bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient‐reported outcome measures in adult HIV care: A rapid scoping review of targeted outcomes and instruments used
Authors: Engler Kim , Avallone Francesco , Cadri Abdul , Lebouché Bertrand
Published: January 2024

Objective

There is international interest in the integration of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) into routine HIV care, but little work has synthesized the content of published initiatives. We conducted a rapid scoping review primarily to identify their selected patient‐reported outcomes and respective instruments.

Methods

Four databases were searched on 4 May 2022 (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and PsychINFO) for relevant English language documents published from 2005 onwards. Dual review of at least 20% of records, full texts and data extraction was performed. Outcomes and instruments were classified with an adapted 14‐domain taxonomy. Instruments with evidence of validation were described.

Results

Of 13 062 records generated for review, we retained a final sample of 94 documents, referring to 60 distinct initiatives led mostly in the USA (n = 29; 48% of initiatives), Europe (n = 16; 27%) and Africa (n = 9; 15%). The measured patient‐reported outcome domains were: mental health (n = 42; 70%), substance use (n = 23; 38%), self‐management (n = 16; 27%), symptoms (n = 12; 20%), sexual/reproductive health (n = 12; 20%), physical health (n = 9; 15%), treatment (n= 8; 13%), cognition (n = 7; 12%), quality of life (n = 7; 12%), violence/abuse (n = 6; 10%), stigma (n = 6; 10%), socioeconomic issues (n = 5; 8%), social support (n = 3; 5%) and body/facial appearance (n = 1; 2%). Initiatives measured 2.6 outcome domains, on average (range = 1–11). In total, 62 distinct validated PROMs were identified, with 53 initiatives (88%) employing at least one (M = 2.2). Overwhelmingly, the most used instrument was any version of the Patient Health Questionnaire to measure symptoms of depression, employed by over a third (26; 43%) of initiatives.

Conclusion

Published PROM initiatives in HIV care have spanned 19 countries and disproportionately target mental health and substance use.
Use of clinical biological tests of haemostasis to evaluate topical haemostatics
Authors: Nativel Fabien , Tollec Sophie , Sellal Kamel‐Olivier , Trossaërt Marc , Grimandi Gaël
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In addition to traditional means, topical haemostatics are currently used to avoid haemorrhage during surgery. Although they have been reported to be effective, there is a low level of proof of their clinical efficacy, which is at odds with their levels of use. This study used two methods to better understand their in vitro mechanism of action.

Methods

Two clinical biology assays were used to measure the action of topical haemostatics on primary and secondary haemostasis. Calibrated samples of collagen sponges and polypropylene non‐woven gauze were tested. Platelet aggregation was assessed using a multichannel aggregometer. A thrombin generation assay (TGA) was used with a fluorogenic readout. Tissue factor solutions were used to activate coagulation.

Results

In terms of primary haemostasis, collagen sponges stimulated platelet aggregation, in particular between 2 and 5 min after incubation with platelet‐rich plasma and with no dose effect. In regard to coagulation, the kinetics of thrombin generation was enhanced. Polypropylene non‐woven gauze did not exhibit any effect on platelet aggregation, although it did have a weak effect on the kinetics of thrombin generation.

Conclusion

Collagen is well known to exert a haemostatic effect due to its action on platelet aggregation. By contrast, polypropylene non‐woven gauze has not been shown to have any effect on platelet aggregation other than a minor impact on thrombin generation. The results obtained with the devices tested are in agreement with the literature. Platelet aggregation biological assays and TGA measurements appear to be suitable for evaluation of these medical products.
Fabrication of vanadium telluride anchored on carbon nanotubes nanocomposite for overall water splitting
Authors: Bano Nigarish , Manzoor Sumaira , Sami Abdus , Shah Syed Imran Abbas , Junaid Ali , Rehman Muhammad Yousaf Ur , Alshgari Razan A. , Ehsan Muhammad Fahad , Ashiq Muhammad Naeem
Published: January 2024

Electrocatalytic water splitting is an essential hydrogen production method for resolving present energy shortage and progress toward more efficient technologies. For this purpose, a versatile and cheap electrocatalysts are the main challenge along the way. In this report, we synthesized vanadium telluride and carbon nanotube (VTe–CNT)‐based nanocomposite via facile hydrothermal route. The VTe–CNTs are characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller. These characterizations depict nanosphere structures, morphology, and high surface area that maintains high porosity, which are essential for inclusive water‐splitting phenomena in 1.0 M solution of KOH. Additionally, the electrochemical performance of VTe–CNTs has shown best O2 evolution reactions activity with of onset potential of 1.42 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode and required 10 mA/cm2 of current density at 278 mV overpotential, which is excellent among other electrocatalysts, VTe (342 mV@10 mA/cm−2) and CNTs (365 mV@10mA/cm−2). Moreover, VTe–CNT exhibits remarkable stability for almost 20 h. It also requires a low onset potential of 0.05 V with a small Tafel slope of 47 mV/dec for H2 evolution reactions. Hence, this research might facilitate the easy transportation of electrons and open up the new era, serving as an excellent replacement for noble metal–derived materials.
X‐ray‐activated super long persistent ultraviolet A luminescence from Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+
Authors: Wang Shuya , Sun Wenzhi , Zhao Tingting , Fu Chunqing , Fu Xiaoyan , Zhang Hongwu
Published: January 2024

