bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the antioxidant realm of green tea: From extraction to fortification
Authors: Parvez Sadaf , Wani Idrees Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Green tea, a widely consumed beverage with a long history of traditional use has garned renewed scientific interest due to its potential health benefits. Unlike other tea types, green tea undergoes minimal oxidation and thus preserving its potent catechins and antioxidant properties. This review devels into the fascinating chemistry of green tea, exploring how processing steps like fixation and rolling, shape its distinct profile. We will further explore the potential health benefits associated with green tea consumption, acknowledging the existing research focus on tea polyphenols and aiming to provide a broader perspective on its potential health impact. Finally, the review examines the emerging application of green tea extract fortification in food matrices. This innovative approach offers exciting possibilities for enhancing food stability and sensory appeal while potentially contributing to a range of health benefits.
Time from admission to randomization and the effect of empagliflozin in acute heart failure: A post‐hoc analysis from EMPULSE
Authors: Ferreira João Pedro , Blatchford Jonathan P. , Teerlink John R. , Kosiborod Mikhail N. , Angermann Christiane E. , Biegus Jan , Collins Sean P. , Tromp Jasper , Nassif Michael E. , Psotka Mitchell A. , Comin‐Colet Josep , Mentz Robert J. , Brueckmann Martina , Nordaby Matias , Ponikowski Piotr , Voors Adriaan A.
Published: July 2024

Aims

Patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (HF) could be enrolled in EMPULSE (NCT04157751) upon haemodynamic stabilization and between 24 h and 5 days after hospital admission. The timing of treatment initiation may influence the efficacy and safety of drugs such as empagliflozin. The aim of this study was to evaluate patient characteristics, clinical events, and treatment effects according to time from admission to randomization.

Methods and results

The EMPULSE population was dichotomized by median time from hospital admission to randomization (1–2 days vs. 3–5 days). The primary outcome was a hierarchical composite endpoint of time to all‐cause death, number of HF events, time to first HF event, and a ≥5‐point difference in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire total symptom score change from baseline after 90 days, analysed using the win ratio (WR) method. Patients randomized later (3–5 days, average time 3.9 days; n = 312) had a higher risk of experiencing clinical events than patients randomized earlier (1–2 days, average time 1.7 days; n = 215). The treatment effect favoured empagliflozin versus placebo in patients randomized later (3–5 days: WR 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26–2.25) but was attenuated in patients randomized earlier (1–2 days: WR 1.04, 95% CI 0.74–1.44) (interaction p = 0.029). A similar pattern was observed for the composite of HF hospitalization or cardiovascular death and all‐cause hospitalizations (interaction p < 0.1 for both). The reduction of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels was more pronounced with empagliflozin among patients randomized later than in patients randomized earlier (interaction p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Among patients hospitalized for acute HF enrolled in EMPULSE, those randomized later after hospital admission (3–5 days) experienced greater clinical benefit with empagliflozin than those randomized earlier (1–2 days). These findings should be confirmed in future studies before clinical application.
Organocatalyzed Asymmetric Cascade Michael/Michael Reaction of α‐Alkylidene Succinimides with a 2‐(Trifluoromethylmethylene)indane‐1,3‐dione
Authors: Tsuyusaki Ryo , Nakashima Kosuke , Matsushima Yasuyuki , Hirashima Shin‐ichi , Miura Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2024

A diaminomethylenemalononitrile organocatalyst efficiently promoted asymmetric cascade Michael/Michael reactions between a 2‐(trifluoromethylmethylene)indane‐1,3‐dione derivative and α‐alkylidene succinimides, resulting in spiroindane‐1,3‐dione derivatives. These derivatives feature four consecutive carbon stereocenters, including one stereocenter with a trifluoromethyl substituent, and were formed in high yield with excellent enantioselectivity (up to 94 % ee). This study marks the first successful example of using methyleneindane‐1,3‐dione derivatives, bearing alkoxycarbonyl and trifluoromethyl groups at the β‐position, as Michael acceptors.
Plant‐assisted synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles for catalytic degradation of methyl orange dye and electrochemical sensing of nitrite
Authors: Husnaa Mohd Taib Siti , Moozarm Nia Pooria , Rasit Ali Roshafima , Izadiyan Zahra , Izzah Tarmizi Zatil , Shameli Kamyar
Published: July 2024

The present study details a more environmentally friendly method for synthesizing iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐NPs) utilizing Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa) leaf extract. The produced H. sabdariffa/Fe3O4‐NPs underwent characterization through VSM, XRD, FESEM‐EDX, TEM and FTIR analyses. The FESEM and TEM images revealed that the H. sabdariffa/Fe3O4‐NPs had a narrow distribution and an average particle size of 5±2 nm. Catalytic degradation studies of the synthesized Fe3O4‐NPs exhibited efficient reduction of methyl orange (MO) dye. The degradation of MO catalysed by H. sabdariffa/Fe3O4‐NPs follow the pseudo‐first order kinetics, with a rate constant of 0.0328 s−1 (R2=0.9866). Moreover, in electrochemical sensing studies, the anodic peak current of nitrite (NO2−) for H. sabdariffa/Fe3O4‐NPs/GCE showed a linear relationship with its concentration within the range of 0.5–7.5 mM, achieving a detection limit of 0.29 μM. These findings demonstrate that the modified electrode with Fe3O4‐NPs synthesized using H. sabdariffa leaf extract serve as a novel electrochemical sensor for determining NO2− with high sensitivity and reproducibility.
Estimating the spatial distribution of the white shark in the Mediterranean Sea via an integrated species distribution model accounting for physical barriers
Authors: Panunzi Greta , Moro Stefano , Marques Isa , Martino Sara , Colloca Francesco , Ferretti Francesco , Jona Lasinio Giovanna
Published: July 2024

