bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First report of Culicoides caucoliberensis in Spain: Exploring molecular phylogeny, host‐feeding behaviour and avian haemosporidian parasites
Authors: González Mikel A. , Bravo‐Barriga Daniel , López‐Mercadal Júlia , Miranda Miguel Ángel , Gutiérrez‐López Rafael , Barceló Carlos
Published: July 2023

Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are vectors of pathogens that affect wildlife and livestock. Understanding the composition and distribution of vector species is crucial for implementing control strategies and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This study provides a morphological and molecular characterisation of Culicoides caucoliberensis, which represents the first record for Spain, increasing the number of Culicoides species in the country to 85. A total of 213 specimens were collected using Onderstepoort‐ultraviolet down‐draught light traps on a rocky coastline in the Balearic Islands during two sampling periods in 2022. Phylogenetic analysis showed that C. caucoliberensis forms a monophyletic cluster within the Maritimus group. Host preferences were determined for the first time and showed propensity to feed on the European shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis). The vector role of C. caucoliberensis for haemosporidian transmission remains unclear since molecular detection of Haemosporidians (Haemoproteus and Plasmodium) was negative for all the pools of parous and engorged females analysed. This study emphasises the importance of conducting entomofauna studies in lesser‐known Mediterranean islet landscapes and highlights the need for research on vectors within the One Health framework.
When to err is inhuman: An examination of the influence of artificial intelligence‐driven nursing care on patient safety
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth A. , Dudding Katherine M. , Carrington Jane M.
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence, as a nonhuman entity, is increasingly used to inform, direct, or supplant nursing care and clinical decision‐making. The boundaries between human‐ and nonhuman‐driven nursing care are blurred with the advent of sensors, wearables, camera devices, and humanoid robots at such an accelerated pace that the critical evaluation of its influence on patient safety has not been fully assessed. Since the pivotal release of To Err is Human, patient safety is being challenged by the dynamic healthcare environment like never before, with nursing at a critical juncture to steer the course of artificial intelligence integration in clinical decision‐making. This paper presents an overview of artificial intelligence and its application in healthcare and highlights the implications which affect nursing as a profession, including perspectives on nursing education and training recommendations. The legal and policy challenges which emerge when artificial intelligence influences the risk of clinical errors and safety issues are discussed.
The significance of elective neck dissection for patients with T2N0M0 OSCC at different ages
Authors: Xu Qiaoshi , Zhang Lirui , Li Bo , Cheng Aoming , Wang Chong , Li Delong , Han Zhengxue , Feng Zhien
Published: July 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the significance of elective neck dissection (END) for patients of different ages with T2N0M0 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and sought to analyze the reasons behind it and its value for clinical guidance.

Methods

This study enrolled 391 patients with T2N0M0 OSCC who were surgically treated in our hospital and were divided into young‐, moderate‐, and advanced‐age groups according to our previous study. The Chi‐square test and Kaplan–Meier analysis were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

Compared with moderate‐ and advanced‐age patients, young patients with T2N0M0 OSCC had higher lymph node metastasis rates and lymph node ratios. Therefore, END significantly improved the recurrence (p = 0.001) and survival (p = 0.001) for young patients, but not for moderate‐age patients. Advanced‐age patients even benefit from watchful waiting. END significantly improved recurrence and survival in young patients with smoking or alcohol consumption habits.

Conclusions

END improved the prognosis of young patients, and it was related to their higher metastasis rate. However, advanced‐age patients benefited from the wait‐and‐see policy. END is essential for the young patients with smoking or drinking habit, it is also highly recommended for nonsmokers and nondrinkers.
Aloe vera‐derived graphene‐coupled phenosafranin photocatalyst for generation and regeneration of ammonia and NADH by mimicking natural photosynthetic route
Authors: Shukla Ravindra K. , Yadav Rajesh K. , Gole V. L. , Na Chae Yeong , Jeong Gyoung Hwa , Singh Satyam , Baeg Jin‐Ook , Choi Myong Yong , Gupta Navneet Kumar , Kim Tae Wu
Published: July 2023

Aloe vera‐derived graphene (ADG) coupled system photocatalyst, mimicking natural photosynthesis, is one of the most promising ways for converting solar energy into ammonia (NH3) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) that have been widely used to make the numerous chemicals such as fertilizer and fuel. In this study, we report the synthesis of the aloe vera‐derived graphene‐coupled phenosafranin (ADGCP) acting as a highly efficient photocatalyst for the generation of NH3 and regeneration of NADH from nitrogen (N2) and oxidized form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). The results show a benchmark instance for mimicking natural photosynthesis activity as well as the practical applications for the solar‐driven selective formation of NH3 and the regeneration of NADH by using the newly designed photocatalyst.
Disentangling the US military's climate change paradox: An institutional approach
Authors: Payne Corey R. , Swed Ori
Published: July 2023

