bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Neighbors and Friends in Age-Related Network Changes
Authors: Kalmijn Matthijs
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To assess how the role of neighbors and friends in people’s networks changes with age and how this is affected by cohort, marriage, employment, and socioeconomic status. The hypothesis is that for most aspects of the network, friends lose “importance” as people become older, with neighbors gradually becoming more dominant in the nonkin network.

Methods

Data are used for people aged 55–90 between 1999 and 2019 from the Swiss Household Panel (N = 5,585). A total of 4 network aspects were measured: size, contact, practical support, and emotional support. Measures for neighbors and friends were compared and analyzed with fixed-effects and hybrid-effects regression models on person-year observations.

Results

The sizes of both network segments declined with age but more strongly for friends than neighbors. Contact with friends was stable but contact with neighbors increased. Support from friends declined whereas support from neighbors was stable. Direct comparisons revealed that the relative share of neighbors vis-à-vis friends increased as people age. Friends were more common and supportive vis-à-vis neighbors for divorced and widowed people than for married people, but this gap declined with age. The share of neighbors increased with retirement, especially for men. The share of neighbors vis-à-vis friends was also larger for people with less income and education and this gap did not change with age.

Discussion

In the nonkin part of older adults’ networks, proximity eventually becomes dominant. This finding is interpreted in terms of rising needs, greater opportunity for local contact, and friend mortality risks, all favoring the neighbor segment of the network.
Life Events and Incident Dementia: A Prospective Study of 493,787 Individuals Over 16 Years
Authors: Karakose Selin , Luchetti Martina , Stephan Yannick , Sutin Angelina R , Terracciano Antonio
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Life events can be stressful and have a detrimental impact on health, but evidence is inconclusive regarding life events and dementia risk. The present study tests whether life events are associated with incident dementia, whether experiencing multiple events has cumulative effects, and whether the associations vary across age, sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and genetic vulnerability.

Methods

UK Biobank participants (N = 493,787) reported on 6 life events that occurred within the past 2 years: serious illness, injury, assault to yourself or close relative, death of a spouse/partner or close relative, marital separation/divorce, and financial problems. Incident all-cause dementia was ascertained through health records from the UK National Health Service over a 16-year follow-up.

Results

Serious illness, injury, or assault to yourself, marital separation/divorce, and financial difficulties were associated with a higher risk of dementia; serious illness, injury, or assault of a close relative was associated with a lower risk of dementia. When combined, experiencing 3–4 events was associated with a more than 2-fold increase in dementia risk. The association for marital separation/divorce was stronger within the first 5 years of follow-up (consistent with reverse causality). Death of a spouse/partner or close relative was mostly unrelated to dementia risk. With few exceptions, the associations were similar across age, sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and apolipoprotein E e4 status groups.

Discussion

Severe illness, injury, or personal assault, marital separation or divorce, and financial hardships may raise risk of dementia, particularly when these events occur together.
Beyond the focus on individuals: Adding environment into the redefined successful aging paradigm
Authors: Zhuo Li , Cao Jiawei
Published: June 2024

Since the origin of the Successful Aging (SA) model by Rowe and Kahn, scholars have been working on enriching the content of SA and taking actions to promote this concept worldwide. While most studies primarily focus on older individuals, only a few scholars have considered the environmental aspect of SA. However, the environment, directly and indirectly, enhances older adults’ abilities to achieve SA. To measure SA comprehensively and address inequalities among older adults, this theoretical article aims to challenge current SA models by incorporating both individual and environmental aspects and proposing four measurement dimensions: inclusivity of disadvantaged groups, culture-specific adaptation, balance between physical and social environments, and dynamics of the whole lifecycle. Moreover, this article provides examples to illustrate how environment can support older adults especially those who would be defined as “unsuccessful” under the original SA model. Our proposed model would provide theoretical guidance for future research and spark new ideas for policies and programs that support every older adult in achieving SA.
Brief Aging Education Affects Continuing Education Preferences and Behaviors of Mental Health Providers
Authors: Schmidt Nicholas E , Carpenter Brian , Steffen Ann M
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

This study examined the impact of receiving foundational information about aging on continuing education (CE) interests, preferences, and behaviors of mental health providers.

Research Design and Methods

Participants were practicing licensed professional counselors (N = 120) recruited from a random sampling of a state registry. The study employed a 3-group randomized controlled design with participants assigned to 1 of 3 conditions: an aging-specific reading, an opioid use disorder-specific reading, and a CE requirement-specific reading. As outcomes, participants rated their interest in aging-specific CE and selected to receive an aging-specific CE or Motivational Interviewing-specific CE program.

Results

Perceived competence for working with older adults, assessed before the experimental manipulation, predicted choice and degree of interest in the aging-specific CE across conditions. Participants in the Aging-Reading condition rated a higher interest in aging-specific CE and were marginally more likely to select the aging-specific CE option than those in the other 2 conditions. Those in the Aging-Reading condition were also more likely to register for and complete an actual CE program focused on any topic.