Conserving oceanic apex predators, such as sharks, is of utmost importance. However, scant abundance and distribution data often challenge understanding the population status of many threatened species. Occurrence records are often scarce and opportunistic, and fieldwork aimed to retrieve additional data is expensive and prone to failure. Integrating various data sources becomes crucial to developing species distribution models for informed sampling and conservation purposes. The white shark, for example, is a rare but persistent inhabitant of the Mediterranean Sea. Here, it is considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN, while population abundance, distribution patterns, and habitat use are still poorly known. This study uses available occurrence records from 1985 to 2021 from diverse sources to construct a spatial log‐Gaussian Cox process, with data‐source specific detection functions and thinning, and accounting for physical barriers. This model estimates white shark presence intensity alongside uncertainty through a Bayesian approach with Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) and the inlabru R package. For the first time, we projected species occurrence hot spots and landscapes of relative abundance (continuous measure of animal density in space) throughout the Mediterranean Sea. This approach can be used with other rare species for which presence‐only data from different sources are available.
First Record of Malformation in Seahorses Attributed to the Oil Spill off the Brazilian Coast in 2019
Authors: Silveira Rosana B. , Santos Silva José R. , Silva Renan B. , Santos Giovanni A. P.
Published: July 2024

In 2019, there was an environmental catastrophe in Brazil, when more than 5000 tons of unknown origin crude oil invaded beaches and mangroves. Two years later, two monitoring areas were selected to study seahorses’ offspring: Massangana River estuary (apparently healthy area) and Cocaia Island (affected area). Thirty-six reproductive events of Hippocampus reidi (Syngnathidae) couples from these two areas were monitored to analyze the offspring. At the apparently healthy area, no newborns with malformations were found. However, the offspring from Cocaia Island showed a mean of 19.73% (±5.23) malformations in newborns. It is argued that the toxic/teratogenic effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have affected the population in two ways: directly through the induction of mutations in the germ cells of the species and through a drastic reduction of the population (bottleneck effect) whose density observed today recovered through consanguineous couplings, potentiating deleterious genotypes in the offspring. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1996–2004. © 2024 SETAC

(A) Apparently Healthy Area-Massangana River; (B) Impacted Nursey-Cocaia Island, Ipojuca, Pernambuco, Brazil.
Human Behavior and Harvest Regulations: Challenges and Opportunities for Fisheries Managers
Authors: Bailey Paul E. , Fincel Mark J. , Kaemingk Mark A.
Published: July 2024

Harvest regulation is one of the primary tools that natural resource managers use to manage exploited fish and wildlife populations. Unfortunately, the desired results of harvest regulations are frequently not realized. We contend that a broader and more thorough understanding of anglers could improve the success of harvest regulations. Using a case study from an interstate U.S. fishery for Walleye Sander vitreus, we demonstrate the counterintuitive responses anglers exhibited to differing Walleye harvest regulations. Three possible reasons are explored, using theories from social–science disciplines, to explain why anglers released a greater proportion of larger Walleye under a more liberalized harvest regulation: (1) harvest regulations serving as goals for anglers, (2) resolution of cognitive dissonance provided by restrictive harvest regulations, and (3) the perceived “value” assigned to specific fish or wildlife entity by harvest regulations. We conclude by discussing how taking an interdisciplinary approach (e.g., sociology, psychology, economics) to understanding angler behavior could be an exciting frontier for fisheries management and how this approach specifically holds promise for improving the success of harvest regulations.
Antioxidant, anticancer, and anti‐inflammatory potential of Moringa seed and Moringa seed oil: A comprehensive approach
Authors: Shahbaz Muhammad , Naeem Hammad , Batool Maryam , Imran Muhammad , Hussain Muzzamal , Mujtaba Ahmed , Alsagaby Suliman A. , Al Abdulmonem Waleed , El‐Ghorab Ahmed H. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Shaker Mohamed E. , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Al Jbawi Entessar
Published: July 2024

