bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of WHO immunologic criteria for treatment failure: implications for detection of virologic failure, evolution of drug resistance and choice of second‐line therapy in India
Authors: Vallabhaneni Snigdha , Chandy Sara , Heylen Elsa , Ekstrand Maria L
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Routine HIV viral load (VL) testing is not available in India. We compared test performance characteristics of immunologic failure (IF) against the gold standard of virologic failure (VF), examined evolution of drug resistance among those who stayed on a failing regimen because they did not meet criteria for IF and assessed implications for second‐line therapy.

Methods

Participants on first‐line highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Bangalore, India, were monitored for 24 months at six‐month intervals, with CD4 count, VL and genotype, if VL>1000 copies/ml. Standard WHO criteria were used to define IF; VF was defined as having two consecutive VL>1000 copies/ml or one VL>10,000 copies/ml. Resistance was assessed using standard International AIDS Society‐USA (IAS‐USA) recommendations.

Results

Of 522 participants (67.6% male, mean age of 37.5; 85.1% on nevirapine‐based and 40.4% on d4T‐containing regimens), 57 (10.9%) had VF, 38 (7.3%) had IF and 13 (2.5%) had both VF and IF. The sensitivity of immunologic criteria to detect VF was 22.8%, specificity was 94.6% and positive predictive value was 34.2%. Forty‐four participants with VF only continued on their failing first‐line regimen; by the end of the study period, 90.9% had M184V, 63.6% had thymidine analogue mutations (TAMs), 34.1% had resistance to tenofovir, and 63.6% had resistance to etravirine.

Conclusions

WHO IF criteria have low sensitivity for detecting VF, and the presence of IF poorly predicts VF. Relying on CD4 counts leads to unnecessary switches to second‐line HAART and continuation of failing regimens, jeopardizing future therapeutic options. Universal access to VL monitoring would avoid costly switches to second‐line HAART and preserve future treatment options.
Wheeze Among Children Born During COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Barbieri Elisa , Cantarutti Anna , Boracchini Riccardo , Bonadies Luca , Donà Daniele , Giaquinto Carlo , Baraldi Eugenio
Published: July 2024

This cohort study evaluates the association between the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown and rates of wheezing and use of respiratory medications among children in Italy.
The ERK5 pathway in BRAFV600E melanoma cells plays a role in development of acquired resistance to dabrafenib but not vemurafenib
Authors: Mondru Anil Kumar , Wilkinson Beth , Aljasir Mohammad A. , Alrumayh Ahmed , Greaves Georgia , Emmett Maxine , Albohairi Saad , Pritchard‐Jones Rowan , Cross Michael J.
Published: July 2024

Malignant melanoma, an aggressive skin cancer with a poor prognosis, frequently features BRAFV600E mutation resulting in activation of the MAPK pathway and melanocyte proliferation and survival. BRAFV600E inhibitors like vemurafenib and dabrafenib have enhanced patient survival, yet drug resistance remains a significant challenge. We investigated the role of the ERK5 pathway in BRAFV600E melanoma cells and cells with acquired resistance to PLX4720 (vemurafenib) and dabrafenib. In BRAFV600E melanoma, ERK5 inhibition minimally affected viability compared to ERK1/2 inhibition. In vemurafenib‐resistant cells, ERK5 inhibition alone didn't impact viability or restore drug sensitivity to vemurafenib. However, in dabrafenib‐resistant cells, ERK5 inhibition reduced viability and enhanced the anti‐proliferative effect of MEK1/2 inhibition. Targeting the ERK5 pathway may represent a therapeutic opportunity in dabrafenib‐resistant melanoma.
Acoustic Skyrmionic Mode Coupling and Transferring in a Chain of Subwavelength Metastructures
Authors: Sun Wen‐Jun , Zhou Nong , Chen Wan‐Na , Sheng Zong‐Qiang , Wu Hong‐Wei
Published: July 2024

Skyrmions, a stable topological vectorial textures characteristic with skyrmionic number, hold promise for advanced applications in information storage and transmission. While the dynamic motion control of skyrmions has been realized with various techniques in magnetics and optics, the manipulation of acoustic skyrmion has not been done. Here, the propagation and control of acoustic skyrmion along a chain of metastructures are shown. In coupled acoustic resonators made with Archimedes spiral channel, the skyrmion hybridization is found giving rise to bonding and antibonding skyrmionic modes. Furthermore, it is experimentally observed that the skyrmionic mode of acoustic velocity field distribution can be robustly transferred covering a long distance and almost no distortion of the skyrmion textures in a chain of metastructures, even if a structure defect is introduced in the travel path. The proposed localized acoustic skyrmionic mode coupling and propagating is expected in future applications for manipulating acoustic information storage and transfer.
Prediction of Novel Trigonal Chloride Superionic Conductors as Promising Solid Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang Yao , Ren Ziang , Zhang Jinsen , Lu Shaohua , Hua Chenqiang , Yuan Huadong , Luo Jianmin , Liu Yujing , Nai Jianwei , Tao Xinyong
Published: July 2024

