bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educator's blueprint: Holistic applicant file review in undergraduate and postgraduate medical education
Authors: Shappell Eric , Carter Keme , Park Yoon Soo , Gottlieb Michael
Published: September 2023

Medical schools and graduate medical education programs are tasked each year with selecting the next class of trainees, often from large applicant pools with enormous quantities of data to be processed. Review of applicant files must therefore be efficient, equitable, and effective in maximizing the likelihood of trainee success and alignment with institutional missions and values. In this article, we discuss 10 strategies to optimize the file review process for trainee selection. Using these strategies, educators can ensure rigorous and accountable file review processes for their training programs.
Clinical impact of very early recurrence after conversion surgery for stage IV gastric cancer
Authors: Morito Atsushi , Eto Kojiro , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Toihata Tasuku , Kosumi Keisuke , Iwagami Shiro , Baba Yoshifumi , Miyamoto Yuji , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: September 2023

Background

The development and improved response to chemotherapy has resulted in a survival benefit of conversion surgery (CS) for advanced gastric cancer (GC). However, this benefit is limited in some cases, such as in those with very early recurrence (VER). This study investigated the relationship between outcome and clinicopathological characteristics after CS for stage IV GC, and the risk factors for VER after CS.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 184 patients with stage IV GC who initially underwent chemotherapy, including 36 patients who underwent CS between May 2007 and January 2022. We evaluated the long‐term outcome after CS for stage IV GC and the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients who underwent CS.

Results

Median survival times (MSTs) in the chemotherapy alone and CS groups were 13.4 and 36.5 months, respectively (p < 0.0001). Of the 27 patients who underwent R0 resection, 22 remained free of early recurrence and five experienced VER. MSTs in the VER and free of early recurrence groups were 15.2 and 44.1 months, respectively (p < 0.0001). Significantly more patients had liver metastasis before initial treatment in the VER group than in the FER group (p = 0.016). There were more patients with preoperative PNI <40 in the VER group (p = 0.046).

Conclusion

CS is an effective treatment for stage IV GC, but VER is associated with poor prognosis. We need to carefully consider the indications for CS, especially for patients with poor nutritional status and liver metastases.
Impact of resection for ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer and clinicopathologic analysis: A multicenter retrospective study in Japan
Authors: Kagawa Hiroyasu , Kinugasa Yusuke , Yamaguchi Tomohiro , Ohue Masayuki , Kawai Kazushige , Hiro Junichiro , Shinji Seiichi , Nozawa Hiroaki , Hirano Yasumitsu , Komori Koji , Takii Yasumasa , Suto Takeshi , Tsukamoto Shunsuke , Akagi Yoshito , Ozawa Heita , Toiyama Yuji , Minami Kazuhito , Shimizu Tomoharu , Uehara Kay , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Mori Keita , Sugihara Kenichi , Ajioka Yoichi
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to clarify the significance of resection of ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer and to identify the clinicopathologic characteristics.

Methods

In this multicenter retrospective study, we evaluated data on ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer obtained from patients at 20 centers in Japan between 2000 and 2014. We examined the impact of resection on the prognosis of patients with ovarian metastases and examined prognostic factors.

Results

The study included 296 patients with ovarian metastasis. The 3‐y overall survival rate was 68.6% for solitary ovarian metastases. In all cases of this cohort, the 3‐y overall survival rates after curative resection, noncurative resection, and nonresection were 65.9%, 31.8%, and 6.1%, respectively (curative resection vs noncurative resection [P < 0.01] and noncurative resection vs nonresection [P < 0.01]). In the multivariate analysis of prognostic factors, tumor size of ovarian metastasis (P < 0.01), bilateral ovarian metastasis (P = 0.01), peritoneal metastasis (P < 0.01), pulmonary metastasis (P = 0.04), liver metastasis (P < 0.01), and remnant of ovarian metastasis (P < 0.01) were statistically significantly different.

Conclusion

The prognosis after curative resection for solitary ovarian metastases was shown to be relatively favorable as Stage IV colorectal cancer. Resection of ovarian metastases, not only curative resection but also noncurative resection, confers a survival benefit. Prognostic factors were large ovarian metastases, bilateral ovarian metastases, the presence of extraovarian metastases, and remnant ovarian metastases.
The Differing Effects of Sleep on Ictal and Interictal Network Dynamics in Drug‐Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Hannan Sana , Thomas John , Jaber Kassem , El Kosseifi Charbel , Ho Alyssa , Abdallah Chifaou , Avigdor Tamir , Gotman Jean , Frauscher Birgit
Published: September 2023

Objective

Sleep has important influences on focal interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), and the rates and spatial extent of IEDs are increased in non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. In contrast, the influence of sleep on seizures is less clear, and its effects on seizure topography are poorly documented. We evaluated the influences of NREM sleep on ictal spatiotemporal dynamics and contrasted these with interictal network dynamics.

