bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An intimate prayer with the dead
Authors: Amoozegar Farzad
Published: September 2024

This article explores how listening to monājāt (Islamic sung prayer) creates dynamic and unsettling imaginative spaces for Amir—a paraplegic veteran of the 1980–1988 Iran–Iraq War—to be‐with Sohrab, his comrade killed in combat. Amir, who both witnessed Sohrab's tragic death and endured severe physical trauma himself, engages in a profound, nonreciprocal relationship with Sohrab through the act of listening to the sung prayer. Monājāt is a collective experience that derives its power from Amir's imagined world where he finds himself whispering the prayers alongside Sohrab. This participatory mode of listening allows the living to host and welcome the dead. Monājāt creates a nonreciprocal relationship with the dead, a place where Amir hears what is otherwise inaudible. In this imaginary world, Amir finds proximity to be‐with his dead friend. Listening is a mode of being‐in‐the‐world that challenges one to not neglect the other's needs. For Amir, monājāt provides both images of Sohrab in heaven (the radiant face with the angels) and a disturbance by alerting him to recall Sohrab's suffering and the injured face. Listening, then, becomes a response and obligation to care for the dead; a way to attend to and be responsible for Sohrab which for Amir is both healing and haunting.
Editorial: Defining corticosteroid use in clinical trials
Authors: Siffledeen J.
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Schreiber et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18184
Identification of four novel acute‐on‐chronic liver failure clusters with distinct clinical trajectories and mortality using machine learning methods
Authors: Verma Nipun , Garg Pratibha , Valsan Arun , Roy Akash , Mishra Saurabh , Kaur Parminder , Rathi Sahaj , De Arka , Premkumar Madhumita , Taneja Sunil , Singh Virendra , Dhiman Radha K. , Duseja Ajay K. , Kamath Patrick
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Machine learning (ML) can identify the hidden patterns without hypothesis in heterogeneous diseases like acute‐on‐chronic live failure (ACLF). We employed ML to describe and predict yet unknown clusters in ACLF.

Methods

Clinical data of 1568 patients with ACLF from a tertiary care centre (2015–2023) were subjected to distance‐, density‐ and model‐based clustering algorithms. Final model was selected on best cluster separation, viz. Silhouette width and Dunn's index (for distance‐ or density‐based algorithms) and minimum BIC (for model‐based algorithms). Cluster assignments, patient trajectories and survival were analysed through inferential statistics. Supervised ML models were trained in 70% data that predicted clusters in remaining 30% data followed by an temporal validation.

Results

The cohort was male‐predominant (87%), aged 44.3 years, with alcohol‐associated hepatitis (62.9%) and survival of 50.5%. Due to poor performance of distance‐ and density‐based algorithms and better explainability, the latent class model (LCM) was selected for exploration. LCM revealed four clusters with distinct trajectories, reversibility and survival (independent of MELD, CLIF‐C ACLF and AARC scores). Cluster1 had patients with none/one organ failure and highest reversibility. Cluster2 had females with viral hepatitis and two organ failures. More‐than‐one acute precipitant, severity, infections, organ failures and irreversibility escalated from clusters 1 to 4. Circulatory and renal failures critically influenced cluster assignments. Incorporating clusters to CLIF‐C ACLF, infection and ACLF definition improved the discriminative accuracy of CLIF‐C‐ACLF by 11%. Extreme gradient boost and decision trees could predict clusters with AUCs of 0.989 (0.979–0.995) and 0.875 (0.865–0.890). MELD, CLIF‐C‐OF, haemoglobin, lactate, CLIF‐C‐ACLF and ALT were critical variables for cluster prediction. Clusters with distinct survival were documented in a temporal validation cohort.

Conclusions

ML for the first time could identify clusters with distinct phenotypes, trajectories and outcomes in ACLF. Stratification into clusters can address heterogeneity, guide prognosis, recruitment in trials, resource allocation and liver transplant discussions in ACLF.
Meta‐analysis: Risk of lymphoma in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in population‐based cohort studies
Authors: Zamani Mohammad , Alizadeh‐Tabari Shaghayegh , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Singh Siddharth , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin N. , Malekzadeh Reza , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: September 2024

Background

There are inconsistencies in the results of the studies investigating the association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and lymphoma.

Aims

The aim of this study is to systematically appraise the risk of lymphoma development in patients with IBD.

Methods

We searched Embase, PubMed and Scopus from inception to 30 April 2024 to identify population‐based cohort studies that evaluated the risk of lymphoma in patients with IBD in comparison with those without IBD. We carried out random‐effects meta‐analyses and estimated pooled relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

We identified 23 eligible studies reporting 2078 lymphoma events in 656,731 patients with IBD. Patients with IBD had 30% higher odds of lymphoma (RR = 1.30 [95% CI: 1.21–1.40]). The risk of developing both Hodgkin's lymphoma (nine studies, RR = 1.29 [95% CI: 1.06–1.53]) and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (16 studies, RR = 1.31 [95% CI: 1.20–1.42]) was increased in patients with IBD (p for interaction = 0.881). The increased risk of lymphoma was observed in both Crohn's disease (17 studies, RR = 1.54 [95% CI: 1.27–1.80]) and ulcerative colitis (20 studies, RR = 1.22 [95% CI: 1.09–1.35]) (p for interaction = 0.026). Meta‐regression demonstrated that mean age of patients, study year, mean study follow‐up duration, and percentages of immunomodulators and biologics use did not influence study outcome.

