bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid-anchored proteasomes control membrane protein homeostasis
Authors: Zhang Ruizhu , Pan Shuxian , Zheng Suya , Liao Qingqing , Jiang Zhaodi , Wang Dixian , Li Xuemei , Hu Ao , Li Xinran , Zhu Yezhang , Shen Xiaoqi , Lei Jing , Zhong Siming , Zhang Xiaomei , Huang Lingyun , Wang Xiaorong , Huang Lan , Shen Li , Song Bao-Liang , Zhao Jing-Wei , Wang Zhiping , Yang Bing , Guo Xing
Published: November 2023

Protein degradation in eukaryotic cells is mainly carried out by the 26
S
proteasome, a macromolecular complex not only present in the cytosol and nucleus but also associated with various membranes. How proteasomes are anchored to the membrane and the biological meaning thereof have been largely unknown in higher organisms. Here, we show that
N
-myristoylation of the Rpt2 subunit is a general mechanism for proteasome-membrane interaction. Loss of this modification in the Rpt2-G2A mutant cells leads to profound changes in the membrane-associated proteome, perturbs the endomembrane system, and undermines critical cellular processes such as cell adhesion, endoplasmic reticulum–associated degradation and membrane protein trafficking. Rpt2
G2A/G2A
homozygous mutation is embryonic lethal in mice and is sufficient to abolish tumor growth in a nude mice xenograft model. These findings have defined an evolutionarily conserved mechanism for maintaining membrane protein homeostasis and underscored the significance of compartmentalized protein degradation by myristoyl-anchored proteasomes in health and disease.
Metasomatized mantle sources for orogenic gold deposits hosted in high-grade metamorphic rocks: Evidence from Hg isotopes
Authors: Wang Qingfei , Liu Xuefei , Yin Runsheng , Weng Weijun , Zhao Hesen , Yang Lin , Zhai Degao , Li Dapeng , Ma Yao , Groves David I. , Deng Jun
Published: November 2023

Investigation of Hg isotope ratios of gold-related sulfides and penecontemporaneous mafic dikes from four orogenic gold provinces on the margins of the North China Craton and Yangtze Craton identifies three orogenic gold deposit (OGD) groups from different tectonic regimes. Ore-related sulfides of group 1 OGDs and mafic dikes from the craton margin reworked via oceanic subduction mostly have positive Δ199Hg values. The group 2 OGDs and mafic dikes from the margin that witnessed complex oceanic and continental subductions have mixed positive to negative Δ199Hg values. The group 3 OGDs on the margin that experienced continental subduction have dominantly negative Δ199Hg values. These isotopic differences indicate subduction histories have a first-order control on the distinct sources for the OGDs. It indicates that OGDs were derived from fluids from the mantle lithosphere metasomatized by contrasting subduction components, not from metamorphic fluids as is widely accepted. Group 1 OGDs and dikes were sourced from metasomatized mantle, which inherited the positive Δ199Hg of both recycled marine sediments and seawater during oceanic subduction, whereas group 3 with negative Δ199Hg was derived from mantle lithosphere metasomatized by subduction of mainly continental components. This genetic model identifies regions with high-grade metamorphic rocks above metasomatized mantle lithosphere as promising new OGD exploration targets.
Supplemental Material: A late Eocene lamprophyre-carbonatite association in the SE Tibetan Plateau: Rapid basalt-induced H2O-saturated partial melting of the upper crust
Authors: Yang Tiannan , al. et
Published: November 2023

Table S1: List of samples for petrographic study from the Wase Basin and its adjacent regions, SE Tibetan Plateau. Table S2: Energy dispersive X-ray spectra data of six major phases of igneous rocks from the Wase Basin and its adjacent regions, SE Tibetan Plateau. In addition, the analytical results of each phase are listed in six separate sub-tables (Tables S1-1 to S1-6). Table S3: Microprobe analytical results of minerals of igneous rocks from the Wase Basin and its adjacent regions, SE Tibetan Plateau. Table S4: Bulk geochemistry of the rocks from the Wase Basin and its adjacent regions, SE Tibetan Plateau. Table S5: Zircon U-Pb dating results of the igneous rocks from the Wase Basin, SE Tibetan Plateau. Table S6: 40Ar/39Ar data of samples from the Wase Basin and its adjacent regions, SE Tibetan Plateau. 
Generalizing Stratonovich–Weyl Axioms for Composite Systems
Authors: Khvedelidze A.
Published: November 2023

The statistical model of quantum mechanics is based on the mapping between operators on the Hilbert space and functions on the phase space. This map can be implemented by an operator that satisfies physically motivated Stratonovich–Weyl axioms. Arguments are given in favour of a certain extension of the axioms, provided that there is a priori knowledge about the composite nature of the quantum system.
Walking speed and the risk of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jayedi Ahmad , Zargar Mahdieh-Sadat , Emadi Alireza , Aune Dagfinn
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the association between walking speed and the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL and Web of Science to 30 May 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included cohort studies that explored the association between walking speed and the risk of type 2 diabetes in adults. We used random-effects meta-analyses to calculate relative risk (RR) and risk difference (RD). We rated the credibility of subgroup differences and the certainty of evidence using the Instrument to assess the Credibility of Effect Modification ANalyses (ICEMAN) and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tools, respectively.