Recently emerging lithium ternary chlorides have attracted increasing attention for solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) due to their favorable combination between ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability. However, a noticeable discrepancy in Li‐ion conductivity persists between chloride SSEs and organic liquid electrolytes, underscoring the need for designing novel chloride SSEs with enhanced Li‐ion conductivity. Herein, an intriguing trigonal structure (i.e., Li3SmCl6 with space group P3112) is identified using the global structure searching method in conjunction with first‐principles calculations, and its potential for SSEs is systematically evaluated. Importantly, the structure of Li3SmCl6 exhibits a high ionic conductivity of 15.46 mS cm−1 at room temperature due to the 3D lithium percolation framework distinct from previous proposals, associated with the unique in‐plane cation ordering and stacking sequences. Furthermore, it is unveiled that Li3SmCl6 possesses a wide electrochemical window of 0.73−4.30 V vs Li+/Li and excellent chemical interface stability with high‐voltage cathodes. Several other Li3MCl6 (M = Er, and In) materials with isomorphic structures to Li3SmCl6 are also found to be potential chloride SSEs, suggesting the broader applicability of this structure. This work reveals a new class of ternary chloride SSEs and sheds light on strategy for structure searching in the design of high‐performance SSEs.
Recent Progress and Perspective in Pure Water‐Fed Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Shaik Shajahan , Kundu Joyjit , Yuan Yuliang , Chung Wonsuk , Han Donggu , Lee Ung , Huang Hongwen , Choi Sang‐Il
Published: July 2024

Although anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer (AEMWE) is an emerging device in the green hydrogen production industry, the use of alkaline electrolyte tackles the practicality due to the issues of lowering system efficiency and environmental impacts. State‐of‐the‐art technology using pure water as an electrolyte is advancing to overcome the current challenges of AEMWE. In particular, the development of this technology requires a comprehensive evaluation of techno‐economic aspects, aiming to balance innovation with cost considerations. This involves the critical development of advanced catalysts, membranes, and devices designed for efficiency, as well as assessing their economic viability amidst prevailing technological challenges. This review delves into the timely technical challenges of developing pure water‐fed AEMWE, highlights current progress and research prospects, and suggests opportunities for advancing AEMWE technology. This review also emphasizes the importance of advanced characterization techniques for effective analysis and evaluation in this context.
Switching Reaction Pathways of CO2 Electroreduction by Modulating Cations in the Electrochemical Double Layer
Authors: Yang Jiahao , Jiao Jiapeng , Liu Shiqiang , Yin Yaoyu , Cheng Yingying , Wang Yiyong , Zhou Meng , Zhao Wenling , Tong Xing , Jing Lihong , Zhang Pei , Sun Xiaofu , Zhu Qinggong , Kang Xinchen , Han Buxing
Published: July 2024

Tuning the selectivity of CO2 electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) solely by changing electrolyte is a very attractive topic. In this study, we conducted CO2RR in different aqueous electrolytes over bulk metal electrodes. It was discovered that controlled CO2RR could be achieved by modulating cations in the electrochemical double layer. Specifically, ionic liquid cations in the electrolyte significantly inhibits the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), while yielding high Faraday efficiencies toward CO (FECO) or formate (FEformate) depending on the alkali metal cations. For example, the product could be switched from CO (FECO=97.3 %) to formate (FEformate=93.5 %) by changing the electrolyte from 0.1 M KBr‐0.5 M 1‐octyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (OmimBr) to 0.1 M CsBr‐0.5 M OmimBr aqueous solutions over pristine Cu foil electrode. In situ spectroscopy and theoretical calculations reveal that the ordered structure generated by the assembly of Omim+ under an applied negative potential alters the hydrogen bonding structure of the interfacial water, thereby inhibiting the HER. The difference in selectivity in the presence of different cations is attributed to the hydrogen bonding effect caused by Omim+, which alters the solvated structure of the alkali metal cations and thus affects the stabilization of intermediates of different pathways.
A systematic review: Biodegradation, mechanism, remediation strategies, and environmental impacts of microplastics
Authors: Nisha  , Joshi Harish Chandra
Published: July 2024

In the natural environment, plastics and microplastics (MPs) are difficult to break down due to their hydrophobicity, the presence of persistent covalent bonds, and their functional groups' resistance to attack. The destiny of both organic and inorganic pollutants at contaminated areas can be influenced by MPs ability to absorb them. Because of their enormous surface to volume ratio and chemical surface characteristics, MPs are able to absorb dangerous substances from their surroundings. Accordingly, the study's main objectives were to provide a concise review of characterization techniques of MP biodegradation techniques, including the nano‐enabled methods, and the gaps in current research were outlined. This review paper summarizes the degradation mechanism and efficiency of MPs in different circumstances. For the purpose of eliminating plastic pollution, this work will help for the further studies.
Radical C‐Glycosylation Using Photoexcitable Unprotected Glycosyl Borate
Authors: Miyamoto Yusuke , Murakami Sho , Sumida Yuto , Hirai Go , Ohmiya Hirohisa
Published: July 2024

