Cs Levels Research Articles

Magmatic-hydrothermal evolution of the Dangba rare-metal granitic pegmatites in the Songpan–Ganzê orogenic belt, Eastern Tibet: Insights from muscovite and columbite-group minerals

Rare-metal granitic pegmatites are commonly considered to be the results of a combination of magmatic and hydrothermal processes. Although magmatic crystallization and fractionation, and magmatic-hydrothermal transition have been extensively investigated, the processes related economically valuable mineralization of rare-metals and strong fractionation of geochemical twins remain controversial. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the geochemical evolution of rare-metal mineralized pegmatites, focusing on the mineral chemistry of muscovite and columbite-group minerals (CGM) from the Dangba rare-metal granitic pegmatites in the Songpan–Ganzê orogenic belt. Our findings suggest that the random orientation growth of spodumene crystals and widespread distribution of disordered columbite-group minerals crystals are indicative of lithium saturation in the initial melt at the Dangba No. VII dike. Magmatic fractionation is indicated by gradually increasing ratios of alkali metals (K/Rb ratios) and Ta# (Ta/(Ta + Nb)) in muscovite and CGM, and is proposed to be an important factor for enrichment of rare-metals. During the magmatic-hydrothermal transition, muscovite from metasomatism of spodumene exhibits similar or slightly higher levels of Li, Rb, and Cs, compared to primary muscovite, but shows strong depletion of Ta, Nb, Sn, and W. Alteration of primary minerals (e.g., spodumene, alkali feldspar, and columbite-group minerals) results in the release of these elements into the reactive media (melt/fluid) during the metasomatism. This process ultimately leads to the depletion of rare metals in the early crystallized minerals. However, this process is advantageous for the subsequent mineralization of Ta and Nb, as well as their fractionation. The chemical compositions of exsolved aqueous fluid are influenced by the mineralogy of pegmatites and the partitioning behavior between melt and fluid. Furthermore, pervasive albitization serves as an exploration criterion for Li–Ta–Nb in the Ke'eryin Orefield.

Association of plasma metals with resting-state functional connectivity in ischemic stroke

BackgroundMetal exposure has long been considered a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke. However, existing data on the effects of metal exposure on brain function in ischemic stroke are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the correlation between exposure to various metals and changes in resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC) in ischemic stroke patients. MethodsThis study included 28 acute ischemic stroke patients with hemiplegia and 28 matched healthy controls (HCs). All participants underwent T1-weighted MRI and 3.0 T resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). After MRI acquisition, the rs-FC between 137 cortical and subcortical regions was extracted and preprocessed. Plasma levels of 19 metals were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model and the weighted quantile sum regression (WQS) model were used to assess the overall effect of metal mixture exposure. The severity of neurological deficits in each acute ischemic stroke patient was evaluated using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Additionally, the associations between exposure to various metals and modifications in brain functional connectivity were determined using Pearson or Spearman correlation analysis. ResultsBilateral brain connectivity was significantly decreased compared to controls and was associated with neurological impairment in ischemic stroke. In patients with ischemic stroke, the plasma concentrations of Cr (p < 0.001), Cu (p = 0.004), As (p = 0.010), Cs (p = 0.046), Rb (p = 0.041), and Sb (p = 0.001) were significantly higher than those in the HCs, whereas the plasma Tl concentrations (p = 0.022) were significantly lower. The results of the BKMR and WQS models showed that combined exposure to metal mixtures was linked to a higher risk of ischemic stroke. Cr was positively correlated with the rs-FC between the left Rolandic_Oper and the left Supp_Motor_Area (r = 0.414, p = 0.029), while negatively correlated with the rs-FC between the right Parietal_Inf and the left supramarginal (r = −0.398, p = 0.037). Cu was negatively correlated with the rs-FC between the left paracentral lobule and the left thalamus (r = −0.409, p = 0.031). Tl was positively correlated with the rs-FC between the right Parietal_Inf and the left supramarginal cortex (r = 0.590, p = 0.001). A negative correlation was observed between Cs and rs-FC between the right Cingulate_Mid and left Occipital_Sup (r = −0.429, p = 0.024). Sb was negatively correlated with the rs-FC between the left Parietal_Inf and the right SupraMarginal (r = −0.384, p = 0.044), the right Parietal_Inf and the left SupraMarginal (r = −0.583, p = 0.001), and the left SupraMarginal and the right SupraMarginal (r = −0.377, p = 0.048). ConclusionPlasma levels of Cr, Cu, Tl, Cs, and Sb were associated with altered rs-FC in brain regions related to motor control, sensory integration, executive function, language processing, and emotional regulation in ischemic stroke patients with basal ganglia infarction.