Results

Ten cohort studies were included. Compared with easy/casual walking (<3.2 km/hour), the RR of type 2 diabetes was 0.85 (95% CI 0.70 to 1.00); RD=0.86 (95% CI 1.72 to 0) fewer cases per 100 patients; n=4, GRADE=low) for average/normal walking (3.2–4.8 km/hour), 0.76 (95% CI 0.65 to 0.87); RD=1.38 (95% CI 2.01 to 0.75) fewer cases per 100 patients; n=10, GRADE=low) for fairly brisk walking (4.8–6.4 km/hour) and 0.61 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.73; RD=2.24 (95% CI 2.93 to 1.55) fewer cases per 100 patients; n=6, GRADE=moderate) for brisk/striding walking (>6.4 km/hour). There was no significant or credible difference across subgroups based on adjustment for the total volume of physical activity and time spent walking per day. Dose–response analysis suggested that the risk of type 2 diabetes decreased significantly at a walking speed of 4 km/h and above.

Conclusions

Low to moderate certainty evidence, mainly from studies with a high risk of bias, suggests that walking at faster speeds is associated with a graded decrease in the risk of type 2 diabetes.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023432795.
Association of anti-Ro52 autoantibody with interstitial lung disease in autoimmune diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nayebirad Sepehr , Mohamadi Aida , Yousefi-Koma Hannaneh , Javadi Minoo , Farahmand Kimia , Atef-Yekta Reza , Tamartash Zahra , Jameie Mana , Mohammadzadegan Amir Mohammad , Kavosi Hoda
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an important manifestation of autoimmune diseases that can lead to morbidity and mortality. Although several autoantibodies have been linked with ILD presentation and adverse outcomes, the association of anti-Ro52 antibody with ILD is less studied. Hence, we investigated this association in various autoimmune diseases in the current study.

Design

We designed a systematic review and meta-analysis and did a comprehensive search from inception until 2 January 2023.

Data sources

A systematic search was conducted in four electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase.

Eligibility criteria

Observational studies that reported ILD diagnosis (outcome) and anti-Ro antibody (exposure) status in any autoimmune conditions (population) were included. The association between rapidly progressive ILD (RP-ILD) and anti-Ro52 was studied in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM).

Data extraction and synthesis

Collected data included study characteristics and ORs with 95% CIs. Quality assessment was performed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cross-sectional studies. Random effects meta-analysis was used to pool the effect estimates.

Results

A total of 2353 studies were identified, from which 59 articles met the eligibility criteria. Anti-Ro52/SSA positivity was associated with ILD in all autoimmune disease subgroups: IIM (OR=3.08; 95% CI: 2.18 to 4.35; p value<0.001; I2=49%), systemic lupus (OR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.02 to 5.79; p=0.046; I2=71%), Sjogren (OR=1.77; 95% CI: 1.09 to 2.87; p=0.021; I2=73%), systemic sclerosis (OR=1.71; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.83; p=0.036; I2=43%), mixed connective tissue disease (OR=3.34; 95% CI: 1.82 to 6.13; p<0.001; I2=0%). Additionally, anti-Ro52-positive myopathy patients were more likely to have simultaneous RP-ILD (OR=2.69; 95% CI:1.50 to 4.83; p<0.001; I2=71%).

Conclusion

Anti-Ro52/SSA positivity is associated with a higher frequency of ILD diagnosis in various autoimmune diseases. Anti-Ro52/SSA is also linked with a more severe lung involvement (RP-ILD). Future studies can investigate the benefits of screening for anti-Ro52 and its association with ILD development.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022381447.
Balanced crystalloids (RInger’s lactate) versus normal Saline in adults with diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Emergency Department (BRISK-ED): a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yan Justin W , Slim Ahmed , Van Aarsen Kristine , Choi Yun-Hee , Byrne Christopher , Poonai Naveen , Collins Haley , Clemens Kristin K
Published: November 2023

Background

Current diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) treatment guidelines recommend using normal saline (NS); however, NS may delay DKA resolution by causing more hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis compared with balanced crystalloids. This study’s objective was to determine the feasibility of a future multicentred randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing intravenous Ringer’s lactate (RL) with NS in managing ED patients with DKA.

Methods

We conducted a parallel-arm, triple-blind, pilot RCT of adults (≥18 years) with DKA at a Canadian academic tertiary care ED. The primary feasibility outcome was recruitment rate (target ≥41.3% of eligible participants over the 1-year study period); the primary efficacy outcome was time elapsed from ED presentation to DKA resolution. The superiority margin for a clinically significant difference was chosen to be a 40% time reduction to DKA resolution. We also assessed the need to break allocation concealment and loss to follow-up. Patients with clinical suspicion for DKA were screened for inclusion and enrolled patients were randomised 1:1 to receive RL or NS. Patients, clinicians and outcome assessors were blinded to allocation.

Results

We enrolled 52 (25 RL, 27 NS) of 60 eligible patients (86.7%), exceeding our target recruitment rate. There were more patients in the NS group with type 1 diabetes, and more patients in the RL group had an admission co-diagnosis in addition to DKA. For the 44 participants with confirmed laboratory evidence of resolution, median (IQR) time to DKA resolution for RL versus NS was 15.7 (10.4–18.8) and 12.7 (7.9–19.2) hours, respectively. There were no cases where blinding was broken, and there was no loss to follow-up.

Conclusions

This pilot trial demonstrated our protocol’s feasibility by exceeding our target recruitment rate. Our results may be used to inform future multicentre trials to compare the safety and efficacy of RL and NS in managing DKA in the ED.

