatment, 5 chicks per replicate) as follows: T1 was a negative control treatment consisting of a local Iraqi chicken breed; T2 was a positive control treatment consisting of a commercial breed of chickens; T3 involved the local breed with siRNA used to silence the corticosterone hormone pathway to the CYP11B2 and CYP11B1 genes by injection in the jugular vein at the age of 24 and 40 weeks; T4 consisted of mixed groups with 25% commercial chicken + 75% local chicks; whilst T5 consisted of 50% commercial chicken + 50% local chicken; and T6 consisted of 75% commercial chicken + 25% local chicken. The results showed a significant improvement (P≤0.05) in Glucose, Cholesterol, Total Protein, LDL, HDL, Globulin and Albumin for T3 and T5 compared with the other treatments; and a significant improvement (P≤0.05) in blood corticosterone in T3 immediately after the injection and two weeks later. The results show that there is an effect of habituation and gene silencing on blood traits, indicating an improved level of welfare for the T3 and T5 chickens.
Off-pathway synthesis of micron-thick, oriented 2D covalent organic framework films
Authors: Cusin Luca , Cieciórski Piotr , Gele Samuel Van , Heck Fabian , Krause Simon , Majewski Pawel W. , Lotsch Bettina V. , Danowski Wojciech , Samorì Paolo
Published: April 2024

Despite the advancements in the field of 2D polymerization, the synthesis of high-quality films of oriented 2D covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) remains a longstanding challenge. Herein, we describe a method for preparing robust, large-area, porous 2D COF films with near-perfect face-on orientation via amorphous covalent adaptable network (CAN) intermediates. Generated by solution casting, the kinetically trapped CANs undergo an unusual spontaneous alignment in response to the tensile stresses emerging during the evaporation of the solvent. A subsequent amorphous-to-crystalline transformation proceeding under solvothermal conditions converts the 3D oriented networks into porous, free-standing 2D COF films. This protocol is general and suitable for a broad range of building units and network topologies, constituting a convenient synthetic tool for assembling high-quality, oriented, robust 2D COFs.
Factors Influencing Physical Activity Engagement in Individuals Living With HIV in Nigeria
Authors: Oladejo Temitope , Myezwa Hellen , Ajidahun Adedayo , Ibeneme Sam
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Physical activity has been reported to be a useful non-pharmacological intervention for improving quality of life and reducing long-term problems associated with HIV infection and ART. Despite their known benefits, the data on the factors driving the uptake of physical activity among the HIV population in Nigeria are insufficient. Thus, since variations exist in healthcare, cultural and societal structures, caution must be used in drawing comparisons from other settings. To develop a contextually sensitive intervention programme, understanding the factors responsible for physical activity engagement among people living with HIV is vital. Objective: The study aimed to explore the barriers to and facilitators of physical activity participation among people living with HIV. Method: A qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore the barriers of and facilitators to physical activity participation among people living with HIV. A semi-structured interview guide was used to interview people living with HIV (PLWH) attending HIV testing and treatment centers in [location masked for blind review] from March to July 2022; a saturation point was reached after the 20th interview. All interviews were audio-recorded and were subjected to a deductive content analysis framework for data analysis. Results: Twenty (20) PLWH aged 19 to 54 years participated in this study. The majority perceived physical activity as beneficial to their health. Commonly reported barriers to physical activity in PLWH were lack of time, fatigue, an unsupportive environment, lack of funding, and other social commitments. The physical activity facilitators included perceived benefits, habits, influence by others, and the health benefits of illness prevention and pain relief. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that the key barriers to physical activity participation (lack of time, unsupportive environment, fatigue, and lack of funding) are modifiable. Addressing these factors is likely to facilitate physical activity participation. Thus, efforts to develop a physical activity intervention program for PLWH in Nigeria must consider environmental and interpersonal variables.
Dynamics of the Prefrontal Cortex in the Interplay of Orienteering Experience and Cognitive Performance: An fNIRS Investigation
Authors: Liu Jingru , Liu Yang , Wu Linzhen
Published: April 2024