Discussion and Implications

Foundational knowledge about aging may increase practitioners’ interest and behaviors toward gaining competency for working with older adults, supporting the Positive Education about Aging and Contact Experiences model (Levy, S. R. (2018). Toward reducing ageism: PEACE (positive education about aging and contact experiences) model. Gerontologist, 58(2), 226–232. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnw116) of reducing ageism.
Psychometric Properties and Measurement Invariance of the Awareness of Age-Related Change Short Form in Older Adult Samples From Taiwan and Germany
Authors: Tseng Han-Yun , Wu Chi-Shin , Lee Chun-Yi , Wu I-Chien , Chang Hsing-Yi , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Hsiung Chao Agnes , Kaspar Roman , Wahl Hans-Werner , Diehl Manfred
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

This study examined the psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the 10-item Awareness of Age-Related Change Short Form (AARC-SF) questionnaire in a Chinese-speaking sample of older adults in Taiwan.

Research Design and Methods

Data from 292 participants (Mage = 77.64 years) in the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study in Taiwan cohort were used for Study 1, whereas data from young-old adult samples in Germany were used for Study 2.

Results

Study 1 showed that the AARC-SF had satisfactory reliability and validity for assessing adults’ AARC in Taiwan. Analyses confirmed the 2-factor structure of AARC-gains and AARC-losses. Study 2 demonstrated strong measurement invariance across men and women, whereas direct comparisons of the item scores between young-old adults and old-old adults need to be made with caution. Noninvariance of loadings indicated that certain items were more closely linked to AARC-gains and AARC-losses in Taiwan than in Germany. Noninvariance of intercepts suggested potential biases in comparing item scores between Taiwanese and German older adults.

Discussion and Implications

The AARC-SF emerged as a reliable and valid instrument for capturing positive and negative subjective aging experiences among Taiwanese older adults. However, it is noteworthy that some items on the AARC-SF may solicit different responses from individuals of different ages and different countries of origin, requiring caution with age group and cross-cultural comparisons.
Present day mantle structure from global mantle convection models since the Cretaceous
Authors: Pal Debanjan , Ghosh Attreyee
Published: June 2024

Using forward mantle convection models starting at 140 Ma, and assimilating plate reconstructions as surface velocity boundary condition, we predict present-day mantle structure and compare them with tomography models, using geoid as an additional constraint. We explore a wide model parameter space, such as different values of Clapeyron slope and density change across 660 km, density and viscosity of the thermochemical piles at the core–mantle boundary (CMB), internal heat generation rate, and model initiation age. We also investigate the effects of different strengths of a weak layer below 660 km and weaker asthenosphere and slabs. Our results suggest that slab structures at different subduction zones are sensitive to the viscosity of the asthenosphere, strength of slabs, values of Clapeyron slope and the density and viscosity of the thermochemical piles, while different internal heat generation rates do not affect the slab structures. We find that with a moderately weak asthenosphere ($10^{20}$ Pa·s) and strong slabs, the predicted slab structures are consistent with the tomography models, and the observed geoid is also matched well. Moreover, our models successfully reproduce the degree-2 structure of the lower mantle beneath Africa and the Pacific, also known as Large Low Shear Velocity provinces (LLSVPs). A moderate Clapeyron slope of −2.5 MPa K−1 at 660 km aids in slab stagnation while higher values result in massive slab accumulation at that depth, ultimately leading to slab avalanches. We also find that the convective patterns in the thermal and thermochemical cases with slightly denser LLSVPs are similar, although the geoid amplitudes are lower for the latter. However, with more dense LLSVPs, the slabs cannot perturb them and no plumes are generated. Plumes arise as thermal instabilities from the edges of the LLSVPs, when cold and viscous slabs perturb them. While our predicted plume locations are consistent with the observed hotspot locations, matching the plume structures in tomography models is difficult. These plumes are essential in fitting the finer features of the observed geoid. In longer-duration models, more voluminous subducted material reaches the CMB, which tends to erode the LLSVPs significantly, and yields a poor fit to the observed geoid. Our results suggest that with the presence of a thin, moderately weak layer below 660 km, a slightly dense LLSVP, and Clapeyron slope of −2.5 MPa K−1, the velocity anomalies in seismic tomography and the long-wavelength geoid can be matched well. One of the limitations of our models is that the assimilated plate motion history may be too short to overcome arbitrary initial conditions effects. Also, assimilated true plate velocities in our models may not represent the true convective vigour of the Earth.
Clonal spread of blaNDM-1-carrying Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium clone ST34 and wide spread of IncHI2/ST3-blaNDM-5 plasmid in China
Authors: Deng Limin , Lv Lu-Chao , Tu Jieying , Yue Chao , Bai Yuman , He Xiaotong , Liao Min , Liu Jian-Hua
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To characterize blaNDM-carrying Salmonella recovered from a pig slaughterhouse.

Methods

In this study, 46 environment samples were collected from a slaughterhouse in China, and screened for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales. WGS, antimicrobial susceptibility testing and conjugation experiments were carried out to identify the isolates’ resistance phenotypes and genetic characteristics. The phylogenetic relatedness of the Salmonella isolates obtained in this study and Salmonella (ST34 and ST29) in GenBank was determined.