Studies estimate that the US military it is a bigger polluter than 140 individual countries, having emitted hundreds of millions of tons of greenhouse gases in the twenty‐first century. Despite this, the military is also one of the organizations most affected by climate change, given its global infrastructural reach, and one that is positioning itself to grapple with the social and political upheavals resulting from the climate crisis. Thus, paradoxically, despite its role as a major driver of ecological degradation, the military is one of the few influential institutions in the US that has demonstrated a willingness to grapple with the effects of climate change. In this paper we explore these two sides of the relationship between the military and climate change. Combining perspectives from the military and environmental sociology literature, we review the military's role as a polluter as well as a stakeholder. We examine the military's attempts to reconcile those two approaches through the adoption of a philosophy of “winners and losers” of climate change, highlighting the limits and possibilities of this approach. To make sense of the military's response, we review the conflicting institutional logics guiding the Pentagon's efforts. We conclude by suggesting that policymakers resolve these tensions through a strategic retreat from its globe‐spanning presence.
For Medicinal Purposes: Whose Advice Exerts Authority on Medical Marijuana?
Authors: Vila‐Henninger Luis Antonio , Larsen Lars Thorup
Published: July 2023

Citizens are embedded in legal systems in which the authority of different experts is normally given preference over citizens' opinions about medical marijuana and other medical issues. Yet, citizens may reject expert authority if they consider themselves to be competent based on their knowledge or social position. Thus, we are led to ask: In the context of direct democracy, what forms of expert authority—if any—does a historically privileged subset of citizens recognize when reasoning about medical marijuana? Our analysis is based on rich‐qualitative data that analyzes how white male citizens reason about a medical marijuana ballot initiative in Arizona. By using a comprehensive content coding of citizens' arguments about the ballot initiative, we analyze how this privileged subset of citizens reasons about following or ignoring various authorities on the issue of medical marijuana. The article uses an exploratory abductive analysis of secondary semi‐structured interview data to understand citizens' reasoning on this issue and to expand theories of expert authority in direct democratic settings. We find a variety of different ways in which white male citizens accept or reject expert medical authority on medical marijuana in the context of Arizona Proposition 203 (2010).
The use of clinical simulation to support development of interprofessional skills and understanding: Perspectives from allied health students
Authors: Robson Kristy , Parnell Tracey , Smith-Tamaray Michelle , Lustig Kim , Hoffman Laura , Davidson Wendy Rose , Wells Cherie , Hayes Karen
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Allied health professionals require skills in interprofessional collaboration to work effectively to achieve person-centred health outcomes. Simulated interprofessional experiences provide students with unique opportunities in a supported environment to develop the necessary skills required for future practice. 
Methods: An exploratory cross-sectional study using a qualitative survey design was employed to understand the attitudes and perceptions of allied health students after completing a university based, cross-campus, interprofessional simulation experience.
Results: Over 200 students from four disciplines across three campuses of a regional Australian university were involved in a simulated experience that included a range of different interprofessional activities. Post-experience survey data from approximately 40% of students suggested that students perceived the experience had several positive learnings, including a better understanding of their own and other professions and the value of interprofessional collaboration and teamwork in client care; increased confidence, particularly in communicating with other healthcare professionals; and a broader understanding of healthcare, including eHealth. The results also highlighted the challenges of implementing a project across multiple disciplines and campuses and provided useful suggestions to further improve the experience. 
Conclusion: The findings of this research suggest that carefully developed and authentic interprofessional experiences through simulation can provide allied health students with the opportunity to develop valuable skills in communication and teamwork as well as an emerging appreciation of the benefits of a coordinated team approach to person-centred healthcare.
Evolution or revolution to programmatic assessment: Considering unintended consequences of assessment change
Authors: Ryan Anna , O'Mara Deborah , Tweed Mike
Published: July 2023

Assessment in the health professions is transforming. The widespread dominance of a reductionist measurement-based approach over the past 50 years is shifting towards a preference for more authentic assessment designed to promote and support learning. Assessment as a series of individual barriers, each to be surmounted, is being discarded in favour of systems of assessment designed to scaffold learner development and ensure sufficient opportunities for achievement. The intentions of these changes are to avoid the negative impacts of previous assessment approaches, such as strategic gaming, unhealthy competition and a predominance of book study, over immersion in clinical environments. However, unintended outcomes need to be considered when planning such transformative assessment change—both for those engaged in incremental evolutionary change and for those taking a more rapid or revolutionary approach. We explore three key features of programmatic assessment: longitudinal use of multiple assessment formats, a focus on assessment for learning and collation of data by attribute for decision making. We highlight the intended and possible unintended outcomes related to these features from the perspective of evolutionary and revolutionary approaches to change. We postulate that careful consideration of unintended outcomes is essential when planning significant assessment redesigns in health professional education. Anticipating unintended outcomes might also provide both the motivation and rationale to advance assessment practice into the next 50 years—particularly in the areas of enhancements in technology and collaborations across and between education providers.
Are Confirmatory Assays Reliable for HIV-1/HIV-2 Infection Differentiation? A Multicenter Study
Authors: Guiraud Vincent , Bocobza Jonathan , Desmonet Marion , Damond Florence , Plantier Jean-Christophe , Moreau Ghislaine , Wirden Marc , Stefic Karl , Barin Francis , Gautheret-Dejean Agnès
Published: July 2023