Methods

We included patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy who underwent continuous intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) with depth electrodes. Patients were selected if they had 1 to 3 seizures from each vigilance state, wakefulness and NREM sleep, within a 48‐hour window, and under the same antiseizure medication. A 10‐minute epoch of the interictal iEEG was selected per state, and IEDs were detected automatically. A total of 25 patients (13 women; aged 32.5 ± 7.1 years) were included.

Results

The seizure onset pattern, duration, spatiotemporal propagation, and latency of ictal high‐frequency activity did not differ significantly between wakefulness and NREM sleep (all p > 0.05). In contrast, IED rates and spatial distribution were increased in NREM compared with wakefulness (p < 0.001, Cliff's d = 0.48 and 0.49). The spatial overlap between vigilance states was higher for seizures (57.1 ± 40.1%) than IEDs (41.7 ± 46.2%; p = 0.001, Cliff's d = 0.51).

Interpretation

In contrast to its effects on IEDs, NREM sleep does not affect ictal spatiotemporal dynamics. This suggests that once the brain surpasses the seizure threshold, it will follow the underlying epileptic network irrespective of the vigilance state. These findings offer valuable insights into neural network dynamics in epilepsy and have important clinical implications for localizing seizure foci. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:42–56
Anchoring a Structurally Editable Proximal Cofactor‐like Module to Construct an Artificial Dual‐center Peroxygenase
Authors: Qin Xiangquan , Jiang Yiping , Yao Fuquan , Chen Jie , Kong Fanhui , Zhao Panxia , Jin Longyi , Cong Zhiqi
Published: September 2023

A recent novel strategy for constructing artificial metalloenzymes (ArMs) that target new‐to‐nature functions uses dual‐functional small molecules (DFSMs) with catalytic and anchoring groups for converting P450BM3 monooxygenase into a peroxygenase. However, this process requires excess DFSMs (1000 equivalent of P450) owing to their low binding affinity for P450, thus severely limiting its practical application. Herein, structural optimization of the DFSM‐anchoring group considerably enhanced their binding affinity by three orders of magnitude (Kd≈10−8 M), thus approximating native cofactors, such as FMN or FAD in flavoenzymes. An artificial cofactor‐driven peroxygenase was thus constructed. The co‐crystal structure of P450BM3 bound to a DFSM clearly revealed a precatalytic state in which the DFSM participates in H2O2 activation, thus facilitating peroxygenase activity. Moreover, the increased binding affinity substantially decreases the DFSM load to as low as 2 equivalents of P450, while maintaining increased activity. Furthermore, replacement of catalytic groups showed disparate selectivity and activity for various substrates. This study provides an unprecedented approach for assembling ArMs by binding editable organic cofactors as a co‐catalytic center, thereby increasing the catalytic promiscuity of P450 enzymes.
Tuning the Stacking Modes of Ultrathin Two‐Dimensional Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheet Membranes for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Song Shizheng , Wang Wei , Zhao Yali , Wu Wufeng , Wei Yanying , Wang Haihui
Published: September 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) metal–organic framework (MOF) membranes are considered potential gas separation membranes of the next generation due to their structural diversity and geometrical functionality. However, achieving a rational structure design for a 2D MOF membrane and understanding the impact of MOF nanosheet stacking modes on membrane separation performance remain challenging tasks. Here, we report a novel kind of 2D MOF membrane based on [Cu2Br(IN)2]n (IN=isonicotinato) nanosheets and propose that synergetic stacking modes of nanosheets have a significant influence on gas separation performance. The stacking of the 2D MOF nanosheets is controlled by solvent droplet dynamic behaviors at different temperatures of drop coating. Our 2D MOF nanosheet membranes exhibit high gas separation performances for H2/CH4 (selectivity >290 with H2 permeance >520 GPU) and H2/CO2 (selectivity >190 with H2 permeance >590 GPU) surpassing the Robeson upper bounds, paving a potential way for eco‐friendly H2 separation.
A review of the use of scraped surface heat exchangers to crystallize fats and fat‐based products
Authors: da Silva Thais Lomonaco Teodoro , Martini Silvana
Published: September 2023

Scraped surface heat exchangers (SSHE) are very important in many industries including chemical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food. Some of the applications of SSHE in the food industry are to control the crystallization process in fats and frozen desserts, among other applications. This can be achieved because of the scraping action of the fixed blades that continuously rotate within the cooling surface removing the crystallized product from the surface, improving heat transfer, preventing crystal build‐up on the wall, and accelerating the crystallization process. There are many process parameters that can be controlled in the SSHE to control and tailor the fat crystallization process, and many fat‐based products can benefit from this machine, such as shortenings, spreads, and chocolates. Moreover, SSHE have recently been coupled to other processing devices such as high intensity ultrasound (HIU), high pressure homogenizers, and others to improve the crystallization process even further. This review focuses on the importance of SSHE in fat and fat‐based products and discusses the importance of the parameters of the SSHE in the crystallization process, as well as how they affect the physical properties of different fat sources and spreads.
Transmission Porosimetry Study on High‐quality Zr‐fum‐MOF Thin Films
Authors: Keppler Nils Christian , Hannebauer Adrian , Hindricks Karen Deli Josephine , Zailskas Saskia , Schaate Andreas , Behrens Peter
Published: September 2023

