bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoswitching Characteristics, Photochromism and Mechanochromism of Extended π‐Conjugated Azopyrazole and Azoisoxazole Derivatives
Authors: Kumar Himanshu , Nasare Roshan , Parthiban Gayathri , Kumar Pravesh , Kumar Gaur Ankit , Kumar Thakur Sandeep , Singh Sanjay , Venkataramani Sugumar
Published: November 2024

Herein, we report extended π‐conjugated arylazopyrazole and arylazoisoxazole photoswitches towards tuning and modulation of their intrinsic properties. In this regard, we systematically introduced phenyl, styryl, (triphenylvinyl)styryl, phenylethynyl groups at ortho, meta, and para positions relative to the azo unit to extend the π‐conjugation and vary the electronic coupling. In addition, the heterocyclic substituents were also modified. Overall, 20 photoswitches with modular substituents have been synthesized and studied for the photoswitching ability and thermal relaxations of Z isomers in the solution phase and solid state. Besides deciphering the importance of extending conjugation in photoswitching characteristics, intriguing properties such as mechanochromism and reversible bidirectional photochromism in the solid state were also unravelled. Through extensive spectroscopic studies, we envisage the effect of electronic coupling due to π‐conjugation and its impact on longer wavelength light‐induced photoswitching that holds several application potentials.
Crystal Growth, Optical, Mechanical and Dielectric Analysis of Semiorganic Glycine Manganese Sulphate Single Crystal for Opto‐Electronic Device Application
Authors: Revathi P. , Balakrishnan T. , Thirupathy J.
Published: November 2024

Glycine manganese sulphate (GMS) crystals are produced by a slow evaporation technique at room temperature. This is confirmed that triclinic of the crystal lattice system by using single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis and to determine the lattice parameters of the synthesised crystals. Powder XRD is used to confirm the planar indexing and crystalline structure. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FT‐IR) spectra are examined to verify that functional groups are present in the generated GMS crystals. By establishing a cut‐off wavelength of 253 nm, spectra of visible, near‐infrared, and Ultra Violet (UV) light from 200 to 1100 nm are analyzed. At frequencies ranging from 100 Hz to 8 MHz, the grown crystal's dielectric response is studied. Vickers microhardness tester is utilized to find out how strong the grown crystal is mechanically. Photoluminescence (PL) investigations often aim to detect crystal formation faults and contaminants. Etching analysis is used to find surface flaws and dislocations on the formed crystal's surface. The internal surface property of the produced crystal is investigated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The findings contradicted each other, suggesting that the created GMS crystal be used in opto‐electronic device applications.
A Prediction Model for Lymph Node Metastasis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Multiple Risk Factors
Authors: Shen Hongyu , Zhang Tonghan , Wang Shuoyu
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM) frequently occurs in oral cancer patients. This study aims to investigate risk factors associated with CLNM and predict CLNM preoperatively in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

This population‐based, hospital retrospective cohort study included 158 patients with oral cancer. We performed regression analysis to determine risk factors and establish a model for predicting CLNM in patients with OSCC. To distinguish and validate the prediction model, we used the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC).

Results

Lymph node size, tumor size, degree of differentiation, and LVI were risk factors for cancer metastasis. The OR values were 1.245, 2.847, 2.527, and 6.945, respectively. The AUC value for the clinical prediction model was 0.8736 (95% CI: 0.8043–0.9429).

Conclusions

The prediction model for OSCC patients predicts CLNM and provides a new method for preoperative assessment of whether cervical lymph nodes are metastatic, as well as a guide for surgical treatment, including whether to carry out neck dissection and which neck dissection procedure to use.
Resistance gene enrichment sequencing for NLR genes for Phytophthora sojae in selected soybean plant introductions and differentials with putative novel and known Rps genes
Authors: Hodge Brian , Batnini Amine , Bolaños‐Carriel Carlos , Van Kyujung , Maroof M. A. Saghai , McHale Leah , Dorrance Anne E.
Published: November 2024

Numerous sources of putative novel resistance genes toward Phytophthora sojae (Rps genes) have been identified and loci mapped in soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) but cloning has remained elusive. We utilized resistance gene enrichment sequencing (RenSeq) to identify the putative resistance genes in 20 plant introductions (PIs) and differentials of the cultivar Williams with rps, Rps1c, Rps3a, and Rps8. The DNA from these genotypes was enriched and sequenced using more than 25,000 80 nt baits designed to nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat (NLR) encoding sequences. Overall, there were greater numbers of variants in the NLR‐encoding genes in Rps loci on chromosomes (Chrs) 3, 7, 13, and 18 for the 20 PIs as compared to the Williams differentials for rps, Rps1c, Rps1k, Rps3a, and Rps8. Genes encoding Rps1c, Rps3a, and Rps8 were proposed based on sequence differences among the differentials. Among the 20 PIs, there may be additional alleles on Chrs 3, 13, and 18, and PI399079 may have two new alleles at Chrs 3 and 7 loci. A unique NLR on Chr 8 was identified in PI200553. New alleles were also identified on Chrs 3 and 18 when the PI and resistant bulks were compared to susceptible recombinant inbred lines. This study demonstrates the utility of RenSeq as an efficient method to identify and predict specific novel NLR genes in landrace soybean germplasm, which confer resistance to P. sojae and obtain gene‐specific markers to facilitate their introgression into modern cultivars.
Robust Routing Optimization in VANET Communication Based on Bellman–Ford Multitier Metaheuristic Algorithms
Authors: Sahu Smita Rani , Tripathy Biswajit
Published: November 2024

