bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clustering Methods for the Characterization of Synchrotron Radiation X‐Ray Fluorescence Images of Human Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: De La Rosa Nathaly , Peruzzi Niccolò , Dreier Till , Truong My , Johansson Ulf , Kalbfleisch Sebastian , Gonçalves Isabel , Bech Martin
Published: July 2024

This study employs computational algorithms to automatically identify and classify features in X‐Ray fluorescence (XRF) microscopy images. Principal component analysis (PCA) and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, such as Gaussian mixture (GM) clustering, are implemented to label features on a collection of XRF maps of human atherosclerotic plaque samples. The investigation involves the hard X‐Ray nanoprobe (NanoMAX) at MAX IV synchrotron radiation facility, utilizing scanning transmission X‐Ray microscopy (STXM) and XRF techniques. The analysis covers regions of interest scanned by the beam with a step size of 200 nm, yielding XRF maps of elements like calcium, iron, and zinc. These maps reveal intricate structures unsuitable for manual labeling. However, they can be accurately classified in an automated fashion using GM. Prior to clustering, PCA is used to deal with repeated patterns and background areas. The resulting clusters are associated with different types of features, which can be identified as specific tissues confirmed by histology. Regions of high concentrations of phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, and iron are found in the samples. These regions are also observed in the STXM results as spots of low transmission that typically are associated with calcium deposits only.
Exploring the genetic architecture of brain structure and ADHD using polygenic neuroimaging‐derived scores
Authors: van der Es Tim , Soheili‐Nezhad Sourena , Roth Mota Nina , Franke Barbara , Buitelaar Jan , Sprooten Emma
Published: July 2024

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have provided valuable insights into the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric disorders and highlighted their complexity. Careful consideration of the polygenicity and complex genetic architecture could aid in the understanding of the underlying brain mechanisms. We introduce an innovative approach to polygenic scoring, utilizing imaging‐derived phenotypes (IDPs) to predict a clinical phenotype. We leveraged IDP GWAS data from the UK Biobank, to create polygenic imaging‐derived scores (PIDSs). As a proof‐of‐concept, we assessed genetic variations in brain structure between individuals with ADHD and unaffected controls across three NeuroIMAGE waves (n = 954). Out of the 94 PIDS, 72 exhibited significant associations with their corresponding IDPs in an independent sample. Notably, several global measures, including cerebellum white matter, cerebellum cortex, and cerebral white matter, displayed substantial variance explained for their respective IDPs, ranging from 3% to 5.7%. Conversely, the associations between each IDP and the clinical ADHD phenotype were relatively weak. These findings highlight the growing power of GWAS in structural neuroimaging traits, enabling the construction of polygenic scores that accurately reflect the underlying polygenic architecture. However, to establish robust connections between PIDS and behavioral or clinical traits such as ADHD, larger samples are needed. Our novel approach to polygenic risk scoring offers a valuable tool for researchers in the field of psychiatric genetics.
The Role of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T‐Cell Therapy in Immune‐Mediated Neurological Diseases
Authors: Brittain Gavin , Roldan Elisa , Alexander Tobias , Saccardi Riccardo , Snowden John A. , Sharrack Basil , Greco Raffaella
Published: July 2024

Despite the use of ‘high efficacy’ disease‐modifying therapies, disease activity and clinical progression of different immune‐mediated neurological diseases continue for some patients, resulting in accumulating disability, deteriorating social and mental health, and high economic cost to patients and society. Although autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant is an effective treatment modality, it is an intensive chemotherapy‐based therapy with a range of short‐ and long‐term side‐effects. Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy (CAR‐T) has revolutionized the treatment of B‐cell and other hematological malignancies, conferring long‐term remission for otherwise refractory diseases. However, the toxicity of this treatment, particularly cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome, and the complexity of production necessitate the need for a high level of specialization at treating centers. Early‐phase trials of CAR‐T therapies in immune‐mediated B cell driven conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and myasthenia gravis, have shown dramatic clinical response with few adverse events. Based on the common physiopathology, CAR‐T therapy in other immune‐mediated neurological disease, including multiple sclerosis, chronic inflammatory polyradiculopathy, autoimmune encephalitis, and stiff person syndrome, might be an effective option for patients, avoiding the need for long‐term immunosuppressant medications. It may prove to be a more selective immunoablative approach than autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant, with potentially increased efficacy and lower adverse events. In this review, we present the state of the art and future directions of the use of CAR‐T in such conditions. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:441–452
Intense Circularly Polarized Luminescence Induced by Chiral Supramolecular Assembly: The Importance of Intermolecular Electronic Coupling
Authors: Liu Zheng‐Fei , Liu Xin‐Xin , Zhang Han , Zeng Lan , Niu Li‐Ya , Chen Peng‐Zhong , Fang Wei‐Hai , Peng Xiaojun , Cui Ganglong , Yang Qing‐Zheng
Published: July 2024

