bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Casson hybrid nanofluid over bidirectional stretching surface with entropy analysis in stagnated domain
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Ahmad Iftikhar , Zan-Ul-Abadin Qazi , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Hussien Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore entropy evaluation in the bi-directional flow of Casson hybrid nanofluids within a stagnated domain, a topic of significant importance for optimizing thermal systems. The aim is to investigate the behavior of unsteady, magnetized and laminar flow using a parametric model based on the thermo-physical properties of alumina and copper nanoparticles.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses boundary layer approximations and the Keller-box method to solve the derived ordinary differential equations, ensuring numerical accuracy through convergence and stability analysis. A comparison benchmark has been used to authenticate the accuracy of the numerical outcomes.

Findings

Results indicate that increasing the Casson fluid parameter (ranging from 0.1 to 1.0) reduces velocity, the Bejan number decreases with higher bidirectional flow parameter (ranging from 0.1 to 0.9) and the Nusselt number increases with higher nanoparticle concentrations (ranging from 1% to 4%).

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations, including the assumption of laminar flow and the neglect of possible turbulent effects, which could be significant in practical applications.

Practical implications

The findings offer insights for optimizing thermal management systems, particularly in industries where precise control of heat transfer is crucial. The Keller-box simulation method proves to be effective in accurately predicting the behavior of such complex systems, and the entropy evaluation aids in assessing thermodynamic irreversibilities, which can enhance the efficiency of engineering designs.

Originality/value

These findings provide valuable insights into the thermal management of hybrid nanofluid systems, marking a novel contribution to the field.
Capacitation of ram spermatozoa promotes changes in energy metabolism and aquaporin 3 and is affected by individual testosterone variations
Authors: Peris‐Frau Patricia , Sanchez‐Rodriguez Ana , Velázquez Rosario , Toledano‐Díaz Adolfo , Castaño Cristina , Roldan Eduardo R. S. , Santiago‐Moreno Julián
Published: September 2024

Background

Recently, the metabolic pathways involved in energy production and the role of aquaglyceroporins in capacitation‐associated events have been studied in humans and mice. However, little is known about these in ram spermatozoa.

Objective

The present study investigated bioenergetic and aquaglyceroporin 3 variations during in vitro capacitation of ram spermatozoa. In addition, differences in testosterone levels between males were examined to determine their influence on capacitation‐like changes.

Materials and methods

Spermatozoa obtained from nine rams (ejaculates = 36) were incubated for 180 min in three different media (control, capacitating, and aquaglyceroporin‐inhibitor media) at 38.5°C. At 0 and 180 min of incubation in each medium, sperm viability, kinetics, chlortetracycline patterns, adenosine triphosphate concentration, lactate excretion (final subproduct of glycolysis), and immunolocalization of aquaporin 3 were evaluated.

Results

The increment of the capacitated spermatozoa‐chlortetracycline pattern and the hyperactivated‐like movement characterized by the highest curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement and the lowest linearity was only recorded after 180 min in the capacitating medium. At this time and conditions, adenosine triphosphate content and lactate excretion decreased, whereas the aquaglyceroporin 3 location in the midpiece and principal piece increased compared to 0 min. Such changes were not observed in the control medium over time. Incubation in the aquaglyceroporin‐inhibitor medium for 180 min reduced drastically sperm motility and adenosine triphosphate content compared to the other media. Testosterone analysis revealed a significant individual variability, which was also present in all sperm parameters evaluated. Furthermore, testosterone was negatively correlated with adenosine triphosphate content but positively correlated with lactate excretion levels, sperm viability, motility, capacitated sperm‐chlortetracycline pattern, and aquaglyceroporin 3 immunolabeling in the midpiece and principal piece.

Conclusion

Despite individual differences, capacitation of ram spermatozoa increases adenosine triphosphate consumption, energy metabolism, and aquaglyceroporin 3 location in the midpiece and principal piece, which seems to be related to the acquisition of hyperactivated‐like motility. Furthermore, testosterone levels may serve as a valuable tool to select those males with a greater sperm metabolism rate and fertilizing capacity.
Against epigenetic responsibility: The problem of causality in ‘foetal programming’ science
Authors: McMahon Courtney , Mills Catherine
Published: September 2024

Emerging evidence that intrauterine exposures to environmental stressors can ‘programme’ epigenetic modifications in offspring, leading to long‐lasting health risks, has generated debate about whether prospective mothers have a specific ‘epigenetic’ moral responsibility. However, to date, proposals for maternal epigenetic responsibility have failed to grapple adequately with the uncertainty of scientific evidence, and specifically, whether the causal basis for intrauterine epigenetic effects is sufficiently established to ground claims of moral responsibility. Causality is widely considered a necessary condition for the attribution of moral responsibility. In this paper, we show that much foetal programming science in humans has yet to establish a causal epigenetic connection between intrauterine exposures and subsequent offspring health impacts. This research struggles to establish that the relationship between such exposures and offspring health risks is in fact causal, neither has it been able to evince the causal significance of exposures during pregnancy to such outcomes. We argue that these two challenges to establishing causality in foetal programming research seriously undercut the idea that prospective mothers may have a moral responsibility to ensure the epigenetics of their offspring.
Having, making and feeling home as a European immigrant in the United Kingdom post‐Brexit referendum: An interpretative phenomenological study
Authors: Foxwell Kate , Strohmaier Sarah , Jones Fergal , Nigbur Dennis
Published: September 2024