Conclusions

The risk of lymphoma is only modestly increased in patients with IBD, with Crohn's disease having a slightly higher risk than ulcerative colitis. In IBD, there appears to be no difference between the risks of Hodgkin's and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Attitudes on affirmative action targeted to help Black and Hispanic individuals: The roles of knowledge, race, and perceived discrimination
Authors: Umanzor Marden J. , Guerrero David J. Reyna , Osborne Randall E. , McField Ariel A. , Oberle Crystal D.
Published: September 2024

This study explored factors affecting affirmative action attitudes. Undergraduates at a Hispanic‐Serving Institution completed measures assessing support for Black‐targeted and Hispanic‐targeted affirmative action, perceived discrimination against Blacks and Hispanics, and demographic information. Prior to completing these measures, some participants were randomly assigned to read 10 facts about current racial inequities. An ANOVA revealed a marginally significant effect of condition (with greater affirmative action support by participants who read facts about racial inequities vs. the control condition), a significant effect of participant race (with greater affirmative action support by Black and Hispanic vs. White participants), and a significant interaction between participant and target race (with greater support of Hispanic‐targeted vs. Black‐targeted affirmative action by White and Hispanic participants, but no difference in support for Hispanic‐targeted vs. Black‐targeted affirmative action by Black participants). Regression analyses revealed that affirmative action support was significantly associated with a Democrat affiliation, a Black or Hispanic race, and perceived discrimination against Blacks and Hispanics. These findings are consistent with social dominance theory (whereby group status threat may influence Hispanic affirmative action support) and the altruism‐born‐of‐suffering theory (whereby adverse discriminatory experiences of Blacks may lead to greater empathy and support for affirmative action).
The effectiveness of the OECD Guidelines' NCP procedure
Authors: Mayar Aziza , Maas Karen
Published: September 2024

The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises have become increasingly relevant in the debate on the role of business in society. This instrument for responsible business conduct (RBC) is considered to be unique due to its implementation mechanism, the National Contact Point (NCP) procedure. The NCP procedure applies a pragmatic stakeholder engagement approach to contribute to the effectiveness of the OECD Guidelines. However, little is known about the effects of the NCP procedure. To fill this gap, this study provides insights into the ex‐post effects of the Dutch NCP procedure on solving non‐compliance issues, the RBC performance of MNEs, and societal impact. This study developed a framework of different layers of effects. It used this framework to gather and analyze empirical data through interviews with parties that have participated in non‐compliance procedures. The effects found are mainly related to solving issues, while the effects on RBC within MNEs and their societal impact seem limited. Based on the findings, this study concludes that the full potential of the OECD Guidelines remains unrealized in most of the investigated cases.
Improved platelet separation performance from whole blood using an acoustic fluidics system
Authors: Sakai Kazuko , Ohara Shuta , Tanaka Junko , Suda Kenichi , Muramatsu Takamichi , Uematsu Chihiro , Tsutani Yasuhiro , Mitsudomi Tetsuya , Nishio Kazuto
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the effectiveness of acoustic separation for platelet analysis in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), comparing it with traditional centrifugation methods. In total, 10 patients with NSCLC and 10 healthy volunteers provided peripheral blood samples, which were processed using either acoustic separation or centrifugation to isolate platelets. The study included whole transcriptome analysis of platelets, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and tumor tissue samples, employing hierarchical clustering and Gene Ontology analysis to explore gene expression differences. Acoustic separation proved more efficient than centrifugation in terms of platelet yield, recovery rate, and RNA yield. Gene expression profiles of platelets from patients with NSCLC showed distinct patterns compared with healthy volunteers, indicating tumor‐influenced alterations. Gene Ontology analysis revealed enrichment in pathways associated with platelet activation and the tumor microenvironment. This finding indicates the potential of acoustic isolation in platelet separation and its relevance in understanding the unique gene expression profile of platelets in patients with NSCLC. The findings of this study suggested that platelets from cancer patients separated by acoustic techniques exhibited tumor‐specific alterations and provided new insights into the diagnosis of cancer in platelet analysis systems in clinical practice.
Identification of ENO‐1 positive extracellular vesicles as a circulating biomarker for monitoring of Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Uotani Koji , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Ueda Koji , Yoshida Aki , Iwata Shintaro , Morita Takuya , Kiyono Masahiro , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Takeda Ken , Hasei Joe , Yoshioka Yusuke , Ochiya Takahiro , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: September 2024