Trial registration number

NCT04926740.
Kinase expression in angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma: panTRK is commonly expressed in the absence ofNTRKrearrangement
Authors: Vargas Ana Cristina , Joy Christopher , Maclean Fiona M , Bonar Fiona , Wong Daniel D , Gill Anthony J , Cheah Alison L
Published: November 2023

Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is a soft tissue tumour of intermediate (rarely metastasising) malignant potential, which harboursEWSR1/FUSgene fusions. These tumours can express anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) in the absence of gene rearrangement or copy number alteration and can also coexpresses Pan-TRK immunohistochemistry (IHC). AllEWSR1/FUS-rearranged AFH were retrieved from the files of three institutions and Pan-TRK (EPR17341), ALK and BRAF V600E IHC were performed. Fourteen AFH cases were identified, which included three cases of intracranial mesenchymal tumours with FET-CREB fusions. PanTRK and ALK positive immunostaining was identified in 9 (64.2%) and 12 (85.7%) cases, respectively. NoNTRKorALKtranslocations or increased copy number/amplification were identified in all eight cases which had fluorescence in situ hybridisation and/or next generation sequencing forNTRK1-3andALKavailable for assessment. None of the cases expressed BRAF-V600E.

Although our study is limited, our report is the first to document PanTRK expression in AFH in the absence of identifiableNTRK1-3gene alterations.
Should vaccination status be a consideration during secondary triage?
Authors: Jarratt Barnham Isaac
Published: November 2023

The rapid development of widely available and effective vaccines has been integral to the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a significant minority of those offered vaccination have refused, often due to their adherence to ‘anti-vax’ beliefs. These beliefs include that vaccines are dangerous, render the recipient magnetic or contain government microchips.

During the pandemic, numerous calls were made for those voluntarily refusing vaccination to be deprioritised when allocating scarce healthcare resources. While these calls were rejected, the likelihood of the same calls being made during future pandemics necessitates a thorough examination of the ethical implications entailed by such a policy.

Here, I consider an intuitive argument for the use of vaccination status when allocating healthcare resources. This argument claims that, by avoiding vaccination, vaccine refusers are failing to fulfil a social obligation to protect those around them from harm by facilitating herd immunity. They are, therefore, less deserving of healthcare than their vaccinated peers.

I explore three objections to this argument. While a first objection, asserting that no individual can be held responsible for a failure to develop herd immunity, fails, I find two further responses, respectively asserting the primacy of patient autonomy and highlighting the harms deprioritising vaccine refusers would cause to disadvantaged minorities, compelling. I, therefore, conclude that vaccination status should not be considered during healthcare resource allocation, as such discrimination would disproportionately harm marginalised communities.
Economic effects for citizens and the government of a country-level tobacco endgame strategy: a modelling study
Authors: Ait Ouakrim Driss , Wilson Tim , Howe Samantha , Clarke Philip , Gartner Coral E , Wilson Nick , Blakely Tony
Published: November 2023

Background

Aotearoa-New Zealand (A/NZ) was the first country to pass a comprehensive commercial tobacco endgame strategy into law. Key components include the denicotinisation of smoked tobacco products and a major reduction in tobacco retail outlets. Understanding the potential long-term economic impacts of such measures is important for government planning.

Design

A tobacco policy simulation model that evaluated the health impacts of the A/NZ Smokefree Action Plan was extended to evaluate the economic effects from both government and citizen perspectives. Estimates were presented in 2021 US$, discounted at 3% per annum.

Results

The modelled endgame policy package generates considerable growth in income for the A/NZ population with a total cumulative gain of US$31 billion by 2050. From a government perspective, increased superannuation payments and reduced tobacco excise tax revenue result in a negative net financial position and a cumulative shortfall of US$11.5 billion by 2050. In a sensitivity analysis considering future labour force changes, the government’s cumulative net position remained negative by 2050, but only by US$1.9 billion.

Conclusions

A policy such as the A/NZ Smokefree Action Plan is likely to produce substantial economic benefits for citizens, and modest impacts on government finances related to reduced tobacco tax and increases in aged pensions due to increased life expectancy. Such costs can be anticipated and planned for and might be largely offset by future increases in the size of the labour force and the proportion of people 65+ years old working in the formal economy.
A two-dimensional effective stress framework for modelling whole-life soil strength changes due to pore pressure generation and dissipation, Part 2: Applications
Authors: Wang Yufei , O'Loughlin Conleth D. , Zhou Zefeng , Gaudin Christophe
Published: November 2023

The accurate quantification of the temporal changes in seabed strength allows for more reliable and less conservative geotechnical design. A recently developed effective stress framework, established within a one-dimensional computational domain to quantify changes in soil strength due to pore pressure generation and dissipation, has been extended to a two-dimensional (2D) computational domain to allow for consideration of boundary value problems that are too complex to be simplified to one-dimensional conditions. The work to implement the 2D framework is reported across two companion papers. The first of the two papers utilises large deformation finite element analyses to quantify the spatial distribution of accumulated plastic shear strain. These distributions are encapsulated within a strain influence function that is used within the new 2D framework in this paper to calculate the extent and magnitude of excess pore pressure, and in turn the mobilised soil strength for a number of boundary value problems that represent typical offshore geotechnical processes. The merit of the new 2D framework is explored via retrospective simulations of existing experimental and numerical data. The resulting comparisons demonstrate the potential of the new framework, which is in quantifying the reliability of a range of geotechnical structures under complex loading conditions.
Existence and importance of Na+K+-ATPase in the plasma membrane of boar spermatozoa
Authors: Awda Basim J. , Mahoney Ian V. , Pettitt Murray , Imran Muhammad , Katselis George S. , Buhr Mary M.
Published: November 2023

