bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chloroplast Genome Sequencing and Comparative Analysis of Six Medicinal Plants of Polygonatum
Authors: Yao Jinchen , Zheng Zhaohuan , Xu Tao , Wang Duomei , Pu Jingzhe , Zhang Yazhong , Zha Liangping
Published: January 2025

The genus Polygonatum boasts abundant germplasm resources and comprises numerous species. Among these, medicinal plants of this genus, which have a long history, have garnered attention of scholars. This study sequenced and analyzed the chloroplast genomes of six species of Polygonatum medicinal plants (P. zanlanscianense, P. kingianum, P. sibiricum, P. cyrtonema, P. filipes, and P. odoratum, respectively) to explore their interspecific relationships. The sequence length (154, 578–155, 807 bp) and genome structure were conserved among the six Polygonatum species, with a typical tetrad structure. Among the 127–131 genes contained in the genomes, 84–85 are protein‐coding genes, 37–38 are transfer RNA genes, and 6–8 are ribosomal RNA genes. The genomes contained 64–76 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and 36–62 long repetitive sequences. Codon bias patterns tended to use codons ending in A/T. In 30 types of codons with RSCU > 1, 93.3% ended in A/T of the six species. Twenty‐one highly variable plastid regions were identified in the chloroplast genomes of the six medicinal plants. Furthermore, a phylogenetic analysis encompassing these and 53 other chloroplast genomes of Polygonatum species revealed that P. cyrtonema, P. odoratum, and P. filipes clustered together on one clade, whereas P. kingianum and P. zanlanscianense formed separate clades. Notably, P. sibiricum emerged as a standalone clade, and our phylogenetic tree reinforces the classification of P. sibiricum as forming a monophyly. This study provides a novel basis for intragenus taxonomy and DNA barcoding molecular identification within the genus Polygonatum medicinal plants.
Captivity Reduces Diversity and Shifts Composition of the Great Bustard (Otis tarda dybowskii) Microbiome
Authors: Lu Zhiyuan , Wang Zhucheng , Jia Hexue , Meng Derong , Wu Dayong
Published: January 2025

Captivity offers protection for endangered species, but for bustards, captive individuals face a higher risk of disease and exhibit lower reintroduction success rates. Changes in the diversity of host bacterial and fungal microbiota may be a significant factor influencing reintroduction success. The great bustard (Otis tarda) is a globally recognized endangered bird species. Previous research on the gut microbiota of the great bustard has been limited, hindering effective conservation efforts. Therefore, this study utilized high‐throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) genes to compare the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota of great bustards in different environments. The results revealed a significant decline in alpha diversity and notable changes in microbial community structure in captive environments. Changes in diet and habitat are likely major factors contributing to these shifts. Consequently, managing rescued wild animals by increasing dietary diversity and exposure to natural environmental reservoirs may enhance the success rate of reintroduction efforts.
The Complete Chloroplast Genome of Erythrina variegata L. (Papilionoideae, Fabaceae)
Authors: Nhat Nam Nguyen , Ngoc Trai Nguyen , Phuong Thuy Nguyen , Quoc Duy Le , Nguyen Tuong Van Pham , Nguyen Tan Tai , Do Hoang Dang Khoa
Published: January 2025

Erythrina variegata L. 1754, a thorny deciduous tree of Fabaceae, contains various chemical compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids and exhibits anti‐depressant, anti‐inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. However, genomic data of E. variegata are limited. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of E. variegata was sequenced and characterized using Illumina sequencing platform. The chloroplast genome of E. variegata was 152,351 bp in length and consisted of a large single copy (82,907 bp), a small single copy (26,309 bp), and two inverted repeat regions (16,826 bp). There were 79 protein‐coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes, and four ribosomal RNA genes. Comparative analysis revealed high conservation of chloroplast genomes among Erythrina species regarding genome size, structure, and gene content. The phylogenetic study also indicated a close relationship between E. variagata and E. sanwicensis. This study provides initial plastome data for further genomic studies examining E. variegata and related species in Fabaceae.
Sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan initiation in patients naïve to renin–angiotensin system inhibitors: Insights from PARAGLIDE‐HF
Authors: Nouhravesh Nina , Gunn Alexander H. , Cyr Derek , Hernandez Adrian F. , Morrow David A. , Velazquez Eric J. , Ward Jonathan H. , Sarwat Samiha , Sharma Kavita , Williamson Kristin M. , Starling Randall C. , Lepage Serge , Zieroth Shelley , Solomon Scott D. , Mentz Robert J.
Published: January 2025

Aims

Whether prior treatment with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) modifies efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan (Sac/Val) in patients with heart failure (HF) and ejection fraction (EF) >40% is unclear, thus Sac/Val according to ACEi/ARB status at baseline was assessed.