Crystalline Zr‐fum‐MOF (MOF‐801) thin films of high quality are prepared on glass and silicon substrates by direct growth under solvothermal conditions. The synthesis is described in detail and the influence of different synthesis parameters such as temperature, precursor concentration, and the substrate type on the quality of the coatings is illustrated. Zr‐fum‐MOF thin films are characterized in terms of crystallinity, porosity, and homogeneity. Dense films of optical quality are obtained. The sorption behavior of the thin films is studied with various adsorptives. It can be easily monitored by measuring the transmission of the films in gas flows of different compositions. This simple transmission measurement at only one wavelength allows a very fast evaluation of the adsorption properties of thin films as compared to traditional sorption methods. The sorption behavior of the thin films is compared with the sorption properties of Zr‐fum‐MOF powder samples.
Out‐of‐school suspension among young persons in care: The need to respond to attachment needs and provide a secure base that promotes learning
Authors: Melkman Eran P.
Published: September 2023

Children in care from backgrounds of maltreatment often struggle to perform to their full potential in school. Although the English government has put education at the top of its agenda for children in care, there remains a high risk of children in care being excluded from school, undermining their chances of closing the attainment gap. This study examined how young persons in care and their foster carers perceive and experience out‐of‐school suspension and the factors surrounding it. While analysing interviewees’ accounts attachment theory emerged as a useful analytic lens through which to explore the school experiences of young persons. The study draws on 18 interviews with young persons in care aged 14–18 (nine interviews) who had been suspended from secondary school in the previous 2 years and their foster carers (nine interviews). Findings showed that despite the great importance of school for these young persons, it was generally experienced as a hostile environment where they felt they were not listened to, cared for or respected. These feelings marked a breakdown of communication between children and school and were a central factor in the process that led to their exclusion. Drawing on attachment theory, these dynamics are discussed as reflecting the failure of educational staff to respond to young persons’ attachment needs and provide them with a secure base. Specifically, the Secure Base model for foster carers’ caregivingis offered as a useful perspective to frame teachers’ relationships with young persons in care.
Nucleic Acid Detection through RNA‐Guided Protease Activity in Type III‐E CRISPR‐Cas Systems
Authors: He Qiuqiu , Lei Xinlong , Liu Yuanjun , Wang Xiaoshen , Ji Nan , Yin Hang , Wang Huiping , Zhang Heng , Yu Guimei
Published: September 2023

RNA‐guided protease activity was recently discovered in the type III‐E CRISPR‐Cas systems (Craspase), providing a novel platform for engineering a protein probe instead of the commonly used nucleic acid probe in nucleic acid detection assays. Here, by adapting a fluorescence readout technique using the affinity‐ and fluorescent protein dual‐tagged Csx30 protein substrate, we have established an assay monitoring Csx30 cleavage by target ssRNA‐activated Craspase. Four Craspase‐based nucleic acid detection systems for genes from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), norovirus, and the influenza virus (IFV) were reconstituted with demonstrated specificity. The assay could reliably detect target ssRNAs at concentrations down to 25 pM, which could be further improved approximately 15 000‐fold (ca. 2 fM) by incorporating a recombinase polymerase isothermal preamplification step. Importantly, the species‐specific substrate cleavage specificity of Craspase enabled multiplexed diagnosis, as demonstrated by the reconstituted composite systems for simultaneous detection of two genes from the same virus (SARS‐CoV‐2, spike and nsp12) or two types of viruses (SARS‐CoV‐2 and IFV). The assay could be further expanded by diversifying the fluorescent tags in the substrate and including Craspase systems from various species, thus potentially providing an easily adaptable platform for clinical diagnosis.
Seventy years of sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas L. (LAM)] research in South Africa
Authors: Laurie Sunette M. , Mulabisana Julia , Sutherland Rene , Sivakumar Dharini , Pofu Kgabo , Mphela Whelma M. , Truter Mariette , du Plooy Ian , Araya Nadia , Araya Hintsa , Nyathi Melvin , Kistnasamy Ashika , Cloete Michele , Nkosi Brightness , Shimelis Hussein , Laing Mark D. , Malebane Mmapaseka E. , Bairu Michael W.
Published: September 2023

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations puts forward a transformational vision to cope with food security, nutrition, and health challenges, in which sweet potato can play an important role. Globally, sweet potato production is valued at $53.83 billion. The Agricultural Research Council of South Africa (ARC) sweet potato research and development (R&D) program over the past seven decades delivered 31 genetically improved cultivars via demand‐led breeding, managed the collection and maintenance of 375 accessions, contributed toward the optimization of cultivation practices, developed crop protection and diagnostic services, and provided streamlined seed systems and technology transfer in processing and enterprise development. The ARC's work is part of a large number of interdependent global programs committed to improving livelihoods and nutrition through sweet potato. This review shares and analyses major achievements, highlights unique research contributions achieved through partnerships, and discusses bottlenecks on funding and uptake of technologies. New research imperatives will involve root phenotyping, employing marker‐based technologies, and genome‐wide association studies through new funding received recently. Exploration of the commercialization potential of processed products made from orange‐fleshed sweet potato will be a major focus of the R&D program. Expansion of partnerships, marketing, and financing will be important for future contribution of sweet potato to the economy.
Diverse eastern gamagrass ecotypes: General characteristics, ploidy levels, and biogeography
Authors: Kiniry James R. , Williams Amber S. , Jacot Jacqueline , Shadow Alan , Brakie Melinda , Burson Byron , Jessup Russell , Cordsiemon Ron , Kim Sumin , Avila Angela , Elias Sabry G.
Published: September 2023