Migrants' subjective sense of home deserves further research attention. In the particular context of the United Kingdom's (UK's) decision to leave the European Union (‘Brexit’), we interviewed 10 European citizens living in the UK about their sense of home, using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). In our analysis, we identified themes of (1) having more than one home, (2) making and finding a new home, (3) being permanently different from the non‐migrant population and (4) a concern about feeling safe and welcome. Migration and sense of home involved building and rebuilding personal and social identity. Making a new home was effortful, and neither the old home nor the difference from the native population ever disappeared psychologically. This adds an experiential aspect to the idea of ‘integration’ in acculturation. Different notions of home were linked to different experiences of the impact of the Brexit referendum. We discuss the connections between acculturation, sense of home and lived experience and propose lived identity as a fruitful subject matter for social psychology.
Development and Validation of the Questionnaire of Young People's Participation–Young Adults (QYPP‐YA)
Authors: Cytera Chirine , Muehlan Holger , Rapp Marion , Guyard Audrey , Thyen Ute , Schmidt Silke , Markwart Henriette ,   the TRANS‐DISAB Collaborative Group
Published: September 2024

Background

The Questionnaire of Young People's Participation (QYPP) was developed for use in children and adolescents. To track participation throughout transition from childhood to adulthood, we adapted it for young adults using focus groups. Aim of this study was to validate this measure, the QYPP–Young Adults (QYPP‐YA).

Methods

We recruited young adults with cerebral palsy (CP) and a representative, same‐aged sample of the general population (GP). The GP‐sample was split into two equivalent subsamples, one part to identify the factor structure via exploratory factor analysis and another part to test the resulting model via confirmatory factor analysis. Reliability and different forms of validity were investigated.

Results

The final QYPP‐YA includes 17 items assigned to six domains (Autonomy, Independency, Intimate Relationships, Interpersonal Relationships, Social Life, Online Communication). Scales show satisfying internal consistencies in the CP‐sample and in the GP‐sample, except for ‘Online Communication’. Convergent, divergent and known‐group validity were confirmed.

Conclusions

The QYPP‐YA instrument features promising psychometric characteristics to assess key domains of participation in healthy and disabled young adults. It provides a multidimensional, economic and sound assessment for use in population surveys and clinical trials.
Individualized telehealth home programme for children with cerebral palsy during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Oliveira Rachel H. S. , Mancini Marisa C. , Figueiredo Priscilla R. P. , Abrahão Leonardo C. , Reis Edna A. , Gordon Andrew M. , Brandão Marina B.
Published: September 2024

Aim

To analyse the effects of an individualized telehealth home programme on the performance of functional goals of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

A prospective single‐group intervention study with children/adolescents with CP (n = 144; median age = 92 months [Q1 = 44.0, Q3 = 148.8]; 74 males, 70 females), representing all Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels participated in a 4‐month home programme in Brazil. An interdisciplinary team encouraged families to choose a functional goal to be trained. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was used at pre‐intervention (T1), post‐intervention (T2), and 3‐month follow‐up (T3). The differences in COPM scores at T1, T2, and T3 were evaluated using Friedman's test. The effect size was calculated using Cohen's d. Univariate analysis was included.

Results

Significant improvements were observed after the intervention, with maintenance of scores after 3 months (p < 0.001, dperformance = 1.33; dsatisfaction = 1.31). None of the tested variables (child's abilities, age, caregiver's educational level, perception of family‐centredness, and type of goal) were significantly related to the change scores.

Interpretation

The individualized remote telehealth home programme can be a potential intervention, especially for children with CP classified in GMFCS levels IV and V. Also, this intervention provided a possible solution to help some children and their families in performing prioritized functional goals during the pandemic period.
Longitudinal academic, language, and social emotional learning outcomes of graduates of a one‐way Spanish Immersion program
Authors: Padilla Amado M. , Chen Xinjie , Swanson Elizabeth , Peterson Margaret , Zamora Tatiana , Girsky Tami
Published: September 2024

Seven cohorts of students (N = 258) who completed a K‐5 Spanish Immersion (SI) program in a suburban California school district were followed longitudinally through middle and high school to understand their academic, language, and social emotional outcomes. Academic and language outcomes included Spanish classes and grades, standardized Math and English Language Arts test scores, high school grade point average (GPA), language class enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP™) Spanish scores, and receipt of the Biliteracy Attainment Award. Results showed that SI graduates generally continued with Spanish language classes up through advanced levels and received high grades. They had similar middle school Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium scores and high school GPAs as their non‐SI comparison group. There were no significant differences between SI and non‐SI students for each year on three different social emotional learning (SEL) outcomes (emotion regulation, growth mindset, and school belonging). Overall, results suggest that a K‐5 SI program can lead to positive academic and language outcomes without negative impacts on SEL.
Exploring international students' perspectives on being ‘international’
Authors: Eulatth Vidal William Ericsson , Kamp Annelies
Published: September 2024