Results

Two ST34 Salmonella Typhimurium and one ST29 Salmonella Stanley, recovered from three environmental samples (6.52%), were positive for blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-5, respectively. The two ST34 S. Typhimurium strains exhibited a close relationship (10–36 SNPs) with two human-derived blaNDM-1-bearing isolates from China (Hong Kong and Guangxi Province) and two blaNDM-negative ST34 Salmonella strains from the UK. The blaNDM-1 genes were located on IncHI2/ST3 plasmids. The capture of blaNDM-1 by the IncHI2/ST3 plasmid seems to be due to homologous recombination mediated by circular structures, as the genetic arrangements of the blaNDM-1 gene contain two IS26 elements of the same orientation. The blaNDM-5 gene was also carried by the IncHI2/ST3 plasmid, which shares highly similar structures with other blaNDM-5-bearing IncHI2/ST3 plasmids from other sources (fish, chicken, duck, human).

Conclusions

This is the first report of a blaNDM-5-carrying IncHI2/ST3 plasmid in Salmonella. The clonal spread of NDM-1-producing ST34 S. Typhimurium across human and animal-associated environments, and the widespread dissemination of epidemic blaNDM-5-carrying IncHI2/ST3 plasmids among Enterobacteriaceae in China indicate the potential of further dissemination of blaNDM among Salmonella, which poses a threat to public health.
In vitro and intracellular activity of vaborbactam combined with β-lactams against Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Sanchez Léa , Bitar Maria , Herail Quentin , Dorchêne Delphine , Hugonnet Jean-Emmanuel , Arthur Michel , Mainardi Jean-Luc
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Mycobacterium abscessus has emerged as an opportunistic pathogen responsible for lung infections, especially in cystic fibrosis patients. In spite of the production of the broad-spectrum β-lactamase BlaMab, the carbapenem imipenem is recommended in the initial phase of the treatment of pulmonary infections. Here, we determine whether the addition of vaborbactam, a second-generation β-lactamase inhibitor belonging to the boronate family, improves the activity of β-lactams against M. abscessus.

Methods

The activity of β-lactams, alone or in combination with vaborbactam, was evaluated against M. abscessus CIP104536 by determining MICs, time-killing and intramacrophage activity. Kinetic parameters for the inhibition of BlaMab by vaborbactam were determined by spectrophotometry.

Results

The combination of vaborbactam (8 mg/L) with β-lactams decreased more than 8 times the MIC of amoxicillin (from >1024 to 128 mg/L) and 2 times the MICs of meropenem (from 16 to 8 mg/L) and imipenem (from 4 to 2 mg/L). The reduction of the MICs was less than that obtained with avibactam at 4 mg/L for amoxicillin (from >1024 to 16 mg/L, more than 64 times less) and for meropenem (from 16 to 4 mg/L, 4 times less). In vitro and intracellularly, M. abscessus was not killed by the meropenem/vaborbactam combination, in spite of significant in vitro inhibition of BlaMab by vaborbactam.

Conclusions

Inhibition of BlaMab by vaborbactam decreases the MIC of β-lactams, including that of meropenem. As meropenem/vaborbactam is clinically available, this combination offers an alternative therapeutic option that should be evaluated for the treatment of pulmonary infections due to M. abscessus.
Effects of feeding different dietary rates of mixed fodder beet tops-wheat straw silage on the performance of Holstein lactating cows
Authors: Roshanzamir Habibalah , Rouzbehan Yousef , Aghashahi Alireza , Rezaei Javad
Published: June 2024

Rations containing different rates of the mixed fodder beet tops-wheat straw silage (BS), instead of corn silage (CS), were given to 30 mid-lactation Holstein cows (all in parity 2) to measure the effects on feed consumption, milk production efficiency, milk chemistry, urinary purine derivatives (PD), blood chemistry, antioxidant levels, and in vitro methane (CH4) emission. The BS was prepared by mixing the fodder beet tops with wheat straw at a ratio of 9:1 based on fresh weight. The experimental design was completely randomized (one 28-d period with 21-d adaptation) using 30 cows (10 animals/treatment) and 3 treatments. The treatments were 1) a diet containing CS only (25 g/100 g DM) (CSD), 2) a diet containing 50% CS (12.5 g/100 g DM) and 50% BS (12.5 g/100 g DM) (CBSD), and 3) diet containing BS only (25 g/100 g DM) (BSD). Each animal (as an experimental unit) was housed individually in the tie stall and had ad libitum access to its diet. Dietary replacing 50% of CS with BS showed no significant differences in milk production, fat-corrected milk, fat and protein yields, feed efficiency, and apparent digestibility, however, these variables were less (P < 0.05) in the cows fed with BSD. Cows fed on BSD had less intakes of DM, organic matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber but greater oxalic acid intake and blood urea-N, as compared to the other cows. Milk percentages of fat, protein, lactose, urea N, blood serum glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, globulin, Ca, and P, as well as in vitro ruminal pH, were not affected by the diets. Saturated fatty acids concentration was less and monounsaturated FA and polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) was greater in the milk of cows receiving CBSD, compared to the other groups. The inclusion of both BS rates in the diet decreased the in vitro gas production, protozoa number, and CH4 emission in comparison to the control. Cows fed BSD had decreased levels of urinary allantoin, PD excreted or absorbed, and estimated microbial-N synthesis than the control and CBSD-fed groups. The milk and blood total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the animals fed CBSD was the maximum among the cows. Overall, under the current experimental conditions, replacing 50% of dietary CS with BS did not affect milk production, but increased milk PUFA, as well as blood and milk TAC, and decreased in vitro CH4 emission, so it’s feeding to lactating Holstein cows is recommended.
Measuring the Social Impact of Burn Injuries in Australia: An Adaptation of the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation—The Aus-LIBRE Profile
Authors: Capell Elizabeth L , Kazis Lewis E , Gabbe Belinda J , Tracy Lincoln M , Ryan Colleen M , Slavin Mary D , Singer Yvonne , Ryan Tiffany , Scott Helen , Bailey Hannah M , Vasudevan Ananya , Ni Pengsheng , Edgar Dale
Published: June 2024

