bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Critical care pharmacy service provision and workforce in adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centres: a multicentre cross-sectional survey
Authors: Remmington Christopher , Cameron Lynda , Hanks Fraser , Liang Ya-Hui , Barrow Linda , Coxhead Ruth , Mehta Reena , Bhudia Nisha , Lyster Haifa , Cooke Sarah , Gilmartin James , Lee Phillisa , Sloss Rhona , McKenzie Cathrine 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
There is good evidence describing pharmacy workforce and service provision in general critical care units. However, no data exists from adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) centres.
Aim
To describe workforce characteristics, pharmacy service provision, and pharmaceutical care activities in critical care units providing an adult ECMO service in the United Kingdom (UK), and compare to national staffing standards for critical care units.
Method
We conducted a multicentre, cross-sectional electronic survey inviting one pharmacy professional response per UK ECMO centre.
Results
The survey response rate was 90.9%: representatives of 10/11 tertiary hospitals providing ECMO services responded. The median ratio of critical care pharmacists per critical care bed was 1:12.1 (interquartile range (IQR) – 1:9.4 – 1:14.9). Most centres (90.0%) did not meet national standards for pharmacy professionals to critical care bed staffing ratios for weekday services. Total critical care beds covered by the critical care pharmacy team varied across the UK: median (IQR) – 45 (37-80) beds. Two centres funded pharmacist time for ECMO activity, and one centre funded a pharmacy technician post. Median peak ECMO activity was 4 ECMO patients in a single day (IQR: 3-5). Most respondents reported reduced pharmacy service at weekends compared to weekday, with limited on-site support.
Conclusion
Most responding ECMO centres reported pharmacy staffing ratios below nationally agreed critical care standards. There was high variability in clinical pharmacy services to ECMO patients over 7 days. Future work should address the gap in clinical pharmacy services, the 7-day service and ensure adequate technician provision across each ECMO centre.
Impact Statements
· Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides advanced respiratory and/or cardiac support to patients when conventional therapies on the critical care unit have failed.
· ECMO patients have a high disease severity and pharmaceutical complexity.
· Most responding ECMO centres reported pharmacy staffing ratios below nationally agreed standards.
· High variability exists in clinical pharmacy services to ECMO patients over 7 days.
· Future work should address gaps in clinical pharmacy workforce, including pharmacy technicians and consultant pharmacists, and clinical pharmacy services over 7 days.
High-Speed and Area Efficient Low-Power Dynamic Parity Generator and Parity Checker
Authors: Verma Preeti , Sharma Ajay K , Pandey V. S. , Dhandapani Vaithiyanathan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Strategic detection of an error using a parity generator and parity checker is indispensable and enforces the design engineer to optimize upscale performance. Even advanced modern communication systems can have errors due to losses/noise. This paper brings to light the design of the superior high-speed, low-power 3-bit dynamic parity generator and checker. Two, four, eight, and sixteen-bit XOR gates have been implemented using previous and proposed techniques. The proposed true single-phase dynamic XOR gate builds the parity checker and generator circuits. The proposed dynamic XOR gate, designed 3-bit parity generator, and checker circuits are compared with recently reported techniques. All circuits have been simulated using Cadence Specter on 90nm technology parameters and tested up to 1 GHz of clock frequency. Comparison is made to showcase the superiority of the proposed design in terms of power consumption, propagation delay, PDP (93.8%), EDP (98.8%), number of transistors, the figure of merit, and unity noise gain. This new 3-bit dynamic parity generator and checker would add a colossal perspective for a design engineer.
Understanding the capacity of children with congenital unilateral below-elbow deficiency to actuate their affected muscles
Authors: Battraw Marcus , Fitzgerald Justin , Joiner Wilsaan , James Michelle , Bagley Anita , Schofield Jonathon 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In recent years, commercially available dexterous upper limb prostheses for children have begun to emerge. These devices derive control signals from surface electromyography (measure of affected muscle electrical activity, sEMG) to drive a variety of grasping motions. However, the ability for children with congenital upper limb deficiency to actuate their affected muscles to achieve naturalistic prosthetic control is not well understood, as compared to adults or children with acquired hand loss. To address this gap, we collected sEMG data from 9 congenital one-handed participants ages 8–20 years as they envisioned and attempted to perform 10 different movements with their missing hands. Seven sEMG electrodes were adhered circumferentially around the participant's affected and unaffected limbs and participants mirrored the attempted missing hand motions with their intact side. To analyze the collected sEMG data, we used time and frequency domain analyses. We found that for the majority of participants, attempted hand grasps produced detectable and consistent muscle activity, and the capacity to achieve this was not dissimilar across the affected and unaffected sides. These data suggest that children with congenital hand absence retain a degree of control over their affected muscles, which has important implications for translating and refining advanced prosthetic control technologies for children.
