bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wind turbine condition monitoring based on double‐layer ensemble KNN method
Authors: Zhang Shuyao , Huang Kezhen , Liu Changliang , Tian Wenwen , Liu Shuai
Published: November 2023

An ensemble K‐nearest neighbor model based on the double‐layer sampling method was proposed for the condition monitoring of wind turbine (WT) gearboxes. The distance function was improved to affinity distance, which helped overcome the limitation of obtaining local optimums. The feature priority was calculated based on the regularized mutual information, and a double‐layer sampling method combining data and feature sampling was designed. On the basis of the statistical process control technology, the warning threshold was designed and the real‐time residual was analyzed. The condition of the gearbox was monitored by combining the failure rate. Experimental results with real supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) data demonstrated that the proposed method improved the estimation accuracy of the model and could realize early fault warnings of a WT gearbox approximately 20 days earlier than the SCADA system.
Effects of whole nutritional formula foods on nutritional improvement and intestinal flora in malnourished rats
Authors: Qu Di , Bo Pan‐Pan , Li Zhi‐Man , Sun Yin‐Shi
Published: November 2023

Food for special medical purposes (FSMP) has received increasing attention as an enteral nutritional supplement. To investigate the effects of whole nutritional formula (WNF) containing dietary fiber and regular formula on nutritional supplementation and improvement of intestinal microecology, a rat malnutrition model was established with the formulations of WNF, FOS, and SDF (10, 20 g/kg bw) administered by gavage for 30 days. The results showed that the three formulations effectively improved the nutritional status of the malnourished rats, significantly increasing the level of IgG, increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, and affecting the content of propionic acid (PRO). The nutritional status of rats is closely related to growth performance, nutritional indexes, and immunoglobulin index, which cause changes in the composition of the intestinal flora. The above results showed that WNF positively affected the nutritional improvement, immune level, and intestinal health of rats. The comprehensive evaluation also suggested that the formulation containing ginseng water‐soluble dietary fiber (ginseng‐SDF) had the most significant effect.
Proteomic profiling of interferon‐responsive reactive astrocytes in rodent and human
Authors: Prakash Priya , Erdjument‐Bromage Hediye , O'Dea Michael R. , Munson Christy N. , Labib David , Fossati Valentina , Neubert Thomas A. , Liddelow Shane A.
Published: November 2023

Astrocytes are a heterogeneous population of central nervous system glial cells that respond to pathological insults and injury by undergoing a transformation called “reactivity.” Reactive astrocytes exhibit distinct and context‐dependent cellular, molecular, and functional state changes that can either support or disturb tissue homeostasis. We recently identified a reactive astrocyte sub‐state defined by interferon‐responsive genes like Igtp, Ifit3, Mx1, and others, called interferon‐responsive reactive astrocytes (IRRAs). To further this transcriptomic definition of IRRAs, we wanted to define the proteomic changes that occur in this reactive sub‐state. We induced IRRAs in immunopanned rodent astrocytes and human iPSC‐differentiated astrocytes using TNF, IL1α, C1Q, and IFNβ and characterized their proteomic profile (both cellular and secreted) using unbiased quantitative proteomics. We identified 2335 unique cellular proteins, including IFIT2/3, IFITM3, OASL1/2, MX1/2/3, and STAT1. We also report that rodent and human IRRAs secrete PAI1, a serine protease inhibitor which may influence reactive states and functions of nearby cells. Finally, we evaluated how IRRAs are distinct from neurotoxic reactive astrocytes (NRAs). While NRAs are described by expression of the complement protein C3, it was not upregulated in IRRAs. Instead, we found ~90 proteins unique to IRRAs not identified in NRAs, including OAS1A, IFIT3, and MX1. Interferon signaling in astrocytes is critical for the antiviral immune response and for regulating synaptic plasticity and glutamate transport mechanisms. How IRRAs contribute to these functions is unknown. This study provides the basis for future experiments to define the functional roles of IRRAs in the context of neurodegenerative disorders.
Fingolimod (FTY720), an FDA‐approved sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) receptor agonist, restores endothelial hyperpermeability in cellular and animal models of dengue virus serotype 2 infection
Authors: Modak Ayan , Mishra Srishti Rajkumar , Awasthi Mansi , Aravind Arya , Singh Sneha , Sreekumar Easwaran
Published: November 2023