International student mobility has garnered significant attention in higher education research. Despite this attention, a fundamental question persists in the field: What does it mean to be an ‘international student’, as perceived by the students themselves? This article presents the findings of a phenomenological qualitative study to delve into the lived experiences of 12 undergraduate students from one university in Aotearoa New Zealand, focusing on elucidating these students' self‐perceptions as international students. The study challenges the conventional definition that often emphasizes geographic or visa‐related criteria, leading to homogenization. It underscores the diversity among international students, emphasizing that their unique experiences, backgrounds, personal narratives and perspectives play a pivotal role in shaping their multiple identities and sense of self.
Oncology Nurses' Communication Practices and Challenges Towards Advance Care Planning: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Shih Yi‐An , Wang Cheng , Ali Ali , Huang Xia , Lu Qian
Published: September 2024

Aims

This study aims to explore the practice of advance care planning (ACP) among Chinese oncology nurses and identify challenges influencing care provision.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed‐method design was employed, comprising a quantitative phase to assess communication practices, followed by a qualitative phase to explore the challenges faced in ACP.

Methods

The study employed convenience sampling, including 532 oncology nurses from seven hospitals in northern China. Quantitative data were collected through a cross‐sectional survey and the ACP communication index from December 2021 to January 2022. The qualitative phase consisted of 19 interviews conducted between May and July 2022, which were thematically analysed to elucidate the challenges in ACP practices.

Results

Quantitative findings revealed a low frequency of ACP communication among Chinese oncology nurses. Qualitative analysis identified four themes: lack of optimal timing, passive engagement of patients or families, reluctance of healthcare professionals and unsupported policies.

Conclusion

The study concluded that identified challenges compromise the effectiveness of ACP practices among Chinese oncology nurses. Inadequate communication, limited interdisciplinary collaboration and policy gaps contribute to nonstandardised ACP processes.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance nurses' communication skills, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and provide policy support. Such interventions are pivotal to optimising end‐of‐life care in oncology settings and facilitating the integration of ACP into routine nursing practices.

Reporting Methods

This study adhered to the Mixed Methods Article Reporting Standards.

Patient or Public Contribution

No contributions from patients or the public were involved in this study.
Low‐dose isotretinoin for the management of rosacea: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: King Aliyah , Tan Marcus G. , Kirshen Carly , Tolkachjov Stanislav N.
Published: September 2024

Background

Rosacea is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory dermatosis predominantly affecting the central face and can result in significant psychosocial impacts. Isotretinoin has been studied for rosacea due to its anti‐inflammatory and sebum reduction properties, but its use remains limited likely due to its off‐label use and potential adverse events.

Objective

This systematic review and meta‐analysis investigated the efficacy and safety of low‐dose isotretinoin (LDI; ≤0.5 mg/kg/day) for the four main types of rosacea: erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous and ocular rosacea.

Methods

Randomized and non‐randomized studies evaluating LDI for rosacea were included. Incomplete studies, non‐English studies and case reports were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation scale.

Results

Of 435 studies, and 16 studies involving 1445 patients were included. LDI decreased lesion count (p = 0.03) and erythema (p = 0.01) with large effect [standardized mean difference (SMD) > 0.8]. Compared to topical retinoids and topical antimicrobials, isotretinoin had larger reductions in lesion count (p = 0.03) with moderate effect (SMD > 0.5). Mean lesion count and erythema remained reduced by 70% and 47%, respectively, at 16 weeks after LDI cessation. Relapse rate was 35% at 5.5 months post‐isotretinoin, and three patients (0.4%) experienced worsening of rosacea. Three patients (0.4%) experienced serious adverse events.

Conclusions

Study design heterogeneity limited more comprehensive comparisons. Overall, low‐dose isotretinoin may serve as an effective treatment for rosacea with good tolerability and safety.
What preferences do potential obstetrics‐gynecology specialists have regarding their working environment? Results of a questionnaire survey of participants in the Summer School 2023 of the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Mori Koichiro , Komatsu Hiroaki , Shimizu Mao , Sakaguchi Kazuki , Koga Kaori , Taniguchi Fuminori , Sano Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Aim

The chronic lack of obstetrics‐gynecology (Ob/Gyn) doctors is a serious problem to be tackled in Japan. To address this issue, it is necessary for medical students to be interested in working as an Ob/Gyn doctor and more junior residents need to specialize in Ob/Gyn. This study aims to identify the preferences concerning working conditions among students and discusses what information should be provided and what conditions should be changed.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted among participants in the Summer School 2023 of the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The respondents were medical students and junior residents interested in Ob/Gyn. Ob/Gyn specialists contributing to the summer school were also asked the same questions for comparison. The resulting data focused on important working conditions, concerns about future work, and expected future working conditions.

