bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions, beliefs, and anticipations regarding Living wills among Master's degree nursing students in China: An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Yan Yishan , Liu Ling , Wang Yue , Qiang Wanmin
Published: November 2024

Background: Steeped in cultural heritage, the Chinese traditionally equate death with misfortune. This deeply rooted belief has led to a low rate of living will signings and poses challenges for implementing death education. Master's degree nursing students are instrumental in facilitating and promoting the adoption of living wills, leveraging their specialized knowledge in providing compassionate care. Despite existing research on living wills, there is a scarcity of qualitative studies that consolidate the perceptions, beliefs, and expectations of Master's degree nursing students regarding living wills.
Aim: To scrutinize the perceptions, beliefs, and anticipations regarding living wills among Master’s degree nursing students in China.
Method: To address the research objective, an exploratory qualitative descriptive approach was employed, utilizing semi-structured face-to-face interviews
Results: Three main themes and eight subthemes were identified: Perceptions of living will (high attention, knowledge deficit, and lack of education), beliefs of living wills (high acceptance and positive clinical significance), and anticipations of the living will (high expectations of improved knowledge, factors influencing promotion, and suggestions for improvement).
Conclusion: The facilitation and progression of living wills is an intricate and drawn-out process, encountering obstacles at various stages. These insights are significant for policymakers and healthcare systems, emphasizing the necessity to cultivate a supportive environment for the establishment of living wills. As indispensable contributors to the clinical operations team, Master's degree nursing students are required to possess relevant perceptions and to foster a constructive belief system.
Utilizing Sophisticated Lattice Support Structures in Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ameen Wadea
Published: November 2024

Additive Manufacturing of complex parts with overhangs using Electron Beam melting (EBM) frequently need additional sacrificial support structures to support the part during the process. In order to prevent deformation or bending due to thermal loads, these structures, which are constructed concurrently with the part, secure the overhang geometry to the base plate. The design and choice of support structure can affect the cost and time of manufacturing, the ability to manufacture complicated metal parts, and the effective use of materials and energy. This study advances the design and production of a more effective support by utilizing lattice structures with a relatively minimal volume fraction. This work aims to use lattice structures as supports for parts production in EBM. It evaluates the effects of metal lattice support structure parameters on support structure removal and overhang quality (overhang distortion). Two types of lattice structures, Diamond and Dode-thin, have been selected and assessed using varying beam current, scan speed, lattice cell size, and process parameters. The specimens are fabricated using EBM, wire electric discharge machine is used to remove the support structures and 3D comparison technique is used to evaluate the overhang distortion. The findings indicate that the lattice structures function effectively as support structures, and the design and process parameters have an effect on the performance of the generated support; however, these effects were not substantial.
Deciphering the overtaking phenomenon initiated by centrality nodes in spreading
Authors: Jia Tao , He Wenchao , Chao Gao
Published: November 2024

Trying to identify the “hubs” or other central nodes that could maximize the final size of spreading has long been an important research subject in network science. However, empirical studies have revealed that many large spreading events are initiated by nodes located at the periphery or those with lower centrality. In this work, we investigate the roles of seed nodes characterized by both the highest and lowest centrality in network spreading. Surprisingly, we find that the outbreak scales initiated by nodes with the lowest centrality can overtake those initiated by nodes with the highest centrality, particularly in scenarios involving multiple seed nodes. These findings have been substantiated through our analysis of numerous empirical and synthetic networks, with consistent observations across all studied centrality measures. We decipher this intriguing phenomenon by dissecting the spreading dynamics into outbreak scale and outbreak probability, informed by the bimodal distributions inherent in stochastic spreading processes. To further rigorously elucidate this overtaking phenomenon, we present the mathematical proofs based on the percolation theory.
Gridized polynanomer catalysis with atomically dispersed iron achieve the nearly 100% selective electroreduction of CO2 to methanol
Authors: Xie Linghai , Yang Tonglin , Wang Tao , Zhang Weihao , Deng Fu , Zhong Chunxiao , Peng Qian , Liu Chao , Chen Xin , Zhang Zheng , Li Yang , Feng Yang , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Kuande , Zhang Chong , Wei Ying , Yang Fangqi , Huang Wei
Published: November 2024