Herein we report on circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) emission originating from supramolecular chirality of organic microcrystals with a |glum| value up to 0.11. The microcrystals were prepared from highly emissive difluoroboron β‐diketonate (BF2dbk) dyes R‐1 or S‐1 with chiral binaphthol (BINOL) skeletons. R‐1 and S‐1 exhibit undetectable CPL signals in solution but manifest intense CPL emission in their chiral microcrystals. The chiral superstructures induced by BINOL skeletons were confirmed by single‐crystal XRD analysis. Spectral analysis and theoretical calculations indicate that intermolecular electronic coupling, mediated by the asymmetric stacking in the chiral superstructures, effectively alters excited‐state electronic structures and facilitates electron transitions perpendicular to BF2bdk planes. The coupling increases cosθμ,m from 0.05 (monomer) to 0.86 (tetramer) and triggers intense optical activity of BF2bdk. The results demonstrate that optical activity of chromophores within assemblies can be regulated by both orientation and extent of intermolecular electronic couplings.
Advances in East Polynesian zooarchaeology: Special Issue introduction, review (2016–2024), and assessment
Authors: Allen Melinda S. , Kahn Jennifer G.
Published: July 2024

This article both introduces our Special Issue on “Zooarchaeology and Human Ecodynamics in East Polynesia” and reviews recent research from East Polynesia at large. The seven articles and discussion essay derive from a symposium at the 14th International Council for Archaeozoology (ICAZ) conference in Cairns, Australia (2023). To contextualize these contributions, we review recent studies (2016–2024) from the region relating to human–animal relationships, including morphological, ancient DNA, and stable isotope research. Seven areas or themes emerge from our review, representing substantive, analytical and technical domains. These include (1) geographic coverage; (2) methodological issues; (3) assessments of anthropogenic impacts; (4) studies of domestic and commensal taxa; (5) animals in social, ritual and symbolic roles; (6) engagement with historical records and traditional ecological knowledges (TEK); and (7) emerging technologies. We conclude with a brief summary of recent achievements and propose future directions for zooarchaeological studies in East Polynesia and the wider Pacific.
Reducing the degree of crosslinking of peptidoglycan in Listeria monocytogenes promoted the secretion of membrane vesicles
Authors: Tang Mingyuan , Lei Yao , Chen Kehan , Ding Mingming , Ou Qian , Tang Jing , Zhang Yunwen , Tang Tian , Wang Chuan
Published: July 2024

Listeria monocytogenes (LM) is a Gram‐positive (G+) bacterium that secretes nanoscale membrane vesicles (MVs). LM MVs comprise various bacterial components and may have potential as an antigen or drug‐delivery vehicle; however, the low yield of the LM MVs limits related research. G+‐bacterial MVs germinate from the bacterial plasma membrane and must pass through a thick crosslinked peptidoglycan layer for release. Herein, we aimed to increase the release of MVs by reducing the degree of crosslinking of peptidoglycan. We knocked out two genes related to the longitudinal crosslinking of peptidoglycan, dal and dat, and supplemented the knocked‐out dal gene through plasmid expression to obtain a stably inherited recombinant strain LMΔdd::pCW633. The structure, particle size, and main protein components of MVs secreted by this recombinant strain were consistent with those secreted from the wild strain, but the yield of MVs was considerably increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Listeria ivanovii (LI) was found to secrete MVs that differed in the composition of the main proteins compared with those of LM MVs. The abovementioned method was also feasible for promoting the secretion of MVs from the attenuated LM strain and LI wild‐type and attenuated strains. Our study provides a new method to increase the secretion of MVs derived from Listeria that could be extended to other G+ bacteria.
Plan proactive strategies for gambling prevention
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: July 2024

LAS VEGAS — Most states allow some form of online gambling — and even in those that prohibit it, students can probably find workarounds. So it's a safe bet that it's happening among your campus community. Although more male student‐athletes gamble, female student‐athletes participate, too. Clint Speegle, Esq., Partner with Lightfoot, Franklin & White, identified some common reasons student‐ athletes say they gamble: boredom, competitiveness, “my non‐student‐athlete friends do it, so why can’t I,” and “I didn’t think the rules applied to me as long as I didn’t bet on my own team.”
Did court dismiss swimmer's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2024

A University of Vermont swim team member filed a report with the university claiming she had recently been sexually assaulted multiple times by a member of the men's basketball team, with whom she was previously in a relationship. Two days later, an investigator told her she could (1) file a police report, (2) request a formal investigation, or (3) participate in an informal resolution. She allegedly told the student the informal resolution would “take less time.”
Exploring Novel Coumarin‐Tethered Bis‐Triazoles: Apoptosis Induction in Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells, Antimicrobial Effects, and Molecular Modelling Investigations
Authors: Dhawan Sanjeev , Singh Ashona , Manhas Neha , Seboletswe Pule , Khubone Lungisani , Kumar Gobind , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B. , Raza Asif , Sharma Arun K. , Singh Parvesh
Published: July 2024