Extensive vascular leakage and shock is a major cause of dengue‐associated mortality. At present, there are no specific treatments available. Sphingolipid pathway is a key player in the endothelial barrier integrity; and is mediated through the five sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptors (S1PR1‐S1PR5). Signaling through S1PR2 promotes barrier disruption; and in Dengue virus (DENV)‐infection, there is overexpression of this receptor. Fingolimod (FTY720) is a specific agonist that targets the remaining barrier‐protective S1P receptors, without targeting S1PR2. In the present study, we explored whether FTY720 treatment can alleviate DENV‐induced endothelial hyperpermeability. In functional assays, in both in vitro systems and in AG129 animal models, FTY720 treatment was found effective. Upon treatment, there was complete restoration of the monolayer integrity in DENV serotype 2‐infected human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1). At the molecular level, the treatment reversed activation of the S1P pathway. It significantly reduced the phosphorylation of the key molecules such as PTEN, RhoA, and VE‐Cadherin; and also, the expression levels of S1PR2. In DENV2‐infected AG129 mice treated with FTY720, there was significant improvement in weight gain, in overall clinical symptoms, and in survival. Whereas 100% of the DENV2‐infected, untreated animals died by day‐10 post‐infection, 70% of the FTY720‐treated animals were alive; and at the end of the 15‐day post‐infection observation period, 30% of them were still surviving. There was a significant reduction in the Evan's‐blue dye permeability in the organs of FTY720‐treated, DENV‐2 infected animals; and also improvement in the hemogram, with complete restoration of thrombocytopenia and hepatic function. Our results show that the FDA‐approved molecule Fingolimod (FTY720) is a promising therapeutic intervention in severe dengue.
Board gender diversity and cost of debt financing: Evidence from Latin American and the Caribbean firms
Authors: Gonzalez‐Ruiz Juan David , Marín‐Rodríguez Nini Johana , Peña Alejandro
Published: November 2023

This research examines the relationship between board gender diversity and the cost of debt financing in Latin American and Caribbean firms. We implement the Fuzzy Logistic Autoencoder model, using data for 470 firms spanning 2016–2021 from the Eikon Refinitiv Thomson Reuters database. Our findings suggest that the variables independent board, policy board diversity, sustainable development goal 5, executive gender diversity, and governance consistently demonstrated effects on reducing the short‐term and long‐term debt cost over the period analyzed. Consequently, the potential benefits of including women on the board of directors are conducive to improving the firm's reputation, which materializes in reducing the cost of debt. The results offer valuable insights to researchers and investors seeking to understand the role of BGD composition within firms and its financial impact.
Rethinking narratives about youth experiencing homelessness: The influence of self‐determined motivation and peer relations on coping
Authors: Napoleon Jenilee‐Sarah , Weva Vanessa K. , Evans David W. , Namdari Reyhane , Francois Tamarah , Sherman Jessica , Morisseau Nancy , Lafontant Emmanuel , Atkinson Kristi , Miller Sydney , Kidd Sean A. , Burack Jacob A.
Published: November 2023

Using the cognitive appraisal theory of coping and the self‐determination theory of motivation, we examined the shared variance of motivational orientations, attachment relationships, and gender on adaptive and maladaptive coping among youth experiencing homelessness. Several scales including The Global Motivation Scale (assessing motivational orientations; i.e., autonomous and controlled motivation), the Brief Cope (adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies), and the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (self‐perceptions of relationships with mothers, fathers, and peers) were administered to 102 youth aged between 16 and 24 (Mage = 20, SD = 2.07) years recruited from an evening program for youth experiencing homelessness in Montreal, Canada. Autonomous motivation was positively associated with engagement in effective coping strategies, while controlled motivation was positively linked to maladaptive coping. Moderation analyses were used to examine whether gender and relationships with attachment figures moderated the relationship between motivation and coping. A significant main effect of peer attachment on adaptive coping emerged, in which greater peer attachment was related to more adaptive coping among the youth. No interaction effects resulted. Although no significant moderating effects were associated with essential relationships and gender, further research implementing a more nuanced approach to assessing the interaction between these constructs may be warranted. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of intervention programs for youth experiencing homelessness, that focus on enhancing autonomous motivation and utilizing peer support to optimize the use of adaptive coping strategies.
Gastric adenocarcinoma of the fundic gland type: A review of the literature
Authors: Zhai Zhiyong , Hu Wei , Huang Zhaoyu , Chen Zemin , Lu Sicun , Gong Wei
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Gastric adenocarcinoma of the fundic gland type (GA‐FG) is a newly described tumor entity but lacking consensus. This review summarizes the key features and controversies regarding this uncommon neoplasm.

Methods

We reviewed studies on GA‐FG published in English from 2007 to 2021.

Results

We found that 327 cases (340 lesions) have been reported. GA‐FG lesions originate from deep layers of the gastric mucosa, with the following characteristics on conventional white‐light endoscopy examination. These lesions, macroscopically identified as submucosal tumor‐like 0‐IIa, tend to have a whitish discoloration without inflammation, atrophy, or intestinal metaplasia in the background mucosa. Tumors located in the upper third of the stomach are usually solitary, with an average size <10 mm. Contrastingly, magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging mostly shows the absence of any demarcation line, with a regular microvascular pattern and regular microsurface pattern. GA‐FGs are covered with normal foveolar epithelium, forming a so‐called endless glands pattern in the deeper region, which are mainly composed of chief cells or parietal cells. Most tumors exhibit submucosal invasion, but lymphovascular invasion and nodal metastasis are rare. Regarding the treatment of GA‐FG, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) are effective treatment methods.