Moringa oleifera, a widely recognized plant more commonly known as moringa, has obtained significant research interest in recent years due to its prospective physiological advantages, including its claimed ability to counteract carcinogenesis. The moringa plant has been found to possess bioactive components that exhibit promising anticancer activities against different human cancers, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, etc. The cytotoxic properties of moringa seed extracts on cancerous cells have also been provided in this paper along with other notable health benefits. The extracts derived from moringa seeds inhibit cancer proliferation and promote cancer cell apoptosis through multiple signaling pathways. They also stimulated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and subsequently induced caspase‐3 activity. The impact of moringin and avenanthramide 2f on the stimulation of caspases 2, 4, 8, and 9 results in reduction in the proliferation of cancer cells. The results reported by research studies hold significant implications for identifying and targeting specific molecular entities that could serve as potential therapeutic targets in search of effective cancer treatments. Furthermore, the flavonoids in moringa seed can remove mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, protecting beta cells and bringing hyperglycemia under control. M. oleifera seed oil can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases via reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and modulation of cardiac superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. This article provides a comprehensive summary of the noteworthy discoveries derived from a rigorous investigation that explored into the impact of moringa seeds on the prevention/reduction of various cancers and other complex diseases.
Reliability of variability and complexity measures for task and task‐free BOLD fMRI
Authors: Wehrheim Maren H. , Faskowitz Joshua , Schubert Anna‐Lena , Fiebach Christian J.
Published: July 2024

Brain activity continuously fluctuates over time, even if the brain is in controlled (e.g., experimentally induced) states. Recent years have seen an increasing interest in understanding the complexity of these temporal variations, for example with respect to developmental changes in brain function or between‐person differences in healthy and clinical populations. However, the psychometric reliability of brain signal variability and complexity measures—which is an important precondition for robust individual differences as well as longitudinal research—is not yet sufficiently studied. We examined reliability (split‐half correlations) and test–retest correlations for task‐free (resting‐state) BOLD fMRI as well as split‐half correlations for seven functional task data sets from the Human Connectome Project to evaluate their reliability. We observed good to excellent split‐half reliability for temporal variability measures derived from rest and task fMRI activation time series (standard deviation, mean absolute successive difference, mean squared successive difference), and moderate test–retest correlations for the same variability measures under rest conditions. Brain signal complexity estimates (several entropy and dimensionality measures) showed moderate to good reliabilities under both, rest and task activation conditions. We calculated the same measures also for time‐resolved (dynamic) functional connectivity time series and observed moderate to good reliabilities for variability measures, but poor reliabilities for complexity measures derived from functional connectivity time series. Global (i.e., mean across cortical regions) measures tended to show higher reliability than region‐specific variability or complexity estimates. Larger subcortical regions showed similar reliability as cortical regions, but small regions showed lower reliability, especially for complexity measures. Lastly, we also show that reliability scores are only minorly dependent on differences in scan length and replicate our results across different parcellation and denoising strategies. These results suggest that the variability and complexity of BOLD activation time series are robust measures well‐suited for individual differences research. Temporal variability of global functional connectivity over time provides an important novel approach to robustly quantifying the dynamics of brain function.

Practitioner Points

Variability and complexity measures of BOLD activation show good split‐half reliability and moderate test–retest reliability.

Measures of variability of global functional connectivity over time can robustly quantify neural dynamics.

Length of fMRI data has only a minor effect on reliability.
Single parenthood and depression: A thorough review of current understanding
Authors: Kareem Odunayo M. , Oduoye Malik O. , Bhattacharjee Priyadarshini , Kumar Danisha , Zuhair Varisha , Dave Tirth , Irfan Hamza , Taraphdar Soaham , Ali Saiyad , Orbih Onoshioze M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Single parenthood is becoming increasingly common in today's society for various reasons such as divorce, the death of a spouse, or the choice of parenthood. Regrettably, there seems to be no significant concern among world leaders regarding depression arising from single parenting.

Aim

This article aimed to explore the prevalence of depression in single parents, the factors contributing to it, and its effects on their physical and emotional well‐being. Additionally, it aims to investigate the long‐lasting effects of depression in single parents, effective therapeutic approaches to tackle these issues and offer proactive suggestions for relevant global stakeholders.

Methodology

A selection of studies was identified through electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO databases. The search strategy encompassed terms related to single parenthood, depression, mental health, prevalence, risk factors, and treatment modalities. Included studies comprised of peer‐reviewed research articles, systematic reviews, meta‐analyses, and observational studies published in English.

Result

Today, there is a growing prevalence of single parenthood due to a range of factors, including divorce, the loss of a partner, and intentional decisions regarding single parenthood. However, this transition comes with challenges, including the risk of developing depression. Depression is a serious mental health condition affecting many individuals worldwide. Raising a child alone increases the likelihood of developing depression for the parent due to the increased burden and responsibilities. Such parents tend to have low self‐esteem, suicide/suicide attempts, and so forth and children born by those parents are vulnerable to depression, physical abuse, infections, etc.

Conclusion

Future research should focus on identifying effective interventions for treating depression among single parents and improving the availability of mental health facilities for this vulnerable population, especially in places with a high prevalence of depression. Mental health physicians in collaboration with obstetricians and gynecologists across the globe should offer counseling and mediation services during pre‐conception care visits for both single and partnered parents.
Hybrid care potential of teledermatology: The importance of linking digital and physical practice and acceptance of online services: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hindelang Michael , Tizek Linda , Harders Christiane , Sommer‐Eska Leonie
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Telemedicine, including teledermatology, has become a central component of modern medicine. Its importance, especially during the COVID‐19 pandemic, underlines its potential to optimize access to dermatological care. The study aims to assess the potential of teledermatology, understand the importance of linking digital and physical practices, and analyze the adoption of online services based on participants' demographic and experiential factors.