Eastern gamagrass (EG), Tripsacum dactyloides, is a diverse warm‐season, perennial bunchgrass that is widespread in the eastern half of the United States. The objectives of this study were to obtain a large assortment of ecotypes, measure and quantify some of their morphological aspects, and determine ploidy level for many of these ecotypes. Nearly 300 ecotypes were collected from 10 states and planted in a common garden in Temple, TX. Plants were measured throughout the growing season and ploidy was determined using flow cytometry. Plant morphology measurements were variable, though none were statistically significantly correlated when compared pairwise to ploidy levels, origin, landform, precipitation, or temperature. However, multivariate analyses showed that ploidy was significantly correlated with plant volume, plant height, and leaf width. Diploids were more narrowly restricted to drier habitats, while the tetraploids were widespread. Tetraploids have also a higher volume than diploids. Likewise, mean annual precipitation was correlated with plant height and leaf width. Landform (wet vs. dry) for collection sites was significantly correlated with plant volume in the multivariate analysis. Though not statistically significant, the southernmost populations start growing earlier than plants collected further north. This new insight into EG ecology via the collected data is useful to better answer producer questions about climate and management operations as they differ among ecotypes.
A case of a stuck mesh in the rectum after pelvic surgery
Authors: Eizuka Makoto , Toya Yosuke , Akasaka Risaburo , Yamada Shun , Oizumi Tomofumi , Kasugai Satoshi , Yanai Shunichi , Sugimura Yoshihiko , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: September 2023

A 67‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital for further evaluation of a positive fecal occult blood test. Colonoscopy revealed an elevated rectal lesion (10 mm in size) with a central depression. A rod‐like object was noted in the center of the lesion. Magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging showed obscure surface structures and dilated vessels. Magnifying endoscopy with crystal violet staining showed that the pit pattern had disappeared. These endoscopic findings suggested that the lesion was comprised of granulation tissue. A detailed medical history revealed that she had undergone a total hysterectomy with mesh placement for bladder prolapse. We reasoned that the mesh used during pelvic surgery might have penetrated the rectum. She underwent subsequent surgery to remove the mesh. Although most foreign bodies in the rectum are swallowed or self‐inserted, pelvic surgery is another source of foreign bodies in the rectum.
Sunken trees in the deep sea link terrestrial and marine biodiversity
Authors: McClain Craig R. , Boolukos Corie M. , Bryant S. River D. , Hanks Granger
Published: September 2023

Wood in the deep sea serves as a substantial food source in an otherwise barren environment, forming specialized, endemic, and diverse community assemblages. This biodiversity reliance on a terrestrial source creates a linkage by which anthropogenic impacts on land can alter the deep oceans. Knowledge of the alpha‐ or beta‐diversity of entire wood‐fall communities, and wooden drivers of each would elucidate the terrestrial and deep‐sea linkage. We report on a multifactorial experiment in the deep ocean in which alpha‐ and beta‐diversity of 43 wood falls and 11 tree species are quantified over time, wood density, and wood size. We tested multiple hypotheses seeking to link how biodiversity on land may impact the biodiversity in the deep oceans. A tremendous biodiversity occurred among these wood falls in the deep Gulf of Mexico; 114 invertebrate species from 10 phyla. Time, wood hardness, and wood size all impacted various components of community structure. In many cases, these effects were additive. Species occurring on softwoods versus hardwoods and small versus large wood falls were compositionally different. Although various processes can control community structure, this experiment suggests a strong influence of environmental filtering and host specificity of wood‐fall invertebrates suggesting an intimate coupling to tree biodiversity and biomass on land.
Association of vaccine‐specific regulatory T cells with reduced antibody response to repeated influenza vaccination
Authors: Lin Pin‐Hung , Hsiao Po‐Ju , Pan Ching‐Fu , Liu Ming‐Tsan , Wang Jann‐Tay , Ching Chi , Wu Fang‐Yi , Lin Yi‐Hsuan , Yang Yu‐Chan , Hsu Le‐Yin , Yang Hung‐Chih , Wu Un‐In
Published: September 2023

