bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SATB1, senescence and senescence‐related diseases
Authors: Qi Wenjing , Bai Jinping , Wang Ruoxi , Zeng Xianlu , Zhang Lihui
Published: May 2024

Aging leads to an accumulation of cellular mutations and damage, increasing the risk of senescence, apoptosis, and malignant transformation. Cellular senescence, which is pivotal in aging, acts as both a guard against cellular transformation and as a check against cancer progression. It is marked by stable cell cycle arrest, widespread macromolecular changes, a pro‐inflammatory profile, and altered gene expression. However, it remains to be determined whether these differing subsets of senescent cells result from unique intrinsic programs or are influenced by their environmental contexts. Multiple transcription regulators and chromatin modifiers contribute to these alterations. Special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 1 (SATB1) stands out as a crucial regulator in this process, orchestrating gene expression by structuring chromatin into loop domains and anchoring DNA elements. This review provides an overview of cellular senescence and delves into the role of SATB1 in senescence‐related diseases. It highlights SATB1's potential in developing antiaging and anticancer strategies, potentially contributing to improved quality of life and addressing aging‐related diseases.
Cotton SNARE complex component GhSYP121 regulates salicylic acid signaling during defense against Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Gao Linying , Pei Yakun , Wang Ping , Cen Yuhan , Yan Xin , Hou Yuxia
Published: May 2024

Syntaxin of plant (SYP) plays a crucial role in SNARE‐mediated membrane trafficking during endocytic and secretory pathways, contributing to the regulation and execution of plant immunity against pathogens. Verticillium wilt is among the most destructive fungal diseases affecting cotton worldwide. However, information regarding SYP family genes in cotton is scarce. Through genome‐wide identification and transcriptome profiling, we identified GhSYP121, a Qa SNARE gene in Gossypium hirsutum. GhSYP121 is notably induced by Verticillium dahliae, the causal agent of Verticillium wilt in cotton, and acts as a negative regulator of defense against V. dahliae. This is evidenced by the reduced resistance of GhSYP121‐deficient cotton and the increased susceptibility of GhSYP121‐overexpressing lines. Furthermore, the activation of the salicylic acid (SA) pathway by V. dahliae is inversely correlated with the expression level of GhSYP121. GhSYP121 interacts with its cognate SNARE component, GhSNAP33, which is required for the penetration resistance against V. dahliae in cotton. Collectively, GhSYP121, as a member of the cotton SNARE complex, is involved in regulating the SA pathway during plant defense against V. dahliae. This finding enhances our understanding of the potential role of GhSYP121 in these distinct pathways that contribute to plant defense against V. dahliae infection.
Iron ion catalyzed hydrogen peroxide pretreatment for bio‐jet fuel production from straw biomass
Authors: Zhu Rui , Zhang Rui , He Yuting , Zhu Can , Jiang Yu , Ni Yuming , Fan Minghui , Li Quanxin
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The development of efficient and green pretreatment pathway is of great significance for promoting biofuel production from lignocellulosic waste. The purpose of this work was to evaluate that iron ion‐catalyzed hydrogen peroxide pretreatment can be used as an environmentally friendly pretreatment way for bio‐jet fuel production using straw.

RESULTS

The effects of iron ion‐catalyzed hydrogen peroxide pretreatment (Fe‐HP) on the enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation and bio‐jet fuel production using straw were investigated. It was found that the iron ion‐catalyzed hydrogen peroxide pretreatment significantly improved the enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation efficiency of straw biomass. Subsequently, the directional catalytic transformation of straw‐derived fermentation broth to bio‐jet fuels was achieved using a dual functional catalyst (HSAPO34/NiHBET). High conversion (94.9%) and good jet‐fuel selectivity (77.3%) were obtained in the conversion process of straw. On account of the biomass characterization and the analysis of reactive oxygen species during the Fe‐HP pretreatment, the role and mechanism of the Fe‐HP pretreatment was addressed.

CONCLUSION

The Fe‐HP pretreatment can be used as an environmentally friendly pretreatment way for jet fuel production from straw biomass. Fe‐HP pretreatment increased sugar yield and sugar concentration during enzymatic hydrolysis, which was beneficial for subsequent fermentation and bio‐jet fuel production. The reactive oxygen species take a prominent role in the Fe‐HP pretreatment of lignocellulose. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The LTAR Integrated Grazing Land Common Experiment at the Texas Gulf
Authors: Schantz Merilynn C. , Smith Douglas R. , Harmel Daren , Goodwin Douglas J. , Tolleson Doug R. , Leyton Javier M. Osorio , Flynn K. Colton , Yost Jenifer L. , Thorp Kelly R. , Arnold Jeffrey G. , White Michael J. , Adhikari Kabindra , Hajda Chad
Published: May 2024