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 to high-energy-density CH3OH (15.6 MJ/L) under ambient temperature and pressure provides a strategic pathway to achieve carbon neutrality and mitigate energy crisis1-4 (Fig. 1a). Although rationally designed nanocluster/alloy, single-atom catalysts, nanozyme and molecular catalysts have been continuously reported, both high selectivity and long-term recyclability are still rare that become the central challenges on the path to their commercialization 5,6. It is emerging to make multiscale design of both metal centers of active sites and their cross-scale surrounding environments under the crucial mechanism of pathway selection (Fig. 1b) 5,7-9. Herein, we reported the gridized nanomolecular and nanopolymer catalysts for high effective electroreduction of CO2 to CH3OH. An A-type nanogrid (A-grid) and its organic nanopolymers with atomically dispersed irons have been well identified with the unique catalytic active sites of Fe-N1C3Cl1. Fe-based A-grid catalyst (FeAG) achieved a world-record CH3OH selectivity of 96.8%. Notably, Fe-based A-grid nanopolymer (FePAG) catalyst exhibited a CH3OH Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 60.5%, a CH3OH selectivity of 98.3%, and a stability of up to 100 hours, outperforming currently reported molecular catalysts. The superior selectivity is probably attributed to the cooperation between the stronger *CO adsorption on FeAG and the super-hindrance that suppresses aggregates to guarantee the dispersion of single active sites. Our study provides new insights in the exploration of nanomolecular and polynanomer catalysis.
Efficacy of Attractive Targeted Sugar Bait stations against malaria in Western Province Zambia: epidemiological findings from a two-arm cluster randomized Phase III trial
Authors: Ashton Ruth A. , Saili Kochelani , Chishya Chama , Yikona Handrinah Banda , Arnzen Annie , Orange Erica , Chitoshi Chanda , Chulu John , Tobolo Titus , Ndalama Frank , Kyomuhangi Irene , Ngulube Willy , Moonga Hawela , Chirwa Jacob , Slutsker Laurence , Wagman Joseph , Chanda Javan , Miller John , Silumbe Kafula , Hamainza Busiku , Eisele Thomas P. , Yukich Joshua , Littrell Megan
Published: November 2024

Background Attractive targeted sugar bait (ATSB) stations containing bait (to attract) and ingestion toxicant (to kill) sugar-foraging mosquitoes are hypothesized to reduce malaria transmission by shortening the lifespan of Anopheles vectors.Methods A two-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial (cRCT) was conducted in Western Province Zambia. Seventy clusters of 250–350 households were assigned (1:1) by restricted randomization to an intervention arm (ATSB) or control arm (no ATSB) in the context of standard of care vector control (insecticide-treated nets and/or indoor residual spraying). Two ATSB stations (Westham Sarabi, 0.11% dinotefuran w/w) were maintained on exterior walls of eligible household structures for a 7-month deployment period (December-June) during the high malaria transmission season. The primary outcome was clinical malaria incidence among two consecutive seasonal cohorts of children aged 1–14 years, followed-up monthly from January-June in 2022 and 2023. Secondary outcome was Plasmodium falciparum prevalence among individuals aged over six months. Analysis compared clinical malaria incidence and prevalence between arms among the intention-to-treat population.Results ATSB coverage, assessed by cross-sectional survey, was 98.3% in March-April 2022 and 89.5% in March-April 2023. 4494 children contributed any follow-up time to the cohort, with 2313 incident malaria cases in the intervention arm (1.28 per child per six-month transmission season), and 2449 in the control arm (1.38 per child-season). The incidence rate ratio between the two arms was 0.91 (95% CI 0.72–1.15, p = 0.42). 2536 individuals participated in cross-sectional surveys, with prevalence of P. falciparum 50.7% in the intervention arm and 53.5% in the control arm. The odds ratio between the two arms was 0.89 (95% CI 0.66–1.18, p = 0.42). Secondary covariable-adjusted and subgroup analyses did not substantially alter the findings. No serious adverse events associated with the intervention were reported.Conclusions Two ATSB stations deployed per eligible structure for two consecutive transmission seasons did not result in a statistically significant reduction in clinical malaria incidence among children aged 1–14 years or in P. falciparum prevalence in rural western Zambia. Further studies are needed to assess the efficacy of ATSB stations in different settings and with different deployment strategies.Trial registration The trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04800055).
Serotype distribution and molecular characterization of nonhemolytic and nonpigmented group B Streptococcus isolates in a southern Taiwan local hospital
Authors: Cheng Hui-Fang , Kuo Zhe-Yu , Lin Ching-Chiang , Chen Ho-Feng , Lo Horng-Ren , Shyu Huey-Wen , Wang Yi-Fen
Published: November 2024

Group B streptococci (GBS) are Gram-positive bacteria that are a leading cause of neonatal infections. Most invasive isolates are β-hemolytic, and hemolytic activity is critical for GBS virulence. Although nonhemolytic GBS strains are occasionally isolated, they are often thought to be virulence attenuated. Recent studies have observed that many nonhemolytic and nonpigmented (NH/NP) strains originated from invasive infections, including bacteremia and meningitis, in neonates or adults. The mutations causing NH/NP phenotype are predominantly localized in the cyl operon and abx1 gene. Previous studies on group B streptococci in Taiwan have focused on the serotype and genotype distribution. In this study, we investigated the serotype distribution of the NH/NP strains and detected the mutations of abx1. One hundred clinical GBS strains from non-invasive (vaginal and rectal swabs) and invasive infections (blood, urine and abscess), including 10 NH/NP isolates, were collected during 2019–2021 at Fooyin University Hospital. To confirm GBS isolates, we have developed a multiplex PCR method that detects GBS isolates, virulent strain ST-17 and virulent factor Srr1 simultaneously. The capsular serotypes III and VI were the most abundant in both the non-invasive specimens (vaginal and rectal swabs) and invasive specimens (urine, blood and abscess). The ST-17 isolates were more frequently associated with invasive infections (16.1%, 5/31) than non-invasive diseases or colonization (7.2%, 5/69). The NH/NP strains were more frequently associated with noninvasive diseases or colonization (10.1%, 7/69) but also observed in invasive infections (9.7%, 3/31). The NH/NP strains were isolated from various serotypes (Ia, III, V and VI) and five NH/NP isolates were serotype III. The virulence factor Srr1was detected in most of the NH/NP isolates (8/10) and one NH/NP isolate was ST-17. Abx1 mutations, including transitions, transversions and deletions, were observed in some NH/NP isolates, but some mutations also observed in hemolytic isolates. Five NH/NP isolates showed erythromycin and clindamycin resistant. These results indicate NH/NP GBS strains may have the potential for invasive infections and may show higher tendency to get mutated.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase MARCH9 alleviates pyroptosis by regulating NLPR3 ubiquitination following myocardial ischemia reperfusion
Authors: Lu Hongquan , Ding Cong , Ma Gang , Ma Lingkun , Lu Min , Wang Ping , Ruan Qiuyue , Li Yilin , Sun Wenjing
Published: November 2024

