bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genus-targeted markers for the taxonomic identification and monitoring of Coagulase-Positive and Coagulase-Negative Staphylococcus Species
Authors: Jiménez-Velásquez S. , Pacheco-Montealegre M. E. , Torres L. , Uribe-Gutiérrez L. , Burbano-David D. , Dávila-Mora L. L. , Renjifo-Ibáñez C. , Caro-Quintero A.
Published: August 2024

The Staphylococcus genus comprises multiple pathogenic and opportunistic species that represent a risk to public health. Epidemiological studies require accurate taxonomic classification of isolates with enough resolution to distinguish clonal complexes. Unfortunately, 16S rRNA molecular analysis and phenotypic characterization cannot distinguish all species and do not offer enough resolution to assess intraspecific diversity. Other approaches, such as Multilocus Sequence Tagging, provide higher resolution; however, they have been developed for Staphylococcus aureus and a few other species. Here, we developed a set of genus-targeted primers using five orthologous genes (pta, tuf, tpi, groEs, and sarA) to identify all Staphylococcus species within the genus. The primers were initially evaluated using 20 strains from the Collection of Microorganisms of Interest in Animal Health from AGROSAVIA (CMISA), and their amplified sequences were compared to a set of 33 Staphylococcus species. This allowed the taxonomic identification of the strains even on close species and the establishment of intraspecies diversity. To enhance the scope and cost-effectiveness of the proposed strategy, we customized the primer sets for an Illumina paired-end amplicon protocol, enabling gene multiplexing. We assessed five genes across 177 strains, generating 880 paired-end libraries from the CMISA. This approach significantly reduced sequencing costs, as all libraries can be efficiently sequenced in a single MiSeq run at a fraction (one-fourth or less) of the cost associated with Sanger sequencing. In summary, this method can be used for precise identification and diversity analysis of Staphylococcus species, offering an advancement over traditional techniques in both resolution and cost-effectiveness.
Cas3 of type I-Fa CRISPR-Cas system upregulates bacterial biofilm formation and virulence in Acinetobacter baumannii by affecting cilia-related and ompA genes expression
Authors: Li Guocai , Guo Tingting , Yang Jie , Sun Xiaoli , Zhou Na , Huan Changchao , Lin Tao , Bao Guangyu , Hu Jian
Published: August 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii (A.baumannii) is an important pathogen causing various nosocomial infections. CRISPR-Cas system is the adaptive immune system of bacteria, which is also closely related to the drug resistance and virulence of bacteria. In this study, we successfully constructed a cas3 deletion mutant (19606Δcas3) and complemented strain (19606Δcas3/pcas3) to study the regulatory mechanism of type I-Fa cas3 on bacterial virulence. Our results showed that deletion of cas3(type I-Fa) significantly reduced the biofilm formation, virulence and pathogenicity to mice, the organ bacterial load of mice infected with cas3 deletion strain was significantly reduced; the lung inflammation was slightly changed; and the serum cytokine level was also decreased. The results demonstrated that cas3 enhanced the virulence and pathogenicity of A.baumannii. Mechanism analysis shown that deletion of cas3 can lead to the down-regulation of virulence factors such as biofilm formation related factors and outer membrane protein A(ompA). In addition, cas3 was also involved in the regulation of carbon metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation pathway of A.baumannii.
Development of a Weighted-Incidence Syndromic Combination Antibiogram (WISCA) to Guide Empiric Antibiotic Treatment for Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in a Mexican Tertiary Care University Hospital
Authors: Briseno-Ramírez Jaime , Gómez-Quiroz Adolfo , Avila-Cardenas Brenda Berenice , De Arcos-Jiménez Judith Carolina , Perales-Guerrero Leonardo , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime F , Martínez-Ayala Pedro
Published: August 2024

Background
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a prevalent and serious nosocomial infection among critically ill patients that leads to significant morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. The heterogeneity in local epidemiology and antibiotic resistance complicates the selection of effective empirical treatments. The weighted-incidence syndromic combination antibiogram (WISCA) tool has been proposed to optimize empirical antibiotic therapy by leveraging local microbiological data.
Objective
This study aimed to develop a WISCA tailored for VAP in a Mexican tertiary care university hospital. The objective is to improve empirical antibiotic coverage by considering the unique pathogen landscape and resistance patterns of the institution.
Methods
This research was conducted from June 2021 to June 2024 using clinical registries and microbiological data from a tertiary hospital in an upper middle-income Latin American country. Data, including demographic and clinical characteristics, were collected from patients who developed VAP. We employed a Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression model to estimate the coverage of various antibiotic regimens. We also analyzed the impact of initial inappropriate empiric treatment on in-hospital mortality and prolonged hospital stays in our population using multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Results
A total of 197 VAP episodes from 129 patients were analyzed. The median age was 44 years (IQR 35–56), and the median Charlson comorbidity index was 1 (IQR 0–2). The most common pathogens were Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Tigecycline-based combined regimens showed greater median coverage (+ 47.97%) than nontigecycline-based combined regimens, particularly against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Inappropriate initial empirical treatment was associated with prolonged hospital stays but not directly with in-hospital mortality. However, inappropriate treatment during the entire VAP episode was significantly associated with increased mortality.
Conclusions
The tailored WISCA model provided robust coverage estimates. This study demonstrated the potential to optimize empirical antibiotic regimens, especially tigecycline-based combinations. This study highlights the importance of local epidemiological data in guiding empirical therapy and reducing the consequences of inappropriate antibiotic use.
Ocean submesoscale fronts induce diabatic heating and convective precipitation within storms
Authors: Vivant Felix , Siegelman Lia , Klein Patrice , Torres Hector , Menemenlis Dimitris , Molod Andrea
Published: August 2024

