bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitive and Cost‐Effective Tools in the Detection of Ovarian Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: Elhami Anis , Mobed Ahmad , Soleimany Reza , Yazdani Yalda , Kazemi Esmat Sadat , Mohammadi Mahya , Saffarfar Hossein
Published: October 2024

Women diagnosed with late‐stage ovarian cancer suffer a very high rate of mortality. Accordingly, it is imperative to detect and diagnose the disease as early as possible in its development. Achievement of this aim implies relatively large‐scale screening of women at an age of clinical significance through assay of biomarkers for disease present in blood or serum. Biosensor detection offers an attractive technology for the automated detection of such species. Among several biomarkers that have been identified that are present in patients with ovarian cancer, the only one that is commonly tested for in clinical use is cancer antigen 125, which is considered to be a poor biomarker for the disease. Here, we describe several biosensors that developed in the past decade for the detection of ovarian cancer biomarkers such as CA125, human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) and apolipoprotein A1. The challenges presented by the fabrication of biosensor devices for detecting ovarian cancer and the limited number of biosensors developed for this purpose are discussed.
Characterization, DFT, DNA, Biological Applications, and In Silico Studies of Mn(II), VO(II), Pd(II), and Cd(II) Complexes Derived From Chromone Isonicotinic Hydrazone Ligand
Authors: Elsherbeny Mayar , El‐Ayaan Usama , Abou El‐Reash Yasmeen G. , Abu El‐Reash Gaber M.
Published: October 2024

A novel Schiff base ligand, ((4‐oxo‐4H‐chromen‐3‐yl)methylene)isonicotinohydrazone (HL), in addition to its VO(II), Cd(II), Mn(II), and Pd(II) complexes, were prepared and identified. Various analytical techniques such as elemental, TGA, and magnetic susceptibility measurements, additionally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy of hydrogen and carbon‐13, MS, FT‐IR, EPR, and electronic (UV‐VIS) spectroscopy, are utilized and proposed that HL has a mono‐negative tridentate mode of chelation with VO(II) and Mn(II) complexes, whereas it displays a mono‐negative bidentate with the Cd(II) complex and a neutral bidentate with the Pd(II) chelate. The crystallographic structures and atomic spacing for both HL and its complexes were examined through powder X‐ray diffraction analysis. Moreover, electrochemical analyses were conducted on Cd(II) and Mn(II) metal ions with and without the agent that chelates for the purpose of foreseeing the consequences of complex interactions in the case of the liquid phase. Furthermore, photoluminescence study was applied on VO(II) and Pd(II) complexes and showed a quenching effect for both. The ligand's geometry and its complexes were examined through calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) using B3LYP/LANL2DZ computational method and showed molecular electrostatic potential, chemical reactivity, and FMOs. The Cd(II) complex showed promising results against various bacterial strains, displaying excellent activity that exceeded that of the standard, Gentamicin (108% against K. pneumoniae, 100% against Salmonella, and 90.47% against A. fungi). In contrast, it exhibited no cytotoxicity toward the MCF‐7 cell line. However, in a DNA binding study, the compound demonstrated significant activity as its concentration increased up to 6 mM, suggesting its potential for use in cancer therapy due to its ability to inhibit DNA replication.
Working With Traumatised Children During Traumatic Times: Residential Child Care Educators' Compassion Fatigue and Work Engagement
Authors: Saglietti Marzia , Alpini Matteo , Zucchermaglio Cristina
Published: October 2024

Drawing from an Italian study conducted in residential care for children and guided by the postulates of the Job Demands and Resources Model, our aims are to investigate residential childcare educators' levels of compassion fatigue and work engagement, and to focus on the individual, work and organisational conditions associated. The survey involved 215 educators who were on duty during the summer of 2023. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, bivariate and non‐parametric analysis. Results concerning compassion fatigue indicate that while burnout globally registers low to medium scores, more than one‐third of the sample fell in the ‘high’ category for personal burnout, more than one quarter scored high in work burnout and another one quarter have high client burnout scores. One into two suffer from moderate to severe manifestations of secondary traumatic stress, together with relatively high levels of work engagement. Based on individual, work and organisational variables, substantial differences were identified. In the final sections, we discuss job resources and demands and contribute to the development of targeted strategies for preventing compassion fatigue in residential childcare, while addressing strategies for enhancing better well‐being levels for those working in alternative care, impacting children's well‐being as well. Please refer to the Supporting Information section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Aminopeptidase A: A Novel Therapeutic Target for Hypertension Management
Authors: Sharma Pragya , Sharma Suman , Paliwal Sarvesh , Jain Smita
Published: October 2024

The renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) is crucial for regulating and understanding the pathophysiology of hypertension. However, there has been little focus on the breakdown of the active peptide, angiotensin II (AngII). Given that animals lacking aminopeptidase A (APA) exhibit hypertension, it may be concluded that APA is a crucial enzyme in regulating blood pressure by breaking down AngII. It has been also seen that the elevated blood pressure in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) is caused by the activation of the RAS and a concurrent reduction in renal angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) activity. The activity of APA is elevated at the beginning of pre‐eclampsia and decreases below the levels seen during a normal pregnancy as pre‐eclampsia progresses (particularly, in severe cases). The activity of Serum APA is also heightened after hormone replacement treatment (HRT), perhaps as a response to increasing levels of AngII. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the connection between the activation of the RAS, the levels of AngII in the bloodstream, and the presence of APA in hypertension conditions.
Implications of the Lipidic Ecosystem for the Membrane Binding of ApoE Signal Peptide: Importance of Sphingomyelin
Authors: Pradhan Sasmita , Mirdha Lipika , Sengupta Tanusree , Chakraborty Hirak
Published: October 2024