In the present study, we identified that two representative compounds (7 c and 9 f) of our newly synthesized coumarin‐tagged bis‐triazoles induced apoptosis in human pancreatic cells (PANC‐1) by caspase 3/7mediated pathway. Both 7 c and 9 f (IC50=7.15±1.19 and 6.09±0.79 μM, respectively) were found to be ~100 times superior against PANC‐1 as compared to the standard drug Gemcitabine (IC50=>500 μM), without showing any toxicity to the normal pancreatic epithelial cells (H6C7). Molecular docking studies further endorsed them as potential pancreatic cancer therapeutics due to their strong hydrogen bonding interactions with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) enzyme, which is overexpressed in cancerous cells including pancreatic cancer. Additionally, these compounds also showed moderate inhibitory activity against a panel of microbial strains. Overall, our findings reveal that the coumarin hybrids 7 c and 9 f are viable chemotypes to be adopted as templates for the development of new anticancer drugs, particularly against pancreatic cancer.
Pre‐Sealing of Endodontic Access Cavities for the Preservation of Anterior Teeth Fracture Resistance
Authors: Shafiei Fereshteh , Tavangar Maryam S.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Sodium hypochlorite solution (NaOCl) is an effective canal irrigant but interferes with the mechanical features of dentin and the bonding capability of adhesives when restoring endodontically treated teeth. This study evaluated whether access cavity resin sealing before using canal irrigant would augment the resistance of endodontically treated anterior teeth against fracture.

Methods

Sixty maxillary incisors underwent endodontic treatment in five groups (n = 12). Irrigation with 5.25% NaOCl and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) was performed in all groups except for Group 5. After root canal obturation, in Group 1, the access cavity was kept unrestored. In Group 2, immediate restoration after obturation was achieved. For Group 3, delayed restoration after 1 week was provided. In Group 4 (pre‐sealed), before canal irrigation, the dentin surface of access cavities was sealed using self‐adhesive composite resin (Vertise Flow) and then restored after obturation. In Group 5, which was saline irrigated, immediate restoration was performed. After storage and thermal cycling for 5000 cycles at 5°C–55°C with a dwell time of 15 s and a transfer time of 5 s, teeth were statically loaded by a universal testing machine until a fracture occurred. Data were collected as the fracture resistance (FR) and analyzed using the one‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's tests.

Results

FR significantly differed between all groups (p < 0.001). The lowest FR was recorded in the unrestored group (284 ± 86 N), which was not statistically different from the immediately restored group (p = 0.065). The pre‐sealed group exhibited the highest FR value (810 ± 127 N, p ≤ 0.02 vs. other groups). The FR of the saline‐irrigated and delayed restored groups was almost similar (p = 0.13).

Conclusions

NaOCl/EDTA irrigation resulted in an adverse effect on FR. Delayed restoration could reduce this adverse effect. Access cavity pre‐sealing with flowable composites led to a higher FR than conventional methods and may be considered an effective step during treatment procedures.
Biodiversity in changing environments: An external‐driver internal‐topology framework to guide intervention
Authors: Suding Katharine N. , Collins Courtney G. , Hallett Lauren M. , Larios Loralee , Brigham Laurel M. , Dudney Joan , Farrer Emily C. , Larson Julie E. , Shackelford Nancy , Spasojevic Marko J.
Published: July 2024

Accompanying the climate crisis is the more enigmatic biodiversity crisis. Rapid reorganization of biodiversity due to global environmental change has defied prediction and tested the basic tenets of conservation and restoration. Conceptual and practical innovation is needed to support decision making in the face of these unprecedented shifts. Critical questions include: How can we generalize biodiversity change at the community level? When are systems able to reorganize and maintain integrity, and when does abiotic change result in collapse or restructuring? How does this understanding provide a template to guide when and how to intervene in conservation and restoration? To this end, we frame changes in community organization as the modulation of external abiotic drivers on the internal topology of species interactions, using plant–plant interactions in terrestrial communities as a starting point. We then explore how this framing can help translate available data on species abundance and trait distributions to corresponding decisions in management. Given the expectation that community response and reorganization are highly complex, the external‐driver internal‐topology (EDIT) framework offers a way to capture general patterns of biodiversity that can help guide resilience and adaptation in changing environments.
Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction Catalytic Properties of Novel Nanowire Structures from FeCo‐MOFs/GO via Low‐Temperature Annealing
Authors: Liang Hao , Lv Yangbo , Tang Kui , Chai Yuxin , Yang Yu , Yang Zhi , Liu Yuyang , Sun Jianping
Published: July 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) often suffer from poor stability, making them suitable precursors for metal oxides/porous carbon catalysts in the oxygen evolution reaction via pyrolysis. High‐temperature treatment, however, leads to significant loss of active sites. To address this, Fe‐MOFs, FeCo‐MOFs, and FeCo‐MOFs/graphene oxide (GO) composites using a one‐pot hydrothermal method are synthesized and annealed at a low temperature of 300 °C. Characterization reveals that FeCo‐MOFs/GO composites possess unique nanowire structures mixed with a small amount of nanoflakes. It is believed that introducing graphene oxide plays a critical role in forming this structure, because the defects in GO provide numerous nucleation sites for nanowire growth. With high specific surface area and good stability, these nanostructures show a low overpotential of 261.5 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 20.47 mV dec−1 in 1 mol L−1 KOH alkaline water electrolysis. Density functional theory calculations further indicate that the synergistic effect of Fe and Co atoms enhances the catalytic activity.
Optimal configuration of low‐grade waste heat driven seawater desalination using data envelopment analysis: A case study of industrial application
Authors: Yousefi Paria , Avami Akram
Published: July 2024

