bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of mercury chloride on antioxidant and inflammatory cytokines in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Bhai Modi K. P. , Binesh Ambika , Shanmugam S. A. , Venkatachalam Kaliyamurthi
Published: November 2023

In this study, a zebrafish embryo toxicity model was employed, utilizing 24 h postfertilization (hpf) zebrafish embryos. These embryos were treated with varying concentrations of mercuric chloride for 96 h under static conditions. We assessed multiple parameters that reflected developmental abnormalities, behavioral alterations, morphological anomalies, antioxidant enzyme activities, including those of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and glutathione S‐transferase (GST), immune messenger RNA transcription levels of key factors such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2), as well as protein expression of TNF‐α. The results revealed that embryos exposed to higher concentrations of mercury exhibited reduced hatchability and increased rates of morphological abnormalities and mortality at 48, 72, and 96 hpf. In addition, a concentration‐dependent increase in developmental abnormalities, including cardiac edema, reduced body length, yolk sac edema, scoliosis, and bent tails, was observed. Larval behaviors, such as touch‐induced escape responses, startle reactions, and turning actions, were found to be diminished in a concentration‐dependent manner. Additionally, the activities of various antioxidative enzymes, such as SOD, CAT, and GST, exhibited an increase at higher mercury concentrations, with the exception of GPX activity, which decreased significantly in a dose‐dependent manner (p < 0.05). Pro‐inflammatory cytokine transcription levels, specifically TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and COX‐2, were significantly upregulated in a dose‐dependent manner in the mercuric (II) chloride (HgCl2) treatment group compared with the control group. TNF‐α protein expression was notably elevated in the larvae group treated with 300 and 400 nM HgCl2.
Influence of desalination concentrate medium on microalgal metabolism, biomass production and biochemical composition
Authors: Matos Ângelo Paggi , Saldanha‐Corrêa Flávia Marisa Prado , Hurtado Gabriela Ramos , Vadiveloo Ashiwin , Moheimani Navid Reza
Published: November 2023

Reverse osmosis is currently the most promising method for addressing freshwater scarcity in numerous nations, enabling the production of drinkable water for human consumption. This process, however, generates a byproduct stream, known as desalination concentrate (DC), that is enriched with high concentrations of salts such as Na+and Cl−, moderate levels of SO42−, Mg2+, Ca2+and K+and trace levels of Si, Fe3+, NO3−and PO43−, which can be suitable and valuable for microalgal metabolism and growth. Salt concentration in DC can significantly influence microalgal growth via effects through osmotic shock, salt stress and cellular ionic ratios. Under certain conditions, these salinity changes can have a positive impact on microalgal metabolism, such as the synthesis of lipophilic compounds that include lipids, fatty acids and carotenoids. This mini‐review aims to provide up‐to‐date information of recent studies conducted towards the use of DC as a potential substrate for microalgal cultivation as well as to summarize the response mechanism of microalgae when cultured in DC. Several laboratory‐based studies have examined the effect of different DC concentrations on the biochemical composition of microalgae grown either in photobioreactors or in raceway ponds. These studies have uncovered significant effects of DC on the synthesis of proteins, amino acids and phycocyanin in freshwater species likeChlorella vulgarisandArthrospira platensis, where DC tends to hinder these processes. Conversely, experiments with halophilicDunaliella salinaand marineNannochloropsis gaditanahave demonstrated that increasing DC concentration can positively influence the production ofβ‐carotene, lipids and specific saturated fatty acids (C16:0and C18:0), suggesting that these species can adapt to a broader range of DC salinities. Cultivating salinity‐tolerant microalgae in DC would greatly reduce the production cost of algal‐based products, offering a promising approach to enhance the profitability of desalination and microalgal industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
From data through discount rates to the area under the curve
Authors: Killeen Peter R.
Published: November 2023

The rate of discounting future goods is a crucial factor in intertemporal trade‐offs, upon which depends not only individual well‐being but also that of our planet: How much privation now for a temperate future for our grandchildren? What is the best way to measure how the value of future goods decreases with its delay? The most accurate discount functions involve several covarying parameters, making interpretation equivocal. A universal and robust measure is the area under the discount curve, the AuC. The AuC of a hyperbolic discount function is a logarithmic function of the discount rate, k. The same integral also approximates the area under a hyperboloid function. A simple technique converts each datum into estimates of the discount rate, eliminating rogue data points in the process. These trimmed estimates are converted into areas and tested against data, where they succeed at predicting the AuC and its relation to log(k).
Effects of hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome patients on the workflow and professional satisfaction of genetic counselors
Authors: Eckstein Lauren , Helm Benjamin M. , Baud Rebecca , Francomano Clair A. , Halverson Colin
Published: November 2023