Distribution, risk evaluation, and source allocation of cesium and strontium in surface soil in a mining city.

Radioactive nuclides cesium (Cs) and strontium (Sr) possess long half-lives, with 135Cs at approximately 2.3 million years and 87Sr at about 49 billion years. Their persistent accumulation can result in long-lasting radioactive contamination of soil ecosystems. This study employed geo-accumulation index (Igeo), pollution load index (PLI), potential ecological risk index (PEPI), health risk assessment model (HRA), and Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the pollution and health risks of Cs and Sr in the surface soil of different functional areas in a typical mining city in China. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model was used to elucidate the potential sources of Cs and Sr and the respective contribution rates of natural and anthropogenic sources. The findings indicate that soils in the mining area exhibited significantly higher levels of Cs and Sr pollution compared to smelting factory area, agricultural area, and urban residential area. Strontium did not pose a potential ecological risk in any studied functional area. The non-carcinogenic health risk of Sr to the human body in the study area was relatively low. Because of the lack of parameters for Cs, the potential ecological and human health risks of Cs was not calculated. The primary source of Cs in the soil was identified as the parent material from which the soil developed, while Sr mainly originated from associated contamination caused by mining activities. This research provides data for the control of Cs and Sr pollution in the surface soil of mining city.

Development of a composite MoS2/PEI nanofiltration membrane for radionuclides efficient removal from aquatic environments

The simultaneously efficient removal of radionuclides and heavy metals is an important and challenging topic for aquatic environmental protection. In this work, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with heavy metal ion adsorption capacity and positively charged polyethyleneimine (PEI) were used to fabricate a novel layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly composite membrane by a simple alternating immersion method. The unique structure with positive charge ensures high removal for toxic metals (RCs(I) = 99.83 %, RSr(II) = 100 %, RHg(II) = 99.2 %, RPb(II) = 98.13 %, RAs(III) = 98.5 %). The inherent low resistance channels in MoS2 provided the optimized composite membrane an elevated water flux. Long-term experiments and membrane regeneration also demonstrated that the membrane possesses exceptional stability and reusability in removing low levels of radionuclides Cs(I) and Sr(II) from water. This study confirms the feasibility of the MoS2-PEI composite membrane for the treatment of contaminated waters containing radionuclides and heavy metals.

The Balanced Score Card as a Predictor of Supply Chain Improvement for ACES Peru, 2022

The application of Balance Score Card (BSC) and Supply Chain (SC) as structured methods of strategic analysis is scarce and controversial in the business management of some companies, except in large industries competing in the globalized market. The objective of the study was to analyze the Balance Score Card as a predictive tool to improve the Supply Chain (SC) of the company ACES Peru, 2022. The study evaluates the BSC variables and the five dimensions of the CS variable: Supply, production, storage, transportation and distribution, a total of 24 items on a Likert scale. A total of 260 responses were collected from those who participated in the survey. Statistically, exploratory factor analysis, Varimax factorial rotation, KMO, CFI, TLI and RSMA tests were used. The results show that BSC was not a significant predictor of CS; however, the BSC variable is a significant predictor of the dimensions of the CS variable. In these circumstances the BSC model assumes the role of evaluator of the management strategies developed in ACES and improver of the predictor level of CS and its dimensions. Received: 1 December 2023 / Accepted: 7 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

Relationships between trace elements and cognitive and depressive behaviors in sprague dawley and wistar albino rats.