In modern cities, vehicle ad hoc networks (VANETs) hold great promise for improving safety on the roads, traffic control, and communicating. The constantly changing and intricate nature of VANETs hampers adequate routing due to a variety of factors. The work examines the use of a multitiered metaheuristic algorithm that combines Bellman–Ford routing with the Fire Hawk, Gannet Optimization, and Mayfly Optimization algorithms to find optimal routing solutions for VANETs. The suggested work addresses network topological dynamics, actual time limitations, flexibility, connectivity problems, and security issues, in addition to the different quality of service (QoS) requirements in VANETs. Bellman–Ford serves as the foundational routing layer and maintains communication, whereas Fire Hawk, Gannet Optimization, and Mayfly Optimization improve and optimize routing patterns at subsequent levels. The multitier approach aims to strike a balance between the rational and probabilistic aspects of routing so as to satisfy the minimal latency needs of applications that are safety‐critical and respond quickly to the rapid changes in VANETs. The suggested work is evaluated with a traffic density ranging from 500 to 5000 with a step size of 500, and it has been observed that for the highest traffic density of 5000, the proposed work obtains a latency of 3.88 ms, data delivery rate of 0.944, a throughput of 2.94 Mbps, and energy efficiency of 97.14%. The proposed work remains robust compared to integrating state‐of‐the‐art metaheuristic algorithms such as ECRA, HOPRP, and CM. Overall, the proposed routing techniques increase routing efficiency in VANETs and make it possible to create vehicle communication networks that are more trustworthy and safe.
Spatial clustering of hosts can favor specialist parasites
Authors: Draghi Jeremy , Zook Evan
Published: November 2024

Generalist parasites seem to enjoy the clear ecological advantage of a greater chance to find a host, and genetic trade‐offs are therefore often invoked to explain why specialists can coexist with or outcompete generalists. Here we develop an alternative perspective based on optimal foraging theory to explain why spatial clustering can favor specialists even without genetic trade‐offs. Using analytical and simulation models inspired by bacteriophage, we examine the optimal use of two hosts, one yielding greater reproductive success for the parasite than the other. We find that a phage may optimally ignore the worse host when the two hosts are clustered together in dense, ephemeral patches. We model conditions that enhance or reduce this selective benefit to a specialist parasite and show that it is eliminated entirely when the hosts occur only in separate patches. These results show that specialists can be favored even when trade‐offs are weak or absent and emphasize the importance of spatiotemporal heterogeneity in models of optimal niche breadth.
Beyond genes‐for‐behaviour: The potential for genomics to resolve long‐standing questions in avian brood parasitism
Authors: Rönkä Katja , Eroukhmanoff Fabrice , Kulmuni Jonna , Nouhaud Pierre , Thorogood Rose
Published: November 2024

Behavioural ecology by definition of its founding ‘Tinbergian framework’ is an integrative field, however, it lags behind in incorporating genomic methods. ‘Finding the gene/s for a behaviour’ is still rarely feasible or cost‐effective in the wild but as we show here, genomic data can be used to address broader questions. Here we use avian brood parasitism, a model system in behavioural ecology as a case study to highlight how behavioural ecologists could use the full potential of state‐of‐the‐art genomic tools. Brood parasite–host interactions are one of the most easily observable and amenable natural laboratories of antagonistic coevolution, and as such have intrigued evolutionary biologists for decades. Using worked examples, we demonstrate how genomic data can be used to study the causes and mechanisms of (co)evolutionary adaptation and answer three key questions for the field: (i) Where and when should brood parasitism evolve?, (ii) When and how should hosts defend?, and (iii) Will coevolution persist with ecological change? In doing so, we discuss how behavioural and molecular ecologists can collaborate to integrate Tinbergen's questions and achieve the coherent science that he promoted to solve the mysteries of nature.
Wolf Predation on White‐tailed Deer Before, During, and After a Historically Mild Winter in Northern Minnesota
Authors: Gable Thomas D. , Homkes Austin T. , Bump Joseph K.
Published: November 2024

In many southern boreal ecosystems of North America, wolves are the primary predators of white‐tailed deer, and white‐tailed deer are the primary prey of wolves. Furthermore, wolf–deer systems have and will continue to become more common as white‐tailed deer range continues expanding northward in North America. Despite this, there is little information on kill rates of wolves on deer (i.e., the number of deer killed per wolf per unit of time)—a fundamental metric of wolf predation on deer—and how kill rates vary with deer density, wolf density, and environmental conditions. We estimated kill rates of wolves on deer before, during, and after a historically mild winter in the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem, Minnesota, USA. Kill rates of wolves on deer were low (0.009–0.018 deer/wolf/day) in fall, peaked in February (0.050 deer/wolf/day), and quickly declined to 0 deer/wolf/day by April. The kill rates of wolves on deer we observed in winter were some of the lowest kill rates of wolves on deer that have been documented. Wolves in the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem appeared unable to catch and kill a sufficient number of deer to meet their daily energetic requirements during Winter 2023–2024, and thus most wolves likely lost weight during winter, a period when wolves are typically in peak physical condition. The rates of wolf predation we observed appeared to be well below those needed to decrease deer population density in the GVE. Thus, our work, in combination with numerous other studies, indicates winter conditions are the primary driver of deer population change in northern climates.
Use of a Truffle Dog Provides Insight Into the Ecology and Abundant Occurrence of Genea (Pyronemataceae) in Western Oregon, USA
Authors: Dawson Hilary Rose , Dawson Heather A.
Published: November 2024

