bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in primary human nasal cultures demonstrates Delta as most cytopathic and Omicron as fastest replicating
Authors: Tanneti Nikhila S. , Patel Anant K. , Tan Li Hui , Marques Andrew D. , Perera Ranawaka A. P. M. , Sherrill-Mix Scott , Kelly Brendan J. , Renner David M. , Collman Ronald G. , Rodino Kyle , Lee Carole , Bushman Frederic D. , Cohen Noam A. , Weiss Susan R.
Published: March 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic was marked with emerging viral variants, some of which were designated as variants of concern (VOCs) due to selection and rapid circulation in the human population. Here, we elucidate functional features of each VOC linked to variations in replication rate. Patient-derived primary nasal cultures grown at air-liquid interface were used to model upper respiratory infection and compared to cell lines derived from human lung epithelia. All VOCs replicated to higher titers than the ancestral virus, suggesting a selection for replication efficiency. In primary nasal cultures, Omicron replicated to the highest titers at early time points, followed by Delta, paralleling comparative studies of population sampling. All SARS-CoV-2 viruses entered the cell primarily via a transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2)-dependent pathway, and Omicron was more likely to use an endosomal route of entry. All VOCs activated and overcame dsRNA-induced cellular responses, including interferon (IFN) signaling, oligoadenylate ribonuclease L degradation, and protein kinase R activation. Among the VOCs, Omicron infection induced expression of the most IFN and IFN-stimulated genes. Infections in nasal cultures resulted in cellular damage, including a compromise of cell barrier integrity and loss of nasal cilia and ciliary beating function, especially during Delta infection. Overall, Omicron was optimized for replication in the upper respiratory tract and least favorable in the lower respiratory cell line, and Delta was the most cytopathic for both upper and lower respiratory cells. Our findings highlight the functional differences among VOCs at the cellular level and imply distinct mechanisms of pathogenesis in infected individuals.

IMPORTANCE

Comparative analysis of infections by SARS-CoV-2 ancestral virus and variants of concern, including Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron, indicated that variants were selected for efficiency in replication. In infections of patient-derived primary nasal cultures grown at air-liquid interface to model upper respiratory infection, Omicron reached the highest titers at early time points, a finding that was confirmed by parallel population sampling studies. While all infections overcame dsRNA-mediated host responses, infections with Omicron induced the strongest interferon and interferon-stimulated gene response. In both primary nasal cultures and lower respiratory cell line, infections by Delta were most damaging to the cells as indicated by syncytia formation, loss of cell barrier integrity, and nasal ciliary function.
Complete genome sequence of
Thermaerobacter composti
strain Ins1, a spore-forming filamentous bacterium isolated from a deep geothermal reservoir
Authors: Bregnard Danae , Gonzalez Diego , Di Francesco Eva , Mangia Naïma , Regenspurg Simona , Junier Pilar
Published: March 2024

We report the complete genome sequence of
Thermaerobacter composti
strain Ins1, a gram-positive filamentous spore-forming bacterium, isolated from deep geothermal fluids used for electricity production. This is the first complete (circular) genome assigned to the species
Thermaerobacter composti
.
Case of giant juvenile angiofibroma resected by external incision with temporary double balloon occlusion of the internal carotid artery by intraoperative endovascular treatment
Authors: Maeda-Anezaki Mayuka , Omura Kazuhiro , Mori Ryosuke , Ishida Katsuhiro
Published: March 2024

We report the first case of a juvenile nasal angiofibroma (JNA) fed by multiple arteries from the internal carotid artery (ICA), removed without complications by temporarily blocking the ICA with two balloons. An early adolescent with JNA underwent preoperative embolisation of feeding arteries arising from the external carotid artery (ECA) (University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre classification IV). Endoscopic resection was attempted once but discontinued due to massive bleeding (7000 mL). 17 months later, the JNA had grown to fill both nasal cavities. Repeated preoperative embolisation of the feeders from the ECA was performed, followed by surgery combined with endoscopic and external incision. Intraoperatively, two balloons were inserted into the right ICA, which were inflated at the proximal and distal sites of the feeder vessels to cut-off blood flow to the tumour. The tumour was almost completely resected with 6270 mL of blood loss and no postoperative neurological deterioration.
Factors associated with acute respiratory infection and healthcare-seeking behaviour among primary caregivers in Bangladesh: a study based on MICS 2019
Authors: Al Fidah Md Fuad , Nabin Ali Amin , Efa Syeda Sumaiya
Published: March 2024

Introduction

More than 80% of deaths due to preventable and treatable causes among under 5 (U5) children occur in the sub-Saharan Africa and the South-Asia, pneumonia remains one of the most common such causes. Bangladesh has demonstrated success in achieving the Millennium Development Goals, particularly in relation to target 4. Nevertheless, the country is still among the 10 countries with the highest number of deaths among U5 children in 2019. The current study aimed to identify factors associated with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and the care-seeking behaviour of the children’s care takes in Bangladesh.

Methods

The cross-sectional study used data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Bangladesh (2019) . U5 children were included in the analysis (n=22 779). A p<0.05 as considered statistically.

