bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast and destructive density currents created by ocean-entering volcanic eruptions
Authors: Clare Michael A. , Yeo Isobel A. , Watson Sally , Wysoczanski Richard , Seabrook Sarah , Mackay Kevin , Hunt James E. , Lane Emily , Talling Peter J. , Pope Edward , Cronin Shane , Ribó Marta , Kula Taaniela , Tappin David , Henrys Stuart , de Ronde Cornel , Urlaub Morelia , Kutterolf Stefan , Fonua Samuiela , Panuve Semisi , Veverka Dean , Rapp Ronald , Kamalov Valey , Williams Michael
Published: January 2024

Volcanic eruptions on land create hot and fast pyroclastic density currents, triggering tsunamis or surges that travel over water where they reach the ocean. However, no field study has documented what happens when large volumes of erupted volcanic material are instead delivered directly into the ocean. We show how the rapid emplacement of large volumes of erupted material onto steep submerged slopes triggered extremely fast (122 kilometers per hour) and long-runout (>100 kilometers) seafloor currents. These density currents were faster than those triggered by earthquakes, floods, or storms, and they broke seafloor cables, cutting off a nation from the rest of the world. The deep scours excavated by these currents are similar to those around many submerged volcanoes, providing evidence of large eruptions at other sites worldwide.
Streptococcus pneumoniae
secretion chaperones PrsA, SlrA, and HtrA are required for competence, antibiotic resistance, colonization, and invasive disease
Authors: George Jada L. , Agbavor Charles , Cabo Leah F. , Cahoon Laty A.
Published: January 2024

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is a Gram-positive bacterium and a significant health threat with the populations most at risk being children, the elderly, and the immuno-compromised. To colonize and transition into an invasive infectious organism,
S. pneumoniae
secretes virulence factors that are translocated across the bacterial membrane and destined for surface exposure, attachment to the cell wall, or secretion into the host. The surface exposed protein chaperones PrsA, SlrA, and HtrA facilitate
S. pneumoniae
protein secretion; however, the distinct roles contributed by each of these secretion chaperones have not been well defined. Tandem Mass-Tagged Mass Spectrometry and virulence, adhesion, competence, and cell wall integrity assays were used to interrogate the individual and collective contributions of PrsA, SlrA, and HtrA to multiple aspects of
S. pneumoniae
physiology and virulence. PrsA, SlrA, and HtrA were found to play critical roles in
S. pneumoniae
host cell infection and competence, and the absence of each of these secretion chaperones significantly altered the
S. pneumoniae
secretome in distinct ways. PrsA and SlrA were additionally found to contribute to cell wall assembly and resistance to cell wall-active antimicrobials and were important for enabling
S. pneumoniae
host cell adhesion during colonization and invasive infection. These findings serve to further illustrate the pivotal contributions of PrsA, SlrA, and HtrA to
S. pneumoniae
protein secretion and virulence.
From dome to duplex: Convergent gravitational collapse explains coeval intracratonic doming and nappe tectonics, central Australia
Authors: Ibrahim Youseph , Rey Patrice F. , Whitney Donna L. , Teyssier Christian , Roger Françoise , Bosse Valérie , Cenki Bénédicte
Published: January 2024

In central Australia, an apparently coeval gneiss dome (Entia Dome) developed adjacent to a thrust belt (Arltunga Nappe Complex) within an intracratonic setting. Here we employ a combination of fieldwork, geochronology, and numerical modeling to investigate the structure and tectonic evolution of these features. We present a structural model linking an extensional domain comprising the Entia Dome, across a transitional zone containing the Bruna décollement zone and the Illogwa shear zone, into a contractional zone comprising thrusts and duplexes of the Arltunga Nappe Complex. Supported by numerical modeling, we propose a tectonic model in which the dome and nappe complex formed synchronously because of the convergent gravitational collapse of the 30–40-km-deep Paleozoic Harts Range rift.
Supplemental Material: Structure and provenance of the Cretaceous Pingshanhu Basin in the Hexi Corridor: Implications for Mesozoic tectonics in the northern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wu Chen , al. et
Published: January 2024

Table S1: Detailed results of detrital zircon U-Pb analyses for sandstone samples from Pingshanhu Basin. Table S2: Summary of geochronology results for magmatic rocks in the Qilian Shan and the Alxa block. 
Doxapram for apnoea of prematurity and neurodevelopmental outcomes at age 5–6 years
Authors: Tréluyer Ludovic , Zana-Taieb Elodie , Jarreau Pierre-Henri , Benhammou Valérie , Kuhn Pierre , Letouzey Mathilde , Marchand-Martin Laetitia , Onland Wes , Pierrat Véronique , Saade Lauren , Ancel Pierre Yves , Torchin Héloïse
Published: January 2024

Objective

To assess the long-term neurodevelopmental impact of doxapram for treating apnoea of prematurity.

Design

Secondary analysis of the French national cohort study EPIPAGE-2. Recruitment took place in 2011. A standardised neurodevelopmental assessment was performed at age 5–6 years. A 2:1 propensity score matching was used to control for the non-randomised assignment of doxapram treatment.

Setting

Population-based cohort study.

Patients

All children born before 32 weeks’ gestation alive at age 5–6 years.

Interventions

Blind and standardised assessment by trained neuropsychologists and paediatricians at age 5–6 years.