The intensity of atmospheric storms is strongly influenced by ocean temperature contrasts. While mesoscale sea surface temperature anomalies (with a size > 50 km) are known to intensify storms via an enhancement of latent heat release, the role of finer oceanic scales remains unknown. Using a groundbreaking global coupled ocean-atmosphere simulation at a km-scale resolution, we show that both ocean mesoscales and submesoscales (with a size < 50 km) account for half of the moisture flux variability at the air-sea interface. In addition, ocean submesoscale fronts drive a secondary circulation, which extends above the planetary boundary layer up to 4 km within the troposphere, and enhance diabatic processes and convective precipitations within storms. In the warm sector of storms, ocean submesoscale fronts account for half of the total diabatic heating and half of the total precipitations, averaging 14 mm/day over five days. In contrast, diabatic heating and precipitations associated with submesoscale fronts are respectively three and twelve times smaller in the cold sector. As such, ocean submesoscale fronts pump humidity from the ocean to the atmosphere and have the potential to further warm the atmosphere, intensify storms, and influence weather patterns such as atmospheric rivers.
Prevalence of the Modifiable Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Diseases in Young Adults of District Hyderabad Sindh Pakistan
Authors: Shaikh Shakil Ahmed , Meomn Salma Farukh , Laghari Keenjhar Rani , Rahu Naila Hajira , Shah Hanozia , Laghari Zulfiqar Ali
Published: August 2024

Objective: The main purpose of this study is to determine CVD risk factors in the healthy population of district Jamshoro, Sindh.
Methodology:The cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to December 2023, in this study, apparently healthy young adults of not more than 40 years of age were included. A self-designed questionnaire was set for the collection of data. Blood pressure was taken by the standard method through a digital apparatus, BMI was calculated by South Asian standards, and the blood sample was taken after 10 hours of fasting for lipid profile and fasting blood sugar. Collected data was analyzed by SPSS version 26.0.
Results: In this study, one risk factor was found in 76% of the participants, and Obesity was found in 29% and 30% respectively in male and female participants. Central obesity was found higher in females 61% than in males 35%. Male participants had been found to have a higher systolic blood pressure than females 40% and 22% respectively. Cholesterol and blood sugar levels were found higher in 7%, triglyceride level was found higher in 35%, and HDL was less than the desired level in 26% of the population. LDL was prevalent in 6% of all the participants.
Conclusion: This study concluded that 3 risk factors were found higher in females, and 4 risk factors were found higher in males, thus making the male population more prone for affected by CVD even at an early age. In addition, all risk factors were more prevalent in people over 30 years of age. Therefore results of the study were similar to most studies done.
An Optimized eDNA Protocol for Fish Tracking in Estuarine Environments
Authors: Baidouri Fouad El , Watts Alison , Miller Jeffery T. , Kelly Muriel , Sevigny Joseph L. , Gilbert Heather , Thomas W. Kelley
Published: August 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is revolutionizing how we investigate biodiversity in aquatic and terrestrial environments. It is increasingly used for detecting rare and invasive species, assessing biodiversity loss and monitoring fish communities, as it is considered a cost-effective and noninvasive approach. Some environments, however, can be challenging for eDNA analyses. Estuarine systems are highly productive, complex environments, but samples collected from these settings may exhibit PCR inhibition and a low fish read recovery. Here we present an approach for detecting fish in turbid, highly productive estuarine systems. The workflow includes bead-based extraction, inhibition removal, high fidelity and specificity DNA polymerase (Platinum SuperFi II) and multiplexing the universal MiFish primers. Applying this hybrid method to a variety of complex estuarine samples with known inhibition we have more than doubled the number of recovered fish species while removing most of the off-target amplification.
Hybrid neural network for personnel recognition and tracking in remote bidding evaluation monitoring
Authors: Zhou Zhihao , Wang Zhan , Meng Yuwei , Yu Rongdong , He Xingwei , Lu Ding , Wang Wei
Published: August 2024