Burn survivors can experience social participation challenges throughout their recovery. The aim of this study was to develop a novel Australian English translation of the Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation (LIBRE) Profile, the Aus-LIBRE Profile. This study consisted of 3 stages: (1) translation of the LIBRE Profile from American to Australian English by Australian researchers/burns clinicians, (2) piloting and cognitive evaluation of the Aus-LIBRE Profile with burn survivors to assess the clarity and consistency of the interpretation of each individual item, and (3) review of the Aus-LIBRE Profile by colleagues who identify as Aboriginal Australians for cross-cultural validation. In stage 2, investigators administered the translated questionnaire to 20 Australian patients with burn injuries in the outpatient clinic (10 patients from Victoria and 10 patients from Western Australia). Face validity of the Aus-LIBRE Profile was tested in 20 burns survivors (11 females) ranging from 21 to 74 years (median age 43 years). The total body surface area burned ranged from 1% to 50% (median 10%). Twelve language changes were made based on the feedback from the burn clinicians/researchers, study participants, and colleagues who identify as Aboriginal Australians. Using a formal translation process, the Aus-LIBRE Profile was adapted for use in the Australian burn population. The Aus-LIBRE Profile will require psychometric validation and testing in the Australian patient with burns population before broader application of the scale.
The FDA Enhancing Quality Using the Inspection Program (EQUIP) Breast Imaging Quality Initiative. 5-Year Clinical Experience
Authors: Hawley Jeffrey R , Ha Cynthia , Cai Linda , Taylor Clayton R
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the effects of the Enhancing Quality Using the Inspection Program (EQUIP) on quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) at an academic medical center.

Methods

EQUIP audit logs for technologist image quality review as well as mammography unit QA and QC formed the basis for study data. One randomly selected screening mammogram was evaluated by the lead interpreting physician (LIP) using EQUIP criteria for each technologist for each imaging site worked, initially semiannually and then monthly. One randomly selected screening mammogram interpreted by each interpreting physician (IP) for each imaging site was evaluated on a semiannual basis. Quarterly, the LIP reviewed QA and QC logs for each mammography unit with deficiencies further investigated.

Results

Of 214 965 eligible screening mammograms performed, 5955 (2.8%) underwent EQUIP image quality review. Five were found to be technically inadequate (0.08%, 5955/214 965). The LIP identified 20 significant interpretive differences compared with the clinical interpretation resulting in 10 biopsies and 7 previously undetected malignancies, with supplemental cancer detection rate of 1.2/1000 cases reviewed. Two hundred ninety mammography unit QA/QC reviews identified 31 potential deficiencies, 29 of which were due to human documentation error (93.4%).

Conclusion

EQUIP review of both IP and technologists’ quality and mammography unit QA/QC logs as performed identified few deficiencies. EQUIP policies should be evaluated at each institution and modified to best utilize resources and provide opportunities for meaningful quality improvement. Although not an EQUIP focus, supplemental cancer detection was observed as might be expected with double reading.
Allegiance in International Humanitarian Law: the duty of fidelity and the laws of armed conflict
Authors: Galvis Martínez Manuel
Published: June 2024

Allegiance is a legal concept that seeks to regulate the duty of fidelity of individuals towards states. A particularity of allegiance is the fact that it has been repeatedly used in treaty provisions, as well as interpretation of rules, in the field of International Humanitarian Law. The fields in which it has been introduced are quite broad, from rules relating to Prisoner of War status, to defining the relationship between occupiers and occupied population, passing through rules on Protected Personal status for civilians, the internment of enemy aliens, rules on the conduct of hostilities, and deserters. The article analyses both the meaning of allegiance and how it has been used in International Humanitarian Law revealing some useful instances as well as a set of inconsistencies and potential perils for its use.
Evolutionary patterns and heterogeneity of dengue virus serotypes in Pakistan
Authors: Mumtaz Zilwa , Zia Saeeda , Saif Rashid , Farhan Ul Haque Muhammad , Yousaf Muhammad Zubair
Published: June 2024