The unidirectional movement of nascent secretory proteins in the cell is primarily assisted by the signal recognition particles (SRP). However, this does not completely justify the importance of the signal peptide (SP) which gets eliminated after the protein translocation. We have earlier demonstrated that a negatively charged lipid such as POPG plays an important role in the higher binding affinity and cholesterol‐discriminating ability of the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) SP. In this present work, we aimed to understand the role of sphingomyelin, an important constituent of ER, on the membrane binding of ApoE SP. Our results demonstrate that sphingomyelin promotes membrane binding but cannot discriminate cholesterol. However, sphingomyelin shows a synergistic effect with POPG toward the membrane binding of the ApoE SP. We have further shown that the membrane domains do not have any impact on the binding of ApoE SP. Based on our results we propose that the lipid composition of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) where ApoE translocates, enhances the binding of the ApoE signal peptide to the ER membrane.
Using DEXA to diagnose impending atypical femoral fracture in an asymptomatic patient on long term bisphosphonates: A case report of a missed opportunity for fracture prevention
Authors: Ariff Ashraf Amin , Konstantinou Panagiotis , Cuss Michael , Nelson Charmaine Riley , Hamed Ahmed , Nikolaides Anastasios P.
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

We report a patient who sustained an AFF (Atypical femoral fractures) after 15 years of bisphosphonate treatment. DEXA scans can be utilized to identify early evidence of AFF in asymptomatic patients up to 9 years before the development of an AFF.
Failure of pacemaker therapy in a pediatric patient with neurally mediated complete heart block and syncope: A case report
Authors: Dalili Mohammad , Rahimpoor Feisal
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Neurally mediated syncope (NMS) is a well‐known condition that can be subdivided into three subgroups: vasopressor type, cardioinhibitory type, and mixed type. While different degrees of sinus bradycardia occur at the time of syncope in all types, complete heart block is a rare event that can lead to pulselessness during syncope. We present a case of a 14‐year‐old girl with documented NMS before and after temporary pacemaker implantation, who had complete heart block during syncope. The patient's temporary pacemaker placement was ineffective in preventing syncope during a repeat head‐up tilt test, indicating that permanent pacing may not be effective in this patient. Midodrine, an alpha‐adrenergic agonist, was started, and the patient experienced complete control of syncope episodes without recurrence during a 2‐month follow‐up.
Application of Bioelectrochemical System in Nitrogen Removal via Simultaneous Autotrophic Nitrification and Denitrification from Wastewater
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Parisa , Navidjouy Nahid , Khorsandi Hassan , Rahimnejad Mostafa
Published: October 2024

Bioelectrochemical systems (BES) is a new and expanding technology that can simultaneously convert chemical energy into electrical energy by removing nutrients. The present study investigated the BES in removing nitrogen compounds and produce electricity. To this end, a BES reactor with two chambers of cathode and anode and nafion 117 membrane was used as a separator between the two chambers. Then, the BES performance at different concentrations of COD and primary ammonium at different retention times was investigated to remove nitrogen compounds and organic matter. Voltage, current and power density were measured. The results showed that the maximum COD removal efficiency was 73.2 % for the substrate concentration of 2000 mg/L, which decreased to 72.6 % when the substrate concentration increased to 10000 mg/L. The maximum removal efficiency of nitrogen compounds was 83.4 % at COD 10000 mg/L and the initial ammonium concentration was 50 mg/L. The maximum voltage, current and power density in this phase were 391 mV, 460 mA/m2, 63/48 mW/m2, respectively. The results of the study showed that BES can be used as a suitable method to remove high amounts of ammonium in wastewater and organic materials and simultaneously produce electricity.
Sensing and Imaging Agents for Cyclooxygenase Enzyme
Authors: Rao Cheekatla Subba , Murale Dhiraj P. , Gopala Lavanya , Lee Jun‐Seok
Published: October 2024

In this concept, we present a comprehensive study on the development and application of COX‐2‐specific fluorescent probes for cancer imaging and diagnosis. To target cancer cells and measuring cancer‐related activities in specific organelles quickly and accurately are crucial factors for early diagnosis and research on cancer pathology and treatment. This concept explores a variety of probes based on indomethacin (IMC), celecoxib, rofecoxib as well as CoxFluor and each one demonstrates unique mechanisms and high selectivity towards COX‐2 enzymes. These probes were designed to enhance fluorescence upon binding to COX‐2 which enable precise visualization of tumor and inflamed tissues. The research emphasizes the importance of COX‐2 as a biomarker in cancer diagnostics, particularly in identifying cancer stem cells and inflamed tissues. This concept highlights the potentiality of these probes in non‐invasive imaging techniques which offering significant advancements in cancer diagnosis and monitoring. The in vivo and in vitro experiments, including applications in mouse models and human tissue samples, confirm the efficacy of these probes in providing detailed imaging for clinical and research applications.
Miscibility of Non‐Uniform Aliphatic Polyamide Mixtures
Authors: van Leuken Stijn H. M. , van Gorp Judith J. , van Benthem Rolf A. T. M. , Vis Mark , Tuinier Remco
Published: October 2024