The lack of circulating biomarkers for tumor monitoring is a major problem in Ewing sarcoma management. The development of methods for accurate tumor monitoring is required, considering the high recurrence rate of drug‐resistant Ewing sarcoma. Here, we describe a sensitive analytical technique for tumor monitoring of Ewing sarcoma by detecting circulating extracellular vesicles secreted from Ewing sarcoma cells. Proteomic analysis of Ewing sarcoma cell‐derived extracellular vesicles identified 564 proteins prominently observed in extracellular vesicles from three Ewing sarcoma cell lines. Among these, CD99, SLC1A5, and ENO‐1 were identified on extracellular vesicles purified from sera of patients with Ewing sarcoma before treatment but not on extracellular vesicles from those after treatment and healthy individuals. Notably, not only Ewing sarcoma‐derived extracellular vesicles but also Ewing sarcoma cells demonstrated proteomic expression of CD99 and ENO‐1 on their surface membranes. ENO‐1+CD63+ extracellular vesicle detection was reduced after tumor resection while both CD99+CD63+ and ENO‐1+CD63+ extracellular vesicles were detected in serum from Ewing sarcoma‐bearing mice. Finally, the accuracy of liquid biopsy targeting these candidates was assessed using extracellular vesicles from the sera of patients with Ewing sarcoma. Elevated ENO‐1+CD81+ extracellular vesicles in the serum of patients before treatments distinguished patients with Ewing sarcoma from healthy individuals with an area under the curve value of 0.92 (P < 0.001) and reflected the tumor burden in patients with Ewing sarcoma during multidisciplinary treatments. Collectively, circulating ENO‐1+CD81+ extracellular vesicle detection could represent a novel tool for tumor monitoring of Ewing sarcoma.
Common principles of macrophage biology in blood–tissue barriers
Authors: Hiraga Shin‐ichiro , Masuda Takahiro
Published: September 2024

Blood–tissue barriers play crucial roles in specialized tissues such as the central nervous system (CNS), eye, testis, and placenta. Tissue‐resident macrophages in these tissues are indispensable for maintaining tissue homeostasis and responding to pathological conditions. Recent advances in high‐throughput and high‐dimensional single‐cell analysis techniques, coupled with fate‐mapping tools, have revealed a remarkable diversity of tissue‐resident macrophages at the blood–tissue barrier. However, while comprehensive expression profiling has revealed the heterogeneity of macrophages within individual tissues, the commonalities of macrophages across anatomically similar structures like blood–tissue barriers remain poorly understood. This review focuses on the diversity and functional specialization of macrophages in tissues with blood–tissue barriers, highlighting recent insights into their anatomical distribution, developmental origins, phenotypic characteristics, and roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis. These findings may deepen our understanding of macrophage adaptation mechanisms in tissues with blood–tissue barriers, potentially leading to improved therapies for related disorders. Furthermore, examining the similarities and differences of macrophages across tissues may elucidate the molecular underpinnings of tissue‐specific adaptation mechanisms and functional specialization.
Living With Spasticity During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of Patient, Carer and Physician Experiences
Authors: Sakel Mohamed , Saunders Karen , Faruqui Rafey , Keene Jamie , Wilkinson David
Published: September 2024

Background

Approximately 4.4 million people in England (8% of the total population) are living with a long‐term neurological condition. Within this group of vulnerable individuals, there will be individuals living with severe spasticity that requires regular outpatient treatment with botulinum toxin injection. The closure of outpatient spasticity services during the pandemic impacted individuals who required spasticity treatment and their carers, as well as the specialist clinicians responsible for service delivery.

Objectives

We aimed to gain insight into the experiences of individuals living with spasticity, their carers and a clinical spasticity service lead during the pandemic, and to reflect on potential learning for the future.

Methods

A qualitative study was designed using semi‐structured interviews conducted by telephone. Participants comprised patients living with a long‐term neurological condition who attended outpatient spasticity clinics before the start of the pandemic in England, primary carers who accompanied patients attending these clinics and a clinical spasticity service lead. Data were audio recorded, transcribed, anonymised and coded. Data analysis utilised the One Sheet of Paper thematic approach to identify themes, which were discussed and analysed by the interdisciplinary research team and two patient and carer participants.

Results

Out of the 11 participants recruited, aged 36–77 years, seven comprised people living with spasticity related to a long‐term neurological condition, three were carers and one was a clinical spasticity service lead. Six participants were male and five were female. Among the participants, four were stroke survivors, two were living with spinal cord injury and one was living with multiple sclerosis. Analysis revealed six major themes: experience of living with spasticity during the pandemic; impact of the pandemic on patient, carer and clinician health; access to and experience of outpatient clinic appointments; coping strategies during the pandemic; system improvements; and learning from the pandemic period.

Conclusion

These findings contribute research knowledge to a very limited research knowledge base and suggest that there is scope for improving system and service delivery through the allocation of research funding to senior clinicians working in this specialist area.
Quality Assessment of Cryopreserved Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Products: Evaluation of Two Methods for Flow Cytometric Viability Testing
Authors: Rimac Vladimira , Bojanić Ines , Škifić Marijana , Dabelić Sanja , Golubić Ćepulić Branka
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The standard flow cytometry method for viability testing using 7‐aminoactinomycin D (7‐AAD) determines cells in necrosis and late apoptosis. The colony‐forming unit (CFU) assay, which evaluates the proliferation ability of HSCs, is also used in graft quality assessment despite known deficiencies that make this assay impractical in routine clinical settings. The aim was to compare the effectiveness of the flow cytometry 7‐AAD/annexin V method with the 7‐AAD method in assessing the quality of HSCs in autologous and allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) products.