Results

Responses from 132 medical students (97.8%, N = 135), 122 residents (99.2%, N = 123), and 76 specialists (95.0%, N = 80) were obtained. There were three main findings. First, large gaps between students/residents and specialists were observed in terms of preferences. Second, differences between male and female students/residents were not negligible, although the difference was relatively small in specialists. Third, students/residents were more concerned about risks related to medical malpractice than specialists.

Conclusions

Gaps in preferences and perceptions regarding working conditions between students/residents and specialists should be narrowed through sufficient information provision. Working conditions should become gender‐inclusive rather than focus on female persons.
The relationship of early expressed milk quantity and later full breastmilk feeding after very preterm birth: A cohort study
Authors: Levene Ilana , O'Brien Frances , Fewtrell Mary , Quigley Maria A.
Published: September 2024

When infants cannot directly breastfeed after birth, mothers are advised to initiate lactation through mechanical expression. Families are recommended to target an expression volume of at least 500–750 mL by Day 14 after birth, as this is considered a ‘critical window’ to establish milk supply. This is challenging for many mothers after a very preterm birth. This article explores the relationship of early milk quantity and later full breastmilk feeding as a ‘gold standard’ outcome, using statistical techniques designed for diagnostic tests. A cohort of 132 mothers of infants born at 23 + 0 to 31 + 6 weeks' gestational age submitted expressing logs on Day 4, 14 and 21 after birth and provided later feeding outcome. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the following 24‐h milk quantities were identified as associated with high probability of full breastmilk at 36 weeks' post‐menstrual age (PMA): on Day 4, ≥250 g (specificity 88%; positive predictive value 88%) and on Day 21 ≥650 g (specificity 88%; positive predictive value 91%). The following values were identified as associated with low probability of full breastmilk at 36 weeks' PMA: on Day 4 <50 g (sensitivity 92%; negative predictive value 72%) and on Day 21 <250 g (sensitivity 90%; negative predictive value 70%). Participants exceeding the high thresholds had 3–4 times increased likelihood of full breastmilk, whereas those below the low thresholds had 3–5 times lower likelihood. These thresholds have potential as targets for families, to provide individualised prognostic information and to help clinicians target more intensive lactation support.
War exposure and changes in eating behaviours in Ukrainian school‐aged children: A cross‐sectional online survey
Authors: Gulich Maria , Fedorova Dina , Petrenko Olena , Vepsäläinen Henna , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: September 2024

The war in Ukraine has exposed children to extremely high levels of acute and chronic stressors, which can impact their eating behaviour (EB). We aimed to determine the prevalence of war‐induced, stress‐related disruptions in EB of Ukrainian children. We conducted a cross‐sectional online survey among parents of 5‐ to 17‐year‐old children, who had experienced the war in Ukraine in February–May 2023. Guardians reported their child's various war exposure changes in EBs using a modified version of the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire. We assessed associations between total and medium‐term EB changes and age, sex, and war exposure using bivariate correlations and χ2 tests. Logistic regression models were fitted to explore the associations between socio‐demographic factors, war exposure and frequency of EB changes. Of the 4854 children, 63% had changes in EBs during the war. The most common EB changes included food cravings (38%), food fussiness (37%), and aversion to certain foods (29%). Of the reported EB changes, 40% were medium‐term, lasting over a month, and related to altered attitudes towards food. Food insecurity (adjusted OR 2.35, 95% CI: 1.76–3.14), and displacement (internally 2.01, 1.19–3.42) emerged as the most influential determinants of medium‐term EB changes. The findings underscore a significant and robust association between war‐related exposures and an increased risk of frequent EB changes. As healthy EBs are learned during childhood and have been shown to track into adulthood, the identified disruptions in EB may have medium‐term consequences for the physical and mental health of Ukrainian children.
A review of historical trends in Anopheles gambiaeGiles (Diptera: Culicidae) complex composition, collection trends and environmental effects from 2009 to 2021 in Mpumalanga province, South Africa
Authors: Noeth Kayla P. , Kaiser Maria L. , Mashatola Thabo , Dahan‐Moss Yael L. , Matamba P. Avhatakali , Spillings Belinda , Christian Riann , Erlank Erika , Tshikae B. Power , Jamesboy Eunice , Sibambo Silindile , Nkosi Busisiwe G. , Silawu Brian T. , Mkhabela Lazarus J. , Ndlovu Fanuel S. , Mgwenya Thembekile P. , Coetzee Maureen , Brooke Basil D. , Koekemoer Lizette L. , Munhenga Givemore , Oliver Shüné V.
Published: September 2024