Mixing different aliphatic polyamides provides opportunities to tune and optimize the properties of these semicrystalline polycondensates. Combining experiment and theory, we predict and explain the miscibility of aliphatic polyamide mixtures. Visual inspection and Raman spectroscopy of polyamide mixtures show that liquid/liquid phase demixing occurs in the melt due to limited miscibility. The large number of potential polyamide mixtures makes it challenging to test all miscibilities experimentally. Moreover, the dependence of miscibility on dispersity and the presence of water implies further challenges to a systematic experimental approach. Our theory predicts polyamide miscibility, while accounting for amide content, non‐uniformity, and moisture content, using generalizations of Flory–Huggins theory. Predicted miscibilities align with experimental results obtained on tested mixed polyamides. The gained insights guide the optimization of functional polyamide blends.
Organophotoredox Pd‐Catalyzed C−H Arylation at Room Temperature using Diaryliodonium Salts
Authors: Bennett Christopher W. , McDonald Nicholas R. , Siddiqui Almeera , Romero Erik A.
Published: October 2024

Direct functionalization of C−H bonds is the most expeditious strategy to build complexity into organic molecules. Unfortunately, most Pd‐catalyzed C−H arylation strategies require high temperatures and/or stoichiometric oxidants. The discovery of metallaphotoredox C−H arylation in 2011 forged a new approach to achieve metal catalyzed C−H arylation at room temperature. Since this discovery, most reports still use explosive diazonium salts as aryl radical precursors. Alternatively, a single report uses bench‐stable diaryliodonium salts, albeit with an Ir‐based photocatalyst. In this study, we develop an organophotoredox manifold that enables Pd‐catalyzed C−H arylation of numerous N‐aryl amide substrates. The results we present are expected to revitalize the use of diaryliodonium salts to achieve room temperature arylations of wide‐ranging classes of C−H bonds.
Recent Progress of Organic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Hydrogels
Authors: Huang Xiaoyuan , Zhang Yongfeng , Li Gengchen , Wang Tao , Sun Peng , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Zhi Junge , Li Zhao , Cai Zhengxu , Dong Yuping
Published: October 2024

Organic room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have garnered significant attention owing to their unique photophysical properties. Traditionally, the stabilization of triplet excitons in RTP materials necessitates a crystalline matrix or rigid polymer chain, which limits their use in flexible materials. In contrast, hydrogels offer biocompatibility, softness, and ease of processing. Therefore, incorporating phosphorescent molecules into hydrogel systems can expand the application potential of RTP materials. This concept summarizes recent advancements in RTP hydrogels, emphasizing their synthetic strategies and diverse applications.
Recording and Interpretation of Active Calcium Transients in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell‐Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Mozneb Maedeh , Moses Jemima , Arzt Madelyn , Escopete Sean , Sharma Arun
Published: October 2024

Calcium plays a pivotal role in the excitation‐contraction coupling process in cardiomyocytes, a critical multi‐parametric event leading to rhythmic contraction. Over the past few decades, calcium signaling in cardiomyocytes has been extensively studied in cardiovascular sciences. However, a standard methodology is needed not only to trace the calcium within cells but also to remove signal processing biases and to accurately interpret the features of calcium transient signals in relation to cardiomyocyte electrophysiology. This article outlines the use of genetically encoded calcium indicator (GCaMP) human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs) to record calcium transients. These cells express a green fluorescent signal when calcium binds to intracellular calmodulin, a key regulator of calcium signaling. The extraction and processing of calcium transient waveforms are performed using ImageJ and MATLAB software. Key features of these waveforms are then identified and categorized based on their physiological relevance to cardiomyocyte function. Additionally, this work includes a Support Protocol for the successful replating of cardiomyocytes onto non‐traditional culture platforms, such as metallic sensors and polymer‐based substrates, to facilitate data multiplexing. The three Basic Protocols outlined here provide a comprehensive approach for maintaining, expanding, and differentiating the GCaMP hiPSCs, video recording of calcium transients, and the subsequent signal extraction, preprocessing, analysis, and data visualization. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Maintenance, expansion, and differentiation of genetically encoded calcium indicator hiPSCs

Support Protocol: Replating GCaMP hiPSC‐CMs for stimulation and multielectrode array studies

Basic Protocol 2: Video recording from calcium transients of GCaMP hiPSC‐CMs

Basic Protocol 3: Signal extraction, preprocessing, analysis, and data visualization
When and how corporate social responsibility promotes innovation: A multi‐level moderated mediation model
Authors: Kim Byung‐Jik , Van Quaquebeke Niels , Chang Youngkyun , Kim Tae‐Hyun
Published: October 2024