Methods

Thirty autologous and 30 allogeneic fresh and thawed cryopreserved PBSC products were included in this study. The viability of HSCs was determined using the 7‐AAD method and 7‐AAD/annexin V method on a flow cytometer, while their clonogenic capacity was assessed by CFU assay.

Results

There was an excellent correlation for CD34+ cell viability between the 7‐AAD and the 7‐AAD/annexin V method for fresh samples (Rs = 0.930, p < 0.001) and a good correlation for thawed PBSC samples (Rs = 0.739, p < 0.001). Excellent correlation was observed for post‐thaw CD34+ cell recovery between the two methods for viability (Rs = 0.980, p < 0.001). Statistical analysis showed a weak correlation between CFU‐GM recovery and CD34+ cell recovery, regardless of which viability testing method was used (7‐AAD method p = 0.021, Rs = 0.298; 7‐AAD/annexin V method p = 0.029, Rs = 0.282).

Conclusions

Results of this study showed that in the quality assessment of cryopreserved PBSC product viability, the 7‐AAD/annexin V method had no added value compared to the 7‐AAD method, which was suitable enough for routine quality control of cryopreserved autologous and allogeneic PBSC samples.
Application of Antioxidant‐ and Antimicrobial‐Rich Extracts From Hass Avocado Pulp in the Development of Chitosan/Gelatin‐Based Active Packaging Films for Raw Meat Preservation
Authors: Tran Thi Tuong Vi , Dang Thanh‐Thuy , Lam Nguyen Duy , Nguyen Quoc‐Duy , Tran Tuan Sang , Nguyen Thi‐Van‐Linh
Published: September 2024

In the present study, the ethanolic extracts derived from Hass avocado pulp were observed to exhibit exceptional bioactive qualities and demonstrate bactericidal efficacy against a wide range of microorganisms, encompassing both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, as well as fungi. Therefore, this work aimed to develop a biodegradable active film by incorporating the Hass avocado extracts into chitosan/gelatin‐based film (HGCF) for the preservation of beef and pork. The study reveals that the chitosan/gelatin‐based film (GCF) and HGCF exhibit significant water stability and absorption capabilities. HGCF offered the synergy of antimicrobial properties of Hass avocado extracts and high swelling in water of chitosan/gelatin blend to absorb liquid discharged from fresh meat for prolonged storage. HGCF demonstrated a significant effectiveness in controlling microbial density in comparison to uncoated samples and samples coated with plain gelatin/chitosan film. In detail, HGCF was able to partially eliminate Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli during storage, resulting in the densities after 14 days that were similar to those of uncoated meat samples after 6 days. These results demonstrate the potential of HGCF as active packaging for food preservation and advance the sustainable production and preservation of meat products.
An Experimental Study to Optimize Neuromuscular Blockade Protocols in Cynomolgus Macaques: Monitoring, Doses, and Antagonism
Authors: Letscher Hélène , Lemaitre Julien , Burban Emma , Le Grand Roger , Bruhns Pierre , Relouzat Francis , Gouel‐Chéron Aurélie
Published: September 2024

Background

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are a crucial component of anesthesia and intensive care through the relaxation of skeletal muscles. They can lead to adverse reactions such as postoperative residual neuromuscular block. Only one agent is capable of an instant block reversal in deep block situations, but is restricted to aminosteroid agents. Among animal models, non‐human primates are an essential model for a great diversity of human disease models. The main objective of this study was to establish a model for NMBA monitoring with current available drugs before testing new reversal agents.

Methods

Seven healthy male cynomolgus macaques were randomly assigned to this study. Experiments using macaques were approved by the local ethical committee (CEtEA #44). All animals were anesthetized according to institutional guidelines, with ketamine and medetomidine, allowing IV line placement and tracheal intubation. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. Either rocuronium bromine (with or without sugammadex reversal) or atracurium besylate was evaluated. Monitoring was performed with two devices, TOF‐Watch and ToFscan, measuring the T4/T1 and the T4/Tref ratios, respectively. Nonparametric Mann–Whitney statistical analyses were done when indicated.

Results

NMBA monitoring required adaptation compared to humans, such as stimulus intensity and electrode placement, to be efficient and valid in cynomolgus macaques. When administered, both NMBAs induced deep and persistent neuro‐muscular block at equivalent doses to clinical doses in humans. The rocuronium‐induced profound neuromuscular block could be reversed using the cyclodextrin sugammadex as a reversal agent. We report no adverse effects in these models by clinical observation, blood chemistry, or complete blood count.

Conclusion

These results support the use of non‐human primate models for neuromuscular block monitoring. This represented the first step before the forthcoming testing of new NMBA‐reversal agents.
Characteristics of the Serum Microbiota and Circulating Metabolites in Cynomolgus Monkeys With Spontaneous Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tian Chaoyang , Yang Qunhui , Lv Haizhou , Yue Feng
Published: September 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is widely recognized as a serious global public health concern with a substantial economic burden on patients, their families, and society. Accumulating evidence suggests that an etiologic role for serum microbiota and circulating metabolites in the pathogenesis of T2DM. This study aims to characterize the serum microbiota and circulating metabolites in cynomolgus monkeys with spontaneous T2DM, and provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of clinical T2DM.