A comprehensive and systematic examination of dengue virus (DENV) evolution is essential in Pakistan, where the virus poses a significant public health challenge due to its ability to adapt and evolve. To shed light on the intricate evolutionary patterns of all four DENV serotypes, we analyzed complete genome sequences (n = 43) and Envelope (E) gene sequences (n = 44) of all four DENV serotypes collected in Pakistan from 1994 to 2023, providing a holistic view of their genetic evolution. Our findings revealed that all four serotypes of DENV co-circulate in Pakistan with a close evolutionary relationship between DENV-1 and DENV-3. Among the genetically distinct serotypes DENV-2 and DENV-4, DENV-4 stands out as the most genetically different, while DENV-2 exhibits greater complexity due to the presence of multiple genotypes and the possibility of temporal fluctuations in genotype prevalence. Selective pressure analysis of the Envelope (E) gene revealed heterogeneity among sequences (n = 44), highlighting 46 codons in the genome experiencing selective pressure, characterized by a bias toward balancing selection, indicating genetic stability of the virus. Furthermore, our study suggested an intriguing evolutionary shift of DENV-4 toward the DENV-2 clade, potentially influenced by antibodies with cross-reactivity to multiple serotypes, providing a critical insight into the complex factors, shaping DENV evolution and contributing to the emergence of new serotypes.
SME Failures Under Large Liquidity Shocks: an Application to the Covid-19 Crisis
Authors: Gourinchas Pierre-Olivier , Kalemli-Özcan Şebnem , Penciakova Veronika , Sander Nick
Published: June 2024

We study the effects of financial frictions on firm exit when firms face large liquidity shocks. We develop a simple model of firm cost-minimization, where firms’ borrowing capacity to smooth temporary shocks to liquidity is limited. In this framework, firm exit arises from the interaction between this financial friction and fluctuations in cash flow due to aggregate and sectoral changes in demand conditions, as well as more traditional shocks to productivity. To evaluate the implications of our model, we use firm level data on small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in 11 European countries. We confirm that our framework is consistent with official failure rates in 2017–2019, a period characterized by standard business cycle fluctuations. To capture a large liquidity shock, we apply our framework to the COVID-19 crisis. We find that, absent government support, SME failure rates would have increased by 6.01 percentage points, putting 3.1% of employment at risk. Our results also show that in the presence of financial frictions and in the absence of government support, the firms failing due to COVID have similar productivity and growth to firms that survive COVID.
Assessing alimentary tract radiation in liver cancer treatment with proton beam therapy: a PET/CT imaging study
Authors: Shiraishi Sachika , Yamanaka Masashi , Shiba Shintaro , Tokuuye Koichi
Published: June 2024

Background

Proton beams deposit energy along their path, abruptly stopping and generating various radioactive particles, including positrons, along their trajectory. In comparison with traditional proton beam therapy, scanning proton beam therapy is effective in delivering proton beams to irregularly shaped tumors, reducing excessive radiation exposure to the alimentary tract during the treatment of liver cancer.

Methods

In this study, we utilized positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging to assess the total amount of radiation to the alimentary tract during liver cancer treatment with proton beam therapy, involving the administration of complex irradiation in 13 patients.

Results

This approach resulted in the prevention of excess radiation. The planned radiation restraint doses for the colon exhibited a significant correlation with the PET values of the colon (correlation coefficient 0.8384, P = .0003). Likewise, the scheduled radiation restraint doses for the gastroduodenum were correlated with the PET values of the gastroduodenum (correlation coefficient 0.5397, P = .0569).

Conclusions

PET/CT conducted after proton beam therapy is useful for evaluating excess radiation in the alimentary tract. Proton beam therapy in liver cancer, assessed via PET/CT, effectively reduced alimentary tract radiation, which is vital for optimizing treatments and preventing excess exposure.
MT1E in AML: a gateway to understanding regulatory cell death and immunotherapeutic responses
Authors: Zhuang Xin , Chen Peng , Yang Kaiqian , Yang Rong , Man Xiaoying , Wang Ruochen , Shi Yifen
Published: June 2024

Regulated cell death (RCD) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors, particularly in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study investigates the prognostic importance of RCD-related genes in AML and their correlation with immune infiltration. We combined TCGA and GTEx data, analyzing 1,488 RCD-related genes, to develop a predictive model using LASSO regression and survival analysis. The model's accuracy was validated against multiple databases, examining immune cell infiltration, therapy responses, and drug sensitivity among risk groups. RT-qPCR confirmed MT1E expression in AML patients and healthy bone marrow. CCK8 and Transwell assays measured cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and invasion, while flow cytometry and Western blotting assessed apoptosis and protein expression. We developed a prognostic model using 10 RCD methods, which demonstrated strong predictive ability, showing an inverse correlation between age and risk scores with survival in AML patients. Functional enrichment analysis of the model is linked to immune modulation pathways. RT-qPCR revealed significantly lower MT1E expression in AML vs healthy bone marrow (P < 0.05). Consequently, experiments were designed to assess the function of MT1E overexpression. Findings indicated that MT1E overexpression showed it significantly reduced THP-1 cell proliferation and adhesion (P < 0.001), decreased migration (P < 0.001), and invasiveness (P < 0.05), and increased apoptosis (P < 0.05), with a notable rise in Caspase3 expression. A novel AML RCD risk model was developed, showing promise as a prognostic marker for evaluating outcomes and immune therapy effectiveness. Insights into MT1E's impact on AML cell proliferation and apoptosis open possibilities for improving patient outcomes and devising personalized treatment strategies.
Simultaneous observation of multiple interferograms with Mach-Zehnder type electron interferometer on a 1.2-MV field-emission transmission electron microscope
Authors: Akashi Tetsuya , Takahashi Yoshio , Harada Ken
Published: June 2024