Results

The prevalence of ARI in the past 2 weeks of survey was 2.03%. It was found that age of the child (in months), sex, residence, division, stunting, age of the mother and age of the father had statistically significant association (p<0.05). The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of ARI were lower among older children aged 24–59 months (AOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.44 to 0.64; p<0.001), female (AOR 0.68; 95% CI 0.56 to 0.83; p<0.001) and children with father aged ≥25 years (AOR 0.61; 95% CI 0.42 to 0.88; p=0.008) and higher (AOR 1.31; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.61; p=0.010) among children with stunting. Among the children with ARI, 16.63% primary caregivers did not seek any treatment. Most of the children with ARI (65.01%) were treated with antibiotics.

Conclusions

The prevalence of ARI was low. However, still a significant proportion of primary caregivers of U5 children with ARI fail to seek healthcare. The proportion of U5 children who are treated with antibiotics requires attention. Focus should be on younger fathers for promoting healthcare-seeking and good feeding practice to reduce malnutrition.
Robust positive association between serum urate and the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: hospital-based cohort and Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Rao Boqi , Xie Dongming , Deng Yibin , Ye Junyi , Zeng Xiaobin , Lin Ao , Chen Jinbin , Huang Dongsheng , Xie Chenli , Chen Cuiyi , Luo Yixuan , Lu Xiaoxiao , Wang Xinhua , Lu Jiachun
Published: March 2024

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hyperuricaemia are both characterised by systemic inflammation. Preventing chronic diseases among the population with common metabolic abnormality is an effective strategy. However, the association of hyperuricaemia with the higher incidence and risk of COPD remains controversial. Therefore, replicated researches in populations with distinct characteristics or demographics are compellingly warranted.

Methods

This cohort study adopted a design of ambispective hospital-based cohort. We used propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to minimise the effects of potential confounding factors. A Cox regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) model were applied further to assess the effect of serum urate on the risk of developing COPD. Finally, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis to explore evidence of causal association.

Results

There is a higher incidence in the population with hyperuricaemia compared with the population with normal serum urate (22.29/1000 person-years vs 8.89/1000 person-years, p=0.009). This result is robust after performing PSM (p=0.013) and IPTW (p<0.001). The Cox model confirms that hyperuricaemia is associated with higher risk of developing COPD (adjusted HR=3.35 and 95% CI=1.61 to 6.96). Moreover, RCS shows that the risk of developing COPD rapidly increases with the concentration of serum urate when it is higher than the reference (420 µmol/L). Finally, in MR analysis, the inverse variance weighted method evidences that a significant causal effect of serum urate on COPD (OR=1.153, 95% CI=1.034 to 1.289) is likely to be true. The finding of MR is robust in the repeated analysis using different methods and sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions

Our study provides convincing evidence suggesting a robust positive association between serum urate and the risk of developing COPD, and indicates that the population with hyperuricaemia is at high risk of COPD in the Chinese population who seek medical advice or treatment in the hospital.
Non-chaotic dynamics for Yang–Baxter deformed $$\text {AdS}_{4}\times \text {CP}^{3}$$ superstrings
Authors: Pal Jitendra , Rathi Hemant , Lala Arindam , Roychowdhury Dibakar
Published: March 2024

We explore a novel class of Yang–Baxter deformed $$\hbox {AdS}_{4} \times \hbox {CP}^{3}$$

AdS
4

×

CP
3

backgrounds (J High Energy Phys 01:056, 2021) which exhibit a non-chaotic dynamics for (super)strings propagating over it. We explicitly use the Kovacic’s algorithm in order to establish non-chaotic dynamics of string $$\sigma $$
σ
models over these deformed backgrounds. This analysis is complemented with numerical techniques whereby we probe the classical phase space of these (semi)classical strings and calculate various chaos indicators, such as, the Poincaré sections and the Lyapunov exponents. We find compatibility between the two approaches. Nevertheless, our analysis does not ensure integrability; rather, it excludes the possibility of non-integrability for the given string embeddings.
Hybrid protocols for multi-party semiquantum private comparison, multiplication and summation without a pre-shared key based on d-dimensional single-particle states
Authors: Lian Jiang-Yuan , Ye Tian-Yu
Published: March 2024

In this paper, by utilizing d-dimensional single-particle states, three semiquantum cryptography protocols, i.e., the multi-party semiquantum private comparison (MSQPC) protocol, the multi-party semiquantum multiplication (MSQM) protocol and the multi-party semiquantum summation (MSQS) protocol, can be achieved simultaneously under the assistance of two semi-honest quantum third parties (TPs). Here, the proposed MSQPC scheme is the only protocol which is devoted to judging the size relationship of secret integers from more than two semiquantum participants without a pre-shared key. And the proposed MSQM protocol absorbs the innovative concept of semiquantumness into quantum multiplication for the first time, which can calculate the modulo d multiplication of private inputs from more than two semiquantum users. As for the proposed MSQS protocol, it is the only semiquantum summation protocol which aims to accomplish the modulo d addition of more than three semiquantum users’ private integers. Neither quantum entanglement swapping nor unitary operations are necessary in the three proposed protocols. The security analysis verifies in detail that both the external attacks and the internal attacks can be resisted in the three proposed protocols.
On Mössbauer rotor effect, clock synchronization and third postulate of relativity
Authors: Corda Christian
Published: March 2024