Methods

We collected serum samples of the 14 cynomolgus monkeys (15–20 years old, male) for serum microbiota analysis by 16S rRNA gene V3‐V4 region amplicon sequencing and circulating metabolites analysis by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, of which seven were spontaneous T2DM cynomolgus monkeys and seven were healthy controls.

Results

Our results showed that the serum microbiota abundance and diversity were significantly increased in cynomolgus monkeys with spontaneous T2DM compared to healthy controls, the phyla of Cyanobacteria and Chloroflexi and the genera of Lactobacillus, rhodobacter and collinsella were also significantly increased. A total of 114 serum differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified, of which 22 were selected as potential biomarkers candidates related to spontaneous T2DM in cynomolgus monkeys by multivariate data analysis. In addition, serum levels of total SCFAs, acetate, butyrate, caproate, isobutyrate, and isovalerate were also significantly increased in the present study. The correlation network analyses have selected certain key DEMs, such as D‐Psicose, 4‐Oxoproline, D‐Glutamine, and Hydroxyphenyllactic acid, which may serve as potential biomarkers for distinguishing between T2DM and healthy controls.

Conclusion

Our results provide preliminary insights on perturbed serum microbiota and circulating metabolites of cynomolgus monkeys with spontaneous T2DM. These findings would be useful to develop microbiota‐based strategies for T2DM prevention and control.
How Do Consumers Describe Cannabis? Using a Sorting Task to Create a Lexicon to Describe Cannabis
Authors: Gorman Mackenzie , McSweeney Matthew B.
Published: September 2024

Cannabis consumers' preference while selecting cannabis products, specifically dried flower, has been undergoing a drastic change as more consumers have begun considering the impact that flavor has on their purchasing intent of different cannabis species (including Indica, Sativa, and or hybrid varieties). As such, the objective of this study was to quantify consumers' sensory perceptions of cannabis strains currently on the market. The researchers used Natural Language Processing (NLP) and online North American cannabis retailers, cannabis user reviews, and other informative cannabis websites to identify 107 different descriptors. Cannabis consumers (n = 123) were asked to complete a free word sorting task on the 107 most frequently cited sensory descriptors identified using NLP, as well as identify which attributes they associated with high and low‐quality cannabis. The consumers sorted the descriptors into 10 different categories (fruit, berry/dried fruit, savory, floral, spices, spicy, potent, smoke, roasted, and confectionary). As the cannabis market continues to grow and mature in North America, this study presents a baseline of how consumers describe different cannabis varieties.
APPLICATION OF BENZOCARBAZOLE MOLECULAR MIGRATION MARKERS IN RECONSTRUCTING RESERVOIR FILLING AT THE SOLVEIG FIELD, NORWEGIAN NORTH SEA
Authors: Garlichs Thorsten Uwe , di Primio Rolando , Schwark Lorenz
Published: September 2024

Benzocarbazole (BC) migration tracers were used to investigate the complex filling of reservoir segments at the Solveig field in the Norwegian North Sea. The study suggests that the benzocarbazole ratio [a]/([a]+[c]) of crude oils and extracts decreases with inferred increasing migration distance. The complex filling history of the Solveig field is evident from the observation of variable degrees of palaeo biodegradation associated with two palaeo oil‐water contacts in residual oil zones below non‐ to moderately biodegraded live oil columns. Live oil properties also vary significantly across the field. Benzocarbazole ratios (BCRs) obtained from oils and reservoir core extracts appear not to be affected by biodegradation and indicate a migration and filling trend from NW to SE. The BCR values were set by the initial phase of filling and do not show any overprint effects as a result of later and more mature oil charges.

BCRs from both oils and extracts of reservoir cores, particularly those composed of clean sands, helped to reconstruct migration processes in the Solveig field. Migration is construed to have first filled reservoir segment D in the NW of the field and to have continued further east towards segment C, and then via segment B and finally into segment A. Migration then continued along the southern margin of the Haugaland High to a well location to the east of the Solveig field. A fractionation effect for benzocarbazoles derived from oils versus those from extracts was noted and was attributed to differential partitioning behavior. Nevertheless, spatial trends for oil‐ and extract‐derived BCRs were congruent. This allowed the generation of spatially more highly‐resolved benzocarbazole datasets for migration assessment by combining data from both samples types (oil and reservoir extracts) if partitioning is accounted for.
STRATIGRAPHY AND DIAGENESIS OF THE THAMAMA‐B RESERVOIR ZONE AND ITS SURROUNDING DENSE ZONES IN ABU DHABI OILFIELDS AND EQUIVALENT OMAN OUTCROPS
Authors: Ehrenberg S. N. , Neilson J. E. , Gomez‐Rivas E. , Oxtoby N. H. , Jayachandran I.S.A.J. , Adlan Q. , Vahrenkamp V. C.
Published: September 2024