Repeated annual influenza vaccinations have been associated with reduced vaccine‐induced antibody responses. This prospective study aimed to explore the role of vaccine antigen‐specific regulatory T (Treg) cells in antibody response to repeated annual influenza vaccination. We analyzed pre‐ and postvaccination hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers, seroconversion rates, seroprotection rates, vaccine antigen hemagglutinin (HA)‐specific Treg cells, and conventional T (Tconv) cells. We compared these parameters between vaccinees with or without vaccine‐induced seroconversion. Our multivariate logistic regression revealed that prior vaccination was significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of achieving seroconversion for both H1N1(adjusted OR, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.01–0.13) and H3N2 (adjusted OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.03–0.30). Furthermore, individuals who received repeated vaccinations had significantly higher levels of pre‐existing HA‐specific Treg cells than those who did not. We also found that vaccine‐induced fold‐increases in HI titers and seroconversion were negatively correlated with pre‐existing HA‐specific Treg cells and positively correlated with the ratio of Tconv to Treg cells. Overall, our findings suggest that repeated annual influenza vaccination is associated with a lower vaccine‐induced antibody response and a higher frequency of vaccine‐specific Treg cells. However, a lower frequency of pre‐existing Treg cells correlates with a higher postvaccination antibody response.
Cooperative Dinitrogen Activation: Identifying the Push‐Pull Effects of Transition Metals and Lewis Acids in Molecular Orbital Diagrams
Authors: Martins Frederico F. , Krewald Vera
Published: September 2023

The sustainable fixation of atmospheric N2 and its conversion into industrially relevant molecules is one of the major current challenges in chemistry. Besides nitrogen activation with transition metal complexes, a “push‐pull” approach that fine‐tunes electron density along the N−N bond has shown success recently. The “pushing” is performed by an electron rich entity such as a transition metal complex, and the “pulling” is achieved with an electron acceptor such as a Lewis acid. In this contribution, we explore the electronic structure implications of this approach using the complex trans‐[ReICl(N2)(PMe2Ph)4] as a starting point. We show that borane Lewis acids exert a pull‐effect of increasing strength with increased Lewis acidity via a π‐pathway. Furthermore, the ligand trans to dinitrogen can weaken the dinitrogen bond via a σ‐pathway. Binding a strong Lewis acid is found to have electronic structure effects potentially relevant for electrochemistry: dinitrogen‐dominated molecular orbitals are shifted into advantageous energetic positions for redox activation of the dinitrogen bond. We show how these electronic structure design principles are rooted in cooperative effects of a transition metal complex and a Lewis acid, and that they can be exploited to tailor a complex towards the desired thermal, electrochemical or photochemical reactivity.
Prevalence and risk of stillbirth according to biologic vulnerability phenotypes in the municipality of São Paulo, Brazil: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Marques Lays Janaina Prazeres , Silva Zilda Pereira da , Alencar Gizelton Pereira , Paixão Enny Santos da , Blencowe Hannah , de Almeida Marcia Furquim
Published: September 2023

Objective

To estimate the prevalence and risk of stillbirths by biologic vulnerability phenotypes in a cohort of pregnant women in the municipality of São Paulo, Brazil, 2017–2019.

Methods

Retrospective population‐based cohort study. Fetuses were assessed as small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), adequate for gestational age (AGA), preterm (PT) as less than 37 weeks of gestation, non‐PT (NPT) as 37 weeks of gestation or more, low birth weight (LBW) as less than 2500 g, and non‐LBW (NLBW) as 2500 g or more. Relative risks (RR) with robust variance were estimated using Poisson regression.

Results

In all 442 782 pregnancies, including 2321 (0.5%) stillbirths, were included. About 85% (n = 1983) of stillbirths had at least one characteristic of vulnerability, compared with 21% (n = 92524) of live births. Fetuses with all three markers of vulnerability had the highest adjusted RR of stillbirth—SGA + LBW + PT (RR 155.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 136.29–176.30) and LGA + LBW + PT (RR 262.04; 95% CI 206.10–333.16) when compared with AGA + NLBW + NPT.

Conclusion

Our findings show that the simultaneous presence of prematurity, low birth weight, and abnormal intrauterine growth presented a higher risk of stillbirths. To accelerate progress towards reducing preventable stillbirths, one must identify the circumstances of greatest biologic vulnerability.
Approaches to improve and adapt maternal mortality estimations in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Tholandi Maya , Zethof Siem , Kim Young‐Mi , Tura Abera Kenay , Ket Johannes , Willcox Merlin , van den Akker Thomas , Ilozumba Onaedo
Published: September 2023

Background

In the absence of robust vital registration systems, many low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) rely on national surveys or routine surveillance systems to estimate the maternal mortality ratio (MMR). Although the importance of MMR estimates in ending preventable maternal deaths is acknowledged, there is limited research on how different approaches are used and adapted, and how these adaptations function.

Objectives

To assess methods for estimating maternal mortality in LMICs and the rationale for these modifications.

Search Strategy

A literature search with the terms “maternal death”, “surveys” and “low‐ and middle‐income countries” was performed in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, ERIC, and IBSS from January 2013 to March 17, 2023.

Selection Criteria

Studies were eligible if their main focus was to compare, adapt, or assess methods to estimate maternal mortality in LMICs.

