bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring self‐care practices and health beliefs among men in the context of emerging infectious diseases: Lessons from the Mpox pandemic in Brazil
Authors: da Silva Bulcão Carolina , Prates Pedro E. G. , Pedrosa Iago M. B. , de Santana Santos Guilherme R. , de Oliveira Layze B. , de Souza Joaquim Jhonata , de Almeida Lilian C. G. , Ribeiro Caíque J. N. , dos Santos Silva Glauber W. , Machuca‐Contreras Felipe A. , de Sousa Anderson R. , Mendes Isabel A. C. , de Sousa Álvaro F. L.
Published: April 2024

Our goal was to explore self‐care practices among men who have sex with men in the context of Mpox in Brazil. This study used qualitative research methods, including interviews and thematic analysis, to collect and analyze data from male participants across the Brazilian territory. The narratives unveil men's perspectives on self‐care, risk reduction, and health beliefs during the Mpox pandemic. Our findings highlight a multifaceted approach to self‐care among men, encompassing hygiene, physical contact management, mask usage, skin lesion vigilance, and adherence to official guidelines. Men's attitudes toward sexual behaviors emphasize the importance of reducing sexual partners, practicing safe sex, and combating misinformation through accurate information dissemination. The development of these behaviors and self‐care practices can be facilitated by nurses guided by Dorothea Orem's Self‐Care Theory, supported by patient‐centered care, with strategies to address and confront the stigma associated with the disease and provide emotional support. Thus, the study underscores the pivotal role of self‐care in mitigating infection risks, especially in the context of emerging infectious diseases. It acknowledges the impact of socio‐cultural factors and healthcare policies on men's preventive measures. However, it also recognizes limitations, such as potential bias due to stigma concerns and a nonrepresentative sample. Ultimately, the research advocates for tailored education, promotion of gender equity, and healthcare empowerment to effectively manage health risks in such contexts.
Microbial terroir: associations between soil microbiomes and the flavor chemistry of mustard (Brassica juncea)
Authors: Walsh Corinne , Vanderburgh Caihong , Grant Lady , Katz Ella , Kliebenstein Daniel J. , Fierer Noah
Published: March 2024

Here, we characterized the independent role of soil microbiomes (bacterial and fungal communities) in determining the flavor chemistry of harvested mustard seed (Brassica juncea). Given the known impacts of soil microbial communities on various plant characteristics, we hypothesized that differences in rhizosphere microbiomes would result in differences in seed flavor chemistry (glucosinolate content).

In a glasshouse study, we introduced distinct soil microbial communities to mustard plants growing in an otherwise consistent environment. At the end of the plant life cycle, we characterized the rhizosphere and root microbiomes and harvested produced mustard seeds for chemical characterization. Specifically, we measured the concentrations of glucosinolates, secondary metabolites known to create spicy and bitter flavors. We examined associations between rhizosphere microbial taxa or genes and seed flavor chemistry.

We identified links between the rhizosphere microbial community composition and the concentration of the main glucosinolate, allyl, in seeds. We further identified specific rhizosphere taxa predictive of seed allyl concentration and identified bacterial functional genes, namely genes for sulfur metabolism, which could partly explain the observed associations.

Together, this work offers insight into the potential influence of the belowground microbiome on the flavor of harvested crops.
Homeopathic Ankle Dislocation for Treatment of Unstable Trimalleolar Fractures Involving Posterior Die‐Punch Fragment: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sun Liang , Qin Shiji , Pan Zhenhua , Sun Lie , Xing Wenzhao
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Unstable trimalleolar fractures are relatively complex and more difficult to manage if die‐punch fracture is present. We aimed to evaluate the curative effect of homeopathic ankle dislocation on the unstable trimalleolar fractures involving posterior die‐punch fragments.

Methods

A total of 124 patients diagnosed with unstable trimalleolar fractures combined with post‐die punch fragment between June 2008 and June 2020 were retrospectively included. Patients who received homeopathic ankle dislocation were named as the experimental group, and patients who accepted conventional treatment were control group. The fracture healing time, wound healing, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle‐hindfoot scale (AOFAS), visual analogue scale (VAS), the Kellgren–Lawrence arthritis grading scale (KLAGS) and short‐form 36 score (SF‐36) scores were collected. Student t‐test was used for fracture healing time. Wound healing and SF‐36 were compared using the Mann–Whitney test. Repeated measurement analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for AOFAS and VAS. χ2‐test was used for KLAGS.