Conclusions

GA‐FG is a rare tumor that typically follows a benign course. This neoplasm has distinct endoscopic and pathological features and could be treated by ESD or EMR.
An exploration of knowledge‐organizing technologies to advance transdisciplinary back pain research
Authors: Lotz Jeffrey C. , Ropella Glen , Anderson Paul , Yang Qian , Hedderich Michael A. , Bailey Jeannie , Hunt C. Anthony
Published: November 2023

Chronic low back pain (LBP) is influenced by a broad spectrum of patient‐specific factors as codified in domains of the biopsychosocial model (BSM). Operationalizing the BSM into research and clinical care is challenging because most investigators work in silos that concentrate on only one or two BSM domains. Furthermore, the expanding, multidisciplinary nature of BSM research creates practical limitations as to how individual investigators integrate current data into their processes of generating impactful hypotheses. The rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence (AI) is providing new tools for organizing knowledge, but the practical aspects for how AI may advance LBP research and clinical are beginning to be explored. The goals of the work presented here are to: (1) explore the current capabilities of knowledge integration technologies (large language models (LLM), similarity graphs (SGs), and knowledge graphs (KGs)) to synthesize biomedical literature and depict multimodal relationships reflected in the BSM, and; (2) highlight limitations, implementation details, and future areas of research to improve performance. We demonstrate preliminary evidence that LLMs, like GPT‐3, may be useful in helping scientists analyze and distinguish cLBP publications across multiple BSM domains and determine the degree to which the literature supports or contradicts emergent hypotheses. We show that SG representations and KGs enable exploring LBP's literature in novel ways, possibly providing, trans‐disciplinary perspectives or insights that are currently difficult, if not infeasible to achieve. The SG approach is automated, simple, and inexpensive to execute, and thereby may be useful for early‐phase literature and narrative explorations beyond one's areas of expertise. Likewise, we show that KGs can be constructed using automated pipelines, queried to provide semantic information, and analyzed to explore trans‐domain linkages. The examples presented support the feasibility for LBP‐tailored AI protocols to organize knowledge and support developing and refining trans‐domain hypotheses.
The mid‐latitude hydrolaccolith of the Spanish Central System (Southern Europe): A top‐to‐bottom integration of geomatic, geophysical and sedimentary datasets for characterising a singular periglacial landform
Authors: Fernández‐Lozano Javier , Turu Valentí , Carrasco Rosa M. , Soteres Rodrigo L. , Sánchez‐Vizcaino Jesús , Karampaglidis Theodoros , Ros Xavier , Merlo Oscar , Pedraza Javier
Published: November 2023

Permafrost study in the Spanish Central System (~41°N) has remained elusive in past decades. Although numerous periglacial features have been described, none has yielded conclusive information about the existence/distribution of permafrost across these mountains. This work focuses on integrating light detection and ranging and unmanned aerial vehicle data with geophysical methods and sedimentary records, along with preliminary thermal information, for the comprehensive study of a frost mound. The singularity of this feature resides in its location, currently dominated by a seasonal frost regime, and its size reaching 59 m long, 22.5 m wide and 4 m high, representing the largest landform of this type in Iberia. From top‐to‐bottom, the internal structure comprises three resistivity units (G1, G2 and G3). The most superficial unit (G1) consists of a sequence of burial soils alternating with sand and silts, with pebbles and gravel at the bottom, followed by a high porous layer that belongs to a landslide deposit (G2), likely composed of gravel and pebbles laying over unit G3 (bedrock). Calibrated 14C ages suggest this landform formed at least ~4300 years ago during the mid‐Holocene. Finally, the preliminary surface thermal map indicates the presence of sectors affected by strong thermal gradients likely driven by water table variations. Our results conclude that the dynamics are primarily controlled by the seasonal frost regime influencing local subsurface drainage, which allows us to classify this landform as a hydrodynamic pingo‐like structure. We also demonstrate that our approach is suitable for assessing the evolution of this type of periglacial landform. Implementing long‐lasting annual monitoring programmes would help to understand local periglacial dynamics better.
Future warming stimulates growth and photosynthesis in an Arctic microalga more strongly than changes in light intensity or pCO2
Authors: Rokitta Sebastian D. , Grossmann Christian H. , Werner Elisa , Moye Jannika , Castellani Giulia , Nöthig Eva‐Maria , Rost Björn
Published: November 2023