Hypogeous fungi (“truffles”) are challenging to study because they produce underground sporocarps that may not be located during traditional fungal surveys. Commercially valuable truffles are located using scent‐detection dogs trained on truffles. However, the dogs are not necessarily limited to commercial truffle species when trained on other taxa of interest. For example, Genea (Pyronemataceae, Ascomycota) is a genus of common but difficult to find truffles that develops small and often soil‐colored hypogeous ascomata. We used a truffle dog trained to locate Genea sporocarps in the southern Willamette Valley and associated mountains in western Oregon, USA, recording when the sporocarps were present at a wide range of elevations (113 to 1879 m). We found Genea was present in half of our surveys and noted that it rarely fruited in areas that had experienced wildfire. This study demonstrates the value of using truffle dogs in documenting truffle diversity, particularly those that are difficult to locate visually, and provides further evidence for the abundance of Genea.
Evolutionary Links Between Skull Shape and Body Size Suggest Allometric Forces and Selection at Work in a Generalist Group of Lizards
Authors: Rivera Julio A. , Fuentes‐G. Jesualdo A. , Martins Emília P.
Published: November 2024

The vertebrate skull is a complex structure, and studies of skull shape have yielded considerable insight into the evolutionary forces shaping specialized phenotypes in organisms as diverse as bats, frogs, and fossorial animals. Here, we used phylogenetic comparative analyses of CT scans of male skulls from 57 species of Sceloporus lizards to explore patterns of skull evolution in a group of generalist taxa. We found that most interspecific variation is in terms of skull elongation such that some species have long, narrow skulls, whereas others exhibit more compact and robust skulls. We also found strong links to overall body size, with evolutionary shifts to larger bodies being associated with more compact skulls and slower evolutionary rates. This is the opposite of the pattern in most mammals in which larger bodied species have longer snouts, and more like the pattern in frogs in which function has played a more important evolutionary role. Also, unlike other vertebrates, the jaw, anterior, and posterior parts of the Sceloporus skull are largely integrated, having evolved independently of each other only to a limited, albeit significant, degree. Our results emphasize the importance of body size in the evolutionary shaping of the skull and suggest that additional studies of behavioral function in a generalist group are warranted.
Cytokine Autoantibodies Alter Gene Expression Profiles of Healthy Donors
Authors: von Stemann Jakob Hjorth , Dubois Florian , Saint‐André Violaine , Bondet Vincent , Posseme Celine , Charbit Bruno , Quintana‐Murci Lluis , Hansen Morten Bagge , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Duffy Darragh ,   Milieu Intérieur Consortium
Published: November 2024

Autoantibodies against cytokines (c‐aAb) have been implicated in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases, and a variety of infections. In addition, several independent studies have detected elevated titers of c‐aAb in the circulation of healthy individuals. To further understand their impact on immune responses, we measured c‐aAb against IFN‐α, IFN‐γ, CSF2, IL‐1α, IL‐6, and IL‐10 in the plasma of 1000 healthy individuals of the Milieu Intérieur (MI) cohort. Focusing on donors above a defined positive cut‐off we observed significant age effects for c‐aAb against IL‐1α, but no major environmental or lifestyle associated factors were identified. Using TruCulture stimulation data from the MI cohort, we observed a strong association between induced IL‐1α and c‐aAb levels after LPS stimulation. For several other stimuli, c‐aAb against IL‐1α and IL‐10 were associated with decreased or increased proinflammatory gene expression, respectively. Finally, TruCulture assays supplemented with plasma containing high‐titer c‐aAb showed a strong influence of anti‐IFN‐α and anti‐IL‐6 c‐aAb on both baseline and induced gene expression. In summary, this study shows a widespread prevalence of anti‐cytokine autoantibodies in healthy donors with impacts on diverse immune responses, suggesting a significant contribution of c‐aAb to interindividual immune heterogeneity.
Expectation of analgesia increases the inhibitory response of conditioned pain modulation in healthy participants who at baseline have a non‐inhibitory profile
Authors: Nascimento Allen Matheus S. , Ardestani Soraya S. , Novaes Isabela C. , Conti Paulo César R. , Bonjardim Leonardo R. , Exposto Fernando G. , Svensson Peter , Costa Yuri M.
Published: November 2024

Background

This study assessed the effect of expectation of analgesia on conditioned pain modulation (CPM) in healthy participants stratified into inhibitors and non‐inhibitors.