Sodium-potassium-ATPase (Na+K+-ATPase), a target to treat congestive heart failure, is the only known receptor for cardiac glycosides implicated in intracellular signaling and additionally functions enzymatically in ion transport. Spermatozoa need transmembrane ion transport and signaling to fertilize, and Na+K+-ATPase is identified here for the first time in boar spermatozoa. Head plasma membrane (HPM) isolated from boar spermatozoa was confirmed pure by marker enzymes acid and alkaline phosphatase (218 ± 23% and 245 ± 38% enrichment, respectively, versus whole spermatozoa). Western immunoblotting detected α and β subunits (isoforms α1, α3, β1, β2, and β3) in different concentrations in whole spermatozoa and HPM. Immunofluorescence of intact sperm only detected α3 on the post-equatorial exterior membrane; methanol-permeabilized sperm also had α3 post-equatorially and other isoforms on the acrosomal ridge and cap. Mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of all isoforms in HPM. Incubating boar sperm in capacitating media to induce the physiological changes preceding fertilization significantly increased the percentage of capacitated sperm compared to 0 h control (33.0 ± 2.6% vs. 19.2 ± 2.6% capacitated sperm, respectively; p = 0.014) and altered the β2 immunofluorescence pattern. These results demonstrate the presence of Na+K+-ATPase in boar sperm HPM and that it changes during capacitation.
Preparation and characterization of conductive and stretchable MXene-based nanocomposite hydrogels initiated by metal ions
Authors: Ji Yuxing , Geng Zhijie , Yu Shan
Published: November 2023

Conductive hydrogels are emerging as an advanced electronic platform for wearable sensors by synergizing the advantageous features of conductivity and flexibility. Especially conductive polymer hydrogels have widespread applications in the fields of catalysis, biomedicine, monitoring, and wearable electronic skin owing to the outstanding strain sensitivity and resilience thereof. Nevertheless, how to maintain the conductivity of hydrogels and electronic skins under strain or deformation remains a significant challenge. To tackle the said bottleneck, a multiple H-bonding MXene-based conductive hydrogel was established in the present study. With the participation of MXene and Fe[Formula: see text] ions, the hydrogel network was strengthened, which might be attributed to the H-bonding among the polymer chain, MXene, and Fe[Formula: see text] ions. Meanwhile, the elongation at break and compression modulus of Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)- M3F hydrogels increased to 513% and 85.6[Formula: see text]kPa compared with the initial PVA hydrogel, respectively. After incorporating Fe[Formula: see text] ions, the PVA-M3F hydrogels exhibited greater conductivity, which was [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]S/cm. Notably, the PVA-M3F hydrogels displayed good resilience, leading to stable conductivity and strain sensitivity. Subsequently, a finger joint was designed to verify the maintenance of conductivity and monitoring behaviors. PVA-M3F conductive hydrogel was found to possess an outstanding capability for electrical signals feedback and was expected to be applied to electronic sensors or monitors. In summary, the introduction of MXene and Fe[Formula: see text] ions into PVA hydrogels can not only tune the conductivity but also have promising prospects as a countermeasure for wearable electronics.
Co-Design of Multijunction Photoelectrochemical Devices for Unassisted CO2 Reduction to Multicarbon Products
Authors: Wei William J. , King Alex J. , Bui Justin C. , Weber Adam Z. , Bell Alexis T.
Published: November 2023

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) CO2 reduction (PEC CO2R) is a prospective approach for utilizing solar energy to synthesize a variety of carbon-containing chemicals and fuels, the most valuable of which are multicarbon (C2+) products, such as ethylene and ethanol. While these products can be produced with high faradaic efficiency using Cu, this occurs over a relatively narrow potential range, which, in turn, imposes constraints on the design of a device for PEC CO2R. Herein, we used continuum-scale modeling to simulate the solar-to-C2+ (STC2+) efficiency of PEC CO2R devices fed with CO2-saturated, 0.1 M CsHCO3. We then explored how cell architecture and the use of single or dual photoelectrode(s) alters the optimal combination of photoelectrode bandgaps for high STC2+ efficiency. Ultimately, this work provides guidance for the co-design of the device architecture and photoelectrode bandgaps required to achieve high STC2+ efficiency. The insights gained are then used to identify systems that yield the highest amount of C2+ products throughout the day and year.
Degradation of Pt-Based Cathode Catalysts Upon Voltage Cycling in Single-Cell PEM Fuel Cells Under Air or N2 at Different Relative Humidities
Authors: Astudillo Leonardo I. , Gasteiger Hubert A.
Published: November 2023