We have developed radical C‐glycosylation using photoexcitable unprotected glycosyl borate. The direct excitation of glycosyl borate under visible light irradiation enabled the generation of anomeric radical without any photoredox catalysts. The in situ generated anomeric radical was applicable to the radical addition such as Giese‐type addition and Minisci‐type reaction to introduce alkyl and heteroaryl groups at the anomeric position. In addition, the radical–radical coupling between the glycosyl borate and acyl imidazolide provided unprotected acyl C‐glycosides.
Effect of ceria morphology on hydrogen production via methane steam reforming for membrane reformer
Authors: Baudh Anjali , Garjola Meenakshi , Sharma Rahul , Sharma Sweta , Upadhyay Rajesh Kumar
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen is a potential energy carrier in comparison to conventional fuels due to its high energy content. Methane is an attractive source for ‘on‐site’ production of hydrogen by using membrane reformer due to its low cost. However, such reformers are not well studied and high temperature operation of steam methane reforming (SMR) makes the integration with membrane separation difficult. Further, the main product of SMR is CO and H2 in which CO has an inhibition effect on the membrane separation process. Therefore, it is vital to synthesize a low temperature and low CO selective catalyst for a suitable integration with membrane reformer. Nickel‐based catalyst is widely used for SMR due to its low cost and high catalytic activity. CeO2 is a favoured support as it mobilizes the lattice oxygen and reduces the coke formation and CO selectivity. Though several studies are reported on CeO2 based support, the effect of CeO2 surface morphology is not studied for SMR. In the current work, Ni/CeO2 of different shapes (nanocube and nanorod) are synthesized. The complete characterization of the support was performed. The effect of support shape, calcination temperature, and reduction temperature on SMR activity is found at different operating temperatures. For each condition conversion, CO, CO2 selectivity, and hydrogen yield are calculated. The results show the CeO2 morphology has a considerable effect on conversion, CO selectivity, and hydrogen yield. It is found that ceria nanocube calcined at 550°C provides better performance at high temperature.
Selective Adsorption of Dyes and Fe3+ Sensing via Tb3+ Incorporation in an Anionic Cadmium‐Organic Framework
Authors: Liu Liu , Chen Duan , Dou Ai‐Na , Xu Quan‐Qing , Liu Feng‐Yi , Zhu Ai‐Xin , Zhu Rong‐Rong
Published: July 2024

A three‐dimensional (3D) anionic cadmium‐organic framework, namely [(CH3)2NH2][Cd1.5(DMTDC)2] ⋅ 2DMA ⋅ 0.5H2O (Cd‐MOF; DMA=N,N‐dimethylacetamide), was successfully synthesized under solvothermal conditions by using a linear thienothiophene‐containing dicarboxylate ligand, 3,4‐dimethylthieno [2,3‐b]‐thiophene‐2,5‐dicar‐boxylic acid (H2DMTDC). Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals that Cd‐MOF exhibits a 3D anionic framework with pcu α‐Po topology, featuring rectangle and rhombus‐shaped channels along b‐ and c‐ axis direction. Cd‐MOF demonstrates selective adsorption of cationic dyes over anionic and neutral dyes. Additionally, Tb3+‐loaded Cd‐MOF serves as a fast‐response fluorescence sensor for the sensitive detection of Fe3+ ions with a low limit of detection (8.90×10−7 M) through fluorescence quenching.
The detection of ACTH and insulin in equine plasma by solid‐phase extraction and micro‐flow LC/MSMS
Authors: Steel Rohan , Timms Mark , Bamford Nicholas , Spence Robert , Sillence Martin
Published: July 2024

Previous liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) methods for the detection of insulin and other similar peptide hormones in equine plasma relied on the use of antibody affinity extraction. As a result, these methods were not suitable for routine high‐throughput analysis. A solid‐phase extraction (SPE) method incorporating size exclusion as well as reversed‐phase interactions allows the selective extraction of peptide hormones such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), insulin and their synthetic analogues from equine plasma with approximately 80% extraction efficiencies. This extraction was combined with on‐column derivatisation with acetic anhydride, followed by tryptic digestion and analysis by micro‐LC/MSMS for high‐sensitivity peptide hormone detection. The analysis of tryptic peptides provides greater sensitivity and more robust chromatography compared with the analysis of intact insulin and ACTH. For quantitative analysis, isotopically labelled internal standards of target peptides can be prepared in the laboratory through the use of deuterated acetic anhydride. The utility of the method was assessed for the analysis of ACTH and insulin in samples from horses suffering from pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID).
Rainfall, peak river flow and flow variability drive spatio‐temporal change in the extent of riparian woodland in an African protected area savanna
Authors: Weiss J. A. , Cramer M. D. , Thompson D. I.
Published: July 2024

Verbal accounts, supported by limited ground‐based and satellite images, reveal decreasing riparian woodland and a loss of large trees along the rivers of the Kruger National Park (KNP, South Africa) over the last century. A multi‐decadal analysis was conducted to identify trends in extent and possible drivers of riparian woodland change. Aerial and satellite imagery (1936–2018) were used to quantify changes in the extent of riparian woodland at 18 sites on 14 rivers in KNP. These changes were compared in a multivariate time‐series with river flow and local rainfall. Particular attention was paid to cumulative flow effects, as well as the frequency and magnitude of large infrequent disturbances such as droughts and floods. Riparian tree cover fluctuated over the time period, and the trajectory of change varied between sites. Most (11) sites experienced a decrease in overall riparian tree cover over ~80 years, with these declines being significant at six sites. Peak flow and maximum rainfall events were strongly associated with these decreases, indicating that flood events are potentially the biggest driver of tree loss from the system. Indeed, the mega‐flood event of 2000 and subsequent large floods have resulted in substantial declines in riparian woodland extent in recent decades. Alternatively, flow variability and cumulative rainfall significantly influenced woodland expansion in isolated cases. With global change models predicting more erratic rainfall and an increased likelihood of large infrequent disturbances, together with increasing demands to abstract more water, the long‐term future of these dynamic habitats and their associated biota here is uncertain.
Growing degree‐days do not explain moth species' distributions at broad scales
Authors: Keefe Hannah E. , Kharouba Heather M.
Published: July 2024