In this paper, X‐ray‐activated super long persistent ultraviolet A luminescence from Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+ has been observed. The crystal structure analysis has shown that the as‐prepared samples are pure β‐Ca3(PO4)2 phases with rhombohedral structure and R3c space group. The photoluminescent spectra of the samples all consist of a broad band in 340–400 nm UVA1 region, which is assigned to the 5d1–4f1 electronic transition of Ce3+ ions. More important, under the 3 min X‐ray irradiation, Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+ show super long persistent luminescence in the UVA1 region, which can persist for more than 16 h. And its afterglow intensity after 16 h decay is still 4.10 times stronger of the back ground intensity. Furthermore, only 10 s X‐ray irradiation can induce excellent long persistent UVA luminescence of Ca3(PO4)2: 0.08Ce3+, which can persist for more than 5 h and afterglow emission intensity is about 3.03 times of the background intensity. The trap analysis has confirmed that the different X‐ray irradiation time do not create new traps and there is the same trap with 0.75 eV trap depth existing even under the extremely low X‐ray dose (10 s X‐ray irradiation). Furthermore, under 10 s X‐ray irradiation, the thermoluminescence (TL) intensity of Ca3(PO4)2: 0.08Ce3+ still reaches 0.32 times of the initial TL intensity even after 120 min, which thus leads to the super long persistent luminescence. Thus, the large amounts of trapped electrons induced by the high energy X‐ray irradiation are the principal cause for super long persistent UVA luminescence of Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+.
Predictors of first pass isolation of the pulmonary veins in real world ablations: An analysis of 2671 patients from the REAL‐AF registry
Authors: Kreidieh Omar , Hunter Tina D. , Goyal Sandeep , Varley Allyson L. , Thorne Christopher , Osorio Jose , Silverstein Josh , Varosy Paul , Metzl Mark , Leyton‐Mange Jordan , Singh David , Rajendra Anil , Moretta Antonio , Zei Paul C. ,   Investigators of the REAL AF registry
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During atrial fibrillation ablation (AFA), achievement of first pass isolation (FPI) reflects effective lesion formation and predicts long‐term freedom from arrhythmia recurrence. We aim to determine the clinical and procedural predictors of pulmonary vein FPI.

Methods

We reviewed AFA procedures in a multicenter prospective registry of AFA (REAL‐AF). A multivariate ordinal logistic regression, weighted by inverse proceduralist volume, was used to determine predictors of FPI.

Results

A total of 2671 patients were included with 1806 achieving FPI in both vein sides, 702 achieving FPI in one, and 163 having no FPI. Individually, age, left atrial (LA) scar, higher power usage (50 W), greater posterior contact force, ablation index >350 posteriorly, Vizigo™ sheath utilization, nonstandard ventilation, and high operator volume (>6 monthly cases) were all related to improved odds of FPI. Conversely sleep apnea, elevated body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, LA enlargement, antiarrhythmic drug use, and center's higher fluoroscopy use were related to reduced odds of FPI. Multivariate analysis showed that BMI > 30 (OR 0.78 [0.64–0.96]) and LA volume (OR per mL increase = 1.00 [0.99–1.00]) predicted lower odds of achieving FPI, whereas significant left atrial scarring (>20%) was related to higher rates of FPI. Procedurally, the use of high power (50 W) (OR 1.32 [1.05–1.65]), increasing force posteriorly (OR 2.03 [1.19–3.46]), and nonstandard ventilation (OR 1.26 [1.00–1.59]) predicted higher FPI rates. At a site level, high procedural volume (OR 1.89 [1.48–2.41]) and low fluoroscopy centers (OR 0.72 [0.61–0.84]) had higher rates of FPI.

Conclusion

FPI rates are affected by operator experience, patient comorbidities, and procedural strategies. These factors may be postulated to impact acute lesion formation.
CLOSE protocol versus lower ablation index value for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: A randomized noninferior clinical trial
Authors: Zeng Lijun , Chen Shi , Zeng Rui , Hu Hongde , Yang Qing , Cui Kaijun , Chen Qingyong , Fu Hua , Pu Xiaobo
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The optimized ablation index (AI) value for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains to be defined. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of CLOSE protocol and lower AI protocol in paroxysmal AF.

Methods and Results

Patients with symptomatic, drug‐resistant paroxysmal AF for first ablation were prospectively enrolled from September 2020 to January 2022. The patients were randomly divided into CLOSE group (AI ≥ 550 for anterior/roof segments and ≥400 for posterior/inferior segments) and lower AI group (AI ≥ 450 for anterior/roof segments and ≥350 for posterior/inferior segments). First‐pass isolation, acute pulmonary vein (PV) reconnections, 1‐year arrhythmia recurrence, and major complications were assessed. Of the 270 enrolled patients, 238 completed 1‐year follow‐up (118 in CLOSE group and 120 in lower AI group). First‐pass isolation in left PVs was higher in CLOSE group (71.2% vs. 53.3%, p = .005). Acute PV reconnections were comparable between groups (9.3% vs. 14.2%, p = .246). At 1 year, 86.4% in CLOSE group versus 81.7% in lower AI group were free from atrial arrhythmia (log rank p = .334). The proportion difference was −4.8% (95% CI: −14.1% to 4.6%), and p = .475 for noninferiority. Stroke occurred in four patients of lower AI group, and no cardiac tamponade, atrioesophageal fistula, major bleeding or death occurred post procedure.