Main outcome measures

Neurodevelopmental outcomes at age 5–6 years assessed by trained paediatricians and neuropsychologists: cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorders, IQ and behavioural difficulties. A composite criterion for overall neurodevelopmental disabilities was built.

Results

The population consisted of 2950 children; 275 (8.6%) received doxapram. Median (IQR) gestational age was 29.4 (27.6–30.9) weeks. At age 5–6 years, complete neurodevelopmental assessment was available for 60.3% (1780 of 2950) of children and partial assessment for 10.6% (314 of 2950). In the initial sample, children receiving doxapram had evidence of greater clinical severity than those not treated. Doxapram treatment was associated with overall neurodevelopmental disabilities of any severity (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.92, p=0.02). Eight hundred and twenty-one children were included in the 2:1 matched sample. In this sample, perinatal characteristics of both groups were similar and doxapram treatment was not associated with overall neurodevelopmental disabilities (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.57, p=0.63).

Conclusions

In children born before 32 weeks’ gestation, doxapram treatment for apnoea of prematurity was not associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Impact of socioeconomic status on presentation, care quality and outcomes of patients attended by emergency medical services for dyspnoea: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Zhou Jennifer , Nehme Emily , Dawson Luke , Bloom Jason , Smallwood Natasha , Okyere Daniel , Cox Shelley , Anderson David , Smith Karen , Stub Dion , Nehme Ziad , Kaye David
Published: January 2024

Background

Low socioeconomic status (SES) has been linked to poor outcomes in many conditions. It is unknown whether these disparities extend to individuals presenting with dyspnoea. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between SES and incidence, care quality and outcomes among patients attended by emergency medical services (EMS) for dyspnoea.

Methods

This population-based cohort study included consecutive patients attended by EMS for dyspnoea between 1 January 2015 and 30 June 2019 in Victoria, Australia. Data were obtained from individually linked ambulance, hospital and mortality datasets. Patients were stratified into SES quintiles using a composite census-derived index.

Results

A total of 262 412 patients were included. There was a stepwise increase in the age-adjusted incidence of EMS attendance for dyspnoea with increasing socioeconomic disadvantage (lowest SES quintile 2269 versus highest quintile 889 per 100 000 person years, ptrend<0.001). Patients of lower SES were younger and more comorbid, more likely to be from regional Victoria or of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage and had higher rates of respiratory distress. Despite this, lower SES groups were less frequently assigned a high acuity EMS transport or emergency department (ED) triage category and less frequently transported to tertiary centres or hospitals with intensive care unit facilities. In multivariable models, lower SES was independently associated with lower acuity EMS and ED triage, ED length of stay>4 hours and increased 30-day EMS reattendance and mortality.

Conclusion

Lower SES was associated with a higher incidence of EMS attendances for dyspnoea and disparities in several metrics of care and clinical outcomes.
Predictors of good outcomes and mortality after thrombectomy for basilar artery occlusion within 12 hours of onset
Authors: Su Junfeng , Hu Xiaohui , Chen Li , Li Rui , Tao Chunrong , Yin Yamei , Liu Huanhuan , Tan Xianhong , Hou Siyang , Xie Sanpin , Huo Longwen , Zhu Yuyou , Gong Daokai , Hu Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (ABAO) who undergo combined standard medical treatment (SMT) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) may still have unsatisfactory outcomes. This study was conducted to identify the factors that may impact their outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of all patients with ABAO combined with SMT and EVT in the endovascular treatment for acute basilar artery occlusion (ATTENTION) trial. A good outcome is defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–3, a poor outcome as mRS score of 4–6, and mortality as death at 90-day follow-up. The study analyzed various factors influencing the patients’ good outcomes and mortality.

Results

The study included 221 patients (148 men and 73 women). Among these patients, 45.7% achieved an mRS score of 0–3, while the overall mortality rate was 37.1% (82/221). A good outcome was significantly associated with younger age (adjusted OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.93 to 0.99; P=0.019), a baseline posterior circulation Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (pc-ASPECTS) of 8–10 (adjusted OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.07 to 5.12; P=0.034), and post-procedure pc-ASPECTS of 8–10 (adjusted OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.84; P=0.013). Additionally, time from puncture to reperfusion (adjusted OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.2 to 3.41; P=0.008) and intracranial hemorrhage (adjusted OR 3.59; 95% CI 1.09 to 11.8; P=0.035) were associated with 90-day mortality.

Conclusions

Younger age, baseline pc-ASPECTS of 8–10, and higher post-procedure pc-ASPECTS could effectively predict good outcomes for patients with ABAO undergoing EVT. Additionally, a prolonged time from puncture to reperfusion and intracranial hemorrhage can independently predict mortality.