Water supply challenges are caused by population growth, industrialization, as well as the scarcity of freshwater resources. Low‐grade waste heat‐driven seawater desalination technologies may improve the water‐energy nexus issues of desalination systems by different configurations. The data envelopment analysis is used to determine the best final decision to achieve a better comparison of different parameters. The optimal configuration of low‐grade waste heat driven seawater desalination is studied using flue gas waste heat in heat recovery boilers of an industrial oil refinery. Nine different types of multistage flash and multi‐effect distillation (MED) desalination plants have been considered. The results show that the multistage flash brine recirculation may produce more desalinated water while the multi‐effect distillation with three stages (3‐stage MED) has the best payback period. Using 3‐stage MED with a production of approximately 19,630 kg/h of water from 5.3 MW exhaust gas is more suitable for this design. Thus, the proposed strategy guides us toward the best decisions to configure low‐grade waste heat‐driven desalination plants for better design considering rigorous simulations for the plants. Moreover, this framework enables us to consider different criteria of technical, economic, and environmental issues for optimal configuration.
Drying behavior and nutritional quality of bitter‐gourd slices dried in a solar dryer with tray and skewer arrangement
Authors: Borse Sudarshan M. , Singh Manpreet , Kaur Preetinder , Singh Sukhmeet , Zalpouri Ruchika
Published: July 2024

In this investigation, we assessed the efficacy of an indirect‐type solar drying system that utilized skewers and rack arrangements, comparing it to a conventional drying cabinet equipped with trays for dehydrating bitter gourd slices. We examined the influence of pretreatment methods and loading quantities on the solar drying process for bitter gourd slices in both configurations. The drying behavior of various combinations was scrutinized, and the physicochemical attributes of the dried bitter gourd samples, including total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total chlorophyll content, antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid content, and color, were analyzed. Rehydration characteristics, such as rehydration ratio, coefficient of rehydration, percent water in the rehydrated sample, and hardness of the rehydrated sample, were also determined. The bitter gourd slices achieved a final moisture content of 6.84%–8.27% wb after drying from an initial range of 88%–90% wb, within a total elapsed time of 28–55 h. The solar drying cabinet utilizing skewers exhibited enhanced efficiency, featuring reduced drying time and superior product quality compared to the tray‐equipped drying cabinet. This improved performance is ascribed to enhanced hot air circulation over the produce surface, facilitated by the uniform spacing between skewers on racks within the drying chamber.
Comparative energy metrics and annual efficiency analyses of CPC‐ETC integrated single slope solar desalting unit
Authors: Singh Ajay Raj , Agarwal Alka Bani , Singh Desh Bandhu
Published: July 2024

This paper deals with the investigation of N identical compound parabolic concentrator evacuated tubular collector included single slope solar desalting unit (N‐CPC‐ETC‐SSU) by incorporating energy metrics for solving contemporary issue of water scarcity in the society. It will contribute to the sustainable development of society and recede the dependency on fossil fuels, too. The energy metrics investigation is important for energy system because it talks about the feasibility of the system. The methodology consists of getting fundamental equations from energy balance equations. All fundamental equations with relevant data are fed to the code developed in MATLAB followed by the computation of overall energy and exergy. All types of climatic situations have been considered for the analysis. Data required for the same are accessed from IMD, Pune, India. The energy payback period, energy production factor, and life cycle conversion efficiency for N‐CPC‐ETC‐SSU have been calculated at eight number of collectors, 0.012 mass flow rate and 0.14 m water depth. Results of N‐CPC‐ETC‐SSU have been compared with results of SSU included with ETCs. Concludingly, energy payback period is lower by 6.41%, energy production factor is higher by 6.25% and exergy‐based life cycle conversion efficiency is higher by 96.39% for N‐CPC‐ETC‐SSU than N‐ETC‐SSU.
Small‐sample properties of robust willingness‐to‐pay estimators
Authors: Lambert Dayton M.
Published: July 2024

