bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binary Ni–Fe layered double hydroxide on flexible nickel foam for the wide-range voltammetric detection of fibrinogen in simulated body fluid
Authors: Mukundan Gopika , Badhulika Sushmee
Published: October 2023

Fibrinogen, a circulating glycoprotein in the blood, is a potential biomarker of various health conditions. This work reports a flexible electrochemical sensor based on Ni–Fe layered double hydroxide (Ni–Fe LDH) coated on Nickel foam (Ni–Fe LDH/NF) to detect fibrinogen in simulated human body fluid (or blood plasma). The nanoflakes like morphology and hexagonal crystal structure of LDH, synthesized via urea hydrolysis assisted precipitation technique, are revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) techniques, respectively. The fabricated sensor exhibits linearity in a wide dynamic range covering the physiological concentration, from 1 ng ml−1 to 10 mg ml−1 , with a sensitivity of 0.0914 mA (ng/ml)−1(cm)−2. This LDH-based sensor is found to have a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.097 ng ml−1 and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.294 ng ml−1 (S/N = 3.3). The higher selectivity of the sensor towards fibrinogen protein is verified in the presence of various interfering analytes such as dopamine, epinephrine, serotonin, glucose, potassium, chloride, and magnesium ions. The sensor is successful in the trace-level detection of fibrinogen in simulated body fluid with excellent recovery percentages ranging from 99.5% to 102.5%, proving the synergetic combination of 2D Ni–Fe layered double hydroxide and 3D nickel foam as a promising platform for electrochemical sensing that has immense potential in clinical applications.
Angular dependence of resistance and critical current of a Bi-2223 superconducting joint
Authors: Takeda Y , Nishijima G , Nakai U , Motoki T , Shimoyama J , Kitaguchi H
Published: October 2023

Low resistance and high critical current are prerequisites for superconducting joints used in persistent-mode magnets. Herein, we use a joint resistance evaluation system, previously developed by us, to systematically evaluate the angular dependence of resistance and critical current of a Bi-2223 superconducting joint in a closed-loop sample. The current decay is measured by rotating the sample incrementally. The time dependence of the loop current is evaluated at 4 K, 0.15–0.28 T, and magnetic field angles ranging from 90° to 0, wherein 90° corresponds to the direction parallel to the tape surface. The results suggest that the resistance and critical current of the joint depend on the angle of the magnetic field. The evaluated critical current increases as the angle increases. The angular dependence of resistance can be divided into three regions: low-resistance, transition, and high-resistance regions. The low-resistance region exists at high angles close to 90°. In this region, the decay of the loop current is small, and the persistent current continues to flow. Furthermore, the joint resistance is less than 1.4 × 10−13 Ω. In the transition region, the joint resistance significantly increases by three orders of magnitude with sample rotation. This significant increase is attributed to an increase in the perpendicular component of the magnetic field, which decreases the critical current of the joint. At lower angles, the joint resistance remains high, ranging from 10−11 to 10−10 Ω. A significant decay in the loop current is observed in the high-resistance region. Based on these findings, we conclude that the design of a persistent-mode magnet must consider not only the magnitude but also the direction of the magnetic field applied to superconducting joints.
Molecular simulation of bulk and confined (1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane)
Authors: Fomin Yu D , Tsiok E N , Ryzhov V N
Published: October 2023

Here we present a computational study of the thermodynamic and structural properties of bulk and confined (1,1,1,3,3-pentafuorobutane). The DREIDING force field model has been used in the method of molecular dynamics. In order to study the effect of confinement we have placed (1,1,1,3,3-pentauorobutane) molecules between two graphene walls. In order to study the influence of pore loading on system behavior we have simulated systems of the same size, but with a different number of (1,1,1,3,3-pentauorobutane) molecules, from 200 to 2000. The equations of state at T = 300 K in a wide range of densities for all considered systems had a single peculiarity that is attributed to gas-liquid transition. From the two-dimensional radial distribution functions, density profile and angular distribution we have observed the systems split into layers with amorphization rather than crystallization in them.
Investigation of viscous supersonic laminar flows around F-16 airfoil: experimental, numerical, and analytical approaches
Authors: Eddegdag Nasser , Naamane Aze-eddine , Radouani Mohamed
Published: October 2023

This research paper primarily focuses on the behavior of viscous supersonic laminar flows around the F-16’s NACA 64A-204 airfoil, while also extending its scope to Shock-Wave/Boundary-Layer Interactions. The aim is to evaluate and compare methodologies for accurately characterizing these crucial aerodynamic phenomena. A unique experimental setup was developed, featuring mock-ups of F-16 airfoil equipped with pressure taps, and tested in the Supersonic Burst Wind Tunnel AF300. Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations were conducted using Ansys Fluent 2022 R2 and were supplemented by our previously established analytical model was adapted to our specific airfoil case, following calculations of the wing section equation. Key aerodynamic parameters such as lift coefficient, drag coefficient, Local Mach numbers, and the characteristics of the shock waves formed around the airfoil were examined. The study validates the NACA 64A-204 mock-up, with average errors for key parameters and 1st and 2nd Pressure Taps between the three adopted approaches remaining below 2.5%. The findings contribute valuable insights into the fundamental physics of viscous supersonic laminar flows, offering immediate applications to the design of high-speed aircraft and other advanced aerospace technologies. Additionally, the validated mock-up enhances the research capabilities of the Supersonic Burst Wind Tunnel AF300. Ultimately, this study serves as a foundational reference for optimizing aerodynamic surfaces, thereby facilitating advancements in key vehicle performance metrics such as manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency.
Dynamical investigation and FPGA implementation of a new Heartbeat model based on the Barrio-Varea-Aragon-Maini oscillator
Authors: Kuate Guy Chance Gildas , Sriram Gokulakrishnan , Tchamdjeu Frank Xavier Ngagoum , Karthikeyan Anitha , Fotsin Hilaire Bertrand
Published: October 2023