Immunoblots remain the gold standard for HIV-1/HIV-2 infection confirmation. However, their ability to differentiate HIV-1 from HIV-2 infection on an antigenically diversified HIV-1 and HIV-2 panel remain uncommon.
Cognitive Impairment and Nootropic Drugs: Mechanism of Action and Spectrum of Effects
Authors: Voronina T. A.
Published: July 2023

Abstract—This review provides information about the features of cognitive dysfunctions that occur in various diseases and conditions, and data on the history of the creation and characteristic features of nootropics. The review presents the mechanisms of action and the spectrum of pharmacological effects of nootropic drugs from various groups: drugs that affect brain metabolism, neurotransmitter systems (cholinergic, glutamatergic, GABAergic, and others), cerebral vasodilators, neuropeptides and their analogues, antioxidants, membrane protectors, and others. The free radical and mitochondrial concepts of aging and the possibility of using nootropics for the correction of cognitive impairments arising from aging, dementia, and other neurodegenerative diseases are considered.
Real world data in mechanical thrombectomy: who are we losing to follow-up?
Authors: Hahn Marianne , Gröschel Sonja , Othman Ahmed , Brockstedt Lavinia , Civelek Arda , Brockmann Marc A , Gröschel Klaus , Uphaus Timo
Published: July 2023

Background

Missing outcome data (MOD) is a common problem in clinical trials and registries, and a potential bias when drawing conclusions from these data. Identifying factors associated with MOD may help to increase follow-up rates and assess the need for imputation strategies. We investigated MOD in a multicenter, prospective registry study of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in large vessel occlusion ischemic stroke.

Methods

13 082 patients enrolled in the German Stroke Registry-Endovascular Treatment from May 2015 to December 2021 were analyzed with regard to MOD (90 day modified Rankin Scale, mRS). Univariate logistic regression analyses identified factors unbalanced between patients with and without MOD. Subgroup analyses were performed to identify patients for whom increased efforts to perform clinical follow-up after hospital discharge are needed.

Results

We identified 19.7% (2580/13 082) of patients with MOD at the 90 day follow-up. MOD was more common with higher pre-stroke disability (mRS 3–5, 32.2% vs mRS 0–2, 13.7%; P<0.001), absence of bridging intravenous thrombolysis, longer time to treatment, and in patients with high post-stroke disability at discharge (mRS 3–5 vs 0–2: OR 1.234 (95% CI 1.107 to 1.375); P<0.001). In contrast, MOD was less common with futile recanalization (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) score of 0–2a, 12.4% vs TICI 2b–3, 15.0%; P=0.001). In patients discharged alive with well documented baseline characteristics, shorter hospital stay (OR 0.992 (95% CI 0.985 to 0.998); P=0.010) and discharge to institutional care or hospital (OR 1.754 (95% CI 1.558 to 1.976); P<0.001) were associated with MOD.

Conclusion

MOD in routine care MT registry data was not random. Increased efforts to perform clinical follow-up are needed, especially in the case of higher pre-stroke and post-stroke disability and discharge to hospital or institutional care.

Trial registration

NCT03356392.
Acute ischemic stroke outcomes in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ferrone Sophia R , Sanmartin Maria X , Ohara Joseph , Jimenez Jean C , Feizullayeva Chinara , Lodato Zachary , Shahsavarani Shaya , Lacher Gregory , Demissie Seleshi , Vialet Jaclyn Morales , White Tim G , Wang Jason J , Katz Jeffrey M , Sanelli Pina C
Published: July 2023

Background

Although patients with COVID-19 have a higher risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS), the impact on stroke outcomes remains uncertain.

Aims

To determine the clinical outcomes of patients with AIS and COVID-19 (AIS-COVID+).

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Our protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42020211977). Systematic searches were last performed on June 3, 2021 in EMBASE, PubMed, Web-of-Science, Scopus, and CINAHL Databases. Inclusion criteria: (1) studies reporting outcomes on AIS-COVID+; (2) original articles published in 2020 or later; (3) study participants aged ≥18 years. Exclusion criteria: (1) case reports with <5 patients, abstracts, review articles; (2) studies analyzing novel interventions. Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Random-effects models estimated the pooled OR and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for mortality, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, length of stay (LOS), and discharge disposition.

