bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on the effect of feed load on mortality of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Mohammed Fazeel , Gabbadon Paul , Ajmal Tahmina , Goodchild Martin S.
Published: June 2024

In recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), understanding the relationship between feed load and its impact on water quality and overall shrimp health is important. This study utilised an indoor marine RAS for the intensive culture of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. The shrimp were stocked into the grow‐out system at an average body weight of 0.25 g and a stocking density of 347 shrimp/m3. Water quality parameters of temperature, salinity, total dissolved solids, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured twice daily. Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrite and nitrate were measured once weekly or when needed. Sampling was conducted to calculate the daily feed ratio based on the total estimated biomass. Mortality was recorded as a means of evaluating the overall shrimp health. The data obtained were analysed using Pearson correlation (r) analysis and multi‐linear regression with a significant difference accepted p < 0.05. Correlation (r) established relationships among the water quality parameters, feed load and mortality. The TAN level of 24.20 mg/L was recorded when the feed load increased by 81.2% resulting in the mortality of 40% of shrimp. A negative correlation between TAN and DO resulted in a synergistic effect causing a massive consumption of DO in the water, reducing its availability to the shrimp and leading to a drastic change in the shrimp's behaviour. Overfeeding can lead to an accumulation of uneaten feed and waste, causing ammonia spikes and oxygen depletion in the water. Monitoring and adjusting feed rates accordingly can help maintain optimal water conditions for shrimp growth and health. Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate feed rates in recirculating systems because feed load can influence water quality parameters that can be detrimental to shrimp culture.
Inclusion of near‐threatened micronutrient‐rich small indigenous species (SIS) dhela (Osteobrama cotio) in pond aquaculture
Authors: Kunda Mrityunjoy , Khanom Mahfuja , Islam Md. Jahidul , Pandit Debasish
Published: June 2024

Due to their high content of micronutrients, small indigenous species (SISs) of fish play a vital role in the diets of people. Dhela (Osteobrama cotio) is one of the most important micronutrient‐rich SISs and was once abundant but is currently disappearing from inland waters. This study investigated the culture suitability of dhela with carp species in polycultures in a pond aquaculture system. The stocking density of the carp species was the same in all the treatments, with Labeo catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus cirrhosus at 10,800/ha. Dhela were cultivated at a density of 10,000/ha in treatment 2 (Dhela‐10K) and 15,000/ha in treatment 3 (Dhela‐15K), and no dhela were cultivated in treatment 1 (Dhela‐0). After 7 months of culture, there were no significant differences in total production among the treatments, with yields of 3393.27 ± 120.70, 3534.52 ± 57.03 and 3687.34 ± 244.41 kg/ha in Dhela‐0, Dhela‐10K and Dhela‐15K, respectively. Notably, a significantly greater (p < 0.05) net profit and benefit‒cost ratio were found in Dhela‐10K and Dhela‐15K than in Dhela‐0, but no significant difference was found between Dhela‐10K and Dhela‐15K. The inclusion of dhela in pond polycultures with carp species demonstrates the potential benefits of diversifying aquaculture systems. Farmers could consider incorporating SISs into their existing aquaculture practices to increase overall production and improve economic returns.
Natural stable isotope ratios as a tool in understanding nutrient allocation of protein sources in the growth of farmed abalone, Haliotis midae
Authors: Wu Yu , Kaiser Horst , Jones Cliff L. W.
Published: June 2024

Using stable isotope analysis, we assessed the relative contributions of the main protein contributors fishmeal, soya and sunflower meal to mature abalone muscle and gonad tissue over 1 year. Prerequisites for the use of stable isotope mixing models were established in this species. The δ13C and δ15N discrimination factors and turnover rates were influenced by diet composition, and there were tissue‐specific and sex‐specific differences. Abalone were fed the two combination diets (fishmeal–soya and fishmeal–sunflower meal) grew at similar rates. However, feed was most efficiently utilised in abalone fed a combination of fishmeal and soya. The relative contribution of fishmeal, soya and sunflower meal to female and male abalone tissue growth fluctuated throughout the 1‐year study. Overall, fishmeal contributed over 50% of the gonad (54%–82%) and muscle (54%–84%) tissue growth in females. Similarly, fishmeal contributed over 50% of gonad tissue growth of male abalone, ranging from 59% to 87%, while the contribution to meat tissue growth in males ranged from 44% to 94%. These findings support the importance of laboratory studies when using stable isotope analysis and mixing models for nutrient allocation in aquaculture.
Functional probes for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases
Authors: Fan Zhijin , Liu Yan , Ye Yuyun , Liao Yuhui
Published: June 2024

Infectious diseases present significant challenges to global health, thereby extensively affecting both human society and the economy. In recent years, functional probes have demonstrated remarkable potential as crucial biomedical media for the research and treatment of infectious diseases. Their applications in the realm of infectious diseases include pathogen detection, exploration of biological mechanisms, and development of anti‐infective drugs. This review provides a concise introduction to the severity, classification, and pathogenesis of infectious diseases. Subsequently, we examined the distinctiveness and design strategies of functional probes for diagnosing and treating infectious diseases, shedding light on their design rationale using typical examples. We discuss the current status and challenges associated with the clinical implementation of functional probes. Furthermore, we explored the prospects of using these probes for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. This review aims to offer novel insights into the design of diagnostic probes for infectious diseases and broaden their applications in disease treatment.
Genome sequencing identifies biallelic variants in SCLT1 in a patient with syndromic nephronophthisis: Reflections on the SCLT1‐related ciliopathy spectrum
Authors: Gillesse E. , Wade A. , Parboosingh J. S. , Au P. Y. B. , Bernier F. P. ,   C4R Consortium, Lamont R. E. , Innes A. M.
Published: June 2024