This paper is devoted to the investigation of the nonlinear dynamics of a heartbeat model. The model is based on three coupled nonlinear autonomous oscillators representing the three automatism centres of the physical heart; each of these automatism centres is represented by an autonomous Barrio-Varea-Aragon-Maini (BVAM) oscillator model. Our study includes theoretical and experimental investigations. The theoretical part consists of the analysis of fixed point(s), bifurcations, Hamiltonian energy, hysteretic behaviour and coexisting attractors. The experimental investigation includes the discretization of the mathematical model followed by its synthesis and implementation under the Vivado 2017.4 platform and its simulation and its physical implementation on the Nexys-4 Artix-7 xc7a-100T FPGA trainer board. Two R-2R network digital-to-analog converters are built to visualise the practical results on a digital storage oscilloscope; a perfect correlation is observed between the theoretical, numerical and experimental results.
Coherence dynamics in quantum algorithm for linear systems of equations
Authors: Ye Linlin , Wu Zhaoqi , Fei Shao-Ming
Published: October 2023

Quantum coherence is a fundamental issue in quantum mechanics and quantum information processing. We explore the coherence dynamics of the evolved states in HHL quantum algorithm for solving the linear system of equation

A

x

→

=

b

→

. By using the Tsallis relative α entropy of coherence and the l
1,p
norm of coherence, we show that the operator coherence of the phase estimation P relies on the coefficients β

i
obtained by decomposing ∣b〉 in the eigenbasis of A. We prove that the operator coherence of the inverse phase estimation

P

̃

relies on the coefficients β

i
, eigenvalues of A and the success probability P

s
, and it decreases with the increase of the probability when α ∈ (1, 2]. Moreover, the variations of coherence deplete with the increase of the success probability and rely on the eigenvalues of A as well as the success probability.
Gravity waves’ modulational instability under the effect of drag coefficient in the ocean
Authors: Augustin Daïka , César Mbané Biouélé
Published: October 2023

The research on oceanic gravity waves interacting with a drag coefficient has drawn a lot of attention. The interaction of these waves with a drag coefficient was recently found to be significant when modeling the propagation of these gravity waves. In this framework, the configuration involving the drag coefficient is of special interest. The gravity wave considered here is chosen to be unstable to two kinds (amplitude and phase) of perturbations. Given the complexity of the process to be investigated, it is necessary for us to make use of Miles’ theory in order to better model the evolution of these gravity waves propagating in deep water under the effect of drag coefficient, using the deterministic approach (well-known as the Benjamin–Feir method), and the statistical approach (also known as Klimontovich’s statistical average method) which is used starting from the Wigner Moyal transform. This study is performed to contribute to the understanding of the drag coefficient to the amplitudes (or phases) modulations of the driven waves: modulations that can sometimes accidentally trigger unpredictable extreme gravity waves.
An active colloidal system showing parallels to a time crystal
Authors: Evers Marina , Wittkowski Raphael
Published: October 2023

The spontaneous breaking of symmetries is a widespread phenomenon in physics. When time translational symmetry is spontaneously broken, an exotic nonequilibrium state of matter in which the same structures repeat themselves in time can arise. This state, known as ‘time crystal’, attracted a lot of interest recently. Another relatively new research area deals with active matter. Materials consisting of colloidal particles that consume energy from their environment and propel themselves forward can exhibit intriguing properties like superfluidity that were previously known only from quantum-mechanical systems. Here, we bring together these—at first glance completely different—research fields by showing that self-propelled colloidal particles show parallels to classical continuous time crystals. We present a state diagram showing where this state of matter arises. Furthermore, we investigate its properties and analyze the interactions between the particles leading to the dynamics.
Molecular electronic stopping cross section for H and He beams colliding with water: projectile charge state contribution
Authors: Cabrera-Trujillo R
Published: October 2023