Association between metabolites in tryptophan-kynurenine pathway and inflammatory bowel disease: A two-sample mendelian randomization
Authors: YU FQ , Du Yutong , Li Cong , Zhang Haiyan , Lai Weiming , Li Sheng , Ye Zhenhao , Fu Wenbin , Li Shumin , Li Xiang-Guang , Luo Ding 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Previous observational studies have suggested an association between tryptophan (TRP) -kynurenine (KYN) pathway and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, whether there is a causal relationship among them remains unclear. Therefore, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted to explore the potential causal effects of crucial metabolites in TRP-KYN pathway on IBD and its subtypes. Using summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWASs), a two-sample MR was employed to evaluate the genetic associations between TRP or KYN as exposures and IBD as an outcome. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary MR analysis, with MR–Egger, weighted mode, simple mode, and weighted median methods as complementary analyses. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined for TRP-IBD (OR=0.739, 95% CI: [0.697;0.783]), TRP-UC (OR=0.875, 95% CI: [0.814;0.942]), TRP-CD (OR=0.685, 95% CI: [0.613;0.765]), KYN-IBD (OR=6.872, 95% CI: [3.414-13.835]), KYN- UC (OR =3.023, 95% CI: [1.615-5.657], and KYN-CD (OR=18.449, 95% CI: [7.209-47.209]). Collectively, the MR analysis demonstrated a significant protective association between TRP and IBD, whereas KYN was identified as a risk factor for IBD.
Shape memory hydrogel containing cucurbit[6]uril-carbon dots: unique recognition of metal ions
Authors: Yang Yefang , Huang Xiaoling 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

With the development of industry, more attention has been paid to the detection of metal ions in wastewater, especially with portable detection probes. Here, we prepared a multiple shape memory hydrogel containing cucurbit[6]uril-carbon dots, which can specifically recognize Fe3+ ions and Hg2+ ions. The self-assembly binding mode between CB [6] groups and carbon dots improves the structural stability of the hydrogel. The hydrogel is light yellow in natural light; It shows brown maple in the presence of Fe3+ions and bright white in the presence of Hg2+ions, indicating the adsorption of iron and mercury ions on the hydrogel. The fluorescence quenching of hydrogel is caused by ultraviolet competitive absorption of Fe3+ ions or Hg2+ ions, and the detection limit can reach 10-7 M. This visualized gel probe facilitates the development of portable detection devices. Meanwhile, the dynamic covalent borate bonds, acylhydrazone bonds and reversible crystallization of polyvinyl alcohol chains were used to achieve the shape transformation and excellent mechanical properties of the hydrogel. This supported the need for specific shapes under extreme conditions of detection.
Evaluating the relationship between ocular blood flow and systemic organ blood flow in hemorrhagic shock using a rabbit model
Authors: Watanabe Kento , Shiba Tomoaki , Takahara Akira , Honma Hiroshi , Komatsu Tetsuya , Tanino Yusuke , Nagasawa Yoshinobu , Aimoto Megumi , Hori Yuichi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of utilizing noninvasive ocular blood flow measurements as a potential indicator of systemic circulation in rabbits experiencing hemorrhagic shock. Using Laser Speckle Flowgraphy, ocular blood flow indices, relative flow volume (RFV), and mean blur rate in the choroidal area (MBR-CH) were assessed in New Zealand White rabbits (n = 10) subjected to controlled blood removal and return. Hemodynamic parameters and biochemical markers were monitored alongside ocular circulation during blood removal and return phases. Additionally, correlations between ocular parameters and systemic indices were examined. The results indicated that RFV and MBR-CH exhibited significant correlations with renal and intestinal blood flows, with stronger correlations observed during blood removal. Additionally, ocular blood flow changes closely mirrored systemic dynamics, suggesting its potential as a real-time indicator of shock progression and recovery. These findings indicate that ocular blood flow measurements may serve as real-time indicators of systemic circulation status during hemorrhagic shock, offering potential insights into shock management and guiding tailored interventions. Thus, noninvasive ocular blood flow evaluation holds promise as an innovative tool for assessing systemic circulation dynamics during hemorrhagic shock.
Impact of Ultrasound on the Motion of Compact Particles and Acousto-responsive Microgels
Authors: Stock Sebastian , von Klitzing Regine , Rahimzadeh Amin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In this report, we investigate dynamic light scattering (DLS) from both randomly diffusing silica particles and acousto-responsive microgels in aqueous dispersions under ultrasonic vibration. Employing high-frequency ultrasound (US) with low amplitude ensures that the polymers remain intact without damage. We derive theoretical expressions for the homodyne autocorrelation function, incorporating the US term alongside the diffusion term. Subsequently, we successfully combine US with a conventional DLS system to experimentally characterize compact silica particles and microgels under the influence of US. Our model allows us to extract essential parameters, including particle size, frequency, and amplitude of particle vibration, based on the correlation function of the scattered light intensity. The studies involving non-responsive silica particles demonstrate that US does not disrupt size determination, establishing them as suitable reference systems. Microgels show the same swelling/shrinking behavior as that induced by temperature, but with significantly faster kinetics. The findings of this study have potential applications in various industrial and biomedical fields that benefit from the characterization of macromolecules subjected to US.
Biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction in cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Tanrıverdi Uygur , Gürel Çiğdem Bayram , Ayaz Gülsel , Ulutin Turgut , Arslan Serdar , Kızılkılıç Osman , Gez Sedat , Gündüz Ayşegül , İnce Birsen 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective: Our primary aim was to investigate the relationship between the biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction (ED) using analyzing intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP) and specific clinical findings of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), such as the presence of minor stroke or cognitive impairment. We also performed a correlation analysis between ED biomarkers and neuroimaging markers of cerebral SVD.
Material and Methods: Patients with cerebral SVD were grouped according to their symptoms. We compared the serum biomarkers of ED between patient groups. We also performed a correlation analysis between cerebral SVD biomarkers in neuroimaging and ED biomarkers.
Results: We included 68 patients in this study. Median values of PAI-1, ICAM-1, and ADMA in the whole patient group were abnormally high compared to the reference values of the laboratory. Patients with minor stroke or cognitive deficits had lower levels of PAI-1 than asymptomatic patients, and this finding was more evident in patients with cognitive deficits. Enlarged perivascular spaces in the basal ganglia score positively but slightly correlated with serum ADMA levels.
Conclusions: PAI-1 has a possible neuroprotective effect against the development of cognitive impairment in cerebral SVD. Biomarkers of ED differ according to the severity, and localization of the lesions. There was a specific relationship between ADMA and EPVSs in basal ganglia, -not EPVSs in the centrum semiovale- irrespective of vascular risk factors suggesting EPVSs in the centrum semiovale and basal ganglia may be the product of different pathological processes.
Development of a behavioral assay for testing essential oil repellency with Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Kendziorski Natalie L. , Chen Tse-Yu , Farless Sara , Allan Sandra A. , Smartt Chelsea T. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In the following methods article, an essential oil is implemented in a behavioral assay to function as a spatial repellent. The purpose is to ascertain its effectiveness in repelling the vector mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) based on exposure to volatiles, not contact. A modified dual-choice chamber system was developed to test the efficacy of an essential oil in the presence of an attractant or activator (carbon dioxide). The modified system is composed of 3 glass chambers arranged linearly with 2 metal gates that connect the chambers. The gates can be opened to release mosquitoes from the central chamber and then closed to isolate responding mosquitoes into the treatment or control end chambers. Host-seeking mosquitoes responsive to host stimuli were pre-selected for use in assays to reduce variability. The assay allows for rapid estimation of repellency as each assay is only 10 minutes. Movement of individual mosquitoes is recorded by counting the total number in each chamber. Repellency is determined by calculating the repellent spatial activity index following the guidelines by WHO. The choice chamber assay detected the aversive behavior of thyme oil against three populations of Aedes aegypti. The Vero and Pernambuco populations had higher repellent spatial activity indices compared to the Manatee population. This choice chamber assay system can be used to test any spatial repellent. Additionally, this system may be used to test the repellent properties for other flying host-seeking insects besides mosquitoes. Data gathered from these assays will contribute to entomological knowledge of behavioral cues and responses to spatial repellents.
Chemerin promotes invasion of oral squamous cell carcinoma cancer by stimulating IL-6/TNF-α production via STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Lu Zhiyuan , Liu Jiayu , Wan Quan , Wu Yu , Wu Wanqiu , Chen Yiyang 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Aims:
The primary hallmark of oral cancer is cervical lymph node metastases. Previously, we discovered that elevated serum chemerin levels were related to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with lymph node metastases. However, the mechanisms by which chemerin promotes OSCC metastasis are unknown. In this work, we focused on inflammation to investigate the mechanisms of chemerin-mediated OSCC metastasis.
Methods:
Serum from 10 pairs of OSCC patients with and without cervical lymph node metastases was collected before surgery. A Luminex liquid suspension assay was used to quantify the concentration of 27 different types of cytokines. Chemerin and inflammatory factors were validated by ELISA in both blood serum and cell culture supernatant. The relationship between chemerin and inflammatory factors was analysed. Western blot was used to measure the amount of phosphorylated STAT3 protein expression. Migration and invasion were investigated using the transwell assay.