South Africa is a frontline country for malaria elimination in the southern African region. It has three malaria‐endemic provinces, each with its own transmission pattern. The elimination of malaria depends, in part, on controlling and/or eliminating vectors responsible for transmission. Sustained entomological surveillance is an important factor to consider when shifting from a control to elimination framework. The Ehlanzeni district in Mpumalanga province is a key entomological sentinel surveillance area. It is one of the malaria‐endemic districts in South Africa with higher rates of malaria incidences. As such, entomological data about the Anopheles gambiae Giles (Diptera: Culicidae) complex have been collected in this province over a substantial period. These data are stored in a pre‐existing institutional database. An analysis of the trends that can be observed from this database has not been performed before. This retrospective (longitudinal) analysis provides a summary of the An. gambiae complex vector composition in this region from 2009 to 2021. Routine surveillance data were correlated with climatic data (obtained from the NASA LaRC POWER project database) for the same period to assess the role of climatic factors in vector dynamics. This review also identifies a number of limitations in the data collection process across the sampling period and provides recommendations on how to strengthen the database going forward. The most abundant member of the An. gambiae complex since 2009 in the province was An. merus Dönitz followed by An. arabiensis Patton. Collection methods used showed that human landing catches were successful for collecting An. arabiensis, while pit traps were the most effective in collecting An. merus and An. quadriannulatus Theobald. The latter two species were mainly collected in spring, whereas An. arabiensis abundance was larger during autumn collections. Vector abundance was not significantly correlated with annual climatic data. The information gained from this database provides insights into the vector dynamics of the Ehlanzeni district of the Mpumalanga province.
High Prevalence of Azole‐Resistant Aspergillus fumigatus Among Iranian Cystic Fibrosis Patients: Should We Be Concerned?
Authors: Bandegani Azadeh , Abastabar Mahdi , Sharifisooraki Joobin , Abtahian Zahra , Vaseghi Narges , Khodavaisy Sadegh , Fakharian Atefeh , Khalilzadeh Soheila , Modaresi Mohammad Reza , Haghani Iman , Ahmadi Ali , Ghazanfari Mona , Valadan Reza , Badali Hamid
Published: September 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an inherited autosomal recessive disorder, is linked with high morbidity and mortality rates due to bacteria, filamentous, yeast and black yeast‐like fungi colonisation in the upper respiratory tract. Although Candida species are the most common fungi isolated from CF patients, azole‐resistant Aspergillus fumigatus (ARAf) is a big concern for invasive aspergillosis. Notably, the exact prevalences of Aspergillus species and the prevalence of ARAf isolates among Iranian CF patients have yet to be previously reported and are unknown. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of ARAf isolates in CF patients among Iranian populations by focusing on molecular mechanisms of the mutations in the target gene.

Methods

The 1 year prospective study recovered 120 sputum samples from 103 CF patients. Of these, 55.1% (86/156) yielded Aspergillus species, screened for ARAf using plates containing itraconazole (4 mg/L) and voriconazole (1 mg/L). According to the CLSI‐M38 guidelines, antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the broth microdilution method. In all phenotypically resistant isolates, the target of azole agents, the cyp51A gene, was sequenced to detect any possible single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) mediating resistance.

Results

Of 120 samples, 101 (84.2%) were positive for filamentous fungi and yeast‐like relatives, with 156 fungal isolates. The most common colonising fungi were Aspergillus species (55.1%, 86/156), followed by Candida species (39.8%, 62/156), Exophiala species (3.8%, 6/156) and Scedosporium species (1.3%, 2/156). Forty out of 86 (46.5%) were identified for section Fumigati, 36 (41.9%) for section Flavi, 6 (7%) for section Nigri and 4 (4.6%) for section Terrei. Fourteen out of 40 A. fumigatus isolates were phenotypically resistant. The overall proportion of ARAf in total fungal isolates was 9% (14/156). cyp51A gene analysis in resistant isolates revealed that 13 isolates harboured G448S, G432C, T289F, D255E, M220I, M172V, G138C, G54E and F46Y mutations and one isolate carried G448S, G432C, T289F, D255E, M220I, G138C, G54E and F46Y mutations. Additionally, this study detects two novel cyp51A single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (I242V and D490E).

Conclusions

This study first investigated ARAf isolates in Iranian CF patients. Due to a resistance rate of up to 9%, it is recommended that susceptibility testing of Aspergillus isolates from CF patients receiving antifungal treatment be a part of the routine diagnostic workup. However, extensive multicentre studies with a high volume of CF patients are highly warranted to determine the impact of ARAf on CF patients.
Antibody Isotype and Subclass Responses in Human Patients With Different Clinical Presentations of Sporotrichosis
Authors: Almeida‐Paes Rodrigo , Lugones Camila Jantoro Guzman , Almeida Marcos Abreu , Quintana Marcel de Souza Borges , Benevides‐Freitas Maurício Sá , Ribeiro Joyce Rodrigues , Freitas Dayvison Francis Saraiva , de Macedo Priscila Marques , do Valle Antonio Carlos Francesconi , Zancopé‐Oliveira Rosely Maria , Gutierrez‐Galhardo Maria Clara
Published: September 2024