This study advances and tests a micro‐foundations model that reveals when and how corporate social responsibility (CSR) will enhance organizational innovation. Challenging the prevalent assumption that CSR uniformly leads to positive outcomes, we posit that the impact of CSR on innovation is contingent upon the interplay between employee‐level psychological processes and organizational‐level factors. Specifically, we argue that under conditions of good internal organizational communication, CSR facilitates employees' intrinsic motivation. Then, this motivation can increase organizational‐level innovation, but only if employees are also allowed to thrive, when they are psychologically empowered. We examine the multi‐level model by utilizing a 4‐wave, time‐lagged data from one of the largest Korean commercial banks, featuring 2545 employees across 379 branches. The data consist of both survey data and centrally audited CSR data. The results of the analyses bolster our hypotheses, but also highlight unexpected backlash effects where CSR negatively affects organizational innovation. Our findings contribute to the CSR literature by unveiling the complex micro‐level mechanisms and boundary conditions that shape the CSR‐innovation relationship, thereby addressing the inconsistencies in previous research. Practically, our study suggests that managers should carefully align their CSR initiatives with internal communication strategies and employee empowerment practices to foster innovation. Failing to do so may inadvertently undermine the very outcomes CSR is intended to promote. These insights also speak to the ongoing debate on the role of CSR in driving organizational competitiveness and social impact, underlining the need for a more nuanced and contextualized understanding of CSR's effects. In sum, our results facilitate the integration of previously disparate literatures, while simultaneously also underlining that CSR efforts need to be orchestrated with other improvements if any innovation benefits are to be reaped.
Analysis of Spatiotemporal Evolution and Influencing Factors of Water Poverty and Ecological Resilience Coupling Coordination in Chinese
Authors: Haiqi Zhang
Published: October 2024

This study advances the understanding of urban sustainability by examining the interplay between water poverty and ecological resilience in China's megacities—a critical yet underexplored domain. Spanning a decade from 2013 to 2022, we leverage unique data sets from 10 megacities and introduce a pioneering coupling coordination model. This model is the cornerstone of our methodological innovation, allowing for an integrated analysis of the coupling relationship and spatiotemporal evolution of water poverty and ecological resilience. Our first innovation lies in applying this novel model, which provides a nuanced perspective on the dynamic linkages between water scarcity and ecosystem robustness. We reveal that from 2013 to 2022, there has been a significant upward trend in the comprehensive evaluation indices, with water poverty and ecological resilience witnessing a 166.13% and 204.29% increase, respectively. This underscores the substantial improvements achieved in these critical areas. Secondly, our research innovates by offering a detailed spatiotemporal analysis, highlighting the strengthening coupling and coordination degree between water poverty and ecological resilience over the observed period. The case of Wuhan, with a remarkable coupling coordination index of 9.305 in 2022, exemplifies a city that has reached a highly coordinated status, marking a significant advancement in urban environmental synergy. Lastly, our use of the Tobit model to explore the main influencing factors offers new insights into the drivers of the coupling and coordination level. We find that economic development, industrial structure and technological innovation positively influence this level, whereas population density and urbanization exert negative pressures.
Reassignment of the Structure of Setosol
Authors: Bates Roderick W. , Elyashberg Mikhail , Kutateladze Andrei G. , Williams Craig M.
Published: October 2024

By a combination of computational methods and comparison of spectroscopic data, the benzooxonin structure proposed for setosol is shown to be incorrect. The correct structure is that of a known biaryl ether natural product.
Pain intensity and comorbid depressive symptoms in the general population: An analysis of the German Health Update Study (GEDA 2019/2020‐EHIS)
Authors: Ahrend Jan Niklas , Jobski Kathrin , Bantel Carsten , Hoffmann Falk
Published: October 2024

Background

Pain and depressive symptoms often co‐occur, but the influence of pain intensity remains unclear. This study analyses the association between pain intensity and depressive symptoms in the general adult German population.

Methods

Data was obtained from the cross‐sectional German Health Update Study (GEDA 2019/2020‐EHIS). Pain intensity in the last 4 weeks was categorized into no pain, mild, moderate, and severe. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 8‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐8). The prevalence of depressive symptoms was analysed including a 95% confidence interval (95% CI). A multivariable logistic regression analysed associated factors with depressive symptoms by odds ratio (OR).

Results

Of 22,708 participants (51.0% women, 35.1% aged 45–64 years), 41.2% reported no pain, 32.1% mild, 15.3% moderate, and 11.5% severe pain. Depressive symptoms were present in 8.3% overall (women 9.1%, men 7.5%). Participants with no pain, mild, moderate, and severe pain reported depressive symptoms in 2.5%, 6.5%, 14.4%, and 27.1%, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, higher pain intensity was associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms (mild pain OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3–2.4; moderate pain OR 2.8, 95% CI 2.0–4.0; severe pain OR 4.0, 95% CI 2.8–5.6). Depressive symptoms were further associated with a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 18.5 kg m−2 (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.4–4.1), but not with sex (OR 1.1; 95% CI 0.9–1.3).

Conclusions

Higher pain intensity increases the risk of depressive symptoms. We suggest regular assessment of pain and further assessment of depressive symptoms in patients with moderate or severe pain.