We review published studies characterizing the Thamama‐B reservoir zone in the upper Kharaib Formation (late Barremian) in Abu Dhabi oilfields and at outcrops in Oman. Available data for oxygen and carbon isotope compositions, fluid inclusion measurements, cement abundance and formation water composition are interpreted in terms of a paragenetic model for the Thamama‐B in field F in Abu Dhabi where the interval is deeply buried. The present synthesis provides a useful basis for understanding and predicting reservoir quality in static models and undrilled prospects, as well as for planning promising directions for further research. The goals of this study were to summarize the geologic setting and petrology of the Thamama‐B reservoir and its surrounding dense zones, and to examine how sedimentology, stratigraphy and diagenesis have interacted to control porosity and permeability. Results that may have useful applications for similar microporous limestone reservoirs in general include:

the depositional environments and stratigraphy of the subject strata;

a model for how porosity variations result mainly from calcite cementation sourced from stylolites, with little dependence on lithofacies other than the localization of chemical compaction by depositional clay linked to sequence stratigraphy;

the use of solidity (rock thickness with porosity removed) as a check on porosity creation by burial dissolution;

observations linking high‐permeability streaks with storm lag beds and fractures;

the concept of strata being gradually buried through a relatively static salinity‐stratified water column;

integration of conventional and clumped stable‐isotope data with petrologic observations to constrain the timing of porosity evolution.
GEOCHEMICAL ANALYSES OF EOCENE OILS IN DEEPLY BURIED SANDSTONE RESERVOIRS IN THE DONGYING DEPRESSION, BOHAI BAY BASIN, NE CHINA
Authors: Zhou Xiaoxiao , Li Xiaojun , Song Xu , Li Yuzhi , Wang Xuejun , Han Ke , Yan Haiqing
Published: September 2024

We report the results of organic geochemical analyses of 19 crude oil samples from reservoir sandstones in the 4th Member of the Eocene Shahejie Formation from wells in the Minfeng Sag, Dongying Depression, Bohai Bay Basin (NE China). In addition, 42 Shahejie Formation core samples of dark‐coloured mudstones, including 28 extracts, were analysed. Geochemical data included Rock‐Eval measurements, gas chromatography, GC‐MS and diamondoid analyses.

Maceral analyses showed that mudstones in the 4th Member of the Shahejie Formation (“Es4”) contain Types I and II1 kerogen. The member can be divided into upper (Es4s) and lower (Es4x) intervals. Oil‐prone Es4s rock samples have good to excellent hydrocarbon‐generating potential based on calculated initial TOC values; Rock‐Eval Tmax values indicate that they are sufficiently mature for hydrocarbon generation. Analytical results suggest that both Es4s and Es4x mudrocks are potential source rocks for oils produced at fields in the Minfeng Sag.

Analysed crude oils from the Minfeng Sag were classified into three genetic groups. Group I oils are mature to highly mature and have undergone a moderate degree of thermal cracking. They are characterized by a low β‐carotane/nC25 ratio and C30 4‐methylsterane index (4MI); high values of oleanane index (oleanane /C30‐hopane), C27 diasterane/C27 regular sterane (C27Dia/C27), regular sterane/17α hopane and gammacerane/C30 hopane (G/H); and medium pristane/phytane ratios (Pr/Ph). This suggests that Group I oils are mostly derived from source rocks in the upper part of the Es4x unit which are interbedded with evaporites. Group II oils are mature and have high 4MI and Pr/Ph ratios, low oleanane index, regular sterane/17α hopane and C27Dia/C27 ratios, and mediumβ‐carotane/nC25 and G/H. These features are similar to those of Es4s source rocks, indicating their genetic correlation. Group III oils show the lowest maturity and highβ‐carotane/nC25 and regular sterane/17α hopane, and low oleanane index, Pr/Ph and 4MI. Previously‐published data indicates that oils similar to those in Group III were mainly sourced by Es4s mudstones.
A case report of minimal change disease associated with Kimura disease complicated by optic neuritis
Authors: Tanemoto Fumiaki , Mimura Imari , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: September 2024

Kimura disease (KD) is a rare chronic inflammatory disease that typically presents with soft subcutaneous granulomas in the head and neck regions characterized by elevated blood eosinophils and immunoglobulin E (IgE) level, whose aetiology remains poorly elucidated. Minimal change disease (MCD) has been reported as one of the renal manifestations that KD can present with, indicating that they may share a common pathology. Herein we describe a case of recurrent MCD associated with KD. During a follow‐up period of 15 years, MCD recurred three times with increased disease activity of KD as reflected by flares of skin lesions and elevated peripheral eosinophils, and responded well to increased doses of prednisolone and cyclosporin. Notably, visual field defects in his right monocular vision appeared at the time of third recurrence of MCD, leading to the diagnosis of optic neuritis (ON). Optic nerve involvement associated with KD is extremely rare, and this case is noteworthy in that inflammation in the optic nerve was observed at the time of MCD recurrence with increased disease activity of KD, suggesting the existence of a common pathology between KD, MCD, and ON. In patients with KD, an imbalance of T helper (Th) cells with Th2 cells predominating over Th1 cells is observed, which results in hyperIgEemia and eosinophilia. This Th2‐predominant immunological status in KD considered to predispose to MCD may also predispose to ON. MCD with a background of Th2‐predominant immune state may require attention to the possibility of complication of ON.
Challenges and peculiarities of nursing activities in intermediate care units compared with internal medicine wards: A prospective study
Authors: Sibilio Serena , Zaboli Arian , Parodi Marta , Ferretto Paolo , Milazzo Daniela , Trentin Monica , Stefani Francesca , Mantiero Elisa , Brigo Francesco , Marchetti Massimo , Turcato Gianni
Published: September 2024