The small‐sample properties of robust, binary choice willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) estimators are analyzed. A Monte Carlo simulation compares the bias and mean‐squared error of marginal and expected WTP estimates from probit, zero‐centered (“robit”), logit, and a generalized Tukey lambda distribution called a “pregibit” regression under normal and nonnormal distributional assumptions. Robust binary choice estimators allow for variation in tail thickness (the robit and pregibit) or tail asymmetry (the pregibit). No previous studies have compared the performance of these WTP estimators. The findings will interest researchers who use contingent validation methods to estimate WTP for nonmarket or hypothetical goods.
Prognostic value and potential regulatory relationship of miR‐200c‐5p in colorectal cancer
Authors: Lu Jiying , Jin Zhekang , Jin Xihan , Chen Wenbin
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the relationship and potential mechanisms of miR‐200c‐5p in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. Differentially expressed miRNAs were screened using the TCGA database. Subsequently, univariate analysis was performed to identify CRC survival‐related miRNAs. Survival and receiver operator characteristic curves were generated. The target genes of miR‐200c‐5p and the relevant signaling pathways or biological processes were predicted by the miRNet database and enrichment analyses. The miR‐200c‐5p expression was detected using quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction, Cell Counting Kit‐8, Transwell, and cell apoptosis experiments were performed to determine miR‐200c‐5p's impact on CRC cell viability, invasiveness, and apoptosis. Finally, we constructed a CRC mouse model with inhibited miR‐200c‐5p to evaluate its impact on tumors. miR‐200c‐5p was upregulated in CRC, implying a favorable prognosis. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that miR‐200c‐5p may participate in signaling pathways such as the TGF‐β signaling pathway, RIG‐I‐like receptor signaling pathway, renin‐angiotensin system, and DNA replication. miR‐200c‐5p potentially targeted mRNAs, including KCNE4 and CYP1B1, exhibiting a negative correlation with their expression. Furthermore, these mRNAs may participate in biological processes like the regulation of intracellular transport, cAMP‐dependent protein kinase regulatory activity, ubiquitin protein ligase binding, MHC class II protein complex binding, and regulation of apoptotic signaling pathway. Lastly, miR‐200c‐5p overexpression repressed the viability and invasiveness of CRC cells but promoted apoptosis. The tumor size, weight, and volume were significantly increased by inhibiting miR‐200c‐5p (p < 0.05). miR‐200c‐5p is upregulated in CRC, serving as a promising biomarker for predicting CRC prognosis.
Activation of α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Improves Muscle Endurance by Upregulating Orosomucoid Expression and Glycogen Content in Mice
Authors: Chen Fei , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Huimin , Guo Pengyue , Feng Jiayi , Shen Hui , Liu Xia
Published: July 2024

There are presently no acknowledged therapeutic targets or official drugs for the treatment of muscle fatigue. The alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) is expressed in skeletal muscle, with an unknown role in muscle endurance. Here, we try to explore whether α7nAChR could act as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of muscle fatigue. Results showed that nicotine and PNU‐282987 (PNU), as nonspecific and specific agonists of α7nAChR, respectively, could both significantly increase C57BL6/J mice treadmill‐running time in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. The improvement effect of PNU on running time and ex vivo muscle fatigue index disappeared when α7nAChR deletion. RNA sequencing revealed that the differential mRNAs affected by PNU were enriched in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis signaling pathways. Further studies found that PNU treatment significantly elevates glycogen content and ATP level in the muscle tissues of α7nAChR+/+ mice but not α7nAChR‐/‐ mice. α7nAChR activation specifically increased endogenous glycogen‐targeting protein orosomucoid (ORM) expression both in vivo skeletal muscle tissues and in vitro C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. In ORM1 deficient mice, the positive effects of PNU on running time, glycogen and ATP content, as well as muscle fatigue index, were abolished. Therefore, the activation of α7nAChR could enhance muscle endurance via elevating endogenous anti‐fatigue protein ORM and might act as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of muscle fatigue.
TRPV1‐dependent NKCC1 activation in mouse lens involves integrin and the tubulin cytoskeleton
Authors: Shahidullah Mohammad , Mandal Amritlal , Delamere Nicholas A.
Published: July 2024

Previously we showed hyperosmotic solution caused TRPV1‐dependent NKCC1 activation in the lens by a mechanism that involved ERK1/2 signaling. In various tissues, integrins and the cytoskeletal network play a role in responses to osmotic stress. Here, we examined the association between integrins and TRPV1‐dependent activation of NKCC1 in mouse lens epithelium. Wild‐type (WT) lenses exposed to the integrin agonist leukadherin‐1 (LA‐1) for 10 min displayed a ~33% increase in the bumetanide‐sensitive rate of Rb uptake indicating NKCC activation. Paclitaxel, a microtubule stabilizing agent, abolished the Rb uptake response. In primary cultured lens epithelium LA‐1 caused a robust ERK1/2 activation response that was almost fully suppressed by paclitaxel. The TRPV1 agonist capsaicin caused a similar ERK1/2 activation response. Consistent with an association between integrins and TRPV1, the TRPV1 antagonist A889425 prevented the Rb uptake response to LA‐1 as did the ERK inhibitor U0126. LA‐1 did not increase Rb uptake by lenses from TRPV1 knockout mice. In cells exposed to a hyperosmotic stimulus, both the ERK1/2 activation and Rb uptake responses were prevented by paclitaxel. Taken together, the findings suggest TRPV1 activation is associated with integrins and the tubulin cytoskeleton. This aligned with the observation that LA‐1 elicited a robust cytoplasmic calcium rise in cells from WT lenses but failed to increase calcium in cells from TRPV1 knockout lenses. The results are consistent with the notion that integrin activation by LA‐1, or a hyperosmotic stimulus, causes TRPV1 channel opening and the consequent downstream activation of the ERK1/2 and NKCC1 responses.
Enhancing point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) utilization in primary care: A thyroid POCUS training course for internal medicine residents
Authors: D'Agostino Christina , Block Lauren , Smith Alexander , Weintraub Spencer , Rose Sage , Coletti Daniel J. , Khamis Nehal
Published: July 2024

Background

POCUS is valuable in primary care, yet outpatient‐specific point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) curriculum integration into internal medicine (IM) residency is limited. We addressed this gap by developing a thyroid POCUS workshop for IM residents.

Aim

Develop and implement an educational curriculum to integrate thyroid POCUS into an IM residency program and evaluate the impact on resident knowledge, perceived skills, and attitudes.