Significance Statement

Our study found a clear association between higher pain intensity and depressive symptoms in the general population across all types of pain. Further, being underweight was linked to depressive symptoms overall and the highest prevalence of depressive symptoms was found in underweight persons with severe pain. These findings highlight the importance of assessing depressive symptoms in patients with higher pain intensity, especially in underweight patients.
Educators' perceptions of a system‐informed positive education program: A study of most significant change
Authors: Burrowes Stephen , Gerace Adam , Benveniste Tessa , Burke Karena J. , Kelly David , Raymond Ivan
Published: October 2024

There are increasing calls for positive education to integrate holistic and system approaches to both the understanding and implementation of mental health and well‐being interventions across all levels of a school community. The purpose of this study was to examine educators' perspectives of the most significant changes that occurred at an Australian primary and secondary college following the delivery of a system‐informed positive education program (titled Resilient IMPACT). A multi‐stage evaluation was conducted, with educators providing written descriptions of the most significant perceived changes following program implementation, with 18 educators taking part in one of three focus groups to discuss these changes. Three main themes were identified from the focus groups: (1) Common and consistent language, which focused on the use of a language and communication framework for well‐being conversations; (2) Consideration and empathy, where understanding of emotions and demonstrating empathy for students were stressed across interactions; and (3) Community commitment, which involved the building of a holistic community approach to well‐being that is supportive and embedded in teaching practice. Findings support the need for holistic interventions in the school setting, focused upon the broader school community and a committed ‘well‐being first’ approach to foster positive relationships amongst educators and students to support both academic and psychological outcomes.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Potassium Bromate, a Possible Carcinogen, in Popular Baked Foodstuffs of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Mazharul , Besra Supath Xavier , Nishat Shahnaz Akhtar , Sultana Abida
Published: October 2024

Potassium bromate (KBrO3), employed ubiquitously as an oxidizing agent in commonly consumed baked foods and as a flour improver to enhance dough quality, has been recognized as a possible human carcinogen. Despite stringent prohibitions in numerous nations eliciting substantial apprehension worldwide, notably in Bangladesh, the pervasive occurrence of KBrO3 in baked foods persists as a formidable public health quandary. This study aimed to investigate the presence of KBrO3 in five different popular baked foods comprising a total of 104 samples, such as bread (n = 39), cake (n = 33), burger buns (n = 13), pizza (n = 10), and naan (n = 9), collected from different districts across Bangladesh. The amounts of KBrO3 were quantified using UV–visible spectrophotometric method. A calibration curve was obtained with a satisfactory linearity and a correlation coefficient (R2) 0.998. The sensitivity was confirmed by limits of detection (LOD = 0.0180 mg L−1) and quantification (LOQ = 0.0548 mg L−1). The recovery rates for spiked samples were 87%–103%, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the measurements. KBrO3 concentrations varied significantly across the samples: BDL to 5.53 ± 0.24 mg kg−1 in breads, BDL to 6.18 ± 0.01 mg kg−1 in cakes, 0.86 ± 0.01 to 1.69 ± 0.01 mg kg−1 in burger buns, 0.92 ± 0.01 to 4.35 ± 0.01 mg kg−1 in pizzas, and BDL to 5.37 ± 0.02 mg kg−1 in naans. The concentrations of KBrO3 in bread, cake, burger buns, pizza, and naans surpass the recommended threshold established by the FDA factors of 276.5, 309.0, 84.5, 217.5, and 268.5, respectively. The study revealed particularly high levels of KBrO3 presence in the targeted baked foods in all of the sampling districts, highlighting a serious food safety concern in Bangladesh.
A georeferenced dataset of heavy metals occurrence in the soils of the Yangtze River Basin, China
Authors: Sun Yifan , Liu Dongsheng , Xie Long , Gao Zheng , Zhang Qi , Wang Luqi , Li Sen
Published: October 2024

Understanding the fine‐scale spatial distribution of heavy metal contamination is crucial for effective environmental capacity control and targeted treatment of polluted areas. This article presents the latest dataset on the occurrence of common heavy metals in the soils of the Yangtze River Basin. The dataset was compiled by reviewing peer‐reviewed literature published between 2000 and 2020. Rigorous quality control procedures were employed to ensure the accuracy of the data, including the extraction of detailed geographic locations and concentrations of heavy metals. The dataset includes 7867 records of heavy metal occurrences (Zn: 1045, Cu: 1140, Pb: 1261, Cr: 980, Cd: 1242, Ni: 649, As: 821, Hg: 729) in the soils of the Yangtze River Basin, distributed at four scale levels: province, prefecture, county, and township or finer. The results indicate that the distribution of heavy metal concentrations is relatively scattered, with higher concentrations in cities and regions with developed industry and agriculture. Cd has the highest exceedance rate (33.90%), indicating significant local contamination. Heavy metals, such as Zn at 11.96%, Ni at 12.63%, and As at 9.74%, also exceeded standard levels at certain sampling points. Cr had the lowest exceedance rate of 1.33%. This updated dataset provides essential information on the current status of heavy metals contamination in the soils of the Yangtze River Basin. It can be used for further ecological and health risk assessments and for developing strategies to remediate and prevent heavy metal contamination in the region.
Genetically Proxied Antidiabetic Drug Target and Primary Open‐Angle Glaucoma: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Tang Kefu , Wang Wenqiu , Chang Weiteng , Wu Xi
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Observational studies suggest that antidiabetic drugs may lower POAG risk; while the causal relationship remains unclear. Naturally occurring variation in genes encoding antidiabetics drug targets can be used as proxies to investigate long‐term therapeutic effect of these drugs on POAG risk.