Unauthorized access to the bidding evaluation office and the departure of experts can significantly compromise the quality of on-site assessment work and introduce substantial integrity risks. To address these concerns, this paper presents the development of a hybrid neural network, integrating Yolov5s, Deepsort, and Dlib to ascertain the status of person within the bidding evaluation office. Our approach is bifurcated into two primary components. Firstly, Deepsort is integrated with Yolov5s to develop a model for the detection and tracking of personnel within the evaluation office. The model detects, counts, and tracks the flow of personnel on site and assesses the presence or absence of experts. Subsequently, Yolov5s, enhanced by the Swin Transformer architecture, refines the Dlib facial recognition model, augmenting its capacity to detect and swiftly identify small faces, thereby discerning potential intruders. The experimental results demonstrate that the model is capable of effectively detecting and tracking personnel on site, recognizing novel micro-scale targets, verifying individual identities, and evaluating the status of on-site personnel. Throughout the testing phase, when juxtaposed with conventional methodologies, our model has exhibited a marked enhancement in the accuracy of detecting unauthorized entry and the absence of designated experts, enabling real-time analysis of the evaluation office's status.
Heavy Metal Concentrations in Ikere Gorge Dam Water, Iseyin, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: O Olabamiji A. , A Adejumobi C. , K Alausa S. , F Oloruntola R. , Ilori A. O , O Amao J.
Published: August 2024

Climate change threatens both animal species and plants, particularly water availability and quality. Southwestern Nigeria, where the Ikere Gorge Dam is located, local water sources is the major source for daily life and agriculture, there is need to ascertain water quality. 20 water samples were collected from different dam locations, each 100–200 meters apart, 25 mL sample was digested with 5 mL of conc. HFl, followed by HNO3 and (HCl), with a dilution ratio of 3:1. The mixture was heated to 100°C for two hours, filtered into a 100 mL cylinder, and 50 mL of distilled water was added. The samples were then analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-EOS). Cadmium: 0.001 to 0.017 mg/L, Chromium: 0.001 to 0.039 mg/L, Lead: 0.006 mg/L. Mercury: 0.020 mg/L, Arsenic: 0.002 mg/L, Nickel: 0.01 to 0.07 mg/L, copper: 0.874 mg/L, Calcium: 107.951 mg/L, Iron: 17.925 mg/L and Potassium: 26.272 mg/L. 80% of the samples were higher the global acceptable limit, 3% within safe limit values, 7% percent were below the recommended value. These findings showed the need for improved water management Nigeria, the need for long-term strategies to address population growth, climate change, and clean water for every nation, in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 6 and 7.
Comparative Evaluation of Competency-Based and Real-Patient Education in Undergraduate Clinical Clerkships: Insights from Student Feedback and Performance
Authors: Yang Xi , Wu Qinyi , Yang Haiping , Deng Yu , Chen Feng , Zhang Zhiyong , Shen Yali , Tang Xuemei
Published: August 2024

Background
Clinical clerkships are a critical component of medical education, offering students hands-on experience in patient care and an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Traditionally, clinical clerkships have been conducted through real-patient education (RPE), where students interact with actual patients under supervision. However, the introduction of competency-based education (CBE) has shifted the focus towards developing specific competencies through structured and often simulated learning experiences. This study aims to compare these two approaches based on student feedback and comprehensive evaluation to understand their impact on the clinical clerkship experiences of undergraduate medical students.
Methods
This study was conducted at the Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China. Students were divided into two groups: one experiencing a CBE integrated with RPE approach and the other a traditional RPE approach. A mixed-methods research approach was employed to leverage the strengths of both quantitative and qualitative dimensions in evaluating the revised pediatric clinical clerkship curriculum. Data were analyzed to compare these two methods. The difference between mean values was calculated using Student's t-test. A P-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Result
Results indicate that students in the CBE group generally rated their teaching sessions higher across most metrics compared to those in the RPE group. This suggests that the CBE approach may be more effective in engaging students, enhancing their skills, and increasing overall satisfaction. Moreover, CBE increased the proportion of students scoring in the 70-89 range on tests. CBE is considered to be a helpful and necessary asset to medical clerkship education.
Conclusions
Our study shows that the demand for CBE clerkship is high. The significant differences in student feedback between the CBE and RPE approaches highlight the need for a review and improvement of teaching methods. By adopting effective practices from the more successful RPE approach and addressing the areas needing improvement, we can enhance the clinical clerkship experience, leading to better-prepared medical professionals and higher overall satisfaction.
WITHDRAWN: Study on damage characteristics and failure law of sandstone under temperature-water action
Authors: Bao Xiankai , Tian Baolong , Wang Lingyu , Qiao Jianlong , Yu Chaoyun , Huang Shunjia , Huang Yue
Published: August 2024