NLRP3 inflammasome activation-induced pyroptosis has emerged as a key mediator of pathological myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI/R) injury. Nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms underlying NLRP3 inflammasome activation and its mediation of pyroptotic cell death following MI/R. The current research examined the impact of MARCH9 on NLRP3 inflammasome-induced pyroptosis both in vitro following hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) and in vivo using a MI/R mouse model. Wild-type and MARCH9-Tg mice underwent analysis through TTC, Evan's blue dye, and immunohistochemistry staining. H9c2 cells were transfected with si-MARCH9, while HEK293T cells received transfections of MARCH9 and NLRP3 overexpression plasmid, along with their respective mutants. Western blot analysis was utilized to quantify levels of MARCH9, NLRP3, Caspase-1, GSDMD, and GSDMD-N. Protein interactions were assessed via immunoprecipitation, and protein colocalization within cells was observed using a confocal microscope. In this study, our data suggest that MARCH9 plays a key role in the regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis during myocardial I/R injury. We also examine the function of MARCH9 as an E3 ubiquitin ligase specifically targeting NLRP3. The interaction between MARCH9 and NLRP3 results in the promotion of K48-linked polyubiquitination of NLRP3, ultimately leading to its proteasomal degradation and subsequent inhibition of NLRP3 activation. These findings provide novel insights into the involvement of MARCH9 in the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome-induced pyroptotic cell death.
The effects of resistance training vs high intensity interval training on body composition, muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and quality of life in survivors of breast cancer: a randomized trial
Authors: Bettariga Francesco , Taaffe Dennis R. , Garcia Cristina Crespo , Clay Timothy D. , Galvão Daniel A. , Newton Robert U.
Published: November 2024

Purpose. Breast cancer treatments often lead to unfavourable changes in body composition, physical fitness, and quality of life (QoL). We compared the effects of resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on these outcomes in survivors of breast cancer.
Methods. Twenty-eight survivors of breast cancer, post-treatment (Stage I-III), aged 55.5 ± 8.8 years and body mass index 27.9 ± 5 kg/m2 were randomly allocated to a 12-week supervised RT or HIIT intervention, 3 days per week. Body composition, upper and lower body muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and QoL domains were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks.
Results. There were no significant differences at baseline between groups. Exercise attendance ranged from 81 to 85%. After 12 weeks, lean mass increased in the RT (mean difference [MD] = 0.6 kg, p = 0.049), while % fat mass decreased in the HIIT (MD = -0.6%, p = 0.039), with no significant differences between groups. Between-groups there were significant differences (p < 0.001) with improvement in chest press strength for RT (MD = 4.7 kg) and CRF for HIIT (MD = 1.9 ml/min/kg). There were significant within-group improvements (p < 0.001) in muscle strength and CRF for both RT and HIIT. QoL (global health, function, and symptoms) significantly improved (p < 0.05) in both groups, without any difference between groups. No major adverse events were noted.
Conclusion. Both exercise groups improved body composition, physical fitness, and QoL domains over 12 weeks of RT or HIIT, although mode-specific benefits were apparent with more substantial improvements in lean mass and muscle strength with RT and reductions in % fat mass and improved CRF with HIIT. Tailored exercise programs should address the specific health needs of each patient.
Exploring the Polygenic Landscape of Wool Traits in Turkish Merinos Through Multi-locus GWAS Approaches: Middle Anatolian Merino
Authors: Yaman Yalçın , ÖNALDI A. Taner , DOĞAN Şükrü , KIRBAŞ Mesut , BEHREM Sedat , KAL Yavuz
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the genetic architecture of fibre diameter (FD) and staple length (SL) in Middle Anatolian Merino sheep using multi-locus genome-wide association study (GWAS) approaches. Heritability and variability analyses revealed contrasting patterns: FD showed moderate heritability (h² = 0.461) with low variability (CV = 7.570%), while SL exhibited low heritability (h² = 0.191) but high variability (CV = 24.437%). Genetic correlations indicated moderate positive relationships between FD and certain growth traits (rG = 0.385–0.455, p < 0.001), whereas SL showed weak, non-significant correlations with these traits. The correlation between FD and SL was also weak and non-significant (rG = -0.043, p = 0.383). Using four multi-locus GWAS methods (mrMLM, FASTmrMLM, FASTmrEMMA, and ISIS EM-BLASSO), which can detect polygenic effects on complex traits like wool quality, 18 SNPs for FD (7 co-detected) and 14 SNPs for SL (5 co-detected) were identified across multiple chromosomes. Post-hoc power analysis demonstrated strong statistical power for both traits (FD: 0.95, SL: 0.91). These results could guide future breeding strategies aimed at optimising both wool quality and growth performance. Further research is needed to validate these findings in other populations and to explore the biological relevance of the identified genomic regions.
Exploring the impact of a regional research infrastructure in England: a contributions analysis approach
Authors: Porter Bryony , Thompson Claire , Wills Wendy
Published: November 2024