Ciliopathies represent a major category of rare multisystem disease. Arriving at a specific diagnosis for a given patient is challenged by the significant genetic and clinical heterogeneity of these conditions. We report the outcome of the diagnostic odyssey of a child with obesity, renal, and retinal disease. Genome sequencing identified biallelic splice site variants in sodium channel and clathrin linker 1 (SCLT1), an emerging ciliopathy gene. We review the literature on all patients reported with biallelic SCLT1 variants highlighting a frequent clinical presentation that overlaps Bardet–Biedl and Senior–Loken syndromes. We also discuss current concepts in syndrome designation in light of these data.
Electron Transfer Enhanced by a Minimal Energetic Driving Force at the Organic‐Semiconductor Interface
Authors: Iwasaki Hiroto , Fujimoto Keisuke , Banno Koki , Shui Qing‐jun , Majima Yutaka , Takahashi Masaki , Izawa Seiichiro
Published: June 2024

The energetic driving force for electron transfer must be minimized to realize efficient optoelectronic devices including organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) and organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Exploring the dynamics of a charge‐transfer (CT) state at an interface leads to a comprehension of the relationship between energetics, electron‐transfer efficiency, and device performance. Here, we investigate the electron transfer from the CT state to the triplet excited state (T1) in upconversion OLEDs with 45 material combinations. By analyzing the CT emission and the singlet excited‐state emission from triplet–triplet annihilation via the dark T1, their energetics and electron‐transfer efficiencies are extracted. We demonstrate that the CT→T1 electron transfer is enhanced by the stronger CT interaction and a minimal energetic driving force (<0.1 eV), which is explained using the Marcus theory with a small reorganization energy of <0.1 eV. Through our analysis, a novel donor–acceptor combination for the OLED is developed and shows an efficient blue emission with an extremely low turn‐on voltage of 1.57 V. This work provides a solution to control interfacial CT states for efficient optoelectronic devices without energy loss.
Crystalline Porous Organic Cage Membranes Constructed Using Fortified Intermolecular Interactions for Molecular Sieving
Authors: Song Ziye , Liu Linghao , Sun Qian , Du Jingcheng , Guan Jian , Dou Pengjia , Zhang Runnan , Jiang Zhongyi , Liu Jiangtao
Published: June 2024

Among the various types of materials with intrinsic porosity, porous organic cages (POCs) are distinctive as discrete molecules that possess intrinsic cavities and extrinsic channels capable of facilitating molecular sieving. However, the fabrication of POC membranes remains highly challenging due to the weak noncovalent intermolecular interactions and most reported POCs are powders. In this study, we constructed crystalline free‐standing porous organic cage membranes by fortifying intermolecular interactions through the induction of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, which was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. To elucidate the driving forces behind, a series of terephthaldehyde building blocks containing different substitutions were reacted with flexible triamine under different conditions via interfacial polymerization (IP). Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that intramolecular hydrogen bonding can significantly boost the intermolecular interactions. The resulting membranes exhibited fast solvent permeance and high rejection of dyes not only in water, but also in organic solvents. In addition, the membrane demonstrated excellent performance in precise molecular sieving in organic solvents. This work opens an avenue to designing and fabricating free‐standing membranes composed of porous organic materials for efficient molecular sieving.
Development and Effectiveness of a Standardized Hand‐Off Program Using the SWITCH Tool for OR Nurses: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Jeong Eun , Kim Myoung Soo
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop a standardized hand‐off program based on the SWITCH tool (surgical procedure, wet, instruments, tissue, counts, have you any questions?) and to examine its effectiveness in terms of self‐reported perceptions of hand‐off satisfaction, self‐efficacy, surgical nursing performance, and communication competence among OR staff members. This randomized controlled trial used a nonsynchronized control group with a pretest and posttest design. The nurses in the experimental group received one educational session and used the standardized hand‐off tool for four weeks. The control group performed hand offs using the usual method rather than a tool. After the intervention, self‐reported hand‐off satisfaction (P = .001), self‐efficacy (P = .005), and surgical nursing performance (P < .001) scores were significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group. A standardized hand‐off tool can improve nurse perceptions of satisfaction, self‐efficacy, and surgical nursing performance.
Retrospective Analysis of Associated Costs and Sources of Variability in OR Utilization Across Weekdays
Authors: Elliott‐Dawe Cheryl , Chen Jie , Stucky Christopher H. , Zadinsky Julie K.
Published: June 2024