Trial registration number

NCT04751708.
Stem cell therapy for cardiac regeneration: past, present, and future
Authors: Gill Jaideep Kaur , Rehsia Sargun Kaur , Verma Elika , Sareen Niketa , Dhingra Sanjiv
Published: January 2024

Cardiac disorders remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Current clinical strategies, including drug therapy, surgical interventions, and organ transplantation offer limited benefits to patients without regenerating the damaged myocardium. Over the past decade, stem cell therapy has generated a keen interest owing to its unique self-renewal and immune privileged characteristics. Furthermore, the ability of stem cells to differentiate into specialized cell types, has made them a popular therapeutic tool against various diseases. This comprehensive review provides an overview of therapeutic potential of different types of stem cells in reference to cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, it sheds light on the advantages and limitations associated with each cell type. An in-depth analysis of the challenges associated with stem cell research and the hurdles for its clinical translation and their possible solutions have also been elaborated upon. It examines the controversies surrounding embryonic stem cells and the emergence of alternative approaches, such as the use of induced pluripotent stem cells for cardiac therapeutic applications. Overall, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers involved in the field of regenerative medicine, guiding the development of safe and effective stem cell-based therapies to revolutionize patient care.
A shadow study for a static dyonic black hole with a global monopole surrounded by perfect fluid
Authors: Aslam M. Israr , Saleem Rabia
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we mainly study the shadow and observable features of a dyonic black hole (DBH) with a global monopole surrounded by perfect fluid under various profiles of accretions. We investigate the influence of model parameters on the observational signatures and space-time structure of black holes (BHs). We observe that the value of $$b_{ps}$$

b

ps

increases with the increasing values of $$\alpha $$
α
and $$\eta $$
η
, while it decreases with the increasing values of the electromagnetic parameter. We found that the corresponding regions and the observed specific intensities of the direct, lensing and photon ring emissions dramatically changed according to the variation of BH state parameters. It is noticed that the total observed flux is dominated by the direct emission and the lensing ring makes a small contribution while the photon ring makes a negligible contribution due to its exponential narrowness, even the photon ring intersects the thin plane more than three times to pick up a larger intensity. Assuming the spherically symmetric accretion disk, it is found that due to the Doppler effect of infalling motion, shadows of infalling accretion are found to be darker as compared to static ones. However, the size and position of the DBH shadows do not change in both cases, implying that the BH’s shadow size depends on the geometric space-time and the shadow’s luminosities rely on the accretion flow models. Finally, the discussion is done analytically and numerically, and ray-tracing methods are adopted to obtain the proper visualizations.
EffCause: Discover Dynamic Causal Relationships Efficiently from Time-Series
Authors: Pan Yicheng , Zhang Yifan , Jiang Xinrui , Ma Meng , Wang Ping
Published: January 2024

Since the proposal of Granger causality, many researchers have followed the idea and developed extensions to the original algorithm. The classic Granger causality test aims to detect the existence of the static causal relationship. Notably, a fundamental assumption underlying most previous studies is the stationarity of causality, which requires the causality between variables to keep stable. However, this study argues that it is easy to break in real-world scenarios. Fortunately, our paper presents an essential observation: if we consider a sufficiently short window when discovering the rapidly changing causalities, they will keep approximately static and thus can be detected using the static way correctly. In light of this, we develop EffCause, bringing dynamics into classic Granger causality. Specifically, to efficiently examine the causalities on different sliding window lengths, we design two optimization schemes in EffCause and demonstrate the advantage of EffCause through extensive experiments on both simulated and real-world datasets. The results validate that EffCause achieves state-of-the-art accuracy in continuous causal discovery tasks while achieving faster computation. Case studies from cloud system failure analysis and traffic flow monitoring show that EffCause effectively helps us understand real-world time-series data and solve practical problems.
Review—Recent Advances in Electrochemical Sensing of Lead Ion
Authors: Zhou Yifan , Zhou Ruiyong , Zhang Conglin , Yi Yinhui , He Yong , Zhu Gangbing
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of modern industry, lead is widely used in all walks of life, and its harm to the environment is increasing. Due to the enrichment of heavy metals, the hurt of lead to human health is also growing. So how to rapidly and sensitively detect lead ion (Pb2+) has become one of the urgent problems to be solved in analytical and environmental disciplines. In recent years, electrochemical methods have received extensive attention in the detection of Pb2+ due to their unique advantages of high sensitivity, selectivity, and low cost. This review first explains the severe harm of Pb2+ to the human body, it then goes into detail on the different electrochemical methods for Pb2+ detection. Afterwards, it comprehensively reviews the recent developments in electrochemical sensing of Pb2+ by using different electrode surface modifications; finally, the challenges and development prospects of Pb2+ detection are outlined.
Co‑MOF-Derived Flake-Like Co3O4 Supported Pd Nanoparticles as High-Performance Hydrogen Peroxide Electroreduction Catalysts
Authors: Yang Yuheng , Gao Yimin , Yao Jiaxin , Yan Jun , Zhu Kai , Ye Ke , Cao Dianxue , Zhang Dongming , Wang Guiling
Published: January 2024