Background
There is a need to critically examine both how research infrastructures interact with the populations they serve and the perceived effects of these interactions. This paper reports on a contributions analysis informed study of a research infrastructure and its place-based approach to working with local communities: the National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration East of England (NIHR ARC EoE). The aims were (1) to understand the perceived impact of the NIHR ARC EoE place-based approach (2) to explore its processes and challenges.
Methods
From April-June 2023 we interviewed 11 research staff from the infrastructure (NIHR ARC EoE) and nine community-based partners who had worked with NIHR ARC EoE since 2019. The interviews explored experiences of developing research partnerships, learnings, outcomes and challenges. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and subject to a thematic analysis. The findings were subsequently mapped onto a Research Contributions Framework.
Results
The place-based approach was characterised as relationships-driven and a community-focused approach to building research infrastructure, which improved motivation and commitment to local involvement in research. Three perceived impacts were highlighted: working with underserved communities, cross-sector relationship development and building skills and research capacity. Key barriers included differing expectations of research timescales, a fear of problematising communities; and intensive resource requirements for developing foundational level relationships.
Conclusion
The place-based approach enabled opportunities to work with (rather than ‘do to’) communities previously underserved by research and where the development of trusting relationships was key. However, strategic efforts to dismantle bureaucratic barriers must be developed to maximise reach and potential. The findings present a novel approach understanding of the perceived impact of a place-based approach to working with communities. The value of a place-based approach is widely applicable to any research infrastructure aiming to collaborate, involve and engage communities in research.
Benign Meningiomas Develop Through a Four-Hit Mechanism
Authors: Devarajan Alex , Seah Carina , Zhang Jack , Vasan Vikram , Feng Rui , Chapman Emily , Shigematsu Tomoyoshi , Bederson Joshua , Shrivastava Raj
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Meningiomas are central nervous system tumors whose incidence increases with age. Benign meningioma pathogenesis involves germline or somatic mutation of target genes, such as NF2, leading to clonal expansion. We used an established cancer epidemiology model to investigate the number of rate-limiting steps sufficient for benign meningioma development.
Methods: Incidence data was obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program (SEER) for nonmalignant meningioma from 2004-2020. Age-adjusted incidence rates per 100,000 person-years were divided into 5-year bands. This was repeated for vestibular schwannomas as a negative control. The Armitage-Doll methodology was applied. Mathematical solutions correcting for volatile tumor microenvironments were applied to fit higher-order models using polynomial regression when appropriate. A 75:25 training:test split was utilized for validation.
Results: 222,509 cases of benign meningiomas were identified. We noted strong linear relationships between log-transformed incidence and age across the cohort and multiple subpopulations: male, white, black, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian subpopulations all demonstrated R2=0.99. Slopes were between 3.1 and 3.4, suggesting a four-step process for benign meningioma development. Female patients exhibited nonlinear deviations, but the corrected model demonstrated R2=0.99 with a four-hit pathway. This model performed robustly on test data with R2=0.99. Vestibular schwannomas demonstrated a slope of 2.1 with R2=0.99, suggesting a separate three-step process.
Conclusion: Four mutations are uniquely required for the development of benign meningiomas. Correcting for volatile tumor microenvironments reliably accounted for nonlinear deviations in behavior. Further studies are warranted to elucidate genomic findings suggestive of key mutations in this pathway.
Funding: None.
Effect of probiotic supplementation on smokers: A therapeutic clinical trial
Authors: Sadeghi Nasim , Shams Shahram , Mirlohian Reyhaneh-Sadat , Haerifar Freshteh , Bakhshi-Kashi Mostafa , Ghaderi Amir
Published: November 2024