When an ion beam impinges on a target material, electron stripping and capture processes involve different charge fraction states in the beam, such that each projectile charge state produces a different energy-loss. In this work, the energy deposition of swift hydrogen and helium ion beams colliding with a water target in the gas phase is studied. The electronic structure of the molecular target is represented in terms of core, bond, and lone pair orbital decomposition within a Harmonic Oscillator representation. In this way, the stopping cross section becomes only a function of the orbital mean excitation energy, I
0i
. The ion beam charge fraction compositions colliding on water is determined from the work of Wedlund et al (2019) Astronomy & Astrophysics, 630, A36) by accounting for the electron transfer cross sections. We find that the larger the projectile charge state, the larger the electronic stopping cross section and that the beam charge fraction determines the position of the maximum of the electronic stopping curve. Also, in agreement with the experiment, evidence is given on the dominant role of the largest projectile charge state in defining the stopping cross section for high energy collisions, while for low collision energies it is the lowest charge state together with all possible charge states contributing at the maximum of the electronic stopping cross section curve. Our results are reported and compared to available experimental data showing an excellent agreement to the available literature.
Global simulations of kinetic-magnetohydrodynamic processes with energetic electrons in tokamak plasmas
Authors: Bao J. , Zhang W.L. , Li D. , Lin Z. , Qiu Z.Y. , Chen W. , Zhu X. , Cheng J.Y. , Dong C. , Cao J.T.
Published: October 2023

The energetic electrons (EEs) produced from auxiliary heatings have been found to destabilize various Alfven eigenmodes (AEs) in recent experiments. To investigate EE relevant kinetic-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) processes, a global fluid-kinetic hybrid model is formulated and verified in this work, which consists of Landau-fluid bulk plasmas and drift-kinetic EEs that incorporates the dominant damping and drive mechanisms, respectively. The numerical capability of Landau-fluid bulk plasmas is obtained based on a well-benchmarked eigenvalue code multiscale analysis for plasma stability (MAS) using general geometry (Bao et al 2023 Nucl. Fusion
63 076021), and the comprehensive EE responses to the low frequency (

ω
≪

Ω

c
i

) MHD fluctuations are analytically derived and implemented in MAS, which not only cover contributions from trapped and passing particles, but also take into account the effects of adiabatic fluid convection and non-adiabatic kinetic compression. The linear properties of EE-driven beta-induced AEs (e-BAEs) are systematically studied using both MAS model and gyrokinetic toroidal code (GTC) particle-in-cell simulations. Building on the good agreements on the mode structure and dispersion relation, several key issues of e-BAE physics are analyzed and discussed, including the parametric dependences of e-BAE stability on EE mass, temperature and density with corresponding phase space dynamics, EE non-perturbative effects on the symmetry breaking of mode structure, and the EE density and temperature thresholds for e-BAE excitation that overcome bulk plasma damping. With these efforts, the upgraded MAS model is superior than initial-value simulations restricted by stringent electron Courant condition for fast linear analyses of most EE-AE problems with

ω
≪

Ω

c
i

, of which wave–particle resonance can be used to analyze the analogous effect of alpha particle driven AEs in future fusion reactor.
Association of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNAemia With Long-Term Mortality in a Randomized Trial of Preemptive Therapy and Antiviral Prophylaxis for Prevention of CMV Disease in High-Risk Donor Seropositive, Recipient Seronegative Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kumar Lakshin , Dasgupta Sayan , Murray-Krezan Cristina , Singh Nina , Rakita Robert M , Fisher Cynthia E , Limaye Ajit P
Published: October 2023

In a post-hoc analysis of the association of CMV DNAemia with long-term mortality in a randomized trial of CMV preemptive therapy vs. antiviral prophylaxis in D+R- liver transplant recipients, post-intervention CMV DNAemia was associated with increased mortality after adjusting for study arm.
Technology and remuneration of working time: a study on paid and unpaid working time in platform work
Authors: Fernández Massi Mariana , Longo Julieta
Published: October 2023

In this article, we analyse platform-mediated work on the basis of the results of a qualitative study conducted in Argentina in the areas of delivery services and design. The guiding question of this research is how digital work processes change the relationship between paid and unpaid working times. To answer this question, we examine the remuneration system of two types of platforms, and we identify different forms of unpaid labour time in platform-mediated work. Two main conclusions arise from this analysis. On the one hand, we argue that platforms tend to legitimise some forms of unpaid labour time to the extent that workers assume them to be non-working time. On the other hand, we show that platform workers apply different strategies to try to include some of these forms of unpaid labour time in their final income.
Communication
Authors: Nordell Shawn E. , Valone Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

This chapter tackles the science behind animal communication, which involves an individual's use of signals to influence the behavior of others. Signals are generally believed to be accurate indicators of conditions such as courtship displays. The evolution and accuracy of signals depends on the benefits and costs of signal production and the fitness interests of those involved. Alarm calls are unique vocalizations produced when predators are close. The chapter also explains how the environment affects the evolution of signals. Chemical, morphological, and mechanical signals differ in their physical properties. Additionally, signals often accurately indicate signaller phenotype and environmental conditions.
An Introduction to Animal Behavior
Authors: Rubenstein Dustin R.
Published: October 2023

Natural Selection and the Evolution of Behavior

The Cost–Benefit Approach

The Levels of Analysis

The Integrative Study of Animal Behavior

Approaches to Studying Behavior

Examining the Adaptive Basis of Behavior

Inferring the Evolutionary History of Behavior

Identify the central role of natural...
Territoriality and Movement
Authors: Rubenstein Dustin R.
Published: October 2023

Where to Live

Habitat Selection

Territoriality

Competition for Territories

To Stay or Go

Dispersal

Migration

Variation in Migratory Behavior and Connectivity

Use cost–benefit analysis and evolutionary game theory to understand an animal’s decisions about habitat selection and territoriality.