Development of highly efficient catalysts for the hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction (HPRR) has been a focus of research for fuel cells using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an alternative cathode oxidant. The carbon-doped flake-like cobalt oxide electrode (Co3O4@C NF) was prepared on nickel foam (NF) by annealing the metal organic framework (MOF). A Co3O4@C/Pd NF (CPNF) electrode was derived from Co3O4@C NF by supporting Pd nanoparticles. Half-cell tests demonstrated that the CPNF electrode exhibited outstanding catalytic performance. The CPNF electrode displayed a high current density of 932 mA cm−2 at −0.8 V (vs Ag/AgCl). This aligns with its low activation energy (7392.8 J mol−1). The electron transfer numbers for the Co3O4@C NF and CPNF electrodes were 2.97 and 3.32, respectively. Incorporating CPNF as the cathode of Direct borohydride-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (DBHPFC) yielded notable catalytic performance, with a peak power density of 68 mW cm−2. The CPNF electrode exhibited remarkable stability, sustaining continuous current discharge for over 20 h. These electrochemical properties result from the structural characteristics obtained through MOF annealing, which increases the number of exposed active sites and enhances ion transport. Therefore, CPNF stands as a promising cathode catalyst for DBHPFC.
Short-term and long-term effects of unilateral external carotid artery ligation on orofacial functions in rats
Authors: Chotirungsan Titi , Tsutsui Yuhei , Saka Nobuaki , Kawada Satomi , Dewa Nozomi , Magara Jin , Tsujimura Takanori , Inoue Makoto
Published: January 2024

The inhibitory effect of unilateral external carotid artery ligation (ECAL) on the ipsilateral digastric reflex was small but evident. Most parameters of masticatory and swallowing muscle activity were not significantly different after ECAL. Wide variation was noted in the effect of ECAL on the ipsilateral muscle activity. Blood supply compensation from collaterals of the internal carotid artery may occur in response to the impaired blood flow.
Multiple Gestation after Elective Single-Embryo Transfer: A State-of-the-Art Review of Literature and Suggested Mechanisms
Authors: Zhaffal Mokhamad , Al Jafari Rania , Salame Anastasia
Published: January 2024

Background. Elective single-embryo transfers are being increasingly used to curb the increase in multiple gestation rates. However, it has been documented that single-embryo transfers could still result in twins and on rarer occasions in triplet pregnancies. Main Body. A literature review was done to highlight the possible mechanisms leading to embryonic splitting. In this review, the incidence of zygotic splitting was addressed and the notion of chorionicity was explained. Risk factors for zygotic splitting and suggested mechanisms for both twin and higher order pregnancies were suggested and discussed. Conclusion. The hypotheses that we have so far remain unproven due to the rarity of zygotic splitting as well as the ethicolegal considerations of human embryo research. The presence of such incidents necessitates extensive counselling of the couple.
Male Hyperuricemia Is Associated with Poor Reproductive Outcomes of IVF‐ET
Authors: Wu Ying , Gao Qian , Li Jin-ran , Yang Yuan-chen , Huang Min , Li Xin , Zeng Xu-Hui , Sun Xiao-li
Published: January 2024

Objective. To investigate the effect of male hyperuricemia on reproductive outcome of in vitro fertilization‐embryo transfer (IVF‐ET). Methods. Clinical data of 412 couples who underwent their first cycle of IVF‐ET were analyzed. According to the serum uric acid (SUA) level of the male, they were divided into control group (SUA ≤ 416 μmol/L) and hyperuricemia group (SUA > 416 μmol/L). The primary and secondary observation indices were pregnancy outcome after quality fresh embryo transfer and embryo outcome after IVF. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between male SUA and related pregnancy outcomes. The ROC curve of the effect of male SUA on biochemical pregnancy loss rate (BPLR) after fresh embryo transplantation was drawn. Results. BPLR in hyperuricemia group increased significantly than that in control group (4.7% vs. 31.6%, P = 0.012), and the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate were significantly lower (61.5% vs. 39.4%, P = 0.038) (56.9% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.027). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that BPLR after fresh embryo transfer was positively correlated with male SUA (B = 0.010, P = 0.019, OR = 1.010, 95% CI (1.002, 1.018)). The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.784, the specificity was 53.7%, and the sensitivity was 100.0%, P = 0.010. Moreover, the total fertilization rate and 2PN fertilization rate in hyperuricemia group were significantly lower than those in control group (86.0% vs. 81.6%, P = 0.001) (75.0% vs. 69.6%, P  < 0.001). Conclusion. Male hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for increasing BPLR after fresh embryo transfer and can also reduce the total fertilization rate and 2PN fertilization rate of IVF.
RuCo@P Core‐Shell Nanoparticles Filled with Carbon Nanotubes for Highly Effective Catalytic Hydrolysis of Ammonia Borane
Authors: Xu Chengfeng , Yang Lan , Liu Zien , Tao Ye
Published: January 2024

The doping of nonmetals in multiphase metal catalysts can effectively improve the catalytic performance and reduce the catalyst cost. In this study, we synthesized transition metal phosphide (RuCo@P/CNT) catalysts loaded on carbon nanotubes (CNT) using sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as the reducing agent. The microstructure and phase composition of RuCo@P/CNT nanoparticles were investigated using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and BET. RuCo@P/CNT nanoparticles show superior catalytic activity and cycle stability in the catalytic ammonia borane hydrolysis process compared to Ru/CNT and RuCo/CNT nanoparticles, retaining 65.74% of their initial catalytic activity after 5 reaction cycles. The test yielded values for turnover frequency and activation energy of 327.33 min-1 and 36.77 kJ·mol-1, respectively. Additionally, a kinetic isotope effect value of 2.61 for H2O/D2O showed that O‐H bond breaking in proportional acceptor water is the decisive step in the dehydrogenation of ammonia borane, and based on this discovery, a specific mechanism for the catalytic hydrolysis of AB by RuCo@P NPs is postulated.
Opposing Mixed Convection Heat Transfer for Turbulent Single‐Phase Flows
Authors: Motegi Kosuke , Sibamoto Yasuteru , Hibiki Takashi , Tsukamoto Naofumi , Kaneko Junichi
Published: January 2024