Methods

A parallel CPM protocol was assessed on 21 women and 22 men across two sessions: baseline and expectation of analgesia, which was induced by a standardized audiovisual suggestion. The CPM assessment involved two different test stimuli (TS): mechanically controlled palpation and the pressure pain threshold, applied to two different regions: anterior temporalis and thenar eminence of the hand. The conditioning stimulus (CS) involved immersing the non‐dominant forearm in cold water. The order of the TS and regions was randomized for each participant. The CPM protocol was performed three times, with a 1‐min interval between TS/region sequences. After a 20‐min rest, the CPM assessment was repeated (two blocks in total). The standard error of measurement (SEM) was computed to identify inhibitors (inhibitory responses) and non‐inhibitors (including non‐inhibitors and facilitatory responses). Cochran's Q, ANOVA and ANCOVA were applied to the data (p < 0.05).

Results

There was a significant decrease in the proportion of non‐inhibitors during the expectation of analgesia session (32.6%–44.2%) when compared with the baseline session (51.2%–72.1%). The non‐inhibitors exhibited a lower inhibitory CPM magnitude than the inhibitors only in block 1 of the baseline session. The expectation of analgesia resulted in an increased magnitude of the inhibitory CPM solely in non‐inhibitors.

Conclusion

Expectation of analgesia can increase the inhibitory response of the CPM beyond the measurement error in healthy participants with a baseline non‐inhibitory profile.

Significance

Several studies have investigated whether cognitive modulation can alter the magnitude of the inhibitory response of conditioned pain modulation (CPM), yet some gaps remain. This study accounted for measurement error to accurately determine changes in CPM influenced by expectation of analgesia.
The Influence of Population Aging on Living Carbon Emissions in the Yellow River Basin: Comparisons Between Urban and Rural Areas
Authors: Song Mei , Zhang Jia , Li Mengxue , Gao Yujin
Published: November 2024

Population aging presents a major challenge to China's economic and social development. While some research has addressed the relationship between population aging and energy consumption or generalized carbon emissions, its impact on living carbon emissions has been less explored. This study uses provincial panel data from the Yellow River Basin (2006–2020) and employs a threshold regression model to analyze the relationship between population aging and living carbon emissions. A Multiple Mediation Effect Model is also applied to explore the mechanisms behind this relationship, with a comparative analysis between urban and rural areas. The results indicate a U‐shaped nonlinear effect of population aging on living carbon emissions, which are initially inhibited and then promoted, with different “turning points” for rural and urban regions. As income levels rise, population aging has a marginally increasing effect on living carbon emissions. However, upgrading the consumption expenditure structure, expanding family size, and increasing clean energy consumption can help mitigate the promoting effect of aging on emissions. The mediation model identifies four pathways through which population aging influences living carbon emissions, with income level and consumption expenditure structure playing key roles. This study offers policy insights for addressing urban‐rural disparities and fostering sustainable regional development.
Morphology and dynamics of thermokarst ponds in a subarctic permafrost peatland, northern Sweden
Authors: Seemann Fabian , Sannel A. Britta K.
Published: November 2024

Rapid climatic changes cause permafrost to thaw, initiating thermokarst landforms such as lakes and ponds. These waterbodies cover large extents of the northern circumpolar permafrost region and are significant sources of greenhouse gases. For the assessment of current and potential future waterbody development, continuous monitoring and analyses of the driving factors are required. In Dávvavuopmi, a permafrost peatland located in the sporadic permafrost zone of northern Sweden, high‐resolution imagery of the first two decades of the 21st century is available. This study combined field, GIS and statistical methods to explain spatiotemporal pond dynamics by investigating pond morphology and regional climate characteristics. Erosion affected 42% of the shorelines, and the erosion intensity was significantly correlated with the height and slope of bluffs facing the waterbodies. Along some sections, active erosion was causing shoreline retreat, but the dominant trend in this landscape was pond drainage and terrestrialisation/fen vegetation ingrowth. Between 2003 and 2021 the thermokarst pond area and number decreased by 6%/decade and 27%/decade, respectively. Inter‐ and intra‐annual climatic parameters could not be directly linked to thermokarst pond dynamics. Instead, the climate conditions (MAAT/snow depth) control permafrost degradation, causing enhanced hydrological connectivity in the landscape, which drives the pond drainage trend.
Polyether‐Derived Carbon Material and Ionic Liquid (Tributylmethylphosphonium iodide) Incorporated Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride‐co‐Hexafluoropropylene)‐Based Polymer Electrolyte for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Nazir Sehrish , Singh Pramod K. , Jain Amrita , Michalska Monika , Yahya M. Z. A. , Yusuf S. N. F. , Diantoro Markus , Latif Famiza Abdul , Singh Manoj K.
Published: November 2024

Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF‐HFP)‐sodium thiocyanate (NaSCN) solid polymer electrolytes containing different weight ratios of ionic liquid (IL)—tributylmethylphosphonium iodide (TBMPI) were prepared using solution‐cast approach. Electrochemical impedance data indicates that increasing ionic liquid into polymer electrolyte matrix increases ionic conductivity and the maximum value of ionic conductivity was obtained at 150 wt% TBMPI, having conductivity value of 8.3 × 10−5 S cm−1. The dielectric measurement supports our conductivity data. Ionic transference number measurement affirms this system to be predominantly ionic in nature, while electrochemical stability window (ESW) was found to be 3.4 V. Polarized optical microscopy (POM) along with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) suggest suitability of TBMPI as plasticizer, while infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms ion interaction, complexation, and composite nature. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows thermal stability of these ionic liquid‐doped polymer electrolytes (ILDPEs). Using maximum conducting ILDPE, a sandwiched supercapacitor has been fabricated which shows stable performance as high as 228 Fg−1 using cyclic voltammetry (CV).
Novel HMGA2::COL14A1 Fusion Identified in Xanthogranulomatous Epithelial Tumor/Keratin‐Positive Giant Cell Tumor
Authors: Dehner Carina A. , Buehler Darya , Hofich Christopher , Halling Kevin C. , Folpe Andrew L.
Published: November 2024