Results

AOFAS showed statistically significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.001). In non‐weight‐bearing and weight‐bearing conditions, VAS scores were significant different between the two groups, and there was an interaction between group and time point (p < 0.001). The experimental group was superior to the control group in terms of physical function (p = 0.022), role‐physical (p = 0.018), general health (p = 0.001) and social function (p = 0.042).The operation time of experimental group was shorter than that of control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Homeopathic ankle dislocation is used for the unstable trimalleolar fractures involving posterior die‐punch fragment, which can provide better functional outcomes while shortening the operation time and recovery period.
The Negative Impacts of Sarcopenia on Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty under the Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocol
Authors: Zhou Shengliang , Li Lan , Li Shuai , Si Haibo , Wu Limin , Shen Bin
Published: April 2024

Objective

Sarcopenia, as an emerging public health concern, has been associated with postoperative adverse outcomes in various surgical procedures. However, the evidence regarding the impacts of sarcopenia on total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remained limited. This study aimed to assess the impacts of sarcopenia on primary TKA based on the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol.

Methods

This retrospective study included 291 patients who received unilateral TKA from October 2017 to May 2018 in our institution. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the algorithm of Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. The handgrip strength was measured using a handheld dynamometer and the muscle mass was estimated by a previously validated anthropometric equation. Patients were classified into sarcopenia group and non‐sarcopenia group. The outcomes included complications, postoperative length of stay (LOS), total hospitalization cost, operative time, total estimated blood loss, blood transfusion rate, and the 12‐item forgotten joint score (FJS‐12) at the follow‐up. The propensity score matching (PSM) was used to adjust confounding factors. We compared continuous variables using Student's t‐test and the Wilcoxon Mann–Whitney U test for normal and non‐normal distributions, respectively, and categorical variables with chi‐square tests.

Results

Of the 291 patients, 58 (19.9%) patients were identified as having sarcopenia. After PSM, each group matched 42 patients. All matched patients were followed‐up at least 5 years. Patients with sarcopenia had higher rates of surgical complications compared to the non‐sarcopenia group (p = 0.019), and no significant difference was observed in 30‐day readmission, and periprosthetic joint infection. The sarcopenia group had significantly longer LOS (p = 0.038), higher total hospitalization (p = 0.015) than the non‐sarcopenia group. For the FJS‐12 scores at follow‐up, patients with sarcopenia had significantly higher scores than the non‐sarcopenia group (p = 0.024).

Conclusion

Our findings indicated sarcopenia may be a risk factor for postoperative complications, prolonged LOS, increased hospitalization cost and reduced patient satisfaction.
Prevention of esophageal lesions during atrial fibrillation catheter ablation using esophageal temperature monitoring: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Salihu Adil , Lu Henri , Maurizi Niccolo , Tzimas Georgios , Herrera Siklody Claudia , Le Bloa Mathieu , Domenichini Giulia , Teres Cheryl , Hugelshofer Sarah , Monney Pierre , Pruvot Etienne , Muller Olivier , Antiochos Panagiotis , Pascale Patrizio
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The use of esophageal temperature monitoring (ETM) for the prevention of esophageal injury during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is often advocated. However, evidence supporting its use is scarce and controversial. We therefore aimed to review the evidence assessing the efficacy of ETM for the prevention of esophageal injury.

Methods

We performed a meta‐analysis and systematic review of the available literature from inception to December 31, 2022. All studies comparing the use of ETM, versus no ETM, during radiofrequency (RF) AF ablation and which reported the incidence of endoscopically detected esophageal lesions (EDELs) were included.

Results

Eleven studies with a total of 1112 patients undergoing RF AF ablation were identified. Of those patients, 627 were assigned to ETM (56%). The overall incidence of EDELs was 9.8%. The use of ETM during AF ablation was associated with a non significant increase in the incidence of EDELs (12.3% with ETM, vs. 6.6 % without ETM, odds ratio, 1.44, 95%CI, 0.49, 4.22, p = .51, I2 = 72%). The use of ETM was associated with a significant increase in the energy delivered specifically on the posterior wall compared to patients without ETM (mean power difference: 5.13 Watts, 95% CI, 1.52, 8.74, p = .005).

Conclusions

The use of ETM does not reduce the incidence of EDELs during RF AF ablation. The higher energy delivered on the posterior wall is likely attributable to a false sense of safety that may explain the lack of benefit of ETM. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to provide conclusive results.
Overseas Koreans and New Governance Making in Korea
Authors: Lee Jean Young
Published: April 2024

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the recent issues surrounding overseas Koreans in Korea and the governance construction efforts by the Korean government through laws and institutions to address them. With up to approximately 1 million overseas Koreans residing in Korea out of a total of 7.08 million, issues related to immigration to Korea are also pertinent. The burgeoning population of overseas Koreans and their demands not only affect the central government's policies but also impact local communities. This article aims to explore how the Korean society is legally and institutionally responding to the recent surge in the population of overseas Koreans within Korea. To achieve this goal, the article focuses on three aspects. First, it analyzes the increase in the population of overseas Koreans in Korean society over the past two decades along with the associated issues from the perspectives of immigration, ethnicity, overseas Koreans, laws and institutions, and central and local governments. Second, it examines the new laws, institutions, and the interrelationship between the government and overseas Koreans that have been developed to address the issues raised. Third, it evaluates the characteristics of the newly established governance of overseas Koreans and identifies any associated problems. Additionally, it discusses the implications of the Korean case compared with other countries' cases. In the era of globalization and increased human mobility, this article contributes to understanding Korean society's perspective on and policies toward the group of overseas Koreans in the context of laws and institutions.
Is asthma in children still increasing? 20‐year prevalence trends in northern Sweden
Authors: Hedman Linnea , Andersson Martin , Bjerg Anders , Backman Helena , Af Klinteberg Maja , Winberg Anna , Rönmark Eva
Published: April 2024