In the process of tunnel construction in western China, high ground temperatures and rich groundwater are frequently encountered. To find out the damage and failure characteristics of sandstone under temperature and water effects, uniaxial compression tests were conducted at different temperatures (25°C, 55°C, 85°C, 95°C) and immersion durations (0.5 h, 1 h, 3 h). Analysis of acoustic emission (AE) signals and energy evolution during the damage and failure processes provided insights into sandstone's damage characteristics and failure mechanisms. The following conclusions were drawn: (1) The increase in immersion time led to higher water content in sandstone, enhancing its plastic deformation capacity and reducing brittleness. The maximum water content occurred at 55°C, and after 3 hours of soaking, AE signal values were lowest across all temperatures. (2) As temperature increases, under conditions of 0.5-hour and 1-hour immersion, the maximum acoustic emission (AE) ringing counts and maximum AE energy at first rise with temperature, then decrease, and later increase again. Meanwhile, cumulative AE ringing counts show a gradual upward trend. After 3 hours of immersion, at each temperature condition, the maximum AE ringing counts, maximum energy, and cumulative ringing counts show an increasing trend with rising temperature. (3) The mechanical energy profile of sandstone varied with temperature and immersion duration. Total energy and elastic energy showed non-monotonic trends relative to temperature, with minimal values recorded at 55°C. Dissipation energy exhibited a characteristic increase and subsequent decrease, peaking before the ultimate failure point at 55°C. Notably, sandstone displayed diminished energy absorption capacity after 3 hours of immersion at any temperature. (4) Damage mechanisms were predominantly influenced by immersion time and temperature. Tensile damage was identified as the primary mode, with longer immersion times notably promoting shear crack development, while elevated temperatures facilitated the propagation of tensile cracks.
Investigation of the effect of nurses’ professional values on their perceptions of good death: A cross-sectional study in Türkiye
Authors: Aksoy Fatma , Bayram Şule Bıyık , Özsaban Aysel
Published: August 2024

Background: The care of patient individuals in the good death process should be planned based on nursing values. The aim of the study is to determine nurses' perceptions of a good death and its relationship with nursing values.
Methods: The study is descriptive and cross-sectional and was completed with 210 nurses. Data were collected using the Nurse Information Form, Good Death Scale, and Revised Nursing Professional Values Scale.
Results: The nurses’ Good Death Scale total mean score was 53.52±7.11, and The Revised Nursing Professional Values Scale mean score was 97.77±15.71. There was a moderate, positive, statistically significant relationship between the nurses’ Good Death Scale total mean scores and the Revised Nursing Professional Values Scale total mean scores (r=0.522; p<0.001).
Conclusions: Value-based educational activities may be effective in helping nurses have positive perceptions about a good death.
Norcantharidin Sensitizes Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells to Multitherapy via Targeting the Deregulated Hedgehog Cascade
Authors: Cui Bingjie , Zhang Xin , Wang Fei , Dong Hongliang , Liu Cuilan , Chen Weiwei , Deng Jiong , Wu Yan , Du Jing
Published: August 2024

Norcantharidin (NCTD), a demethylated analog of cantharidin, has been identified as one of potential anti-tumor drug candidates in various human neoplasms. However, the NCTD-mediated interference with multidrug-resistance development and sustenance of lung adenocarcinoma (LAD) and its underlying molecular interaction mechanisms remains undefined yet. In this study, NCTD significantly inhibited cell growth of LAD cells in a dose-dependent manner when applied alone and magnified the sensitization of LAD cells to multiple therapeutic agents. Selective repression of sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway by NCTD dramatically arrested cancer stemness development and maintenance such as the sphere formation capacities of LAD cells. Mechanistic analysis revealed that NCTD prohibited nuclear translocation of GLI1, the key terminal transcription factor of SHH cascade in LAD cells. In vivo studies confirmed that NCTD alone reduced propagation of LAD cells and enhanced the 5-FU and Osimertinib-based cancer progression inhibition while have no side effect on body weight. Taken together, our results demonstrate that NCTD represses SHH cascade-mediated cancer stemness to overcome the intrinsic resistance of LAD cells to multi-drug treatment, which implies that NCTD might be a therapeutic drug candidate that could be a de novo option to eradicate the treatment resistance against multiple therapeutic agents if co-applied in LAD treatment clinically.
The Effects of Environments and Adhesive Layer Thickness on the Failure Modes of Composite Material Bonded Joints
Authors: Yang Kang , Feng Huan , Li Pengyang , Ji Shude , Lv Zan , Liu Ziyi
Published: August 2024

In this study, a structural adhesive was used to bond unidirectional prepreg and fiber fabric in a single lap joint. The mechanical properties of the structural adhesive were investigated under room temperature dry state (RTD) and elevated temperature wet state (ETW, 71℃/85% RH), and different adhesive layer thicknesses (0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, and 2.0 mm). The fracture surfaces of the bonded joints were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and finite element simulations were conducted to observe the failure modes and failure paths. Additionally, the specimens were immersed in water and hydraulic oil, and their tensile shear strength was tested to evaluate their liquid sensitivity. The experimental results indicated that with increasing adhesive layer thickness, the strength of the specimens decreased by 21% in the RTD and by 52% in the ETW. The strength differences between different environments were minimal for adhesive layer thicknesses of 1 mm and 1.5 mm. The shear strength of the specimens decreased after immersion in water and hydraulic oil, with reductions of 43.78% and 39.21%, compared to the room temperature dry respectively. SEM observations of the bonded joint sections revealed that the primary failure modes were adherend failure and adhesive layer failure. Finite element simulations indicated that fiber tearing and crack initiation occurred in stress concentration areas during loading, leading to structural failure.
Sustainable development of anticancer and antidiabetic derivatives by solvent-free heterocyclization
Authors: Patil Kajal , Mane Sachin , Mohite Suhas , Kanase Dhanaji
Published: August 2024