Few studies have examined variability in OR utilization across weekdays. We conducted a retrospective analysis to determine OR utilization differences by day of the week and the source and financial effects of any variability. We extracted 55 months of data from a surgical data repository to calculate OR utilization, late starts, idle times, and delays for each weekday. Declines in OR utilization occurred as the week progressed and were attributed to compounding changes in late start, delay, and idle time. The average weekly cost for each OR associated with unused staffed minutes below a target OR utilization of 85% was $19,383, and the comparable lost weekly revenue was $60,256. Perioperative leaders should identify sources of OR utilization variability when developing strategies that enhance outcomes for patients, minimize costs, and maximize revenue.
New Insights Into Zinc Passivation Through Operando Measured Zincate Concentrations
Authors: Fuchs David , Müller Christoph , Schaffeld Mandy , Mahlendorf Falko , Hoster Harry E.
Published: June 2024

We present a detailed analysis of the behavior of a new zinc‐air flow cell. This system offers several unique insights into the zinc electrochemistry. Due to the constant slurry flow, concentration gradients are completely destroyed every few seconds and therefore negligible and it is possible to take samples from the anode without interrupting the discharge process. To clarify the underlying processes, the potential of the zinc electrode, the zincate concentration (by titration) and the zinc‐particles (by SEM) were analyzed. These measurements offer the unique opportunity to distinguish between thermodynamic and kinetic contributions to the cell voltage. We found, that in this system zinc passivation, is caused by a critical zincate concentration and the steep increase of the cell potential is a kinetic effect, caused by partial passivation. The key factor for passivation, which limits the capacity to 82 mAh gzinc−1 or 41 mAh gslurry−1, is the nucleation of ZnO before the critical zincate concentration is reached. This allows capacities of up to 420 mAh gzinc−1 or 210 mAh gslurry−1. These results are therefore not only essential for a further increase of the practical capacity of the system but also offer unique insights in the zinc electrochemistry.
Teaching on the cheap? The extent and impact of teaching assistants covering classes and leading lessons
Authors: Webster Rob
Published: June 2024

This study provides a detailed picture of how the on‐going challenge of teacher shortages in England and Wales is driving the deployment of teaching assistants (TAs) to cover classes in place of teachers. Analyses of data from a survey of nearly 6000 TAs in mainstream and special schools found that TAs cover classes for up to 4 h a week, with one in four covering classes because schools do not have enough teachers and/or are unable to get external supply teachers. The conditions under which TAs cover classes are challenging and a cause of stress and anxiety. Unlike teachers, TAs cover classes without a lesson plan or support from another TA. The majority of TAs said that covering classes inevitably involves them having to teach pupils – despite national guidance stipulating that cover by TAs should not involve ‘active teaching’. Three in four TAs report that their own role is not covered when they cover for teachers. Being deployed to cover classes disrupts and diverts TAs from carrying out their regular duties of delivering curriculum interventions and providing classroom support. Consequently, TAs feel that undertaking cover negatively impacts the quality of learning and provision for pupils with additional needs, as well as their workload, wellbeing, sense of effectiveness and job satisfaction. The conclusion that TAs actively teach lessons to whole classes has potentially significant real‐world consequences and implications for policy and practice. This paper calls for an urgent policy response to what is, in essence, a troubling symptom of the current teacher recruitment and retention crisis.
Dynamic modulation of enhancer‐promoter and promoter‐promoter connectivity in gene regulation
Authors: Makino Shiho , Fukaya Takashi
Published: June 2024

Enhancers are short segments of regulatory DNA that control when and in which cell‐type genes should be turned on in response to a variety of extrinsic and intrinsic signals. At the molecular level, enhancers serve as a genomic scaffold that recruits sequence‐specific transcription factors and co‐activators to facilitate transcription from linked promoters. However, it remains largely unclear how enhancers communicate with appropriate target promoters in the context of higher‐order genome topology. In this review, we discuss recent progress in our understanding of the functional interplay between enhancers, genome topology, and the molecular properties of transcription machineries in gene regulation. We suggest that the activities of transcription hubs are highly regulated through the dynamic rearrangement of enhancer‐promoter and promoter‐promoter connectivity during animal development.
CT‐determined low skeletal muscle index predicts poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Feng Yue , Cheng Xiao‐Hong , Xu Mei , Zhao Rui , Wan Qian‐Yi , Feng Wei‐Hua , Gan Hua‐Tian
Published: June 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is highly prevalent among patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Computed tomography (CT)‐based assessment of low skeletal muscle index (SMI) is widely used for diagnosing sarcopenia. However, there are conflicting findings on the association between low SMI and overall survival (OS) in CRC patients. The objective of this study was to investigate whether CT‐determined low SMI can serve as a valuable prognostic factor in CRC.

Methods

We collected data from patients with CRC who underwent radical surgery at our institution between June 2020 and November 2021. The SMI at the third lumbar vertebra was calculated using CT scans, and the cutoff values for defining low SMI were determined using receiver operating characteristic curves. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the associations between clinical characteristics and postoperative major complications.

Results

A total of 464 patients were included in the study, 229 patients (46.7%) were classified as having low SMI. Patients with low SMI were older and had a lower body mass index (BMI), a higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and higher nutritional risk screening 2002 (NRS2002) scores compared to those with normal SMI. Furthermore, patients with sarcopenia had a higher rate of major complications (10.9% vs. 1.3%; p < 0.001) and longer length of stay (9.09 ± 4.86 days vs. 8.25 ± 3.12 days; p = 0.03). Low SMI and coronary heart disease were identified as independent risk factors for postoperative major complications. Moreover, CRC patients with low SMI had significantly worse OS. Furthermore, the combination of low SMI with older age or TNM stage II + III resulted in the worst OS in each subgroup analysis.