Background

In the present study, we describe prevalence trends of asthma and investigate the association with asthma symptoms, use of asthma medication, and asthma severity among 8‐year‐old children in Norrbotten, Sweden in 1996, 2006, and 2017.

Methods

Within the Obstructive Lung Disease in Northern Sweden (OLIN) studies, three pediatric cohorts were recruited in 1996, 2006, and 2017 respectively. Identical methods were used; all children in first and second grade (median age 8 years) in three municipalities were invited to a parental questionnaire survey, completed by n = 3430 in 1996 (97% participation), n = 2585 in 2006 (96%), and n = 2785 in 2017 (91%). The questionnaire included questions about respiratory symptoms and diagnosis, treatment, and severity of asthma.

Results

The prevalence of wheezing was stable during the study, 10.1% in 1996; 10.8% in 2006; and 10.3% in 2017, p = .621, while physician‐diagnosed asthma increased: 5.7%, 7.4%, and 12.2%, p < .001. The use of asthma medication in the last 12 months increased: 7.1%, 8.7%, and 11.5%, p < .001. Among children diagnosed with asthma, the prevalence of asthma symptoms, the impact on daily life, and severe asthma decreased, while the use of inhaled corticosteroids increased from 1996 until 2017.

Conclusion

The prevalence of wheezing was stable among 8‐year‐old in this area from 1996 to 2017, while the prevalence of physician‐diagnosed asthma doubled but without an increase in asthma morbidity. The increase of physician‐diagnosed asthma without a coincident increase in asthma morbidity can partly be explained by more and earlier diagnosis among those with mild asthma.
Evaluation of the implementation of a “Pediatric Feasibility Assessment for Transplantation” tool in children and adolescents at Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Adetunji Adewale E. , Gajjar Priya , Luyckx Valerie A. , Reddy Deveshni , Collison Nicolette , Abdo Theresa , Pienaar Taryn , Nourse Peter , Coetzee Ashton , Morrow Brenda , McCulloch Mignon I.
Published: March 2024

Background

Kidney transplantation remains the treatment of choice for children with kidney failure (KF). In South Africa, kidney replacement therapy (KRT) is restricted to children eligible for transplantation. This study reports on the implementation of the Paediatric Feasibility Assessment for Transplantation (pFAT) tool, a psychosocial risk score developed in South Africa to support transparent transplant eligibility assessment in a low‐resource setting.

Methods

Single‐center retrospective descriptive analysis of children assessed for KRT using pFAT tool from 2015 to 2021.

Results

Using the pFAT form, 88 children (median [range] age 12.0 [1.1 to 19.0] years) were assessed for KRT. Thirty (34.1%) children were not listed for KRT, scoring poorly in all domains, and were referred for supportive palliative care. Fourteen of these 30 children (46.7%) died, with a median survival of 6 months without dialysis. Nine children were reassessed and two were subsequently listed. Residing >300 km from the hospital (p = .009) and having adherence concerns (p = .003) were independently associated with nonlisting. Of the 58 (65.9%) children listed for KRT, 40 (69.0%) were transplanted. One‐year patient and graft survival were 97.2% and 88.6%, respectively. Only one of the four grafts lost at 1‐year posttransplant was attributed to psychosocial issues.

Conclusions

Short‐term outcomes among children listed using the pFAT form are good. Among those nonlisted, the pFAT highlights specific psychosocial/socioeconomic barriers, over which most children themselves have no power to change, which should be systemically addressed to permit eligibility of more children and save lives.
Post‐traumatic growth among pediatric transplant recipients and their caregivers: A scoping review
Authors: Murphy Mikela A. , Annunziato Rachel A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Pediatric transplantation can be a stressful process for patients and caregivers. Some individuals may experience post‐traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and post‐traumatic growth (PTG) as a result. Although post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been well‐studied in this population, the purpose of the present scoping review is to provide a first synthesis of the existing literature on PTG in pediatric transplant populations.

Methods

We conducted a literature search of PsycINFO and Scopus in May 2023. Eligible articles must have included a sample of solid organ transplant (SOT) or stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients under age 18, siblings of recipients, or caregivers; and must have examined PTG.

Results

Twenty‐three studies were identified, and nine studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the review (n = 5 cross sectional; n = 4 qualitative). Cross‐sectional studies examined demographic, mental health, and medical correlates of PTG in children and caregivers. PTG was correlated with PTSS among caregivers. Qualitative studies identified themes along each of the five factors of PTG.