Xanthogranulomatous epithelial tumor (XGET)/Keratin‐positive giant cell tumor (KP‐GCT) represents a spectrum of recently described neoplasms characterized by a proliferation of distinctive mononuclear cells expressing keratin within a background of osteoclast‐like giant cells, mixed inflammatory cells, and a variably prominent xanthogranulomatous component. Recent studies demonstrated a recurrent HMGA2::NCOR2 fusion in many cases. We herein describe a case of XGET/KP‐GCT arising in the right femoral head of a 19‐year‐old male harboring a rare novel HMGA2::COL14A1 fusion.
The Impact of Food Specific IgG Antibodies on Migraine and Its Comorbidities
Authors: Zhao Zhi‐Ming , Yang Mei‐Mei , Zhao Xian‐Shu , Wan Fu‐Jun , Ning Bao‐Li , Zhang Li‐Ming , Fu Jun
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the differences in headache and comorbidity symptoms between migraine patients with negative and positive food specific IgG antibodies, and explore the correlation between these symptoms with food specific IgG antibodies.

Methods

A total of 129 migraine patients were enrolled. Seven questionnaires were used to gather information regarding the symptoms of migraine, gastrointestinal, depression, anxiety, and sleep. Serum specific IgG antibodies against 14 kinds of food were detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

Patients with migraine diagnosis who had positive food specific IgG antibodies had significantly worse headaches, gastrointestinal and anxiety symptoms, compared to the patients with negative IgG antibodies. Patients with more IgG positive foods and higher total positive IgG concentration generally had worse migraine conditions, anxiety, depression, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusion

The effect of food specific IgG antibodies on severity of migraine and its comorbidities were antibody‐quantity and IgG‐concentration dependent. Future studies are warranted to explore the mechanism underlying such relationship.
HPV vaccination is highly effective and cost‐effective for cervical cancer prevention in women living with HIV in China: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Liu Hanting , Zou Maosheng , Shen Mingwang , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Chen Simiao , Li Jinghua , Li Rui , Liu Huan , Zou Zhuoru , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2024

The presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection increases the risk of acquiring human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and developing HPV‐related adversities. We aimed to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of HPV vaccination for women living with HIV in a Chinese setting. A decision‐analysis Markov model was developed to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of 36 HPV vaccination strategies for women living with HIV aged 18–45 years, from the healthcare system perspective. With the status quo, not vaccinating women living with HIV would lead to 51.99% (51,985/100,000) HIV‐related deaths; 35.10% (35,098/100,000) would develop genital warts, 0.36% (355/100,000) develop cervical cancer, and among which 63.66% (226/355) die from cervical cancer over their lifetime (1,601,457 person‐years). With a willingness to pay (WTP) threshold of three times gross domestic product (GDP), Gardasil 4 vaccination for all women living with HIV aged 18–45 years was the most cost‐effective strategy (ICER = US $32,766/QALY gained). This strategy would reduce genital warts by 35.52% (12,467/35,098), cervical cancers by 12.96% (46/355), and cervical cancer deaths by 12.39% (28/226) over the lifetime of the cohort. If the future domestic Cecolin 9 vaccine is priced at 60% of Gardasil 9, vaccinating all women living with HIV aged 18–45 years with Cecolin 9 would be the most cost‐effective strategy (ICER = US $30,493/QALY gained). Improving adherence to antiretroviral therapy for HIV may substantially improve the cost‐effectiveness of both Gardasil 4 and Cecolin 9 vaccination.
Virtual motivational interviewing for physical activity among older adults: A non‐randomised, mixed‐methods feasibility study
Authors: Akinrolie Olayinka , Ripat Jacquie , Strachan Shaelyn , Webber Sandra C. , McNabb Allister , Peters Jennifer , Kullman Sasha , Barclay Ruth
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of Virtual Motivational Interviewing (VIMINT) for improving physical activity among community‐dwelling older adults. A feasibility study using a mixed‐method single‐group pre‐ and post‐design. Each participant received five sessions of motivational interviewing (MI) through the Zoom platform. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through recruitment, attrition and retention rates; adherence; satisfaction; counsellors' competency; and interviews with participants and counsellors. Other outcomes including physical activity were assessed at baseline, post‐ and 2‐month follow‐up. Eight participants were recruited; the mean age was 68.9 ± 3.9 years. The retention rate was 88%, 92.5% of the sessions were attended, and the participants' satisfaction score was 24.14 ± 7.3/32. The counsellors were rated as “good” and “fair” in relational and technical components, respectively. The categories derived from qualitative analysis were session composition, acceptability of outcome measures, positive impact of the VIMINT study and suggestions to improve future studies. The findings showed that VIMINT intervention should be feasible and acceptable for older adults. Evidence from this study provides relevant information that will guide the planning of future studies investigating the effectiveness of virtual MI on physical activity among community‐dwelling older adults.
Estimating round‐tripping FDI from firm‐level data in China
Authors: Qian Zeyi , Zhang Junfu , Chen Qiangyuan
Published: November 2024