Herein we have developed a heterogeneous catalyst for synthesizing various anticancer and antidiabetic derivatives via heterocyclic synthesis under solvent-free conditions at mild temperatures. This approach eliminates the need for complex cleanup or column chromatography, thus minimizing waste production. Moreover, the catalyst can be recovered and reused up to multiple times without compromising product yields, demonstrating its sustainability and environmental friendliness. Additionally, we evaluated each synthetic derivative for anticancer and antidiabetic activities. Initial assays revealed that certain derivatives exhibit promising inhibition against human breast cancer cells (MCF7), suggesting their potential as lead structures for future anticancer agents. Furthermore, the synthesized derivatives were assessed for antidiabetic activity, showing superior efficacy. Notably, derivatives containing –H, –CH3, and –OCH3 substituents demonstrated excellent anticancer activity compared to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), while derivatives containing –H and –Br substituents showed notable antidiabetic activities over acarbose, highlighting their therapeutic potential. Thus, our study presents a highly effective and sustainable approach for synthesizing polyhydroquinoline derivatives, emphasizing the catalyst's dual benefits in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry applications.
In vitro and in silico analyses of cytoprotective, antigenotoxic and antimutagenic potential of Phlomis pungens var. hirta extracts against oxidative damage
Authors: KORKMAZ Franziska Johanna WILD , DOGAN Serap , KARDAS Begumhan YILMAZ , DIKEN Mehmet Emin , KARASAKAL Ömer Faruk , ACAR Mikail
Published: August 2024

Cellular integrity depends mainly on the stability of DNA, which can be disrupted by genetic mutations and aberrations. Here, we show that the cell-protective activity and DNA damage prevention ability of Phlomis pungens var. hirta have been investigated. We found cell protective activity, healthy cell proliferation promoter activity and DNA damage preventing capacity in the controlled in vitro assays. Additionally, P. pungens was shown to possess the ability to suppress the genotoxicity of H2O2 as an antigenotoxic agent. Rutin hydrate and quercetin are the major flavonoids in P. pungens, which exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, neuro- and hepatoprotective and Aβ-oligomer reducing activities. P. pungens has shown impressive activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as strong scavenging activity against various radicals. Subsequently, in silico software tools PubChem, pkCSM and PASS Online were used for biological activity profiling and toxicity predictions of the major compounds in P. pungens. All evaluations of P. pungens could be suggested as a potential source for dietary supplements and therapeutic products.
Predicting the Impact of Climate Change on Species Distribution and Conservation Strategies of Picea neoveitchii using MaxEnt Modeling
Authors: Xue Ninghan , Li Kaiyuan , Chen Kexin , Li Panpan , Ji Xinmiao , Ma Zhilin , Ji Wenli
Published: August 2024

Picea neoveitchii Mast., an endemic and rare species in China, classified as Critically Endangered (CR) in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, holds significant research value due to its unique biological characteristics, which are crucial for plant taxonomy and the conservation of the genus Picea. Despite its excellent timber quality and high ornamental value, it has not been widely used and well protected. In this scientific investigation, MaxEnt modeling was employed to assess the optimal distribution range, influential variables, and the current conservation posture of P. neoveitchii, along with projections into potential future climatic contexts. This approach provides a rigorous scientific foundation upon which conservation strategies can be formulated and refined. During the research process, we enhanced the prediction accuracy of the model by conducting field surveys on species distribution, eliminating redundant distribution data, and removing some environmental data with high correlation coefficients. The results indicate that Minimum Temperature of the Coldest Month, Annual Precipitation, Temperature Seasonality, and Altitude are the key factors influencing the distribution of P. neoveitchii. Under different climate scenarios, the suitable area of P. neoveitchii shifts northwestward. Under SSP2-4.5、ssp5-5.8 scenario, the suitable area decreases in all periods. Under SSP1-2.6 scenario, the suitable area decreases, except the period from 2080 to 2100, which sightly increases. The proportion of habitat within natural reserves increases. These findings are of great significance for conservation strategies and provide valuable references for future forest management and protection efforts.
Computer Analysis of the Structure of Ag Nanoparticles Obtained by Vacuum- Thermal Synthesis
Authors: Gafner Yury , Ryzhkova Darya , Gafner Svetlana , Redel Larisa , Poletaev Gennady
Published: August 2024