Setting

The study was conducted in a resident primary care clinic at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Residency Program in Internal Medicine at North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

Participants

All 108 IM residents (PGY1‐3) in one program participated in the study during their ambulatory clinic block.

Program description

Residents participated in a 1‐hour workshop involving a didactic session and two breakout groups: one for hands‐on practice and another for case‐based discussions with image review.

Program evaluation

Residents completed pre‐ and post‐session surveys assessing knowledge, perceived skills, and attitudes toward thyroid POCUS. These data showed statistically significant increases in all assessed areas.

Discussion

Integrating thyroid POCUS into an IM residency curriculum significantly improved resident knowledge, attitudes, and perceived skills related to these exams. Residents valued this learning experience and expressed intentions to incorporate it into their future practice.
The trajectory of anxiety symptoms during the transition from childhood to young adulthood is predicted by IQ and sex, but not polygenic risk scores
Authors: Ravagnani Salto Ana Beatriz , Salum Giovanni A. , Hoffmann Maurício Scopel , Santoro Marcos L. , Zugman André , Pan Pedro M. , Belangero Sintia I. , Ito Lucas Toshio , Doretto Victoria Fogaça , Croci Marcos S. , Brañas Marcelo J. A. A. , de Giusti Carina , Silva‐Jr Francisco Da , Ribeiro Sahâmia Martins , Miguel Euripedes Constantino , Leckman James F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Understanding the factors that determine distinct courses of anxiety symptoms throughout development will better guide interventions. There are scarce data‐driven longitudinal studies, using multi‐modal predictors, investigating the chronicity of anxiety symptoms from childhood to young adulthood, particularly in a middle‐income country.

Methods

2033 youths (ages 6–14 years [Mean age = 10.4 ± 1.94) at Baseline] were enrolled in the Brazilian High‐Risk Cohort for Mental Conditions longitudinal study, and assessed at three timepoints, between 2010 and 2019, using the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders. Confirmatory Factor Analysis provided input to Growth Mixture Models to identify the best fitting trajectory model. Multinomial logistic regression analyses tested the effects of intelligence quotient (IQ), environmental factors and polygenic risk scores on internalizing symptomatology within trajectory class membership.

Results

The best model solution identified three classes: high‐decreasing, moderate/low‐stable and low‐increasing symptoms over time. The high‐decreasing class showed a higher incidence of anxiety symptoms at the second time point (Mean age = 13.8 ± 1.93); while anxiety symptoms were highest in the low‐increasing class at the third timepoint (Mean age = 18.35 ± 2.03). Further, lower IQ predicted membership in the high‐decreasing trajectory class (OR = 0.68, 95% CI [0.55, 0.85]), while higher IQ predicted membership in the low‐increasing trajectory class (OR = 1.95, 95% CI [1.42, 2.67]). Finally, females were more likely than males to be in the low‐increasing trajectory class. Polygenic risk scores were not associated with anxiety trajectory class membership.

Conclusion

Recognizing that anxiety symptoms follow diverse paths over time will allow for more effective intervention strategies. Specifically, interventions could accommodate children for greater anxiety risk in early childhood (i.e., lower IQ) versus late adolescence (i.e., higher IQ). That said, the emotional needs of girls in late adolescence should be monitored, regardless of their cognitive abilities or high achievements.
Qualitative and Untargeted Volatilome Fingerprinting of Aspergillus sp. and Bulbithecium sp. by HS‐SPME‐GCMS and Functional Interactions
Authors: Mancheary John Prathyash Ushus , Kandula Siva Kumar , Cheekatla Satyanarayana Swamy , Metta Venkata Satya Mahesh Kumar , Peddi Koteswari
Published: July 2024

Research on fungal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has increased worldwide in the last 10 years, but marine fungal volatilomes remain underexplored. Similarly, the hormone‐signaling pathways, agronomic significance, and biocontrol potential of VOCs in plant‐associated fungi make the area of research extremely promising. In the current investigation, VOCs of the isolates—Aspergillus sp. GSBT S13 and GSBT S14 from marine sediments, and Bulbithecium sp. GSBT E3 from Eucalyptus foliage were extracted using Head Space solid phase microextraction, followed by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, identification, statistical analyses, and prediction of functions by KEGG COMPOUND and STITCH 5.0 databases. The significance of this research is fingerprinting VOCs of the isolates from distinct origins, identification of compounds using three libraries (NIST02, NIST14, and W9N11), and using bioinformatic tools to perform functional analysis. The most important findings include the identification of previously unreported compounds in fungi—1‐methoxy naphthalene, diethyl phthalate, pentadecane, pristane, and nonanal; the prediction of the involvement of small molecules in the degradation of aromatic compound pathways and activation, inhibition, binding, and catalysis of metabolites with predicted protein partners. This study has ample opportunity to validate the findings and understand the mechanism or mode of action, the interspecies interactions, and the role of the metabolites in geochemical cycles.
Prevalence and impact of frailty in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis based on modified frailty index
Authors: Xia Liwen , Yin Rulan , Mao Lifen , Shi Xiaoqing
Published: July 2024