Extreme weather and climate events have become more frequent and directly affect the ecological structure and function of integrated grazing lands. While the Great Plains have experienced a long history of regular disturbances from drought and floods, grazing, and fires, the increased frequency and magnitude of these disturbances can reduce ecological resilience, largely depending on management practices. Alternative strategies designed to adaptively manage grazing land resources based on the ecology of the system should increase the resistance and resilience to disturbances when compared to prevailing practices. Determining the ecologic and economic value of alternative strategies will require long‐term evaluations across large spatial scales. The Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research network has been established to evaluate the differences between alternative and prevailing practices among 18 strategically located sites and across decadal time scales throughout the continental United States. A key integrated grazing land site within this network is the Texas Gulf located at the Riesel Watersheds in the Blackland Prairie of Central Texas. At this study site, the differences between alternative and prevailing grazing management strategies are now being evaluated. The alternative strategy was designed using a combination of knowledge of the site and species ecology with modern‐day tools and technologies. Alternatively, the prevailing practice implements a conventional year‐round continuous grazing system with heavy reliance on hay and supplemental protein during winter. Results will provide grazing land managers with economically viable adaptive management choices for increasing ecological resilience following extreme and frequent disturbance events.
Green HRM practices and green work engagement: The roles of green knowledge sharing and green group cohesion
Authors: Haque Md Anamul , Islam Md Asadul , Soh SoonHu
Published: May 2024

Drawing on social exchange theory (SET) and job demand‐resource (JD‐R) theory, the purpose of this study is to examine the role of green knowledge sharing and green group cohesion in the context of green practices and green work engagement. Data analysis of the 392 respondents working in managerial positions at RMG factories in Bangladesh shows that green competency‐building practices have a significant relationship with green work engagement. However, the study has not found any relationship between green performance management practices, green involvement practices, and green work engagement. Nevertheless, the study shows that green knowledge sharing mediates the relationship between green practices and green work engagement. Furthermore, this study's contribution to SET and JD‐R theories is referred to as “green group cohesion” as we have found it to be a significant moderator in the indirect relationship between green competency‐building practices, green performance management practices, green involvement practices, and green work engagement through green knowledge sharing. The findings have implications for the theories and practices that are discussed.
Do mid‐level providers enhance hospital cost per discharge or triple aim performance efficiency? An exploratory analysis
Authors: Bonnett Aaron W. , Heim Gregory R.
Published: May 2024

Hospital administrators are shifting care delivery models toward an approach that uses more caregivers in the form of mid‐level providers (MLPs), such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists. To date, however, healthcare operations management (OM) literature remains ambiguous about longitudinal empirical associations between mid‐level providers and hospital costs, quality, and other performance measures. We analyze how the extent of MLP employment used by a hospital is associated with hospital operational outcomes, as reflected by hospital cost per discharge and Triple Aim Performance (TAP) efficiency metrics. Our findings indicate percent MLP usage is positively associated with efficiency metrics for hospital clinical quality, technical efficiency, and patient experience, but not associated with hospital costs. We also find percent MLP usage is associated with the likelihood that hospitals excel on all TAP metrics simultaneously. Post‐hoc exploratory analyses suggest the associations exhibit differential outcomes across hospital efficiency quantiles, while sub‐sample analyses motivate boundary conditions for some hypothesized MLP associations. We contribute to healthcare OM research by providing one of the first panel data analyses of MLPs, improving insights relative to extant work. By giving key stakeholders useful findings about outcomes associated with hospital staffing trends, our managerial contribution helps hospital administrators understand empirical consequences of the increasing use of MLPs.
Juvenile polyposis syndrome in children: The impact of SMAD4 and BMPR1A mutations on clinical phenotype and polyp burden
Authors: Cohen Shlomi , Yerushalmy‐Feler Anat , Rojas Isabel , Phen Claudia , Rudnick David A. , Flahive Colleen B. , Erdman Steven H. , Magen‐Rimon Ramit , Copova Ivana , Attard Thomas , Latchford Andrew , Hyer Warren
Published: May 2024

Objective

A constitutional disease‐causing variant (DCV) in the SMAD4 or BMPR1A genes is present in 40%–60% of patients with juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS). The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical course and polyp burden in children with DCV‐positive JPS compared to DCV‐negative JPS.

Methods

Demographic, clinical, genetic, and endoscopic data of children with JPS were compiled from eight international centers in the ESPHGAN/NASPGHAN polyposis working group.

Results

A total of 124 children with JPS were included: 69 (56%) DCV‐negative and 55 (44%) DCV‐positive (53% SMAD4 and 47% BMPR1A) with a median (interquartile range) follow‐up of 4 (2.8–6.4) years. DCV‐positive children were diagnosed at an older age compared to DCV‐negative children [12 (8–15.7) years vs. 5 (4–7) years, respectively, p < 0.001], had a higher frequency of family history of polyposis syndromes (50.9% vs. 1.4%, p < 0.001), experienced a greater frequency of extraintestinal manifestations (27.3% vs. 5.8%, p < 0.001), and underwent more gastrointestinal surgeries (16.4% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.002). The incidence rate ratio for the development of new colonic polyps was 6.15 (95% confidence interval 3.93–9.63, p < 0.001) in the DCV‐positive group compared to the DCV‐negative group, with an average of 12.2 versus 2 new polyps for every year of follow‐up. There was no difference in the burden of polyps between patients with SMAD4 and BMPR1A mutations.