The Mössbauer rotor effect recently gained a renewed interest due to the discovery and explanation of an additional effect of clock synchronization which has been missed for about 50 years, i.e. starting from a famous book of Pauli, till some more recent experimental analyses. The theoretical explanation of such an additional effect is due to some recent papers in the general relativistic framework. Here, we show that the additional effect of clock synchronization can be calculated in another way via the third postulate of relativity.
Dynamic Relationship Between Informal Sector and Unemployment: A Mathematical Model
Authors: Misra A. K. , Kumari Mamta
Published: March 2024

Shortage of formal jobs, lack of skills in workforce and increasing human population proliferate the informal sector. This sector provides an opportunity to unskilled workers to gain skills along with earnings. In this paper, a deterministic nonlinear mathematical model is developed to study the effects of informal skill learning and job generation on unemployment. For the formulated system, feasibility of equilibria and their stability properties are discussed. A pertinent quantity ([Formula: see text]), known as the reproduction number, is calculated and it is shown that the formulated system undergoes transcritical, saddle-node, Hopf and Bogdanov–Takens bifurcations on the variation of [Formula: see text]. The analytically obtained results are validated through numerical simulations. The results obtained from this study indicate that a substantial rate of job generation by self-employed individuals has a stabilizing effect on the system. Moreover, self-employment along with informal skill acquisition through engaging in informal work proves to be an effective measure in curbing the issue of unemployment in society.
Coefficients of Catalan states of lattice crossing II: Applications of ΘA-state expansions
Authors: Dabkowski Mieczyslaw K. , Wu Cheyu
Published: March 2024

Plucking polynomial of a plane rooted tree with a delay function [Formula: see text] was introduced in 2014 by Przytycki. As shown in this paper, plucking polynomial factors when [Formula: see text] satisfies additional conditions. We use this result and [Formula: see text]-state expansion introduced in our previous work to derive new properties of coefficients [Formula: see text] of Catalan states [Formula: see text] resulting from an [Formula: see text]-lattice crossing [Formula: see text]. In particular, we show that [Formula: see text] factors when [Formula: see text] has arcs with some special properties. In many instances, this yields a more efficient way for computing [Formula: see text]. As an application, we give closed-form formulas for coefficients of Catalan states of [Formula: see text].
ULTRASONIC-ASSISTED ELECTRODEPOSITION OF CoMo/Al2O3 COMPOSITE COATING ON THE SURFACE OF STEEL AND ITS CORROSION RESISTANCE IN SIMULATED SEWAGE WATER
Authors: ZHANG JIAN , TANG LU , LI DANDAN , YU XUFENG
Published: March 2024

The ultrasonic is applied during the electrodeposition process of CoMo/Al2O3 composite coating on 10# steel to enhance its corrosion resistance in simulated sewage water. The influence of ultrasonic power on the thickness, roughness, chemical composition, surface morphology, and corrosion resistance of the composite coating is investigated. In an aqueous solution, a co-deposition of cobalt and molybdenum can be induced to form CoMo alloy coating. The Al2O3 nanoparticles are incorporated into CoMo alloy to form CoMo/Al2O3 composite coating. When the ultrasonic power increases from 0[Formula: see text]W to 100 W, the electrodeposition rate of the composite coating increases from 63.25[Formula: see text]mg/h to 153.73[Formula: see text]mg/h, and the thickness of the composite coating also increases from 15.6[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m to 28.1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m. The surface roughness of composite coating electrodeposited without ultrasonic is about 0.436[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m. The CoMo/Al2O3 composite coating electrodeposited at 100[Formula: see text]W ultrasonic power exhibits the smallest surface roughness of 0.193[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m and presents a denser surface morphology composed of 74.4% Co, 10.3% Mo, and 15.3% Al, resulting in better corrosion resistance with the smallest corrosion current density of only 9.7[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A/cm2. However, when the ultrasonic power is 150[Formula: see text]W, the intense hydrogen evolution on the surface of the cathode reduces the density of the coating surface, which leads to the deterioration of corrosion resistance.
A Study of Elliptic Curve Cryptography and Its Applications
Authors: Vijay Nikhil U. , Stamenkovic Z. , Raja S. P.
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), a public key cryptographic system and its applications. The paper discusses important mathematical properties and operations of elliptic curves, like point addition and multiplication operations and its implementation in cryptographic methods such as encryption and decryption. This paper provides a detailed workout on important mathematical problems on elliptic curves and ECC which provides insight into working of essential cryptographic techniques in ECC. And the paper also provides a literature review of research works based on ECC in various fields such as Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud computing, Blockchain and Image Security. And the paper further provides insight into the recent applications of ECC in fields like IoT and Blockchain by comprehensively discussing the proposed mechanism for each of the recent applications and also briefly discussing the security of the proposed mechanism.
Biderivations of the mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra
Authors: Liu Hongjin , Chen Zhengxin
Published: March 2024

The mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra [Formula: see text] is the semi-direct product of the Virasoro algebra and the twisted Heisenberg algebra. In this paper, all biderivations of the mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra are determined by using the gradation of biderivations. As an application, we show that any linear commuting map [Formula: see text] on the mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra is the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an element from the basic field and [Formula: see text] is a linear map having its range in the center of [Formula: see text].
The rank of the Cartier operator on Picard curves
Authors: Nourozi Vahid , Rahmati Farhad
Published: March 2024