Introduction: This study investigates the effects of social isolation on mental health and cognitive functions in Sprague Dawley (SD) and Wistar Albino (WIS) rat strains, prompted by the heightened awareness of such impacts amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the impact of social isolation on memory, learning, and behavioral changes in middle-aged SD and WIS rat strains and to investigate cortical trace element levels, seeking potential correlations between these levels and the observed behavioral responses to social isolation. Methods: Four groups of 14-month-old male rats were established: control and isolated SDs and WIS rats (CONT-SD, ISO-SD, CONT-WIS, ISO-WIS). Morris Water Maze and Porsolt Forced Swimming tests were conducted for behavioral assessment. Following behavioral tests, rats were sacrificed under general anesthesia, and cortices were isolated for analysis of macro and trace element levels (ICP/MS). Results: In behavioral tests, CONT-SD rats exhibited superior performance in the Morris Water Maze test compared to CONT-WIS rats, but displayed increased depressive behaviors following social isolation, as evident in the Porsolt Forced Swimming test (p < 0.05). ISO-SD rats showed elevated levels of Co and Cu, along with reduced levels of Cs and As, compared to ISO-WIS rats. Moreover, isolation resulted in decreased Cu and Mo levels but increased Rb levels in WIS rats. Comparison of trace element levels in naïve groups from different strains revealed lower Zn levels in the WIS group compared to SD rats. Discussion: The findings suggest that the SD strain learns faster, but is more susceptible to depression after isolation compared to the WIS strain. Increased Co and Cu levels in ISO-SD align with previous findings, indicating potential trace element involvement in stress responses. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for preventive treatment strategies or therapeutic targets against the consequences of stressors, contributing to research and measures promoting a balanced diet to mitigate neurobehavioral abnormalities associated with social isolation in the future.

Adaptation of Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi) to different levels of dietary carbohydrates

The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of dietary carbohydrate on growth performance, feed utilization, proximate compositions, and hepatic glucolipid metabolism in Chinese perch. Triplicate groups of Chinese perch (29.51 ± 0.24 g) were fed five isonitrogenous and isolipidic diets containing graded levels of carbohydrate (2.4%, 9.7%, 16.5%, 23.9%, and 30.1%) for 8 weeks. The results based on second-order polynomial regression analysis of specific growth rate (SGR) proved that Chinese perch obtained the best growth performance at the 10.93% dietary carbohydrate level. Compared to 2.4%-carbohydrate group, 9.7%-carbohydrate group exhibited the increase in daily weight gain (DWG) and protein retention ratio (PER) and the decrease in feed conversion efficiency (FCR). Moreover, 9.7%-carbohydrate group showed the increase in the mRNA levels of pfk and cs involved in aerobic oxidation pathway, the content of liver glycogen increased significantly, and no change in glucose level. Above results suggested that a part of carbohydrates may be converted into energy for growth by aerobic oxidation pathway, or converted into glycogen for storage to maintain glucose homeostasis in Chinese perch fed with moderate-carbohydrate diet. Differently, 23.9%-carbohydrate and 30.1%-carbohydrate groups showed the decrease in DWG and PER, and the increase in FCR, compared to 2.4%-carbohydrate group. Additionally, 23.9%-carbohydrate and 30.1%-carbohydrate group presented the increase in the mRNA levels of g6pca and pc involved in gluconeogenesis, which caused the increase in plasma glucose level. However, other plasma indices related to TG-metabolite and its transport (total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein) did not show difference, which combined with elevated fatty acid synthesis-related gene accα mRNA level resulted in excessive liver lipid deposition. Above results indicated that unregulated gluconeogenesis and invalid outward transportation of liver TG-rich metabolites may account for the glucose intolerance of Chinese perch fed with carbohydrate-rich diet. Furthermore, compared to the results from the 4th week, the expression of gk, pfk, pc, cs, and accα genes significantly increased in the 30.1%-carbohydrate group at the 8th week. Both liver and muscle exhibited a significant elevation in crude fat content, while Daily DWG experienced a noticeable decrease. These results indicated that the glucose metabolism and growth of Chinese perch in the high-carbohydrate group are influenced by the interaction of feeding duration and carbohydrate levels. And within a certain time frame, Chinese perch can tolerate a diet rich in carbohydrates.

Acute Exercise Promptly Normalizes Myocardial Myosin Heavy-Chain Isoform mRNA Composition in Diabetic Rats: Implications for Diabetic Cardiomyopathy.