Conclusions

This largest international cohort of pediatric JPS revealed that DCV‐positive and DCV‐negative children exhibit distinct clinical phenotype. These findings suggest a potential need of differentiated surveillance strategies based upon mutation status.
Evaluation of the clinical impact of decreasing the maximum osmolarity of neonatal peripheral parenteral nutrition
Authors: Szachnowicz Brooke , Chalk Bethany , Allan Kari , Lochen Heidi , Liang Caroline
Published: May 2024

Objective

To describe the clinical impact of lowering the peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) maximum osmolarity limit from 1000 to 900 mOsm/L in patients in two neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including inborn neonates that received PPN for at least 3 consecutive days within the first 14 days of life. Data were evaluated to compare the ability of PPN with a maximum osmolarity limit of 1000 to 900 mOsm/L to provide daily recommended macronutrient doses, and daily recommended goal calories, as well as to compare the incidence of significant peripheral intravenous (PIV) infiltrates.

Results

A total of 200 PPN orders representing 57 patients were included for analysis, with 100 PPN orders in each osmolarity cohort. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two cohorts. Significantly more PPN orders met goal amino acid doses (45% vs. 24%, p = 0.003) and goal intravenous fat emulsion (IVFE) doses (61% vs. 37%, p = 0.001) in the 1000 mOsm/L osmolarity limit cohort compared to the 900 mOsm/L osmolarity limit cohort. A total of three patients received hyaluronidase for PN infiltration, two in the 1000 mOsm/L osmolarity limit and one in the 900 mOsm/L osmolarity limit cohort (p = 0.6).

Conclusion

A lower PPN osmolarity limit of 900 mOsm/L significantly limited the ability to provide goal amino acid and IVFE doses to NICU patients compared to the previous osmolarity limit of 1000 mOsm/L without reducing the incidence of PIV infiltration or extravasation.
Impact of early primary care physician follow‐up on hospital readmission following gastrointestinal cancer surgery
Authors: Khalil Mujtaba , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Munir Muhammad Musaab , Khan Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi , Rashid Zayed , Altaf Abdullah , Katayama Erryk , Dillhoff Mary , Tsai Susan , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: May 2024

Background

We sought to examine the association between primary care physician (PCP) follow‐up on readmission following gastrointestinal (GI) cancer surgery.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery for GI cancer were identified using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Multivariable regression was performed to examine the association between early PCP follow‐up and hospital readmission.

Results

Among 60 957 patients who underwent GI cancer surgery, 19 661 (32.7%) visited a PCP within 30‐days after discharge. Of note, patients who visited PCP were less likely to be readmitted within 90 days (PCP visit: 17.4% vs. no PCP visit: 28.2%; p < 0.001). Median postsurgical expenditures were lower among patients who visited a PCP (PCP visit: $4116 [IQR: $670–$13 860] vs. no PCP visit: $6700 [IQR: $870–$21 301]; p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, PCP follow‐up was associated with lower odds of 90‐day readmission (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.50–0.55) (both p < 0.001). Moreover, patients who followed up with a PCP had lower risk of death at 90‐days (HR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.40–0.51; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

PCP follow‐up was associated with a reduced risk of readmission and mortality following GI cancer surgery. Care coordination across in‐hospital and community‐based health platforms is critical to achieve optimal outcomes for patients.
Influence of porosity and microstructure on compression behavior of methacrylate polymers in flow‐through applications
Authors: Poljanec Nikola , Mravljak Rok , Podgornik Aleš
Published: May 2024

Mechanical properties of a material play a pivotal role in its performance when such porous material is used in a flow‐through mode. This study delves into the effect of porosity and microstructure on the compressibility of methacrylate polymer, focusing on two distinct microstructures: cauliflower and high internal phase emulsion. Samples with various porosities yet identical chemical composition were prepared and their Young's modulus was measured. The effect of porosity on Young's modulus was described by an exponential law model with the cauliflower microstructure exhibiting an exponent of 3.61, while the high internal phase emulsion of only 1.86. A mathematical analysis of the compression caused by a liquid flow unveiled significant disparities in the porosity threshold where minimal compression is observed, being around 0.45 for the cauliflower while there is monotone decrease in compression with porosity increase for the high internal phase emulsion microstructure. Evaluating exponent integer values between 1 and 5 over entire porosity range reveals that the porosity where the minimal compression occurs increases with a decrease in exponent value, being approximately 0.33 for n = 5, 0.4 for n = 4, 0.55 for n = 3, 0.65 for n = 2 while no minimum occurs for n = 1. These findings indicate that lower exponent value results in lower compression under identical experimental conditions.
Multi‐Instance Learning for Vocal Fold Leukoplakia Diagnosis Using White Light and Narrow‐Band Imaging: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Tie Cheng‐Wei , Li De‐Yang , Zhu Ji‐Qing , Wang Mei‐Ling , Wang Jian‐Hui , Chen Bing‐Hong , Li Ying , Zhang Sen , Liu Lin , Guo Li , Yang Long , Yang Li‐Qun , Wei Jiao , Jiang Feng , Zhao Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Gui‐Qi , Zhang Wei , Zhang Quan‐Mao , Ni Xiao‐Guang
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Vocal fold leukoplakia (VFL) is a precancerous lesion of laryngeal cancer, and its endoscopic diagnosis poses challenges. We aim to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model using white light imaging (WLI) and narrow‐band imaging (NBI) to distinguish benign from malignant VFL.