Background. Sporting experience plays a pivotal role in shaping exercise habits, with a mutually reinforcing relationship that enhances cognitive performance. The acknowledged plasticity of cognition driven by sports necessitates a comprehensive examination. Hence, this study delves into the dynamic intricacies of the prefrontal cortex, exploring the impact of orienteering experience on cognitive performance. Our findings contribute empirical evidence regarding the functional activation of specific brain regions bridging the nexus between experiential factors and cognitive capabilities.
Methods. In this cross-sectional study, a cohort of forty-nine athletes was enrolled to meticulously examine behavioral variances and prefrontal cortex dynamics among orienteering athletes of varying experience levels across diverse non-specialized scenarios. These investigations involved the utilization of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to detect alterations in oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2).
Results. The high-experience expert group exhibited neurological efficiency, demonstrating significantly diminished brain activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal, left ventral lateral prefrontal, and right orbitofrontal regions compared to the low-experience group. Within the low-experience novice group, superior performance in the spatial memory task was observed compared to the mental rotation task, with consistently lower reaction times across all conditions compared to the high-experience group. Notably, cerebral blood oxygenation activation exhibited a significant reduction in the high-experience expert group compared to the low-experience novice group, irrespective of task type. The dorsolateral prefrontal lobe exhibited activation upon task onset, irrespective of experience level. Correct rates in the spatial memory task were consistently higher than those in the mental rotation task, while brain region activation was significantly greater during the mental rotation task than the spatial memory task."
Discussion. This study elucidates disparities in prefrontal cortex dynamics between highly seasoned experts and neophyte novices, showcasing a cognitive edge within the highly experienced cohort and a spatial memory advantage in the inexperienced group. Our findings contribute to the comprehension of the neural mechanisms that underlie the observed cognitive advantage and provide insights into the forebrain resources mobilized by orienteering experience during spatial cognitive tasks."
C8ORF59 regulates ribosome biogenesis to affect progression
in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pan Hongyu , Liao Li , Xu Siwei , Xu Yujian , Chai Wenjun , Liu Xiaoli , Li Jing , Cao Yue , Sun Lei , Liu Qian , Yan Mingxia
Published: April 2024

Elevated ribosome biogenesis was required by tumor growth. In this study, we initially screened a set of key genes related to ribosome biogenesis from the GSEA dataset. Then, we obtained differentially expressed gene sets between cancer tissues and adjacent non-cancerous tissues from the GSE datasets. By intersecting these gene sets, we identified potential genes that may play a significant role in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma. Subsequently, through extensive literature review, we finally identified the gene Chromosome 8 Open Reading Frame 59 (C8ORF59) as an interesting candidate. Our research findings demonstrated that the knockdown of C8ORF59 significantly inhibits the migration, invasion potential, cell growth, and clonogenicity of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Additionally, apoptosis assays revealed a significant increase in apoptosis, including both early and late stages, in lung adenocarcinoma cells upon C8ORF59 knockdown. Cell cycle analysis showed that C8ORF59 knockdown arrests cells predominantly in the G0/G1 phase, indicating inhibited cell proliferation. Moreover, knocking down C8ORF59 significantly inhibits the in vivo growth of lung cancer cells. Mechanistically, downregulation of C8ORF59 significantly decreases the expression of 47S rRNA, a component associated with ribosome assembly, ribosome proteins Fibrillarin (FBL) and Ribosomal Protein L3 (RPL3). Additionally, ribosomal biogenesis targeting drugs CX-5461 and C8ORF59 loss generate synergistic effects on key proteins regulating cell cycle and apoptosis. Knocking down C8ORF59 also substantially enhanced the sensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma cells to the chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine, suggesting a potential association between C8ORF59 and drug resistance. Collectively, these studies suggest the close involvement of C8ORF59 in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma, providing new insights for its therapeutic intervention.
Enzymatically Catalyzed Molecular Aggregation
Authors: Tang Ben Zhong , Wang Wen-Jin , Zhang Rongyuan , Zhang Liping , Hao Liang , Cai Xu-Min , Wu Qian , Qiu Zijie , Han Ruijuan , Feng Jing , Wang Shaojuan , Alam Parvej , Zhang Guoqing , Zhao Zheng
Published: April 2024