Convection, wherein forced and natural convections are prominent, is known as mixed convection. Specifically, when a forced convection flow is downward, this flow is called opposing flow. The objectives of this study are to gain a comprehensive understanding of opposing flow mixed convection heat transfer and to establish the prediction methodology by evaluating existing correlations and models. Several heat transfer correlations have been reported related to single‐phase opposing flow; however, these correlations are based on experiments conducted in various channel geometries, working fluids, and thermal flow parameter ranges. Because the definition of nondimensional parameters and their validated range confirmed by experiments differ for each correlation reported in previous studies, establishing a guideline for deciding which correlation should be selected based on its range of applicability and extrapolation performance is important. This study reviewed the existing heat transfer correlations for turbulent opposing flow mixed convection and the single‐phase heat transfer correlations implemented in the thermal–hydraulic system codes. Furthermore, the authors evaluated the predictive performance of each correlation by comparing them with the experimental data obtained under various experimental conditions. The Jackson and Fewster, Churchill, and Swanson and Catton correlations can accurately predict all the experimental data. The effect of the difference in the thermal boundary conditions, i.e., uniform heat flux and uniform wall temperature, on the turbulent mixed convection heat transfer coefficient is not substantial. The authors confirmed that heat transfer correlations using the hydraulic‐equivalent diameter as a characteristic length can be used for predictions regardless of channel‐geometry differences. Furthermore, correlations described based on nondimensional dominant parameters can be used for predictions regardless of the differences in working fluids. The authors investigated the extrapolation performance of the mixed convection heat transfer correlations for a wide range of nondimensional parameters and observed that the Jackson and Fewster, Churchill, and Aicher and Martin correlations exhibit excellent extrapolation performance with respect to natural and forced convection flows, indicating that they can be applied beyond the parameter range validated experimentally.
Enhancement in the Electrocatalytic and Optoelectronic Performance of Cost-Effective Counter Electrode VO2 for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC)
Authors: Yadav Varsha , Bhatnagar Rahul , Kumar Upendra
Published: January 2024

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have garnered significant attention in the scientific community for more than two decades due to their cost-effectiveness, convenient manufacturability, little toxicity, and straightforward preparation methodology. In this study, we present a cost-effective alternative to the platinum electrode for DSSCs, which serves as the counter electrode. The utilization of vanadium oxide nanoparticles as counter electrodes (CEs) in DSSCs has been the subject of research due to its enhanced stability, cost-effectiveness, and favorable photovoltaic characteristics. The device has been fabricated in configuration of fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)||TiO2||ruthenium (II) dye (N719)||iodide—triiodide electrolyte||VO2 (counter electrode)||FTO and investigate their photovoltaic performance. The utilization of X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis has provided insights into the crystalline properties of VO2, indicating that it exists in a crystalline phase with a crystalline size measuring 43.19 nm and a lattice strain of 1.68 × 10−3. The utilization of a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) that is equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrum reveals a dense microstructure characterized by a uniform distribution of vanadium (V) and oxygen (O) across the whole surface. The Raman spectroscopic examination of VO2 reveals the existence of many Raman bands, thereby confirming the presence of the monoclinic phase. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were employed to investigate the catalytic activity of the CE toward the electrolyte. The photovoltaic performance of the manufactured device was examined by I–V measurement, revealing a notable open circuit voltage (Voc) and efficient power conversion efficiency when compared to the other materials that were evaluated.
A Systematic Review of the Coopetition Relationship between Bike‐Sharing and Public Transit
Authors: Ye Jianhong , Bai Jiahao , Hao WenYang
Published: January 2024

The sharing economy, mobile Internet, and smartphones have been widely utilized in recent years to promote the development of bike‐sharing services. Bike‐sharing serves as a first/last mile travel mode to connect to public transit, which improves trip efficiency, alleviates traffic problems, improves environmental quality, and promotes public health. However, the substitution of public transit by bike‐sharing and the decline in public transit ridership have raised concerns among city managers regarding the coopetition between shared mobility services and public transit. To understand the impact of bike‐sharing on the decline in public transit and to formulate reasonable synergistic development policies, it is crucial to identify the coopetition relationships between the two. This paper uses a combination of database search and backward snowballing to review existing research. Three research themes were identified: macrolevel studies on bike‐sharing and public transit interaction, studies on actual coopetition behaviors based on bike‐sharing user surveys, and studies on potential coopetition relationships based on bike‐sharing transaction data. The three categories of studies reveal the effect of bike‐sharing usage on public transit ridership, the emergency function of bike‐sharing in the event of unexpected transit shutdowns, and the substitution and connection relationships between bike‐sharing and public transit and the factors influencing them. Finally, this study suggests many directions for future research. This review helps clarify the understanding of the coopetition relationships between bike‐sharing and public transit, provides theoretical support to promote the synergistic development of both, and points out ways to deepen the research on the coopetition relationship between the two.
Could Peer‐Mentors Support Families of Care Home Residents to Prepare for Deterioration and End‐of‐Life? An Interview Study with Families and Care Home Staff
Authors: Harrad-Hyde Fawn , Jones Gwyneth , Agarwal Shona , Faull Christina , Birt Linda
Published: January 2024