One of the ways to create plasmonic nanoparticles is through a physical method of synthesizing by thermal evaporation in a vacuum, which was chosen for analysis through computer modeling. Experimental data on the initial and annealed silver nanoparticles obtained in this manner were studied. It was found that small Ag nanoparticles (D < 3.5 nm) exhibited nearly ideal FCC structure, while larger nanoparticles unexpectedly showed predominantly icosahedral or decahedral modifications. To assess the mechanisms behind these experimental results, a study on the stability of Ag nanocluster structures with diameters D = 2.0–10.0 nm was conducted using molecular dynamics. Based on computer analysis of synthesis processes, subsequent cooling of Ag nanoparticles, and their thermal annealing, it was demonstrated that the theoretical discrepancy in the structure of experimentally obtained nanoparticles could only be explained by significant deformation of small Ag nanoparticles occurring during their deposition on a substrate in a liquid state. Possible ways to control the structure of Ag nanoparticles were identified. The regularities identified through computer modeling can be utilized in the preparation of Ag nanoparticles using physical synthesis methods.
Effect of cold chain management practices on health centers operational performance: A facility Based cross-sectional study
Authors: Girma Million , Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Yami Mihret Fikreyesus , Tegegne Addisu Afrassa , Asfaw Abenezer , Beyene Girma , Usure Rashed Edris
Published: August 2024

Background
Access to essential cold chain pharmaceutical products is crucial for improving healthcare. Pharmaceutical organizations recommend a global standard for handling, storing, and distributing these items. However, resource-limited countries like Ethiopia face challenges in implementing cold chain management practices for temperature-sensitive products.
Objective
The study aimed to assess the cold chain management practice, and operational performance in the government health centers in the Administration of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A cross-sectional facility-based study was conducted on health centers in Addis Ababa from September 5–30, 2023 G.C. Logistic indicator assessment tools were used in 20 health centers. Key informants such as the warehouse manager, pharmacy head, and expanded program immunization focal person were purposefully sampled. Three focal persons were selected from each health center. Generally, sixty (n = 60) study participants were included. Previously published literature and guidelines were used to review cold chain management practice and operational performance. Statistical analyses including the chi-square test, and multivariate regression were conducted, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results
The study revealed that the majority of 34 individuals (56.7%) possessed work experience exceeding 3 years. As for practice-related aspects, the study showed that storage and facility (4.19 ± 0.271), distribution system (4.01 ± 0.247), technical capacity (4.43 ± 0.116), and information system (4.25 ± 0.138) were deemed sufficient for maintaining cold chain products in health centers. Furthermore, the chi-square test demonstrated a strong correlation (P = 0.0001) between the educational background, work experience, and years of service of employees and their cold chain management practices. The evaluation of cold chain management performance in public health facilities revealed an 85% rate of inaccurate inventory records, 55% undesirable storage practices, 85% inadequate stock records, and a notable level of product wastage (80%) in these health centers. Notably, the experience of respondents in cold chain management, product storage systems and facilities, distribution systems, and technical capacity of health facilities were identified as significant associated factors (p < 0.05 at 95% CI) with the operational performance of cold chain management.
Conclusion
Overall, the findings underscored the importance of addressing operational performance inefficiencies in the handling of cold chain products at health facilities. By implementing better training, standard operating procedures, logistics and inventory management techniques, and infrastructure, health facilities can ensure the quality and efficacy of their cold chain products, ultimately improving patient outcomes and public health.
Antiviral immunity within neural stem cells distinguishes viral strain differences in forebrain organoids
Authors: Vazquez Christine , Negatu Seble , Bannerman Carl , Sri Sowmya , Ming Guo-Li , Jurado Kellie
Published: August 2024

Neural stem cells have intact innate immune responses that protect them from virus infection and cell death. Yet, viruses can antagonize such responses to establish neuropathogenesis. Using a forebrain organoid model system at two developmental time points, we identified that neural stem cells, in particular radial glia, are basally primed to respond to virus infection by upregulating several antiviral interferon-stimulated genes. Infection of these organoids with a neuropathogenic Enterovirus-D68 strain, demonstrated the ability of this virus to impede immune activation by blocking interferon responses. Together, our data highlight immune gene signatures present in different types of neural stem cells and differential viral capacity to block neural-specific immune induction.
Innovative Low Power SRAM Solutions: Memristor-Enhanced 4T2M and 6T2M Architectures with MTCMOS Techniques
Authors: BR Harshitha , S Jalaja
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the demand for low-power devices has surged, driven by the scaling of CMOS technology, resulting in smaller chip sizes and higher transistor densities within System on Chip (SoC) designs, including memory components. This paper introduces the design and evaluation of Memristor-based SRAM, leveraging the unique properties of memristors to enhance power efficiency and processing speed. The integration of memristors reduces the transistor count, transitioning from traditional 6T SRAM to a 4T2M configuration and from 8T to 6T2M power usage. To further reduce power consumption, we implement the Multi-Threshold CMOS (MTCMOS) technique, known for minimizing leakage power by selectively deactivating inactive circuit domains. We perform a detailed analysis and parameterization of Memristor-based SRAM, including an MTCMOS-enhanced configuration, using the Cadence Virtuoso tool at a 90nm process technology with an operating voltage of 1.2 volts. This study addresses the pressing need for low-power memory solutions in modern electronic devices, focusing on the analysis and optimization of Memristor-based SRAM configurations.
MS-CETSA functional proteomics uncovers new DNA-repair programs leading to Gemcitabine resistance
Authors: Nordlund Pär , Liang Ying Yu , Khalid Khalidah , Le Hai Van , Teo Hui Min , Raitelaitis Mindaugas , Gerault Marc-Antoine , Lee Jane Jia Hui , Lyu Jiawen , Chan Allison , Jeyashekharan Anand , Tam Wai Leong , Prabhu Nayana
Published: August 2024