The dynamic modulation of the aggregation process of small molecules represents an important research objective for scientists. However, the complex and dynamic nature of internal environments in vivo impedes controllable aggregation processes of single molecules. In this study, we successfully achieved tumor-targeted aggregation of an aggregation-induced emission photosensitizer (AIE-PS), TBmA, with the catalysis of a tumor-overexpressed enzyme, γ-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT). Mechanistic investigations revealed that TBmA-Glu could be activated by GGT through cleavage of the γ-glutamyl bond and releasing TBmA. The poor water solubility of TBmA induced its aggregation, leading to aggregation-enhanced emission and photodynamic activities. The TBmA-Glu not only induced glutathione (GSH) depletion through GGT photo-degradation but also triggered lipid peroxidation accumulation and ferroptosis in cancer cells through photodynamic therapy. The exceptional cancer-targeting ability and therapeutic efficiency demonstrated by this GGT activatable AIE-PS highlighted enzymatic-mediated modulation as an effective approach for regulating small molecule aggregation intracellularly, thereby advancing innovative therapeutic strategies for various diseases.
Distinctive Features Associated with Differentiation Syndrome in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia in Patients treated by All-Trans Retinoic Acid and Arsenic Trioxide
Authors: Cingelova Silvia , Mikuskova Eva , Demitrovicova Ludmila , Mikudova Vanda , Slobodova Alica , Spanikova Jana , Vasickova Radka , Urban Denis , Drgona Lubos , Oravcova Iveta
Published: April 2024

In all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), differentiation syndrome (DS) assumes a distinct identity separate from ATRA syndrome, with distinct temporal patterns, diagnostic parameters, and clinical behavior. We retrospectively evaluated single-center data of years 2013–2022. Patients with newly diagnosed APL were categorized into three groups (16 patients in ATRA/ATO standard-risk group, 3 patients in ATRA/chemotherapy standard-risk group, and 5 patients in ATRA/chemotherapy high-risk group). Our aim was to analyze leukocytosis, signs of DS, and hepatic impairment within the first 25 days of treatment. The incidence of DS in the ATRA/ATO SR group was 43.8%, with a median of 4 days and 2 days from ATRA and ATO initiation, respectively. This group also exhibited higher peak levels of leukocytosis 34.5 (6.0-113.4) x109/L (p = 0.0809). ALT elevation was more prevalent in the ATRA/ATO SR group (93.75%), with 68.75% grade 3–4 elevations (p = 0.0094). Importantly, all patients in this group had ALT levels that returned to normal during the subsequent consolidations. These findings suggest hepatopathy as a potential manifestation of ATRA/ATO induced DS. Diverse differentiation patterns were identified within the ATRA/ATO group, classifying patients into three distinct subgroups based on the concurrent dynamics of leukocytes and ALT levels, illustrating simultaneous, sequential, and divergent elevation patterns. These emphasize the different distribution of differentiation syndromes (organs vs. peripheral blood). We introduced real-world data and advocated for reevaluation of the current DS definition and associated diagnostic thresholds.
Adoption and Use of a Risk Assessment Tool for Identifying and Controlling the Spread of Candida Auris among Admitted Patients at a Saudi Arabian Hospital
Authors: Alshahrani Fatimah , Elgujja Abba Amsami , Alsubaie Sara , Ezreqat Salah , Albarrag Ahmed , Barry Mazin , Khamis Khalifa Bin , Alabdan Lulwa , Antony Marytonia , Caparoso Jocelin , Adam Samah Mustapha , Faqihi Khalid Waleed
Published: April 2024

Background: The emergence of Candida auris (C. auris), a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, poses a significant healthcare challenge, necessitating robust risk-assessment strategies for effective infection control in hospital settings.
Objective: This study aimed to assess and quantify the risk of C. auris infection in a tertiary hospital by using an adapted risk assessment tool that considers diverse patient factors and hospital dynamics.
Method: The study employed the 'adaptation method,' amalgamating literature review and analysis of individual patient data (IPD), to identify and quantify C. auris infection risk. Using the MRSA risk assessment tool, risk factor information was derived from the literature and adapted based on the IPD, ensuring context-specific relevance. The study was conducted in a 1000-bed tertiary university teaching hospital in Riyadh, triggered by the first C. auris case in 2019, covering the period from January 2020 to December 2022. The variables included admission history, comorbidities, multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) history, wounds/devices, surgeries, and antimicrobial use. The inclusion criteria targeted high-risk individuals and the exclusion criteria were inpatients. The screening tool was deployed through a PowerForm in selected nursing units with rigorous training for nurses and comprehensive data collection, monitoring, and outcome analysis. Robust statistical methods, including multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analyses, were employed to address potential biases and ensure the internal validity of the study.
Results:Graphic and clinical findings were analyzed in a cohort of 68,031 patients. Notably, 9% of the patients had identified risk factors such as septicemia, CKD, DM, or chronic lung disease. Additionally, 7% reported a history of admission to non-KSA hospitals and 14% had contact with MDROs or ASCs. The overall prevalence of positive responses across the assessed risk factors was 6%, underscoring the relevance of these factors to Candida auris infection.
Conclusion: The overall prevalence of positive responses across the assessed risk factors was 6%, emphasizing the relevance of these factors in the context of Candida auris infections. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of targeted surveillance and preventive measures in healthcare settings.
Unique Sustain Anticancer Modified Chitosan Nanoparticle: Fabrication and Characterization
Authors: Ahmed Marwa ElS. , Mohamed Mansoura I. , Ahmed Hanaa Y. , Elaasser Mahmoud M. , Kandile Nadia G.
Published: April 2024