Growing degree‐days (GDD), an estimate of an organism's growing season length, has been shown to be an important predictor of Lepidopteran species' distributions and could be influencing Lepidopteran range shifts to climate change. Yet, one understudied simplification in this literature is that the same thermal threshold is used in the calculations of GDD for all species instead of a species‐specific threshold. By characterizing the phenological process influenced by climate, a species‐specific estimate of GDD should improve the accuracy of species distribution models (SDMs). To test this hypothesis, we used published, experimentally estimated thermal thresholds and modeled the current geographic distribution of 30 moth species native to North America. We found that the predictive performance of models based on a species‐specific estimate of GDD was indistinguishable from models based on a standard estimate of GDD. This is likely because GDD was not an important predictor of these species' distributions. Our findings suggest that experimentally estimated thermal thresholds may not always scale up to be predictive at broad scales and that more work is needed to leverage the data from lab experiments into SDMs to accurately predict species' range shifts in response to climate change.
Epileptic seizure forecasting with wearable‐based nocturnal sleep features
Authors: Ding Tian Yue , Gagliano Laura , Jahani Amirhossein , Toffa Denahin H. , Nguyen Dang K. , Bou Assi Elie
Published: July 2024

Objective

Non‐invasive biomarkers have recently shown promise for seizure forecasting in people with epilepsy. In this work, we developed a seizure‐day forecasting algorithm based on nocturnal sleep features acquired using a smart shirt.

Methods

Seventy‐eight individuals with epilepsy admitted to the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal epilepsy monitoring unit wore the Hexoskin biometric smart shirt during their stay. The shirt continuously measures electrocardiography, respiratory, and accelerometry activity. Ten sleep features, including sleep efficiency, sleep latency, sleep duration, time spent in non‐rapid eye movement sleep (NREM) and rapid eye movement sleep (REM), wakefulness after sleep onset, average heart and breathing rates, high‐frequency heart rate variability, and the number of position changes, were automatically computed using the Hexoskin sleep algorithm. Each night's features were then normalized using a reference night for each patient. A support vector machine classifier was trained for pseudo‐prospective seizure‐day forecasting, with forecasting horizons of 16‐ and 24‐h to include both diurnal and nocturnal seizures (24‐h) or diurnal seizures only (16‐h). The algorithm's performance was assessed using a nested leave‐one‐patient‐out cross‐validation approach.

Results

Improvement over chance (IoC) performances were achieved for 48.7% and 40% of patients with the 16‐ and 24‐h forecasting horizons, respectively. For patients with IoC performances, the proposed algorithm reached mean IoC, sensitivity and time in warning of 34.3%, 86.0%, and 51.7%, respectively for the 16‐h horizon, and 34.2%, 64.4% and 30.2%, respectively, for the 24‐h horizon.

Significance

Smart shirt‐based nocturnal sleep analysis holds promise as a non‐invasive approach for seizure‐day forecasting in a subset of people with epilepsy. Further investigations, particularly in a residential setting with long‐term recordings, could pave the way for the development of innovative and practical seizure forecasting devices.

Plain Language Summary

Seizure forecasting with wearable devices may improve the quality of life of people living with epilepsy who experience unpredictable, recurrent seizures. In this study, we have developed a seizure forecasting algorithm using sleep characteristics obtained from a smart shirt worn at night by a large number of hospitalized patients with epilepsy (78). A daily seizure forecast was generated following each night using machine learning methods. Our results show that around half of people with epilepsy may benefit from such an approach.
Drug delivery pathways to the central nervous system via the brain glymphatic system circumventing the blood‐brain barrier
Authors: Wang Xiang , Yin Yue , Zhou Huaijuan , Chi Bowen , Guan Ling , Li Pei , Li Jinhua , Wang Yilong
Published: July 2024

The blood‐brain barrier (BBB) poses daunting challenges in treating diseases associated with the central nervous system (CNS). Recently, the traditional notion of the absence of the lymphatic system in the brain is evolving. The discovery of the glymphatic system in the brain has stimulated tremendous interest in developing new strategies for the treatment of CNS diseases. Leveraging the glymphatic system for CNS drug delivery may pave a new avenue to circumvent the BBB and achieve efficient drug delivery. The review focuses on the glymphatic system of the brain, discussing potential factors affecting its functions and exploring their connections with the meningeal lymphatic system. Finally, the review provides an overview of the drug delivery methods through the glymphatic system to circumvent BBB and regulate brain immunity. These innovative drug delivery methods may significantly improve drug utilization and create new avenues for the treatment of brain diseases.
Exploring developmental MeHg impact on extraembryonic and cardiac vessels and its effect on cardiomyocyte contractility
Authors: Ronconi‐Krüger Nathália , Müller Yara Maria Rauh , Nazari Evelise Maria
Published: July 2024