Conclusion

For patients with paroxysmal AF and treated by AI‐guided PV ablation, lower AI is not noninferior to CLOSE protocol.
Development and characterization of brain cell line from Trachinotus blochii and its application in virological and gene expression studies
Authors: Nafeez Ahmed A. , Mithra S. , Suryakodi S. , Taju G. , Abdul Wazith M. J. , Kanimozhi K. , Rajkumar V. , Badhusha A. , Abdul Majeed S. , Sahul Hameed A. S.
Published: January 2024

A permanent cell line, SPB (Snubnose pompano brain) was established from Trachinotus blochii by the explant culture method. It has been sub‐cultured more than 75 passages and showed optimal growth at 28°C using L‐15 medium supplemented with 15% to 20% FBS. The SPB cells were cryopreserved at different passage levels for various applications. SPB cells were composed of fibroblastic and epithelial‐like cells. The SPB cells were tested for mycoplasma contamination which was found to be negative. The origin of the SPB cell line from T. blochii was confirmed by amplification of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene. The transfection efficiency of SPB cell line is 15% assessed by expression of green fluorescent protein using pEGFP‐N1 plasmid. In addition, two CMV promotor plasmids pFNCPE42‐DNA and pcDNAVP28 were transfected to SPB cells and it shows high expression levels of FNCP of fish nodavirus and VP28 protein of white spot syndrome virus by immunostaining. The SPB cells showed susceptibility to SJNNV and the infection was confirmed by RT‐PCR, Western blot, ELISA, TCID50 and RT‐qPCR. Experimental infection was carried out in T. blochii using SJNNV propagated in SPB cell line and found 100% mortality with clinical signs. The infection was confirmed by RT‐PCR. The SPB cell line can be used for propagation of fish viral pathogens and production of the recombinant proteins.
MdbHLH162 connects the gibberellin and jasmonic acid signals to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple
Authors: An Jian‐Ping , Xu Rui‐Rui , Wang Xiao‐Na , Zhang Xiao‐Wei , You Chun‐Xiang , Han Yuepeng
Published: January 2024

Anthocyanins are secondary metabolites induced by environmental stimuli and developmental signals. The positive regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis have been reported, whereas the anthocyanin repressors have been neglected. Although the signal transduction pathways of gibberellin (GA) and jasmonic acid (JA) and their regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis have been investigated, the cross‐talk between GA and JA and the antagonistic mechanism of regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis remain to be investigated. In this study, we identified the anthocyanin repressor MdbHLH162 in apple and revealed its molecular mechanism of regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis by integrating the GA and JA signals. MdbHLH162 exerted passive repression by interacting with MdbHLH3 and MdbHLH33, which are two recognized positive regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis. MdbHLH162 negatively regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis by disrupting the formation of the anthocyanin‐activated MdMYB1‐MdbHLH3/33 complexes and weakening transcriptional activation of the anthocyanin biosynthetic genes MdDFR and MdUF3GT by MdbHLH3 and MdbHLH33. The GA repressor MdRGL2a antagonized MdbHLH162‐mediated inhibition of anthocyanins by sequestering MdbHLH162 from the MdbHLH162‐MdbHLH3/33 complex. The JA repressors MdJAZ1 and MdJAZ2 interfered with the antagonistic regulation of MdbHLH162 by MdRGL2a by titrating the formation of the MdRGL2a‐MdbHLH162 complex. Our findings reveal that MdbHLH162 integrates the GA and JA signals to negatively regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis. This study provides new information for discovering more anthocyanin biosynthesis repressors and explores the cross‐talk between hormone signals.
Variation in the sacrum of phytosaurs: New evidence from a partial skeleton of Machaeroprosopus mccauleyi
Authors: LePore Caleb N. , McLain Matthew A.
Published: January 2024

Phytosaurs are a group of Upper Triassic semi‐aquatic archosauriform reptiles. Their variable skull morphology forms the foundation of our understanding of their relationships and paleoecology, while only a few studies have focused on demonstrating the existence of postcranial variation. The numbers of vertebrae in the sacrum are thought to vary from two, the plesiomorphic condition for archosauriforms, to three, with the addition of a sacralized dorsal (i.e., dorsosacral) vertebra. In this study, we demonstrate the presence of a sacralized first caudal (i.e., caudosacral) vertebra in a sacrum belonging to Machaeroprosopus mccauleyi. We rule out taphonomic distortion or pathology as explanations for the inclusion of this element in the sacrum, suggesting instead that it occurred through modifications of the same developmental processes that likely produced dorsosacral vertebrae in phytosaurs. Additionally, we show that a dorsosacral vertebra is common in phytosaur specimens from the Chinle Formation and Dockum Group of the southwestern United States and suggest that it may be widespread among phytosaurs. The addition of sacral vertebrae potentially aided adaptation to larger body sizes or more terrestrial lifestyles in certain taxa.
Trait–growth relationships in Colombian tropical dry forests: Incorporating intraspecific variation and trait interactions
Authors: Rodríguez‐Alarcón Slendy , González‐M Roy , Carmona Carlos P. , Tordoni Enrico
Published: January 2024

Question

Trait‐based ecology is built on the notion that traits impact individual performance, but trait–growth relationships have rarely been tested considering the intraspecific variation, trait interactions, and potential nonlinearity in these relationships.

Location

Seven tropical dry forests throughout Colombia.

Methods

We examined trait–growth relationships in 263 woody species of tropical dry forests in Colombia, including trait and growth information measured in the same individuals. We measured height, stem, and leaf traits related to growth and hydraulic safety–efficiency in 967 individuals in seven permanent plots (1 ha). We assessed trait–growth relationships using random forest models for each plot with different trait resolutions (individual, plot, area) and complexity of trait interactions (low, medium, high).