Chitosan (CS) is a biopolymer offers a wide range in biomedical applications due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity and antimicrobial activity. Syringaldehyde (1) is naturally organic compound characterized by its uses in multiple fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, textiles and biological applications. Herein, development of chitosan physicochemical and anticancer properties via Schiff base formation from the reaction of chitosan with sustainable eco-friendly syringaldehyde yielded (CS-1) derivative. Moreover, in presence of polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PEGDGE) or sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as crosslinkers gave chitosan derivatives (CS-2) and (CS-3NPs) respectively. The chemical structures of new chitosan derivatives are confirmed using different tools. (CS-3NPs) nanoparticle showed improvement in crystallinity, and (CS-2) derivative revealed the highest thermal stability compared to virgin chitosan. The cytotoxicity activity of chitosan and its derivatives is evaluated against HeLa (human cervical carcinoma) and HEp-2 (Human Larynx carcinoma) cell lines. The highest cytotoxicity activity is exhibited by (CS-3NPs) compared to virgin chitosan against HeLa cell growth inhibition and apoptosis of 90.38±1.46% and 30.3% respectively and IC50 of 108.01±3.94 µg/ml. From the above results, it can be concluded that chitosan nanoparticle (CS-3NPs) might be good therapeutic value as a potential antitumor agent against HeLa cancer cell line.
Atomic mechanism of lithium dendrite penetration in solid electrolytes
Authors: Liu Yuanpeng , Zhang Bowen , Yuan Botao , Yan Xin , Han Xiao , Zhang Jiawei , Tan Huifeng , Wang Changguo , Yan Pengfei , Gao Huajian
Published: April 2024