Methods and results

This was a pre‐specified analysis of Prospective comparison of ARNI with ARB Given following stabiLization In DEcompensated HFpEF (PARAGLIDE‐HF), a double‐blind, randomized controlled trial of Sac/Val versus valsartan, categorizing patients according to baseline ACEi/ARB status. The primary endpoint was time‐averaged proportional change in N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) from baseline through weeks 4 and 8. Secondary analyses included a win‐ratio analysis of the hierarchical outcome of (i) cardiovascular death; (ii) HF hospitalizations; (iii) urgent HF visits; and (iv) time‐averaged proportional change in NT‐proBNP from baseline to weeks 4 and 8, in addition to safety outcomes. Among 466 patients, 107 (23%) were ACEi/ARB naïve at the time of randomization. NT‐proBNP favoured Sac/Val irrespective of ACEi/ARB status (naïve: 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51–1.13; users: 0.88, 95% CI 0.74–1.05; pinteraction = 0.52). The win ratio of the hierarchical outcome was 1.13 (95% CI 0.86–1.49) for ACEi/ARB users and 1.38 (95% CI 0.81–2.37) for ACEi/ARB naïve (pinteraction = 0.51). Safety endpoints showed non‐significant interactions by ACEi/ARB status, with odds ratio of 1.79 (95% CI 0.68–4.72) and 0.71 (95% CI 0.29–1.78) for symptomatic hypotension and worsening renal function, respectively for ACEi/ARB naïve.

Conclusion

In HF with EF >40% stabilized after worsening HF, safety and efficacy were similar irrespective of ACEi/ARB status at baseline, supporting early initiation irrespective of prior ACEi/ARB use.
Chemical and Electrochemical Oxidation of Diferrocenyltelluride
Authors: Stoian Corina , Schmidt Nils , Puylaert Pim , Linden Mathias H. , Bernhard Linden H. , Beckmann Jens
Published: January 2025

The halogenation of diferrocenyltelluride, Fc2Te, with XeF2, PhICl2 and I2 afforded the diferrocenyltellurium dihalides Fc2TeX2 (X=F, Cl, I). Halide exchange of Fc2TeCl2 with KBr yielded Fc2TeBr2. The oxidation of Fc2Te with NO[SbF6] and K[B(C6F5)4] provided the triferrocenyltelluronium salt [Fc3Te][B(C6F5)4] and the dinuclear nitrosyl iron complex Fe2(μ‐TeFc)2(NO)4. The new compounds were comprehensively characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (125Te, 19F, 13C, 1H), UV/vis absorption spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, LIFDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and single crystal X‐ray diffraction.
Interconnected Microgrids Load‐Frequency Control Using Stage‐by‐Stage Optimized TIDA+1 Error Signal Regulator
Authors: Shayeghi Hossein , Rahnama Alireza , Bizon Nicu , Szumny Antoni
Published: January 2025

Load‐frequency control (LFC) is essential for maintaining system stability and ensuring high power quality in microgrids (MGs), particularly those heavily reliant on renewable energy sources (RES) and operating independently of the main grid. This paper introduces a novel control strategy aimed at improving LFC performance in interconnected MGs by correcting the error signal. The proposed controller, denoted as TIDA+1, combines tilt, integrator, derivative, and acceleration operators in a parallel configuration to refine the incoming error signal. The controller parameters are optimized using a modified particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with nonlinear time‐varying acceleration coefficients (NTVAC). The controller's effectiveness is validated through four distinct scenarios, including sudden load variations, system modeling uncertainties, fluctuations in RES outputs, and the impact of nonlinearities. Additionally, a lab‐scale evaluation of the controller has been conducted to further assess its practical applicability. Comparative results demonstrate that the TIDA+1 controller outperforms traditional controllers such as PID and FOPID, especially under complex operational conditions. The study highlights the TIDA+1 controller as a robust and viable solution for LFC in MGs, with potential for future scalability and application in larger systems.
Thermodynamic Performance of a Novel Compressed Carbon Dioxide Energy Storage System Based on Guanidinium Sulfate (Gua2SO)4) Adsorption
Authors: Liu Jiaxin , Liu Zhan
Published: January 2025

In recent years, energy storage technology has developed rapidly with the aim to promote the development of renewable energy sources and establish a green and sustainable energy structure. A novel compressed CO2 energy storage system based on Gua2SO4 adsorption is proposed in this study. Gua2SO4 has low sorption enthalpy and mild physical conditions in the adsorbent and desorption process, which are very beneficial for reducing the design difficulty of low‐pressure gas storage devices and improving the system performance. The energy and exergy analysis models are conducted after establishing several assumptions. The round trip efficiency, energy density, CO2 capture unit volume and liquid CO2 tank volume are 68.8%, 12.6 kWh/m3, 44,208 m3 and 19,235 m3 under design conditions, respectively. In addition, according to the exergy analysis, the liquefaction unit and compression unit have the highest exergy destructions. The monotonic increase in high‐pressure cooler end temperature difference and ambient temperature will cause the system efficiency to show a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. The liquid CO2 tank temperature and throttling pressure have a trade‐off relationship on system performance. It should be noted that when the throttling pressure is below a certain value and the liquid CO2 tank temperature is above a certain value, the system efficiency will sharply decrease. Moreover, increasing compressor and turbine efficiency has a conducive effect on improving system efficiency while the growth of heat exchanger pinch temperature and pressure loss rate have a negative influence to that.
New Laboratory Results on Ignition and Propagation in Live Vegetation Paving the Road to a Semi‐Empirical Model
Authors: Guillaume Bruno , Ganteaume Anne , Majeri Malek , Fayad Jacky , El Houssami Mohamad , Pizzo Yannick , Porterie Bernard
Published: January 2025