For an algebraic curve [Formula: see text] defined over an algebraically closed field of characteristic [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]-number [Formula: see text] is the dimension of the space of exact holomorphic differentials on [Formula: see text]. We computed the [Formula: see text]-number for a family of certain Picard curves using the action of the Cartier operator on [Formula: see text].
Stability Enhancement in Copper-Doped Iron Oxide Resistive Random Access Memory via RF Co-Sputtering
Authors: Hsu Chia Feng , Hsu Hao-Lin , Huang Yu-chun , Yang Chih-Chiang , Su Yan-Kuin
Published: March 2024

In the study, the ITO/Cu-doped Fe2O3/ITO thin film RRAM is prepared using an RF sputtering system. The XRD pattern shows that the Cu:Fe2O3 thin film has a rhombohedral structure and does not display secondary or impurity phases for copper. Results revealed that the standard deviation and average voltage of Cu:Fe2O3 thin film are −1.98 and 0.92 V for Vset, respectively, while those for Vreset are 1.31 and 0.39 V, respectively. The resistive switching cycles and data retention test times of the Cu:Fe2O3 thin film device show that the on/off ratio is 39.4 and over 104 s. These results indicated that the Cu-doped Fe2O3 thin film can improve the performance of RRAM.
Fabrication of Highly Sensitive YCeO Chemo-resistive Gas Sensor for Selective Detection of CO2
Authors: Srivastava Shivangi , Pandey Narendra Kumar , Verma V. , Singh P. , Verma A. , Yadav N.
Published: March 2024

A room-temperature-operated CO2 gas sensor based on YCeO nanocomposite was effectively prepared by the simple hydrothermal technique to detect low traces of CO2 (50–250 ppm). The YCeO granular morphological features were observed using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, which confirmed successful fabrication of nanocomposite of Y2O3 and CeO2. X-ray diffraction of YCeO showed the Cubic structure of space group Fm3m having density 6.74 gmcm−3. Rietveld refinement was performed for the analysis of complete crystal structural property. Surface porosity and specific surface area were observed by Brunnauer-Emmet Teller analysis. Optical properties were observed using UV-Visible spectroscopy. The band gap, optical conductivity, and refractive index calculated were 3.44 eV, 2.63 × 106, and 0.1164, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was done to analyze the functional and elastic properties of as-prepared nanomaterial. The highest sensor response recorded was 2.14. The response and recovery time at 50 ppm observed were 75.6 and 107.3 s, respectively. The YCeO chemo-resistive sensor confirmed long-term stability and selectivity to CO2 as compared to other gases viz. LPG, NH3, CH4, H2S, NO2 and H2. The relative humidity exposure was also performed at 15, 55 and 95% RH, in which it was confirmed that the sensor would give best response at mid humidity level i.e. 55 %RH. Sensing characteristics curve of YCeO nanocomposite at different temperature (30 °C–90 °C) at 50 ppm confirmed that YCeO sensor performed excellent at room temperature. This report unlocks an innovative opening for the fabrication of sensing devices that are room-temperature-operatable, highly sensitive and selective for quick detection of CO2 gas for its commercialization.
Abatacept: A Promising Repurposed Solution for Myocardial Infarction-Induced Inflammation in Rat Models
Authors: Verma Vipin Kumar , Mutneja Ekta , Malik Salma , Sahu Anil Kumar , Prajapati Vaishali , Bhardwaj Priya , Ray Ruma , Nag Tapas Chandra , Bhatia Jagriti , Arya Dharamvir Singh
Published: March 2024

Myocardial infarction (MI) is irreversible damage to the myocardial tissue caused by prolonged ischemia/hypoxia, subsequently leading to loss of contractile function and myocardial damage. However, after a perilous period, ischemia-reperfusion (IR) itself causes the generation of oxygen free radicals, disturbance in cation homeostasis, depletion of cellular energy stores, and activation of innate and adaptive immune responses. The present study employed Abatacept (ABT), which is an anti-inflammatory drug, originally used as an antirheumatic response agent. To investigate the cardioprotective potential of ABT, primarily, the dose was optimized in a chemically induced model of myocardial necrosis. Thereafter, ABT optimized the dose of 5 mg/kg s.c. OD was investigated for its cardioprotective potential in a surgical model of myocardial IR injury, where animals (n = 30) were randomized into five groups: Sham, IR-C, Telmi10 + IR (Telmisartan, 10 mg/kg oral OD), ABT5 + IR, ABT perse. ABT and telmisartan were administered for 21 days. On the 21st day, animals were subjected to LAD coronary artery occlusion for 60 min, followed by reperfusion for 45 min. Further, the cardioprotective potential was assessed through hemodynamic parameters, oxidant–antioxidant biochemical enzymatic parameters, cardiac injury, inflammatory markers, histopathological analysis, TUNEL assay, and immunohistochemical evaluation, followed by immunoblotting to explore signaling pathways. The statistics were performed by one-way analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey comparison post hoc tests. Noteworthy, 21 days of ABT pretreatment amended the hemodynamic and ventricular functions in the rat models of MI. The cardioprotective potential of ABT is accompanied by inhibiting MAP kinase signaling and modulating Nrf-2/HO-1 proteins downstream signaling cascade. Overall, the present work bolsters the previously known anti-inflammatory role of ABT in MI and contributes a mechanistic insight and application of clinically approved drugs in averting the activation of inflammatory response.
Disruptive Behavior and Factors Associated with Patient Safety Climate: A Cross-Sectional Study of Nurses’ and Physicians’ Perceptions
Authors: Moreno-Leal Pedro , Leal-Costa César , Díaz-Agea José Luis , Castaño-Molina María de los Ángeles , Conesa-Ferrer María Belén , De Souza-Oliveira Adriana Catarina
Published: March 2024