When capital leaves a country and then flows back as foreign direct investment (FDI), we call it round‐tripping FDI. It is widely suspected that China's official FDI statistics contain a substantial amount of round‐tripping FDI. However, it is difficult to quantify the round‐tripping FDI due to the lack of data. In this paper, we propose two methods to identify round‐tripping FDI. The first one tracks capital flows at the firm level. If a firm in China invests in a foreign firm and this foreign firm makes an investment back to China shortly after, then we consider this investment to China as round‐tripping FDI. Our second measure of round‐tripping FDI adds to the first measure by including investments in China made by Chinese investors registered in tax havens. The first estimate of round‐tripping FDI accounts for up to 3% of China's total FDI from 1999 to 2015, whereas the second estimate accounts for up to 70% in the period. Our firm‐level analysis shows that industrial firms facing higher tax burdens are more likely to make round‐tripping FDI. We also show that at the city level, adjusted FDI statistics by subtracting the estimated round‐tripping FDI are better predictors of imports and exports. Finally, we show that provinces receiving higher shares of round‐tripping FDI are more likely to be punished for illegal financial activities. Taken together, these findings suggest that our measures of round‐tripping FDI, although noisy, are indicative of real transactions.
Identification of the Oncogenic Role of the Circ_0001326/miR‐577/VDAC1 Cascade in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhu Zhirong , Tang Guiliang , Shi Mengqi , Fang Mengjie , Zhang Xiaolong , Xu Huali
Published: November 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer death among men worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of PCa. However, the precise action of circ_0001326 in PCa malignant progression is still unknown. The levels of circ_0001326, miR‐577 and voltage dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) were determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot. Cell proliferation, colony formation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were evaluated by the Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), EdU staining, colony formation, flow cytometry, wound‐healing and transwell assays, respectively. Targeted relationships among circ_0001326, miR‐577 and VDAC1 were confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter assays. Xenograft experiments were performed to detect the role of circ_0001326 in tumor growth. Our data revealed that circ_0001326 was overexpressed in PCa tissues and cells. Circ_0001326 depletion repressed PCa cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and enhanced apoptosis in vitro, as well as hampered tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0001326 directly targeted miR‐577, and VDAC1 was directly targeted and suppressed by miR‐577. Moreover, the effects of circ_0001326 knockdown on PCa cell functional behaviors were mediated by miR‐577. VDAC1 silencing phenocopied miR‐577 overexpression in regulating PCa cell functional behaviors in vitro. Furthermore, circ_0001326 regulated VDAC1 expression through sponging miR‐577. Our findings showed that circ_0001326 regulated PCa cell functional behaviors at least partly through targeting the miR‐577/VDAC1 axis.
Paeonol Alleviates Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Injury in Rats Through Upregulation of SIRT1 and Inhibition of HMGB1/TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Liu Zhao , Zhu Jun , Pan Enyu , Pang Lujun , Zhou Xiwei , Che Yanjun
Published: November 2024

Paeonol is a principle bioactive compound separated from the root bark of Cortex Moutan and has been shown to confer various biological functions, including antineuroinflammation and neuroprotection. Inflammation, blood–brain barrier (BBB), permeability, and apoptosis are three major underlying mechanisms involved in early brain injury (EBI) postsubarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This study aimed to detect the roles and mechanisms of paeonol in EBI following SAH. A SAH model was established by an endovascular perforation method in Sprague‐Dawley rats. The localizations of HMGB1 and p65 were identified by immunofluorescence staining. Protein levels were measured by western blot analysis. The serum levels of HMGB1 and the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the brain cortex were evaluated by ELISA. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was conducted to detect neuronal degeneration. Brain water content and Evans blue extravasation were assessed to determine EBI. Neuronal apoptosis was examined by TUNEL. Paeonol deacetylated HMGB1 by upregulating SIRT1 level. SIRT1 inhibition attenuated the protective effects of paeonol against neurological dysfunctions, brain edema, and BBB disruption. SIRT1 inhibition rescued the paeonol‐induced inhibition in inflammatory response. The paeonol‐induced decrease in neuronal apoptosis was restored by SIRT1 inhibitor. The paeonol‐mediated deactivated TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway was activated by SIRT1 inhibitor. Paeonol alleviates the SAH injury in rats by upregulating SIRT1 to inactivate the HMGB1/TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway.
Plausible Action of N‐(3,4‐Dimethoxy‐Phenyl)‐6,7‐Dimethoxyquinazoline‐4‐Amine (TKM01) as an Armor Against Alzheimer's Disease: In Silico and In Vivo Insights
Authors: Kashif Mohd , Chandrabose Karthikeyan , Pandurangan Ashok Kumar
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects millions of people and has limited treatment options, thus making it a global health concern. Amyloid β (Aβ), a disrupted cholinergic system with high acetylcholinesterase (AChE), oxidative stress (OS), reduced antioxidants, and neuroinflammation are key factors influencing AD progression. Prior research has shown that AChE can interact with Aβ and increase its accumulation and neurotoxicity, so targeting AChEs and Aβ could be a potential therapeutic approach for AD treatment. It has been known that nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can inhibit Aβ accumulation. Previously, TKM01, a derivative of 4‐anilinoquinazoline, has demonstrated inhibitory effects against GSK‐3β—a regulator in AD progression. The current research included molecular docking studies of NSAIDs and TKM01 with Aβ and AChEs as targets. TKM01 exhibited a higher binding affinity with Aβ among all tested compounds. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations confirmed the stability of the protein‐TKM01 complexes. TKM01 also exhibited favorable drug‐likeness properties, and no hepatoxicity was visualized in comparison with other compounds. Further, in vitro assay showed an inhibitory action of TKM01 (50–1200 µg/mL) on AChEs. In the in vivo studies on zebrafish larvae brains, we found that TKM01 (120 and 240 µg/mL) reduced the levels of AChEs and lipid peroxidation (LPO) and increased antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in AlCl3(80 µM)‐induced AD‐like model. Additionally, TKM01 treatment was found to decrease pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6. The current study demonstrates that TKM01 can be used to treat AD. Nonetheless, experimental validation is needed to reveal the cellular, sub‐cellular, and molecular mechanisms and possible implications at a clinical stage.
Exploring the Molecular Interaction Between NR2E3 and NR1D1 in Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Docking and Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Vafaeie Farzane , Mohammadpour Mojtaba , Etesam Shokoofeh , Zarifi Shahnaz , Yari Abolfazl , Nikandish Malihe , Hashemzadeh Hassan , Hajiabadi Mohammad Reza , Miri‐Moghaddam Ebrahim
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a hereditary retinal disorder that gradually leads to vision loss due to photoreceptor cell degeneration. This study aims to investigate the clinical features and genetic underpinnings of RP within a large Iranian family. Our focus centered on mutations in the NR2E3 gene, which plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of the retina.