The toxicity of methylmercury (MeHg) during embryonic development is a relevant issue that remains unclear and deserves investigation. In this sense, there is evidence that links the intake of contaminated food with cardiovascular pathologies in human adults and children. Thus, this study aimed to verify the impact of MeHg on the structure and integrity of extraembryonic and cardiac blood vessels and the contractile function of cardiomyocytes, also evaluating embryonic weight and the cardiosomatic index (CSI). Thus, chicken embryos, used as an experimental model, were exposed to a single dose of 0.1 μg MeHg/50 μl saline at E1.5 and analyzed at E10. After exposure, an increase in the number of extraembryonic blood vessels and the veins of the cardiac tissue was observed. These increases were accompanied by a reduction in the content of VEGF and VCAM proteins related to vessel growth and adhesiveness. Together, these results were related to reduced nitrite (NOx) levels. Furthermore, MeHg reduces the number of sarcomeres and increases the content of cardiac troponin I (cTnI), a protein that regulates contraction. In general, exposure to MeHg affected the integrity of extraembryonic and cardiac vessels and the contractile function of cardiomyocytes, which had a systemic impact evidenced by the reduction in embryonic weight gain and CSI.
A planar broadband substrate‐integrated waveguide 1 × 2 array antenna for the Ka‐band wireless communication
Authors: Chung Ming‐An , Lin Chia‐Wei , Meiy Ing‐Peng
Published: July 2024

This article proposes a Ka‐band substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) quasi‐Yagi array antenna with the advantages of thinness, compactness, wide bandwidth, and higher gain. Analyzing the microstrip‐to‐SIW transition structure to confirm that the designed structure provides the best performance, the optimum reflectance coefficient bandwidth can be obtained. With the optimized rectangular etched slot structure at the antenna end, the impedance matching can be tuned to improve the bandwidth. The designed array antenna is fabricated and measured for verification. The substrate is based on Al2O3 ceramic and the antenna size is 23.3 mm 13 mm 0.5 mm. The measurement results indicate that the antenna achieves an impedance bandwidth of 13.59% below −10dB, with an average gain of approximately 7 dBi and a peak gain of 7.4 dBi in 28.1–32.2 GHz. Therefore, the 1*2 antenna proposed in this paper has the advantages of compact and planar structure, easy fabrication, and easy integration into RF circuits, which is very suitable for Ka‐Band applications.
High‐resolution magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance of donor pancreatic tissue may predict islet viability prior to isolation
Authors: Slupsky Carolyn M. , Sykes Brian D. , Lakey Jonathan R. T.
Published: July 2024

For patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus complicated by severe hypoglycemia, clinical islet transplantation is an efficacious alternative to whole pancreas transplantation. While islet transplantation has improved over the last few years, there remain questions regarding its cost‐effectiveness and donor allosensitization, which is exacerbated when islets from more than one donor are required. Understanding the features of a pancreas that would provide viable islets prior to isolation may lead to development of an accurate assay that could identify suitable pancreases and provide significant cost savings to a clinical islet transplantation program. In this pilot study, solid‐state high‐resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used to assess samples of convenience of human pancreatic tissue taken prior to islet isolation both before and after incubation using the two‐layer perfluorocarbon (PFC)/University of Wisconsin (UW) solution cold‐storage method. We observed that, prior to incubation, human pancreatic tissue exhibited evidence of hypoxia with decreased peak integrals associated with glucose and increased peak integrals corresponding to lactate and free fatty acids. After incubation, we observed a reversal of the hypoxia‐induced damage, as integrals corresponding to glucose increased, and those corresponding to lactate and free fatty acid resonances decreased. Interestingly, a significant correlation between the ratio of the glucose integral (at 3.0–4.5 ppm) to the sum of the fatty acid (at 0.9 ppm) and lactate + fatty acid (at 1.3 ppm) integrals and glucose responsiveness, a measure of islet viability, of the isolated islets, was observed after incubation in PFC/UW solution for pancreases that responded to PFC/UW solution incubation (p = 0.02). Notably, pancreases with little or no change in the integral ratio after PFC/UW solution incubation had poor recovery. These results suggest that tissue recovery is a key feature for determining islet cell viability, and further that HRMAS NMR may be a practical method to quickly assess human donor pancreatic tissue prior to islet isolation for clinical transplantation.
Correlations of factors associated with job values, job stress and job satisfaction among hospital nursing assistants
Authors: Chen Yi‐ Chen , Wu Fei‐Ling , Su Hsiu‐Ya , Weng Chih‐Erh , Yu Wen‐Pin
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate the correlation between job values, job stress, and job satisfaction among nursing assistants in a hospital setting.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected from nursing assistants working in a regional hospital and a medical center in Northern Taiwan. A self‐rated structured questionnaire was used to collect data on participants' demographic characteristics, job values, job stress, and job satisfaction. Descriptive statistics, t test, one‐way analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and stepwise regression were used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 135 questionnaires were distributed; of them, 132 were returned, resulting in a response rate of 97.8%. The average age of the participants was 57.08 ± 5.86 years, with the majority being female, high school educated, and married. Most participants (70%) had >5 years of experience in working as nursing assistants. The average job satisfaction score of was 63.63, indicating a moderate level of job satisfaction. Job satisfaction exhibited a significantly positive correlation with job values but a significantly negative correlation with job stress. Job value was negatively correlated with job stress. Stepwise regression revealed that job values significantly explained the variance in job satisfaction among hospital nursing assistants.