Methods

A total of 7057 images from 426 patients were used for model development and internal validation. Additionally, 1617 images from two other hospitals were used for model external validation. Modeling learning based on WLI and NBI modalities was conducted using deep learning combined with a multi‐instance learning approach (MIL). Furthermore, 50 prospectively collected videos were used to evaluate real‐time model performance. A human‐machine comparison involving 100 patients and 12 laryngologists assessed the real‐world effectiveness of the model.

Results

The model achieved the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 0.868 and 0.884 in the internal and external validation sets, respectively. AUC in the video validation set was 0.825 (95% CI: 0.704–0.946). In the human‐machine comparison, AI significantly improved AUC and accuracy for all laryngologists (p < 0.05). With the assistance of AI, the diagnostic abilities and consistency of all laryngologists improved.

Conclusions

Our multicenter study developed an effective AI model using MIL and fusion of WLI and NBI images for VFL diagnosis, particularly aiding junior laryngologists. However, further optimization and validation are necessary to fully assess its potential impact in clinical settings.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4321–4328, 2024
The efficacy and safety of EGFR‐TKI in recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: An Zeqi , He Libin , Chen Tuo , Liang Bosen , Wu Qiang
Published: May 2024

Objectives

EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) is used to treat recurrent and metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (rmNPC). This meta‐analysis aims to study the efficacy and safety of EGFR‐TKI in treating patients with rmNPC.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to November 2023, and included literature that met the criteria. We extracted objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), median progression‐free survival (mPFS), median overall survival (mOS), and adverse reaction‐related events and performed meta‐analysis using Stata 14.0.

Results

A total of nine articles were included. The summary results showed that the ORR for patients treated with EGFR‐TKI for rmNPC was 38% (95% CI = 27%–49%), the DCR was 71% (95% CI = 61%–80%), the mPFS was 6.29 months (95% CI = 5.22–7.35), and the mOS was 15.94 months (95% CI = 14.68–17.20). The most common grade 3–4 adverse reaction events in these patients were mucositis, nasopharyngeal necrosis, and oral ulceration. We found an incidence rate of 49% (95% CI = 38%–61%) for grade 3–4 adverse events (AEs). The anti‐PD1 combined with TKI treatment method is more effective than the EGFR‐TKI alone for treating rmNPC.

Conclusion

The study shows that EGFR‐TKI has good efficacy in treating rmNPC but does not translate into survival benefits and owns a high incidence of grade 3–4 AEs. More RCT trials are needed in the future to verify the efficacy of anti‐PD1 combined with TKI treatment method.
Sedimentary ancient DNA and HBI biomarkers as sea‐ice indicators: A complementary approach in Antarctic fjord environments
Authors: Pieńkowski Anna J. , Szczuciński Witold , Breszka Agnieszka , Chyleński Maciej , Juras Anna , Romel Paulina , Rozwalak Piotr , Trzebny Artur , Dabert Mirosława , Belt Simon T. , Jagodziński Robert , Smik Lukas , Włodarski Wojciech
Published: May 2024

Reliable high‐resolution, pre‐observational‐period sea‐ice datasets are rare but critical for contextualizing recent sea‐ice declines and future scenarios. We combine sedimentary ancient DNA of the sea‐ice dinoflagellate Polarella glacialis (Pgla‐sedaDNA) with selected highly branched isoprenoid (HBI) biomarkers alongside other indicators to reconstruct sub‐decadal sea‐ice changes in a marine archive from the Antarctic Peninsula that extends to ~ 1900 CE. Pre‐1940 CE, the continuously present sea‐ice biomarker IPSO25 yet absent Pgla‐sedaDNA, along with low open‐water biomarkers and total organic carbon (TOC), imply more prominent seasonal sea ice and lower productivity under cooler climate. Post‐1940 CE, rising Pgla‐sedaDNA and open‐water HBIs under climate warming reflect young ice with a retreating sea‐ice edge. Over the last two decades, lower Pgla‐sedaDNA, higher open‐water HBIs and TOC infer known warming, sea‐ice reduction, and increased productivity. Our multiproxy‐based palaeo‐histories agree well with observational data, highlighting the potential of this combination of proxies for nuanced and long‐term sea‐ice reconstructions.
The power of personas: Exploring an innovative model for understanding stakeholder perspectives in an oncology learning health network
Authors: Cooper Dylan J. , Karten Jessie , Hoffe Sarah E. , King Daniel A. , Weiss Matthew , DePeralta Danielle K. , Coveler Andrew L. , Hingorani Sunil R. , Shefter Tracey , Meguid Cheryl , Roberts Hannah , Hong Theodore S. , Narang Amol , Hacker‐Prietz Amy , Fisher George A. , Sandler Jay , Singer Laurie , Korah Bobby , Hoos William , Stricker Carrie T. , Herman Joseph M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Learning health networks (LHNs) improve clinical outcomes by applying core tenets of continuous quality improvements (QI) to reach community‐defined outcomes, data‐sharing, and empowered interdisciplinary teams including patients and caregivers. LHNs provide an ideal environment for the rapid adoption of evidence‐based guidelines and translation of research and best practices at scale. When an LHN is established, it is critical to understand the needs of all stakeholders. To accomplish this, we used ethnographic methods to develop personas of different stakeholders within The Canopy Cancer Collective, the first oncology LHN.