Lithium dendrite penetration through ceramic electrolytes is known to result in mechanical failure and short circuits, which has impeded the commercialization of all-solid-state lithium anode batteries. However, the underlying mechanism still remains under debate, due in part to a lack of in situ atomic-level observations of the dendrite penetration process. Here, we employ large-scale molecular dynamics simulations to reproduce the dynamic process of dendrite nucleation and penetration. Our findings reveal that dynamically generated lithium depositions lead to a continuous accumulation of internal stress, culminating in fracture of the solid electrolyte at dendrite tips. We demonstrate that the classical Griffith theory remains effective in assessing this fracture mode, but it is necessary to consider the electrochemical impact of local lithium ion concentration on the fracture toughness. Additionally, in polycrystalline solid electrolytes, we observe that initial defects or dendrite nuclei within grains typically deflect towards and propagate along grain boundaries. Simulations and experimental evidence both identify that dendrite induced fractures at grain boundaries exhibit a mixed Mode I and Mode II pattern, contingent on their fracture toughness and the angle between dendrites and grain boundaries. These insights deepen our understanding of dendrite penetration mechanisms and may offer valuable guidance for improving the performance of solid electrolytes.
Semen characteristics of Bapedi sheep during the autumn breeding season
Authors: Masethe Kgothatso , Mugwabana Thinawanga Joseph , Chokoe Tlou Caswell , Sebei Phokgedi Julius , Raphulu Thomas , Ramukhithi Fhulufhelo Vincent
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the semen characteristics of Bapedi sheep during the autumn breeding season. The study was conducted at four national conservation farms, which are the ARC, Towoomba Research Station, Mara Research Station and Tompi Seleka College and a total of thirty-five mature Bapedi rams (1–7 years) were sampled. All the experimental rams were raised extensively and fed on natural pastures. Following semen collection using an electro-ejaculator, semen colour, volume, pH, concentration, sperm cell motility, membrane integrity, viability, morphology and abnormalities were evaluated. Thereafter SAS version 9.4. was used to analyse the data. Semen characteristics were summarised as frequencies and percentages and the measurable characteristics were expressed as means and standard error (means ± SE). Bapedi sheep had 44% creamy semen, acceptable semen volume (0.9 ml) and pH (7); total motility (90.2 ± 2.4%), intact membrane (85.7 ± 2.4%) and normal morphology (97.7 ± 0.2%). However, sperm cell concentration (0.74 ± 0 X 109 sperm cells/ml) was lower than recommended sperm cell concentration (≥ 2.0 X 109 sperm cells/ml). In conclusion, Bapedi sheep had acceptable semen characteristics, except for sperm cell concentration, which was lower compared to the recommended sperm cell concentration for small stock.
Recommendations for transitioning young people with Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders and Autoinflammatory Diseases to adult care
Authors: Israni Muskan , Alderson Eliska , Mahlaoui Nizar , Obici Laura , Rossi-Semerano Linda , Lachmann Helen , Avramovič Mojca Zajc , Guffroy Aurelien , Dalm Virgil , Rimmer Rachel , Solis Leire , Villar Carlota , Gennery Andrew R. , Skeffington Stephanie , Nordin Julia , Warnatz Klaus , Korganow Anne-Sophie , Antón Jordi , Cattalini Marco , Berg Stefan , Soler-Palacin Pere , Campbell Mari , Burns Siobhan O. , Party ESID Clinical Working , Group ERN RITA Transition Working
Published: April 2024

Purpose:
Significant improvements in the prognosis for young patients with Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PID) and Autoinflammatory Disorders (AID), which together make up the majority of Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI), have resulted in the need for optimisation of transition and transfer of care to adult services. Effective transition is crucial to improve health outcomes and treatment compliance among patients. Evaluations of existing transition programmes in European health centres identified the absence of disease-specific transition guidelines for PID and AID, as a challenge to the transition process.
This research aimed to establish expert consensus statements for the transition of young patients with PID and AID to adult services.
Methods:
This project used the Delphi method to establish mutual agreement for the proposed recommendations. A draft set of statements was developed following a literature review of existing transition programmes. Then the ERN RITA Transition Working Group convened to review the drafted recommendations and develop them into a survey. This survey was circulated among healthcare professionals to determine consensus using a five-point Likert scale, with the level of agreement set to 80% or greater. Statements that did not reach consensus were revised by the Working Group and recirculated among respondents.
Results:
The initial survey received 93 responses from 68 centres across 23 countries, while the following survey outlining revised recommendations received 66 responses. The respondents agreed upon recommendations detailing the structure and administration of transition programmes, collaborative working with social systems, and contraindications to transfer of care.
Conclusion:
This paper sets out a comprehensive set of recommendations to optimise transitional care for PID and AID.
Relationship between mental illness and negative nucleic acid conversion in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Xie Yun , Wu JiaJun , Zhu Shun , XU Yanxin , Shen Jian , Lin Qiuhai , Wang Ruilan
Published: April 2024

Objective To explore whether mental illness is an independent risk factor affecting nucleic acid conversion in COVID-19 patients.
Methods To retrospectively analyze the clinical data of 149 patients with COVID-19 in Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, and classify them into the non-psychological disease group (n=134) and the psychological disease group (n=15) according to whether they had a psychological disease at the time of admission and during the hospitalization, and to compare the differences in the indicators of the demographic characteristics of the patients in the two groups, the laboratory parameters on admission, and the clinical outcomes; To evaluate the independent risk factors for nucleic acid conversion events in COVID-19 patients through the Kaplan-Meier curves and multivariate COX regression modeling to assess prognostic factors independently associated with nucleic acid conversion events in COVID-19 patients.
Results Of the 149 newly crowned patients, 15 patients (10.1%) had new-onset psychiatric disorders, and 134 patients (89.9%) had no psychiatric disorders;patients in the mental illness group were older, with more elderly >65 years old (P=0.034), longer time to two nucleic acid conversions (P=0.024), and lower rate of nucleic acid conversion within 14 days (P<0.001).CT1 ORF1ab and E genes were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients with comorbid psychological disorders than in patients in the non-psychological disorders group (P<0.001). However, no significant difference was observed in CT1 N gene (P>0.001).Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the in-hospital 14-day nucleic acid positivity rate was 60% and 24.6% in the mental illness and non-mental illness groups, respectively (P<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that mental illness and diabetes were independent risk factors for 14-day nucleic acid non-conversion in COVID-19 patients after adjusting for confounders such as age, gender, and co-morbidities. (P<0.001).
Conclusion The prevalence of comorbid psychological disorders in COVID-19 patients is high, and psychological disorders are independent risk factors affecting nucleic acid conversion in COVID-19 patients. Therefore, clinicians should raise awareness of new-onset psychological disorders in COVID-19 patients.
Exploring the Brain’s Response to Food Stimuli in Anorexia Nervosa: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Neuroimaging Studies
Authors: Bò Elisa Dal , Zurlo Letizia , Cecchetto Cinzia , Gentili Claudio
Published: April 2024