Results

Trait–growth relationships were generally weak without significant differences among trait resolutions or levels of interactions between traits. However, when considering leaf phenology, the proportion of growth variation explained in deciduous species was almost three times higher than in evergreen species. Finally, we found that the effect of traits on growth was consistent across plots and phenological strategies, with both stem (vessel area and pit diameter aperture) and leaf (leaf area and specific leaf area) traits ranked as important predictors, the relevance of which depended on the species’ leaf phenology.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that growth is probably limited by different factors depending on the species’ physiology according to the leaf habit considered. However, other factors not included in the analysis, such as microenvironmental variability, might influence trait–growth relationships in tropical dry forests. Overall, our results suggest that a trait coordination approach at the whole‐plant level is needed to better understand plants’ performance and demographic rates in this ecosystem. Further studies on the traits of regional flora and consideration of longer growth periods would help to elucidate the dynamics governing trait composition in these forests, which is essential for the design of adequate forest restoration and conservation practices.
Prospective study of nasal growth in bilateral cleft lip and palate patients after naso‐alveolar moulding and primary columella lengthening compared to controls at 5, 10 and 20 years
Authors: Meazzini Maria Costanza , Demonte Leonardo Paolo , Parravicini Francesca , Biglioli Federico , Autelitano Luca , Balbo Nicoletta
Published: January 2024

Introduction

A short columella, wide nostrils and a flat nasal tip are common features in patients with bilateral complete cleft lip and palate (BCLP). The objective of this study was to evaluate nasal morphology during growth in patients treated with naso‐alveolar moulding (NAM) and primary surgical columella lengthening (PCL) compared with matched non‐cleft individuals.

Study Design

Prospective longitudinal case‐control study.

Participants and Methods

Thirty‐four consecutively treated BCLP patients at 5 and 10 years and at the end of growth (19.7 ± 2.0 years) were compared through normalized photogrammetry to a control of 34 age and sex‐matched non‐cleft individuals. Regression Models for Panel Data assessed how nasal measurements were influenced by surgery, age and gender.

Results

Nasal protrusion was equal to non‐cleft controls at all ages. Length of the columella was also comparable to controls at 5 and 10 years, but significantly shorter at the end of growth. Inter‐alar and nasal tip width and nasolabial angle were significantly wider than controls at all ages: More than 60% of the patients have asked for correction of the nasal width, but no early surgery for columella lengthening was needed.

Conclusions

NAM and PCL have provided a nasal projection close to that of non‐cleft individuals until adulthood, while length of the columella was physiological at 5 and 10, but shorter than controls at age 20. Width of the nasal tip and width of the alar bases were significantly wider than the controls and eventually required secondary nasal width correction in over two thirds of the sample.
‘I felt like I'd lost control of everything’: An exploration of metacognition and masculinity in men experiencing suicidality
Authors: Orson Jonothan , Pearson Lydia , Parker Sophie
Published: January 2024

Background

Seventy‐five per cent of UK suicides are completed by men, and associated masculinity beliefs are well researched. The self‐regulatory executive functioning (S‐REF) model of distress is governed by metacognitive beliefs about mental processes, such as worry and rumination. Little is known about metacognition in male suicidality and how these processes interact with masculinity beliefs, suicidal ideation and behaviour.

Aims

To identify which aspects of the S‐REF model were present in a sample of men experiencing suicidality, and to consider how these processes interact with masculinity beliefs, suicidal ideation and behaviour.

Method

Fifteen men experiencing suicidal ideation or behaviour were recruited from a home‐based treatment team. Semi‐structured interviews and self‐report measures were administered to identify metacognitive processes and masculinity beliefs. Interviews were analysed using the framework approach.

Results

The S‐REF model was identified across three super‐ordinate themes; ‘the cognitive attentional syndrome (CAS) and maladaptive coping’, ‘metacognitive beliefs about worry, uncontrollability and danger’ and ‘consequences’. Thirteen sub‐ordinate themes included processes such as ‘worry’ and ‘rumination’, metacognitive beliefs such as ‘worrying helps me avoid problems’ and ‘worry is dangerous for me’ and emotional consequences such as ‘overwhelm’, ‘emasculation’ and ‘escape’.

Conclusion

Perseverative thinking and erroneous metacognitive beliefs were associated with reduced functioning, which was incompatible with masculinity beliefs about leadership and strength, and suicide was considered as re‐establishing control. Further research into metacognitive processes in male suicidality would enhance theoretical understanding.
Income inequality among peers in China: Does internet penetration have a role?
Authors: Liu Yulin , Li Xiaomei , Fang Xin
Published: January 2024

In the Internet age, income inequality within peer groups has raised attention. We examine the effect of Internet penetration on peer income inequality and investigate whether the Internet penetration and peer income inequality relationship can be reinforced by human capital. Using a combination of macro and microdatabases of China over the period 2010–2018, we find that peer income inequality in China generally follows a downward trend from 2010. In addition, we show that Internet penetration significantly reduces peer income inequality. Internet penetration has a negative effect on peer income inequality among those under 40 years old, while the effect is reversed among those aged 40–60. Furthermore, human capital can reinforce the links between Internet penetration and peer income inequality. Our results confirm that a mixed indicator of Internet penetration and human capital investment should be part of an active economic policy aimed at reducing peer income inequality.
Interaction of T‐cell‐specific adapter protein with Src‐ and Tec‐family kinases
Authors: Huszenicza Zsuzsa , Gilmour Brian C. , Koll Lise , Kjelstrup Hanna , Chan Hanna , Sundvold Vibeke , Granum Stine , Spurkland Anne
Published: January 2024