Background and Objectives: The acute effects of exercise on the myosin heavy-chain (MHC) isoform mRNA expression and the upstream transcription factors in diabetic and non-diabetic hearts remain unexplored. We aimed to determine the acute effect of a single exercise session on the expression of left ventricular MHC, MHC-α and MHC-β, and thyroid receptor (TR), TR-α1 and TR-β, isoform mRNA in diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to four groups: non-diabetic control (CS), diabetic exercise (DIEX), sedentary diabetic (DIS), and non-diabetic exercise (CEX). Diabetes was induced via streptozotocin injection (55 mg/kg). DIEX and CEX rats performed an exercise session (60 min at 50 m/min and 0% grade) 6-7 weeks after diabetes induction. Results: MHC-α mRNA was lower in DIS (p = 0.03) and not different in DIEX (p = 0.1) relative to CS. DIS showed higher MHC-β mRNA than the non-diabetic rats, CS and CEX (p = 0.02 and p = 0.009, respectively). MHC-β mRNA in DIEX was normalized to non-diabetic levels in CS (p = 0.3). TR-α1 was higher in DIS and not different in DIEX relative to CS and CEX (p = 0.03 and p = 1.0, respectively). In CEX, exercise did not change MHC-α, MHC-β, and TR-α1 relative to CS (p = 1.0). TR-β was not different between groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, exercise appears to acutely normalize the myocardial MHC and TR isoform mRNA expression only in the diabetic heart. These responses may induce therapeutic mechanisms other than changing the MHC isoform composition.

Transfer, transportation, and adsorption of UV-B by Mg-N co doped carbon quantum dots: Response of growth indicators, antioxidant effect and mechanism explanation

Mg and N co-doped carbon quantum dots (Mg-N-CQDs) were synthesized and applied to alleviate oxygen toxicity by UV-B radiation and enhance antioxidative responses to wheat seedlings. It showed that Mg-N-CQDs pre-treatment attenuated the UV-B stress effects in a dose-dependent manner, as indicated by enhancing the characteristics of seed germination and early seedling growth parameters. Meanwhile, Mg-N-CQDs can be applied in plant nutrient solutions with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other fertilizers to promote the growth of seedlings. Furthermore, efficient antioxidant systems, chlorophyll content, and stability of fluorescence intensity were activated by Mg-N-CQDs pre-treatment, which effectively increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD), and eliminate the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide, and the production rate of superoxide anion radical in the roots and germs, thereby preventing oxidative damage from UV-B stress. Notably, Mg-N-CQDs pre-treatment significantly increased the expression of related genes to improve the antioxidant capacity of roots and germs, resulting in an increased level of ATPS, CS, and GS. The mechanism study indicated that amino and hydroxyl groups and Mg, N modified CQDs could broaden the light absorption range of CQDs and improve the ability to convert blue light and ultraviolet rays to visible light, which was the main reason why Mg-N-CQDs could relieve wheat seedlings from ultraviolet stress. Therefore, Mg-N-CQDs could serve as a regulator to reduce the damage of UV-B, laying the foundation for their application in environmental protection and agricultural production.

Moderate Effects of Hypoxic Training at Low and Supramaximal Intensities on Skeletal Muscle Metabolic Gene Expression in Mice.

The muscle molecular adaptations to different exercise intensities in combination with hypoxia are not well understood. This study investigated the effect of low- and supramaximal-intensity hypoxic training on muscle metabolic gene expression in mice. C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups: sedentary and training. Training consisted of 4 weeks at low or supramaximal intensity, either in normoxia or hypoxia (FiO2 = 0.13). The expression levels of genes involved in the hypoxia signaling pathway (Hif1a and Vegfa), the metabolism of glucose (Gys1, Glut4, Hk2, Pfk, and Pkm1), lactate (Ldha, Mct1, Mct4, Pdh, and Pdk4) and lipid (Cd36, Fabp3, Ucp2, Hsl, and Mcad), and mitochondrial energy metabolism and biogenesis (mtNd1, mtNd6, CytC, CytB, Pgc1a, Pgc1β, Nrf1, Tfam, and Cs) were determined in the gastrocnemius muscle. No physical performance improvement was observed between groups. In normoxia, supramaximal intensity training caused upregulation of major genes involved in the transport of glucose and lactate, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis, while low intensity training had a minor effect. The exposure to hypoxia changed the expression of some genes in the sedentary mice but had a moderate effect in trained mice compared to respective normoxic mice. In hypoxic groups, low-intensity training increased the mRNA levels of Mcad and Cs, while supramaximal intensity training decreased the mRNA levels of Mct1 and Mct4. The results indicate that hypoxic training, regardless of exercise intensity, has a moderate effect on muscle metabolic gene expression in healthy mice.