Results

Of the 43 selected studies, 46.5% (20/43) reported patients with AIS without COVID-19 (AIS-COVID−) for comparison. Random-effects model included 7294 AIS-COVID+ and 158 401 AIS-COVID−. Compared with AIS-COVID−, AIS-COVID+ patients had higher in-hospital mortality (OR=3.87 (95% CI 2.75 to 5.45), P<0.001), less mRS scores 0–2 (OR=0.53 (95% CI 0.46 to 0.62), P<0.001), longer LOS (mean difference=4.21 days (95% CI 1.96 to 6.47), P<0.001), and less home discharge (OR=0.31 (95% CI 0.21 to 0.47), P<0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with AIS-COVID had worse outcomes, with almost fourfold increased mortality, half the odds of mRS scores 0–2, and one-third the odds of home discharge. These findings confirm the significant impact of COVID-19 on early stroke outcomes.
Novel mediators regulating angiogenesis in diabetic foot ulcer healing
Authors: Rai Vikrant , Le Hoangvi , Agrawal Devendra K.
Published: July 2023

A non-healing diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a debilitating clinical problem amounting to socioeconomic and psychosocial burdens. DFUs increase morbidity due to prolonged treatment and mortality in the case of non-treatable ulcers resulting in gangrene and septicemia. The overall amputation rate of the lower extremity with DFU ranges from 3.34% to 42.83%. Wound debridement, antibiotics, applying growth factors, negative pressure wound therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, topical oxygen, and skin grafts are common therapies for DFU. However, recurrence and nonhealing ulcers are still major issues. Chronicity of inflammation, hypoxic environment, poor angiogenesis, and decreased formation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) are common impediments leading to nonhealing patterns of DFUs. Angiogenesis is crucial for wound healing since proper vessel formation facilitates nutrients, oxygen, and immune cells to the ulcer tissue to help in clearing out debris and facilitate healing. However, poor angiogenesis due to decreased expression of angiogenic mediators and matrix formation results in nonhealing and ultimately amputation. Multiple proangiogenic mediators and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy exist to enhance angiogenesis, but the results are not satisfactory. Thus, there is a need to investigate novel pro-angiogenic mediators that can either alone or in combination enhance the angiogenesis and healing of DFUs. In this article, we critically reviewed the existing pro-angiogenic mediators followed by potentially novel factors that might play a regulatory role in promoting angiogenesis and wound healing in DFUs.
Topologically nontrivial black holes of Lovelock gravity sourced by logarithmic electrodynamics
Authors: Ali Askar
Published: July 2023

I investigate the topologically nontrivial black holes of Lovelock gravity sourced by logarithmic electrodynamics. To calculate the solution describing these black holes, additional constraints are also imposed on the base manifold of the higher dimensional spacetime. Relying on the selection of geometric mass, electric charge, and the nonlinearity parameter, this solution can be portrayed as a black hole with a single horizon, two horizons, or naked singularity. I also look into how the thermodynamical and conserved quantities of this solution are affected by the logarithmic electromagnetic field. Additionally, it is demonstrated that these quantities correspond to the first law of thermodynamics. At last, the local and global thermodynamic stabilities of the accomplished black hole are studied as well.
Design and analysis of a two-dimensional photonic crystal plus-shaped resonator for the detection of different cancerous cells and urine glucose
Authors: Rakavandi Parisa , Ehyaee Arefe , Olyaee Saeed
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a simple two-dimensional (2D) photonic crystal (PhC) plus-shaped resonator is suggested to detect different cancer cells as well as urine glucose. A novel biosensor design is presented that features a plus-shaped PhC resonator capable of detecting cancerous cells in human skin, cervix, blood, adrenal glands and breast, as well as detecting glucose levels in human urine to diagnose the likelihood of diabetes. Our biosensor boasts of an impressive quality factor of 307 for cancerous skin cells and 670.6 for glucose concentration in the blood. In addition, the device offers a maximum sensitivity of 750[Formula: see text]nm/RIU for detecting various cancerous cells and 2420[Formula: see text]nm/RIU for glucose in human urine. By positioning the resonator and the waveguide in a way that enables light to resonate in the middle of the structure and pass to the output terminal, we were able to focus on the absorption rate rather than the transmission. As a result, the maximum glucose and cancerous cell absorption rates reach 87.1% and 89.8%, respectively. Our unique yet simple sensor structure offers exciting new possibilities for detecting different cancerous cells and glucose concentrations, while the impressive sensitivity and quality factor make it an exceptional candidate for a wide range of biosensing applications.
Random Lindblad Operators Obeying Detailed Balance
Authors: Tarnowski Wojciech , Chruściński Dariusz , Denisov Sergey , Życzkowski Karol
Published: July 2023

We introduce different ensembles of random Lindblad operators [Formula: see text], which satisfy quantum detailed balance condition with respect to given stationary state [Formula: see text] of size [Formula: see text], and investigate their spectral properties. Such operators are known as ‘Davies generators’ and their eigenvalues are real; however, their spectral densities depend on [Formula: see text]. We propose different structured ensembles of random matrices, which allow us to tackle the problem analytically in the extreme cases of Davies generators corresponding to random [Formula: see text] with a nondegenerate spectrum or the maximally mixed stationary state, [Formula: see text]. Interestingly, in the latter case the density can be reasonably well approximated by integrating out the imaginary component of the spectral density characteristic to the ensemble of random unconstrained Lindblad operators. The case of asymptotic states with partially degenerated spectra is also addressed. Finally, we demonstrate that similar universal properties hold for the detailed balance-obeying Kolmogorov generators obtained by applying superdecoherence to an ensemble of random Davies generators. In this way we construct an ensemble of random classical generators with imposed detailed balance condition.
Damage evolution process and damage precursor law under cyclic splitting action of different types of rocks
Authors: Zhao Kang , Ao Wenqiang , Yan Yajing , Shi Yichen , Wu Jun , Guo Lijie , Liu Lang
Published: July 2023