We assessed the responses of solitary cells of Arctic Phaeocystis pouchetii grown under a matrix of temperature (2°C vs. 6°C), light intensity (55 vs. 160 μmol photons m−2 s−1) and pCO2 (400 vs. 1000 μatm CO2, i.e., 40.5 vs. 101.3 Pa). Next to acclimation parameters (growth rates, particulate and dissolved organic C and N, Chlorophyll a content), we measured physiological processes in vivo (electron transport rates and net photosynthesis) using fast‐repetition rate fluorometry and membrane‐inlet mass spectrometry. Within the applied driver ranges, elevated temperature had the most pronounced impacts, significantly increasing growth, elemental quotas and photosynthetic performance. Light stimulations manifested more prominently under 6°C, underlining temperature's role as a “master‐variable”. pCO2 was the least effective driver, exerting mostly insignificant effects. The obtained data were used for a simplistic upscaling simulation to investigate potential changes in P. pouchetii's bloom dynamics in the Fram Strait with increasing temperatures over the 21st century. Although solitary cells might not be fully representative of colonial cells commonly observed in the field, our results suggest that global warming accelerates bloom dynamics, with earlier onsets of blooms and higher peak biomasses. Such a temperature‐induced acceleration in the phenology of Phaeocystis and likely other Arctic phytoplankton might cause temporal mismatches, e.g., with the development of grazers, and therefore substantially affect the biogeochemistry and ecology of the Arctic.
Highly Efficient STEs NIR‐II Broadband Emission in a Perovskite System and its Spectroscopy Applications
Authors: Ding Xin , Zhou Weijian , Zhu Hetong , Cao Mengyu , Yu Bing , Cong Hailin , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yuhua
Published: November 2023

Efficient NIR emitting materials have important application value in phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs), due to their high sensitivity of tissue composition responsiveness, and penetration depth (spatial resolution). In this work, a perovskite structure material CaSnO3 that can emit strong broad NIR light at the range of 850–1300 nm peaking at 1010 nm second biological window with a super large Stokes shift of 24463 cm−1 and a sensitive broad UV light response (λmax = 291 nm) by traditional high‐temperature solid‐state reaction that does not require additional doping ions is innovatively developed. Spectroscopic and theoretical calculations reveal that the NIR emission originates from self‐trapped excitons (STEs) enhanced by Jahn–Teller effect when Sn4+ is spontaneously reduced to Sn2+ and occupies the position of Ca2+ 8‐coordinate lattice. A prototype NIR‐II emitting LED device is successfully fabricated combining this perovskite CaSnO3 phosphor with UV 285 nm chip to evaluate its application value. This work provides a novel NIR‐II luminescent material, which is different from other doping types of systems, and STEs luminescence in perovskite has been achieved in the NIR‐II region for the first time, providing a new approach and choice for the development of NIR luminescent materials.
Thermal Expansion of Polypropylene Part II: Depression of In‐Plane Linear Thermal Expansion of Polypropylene by Elastomer Incorporation and Elucidation of Its Mechanism Through Temperature‐Variable X‐ray Scattering
Authors: Ono Michio
Published: November 2023

In this study, the in‐plane linear thermal expansion behaviors from −20 °C to 100 °C along the flow direction (FD) for injection molded isotactic homo polypropylene (hPP) and their elastomer blends are thoroughly investigated. The elastomers used in this study are two different poly(ethylene‐co‐octene)(EO) thermoplastic elastomers which have the same density but different melt flow rate (MFR), 5.0 and 30 (dg/10 min). Thus, the blends are designated as hPP‐EO5.0 having the EO with 5.0 of MFR and hPP‐EO30 having the EO with 30 of MFR. It is found that from −20 °C to 40 °C, the linear thermal expansion profiles for neat hPP, hPP‐EO5.0, and hPP‐EO30 overlapped, indicating that with or without the EO, their linear thermal expansions proceeded under the same mechanism. On the other hand, above 40 °C, their thermal expansion behaviors greatly changed; the linear thermal expansions of hPP‐EO5.0 and hPP‐EO30 are suppressed to be much lower than that of neat hPP. The morphological observation by a transmission electron microscope (TEM) reveals that the shapes of the EO domains in the blend systems are found to be elongated along the FD. Thus, it would be expected that the suppressed linear thermal expansions of the hPP‐EO blends are attributed to the suppression of the linear thermal expansions of the hPP amorphous layers in the lamellae due to the retraction of the elongated EO domains caused due to the instability of the interfacial tension at elevated temperatures. Yet, temperature variable small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) results reveal that the linear thermal expansions of the hPP amorphous layers in the EO blends, on the contrary, increase. One of the plausible mechanisms is proposed to elucidate seemingly contradictory phenomenon that the EO blends have their suppressed bulk linear thermal expansions while enhanced linear thermal expansions of the hPP amorphous layers. Finally, the suitable elastomer design for low coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) PP is proposed.
Emotions in fear communication: A cross‐cultural neuromarketing approach
Authors: Mas José M. , Gómez Andrés , Carrero Oliver
Published: November 2023