Frailty has been linked to unfavorable postoperative outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the prevalence of frailty among CRC surgery patients and its association with mortality and postoperative complications, as evaluated by the modified frailty index (mFI), have not been thoroughly investigated and necessitate clarification. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and CBM databases were systematically searched for relevant studies (up to January 2024), and the pooled prevalence and odds ratio (OR) estimate were calculated. A total of 16 studies containing 245 747 patients undergoing CRC surgery were included. The prevalence of frailty among CRC surgery patients was 31% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 20%–42%; I2 = 100%, p < 0.001). In patients undergoing CRC surgery, frailty was associated with a higher incidence of postoperative complications (OR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.47–2.56; I2 = 91.9%, p < 0.001), but it did not exhibit any significant correlation with the 30‐day mortality (OR = 5.17; 95% CI = 0.39–68.64; I2 = 94.4%, p < 0.001). Frailty is common in CRC surgery and exerts a significant negative impact on the postoperative outcomes. Future research could explore the potential of the mFI to facilitate a more streamlined and precise quantification of frailty, thereby establishing a refined understanding of its correlation with surgery prognosis.
Conceptualizing disparities and differences in the psychobiology of traumatic stress
Authors: Correa Kelly A. , Michopoulos Vasiliki , Stevens Jennifer S. , Harnett Nathaniel G.
Published: July 2024

Understanding biological pathways that mediate trauma‐related psychopathology is a major goal for traumatic stress studies. There is growing interest in studying differences in neural, physiological, and behavioral correlates of traumatic stress across demographic groups (e.g., sex/gender, race/ethnicity). However, challenges remain in how to appropriately conceptualize the source, mechanisms, and practical utility of between‐group variation. The present brief conceptual review discusses ethnicity, race, and sex/gender‐related variability relevant to understanding the psychobiology of traumatic stress in the context of traumatic stress studies. We discuss recent evidence related to socioenvironmental influences on ethnoracial variability in the brain and behavior relevant to traumatic stress, as well as sex/gender associations in neurophysiology that may contribute to the development of adverse posttraumatic sequelae. We further synthesize these findings by discussing intersectional influences of sex/gender‐ and race/ethnicity‐related factors on trauma‐related physical and mental health outcomes. The present review provides an important foundation for future research on disparities and individual differences in traumatic stress to move the field toward more effective assessment and treatment approaches.
Seasonal patterns of microbial diversity across the world oceans
Authors: Raes Eric J. , Myles Shannon , MacNeil Liam , Wietz Matthias , Bienhold Christina , Tait Karen , Somerfield Paul J. , Bissett Andrew , van de Kamp Jodie , Gasol Josep M. , Massana Ramon , Yeh Yi‐Chun , Fuhrman Jed A. , LaRoche Julie
Published: July 2024

Understanding the patterns of marine microbial diversity (Bacteria + Archaea) is essential, as variations in their alpha‐ and beta‐diversities can affect ecological processes. Investigations of microbial diversity from global oceanographic expeditions and basin‐wide transects show positive correlations between microbial diversity and either temperature or productivity, but these studies rarely captured seasonality, especially in polar regions. Here, using multiannual alpha‐diversity data from eight time series in the northern and southern hemispheres, we show that marine microbial community richness and evenness generally correlate more strongly with daylength than with temperature or chlorophyll a (a proxy for photosynthetic biomass). This pattern is observable across time series found in the northern and southern hemispheres regardless of collection method, DNA extraction protocols, targeted 16S rRNA hypervariable region, sequencing technology, or bioinformatics pipeline.
Patient Satisfaction in Rural Versus Non‐Rural US Hospitals
Authors: Vu Sharon , Reese Logan , Patel Neha , Hung Man
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Assessing patient satisfaction is an effective way to provide an evaluation of the quality of healthcare services. As a result, the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) Patient Survey was established as the first standardized national survey to publicly report patient ratings on hospital care. There remains a lack of research that examines rural–urban distinctions in patient satisfaction. The objective of this study was to investigate if there is a difference in hospital determinants of patient satisfaction among hospitals based on rural status.

Methods

The study utilized two public datasets containing HCAHPS survey results from 4714 US hospitals and from eligible cancer hospitals that participate in the Prospective Payment System‐Exempt Cancer Hospital Quality Reporting. The data were collected from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 and published by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Rural status of each hospital was determined by matching zip codes with data provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration.

Results

A total of 3248 hospitals were included in the analysis, with approximately 51.14% located in rural areas. There was a significant difference across every hospital determinant when comparing rural and non‐rural status. Rural hospitals had a higher score for every hospital determinant (Cleanliness, Nurse communication, Doctor communication, Staff responsiveness, Communication about medicines, Discharge information, Care transition, Overall hospital rating, Quietness, and Willingness to recommend the hospital), indicating better performance.