During the construction of underground projects, different types of rock are often in a cyclic state of loading and unloading. Therefore, cyclic fracturing experiments have been carried out on metamorphic sandstone, slate and granite from one mine site. Based on the basic parameters of acoustic emission (AE), the damage processes and damage precursor patterns of different types of rock samples are analysed. The results of the study show that there is basically no AE signal generated during the unloading phase of the first two cycles of loading, and less acoustic emission signal is generated in the loading stage. In the experimental process on different types of rock samples, when the value of CV(
r
) (standard deviation of the ratio between rise time, amplitude and mean frequency of acoustic emission parameters) is larger, it can be considered as large-scale crack dominance, and as small-scale crack dominance when the value of CV(
r
) is small; also, CV(
r
) values are more accurate than AE
b
-values in determining the pattern of cracking within a rock sample. With different internal crack development during cyclic splitting, we can focus on the changes in the AE loading energy ratio and CV(
r
) values before damage destabilization occurs. The Felicity ratio, CV(
r
) value and loading energy ratio can be used in combination in practical engineering to improve the accuracy of determining rock stability.
The Security War in File Systems: An Empirical Study from A Vulnerability-centric Perspective
Authors: Sun Jinghan , Li Shaobo , Xu Jun , Huang Jian
Published: July 2023

This article presents a systematic study on the security of modern file systems, following a vulnerability-centric perspective. Specifically, we collected 377 file system vulnerabilities committed to the CVE database in the past 20 years. We characterize them from four dimensions: why the vulnerabilities appear, how the vulnerabilities can be exploited, what consequences can arise, and how the vulnerabilities are fixed. This way, we build a deep understanding of the attack surfaces faced by file systems, the threats imposed by the attack surfaces, and the good and bad practices in mitigating the attacks in file systems. We envision that our study will bring insights towards the future development of file systems, the enhancement of file system security, and the relevant vulnerability-mitigating solutions.
GRIDS: Personalized Guideline Recommendations while Driving Through a New City
Authors: Pargal Sugandh , Das Debasree , Sahoo Bikash , Mitra Bivas , Chakraborty Sandip
Published: July 2023

Drive tourism has become increasingly popular in the past decade; however, driving through a new city is challenging because the road and traffic environments vary significantly across cities. A driver used to driving in one city may face severe difficulty in adapting to a different driving environment, leading to road fatalities. This article develops
GRIDS
, an explainable model for guidelines recommendation for inter-domain driving safety, which learns the driving rules behind the changing environment and recommends the necessary personalized guidelines to a driver while driving through a new city. We develop an explainable domain adaptation model to provide customized recommendations in terms of driving guidelines, broadly categorized into four major feature categories of a driving environment. A thorough evaluation over the CARLA driving simulator shows that the recommendations generated through
GRIDS
can help improve driving safety.
Steps to an Ecology of Algorithms
Authors: Schinkel Willem
Published: July 2023

Anthropological expeditions seeking out algorithms frequently return empty-handed. They are confronted with the challenge of the object: what to study when studying algorithms? In this article, I draw together a number of literatures to outline one possible answer to the question of how to study algorithms in social science. I argue that what we should study are algorithmic ecologies. I sketch five modalities of algorithmic ecologies and review concomitant literatures: ( a) imaginaries, ( b) infrastructures, ( c) interfaces, ( d) identities, and ( e) investments and interests. The speculative propositions offered here are that algorithms are immanent to ecologies and that they are enacted across all the modalities of algorithmic ecologies.
Intervening Early: Socioemotional Interventions Targeting the Parent–Infant Relationship
Authors: Dozier Mary , Bernard Kristin
Published: July 2023

Responsive, nurturing parenting helps infants and young children develop secure, organized attachments as well as adequate self-regulatory capabilities. However, when parents experience challenges, they often have difficulty providing responsive, nurturing care. In this article, we provide an overview of interventions that have been developed to enhance parental responsiveness, and we discuss in detail three interventions that have particularly strong evidence of effectiveness. For each intervention, we describe the intervention's purported mechanism and the evidence supporting its engagement as well as proximal and distal intervention outcomes. The three interventions described vary in duration from 6 to 32 sessions on average and are variously implemented in the home or office. Nonetheless, all three interventions have strong evidence of effectiveness in engaging the intervention mechanism of parental responsiveness and show impressive effects on children's attachment and self-regulatory capabilities. We also discuss challenges in disseminating interventions in the community.
Mandatory Employment Arbitration
Authors: Colvin Alexander J.S. , Gough Mark D.
Published: July 2023