This research analyzes how the receiver's emotional response to fear communication differs across cultural groups of origin (Europe vs. Latin America), as well as individual traits such as the level of fear of each individual, motivated by the lack of previous studies that address the receiver's reaction from a cross‐cultural perspective in this type of communication. To achieve this objective, this work was born from the conjunction of two lines of research, which are synergistic. On the one hand, we have focused on works based on the theory of the appeal to fear, which, as we have seen, discusses the different reactions that the news receiver may have to fear communication. On the other hand, studies concerning the uncertainty avoidance theory explain different emotional behaviors in the face of fear, depending on the individual's cultural biases. We analyze whether the culture of origin moderates the emotional response to this type of communication, as well as whether culture of origin also influences the relationship between the level of personal fear and the emotion felt about the fear communication. To answer these questions, we have used neuromarketing techniques to analyze the emotional response to a series of images taken fromThe New York Times, the most widely‐circulated English‐language general daily newspaper. We selected these images by grouping the issues that generated the most concern among the world's population in 2022. The present research results indicate a significant discovery: persons originating from Latin American cultures displayed a notably more significant emotional response to fear communication than individuals from European cultures. This underscores the major impact of cultural context on the emotional processing of fear communication.
Steady state analysis on sliding wear behavior of waste marble dust filled kenaf‐polyester composites
Authors: Nayak S. K. , Satapathy A.
Published: November 2023

In view of the rising demand of natural fiber reinforced polymers in engineering applications, the current research is taken on to study the effects of particulate filling in polyester‐kenaf fiber composite in terms of its sliding wear performance. A set of polyester‐based hybrid composites are fabricated with fixed kenaf fiber content and varied quantities of waste marble dust (0 wt. %, 16 wt. % and 32 wt. %). These composites are subjected to dry‐sliding wear trials as per ASTM G‐99 05 under different test conditions and the specific wear rate are estimated. The test results are analyzed to obtain the parametric appraisal of the wear process using response surface method. The analysis reveals that the filler content followed by sliding velocity, normal load and sliding distance has the detrimental impact on the specific wear rate of such hybrid composites. A morphological study is performed using a scanning electron microscope to identify prominent wear mechanisms and it is found that the wear loss is primarily due to the formation of wear tracks, cracks, craters, plastic deformation, wear debris and the removal of matrix layer etc. during the sliding process.
Quantitative hardness‐carbon content‐microstructure correlation in normalized plain carbon steel
Authors: Maity J. , Poona B. S. , Kumar M. , Pal A. , Hazra B. , Sahin S. , Biswas A.
Published: November 2023

Composition (carbon content) dependent critical structural evolution in correlation to hardness attained is judiciously investigated for plain carbon steel, the most widely used cost‐effective structural material, under normalizing treatment of industrial relevance involving non‐equilibrium still air cooling. The solid state phase transformation under non‐equilibrium still air cooling is conceived in terms of a logarithmic variation of eutectoid carbon content with the gross carbon content of steel in view of maintaining fixed maximum solubility of carbon in α‐iron with an assumption of the prevailing para‐equilibrium condition. Such a unique formulation for non‐equilibrium condition together with consideration of Hall–Petch type relationship and rule of mixture for two prime microconstituents (proeutectoid α‐ferrite and pearlite) finally results in a new mathematical relationship for chemical composition‐structure‐property correlation for the non‐equilibrium normalizing treatment readily practiced in industry. Indeed, a composition dependent structural refinement effect is established that is exemplified with the rise in hardness level in plain carbon steel under conventional normalizing treatment. Most importantly, the experimentally measured overall hardness values closely follow those obtained by the developed mathematical relationship, thereby meeting an ever‐needed requirement of direct determination of steel hardness of practical relevance from microstructural parameters.
Structural durability proof of aluminium safety components substituting steel safety components – criteria regarding testing time by the example of commercial vehicle wheels
Authors: Sonsino C. M. , Breitenberger M. , Krause I. , Wallmichrath M.
Published: November 2023

The experimental structural durability proof bases on a damage equivalent shortening of the design spectrum into a test spectrum with reduced length taking statistics founded safety factors into account. Historically, test spectra were first derived for steel parts using Woehler‐lines for steel; the damage equivalence was calculated by applying the Palmgren–Miner rule with the modification according to Haibach. When aluminium parts were introduced later, the question arose, whether test spectra developed for steel parts could be applied without modifications for their durability proof. Caused by different slopes of aluminium before and after the knee‐point, the test spectra derived for steel wheels result for aluminium components a lower cumulated damage in comparison to the design spectra. This fact requires a longer test duration for aluminium components when test spectra or proving grounds developed for steel components are used.