Methods

We partnered with a firm experienced in qualitative research and human‐centered design to conduct interviews with stakeholders of The Canopy Cancer Collective, a newly developed pancreatic cancer LHN. Together with the firm, we developed a personas model approach to represent the wide range of diverse perspectives among the representative stakeholders, which included care team members, patients, and caregivers.

Results

Thirty‐one stakeholders from all facets of pancreatic cancer care were interviewed, including 20 care team members, 8 patients, and 3 caregivers. Interview transcripts were analyzed to construct 10 personas felt to represent the broad spectrum of stakeholders within The Cancer Canopy Collective. These personas were used as a foundation for the design and development of The Cancer Canopy Cancer Collective key drivers and aims.

Conclusions

As LHNs continue to facilitate comprehensive approaches to patient‐centered care, interdisciplinary teams who understand each other's needs can improve Network unity and cohesion. We present the first model utilizing personas for LHNs, demonstrating this framework holds significant promise for further study. If validated, such an approach could be used as a dynamic foundation for understanding individual stakeholder needs in similar LHN ecosystems in the future.
Using a participatory approach to identify priorities to advance LHS implementation at an academic medical center
Authors: Eagleson Reid M. , Gibson Madeline , Dobbins Carletta , Van Pelt Frederick , Hall Allyson , Hearld Larry , Cherrington Andrea L. , McMahon Jacob , Jones Keith Tony , Mugavero Michael J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Like many other academic medical centers, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) aspires to adopt learning health system (LHS) principles and practices more fully. Applying LHS principles establishes a culture where clinical and operational practices constantly generate questions and leverage information technology (IT) and methodological expertise to facilitate systematic evaluation of care delivery, health outcomes, and the effects of improvement initiatives. Despite the potential benefits, differences in priorities, timelines, and expectations spanning an academic medical center's clinical care, administrative operations, and research arms create barriers to adopting and implementing an LHS.

Methods

UAB's Center for Outcomes and Effectiveness Research and Education, in partnership with UAB Medicine's Department of Clinical Practice Transformation, applied part of the Precision Problem Solving methodology to advance the implementation of LHS principles at UAB.

Results

Sixty‐two stakeholders across the UAB health system and academic schools noted 131 concerns regarding the development of an LHS at UAB. From the 131 items, eight major themes were identified, named, and prioritized through a series of focus groups. Of the eight major themes, “Creating a Structure for Aligned and Informed Prioritization” and “Right Data, Right Time, Improved Performance” ranked in the top three most important themes across all focus groups and became the critical priorities as UAB enhances its LHS. A task force comprised of diverse constituents from across UAB's academic medical center is taking first steps toward addressing these priority areas. Initial funding supports a prototype for enhanced health system data access and pilot projects conducted by researchers embedded in health system teams.

Conclusion

We suggest that our experience conducting a deliberate process with broad engagement across both the health system and academic arms of the university may be informative to others seeking to advance LHS principles at academic health centers across a myriad of settings.
Compactness in team semantics
Authors: Puljujärvi Joni , Quadrellaro Davide Emilio
Published: May 2024

We provide two proofs of the compactness theorem for extensions of first‐order logic based on team semantics. First, we build upon Lück's [16] ultraproduct construction for team semantics and prove a suitable version of Łoś' Theorem. Second, we show that by working with suitably saturated models, we can generalize the proof of Kontinen and Yang [13] to sets of formulas with arbitrarily many variables.
Microstructural Simulations of Polymer Composites by a Viscoelastic Spring Lattice Model
Authors: Xu Zhuoran , Hu Xu , Huang Yongmin
Published: May 2024

An improved viscoelastic spring lattice model is used to analyze the mechanical properties of polymer composites containing different microstructures, as exemplified by hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene‐based solid propellants. A drop‐on‐demand structural model is programmed using the C language to simulate the real solid propellant microstructure. The results show that increasing the particle content has a positive effect on the tensile strength of the propellant, but is detrimental to the ductility. The increase in particle size decreases the maximum tensile strength of the material, reflecting the importance of the dewetting process in the microstructure analysis. Finally, the model accurately predicts that initial defects have a destructive effect on the mechanical properties of the material.
Role of Bβ1 overexpression in the pathogenesis of SCA12
Authors: Zhou Chengqian , Tang Fan , Dong Tao , Liu Hans B. , Deng Leon , Margolis Russell L. , Li Pan P.
Published: May 2024

Background

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 12 (SCA12) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a CAG/CTG repeat expansion at the PPP2R2B locus.

Objective

We investigated how the CAG repeat expansion within the PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript influences the expression of Bβ1 and a potential protein containing a long polyserine tract.

Methods

Transcript and protein expression were measured using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot, respectively, in an SK‐N‐MC cell model that overexpresses the full‐length PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript. The apoptotic effect of a protein containing a long polyserine tract on SK‐N‐MC cells was evaluated using caspase 3/7 activity.