Conclusions

CT‐determined low SMI is associated with poor prognosis in patients with CRC, especially when combined with older age or advanced TNM stage.
Anti‐Inflammatory Activity and Acute Toxicity Of Pereskia aculeata, In Zophobas morio Larvae
Authors: e Silva Dominique Mesquita , Nunes Luiza Gabrielle Assunção , Prado da Silva Natália , de Freitas Pedro Henrique Santos , Scio Elita , Tavares Guilherme Diniz , Almeida Alves Izabel , de Carvalho da Costa Juliana
Published: June 2024

Pereskia aculeata has been widely investigated due to its anti‐inflammatory potential. Among the metabolites found in this species are the phytosterols beta‐sitosterol (β‐SIT) and stigmasterol (STIG). The objective of the study was to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory and toxicity activities of the hexane partition of P. aculeata (PHEX), as well as β‐SIT and STIG. PHEX was prepared and the phytosterols were quantified. In terms of toxicity against L929 fibroblast cells, PHEX showed toxicity up to 200 μg/mL; STIG and β‐SIT showed toxicity up to 25 μg/mL. PHEX inhibited 66 % of nitric oxide radicals, while STIG and β‐SIT inhibited 33.73 % and 34.94 %, respectively. In an anti‐inflammatory test against Zophobas morio larvae, all samples significantly reduced hemocyte levels. Additionally, the LD50 values were calculated: 229.6 mg/kg for PHEX, 101.5 mg/kg for STIG, and 103.8 mg/kg for β‐SIT. In conclusion, the study indicates that the phytosterols present in PHEX may contribute to its anti‐inflammatory activity.
Congenital incomplete duplication of lower extremity (polymelia) accompanied with anorectal malformation and unilateral deafness
Authors: Shinden Yumetaka , Hakozaki Michiyuki , Hiruta Shun , Tanaka Hideaki , Matsumoto Yoshihiro
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Polymelia (supernumerary limbs) is an extremely rare congenital condition in humans. Because congenital anorectal malformation is a relatively common complication of polymelia and it may require emergency surgery as in the present case, accompanying malformations must be investigated.
Synergistic Effect of RuCo and Hierarchical ZSM‐5 for Enhanced Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Lin Zhi‐Bin , Zeng Bo‐Jun , Wu Si‐Ming , Wang Li‐Ying , Wu Lu , Wu Xuan , Tian Yuan , Chang Gang‐Gang , Tian Ge , Shen Ling , Yang Xiao‐Yu
Published: June 2024

A unique bifunctional catalyst comprised of acid site containing, hierarchical ZSM‐5 (contains acid sites) supported RuCo bimetal, was synthesized using a facile incipient wetness impregnation method. The synergistic interaction between zeolite acid sites and bimetals of this bifunctional material significantly improves its performance as a catalyst of hydrogen producing, dehydrogenation of ammonia borane.
Analysis of a raise boring reamer in operation based on acceleration measurements
Authors: Rigler Matthias , Speck Raphael , Flora Matthias
Published: June 2024

The understanding of the complex dynamic phenomena occurring during the reaming operations of the raise boring process is limited. Any operational damage of the reamer is very likely to be caused by component failure due to fatigue effects from the dynamic processes. Therefore, an innovative measurement setup consisting of acceleration sensors in three axes was installed on a reamer to capture its movements and vibrations during operation. The capture of the reaming process by acceleration sensors was successful, however no operational damage on the reamer was observed during the reaming of three vertical shafts. The collected vibration data was implemented into a dynamic finite element assessment, which is intended to serve for lifetime predictions of components and predictive maintenance. A further step is investigating the potential for the implementation of the measurement data into a condition monitoring system and for optimizing the reaming operation.
Revisiting the Mechanism of Asymmetric Ni‐Catalyzed Reductive Carbo‐Carboxylation with CO2: The Additives Affect the Product Selectivity
Authors: Pavlovic Ljiljana , Carvalho Bjørn , Hopmann Kathrin H.
Published: June 2024

The mechanistic details of the asymmetric Ni‐catalyzed reductive cyclization/carboxylation of alkenes with CO2 have been revisited using DFT methods. Emphasis was put on the enantioselectivity and the mechanistic role of Lewis acid additives and in situ formed salts. Our results show that oxidative addition of the substrate is rate‐limiting, with the formed Ni(II)‐aryl intermediate preferring a triplet spin state. After reduction to Ni(I), enantioselective cyclization of the substrate occurs, followed by inner sphere carboxylation. Our proposed mechanism reproduces the experimentally observed enantiomeric excess and identifies critical C−H/O and C−H/N interactions that affect the selectivity. Further, our results highlight the beneficial effect of Lewis acids on CO2 insertion and suggest that in situ formed salts influence if the 5‐exo or 6‐endo product will be formed.
Chiral Acetal‐Based Stereo‐Controlled Degradable Polymer Synthesis
Authors: Song Dayong , Koo Bonwoo , Kang Houng , Seo Kyeongdeok , Kim Choeljae
Published: June 2024