By the example of steel and aluminium wheels for commercial vehicles with comparable highly stressed areas, the material dependent features regarding the required test life for the structural durability proof of aluminium parts are demonstrated.
COVID‐19 and cancer: Dichotomy of the menacing dilemma
Authors: Ghosh Mrinal K. , Tabassum Shaheda , Basu Malini
Published: November 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic brought about unprecedented challenges to global healthcare systems. Among the most vulnerable populations are cancer patients, who face dilemmas due to their compromised immune systems and the intricate interplay with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) virus. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted relationship between COVID‐19 and cancer. Through an analysis of existing literature and clinical data, this review unravels the structural intricacies of the virus and examines its profound implications for cancer patients, thereby bridging the knowledge gap between virology and oncology. The review commences with an introduction regarding the COVID‐19 pandemic and cancer. It then transitions into a detailed examination of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus and its variants such as Alpha (PANGO lineage B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529 lineage). Subsequently, an insightful analysis of the impact of COVID‐19 on major cancer types (viz., Lung, Colon, Brain, and gastrointestinal cancer) is elaborated. Finally, the therapeutic avenues, oncological care, and management are discussed. The nexus between COVID‐19 and cancer adds a layer of complexity to patient care, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches for those grappling with both conditions. Amid the landscape defined by the evolving viral strains, this review navigates through the multifaceted implications of COVID‐19 on cancer patients and underscores the significance of integrating virology and oncology.
Time to rethink
Authors: Dehnen Stefanie , Danielmeier Karsten , Schreiner Peter R.
Published: November 2023

Rethinking chemistry is what the GDCh wants to do in the coming years. But what does this mean in concrete terms? Nachrichten aus der Chemie wanted to know and asked the „presidential think tank“. A discussion with Stefanie Dehnen (President‐elect of the GDCh), Karsten Danielmeier (current President), and Peter R. Schreiner (former President).
Interdisciplinary Workshop 2023 for Young Scientists in Mahdia, Tunisia
Authors: El‐Khateeb Mohammad , Ellouze Mohamed , Hopf Henning , Limbach Hans‐Heinrich , Mousa Marwan , Paulus Beate , Sekkal‐Rahal Majda
Published: November 2023

Supported by the GDCh, young scientists met for the tenth time in an Arab country at an Interdisciplinary Workshop on October 4th, 2023. The event took place in advance of the Humboldt Kolleg „Functional Material Development for New World“ in Mahdia, Tunisia (October 5–7, 2023). These workshop series had been initiated in 2009 by Helmut Ringsdorf, Henning Hopf and Hans‐Heinrich Limbach.
The relationships between nurses' resilience, burnout, perceived organisational support and social support during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic: A quantitative cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Abdulmohdi Naim
Published: November 2023

Aims

To examine the level of resilience and burnout among British nurses during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the influence of personal, social and organisational factors on nurses' resilience and burnout.

Background

Nurses experienced excessive workload and emotional demands over a prolonged period during the COVID‐19 pandemic which may have led to exhaustion. Little research has examined the correlation between the pandemic variables, nurses' resilience and burnout during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

This study utilised a descriptive, cross‐sectional research design.

Methods

A cross‐sectional and self‐report survey involved 111 staff nurses, who completed a self‐administrated questionnaire between January and April 2021. A STORBE checklist was used to report the study results.

Findings

The study found that nurses experienced a high level of burnout and low to moderate levels of resilience. The study revealed significant negative relationships between the level of burnout and perceived organisational support and nurses' resilience. The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on nurses' social roles and their worries about patient safety were positively correlated with burnout. The perceived organisational support, the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on nurses' social roles and the level of resilience were significant factors for burnout.

Conclusions

Nurses experienced a high level of burnout during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic, which may be influenced by how they felt their organisations supported them. Nurses' feelings that the pandemic affected their social roles were associated with increasing their burnout.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Strategies should be developed to address staff burnout and resilience. Nurse managers and educators should play leadership roles in creating professional training to include competencies and psychological preparedness for disasters and to implement strategies to increase the organisational commitments to staff safety and well‐being.
Functional fitness and risk factors of older patients with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wang Jinping , Xi Jing , Xu Jing , Wang Li
Published: November 2023

Aim

To learn the functional fitness levels in older adults with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty.

Design

A cross‐sectional investigation study.

Methods

A total of 205 participants with type 2 diabetes were recruited from September 2019 to August 2020. All patients underwent diagnostic screening for sarcopenia and frailty, and were divided into combined group (the patients who had sarcopenia and/or frailty) and non‐combined group (the patient who had no sarcopenia and/or frailty). The diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia applied was proposed by the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia in 2019 and frailty status was assessed using FRAIL Scale. Functional fitness was measured using the Senior Fitness Test and compared between combined and non‐combined groups. Biochemical data of blood routine, glycolipid, and hepatorenal function tests were acquired from medical records. Logistic regression analysis was applied to explore the factors associated with the sarcopenia and/or frailty in the older adults with diabetes.