Data Collection and Analysis

Titles and abstracts were screened using Rayyan. Relevant articles were independently reviewed by two reviewers against inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on mortality measurement methods, their context, and results.

Main Results

Nineteen studies were included, focusing on data completeness, subnational estimates, and community involvement. Routinely generated MMR estimates are more complete when multiple data sources are triangulated, including data from public and private health facilities, the community, and local authorities (e.g. vital registration, police reports). For subnational estimates, existing (e.g. the sisterhood method and reproductive‐age mortality surveys [RAMOS]) and adapted methods (e.g. RAMOS 4 + 2 and Pictorial Sisterhood Method) provided reliable confidence intervals. Community engagement in data collection increased community awareness of maternal deaths, provided local ownership, and was expected to reduce implementation costs. However, most studies did not include a cost‐effectiveness analysis.

Conclusion

Household surveys with community involvement and RAMOS can be used to increase data validity, improve local awareness of maternal mortality estimates, and reduce costs in LMICs.
Why do people use telecentres in the age of mobile technologies? Answers from Malawi
Authors: Kapondera Sellina Khumbo , Mtambo Jim
Published: September 2023

Telecentres provide access to Information and Communication Technonology (ICT) services to disadvantaged communities. With the coming of mobile technologies such as smartphones, some services that telecentres provide such as internet can easily be accessed through mobile technologies. This, therefore, questions the relevance of telecentres in the age of mobile technologies. Two main questions exist: are telecentres still relevant? If yes, why do people still use telecentres in the age of mobile technologies? This paper aims at answering these questions. It also discusses the challenges that users face in using telecentres. Qualitative data were collected from telecentre users and managers of two telecentres in Malawi through focus groups and interviews. Gioia methodology was used to analyze the data. The study reveals four main reasons why people still patronize telecentres: (i) to socialize with fellow users; and (ii) that it is cheaper to access services in the telecentre as compared to using smartphones for the same services; (iii) telecentres provide services compatible with users' needs such as library services and computers; (iv) and to attain ICT skills some of which are applied in using smartphones. However, users face numerous challenges such as limited space within telecentres and unreliable power. The study is valuable as it provides insights into why governments should continue investing in telecentres. It also comes at a right time when the government of Malawi plans to abandon the community telecentre model to adopt the school managed model that may limit the number of users thereby limiting the benefits of telecentres in the presence of mobile technologies.
Nutrient Content in Sludge Profiles from a Full‐Scale Stabilization Pond in a Temperate Location
Authors: Faleschini Mauricio , Esteves José L.
Published: September 2023

The inorganic nutrient concentrations in sludge profiles from a full‐scale municipal facultative pond in Puerto Madryn City (Argentina) were measured. Sludge samples were collected with cores during autumn, winter, and summer at three sites: inlet, intermediate, and outlet. In general, the sludge accumulates NH4+ and PO43–, increasing their concentrations with depth. However, NH4+ presented a different behavior at the outlet station during the summer, when the lower concentrations were recorded. This finding reflects a nutrient release, originating in their greater demand from the water column. In the sludge, the NO3– followed the spatial and seasonal pattern recorded in the surface water: detectable concentrations in the warmer months at the outlet. The vertical reduction of NO3– could be an indication of denitrification. The study supported the hypothesis that the sludge can act as a nutrient trap or source, depending on factors such as the temperature, nutrients/oxygen concentration, mixing processes, and location.
A comparative analysis of counselors’ right to test over time: Implications for advocacy in the counseling profession
Authors: Cade Rochelle , Lenz A. Stephen
Published: September 2023

Counselor's right to utilize assessment, appraisal, and tests, and diagnose has substantive implications for professional counseling, counselor education, the provision of evidence‐based practice, and supporting client development across the life span. We identified documents detailing licensure rules and regulations for counselors’ use of these clinical tools within the contiguous United States, Washington, DC, Alaska, Hawaii, and inhabited U.S. territories. Proportion comparisons over time, Fisher's exact test, and related effect sizes were computed to identify changes over time, as well as trends associated with regional professional association. Our results indicated increased representation over time of privileges allowing for the use of assessment, appraisal, and tests, and diagnosis within counselors’ scope of practice and educational requirements, but modest representation of normal assessment use and allowable/nonallowable assessments and tests. Furthermore, we identified statistically significant differences in the regional representativeness of diagnostic privileges. Implications for counselor education and individual and association‐level advocacy are discussed.
Correcting charge distribution in reduced Li‐molecule pair for computational screening of battery solvents
Authors: Orekhov M. A.
Published: September 2023