Adapter proteins are flexible and dynamic modulators of cellular signalling that are important for immune cell function. One of these, the T‐cell‐specific adapter protein (TSAd), interacts with the non‐receptor tyrosine kinases Src and Lck of the Src family kinases (SFKs) and Itk of the Tec family kinases (TFKs). Three tyrosine residues in the TSAd C‐terminus are phosphorylated by Lck and serve as docking sites for the Src homology 2 (SH2) domains of Src and Lck. The TSAd proline‐rich region (PRR) binds to the Src homology 3 (SH3) domains found in Lck, Src and Itk. Despite known interactors, the role TSAd plays in cellular signalling remains largely unknown. TSAd's ability to bind both SFKs and TFKs may point to its function as a general scaffold for both kinase families. Using GST‐pulldown as well as peptide array experiments, we found that both the SH2 and SH3 domains of the SFKs Fyn and Hck, as well as the TFKs Tec and Txk, interact with TSAd. This contrasts with Itk, which interacts with TSAd only through its SH3 domain. Although our analysis showed that TSAd is both co‐expressed and may interact with Fyn, we were unable to co‐precipitate Fyn with TSAd from Jurkat cells, as detected by Western blotting and affinity purification mass spectrometry. This may suggest that TSAd‐Fyn interaction in intact cells may be limited by other factors, such as the subcellular localization of the two molecules or the co‐expression of competing binding partners.
Per‐step and cumulative load at three common running injury locations: The effect of speed, surface gradient, and cadence
Authors: Van Hooren Bas , van Rengs Lars , Meijer Kenneth
Published: January 2024

Understanding how loading and damage on common running injury locations changes across speeds, surface gradients, and step frequencies may inform training programs and help guide progression/rehabilitation after injuries. However, research investigating tissue loading and damage in running is limited and fragmented across different studies, thereby impairing comparison between conditions and injury locations. This study examined per‐step peak load and impulse, cumulative impulse, and cumulative weighted impulse (hereafter referred to as cumulative damage) on three common injury locations (patellofemoral joint, tibia, and Achilles tendon) across different speeds, surface gradients, and cadences. We also explored how cumulative damage in the different tissues changed across conditions relative to each other. Nineteen runners ran at five speeds (2.78, 3.0, 3.33, 4.0, 5.0 m s−1), and four gradients (−6, −3, +3, +6°), and three cadences (preferred, ±10 steps min−1) each at one speed. Patellofemoral, tibial, and Achilles tendon loading and damage were estimated from kinematic and kinetic data and compared between conditions using a linear mixed model. Increases in running speed increased patellofemoral cumulative damage, with nonsignificant increases for the tibia and Achilles tendon. Increases in cadence reduced damage to all tissues. Uphill running increased tibial and Achilles tendon, but decreased patellofemoral damage, while downhill running showed the reverse pattern. Per‐step and cumulative loading, and cumulative loading and cumulative damage indices diverged across conditions. Moreover, changes in running speed, surface gradient, and step frequency lead to disproportional changes in relative cumulative damage on different structures. Methodological and practical implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Tanshinone IIA, a component of the self‐made Xiao‐Yin decoction, ameliorates psoriasis by inhibiting IL‐17/IL‐23 and PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathways
Authors: Fu Lei , Li Meijiao , Wang Peng , Chen Lang , Huang Jianqiu , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory dermatological disorder. Tanshinone IIA (tan‐IIA) is a biologically active compound in the self‐made Xiao‐Yin decoction (SMXYD) and exhibits diverse biological properties, such as anti‐proliferative and anti‐inflammatory effects. The objective of this investigation was to assess the potential of tan‐IIA as a therapeutic agent against psoriasis.

Methods

Network pharmacology was employed to ascertain the active constituents and potential pathways associated with SMXYD and psoriasis. We conducted CCK‐8, qRT‐PCR, and western blotting to assess the proliferation of HaCaT keratinocytes and the expression of IL‐17/IL‐23 and PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathways. Additionally, we used H&E staining, western blotting, and ELISA to evaluate the therapeutic effects and signaling pathways of tan‐IIA in psoriasis‐like mice induced by imiquimod (IMQ).

Results

Network pharmacology analysis identified eight hub compounds. The Th17/IL‐17 signaling was found to be a potential therapeutic pathway of SMXYD against psoriasis, with JUN (AP‐1) as the core molecule. Next, PTGS2 was selected as the target of tan‐IIA against psoriasis using network pharmacology analysis. Molecular docking showed a high affinity between PTGS2 and tan‐IIA. Tan‐IIA treatment attenuated M‐5‐induced hyperproliferation and inflammation in HaCaT keratinocytes. Additionally, Tan‐IIA downregulated the PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathway in HaCaT keratinocytes. In the IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like mouse, tan‐IIA significantly reduced the severity of skin lesions and downregulated the PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathway. Moreover, the combination of methotrexate (MTX) and tan‐IIA further inhibited the IL‐17/IL‐23 and PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathways.