This article offers a comprehensive overview of the academic literature concerning mandatory employment arbitration and existing empirical evidence. Proponents of mandatory employment arbitration contend mandatory arbitration provides access to justice to those excluded from the traditional civil litigation system. Conversely, opponents of mandatory employment arbitration assert that it is a coercive system that disproportionately benefits employers and disadvantages employees. Although these entrenched perceptions of mandatory employment arbitration are not new, an expanding body of recent empirical research provides fresh insights. The empirical literature reveals lower employee success rates and financial awards, longer case resolution times, and evidence of a repeat player effect in arbitration relative to civil litigation and, as a whole, tends to support arguments made by opponents of the forum. This article reviews the literature on the major debates surrounding employment arbitration and corresponding empirical evidence.
Differential Pulse Voltammetric Tuning of the Screen-Printed Carbon Electrode Surface to Enhance the Electrochemical Performance and Multiplex Detection
Authors: Mamun Mohammad Al , Wahab Yasmin Abdul , Hossain M. A. Motalib , Hashem Abu , Hamizi Nor Aliya , Chowdhury Zaira Zaman , Muhamad Hattad Sharifah Fatmadiana Wan , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Johan Mohd Rafie
Published: July 2023

Screen-Printed Carbon Electrode (SPCE) has shown tremendous scope for the miniaturization and commercialization of low-cost electrochemical sensors and biosensors devices. But the commercial SPCEs have a narrow potential window (PW) that limits their versatile applications for various analytes owing to the presence of some inherent redox peaks in the wider PW. In this work, we have explored the most effective and innovative electrochemical tuning of the SPCE surface using DPV (differential pulse voltammetry) for the removal of those inherent redox peaks that are responsible for narrowing the working PW. After that, the electrochemical performance of the tuned SPCE electrode was evaluated in terms of a range of electrochemical parameters including reproducibility by CV (Cyclic Voltammetry), DPV and EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) measurements using [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− as a model redox analyte. In addition, the suitability of the tuned electrode for multiple analytes detection was tested in presence of a mixture of Cd2+ (cadmium), Cu2+ (copper) and Hg2+ (Mercury) ions using CV and DPV techniques. The electrochemical analysis data show that after electrochemical DPV treatment, the SPCE surface exhibits excellent reproducibility and electrochemical performance within a wider PW minimizing their inherent drawback creating a wide scope of their precise applications in various fields.
Electrochemical Properties Analysis of Immobilized Glucose Oxidase on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Hydroxy-Fullerene Nanocomposites
Authors: Ma Xin-Xin , Li Yang-Yang , Song Xin-Yan , Xu Ke-Xin , Chen Yu-Jie , Meng Xin , Li Yu-Ying , Ma Lin-Lin , Moosavi-Movahedi Ali Akbar , Hong Jun , Xiao Bao-Lin
Published: July 2023

The development of a glucose sensor that can monitor blood glucose levels is particularly important with the increasing number of diabetes patients. Here, a glucose biosensor based on Nafion (NF), glucose oxidase (GOx), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), hydroxy fullerene (HFs) composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) is presented. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), cyclic voltammetry (CV), square wave voltammetry (SWV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods are used to study the characteristics of the modification materials and to evaluate electrochemical properties of the modified electrodes. The heterogeneous electron transfer constant (ks) is calculated to be 4.49 s−1. The response to glucose is linear in the range of 0.02–0.25 mM and 0.25–4.0 mM with a sensitivity of 80.59 μA mM−1 cm−2 and detection limit (LOD) of 9.93 μM. The NF/MWCNTs-HFs-GOx/GCE biosensor demonstrate high sensitivity to glucose with excellent storage stability and anti-interference capability.
Green Electrochemical Complexation of Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Voriconazole, Ketoconazole and Clotrimazole with Silver, Copper and Zinc Cations
Authors: Godini Zahra , Nematollahi Davood , Zivari-Moshfegh Faezeh
Published: July 2023

Electrochemical complexation of azole antifungal drugs fluconazole (FCZ), itraconazole (ITZ), ketoconazole (KTZ), voriconazole (VCZ) and clotrimazole (CTZ) with silver, copper and zinc cations was carried out galvanostatically in an undivided electrolytic cell equipped with a sacrificial anode and a stainless steel cathode under green conditions. In this work, we synthesized twenty different complexes of these drugs by a simple method in water (containing a strong acid)/ethanol mixtures with high yield (average 67%) and purity. The effective synthetic parameters, including the applied current, electricity consumption, acid concentration, cell voltage, energy consumption and cell design were optimized. Our results indicate that the applied current and acid concentration have no significant effects on the yield and purity of azole complexes. But these factors have a significant effect on cell voltage and energy consumption in such a way that by increasing the applied current or decreasing the acid concentration, the cell voltage and energy consumption increase. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques have been used for the characterization of synthesized complexes. In addition, cyclic voltammetry analysis has been used to investigate the reaction mechanism. This method provides an efficient and green strategy for the complexation of azole drugs in one step without the need for metal salts.
Enhanced Methanol Oxidation in Alkaline Media on Electrodeposited Ni Electrodes by Morphological and Crystallographic Evolution
Authors: Nasirpouri Farzad , Jafari Foruzin Leila
Published: July 2023