Background
Smoking enhances the risk of cardiovascular disease and oxidative stress and is a major cause of metabolic syndrome and chronic inflammation. According to recent research, dysbiosis, or gut microbiota imbalances, may worsen many health problems. Probiotics have shown an ability to reduce inflammation, improve metabolic health, and alter gut microbiota. This study seeks to investigate the impact of probiotic supplementation on the blood lipid profiles, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory biomarkers, and insulin resistance in smokers.
Methods
At Matini Hospital, eighty smokers engaged in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The participants were randomly assigned to receive 40 probiotic supplements or 40 placebos for 12 weeks. Clinical data measurements were conducted at baseline and after the intervention, including blood cholesterol levels, oxidative stress indicators, inflammatory biomarkers, and mental health assessments.
Results
Compared to the placebo group, the probiotic group exhibited substantial reductions in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels after 12 weeks (P < 0.05). Additionally, the probiotic group experienced a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels (P < 0.05). However, no significant changes were observed in the levels of insulin, HOMA-IR, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, total antioxidant capacity, plasma nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, glutathione, depression, anxiety, or nicotine dependence.
Conclusions
A 12-week duration of probiotic treatment in smokers led to significant enhancements in lipid profiles and a reduction in inflammatory markers. The findings suggest a possible advantage of probiotics in alleviating the metabolic and cardiovascular risk associated with smoking. The long-term effects of probiotics on cigarette smokers' health and the mechanisms behind these enhancements require additional research.
Trial Registration:
This research was registered for a clinical trial on the Iranian registration website (http://www.irct.ir: IRCT20170420033551N13) and the registration date is 2022-12-06.
Influence of Lipid Profiles on Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Nigerian Patients
Authors: Afolabi Habeeb Abiodun , Ojurongbe Taiwo Adetola , Ayelagbe Olubunmi G. , Akinleye Callistus , Ogunniran Muideen O. , Bashiru Kehinde Adekunle , Oyekale Adesola , Ajadi Jimoh Olawale , Ojurongbe Olusola , Adegoke Nurudeen A.
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death globally and is driven by complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Addressing this crisis requires a deep understanding of its diverse risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms to inform more effective prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, we evaluated 445 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels below 70 mg/dl to assess the association between T2DM and lipid parameters. We found that non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) levels (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–1.13, p < 0.0001) and LDL/HDL-c ratio (AOR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09, p = 0.0138) were significantly associated with T2DM in the overall cohort. Among females, non-HDL-c (AOR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.07–1.14, p < 0.0001) and LDL/HDL-c (AOR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.11, p = 0.0133) showed stronger associations with T2DM. LDL-c levels were correlated with T2DM (odds ratio [OR] = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.08–1.68, p = 0.0078). Triglyceride (TG) levels at optimal LDL-c (AOR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.05–1.16, p < 0.0001 in males; AOR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.13–1.19, p < 0.0001 in females) and non-HDL-c (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05–1.16, p < 0.0001 in males; AOR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.14–1.19, p < 0.0001 in females) levels were consistently associated with higher T2DM risk. These findings highlight the critical need for personalized and sex-specific lipid management strategies in T2DM care to improve cardiovascular outcomes.
Point spread function estimation with computed wavefronts for deconvolution of hyperspectral imaging data
Authors: Zabic Miroslav , Reifenrath Michel , Wegner Charlie , Bethge Hans , Landes Timm , Rudorf Sophia , Heinemann Dag
Published: November 2024

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) systems acquire images with spectral information over a wide range of wavelengths but are often affected by chromatic and other optical aberrations that degrade image quality. Deconvolution algorithms can improve the spatial resolution of HSI systems, yet retrieving the point spread function (PSF) is a crucial and challenging step. To address this challenge, we have developed a method for PSF estimation in HSI systems based on computed wavefronts. The proposed technique optimizes an image quality metric by modifying the shape of a computed wavefront using Zernike polynomials and subsequently calculating the corresponding PSFs for input into a deconvolution algorithm. This enables noise-free PSF estimation for the deconvolution of HSI data, leading to significantly improved spatial resolution and spatial co-registration of spectral channels over the entire wavelength range.
Degradation Study of ZnO Reinforced Polyamide Nanocomposites Under Accelerated UV-A Exposure for Insulation Applications
Authors: Ahmad Nafees , Khattak Abraiz , Khan Salman , Ahmed Numan , Mumtaz Nakhal , Khan Yasin , Al-Arainy Abdulrehman Ali
Published: November 2024