Conclusion

The administration of tan‐IIA has shown a positive effect on psoriasis by inhibiting the IL‐17/IL‐23 and PTGS2/NF‐κB/AP‐1 pathways. The findings suggest that it has promising qualities that make it a potential candidate for the development of future anti‐psoriatic agents.
First mitochondrial genome of Amblyomma triste Koch, 1844 (Acari: Ixodidae): Evidence for studying species within the A. maculatum group

Authors: Ossa-lópez Paula A. , Uribe Juan E. , Ramírez-chaves Héctor E. , Rivera-páez Fredy A.
Published: January 2024

The tick species that comprise the Amblyomma maculatum group (Acari: Ixodidae) are widely distributed in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, ranging from the United States of America (USA) to Argentina. This group includes three species: Amblyomma maculatum, Amblyomma tigrinum, and Amblyomma triste, which parasitize a high number of vertebrates, including domestic mammals and humans, where they are the main vectors of Rickettsia parkeri s.s. The identification, distribution, and validity of the three species within the group have been controversial and continue to raise questions. Previous studies have mostly focused on the analysis of partial nuclear and mitochondrial genes, highlighting the need for new integrative analyses that contribute to clarifying their systematics and ecology. In this investigation, we obtained the first mitochondrial genome of A. triste (14,808 bp), which, upon comparison with the reported mitochondrial genomes of A. maculatum, exhibits a genetic distance of 4.2%, providing new evidence for the validity of the former species. The order, composition, and structure of the mitogenome of A. triste are consistent with the characteristics reported for most Metastriata including taxa within Amblyomma, that count with several mitochondrial genomes published in the last few years. The attributes of the mitogenomes, such as the absence of paralogs and a small genome, confirm the utility in studies involving complexes of cryptic species as it also serves as a robust tool for inferring phylogenies. Furthermore, we reported new molecular markers at the mitochondrial level which can be used in phylogenetic studies for other tick species, especially those with controversial or challenging taxonomy. We highlight the need of sequencing the mitochondrial genome of A. tigrinum, which is part of the A. maculatum group, as well as experimental crosses of populations from different places in the Americas to obtain additional evidence for species recognition.
Carba PBP: a novel penicillin-binding protein-based lateral flow assay for rapid phenotypic detection of carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacterales
Authors: Lu Zhimin , Wang Xiaonan , Ma Licai , Dou Leina , Zhao Xiangjun , Tao Jin , Wang Yang , Wang Shaolin , Liu Dejun , Shen Yingbo , Yu Xuezhi , Yu Wenbo , Jia Liangxi , Wang Zhanhui , Shen Jianzhong , Wen Kai
Published: January 2024

This study successfully achieved the goal of carbapenemase activity detection with both high sensitivity and convenience, offering a convenient lateral flow assay for clinical diagnosis of carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacterales
.
Development and validation of a quick, automated, and reproducible ATR FT-IR spectroscopy machine-learning model for
Klebsiella pneumoniae
typing
Authors: Novais Ângela , Gonçalves Ana Beatriz , Ribeiro Teresa G. , Freitas Ana R. , Méndez Gema , Mancera Luis , Read Antónia , Alves Valquíria , López-Cerero Lorena , Rodríguez-Baño Jesús , Pascual Álvaro , Peixe Luísa
Published: January 2024

We created and validated an automated and simple workflow for the identification of clinically relevant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
lineages by FT-IR spectroscopy and machine-learning, a method that can be extremely useful to provide quick and reliable typing information to support real-time decisions of outbreak management and infection control. This method and workflow is of interest to support clinical microbiology diagnostics and to aid public health surveillance.
Rare case of haemoperitoneum secondary to a ruptured ovarian ectopic pregnancy superimposed by a bleeding corpus luteum cyst
Authors: Cheah Grace , Liu Jiayi
Published: January 2024

An adolescent female presented with an acute abdomen and elevated beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels and underwent a laparoscopy for a suspected ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Intraoperatively, a ruptured haemorrhagic corpus luteal cyst and tissues suggestive of products of conception were noted in the same ovary. Histology confirmed an ovarian ectopic pregnancy. Haemorrhagic ovarian cysts, and ectopic pregnancies, can cause acute pelvic pain in women of childbearing age. Their similar clinical signs and symptoms pose a diagnostic dilemma for any gynaecologist. Ruptured corpus luteal cysts, as well as ruptured ovarian ectopic pregnancies, should be considered rare but differential diagnoses in women presenting with acute abdominal pain, an adnexal mass and ultrasound features of haemoperitoneum. The mainstay of treatment is a diagnostic laparoscopy, which is a safe and feasible management strategy without compromising patient safety or ovarian function in the long run.
Comparative effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists on glycaemic control, body weight, and lipid profile for type 2 diabetes: systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Haiqiang , Zhang Anqi , Li Delong , Wu Yuqi , Wang Chong-Zhi , Wan Jin-Yi , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) on glycaemic control, body weight, and lipid profile in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Embase from database inception to 19 August 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Eligible randomised controlled trials enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes who received GLP-1RA treatments and compared effects with placebo or any GLP-1RA drug, with a follow-up duration of at least 12 weeks. Trials with a crossover design, non-inferiority studies comparing GLP-1RA and other drug classes without a placebo group, using withdrawn drugs, and non-English studies were deemed ineligible.