Wildfires arriving at a brush‐cleared vegetation near vulnerable assets in the Wildland‐Urban Interface (WUI), experience significantly reduced fire propagation, intensity, and associated risks. However, assessing the effectiveness of fuel reduction on fire behavior remains challenging due to limited understanding of ignition and propagation mechanisms in live vegetation. To fill this gap, a simplified approach was designed, focusing more on the combination of physical modeling with new empirical data rather than providing new insight in the physical process modeling. Burning experiments were conducted on cypress trees at two scales of live vegetation, the “laboratory scale” and the “real scale,” to gather data on fire behavior in cypress canopies with varying fuel moisture content (FMC) and bulk density (BD), using two ignition methods. A semi‐empirical model, based on the physical model Fire Dynamic Simulator was developed, using the “laboratory scale” data as inputs, while the data recorded at “real scale” were used to validate the model. Laboratory‐scale experiments showed consistent results when ignition was initiated by flame contact. In contrast, indirect radiant heat ignition was highly variable due to the influence of gaps between leaves. At the real scale, BD had a significant impact on fire behavior. The model evaluation showed it could simulate fire auto‐propagation in live vegetation much more precisely compared to current physical models, leveraging the precise fire behavior data obtained at the laboratory scale.
Incorporating the Malnutrition Screening Tool and the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool in Rehabilitation Practice: Comparison With the Nutrition Risk Screening 2002
Authors: Tel Adigüzel Kübra , Çalişkan Hatice Aybüke , Işik Fatma Berna , Çaybaşi Erdoğan Hilal , Akşit Sena , Mansiz Suna , Adigüzel Emre , Yaşar Evren
Published: January 2025

To demonstrate the prevalence of malnutrition risk in a specific rehabilitation setting. The secondary aim of the study was to compare Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) with Nutritional Risk Screening‐2002 (NRS‐2002). Patients diagnosed with stroke, anoxic brain injury, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, neuromuscular diseases, Parkinson's disease, and lymphedema who were admitted to a rehabilitation hospital were included. NRS‐2002, MST, and MUST were used to assess malnutrition risk. Body weight (kg), height (cm), and mid upper arm circumference (cm) were measured. Twenty‐four hours dietary records were obtained. Routine blood test results were recorded from patient files. Five hundred sixteen patients with a mean age of 54.3 ± 18.0 years were included. The most prominent diagnoses were stroke and spinal cord injury. According to NRS‐2002, 71.7% (n = 370) of the patients were at low risk, but 28.3% (n = 146) of the patients were at high risk. Comparisons between NRS‐2002 and MST showed that these two scales have similar results at classifying patients for malnutrition risk (p = 0.154). Comparison between NRS‐2002 and MUST showed significant differences (p < 0.001). Both sensitivity and specificity of MST were above 80.0%. Sensitivity of MUST was 78.1% and specificity was 88.1%. Approximately one‐third of the patients were at risk of malnutrition. Specificity and sensitivity of MST and MUST were as high as routinely used scale NRS‐2002, and therefore it can be supposed that, considering the diagnostic groups of the patients, MST and MUST are useful in rehabilitation practice.
The Value of International Engagement in Energy Education
Authors: Engel‐Cox Jill , Chapman Andrew
Published: January 2025

The successful education of energy professionals requires expanding their knowledge of energy innovations, resources, and supply chains. Energy education—including university degrees, professional certificates, and informal learning—benefits significantly from direct international experiences, such as case studies, site visits, and exchanges. This article outlines various approaches to international engagement for energy education and illustrates the concepts with several programs and exchanges between the US and Japan. It concludes by identifying the benefits of international engagement for energy education, including advancing energy knowledge, sustainability, and innovation; enhancing understanding of varying energy priorities and policies; encouraging more inclusive, adaptable, and sustainable energy solutions; and promoting creative thinking and interdisciplinary research aimed at equitable and sustainable energy transitions.
Balancing Data Quality and Bias: Investigating Functional Connectivity Exclusions in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development℠ (ABCD Study) Across Quality Control Pathways
Authors: Peverill Matthew , Russell Justin D. , Keding Taylor J. , Rich Hailey M. , Halvorson Max A. , King Kevin M. , Birn Rasmus M. , Herringa Ryan J.
Published: January 2025