Conclusion

Findings overwhelmingly focused on caregiver PTG. Qualitative study findings align with the theoretical model of PTG. Additional research is needed to investigate PTG in siblings of children with a transplant and associations between PTG and medication adherence. This scoping review provides insight into positive change processes following a transplant among children and their caregivers.
Association between maternal cigarette smoking cessation and risk of preterm birth in Western New York
Authors: Zhu Kexin , Shelton James , Li Chan , Mendola Pauline , Barnabei Vanessa M. , Myneni Ajay A. , Giovino Gary A. , Stevens Rebeccah , Taylor Robert N. , Niu Zhongzheng , Mu Lina
Published: April 2024

Background

Although many studies suggested the benefit of smoking cessation among pregnant women in reducing the risk of preterm birth (PTB), the timing of the effect of the cessation remains inconclusive.

Objectives

To examine the association of trimester‐specific smoking cessation behaviours with PTB risk.

Methods

We included 199,453 live births in Western New York between 2004 and 2018. Based on self‐reported cigarette smoking during preconception and in each trimester, we created six mutually exclusive groups: non‐smokers, quitters in each trimester, those who smoked throughout pregnancy, and inconsistent smokers. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Poisson regression to examine the association between smoking cessation and PTB. Effect modification by illegal drug use, maternal age, race and ethnicity and pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was investigated multiplicatively by ratio of relative risk and additively by relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI).

Results

Overall, 6.7% of women had a PTB; 14.1% smoked throughout pregnancy and 3.4%, 1.8% and 0.8% reported quitting smoking during the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. Compared to non‐smokers, third‐trimester cessation (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01, 1.43) and smoking throughout pregnancy (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.21, 1.33) were associated with a higher PTB risk, while quitting smoking during the first or second trimester, or inconsistent smoking was not associated with PTB. A positive additive interaction was identified for maternal age and late smoking cessation or smoking throughout pregnancy on PTB risk (RERI 0.17, 95% CI 0.00, 0.36), and a negative interaction was observed for pre‐pregnancy BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (ratio of relative risk 0.70, 95% CI 0.63, 0.78; RERI −0.42, 95% CI −0.56, −0.30).

Conclusion

Compared to non‐smokers, smoking throughout pregnancy and third‐trimester smoking cessation are associated with an increased risk of PTB, while quitting before the third trimester may not increase PTB risk.
Integrative multi‐omics analysis reveals the crucial biological pathways involved in the adaptive response to NaCl stress in peanut seedlings
Authors: Zhang Nan , Zhang He , Lv Zhenghao , Bai Baiyi , Ren Jingyao , Shi Xiaolong , Kang Shuli , Zhao Xinhua , Yu Haiqiu , Zhao Tianhong
Published: April 2024

Plant growth is restricted by salt stress, which is a significant abiotic factor, particularly during the seedling stage. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms underlying peanut adaptation to salt stress by transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis during the seedling stage. In this study, phenotypic variations of FH23 and NH5, two peanut varieties with contrasting tolerance to salt, changed obviously, with the strongest differences observed at 24 h. FH23 leaves wilted and the membrane system was seriously damaged. A total of 1470 metabolites were identified, with flavonoids being the most common (21.22%). Multi‐omics analyses demonstrated that flavonoid biosynthesis (ko00941), isoflavones biosynthesis (ko00943), and plant hormone signal transduction (ko04075) were key metabolic pathways. The comparison of metabolites in isoflavone biosynthesis pathways of peanut varieties with different salt tolerant levels demonstrated that the accumulation of naringenin and formononetin may be the key metabolite leading to their different tolerance. Using our transcriptomic data, we identified three possible reasons for the difference in salt tolerance between the two varieties: (1) differential expression of LOC112715558 (HIDH) and LOC112709716 (HCT), (2) differential expression of LOC112719763 (PYR/PYL) and LOC112764051 (ABF) in the abscisic acid (ABA) signal transduction pathway, then (3) differential expression of genes encoding JAZ proteins (LOC112696383 and LOC112790545). Key metabolites and candidate genes related to improving the salt tolerance in peanuts were screened to promote the study of the responses of peanuts to NaCl stress and guide their genetic improvement.
Spicing up oak forest restoration: a preliminary report of the protective use of chili peppers in direct seeding of acorns
Authors: Brewster‐Salmones Elisa , Díaz‐García Juan Manuel , López‐Barrera Fabiola
Published: April 2024