Conclusion

Rural hospitals demonstrated better HCAHPS performance across every hospital determinant in comparison to urban hospitals, suggesting possible recent improvements. Future research is necessary to investigate this trend and its consistency, which can inform targeted interventions to better address the healthcare needs of diverse populations in the United States.
Public Health Word of the Year 2023 — Conflict
Authors: Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Ogaya Jerico B. , Shomuyiwa Deborah O. , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Kouwenhoven M. B. N. , Ogunkola Isaac Olushola , Goodness Odey , Jimoh Nafisat Dasola , Ahmed Mohamed Mustaf , Dorji Thinley
Published: July 2024

The term “conflict” resonated throughout 2023, echoing prolonged civil wars and heightened global tensions in geopolitical disputes, escalating ongoing rifts among global communities, and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. This article explores the complex relationship between conflicts and public health, providing a thorough analysis of their dynamics and current prevalence. It aims to illuminate the diverse challenges posed and delineate a holistic path forward to mitigate violent conflicts and ameliorate health disparities, particularly among affected low‐ and middle‐income countries, by advancing an equitable and resilient healthcare system. The expanded perspective of “conflict” reveals far‐reaching consequences that extend beyond borders, significantly straining public health capacity. The world is in dire need of reinvigorating healthcare systems and de‐escalating such violent conflicts due to the relentless exhaustion of resources and the increasing demand for medical emergencies that current responses inadequately address. The damage to vital healthcare facilities in conflict zones severely hampers the provision of necessary and timely medical care, affecting a wide range of health services, including treatment for chronic illnesses, maternal and child care, and mental health support. Additionally, the continuous displacement of people in these areas increases their susceptibility to infectious diseases, raising the possibility of new outbreaks and worsening long‐standing public health challenges. Therefore, prioritizing public health in diplomatic efforts is essential for resolving conflicts and aiding recovery, through building a strong public health strategic approach for a more stable and peaceful global community.
A mixed finite‐element, finite‐volume, semi‐implicit discretisation for atmospheric dynamics: Spherical geometry
Authors: Melvin Thomas , Shipway Ben , Wood Nigel , Benacchio Tommaso , Bendall Thomas , Boutle Ian , Brown Alex , Johnson Christine , Kent James , Pring Stephen , Smith Chris , Zerroukat Mohamed , Cotter Colin , Thuburn John
Published: July 2024

Our previously described reformulation of the Met Office's dynamical core for weather and climate prediction is extended to spherical domains using a cubed‐sphere mesh. We update the semi‐implicit mixed finite‐element formulation to be suitable for spherical domains. In particular, the finite‐volume transport scheme is extended to take account of non‐uniform, non‐orthogonal meshes and uses an advective‐then‐flux formulation so that increment from the transport scheme is linear in the divergence. The resulting model is then applied to a standard set of dry dynamical core tests and compared with the existing semi‐implicit semi‐Lagrangian dynamical core currently used in the Met Office's operational model.
A novel equipment remaining useful life prediction approach considering dynamic maintenance threshold
Authors: Ren Li'Na , Li Kangning , Li Xueliang , Wang Ziqian
Published: July 2024

In conventional remaining useful life (RUL) prediction approaches grounded on maintenance, the maintenance threshold is typically established as a stationary value. However, the actual maintenance threshold may exceed its preset value due to the uncertainty of degradation and other factors. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the dynamic maintenance threshold to improve the precision of remaining useful life prediction. By considering the Wiener process, the maintenance threshold error is introduced to reflect the dynamic nature of the maintenance threshold. The influence of maintenance on degradation amount, degradation rate, and degradation path are comprehensively considered to establish a multi‐stage maintenance‐affected degradation process model. The RUL formula of the equipment is derived using the first hitting time (FHT). The maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) approach and Bayesian theory are employed to estimate the model's parameters. The proposed approach is validated using simulation data and gyroscope degradation data. The outcomes reveal that the proposed approach can significantly enhance the precision of life prediction for the equipment.
Assessing the role of field isolated Pseudomonas and Bacillus as growth‐promoting rizobacteria on avocado (Persea americana) seedlings
Authors: Solórzano‐Acosta Richard A. , Quispe Kenyi R.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This research aims to assess the efficacy of two genera of rhizobacteria from avocado field isolated: Pseudomonas and Bacillus, as plant growth‐promoting microorganisms in Hass avocado trees grafted onto Zutano rootstock.

Materials and Methods

The siderophore‐producing and phosphate‐solubilizing capacity of each isolated strain was determined and plant growth‐promoting activity, nutrient accumulation, and nutrient use efficiency in Zutano variety avocado seedlings were evaluated. Molecular identification was carried out by amplification of the 16S rDNA gene of the isolated strains.

Results

Pseudomonas putida, Lysinibacillus macroides, Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus, Lysinibacillus fusiformis, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas plecoglossicida, were identified as the PGPR of the Bacillus and Pseudomonas genera, predominant in the avocado rhizosphere. There was found 11 phosphate solubilizing strains and 2 siderophore‐producing strains. The phosphate‐solubilizing strains, B. subtilis and P. plecoglossicida, stimulated the growth of Zutano seedlings, increasing their root dry weight (g), stem dry weight (g), leaf dry weight (g) and leaf area (cm2). Significant differences were found in nutrient uptake efficiency between inoculated plants and noninoculated plants. The increase in root biomass responded to greater phosphorus and potassium absorption in plants inoculated with P. plecoglossicida, due to this strain's high phosphate solubilization efficiency (266%).

Conclusions

The highest plant growth promotion strains were Bac F (B. subtilis), Bac M (P. plecoglossicida) and P1 (P. putida), which achieved the highest increase in root and leaf dry weight, as well as the highest nutrient extractions and nutrient uptake efficiency.