When older people move into a care home, family members often continue to be involved in caregiving. This can include contributing to discussion and decisions about care and treatment, especially when the resident lacks capacity. However, families may not know what to expect as their relative’s condition progresses and may not have a good understanding of their relative’s end‐of‐life care and treatment wishes. Therefore, although often willing, families may feel unprepared for making decisions in advance of or at the time of deterioration and end‐of‐life. The study aimed to explore the potential role that peer‐mentors might have in supporting families to prepare for discussion and decisions about care and treatment and to understand what participants would consider to be important characteristics of an effective peer‐mentor and peer‐mentoring program. The study was guided by the philosophical assumptions of social constructionism. Data from semistructured interviews with 14 current and 15 bereaved family members and 11 senior members of care were analysed thematically. Findings suggest that peer‐mentors could help to empower families to prepare to be involved in discussions and decisions about the types of care their relatives might receive as their health deteriorates and they reach the end‐of‐life. However, it was seen as important that peer‐mentors have lived experience of supporting a relative in a care home, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to discuss deterioration and end‐of‐life in a compassionate but factual manner. Although peer‐mentoring is often time‐limited, introducing mentors to families earlier in the care journey, for example, before admission into a care home, could enable a trusting relationship to develop. This, in turn, could facilitate open discussions about what to expect and different care choices as the person’s health changes.
A Review of Ethnomedicinal Plants as Potential Anthelmintic Agents to Alternatively Control Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Ruminants in South Africa
Authors: Mhlongo Lindokuhle Christopher , Mseleku Cresswell , Tenza Thando , Fomum Sylvester Werekeh , McGaw Lyndy Joy , Hassen Abubeker , Nsahlai Ignatius Verla
Published: January 2024

Small ruminant production is one of the most important animal productions for food security in the world, especially in the developing world. Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection is a threat to this animal’s production. Conventional drugs that are used to control these parasites are losing their efficacy due to the development of resistant parasites. These drugs are not biologically degradable, taint meat products and are also expensive for communal farmers. Hence, research is now exploring ethnomedicinal anthelmintic plants for an alternative remedy. The objective of this paper was to review ethnomedicinal plants as a potential alternative to unsustainable commercial anthelmintics. This review sought to understand common GINs infecting ruminants, resistance manifestation in GINs to conventional treatment, reasons communal farmers choose ethnomedicine, and modes of action in anthelmintic plants. It also examined the usage of plants and plant parts, dosage forms, methods for improving bioactivity, convectional validation procedures, and restrictions on ethnomedicinal plant use as anthelmintics in ethnomedicine. Such insight is essential, as it highlights the importance of ethnoveterinary medicine and ways to adopt or improve it as a potential alternative to conventional anthelmintics.
Badger Ecology, Bovine Tuberculosis, and Population Management: Lessons from the Island of Ireland
Authors: Byrne Andrew W. , Allen Adrian , Ciuti Simone , Gormley Eamonn , Kelly David J. , Marks Nikki J. , Marples Nicola M. , Menzies Fraser , Montgomery Ian , Newman Chris , O’Hagan Maria , Reid Neil , Scantlebury David M. , Stuart Peter , Tsai Ming-shan
Published: January 2024

The European badger, Meles meles, is an important wildlife host for Mycobacterium bovis and contributes to the epidemiology of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in cattle in several countries. The control of zoonotic diseases, such as bTB, is a central component of global One‐Health strategies. Such strategies are complicated by human–wildlife conflicts, particularly where wildlife reservoirs are legally protected. The contrasting objectives of disease management and wildlife conservation, therefore, can require significant investment in research to support evidence‐based policies. In Britain and Ireland, for example, badgers are a legally protected species but are also subject to lethal control and vaccination for disease management. In this paper, we review recent (2012–2022) advances in research on this wildlife host on the island of Ireland, which is used to underpin national policies and identify research gaps. In recent years, significant advances in estimating key parameters related to badger management and population dynamics have been made, including estimating population abundance at varying scales (local, landscape, and national). Advances in tracking technology, integrated with mark‐recapture and modelling tools, have provided significant insights into the movement ecology of badgers and their interactions with cattle. The adaptation of genetic technologies has improved our understanding of the transmission dynamics of M. bovis among different hosts. As a disease management strategy, the culling of badgers to control bTB has reduced badger densities significantly, although this is not considered a sustainable sole long‐term solution to the problem of spillback infection. The recent development of vaccination strategies presents an additional approach to control the disease in wild populations. These types of interventions will require significant applied research to ensure they are sustainable and to maximise benefits. It is also expected that focused research efforts will improve human–wildlife coexistence in the context of the broader One‐Health strategy.
Data S3 from Erythroid Differentiation Enhances RNA Mis-Splicing in SF3B1-Mutant Myelodysplastic Syndromes with Ring Sideroblasts
Authors: Moura Pedro L. , Mortera-Blanco Teresa , Hofman Isabel J. , Todisco Gabriele , Kretzschmar Warren W. , Björklund Ann-Charlotte , Creignou Maria , Hagemann-Jensen Michael , Ziegenhain Christoph , Cabrerizo Granados David , Barbosa Indira , Walldin Gunilla , Jansson Monika , Ashley Neil , Mead Adam J. , Lundin Vanessa , Dimitriou Marios , Yoshizato Tetsuichi , Woll Petter S. , Ogawa Seishi , Sandberg Rickard , Jacobsen Sten Eirik W. , Hellström-Lindberg Eva
Published: January 2024