Background. Few studies have analyzed the negative outcomes of disruptive behaviors in the nurse-physician relationship in patient care and their impact on patient safety. These multicausal studies significantly relate to organizational, institutional, and professional attitudinal risk factors. Aim. Analyze healthcare professionals’ perceptions of disruptive behavior and factors associated with patient safety climate in the nurse-physician relationship at the hospital level. Methods. A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 370 nurses and physicians assigned to different public hospitals in the Murcia/Spain region, applying the adapted and validated Spanish version of the Nurse-Physician Relationship Scale: Impact of Disruptive Behavior on Patient Care. The analysis used proportions or means (standard deviation (SD)), univariate and multivariate linear regression models, and the chi-square test. Results. Disruptive behavior was more prevalent in the ICU (81.6%) and the emergency department (67.8%). Professionals indicate that fear of reprisals is the main barrier to the reporting system. Likewise, stress and frustration are more associated with disruptive behavior and influence the safety climate. Conclusion. Professionals indicate that disruptive behaviors can have a negative impact on clinical outcomes. Age and type of service were identified as the most relevant socio-occupational factors. Stress, frustration, and communication problems are the factors that most influence the safety climate.
Extended Conformable K-Hypergeometric Function and Its Application
Authors: Abdul Qayyum Maham , Dhiaa Aya Mohammed , Mahboob Abid , Rasheed Muhammad Waheed , Alameri Abdu
Published: March 2024

The extended conformable k-hypergeometric function finds various applications in physics due to its ability to describe complex mathematical relationships arising in different physical scenarios. Here are a few instances of its uses in physics, including nuclear physics, fluid dynamics, quantum mechanics, and astronomy. The main objectives of this paper are to introduce the extended conformable k-hypergeometric and confluent hypergeometric functions by utilizing the new definition of the α,k-beta function and studying its important properties, like integral representation, summation formula, derivative formula, transform formula, and generating function. Also, introduce the extension of the Riemann–Liouville fractional derivative and establish some results related to the newly defined fractional operator, such as the Mellin transform and relations to extended α,k-hypergeometric functions.
Triple-Band MIMO Antenna for 5 G Terminals
Authors: Ghiat Adnane , Tribak Abdelwahed , Terhzaz Jaouad , Mimouni Asmae , Akhdar Hanan
Published: March 2024

In this work, a triple-band, four-element antenna is designed for fifth-generation (5 G) terminals operating in LTE band 42 (3.4–3.6 GHz), LTE band 43 (3.6–3.8 GHz), and the new 5 G radio band (4.8–5.0 GHz). The proposed antenna array consists of two different types of antenna elements: a T-shaped element, which is connected to the feed line, and a C-shaped element, which is used to divide the bandwidth. The overall size of the proposed antenna element is only 10.5 mm × 5 mm. The multiantenna system has four antennas and is built on a 0.5-mm-thick Rogers 4003C substrate. The results for this antenna show a 10 dB measured bandwidth of 650 MHz at the center frequency of 3.6 GHz and 230 MHz at 4.9 GHz, a gain of more than 4 dBi, an isolation of more than 14 dB, and an overall radiation efficiency of more than 82%.
Study on Mechanical Model for Postpeak Shear Behavior of Rock Joints Based on Degradation Characteristics of the 3D Morphology
Authors: Liu Juan , Gao Feng , Xing Yan , Gao Xianghe
Published: March 2024

The 3D morphology of the joint surface significantly influences the shear behavior of the jointrock. Constant normal load (CNL) direct shear tests with different shear displacement were conducted to understand the shear stress changing with joint roughness and damage degree during shear. The rough joint specimens were prepared using 3D scanning and printing techniques, and shear tests with different normal stresses and shear displacements were performed. Four different parameters and the damaged area quantitatively described by the image binarization and box dimension were calculated and compared to study the roughness evolution of joint surfaces. The experimental results demonstrated that the roughness parameter and shear stress decrease and approach constant values with increasing shear displacement. A JRC degradation model was presented based on regression analyses to evaluate the JRC values of rock joints under various displacements to replace it in the JRC–JCS model. Additionally, a new postshear behavior modeling was proposed for rock joints based on surface degradation characteristics under various initial joint roughness coefficients (JRC0) and normal stress. The stress–displacement curves resulting from the proposed modified model work well in predicting the postpeak stress–displacement curve, which can prove the effectiveness of the postpeak shear behavior modeling.
Evaluation of the Relationship between the Levels of Patience and Tranquillity and Conflict Resolution Styles of Executive Nurses
Authors: Gumusler Basaran Ayse , Kefeli Col Bahar , Genc Kose Burcu
Published: March 2024