The precise synthesis of chiral polymers remains a significant challenge in polymer chemistry, particularly for applications in advanced biomedical and electronic materials. The development of degradable polymers is important for eco‐friendly and advanced materials. Here, we introduce a stereo‐controlled degradable polymer via cascade enyne metathesis polymerization and enantioselective acetal synthesis through Pd‐catalyzed asymmetric hydroamination. This approach allows for the creation of chiral acetal‐based polymers with controlled stereochemistry and degradability, highlighting their potential for use in drug delivery and electronic applications. This concept article reviews the background, development, and potential applications of these stereo‐controlled degradable polymers.
A Phosphorus‐Centred, Zirconocene‐Bridged Tetraradical: Synthesis, Structure and Application as Molecular Double Switch
Authors: Fritz Peter , AlHamwi Hanan , Villinger Alexander , Michalik Dirk , Bresien Jonas , Reiß Fabian , Beweries Torsten , Schulz Axel
Published: June 2024

Biradicals are important intermediates in the formation and breaking of a chemical bond. Their use as molecular switches is of particular interest. Much less is known about tetraradicals, which can, for example, consist of two biradical(oid) units. Here we report the synthesis of the first persistent phosphorus‐centred tetraradical bound to a transition metal fragment. Starting from a zirconocene complex, rac‐(ebthi)ZrCl2 (rac‐(ebthi)=1,2‐ethylene‐1,10‐bis(η5‐tetrahydroindenyl), two cyclo‐1,3‐diphospha‐pentane‐1,3‐diyls were successfully introduced, which finally led to the isolation of a deep green zirconcene‐bridged bis(biradicaloid) complex (5) that can act as a double molecular switch. Under the influence of light (570 nm), this tetraradical forms a transannular bond in each of the two five‐membered biradical units, leading to the formation of housane 5 h. Upon irradiation at 415 nm, the reverse reaction is observed, fully recovering tetraradical 5. Through single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformation, both stable species of the molecular switch could be structurally characterised using SCXRD. The switching under the influence of light and the activation of molecular hydrogen were analysed in solution using NMR and UV spectroscopy. It was found that the addition of one or two equivalents of molecular hydrogen can be switched on and off by light.
Unified closure relationship for slug liquid holdup
Authors: Soto‐Cortes Gabriel , Pereyra Eduardo , Sarica Cem
Published: June 2024

Slug flow is a common flow pattern in pipes operating with gas–liquid mixtures. The slug flow's periodic behaviour affects the performance of multiphase transportation systems, which is generally predicted using mechanistic models. Mechanistic models are based on one‐dimensional mass and momentum conservation equations and require additional relationships to define a complete system of equations. These additional equations are usually called closure relationships. The slug liquid holdup () is one of the required closure relationships. In this paper a unified closure model for is proposed considering the energy balance and the interaction between inertial, gravitational, viscous, and surface tension forces. The model parameters' behaviour is described as a function of a new dimensionless number. The experimental data analysis shows that this number can quantitatively define two flow categories: ‘low viscosity flow’ and ‘medium/high viscosity flow’. Slug liquid holdup changes its behaviour in these regions due to the predominance of inertial–surface tension forces or gravitational–viscous forces, respectively. The proposed closure performs better than the existing mechanistic and empirical models.
A Phase 1, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Single Ascending Dose Trial of AWZ1066S, an Anti‐Wolbachia Candidate Macrofilaricide
Authors: Devereux Graham , Bula Marcin , Tripp Karen , Fitzgerald Richard , Eraut Nicola , Alam Muhammad Salman , Moriyama Tomoyuki , Shinkyo Raku , Walker Lauren , Wang Duolao , Gusovsky Fabian , van der Velde Jeannette , Turner Joseph D. , Hong Weiqian David , O'Neill Paul M. , Taylor Mark J. , Ward Stephen A.
Published: June 2024

AWZ1066S has been developed as a potential treatment for the neglected tropical diseases lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. AWZ1066S targets the Wolbachia bacterial endosymbiont present in the causative nematode parasites. This phase 1, first‐in‐human study aimed to assess the safety and pharmacokinetics of AWZ1066S in healthy human participants. In a randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single ascending dose study, healthy adults received a single oral dose of AWZ1066S (or placebo) and were followed up for 10 days. The planned single doses of AWZ1066S ranged from 100 to 1600 mg, and each dose was administered to a cohort of 8 participants (6 AWZ1066S and 2 placebo). In total 30 people participated, 18 (60%) female, median age 30.0 years (minimum 20, maximum 61). The cohorts administered 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg of AWZ1066S progressed unremarkably. After single 700‐mg doses all 4 participants developed symptoms of acute gastritis and transient increases in liver enzymes. The severity of these adverse events ranged from mild to severe, with 1 participant needing hospital admission. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that AWZ1066S is rapidly absorbed with predictable pharmacokinetics. In conclusion, safety concerns prevented this study from reaching the human exposures needed for AWZ1066S to be clinically effective against lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis.
Unified Protocol Versus Self‐Acceptance Group Therapy for Emotional Disorders in People With Severe Shame
Authors: Mohajerin Banafsheh , Howard Richard C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Severe shame is a distressing negative emotion, accompanied by intense feelings of worthlessness that contributes to a broad panoply of psychological disorders. This study aimed to compare the effects on shame dysregulation of two transdiagnostic treatments, the Unified Protocol (UP) and Self‐Acceptance Group Therapy (SAGT). We additionally addressed the question of whether borderline personality disorder (BPD) can properly be regarded as an emotional disorder. The focus was on outcome measures, primarily shame that cut across individual diagnostic categories and capture emotional dysfunction broadly conceived.