Consider the causes...
Reproductive Behavior
Authors: Rubenstein Dustin R.
Published: October 2023

Sexual Selection and the Evolution of Sex Differences

Sex Differences in Behavior and Investment

A Reversal in Sex Differences

Intrasexual Selection and Competition for Mates

Competition and Access to Mates

Conditional Mating Tactics versus Alternative Mating Strategies

Sperm Competition

Paternity Assurance

Intersexual...
Protein Processing and Sorting:
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

11.1 The Endoplasmic Reticulum

11.2 The Golgi Apparatus

11.3 The Mechanism of Vesicular Transport

11.4 Lysosomes

KEY EXPERIMENT

The Signal Hypothesis

MOLECULAR MEDICINE

Gaucher Disease

In addition to a nucleus, eukaryotic cells have a variety of membrane-enclosed organelles within their cytoplasm. These organelles provide discrete...
The Plasma Membrane
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

14.1 Structure of the Plasma Membrane

14.2 Transport of Small Molecules

14.3 Internalization of Large Molecules by Endocytosis

KEY EXPERIMENT

The LDL Receptor

MOLECULAR MEDICINE

Cystic Fibrosis

All cells—both prokaryotic and eukaryotic—are surrounded by a plasma membrane, which defines the boundary of the cell and...
The Cell Cycle
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

17.1 The Eukaryotic Cell Cycle

17.2 Regulators of Cell Cycle Progression

17.3 The Events of M Phase

KEY EXPERIMENT

The Discovery of MPF

KEY EXPERIMENT

The Identification of Cyclin

Self-reproduction is perhaps the most fundamental characteristic of cells—as may be said for all living organisms....
Genetic Drift: Evolution at Random
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

The Galápagos tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra) is the largest living tortoise. Populations on different islands in the Galápagos archipelago have strikingly different shells. These tortoises also have very little genetic variation, a result of their small population sizes.
Evolutionary Ecology: How to Be Fit
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

An “immortal jellyfish,” Turritopsis dohrnii. Jellyfishes have two life stages. They develop first as a coral-like polyp attached to a substrate. The polyp buds off circular medusae—the familiar jellyfish form. This pelagic life stage reproduces and then dies—except in Turritopsis. The...
Evolutionary Ecology: Interactions among Species
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

The evolution of different plant-pollinator interactions has led to the evolution of some very odd flowers. These are pipevine (Aristolochia) flowers, in which the petals are fused into a curved tube, with the sexual organs at the bottom. The inside of the tube...
The History of Life
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

A sagittal section through the chambered shell of Cleoniceras, an early Cretaceous ammonoid. Larger chambers were formed as the animal’s body grew in size. Ammonites—cephalopods related to squids—were extremely diverse in the Mesozoic but became entirely extinct at the era’s end.
Macroevolution: Evolution above the Species Level
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

The red-headed krait (Bungarus flaviceps) in Borneo is a venomous member of the cobra family. Snakes evolved from lizards, but many anatomical features have become very different. How large changes occur in evolution is part of the study of macroevolution.
Memory decline, anxiety and depression in the mouse model of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Marinina Ksenia S , Bezprozvanny Ilya B , Egorova Polina A
Published: October 2023

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disorder, caused by an expansion of polyglutamine in the ataxin-3 protein. SCA3 symptoms include progressive motor decline caused by an atrophy of the cerebellum and brainstem. However, it was recently reported that SCA3 patients also suffer from the cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome. The majority of SCA3 patients exhibit cognitive decline and approximately half of them suffer from depression and anxiety. The necessity to find a combined therapy for both motor and cognitive deficits in a SCA3 mouse model is required for the development of SCA3 treatment. Here, we demonstrated that the SCA3-84Q transgenic mice exhibited anxiety over the novel brightly illuminated environment in the open field, novelty suppressed feeding, and light-dark place preference tests. Moreover, SCA3-84Q mice also suffered from a decline in recognition memory during the novel object recognition test. SCA3-84Q mice also demonstrated floating behavior during the Morris water maze that can be interpreted as a sign of low mood and aversion to activity, i.e. depressive-like state. SCA3-84Q mice also spent more time immobile during the forced swimming and tail suspension tests which is also evidence for depressive-like behavior. Therefore, the SCA3-84Q mouse model may be used as a model system to test the possible treatments for both ataxia and non-motor symptoms including depression, anxiety, and memory loss.
How the Orthodox Features of Orthopoxviruses Led to an Unorthodox Mpox Outbreak: What We’ve Learned, and What We Still Need to Understand
Authors: Brooks John T , Reynolds Mary G , Torrone Elizabeth , McCollum Andrea , Spicknall Ian H , Gigante Crystal M , Li Yu , Satheshkumar Panayampalli S , Quilter Laura A S , Rao Agam K , O’Shea Jesse , Guagliardo Sarah Anne J , Townsend Michael , Hutson Christina L
Published: October 2023