Aims. This study examined nurse managers’ conflict resolution styles, tranquillity and patience levels, and their relationships. Background. Managers are supposed to know how to manage conflict to reduce the destructive effects of conflict and create constructive effects. Methods. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study and in a city centre in Karadeniz region, in May 2022. It was aimed to reach all executive nurses but was completed with 41 executive nurses. The data were collected face to face using a Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory, the Patience Scale, and the Tranquillity Scale. Results. 51.2% experienced conflict with colleagues and 46.3% with other employees. In conflict management, the most commonly used style was integrating and the least was dominating, respectively. The Patience Scale score (39.15 ± 6.09) and Tranquillity Scale score (3.70 ± 0.70) were moderate. At the same time, long-term (10.19 ± 2.18), short-term (8.90 ± 2.54), and total patience scores were significantly lower in case of conflict with nurses. Interpersonal patience levels were significantly lower in case of conflict with other employees. There was a negative correlation between working as a manager and compromising style. Conclusion. It was concluded that executive nurses used the integrating style more, and their patience and tranquillity levels were moderate. In addition to using the integration style more, the fact that nurse managers have moderate levels of patience and calmness will reflect positively on the quality of patient care. It will also increase employee satisfaction. Increasing the level of peace in health institutions will support patience, happiness, and a sense of belonging among employees.
Efficacy and Safety of Pericapsular Nerve Group Block for Hip Fracture Surgery under Spinal Anesthesia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Shukai , An Jing , Qian Chengyu , Wang Zhixue
Published: March 2024

Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block for hip fracture surgery under spinal anesthesia. Methods. This meta-analysis was registered on INPLASY (INPLASY202270005). PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CNKI, and Wanfang databases were searched to collect the randomized controlled trials of the PENG block applied to hip fracture surgery in the setting of spinal anesthesia, with the search period from inception to 1 May 2023. Two independent researchers gradually screened the literature, evaluated the quality, extracted the data, and eventually pooled data using RevMan 5.4. Results. Fifteen articles with 890 patients were enrolled. The combined results showed that the PENG block reduced pain scores during position placement (SMD = −0.35; 95% CI [−0.67, 0.02]; P=0.04; I2 = 0%). Subgroup analyses showed that compared to the unblocked group, the PENG block reduced pain scores at 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h postoperatively. The incidence of postoperative hypokinesia was reduced (RR = 0.11; 95% CI [0.01, 0.86]; P=0.04; I2 = 0.00%). The time to first walking was advanced (SMD = −0.90; 95% CI [−1.17, 0.63]; P<0.00001; I2 = 0%). Conclusion. The PENG block can reduce postoperative pain and pain during spinal anesthesia positioning, which is helpful to improve the operability and comfort of spinal anesthesia and facilitate postoperative muscle strength recovery and early activity.
MicroRNA-1 Inhibits the Growth of Breast Cancer Cells MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 Treated with Hydatid Cyst Fluid
Authors: Jafari Hadis , Mahami-Oskouei Mahmoud , Spotin Adel , Baradaran Behzad , Shanehbandi Dariush , Baghbanzadeh Amir , Alizadeh Zahra
Published: March 2024

Antigens in hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) have been discovered to bear a significant resemblance to antigens present in cancer cells. MicroRNA-1 (miR-1) is a well-known member of the tumor inhibitor miRNA family and has been shown to have pro-apoptotic and tumor-inhibitory functions. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of HCF to prevent breast cancer and to explore the underlying mechanisms that affect cancer cells. For this study, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells were cultured and divided into two groups: one group received HCF treatment and the other group was untreated and served as the control group. The cytotoxicity and cell viability of various HCF concentrations on breast cancer cells were evaluated using the MTT assay. In addition, the expression level of miR-1 in HCF-treated and untreated breast cancer cells was analyzed using qRT-PCR. The study found that HCF treatment reduced the growth of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, indicating that it was cytotoxic to the cells. Specifically, the IC50 concentration of HCF after 24 hours of treatment was 7.32 µg/mL for MDA-MB-231 cells and 13.63 µg/mL for MCF-7 cells. In addition, qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the expression level of miR-1 was significantly increased in HCF-treated MDA-MB-231 (P=0.0203) and MCF-7 (P=0.0394) cell lines compared to untreated controls. Although HCF has been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells and to upregulate miR-1, a key tumor suppressor in cancer cells, the specific mechanisms responsible for this effect remain unclear. Further studies are needed to fully understand the molecular pathways underlying HCF’s antitumor activity and its potential as a therapeutic agent in cancer therapy.
Disposable Screen-Printed Microchip Based on Nanoparticles Sensitive Membrane for Potentiometric Determination of Lead
Authors: Alrobaian Majed , Alfadhel Munerah , Zayed Sayed , AlDosari Mohammad , Arida Hassan
Published: March 2024