Effects of Treadmill Running at Different Light Cycles in Mice with Metabolic Disorders.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus accounts for about 90% of cases of diabetes and is considered one of the most important problems of our time. Despite a significant number of studies on glucose metabolism, the molecular mechanisms of its regulation in health and disease remain insufficiently studied. That is why non-drug treatment of metabolic disorders is of great relevance, including physical activity. Metabolic changes under the influence of physical activity are very complex and are still difficult to understand. This study aims to deepen the understanding of the effect of physical exercise on metabolic changes in mice with diabetes mellitus. We studied the effect of forced treadmill running on body weight and metabolic parameters in mice with metabolic disorders. We developed a high-fat-diet-induced diabetic model of metabolic disorders. We exposed mice to forced treadmill running for 4 weeks. We determined glucose and insulin levels in the blood plasma biochemically and analyzed Glut-4 and citrate synthase in M. gastrocnemius muscle tissue using Western blotting. The research results show that daily treadmill running has different effects on different age groups of mice with metabolic disorders. In young-age animals, forced running has a more pronounced effect on body weight. At week 12, young obese mice had a 17% decrease in body weight. Body weight did not change in old mice. Moreover, at weeks 14 and 16, the decrease in body weight was more significant in the young mice (by 17%) compared to the old mice (by 6%) (p < 0.05). In older animals, it influences the rate of glucose uptake. At 60 min, the blood glucose in the exercised older mice decreased to 14.46 mmol/L, while the glucose concentration in the non-exercised group remained at 17 mmol/L. By 120 min, in mice subjected to exercise, the blood glucose approached the initial value (6.92 mmol/L) and amounted to 8.35 mmol/L. In the non-exercised group, this difference was 45%. The effects of physical activity depend on the time of day. The greater effect is observed when performing shift training or exercise during the time when animals are passive (light phase). In young mice, light phase training had a significant effect on increasing the content of Glut-4 in muscle tissue (84.3 ± 11.3%, p < 0.05 with control group-59.3 ± 7.8%). In aged mice, shift training caused an increase in the level of Glut-4 in muscle tissue (71.3 ± 4.1%, p < 0.05 with control group-56.4 ± 10,9%). In the group of aged mice, a lower CS level was noticed in all groups in comparison with young mice. It should also be noted that we observed that CS increased during exercise in the group of young mice, especially during light phase training. The CS content in the light phase subgroup (135.8 ± 7.0%) was higher than in the dark phase subgroup (113.3 ± 7.7%) (p = 0.0006). The CS decreased in aged chow-fed mice and increased in the high-fat-fed group. The CS content in the chow diet group (58.2 ± 5.0%) was 38% lower than in the HFD group (94.9 ± 8.8%).

Anatomical Features of Patients with Recurrent Dislocation of the Peroneal Tendons