Analysis of resting state fMRI (rs‐fMRI) typically excludes images substantially degraded by subject motion. However, data quality, including degree of motion, relates to a broad set of participant characteristics, particularly in pediatric neuroimaging. Consequently, when planning quality control (QC) procedures researchers must balance data quality concerns against the possibility of biasing results by eliminating data. In order to explore how researcher QC decisions might bias rs‐fMRI findings and inform future research design, we investigated how a broad spectrum of participant characteristics in the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study were related to participant inclusion/exclusion across versions of the dataset (the ABCD Community Collection and ABCD Release 4) and QC choices (specifically, motion scrubbing thresholds). Across all these conditions, we found that the odds of a participant's exclusion related to a broad spectrum of behavioral, demographic, and health‐related variables, with the consequence that rs‐fMRI analyses using these variables are likely to produce biased results. Consequently, we recommend that missing data be formally accounted for when analyzing rs‐fMRI data and interpreting results. Our findings demonstrate the urgent need for better data acquisition and analysis techniques which minimize the impact of motion on data quality. Additionally, we strongly recommend including detailed information about quality control in open datasets such as ABCD.
Effects of Department Type and Disability Status on Medical School Faculty Wellbeing
Authors: Abulela Mohammed A. A. , Schowengerdt Bethany , Dorr Heather , Termuhlen Amanda , Krohn Kristina , Violato Claudio
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Faculty wellbeing impacts student learning and is a priority among medical schools, especially as a counterbalance to growing burnout. Previous researchers found differences in burnout by sex and race among clinicians, but not for faculty with disabilities. Accordingly, the purpose was to test the association between faculty's wellbeing, burnout, and control over workload and investigate differences in wellbeing attributed to department type and ability status.

Method

The authors developed and administered a comprehensive wellbeing survey to University of Minnesota Medical School faculty, of whom 703 provided complete responses. The authors conducted two‐way ANOVA followed by a post hoc analysis to test for differences in faculty wellbeing domains due to department type (basic sciences, nonsurgical, surgical, and two large departments of Medicine and Pediatrics) and disability status (yes, no). The authors also fitted a two‐way ordinal model since burnout frequency and control over workload were assessed by one ordinal item each.

Results

Wellbeing domains were positively correlated with control over workload but negatively associated with burnout. Faculty with disabilities reported less support from their work environment and meeting of their basic needs. Department type had a statistically significant impact on faculty's sense of basic needs, respect, and contribution. Multiple comparisons revealed faculty in basic sciences departments had higher scores within basic needs compared to the departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and surgical departments, who reported lower levels of respect as well. Results revealed department type and disability status affected the frequency of burnout, as faculty in basic sciences departments reported lower levels of burnout compared to other departments.

Conclusions

Results support disaggregating wellbeing by department and ability status for targeted interventions due to differences‐ notably among faculty with disabilities and surgical departments‐ in their assessment of basic needs, work environment, respect, and contribution. Results suggest revisiting interventions in these domains to account for lower reported wellbeing.
The Influence of Sanitary Infrastructure on Event Nutrient Dynamics in a Headwater Catchment
Authors: Spill Caroline , Ditzel Lukas , Gassmann Matthias
Published: January 2025

Many low‐order streams are recipients of effluents from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and combined sewer overflows (CSOs). Not only do these facilities have to meet fewer requirements compared to their bigger counterparts in more densely populated areas, but they also discharge into smaller, more vulnerable streams, with low dilution potential. Although these local point sources can dictate the local water quality and quantity dynamics, they are barely monitored and often not included in catchment‐wide analyses. In this case study we measured stream water quantity and quality in a first‐order, point source‐influenced stream. We have specifically addressed point sources in our monitoring programme, which included the installation of a low‐budget probe at the CSO outlet to monitor overflow timing. By clustering hysteresis loops and using Principal Component Analysis, we were able to identify hydro‐meteorological drivers and reveal seasonal patterns of discharge and nutrient export dynamics. Mobilisation of nitrate from agricultural sources clearly dominated event dynamics during periods with high soil moisture, while point source dynamics overlaid catchment responses during the rest of the time. Thus, the dilution potential of the stream was found to be a controlling factor for water quality dynamics. Groundwater infiltration into the sewer system probably increased the risk of CSO discharges, especially in winter and spring. In summer, CSO spillages occurred as a result of high‐intensity rainfall. These events were related to an increase of turbidity and a mobilisation of particulate phosphorus. With our novel approach, including urban point sources in our monitoring setup, we were able to show the close relationship between sanitary infrastructure in rural areas and stream nutrient dynamics. Including point sources more closely into monitoring and analysis is essential to improve the process understanding.
Mycobacterial PstP impairs host RNA alternative splicing by dephosphorylation of spliceosome RBMX at S189
Authors: Liu Tianxian , Xu Jun‐Yu , Zhao Lei , Fan Yameng , Xie Shuyu , Ma Ke , Zhou Ying , Tan Minjia , Ye Bang‐Ce
Published: January 2025

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection significantly alters host cellular signaling and protein functions, facilitating immune evasion and intracellular survival. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions remain incompletely characterized. Here, we employed a multi‐omics strategy, including proteomics, phosphoproteomics, transcriptomics and interactomics, to investigate the impact of Mtb infection on host cellular processes. Our study revealed that mycobacteria modulate RNA alternative splicing in host cells by reducing the phosphorylation levels within the spliceosome complex. We identified the serine/threonine protein phosphatase (PstP) as a key effector, dephosphorylating the spliceosome RNA‐binding motif protein (RBMX) at the serine 189 site (S189). This modification influences the alternative splicing of PLA2G7, which encodes platelet‐activating factor acetylhydrolase, resulting an increase in the mRNA levels of a transcript containing exon9 (PLA2G7‐exon9+). Importantly, PLA2G7 isoform encoded by PLA2G7‐exon9+, in contrast to the isoform lacking exon9, acquires the ability to potentiate inflammatory responses. Collectively, our findings not only provide a comprehensive view of Mtb‐induced host regulatory networks but also elucidate a role for PstP in controlling a critical mediator of alterative splicing during infection.
Confronting the post‐truth phenomenon in literacy education: The need for a critical media epistemology
Authors: Lathrop Benjamin N.
Published: January 2025