Methods

This cross‐sectional survey was conducted among users of the telemedicine platform from July 2022 to March 2023. The platform ("OnlineDoctor") allows users to contact dermatologists for remote dermatological consultations. The survey included questions about the participants' dermatological concerns, their reasons for using teledermatology, their satisfaction with the recommendations and their willingness to continue using telemedicine in the future. Data was collected via the RedCap online platform. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were carried out.

Results

Overall, 1141 people participated in the study (mean age 44.0 years [SD 14.6], 61.4% women). Results showed that 52.7% of participants with skin conditions had not consulted a dermatologist in the previous year. Shorter waiting times and the lack of face‐to‐face appointments were the main reasons for using the online platform. In total, 77.6% (n = 885) of participants indicated they would use teledermatology as their first choice if they had an upcoming skin condition. Age, gender, and satisfaction with previous consultations impacted the use of teledermatology as the first choice for future skin conditions.

Conclusion

Teledermatology is characterized by various benefits, including reduced waiting times and improved accessibility to treatment. Nevertheless, the study underscores the importance of a hybrid care approach involving direct interaction with physicians. Teledermatology can be transformative in meeting dermatologic needs, mainly when traditional face‐to‐face consultation is limited. A deep understanding of user preferences and widespread adoption of digital services can pave the way for the successful adoption of teledermatology platforms, improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency.
The scientist/practitioner in behavior analysis: A case study
Authors: Sidman Murray
Published: July 2024

This article is a transcription of Murray Sidman's presentation at the annual meeting of the Society for the Quantitative Analysis of Behavior in May 1998. It describes the development (from 1965 to 1975) of behavior‐change programs implemented outside the animal laboratory to benefit humans before such application was established formally as an entity derived from the experimental analysis of behavior. The presentation illustrates the use of an inductive method in practice, where working with a fluid behavior stream entails making intervention decisions on the spot. Examples include fading and backward‐chaining procedures in the establishment and stimulus control of novel actions. Sidman also discusses the certification of practitioners and the interaction between client and therapist and between basic and applied endeavors. The latter define what is contemporaneously described as translational intervention. It is noteworthy that Sidman's presentation was at a meeting attended by both practitioners and scientists.
A multi‐institutional survey of apheresis services among institutions in the United States
Authors: Yurtsever Nalan , Jacobs Jeremy W. , Booth Garrett S. , Schwartz Joseph , Park Yara A. , Woo Jennifer S. , Lauro Deisen , Torres Sarina , Ward Dawn C. , Stephens Laura D. , Allen Elizabeth S. , Tormey Christopher A. , Adkins Brian D.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Apheresis practices in the United States (US) have not been comprehensively characterized to date. This study aimed to address this gap by evaluating apheresis therapy through a national survey.

Methods

A multi‐institutional survey was conducted between April and July 2023. The survey, comprising 54 questions, focused on institutional demographics, procedures, equipment, staffing, training, and impacts of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Responses from 22 institutions, primarily academic medical centers, were analyzed.

Results

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was the most common procedure, followed by hematopoietic progenitor cell collection (HPC‐A) and red blood cell exchange (RCE). CAR‐T cell collections were widespread, with some institutions supporting over 30 protocols concurrently. Most sites used the Spectra Optia Apheresis System, were managed by a transfusion medicine service, and employed internal apheresis providers. Insufficient staffing levels, exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, were common and most often addressed using overtime.

Discussion

The survey highlighted the ubiquity of TPE, expanding cellular collections and staffing challenges. The role of apheresis in supporting cellular therapy, particularly in newly developing cell and gene therapies and clinical trials, was evident. Staffing issues during the pandemic emphasized the need for innovative recruitment strategies.

Conclusion

This nationwide survey provides the most comprehensive analysis to date of apheresis practices in large US academic centers.
Icariin attenuates asthmatic airway inflammation via modulating alveolar macrophage activation based on network pharmacology and in vivo experiments
Authors: Zhu Xiaofei , Wang Bin , Yu Hang , Li Congcong , Zhao Yuhang , Zhong Yuanyuan , Tang Weifeng , Zhou Yaolong , Huang Xi , Zhu Huahe , Wu Yueren , Yang Kai , Wei Ying , Gao Zhen , Dong Jingcheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Icariin (ICA) inhibits inflammatory response in various diseases, but the mechanism underlying ICA treating airway inflammation in asthma needs further understood. We aimed to predict and validate the potential targets of ICA against asthma‐associated airway inflammation using network pharmacology and experiments.

Methods

The ovalbumin‐induced asthma‐associated airway inflammation mice model was established. The effects of ICA were evaluated by behavioral, airway hyperresponsiveness, lung pathological changes, inflammatory cell and cytokines counts. Next, the corresponding targets of ICA were mined via the SEA, CTD, HERB, PharmMapper, Symmap database and the literature. Pubmed‐Gene and GeneCards databases were used to screen asthma and airway inflammation‐related targets. The overlapping targets were used to build an interaction network, analyze gene ontology and enrich pathways. Subsequently, flow cytometry, quantitative real‐time PCR and western blotting were employed for validation.