Realization of screen-printed disposable microchip based on organic membrane sensitive layer highly responsive to lead has been demonstrated for the first time. Fabrication, potentiometric characterization and analytical application of the novel microchip have been reported. A sensitive layer comprises TiO2 nanoparticles and multiwalled carbon nanotubes “MWCNTs” composite incorporated in PVC membrane has uploaded on the plastic screen-printed microelectrode substrate surface using novel protocol. The new chip provided a linear behavior for Pb2+ ions over the lead concentration range of 1 × 10−6–1 × 10−1 mole L−1 with super Nernstian sensitivity (49 mV), relatively long life span (>4 months), and a fast response time (10 s). The advantages showed by the microchip include simple fabrication, small size, mass production, cost effectiveness, and automation and integration feasibility. The realized new microchip has been successfully utilized in the quantification of some lead (II) samples with average recovery of 101.9% and the RDS was <3.
The Clinical Spectrum of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Facts and Fictions
Authors: Marabotto Elisa , Pasta Andrea , Calabrese Francesco , Ribolsi Mentore , Mari Amir , Savarino Vincenzo , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo
Published: March 2024

Background: This review addresses the intricate spectrum of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition affecting 10–30% of the Western population. GERD is characterized by the backflow of gastric contents into the esophagus, causing typical and atypical symptoms. Its pathophysiology involves various factors such as hiatal hernia, esophageal motor disorders, and dietary triggers. The review explores the complexities of GERD spectrum, including nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), reflux hypersensitivity (RH), and functional heartburn (FH). Summary: The diagnostic process for GERD, based on the Lyon Consensus 2.0 criteria, encompasses clinical evaluation, endoscopy, and functional tests, including pH-impedance and wireless-pH monitoring. NERD, a significant subset of GERD, is defined by reflux symptoms and abnormal reflux burden without mucosal damage. RH, classified under functional esophageal disorders by Rome IV criteria, presents with typical esophageal symptoms associated with reflux but lacks of structural, inflammatory, or motor causes. FH is identified by heartburn with normal endoscopy, reflux testing, and esophageal manometry results. The management of RH and FH, focusing on reducing esophageal hypersensitivity, varies from standard GERD treatments. Key Messages: The review emphasizes the necessity of personalized treatment strategies due to the complexity and overlap of GERD subtypes. It highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving gastroenterologists, psychologists, and other specialists, to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The article underscores that understanding the distinctions and overlaps among NERD, RH, and FH is crucial for effective management, and the need for innovative approaches in diagnosis and treatment to address the unique challenges of each subtype.
Galectin‐3, Metabolic Risk, and Incident Heart Failure: The ARIC Study
Authors: Echouffo‐Tcheugui Justin B. , Zhang Sui , Florido Roberta , Pankow James S. , Michos Erin D. , Goldberg Ronald B. , Nambi Vijay , Gerstenblith Gary , Post Wendy S. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Coresh Josef , Selvin Elizabeth , Ndumele Chiadi E.
Published: March 2024

Background

It is unclear how metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetes affect Gal‐3 (galectin 3) levels and the resulting implications for heart failure (HF) risk. We assessed relationships of MetS and diabetes with Gal‐3, and their joint associations with incident HF.

Methods and Results

We included 8445 participants without HF (mean age, 63 years; 59% men; 16% Black race) at ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) study visit 4 (1996–1999). We categorized participants as having MetS only, MetS with diabetes, or neither, and by quartiles of MetS severity
Z
score. We assessed cross‐sectional associations of metabolic risk categories with high Gal‐3 level (≥75th percentile) using logistic regression. We used Cox regression to evaluate combined associations of metabolic risk categories and Gal‐3 quartiles with HF. In cross‐sectional analyses, compared with no MetS and no diabetes, MetS only (odds ratio [OR], 1.24 [95% CI, 1.10–1.41]) and MetS with diabetes (OR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.32–1.92]) were associated with elevated Gal‐3. Over a median follow‐up of 20.5 years, there were 1749 HF events. Compared with individuals with neither diabetes nor MetS and with Gal‐3 in the lowest quartile, the combination of MetS with diabetes and Gal‐3 ≥75th percentile was associated with a 4‐fold higher HF risk (hazard ratio, 4.35 [95% CI, 3.30–5.73]). Gal‐3 provided HF prognostic information above and beyond MetS, NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide), high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T, and CRP (C‐reactive protein) (ΔC statistic for models with versus without Gal‐3: 0.003;
P
=0.004).

Conclusions

MetS and diabetes are associated with elevated Gal‐3. The HF risk significantly increased with the combination of greater metabolic risk and higher Gal‐3.
Sustained Pericarditis Recurrence Risk Reduction With Long‐Term Rilonacept
Authors: Imazio Massimo , Klein Allan L. , Brucato Antonio , Abbate Antonio , Arad Michael , Cremer Paul C. , Insalaco Antonella , LeWinter Martin M. , Lewis Basil S. , Lin David , Luis Sushil A. , Nicholls Stephen J. , Sutej Paul , Wasserstrum Yishay , Clair JoAnn , Agarwal Indra , Wang Sheldon , Paolini John F. ,   for the RHAPSODY Investigators
Published: March 2024

Background

Rilonacept, a once‐weekly interleukin‐1 alpha and beta cytokine trap, reduced pericarditis recurrence in the phase 3 study, RHAPSODY (Rilonacept Inhibition of Interleukin‐1 Alpha and Beta for Recurrent Pericarditis: A Pivotal Symptomatology and Outcomes Study). The RHAPSODY long‐term extension further explored recurrent pericarditis natural history and treatment duration decision‐making during 24 additional months of open‐label rilonacept treatment.