Results

76 eligible trials involving 15 GLP-1RA drugs and 39 246 participants were included in this network meta-analysis; all subsequent estimates refer to the comparison with placebo. All 15 GLP-1RAs effectively lowered haemoglobin A
1c
and fasting plasma glucose concentrations. Tirzepatide induced the largest reduction of haemoglobin A
1c
concentrations (mean difference −2.10% (95% confidence interval −2.47% to −1.74%), surface under the cumulative ranking curve 94.2%; high confidence of evidence), and fasting plasma glucose concentrations (−3.12 mmol/L (−3.59 to −2.66), 97.2%; high confidence), and proved the most effective GLP-1RA drug for glycaemic control. Furthermore, GLP-1RAs were shown to have strong benefits to weight management for patients with type 2 diabetes. CagriSema (semaglutide with cagrilintide) resulted in the highest weight loss (mean difference −14.03 kg (95% confidence interval −17.05 to −11.00); high confidence of evidence), followed by tirzepatide (−8.47 kg (−9.68 to −7.26); high confidence). Semaglutide was effective in lowering the concentration of low density lipoprotein (−0.16 mmol/L (−0.30 to −0.02)) and total cholesterol (−0.48 mmol/L (−0.84 to −0.11)). Moreover, this study also raises awareness of gastrointestinal adverse events induced by GLP-1RAs, and concerns about safety are especially warranted for high dose administration.

Conclusions

GLP-1RAs are efficacious in treating adults with type 2 diabetes. Compared with the placebo, tirzepatide was the most effective GLP-1RA drug for glycaemic control by reducing haemoglobin A
1c
and fasting plasma glucose concentrations. GLP-1RAs also significantly improved weight management for type 2 diabetes, with CagriSema performing the best for weight loss. The results prompt safety concerns for GLP-1RAs, especially with high dose administration, regarding gastrointestinal adverse events.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42022342845.
Monitoring colonial cliff-nesting seabirds in the Canadian Arctic: The Coats Island field station
Authors: Patterson Allison , Gaston Anthony J. , Eby Alyssa , Gousy-Leblanc Marianne , Provencher Jennifer F. , Braune Birgit M. , Hipfner J. Mark , Gilchrist H. Grant , Nakoolak Josiah , Woo Kerry , Elliott Kyle H.
Published: January 2024

The Coats Island field station in northern Hudson Bay, Canada, was established by the Canadian Wildlife Service in 1984 to monitor the thick-billed murre ( Uria lomvia, akpa, [Formula: see text]) population in the context of harvest management and federal responsibilities under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. The long-term monitoring program has continued annually for 34 of the last 39 years, making it the most frequently monitored seabird colony in the Canadian Arctic. In the 1990s, the focus of efforts at the site shifted from population monitoring and harvest management to long-term monitoring of murres as an indicator of environmental change. In addition to informing harvest management of murres in Canada, long-term monitoring and research at Coats Island have helped to establish thick-billed murres as an indicator species for Arctic seabirds, identified major shifts in the marine prey communities of Hudson Bay, enabled the assessment of international agreements on reducing contaminants in Arctic wildlife, and improved the understanding of the effects of climate change on Arctic marine birds. Coats Island has developed into an essential research site for all aspects of murre ecology and served as a training site for new generations of Arctic ecologists.
Origin of a glacially influenced shallow marine chromite placer, Port au Port Bay, western Newfoundland, Canada
Authors: Duyan Mehmet , Eyles Nick
Published: January 2024

Detrital chromite is currently accumulating in the wave-influenced gravel-dominated shoreface of eastern Port au Port Bay of western Newfoundland adjacent to the mouth of Fox Island River. Chromium (Cr) concentrations of up to 7485 ppm occur in modern cross-bedded shallow marine gravel and pebbly sand facies sourced from rapidly eroding coastal cliffs cut in a lateglacial and early postglacial fan delta and raised beach facies. These sediments fill a broad coastal embayment and were deposited by a glacially influenced Fox Island River during a phase of low relative sea level following final deglaciation of the Newfoundland Ice Cap between approximately 13 700 years B.P. (ybp) and 9500 ybp. Since then, coastal outcrops of these raised sediments have undergone rapid erosion in response to ongoing postglacial sea level rise outpacing the rate of crustal recovery. Geochemical analysis of 1149 sediment samples across the entire Fox Island River watershed identifies relatively low Cr concentrations (maximum 1860 ppm) in glacial and fluvial sediments, including those areas adjacent to chromite-bearing rocks of the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex. Conversely, uplifted lateglacial shallow marine gravels and associated raised beach/nearshore deposits along the coast show elevated Cr concentrations up to 5400 ppm, highlighting the importance of marine concentration of glacially derived sediment during deglaciation. At the present day, chromite-bearing lateglacial sediment is being reworked and transported southwards by shore-parallel littoral currents resulting in reconcentration of Cr within a nearshore placer about 8 km long and 2 km wide, though the deposit may be more extensive offshore where it is likely covered by transgressive marine muds. The glacial and postglacial history of the Port au Port Bay area was widely replicated in other areas of ultrabasic rock along the western coast of Newfoundland and the results of this investigation may aid the search for other nearshore glacially influenced marine placers.
Influence of different combinations of high-order topological modification on contact pattern and load distribution of helical gear
Authors: Qiu Pengyuan , Wang Linxiang , Peng Yanjun , Qiao Hua , Lin Yanhu
Published: January 2024