Results

ICA alleviated the airway inflammation of asthma; 402 targets of ICA, 5136 targets of asthma and 4531 targets of airway inflammation were screened; 216 overlapping targets were matched and predicted ICA possesses the potential to modulate asthmatic airway inflammation by macrophage activation/polarization. Additionally, ICA decreased M1 but elevated M2. Potential targets that were disrupted by asthma inflammation were restored by ICA treatment.

Conclusions

ICA alleviates airway inflammation in asthma by inhibiting the M1 polarization of alveolar macrophages, which is related to metabolic reprogramming. Jun, Jak2, Syk, Tnf, Aldh2, Aldh9a1, Nos1, Nos2 and Nos3 represent potential targets of therapeutic intervention. The present study enhances understanding of the anti‐airway inflammation effects of ICA, especially in asthma.
Maximum odd induced subgraph of a graph concerning its chromatic number
Authors: Wang Tao , Wu Baoyindureng
Published: July 2024

Let be the maximum order of an odd induced subgraph of . In 1992, Scott proposed a conjecture that for a graph of order without isolated vertices, where is the chromatic number of . In this paper, we show that the conjecture is not true for bipartite graphs, but is true for all line graphs. In addition, we also disprove a conjecture of Berman, Wang, and Wargo in 1997, which states that for a connected graph of order . Scott's conjecture is open for graphs with chromatic number at least 3.
Cervical cancer prevention and care in HIV clinics across sub‐Saharan Africa: results of a facility‐based survey
Authors: Asangbeh‐Kerman Serra Lem , Davidović Maša , Taghavi Katayoun , Dhokotera Tafadzwa , Manasyan Albert , Sharma Anjali , Jaquet Antoine , Musick Beverly , Twizere Christella , Chimbetete Cleophas , Murenzi Gad , Tweya Hannock , Muhairwe Josephine , Wools‐Kaloustian Kara , Technau Karl‐Gunter , Anastos Kathryn , Yotebieng Marcel , Jousse Marielle , Ezechi Oliver , Orang'o Omenge , Bosomprah Samuel , Pierre Boni Simon , Basu Partha , Bohlius Julia ,   IeDEA
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

To eliminate cervical cancer (CC), access to and quality of prevention and care services must be monitored, particularly for women living with HIV (WLHIV). We assessed implementation practices in HIV clinics across sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) to identify gaps in the care cascade and used aggregated patient data to populate cascades for WLHIV attending HIV clinics.

METHODS

Our facility‐based survey was administered between November 2020 and July 2021 in 30 HIV clinics across SSA that participate in the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium. We performed a qualitative site‐level assessment of CC prevention and care services and analysed data from routine care of WLHIV in SSA.

RESULTS

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was offered in 33% of sites. Referral for CC diagnosis (42%) and treatment (70%) was common, but not free at about 50% of sites. Most sites had electronic health information systems (90%), but data to inform indicators to monitor global targets for CC elimination in WLHIV were not routinely collected in these sites. Data were collected routinely in only 36% of sites that offered HPV vaccination, 33% of sites that offered cervical screening and 20% of sites that offered pre‐cancer and CC treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Though CC prevention and care services have long been available in some HIV clinics across SSA, patient and programme monitoring need to be improved. Countries should consider leveraging their existing health information systems and use monitoring tools provided by the World Health Organization to improve CC prevention programmes and access, and to track their progress towards the goal of eliminating CC.
MRI Assessment of Diastolic Dysfunction in People Living With the Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Correlation With Markers of Disease Activity
Authors: Zheng Yue , Ding Haibo , Huo Huaibi , Peng Xin , Zhou Jie , Li Han , Hou Yang , Li Xiaolin , Geng Wenqing , Shang Hong , Liu Ting
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite the advent of combination antiretroviral therapy, people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) are at an increased risk for cardiac disease.

Purpose

To explore the presence and extent of diastolic atrial and left ventricular dysfunction in PLWH using cardiac MRI in correlation with clinical markers of disease activity.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A total of 163 participants comprising 101 HIV‐infected individuals (age: 52 years [42–62 years]; 92% male) and 62 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers (age: 51 years [30–72 years]; 85% male).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T, cardiac MRI including balanced steady‐state free precession (SSFP) for the short‐axis, two‐, three‐, and four‐chamber views were performed.

Assessment

Assessment of cardiac function and strain analysis were accomplished by CVI42 software. Blood samples for CD4+ T cells and cardiac risk factors were also collected before MRI.

Statistical Tests

Independent t tests, Mann–Whitney U test, Pearson's correlation analysis, and multivariate linear analyses (significance level: P < 0.05).