Methods and Results

Seventy‐four patients commenced the long‐term extension, with a median (maximum) total rilonacept duration of 22 (35) months. Individually, 18 months after the most proximal pericarditis recurrence, investigators decided to continue rilonacept on study, suspend rilonacept for off‐treatment observation (rescue allowed), or discontinue the study. The annualized incidence of pericarditis recurrence on rilonacept up to the 18‐month decision milestone was 0.04 events/patient‐year versus 4.4 events/patient‐year prestudy while on oral therapies. At the 18‐month decision milestone, 64% (33/52) continued rilonacept, 15% (8/52) suspended rilonacept for observation, and 21% (11/52) discontinued the study. Among the 33 patients (1/33; 3.0%) continuing rilonacept (median time to recurrence could not be estimated due to too few events), a single recurrence occurred 4 weeks after a treatment interruption. Among patients suspending rilonacept, 75% (6/8) experienced recurrence (median time to recurrence, 11.8 weeks [95% CI, 3.7 weeks to not estimable]). There was a 98% reduction in risk of pericarditis recurrence among patients continuing rilonacept treatment after the 18‐month decision milestone versus those suspending treatment for observation (hazard ratio, 0.02;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions

In the RHAPSODY long‐term extension, continued rilonacept treatment resulted in continued response; treatment suspension at the 18‐month decision milestone was associated with pericarditis recurrence.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03737110.
Tricuspid Regurgitation: A Review of Current Interventional Management
Authors: Ambrosino Maxwell , Sangoi Matthew , Monzer Nasser , Irving Brett , Fiorilli Paul , Khazan Benjamin , Goldberg Sheldon
Published: March 2024

Tricuspid regurgitation is a common yet clinically complex problem, traditionally managed with diuretic therapy with no observable mortality benefit. Older studies on surgical intervention observed poor outcomes; however, this clinical reasoning predates current surgical approaches and novel transcatheter technology. The tricuspid apparatus is a complex structure that poses a technical challenge for surgeons and interventional cardiologists. Recent advances in surgical techniques and transcatheter therapy, particularly edge‐to‐edge repair devices, have demonstrated promising results for safety, reduction in tricuspid regurgitation, and improving quality of life. We review the clinical, imaging, and hemodynamic findings that characterize patients who should be considered for intervention, alongside the rapidly evolving approaches to interventional management.
First detailed report of cooperative breeding in red-billed blue magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha) in central China
Authors: Guo Weibin , Lin Buge , Hu Zhiqing , Cao Hanqing , Wang Changcao
Published: March 2024

The cooperative breeding system of birds is an ideal model for studying and exploring social evolution in animals. However, a basic question, i.e., how many cooperative-breeding bird species exist in the world, remains controversial due to the lack of accumulated knowledge of the natural history of many birds, which prevents a generalized understanding of the evolution of cooperative breeding in birds and challenges the accuracy of results in many comparative studies. In this paper, we provide the first evidence of cooperative breeding in red-billed blue magpies (Urocissa erythrorhyncha). Moreover, we document and discuss potential relationships between cooperative breeding and nest predation, brood parasitism and breeding performance in U. erythrorhyncha. These findings about cooperative breeding in red-billed blue magpie will lay a foundation for further research on this species’ sociality and provide useful insights into the evolution of cooperative breeding and other social systems in birds.
A taxonomic study on the nominate subgenus Macrolycus Waterhouse, 1878 from China (Coleoptera, Lycidae)
Authors: DU RUOLAN , YANG YUXIA , YANG XINGKE , LIU HAOYU
Published: March 2024

In the present study, a new species of Macrolycus s. str. is reported from China and described as M. subapicis sp. nov. M. bowringi Waterhouse, 1878 is recorded to China for the first time. The above two species, M. oreophilus Kazantsev, 2002 and M. gansuensis Kazantsev, 2002 are illustrated with the male habitus and genitalia. In addition, a distribution map, and a key to the species of Macrolycus s. str. in the world are provided.
Identification of Potential Therapeutic Drugs for Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: You Zhigang , Wang Yunhong , Huang Lin
Published: March 2024

This study focused on identifying potential therapeutic drugs and mechanisms of action for diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Using gene expression profiles from the GSE197850 dataset, we applied Weighted Correlation Network Analysis, Limma, and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) to uncover
DCM-related gene sets and pathways. Subsequently, we conducted protein interaction network analysis with String and identified 10 hub genes through Cytoscape: ACTN2, ITGA1, CASP3, PXN, PCNA, CAV1, GAPDH, FEN1, PTPN11, and ESR1. In vitro validation using Rat H9C2 cardiomyocytes showed
upregulation of FEN1, PCNA, PTPN11, CAV1, GAPDH, CASP3, PXN, and ACTN2, and downregulation of ESR1 and ITGA11 in high-glucose conditions. We further performed immune infiltration analysis with CIBERSORT and explored potential therapeutic agents through molecular docking with Autodock Vina.
Our findings identified estradiol, valproic acid, acetaminophen, and resveratrol as potential drugs for DCM. Among these, resveratrol showed promise by promoting autophagy. This study leveraged comprehensive bioinformatic and experimental methods to pinpoint DCM-related genes, elucidate key
hub genes, and propose resveratrol as a latent drug for DCM.