Category: Hindfoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: The occurrence of peroneal tendon dislocation (PTD) may be influenced by anatomical variations in the peroneal muscles and ankle lateral malleolus. One such factor is peroneal groove crowding, which can result from increased muscle and tendons bulk within the peroneal tendon sheath. Another potential factor is the shape of the retromalleolar groove, which determines the inherent stability of the tendons in the groove. This study aims to examine the anatomical variations of the retromalleolar groove and peroneal muscles in patients with and without recurrent PTD (RPTD) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Methods: This study included 30 patients (30 ankles) with recurrent PTD who underwent both MRI and CT before surgery (PD group) and 30 age- and sex-matched patients (control (CN) group) who underwent MRI and CT. The imaging was reviewed at the level of the tibial plafond (TP level) and the center slice between the TP and the fibula tip (CS level). CT images were used to assess the appearance of a malleolar groove (convex, concave, or flat) and the posterior tilting angle of the fibula. MRI images were used to assess the appearance of accessory peroneal muscles, height of the peroneus brevis muscle belly, and volume of the peroneal muscle and tendons. Low-lying muscle belly (LLMB) of the PB was defined as when the musculotendinous junction extended beyond the tip. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare continuous variables, and Fisher’s exact test was used to compare nominal variables. Results: There were no differences in the appearance of the malleolar groove, posterior tilting angle of the fibula, or accessory peroneal muscles at the TP and CS levels between the PD and CN groups. However, the peroneal muscle ratio was significantly higher in the PD group than in the CN group at both levels (both p&lt; 0.001). The peroneal tendons ratio was not significantly different between the groups at both levels. The height of the peroneus brevis muscle belly was significantly lower in the PD group than in the CN group (p=0.001). LLMB of the PB was identified in 19 patients (63.3%) in the PD group and in eight patients (26.7%) in the CN group (p=0.009). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that LLMB of the PB and the peroneal muscle ratio are significantly related to RPTD, whereas retromalleolar bony morphology is not. Therefore, maintaining proper volume in the peroneal tunnel is more important than the groove shape. Reduction of the muscle belly of the peroneus brevis during RPTD surgery may help prevent peroneal tendon dislocation.

On the Witten index of 3d $\mathcal{N}=2$ unitary SQCD with general CS levels

We consider unitary SQCD, a three-dimensional \mathcal{N}=2𝒩=2 supersymmetric Chern-Simons-matter theory consisting of one U(N_c)_{k, k+l N_c}U(Nc)k,k+lNc vector multiplet coupled to n_fnf fundamental and n_ana antifundamental chiral multiplets, where kk and ll parameterise generic CS levels for U(N_c)=(SU(N_c)\times U(1))/\mathbb{Z}_{N_c}U(Nc)=(SU(Nc)×U(1))/ℤNc. We study the moduli space of vacua of this theory with n_a=0na=0, for generic values of the parameters N_c, k, l, n_fNc,k,l,nf and with a non-zero Fayet-Ilopoulos parameter turned on. We uncover a rich pattern of vacua including Higgs, topological and hybrid phases. This allows us to derive a closed-form formula for the flavoured Witten index of unitary SQCD for any n_f\neq n_anf≠na, generalising previously known results for either l=0 or n_f=n_anf=na. Finally, we analyse the vacuum structure of recently proposed infrared-dual gauge theories and we match vacua across the dualities, thus providing intricate new checks of those dualities. Incidentally, we also discuss a seemingly new level/rank duality for pure CS theories with U(N) x U(N’) gauge group.

Motivation and Compassion Satisfaction of Volunteer Bereavement Photographers: A Mixed Methods Study

Research into the use of bereavement photography is limited and the experiences of volunteer photographers remains understudied. For families with perinatal loss, bereavement photography allows for lasting mementos of a child and facilitates the maintenance of continuing bonds. This study investigated bereavement photographers’ reasons for volunteering, factors predicting their compassion satisfaction, and the support and retention of volunteer photographers. Utilizing a mixed methods design, 141 Australian and New Zealand volunteer bereavement photographers completed the Volunteer Motivation Inventory. The strongest motivators for volunteering related to Values, Reciprocity and Recognition. The results concur with other research showing altruistic motivation has the greatest influence on becoming a volunteer in end of life services. Moderate to high levels of Compassion Satisfaction were found on the Professional Quality of Life Scale Version 5. Support from the volunteering organization and a higher number of photography sessions with families predicted higher Compassion Satisfaction. Additionally, 31 photographers participated in semi-structured interviews. Motivators for volunteering identified by the thematic analysis were: Giving Back, Being Appreciated, Healing Past Grief, and Satisfaction with the Organization. Overall, the findings suggested that providing sensitive supportive care, experiencing positive interactions with families, feeling supported, and having a sense of purpose led to higher levels of CS.

The associations of non-essential metal mixture with fasting plasma glucose among Chinese older adults without diabetes.