Background

Intermediate Care Units (IMCs) are specialized facilities located within other departments in many Western countries. They are designed to manage patients with conditions that are not severe enough to require an intensive care unit. IMCs aim to fill the gap between regular wards and intensive care units, necessitating an adequate allocation of nursing resources.

Aims

The aims of the study are to (1) evaluate and compare the nursing workload for patients admitted to a regular ward or to an IMC; (2) quantify nursing workload in terms of activities and time spent to perform them; and (3) evaluate which patient characteristics predict nursing work overload.

Study Design and Methods

This is an observational, prospective, single‐centre study. We included patients admitted to the Internal Medicine department in a general hospital in Italy, between 1 September and 31 December 2022, either in the regular ward or in the IMC. Clinical characteristics, comorbidity, functionality, frailty, severity and acuity of patients were recorded using validated assessment tools. Nursing activities in the first 3 days of hospitalization were recorded and standardized as activities/5 min/patient/day. An average number of nursing activities/5 min/patient/day exceeding the 85th percentile was considered nursing work overload. Multivariate logistic regression models were conducted to identify patient‐related risk factors associated with nursing work overload.

Results

We included 333 patients, 55% (183/333) admitted to the IMC and 45% (150/333) to the regular ward. In the IMC, the average nursing activities were 32.4/5 min/patient/day compared with 22.6 in the regular ward. Nursing work overload was found in 6% (9/150) of patients admitted to the regular ward compared with 23% (42/183) in the IMC.

Conclusion

There is a significantly higher demand for nursing care among patients in the IMC, with higher daily average of nursing activities.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The allocation of nursing resources within the IMC should be greater than in the regular ward because of higher workload.
The Puccinia striiformis effector Pst11215 manipulates mitochondria to suppress host immunity by promoting TaVDIP1‐mediated ubiquitination of TaVDAC1
Authors: Pan Qinglin , Zhang Yueyang , Yang Yang , Qiao Yixin , Qian Yingrui , Wang Jinmian , Wang Xiaojie , Kang Zhensheng , Liu Jie
Published: September 2024

Mitochondria‐induced cell death is closely correlated with plant immune responses against pathogens. However, the molecular mechanisms by which pathogens manipulate mitochondria to suppress host resistance remain poorly understood.

In this study, a haustorium‐specific effector Pst11215 from the wheat stripe rust pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) was characterized by host‐induced gene silencing. The interaction partners regulated by Pst11215 were screened using the yeast two‐hybrid system. In addition, Pst11215‐mediated immune regulation modes were further determined.

The results showed that Pst11215 was required for Pst virulence. Pst11215 interacted with the wheat voltage‐dependent anion channel TaVDAC1, the negative regulator of wheat resistance to stripe rust, in mitochondria. Furthermore, the E3 ubiquitin ligase TaVDIP1 targeted and ubiquitinated TaVDAC1, which can be promoted by Pst11215. TaVDIP1 conferred enhanced wheat susceptibility to Pst by cooperating with TaVDAC1. Overexpression of TaVDIP1 reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and abnormal mitochondria.

Our study revealed that Pst11215 functions as an important pathogenicity factor secreted to the host mitochondria to compromise wheat resistance to Pst possibly by facilitating TaVDIP1‐mediated ubiquitination of TaVDAC1, thereby protecting mitochondria from ROS‐induced impairment. This research unveils a novel regulation mode of effectors hijacking host mitochondria to contribute to pathogen infection.
QURAYYAH PAINTED WARE OUTSIDE THE HEJAZ: EVIDENCE OF A COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE IN THE LATE BRONZE AND EARLY IRON AGES?
Authors: Kleiman Assaf , Kleiman Sabine , Ben‐Yosef Erez
Published: September 2024

Qurayyah Painted Ware (QPW) is the most solid evidence of contacts between the Hejaz and the southern Levant in the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages. However, even after decades of research, there is still much uncertainty regarding the chronology of these contacts and their nature. Here, we present an exceptionally rich collection of QPW fragments documented recently in the copper smelting sites of the Timna Valley. We argue that the distribution of this painted ware in the southern Levant extended from the early thirteenth to ninth centuries BC and that its prominent presence in industrial contexts in the Aravah Valley is related to the transmission of metallurgical ‘know‐how’ from the Hejaz, which included rituals in which QPW vessels took part. While the original exchange probably involved craftspeople from the Hejaz in the Aravah's metalworking, the continuous use of QPW throughout several centuries in the southern Levant is best explained as a reflection of an enduring community of practice of the local populations with the metalworkers of the Hejaz.
Burden of Asthma Among a Sample of Primary Schoolchildren in Jordan Based on Child and Parental Report
Authors: Al‐Motlaq Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Background

Asthma is a major health issue with an extensive burden to family and health systems. Different measures were used previously to assess disease burden, including prevalence, school performance, parental perceptions, and cost among others.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to assess the burden of asthma among schoolchildren using parental and child reports and metered‐dose inhaler (MDI) demonstration.