This research article investigates the effects of ultraviolet (UV-A) radiation and DC electrical stress on the performance of novel polyamide (PA66) nanocomposite insulators with 0 wt. % (PA0), 1 wt. % (PA1), 3 wt. % (PA3), 5 wt. % (PA5), and 7 wt. % (PA7) of ZnO nanofillers loading. A specialized UV-A chamber has been used to provide a controlled weathering environment in which the UV intensity was 5 mW/m2 and the applied DC stress was 4 kV. The performance of the nanocomposite is being investigated after each cycle of 100 hours with total aging time of 200 hours using different characterization techniques. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) are being used to confirm the presence of ZnO. The samples with 3 wt. % and 5 wt. % showed better dispersion of the nano filler in the polymer matrix. The surface hydrophobicity is being evaluated using standard STRI technique and contact angle measurements, and it is showing a decreasing trend with UV-A accelerated aging. The contact angle of unaged PA1 was the better among the samples, with the value of 98.40º. FTIR analysis is being used to investigate functional group studies and changes in chemical bonding. The C=O functional group is being oxidized in all the samples at wavenumber 1728.04 cm-1. There was only a change of 33% in this functional group in case of PA3 which is better than the other samples after the aging. Furthermore, optical microscopy (OM) and visual inspection are being performed to detect any material loss and voids. PA1 and PA3 showed relatively smooth surface after the aging of 100h and 200h while other samples showed material deterioration. AC Leakage current analysis and UV-Vis spectroscopy have been conducted to evaluate the band gap of the nanocomposites and their electrical properties, respectively. The sample PA1 has the highest leakage current after 200h that is 8.93% increase while the PA3 has the least increase in LC current i.e 6.91%. The findings show that by reinforcing polyamide with ZnO nanofiller, the aging and insulating properties can be improved which make them more resistant to effects of UV-A radiation in outdoor environments and specifically for cable insulation applications. The sample PA3 exhibited relatively better properties and characteristics compared to the other samples.
Accuracy of cardiac computed tomographic angiography to detect features of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hereijgers Maartje J.M. , Velden Rachel M.J. van der , Gietema Hester A. , Verhaert Dominique V.M. , Habibi Zarina , Moussaoui Nora El , Uijl Dennis den , Chaldoupi Sevasti-Maria , Luermans Justin , Rienstra Michiel , Gelder Isabelle C. van , Schotten Ulrich , Vernooy Kevin , Franssen Frits M.E. , Mihl Casper , Linz Dominik , Simons Sami O.
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) commonly coexists in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Although diagnosis relies on spirometry, radiological features such as emphysema and airway abnormalities on chest computed tomography (CT) could be used for COPD screening.
Methods
This retrospective analysis included AF patients who had undergone both cardiac CT angiography (CCTA) and a conventional chest CT within a two-year timeframe. Both scans were visually evaluated for CT-features of COPD using the validated COPDgene screening tool. Based on these scores, the COPD phenotype was classified into four categories: normal, airway dominant, emphysema dominant, or mixed. Accuracy of CCTA to detect CT features of COPD was calculated using the full chest CT as the reference.
Results
In total, 63 patients (54% female, median age 69 [62-75] years, 79% paroxysmal and 21% persistent AF) were included in this study. CT features of COPD were detected in 35% of CCTA and 51% of conventional CTs. CCTA detected CT features of COPD with a sensitivity of 66%, specificity of 97%, positive predictive value of 95% and negative predictive value of 73%. Area under the receiver operator characteristic curve was 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.70 – 0.92). The dominant feature among the false-negative tests results was mild emphysema located in the upper lung fields, which were out of the field-of-view of CCTA.
Conclusions
CCTA can identify AF patients with CT features indicating COPD, despite occasional misses due to out-of-view areas. When detected, they have a high positive predictive value, facilitating spirometry prioritization.
Assessment of Early Maladaptive Schemas in Suicide Attempters Referred to Poisoning Emergency Department of Baharloo Hospital in Tehran
Authors: Mousavi Farinaz , Etesam Farnaz , Khajehnoori Golnaz
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Schemas serve as a framework in the cognitive theory of mental disorders. Schemas are the most important factors in the incidence of depression and suicide attempts. Therefore, this study was designed and conducted to determine early maladaptive schemas in suicide attempters by poisoning methods.
Materials & Methods
This descriptive-analytical study was performed on suicide attempters who referred to the poisoning emergency department in Baharloo Hospital in Tehran from May 2023 to May 2024. Using convenience (non-probability) sampling, 116 subjects were included in this study. All of these subjects were evaluated for demographic variables, history of suicide, history of psychological problems and the type of substance or drug used for suicide. Then the initial non-adaptive schemas were assessed by Young's questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS26 statistical software.
Results
The mean age of the subjects was 24.13 ± 5.095 years. 68.1% of the subjects were female and 31.9% were male. 53.45% had a history of suicide and 76.72% had a history of psychological problems. The highest scores were respectively related to abandonment (25.17), social isolation (24.34), defectiveness/shame (23.63), emotional deprivation (22.63) and failure (22.57) schemas. In subjects with a history of mental problems, schemas such as abandonment, distrust, emotional deprivation, social isolation, dependency/incompetence, undeveloped self, emotional inhibition and unrelenting standards were significantly higher (P < 0.05). In individuals with a history of suicide, the defectiveness/shame schema, dependence/incompetence, vulnerability to harm/illness and failure were substantially higher (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Early maladaptive schemas were active among suicide attempters and had a role in the incidence of suicide. The highest scores were related to abandonment, social isolation, defectiveness/shame, emotional deprivation and failure, respectively. The most important factors associated with these schemas were the history of psychological problems, age, history of suicide attempts and gender. Considering the meaningful correlation between these schemas and the factors mentioned earlier, these factors can be considered in interventions and for offering strategies to reduce suicide attempts.
Clinical evaluation of the arthroscopic decompression of spinoglenoid notch cyst through a single posterior portal
Authors: Zhang Yi , Shen Youliang , Kou Dewei , Chen Jinli , Yu Tengbo , Qi Chao
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
To describe and evaluate the arthroscopic spinoglenoid notch cyst (SGNC) decompression technique through a single posterior working portal.
Methods
From January 2010 to March 2022, 20 patients of SGNC were included who were available for minimum of 2 years of follow-up. All surgical procedures were conducted with a suprascapular nerve decompression via posterior portal. For assessments, the visual analog scale (VAS), Constant-Murley shoulder score (CS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) score, magnetic resonance image (MRI) and electromyogram (EMG) were used to compare preoperative and postoperative at follow-up. MRI and EMG were taken at 6 months postoperatively.
Results
All 20 patients were included in this study. Mean follow-up was 32.5 ± 11.71 months. The VAS improved from 4.5 ± 3.1 to 1.5 ± 0.50 (P < .001), the mean CS improved from 40.8 ± 14.89 to 88.3 ± 7.51 (P < .001), and the mean ASES score improved from 50.5 ± 10.62 to 87.8 ± 6.95 (P < .001) at last follow-up. The postoperative MRI and EGM performed at a mean of 6 months for all 20 cases revealed complete symptomatic remission. The satisfaction level with surgery was good to excellent in 19 patients.
Conclusions
For treatment of SGNC, arthroscopic decompression through single posterior portal was found to be a simple and effective method, maximizes visualization and reduces possible damage to the suprascapular nerve.
Synthesis and Characterization of pH-Responsive Sodium Alginate/Zein/γ- Alumina Nanocarriers for Targeted Curcumin Delivery in Lung Cancer
Authors: Najafi Mohammad , Faradonbeh Davood Rabiei , Hajebi Sakineh , khoddam Zahra , Chamanara Mohsen , Ramezanpour Sorour , Shakerimoghaddam Ali , Fasihi Hossein , Basanti Maryam , Omidi Mohammad Hassan , Heidari Reza
Published: November 2024