We developed a Mach-Zehnder type electron interferometer (MZ-EI) that enables simultaneous observation of interferograms created at multiple output locations on a 1.2-MV field-emission transmission electron microscope. This MZ-EI is composed of two single-crystal thin films, a lens located between the single-crystal thin films and imaging lenses. By comparing interferograms created by electron waves travelling through different beam paths, we found that the relative phase difference was caused by phase modulation passing through the single crystals and by aberrations and defocus values of the lenses. We also confirmed that the relative phase difference can be controlled using the tilted illumination method.
Hepatitis B Elimination Globally: The Answer May Not Be the Same for Everyone
Authors: Thompson Peyton
Published: June 2024

While progress has been made toward global elimination of hepatitis B virus, many countries lag behind. A one-size-fits-all approach is not practical to address HBV. Rather, the approach should be tailored to local prevalence, risk factors, and available resources.
Ancient classical theatre from the digital humanities: a systematic review 2010–21
Authors: Martínez Nieto Roxana Beatriz , Dabrowska Monika
Published: June 2024

The aim of this article is to offer a systematic review of digital studies that provide new research perspectives on ancient classical theatre. The undeniable progress in the field of computational analysis in the service of traditional textual interpretation is helping to study in greater depth and to interpret in greater detail the classical linguistic corpora that have come down to us through the manuscript tradition. The new model of digital research is integrated not only in the field of information technologies, but also in the field of e-learning, where we can already observe the implementation of a new educational model. Based on the digital processing of data on Greco-Roman theatre, a systematic review is presented, following the methodological principles of the PRISMA statement [Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2009 (2020)].
White dwarf constraints on geological processes at the population level
Authors: Buchan Andrew M , Bonsor Amy , Rogers Laura K , Brouwers Marc G , Shorttle Oliver , Tremblay Pier-Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

White dwarf atmospheres are frequently polluted by material from their own planetary systems. Absorption features from Ca, Mg, Fe, and other elements can provide unique insights into the provenance of this exoplanetary material, with their relative abundances being used to infer accretion of material with core- or mantle-like composition. Across the population of white dwarfs, the distribution of compositions reveals the prevalence of geological and collisional processing across exoplanetary systems. By predicting the distribution of compositions in three evolutionary scenarios, this work assesses whether they can explain current observations. We consider evolution in an asteroid belt analogue, in which collisions between planetary bodies that formed an iron core lead to core- or mantle-rich fragments. We also consider layer-by-layer accretion of individual bodies, such that the apparent composition of atmospheric pollution changes during the accretion of a single body. Finally, we consider that compositional spread is due to random noise. We find that the distribution of Ca, Fe, and Mg in a sample of 202 cool DZs is consistent with the random noise scenario, although 7 individual systems show strong evidence of core-mantle differentiation from additional elements and/or low noise levels. Future surveys that detect multiple elements in each of a few hundred white dwarfs, with well-understood biases, have the potential to confidently distinguish between the three models.
Logical regulation of endogenous gene expression using programmable, multi-input processing CRISPR guide RNAs
Authors: Kang Hansol , Park Dongwon , Kim Jongmin
Published: June 2024

The CRISPR-Cas system provides a versatile RNA-guided approach for a broad range of applications. Thanks to advances in RNA synthetic biology, the engineering of guide RNAs (gRNAs) has enabled the conditional control of the CRISPR-Cas system. However, achieving precise regulation of the CRISPR-Cas system for efficient modulation of internal metabolic processes remains challenging. In this work, we developed a robust dCas9 regulator with engineered conditional gRNAs to enable tight control of endogenous genes. Our conditional gRNAs in Escherichia coli can control gene expression upon specific interaction with trigger RNAs with a dynamic range as high as 130-fold, evaluating up to a three-input logic A OR (B AND C). The conditional gRNA-mediated targeting of endogenous metabolic genes, lacZ, malT and poxB, caused differential regulation of growth in Escherichia coli via metabolic flux control. Further, conditional gRNAs could regulate essential cytoskeleton genes, ftsZ and mreB, to control cell filamentation and division. Finally, three types of two-input logic gates could be applied for the conditional control of ftsZ regulation, resulting in morphological changes. The successful operation and application of conditional gRNAs based on programmable RNA interactions suggests that our system could be compatible with other Cas-effectors and implemented in other host organisms.
Taxonomy of introns and the evolution of minor introns
Authors: Olthof Anouk M , Schwoerer Charles F , Girardini Kaitlin N , Weber Audrey L , Doggett Karen , Mieruszynski Stephen , Heath Joan K , Moore Timothy E , Biran Jakob , Kanadia Rahul N
Published: June 2024