This research aims at exploiting the electrocatalytic behaviour of nano-crystalline nickel electrodes electrodeposited by different techniques including direct current (DC), pulse current (PC), or pulse reversal current (PRC) for methanol electrooxidation in alkaline solutions. We understand that PC electrodeposition forms pyramidal shaped grains with a preferential Bragg diffraction peak of (111), whereas PRC produced refined spherical grain morphology with a strong (200) diffraction peak. However, DC electrodeposition exhibits an intermediate morphology and crystalline structure. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) show that PRC electrodeposition develops Ni electrodes with better electrocatalytic activity for methanol electrooxidation than other two nickel electrodes. Based on the CV curve, the current density for Ni prepared by PRC electrodeposition methods is about 75.26 mA.cm−2, which is higher than those of DC and PC methods. This higher activity of PRC electrodeposited nickel is attributed to the low charge transfer resistance confirmed by Nyquist plots. We attributed this behavior to the (200)-oriented crystallographic texture, spherical grain morphology, and consequently the high electrochemical active surface area of this nickel electrode. This work reveals the importance of surface morphology and crystallography on the electrocatalytic behaviour of nickel electrodes for electrochemical energy devices.
Altered placental ion channel gene expression in preeclamptic high-altitude pregnancies
Authors: Julian Colleen G. , Houck Julie A. , Fallahi Sahand , Lazo-Vega Litzi , Matarazzo Christopher J. , Diamond Breea , Miranda-Garrido Valquiria , Krause Bernardo J. , Moore Lorna G. , Shortt Jonathan A. , Toledo-Jaldin Lilian , Lorca Ramón A.
Published: July 2023

High-altitude (>2,500 m) residence increases the risk of pregnancy vascular disorders such as fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia, each characterized by impaired placental function. Genetic attributes of highland ancestry confer relative protection against vascular disorders of pregnancy at high altitudes. Although ion channels have been implicated in placental function regulation, neither their expression in high-altitude placentas nor their relationship to high-altitude preeclampsia has been determined. Here, we measured the expression of 26 ion-channel genes in placentas from preeclampsia cases and normotensive controls in La Paz, Bolivia (3,850 m). In addition, we correlated gene transcription to maternal and infant ancestry proportions. Gene expression was assessed by PCR, genetic ancestry evaluated by ADMIXTURE, and ion channel proteins localized by immunofluorescence. In preeclamptic placentas, 11 genes were downregulated ( ABCC9, ATP2A2, CACNA1C, KCNE1, KCNJ8, KCNK3, KCNMA1, KCNQ1, KCNQ4, PKD2, and TRPV6) and two were upregulated ( KCNQ3 and SCNN1G). KCNE1 expression was positively correlated with high-altitude Amerindian ancestry and negatively correlated with non-high altitude. SCNN1G was negatively correlated with African ancestry, despite minimal African admixture. Most ion channels were localized in syncytiotrophoblasts (Cav1.2, TRPP2, TRPV6, and Kv7.1), whereas expression of Kv7.4 was primarily in microvillous membranes, Kir6.1 in chorionic plate and fetal vessels, and MinK in stromal cells. Our findings suggest a role for differential placental ion channel expression in the development of preeclampsia. Functional studies are needed to determine processes affected by these ion channels in the placenta and whether therapies directed at modulating their activity could influence the onset or severity of preeclampsia.
Changes in environmental stress over COVID-19 pandemic likely contributed to failure to replicate adiposity phenotype associated with Krtcap3
Authors: Szalanczy Alexandria M. , Giorgio Gina , Goff Emily , Seshie Osborne , Grzybowski Michael , Klotz Jason , Geurts Aron M. , Redei Eva E. , Solberg Woods Leah C.
Published: July 2023

Obesity is linked to both genetics and environmental factors such as stress. Krtcap3 has previously been identified as a gene associated with adiposity, and our work here demonstrates that environmental stress may influence the role of Krtcap3 on both food intake and adiposity. Obesity is strongly influenced by stress in humans, so the identification of novel genes that link stress and obesity will greatly advance our understanding of the disease.
Sero- and Feco-Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Its Associated Risk Factors among Adult Dyspeptic Patients Visiting the Outpatient Department of Adet Primary Hospital, Yilmana Densa District, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Mnichil Zebasil , Nibret Endalkachew , Mekonnen Daniel , Demelash Maritu
Published: July 2023