A major degradation mechanism of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in transportation applications is the loss of the electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) of platinum cathode catalysts upon dynamic load cycling (resulting in cathode potential cycles). This is commonly investigated by accelerated stress tests (ASTs), cycling the cell voltage under H2/N2 (anode/cathode). Here we examine the degradation of membrane electrode assemblies with Vulcan carbon supported Pt catalysts over extended square-wave voltage cycles between 0.6-1.0 VRHE at 80 °C and 30%-100% RH under either H2/N2 or H2/Air; for the latter case, differential reactant flows were used, and the lower potential limit is controlled to correspond to the high-frequency resistance corrected cell voltage, assuring comparable aging conditions. Over the course of the ASTs, changes of the ECSA, the hydrogen crossover current, the proton conduction resistance and the oxygen transport resistance of the cathode electrode, as well as the differential-flow H2/O2 and H2/Air performance at 80 °C/100% RH were monitored. While the ECSA loss decreases with decreasing RH, it is independent of the gas feeds. Furthermore, the H2/Air performance loss only depends on the ECSA loss. ASTs under H2/N2 versus H2/Air only differ with regards to the chemical/mechanical degradation of the membrane.
Skeletal muscle-specific inducible AMPKα1/α2 knockout mice develop muscle weakness, glycogen depletion, and fibrosis that persists during disuse atrophy
Authors: Petrocelli Jonathan J. , Liu Jingtong , Yee Elena M. , Ferrara Patrick J. , Bourrant Paul-Emile , de Hart Naomi M. M. P. , Tatum Sean M. , Holland William J. , Funai Katsuhiko , Drummond Micah J.
Published: November 2023

We determined that skeletal muscle-specific AMPKα knockout (KO) mice display functional, fibrotic, and transcriptional alterations before and during muscle disuse atrophy. We also observed that AMPKα KO drives muscle fibrosis and pathways related to cellular senescence that continues during the hindlimb unloading period.
Modeling Survival Time to Death among Stroke Patients at Jimma University Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Negasa Bikiltu Wakuma , Wotale Teramaj Wongel , Lelisho Mesfin Esayas , Debusho Legesse Kassa , Sisay Kibrealem , Gezimu Wubishet
Published: November 2023

Background. Stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs due to impaired blood flow to brain tissues. Every year, about 15 million people worldwide suffer from a stroke, with five million of them suffering from some form of permanent physical disability. Globally, stroke is the second-leading cause of death following ischemic heart disease. It is a public health burden for both developed and developing nations, including Ethiopia. Objectives. This study is aimed at estimating the time to death among stroke patients at Jimma University Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia. Methods. A facility-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 432 patients. The data were collected from stroke patients under follow-up at Jimma University Medical Center from January 1, 2016, to January 30, 2019. A log-rank test was used to compare the survival experiences of different categories of patients. The Cox proportional hazard model and the accelerated failure time model were used to analyze the survival analysis of stroke patients using R software. An Akaike’s information criterion was used to compare the fitted models. Results. Of the 432 stroke patients followed, 223 (51.6%) experienced the event of death. The median time to death among the patients was 15 days. According to the results of the Weibull accelerated failure time model, the age of patients, atrial fibrillation, alcohol consumption, types of stroke diagnosed, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus were found to be the significant prognostic factors that contribute to shorter survival times among stroke patients. Conclusion. The Weibull accelerated failure time model better described the time to death of the stroke patients’ data set than other distributions used in this study. Patients’ age, atrial fibrillation, alcohol consumption, being diagnosed with hemorrhagic types of stroke, having hypertension, and having diabetes mellitus were found to be factors shortening survival time to death for stroke patients. Hence, healthcare professionals need to thoroughly follow the patients who pass risk factors. Moreover, patients need to be educated about lifestyle modifications.
Prune Belly Syndrome in a Female Newborn following In Vitro Fertilization-Induced Pregnancy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alkhawaldeh Ibraheem M. , Jaradat Jaber H. , Al-Jafari Mohammad , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Alrahamneh Samer Irshaid
Published: November 2023

Prune belly syndrome (PBS) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by a triad of abdominal flaccidity, varying degrees of urinary system involvement, and cryptorchidism. The exact cause of PBS is unknown. Clinical symptoms can range from stillbirth to significant renal and respiratory abnormalities to almost normal children. Treatment typically involves surgical repair of the abdominal wall defect and urinary tract abnormalities, early orchiopexy, and supportive management of related problems. We report the first case of a female newborn with PBS following in vitro fertilization-induced pregnancy with a comprehensive systematic review of all relevant cases.
Mobile Robot Path Planning with a Novel Multiobjective Slime Mold Algorithm
Authors: Zhai Zhibo , Liu Feifei , Jia Guoping , Dai Yusen , Wang Tao
Published: November 2023