Results

The CAG repeat expansion increases the expression of the PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript, as well as Bβ1 protein, in an SK‐N‐MC cell model in which the full‐length PPP2R2B 7B7D transcript is overexpressed. The CAG repeat expansion within the 7B7D transcript is translated into a long polyserine tract that triggers apoptosis in SK‐N‐MC cells.

Conclusions

The SCA12 mutation leads to overexpression of PPP2R2B Bβ1 and to expression of a protein containing a long polyserine tract; both these effects potentially contribute to SCA12 pathogenesis. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Microbiome‐driven anticancer therapy: A step forward from natural products
Authors: Guan Yunxuan , Wu Di , Wang Hui , Liu Ning‐Ning
Published: May 2024

Human microbiomes, considered as a new emerging and enabling cancer hallmark, are increasingly recognized as critical effectors in cancer development and progression. Manipulation of microbiome revitalizing anticancer therapy from natural products shows promise toward improving cancer outcomes. Herein, we summarize our current understanding of the human microbiome‐driven molecular mechanisms impacting cancer progression and anticancer therapy. We highlight the potential translational and clinical implications of natural products for cancer prevention and treatment by developing targeted therapeutic strategies as adjuvants for chemotherapy and immunotherapy against tumorigenesis. The challenges and opportunities for future investigations using modulation of the microbiome for cancer treatment are further discussed in this review.
Phage‐displayed heptapeptide sequence conjugation significantly improves the specific targeting ability of antimicrobial peptides against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Wang Tao , Tan Peng , Tang Qi , Zhou Chenlong , Ding Yakun , Xu Shenrui , Song Mengda , Fu Huiyang , Zhang Yucheng , Zhang Xiaohui , Bai Yueyu , Sun Zhihong , Ma Xi
Published: May 2024

Broad‐spectrum antibacterial drugs often lack specificity, leading to indiscriminate bactericidal activity, which can disrupt the normal microbial balance of the host flora and cause unnecessary cytotoxicity during systemic administration. In this study, we constructed a specifically targeted antimicrobial peptide against Staphylococcus aureus by introducing a phage‐displayed peptide onto a broad‐spectrum antimicrobial peptide and explored its structure–function relationship through one‐factor modification. SFK2 obtained by screening based on the selectivity index and the targeting index showed specific killing ability against S. aureus. Moreover, SFK2 showed excellent biocompatibility in mice and piglet, and demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy against S. aureus infection. In conclusion, our screening of phage‐derived heptapeptides effectively enhances the specific bactericidal ability of the antimicrobial peptides against S. aureus, providing a theoretical basis for developing targeted antimicrobial peptides.
Decoding the effect of photoperiodic cues in transducing kisspeptin‐melatonin circuit during the pubertal onset in common carp
Authors: Dan Nehareeka , Shah Harsh , Bhatt Himadri , Ladumor Rahul , Salunke Ankita , Ramachandran A. V. , Pandya Parth
Published: May 2024

This study unravels the intricate interplay between photoperiod, melatonin, and kisspeptin to orchestrate the pubertal onset of Common carp. Female fingerlings exposed to long days (LD) exhibited a hormonal crescendo, with upregulated hypothalamic‐pituitary‐ovarian (HPO) axis genes (kiss1, kiss1r, kiss2, gnrh2, gnrh3) and their downstream targets (lhr, fshr, ar1, esr1). However, the expression of the melatonin receptor (mtnr1a) diminished in LD, suggesting a potential inhibitory role. This hormonal symphony was further amplified by increased activity of key transcriptional regulators (gata1, gata2, cdx1, sp1, n‐myc, hoxc8, plc, tac3, tacr3) and decreased expression of delayed puberty genes (mkrn1, dlk1). In contrast, short days (SD) muted this hormonal chorus, with decreased gnrh gene and regulator expression, elevated mtnr1a, and suppressed gonadal development. In in‐vitro, estradiol mimicked the LD effect, boosting gnrh and regulator genes while dampening mtnr1a and melatonin‐responsive genes. Conversely, melatonin acted as a conductor, downregulating gnrh and regulator genes and amplifying mtnr1a. Our findings illuminate the crucial roles of melatonin and kisspeptin as opposing forces in regulating pubertal timing. LD‐induced melatonin suppression allows the kisspeptin symphony to flourish, triggering GnRH release and, ultimately, gonadal maturation. This delicate dance between photoperiod, melatonin, and kisspeptin orchestrates common carp's transition from juvenile to reproductive life.
A novel 3D mixed finite element for flexoelectricity in piezoelectric materials
Authors: Serrao Prince Henry , Kozinov Sergey
Published: May 2024

Flexoelectricity is the intrinsic length‐scale dependent higher‐order electromechanical response of all centro‐ and non‐centro‐symmetric dielectrics, including piezoelectrics. Direct flexoelectricity is defined as the appearance of an electric field due to induced strain gradients. The numerical modeling of flexoelectricity is largely carried out using mixed FE, which has its historical foundations in strain gradient theories. However, existing finite elements are either limited to 2D or have inherited numerical instabilities due to the known saddle‐point structuring. The current work presents a numerically robust three‐dimensional mixed FE for higher‐order electromechanical applications without the use of stabilization or penalty parameters. After its verification, the new finite element is applied to the new problem of truncated semicone torsion, taking into account flexoelectricity in piezoelectric solids, and the original findings are reported. Current research reveals the complex interaction between first‐order (piezoelectricity) and higher‐order (flexoelectricity) electromechanical coupling.
Nkx1.2 deletion decreases fat production in zebrafish
Authors: Wang Xinyuan , Li Xinyi , Wang Yunsheng , Ren Zhongmei , Du Xueqing , Gao Jing , Ji Guangdong , Liu Zhenhui
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the role of Nkx1‐2, a transcription factor with the NK homeobox domain, in the regulation of fat production.