Methods

Twenty‐five family members showed symptoms of RP, and fourteen of them underwent clinical examinations conducted by geneticists and ophthalmologists. The DNA samples of five individuals diagnosed with RP from the family were subjected to whole‐exome sequencing (WES) as part of the study. The candidate variant identified through WES was subsequently confirmed using bidirectional sequencing in additional family members. Additionally, in silico analysis, including molecular modeling, protein–protein docking, and molecular dynamics simulation (MD), was employed to assess potential pathogenic effects associated with the candidate variants.

Results

Ophthalmic examination revealed night blindness, which is a common symptom among affected individuals. Genetic analysis identified a homozygous missense variant (c.934G>A/p.R311Q) in NR2E3 exon 6, which co‐segregates with other affected family members. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis indicated potential disruption in the binding affinity between NR2E3 and NR1D1 proteins. In‐depth, molecular dynamics analysis, considering parameters such as RMSD, RMSF, and hydrogen bonding, revealed notable differences between normal and mutant protein complexes.

Conclusion

Exploring the molecular interaction between NR2E3 and NR1D1 provides new insights into the pathogenic mechanism of the p.R311Q mutation in RP.
Comparison of community‐based clinical education implementation among US dental and dental hygiene education programs
Authors: Dana Edith , Fitzgerald Mark , Kinney Janet , Riaz Mona , Cullen Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Purpose/Objectives

Limited access to oral care disproportionately affects underserved populations. Community‐based clinical education (CBCE) could address this health inequity. The purpose of this study was to compare the identified barriers and benefits of implementing CBCE in the curricula of US dental and dental hygiene education programs.

Methods

In the fall of 2023, a survey developed through focus groups was sent to 387 CBCE leaders in US dental and dental hygiene programs that were accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

Results

There were 129 survey responses for a 33% response rate. There were statistically significant differences in institutional barriers: losing school production (p = 0.04), COVID‐19 pandemic (p = 0.02), CODA process for accreditation of major sites (p < 0.01), CODA standards (p = 0.01), number of dental chairs in school clinic (p = 0.03), and length of dental/dental hygiene program too short (p < 0.01); and human resource barriers: student transportation (p < 0.01), faculty buy‐in (p = 0.01), and student housing (p < 0.01). Benefits included: raising student awareness of social determinants of health (p = 0.04), increasing oral health workforce (p < 0.01), and engagement with harder clinical cases (p < 0.01).

Conclusion(s)

There were differences in the identified barriers and benefits to implementing CBCE in the curricula of US dental and dental hygiene education programs. The findings could inform the feasibility of implementing CBCE in both education programs, as well as address health inequities in access to oral care.
Sonographic localisation of lymph nodes suspicious of metastatic breast cancer to surgical axillary levels
Authors: Fenech Michelle , Burke Tracey , Arnett Grace , Tanner Alisha , Werder Natasha
Published: November 2024

The axillary lymph node (LN) burden of breast cancer patients guides multidisciplinary management and treatment regimes. Sonographic imaging is used to identify the presence, number and location of axillary LNs suspicious of malignancy and used to guide nodal fine needle aspirations and biopsies. Axillary LNs suspicious of harbouring breast cancer metastasis can be localised to three surgical axillary levels, numbered according to their location relative to the pectoralis minor muscle and lymph flow. To sonographically identify and localise suspicious axillary LNs, an understanding of the axillary anatomy, muscular sonographic landmarks, surgical axillary levels, and the sonographic technique to image and distinguish between benign and suspicious LNs is required.
EEG Emotion Recognition Based on GADF and AMB‐CNN Model
Authors: Zhao Qian , Zhao Dandan , Yin Wuliang
Published: November 2024