Li‐molecule pair is a widely used model for the simulation of reduction in Li‐ion batteries. We demonstrate that this model provides incorrect results for some solvents. When an electron is added to the Li‐molecule pair, it may go to the lithium‐ion and neutralize it. Instead, we suggest placing this additional electron on the molecule using constrained density functional theory (CDFT). This approach resembles electron behaviour in the condensed phase and reproduces the physics of the reduction. We demonstrate that suggested in this work approach provides improved agreement with experimental data. Suggested CDFT‐based method is fast, reliable and may be used in computational screening of solvents. We demonstrate the practical application of the method by benchmarking it on a set of 30 molecules from the electrolyte solvent database.
Facile Construction of Antimicrobial Surface via One‐Step Co‐Deposition of Peptide Polymer and Dopamine
Authors: Wu Yueming , She Yunrui , Yan Zi , Chen Sheng , Wang Jiangzhou , Dong Alideertu , Wang Jing , Liu Runhui
Published: September 2023

The infections associated with implantable medical devices can greatly affect the therapeutic effect and impose a heavy financial burden. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop antimicrobial biomaterials for the prevention and mitigation of healthcare‐associated infections. Here, a facile construction of antimicrobial surface via one‐step co‐deposition of peptide polymer and dopamine is reported. The co‐deposition of antimicrobial peptide polymer DLL60BLG40 with dopamine (DA) on the surface of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) provides peptide polymer‐modified TPU surface (TPU‐DLL60BLG40). The antimicrobial test shows that the TPU‐DLL60BLG40 surfaces of the sheet and the catheter both exhibit potent killing of 99.9% of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). In addition, the TPU‐DLL60BLG40 surface also exhibits excellent biocompatibility. This one‐step antimicrobial modification method is fast and efficient, implies promising application in surface antimicrobial modification of implantable biomaterials and medical devices.
Pipe internal grooving using closed magnetic field system: A novel method
Authors: Rony M. H. , Ibrahim F. A. , Bin Muhamad M. R. , Eid M. M. A. A. , Zubir M. N. M. , Ibrahim S.
Published: September 2023

The present work proposes an innovative method to form microgrooves on a tube's internal surface through new machining based on the principle of the closed magnetic circuit. A newly designed machine with a magnetic grooving tool was fabricated. The tool consists of a pair of magnets positioned in the pipe to be pulled by another pairing magnet set at the pipe's external side, arranged in sequence of N−S−N−S direction so that it creates a closed magnetic field that has a greater pulling force. By controlling the magnet pair at the pipe's external side in the linear and rotational direction, the magnetic grooving tool is moved in both directions and simultaneously pulled towards the pipe surface to form the microgrooves. The experiment was carried out by adjusting the magnet's size combination and its distance to vary the magnetic strengths. The grooving dimension was examined by using an optical microscope and analysed using a 3‐dimensional laser profilometer surface analyser. With N52 class Nd2Fe12B neodymium (40×10×10 mm3), the maximum groove depth of 75.51 μm was recorded and the minimum depth of 2.33 μm was recorded by using magnet size 10×10×10 mm3. The method is capable to produce microgrooves on the copper pipe's internal surface.
Effect of support structure design toward residual stress of part build using selective laser melting
Authors: Sulaiman M. R. , Yusof F.
Published: September 2023

Selective laser melting process required post‐processing of support structure and it is compulsory to use it at overhanging part. There is certain condition where support structure cannot be remove using wire cut machine because of limited access to part and need to be remove manually. This is where the removability of support structure plays important role because support structure needed to be design so that it can be easily remove using manual way. In addition, when comparing contour type of support structure with the most commonly use block type of support structure it shows that contour type is easier to be remove. Furthermore, no research has been done on optimizing the contour type of support structure. A research experiment is conducted in this work to optimize the parameter of contour support structure which is contour offset, teeth height, teeth top length and teeth base length. The result indicates amount of residual stress and the time required for support removal are significantly influenced by contour offset, while all parameters are significant for support volume. The optimum parameter to get low residual stress is contour offset is 0.6 mm, teeth height is 1.4 mm, teeth top length is 0.75 mm and teeth base length is 1.55 mm.
Deoxynivalenol Exposure Induced Colon Damage in Mice Independent of the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Liao Yuxiao , Peng Zhao , Xu Shiyin , Meng Zitong , Li Dan , Zhou Xiaolei , Zhang Rui , Shi Shaojun , Hao Liping , Liu Liegang , Yang Wei
Published: September 2023

Scope

To investigate whether deoxynivalenol (DON) can induce intestinal damage through gut microbiota in mice.

Methods and results

Mice are orally administered DON (1 mg kg−1 bw day−1) for 4 weeks, and then recipient mice receive fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from DON‐exposed mice after antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, the mice are orally treated with DON (1 mg kg−1 bw day−1) for 4 weeks after antibiotic treatment. Histological damage, disruption of tight junction protein expression, and increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in the colon as well as higher serum lipopolysaccharides are observed after DON exposure. Moreover, DON exposure changes the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota as well as the contents of fecal metabolites (mainly bile acids). Differential metabolic pathways may be related to mitochondrial metabolism, apoptosis, and inflammation following DON exposure. However, only a decrease in mRNA levels of occludin and claudin‐3 is observed in the colon of recipient mice after FMT. After depleting the gut microbiota in mice, DON exposure can also cause histological damage, disorders of tight junction protein expression, and increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in the colon.