Despite the increased interest in understanding the neural underpinnings of Anorexia Nervosa (AN), its neurobiology is poorly understood. This activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis aimed to explore brain activity during food stimuli processing among individuals with AN and those who have recovered (REC). Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched throughout PubMed and PsycInfo, until the 28th of June 2023. Twenty-six publications were included, encompassing data from 403 AN, 141 REC, and 472 HC. The findings indicated significant convergence in the left Inferior Parietal Lobule (IPL) in the HC > AN + REC contrast, whereas the AN + REC > HC contrast did not yield any significant cluster. From the sensitivity analyses confined to studies encompassing solely visual stimuli, the same significant cluster (left IPL) emerged for the HC > AN + REC contrast and no significant convergence was found for the reverse contrast, showing that the stimulation employed (visual, taste-based or olfactory cues) does not affect the food stimuli processing. Furthermore, when limited to studies involving only AN participants, the sensitivity analyses found no significant convergence for either the HC > AN or the reverse contrast. The fact that no significant cluster emerged when excluding REC participants from the analyses, together with a qualitative analysis of the results from the merged sample (i.e., HC > AN + REC contrast), suggests that REC individuals maintain the dysfunctional pattern. The hypoactivation of the left IPL supports its role in body image disturbance, diminished somatosensory-gustatory processing related to fasting, and fear with weight gain, three core symptoms of AN.
Double-responsive platinum nanoclusters combined with CXCR4 antagonists and PD-L1 inhibitors for multimodal synergistic treatment of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhang Yan , Fu Ting , Chen Liang , Li Kaiqiang , Xu Li , Sun Yuxiang , Kong Fei
Published: April 2024

Patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) continue to encounter adverse outcomes, such as relapse, drug resistance, and toxicities, even after receiving treatment. Long-term AML control needs to explore a variety of novel treatment options because the core clinical treatment of AML has remained basically unchanged for the last few decades. The CXCR4/CXCL12 biological axis and the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint are regarded as potential targets for tumor treatment. The dual-responsive platinum nanoclusters are rationally designed for the treatment of AML, utilizing the CXCR4 antagonists and PD-L1 inhibitors, in conjunction with chemodynamic therapy. The findings indicate that platinum nanoclusters possess the capability to migrate into the bone marrow cavity of leukemic mice, inhibit AML cells from homing to the bone marrow or infiltrating into the liver and spleen, significantly enhance the anti-leukemia immune response, alleviate drug resistance, prolong the survival time of leukemic mice, and inhibit the growth and recurrence of leukemic mice. Hence, this multi-mechanism synergistic treatment strategy is anticipated to effectively address the recurrence and drug resistance of AML, thereby presenting an innovative approach for leukemia treatment.
Genome-wide analysis of MLO genes reveals evolutionary characteristics and patterns favorable for understanding plant-pathogen interactions
Authors: Pereira Welison Andrade , Maciel Yasmin Meireles Costa , Costa Francisco Cleilson Lopes , Rodrigues Lais Nóbrega , Kanyuka Kostya
Published: April 2024