Direct sowing of acorns is a technique for oak forest restoration, however, high seed predation by mammals can occur and cost‐effective alternatives to protect acorns are therefore required. The present study evaluated the protection provided by chili peppers (Capsicum annuum and Capsicum pubescens) to acorns of Quercus germana, an endangered endemic oak tree of the cloud forests. Greenhouse and field experiments were established to evaluate the effect of chili peppers on acorn removal, germination, and seedling emergence. These processes were related to the prevalent microhabitat characteristics where the acorns were introduced, and the fauna that consumed chili peppers and acorns was identified using camera traps. In the greenhouse trial, more seedlings emerged from acorns covered by fruits of C. pubescens (65.71 ± 8.14) and C. annuum (57.14 ± 8.49%) compared to unprotected acorns (31.43 ± 7.96%). Contrary to expectation, acorn removal in the field was greater using C. pubescens than the unprotected acorns, particularly in microsites with lower tree cover and higher grass dominance. Acorn removal was similar among chili pepper treatments. These results are explained by the camera trap records, which showed bird species consuming Capsicum fruits, thus exposing the acorns to subsequent removal and/or consumption by rodents. The studied Capsicum fruits had no negative effect on acorn germination and seedling emergence under greenhouse conditions, and future practices could, therefore, involve the use of different techniques to prevent the discovery of chili peppers by birds; for example, using green chili peppers for camouflage, or hiding them under litter or herbaceous vegetation.
The determinants of legislation for radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF‐EMFs) with the onset of 5G: An empirical analysis with a worldwide cross‐sectional dataset
Authors: Recuero Virto Laura , Czerwiński Marek , Froidevaux Jérémy
Published: April 2024

The unprecedented exposure of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF‐EMF) to humans from mobile communications raises serious public concern about the possibility of unexpected adverse health effects and has stimulated authorities to adopt precautionary exposure limits. These limits are distinctly different across countries, and the causes of these differences are unclear from the literature. This article is the first empirical analysis on the determinants of RF‐EMF exposure legislation, using a novel cross‐sectional database of 164 countries worldwide. The analysis shows that decentralization and mobile competition in countries with low mobile network deployment tend to promote more stringent RF‐EMF exposure limits across the dataset with 164 countries. In more decentralized countries, the regions had a greater influence on national legislation and could accommodate local demands with the advent of mobile technology in the 2000s. In contrast, decentralization and mobile competition in countries with high levels of mobile network deployment tend to relax RF‐EMF exposure limits in the sample of 61 countries with fifth‐generation (5G) technology. Indeed, restrictive RF‐EMF exposure limits are constraining 5G deployment in a context of the widespread adoption of mobile‐broadband technologies. These results should be useful for policymakers and mobile operators alike to anticipate the outcome of legislation in countries that have yet to introduce 5G technology. The results should also be useful when reviewing policies and strategies for the implementation of the upcoming 6G technology in frequency bands that will be increasingly higher (above 6 GHz up to THz for very local usage), and hence where the health effects on humans are less well studied.
The impact of rural e‐commerce platforms on the transformation of industrial structure: Evidence from China
Authors: Hong Qianqian , Su Jie
Published: April 2024

The rapid development of rural e‐commerce in China has caught the attention of economists around the world. Through incorporating rural e‐commerce platform into the general equilibrium model, this paper theoretically analyzes the impacts of rural e‐commerce platform on industrial structure and the potential mechanisms. Then, taking the exogenous policy of Comprehensive Demonstration of National E‐commerce into Rural Areas in China as a quasi‐experiment, this paper constructs a staggered difference‐in‐differences model to empirically examine how rural e‐commerce platforms affect the output proportion of nonagricultural sector with samples of 2305 counties in China from 2009 to 2019. The findings indicate that the construction of rural e‐commerce platform promotes the transformation of industrial structure through technological advances and reduction of transaction costs.
CREST syndrome diagnosed by oral lesions: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gilligan Gerardo , Leonardi Nicolás , Sambuelli Gabriela , Panico René
Published: April 2024

Background

Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia (CREST) syndrome is an acronym for the clinical features that are seen. Its etiology is unknown, affecting women three times more than men. CREST syndrome is often diagnosed by systemic symptoms. However, oral manifestations could be helpful in the early diagnosis of the disease. Less than 20 cases of CREST syndrome with oral symptoms were described.

Objective

To report a case of a 26‐year‐old female, who was diagnosed with CREST syndrome based on findings of the oral mucosa.

Case report

Clinical examination revealed sclerodactyly and nail alterations. Oral findings were associated with hypochromic and paleness mucosa. The tongue was strongly rigid and reddish areas compatible with telangiectasias were found. The mouth opening was particularly compromised. Histological findings were suggestive of systemic sclerosis in the context of CREST syndrome. Considering the available diagnosis criteria, this case was diagnosed as CREST syndrome based on oral manifestations.

Conclusions

Oral manifestations of CREST syndrome could help in early clinical diagnosis, preventing a delay in the onset of an aggressive form of the disease. Accurate referrals of patients to specialists are needed for a multidisciplinary approach.
Safety of Prolonged Exposure of Human Skin to Aqueous Ozone in a Test Hand Hygiene Model
Authors: Leon Brian R. , Lubitz Robert M. , Landsberger Sarah A. , Buckingham Hannah D. , Hiday Rachael A. , Bradner K. Nicole , Adaniya Catherine H.
Published: April 2024

Aims

This research assessed the safety of aqueous ozone (AO) on human skin after multiple exposures for up to 40 hours.