The 2016 presidential election marked the beginning of a so‐called “post‐truth era” in which mis‐ and disinformation have contributed to political polarization and violence, the acceleration of global warming, and thousands of preventable deaths. In this paper, I draw on the results of a 2‐week, practitioner inquiry‐informed case study in an 11th‐grade English language arts (ELA) classroom situated in a small, conservative Midwest town to explore the affordances of integrating two theoretical frameworks, one rooted in media literacy and one in epistemic cognition, in planning and implementing a unit designed to support students' critical engagement with digital media texts related to climate change. The findings point to the need for a new framework that draws on insights from both sociocultural and cognitive approaches to literacy. Implications for classroom practice include the importance of teaching students how to evaluate their positionality using platforms they already engage, creating authentic epistemic environments, leading students in explorations of different ways of knowing, helping them understand knowledge systems and processes, and promoting epistemic virtues and autonomy.
Optimizing variables for contingency management among infant caregivers using a simulated purchase task
Authors: Day‐Watkins Jessica , Vladescu Jason C. , Reed Derek D. , Kaplan Brent , Graham Madison , Schnell‐Peskin Lauren K.
Published: January 2025

Behavioral economics offers a framework for understanding choice making around public health concerns such as drug use and distracted driving. Such a framework could be beneficial to understanding caregiver choices related to arranging an infant sleep environment. Nonadherence to infant sleep safety guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics increases the risk of sleep‐related infant deaths. The present study adopted a willingness‐to‐accept purchase task procedure, used in previous research to evaluate variables that predict abstaining from consuming alcohol, to evaluate intention to adhere to recommendations for arranging a safe infant sleep environment. This analysis would inform contingency management incentive scales used to measure caregiver adherence following training caregivers to arrange an infant sleep environment and identify variables that might predict treatment engagement. The results identified incentive sizes, condition duration, and participant variables that predict caregiver adherence. The results can be applied to future investigations that train caregivers to arrange an infant sleep environment.
Assessing the impacts of stakeholder involvement in long‐term agricultural experiments via a case study in the upper US Midwest
Authors: Guo Tian , Marquart‐Pyatt Sandra , Ulbrich Tayler , Doll Julie E. , Wilke Brook , Robertson G. Philip
Published: January 2025

Agricultural researchers are increasingly encouraged to engage with stakeholders to improve the usefulness of their projects, but iterative research on the design and assessment of stakeholder engagement is scarce. The USDA Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) Network recognizes the importance of effective engagement in increasing the utility of information and technologies for future agriculture. Diverse stakeholders and researchers at the Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) LTAR site co‐designed the KBS LTAR Aspirational Cropping System Experiment, a process that provides a testing ground and interdisciplinary collaborations to develop theory‐driven assessment protocols for continuous stakeholder engagement. Informed by prior work, we designed an assessment protocol that aims to measure participant preferences, experiences, and perceived benefits at various stages of this long‐term project. Two online surveys were conducted in 2021 and 2022 among participants of LTAR engagement events at KBS, using a pre‐post design, resulting in 125 total responses. Survey respondents had positive perceptions of the collaboratively designed research experiment. They had a strong expectation that the research would generate conservation and environmental advances while also informing policy and programs. Respondents also indicated a desire to network with other stakeholders. The research team noted the significant role of a long‐term stakeholder engagement specialist in inviting participants from diverse backgrounds and creating an open and engaging experience. Overall, results highlight an interdisciplinary path of intentional and iterative engagement and evaluation to build a program that is adaptive and responsive to stakeholder needs.
T3P‐Promoted Synthesis of a Series of Novel 3‐Aryl‐2‐phenyl‐2,3,5,6‐tetrahydro‐4H‐1,3‐thiazin‐4‐ones
Authors: Silverberg Lee J. , Mal Tapas , Lagalante Anthony , Olsen Mark , Fleming Michael , Garcia Tracy , Gavalis Aloura , Gonzalez Kyanna , Gregory Casey , Hackenberg Laine , Lawler Madeline , Li Eddie , Louca Evelyn , Mack Shaheem , Perhonitch Kristen , Shaffer Kelsey , Thompson Carter , Tran Sarah , Vidal Evan , Vidal Ryan
Published: January 2025

A series of 12 novel 3‐aryl‐2‐phenyl‐2,3,5,6‐tetrahydro‐4H‐1,3‐thiazin‐4‐ones was prepared at room temperature by T3P‐mediated cyclization of C‐phenyl‐N‐aryl imines with 3‐mercaptopropionic acid. Both electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating substituents were used. All substituents were successful, including p‐nitro. Some reactions were run as 3‐component reactions, forming the imine in situ. The reactions were operationally simple and gave yields as high as 79%. An example was also done where a p‐nitro group was on both the C‐aryl and the N‐aryl. This provides ready access to N‐aryl compounds in this family, which have been generally difficult to prepare.
Visualizing Preosteoarthritis: Updates on UTE‐Based Compositional MRI and Deep Learning Algorithms
Authors: Sun Dong , Wu Gang , Zhang Wei , Gharaibeh Nadeer M. , Li Xiaoming
Published: January 2025