Mechanisms for resistance to cytotoxic cancer drugs are dependent on dynamic changes in the biochemistry of cellular pathways, information which is hard to obtain at the systems level. Here we use a deep functional proteomics implementation of CETSA (Cellular Thermal Shift Assay) revealing a range of induced biochemical responses to gemcitabine in resistant and sensitive diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cell lines. Initial responses in both, gemcitabine resistant and sensitive cells, reflect known targeted effects by gemcitabine on ribonucleotide reductase and DNA damage responses. However, after 3-5 hours the responses diverge dramatically where sensitive cells show induction of characteristic CETSA signals for early apoptosis, while resistant cells reveal biochemical modulations reflecting transition through a distinct DNA-damage signaling state, including opening of cell cycle checkpoints and induction of translesion DNA synthesis (TLS) programs allowing bypass of damaged DNA-adducts. The data also reveal the induction of a new program, labeled the Auxiliary DNA Damage Repair (ADDR) protein ensemble likely supporting DNA replication at damaged sites. We show that this response can be attenuated in resistant cells by an ATR inhibitor re-establishing gemcitabine sensitivity and demonstrate ATR as a key signaling node of this response.
Perspective on Patient-centered Communication: A Focus Group Study Investigating the Experiences and Needs of Nursing Professionals
Authors: Mielke Kendra , Frerichs Wiebke , Cöllen Katja , Lindig Anja , Härter Martin , Scholl Isabelle
Published: August 2024

Background
Delivering high quality care tailored to patients’ needs necessitates patient-centered communication. High physical and metal workload, as well as organizational barriers, contribute to challenges nurses face in patient-centered communication. Participation in a communication skills training can help nurses to improve their patient-centered communication skills. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of nursing professionals in patient-centered communication and delineate the requisite content for a communication skills training.
Methods
We conducted focus group interviews with nursing professionals working at an academic medical center in Germany. The focus group interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was performed using Kuckartz’s qualitative content analysis.
Results
31 nursing professionals from diverse medical disciplines (e.g. pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiology, neurology, oncology) participated in the study, unveiling a spectrum of communication experiences, including organizational and system-related challenges, constraints induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, management of personal emotions, and communication challenges with patients and relatives. They also identified aspects they experienced as beneficial for patient-centered communication (e.g., allocating sufficient time, being authentic, providing clear information). Furthermore, participants identified specific aspects that should be included in a patient-centered communication skills training.
Conclusion
The findings suggests that not only nurses from oncology and intensive care, but also from other medical disciplines, experience significant communication challenges with patients and relatives. Applying patient-centered aspects of communication was considered beneficial for effective communication. The needs identified through participants' experiences informed the development of patient-centered communication skills training specifically tailored for nursing professionals across diverse medical disinclines in Germany.
STREAM: High Bandwidth, Reliable TCP Bridging in Low-Mobility Wi-Fi Direct Networks
Authors: Dao Mawaba P. , Sheldon Joshua , Nieves-Acaron David , Wyatt Steven , Elliott David , Otero Carlos E. , Peter Adrian M.
Published: August 2024

Ad-hoc networks facilitate localized communication in environments lacking global internet connectivity. However, traditional Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) methods face challenges in forming intergroup networks during field deployments, due to manual password entry, single-path traffic between Group Owners (GOs), and performance bottlenecks from UDP multicast. To address these issues, we propose a Simple TCP-enabled, REsilient Android Mesh (STREAM); a multigroup bridging strategy where WFD Group Members (GMs) join two groups and bridge the connection between them exclusively using TCP sockets --an accomplishment yet to be realized in WFD ad-hoc networks on stock Android devices. This approach maximizes throughput and resilience for intergroup connections. STREAM also features self-healing capabilities to detect and rectify network disruptions automatically, removing the need for user intervention. Our architecture leverages Wi-Fi bandwidth, achieving average file transfer speeds of 91.2 Mbps in intergroup networks, demonstrating a significant performance improvement. Our results show that STREAM offers a solution for developing scalable and reliable multigroup Wi-Fi Direct networks.
Could Wearable Voltage-Triggered Paper Patch Revolutionize Psoriasis Treatment by Enhancing Skin Permeation of Methotrexate?
Authors: Mehrgardi Masoud , Momtaz Elham
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a wearable iontophoresis transdermal paper patch for delivering methotrexate, a potent anti-inflammatory drug, to treat imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like inflammations. This patch features a paper-based electrode that has been coated with polypyrrole and loaded with the anti-inflammatory medication methotrexate. Incorporating paper into the design enhanced the amount of drug that could be loaded and reduced its unintended release. The most effective release of the drug, was achieved with a voltage of -1.2 V. The specially designed iontophoresis patch ensured that the methotrexate optimally penetrated the mouse skin (19.7 ± 0.5 µg cm− 2 after 2 h). The patch's ability to alleviate psoriasis, which was experimentally induced in BALB/c mice (gender random), was confirmed through successful testing. Histological analysis of the skin and internal organs such as the spleen, lungs, liver, and kidneys showed that methotrexate is highly effective and has minimal adverse effects.
Unraveling Overestimated Exposure Risks Through Hourly Ozone Retrievals from Next-Generation Geostationary Satellites
Authors: Li Siwei , Song Ge , Xing Jia , Dong Jiaxin , Zhang Maolin , Fan Chunying , Meng Shiyao , Yang Jie , Dong Lechao
Published: August 2024