Sporotrichosis diagnosis involves a series of analyses, including culture and antibody detection in serum samples. Serologic methods may sometimes yield false‐negative or false‐positive results, leading to inaccurate diagnoses. This study assessed specific patient groups in which antibody detection of different isotypes and subclasses may lack sensitivity. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with Sporothrix brasiliensis exoantigens was used to investigate IgM, IgG, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA, IgA1 and IgA2 antibodies in human serum samples. Eighty serum samples from patients with different sporotrichosis clinical manifestations, including cutaneous forms with and without hypersensitivity manifestations, extracutaneous forms (bone, ocular, meningeal and pulmonary), disseminated cutaneous forms and disseminated forms in individuals living with HIV/AIDS, diabetics and alcoholics, were evaluated. The ELISA sensitivities in the detection of different antibodies ranged from 0.85 to 0.60 for the detection of IgG2 and IgG3, respectively. The antibodies with higher area under ROC curves were IgG2, IgG, IgA and IgA1. There were no significant differences in the immunological reactivity of the tested antibodies among different clinical forms of sporotrichosis. The data revealed a higher likelihood of a false‐negative outcome in patients with lesions in the nasal mucosa regarding the detection of IgM and a lower likelihood in patients with lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis regarding the detection of IgG3. Patients with hypersensitivity manifestations had a 3.71 odds ratio to yield negative results in total IgG detection. In conclusion, we identified specific patient groups in which antibody detection may lack sensitivity, thus contributing to a better understanding of the diagnostic challenges associated with this condition.
Smaller thoracic canal diameters are associated with thoracic radiculopathy and abdominal pain after spinal cord stimulator paddle lead placement
Authors: Ragel Brian T. , McGehee Matthew , Karvelas Nicolas , Raslan Ahmed M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

It is not uncommon for patients to experience postoperative neurologic deficit, thoracic radiculopathy, abdominal pain, or lower extremity paresthesia after the implantation of thoracic spinal cord stimulator (SCS) paddle leads. Smaller thoracic canal diameters have previously been associated with postoperative neurologic deficits.

Objective

This imaging study examined whether postoperative SCS neurologic complaints other than neurologic deficit may be correlated with thoracic spinal canal diameter.

Methods

Patients who underwent thoracic laminotomy for SCS paddle lead placement between January 2018 and March 2024 were identified [Correction added on 28 September 2024 after first online publication: The preceding sentence was corrected.]. Preoperative thoracic canal diameter was measured on MRI or CT imaging in the sagittal plane from T5/6 to T11/12. The canal diameters of patients with and without new postoperative neurologic complaints were compared.

Results

Two hundred forty‐six patients underwent thoracic laminotomy for SCS paddle lead placement. Thoracic radiculopathy, abdominal pain, and lower extremity paresthesia occurred in 3.7% (9/246), 2.8% (7/246), and 2.0% (5/246) patients, respectively. The mean canal diameter for patients without neurologic complaint, thoracic radiculopathy, abdominal pain, and lower extremity paresthesia was 13.1 mm, 12.0 mm (p < 0.0001), 12.1 mm (p < 0.01), and 12.8 mm (p = 0.365), respectively.

Conclusion

A smaller thoracic canal diameter is associated with postoperative thoracic radiculopathy and abdominal pain. We believe that surgical planning to create adequate space for SCS leads is critical in preventing postoperative neurologic complaints of deficit, thoracic radiculopathy, and abdominal pain.
Party Strategies in Local Elections: Insights from Israel
Authors: Elovits Tal , Barnea Nimrod
Published: September 2024

In this study, we investigate national parties' strategic choices in Israeli local elections, utilizing a dataset of 3,737 electoral lists across 200 municipalities over three election cycles (2013–2024). Employing label coding and multilevel analysis, we reveal that municipality size, previous electoral success, mayoral candidacy, and ruling coalition membership significantly influenced parties' decisions to compete and their choice of label. Notably, almost 30% of party lists conceal their identity by opting for ‘disguised’ labels. We argue that Israel's extreme party decline in local politics, characterized by the dominance of independent lists, may foreshadow global trends as national parties withdraw from municipal contests. Our findings highlight the prevalence of disguised party lists, raising questions about voter information, as party labels serve as crucial informational shortcuts. This study contributes to the literature on party strategies and electoral dynamics in multilevel polities by emphasizing label analysis in local elections.
Exponential Erdős–Szekeres theorem for matrices
Authors: Çiçeksiz Recep Altar , Jin Zhihan , Räty Eero , Tomon István
Published: September 2024

In 1993, Fishburn and Graham established the following qualitative extension of the classical Erdős–Szekeres theorem. If is sufficiently large with respect to , then any real matrix contains an submatrix in which every row and every column is monotone. We prove that the smallest such is at most , greatly improving the previously best known double‐exponential upper bound of Bucić, Sudakov, and Tran, and matching the best known lower bound on an exponential scale. In particular, we prove the following surprisingly sharp transition in the asymmetric setting. On one hand, every matrix contains an submatrix, in which every row is monotone. On the other hand, there exist matrices containing no such submatrix.
Investigation of Ammonia/Hydrogen Mixtures and Pilot-Split Strategies in a Laboratory-Scale Radial Swirl Combustor
Authors: Rizza Raad , Talibi Midhat , Cosway Benjamin , Kenny Lucas , Beita Jadeed , Ducci Andrea , Sadasivuni Suresh , Balachandran Ramanarayanan
Published: September 2024