Osteoarthritis (OA) is heterogeneous and involves structural changes in the whole joint, such as cartilage, meniscus/labrum, ligaments, and tendons, mainly with short T2 relaxation times. Detecting OA before the onset of irreversible changes is crucial for early proactive management and limit growing disease burden. The more recent advanced quantitative imaging techniques and deep learning (DL) algorithms in musculoskeletal imaging have shown great potential for visualizing “pre‐OA.” In this review, we first focus on ultrashort echo time‐based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for direct visualization as well as quantitative morphological and compositional assessment of both short‐ and long‐T2 musculoskeletal tissues, and second explore how DL revolutionize the way of MRI analysis (eg, automatic tissue segmentation and extraction of quantitative image biomarkers) and the classification, prediction, and management of OA.

Plain Language Summary

Detecting osteoarthritis (OA) before the onset of irreversible changes is crucial for early proactive management. OA is heterogeneous and involves structural changes in the whole joint, such as cartilage, meniscus/labrum, ligaments, and tendons, mainly with short T2 relaxation times. Ultrashort echo time‐based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in particular, enables direct visualization and quantitative compositional assessment of short‐T2 tissues. Deep learning is revolutionizing the way of MRI analysis (eg, automatic tissue segmentation and extraction of quantitative image biomarkers) and the detection, classification, and prediction of disease. They together have made further advances toward identification of imaging biomarkers/features for pre‐OA.

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Assessing Precipitation Trends Between 1960 and 2021 Using Multiple Trend Indexes in the GOIÁS State and Federal District, Brazil
Authors: Battisti Rafael , Dapper Felipe Puff , da Silva Ayramanna Carlos Souza , Mesquita Marcio , da Silva Marcos Vinícius , Andrade Rafaella Resende , Lopes Arthur Gabriel Caldas
Published: January 2025

Climate change is reshaping the global climate patterns with varying effects, necessitating a thorough analysis of historical precipitation trends. This study aimed to assess precipitation trends over 60 years in Goiás State and the Federal District of Brazil using data from 21 precipitation gauges maintained by the National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency of Brazil. The Mann–Kendall test was applied to evaluate the precipitation trend significance (α = 5%) from 1960 to 2021, and Sen's slope was applied for trend magnitude. The Standardised Anomaly Index (SAI), Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) and Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) were used. The region had a mean (max‐min) annual precipitation of 1462 (2007–915) mm, concentrated between October and April. The Mann–Kendall test showed that 76% of sites had a significant reduction in rainfall, with Sen's slope reaching −60.42 mm decade−1. Only Goiânia showed a positive trend of 1.15 mm decade−1, but with no significant trend at 5% by the Mann–Kendall test. The results indicate that precipitation decreases in September, October and spring. The RAI and SAI highlighted rainfall reduction in October, moving to drier classes, whereas the other months remained stable. The SPI showed a decreasing trend at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months, whereas no significant trend was observed at 1 month. The SPI for 12 and 24 months showed intensification of drier classes in the recent period (2011–2021). The results indicated consistent rainfall reduction over the region, mainly in September, October and summer. Furthermore, the SPI indicated meteorological droughts of low intensity and increased hydrological droughts. This has wide‐ranging implications, particularly for groundwater reservoirs, affecting urban areas, hydroelectric power generation and irrigation systems, increasing conflict and requiring an urgent plan for water use.
Diagnostic Performance of O‐RADS US (Version 2019 and Version 2022) Incorporating Acoustic Shadowing by Junior Radiologists
Authors: Wu CuiYi , Wu LiHong , Shang JianHong , Xie HongNing , Peng Ruan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Acoustic shadowing is an important benign ultrasound (US) feature for adnexal masses (AMs). To validate the diagnostic performance and interobserver agreement of the 2019 version and 2022 version of Ovarian‐Adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O‐RADS US) and ascertain whether adding acoustic shadowing to O‐RADS US v2019 as a benign ultrasound feature can enhance its diagnostic efficacy among junior radiologist.

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive women with suspected adnexal masses who underwent ultrasound examinations between September 2022 and January 2024. One junior doctor (Reader 1, 2 years of experience) classified each AM according to the O‐RADS US v2019 and the v2022. Lesions were reclassified according to the US features of acoustic shadowing based on the O‐RADS US v2019: the O‐RADS category was downgraded by one level with acoustic shadowing and remained unchanged without acoustic shadowing for categories 2–5. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the two versions of O‐RADS and the modified O‐RADS model. Two independent junior radiologists (Reader 1 and Reader 2 with 3 years of experience) then classified the 200 AMs randomly selected for a test–retest analysis. Kappa (к) statistics were used to assess the interobserver agreement.