Methods and Results

Full thickness recombinant human skin (EpiDerm FT, EFT‐400) was exposed to AO for 7 seconds per minute for the first 6 minutes of each hour, repeated hourly over four time periods (4, 10, 20 and 40 hours). An MTT assay assessed viability of skin cells after exposure, compared to incubator control, negative control and vehicle control (distilled water). No significant difference in tissue viability was found between the AO condition and any of the control conditions through 20 hours of exposures. At 40 hours of exposure, tissue viability was lower in the AO group when compared with negative control (p = 0.030) but not the other controls.

Conclusions

The current study supports further consideration of repeated application of AO on human skin, such as for hand hygiene.

Impact Statement

The present research is the first well‐controlled in vitro study assessing the cytotoxicity of repeated exposures of AO on a full‐thickness human skin model. This information helps to inform the evaluation of AO as a potential alternative for hand and wound antisepsis.
An artificial neural network model for predicting volumetric mass transfer coefficient in the biological aeration unit
Authors: Muloiwa Mpho , Dinka Megersa Olumana , Nyende‐Byakika Stephen
Published: April 2024

The solubility of oxygen in a liquid is limited/restricted by the gas–liquid film that prevents gas from dissolving in wastewater. Oxygen in the biological aeration unit (BAU) is required by microorganisms to survive and eliminate organic and inorganic matter. This study developed a volumetric mass transfer coefficient (KLa) model using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm. The performance of the KLa model was evaluated using coefficient of determination (R2), mean squared error (MSE), and root mean squared error (RMSE). KLa model produced R2 (0.852), MSE (0.0006), and RMSE (0.0245) during the testing phase. Biomass concentration (22.29%), aeration period (20.55%), and temperature (19.63%) contributed the highest towards the KLa model. KLa model showed that the BAU should be operated at high temperatures (35°C), low biomass concentration (1.65 g/L), and low aeration period (1 h) instead of high airflow (30 L/min). Temperature should be included in the modelling of the BAU, to achieve optimum KLa.
Comparative analyses of Agrimonia complete chloroplast genomes with newly assembled chloroplast genomes of A. coreana and A. nipponica (Rosaceae)
Authors: PARK Jongsun , SUH Hwa-Jung , XI Hong
Published: April 2024

The genus Agrimonia L. (1753) is a small group consisting of 19 species and three varieties. We completed two Agrimonia chloroplast genomes, Agrimonia coreana Nakai and Agrimonia nipponica Koidz, collected in Korea and conducted comprehensive analyses of six Agrimonia chloroplast genomes. Two of the Agrimonia chloroplasts genomes have a typical quadripartite structure with lengths ranging from 155,161 bp to 151,362 bp, similar to the remaining AAgrimonia chloroplast genomes. High nucleotide diversity was detected in the ycf1 gene, which can serve as a molecular marker. Intraspecific variations of four A. pilosa chloroplast genomes and interspecific variations of three Agrimonia species revealed that KY419942 is distinct to the other three A. pilosa chloroplast genomes. A phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that KY419942 was clustered with A. nipponica, requiring further analyses to understand Agrimonia species in East Asia. A comparison of simple sequence repeats identified from the six Agrimonia chloroplast genomes suggests potential molecular markers to distinguish species or populations of the same species. Our results define the phylogenetic relationship of three Agrimonia species and provide insight into the intraspecific features of Agrimonia chloroplast genomes with which to gain a better understanding of the genetic structure of Agrimonia species.
Dynamic Behavior of an SOEC System With a Schedule-Based Start-Up and Operating Process
Authors: Lee Dongkeun , Kim Young Sang , Bae Yonggyun , Park Jin Young , Ahn Kook Young
Published: April 2024

The solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) is recognized as a promising method for hydrogen production, attributed to its high efficiency. Steam is split into hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis at high temperatures. Electrolysis is inherently an endothermic process; however, it can be transformed into an exothermic process depending on the operating voltage. During the start-up process, the heat reaction is observed to change from endothermic to exothermic around a thermoneutral voltage. In this study, a dynamic model of the solid oxide electrolyzer system was developed, and the behavior of the system during the start-up process was analyzed. A dynamic model of the stack was developed to investigate the behavior of cell temperature and current density. Furthermore, 1D models of heat exchangers and 0D models of blowers were developed and verified against experimental results. These components were systematically organized and simulated. The temperatures of the stack and components during a schedule-based start-up process were investigated. Additionally, the behavior during the load change process, shifting from an endothermic reaction to an exothermic reaction, was examined. It was found that to reach an operating condition above the thermoneutral voltage, additional heat is required for the stack due to its endothermic reaction. The effect of air on the stack was also found to be dependent on the operating voltage of the stack.
The Lymphatic Vascular System: Does Nonuniform Lymphangion Length Limit Flow-Rate?
Authors: Bertram C. D.
Published: April 2024