The transition to a decarbonized energy future relies on identifying the most suitable alternative fuels that can meet the needs of various energy sectors. While both ammonia and hydrogen are zero-carbon energy vectors, their physical properties and burning characteristics sit on either side of that of natural gas. Hence, mixtures of ammonia and hydrogen are being increasingly looked at as having the potential to fuel current energy systems without requiring significant combustor redesign. However, the combustion characteristics and operation limits for different ammonia/hydrogen mixtures still need to be evaluated. For gas turbine applications in particular, the effect of ammonia/hydrogen mixture composition and operating condition on flame behavior and stability is not well understood. The current work was carried out in a laboratory scale, radial swirl-stabilized turbulent combustor. A systematic study of two ammonia/hydrogen blend ratios (70:30 and 80:20 by volume) and a range of equivalence ratios were tested for different pilot-split ratios, to understand the effect on flame shape, stability and dynamics. Time-resolved pressure and integrated heat release fluctuations were measured to evaluate combustor dynamics, and NH2* chemiluminescence flame images were captured to understand spatial differences in flame structure. When comparing blend ratios, differences were observed in flame macrostructures and combustor dynamics, which could be largely attributed to the considerable difference in the laminar flame speeds of the blends. The addition of pilot generally improved the stability and lean operation for both blend ratios.
Controlled Ice Nucleation With a Sand-PDMS Film Device Enhances Cryopreservation of Mouse Preantral Ovarian Follicles
Authors: Stewart Samantha , White Alisa , Ou Wenquan , Liu Wei , Nagashima Jennifer , Songsasen Nucharin , He Xiaoming
Published: September 2024

Ovarian follicle cryopreservation is a promising strategy for fertility preservation; however, cryopreservation protocols have room for improvement to maximize post-thaw follicle viability and quality. Current slow-freezing protocols use either manual ice-seeding in combination with expensive programmable-rate freezers or other clinically incompatible ice initiators to control the ice-seeding temperature in the extracellular solution, a critical parameter that impacts post-cryopreservation cell/tissue quality. Previously, sand has been shown to be an excellent, biocompatible ice initiator, and its use in cryopreservation of human induced pluripotent stem cells enables high cell viability and quality after cryopreservation. This study applies sand as an ice initiator to cryopreserve multicellular microtissue, preantral ovarian follicles, using a simple slow-freezing protocol in the mouse model. Ovarian follicles cryopreserved using the sand partially embedded in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film to seed ice in the extracellular solution exhibit healthy morphology, high viability, and the ability to grow similarly to fresh follicles in culture post-thaw. This sand-based cryopreservation strategy can facilitate convenient ovarian follicle cryopreservation using simple equipment, and this study further demonstrates the translatability of this strategy to not only single cells but also multicellular tissues.
Experimental Research on Thermal-Oxidative Aging Performance of Polyethylene Pipe Under Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Chen Wei , Xiong Haichao , Xia Li , Chen Zhang
Published: September 2024

Aging performance of polyethylene (PE) material from PE pipe under hydrostatic pressure was investigated by measuring its mechanical/chemical properties. Tensile test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), oxidation induction time (OIT), as well as hardness test were carried out to evaluate the aging status of polyethylene material. Results show that as aging time prolongs, elongation rate after brake, thermal decomposition temperature, as well as oxidation induction time of PE specimen decrease, while its hardness increases, indicating that its mechanical/chemical properties change with the aging intensity. Life prediction model was also established based on failure time–pressure data obtained from hydrostatic pressure test, under the guidance of Arrhenius theory. Conclusions drawn from this research could help to prompt the efficiency of PE pipe on-site inspection as well as serve as references for understanding the aging behavior of PE pipe.
The Effects of Running Foot Strike Manipulation on Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity in Healthy Nulliparous Females
Authors: Steimling Michael , Steimling Melinda , Malloy Philip , Madara Kathleen
Published: September 2024

Vertical loading rate (VLR) and pelvic floor muscle activity (PFA) increase with running velocity, which may indicate a relationship between VLR and PFA. Foot strike pattern has been shown to influence VLR while running, but little is known about its influence on PFA. Twenty healthy women ran on a treadmill for 2 conditions: with a rearfoot strike and with a forefoot strike. PFA was measured with electromyography. Running kinematics associated with VLR were collected using inertial measurement units and tibial accelerometers. Change scores between conditions were calculated for average PFA and running kinematics: peak vertical tibial acceleration, vertical excursion of the center of mass (VO), and cadence. Paired t tests assessed differences between running conditions for all variables. Pearson correlations assessed the relationships between changes in PFA and running kinematics. PFA was significantly higher during the forefoot compared with the rearfoot strike condition. Change in vertical tibial acceleration was positively correlated with change in PFA during the right stance. Change in cadence was negatively correlated, and change in vertical excursion of the center of mass was positively correlated with change in PFA during left stance. The average PFA increased during the forefoot strike pattern condition. Changes in PFA were correlated with changes in running kinematics associated with VLR.
Content Validation and Pilot Testing of the Promoting Active Lifestyle Among Children With Disability Questionnaire in Filipino and English
Authors: Kang Mary-Grace , Tablante Gabriella Isabel , Mendoza Kristofferson , Bandong Aila Nica , Guisihan Roselle , Lim Audrey Anne , Lunar Frances Rom , Olegario Carlos Dominic , Rotor Esmerita , Palad Yves
Published: September 2024