Deep learning has achieved better results in natural language processing, computer vision, and other fields. Nowadays, more deep learning algorithms have also been applied in brain‐based emotion recognition. In the studies on brain‐based emotion recognition, deep learning models typically use one‐dimensional time series as the input and cannot fully leverage the advantages of the models in image classification or recognition. To address this issue, based on the publicly available SEED and DEAP datasets, the Gramian angular difference field (GADF) method was proposed to construct two‐dimensional image representation datasets: SEED‐GADF and DEAP‐GADF datasets, in the paper. Additionally, a convolutional attention mechanism model (AMB‐CNN) was introduced and its classification performance was validated on SEED‐GADF and DEAP‐GADF datasets. AMB‐CNN achieved an average accuracy of 90.8%, a recall rate of 90%, and AUC of 96.86% on SEED‐GADF. On DEAP‐GADF, the average accuracy, recall rate, and AUC respectively reached 96.06%, 96.06%, and 98.58% in the valence dimension and 96.11%, 96.11%, and 98.73% in the arousal dimension. Finally, the comparison results with various algorithms and ablation experiments proved the superiority of the proposed model.
Plant Growth‐Promoting Bacteria Associated With Some Salt‐Tolerant Plants
Authors: Beitsayahi Fatemeh , Enayatizamir Naeimeh , Nejadsadeghi Leila , Nasernakhaei Fatemeh
Published: November 2024

Given the benefits of bacteria associated with the rhizosphere and phytoplane of halophytes, this research focused on examining the plant growth‐promoting characteristics of bacteria isolated from Cressa cretica, Suaeda aegyptiaca, and Alhagi graecorum. From the 33 isolates tested, 9 exhibited plant growth‐promoting traits. Bacillus rugosus strain CS5 and Bacillus sp. strain SS4 exhibited the notable growth inhibition of the pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum, with values of 47% and 45%, respectively. Bacillus sp. strains SS4 and CS1 demonstrated impressive results in solubilizing phosphorus and zinc, respectively, achieving concentrations of 259 and 271 mg L−1. Additionally, Staphylococcus xylosus strain SR2, Bacillus sp. strain SS4, and Bacillus paralicheniformis strain CR1 thrived in nitrogen‐free media. The Priestia filamentosa strain AL4 showed the greatest HCN production, whereas B. paralicheniformis strain CR1 was notable for higher auxin production. The Bacillus sp. strains SS4 and CS1 exhibited greater tolerance than other isolates in a medium containing 600 mM of NaCl. Additionally, inoculating these isolates into soil significantly alleviated the salinity and drought stress on Zea mays seedlings. These findings suggest that further investigation into these strains as microbial inoculants could be beneficial for mitigating salt and drought stress in plants.
What do we know about micronutrients in critically ill patients? A narrative review
Authors: de Man Angelique M.E. , Stoppe Christian , Koekkoek Kristine W.A.C. , Briassoulis George , Subasinghe Lilanthi S.D.P. , Cobilinschi Cristian , Deane Adam M. , Manzanares William , Grințescu Ioana , Mirea Liliana , Roshdy Ashraf , Cotoia Antonella , Bear Danielle E. , Boraso Sabrina , Fraipont Vincent , Christopher Kenneth B. , Casaer Michael P. , Gunst Jan , Pantet Olivier , Elhadi Muhammed , Bolondi Giuliano , Forceville Xavier , Angstwurm Matthias W.A. , Gurjar Mohan , Biondi Rodrigo , van Zanten Arthur R.H. , Berger Mette M. ,   ESICM/FREM MN group
Published: November 2024

Micronutrient (MN) status alterations (both depletion and deficiency) are associated with several complications and worse outcomes in critically ill patients. On the other side of the spectrum, improving MN status has been shown to be a potential co‐adjuvant therapy. This review aims to collect existing data to better guide research in the critical care setting. This narrative review was conducted by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine Feeding, Rehabilitation, Endocrinology, and Metabolism MN group. The primary objective was to identify studies focusing on individual MNs in critically ill patients, selecting the MNs that appear to be most relevant and most frequently investigated in the last decade: A, B1, B2, B3, B6, folate, C, D, E, copper, iron, selenium, zinc, and carnitine. Given the limited number of interventional studies for most MNs, observational studies were included. For each selected MN, the review summarizes the main form and functions, special needs and risk factors, optimal treatment strategies, pharmacological dosing, and clinical implications all specific to critically ill patients. A rigorous rebalancing of research strategies and priorities is needed to improve clinical practice. An important finding is that high‐dose monotherapy of MNs is not recommended. Basal daily needs must be provided, with higher doses in diseases with known higher needs, and identified deficiencies treated. Finally, the review provides a list of ongoing trials on MNs in critically ill patients and identifies a priority list of future research topics.
The Effects of HIPEC on Survival of Gastric Cancer Patients With Peritoneal Metastasis
Authors: Ji Zhong‐He , Zhao Qi‐Di , Li Yan
Published: November 2024

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been recommended by Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) and several other academic organizations as the treatment of choice for selected patients with gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis (GCPM). This review updates the recent progress in CRS+HIPEC for GCPM, with particular focus on the potential curing effects of this approach for subclinical GCPM patients.