A previously developed model of a lymphatic vessel as a chain of lymphangions was investigated to determine whether lymphangions of unequal length reduce pumping relative to a similar chain of equal-length ones. The model incorporates passive elastic and active contractile properties taken from ex vivo measurements, and intravascular lymphatic valves as transvalvular pressure-dependent resistances to flow with hysteresis and transmural pressure-dependent bias to the open state as observed experimentally. Coordination of lymphangion contractions is managed by marrying an autonomous transmural pressure-dependent pacemaker for each lymphangion with bidirectional transmission of activation signals between lymphangions, qualitatively matching empirical observations. With eight lymphangions as used here and many nonlinear constraints, the model is capable of complex outcomes. The expected flow-rate advantage conferred by longer lymphangions everywhere was confirmed. However, the anticipated advantage of uniform lymphangions over those of unequal length, compared in chains of equal overall length, was not found. A wide variety of dynamical outcomes was observed, with the most powerful determinant being the adverse pressure difference, rather than the arrangement of long and short lymphangions. This work suggests that the wide variation in lymphangion length which is commonly observed in collecting lymphatic vessels does not confer disadvantage in pumping lymph.
The Effect of Swirl Number on Lean Blow Out Limits of Lean Direct Injection Combustors
Authors: Aradhey Yogesh , Stroud Zachary , Meadows Joseph
Published: April 2024

This is the first study where a single variable sweep of SN is conducted to assess its impact on lean blowout limits (LBO) in a liquid-fueled lean direct injection (LDI) combustor. This study uses a scaled NASA SV-LDI (Swirl Venturi—Lean Direct Injection) hardware and is concerned with the impact of swirl number on the lean blow-out limit of a single-element LDI system at atmospheric pressure. The swirl numbers (SN) were varied from 0.31 to 0.66 using continuously variable active swirl number control system that was developed in-house. It is shown that the minimum operating equivalence ratio is a linearly increasing function of swirl number. While previous literature agrees with the positive slope for this correlation, past work has suggested that the LBO limit is proportional to the swirler vane angle which is shown to be untrue for LDI systems. By actively varying the swirl number, it is proven that LBO is proportional to SN, and it is well known that SN is not proportional to swirler vane angle. Increased SN reduces LBO margin because the better-mixed, high swirl dilutes locally rich pockets of fuel–air mixture in a globally lean flow. In addition to a baseline venturi, which was scaled from NASA's geometry, two other venturis were tested. A low-pressure loss venturi with a large throat diameter showed poor blow-out performance whereas a parabolically profiled venturi improved LBO over the baseline for the same swirl number.
Identification of the Constitutive and Friction Models Parameters via a Multi-Objective Surrogate-Assisted Algorithm for the Modeling of Machining—Application to Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian Orthogonal Cutting of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Ducobu F. , Kugalur-Palanisamy N. , Briffoteaux G. , Gobert M. , Tuyttens D. , Arrazola P. J. , Rivière-Lorphèvre E.
Published: April 2024

The evolution of high-performance computing facilitates the simulation of manufacturing processes. The prediction accuracy of a numerical model of the cutting process is closely associated with the selection of constitutive and friction models. The reliability and the accuracy of these models highly depend on the value of the parameters involved in the definition of the cutting process. Direct of inverse methods are used to determine these model parameters. However, these identification procedures often neglect the link between the parameters of the material and the friction models. This article introduces a novel approach to inversely identify the best parameters value for both models at the same time and by taking into account multiple cutting conditions in the optimization routine. An artificial intelligence (AI) framework that combines the finite element modeling with an adaptive Bayesian multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (AB-MOEA) is developed, where the objective is to minimize the deviation between the experimental and the numerical results. The arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) formulation and the Ti6Al4V alloy are selected to demonstrate its applicability. The investigation shows that the developed AI platform can identify the best parameters values with low computational time and resources. The identified parameters values predicted the cutting and feed forces within a deviation of less than 4% from the experiments for all the cutting conditions considered in this work.
Computational modeling of a surfatron mode microwave plasma in NH3/N2 for remote radical generation in a silicon native oxide cleaning process
Authors: Barberena-Valencia Juan P. , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: April 2024