Classification of introns, which is crucial to understanding their evolution and splicing, has historically been binary and has resulted in the naming of major and minor introns that are spliced by their namesake spliceosome. However, a broad range of intron consensus sequences exist, leading us to here reclassify introns as minor, minor-like, hybrid, major-like, major and non-canonical introns in 263 species across six eukaryotic supergroups. Through intron orthology analysis, we discovered that minor-like introns are a transitory node for intron conversion across evolution. Despite close resemblance of their consensus sequences to minor introns, these introns possess an AG dinucleotide at the –1 and –2 position of the 5′ splice site, a salient feature of major introns. Through combined analysis of CoLa-seq, CLIP-seq for major and minor spliceosome components, and RNAseq from samples in which the minor spliceosome is inhibited we found that minor-like introns are also an intermediate class from a splicing mechanism perspective. Importantly, this analysis has provided insight into the sequence elements that have evolved to make minor-like introns amenable to recognition by both minor and major spliceosome components. We hope that this revised intron classification provides a new framework to study intron evolution and splicing.
Polyoxometalates: metallodrug agents for combating amyloid aggregation
Authors: Ma Mengmeng , Liu Zhenqi , Zhao Huisi , Zhang Haochen , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects ∼50 million people globally. The accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, a predominant pathological feature of AD, plays a crucial role in AD pathogenesis. In this respect, Aβ has been regarded as a highly promising therapeutic target for AD treatment. Polyoxometalates (POMs) are a novel class of metallodrugs being developed as modulators of Aβ aggregation, owing to their negative charge, polarity, and three-dimensional structure. Unlike traditional discrete inorganic complexes, POMs contain tens to hundreds of metal atoms, showcasing remarkable tunability and diversity in nuclearities, sizes, and shapes. The easily adjustable and structurally variable nature of POMs allows for their favorable interactions with Aβ. This mini-review presents a balanced overview of recent progress in using POMs to mitigate amyloidosis. Clear correlations between anti-amyloid activities and structural features of POMs are also elaborated in detail. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future prospects of POMs in combating AD.
Multicriteria Measures to Assess the Sustainability of Diets: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rei Mariana , Costa Alexandra , Sosa Sofia , da Costa Sofia , Torres Duarte , Sage Colin , Rodrigues Sara
Published: June 2024

Context

Assessing the overall sustainability of a diet is a challenging undertaking requiring a holistic approach capable of addressing the multicriteria nature of this concept.

Objective

The aim was to identify and summarize the multicriteria measures used to assess the sustainability characteristics of diets reported at the individual level by healthy adults.

Data Sources

Articles were identified via PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search strategy consisted of key words and MeSH terms, and was concluded in September 2022, covering references in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Data Extraction

This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines. The search identified 5663 references, from which 1794 were duplicates. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts of each of the 3869 records and the full-text of the 144 references selected. Of these, 7 studies met the inclusion criteria.

Data Analysis

A total of 6 multicriteria measures were identified: 3 different Sustainable Diet Indices, the Quality Environmental Costs of Diet, the Quality Financial Costs of Diet, and the Environmental Impact of Diet. All of these incorporated a health/nutrition dimension, while the environmental and economic dimensions were the second and the third most integrated, respectively. A sociocultural sustainability dimension was included in only 1 of the measures.

Conclusion

Despite some methodological concerns in the development and validation process of the identified measures, their inclusion is considered indispensable in assessing the transition towards sustainable diets in future studies.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022358824.
Hepatitis B Virus in People who Inject Drugs and Men who Have Sex With Men With HIV in India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Loeb Talia A , Gunaratne Mihili P , Iqbal Syed , Anderson Mark , McFall Allison M , Amrose Pradeep , Rodgers Mary A , Srikrishnan Aylur K , Balagopal Ashwin , Lucas Gregory M , Mehta Shruti H , Thomas David L , Cloherty Gavin , Thio Chloe L , Solomon Sunil S
Published: June 2024

Background

People with HIV (PWH) who are coinfected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) have a higher risk of mortality compared with PWH alone. Populations such as people who inject drugs (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM) are particularly at high risk for HBV acquisition; yet, limited epidemiological data from these populations exist on HBV prevalence from low- and middle-income country settings (LMICs).

Methods

We characterized the prevalence and correlates of HBV serological markers in a sample of PWID and MSM with HIV recruited across 15 Indian cities using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc), and hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs). Testing of stored specimens for the presence of these markers was performed on the Abbott ARCHITECT i1000 as per the manufacturer's instructions. Correlates of ever being infected with HBV (reactive for anti-HBc and/or HBsAg) and chronic HBV (reactive for HBsAg) among those ever infected were assessed using univariable and multivariable multilevel logistic regression models accounting for site-level clustering.