Stimulus-responsive drug delivery systems based on anticancer drug of curcumin constitute a promising strategy to overcome some challenges to Lung cancer treatment. In the present study, pH-responsive nanocarriers were designed by sodium alginate (SA), zein, and γ-alumina (γ-Al2O3) as a curcumin nanocarrier via a W/O/W double emulsion technique to facilitate targeted delivery of curcumin to lung cancer cells. The characterize the physical interactions and crystalline structure were confirmed by FTIR and XRD, respectively. The size of drug-loaded nanocomposites was 218.6 nm with monodisperse particle distribution, having a rod-like shape approved by DLS analysis and FE-SEM, respectively. Sensitivity of the nanocarrier samples to pH was studied using ultraviolet − visible spectroscopy. The UV − vis spectroscopy results display higher absorption intensities in acidic tumor conditions (pH 5.4) than physiological pH (7.4). The double emulsion method and γ-alumina significantly enhanced drug loading and entrapment efficiency compared to other reported delivery systems. Cytotoxicity and cell death were further analyzed using MTT and flow cytometry assays. These results suggest that the SA/zein/γ-Al2O3 nanocomposite is a promise pH-responsive drug delivery system for lung cancer therapy.
The suicidal youth: psychopathological subtypes with genetic, neuroanatomical and environmental differences
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wu Xinran , Palaniyappan Lena , Velzen Laura S. van , Yu Gechang , Fan Huaxin , Liu Yu , Becker Benjamin , Cheng Wei , Zhao Xingming , Feng Jianfeng , Sahakian Barbara , Robbins Trevor , Schumann Gunter , Schmaal Lianne
Published: November 2024

Youth suicidality is characterized by its transient nature and diverse causal pathways. Currently, a unified approach searching for final common pathway towards youth suicide has proven unsuccessful. Therefore an exploration of its heterogeneity across different levels is needed. Utilizing 1,624 children with suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) and 3,224 healthy controls from the ABCD Study, we first clustered children with STB based on thirty-four cognitive and psychopathological measures capturing suicide-related risk-moderating traits. We then compared environmental and genetic risk factors, and neuroanatomical characteristics of each subtype with controls. We identified five distinct STB subtypes, each revealing unique neuroanatomy, environmental/genetic risks, and persistence patterns. Subtype 1 (Depressive, 9.6%) exhibited the most severe depressive symptoms. Subtype 2 (Externalizing, 20.1%) displayed anatomical and functional alterations in frontoparietal network and increased genetic risk for ADHD. Subtype 3 (Cognitive Deficit, 20.4%) demonstrated lower cognitive performance and widespread white-matter deficits. Subtype 4 (Mild Psychotic, 22.2%) had higher prodromal psychotic symptoms, often unnoticed by parents. Subtype 5 (High Functioning, 27.6%) showed larger total brain volume, better cognition, and higher socio-economic status, contrasting subtypes 1-4. Only Subtypes 1 and 2 demonstrate persistent STB features at 2-year follow-up. Our results suggested that youth suicidal behaviour may result from several distinct bio-behavioral pathways that are identifiable through co-occurring psychopathology, and provide insights into the underlying neural mechanisms and corresponding intervention strategies.
Beta-lapachone has antiproliferative effects and modulates the lncRNAs expression on bladder cancer cell lines with different TP53 statuses
Authors: Amparo Tatiane Roquete , Anunciação Kamila de Fátima da , Almeida Tamires Cunha , Oliveira Alaíde Braga , Silva Glenda Nicioli da , Brandão Geraldo Célio
Published: November 2024