Background. Most gastric cancers in the world are attributed to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections. The prevalence of H. pylori infection is influenced by socioeconomic status, hygiene, and lifestyle of the population. This study aimed to assess sero- and feco-prevalence of H. pylori infections and its associated risk factors among adult dyspeptic patients visiting the outpatient department of Adet Primary Hospital, Yilmana Densa District, northwest Ethiopia. Methods. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 10, 2022 to April 10, 2022. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. The data were collected by pretested questionnaires. Blood and stool specimens were collected from each patient for antibody and H. pylori antigen tests, respectively. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0. A logistic regression model was used to assess the strength of association between H. pylori positivity and risk factors. Results. The sero- and feco-prevalence of H. pylori infection was 62% and 51.1%, respectively. In those patients who had a positive result with either the antibody (Ab) or antigen (Ag) test, rural residence (AOR = 5.55; 95% CI: 2.34–13.14;p<0.001), alcohol consumption (AOR = 12.34; 95% CI: 2.29–66.51;p=0.003), having no awareness about H. pylori transmission (AOR = 4.76; 95% CI: 1.86–12.15;p=0.001), using pond/river as a source of drinking water (AOR = 5.22; 95% CI: 1.91–14.27;p=0.001), and open field defecation (AOR = 4.19; 95% CI: 1.67–10.52;p=0.002) were the explanatory risk factors significantly associated with H. pylori infection. Conclusion. This study showed that the prevalence of H. pylori infection was very high. Most cases of gastric cancers are ascribed to H. pylori infection. Therefore, education should be given to communities so as to increase their awareness of the infection and the associated major explanatory risk factors identified in the present study.
Nutritional and Phytochemical Composition and Associated Health Benefits of Oat (Avena sativa) Grains and Oat-Based Fermented Food Products
Authors: Alemayehu Getaneh Firew , Forsido Sirawdink Fikreyesus , Tola Yetenayet B. , Amare Endale
Published: July 2023

Oats (Avena sativa L.) are a popular functional cereal grain due to their numerous health benefits. This review article summarized the information on the chemical composition and phytonutrients of oats grown in different countries. It also reviewed recently developed fermented oat products to highlight their potential for human health. Oats have an interesting nutritional profile that includes high-quality protein, unsaturated fats, soluble fiber, polyphenolic compounds, and micronutrients. Oat grain has a unique protein composition, with globulins serving as the primary storage protein, in contrast to other cereals, where prolamins are the main storage proteins. Oats have the highest fat content of any cereal, with low saturated fatty acids and high essential unsaturated fatty acid content, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Oats are a good source of soluble dietary fiber, particularly β-glucan, which has outstanding functional properties and is extremely important in human nutrition. β-Glucan has been shown to lower blood cholesterol and glucose absorption in the intestine, thereby preventing diseases such as cardiovascular injury, dyslipidemia, hypertension, inflammatory state, and type 2 diabetes. Oats also contain high concentration of antioxidant compounds. Avenanthramides, which are unique to oats, are powerful antioxidants with high antioxidative activity in humans. Recognizing the nutritional benefits of oats, oat-based fermented food products are gaining popularity as functional foods with high probiotic potential.
Deglycosylation of Excretory-Secretory Antigens of the Second-Stage Larvae of Toxocara cati Improves Its Efficacy in the Diagnosis of Human Toxocariasis
Authors: Pouryousef Ali , Sarkari Bahador , Mootabi Alavi Amir , Omidian Mostafa , Mikaeili Fattaneh
Published: July 2023

Background. Toxocariasis is an important zoonotic infection, especially in tropical areas. One of the significant challenges in the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis is the cross-reaction of Toxocara antigens with other parasites due to their relatively similar glycan structures. Removing the glycan structure from Toxocara excretory-secretory (TES) antigens may increase the efficacy of these antigens in the diagnosis of toxocariasis. The current study aimed to assess the efficacy of deglycosylated Toxocara cati excretory-secretory (dTES) antigens for the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis. Methods. Toxocara ES antigens were prepared from T. cati second-stage larvae and deglycosylated using sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The TES antigens, along with the dTES antigens, were used in an ELISA as well as a western blotting system for the detection of anti-Toxocara antibodies. Sera samples collected from 30 confirmed cases of toxocariasis, 30 patients with other diseases, and 30 healthy subjects were evaluated by both systems. Results. The sensitivity of TES and dTES ELISA for the diagnosis of human toxocariasis was 96.67% (95% CI = 82.78–99.92) and 93.33% (95% CI = 77.93–99.18), respectively, while the specificity of dTES (88.33%; 95% CI = 77.43–95.18) increased significantly compared to the TES (80.00%; 95% CI = 67.67–89.22). The sensitivity of both antigens was 100% (95% CI = 88.43–100) by the western blotting system. Moreover, the specificity of TES and dTES antigens was 95% (95% CI = 86.08–98.96) and 98.33% (95% CI = 91.06–99.96), respectively, when using the western blotting system. Conclusion. Results of the current study indicate that the chemical removal of the glycan epitopes of T. cati ES antigens significantly reduces cross-reactivity rates with other parasitic infections. Considering the findings of the present study, the dTES antigens seem to be suitable antigens for the serodiagnosis of human toxocariasis.