Results

A total of 2198 (95%) of the 2314 participants recruited for the trial were screened for HBV markers. The median age among the PWID and MSM participants was 30 and 32 years, respectively. The prevalence of ever being infected with HBV was 75.6% vs 46.9% in PWID vs MSM, respectively (P < .01); prevalence of chronic infection was also higher in PWID vs MSM (14.1% vs 9.5%; P < .01). Correlates of ever being infected with HBV among PWID included unstable housing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.02) and sharing injection paraphernalia (aOR, 2.70), and among MSM, correlates included history of injection drug use (aOR, 4.87) and gender identity. The prevalence of isolated core (anti-HBc in the absence of anti-HBs) was 34.7% vs 29.4% in PWID vs MSM (P < .05). Vaccination serostatus was <10% in both populations.

Conclusions

In this large sample of PWID and MSM with HIV, we observed a high prevalence of serology consistent with HBV infection and low vaccination, highlighting the need for routine screening and catch-up vaccination. The high prevalence of isolated anti-HBc reactivity highlights the need to understand the risk of reactivation with this serological pattern.
SARS-CoV-2 Polymerase Chain Reaction Cycle Threshold Trends in Patients Who Are Immunocompromised and Implications for Isolation Precautions
Authors: Harris Courtney E , Vaidya Vineeta , Lan Zhou , Klompas Michael , Rhee Chanu , Baden Lindsey R , Baker Meghan A
Published: June 2024

Among 495 patients who were immunocompromised and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, polymerase chain reaction cycle thresholds remained <33 beyond 20 days more frequently in patients with hematologic malignancies, particularly those receiving B-cell–depleting or Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy, as compared with those with solid organ malignancy (26% vs 5%).
Ancillary Benefit of Microbiology Culture Diagnostic Stewardship: Decreasing Health Care's Climate Impact
Authors: Hofmeister Raja J , Gonzalez Mark D , Hildreth Jonathan , Savage Troy , Leber Amy , Jaggi Preeti
Published: June 2024

We calculated weights of blood, urine, and endotracheal tube culture supplies and quantified greenhouse gas emissions emitted for disposal of these supplies. Of note, disposal-related emissions for positive blood and endotracheal tube culture results are equivalent to driving 0.6 and 0.4 miles, respectively, in a gasoline-powered vehicle.
Radicle Growth Regulation of Root Parasitic Plants by Auxin-related Compounds
Authors: Tsuzuki Kei , Suzuki Taiki , Kuruma Michio , Nishiyama Kotaro , Hayashi Ken-ichiro , Hagihara Shinya , Seto Yoshiya
Published: June 2024

Root parasitic plants in the Orobanchaceae, such as Striga and Orobanche, cause significant damage to crop production. The germination step of these root parasitic plants is induced by host-root-derived strigolactones. After germination, the radicles elongate toward the host and invade the host root. We have previously discovered that a simple amino acid, tryptophan (Trp), as well as its metabolite, the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), can inhibit radicle elongation of Orobanche minor. These results suggest that auxin plays a crucial role in the radicle elongation step in root parasitic plants. In this report, we used various auxin chemical probes to dissect the auxin function in the radicle growth of O. minor and Striga hermonthica. We found that synthetic auxins inhibited radicle elongation. In addition, auxin receptor antagonist, auxinole, rescued the inhibition of radicle growth by exogenous IAA. Moreover, a polar transport inhibitor of auxin, N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid, affected radicle bending. We also proved that exogenously applied Trp is converted into IAA in O. minor seeds, and auxinole partly rescued this radicle elongation. Taken together, our data demonstrate a pivotal role for auxin in radicle growth. Thus, manipulation of auxin function in root parasitic plants should offer a useful approach to combat these parasites.
Exosomes-based dual drug-loaded nanocarrier for targeted and multiple proliferative vitreoretinopathy therapy
Authors: Zhao Peiyi , Wang Jiahao , Huang Huiying , Chen Zhirong , Wang Hui , Lin Quankui
Published: June 2024

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a common cause of vision loss after retinal reattachment surgery and ocular trauma. The key pathogenic mechanisms of PVR development include the proliferation, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPEs) activated by the growth factors and cytokines after surgery. Although some drugs have been tried in PVR treatments as basic investigations, the limited efficacy remains an obstacle, which may be due to the single pharmacological action and lack of targeting. Herein, the anti-proliferative Daunorubicin and anti-inflammatory Dexamethasone were co-loaded in the RPEs-derived exosomes (Exos), obtaining an Exos-based dual drug-loaded nanocarrier (Exos@D-D), and used for multiple PVR therapy. Owing to the advantages of homologous Exos and the dual drug loading, Exos@D-D showed good RPEs targeting as well as improved uptake efficiency, and could inhibit the proliferation, migration, as well as EMT of RPEs effectively. The animal studies have also demonstrated that Exos@D-D effectively inhibits the production of proliferative membranes and prevents the further development of inflammation, shows significant therapeutic effects on PVR and good biocompatibility. Such Exos-based dual drug-loaded nanocarrier investigation not only provides a promising approach for multifunctional exosome drug delivery systems construction, but also has great potential in PVR clinical therapy application.