Methods

Gene expression was analyzed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction or transcriptome sequencing. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was employed to generate nkx1.2 knockout zebrafish and nkx1.2‐deleted 3T3‐L1 cells. Lipid droplet production in zebrafish larvae was visually quantified using Nile red staining, whereas lipid droplets in 3T3‐L1 cells were stained with Oil red O. The binding of Nkx1‐2 to the promoter was verified through an electrophoretic mobility shift assay experiment.

Results

Nkx1‐2 plays crucial roles in the regulation of fat production in zebrafish. Knockout of nkx1.2 in zebrafish leads to weight loss, accompanied by significantly reduced lipid droplet production and decreased visceral and liver fat content. Furthermore, genes related to lipid biosynthesis are significantly downregulated. In 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes, Nkx1‐2 induces differentiation into mature adipocytes by binding to the cebpa promoter, thereby activating its transcription. Additionally, the expression of nkx1.2 is regulated by the p38 MAPK, JNK, or Smad2/3 signaling pathways in 3T3‐L1 cells.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that Nkx1‐2 functions as a positive regulator of fat production, playing a critical role in adipocyte differentiation and lipid biosynthesis.
Biophobia: What it is, how it works and why it matters
Authors: Soga Masashi , Evans Maldwyn J.
Published: May 2024

Throughout history, humans have maintained an intricate connection with nature, often finding fascination with, and deriving numerous benefits from, the natural world. This positive emotional bond with nature, which is considered to have a genetic basis, is known as “biophilia”.

However, biophilia represents just one facet of our relationship with nature. People can also harbour strong negative emotions and attitudes towards nature, increasingly referred to as “biophobia”. Current evidence suggests that the prevalence of biophobia is high and increasing, especially in more developed and urbanised societies. Despite this, the importance of biophobia has largely been overlooked in discussions about human‐nature interactions.

This special feature: ‘Biophobia: a hidden dimension of human‐nature relationships’ includes seven papers from different disciplinary perspectives, including biodiversity conservation, psychology, and behavioral science. These studies explore diverse aspects of biophobia, with a particular emphasis on its drivers and consequences. They also provide key insights into how to mitigate excessive phobic responses towards nature.

In this introductory paper, we will briefly explore what biophobia entails, how it operates, and why it is important in the context of the human‐nature relationship. We outline that biophobia can manifest in response to a wide range of organisms and natural environments, and it can have significant adverse impacts on both human health and well‐being and efforts to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

We hope that this special feature will serve as a catalyst for more biophobia research, encouraging collaboration among researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Mechanism and target treatment of primary immunodeficiency diseases with systemic lupus erythematosus‐like phenotype
Authors: Liu Shan , Zhang Zhiyong , Tang Xuemei , Zhao Xiaodong , An Yunfei
Published: May 2024

Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs) present a heterogeneous group of diseases with aberrant immune response caused by monogenic mutations. Due to the immune dysfunction and dysregulation, PIDs have a wide clinical spectrum such as infections, autoimmunity, autoinflammation, allergy, and malignancies. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized with multiple autoantibodies and multiple organ damage, which could be the predominant phenotype in patients with PIDs. In recent years, the increasing identification of monogenic causes of SLE and PIDs discloses the partially shared genetic background and common pathogenic process. The study of PIDs with SLE‐like phenotype paves the way for the exploration of lupus pathogenesis and new perspectives in targeted therapies concurrently.
Feasibility of incorporating recycled multilayer LDPE/EVOH films into flexible packaging
Authors: Barros Carolina , Carneiro O. S. , Machado A. V.
Published: May 2024

Multilayer films are widely used in the food industry because they allow the combination of properties of different materials to increase product shelf life without sacrificing product value. Despite the associated benefits, these films are difficult to recycle due to material immiscibility and difficult layer separation. Thus, the purpose of this research is to investigate the feasibility of incorporating recycled plastic material from the multi‐material film industry into extruded films for food packaging. To simulate the thermomechanical recycling, two different post‐industrial polymeric wastes of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) (with linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) or with ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)), were reprocessed four times in a single‐screw extruder. Moreover, these polymeric wastes were blended with virgin LDPE to improve the extrusion process control and to assess their effect on the blend properties. The extrusion experiments demonstrate that reprocessing of multilayer films and processing of their blends with virgin LDPE is feasible. Moreover, the mechanical and thermal properties of the corresponding films are not negatively affected when compared with those of virgin LDPE films. Nevertheless, the optical properties of recycled EVOH films, were lower than those of virgin LDPE or recycled LLDPE, with high haze and low gloss.