Results

Compared with non‐combined group, the participants in combined group exhibited shorter 6‐min walk distance, fewer repetitions of arm curls and chair stands, smaller back scratch and chair sit‐and‐reach values, and longer time in the 8‐ft up‐and‐go test. The patients in the combined group had significantly lower level of red blood cell, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and higher level of platelet and blood urea nitrogen. Apart from calf circumference, physical activity, and insulin injection treatment, 6‐min walk distance was the factor associated with diabetes combined with sarcopenia and/or frailty.
Essential elements nurses have to address to promote a safe discharge in paediatrics: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Rossi Silvia , Hayter Mark , Zuco Alice , Tappino Francesca , Tirone Roberta , Scelsi Silvia
Published: November 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to synthesize the evidence on the essential elements, nurses must address when they perform therapeutic education to patients and their caregivers to promote a safe paediatric hospital‐to‐home discharge.

Design

A systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Methods

The search strategy identifies studies published between 2016 and 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklists. The protocol of this review was not registered. A search of three electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL and Web of Science) and a search in the reference lists of the included studies was conducted in February 2021 and June 2023.

Results

Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The essential elements identified are grouped into the following topics: emergency management, physiological needs, medical device and medications management, long‐term management and short‐term management. Nurses have a critical role in ensuring patient safety and quality of care, and the nurses' competence makes the difference in the discharge's related outcomes. Our results can help the nursing profession implement comprehensive discharge projects. Our results support the improvement of nurse‐led paediatric discharge programmes. Nurse managers can identify the grey areas of therapeutic education provided in their units and work for their improvement. Following the implementation of therapeutic education on these topics, measuring the discharge's related outcomes could be interesting. This study addresses the problem of managing a safe and efficient nurse‐led discharge in a paediatric setting. It presents evidence on the essential elements to promote a safe paediatric discharge at home. These could impact nursing practice by using them to implement project and discharge pathways. We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines—PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic review. No patients, service users, caregivers or public members were involved in this study due to its nature (systematic review).
Reproductive health challenges during a flood: A qualitative study
Authors: Safajou Farzaneh , Nahidi Fatemeh , Ahmadi Fazlollah
Published: November 2023

Aim

The study aimed to investigate women's reproductive health challenges during floods.

Design

This study is qualitative, specifically employing content analysis with an inductive approach.

Methods

Data were collected through in‐depth, semi‐structured individual interviews between July and December 2021. The study involved 13 women affected by floods in Golestan province, Aq Qala Township, and also included seven healthcare providers and officials. Before the interviews, informed and written consent was obtained from all participants. The sampling process continued until data saturation was achieved.

Results

The analysis of the participants' experiences in this study revealed four main categories of requirements, which were as follows: Maternal and Child Health with four subcategories, Essentials of Women's Health Care with two subcategories, Problems of Relationships with two subcategories, and Aggression and Physical Violence with two subcategories. In conclusion, during floods, women encounter numerous challenges in preserving their reproductive health. Recognizing and understanding these challenges can be instrumental in effectively planning measures to prevent or address them during disasters like floods.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care impact

Every disaster has unique conditions and challenges. The health requirements of individuals impacted by floods differ from those affected by other natural disasters. By identifying the specific reproductive health needs of women affected by floods, midwives and other healthcare providers can enhance their planning efforts, enabling them to better address and fulfil these needs during such critical situations.

Patient or public contribution

Thirteen women were affected by floods, and seven healthcare providers and officials were interviewed.
Nurse‐to‐patient ratios and readiness for hospital discharge: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Lei Shuang‐yan , Sun Jia‐ru , Wang Cai‐hua , Zhang Xiao‐fang , Han Wen‐jin , Wang Xiao‐qin , Xie Juan
Published: November 2023

Aim

To explore whether and to what extent, nurse–patient assessment differences mediate the association between nurse‐to‐patient ratios and readiness for hospital discharge, and examine whether nurse–patient characteristics moderate the indirect and/or direct effect of mediation model.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was carried out from March 2021 to December 2022.

Methods

A total of 523 pairs of gastrointestinal cancer patients with PICC and their nurses were recruited. All the participants were invited to complete the general information questionnaire and the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale. Outcome measure was patient‐reported readiness for hospital discharge. This study was reported according to the STROBE checklist.