Methods

Individuals suffering from a range of emotional disorders (including BPD) and high levels of shame were randomly allocated to treatment by either UP (N = 280) or SAGT (N = 282). Outcomes were measures of emotion dysfunction—shame, loneliness, neuroticism, emotional dysregulation, positive and negative affect—measured pre‐treatment, post‐treatment and at 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐ups.

Results

UP was superior to SAGT in showing better post‐treatment retention of therapeutic gains on all outcome measures over the 6‐month follow‐up period. Compared with those without a BPD diagnosis, those diagnosed with BPD showed significantly higher neuroticism and emotion dysregulation at baseline and a similar post‐treatment reduction in almost all outcomes.

Conclusions

The results support the use of both the UP and SAGT in the treatment of severe shame. The superiority of the UP over SAGT in reducing negative emotionality is interpreted in terms of the specific mechanisms targeted by the UP. The results provide support for the theoretical rationale for the UP as a treatment for dysregulated shame and for emotional dysfunction generally.
Optimization of Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Protocols in the Era of Precision Medicine
Authors: Kudman Sarah , Semaan Alissa , Assaad Majd Al , Gogineni Swarna , Martin M. Laura , Mathew Susan , Elemento Olivier , Wilkes David C. , Mosquera Juan Miguel
Published: June 2024

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a cytogenetic assay that is widely used in both clinical and research settings to validate genetic aberrations. Simple in principle, it is based on denaturation and hybridization of a DNA probe and its complementary sequence; however, it is subject to continuous optimization. Here we share how in‐house FISH can be optimized using different control tissues to visualize and ultimately validate common and novel genetic abnormalities unearthed by next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Seven specific FISH probes were designed and labeled, and conditions for eight tissue types and one patient‐derived tumor organoid were optimized. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue slides were used for each experiment. Slides were first deparaffinized, then placed in a pretreatment solution followed by a digestion step. In‐house FISH probes were then added to the tissue to be denatured and hybridized, and then washed twice. To obtain optimal results, probe concentration, pepsin incubation time, denaturation, and the two post‐hybridization washes were optimized for each sample. By modifying the above conditions, all FISH experiments were optimized in separate tissue types to investigate specific genomic alterations in tumors arising in those tissues. Signals were clear and distinct, allowing for visualization of the selected probes. Following this protocol, our lab has quickly optimized 11 directly labeled in‐house FISH probes to support genetic aberrations nominated by NGS, including most recent discoveries through whole‐genome sequencing analyses. We describe a robust approach of how to advance in‐house labeled FISH probes. By following these guidelines, reliable and reproducible FISH results can be obtained to interrogate FFPE slides from benign, tumor tissues, and patient‐derived tumor organoid specimens. This is of most relevance in the era of NGS and precision oncology. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Metaphase FISH optimization

Support Protocol 1: In‐house probe labeling and preparation

Support Protocol 2: Metaphase spread preparation

Basic Protocol 2: Optimization of FISH on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue
Practical downlink satellite‐FSO/RF cooperative relays: Performance analysis and LSTM prediction
Authors: Goel Anu , Bhatia Richa , Upadhya Abhijeet
Published: June 2024

The present research work aims to investigate the reliability of the mixed free space optical (FSO)/radio frequency (RF) decode‐and‐forward (DF) relaying system where the satellite intends to communicate with the ground station through the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) as the relay node. Moreover, it has been considered that a second UAV interferes with the intended UAV. The operation of the UAVs has been represented considering the small scale fading, path loss, 3‐D location, and probability of maintaining line‐of‐sight (LoS) and non line of sight (NLoS) links, while FSO link undergoes Malaga distributed turbulence. Using the aforementioned model, the closed form expressions for the outage probability and bit error rate (BER) have been derived. The exact expressions have been extended to obtain the high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) results for the outage probability and BER. The analytical expressions have been numerically evaluated and the results obtained through these expressions have been verified using the Monte Carlo simulations. More importantly, long short‐term memory (LSTM)‐based deep learning model has been trained for prediction of outage probability. The model is trained offline and then utilized to predict the values of the outage probability in online mode with mean square error (MSE) and root mean square error (RMSE) of MSE = −45.02 and RMSE = −18.34 dB.
Aluminum vacancy‐rich MOF‐derived carbon nanosheets for high‐capacity and long‐life aqueous aluminum‐ion battery
Authors: Jin Jiuzeng , Zhang Ruiying , Zhi Xiaodong , Liu Dongxin , Wang Yun , Feng Zhongmin , Sun Ting
Published: June 2024