The evidence about the effect of non-essential metal mixture on fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels among older adults without diabetes is limited. This study aims to estimate the individual and joint relationship between five non-essential metals and FPG levels in Chinese older adults without diabetes. This study included 2362 older adults without diabetes. Urinary concentrations of five non-essential metals, i.e., cesium (Cs), aluminum (Al), thallium (Tl), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As), were detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The associations of single metals and the metal mixture with FPG levels were assessed using linear regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models, respectively. Adjusted single-metal linear regression models showed positive associations of urinary Al (β = 0.016, 95%CI: 0.001-0.030) and Cs (β = 0.018, 95%CI: 0.006-0.031) with FPG levels. When comparing the 2th, 3th, and 4th quartiles of urine Cs to its 1th quartile, the significant associations between Cs and FPG levels were found and presented as an "inverted U" trend (βQ2 vs. Q1: 0.034; βQ3 vs. Q1:0.054; βQ4 vs. Q1: 0.040; all P<0.05). BKMR analyses showed urinary level of Cs exhibited an "inverted U" shape association with FPG levels. Moreover, the FPG levels increased linearly with the raised levels of the non-essential metal mixture, and the posterior inclusion probability (PIP) of Cs was the highest (0.92). Potential positive interaction of As and Cs on FPG levels was found in BKMR model. Stratified analysis displayed significant interactions of hyperlipidemia and urine Cs or Tl on FPG levels. An inverse U-shaped association between Cs and FPG was found, individually and as mixture. The FPG levels increased with the raised levels of the non-essential metal mixture, and Cs was the most contributor to FPG levels. Further research is required to confirm the correlation between non-essential metals and FPG levels and to clarify the underlying mechanisms.

Prevalence and Predictive Factors of Compassion Fatigue among Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia: Implications for Well-Being and Support.

Compassion fatigue (CF) poses significant challenges to healthcare workers' (HCWs) well-being. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CF and identify its predictive factors among HCWs in all regions of Saudi Arabia (SA). As such, all HCWs from different disciplines in different centers were allowed to participate, resulting in 678 participants. The study tool, distributed between October 2022 and January 2023, consisted of a questionnaire created by the authors based on the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL). The ProQOL measures the positive (compassion satisfaction [CS]) and negative (CF) effects of helping those who have suffered, noting that burnout (BO) and secondary traumatic stress (STS) are the two subscales that constitute CF. Our findings revealed that 63.9% of HCWs experienced average STS, while 57.2% reported average BO levels. HCWs in the southern and northern regions exhibited higher STS (p-value = 0.003 and 0.010, respectively). Physicians displayed higher BO levels (p-value = 0.024). Higher levels of CS were found among older HCWs (p-value = 0.001) and lower levels among those with more years of experience (p-value = 0.004). Support at work and job, life, and financial income satisfaction were significantly and positively correlated with CS and negatively correlated with BO and STS. These findings highlight the need for tailored awareness campaigns targeting HCWs, particularly physicians, to promote well-being, enhance coping skills, and foster problem-solving techniques. Keywords: burnout; compassion fatigue; compassion satisfaction; healthcare workers; professional quality of life; Saudi Arabia; secondary traumatic stress; medical trainees' well-being.

Front Cover: Ethylene Oxide Catalysis Under Commercial Conditions – A Guide for Researchers (ChemCatChem 13/2023)

The Front Cover shows a research engineer in-between 2 banks of ethylene oxide reactors in an industrial research laboratory. In their Perspective, J. R. Lockemeyer and T. L. Lohr explain how to operate ethylene oxide reactors under commercially relevant conditions. Catalyst response to added chloride modifiers in the presence and absence of perrhenate dopants is shown to be opposite in terms of catalyst activity. The concept of Cs optimization is described, along with efficient chloride moderation with changing Cs level. The addition of CO2 into the inlet of the gas feed is also suggested, as it is shown that CO2 can affect both the selectivity and activity of catalysts, with the effects being dependent on the catalyst formulation. Copyright (2021) of Shell Catalysts & Technologies US. More information can be found in the Perspective by J. R. Lockemeyer and T. L. Lohr.

A liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method for the analysis of sucralose and five glycoside sweeteners

AbstractThe present study describes sensitive liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry methods for the analysis of sucralose, mogroside V, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, rebaudioside A, stevioside, and glycyrrhizic acid. All these compounds are used as sugar substitutes in food, beverages, and dietary supplements, and can be present in environmental and biological samples. The method describes the quantitation at levels as low as 10 ng/ml with a signal‐to‐noise significantly higher than 10 for the lowest standard, indicating a very low limit of quantification for all analytes. The method uses positive ionization liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry with the molecular ion [M + Cs]+ and Cs+ fragment ion (M is the analyte). The molecular ion [M + Cs]+ is generated by adding a low level of Cs+ in the mobile phase of high‐performance liquid chromatography separation. The advantages obtained using [M + Cs]+ as molecular ions are related to the high sensitivity and simplicity of the method compared to other liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry procedures. As proof of functionality, the method was utilized for the analysis of sweeteners in several energy drinks. The high sensitivity of the liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method was not needed for this type of analysis but for samples with low levels of sweeteners, the method can be highly beneficial.

Exploring the shared decision making process of caesarean sections at a teaching hospital in Ghana: a mixed methods study

BackgroundCaesarean section (CS) rates are rising. Shared decision making (SDM) is a component of patient-centered communication which requires adequate information and awareness. Women in Ghana have varying perceptions about the procedure. We sought to explore mothers’ knowledge. perceptions and SDM-influencing factors about CSs.MethodsA transdisciplinary mixed-methods study was conducted at the maternity unit of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana from March to May, 2019. Data collection was done in four phases: in-depth interviews (n = 38), pretesting questionnaires (n = 15), three focus group discussions (n = 18) and 180 interviewer administered questionnaires about SDM preferences. Factors associated with SDM were analyzed using Pearson’s Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression.ResultsMothers depicted a high level of knowledge regarding medical indications for their CS but had low level of awareness of SDM. The perception of a CS varied from dangerous, unnatural and taking away their strength to a life-saving procedure. The mothers had poor knowledge about pain relief in labour and at Caesarean section. Health care professionals attributed the willingness of mothers to be involved in SDM to their level of education. Husbands and religious leaders are key stakeholders in SDM. Insufficient consultation time was a challenge to SDM according to health care professionals and post-partum mothers. Women with parity ≥ 5 have a reduced desire to be more involved in shared decision making for Caesarean section. AOR = 0.09, CI (0.02–0.46).ConclusionThere is a high knowledge about the indications for CS but low level of awareness of and barriers to SDM. The fewer antenatal care visits mothers had, the more likely they were to desire more involvement in decision making. Aligned to respectful maternity care principles, greater involvement of pregnant women and their partners in decision making process could contribute to a positive pregnancy experience. Education, including religious leaders and decision- making tools could contribute to the process of SDM.

Significance of Zone 2 Peak on Capillary Electrophoresis in the Detection of Hemoglobin Constant Spring.

Hemoglobin constant spring (Hb CS) is a point mutational defect associated with α thalassemia. The aims of this study were to compare the hematological profiles between different Hb CS genotypes and to estimate the range for Zone 2 peak using capillary electrophoresis (CE) with different Hb CS genotypes. For this cross-sectional study, patient blood samples that showed a positive peak in zone 2 of CE were selected. Hemoglobin and DNA of the samples were investigated to ascertain the presence and levels of non-deletional and deletional α thalassemia. The results were statistically analyzed. Of the 137 samples investigated, 118 (86.1%) were positive for termination codon Hb CS mutation. Heterozygous Hb CS was found in 92 (67.2%), compound heterozygous Hb CS in 22 (16.1%), and homozygous Hb CS in four (2.9%) samples. The ranges of Hb CS level for heterozygous Hb CS, compound heterozygous Hb CS, and homozygous Hb CS were within 0.2-2.7%, 0.3-2.2%, and 4.5-5.5%, respectively. Significant hematological differences in the Hb level, mean cell volume, mean cell hemoglobin, red cell distribution width, red blood cell count, and Hb CS level were observed between heterozygous, homozygous, and compound heterozygous Hb CS. In view of the overlapping prevalence range of Hb CS level for heterozygous and compound heterozygous Hb CS, only Hb CS level within the range 4.5-5.5% was helpful in the diagnosis of homozygous Hb CS.