Orthopoxviruses have repeatedly confounded expectations in terms of the clinical illness they cause and their patterns of spread. Monkeypox virus (MPXV), originally characterized in the late 1950s during outbreaks among captive primates, has been recognized since the 1970s to cause human disease (mpox) in West and Central Africa, where interhuman transmission has largely been associated with nonsexual, close physical contact. In May 2022, a focus of MPXV transmission was detected, spreading among international networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The outbreak grew in both size and geographic scope, testing the strength of preparedness tools and public health science alike. In this article we consider what was known about mpox before the 2022 outbreak, what we learned about mpox during the outbreak, and what continued research is needed to ensure that the global public health community can detect, and halt further spread of this disease threat.
Global knowledge and attitudes towards mpox (monkeypox) among healthcare workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jahromi Abdolreza Sotoodeh , Jokar Mohammad , Sharifi Nader , Kashkooli Sirus , Rahmanian Karamatollah , Rahmanian Vahid
Published: October 2023

Background

The recent increase in human mpox (monkeypox) cases emphasizes the importance of early detection, prompt response and preventive management to control the spread of the disease. Healthcare workers (HCWs) play a crucial role in this process. This study aimed to determine the global knowledge and attitudes towards mpox among HCWs.

Methods

This study searched multiple databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Web of Science, Embase, Springer and ProQuest, to locate various publications. The search was limited to English-language articles published between May 2022 (when the increase in mpox incidence was reported) and August 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality checklist was utilized to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Data were obtained using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and subsequently scrutinized through STATA software, version 14. The heterogeneity of the studies was assessed using the inverse variance and Cochran Q statistics based on the I2 test statistics. The Dersimonian and Liard random effects models were used where heterogeneity existed. Subgroup analysis and univariate and multivariable metaregression techniques were used to examine the causes of heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 22 studies, including 22 studies for knowledge (27 731 HCWs) and 6 studies for attitudes (14 388 HCWs), were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimates for good knowledge and positive attitudes among HCWs were 26.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.8 to 34.2) and 34.6% (95% CI 19.0 to 50.2), respectively. Moreover, the knowledge was 34.8% (95% CI 24.1 to 45.6) among HCWs with <5 y of work experience and 41.6% (95% CI 33.1 to 50) among individuals possessing >5 y of professional background.

Conclusions

Good knowledge of HCWs is at a low level. It is suggested that training sessions should be tailored towards younger HCWs with less healthcare experience. Additionally, it is essential to identify strategies on how to improve the knowledge and attitudes for better practice about the disease in HCWs worldwide.
Plasma NGAL levels in stable kidney transplant recipients and the risk of allograft loss
Authors: Swolinsky Jutta S , Hinz Ricarda M , Markus Carolin E , Singer Eugenia , Bachmann Friederike , Halleck Fabian , Kron Susanne , Naik Marcel G , Schmidt Danilo , Obermeier Martin , Gebert Pimrapat , Rauch Geraldine , Kropf Siegfried , Haase Michael , Budde Klemens , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Westhoff Timm H , Schmidt-Ott Kai M
Published: October 2023

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the utility of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and calprotectin (CPT) to predict long-term graft survival in stable kidney transplant recipients (KTR).

Methods

A total of 709 stable outpatient KTR were enrolled >2 months post-transplant. The utility of plasma and urinary NGAL (pNGAL, uNGAL) and plasma and urinary CPT at enrollment to predict death-censored graft loss was evaluated during a 58-month follow-up.

Results

Among biomarkers, pNGAL showed the best predictive ability for graft loss and was the only biomarker with an area under the curve (AUC) > 0.7 for graft loss within 5 years. Patients with graft loss within 5 years (n = 49) had a median pNGAL of 304 [interquartile range (IQR) 235–358] versus 182 (IQR 128–246) ng/mL with surviving grafts (P < .001). Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analyses at 58 months indicated an AUC for pNGAL of 0.795, serum creatinine–based Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had an AUC of 0.866. pNGAL added to a model based on conventional risk factors for graft loss with death as competing risk (age, transplant age, presence of donor-specific antibodies, presence of proteinuria, history of delayed graft function) had a strong independent association with graft loss {subdistribution hazard ratio (sHR) for binary log-transformed pNGAL [log2(pNGAL)] 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.24–5.15, P < .0001}. This association was substantially attenuated when eGFR was added to the model [sHR for log2(pNGAL) 1.63, 95% CI 0.92–2.88, P = .095]. Category-free net reclassification improvement of a risk model including log2(pNGAL) in addition to conventional risk factors and eGFR was 54.3% (95% CI 9.2%–99.3%) but C-statistic did not improve significantly.

Conclusions

pNGAL was an independent predictor of renal allograft loss in stable KTR from one transplant center but did not show consistent added value when compared with baseline predictors including the conventional marker eGFR. Future studies in larger cohorts are warranted.
Spatiotemporal deposition of cell wall polysaccharides in oat endosperm during grain development
Authors: Nadiminti Pavani P , Wilson Sarah M , van de Meene Allison , Hao Alfie , Humphries John , Ratcliffe Julian , Yi Changyu , Peirats-Llobet Marta , Lewsey Mathew G , Whelan James , Bacic Antony , Doblin Monika S
Published: October 2023