Background: Primary carers, school teachers, and administrators are key influencers in promoting active lifestyle among children with disabilities (CWD). Guided by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior Model, the Promoting Active Lifestyle among CWD (PALS) Questionnaire aims to determine these influencers’ perceptions, capabilities, opportunities, and motivations in active healthy lifestyle promotion. This study evaluated the content validity and feasibility of the PALS Questionnaire in Filipino and English. Methods: Six experts rated the relevance of the items in the Filipino and English versions of the PALS Questionnaire. Item and scale content validity indices and agreement among raters (modified kappa k*) were computed. The questionnaires were revised and pilot tested among 11 participants comprising primary carers, and special education teachers and administrators using 3 methods of administration: online survey, phone interview, and pen-and-paper survey. Results: Scale-level content validity index indicated excellent content validity (0.96–0.97). Item-level content validity index ranged between 0.67 and 1.00. Interrater agreement on the relevance of all items was excellent (k* = .82–1.00), except for the item on teaching assistants (k* = .56). Most participants found the items easy to understand. The average time needed to complete a questionnaire was 30 minutes. The online version of the questionnaire was identified as the most feasible mode of administration. Conclusion: The PALS Questionnaire is a useful instrument for understanding Filipino primary carers’ and educators’ perceptions on promoting CWD’s active healthy lifestyle. Information from the PALS Questionnaire could inform initiatives toward better CWD health and quality of life.
Pride Body: Racialized Gay and Queer Men’s Physique Preparation for Canadian Pride Events
Authors: Uy Daniel
Published: September 2024

This research explores why racialized queer and gay men work out prior to Pride events in Pride Toronto and Fierté Montréal. The findings show that muscular aesthetics are a type of gay social capital, and participants acknowledge that this may also increase undesired attention and limitations because of their racialized bodies. Participants voice the paradox of the “unspoken rule,” which derives from ideas of authenticity and superficiality. To be one’s most genuine self, racialized queer and gay men must achieve a high physical bodily aesthetic but may lose identity and agency. Yet, they transform their bodies as a daily dedication to their own well-being. Most seem to be aware of the contradictions and tensions in developing a muscled body, which is a personal journey each of them went through to find their own understanding and meaning.
Label-free, real-time monitoring of cytochrome C drug responses in microdissected tumor biopsies with a multi-well aptasensor platform
Authors: Nguyen Tran N. H. , Horowitz Lisa F. , Krilov Timothy , Lockhart Ethan , Kenerson Heidi L. , Gujral Taranjit S. , Yeung Raymond S. , Arroyo-Currás Netzahualcóyotl , Folch Albert
Published: September 2024

Functional assays on intact tumor biopsies can complement genomics-based approaches for precision oncology, drug testing, and organs-on-chips cancer disease models by capturing key therapeutic response determinants, such as tissue architecture, tumor heterogeneity, and the tumor microenvironment. Most of these assays rely on fluorescent labeling, a semiquantitative method best suited for single-time-point assays or labor-intensive immunostaining analysis. Here, we report integrated aptamer electrochemical sensors for on-chip, real-time monitoring of cytochrome C, a cell death indicator, from intact microdissected tissues with high affinity and specificity. The platform features a multi-well sensor layout and a multiplexed electronic setup. The aptasensors measure increases in cytochrome C in the supernatant of mouse or human microdissected tumors after exposure to various drug treatments. Because of the sensor’s high affinity, it primarily tracks rising concentrations of cytochrome C, capturing dynamic changes during apoptosis. This approach could help develop more advanced cancer disease models and apply to other complex in vitro disease models, such as organs-on-chips and organoids.
RETRACTED: Crucial role of interfacial thermal dissipation in the operational stability of organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Tie Kai , Qi Jiannan , Hu Yongxu , Fu Yao , Sun Shougang , Wang Yanpeng , Huang Yinan , Wang Zhongwu , Yuan Liqian , Li Liqiang , Wei Dacheng , Chen Xiaosong , Hu Wenping
Published: September 2024

The operational stability becomes a key issue affecting the commercialization for organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). It is widely recognized to be closely related to the defects and traps at the interface between dielectric and organic semiconductors, but this understanding does not always effectively address operational instability, implying that the factors influencing the operational stability have not been fully understood. Here, we reveal that the self-heating effect is another crucial factor in operational stability. By using hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) to assist interfacial thermal dissipation, the dinaphtho[2,3-b:2′,3′-f]thieno[3,2-b]thiophene (DNTT) FETs exhibit high mobility of 14.18 cm
2
V
−1
s
−1
and saturated power density up to 1.8 × 10
4
W cm
−2
. The OFET can operate at a power density of 1.06 × 10
4
W cm
−2
for 30,000 s with negligible performance degradation, showing excellent operational stability under high power density. This work deepens the understanding on operational stability and develops an effective way for ultrahigh stable devices.