Methods

A descriptive exploratory design based on parent and child self‐reports was employed. Parents of children with asthma completed a questionnaire about asthma management and burden including symptoms and health services use. A sample of children with asthma completed a questionnaire measuring their perception of asthma management at school. An assessment of children's proper use of MDI inhalers was also conducted.

Results

The burden of asthma was high in the current sample with the majority of children experiencing symptoms, asthma exacerbations, emergency department (ED) visits, and admission because of their asthma. The majority of participating children also performed incorrect inhaler technique, which reflects uncontrolled asthma and poor management. Parental perception of their child's health compared well with their burden of asthma.

Conclusion

The outcomes of this study and previous reports show an alarmingly high burden of asthma. This calls for collaboration between professionals and stakeholders with children and caregivers in planning and implementing care, including improving the school environment.
Why do some African firms export? The role of regional economic communities?
Authors: Okumu Ibrahim Mike , Mawejje Joseph , Kilimani Nicholas , Bbaale Edward
Published: September 2024

This article examines whether African manufacturing firms are strategically located for regional market access. The study uses a large dataset from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys and is based on 6800 firms from 26 African countries. The study findings show that firms located in countries with dual membership to Regional Economic Communities (RECs) exhibit a significantly higher propensity to export than firms in countries affiliated with a single REC. Additionally, our findings suggest that RECs enhance export participation by mitigating customs delays. However, constraints in the business environment can hinder the propensity of firms to export. In particular, the study identifies informal competition and power outages as substantial barriers that increase the cost of doing business and diminish the potential benefits of REC membership. These results underscore the importance of advancing economic integration across Africa to bolster export participation. Additional improvements in the domestic business environments should address the constraints that hinder firms' international competitiveness.
No Effects of Carbohydrate Ingestion on Muscle Metabolism or Performance During Short‐Duration High‐Intensity Intermittent Exercise
Authors: Vigh‐Larsen Jeppe F. , Kruse Daniel Z. , Moseholt Maja B. , Hansen Laura G. B. , Christensen Ann‐Louise L. , Bæk Amanda , Andersen Ole E. , Mohr Magni , Overgaard Kristian
Published: September 2024

Carbohydrates are critical for high‐intensity exercise performance. However, the effects of carbohydrate supplementation on muscle metabolism and performance during short‐duration high‐intensity intermittent exercise remain inadequately explored. Our aim was to address this aspect in a randomized, counterbalanced, double‐blinded crossover design. Eleven moderately‐to‐well‐trained males performed high‐intensity intermittent cycling receiving carbohydrate (CHO, ~55 g/h) or placebo (PLA) fluid supplementation. Three exercise periods (EX1‐EX3) were completed comprising 10 × 45 s at ~105% Wmax interspersed with 135 s rest between bouts and ~20 min between periods. Repeated sprint ability (5 × 6 s sprints with 24 s recovery) was assessed at baseline and after each period. Thigh muscle biopsies were obtained at baseline and before and after EX3 to determine whole‐muscle and fiber‐type‐specific glycogen depletion. No differences were found in muscle glycogen degradation at the whole‐muscle (p = 0.683) or fiber‐type‐specific level (p = 0.763–0.854) with similar post‐exercise whole‐muscle glycogen concentrations (146 ± 20 and 122 ± 15 mmol·kg−1 dw in CHO and PLA, respectively). Repeated sprint ability declined by ~9% after EX3 with no between‐condition differences (p = 0.971) and no overall differences in ratings of perceived exertion (p = 0.550). This was despite distinctions in blood glucose concentrations throughout exercise, reaching post‐exercise levels of 5.3 ± 0.2 and 4.1 ± 0.2 mmol·L−1 (p < 0.001) in CHO and PLA, respectively, accompanied by fivefold higher plasma insulin levels in CHO (p < 0.001). In conclusion, we observed no effects of carbohydrate ingestion on net muscle glycogen breakdown or sprint performance during short‐duration high‐intensity intermittent exercise despite elevated blood glucose and insulin levels. These results therefore question the efficacy of carbohydrate supplementation strategies in high‐intensity intermittent sports.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐B*15:699 and HLA‐C*03:677 alleles identified in Danish individuals
Authors: Nørgaard Maja , Drechsler Louise Ørnskov , Møller Bjarne Kuno
Published: September 2024

Two novel HLA alleles HLA‐B*15:699 and HLA‐C*03:677 were detected during routine HLA typing by next generation sequencing.
A novel HLA‐DQB1*06 variant allele, HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01:40, identified by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Kouniaki Diamanto , Tarassi Katerina , Tsirogianni Alexandra
Published: September 2024

The HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01:40 allele differs from HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution in intron 2.