Oat (Avena sativa) is a cereal crop whose grains are rich in (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucan (mixed-linkage glucan or MLG), a soluble dietary fiber. In our study, we analyzed oat endosperm development in 2 Canadian varieties with differing MLG content and nutritional value. We confirmed that oat undergoes a nuclear type of endosperm development but with a shorter cellularization phase than barley (Hordeum vulgare). Callose and cellulose were the first polysaccharides to be detected in the early anticlinal cell walls at 11 days postemergence (DPE) of the panicle. Other polysaccharides such as heteromannan and homogalacturonan were deposited early in cellularization around 12 DPE after the first periclinal walls are laid down. In contrast to barley, heteroxylan deposition coincided with completion of cellularization and was detected from 14 DPE but was only detectable after demasking. Notably, MLG was the last polysaccharide to be laid down at 18 DPE within the differentiation phase, rather than during cellularization. In addition, differences in the spatiotemporal patterning of MLG were also observed between the 2 varieties. The lower MLG-containing cultivar AC Morgan (3.5% w/w groats) was marked by the presence of a discontinuous pattern of MLG labeling, while labeling in the same walls in CDC Morrison (5.6% w/w groats) was mostly even and continuous. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed higher transcript levels of multiple MLG biosynthetic cellulose synthase-like F (CSLF) and CSLH genes during grain development in CDC Morrison compared with AC Morgan that likely contributes to the increased abundance of MLG at maturity in CDC Morrison. CDC Morrison was also observed to have smaller endosperm cells with thicker walls than AC Morgan from cellularization onwards, suggesting the processes controlling cell size and shape are established early in development. This study has highlighted that the molecular processes influencing MLG content and deposition are more complex than previously imagined.
Effect of Salicylic Acid Treatment on Disease Resistance to Coleosporium zanthoxyli in Chinese Pepper (Zanthoxylum armatum)
Authors: Ren Yun , Liu Jia-Min , He Liang-Ping , Jiang Jin-Jue , Gong Ting , Zhou Qian , Liu Jing , Li Qiang , Tang Ning , Chen Ze-Xiong
Published: October 2023

The fungus Coleosporium zanthoxyli causes leaf rust in Chinese pepper (Zanthoxylum armatum). To investigate the control effect of elicitor treatment on leaf rust in this species, the impact of salicylic acid (SA) on the spores and growth of C. zanthoxyli and the induced resistance to leaf rust by Z. armatum were analyzed, and the possible defense mechanisms involved in SA induction were evaluated. The results showed that SA had no effect on C. zanthoxyli spore germination and growth; however, rust resistance was induced in Z. armatum. The optimal SA treatment concentration was 0.4 mg/ml, and the relative cure effect reached 44.56%. SA-induced disease resistance was evident for up to 10 days, while the optimal induction interval was 48 h after stimulation. Consistent with the induced resistance, H2O2, total protein, total phenol, and lignin concentrations and polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POD), phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities were significantly increased with the SA treatment, whereas the malondialdehyde content was significantly decreased. In addition, exogenous SA promoted defense-related enzyme activities, including those of POD, CAT, and PAL, and increased H2O2, lignin, and endogenous SA contents. Furthermore, SA induced the expression of SA signaling pathway genes such as ZaPR1 and ZaNPR1, and silencing ZaPR1 enhanced the sensitivity of Z. armatum to leaf rust. Our results demonstrated that 0.4 mg/ml SA priming increased the activities of CAT, POD, and PAL, elevated the contents of H2O2, lignin, and endogenous SA, and upregulated the expression of the SA-related gene ZaPR1, thereby enhancing the resistance of Z. armatum to leaf rust.
A Randomized Clinical Trial Targeting Daily Living Skills in Autistic Adolescents Without an Intellectual Disability Before the Transition to Adulthood
Authors: Duncan Amie , Meinzen-Derr Jareen , Ruble Lisa , Fassler Carrie , Stark Lori J.
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

In the United States, more than 75,000 autistic adolescents graduate from high school each year, and many lack the skills to successfully transition to college, work, and independent living. Daily living skills (DLS) in autistic adolescents without an intellectual disability (ID) fall 6 to 8 years behind peers. Better DLS are linked to more positive adult outcomes for autistic individuals. Surviving and Thriving in the Real World (STRW) is the only known evidence-based intervention that targets age-appropriate DLS in autistic adolescents without ID. The study objective was to evaluate STRW's efficacy compared with an active comparator (Program for the Evaluation and Enrichment of Relational Skills [PEERS]).

Method:

Autistic adolescents in their last 2 years of high school were randomized to STRW or PEERS. Outcome measures were the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition (VABS-3), DLS domain and subdomains (Personal, Domestic, Community), and DLS Goal Attainment Scaling (DLS-GAS) areas (Morning Routine, Cooking, Laundry, Money).

Results:

Adolescents were randomly assigned to STRW (n = 34) or PEERS (n = 30). Owing to COVID-19, 28.1% received in-person intervention and 71.9% received telehealth intervention. STRW youth made significant gains on the VABS-3 DLS domain (p = 0.01) and Domestic subdomain (p = 0.005) and DLS-GAS Total, Laundry, and Money areas (all p's < 0.05) compared with PEERS.