Conclusions

Nursing assistants are integral to clinical practice. To enhance their job satisfaction and professional development, health‐care institutions and policymakers should implement strategies such as providing continual training, offering recognition and rewards to enhance sense of accomplishment.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study involves no patient or public contribution.
Intensive care unit dignified care: Persian translation and psychometric evaluation
Authors: Jalali Amir , Darvishi Niloufar , Kalhory Parnia , Merati Fateme , Vatandost Salam , Moradi Khalil
Published: July 2024

Aim

The present study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the ‘Intensive Care Unit Dignified Care Questionnaire (IDCQ)’ among Iranian nurses.

Design

A methodological and psychometric study was conducted in 2022, involving nurses from six teaching hospitals in Kermanshah, Western Iran.

Methods

The IDCQ was translated into Persian using a forward‐backward translation method. Construct validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), employing a stratified sampling method with 455 critical care nurses. Internal consistency was gauged using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, while reliability was determined through the test–retest method. Analyses were performed using SPSS version 26 and Lisrel version 8 software.

Results

EFA and CFA validated the instrument's two‐factor, 17‐item structure. The CFA indicated a well‐fitting model with fit indices: CFI = 0.93, NNFI = 0.92, GFI = 0.861, RMSEA = 0.051 and SRMR = 0.046. Pearson's correlation coefficient substantiated a significant relationship between the items, subscales and the overall scale. The instrument's reliability was confirmed by a Cronbach's α coefficient of 0.88 and a test–retest reliability of 0.86.

Conclusion

The Persian version of the IDCQ, comprising two factors and 17 items, has been validated as a reliable and applicable tool for use within the Iranian nursing community.
One step production from the monomer of poly(L‐lactide)/flax biocomposites by thermoplastic resin transfer molding: Mechanical properties and aging
Authors: Miranda Campos Bernard , Beauvois Jordan , Bourbigot Serge , Fontaine Gaëlle , Stoclet Grégory , Bonnet Fanny
Published: July 2024

Development of biocomposites is becoming a necessity due to environmental concerns. Polylactide is a matrix of choice, regarding its bio‐sourced and compostable nature along with its mechanical properties. In this study, poly(L‐lactide)/flax biocomposites were produced using thermoplastic resin transfer molding (TP‐RTM) in one step process from the monomer, affording sustainable and fully compostable composite materials. The polymerization of L‐lactide (L‐LA) monomer was promoted by tin octoate, affording poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) matrices displaying monomer conversions superior to 96% and mass‐average molar masses above 140,000 g/mol. Flax fibers were used as received without any functionalization which is usually conducted to prevent the hydroxyl groups to conduct side reactions. Mechanical testing revealed bending modulus of 9.3 GPa and bending strength of 177 MPa comparable to existing literature values for PLLA/flax composites produced by other techniques. Digital microscopy analysis provided insights into impregnation quality and void characterization within the composites. In addition, the durability of these biocomposites was also evaluated via accelerated aging tests.

Highlights

PLLA/flax biocomposites were produced by TP‐RTM for the first time.

In situ polymerization of the PLLA matrix associated with non‐functionalized flax fabrics was conducted.

Bending properties were found in line with those of PLLA/flax composites produced by compression molding.

Aging tests under UV at 50°C of PLLA/flax biocomposites were conducted.
Combinatorial Analysis of Silver‐Palladium Alloy Thin Film Libraries
Authors: Konrad Martin , Popescu‐Pelin Gianina , Socol Gabriel , Mardare Andrei Ionut , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: July 2024

Combinatorial analysis of Ag–Pd alloy thin films shows the formation of a solid solution with the face‐centered cubic structure for all investigated alloy compositions. Using mixed matter theory and the high field model, oxide growth upon applying an anodic potential is indicated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy supports the idea of oxide formation based on a change in behavior correlated to a sharp increase in oxide formation as indicated by cyclic voltammetry measurements. After polarization at 4 V, a stable total impedance and increasingly less‐pronounced phase shift are detected in the frequency range of 100 mHz to 10 kHz, which encompasses the common range of application of active implantable medical devices (AIMD). Upon fitting the measured impedance data with the Randles circuit, capacitances are determined in the nF cm−2 range for the investigated alloys and attributed to the formed mixed oxide layer. Charge transfer resistances are found to be in the kΩ cm−2 range. No correlation between alloy composition and capacitance or resistance can be detected so far. These findings indicate a fundamental applicability of Ag–Pd alloys for use in AIMD.
Quantum Battery in the Heisenberg Spin Chain Models with Dzyaloshinskii‐Moriya Interaction
Authors: Zhang Xiang‐Long , Song Xue‐Ke , Wang Dong
Published: July 2024

Quantum battery (QB) is an energy storage and extraction device conforming to the principles of quantum mechanics. In this study, the characteristics of QBs are considered for the Heisenberg spin chain models in the absence and presence of Dzyaloshinskii‐Moriya (DM) interaction. The results show that the DM interaction can enhance the ergotropy and power of QBs, which shows the collective charging can outperform parallel charging regarding QB's performance. Besides, it turns out that first‐order coherence is a crucial quantum resource during charging, while quantum steering between the cells is not conducive to the energy storage of QBs. The investigations offer insight into the properties of QBs with Heisenberg spin chain models with DM interaction and facilitate us to acquire the performance in the framework of realistic quantum batteries.
Retrospective study on the occurrence of Salmonella serotypes in veterinary specimens of Atlantic Canada (2012–2021)
Authors: Ojha Shivani , Thakur Krishna K. , Ojasanya Rasaq A. , Saab Matthew E.
Published: July 2024

Aim

This study aimed to summarize the frequency and the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the Salmonella serotypes identified from the specimens of companion animals, livestock, avian, wildlife and exotic species within Atlantic Canada.