Results:
Compared with the group without metastases, the levels of IL-6 (P = 0.006), IL-15 (P = 0.020), GM-CSF (P = 0.036), RANTES (P = 0.032), TNF-α (P = 0.005) and VEGF (P = 0.006) were significantly higher in OSCC patients with metastases. Serum chemerin level was found to correlate significantly with IL-6, GM-CSF, TNF-α and VEGF. Furthermore, treatment with recombinant chemerin significantly induced the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α via activation of the STAT3 signalling pathway in OSCC cells. An IL-6/TNF-α neutralising antibody also reduced chemerin-induced migration and invasion of OSCC cells.
Conclusion:
These finding suggested that chemerin contributed to OSCC development might be associated with increasing IL-6 and TNF-α through activation of the STAT3 pathway.
A Data-Driven Framework for Driving Cycle Generation and Analysis
Authors: Keskin Fesih , Yıldız Melih , Arslannur Bircan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper presents a methodology for generating realistic driving cycles using Markov chain modelling, Monte Carlo simulation and dynamic time warping. The study focuses on the construction of a representative driving cycle for the city of Igdir, taking into account its unique traffic characteristics. The methodology involves segmenting the original driving datasets based on traffic conditions and road types, creating a detailed representation of driving behaviour. Dynamic time warping is used to identify reference segments for each group of segments, ensuring accurate matching with the generated driving cycles. The integration of Markov chain-Monte Carlo simulation introduces variability and randomness. The proposed methodology provides an advanced algorithm for generating highly accurate representative driving cycles, which can contribute to energy consumption analysis, vehicle performance and emission evaluation. The comprehensive approach provided by the methodology enables an accurate understanding of driving patterns, promoting the development of sustainable mobility solutions and advancing transport research.
Mechanical properties of compression wood from two fast-growth wood species pretreated with alkaline sulfites
Authors: Ma Duixin , Song Liqin , Wu Qiuping , Fang Huayang , Sun Jianping 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Compressed fast-growing wood has excellent mechanical properties, making it a cheap alternative to solid wood. However, compression without pretreatment can lead to rupture of the cell walls of the wood and even to macroscopically visible cracks. Thus, to minimize damage to fast-growing wood during compression and to increase the compression ratio and density of the wood simultaneously, pretreatment is usually carried out prior to compression. This study investigated the effects of hydrothermal pretreatment and alkaline sulfite pretreatment on the mechanical properties of compression-modified Chinese fir and poplar wood. Comparison of the mass changes and mechanical strength of compressed wood obtained from two wood species after different pretreatments, in addition, their micro-morphology, chemical composition, and cellulose crystallinity were analyzed and evaluated. The results indicate that the density, compressive strength and hardness of compression specimens of fir and poplar reached the highest values after 5h and 3h of alkaline sulfite pretreatment, respectively.
Perspectives of African Stakeholders on Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination: A Multi-Country Survey
Authors: Finda Marceline F. , Juma Elijah O. , Kahamba Najat F. , Mthawanji Rhosheen S. , Sambo Maganga , Emidi Basiliana , Wiener Susan , O’Brochta David , Santos Michael , James Stephanie , O Okumu Fredros 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
Gene drive modified mosquitoes (GDMMs) have the potential to address Africa's persistent malaria problem but are still in early stages of development and testing. Continuous engagement of African stakeholders is crucial for successful research and implementation of these technologies. The aim of this multi-country study was therefore to explore the insights and recommendations of key stakeholders across Africa on the potential of GDMMs for malaria control and elimination in the continent.
Methods
A concurrent mixed-methods study design was used; involving a structured survey administered to 180 stakeholders in 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by 18 in-depth discussions with selected groups and individuals. Stakeholders were drawn from academia, research and regulatory institutions, government ministries of health and environment, media and advocacy groups. Thematic content analysis was used to identify key topics from the in-depth discussions, and descriptive analysis was done to summarize information from the survey data.
Results
Despite high levels of awareness of GDMMs among the stakeholders (76.7%), there was a relatively low-level of understanding of their potential applications for malaria control (28.3%). The majority of respondents (92.9%) also expressed support for field trials or implementation of GDMMs in their respective countries. When more information about GDMMs was provided to the stakeholders, they readily discussed their insights and concerns, and offered several recommendations to ensure successful research and implementation of the technology. These included: i) increasing relevant technical expertise within Africa, ii) generating local evidence on safety, applicability, and effectiveness of GDMMs, and iii) developing country-specific regulations for safe and effective governance of GDMMs. This study also identified significant misconceptions regarding the phase of GDMM testing in Africa, as numerous participants incorrectly asserted that gene drive mosquitoes were already present in Africa, either within laboratories or released into the field.
Conclusion
Incorporating views and recommendations of African stakeholders in the ongoing research and development of GDMMs is crucial for instilling stakeholder confidence on their potential application. These findings will enable improved planning for GDMMs in Africa as well as improved target product profiles for the technologies to maximize their potential for solving Africa’s enduring malaria challenge.