Results

Overall, 1015 women (range, 16–86 years) with 1061 AMs were evaluated. Of the lesions, 864 (81.4%) were benign and 197 (18.6%) were malignant. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for O‐RADS v2019 and v2022 were 0.920 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.902, 0.936, P < .001) and 0.924 (95% CI: 0.906, 0.939, P < .001), respectively. The modified model based on O‐RADS v2019 incorporating acoustic shadowing as a benign US feature showed an improved AUC of 0.934 (95% CI: 0.917, 0.948, P < .001). A significant difference was observed between the AUCs of the modified O‐RADS and two versions of O‐RADS models (P < .005). The inclusion of acoustic shadowing increased specificity by 5.4% in predicting malignant adnexal masses, compared with the O‐RADS US v2019 with a specificity of 76.2%. Using the modified O‐RADS category 4 as the optimal cut‐off value for predicting malignancy showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 94.4% (95% CI: 90.2%, 97.2%), 81.6% (95% CI: 78.8%, 84.1%), 53.9% (95% CI: 50.3%, 57.5%), and 98.5% (95% CI: 97.3%, 99.1%), respectively. The inter‐observer agreement in the O‐RADS category between these two junior radiologists was good (κ = 0.74, P < .001).

Conclusion

We validated the excellent performance of the Ovarian‐Adnexal Reporting and Data system Ultrasound for diagnosing adnexal masses, and the inclusion of acoustic shadowing increased specificity by 5.4% in predicting malignant adnexal masses, compared with the O‐RADS US v2019 with the specificity of 76.2%.
Fractional CO2 Laser and Minoxidil in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata, A Comparative Study
Authors: Elhawary Esraa Elsayed , Abdelnaby Naeim Mohamed , Rezk Ghada Fawzy , Qandil Asmaa Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the hair follicles and sometimes the nails. It usually presents as a single or multiple patches of hair loss on the scalp, but any hair‐bearing skin can be involved. AA treatment depends on the severity and extent of the disease.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of combined fractional CO2 (FCO2) laser with topical minoxidil 5% solution versus topical minoxidil 5% solution alone in the treatment of AA.

Patients and Methods

The study included 150 patients with AA. The patients were collected from outpatient clinics of the Dermatology and Venerology Department, Tanta University Hospitals. Patients were divided into three groups; 60 patients were treated with topical minoxidil 5% solution, 60 patients were treated with FCO2 laser combined with topical minoxidil 5% solution, and the third group of 30 patients represented the control group treated with topical saline.

Results

Compared to the placebo group, there was a statistically significant improvement in hair growth in the combination group and minoxidil group. In the combination group, 80% of patients showed excellent improvement, 13.3% of patients showed very good improvement, and 6.7% of patients showed good improvement. In the minoxidil group, 53% of patients showed excellent improvement, 40% of patients showed very good improvement, and 6.7% of patients showed good improvement after 3 months of therapy. Side effects were minimal and transient in both groups.

Conclusion

Topical minoxidil 5% solution either alone or in combination with FCO2 laser could be considered a safe and tolerable method for AA treatment.
First Clinical Feasibility and Safety Study of a Novel Multimodality Fallopian Tube Imaging Endoscope
Authors: Rocha Andrew D. , Long Dilara J. , Drake William K. , Galvez Dominique B. , Rice Photini F. , Reed Mary N. , Heusinkveld John M. , Barton Jennifer K.
Published: January 2025

Study Objective

We present the results of the first feasibility and safety study of a novel multi‐modality falloposcope, in 19 volunteers. The falloposcope incorporated multispectral fluorescence imaging (MFI) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) for evaluation of the fallopian tubes (FT).

Methods

Nineteen females undergoing elective salpingectomy were recruited in this IRB‐approved study. During a 15‐min pause in standard of care surgery, a novel falloposcope was inserted under hysteroscopic guidance and advanced into the FTs. The furthest cannulated segment (proximal, middle, distal) was noted, and acquisition of MFI and OCT images was attempted at each segment in a retrograde fashion. Surgical discard samples from each segment of both FTs were obtained per pathology discretion for ex vivo imaging. All samples were processed for histology to evaluate any device‐related injury.

Results

The falloposcope was inserted into the FTs of 12 patients and successfully cannulated the entire length of the tube to the distal segment in one‐third (4/12) of attempts. OCT and/or MFI images were obtained of all but one cannulated FT. Cannulation failure was attributed to proximal anatomy or obstruction, tortuosity of the FT, and limited study time. There were no adverse events related to the falloposcopy procedure. Focal epithelial cell denudation in the proximal segments of three patients, without no stromal involvement, was observed by histological examination. OCT images acquired in vivo showed characteristic tissue microstructures but were more susceptible to artifacts compared to ex vivo images.

Conclusions

The results of this first‐in‐human study suggest that falloposcopy with a novel multimodality imaging endoscope is feasible and safe. Future procedural and design modifications will be implemented to improve image quality and cannulation success rates.
Safety and Effectiveness of a New 532 nm, Long Pulse‐Duration, Variable Pulse Structure Laser for Treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte
Authors: Bernstein Eric F. , Wang Jennifer , Eason Chelsea
Published: January 2025

Background

Poikiloderma of Civatte is a benign skin condition characterized by reticulate erythema and hyperpigmentation in sun‐exposed areas, predominantly on the neck, cheeks, and chest. Chronic UV exposure leads to vascular proliferation and red cell extravasation resulting in hemosiderin and melanin deposition. While many light‐based modalities have been utilized to treat the disorder, the significant vascularity makes it ideally suited for treatment with vascular lasers.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new, long‐pulse‐duration, Nd:YAG laser incorporating a KTP frequency‐doubling crystal and cryogen spray cooling for the treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte.