Conclusion:

STRW shows promise for acquiring age-appropriate DLS compared with PEERS. Adolescents in STRW progressed toward achieving DLS in the average range and closing the gap between chronological age and DLS. By improving DLS, STRW may facilitate more successful adult outcomes.
Altered Oculomotor and Vestibulo-ocular Function in Children and Adolescents Postconcussion
Authors: Treleaven Dakota , Lamontagne Anouk , Grilli Lisa , Friedman Debbie , Gagnon Isabelle
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To document (1) oculomotor (OM) and vestibulo-ocular (VO) function in children with concussion who were symptomatic at the time of assessment and to compare it with that in children with concussion who were clinically recovered (asymptomatic) and in children with no concussive injury, and (2) the extent to which OM and VO function relates to postconcussion symptom severity in injured children.

Setting:

Participants were recruited from a concussion clinic or the community.

Participants:

A total of 108 youth with concussion (72 symptomatic; 36 recovered) and 79 healthy youth (aged 9-18 years). Youth with concussion were included if aged 9 to 18 years, had no previous concussion within the last 12 months, less than 90 days since injury, and no known existing visual disorders or learning disabilities.

Study Design:

A prospective cross-sectional study.

Main Measures:

All participants were tested for OM and VO function with a commercial virtual reality (VR) eye-tracking system (Neuroflex®, Montreal,Québec, Canada). Participants in the concussion group who completed the postconcussion symptoms were scored with the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory.

Results:

There was a significant group effect for vergence during smooth pursuit (F
2,176 = 10.90; P < .05), mean latency during saccades (F
2,171 = 5.99; P = .003), and mean response delay during antisaccades (F
2,177 = 9.07; P < .05), where children with symptomatic concussion showed poorer performance than clinically recovered and healthy children. Similar results were found in VO for average vestibular ocular reflex gain in the horizontal leftward (F
2,168 = 7; P = .001) and rightward directions (F
2,163 = 13.08; P < .05) and vertical upward (F
2,147 = 7.60; P = .001) and downward directions (F
2,144 = 13.70; P < .05). Mean saccade error was positively correlated to total Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory scores in younger clinically recovered children.

Conclusion:

VR eye tracking may be an effective tool for identifying OM and VO deficits in the subacute phase (<90 days) postconcussion.
Treatments and Severe Outcomes for Patients Diagnosed With MIS-C at Four Children’s Hospitals in the United States, March 16, 2020–March 10, 2021
Authors: Shah Ami B. , Abrams Joseph Y. , Godfred-Cato Shana , Kunkel Amber , Hammett Teresa A. , Perez Maria A. , Hsiao Hui-Mien , Baida Nadine , Rostad Christina A. , Ballan Wassim , Ede Kaleo , Laham Federico R. , Kao Carol M. , Oster Matthew E. , Belay Ermias D.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Clinical management of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has varied over time and by medical institution.

Methods:

Data on patients with MIS-C were collected from 4 children’s hospitals between March 16, 2020 and March 10, 2021. Relationships between MIS-C treatments and patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were described. Propensity score matching was utilized to assess the relative risk of outcomes dependent on early treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or low-dose steroids, controlling for potential confounding variables.

Results:

Of 233 patients diagnosed with MIS-C, the most commonly administered treatments were steroids (88.4%), aspirin (81.1%), IVIG (77.7%) and anticoagulants (71.2%). Compared with those patients without respiratory features, patients with respiratory features were less likely to receive IVIG and steroids on the same day (combination treatment) (44.1%). Controlling for confounding variables, patients receiving IVIG within 1 day of hospitalization were less likely to have hospital length of stay ≥8 days (RR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.31–0.88). Patients receiving low-dose steroids within 1 day of hospitalization were less likely to develop ventricular dysfunction (RR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.26–0.77), have increasingly elevated troponin levels (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.40–0.75) or have hospital length of stay ≥8 days (RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.29–0.74).

Conclusion:

Treatments for MIS-C differed by hospital, patient characteristics and illness severity. When IVIG and low-dose steroids were administered in combination or low-dose steroids were administered alone within 1 day of hospitalization, the risk of subsequent severe outcomes was decreased.
Development and validation of diagnostic criteria for elderly atopic dermatitis
Authors: Wang Shang-Shang , Li Zheng , Gu Chao-Ying , Yin Hui-Bin , Wu Yue-Meng , Yao Xu , Li Wei
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Elderly atopic dermatitis (AD) is a newly identified subtype of AD. Whether specific diagnostic criteria are needed for elderly AD has been debated. This study aimed to propose diagnostic criteria for elderly AD and evaluate the sensitivity.

Methods:

A hospital-based study was conducted. We screened the clinical features of 1312 patients with AD of different ages in one cohort and proposed a set of diagnostic criteria for elderly AD. The criteria were then validated in another cohort of 223 patients clinically diagnosed with elderly AD by dermatologists specialized in AD to examine the diagnostic sensitivity compared with other criteria by chi-square test.

Results:

Based on the patients’ clinical features, a set of diagnostic criteria for elderly AD were proposed. The new diagnostic criteria showed significantly higher sensitivity than the classical diagnostic criteria (P<0.001), especially for mild and moderate AD (P<0.001）. Of all 223 patients with elderly AD, 93.3% fulfilled our criteria, while only 43.5%, 65.5%, and 52.0% fulfilled the Hanifin and Rajka criteria, the Japanese Dermatology Academy criteria, and the United Kingdom Working Party criteria, respectively.