Results

PLWH had a significantly larger left atrial volume maximum index (LAVImax: 32.6 ± 8.7 vs. 28.7 ± 8.1 mL/m2), minimum (LAVImin: 14.8 ± 5.5 vs. 11.5 ± 5.4 mL/m2,), and prior to atrial contraction (LAVIpre‐a: 23.4 ± 6.7 vs. 19.7 ± 7.2 mL/m2) as compared to healthy volunteers. The LA reservoir (LAtEF: 55.0 ± 10.2 vs. 61.4 ± 10.4; Sls: 29.0 ± 8.1 vs. 33.8 ± 11.8), conduit (LApEF: 28.4 ± 8.2 vs. 32.3 ± 11.3, P = 0.01; Sle: 16.3 ± 6.5 vs. 18.9 ± 8.2), and booster pump function (LAaEF: 37.4 ± 12.4 vs. 42.7 ± 13.1, P = 0.01, Sla: 12.7 ± 5.1 vs. 14.9 ± 5.7) were all significant impaired in PLWH. Global circumferential left ventricular diastolic strain rate (LVGCS‐d) was significantly lower in the HIV patients. Multivariate analysis results showed that Nadir CD4+ T cells had a significant adverse association with LVGCS‐d (β = 0.51).

Conclusion

LA structure abnormalities and LV diastolic dysfunction were manifested in PLWH, with Nadir CD4+ T cell counts potentially serving as a risk factor for early cardiac diastolic dysfunction.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Unraveling the Impact of Team Performance‐Prove Goal Orientation on Employee Creative Performance Through a Transactional Stress Theory Framework
Authors: Li Huan , Hou Qinghui , Mu Ren , Wang Yating , Yang Yating
Published: July 2024

Although research on team performance‐prove goal orientation (TPPGO) has flourished, there remains a scarcity of studies investigating its impact on individual performance. Drawing upon transactional stress theory, our study aims to explore the dual nature of the influence exerted by TPPGO on employee creative performance. Employing a multi‐level regression analysis of 369 two‐stage, multi‐source matched questionnaire responses, we find that challenge appraisal serves as a mediator in the relation between TPPGO and creative performance, while threat appraisal acts as a conditional mediator. Furthermore, subjective goal difficulty moderates the effect of TPPGO on both challenge and threat appraisals, thereby transmitting the positive and negative impacts of TPPGO on creative performance, respectively. Our findings contribute to the existing research by enriching the understanding of how TPPGO impacts creative performance, including its explanatory mechanisms and boundary conditions. Additionally, this study offers valuable suggestions for managers in setting team goals from a dialectical perspective.
Survival and pulmonary function in stage IA non‐small cell lung cancer after sublobar resection versus lobectomy: An updated meta‐analysis
Authors: Mamede Isadora , Ribeiro Leonardo , Stecca Carlos , Escalante‐Romero Lorena , Cypel Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, lobectomy was standard for stage IA non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recent RCTs suggest sublobar resection's comparable outcomes. Our meta‐analysis, incorporating 30 studies (including four RCTs), assessed sublobar resection's efficacy. Employing a random‐effects model and I2 statistics for heterogeneity, we found sublobar resection reduced DFS (HR 1.31, p < 0.01) and OS (HR 1.27, p < 0.01) overall. However, RCT subgroup analysis showed no significant differences in DFS (p = 0.28) or OS (p = 0.62). Sublobar resection is a viable option for well‐selected patients.
The Thermal Energy Storage Characteristics of Oleic Acid Modified ZnO‐Decorated Polymer Matrix‐Supported Composite Phase Change Materials: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: MERT Mehmet Selçuk , MERT Hatice Hande
Published: July 2024

In this study, modified nano zinc oxide (ZnO)‐reinforced polymer‐supported novel thermally enhanced form‐stable composite phase change materials (PCMs) are presented, which are prepared via water in oil emulsion polymerization and following impregnation process steps. First, ZnO nanoparticles are modified with oleic acid (OA) to obtain lipophilic structures for emulsion stability, which are designed to take a role as a heat transfer activator. To ensure the shape stabilization of n‐hexadecane used as organic PCM, polymeric support materials are synthesized in the presence of modified ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO@OA). The polymeric frameworks exhibit open porous morphology, and the thermal stability of the support matrix improves with the addition of ZnO nanofiller. In the second step, composite PCMs are prepared by incorporation of n‐hexadecane with the solvent‐assisted vacuum impregnation method into polymer composites. The 1.0% ZnO@OA incorporated composite PCM has the highest incorporation ratio and exhibits a thermal storage capability (η) of 100%. According to the T‐history and thermal conductivity tests, it is observed that the heat conduction rate is enhanced with the addition of ZnO@OA nanofiller. The conclusion is that the obtained ZnO@OA integrated composite PCMs have a remarkable potential for latent heat storage applications requiring low temperature in the range of 5–25 °C.
Polyhedral Vinyl Polymer Particles Synthesized Via Solvent‐Free Radical Polymerization
Authors: Yoshida Tatsuro , Aoki Shoichiro , Hirai Tomoyasu , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Fujii Syuji
Published: July 2024