Methods

We performed a two‐sample Mendelian randomization study to evaluate the potential effect of antidiabetic drug targets on POAG in Europeans and East Asians. To proxy antidiabetic drugs (ABCC8, PPARG, GLP1R, SLC5A2), we leveraged genetic variants located near or within drug target genes that were associated with HbA1c. The validity of our ancestry‐specific genetic instrument was checked with multipul positive control outcomes. Genetic summary statistics of POAG from the International Glaucoma Genetics Consortium, Global Biobank Meta‐analysis Initiative, and FinnGen consortia were analyzed for Europeans (38,164 cases and 1,576,179 controls) and East Asians (16,650 cases and 288,833 controls) separately. Inverse‐variance weighted random‐effects models were used as primary method.

Results

MR results provided consistent evidence of a protective effect of ABCC8 inhibition on POAG using data sets from IGG, GBMI, and FinnGen. Genetically predicted one‐standard deviation reduction in HbA1c from ABCC8 inhibition were significant associated with lower risk of POAG in Europeans (OR = 0.211, 95% CI: 0.133–0.333; p < 0.001) and East Asians (OR = 0.070, 95% CI: 0.011–0.459; p = 0.0056). The association between genetically predicted ABCC8 inhibition and risk of POAG was mainly mediated through intraocular pressure. No association was found for PPARG, SLC5A2, or GLP1R. Sensitivity analyses supported this observation.

Conclusions

We found a protective effect of genetically proxied ABCC8 inhibition on POAG risk in both Europeans and East Asians, highlighting ABCC8 as a promising candidate drug target for POAG, and mechanisms underlying the protective effect should also be investigated.
Factors influencing digital outsourcing companies to adopt digital work: An investigation using Q‐methodology
Authors: Nyoni Ntombiyokusa , Bvuma Stella , Marnewick Carl
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the perspectives of digital outsourcing companies to determine what motivates them to adopt digital work. The perspectives assist in formulating strategies for encouraging companies to outsource to digital workers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to (1) determine the perspectives of digital outsourcing companies regarding the adoption of digital work and (2) explore how digital work can contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 8. The study makes three contributions: methodological, practical, and theoretical. The methodological contribution is through Q‐methodology, which identifies patterns of perspectives and motivations of digital outsourcing companies. Four perspectives were identified through this methodology, two social perspectives (productivity‐oriented and digital worker‐oriented perspectives) and two emerging perspectives (platform‐oriented and flexible perspectives). The perspectives show that it is essential that digital workers are well equipped in terms of work ethics, technical skills, and other skills to ensure that these are aligned with the needs of digital outsourcing companies. Second, the study contributes to practical methods to motivate companies to outsource to digital workers. Lastly, the study provides new insights into the perspective of digital outsourcing companies, a topic that has received little attention, especially in the context of developing countries.
Genetic and antigenic characterization of influenza A(H3N2) virus after 13 consecutive years of influenza surveillance in Senegal, 2010–2022
Authors: Jallow Mamadou Malado , Barry Mamadou Aliou , Ndiaye Ndiendé Koba , Touré Cheikh Talibouya , Talla Cheikh , Kiori Davy , Sagne Samba Niang , Sy Sara , Goudiaby Deborah , Niang Mbayame Ndiaye , Diagne Moussa Moise , Fall Gamou , Loucoubar Cheikh , Dia Ndongo
Published: October 2024

Despite decades of influenza surveillance in many African countries, little is known about the evolutionary dynamics of seasonal influenza viruses. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiological, genetic and antigenic profiles of A/H3N2 viruses in Senegal from 2010 to 2022. A/H3N2 infection was confirmed using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Subsequently, a representative of A/H3N2 isolates was selected for genome sequencing. Predicted vaccine efficacy was measured using the Pepitope model. During the study period, 22638 samples were tested and influenza was detected in 31.8%, among which type A was confirmed in 78.1%. Of the Influenza A cases, the H3N2 subtype was detected in 29.8%, peaking at expected times during the rainy season. Genome sequencing of 123A/H3N2 isolates yielded 24 complete and 99 partial genomic sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the circulation of multiple clades of A/H3N2 in Senegal, including 2a.3, 3C.2 and 3C.3a. A/H3N2 isolates were mainly susceptible to the influenza antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir, but the primary adamantine‐resistance marker, S31N was encountered in all isolates. At least nine potential N‐linked glycosylation sites were predicted among A/H3N2 strains, six of which (at positions 24, 38, 79, 181, 262 and 301) remains conserved among all isolates. Antigenic distances between circulating strains and vaccine viruses indicated varying vaccine efficacies, from suboptimal to moderate protection. The findings emphasize the need to enhance local genomic and antigenic surveillance and further research on influenza epidemiology and genetic evolution in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Evaluation of CMIP5 and CMIP6 Models Based on Weather Types Applied to the South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Borato Luana , Härter Fetter Filho Antonio Fernando , Gomes da Silva Paula , Mendez Fernando Javier , da Fontoura Klein Antonio Henrique
Published: October 2024