Plasma-produced NxHy radicals facilitate the removal of native oxide layers in a semiconductor wafer surface. A remote microwave excited plasma with a NH3–N2 feed gas is used commonly to produce the active radicals. We perform a three-dimensional modeling of a microwave excited plasma operating in a surfatron mode. The device consists of a rectangular waveguide intersecting a quartz tube through which the feed gas flows. We discuss the propagation of a polarized 2.45 GHz microwave from the waveguide into the quartz tube where power is deposited into the plasma. The plasma–wave interaction is found to be highly three dimensional, with a propagating surface mode of the wave established along the dielectric tube plasma interface. Significant heating occurs on the side of the tube that directly faces the incident wave. As the flow carries the plasma-produced species down the tube, species radial profiles become increasingly diffusion controlled and axisymmetric. The dominant radicals that exit the tube are H2 and NH2, with nearly complete conversion of the feed gases to product species. The gas temperature rises above this inlet feed gas temperature and increases with increasing wave power. However, the gas temperature increase is not consequential to the overall radical yield from the plasma. The parametric study with changing pressure and input power illustrates the role of specific chemical reactions in the overall remote plasma process.
Greater Psychophysiological Intensities in Conditioned Games May Impair Technical Performance: An Exploratory Study in Youth Male Soccer Players
Authors: Clemente Filipe Manuel
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to examine the relationships between psychophysiological responses and locomotor demands with variations in technical performance during 2v2 and 4v4 conditioned games and (2) to compare psychophysiological and locomotor responses among players exhibiting higher and lower technical performance levels during the conditioned games. Methods: Twenty-four male youth soccer players (16.3 ± 0.8 y old) participating at the trained/developmental level underwent monitoring for psychophysiological responses (including heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and visual analog scale), locomotor demands (such as distance covered), and technical performance variables (including successful and unsuccessful passes and shots, as well as lost balls) across 2v2 and 4v4 formats. These formats were applied 4 times within a single session and were replicated twice over 2 weeks. Results: Large correlations between the number of lost balls per minute and mean heart rate were found in both the 2v2 and 4v4 games (r = .586 and r = .665, respectively). Successful shots were inversely and largely correlated with mean heart rate (r = −.518) in 4v4 games. The number of interceptions per minute was inversely and significantly correlated with the visual analog scale in 2v2 and 4v4 games (r = −.455 and r = −.710, respectively). The frequency of lost balls was significantly higher among players who attained a higher mean heart rate (2v2: +42.9%, P = .031, d = −0.965; 4v4: +57.1%, P < .001, d = −2.072). Conclusions: Coaches should be aware that highly psychophysiologically demanding scenarios may significantly impair technical performance. Therefore, prioritizing technical performance by deliberately adjusting the intensity should be considered.
A gold speciation that adds a second layer to synergistic gold-copper toxicity in
Cupriavidus metallidurans
Authors: Hirth Niklas , Wiesemann Nicole , Krüger Stephanie , Gerlach Michelle-Sophie , Preußner Kilian , Galea Diana , Herzberg Martin , Große Cornelia , Nies Dietrich H.
Published: April 2024

The metal-resistant bacterium
Cupriavidus metallidurans
occurs in metal-rich environments. In auriferous soils, the bacterium is challenged by a mixture of copper ions and gold complexes, which exert synergistic toxicity. The previously used, self-made Au(III) solution caused a synergistic toxicity of copper and gold that was based on the inhibition of the CupA-mediated efflux of cytoplasmic Cu(I) by Au(I) in this cellular compartment. In this publication, the response of the bacterium to gold and copper was investigated by using a commercially available Au(III) solution instead of the self-made solution. The new solution was five times more toxic than the previously used one. Increased toxicity was accompanied by greater accumulation of gold atoms by the cells. The contribution of copper resistance determinants to the commercially available Au(III) solution and synergistic gold-copper toxicity was studied using single- and multiple-deletion mutants. The commercially available Au(III) solution inhibited periplasmic Cu(I) homeostasis, which is required for the allocation of copper ions to copper-dependent proteins in this compartment. The presence of the gene for the periplasmic Cu(I) and Au(I) oxidase, CopA, decreased the cellular copper and gold content. Transcriptional reporter gene fusions showed that up-regulation of
gig
, encoding a minor contributor to copper resistance, was strictly glutathione dependent. Glutathione was also required to resist synergistic gold-copper toxicity. The new data indicated a second layer of synergistic copper-gold toxicity caused by the commercial Au(III) solution, inhibition of the periplasmic copper homeostasis in addition to the cytoplasmic one.

IMPORTANCE

When living in auriferous soils,
Cupriavidus metallidurans
is not only confronted with synergistic toxicity of copper ions and gold complexes but also by different gold species. A previously used gold solution made by using
aqua regia
resulted in the formation of periplasmic gold nanoparticles, and the cells were protected against gold toxicity by the periplasmic Cu(I) and Au(I) oxidase CopA. To understand the role of different gold species in the environment, another Au(III) solution was commercially acquired. This compound was more toxic due to a higher accumulation of gold atoms by the cells and inhibition of periplasmic Cu(I) homeostasis. Thus, the geo-biochemical conditions might influence Au(III) speciation. The resulting Au(III) species may subsequently interact in different ways with
C. metallidurans
and its copper homeostasis system in the cytoplasm and periplasm. This study reveals that the geochemical conditions may decide whether bacteria are able to form gold nanoparticles or not.