Liquid marbles (LMs) with a cubic shape are created by using various vinyl monomers as an inner liquid and polymer plates with mm size as a stabilizer. The relationship between the surface tension of the vinyl monomers and formability of the LMs is investigated. LMs can be fabricated using vinyl monomers with surface tensions of 42.7–40.3 mN m−1. The cubic polymer particles are successively synthesized via free‐radical polymerizations by irradiation of the cubic LMs with UV light in a solvent‐free manner. In addition, controlling the number of polymer plates per one LM, the shape of the plate or the coalescence of the LMs can lead to production of polymer particles with desired forms (e.g., Platonic and rectangular solids) that correspond to the shapes of the original LMs.
Research on performance enhancement scheme of optical camera communication based on adaptive exponential weighted moving average algorithm
Authors: Jia Wenyang , Tian Ming , Feng Jinliang
Published: July 2024

When the COMS camera of optical camera communication (OCC) system acquired the information image, the grayscale value of pixels fluctuated due to the influence of blooming effect and light noise, so that the data logic could not be correctly judged by the decision threshold, which affected the bit error rate (BER) performance  transmission distance and data rate, and degraded the system performance. In this paper, the adaptive exponential weighted moving average algorithm  is proposed, and the optimal grayscale value matrix of signal demodulation is verified by experiment, so as to reduce the fluctuation of grayscale value and improve the performance of OCC system. The experimental results show that for data processing and analysis based on ZYNQ7020 experimental platform, a 7% forward error correction（BER = 3.8 × 10−3）requirements can be satisfied at 150 cm when the data rate is 3 Kbps, and a 7% forward error correction（BER = 3.8 × 10−3）requirements can be satisfied at 100 cm when the data rate is 5 Kbps.
Machine learning‐based CT radiomics enhances bladder cancer staging predictions: A comparative study of clinical, radiomics, and combined models
Authors: Xiong Situ , Fu Zhehong , Deng Zhikang , Li Sheng , Zhan Xiangpeng , Zheng Fuchun , Yang Hailang , Liu Xiaoqiang , Xu Songhui , Liu Hao , Fan Bing , Dong Wentao , Song Yanping , Fu Bin
Published: July 2024

Background

Predicting the accurate preoperative staging of bladder cancer (BLCA), which markedly affects treatment decisions and patient outcomes, using traditional clinical parameters is challenging. Nevertheless, emerging studies in radiomics, especially machine learning‐based computed tomography (CT) image‐based radiomics, hold promise in improving stage prediction accuracy in various tumors. However, the comparative performance and clinical utility of models for BLCA are under investigation.

Purpose

We aimed to investigate the application value of machine learning‐based CT radiomics in preoperative staging prediction by comparing the performance of clinical, radiomics, and clinical–radiomics combined models.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 105 patients with initial BLCA was randomized into training (70%) and testing (30%) cohorts. Radiomics features were extracted from CT images using the optimal feature filter, followed by the application of the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm for optimum feature selection. Furthermore, machine learning algorithms were used to establish a radiomics model within the training cohort. Independent risk factors for muscle‐invasive BLCA (MIBC) obtained by multivariate logistic regression (LR) analysis were separately used to construct a clinical model. For a clinical–radiomics fusion model, radiomics features were combined with clinical parameters. Performance was evaluated based on receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and standard performance metrics.

Results

Patients exhibited a significantly higher age (p = 0.029), larger tumor size (p = 0.01), and an increased neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR; p = 0.045) in the MIBC group than in the NMIBC group. LR analysis revealed age (p = 0.026), tumor size (p = 0.007), and NLR (p = 0.019) as significant predictors for constructing the clinical model. In the testing cohort, the radiomics model, which used an Support Vector Machine classifier, achieved the highest area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.857. The clinical–radiomics model outperformed the remaining two models, with AUC values of 0.958 and 0.893 in the training and testing cohorts, respectively. DeLong's test indicated significant differences between the three models. Calibration curves showed good agreement, and DCA confirmed the superior clinical utility of the clinical–radiomics model.

Conclusions

Machine learning‐based CT radiomics combined with clinical parameters was a promising approach in staging BLCA accurately, which outperformed the individual models. Integrating radiomics features with clinical information holds the potential to improve personalized treatment planning and patient outcomes in BLCA.
Randomized low‐rank approximation of parameter‐dependent matrices
Authors: Kressner Daniel , Lam Hei Yin
Published: July 2024

This work considers the low‐rank approximation of a matrix depending on a parameter in a compact set . Application areas that give rise to such problems include computational statistics and dynamical systems. Randomized algorithms are an increasingly popular approach for performing low‐rank approximation and they usually proceed by multiplying the matrix with random dimension reduction matrices (DRMs). Applying such algorithms directly to would involve different, independent DRMs for every , which is not only expensive but also leads to inherently non‐smooth approximations. In this work, we propose to use constant DRMs, that is, is multiplied with the same DRM for every . The resulting parameter‐dependent extensions of two popular randomized algorithms, the randomized singular value decomposition and the generalized Nyström method, are computationally attractive, especially when admits an affine linear decomposition with respect to . We perform a probabilistic analysis for both algorithms, deriving bounds on the expected value as well as failure probabilities for the approximation error when using Gaussian random DRMs. Both, the theoretical results and numerical experiments, show that the use of constant DRMs does not impair their effectiveness; our methods reliably return quasi‐best low‐rank approximations.
Experiences of healthcare providers and caregivers regarding health system bottlenecks affecting child healthcare service delivery in a rural district: Empirical qualitative study
Authors: Nyande Felix Kwasi , Ricks Esmeralda , Williams Margaret , Jardien‐Baboo Sihaam
Published: July 2024

Aim

To explore the experiences of nurses and caregivers about the health system bottlenecks to the delivery of child healthcare services in a rural district in Ghana.