In the path planning problem of mobile robot in static complex obstacle environment, the original slime mold algorithm (SMA) has some shortcomings, such as initial solution error and easy to fall into local optimum, which leads to low accuracy of robot path planning. A novel Baldwin learning effect mobile robot Path planning with Multi‐Objective Slime Mold Algorithm (BPMOSMA) is proposed to solve the related problems. The Baldwin learning effect is introduced into to guide the development direction of slime mold in the phase of slime mold surrounding food and the k‐nearest neighbor measure is added to prune nondominated solutions to generate a well‐distributed solution set. For comparison purposes, five state‐of‐the‐art multiobjective optimization algorithms are carried on nine multiobjective test problems with kinds of types of Pareto set. The qualitative and quantitative experimental results show that BPMOSMA is very competitive performance on unconstrained multi‐objective optimization problems. BPMOSMA is finally successfully applied in the mobile robot path planning problem.
The Effect of Methylphenidate on Cognition in Patients with Comorbid Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Amphetamine Use Disorder: An Exploratory Single-Blinded within-Subject Study
Authors: Brynte Christoffer , Konstenius Maija , Khemiri Lotfi , Bäcker Amanda , Guterstam Joar , Levin Frances R. , Jayaram-Lindström Nitya , Franck Johan
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD) is associated with poor treatment outcomes. Two randomized controlled trials, utilizing robust doses of stimulants, demonstrated a significant effect on treatment outcomes in patients with ADHD/SUD. This study aimed to investigate differences in executive functioning and explore the dose-dependent effect of OROS-methylphenidate (MPH) in patients with comorbid ADHD and amphetamine use disorder (ADHD+AMPH) and patients with ADHD only. Methods: Three groups (ADHD+AMPH, ADHD only, and healthy controls) were assessed repeatedly with a neuropsychological test battery. An exploratory within-subject single-blinded design was employed where the ADHD only group received a maximum dose of 72 mg OROS-MPH, the ADHD+AMPH group a maximum dose of 180 mg, whereas the healthy subjects did not receive any study medication. Both ADHD groups received the same dose titration up to 72 mg OROS-MPH. Results: The ADHD+AMPH group demonstrated a significantly poorer motor inhibition and spatial working memory and reported more severe ADHD symptoms compared to the ADHD only group. 180 mg OROS-MPH was associated with a significant improvement in executive functioning in the dual diagnosis group. However, the exploratory study design and recruitment issues do not allow for any conclusion to be drawn regarding the effect of 180 mg OROS-MPH. Conclusion: Patients with ADHD+AMPH present with more severe neurocognitive deficits compared to ADHD only. The effect of 180 mg OROS-MPH on cognition in patients with ADHD+AMPH was inconclusive. Future studies should consider recruitment issues and high drop-out rates in this study population.
The Optical Coherence Tomography and Microperimetry Biomarker Evaluation in Patients with Geographic Atrophy (OMEGA) Study: Design and Baseline Characteristics – OMEGA Report 1
Authors: Ansari Georg , Schärer Nils , Camenzind Zuche Hanna , Gabrani Chrysoula , Anders Philipp , Pfau Kristina , Valmaggia Philippe , Giani Andrea , Esmaeelpour Marieh , Chingning Yamaguchi Taffeta , Prünte Christian F. , Maloca Peter M. , Schmetterer Leopold , Scholl Hendrik P.N. , Pfau Maximilian
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to describe the design and the participants’ baseline characteristics of a prospective natural history study of geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Methods: The optical coherence tomography (OCT) and microperimetry biomarker evaluation in patients with GA (OMEGA) study was conducted at a tertiary referral center (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05963646). Participants were followed for 12 months during 4 visits (baseline and follow-up exams at weeks 12, 24, and 48) with best-corrected Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study visual acuity, low-luminance visual acuity (LLVA), and quick contrast sensitivity function testing. Further, participants underwent spectral-domain OCT, OCT angiography, fundus autofluorescence imaging, and mesopic microperimetry testing. Results: Thirty participants (median [IQR] age of 79 [77, 84] years) and 37 study eyes were included with a (median [IQR]) GA area of 1.40 mm2 (0.49, 5.24) at baseline. Out of 37 study eyes, six developed macular neovascularizations (16%). The study-eye best-corrected visual acuity was (median [IQR]) 0.18 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (0.06, 0.26), LLVA 0.66 logMAR (0.36, 0.88), and the microperimetry mean sensitivity 18.4 dB (9.21, 20.9). The highest correlation between square root GA area and a visual function test was evident for LLVA (R2 of 0.578), followed by area under the log contrast sensitivity function curve (0.519) and microperimetral retinal sensitivity (0.487). Conclusion: This report lays out the design and baseline characteristics of the OMEGA study, which aims to contribute to the understanding of the natural history of GA. The OMEGA study will provide estimates of the ability to detect change and retest reliability for a panel of structure and functional assessments.
3-Dimensional Ultrastructural Analysis of the Rat Pinealocyte: Presence of Secretory Bulbous Projections Delineated from the Cell Body by Junctional Complexes
Authors: Møller Morten , Midtgaard Jens , Qvortrup Klaus , Rath Martin Fredensborg
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The superficial pineal gland of the Sprague Dawley rat is a neuroendocrine structure secreting the hormone melatonin. By use of block face scanning electron microscopy, our aim here was to identify the 3-dimensional ultrastructure of the gland. Methods: A series of 2,731 block face images of the rat pineal tissue, 30 nm in thickness, was obtained in a Teneo volume scanning electron microscope and used for 3-dimensional reconstruction by use of the TrakEM2-plugin in the ImageJ software. Thin sections of the tissue were cut for transmission electron microscopy. Results: Our analyses revealed cellular bulbous processes, containing 50–100 nm clear vesicles, that emerged from a neck-like area at the cell body of the pinealocyte. These bulbous processes extend into small canaliculi located in the center of parenchymal folliculi of the gland as well as into the perivascular spaces. Junctional complexes, comprising both gap and tight junctions, connected the lateral cellular membranes of the pinealocytes, where the bulbous processes emerged from the cell bodies. The canaliculi were, via the extracellular space, connected to the perivascular spaces. Discussion: The junctional complexes reported here would prevent a substance, released from the vesicles in the bulbous processes, from targeting the cell body from which they emerge. In line with previous combined morphological and biochemical demonstrations of glutamate located in clear vesicles of bulbous processes in the rat pineal gland, our data ultrastructurally support the concept that bulbous processes could participate in a paracrine glutamatergic inhibition of the melatonin secretion in the pineal gland. Conclusion: Bulbous secretory projections separated from the cell body by a junctional complex represents a new feature of neuroendocrine cells.
Genetic Atrial Cardiomyopathies: Common Features, Specific Differences, and Broader Relevance to Understanding Atrial Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Marcoux Edouard , Sosnowski Deanna , Ninni Sandro , Mackasey Martin , Cadrin-Tourigny Julia , Roberts Jason D. , Olesen Morten Salling , Fatkin Diane , Nattel Stanley
Published: November 2023