Highlights

Two multilayer film scraps were reprocessed and blended with virgin LDPE.

Thin film samples were produced by blown film extrusion.

Films containing EVOH presented the worst optical properties.

The presence of EVOH did not negatively affect the extrusion process.

Mechanical and thermal properties were not significantly affected.
Does creativity matter in personality traits and emotional intelligence?
Authors: Akpur Uğur
Published: May 2024

Creativity has long been consistently assessed as a fundamental aspect of educational psychology and has been treated with much devotion by scholars. In this study, intricate relationship patterns between creativity, emotional intelligence, and personality traits were examined. The Marmara Creative Thinking Dispositions Scale, Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire‐Short Form (TEIQue‐SF), and The Ten‐Item Personality Inventory (TIPI) were administered to a cohort of 297 university students attending a university in İstanbul. The findings unveiled important insights into how these components interact. Employing correlational analysis to examine the relationships among the variables, it was found that while agreeableness did not exhibit a significant correlation with creativity, the remaining traits within the Big Five personality dimensions—openness to experience (r = .63), emotional stability (r = .29), conscientiousness (r = .38), and extraversion (r = .49)—displayed positively significant associations with creativity (p < .01), suggesting that individuals characterized by greater openness to experience, emotional stability, conscientiousness, and extraversion tend to exhibit higher levels of creativity in academic settings. That the link between emotional intelligence and creativity highlights a noteworthy association implies that individuals possessing higher levels of emotional intelligence are more likely to excel in creative endeavors. Regression analysis was employed to determine the specific contributions of each personality characteristic to creativity. Interestingly, when examining the predictive value of these factors, conscientiousness did not emerge as a statistically significant predictor of creativity. In contrast, both openness to experiences and extraversion exhibited strong predictive power, significantly influencing creativity. Similarly, emotional intelligence continued to be a significant predictor of creativity, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for innovative thinking. The results imply that individuals with higher levels of openness to experience, emotional stability, conscientiousness, and extraversion tend to be more creative in academic settings, highlighting the significance of emotional intelligence in promoting creative thinking and points out its potential to support creative endeavors.
Application of nurse‐led CINV management scheme based on risk assessment in breast cancer patients
Authors: Ning Yun , Zhang Liuliu , Zhi Xiaoxu , Zhao Yun , Fang Ying , Wu Bing , Xu Zhujie , Huang Lixin , Pei Yi
Published: May 2024

Background

As one of the common adverse reactions after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients, chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) seriously affects the quality of life of breast cancer patients.

Objective

To explore the application effect of nurse‐led CINV management scheme based on risk assessment in breast cancer patients.

Methods

The researchers selected 90 breast cancer patients who received chemotherapy at Jiangsu Cancer Hospital from June 1, 2022, to June 1, 2023. The patients were divided into control group and intervention group. The control group implemented the routine nursing mode, and the intervention group implemented the nurse‐led intervention program based on risk assessment. On this basis, the intervention group applied the symptom management theory to the construction of intervention strategy to compare the CINV situation, quality of life, and psychological distress level between the two groups.

Results

The frequency of vomiting and the degree of nausea in the delayed stage were lower in the intervention group than in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (p<.05). The life function index of nausea and vomiting in acute stage and delayed stage was higher in the intervention group than in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (p<.05). The psychological pain scores of the two groups in the acute stage and the delayed stage were lower in the intervention group than in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (p<.05).

Conclusion

Nurse‐led CINV management scheme based on risk assessment can effectively reduce the frequency of vomiting, reduce the degree of nausea, improve the quality of life, and alleviate psychological pain in breast cancer patients.
Sensitivity of simulated rain intensity and kinetic energy to aerosols and warm‐rain microphysics during the extreme event of July 2021 in Belgium
Authors: Van Weverberg K. , Ghilain N. , Goudenhoofdt E. , Barbier M. , Koistinen E. , Doutreloup S. , Van Schaeybroeck B. , Frankl A. , Field P.
Published: May 2024

This article presents an evaluation and sensitivity analysis of km‐scale simulations of an unprecedented extreme rainfall event over Europe, with a specific focus on sub‐hourly extremes, size distributions, and kinetic energy (KE) of rain. These variables are critical for hydrological applications, such as flood forecasting or soil‐loss monitoring, but are rarely directly obtained from numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. The simulations presented here reproduce the overall characteristics of the event, but overestimate the extreme rain rates. The rain rate–KE relation was well‐captured, despite too large volume‐mean drop diameters. Amongst the sensitivities investigated, the representation of the raindrop self‐collection–breakup equilibrium and the raindrop size‐distribution shape were found to have the most profound impact on the rainfall characteristics. While extreme rain rates varied within 30%, the rain KE varied by a factor of four between the realistic perturbations to the microphysical assumptions. Changes to the aerosol concentration and rain terminal velocity relations were found to have a relatively smaller impact. Given the large uncertainties, a continued effort to improve the model physics will be indispensable to estimate rain intensities and KE reliably for direct hydrological applications.