Conclusion:

The newly proposed criteria for elderly AD yielded high diagnostic sensitivity, particularly for mild and moderate AD.
Anticoagulation Bridging in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Device: A Regional Analysis of HeartMate 3 Recipients
Authors: Yaranov Dmitry M. , Baldridge Abigail S. , Gonzalez Matthew , Biglane J. Barr , Tanaka Daizo , Fischer William , Larkin Chris , Ullah Rafath , Chaudhry Sunit-Preet , Pham Duc Thinh
Published: October 2023

Advances in left ventricular assist device technologies have led to an improvement in pump hemocompatibility and outcomes. Because of concerns of thromboembolic complications in prior generations of left ventricular assist devices, bridging with parenteral anticoagulants was routinely. Management strategies of subtherapeutic INRs and their effects on the current generation of devices deserve review. We performed analysis of the MOMENTUM 3 trial including 6 centers in the mid-America region. Patients with subtherapeutic INRs (INR < 2) occurring after the index admission underwent chart review to determine the management strategies taken by clinicians. Strategies were divided into two groups, bridging or nonbridging. Of the 225 patients included in the analysis, 130 (58%) patients had a total of 235 subtherapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) events. Most (n = 179, 76.2%) of these INRs were not bridged (n = 100 warfarin dose adjustment, n = 79 no change in warfarin dose). Among those INRs (n = 56, 23.8%) treated with bridging, approximately half (n = 30, 53.6%) were treated with subcutaneous agents and other half (n = 26, 46.4%) were treated with intravenous agents. There was no difference in individual outcomes or composite endpoints of death, rehospitalization, CVA, or bleeding events between the groups.
Renal function in very old critically ill patients
Authors: Perschinka Fabian , Boyer Naomi , Forni Lui G. , Joannidis Michael
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Current demographic change leads to higher number of elderly patients admitted to an ICU. Among other organs also the kidneys show age-related changes, which are associated with a decline in various aspects of renal function. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of structural and functional changes in elderly and also to specifically address the increased risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in this population.

Recent findings

Ageing in the kidneys is affected by many different factors, such as low grade chronic inflammation, called inflammageing, and various comorbidities. Nevertheless, a decrease of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) occurs independent of the presence of comorbidities and a steady decline of GFR has been reported in both healthy men and women. Pharmacodynamic of many drugs is altered by these changes. Additionally the rate of diuretic resistance appears to be increased. The cause of AKI occurrence in older age is, multifactorial and includes preventable triggers (hypovolemia, hypotension, nephrotoxins) as well as changes associated with aging.

Age-related alterations of the kidneys were found at microscopic and macroscopic levels of the cell. These changes lead to a reduced renal reserve and subsequently to an increased vulnerability of aged kidneys when an additional stressor is added. Age is an independent risk factor for developing AKI. Physicians should take into account the altered renal function in elderly patients and take renal protective measures at an early stage.
The role of renin-angiotensin system in sepsis-associated acute kidney injury: mechanisms and therapeutic implications
Authors: Garcia Bruno , Zarbock Alexander , Bellomo Rinaldo , Legrand Matthieu
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

This review aims to explore the relationship between the renin angiotensin system (RAS) and sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI), a common complication in critically ill patients associated with mortality, morbidity, and long-term cardiovascular complications. Additionally, this review aims to identify potential therapeutic approaches to intervene with the RAS and prevent the development of AKI.

Recent findings

Recent studies have provided increasing evidence of RAS alteration during sepsis, with systemic and local RAS disturbance, which can contribute to SA-AKI. Angiotensin II was recently approved for catecholamine resistant vasodilatory shock and has been associated with improved outcomes in selected patients.

SA-AKI is a common condition that can involve disturbances in the RAS, particularly the canonical angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) angiotensin-II (Ang II)/angiotensin II receptor 1 (AT-1R) axis. Increased renin levels, a key enzyme in the RAS, have been shown to be associated with AKI and may also guide vasopressor therapy in shock. In patients with high renin levels, angiotensin II administration may reduce renin concentration, improve intra-renal hemodynamics, and enhance signaling through the angiotensin II receptor 1. Further studies are needed to explore the role of the RAS in SA-AKI and the potential for targeted therapies.
Acute care for burn patients: fluids, surgery, and what else?
Authors: Palmieri Tina L.
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Recently published initiatives spanning the burn care spectrum have substantially changed the standard of care in burn care. The purpose of this article is to describe new impactful concepts in burn first aid, triage, resuscitation, and treatment as well as their impact on future research.

Recent findings

First aid after burn injury traditionally consists of extinguishing the burn and applying dressings. Recent evidence suggests that applying 20 min of cool tap water to the burn wound in the first 3 h postburn mitigates burn injury extent. National burn center transfer criteria have been updated, impacting patient initial transfer and management. The adverse effects of hydroxocobalamin, a commonly used antidote for cyanide toxicity, have been delineated. Initial burn resuscitation recommendations for both volume and potentially fluid type are being reexamined. The emergence of innovative skin substitutes may improve burn survival by providing a physiologically stabilizing intermediate dressing. Finally, formal clinical practice guidelines for early mobility in the ICU after burn injury have been defined.

These changes in burn care, triage, resuscitation, and treatment have challenged traditional burn care standards, created new standards, and are the basis for future prospective randomized trials.