Atrial cardiomyopathy is a condition that causes electrical and contractile dysfunction of the atria, often along with structural and functional changes. Atrial cardiomyopathy most commonly occurs in conjunction with ventricular dysfunction, in which case it is difficult to discern the atrial features that are secondary to ventricular dysfunction from those that arise as a result of primary atrial abnormalities. Isolated atrial cardiomyopathy (atrial-selective cardiomyopathy [ASCM], with minimal or no ventricular function disturbance) is relatively uncommon and has most frequently been reported in association with deleterious rare genetic variants. The genes involved can affect proteins responsible for various biological functions, not necessarily limited to the heart but also involving extracardiac tissues. Atrial enlargement and atrial fibrillation are common complications of ASCM and are often the predominant clinical features. Despite progress in identifying disease-causing rare variants, an overarching understanding and approach to the molecular pathogenesis, phenotypic spectrum, and treatment of genetic ASCM is still lacking. In this review, we aim to analyze the literature relevant to genetic ASCM to understand the key features of this rather rare condition, as well as to identify distinct characteristics of ASCM and its arrhythmic complications that are related to specific genotypes. We outline the insights that have been gained using basic research models of genetic ASCM in vitro and in vivo and correlate these with patient outcomes. Finally, we provide suggestions for the future investigation of patients with genetic ASCM and improvements to basic scientific models and systems. Overall, a better understanding of the genetic underpinnings of ASCM will not only provide a better understanding of this condition but also promises to clarify our appreciation of the more commonly occurring forms of atrial cardiomyopathy associated with ventricular dysfunction.
Striatin Gene Variants Are Associated With Salt Sensitivity of Blood Pressure by Mechanisms That Differ in Women and Men
Authors: Gholami Shadi K. , Heydarpour Mahyar , Williams Jonathan S. , Pojoga Luminita H. , Adler Gail K. , Williams Gordon H. , Romero Jose R.
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:

Salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP) is a substantial risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Striatin (STRN) is critical for estrogen and aldosterone nongenomic signaling. However, the role of biological sex on the SSBP phenotype associated with STRN gene variants remains unexplored.

METHOD:

Data from 1306 subjects participating in the Hypertensive Pathotype (HyperPATH) Consortium were used to identify STRN gene single-nucleotide variants associated with SSBP. Haploblock analysis revealed a novel diplotype in the upstream regulatory region of STRN (rs888083 and rs6744560), with 31% of subjects being homozygous for the risk diplotype.

RESULTS:

Individuals homozygous for the risk diplotype had significantly greater SSBP than nonrisk diplotypes (
P
<0.009). While a significant genotype/SSBP association was present in both sexes, their potential mechanisms differed. Women, but not men homozygous risk diplotypes, had significantly greater aldosterone levels than nonrisk diplotypes (5.8±0.4 versus 3.2±0.7 ng/dl;
P
=0.01; liberal Na
+
diet, adjusted). Men, but not women, homozygous risk diplotypes, had significantly reduced renal plasma flow response to Angiotensin II than nonrisk diplotypes (delta 95.2±5.2 versus 122.9±10.2 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
;
P
=0.01; liberal Na
+
diet, adjusted). The single-nucleotide variants composing the risk diplotype were associated with lower STRN mRNA expression in human tissues (in silico).

CONCLUSION:

In women, the primary driver of SSBP is increased aldosterone, while in men, it is reduced renal plasma flow responses. Thus, despite a common hypertensive phenotype (SSBP) in both sexes, the specific treatment approaches might differ to increase therapeutic gain and mitigate adverse effects. These genetic- and sex-based observational results require confirmation in a prospective clinical study.
Türkiye’de Yalnız Yaşayan Yaşlıların Covid-19 Sürecindeki Deneyimleri: Ankara İli Örneği
Authors: TAMKOÇ Betül , KÖK Hilal , ATALAY Zeynep
Published: November 2023