Mildew Resistance Locus O (MLO) proteins play a crucial role in plant-pathogen interactions, especially with regard to susceptibility to powdery mildew (PM). In this study, structural characteristics of MLO genes and proteins in several plant species and phylogenetic relationships were investigated, highlighting evolutionary patterns and characteristics responsible for the function of these proteins. To this end, MLO genes associated with plant susceptibility to PM and their putative promoter regions (PPRs) were investigated in relation to their genomic characteristics and composition of cis-regulatory elements (CREs). From the amino acid sequences, various biochemical and cytological properties were studied, also obtaining a phylogenetic reconstruction. Both the topology of the segments (extracellular, transmembrane and cytoplasmic) of the MLO proteins and the identity matrices of these regions were analyzed. MLO proteins have a basic character, are rich in leucine, and present structural patterns such as functional domains, structural motifs, amino acid composition, and subcellular localization. As for the evolutionary highlights, the phylogenetic analysis revealed groupings consistent with the taxonomic classification of some families, such as Poaceae, Solanaceae and Brassicaceae. Analysis of identity matrices demonstrated that segments of the extracellular space are less conserved than those of the cytoplasmic space, with the transmembrane regions being the most conserved. The genes present a relatively conserved pattern in the size and distribution of introns/exons, and in relation to PPRs, specific patterns of CREs constitution were observed in the different clades, which implies the potential complexity of regulating the expression of these genes.
Unveiling Myocardial Microstructure Shifts: Exploring the Impact of Diabetes in Stable CAD Patients through CMR T1 Mapping
Authors: Boros Gustavo André Boeing , Hueb Whady , Rezende Paulo Cury , Rochitte Carlos Eduardo , Lima Eduardo Gomes , Ribeiro Matheus de Oliveira Laterza , Dallazen Anderson Roberto , Garcia Rosa Maria Rahmi , Ramires Jose Antonio Franchini , Filho Roberto Kalil
Published: April 2024

Background: This study investigates myocardial structural changes in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with type 2 diabetes using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) strain and T1 mapping.
Methods: A total of 155 stable CAD patients underwent CMR examination, including LV morphology and function assessment, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and feature tracking (CMR-FT) for LV global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain. T1 mapping with extracellular volume (ECV) evaluation was also performed.
Results: Among the enrolled patients, 67 had type 2 diabetes. Diabetic patients exhibited impaired LV strain and higher ECV compared to non-diabetics. Multivariate analysis identified type 2 diabetes as an independent predictor of increased ECV and decreased strain.
Conclusions: CMR-based T1 mapping highlights impaired myocardial contractility, elevated ECV, and potential interstitial fibrosis in diabetic patients with stable CAD. This suggests a significant impact of diabetes on myocardial health beyond CAD, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive assessment in these individuals.
The relationship between tumour necrosis, systemic inflammation, body composition and survival in patients with colon cancer Does tumour necrosis drive cachexia?
Authors: Dolan Ross D , Pennel Kathryn , Thompson Joshua , McKenzie Molly , Alexander Peter , Richards Colin , Black Douglas , Abbass Tanvir , Maka Noori , McGovern Josh , Roseweir Antonia , McSorley Stephen T , Horgan Paul G , Roxburgh Campbell , McMillan Donald , Edwards Joanne
Published: April 2024

Background: In cancer cachexia the relationship between the tumour, its environment and the systemic inflammatory response is not clear. This study aims to examine this relationship in greater detail.
Methods: Host characteristics included the presence of an SIR as measured by Systemic Inflammatory Grade (SIG), sarcopenia (SMI) and myosteatosis (SMD) were measured. Categorical variables were analysed using χ2 test for linear-by-linear association, or χ2 test for 2 by 2 tables. Survival analysis was carried out using univariate Cox regression.
Results: 473 patients were included. 66% were over 65, 56% were male and 54.8% had an ASA grade of 1 or 2. Pathological examination showed that the majority of patients had a T3 (53.7%) or a T4 (34.0%) cancer and 73% had evidence of necrosis. A SIG score of 0 or 1 was present in 57.7% of patients. Tumour necrosis was associated with age (p<0.01), tumour location (p<0.01), T-stage (p<0.001), margin involvement (p<0.05), SIG (p<0.001), SMI (p<0.01), SMD (p<0.05) and 5-year survival (p<0.001). On univariate survival analysis necrosis (p<0.01), SIG (p<0.001), SMI (p<0.01) and SMD (p<0.05) were independently associated with overall survival.
Conclusion: These results suggest that tumour necrosis and the subsequent inflammatory response results in profound changes in body composition.