The Ehlers‐Danlos syndromes (EDS), a group of uncommon connective tissue disorders, are, paradoxically, an increasingly common referral to genetics specialists. Of the 13 types of EDS, the most common is hypermobile EDS (hEDS), which lacks a known genetic etiology and for which diagnosis is achieved via a robust set of clinical criteria. While previous investigations have characterized many clinical aspects of EDS as a syndrome and patients' lived experiences, a gap in the literature exists regarding clinicians' experience caring for these individuals. This study sought to understand the effects of hEDS patient referrals from genetic counselors' perspectives. To capture these novel views and values, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with 15 participants who were members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and had experience working with the hEDS patient population. Interview questions explored the frequency of hEDS referrals in their clinic, investigated their roles and responsibilities as genetic counselors when working with this population, analyzed their workflow for this indication, assessed the impacts on their professional satisfaction, and explored potential options for improving workflow and care for the hEDS patient population. Reflexive thematic analysis yielded four themes: (1) Referrals for hEDS have generally increased over time and many institutions have implemented new policies to control this influx, (2) genetic counselors' primary roles include education and addressing psychosocial matters for this population, (3) genetic counselors feel both rewarded and challenged by these referrals, and (4) genetic counselors call for more education and training on hEDS for all healthcare specialties. Our findings provide a better understanding of the goals of the hEDS patient referrals to genetics specialists and the opportunities and challenges those referrals present. Genetic counselors have specific training and skills in psychosocial counseling and communication, in some ways making them ideal care providers for this population. However, they are simultaneously a scarce resource and the complex medical issues presented by many patients with hEDS make multidisciplinary management essential. We conclude with potential avenues for improving interactions with this population.
Threshold level of Peptest in diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease with extraesophageal symptoms: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Linh T , Le Tung D , Hoang Long B , Vu Vung T , Nguyen Thang D , Luu Hue T M , Do Phuong N , Van Nguyen Anh , Van Dao Long , Larsson Mattias , Olson Linus , Dao Hang V
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

We aimed to evaluate the application of Peptest, a novel technique to detect pepsin in the saliva, and identify its threshold level for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with extraesophageal symptoms.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in two groups: patients with extraesophageal GERD symptoms (symptomatic group divided into GERD and non‐GERD groups according to 24‐h esophageal pH‐impedance monitoring [pH‐I] results) and healthy controls. For the symptomatic group, endoscopy, pH 24 h, high‐resolution manometry (HRM), and salivary Peptest were performed. For the healthy control group, only Peptest was done. The accuracy of Peptest was compared with that of pH‐I by the Lyon consensus criteria.

Results

Chronic laryngitis was the most frequent extraesophageal symptom. On saliva testing, the GERD group had a higher prevalence of positive samples and pepsin concentration than the control group. Between GERD and non‐GERD groups, the optimal threshold level was 31.2 ng/mL, with a sensitivity of 86.7% and specificity of 27.5%. The optimal threshold level was 31.4 ng/mL to differentiate GERD from healthy controls, with a sensitivity of 86.7% and specificity of 66.0%. Age, number of total refluxes, DeMeester score, post‐reflux swallow‐induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, and mean nocturnal baseline impedence (MNBI) were associated with pepsin concentration. Regarding HRM metrics, there was no significant difference of pepsin concentration between low/normal upper esophageal sphincter (UES) resting pressure, low/normal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure, low/normal 4‐s integrated relaxation pressure (IRP4s), and hypomotility/normal motility.

Conclusion

Patients with extraesophageal symptoms had a higher prevalence of positive Peptest. The optimum threshold level of 31.4 ng/mL had high sensitivity and moderate specificity to differentiate between patients with GERD and healthy controls.
A novel anoikis‐related prognostic signature associated with prognosis and immune infiltration landscape in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Yue , Hu Shiqi , Teng Meixin , Qing Yang , Dong Xiao , Chen Linsong , Ai Kaixing
Published: November 2023

Background

One of the most prevalent malignancies in the world is lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), with a large number of people dying from lung cancer each year. Anoikis has a crucial function in tumor metastasis, promoting cancer cell shedding and survival from the primary tumor site. However, the role of anoikis in LUAD is still unclear.