Dünya genelinde hemen her yaş grubunu olumsuz olarak etkileyen Covid-19 pandemisi, orta yaş ve üzeri bireyleri diğer yaş gruplarına kıyasla daha fazla etkilemiştir. Yaşlıların bu süreçteki deneyimlerini öğrenmek amacıyla nitel araştırma tasarımı kullanılarak yapılan bu araştırmada, Ankara ilinde Covid-19 sürecinde yalnız yaşayan 65 yaş ve üzeri 11 yaşlı ile yüz yüze görüşmeler gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu aracılığıyla toplanan veriler MAXQDA 2020 paket programı kullanılarak çözümlenmiştir. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre “yaşlıların Covid-19 sürecine ilişkin deneyimleri”, “yaşlıların Covid-19 sürecinde karşılaştıkları sorunlar”, “sosyal izolasyon ve yalnızlık”, “yaşlıların Covid-19 ile baş etme stratejileri” ve “yaşlıların hizmet beklentileri” olmak üzere 6 tema belirlenmiştir. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre, yaşlıların pandemi sürecindeki deneyimleri bireysel ve sosyal özelliklerine, sahip oldukları maddi ve manevi kaynaklarına ve sağlık durumlarına göre değişkenlik göstermektedir. Bununla birlikte yakın çevre ile görüşememek en önemli sorunlardan biri iken sosyal destek mekanizmaları arasında aile, komşu ve kamu tarafından sunulan destekler yer almaktadır.
Tüketici Satın Alma Niyetinde Algılanan Değer ve Tüketici Etnosentrizminin Etkisi: TOGG Markası Üzerine Bir Araştırma
Authors: ACAR Oğuzhan , TAŞKIN Çağatan
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışma, TOGG markasının elektrikli otomobil ürününe yönelik tüketicilerin satın alma niyetlerinde algılanan değer ve tüketici etnosentrizminin etkisini araştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda online bir anket formu aracılığıyla 293 katılımcıdan kolayda örnekleme yöntemiyle veriler toplanmıştır ve bu veriler SPSS ve PLS-SEM programları kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda, finansal teşviklerin, sürüş menzilinin, epistemik değerin ve sosyal imajın (algılanan değer öncülleri) TOGG’un algılanan değerini olumlu yönde etkilediği, TOGG’un algılanan değerinin TOGG’u satın alma niyetini olumlu yönde etkilediği ve tüketici etnosentrizminin TOGG’un algılanan değeri ile TOGG’u satın alma niyeti arasındaki ilişkide bir düzenleyici etkisi olmadığı belirlenmiştir.
İletişim İsteksizliği Ölçeği: Türkçeye Uyarlama, Geçerlik ve Güvenirlik Çalışması
Authors: ERDEM Ahmet Tuncay , ALAV Orhan
Published: November 2023

Bireylerin davranışları sosyolojik ve psikolojik nedenlerden dolayı sürekli bir değişim halinde olup iletişim davranışları da zamanla değişmektedir. Toplumu oluşturan bireyler zaman zaman küresel iletişim yapılarına göre iletişimden kaçınarak sözlü iletişimden uzaklaşma eğilimi içerisinde olurlar ve sözlü iletişimi değersiz bularak iletişim isteksizliği yaşarlar. Bu kapsamda toplumları olumsuz etkileyen iletişim isteksizliğine yönelik yapılan bu araştırmanın amacı, Burgoon (1976) tarafından literatüre kazandırılan İletişim İsteksizliği Ölçeği’nin Türkçe diline uyarlanarak ulusal literatüre katkı sağlanması, bu ölçek aracılığıyla bireylerin iletişim isteksizliği durumlarının belirlenmesi, iletişim isteksizliğini meydana getiren faktörlerin belirlenerek iletişim isteksizliğinin giderilmesine yönelik öneriler sunulmasıdır. Bu doğrultuda araştırmanın temel sorusu; “iletişim isteksizliğinin öncül ve ardılları nelerdir ve iletişim isteksizliğinin ölçeği Türkçeye uyarlanabilir mi” şeklinde belirlenmiştir. Araştırmada Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal Üniversitesi İletişim Fakültesi öğrencilerine (n=404) yönelik uygulama yapılmış elde edilen veriler SPSS 25 ve AMOS 26 programlarıyla analiz edilmiştir. Analiz sonucunda iki alt boyuttan (Yaklaşma-Kaçınma ve Ödüllendirme) ve 20 ifadeden oluşan ilgili ölçeğin Türkçeye uyarlama işlemi yapılmış olup ulusal literatüre katkı sağlayan özgün bir çalışma ortaya çıkarılmış ve sonuç bölümünde teorik ve pratik önerilerde bulunulmuştur.
Milli Güvenlik Konseyi Dönemi Türk Dış Politikası (1980-1983)
Authors: BOSTANCI Mustafa , UYSAL Nevzat
Published: November 2023

12 Eylül 1980 tarihinde Milli Güvenlik Konseyi (MGK) yönetimindeki Türk Silahlı Kuvvetleri (TSK) tarafından gerçekleştirilen Bayrak kod isimli askeri harekât, askeri bir darbedir. Askeri yönetimin yurt içi uygulamalarının bilançosu ağır olmuştur. Dış politikada, ulusal çıkarlarla uyumlu politikalar yanında uyumlu olmayan politikalar da izlenmiştir. Yunanistan’ın bölgesel güvenlik ve yurt içi gelişmelerin de etkisiyle şartsız olarak (Ege ve Kıbrıs konularında taviz alınmadan) Rogers Planı çerçevesinde NATO’nun askeri kanadına kabulüne onay verilirken Kıbrıs sorunu ve Ege’de 12 mil konusunda taviz verilmemesi bu politikaların çarpıcı örneklerindendir. Uygulanan dış politikanın yurt içinde de etkileri görülmüştür. Çalışmanın amacı, Türk dış politikasında MGK dönemindeki süreklilik ve değişimi ortaya koymaktır. Bu kapsamda, öncelikle darbe öncesi ve sonrası gelişmeler ele alınarak dış politik uygulamaların arka planı incelenmiştir. Müteakip maddelerde, yakın ve etkin ilişkide bulunulan uluslararası örgüt ve devletlerle ilişkiler, münferit uygulamalar, 1960 darbesi ve 1971 askeri muhtıra dönemi dış politik uygulamaları ile benzerlik ve farklılıklar analiz edilmiş, sonuçları belirlenmiştir.