Methods

Twenty subjects with neck and/or chest redness were enrolled in this study and treated using the 532 nm wavelength to treat neck and chest redness. Four treatments were administered at monthly intervals and pre‐ and 2‐month posttreatment images were obtained. Images were randomized and evaluated by three physician evaluators for degree of improvement.

Results

Average improvement 2‐months posttreatment were 74.1 ± 20.2% and 68.4 ± 20.5% for the neck and chest, respectively (p < 0.0001). Side effects were minimal and limited to posttreatment erythema, edema, and purpura.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that this new long pulse‐duration, Nd:YAG laser incorporating a KTP frequency‐doubling crystal using the 532 nm wavelength is safe and effective for the treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte.
Effect of a Wrist Harmonic Liquid Tremor Absorber‐Damping on the Upper Extremity Essential Tremor
Authors: Tarlacı Sultan , Doğan Furkan
Published: January 2025

Background

Essential tremor (ET) is a common type of tremor. Previous research has shown that wearable orthoses and biomechanical loading methods can suppress tremors.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the effect of a harmonic liquid dampener on upper extremity ET.

Methods

The study involved 9 women and 5 men from a neurology outpatient clinic. A 285‐g liquid‐based harmonic dampening wristband was used. Tremors were recorded from the wrist along the x‐y‐z axes using a vibrometer, and the Bain–Findley Rating Scale (BFRS) was employed for assessment.

Results

BFRS scores significantly improved after the wristband was used (mean difference 35.64, P = 0.001, Cohen's d effect size =2.979). The tremor amplitude decreased significantly along the x‐axis (Cohen's d: 1.35, P = 0.001), y‐axis (Cohen's d: 3.232, P = 0.001), and z‐axis (Cohen's d: 3.321, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

The liquid‐filled harmonic dampening wristband shows promise as a new, effective treatment option for ET patients. © 2025 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Global principles call for for dedicated crisis BH responses
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2025

Transforming behavioral health crises response around the world for individuals experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis and doing so with dignity and engagement represent the cornerstone of newly developed Global Crisis Care Principles released by health leaders and stakeholders Jan. 6.
Readers share crisis care, youth MH, post‐election concerns
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2025

Editor's note: Mental Health Weekly readers continue to weigh in on some of the challenges and opportunities that await them in 2025. Here are more of their comments.
Hardy‐Type p$$ p $$‐Laplacian Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Nyamoradi Nemat , Vanterler da C. Sousa J.
Published: January 2025

In this work, we study the existence and nonexistence of solutions to fractional Dirichlet boundary value problems with ‐Hilfer fractional derivatives, ‐Laplacian, and Hardy‐type singularity term using variational methods.
Smooth Solution in an N$$ N $$‐Dimensional Chemotaxis Model With Intraguild Predation
Authors: Pu Liqiong , Tang Haotian , Zheng Jiashan
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider a reaction–diffusion intraguild predation model with chemotaxis
which describes the combined effects of competition and predation in a three‐component ecosystem. Here, is a bounded domain with smooth boundary and is a positive constant. Under homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions, we proved that if , this system admits a global classical solution which is bounded for any sufficiently smooth initial data. Notably, our result extends the 1‐D global existence result (see Remark 1.1).
Geophysical imaging of the subsurface seismic structure of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir earth embankment dam (Massachusetts)
Authors: Maniscalco Steven J. , Ebel John E.
Published: January 2025

Degradation within a manmade earth embankment structure is often unobservable from the surface. In order to evaluate the structural integrity of earth embankment levees and dams and identify subsurface zones of weakness that may result in the future failures of such structures, various geophysical methods have been proposed as effective subsurface imaging tools. This study presents the results of using the horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) of seismic noise, seismic refraction analysis and multi‐channel analysis of seismic surface waves (MASW) to estimate subsurface seismic structures for the Chestnut Hill Reservoir earth embankment dam in Chestnut Hill, MA. The HVSR method is used to estimate site fundamental frequency from ambient seismic noise recordings. The fundamental frequency () at a site can be used to estimate depth to bedrock with a known/estimated surface shear‐wave velocity. The MASW and seismic refraction analysis methods are used to estimate seismic velocity structures from seismic refraction lines with active sources. The depth‐to‐bedrock estimates from the seismic refraction analysis and MASW performed in this study confirm that the HVSR method is able to effectively estimate depth to bedrock at sites atop an earth embankment. The MASW was found to resolve a low‐velocity zone in the subsurface seismic structure at the Chestnut Hill Reservoir embankment that the seismic refraction method was unable to image, and this low‐velocity zone is required to best fit a theoretical HVSR to an observed spectrum. Furthermore, the variation and uncertainty in fundamental frequency estimation were quantified by making repeated HVSR measurements at the reservoir embankment.