Semi-quantitative TMT raw data, DE analysis, enrichment analysis raw data and predicted NMD analysis, comprising NBM EB, MDS-RS EB and purified RS
Supplementary Table 1 from Small Cell Lung Cancer Plasticity Enables NFIB-Independent Metastasis
Authors: Ko Julie H. , Lambert Kyle E. , Bhattacharya Debadrita , Lee Myung Chang , Colón Caterina I. , Hauser Haley , Sage Julien
Published: January 2024

Samples and Antibodies used
Supplementary Figure 5 from Small Cell Lung Cancer Plasticity Enables NFIB-Independent Metastasis
Authors: Ko Julie H. , Lambert Kyle E. , Bhattacharya Debadrita , Lee Myung Chang , Colón Caterina I. , Hauser Haley , Sage Julien
Published: January 2024

NFIBneg and NFIBhigh SCLC metastases display distinct chromosomal and transcriptional feature
Interaction between Continuous Pack-Years Smoked and Polygenic Risk Score on Lung Cancer Risk: Prospective Results from the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Duncan Meredith S. , Diaz-Zabala Hector , Jaworski James , Tindle Hilary A. , Greevy Robert A. , Lipworth Loren , Hung Rayjean J. , Freiberg Matthew S. , Aldrich Melinda C.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Lung cancer risk attributable to smoking is dose dependent, yet few studies examining a polygenic risk score (PRS) by smoking interaction have included comprehensive lifetime pack-years smoked.

Methods:

We analyzed data from participants of European ancestry in the Framingham Heart Study Original (n = 454) and Offspring (n = 2,470) cohorts enrolled in 1954 and 1971, respectively, and followed through 2018. We built a PRS for lung cancer using participant genotyping data and genome-wide association study summary statistics from a recent study in the OncoArray Consortium. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess risk and the interaction between pack-years smoked and genetic risk for lung cancer adjusting for European ancestry, age, sex, and education.

Results:

We observed a significant submultiplicative interaction between pack-years and PRS on lung cancer risk (P = 0.09). Thus, the relative risk associated with each additional 10 pack-years smoked decreased with increasing genetic risk (HR = 1.56 at one SD below mean PRS, HR = 1.48 at mean PRS, and HR = 1.40 at one SD above mean PRS). Similarly, lung cancer risk per SD increase in the PRS was highest among those who had never smoked (HR = 1.55) and decreased with heavier smoking (HR = 1.32 at 30 pack-years).

Conclusions:

These results suggest the presence of a submultiplicative interaction between pack-years and genetics on lung cancer risk, consistent with recent findings. Both smoking and genetics were significantly associated with lung cancer risk.

Impact:

These results underscore the contributions of genetics and smoking on lung cancer risk and highlight the negative impact of continued smoking regardless of genetic risk.
Abstract A054: PP2A activation alters macropinosome processing in pancreatic cancer cells leading to metabolic stress and cancer cell death
Authors: Baral Garima , Pfeffer Claire M. , Doraivel Indiraa , Allen-Petersen Brittany L.
Published: January 2024

The majority of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients present with late-stage, metastatic disease that is often resistant to therapeutics, resulting in the lowest survival rate of all major cancers. Metabolic rewiring in response to oncogenic signals plays a critical role in PDAC cell survival, tumor growth, and metastasis. In contrast to normal epithelial cells, these metabolic alterations make PDAC tumors dependent on glutamine for survival, highlighting a unique metabolic vulnerability that can be therapeutically exploited. However, during times of nutrient stress, PDAC cells can circumvent this vulnerability by engulfing extracellular fluids to replenish amino acids, including glutamine, in a process called, macropinocytosis. Macropinocytosis occurs downstream of oncogenic KRAS, a small GTPase that is almost universally mutated in PDAC patients. The inhibition of macropinocytosis in vivo reduces PDAC tumor growth, underscoring the importance of this pathway to cancer cell survival. However, the signaling mechanisms that regulate this process and the contribution of macropinocytic signaling to aggressive cancer phenotypes remains poorly understood. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a heterotrimeric complex that regulates a wide variety of cell signaling pathways, including KRAS, and is commonly deregulated in human PDAC tumors. Recently, PP2A has been implicated as an important regulator of macropinocytosis, but the mechanism by which this occurs is unknown. We demonstrate that the genetic loss of the specific PP2A subunit, B56a, accelerates the formation of KRAS-driven pancreatic lesions in an in vivo mouse model, implicating this subunit as a critical negative regulator of KRAS phenotypes during PDAC progression. Here, we show that acute PP2A-B56a activation prevents the fusion of macropinosomes with lysosomes, robbing PDAC cells of critical metabolic nutrients and driving cell death. Consistent with these findings, PP2A activation also reduces glutamine levels and suppresses oxidative phosphorylation. Finally, we determined that PP2A activating compounds can function synergistically with metabolic inhibitors, supporting a new therapeutic strategy in this aggressive and deadly cancer. Together, our results implicate PP2A as a critical suppressor of PDAC metabolic plasticity and highlight the use of PP2A activating compounds to prevent PDAC nutrient scavenging.