Results

The patients reported a low level of readiness for hospital discharge. Nurse–patient assessment differences were positively associated with nurse‐to‐patient ratios but negatively associated with readiness for hospital discharge. Furthermore, nurse–patient assessment differences fully mediated the effect of nurse‐to‐patient ratios on readiness for hospital discharge, and age and gender of patients only moderated the indirect path of mediation model.
Healthcare professionals' knowledge and attitudes towards surgical site infection and surveillance: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Horgan Sinéad , Drennan Jonathan , Andrews Emmet , Saab Mohamad M. , Hegarty Josephine
Published: November 2023

Aim

SSI is one of the most prevalent healthcare‐associated infections and is associated with extended hospital stays, increased need for reoperation and higher hospital readmission rates. Implementing systematic SSI surveillance can reduce these adverse outcomes. Implementing a surveillance system into a hospital is a complex intervention requiring that staff involved in a patient's perioperative journey have the knowledge of SSI prevention, the data required for surveillance, an understanding of how data informs quality improvement initiatives and their role in surveillance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a complex intervention on the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals towards surgical site infection (SSI), SSI prevention and surveillance in a university hospital setting.

Design

The study used a quasi‐experimental pre‐test–post‐test design.

Method

The impact of a complex intervention was evaluated by measuring healthcare professionals' (n = 74) knowledge of and attitudes towards SSI and surveillance. Normalisation process theory (NPT) guided the study and the development of the intervention.

Results

There was a statistically significant increase in scores on the knowledge of SSI and prevention from pre‐intervention to post‐test. The knowledge of risk factors scores at post‐test was significantly higher than that at pre‐intervention. Overall attitudes to SSI prevention and surveillance were good both pre‐intervention and post‐test but there was a significant change in the attitude of participants. The findings reveal an overall positive impact of the complex intervention on the knowledge and attitude of healthcare professionals relating to SSI, SSI prevention and surveillance; however, the extent of the change varied across items measured.
Designing acrylic latexes for pressure‐sensitive adhesives: a review
Authors: Ballard Nicholas
Published: November 2023

Pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are essential components of a large number of commercial products. The immense range of substrates that are required to be bonded, coupled with the challenging adhesive properties that are required in many applications, requires the development of PSAs with controllable structure. In this review, the development of acrylic latexes for use in PSA applications is discussed, with a particular emphasis on how to adjust the synthetic process to control adhesive properties. Following a general introduction to PSAs, a brief overview of the fundamental rheological properties that control adhesive behavior is given. Subsequently, routes to improve PSA performance through controlling the polymerization process are described. Finally, more complex systems that involve structured latexes and multiphase hybrids are detailed. The review concludes with a summary of future challenges for the field. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Low concentrations of selenium nanoparticles enhance the performance of a generalist parasitoid and its host, with no net effect on host suppression
Authors: Miksanek James Rudolph , Adarkwah Charles , Tuda Midori
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The environmental and economic costs of conventional insecticides have stirred an interest in alternative management tactics, including the use of nanotechnologies. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have many applications in agriculture but may not be compatible with biological control; however, low concentrations of SeNPs may benefit natural enemies via hormesis. This study investigates the concentration‐dependent effects of SeNPs (0–1000 mg L−1) on Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a generalist parasitoid of stored product pests.

RESULTS

The LC50 of SeNPs was 1540 mg L−1 for female parasitoids and 1164 mg L−1 for males. SeNPs had a significant hormetic effect; average lifespan increased by 10% at a concentration of 4.03 mg L−1 for females and by 35% at 13.83 mg L−1 for males. In a bioassay including hosts [the azuki bean beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae)], a low concentration of SeNPs (25 mg L−1) enhanced the performance of female parasitoids; lifespan increased by 23% and the number of offspring increased by 88%. However, the number of emerging hosts did not significantly decrease; in the absence of parasitism, SeNPs actually improved host emergence by 17%.

CONCLUSION

Because higher concentrations of SeNPs reduced parasitoid lifespan, whereas low concentrations enhanced not only parasitoid performance but also host emergence, practitioners should exercise caution when considering SeNPs for use in integrated pest management. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
How generalist insect herbivores respond to alien plants? The case of Aphis fabae–Myzus persicae–Rhododendron ponticum
Authors: Ameline Arnaud , Denoirjean Thomas , Casati Marion , Dorland Jean , Decocq Guillaume
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The enemy release hypothesis (ERH) predicts that alien plant species are unsuitable hosts for native phytophagous insects. However, the biotic resistance hypothesis (BRH) predicts that generalist herbivores may prefer an alien plant over their common host plant. In this study, we have tested these two hypotheses by comparing the potential colonization of the invasive Pontic rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum L.) versus the common rearing host plants by two generalist aphid species (Aphis fabae and Myzus persicae). We assessed (i) the probing behavior using the electrical penetration graph (EPG) technique and (ii) survival and fecundity in Petri dishes.

RESULTS

The results showed the inability of A. fabae and Myzus persicae to immediately colonize R. ponticum. Despite their ability to feed on this invasive plant, the two aphid species hardly survived and poorly reproduced.

CONCLUSION

Our results are consistent with the ERH, since R. ponticum appeared as an unsuitable host for native phytophagous insects. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.