Changes in climate in the South Atlantic region and adjacent regions have been described in numerous works using projections from global climate models from CMIP5 and CMIP6. This paper presents an evaluation of the ability of these models to reproduce the atmospheric circulation patterns (weather types) and their seasonal and inter‐annual variability. The analyses are performed based on the probability of occurrence of weather types in the historical period and in future projections. The scatter index and the relative entropy are the statistical parameters used to evaluate the models' performance in the historical period. Future projections consist of RCP2.6, 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios for the CMIP5 models and the SSP126, 245, 370 and 585 scenarios for the CMIP6 and are assessed at different time intervals: short term (2015–2039), mid‐term (2040–2069) and long term (2070–2100). The performance of projections is measured by analysing their consistency, that is, based on the similarity between projections of the same scenario in different models. The results show that the reproduction of the probability of occurrence of historical weather types and their seasonal and interannual variability was better performed by ACCESS1‐0, HadGEM2‐ES, HadGEM2‐CC, CMCC‐CM and MPI‐ESM‐P when assessing the models from CMIP5, and by HadGEM3‐GC31‐MM, ACCESS‐ESM1‐5, ACCESS‐ CM2 and MRI‐ESM‐P when assessing the models from CMIP6. As for future projections, only the BESM‐AO2‐5, GFDL‐ESM4 and HadGEM3‐GC31‐MM models showed inconsistency in one or more scenarios.
A Giant Optically Anisotropic Phosphate Driven by Mixed Valence Mercury Units
Authors: Li Peng‐Fei , Hu Chun‐Li , Mao Jiang‐Gao , Kong Fang
Published: October 2024

Phosphate crystals are known for their low birefringence, a result of the symmetrical tetrahedral structure of PO4 groups. Attempts to increase their birefringence have traditionally involved the incorporation of highly anisotropic ions and groups. Yet, the majority of the modified phospates still exhibit a birefringence value below 0.1, due to the counteracting effects of anisotropic elements within the tetrahedral coordination. The present study has for the first time discovered a novel birefringence‐active HgI2HgIIO9 unit and successfully constructed a highly anisotropic layered structure, which ingeniously prevents the mutual cancellation of anisotropic effects. This synthesis of HgI2HgII(Te2O4)2(HPO4)2 confirms the effectiveness of this strategy, yielding a birefringence of 0.444 at 546 nm, which outperforms 99% of phosphate crystals and surpasses that of commercial counterparts like YVO4 (0.209@1064 nm) and CaCO3 (0.175@533 nm). Structural analysis and PAWED calculations indicate that the significant birefringence is attributed to the synergistic interaction between the HgI2HgIIO9 unit (23.76%), HPO4 tetrahaedron (24.24%) and TeO4 group (51.99%). This breakthrough paves the way for phosphates to meet the demands of modern technological advancements, expanding their potential applications in the field of anisotropic optics.
Optimal weighting strategies for maximizing contrast‐to‐noise ratio in photon counting CT images
Authors: Yang Yirong , Wang Sen , Stevens Grant M. , Fan Jiahua , Wang Adam S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Photon counting detectors (PCDs) with energy discrimination capabilities have the potential to generate grayscale CT images with improved contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) through optimal weighting of their spectral measurements.

Purpose

This study evaluates the CNR performance of grayscale CT projections and images generated from spectral measurements of PCDs using three energy‐weighting strategies: pre‐log weighting, post‐log weighting, and material decomposition (MD) weighting. This study provides the expressions of optimal weights and maximum achievable CNR of these energy‐weighting strategies, which only require the knowledge of detected bin counts and do not require information of PCD energy responses or imaging techniques.

Methods

We defined and solved a generalized eigenvalue problem to obtain the maximum achievable CNR in the projection domain for low‐contrast tasks using three energy‐weighting strategies: pre‐log weighting (weighted sum of energy bin counts), post‐log weighting (weighted sum of line integrals), and MD weighting (weighted sum of basis material thicknesses, which is equivalent to virtual monoenergetic images [VMIs]). These expressions only contain energy bin counts from PCD measurements. We used a realistic PCD energy response model to simulate the detected bin counts and conducted Monte Carlo simulations of different contrast tasks and phantoms to evaluate the projection‐ and image‐domain CNR performance of these energy‐weighting strategies. Additionally, the total counts method (a special case of pre‐log weighting with unity weights) was included for comparison. We also conducted Gammex head and body phantom scans on an edge‐on‐irradiated silicon PCCT prototype to evaluate the image‐domain CNR performance of these energy‐weighting strategies.

Results

The results show that pre‐log, post‐log, and MD weighting strategies generate approximately equal projection‐domain maximum achievable CNR, with a difference of less than 2%, and outperform the total counts method. These three energy‐weighting strategies also generate approximately equal image‐domain maximum CNR when the contrast task is located at the center of a homogeneous phantom. Pre‐log weighting generates the highest image‐domain CNR for an off‐center contrast task location or inhomogeneous phantoms while also outperforming the total counts method.