Purpose
α-Lapachona (aLAP) and β-lapachona (bLAP) are noteworthy anticancer naphthoquinones. The chemoresistance observed in bladder cancer represents a global health concern, with relation to mutations in the TP53 gene and alterations in the expression of long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs). This study evaluated the effects of aLAP and bLAP on bladder tumor cell lines with different TP53 statuses.
Methods
Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT reduction method and cell migration by scratch assay while clonogenic survival and cell cycle were evaluated through cell colony counting and flow cytometry, respectively. The expression of lncRNAs (JHDM1D-AS1, SBF2-AS1, CDT-2132N18.2, and RP11-363E7.4) and the JHDM1D gene was evaluated through RT-qPCR.
Results
bLAP demonstrated greater cytotoxicity than aLAP. Its inhibitory effects on clonogenic survival, migration, and the cell cycle were observed in all cell lines and were related to the modulation of lncRNAs expression. A reduction in lncRNA SBF2-AS1 and JHDM1D gene expression was observed in RT4 cells, accompanied by an increase in lncRNA RP11-363E7.4. Conversely, in the cells with mutated TP53 (J82), a reduction in JHDM1D-AS1 and JHDM1D was observed.
Conclusion
The antiproliferative effects of bLAP in bladder cancer cells are independent of TP53 statuses, yet occur through a distinct action mechanism, with variations in lncRNAs expression.
The value of a climate march: Do climate marches affect perceived values and personal climate action
Authors: Bouman Thijs , Steg Linda
Published: November 2024

Climate change poses immediate environmental threats. Although many care about the environment (i.e., endorse biospheric values), too little climate action is still taken. It has been argued that one reason for this is that individuals often underestimate others’ biospheric values, which demotivates them to act. We propose that climate marches have the potential to prevent and correct such underestimation by making a group of climate marchers with strong biospheric values salient and increasing awareness of the widespread endorsement of biospheric values among national citizens. To investigate this, we studied personal biospheric values, perceived biospheric values of climate marchers and national citizens, and individuals’ engagement in climate action just before and after a large climate march in the Netherlands, among a sample that was aimed to be national representative (valid nT1 = 648, nT2 = 502). Individuals reported themselves and climate marchers to have strong biospheric values, while national citizens were seen as having substantially weaker biospheric values. Multiple regression analyses indicated stronger personal biospheric values and stronger perceived biospheric values of climate marchers – but seemingly weaker perceived biospheric values of Dutch citizens – were associated to stronger climate action engagement. Perceived biospheric values of Dutch citizens did increase over the march, whereas perceived biospheric values of climate marchers decreased. Individuals did not engage in more climate action over the climate march, as one the abovementioned associations already suggested. We argue that such effects may occur in the longer term in contexts where the national identity is more salient and relevant.
Benchmarking IMIA recommendations for the Health Informatics undergraduate program in Saudi Arabia: a mixed methodology
Authors: Alzghaibi Haitham , Jamal Qazi Mohammad Sajid , Almutairi Sulaiman , Alotaibi Reem M. , Alzughaibi Saleh , Abdul Shabbir Syed , AlGhayadh Faisal , Affendi Shafiz , Zakaria Nasriah
Published: November 2024

The administration and use of health data to improve the quality of healthcare is the main goal of the multidisciplinary discipline of health informatics (HI). This study set out to assess graduates' opinions of the elements of the Biomedical and Health Informatics (BMHI) curriculum. A cross-sectional survey and document analysis were two of the mixed-methods techniques used. Six key curricular variables—core principles, health sciences, computer and data sciences, social and behavioural sciences, management science, and BMHI specialisation—were the subject of this survey focused on HI practitioners. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Among the 280 experts who answered the survey, 127 expressed a strong preference (89.8%) to include internships in the bachelor's programs and the practitioners showed high support (82.7%) for the HI programs in Saudi Arabia. The comparative analysis on 5 universities in Saudi Arabia revealed noteworthy differences in how much focus different colleges placed on the BMHI knowledge domains. Particularly, Saudi Electronic University focused more in computer and data sciences areas than other universities, whereas Qassim University and Jazan University showed a higher concentration on health sciences and basic principles topics in their curicullum. These results demonstrate the various educational goals found in HI curricula and point to the necessity of standardised guidelines in order to improve program coherence between HI educational institutions.
A Zinc-Bcat Compound: Unlocking New and Diverse Reactivity Pathways Beyond Nucleophilic Borylation
Authors: Lu Zhenpin , Xu Gan , Chan Hok Tsun , Li Shuchang , Wong Tsz Ying , Zhang Lei , Zhang Qichun , Lin Zhenyang
Published: November 2024

A zinc-boryl species was successfully synthesized from a common diboron reagent, B2cat2. In contrast to the known non-boron-ester-based zinc-boryl compounds with limited reactivity, this novel Zn-Bcat species exhibited a rich reactivity not only as a nucleophilic Bcat− anion, but also towards various nitrogen-containing unsaturated substrates, such as carbodiimides, isonitriles, and azobenzene, facilitating the Zn-B bond dissociation and the formation of Zn-C/N, B-N bonds, and cleavage of C = N double bond. The enhanced diverse reactivity of this species is likely attributed to the stronger covalency of the Zn-B bond. The structural information of the borylation products was fully characterized by NMR, HRMS spectra, and X-ray single-crystal analyses. Additionally, the Zn-Bcat compound was found to promote the catalytic diborylation of azobenzene, highlighting the versatility of the Zn-Bcat species as a reactive intermediate. Furthermore, DFT computational studies were carried out to shed light on the electronic structure and reactivity of the Zn-B bond.