Eco‐friendly and safe aqueous aluminum‐ion batteries as energy storage devices with low economic burden, high stability and fast ion transport have been lucubrated deeply in response to the call for sustainable development. However, the poor cycle performance caused by difficult (de‐)intercalation hinders the development prospect. In this work, the aluminum vacancy‐rich MOF‐derived carbon is constructed to achieve reversible aluminum storage during the charge‐discharge cycles. The MOF‐derived carbon with anti‐stacking waxberry‐like structure exhibits high capacity (282.1 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1) and long cycle performance (84.4% capacity retention rate at 1 A g−1 after 5000 cycles). Further investigations demonstrate that (de‐)intercalation occurs among the vacancies of carbon nanosheets in the form of hydrated aluminum ions. Meanwhile, the introduced nitrogen as energy storage sites contributes part of the capacity. The proposed aluminum vacancy engineering improves the current situation of the capacitive energy storage mode for 2D carbon materials, which may exploit an advanced theoretical model for the design of aqueous batteries.
Crop use structures resource selection strategies for African elephants in a human‐dominated landscape
Authors: Hahn Nathan R. , Wall Jake , Deninger‐Snyder Kristen , Tiedeman Kate , Sairowua Wilson , Goss Marc , Ndambuki Stephan , Eblate Ernest , Mbise Noel , Wittemyer George
Published: June 2024

To conserve wide‐ranging species in degraded landscapes, it is essential to understand how the behavior of animals changes in relation to the degree and composition of modification. Evidence suggests that large inter‐individual variation exists in the propensity for use of degraded areas and may be driven by both behavioral and landscape factors. The use of cultivated lands by wildlife is of particular interest, given the importance of reducing human‐wildlife conflicts and understanding how such areas can function as biodiversity buffers. African elephant space use can be highly influenced by human activity and the degree to which individuals crop‐raid. We analyzed GPS data from 56 free‐ranging elephants in the Serengeti‐Mara Ecosystem using resource selection functions (RSFs) to assess how crop use may drive patterns of resource selection and space use within a population. We quantified drivers of similarity in resource selection across individuals using proximity analysis of individual RSF coefficients derived from random forest models. We found wide variation in RSF coefficient values between individuals indicating strongly differentiated resource selection strategies. Proximity assessment indicated the degree of crop use in the dry season, individual repeatability, and time spent in unprotected areas drove similarity in resource selection patterns. Crop selection was also spatially structured in relation to agricultural fragmentation. In areas with low fragmentation, elephants spent less time in crops and selected most strongly for crops further from protected area boundaries, but in areas of high fragmentation, elephants spent twice as much time in crops and selected most strongly for crops closer to the protected area boundary. Our results highlight how individual differences and landscape structure can shape use of agricultural landscapes. We discuss our findings in respect to the conservation challenges of human‐elephant conflict and incorporating behavioral variation into human‐wildlife coexistence efforts.
Multiple paternity, fertilization success, and male quality: Mating system variation in the eelgrass, Zostera marina
Authors: Sgambelluri Lauren R. , Jarvis Jessie C. , Kamel Stephanie J.
Published: June 2024

Genetic diversity can modulate a population's response to a changing environment and plays a critical role in its ecological function. While multiple processes act to maintain genetic diversity, sexual reproduction remains the primary driving force. Eelgrass (Zostera marina) is an important habitat‐forming species found in temperate coastal ecosystems across the globe. Recent increases in sea surface temperatures have resulted in shifts to a mixed‐annual life‐history strategy (i.e., displaying characteristics of both annual and perennial meadows) at its southern edge‐of‐range. Given that mating systems are intimately linked to standing levels of genetic variation, understanding the scope of sexual reproduction can illuminate the processes that shape genetic diversity. To characterize edge‐of‐range eelgrass mating systems, developing seeds on flowering Z. marina shoots were genotyped from three meadows in Topsail, North Carolina. In all meadows, levels of multiple mating were high, with shoots pollinated by an average of eight sires (range: 3–16). The number of fertilized seeds (i.e., reproductive success) varied significantly across sires (range: 1–25) and was positively correlated with both individual heterozygosity and self‐fertilization. Outcrossing rates were high (approx. 70%) and varied across spathes. No clones were detected, and kinship among sampled flowering shoots was low, supporting observed patterns of reproductive output. Given the role that genetic diversity plays in enhancing resistance to and resilience from ecological disturbance, disentangling the links between life history, sexual reproduction, and genetic variation will aid in informing the management and conservation of this key foundation species.
Social risk to infant: The role of kin for maternal visual monitoring in Tibetan macaques
Authors: Liu Shen‐Qi , Tian Hong‐Wei , Ren Sen , Sun Wen‐Kai , Fan Peng‐Lai , Xia Dong‐Po , Sun Bing‐Hua , Li Jin‐Hua , Wang Xi
Published: June 2024