Citation Format: Garima Baral, Claire M. Pfeffer, Indiraa Doraivel, Brittany L. Allen-Petersen. PP2A activation alters macropinosome processing in pancreatic cancer cells leading to metabolic stress and cancer cell death [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Pancreatic Cancer; 2023 Sep 27-30; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A054.
Abstract A094: LIN28B/HMGA2 axis accelerates PDA by promoting oncogenic protein synthesis
Authors: Dobersch Stephanie , Cavendar Sarah , Yamamoto Naomi , Boila Liberales Debraj , Wladyka Cindy , Roudier Martine , Notta Faiyaz , Eisenman Robert , Hsieh Andrew , Kugel Sita
Published: January 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most lethal human malignancies and is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States by 2030. Molecular characterization studies have described two major transcriptional subsets, called 'classical’ and ‘basal’. Basal PDAs (~25% of PDAs) have the worst overall survival and are the only class to act as an independent poor prognostic factor. The imminent entry of KRAS inhibitors into the clinic to treat PDA is poised to change this, but genetic experiments have predicted that the basal subtype of pancreatic cancer will be intrinsically resistant to these inhibitors. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand basal PDA development and identify its unique vulnerabilities. We have discovered that the expression of the oncofetal RNA-binding protein LIN28B and its downstream target, the chromatin protein and high-mobility group (HMG) AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), are highly expressed in the basal subtype of PDA. We find LIN28B dramatically accelerates KRAS-driven PDA and acts as a potent oncogene in genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of PDA. We find that HMGA2, downstream of LIN28B, controls cell growth and orchestrates the pathogenesis of basal PDA by hijacking a precise node of mRNA translation machinery. This raises the intriguing possibility that the aberrant activation of HMGA2 increases mRNA translation and may be one mechanism by which PDA attains the highly aggressive basal phenotype. Mechanistically, we observed that loss of HMGA2 results in decreased phosphorylation of S6K and EIF4B. Interestingly, this was independent of changes in MTOR activity. Loss of function studies using siRNA or inhibitors against PP2A restored pS6K and pEIF4B levels, and mRNA translation when HMGA2 was lost. It is known that reduction in pEIF4B levels leads to a reduction in mRNA translation of difficult-to-transcribe transcripts, such as the MYC oncogene. Indeed, loss of HMGA2 leads to a dramatic reduction in MYC protein levels but no changes to transcription or protein stability. Thus, our work has unveiled a new axis in LIN28B/HMGA2 high basal PDA that controls mRNA translation independent of MTOR, is reliant on PP2A, and controls cell growth through MYC translation. This work has the potential to identify innovative therapeutic strategies to combat this deadly subtype of PDA.

Citation Format: Stephanie Dobersch, Sarah Cavendar, Naomi Yamamoto, Liberales Debraj Boila, Cindy Wladyka, Martine Roudier, Faiyaz Notta, Robert Eisenman, Andrew Hsieh, Sita Kugel. LIN28B/HMGA2 axis accelerates PDA by promoting oncogenic protein synthesis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Pancreatic Cancer; 2023 Sep 27-30; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A094.
Abstract A103: Developing small molecules to disrupt IL-17RB and MLK4 interaction for pancreatic cancer treatment
Authors: Chen I-Chih , Ko Yi-Ling , Huang Ching-Hsuan , Lee Jiin-Horng , Lo Yung-Cheng , Hu Chun-Mei
Published: January 2024

Nearly 40% of pancreatic cancer overexpressed pro-inflammatory Interleukin-17 receptor B (IL-17RB), and this signal pathway plays an essential role in promoting tumorigenesis and metastasis. Targeting the initial event of IL-17B/IL-17RB oncogenic signaling by disrupting IL-17RB-MLK4 interaction represents an excellent strategy for treating pancreatic cancer. To develop specific and effective small molecule disruptors, we have established a high-throughput screening (HTS) method using pY447 IL-17RB signal-based assay to identify blockers inhibiting IL-17B/IL-17RB oncogenic signaling. Three FDA-approved drugs were found to inhibit IL-17B-induced pY447 of IL-17RB signaling after screening 2560 FDA-approved drugs and 11000 TKI-related compounds. These drugs are more effective than the original loop peptide in inhibiting soft agar colony formation and spheroid formation of pancreatic tumor cells. Furthermore, we identified Drug H, which was not an anticancer drug before, could efficiently and specifically disrupt the interaction between IL-17RB and MLK4. Oral administration of Drug H can significantly suppress pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis and extend the life of mice with pancreatic tumors. Combining Drug H with gemcitabine treatment also showed synergistic effects in suppressing pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. These data suggest Drug H may be a promising lead compound for disrupting IL-17RB/MLK4 and treating pancreatic cancer.

Citation Format: I-Chih Chen, Yi-Ling Ko, Ching-Hsuan Huang, Jiin-Horng Lee, Yung-Cheng Lo, Chun-Mei Hu. Developing small molecules to disrupt IL-17RB and MLK4 interaction for pancreatic cancer treatment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Pancreatic Cancer; 2023 Sep 27-30; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(2 Suppl):Abstract nr A103.