Conclusions

DON exposure can induce colon damage in mice independent of the gut microbiota.
Utilising cottonseed in animal feeding: A dialectical perspective
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Li Jun , Liu Juncheng , Ren Maozhi , Li Fuguang
Published: September 2023

As the population expands livestock industry faces challenges including protein inadequacy and infectious diseases. Natural alternatives can help mitigate these issues, for example, by incorporating plant‐derived metabolites containing appropriate concentrations of natural antibiotics and health‐promoting agents into feed supplements. One promising source is cottonseed, a fat‐ and protein‐rich by‐product of cotton plant (Gossypium spp.). During processing, gossypol, a natural substance with potential adverse effects when consumed long‐term, is often eliminated. However, gossypol has broad‐spectrum antiviral and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential solution to feed safety and animal health concerns. Here, we outline the challenges faced in animal husbandry and discuss how cottonseed may address diverse scenarios.
Technical note: Impact of dose voxel kernel (DVK) values on dosimetry estimates in 177Lu and 90Y radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) applications
Authors: Danieli Rachele , Pistone Daniele , Tranel Jonathan , Botta Francesca , Uribe‐Munoz Carlos , Raspanti Davide , Salvat Francesc , Wilderman Scott J , Bardiès Manuel , Amato Ernesto , Dewaraja Yuni K , Cremonesi Marta
Published: September 2023

Background

Radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) is an increasingly adopted modality for treating cancer. There is evidence that the optimization of the treatment based on dosimetry can improve outcomes. However, standardization of the clinical dosimetry workflow still represents a major effort. Among the many sources of variability, the impact of using different Dose Voxel Kernels (DVKs) to generate absorbed dose (AD) maps by convolution with the time‐integrated activity (TIA) distribution has not been systematically investigated.

Purpose

This study aims to compare DVKs and assess the differences in the ADs when convolving the same TIA map with different DVKs.

Methods

DVKs of 3 × 3 × 3 mm3 sampling—nine for 177Lu, nine for 90Y—were selected from those most used in commercial/free software or presented in prior publications. For each voxel within a 11 × 11 × 11 matrix, the coefficient of variation (CoV) and the percentage difference between maximum and minimum values (% maximum difference) were calculated. The total absorbed dose per decay (SUM), calculated as the sum of all the voxel values in each kernel, was also compared. Publicly available quantitative SPECT images for two patients treated with 177Lu‐DOTATATE and PET images for two patients treated with 90Y‐microspheres were used, including organs at risk (177Lu: kidneys; 90Y: liver and healthy liver) and tumors’ segmentations. For each patient, the mean AD to the volumes of interest (VOIs) was calculated using the different DVKs, the same TIA map and the same software tool for dose convolution, thereby focusing on the DVK impact. For each VOI, the % maximum difference of the mean AD between maximum and minimum values was computed.

Results

The CoV (% maximum difference) in voxels of normalized coordinates [0,0,0], [0,1,0], and [0,1,1] were 5%(21%), 9%(35%), and 10%(46%) for the 177Lu DVKs. For the case of 90Y, these values were 2%(9%), 4%(14%), and 4%(16%). The CoV (% maximum difference) for SUM was 9%(33%) for 177Lu, and 4%(15%) for 90Y. The variability of the mean tumor and organ AD was up to 19% and 15% in 177Lu‐DOTATATE and 90Y‐microspheres patients, respectively.

Conclusions

This study showed a considerable AD variability due exclusively to the use of different DVKs. A concerted effort by the scientific community would contribute to decrease these discrepancies, strengthening the consistency of AD calculation in RPT.
Numerical simulation and behavior prediction of a space net system throughout the capture process: Spread, contact, and close
Authors: Huang Weicheng , Zou Huaiwu , Pan Yongjun , Zhang Kai , Zheng Junjie , Li Jinpeng , Mao Shuai
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we develop an exhaustive numerical simulator for the dynamic visualization and behavior prediction of the tether‐net system during the whole space debris capture phases, including spread, contact, and close. First of all, to perform its geometrically nonlinear deformation, discrete different geometry theory is applied to model the mechanical response of a flexible net. Based on the discretization of the whole structure into multiple vertexes and lines, the internal force and associated Hession are derived in a closed form to solve a series of nonlinear dynamic equations of motion. The spread and deployment of a packaged net can be realized using this well‐established net solver. Next, a multidimensional incremental potential formulation is selected to achieve the intersection‐free boundary nonlinear contact and collision between the deformable net and rigid debris. Finally, for the closing mechanism analysis, a log‐like barrier functional is derived to achieve the nondeviation condition between the ring–rod linkage system. The continuous log barrier functionals constructed for both the contact model and the linkage system are smooth and differentiable, and, therefore, the nonlinear net capture dynamic system can be efficiently solved through a fully implicit time integrator. Overall, as a demonstration, the whole capture process of a defunct satellite using a hexagon net is simulated through our well‐established numerical framework. We believe that our comprehensive numerical methods could provide new insight into the optimal design of active debris removal systems and promote further development of the online control of tether tugging systems.