Maternal monitoring of conspecifics is a crucial anti‐predator strategy that also protects infants against risks within the social group. This study examines how maternal characteristics, infant characteristics, mother–infant distance, and the social environment affect maternal monitoring behaviors in free‐ranging Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana). We observed 12 females with infants and analyzed their visual monitoring patterns. Our findings indicate that maternal rank significantly influences the time allocated to maternal visual monitoring, higher‐ranking mothers spending less time than lower‐ranking mothers. Maternal experience also played a role in monitoring strategies. Differences in monitoring strategies were observed based on maternal experience: first‐time mothers (primiparity) engaged in longer but less frequent monitoring sessions compared to experienced mothers (multiparity). The time and frequency of maternal monitoring decreased as infants aged, and mothers with male infants showed higher levels of monitoring than those with female infants. The distance between mother and infant also affected visual monitoring behavior, with mothers increasing their monitoring levels when infants were nearby (1–5 m), rather than within reach (0–1 m) or beyond nearby (>5 m). Additionally, the presence of kin and non‐kin influenced monitoring: as the number of nearby kin increased, monitoring levels decreased, while the presence of more non‐kin males led to an increase in monitoring time, and higher‐ranking non‐kin neighbors increased the frequency of monitoring. These results suggest that Tibetan macaque mothers can adapt their visual monitoring to the social risks faced by their infants, adjusting their strategies to their status and the needs of their offspring.
Habitat loss and simplification lower arthropod richness but not diversity
Authors: Scott Erin V. , Almeida Ryan , McKlin Sam , Lippert Alston Lee , Clary Jake , Vargas Carlos , Hidell Will , Wadgymar Susana , Smith Kevin G.
Published: June 2024

Habitat loss is rarely truly random and often occurs selectively with respect to the plant species comprising the habitat. Such selective habitat removal that decreases plant species diversity, that is, habitat simplification or homogenization, may have two negative effects on other species. First, the reduction in plant community size (number of individuals) represents habitat loss for species at higher trophic levels who use plants as habitat. Second, when plants are removed selectively, the resulting habitat simplification decreases the diversity of resources available to species at higher trophic levels. It follows that habitat loss combined with simplification will reduce biodiversity more than habitat loss without simplification. To test this, we experimentally implemented two types of habitat loss at the plant community level and compared biodiversity of resident arthropods between habitat loss types. In the first type of habitat loss, we reduced habitats by 50% nonselectively, maintaining original relative abundance and diversity of plant species and therefore habitat and resource diversity for arthropods. In the second type of habitat loss, we reduced habitats by 50% selectively, removing all but one common plant species, dramatically simplifying habitat and resources for arthropods. We replicated this experiment across three common plant species: Asclepias tuberosa, Solidago altissima, and Baptisia alba. While habitat loss with simplification reduced arthropod species richness compared with habitat loss without simplification, neither type of habitat loss affected diversity, measured as effective number of species (ENS), or species evenness as compared with controls. Instead, differences in ENS and evenness were explained by the identity of the common plant species. Our results indicate that the quality of remaining habitat, in our case plant species identity, may be more important for multi‐trophic diversity than habitat diversity per se.
Setting the optimal threshold of NT‐proBNP and BNP for the diagnosis of heart failure in patients over 75 years
Authors: Berthelot Emmanuelle , Bailly Minh Tam , Lehova Xenia Cerchez , Rahmani Manel El Blidi , Bounab Rahil , Mewton Nathan , Dobbs John E. , Mas Remy , Frank Marie , Lellouche Nicolas , Paclot Marion , Jourdain Patrick
Published: June 2024

Aims

Diagnosing acute heart failure (AHF) remains particularly challenging in older patients. Natriuretic peptides are recommended as valuable diagnostic tools in this context. This study aims to establish the diagnostic thresholds of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) for AHF in patients aged over 75 years, both with and without co‐morbidities.

Methods and results

In this retrospective longitudinal multicentre cohort study, data were gathered from 12 071 hospitalized patients aged 75 years or older, presenting with acute dyspnoea and undergoing BNP or NT‐proBNP measurement within 48 h of admission across 10 Assistance Publique‐Hôpitaux de Paris facilities between 2011 and 2022, encompassing geriatrics, cardiology, and pulmonology departments. Final diagnoses were categorized using ICD‐10 criteria as either AHF or other acute respiratory conditions such as COPD exacerbation, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia. The mean (SD) age of the population was 84.0 (80.0, 89.0) years, with 52.7% being female. Out of these, 7946 (65.8%) were diagnosed with AHF upon discharge. For NT‐proBNP, the identified ‘optimal’ threshold for diagnosing AHF was 1748 ng/L, with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 84%. Among patients aged over 85 years, a threshold of 2235 pg/mL for NT‐proBNP was associated with an 84% PPV. In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), a threshold of 2332 pg/mL for NT‐proBNP demonstrated a PPV of 90% for AHF diagnosis. Additionally, in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 30 mL/min, a threshold of 3474 pg/mL for NT‐proBNP yielded a 90% PPV for AHF diagnosis. In male patients, a threshold of 1800 pg/mL showed an 85% PPV for AHF diagnosis, while in patients with obesity, a threshold of 1375 pg/mL demonstrated an 85% PPV for AHF diagnosis.

Conclusions

In older patients, we found significant effects of co‐morbidities on natriuretic peptides results, particularly in patients over 85 years old, older patients with abnormal renal function, obesity, and atrial fibrillation. Despite the consideration of those co‐morbid conditions, NT‐proBNP and BNP level continue to demonstrate utility in the diagnosis of AHF in older patients.