Materials and Methods

The retrospective electronic laboratory data of microbiological analyses of a selected subset of samples from 03 January 2012 to 29 December 2021 submitted from various animal species were retrieved. The frequency of Salmonella serotypes identified, and their antimicrobial susceptibility results obtained using the disk diffusion or broth method were analysed. The test results were interpreted according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute standard. The Salmonella serotypes were identified by slide agglutination (Kauffman–White‐Le‐Minor Scheme) and/or the Whole Genome Sequencing for the Salmonella in silico Serovar Typing Resource–based identification.

Results

Of the cases included in this study, 4.6% (n = 154) had at least one Salmonella isolate, corresponding to 55 different serovars. Salmonella isolation was highest from exotic animal species (n = 40, 1.20%), followed by porcine (n = 26, 0.78%), and canine (n = 23, 0.69%). Salmonella subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium was predominant among exotic mammals, porcine and caprine samples, whereas S. Enteritidis was mostly identified in bovine and canine samples. S. Typhimurium of porcine origin was frequently resistant (>70.0%) to ampicillin. In contrast, S. Typhimurium isolates from porcine and caprine samples were susceptible (>70.0%) to florfenicol. S. Oranienburg from equine samples was susceptible to chloramphenicol, but frequently resistant (>90.0%) to azithromycin. In avian samples, S. Copenhagen was susceptible (>90.0%) to florfenicol, whereas Muenchen was frequently resistant (>90.0%) to florfenicol. S. subsp. diarizonae serovar IIIb:61:k:1,5 of ovine origin was resistant (50.0% isolates) to sulfadimethoxine. No significant changes were observed in the antibiotic resistance profiles across the study years.

Conclusions

This report provides data for surveillance studies, distribution of Salmonella serotypes and their antimicrobial resistance among veterinary specimens of Atlantic Canada.
Vietnam: Why are there Only few Innovations in Vietnamese Startups and SMEs? An Analysis from an Entrepreneurship and Management Perspective
Authors: Truong Minh Chương
Published: July 2024

Entrepreneurship and Innovation (E&I) is the theme of much interest in recent years. E&I is expected to develop economies, particularly, emerging economies such as Vietnam. Vietnamese government has made a lot of efforts and policies to develop E&I and achieved some good results, but, not as high as expected. The innovations in Vietnamese startups and SMEs are still limited. This chapter aims to explain the reasons for this fact. A review of data published by the World Bank, OECD, and GMI were collected to understand the whole picture of Vietnamese innovation. Then, two studies on Vietnamese startups and SMEs innovation were presented. Results of the studies show that Vietnamese startups with innovations just cover a small part of total startups, e.g., Vietnamese entrepreneurs are just a few among people starting businesses. The creativity is the main difference between the entrepreneurs and the others. Vietnamese entrepreneurs have a shortage of entrepreneurial and managerial competencies, hence, most SMEs do not follow entrepreneurial orientation to continuously make innovations. As such, their market competition, and development are also constrained. Some implications to overcome this innovation limitation are proposed.
Synthesis, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory, anti-metastatic and anti-oxidant activities of novel chalcones incorporating 2-phenoxy-N-arylacetamide and thiophene moieties: induction of apoptosis in MCF7 and HEP2 cells
Authors: Ibrahim Nada S. , Sayed Hager Ahmed , Sharaky Marwa , Diab Hadeer M. , Elwahy Ahmed H. M. , Abdelhamid Ismail A.
Published: July 2024

Eight Novel chalcones were synthesized and their structures were confirmed by different spectral tools. All the prepared compounds were subjected to SRB cytotoxic screening against several cancer cell lines. Compound 5c exerted the most promising effect against MCF7 and HEP2 cells with IC50 values of 9.5 and 12 µg/mL, respectively. Real-time PCR demonstrated the inhibitory effect of compound 5c on the expression level of Antigen kiel 67 (KI-67), Survivin, Interleukin-1beta (IL-1B), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and Protein kinase B (AKT1) genes. Flow-cytometric analysis of the cell cycle indicated that compound 5c stopped the cell cycle at the G0/G1 and G2/M phases in MCF7 and HEP2 treated cells, respectively. ELISA assay showed that Caspase 8, Caspase 9, P53, BAX, and Glutathione (GSH) were extremely activated and Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), BCL2, Malondialdehyde (MDA), and IL-6 were deactivated in 5c treated MCF7 and HEP2 cells. Wound healing revealed that chalcone 5c reduced the ability to close the scrape wound and decreased the number of migrating MCF7 and HEP2 cells compared to the untreated cells after 48 h. Theoretical molecular modeling against P53 cancer mutant Y220C and Bcl2 showed binding energies of -22.8 and -24.2 Kcal/mole, respectively, which confirmed our ELISA results.
Integrated biofloc technology in red tilapia aquaculture: Salinity-dependent effects on water quality, parental stock physiology, reproduction, and immune responses
Authors: Sallam Ghada R. , Shehata Akram Ismael , Basuini Mohammed F. El , Habib Yusuf Jibril , Henish Shimaa , Rahman Afaf N. Abdel , Hassan Youssef M. , Fayed Walied M. , El-Sayed Abdel-Fattah M. , Aly Hadir A.
Published: July 2024