Conclusions

We derived the expression of projection‐domain maximum achievable CNR using three energy‐weighting strategies. Our results suggest that using pre‐log weighting strategies enables fast grayscale CT image generation with high CNR from spectral PCD measurements for inhomogeneous phantoms and off‐center region of interests (ROIs).
Managing Vitality, Sustainable Performance and Fatigue in Nursing Home Staff: A Multi‐Location Cross‐Sectional Survey Study: Empirical Research Quantitative
Authors: de Jonge Jan , Backhaus Ramona , Hamers Jan P. H.
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study examines the moderating role of specific job resources in the association between job demands, vigour, sustainable performance and fatigue in nursing home staff.

Design

A multi‐location cross‐sectional survey study in line with the STROBE guidelines.

Methods

Online self‐completion questionnaires were distributed in the Summer of 2022. A total of 667 healthcare employees from 24 nursing home locations in the Netherlands participated in this study. Data were analysed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Results

Job resources were able to moderate the relation between job demands on the one hand, and vigour, sustainable performance and fatigue on the other. Regression analyses revealed that high cognitive job resources moderated (i.e., strengthened) the positive association between cognitive job demands and successively cognitive liveliness, physical strength and sustainable performance. Furthermore, high emotional job resources moderated (i.e., buffered) the positive relation between emotional job demands and emotional and cognitive fatigue, respectively.

Conclusions

It can be concluded that job resources are crucial for nursing home staff to deal with their high job demands. Maintaining a healthy balance between job demands and sufficient, matching, job resources to promote vigour and sustainable performance, as well as to prevent fatigue of staff, seems to be important.

Implications for the Profession

There is an urgent need to train nursing home staff to cope better with increasing job demands. Because job demands cannot be reduced in many situations, this study revealed that the idea of boosting job resources instead is appealing to both staff and managers.

Patient or Public Contribution

Dutch healthcare staff from 24 nursing home locations were involved in this study by responding to the online survey.
Comparison of Prior Distributions for the Heterogeneity Parameter in a Rare Events Meta‐Analysis of a Few Studies
Authors: Yao Minghong , Mei Fan , Zou Kang , Li Ling , Sun Xin
Published: October 2024

Bayesian meta‐analysis is a promising approach for rare events meta‐analysis. However, the inference of the overall effect in rare events meta‐analysis is sensitive to the choice of prior distribution for the heterogeneity parameter. Therefore, it is crucial to assign a convincing prior specification and ensure that it is both plausible and transparent. Various priors for the heterogeneity parameter have been proposed; however, the comparative performance of alternative prior specifications in rare events meta‐analysis is poorly understood. Based on a binomial‐normal hierarchical model, we conducted a comprehensive simulation study to compare seven heterogeneity prior specifications for binary outcomes, using the odds ratio as the metric. We compared their performance in terms of coverage, median percentage bias, width of the 95% credible interval, and root mean square error (RMSE). We illustrate the results with two recently published rare events meta‐analyses of a few studies. The results show that the half‐normal prior (with a scale of 0.5), the prior proposed by Turner et al. for the general healthcare setting (without restriction to a specific type of outcome) and for the adverse event setting perform well when the degree of heterogeneity is not relatively high, yielding smaller bias and shorter interval widths with similar coverage and RMSE in most cases compared to other prior specifications. None of the priors performed better when the heterogeneity between‐studies were significantly extreme.
Tractor Mounted Grapevine Pruning System
Authors: Felicetti Matthew J. , Ross Robert , Putland Stuart , Bennett Stephen
Published: October 2024

The pruning of grapevines is essential in managing and ensuring high‐quality fruit yields. This task traditionally requires a lot of labor and time to perform, which, given labor shortages, can significantly impact crop yield if it is not completed. Hence, this paper introduces a semi‐automated pruning system that can be mounted to a standard tractor and operated by a single user. We leverage LIDAR technology to determine the cutting position using a purpose‐built algorithm, a four‐bar mechanism with a rotary cutting head, and GPS to determine speed changes. We can demonstrate that our system can prune a cordon with minimal damage to the plant at a rate of 7.3 s/vine.
Supercritical CO2‐Guided Passivation Strategies for Oxygen Vacancy Modulation in LaMnO3
Authors: Tan Mingzhu , Fu Duo , Gao Bo , Liang Yuning , Xu Qun
Published: October 2024

The development of 2D magnetic materials and the modulation of intrinsic magnetism are essential for the exploration of new materials in the field of information storage. Despite its strong ferromagnetic properties, LaMnO3 is hindered by a high number of oxygen defects, which result in a relatively short lifetime when employed in electronic memory devices. Here the successful transformation of bulk LaMnO3 into a 2D structure using supercritical carbon dioxide.is reported. This technique enables the successful modulation of the magnetic properties of the material. Interestingly, it is found that the oxygen defect is repaired, which is in sharp contrast to conventional perovskites. These promising results demonstrate the potential of using the magnetic properties of LaMnO3, which is of great importance in the context of expanding its application in electronic devices.