An integrated model is proposed to evaluate the contact pattern and load distribution of helical gear with different combinations of high-order topological modification, which is established combining the finite element method (FEM), the analytical method (AM), and the nonlinear programming method. Based on the elastomer contact model of tooth surface, the FEM is used to separate the flexural-shear deformation of the teeth, while the contact AM is introduced to derive the local contact deformation. The contact characteristics of gears can be finally obtained by solving the nonlinear programming model with the constraints of deformation and load and finally verified by the finite element analysis. The results show that the longitudinal crowning can significantly improve the load distribution and the edge contact of the tooth. When the modified curve becomes a parabola of higher order, the contact characteristics change obviously. The pressure of double-crowned (4) gears was uniform and the amplitude decreased, but the amplitude of pressure of double-crowned (6) gears increases and the variance of load sharing ratio is more obvious at the beginning of the middle meshing period.
Investigation of the $$\mathbf {\Sigma ^{0}}$$ Production Mechanism in p(3.5 GeV)+p Collisions
Authors: Yassine R. Abou , Arnold O. , Becker M. , Bergmann P. , Blanco A. , Blume C. , Böhmer M. , Carolino N. , Chlad L. , Chudoba P. , Ciepał I. , Dreyer J. , Esmail W. , Fabbietti L. , Fonte P. , Friese J. , Fröhlich I. , Galatyuk T. , Garzón J. A. , Grunwald M. , Gumberidze M. , Harabasz S. , Höhne C. , Hojeij F. , Holzmann R. , Huck H. , Idzik M. , Kämpfer B. , Kardan B. , Kedych V. , Koenig I. , Koenig W. , Kohls M. , Kolas J. , Korcyl G. , Kornakov G. , Kotte R. , Krueger W. , Kugler A. , Kunz T. , Lalik R. , Linz F. , Lopes L. , Lorenz M. , Malige A. , Markert J. , Metag V. , Michel J. , Molenda A. , Müntz C. , Nabroth M. , Naumann L. , Nowakowski K. , Orliński J.  , Otto J. -H. , Parpottas Y. , Parschau M. , Pechenov V. , Pechenova O. , Piasecki K. , Pietraszko J. , Prozorov A. , Przygoda W. , Ramstein B. , Rathod N. , Ritman J. , Rost A. , Rustamov A. , Salabura P. , Schild N. , Schwab E. , Seck F. , Singh U. , Spies S. , Stefaniak M. , Ströbele H. , Stroth J. , Sturm C. , Sumara K. , Svoboda O. , Szala M. , Tlusty P. , Traxler M. , Tsertos H. , Wagner V. , Weber A. A. , Wendisch C. , Zbroszczyk H. P. , Zherebtsova E. , Zielinski M. , Zumbruch P.
Published: January 2024

The production of $$\Sigma ^{0}$$

Σ
0

hyperons in proton proton collisions at a beam kinetic energy of 3.5 GeV impinging on a liquid hydrogen target was investigated using data collected with the HADES setup. The total production cross section is found to be $${\sigma (pK^{+}\Sigma ^{0}) = 17.7 \pm 1.7 (stat) \pm 1.6 (syst)}$$

σ

(
p

K
+

Σ
0

)

=
17.7
±
1.7

(
s
t
a
t
)

±
1.6

(
s
y
s
t
)

µb. Differential cross section distributions of the exclusive channel $${pp \rightarrow pK^{+}\Sigma ^{0}}$$

p
p
→
p

K
+

Σ
0

were analyzed in the center-of-mass, Gottfried–Jackson and helicity reference frames for the first time at the excess energy of 556 MeV. The data support the interplay between pion and kaon exchange mechanisms and clearly demonstrate the contribution of interfering nucleon resonances decaying to $$\textrm{K}^{+}\Sigma ^{0}$$

K
+

Σ
0

. The Bonn–Gatchina partial wave analysis was employed to analyse the data. Due to the limited statistics, it was not possible to obtain an unambiguous determination of the relative contribution of intermediate nucleon resonances to the final state. However nucleon resonances with masses around 1.710 $${\textrm{GeV}/\textrm{c}^{2}}$$

GeV
/

c
2

($${\textrm{N}^{*}(1710)}$$

N

∗

(
1710
)

) and 1.900 $${\textrm{GeV}/\textrm{c}^{2}}$$

GeV
/

c
2

($${\textrm{N}^{*}(1900)}$$

N

∗

(
1900
)

or $${\Delta ^{*}(1900)}$$

Δ

∗

(
1900
)

) are preferred by the fit.
Hamilton energy modulation and synchronization control for a kind of coupled function neurons
Authors: Jiang Lingfeng , Xiong Li , An Xinlei , Zhang Li
Published: January 2024

Artificial neural circuits can effectively reproduce the main biophysical properties of neurons when reliable electronic components with unique physical properties are introduced. Connecting memristor to neural circuits not only enhances the potential controllability under external physical stimuli but also recognizes the effects of electromagnetic induction on neural activity. In this paper, the piezoelectric ceramic and memristor are embedded in FitzHugh-Nagumo (FHN) neural circuit, then two kinds of functional neuron models with magnetic field-control and electric field-control are obtained, respectively, to estimate the effects of external sound waves and external electric fields. To investigate the energy consumption when information transfer between neurons, the Hamilton energy functions of the above neuron models are obtained by calculating the field energy of each electronic component, and their correctness is verified by Helmholtz’s theorem. In addition, two neurons can be coupled by an induction coil to equal the processing of chemical coupling and realize pumping energy between neurons. Moreover, an energy switch is added to the coupling channel to open or close the coupling channel by detecting the diversity of energy. That is, it is kept open when the coupled system is exchanging field energy until the energy diversity between neurons is controlled at a limited threshold. The two-parameter bifurcation results show that the above two neurons have different bifurcation modes under different external magnetic or electric fields. For coupled systems, it is found that two identical neurons can achieve complete synchronization (energy balance) or intermittent complete synchronization (intermittent energy balance) by adaptive coupling. However, two diverse neurons can only achieve phase lock or phase synchronization, since the diversity of the coupled system parameters can disrupt the achievement of complete synchronization. These results are helpful for designing intelligent neural networks by taming the coupling channels with gradient energy distribution.