Design

The study employed a qualitative approach using an exploratory, descriptive design.

Methods

Collection of data was through semi‐structured, face‐to‐face interviews with 26 participants in the Nkwanta South Municipality, Ghana. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed qualitatively. Inductive codes generated were organised into themes and sub‐themes.

Results

The main health system bottlenecks that emerged were the poor state of in‐patient facilities, inadequate basic logistics and persistent shortage of essential medicines needed for child healthcare delivery.

Conclusions

Health system bottlenecks have the tendency to affect the treatment and hospitalisation outcomes of sick children and eventually impact the state of child healthcare negatively. Concerted efforts by government and local authorities to remove these barriers will help to improve child health and child health outcomes.

Public Contribution

A total of 26 participants comprising nurses and caregivers, agreed and participated in this study. Interviews with these participants were conducts either in the health facilities or in the communities where they live. Their responses contributed significantly to the content of this article.
Molecular beam scattering from flat jets of liquid dodecane and water
Authors: Yang Walt , Foreman Madison M. , Saric Steven , Wodtke Alec M. , Wilson Kevin R. , Neumark Daniel M.
Published: July 2024

Molecular beam experiments in which gas molecules are scattered from liquids provide detailed, microscopic perspectives on the gas–liquid interface. Extending these methods to volatile liquids while maintaining the ability to measure product energy and angular distributions presents a significant challenge. The incorporation of flat liquid jets into molecular beam scattering experiments in our laboratory has allowed us to demonstrate their utility in uncovering dynamics in this complex chemical environment. Here, we summarize recent work on the evaporation and scattering of Ne, CD4, ND3, and D2O from a dodecane flat liquid jet and present first results on the evaporation and scattering of Ar from a cold salty water jet. In the evaporation experiments, Maxwell–Boltzmann flux distributions with a cosθ angular distribution are observed. Scattering experiments reveal both impulsive scattering (IS) and trapping followed by thermal desorption (TD). Super‐specular scattering is observed for all four species scattered from dodecane and is attributed to anisotropic momentum transfer to the liquid surface. In the IS channel, rotational excitation of the polyatomic scatterers is a significant energy sink, and these species accommodate more readily on the dodecane surface compared to Ne. Our preliminary results on cold salty water jets suggest that Ar atoms undergo some vapor‐phase collisions when evaporating from the liquid surface. Initial scattering experiments characterize the mechanisms of Ar interacting with an aqueous jet, allowing for comparison to dodecane systems.

Key Points

Molecular beam scattering from flat liquid jets is a powerful technique to elucidate mechanistic detail at the gas–liquid interface.

Previous dodecane scattering experiments have uncovered angularly‐resolved thermal desorption fractions and energy transfer at the interface for several small molecule scatterers.

Preliminary results on scattering from cold salty water reveal mechanisms of interaction between argon and an aqueous jet.
Synergistic effect of multifunctional POSS and carbon nanotubes on mechanical properties and thermal stability of silicone rubber composites
Authors: Peng Junjie , Wang Ge , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2024

The over‐loading of heat‐resistant fillers in silicone rubber creates a contradiction between heat resistance and mechanical properties, thus greatly limiting the durability of silicone rubber products in cutting‐edge applications and complex scenarios. To address this issue, silicone rubber was filled with octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) and crosslinked with 2,5‐dimethyl‐2,5‐di(tert‐butylperoxy)hexane (DBPMH) in an attempt to obtain composites with excellent mechanical properties and great thermal stability. Optical microscopy and X‐ray diffraction analyses revealed the size of POSS crystals decreased and the characteristic peaks disappeared after the peroxide crosslinked the polymer at elevated temperature. Specifically, silicone rubber composite filled with 0.1 phr POSS and 1.0 phr CNT exhibited a tensile strength of 10.2 MPa and elongation at a break of 450%. Further, the strength and elongation could be kept after thermo‐oxidative aging at 250°C for 32 h. Thermogravimetric analysis results demonstrate that the addition of POSS and CNT into silicone rubber exhibits a synergistic effect, markedly improving the thermal stability of the material. This method provides a valuable reference for manufacturing silicone rubber products that possess both excellent mechanical properties and high thermal stability under extreme working conditions.

Highlights

A novel silicone rubber composite with excellent mechanical properties and thermal stability was prepared.

A small amount of octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and carbon nanotubes exhibited a synergistic effect to improve thermal stability.

The dependence of the morphological evolution of POSS crystals in SR on the 2,5‐dimethyl‐2,5‐di(tert‐butylperoxy)hexane and temperature was studied.