Accurately estimating ground-level ozone (O₃) concentration is essential for understanding its health impact and designing effective control strategies. Current estimates rely heavily on polar-orbit satellites, which provide limited, one-time measurements and fail to capture the significant diurnal variability of O₃. In this study, we leverage the next-generation geostationary satellite equipped with ultraviolet capabilities, the Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer (GEMS), to retrieve O₃ concentration on an hourly basis. Besides accurately capturing hourly-level O₃ concentration (with R² = 0.94), this approach significantly improved the accuracy of daily maximum 8-hour average O3 estimates, particularly in semi-urban regions, enhancing the R² by over 0.10 and reducing absolute error exceeding 7 µg/m³. Moreover, our analysis indicates a 30% reduction in O₃-related health risks, with a total reduction in both short-term and long-term mortality compared to previous estimates based on traditional polar-orbit satellites. This reduction is particularly notable in semi-urban and rural areas, where satellite data plays a more important role due to the lack of ground measurements compared to urban areas. This suggests that previous estimates may have significantly overestimated not only the total mortalities but also the urban-rural spillover effects. Our results underscore the importance of utilizing high temporal resolution geostationary satellites with refined hourly information on photochemical precursors and radiation to accurately capture O₃ diurnal variability, providing a scientific foundation for health assessments and informing standards and regulatory interventions to combat O₃ pollution in China.
Emotion Regulation Goals and Strategies of Individuals with Low Distress Tolerance
Authors: Rafezi Zohreh
Published: August 2024

Studies have shown that goals determine strategies in the emotion regulation processes. However, poor distress tolerance is related to a higher use of maladaptive strategies. This research examines the relationships between distress tolerance, goals, and strategies of emotion regulation. Furthermore, it investigates the daily goals and strategies of individuals with low distress tolerance. In Study 1, students at the University of Tehran (N = 258; Mean age = 22.63) completed self-report measures; in the next study, the students with low distress tolerance (N = 78; Mean age = 21.7) recorded their daily goals and strategies for 14 consecutive days. Linear regression and multilevel modeling were used to analyze the data from Study 1 and 2, respectively. Distress tolerance was negatively associated with impression management and pro-social goals, as well as experiential avoidance, expressive suppression, and rumination strategies. Moreover, distress tolerance predicted a higher use of cognitive reappraisal. In Study 2, impression management goals and experiential avoidance had more frequency and stability (trait). Across both studies, impression management goals were related to a greater use of experiential avoidance, expressive suppression, and rumination. Additionally, pro-hedonic goals were positively related to cognitive reappraisal and negatively related to expressive suppression. However, the findings regarding the relationships between pro-social goals and strategies were mixed. The current studies indicate that the ability to tolerate distress has a significant impact on emotion regulation goals as well as strategies. Moreover, different strategies are predicted by different goals at the habitual and daily levels, and in general and low distress tolerance populations.
Dragonfly: A Portable Molecular Diagnostic Platform for Rapid Point-of-Care Detection of Mpox and Other Diseases
Authors: Manzano Jesus Rodriguez , Cavuto Matthew , Cardenas Kenny Malpartida , Pennisi Ivana , Pond Marcus , Mirza Sohail , Moser Nicholas , Comer Mark , Stokes Isobel , Eke Lucy , Lant Sian , Szostak Katarzyna , Miglietta Luca , Stringer Oliver , Sumner Rebecca , Bolt Frances , Sriskan Shiranee , Holmes Alison , Georgiou Pantelis , Ulaeto David (O) , de Motes Carlos Maluquer
Published: August 2024

The explosive global spread of Clade II mpox in humans and sustained human-to-human transmission of the more virulent Clade I mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlight both the current lack of, and critical need for, point-of-care diagnostics to address the spread of this emergent disease. A novel point-of-care molecular diagnostic platform, Dragonfly, was developed that integrates power-free nucleic acid extraction (< 5 minutes) and lyophilized colorimetric LAMP chemistry. The platform achieved an analytical limit-of-detection of 50 genome copies/reaction for monkeypox virus, distinguishing it from other orthopoxviruses, herpes simplex virus and varizella zoster virus. Clinical validation using 164 samples, including 51 mpox positives, demonstrated 96.1% sensitivity and 100% specificity for orthopoxviruses, and 94.1% sensitivity and 100% specificity for monkeypox virus. Our platform provides a rapid, accessible and robust point-of-care solution for monitoring mpox in both low and high resource settings amidst declining worldwide smallpox immunity, with broad potential to the wider field of infectious disease diagnosis as a whole.