The study examines the impact of integrated biofloc technology (BFT), different salinity levels, and their combined effects over 90 days on various physiological parameters. The investigation includes growth performance and feed utilization, water quality, the chemical composition of biofloc and fish, digestive enzymes, reproductive performance, stress and biochemical indicators, and antioxidant-immune responses in red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) broodstock. The fish were initially weighed (males: n = 270; 104 ± 0.96 g; females: n = 270; 93.2 ± 0.66 g) and subsequently divided into 12 treatment groups (6 for males and 6 for females) spread across 36 separate tanks (3 tanks per treatment; 45 fish per treatment; 15 fish/tank). The treatments involved three salinity levels (18, 28, and 36 ppt) in both clear water (CW) and BFT systems. The outcomes demonstrated that fish in the 36 ppt salinity with BFT treatment demonstrated significant improvements (P < 0.05) in growth parameters (final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio). The condition factor in BFT groups increased in all salinity situations. The survival rates of broodstock were consistently high in all experimental conditions The study found that BFT and salinity significantly impacted (P < 0.05) whole body contents (moisture, protein, lipid, and ash) in both males and females. Water quality parameters showed variations between BFT and CW, with notable impacts (P < 0.05) on dissolved oxygen and pH. The BFT and salinity influenced digestive enzyme activities (protease, amylase, and lipase) and reproductive performance (males) and the 36 ppt salinity with BFT recorded the highest values. The hemato-biochemical and antioxidant-immune responses were also impacted by BFT and salinity exposure. The study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating BFT into red tilapia aquaculture systems, particularly in optimizing growth, health, and reproductive performance under various salinity conditions, which can enhance sustainable intensification, disease control, and environmental stewardship.
Negative impacts of future forest succession on three threatened butterfly species
Authors: Sunde Johanna , Askling John , Kindvall Oskar , Johansson Victor , Franzén Markus
Published: July 2024

The dynamic interplay between anthropogenic activities and biodiversity conservation necessitates a nuanced understanding of habitat change, especially in contexts marked by transitions from grasslands to forested areas. This investigation utilised three threatened butterfly species—the Marsh Fritillary, Apollo, and Large Blue—as models to explore how grassland associated species respond to altered environmental conditions. The methodology encompassed extensive field surveys and statistical analyses with ecological niche modelling to determine their current and future distributions on the Island of Gotland. The species were surveyed under distinct years from 2017 to 2020 in a total of 3333 hectares in a 6000 hectare area—the Marsh Fritillary in 2017 (1232 hectares), Apollo in 2019 (2346 hectares), and Large Blue in 2020 (2256 hectares). Results revealed that the estimated current extents of suitable habitats were 49,104 hectares for the Marsh Fritillary (15.6% of the island), 45,646 hectares for Apollo (14.5%), and 33,089 hectares for Large Blue (10.5%). In general, increased forest and shrub cover and decreased heterogeneity negatively affected butterfly occupancy, but each species exhibited unique habitat preferences. The predictive modelling demonstrated that continued succession would reduce the amount of habitats predicted to be suitable and generated alarming forecasts—a twofold increase in forest and shrub cover suggests habitat declines of 41%, 47%, and 65% for the Marsh Fritillary, Apollo, and Large Blue, respectively. Given these findings, proactive measures are imperative for strategically managing these habitats to preserve landscape heterogeneity and accommodate diverse ecological needs. This study is important to conservation management providing, crucial insights amid anthropogenic and ecological changes.
Landrace in situ (on-farm) conservation: European Union achievements
Authors: Raggi Lorenzo , Spataro Giorgia , Negri Valeria
Published: July 2024

This paper offers an insight on present status of on-farm conservation of landrace diversity in the European Union. The review initially examines the types of materials that are the object of on-farm conservation, assesses the current status of maintenance and reproduction within farms and gardens, explores the motivations that drive ongoing conservation efforts as a foundation for future enhancement and identifies the key actors involved and their respective roles. Secondarily, it reviews European Union policies and their provisions supporting the conservation of crop diversity in the fields, with a particular focus on regulations pertaining to the commercialization of landrace seeds. Given that the availability of propagation material remains a primary constraint to the widespread dissemination of landraces, the review also includes current achievements and identifies constraints that could be mitigated. The discussion highlights how to continue and intensify the development and implementation of agro-environmental and seed policies as well as how further collection, documentation, study and promotion of the traditional farmers’ knowledge ̶ associated with the development, production and utilization of the traditional local products ̶ can improve the present situation. It is hoped that the model applied in the European Union could be also useful in other regions of the world.