Methods

The GeneCard database (https://www.genecards.org/) was utilized to obtain anoikis‐related genes with correlation greater than 0.4. Differential analysis was employed to acquire differential genes. Univariate, multifactorial Cox analyses and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were then utilized to capture genes connected to overall survival time. These genes were used to build prognostic models. The predictive model was analyzed and visualized. Survival analysis was conducted on the model and risk scores were calculated. The TCGA samples were split into groups of low and high risk depending on risk scores. A Gene Expression Omnibus database sample was used for external verification. Immunization estimates were performed using ESTIMATE, CiberSort and single sample gene set enrichment analysis. The connection between the prognostic gene model and immune cells was analyzed. Drug susceptibility prediction analysis was performed. The clinical information for samples was extracted and analyzed.

Results

We selected six genes related to anoikis in LUAD to construct a prognosis model (CDC25C, ITPRIP, SLCO1B3, CDX2, CSPG4 and PIK3CG). Compared with cases of high‐risk scores, the overall survival of those with low risk was significantly elevated based on Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Immune function analysis exhibited that different risk groups had different immune states. The results of ESTIMATE, CiberSort and single sample gene set enrichment analysis showed great gaps in immunization between patients in the two groups. The normogram of the risk score and the LUAD clinicopathological features was constructed. Principal component analysis showed that this model could effectively distinguish the two groups of LUAD patients.

Conclusions

We integrated multiple anoikis‐related genes to build a prognostic model. This investigation demonstrates that anoikis‐related genes can be used as a stratification element for fine therapy of individuals with LUAD.
Natal origin and dispersal of problem saltwater crocodiles in the Darwin Harbor, Australia
Authors: Fukuda Yusuke , Moritz Craig , FitzSimmons Nancy N. , Jang Namchul , Webb Grahame , Lindner Garry , Campbell Hamish , Christian Keith , Leeder Steven , Banks Sam
Published: November 2023

Management programs that successfully recovered wild saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) populations in the Northern Territory of Australia did so with an expanding commitment to maintaining public safety. One aspect of the program is the ongoing removal of resident and immigrant crocodiles within Darwin Harbor (since 1979), the main urban center. We determined the likely sources of crocodiles caught as problem animals between 2015–2017 by comparing recently developed methods for population assignment. Depending on the assignment model used, we estimated that between 30% and 50% of crocodiles in Darwin Harbor originated from the Adelaide and Mary rivers, and the Kakadu region east of Darwin, and between 20% and 30% of crocodiles originated from the Finniss, Reynolds, and Daly rivers southwest of Darwin. Saltwater crocodiles occur at particularly high densities in these catchments. The remainder came from a mixture of different sources across the Northern Territory. The most common animals captured were immature (150–180 cm) males that have traveled 100–200 km. We did not identify any relationships between the distance from the inferred origin to Darwin Harbor and the size and sex of the crocodiles, or the year of capture. The targeted removal of crocodiles from specific sites such as Darwin Harbor, near where most people live, improves public safety in the highest risk areas, without compromising abundant source populations in most areas.
Lesser prevalence of polyps/WNT‐dysregulation and concomitant upregulation of gamma‐catenin/MYC point to alternate pathways in colorectal cancer in India
Authors: Vishnubhotla Ravikanth , Avanthi Steffie , Mitnala Sasikala , Guduru Venkat Rao , Rebala Pradeep , Patil Sanjeev M. , Shetty Mahesh , Sekaran Anuradha , Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy
Published: November 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is known to follow adenoma carcinoma sequence (ACS) in majority of the tumors and the driver variants and associated pathways are well delineated. However, most of the published data are from the west and information in other ethnicities is sparse. We therefore comprehensively evaluated the CRC tumors from Indian ethnicity for the prevalence of ACS. In this cohort study, clinical data of 100,497 patients who attended hospital between 2013 and 2018 were accessed. Tumors from patients (n = 130) with CRC who were treated primarily by surgery were included. DNA and RNA were isolated to assess variants (direct sequencing) and WNT‐pathway dysregulation in genes related to ACS. Global gene expression was generated and analyzed on microarrays (Affymetrix; N = 10) and next generation sequencing platforms (Illumina; N = 25). Gene expression at mRNA (qRT‐PCR) and protein level (IHC) of JUP/CTNNB1/MYC were assessed. Correlation between expression of JUP and MYC was evaluated by Karl Pearson's correlation coefficient. The prevalence of polyps was 16.75%, while 18.26% variants in APC/CTNNB1, 20.00% in KRAS, and 18.33% WNT dysregulation were noted. Interestingly, 29/60 (48.33%) tumors showed only MYC upregulation with normal APC/CTNNB1 expression. Global gene expression and validation in an independent tumor cohort confirmed concomitant upregulation of JUP (gamma‐catenin) & MYC (r = 0.71; p = 0.001) at mRNA and protein in sizeable number of tumors (45/96; 46.88%). Our study provides evidence for limited prevalence of ACS in the Indian ethnicity. Preventive colonoscopies for early identification and management of CRC may not be an effective strategy in this ethnicity.
Estimation of Ambulation and Survival in Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Disorders
Authors: Amini Elahe , Rohani Mohammad , Lang Anthony E. , Azad Zahra , Habibi Seyed Amir Hassan , Alavi Afagh , Shahidi Gholamali , Emamikhah Maziar , Chitsaz Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Background

Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA) disorder is a group of ultra‐orphan hereditary diseases with very limited data on its course.

Objectives

To estimate the probability of preserving ambulatory ability and survival in NBIA.

Methods

In this study, the electronic records of the demographic data and clinical assessments of NBIA patients from 2012 to 2023 were reviewed. The objectives of the study and factors impacting them were investigated by Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression methods.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐two genetically‐confirmed NBIA patients consisting of nine subtypes were enrolled. Twenty‐four and twenty‐five cases were deceased and wheelchair‐bound, with a mean disease duration of 11 ± 6.65 and 9.32 ± 5 years. The probability of preserving ambulation and survival was 42.9% in 9 years and 28.2% in 15 years for classical Pantothenate Kinase‐Associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN, n = 18), 89.4% in 7 years and 84.7% in 9 years for atypical PKAN (n = 39), 23% in 18 years and 67.8% in 14 years for Mitochondrial Membrane Protein‐Associated Neurodegeneration (MPAN, n = 23), 75% in 20 years and 36.5% in 33 years for Kufor Rakeb Syndrome (KRS, n = 17), respectively. The frequencies of rigidity, spasticity, and female gender were significantly higher in deceased cases compared to surviving patients. Spasticity was the only factor associated with death (Pvalue = 0.03).

Conclusions

KRS had the best survival with the most extended ambulation period. The classical PKAN and MPAN cases had similar progression patterns to loss of ambulation ability, while MPAN patients had a slower progression to death. Spasticity was revealed to be the most determining factor for death.
Study on constitutive model of fractured rock masses by using statistical strength theory
Authors: Chen Xin , Gao Wei , He Tianyang , Ge Shuangshuang , Ma Pengfei , Zhou Cong
Published: November 2023

By using the basic principle of continuous damage mechanics as a reference, together with the statistical strength theory based on the Weibull distribution, a new constitutive model of fractured rock masses for deep underground engineering is proposed. In this model, a new definition of the fracture degreeFthas been proposed for the first time, which can quantitatively describe the fracturing process of a fractured rock mass. Based on the results of laboratory tests and numerical simulations for fractured rock mass specimens, the constitutive model with different fracture degrees is verified. Moreover, the applicability of two yield criteria (the Mohr–Coulomb [M‐C] and Drucker–Prager [D‐P] criteria) for describing the mesoscopic strength of rocks is analyzed. Finally, the effects of the random distribution parameters on the constitutive model are discussed in detail. The results show that the theoretical results agree well with the experimental and numerical results, and the constitutive model with the D‐P criterion is better than the model with the M‐C criterion.
Independent component analysis (ICA) applied to dynamic oxygen‐enhanced MRI (OE‐MRI) for robust functional lung imaging at 3 T
Authors: Needleman Sarah H. , Kim Mina , McClelland Jamie R. , Naish Josephine H. , Tibiletti Marta , O'Connor James P. B. , Parker Geoff J. M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Dynamic lung oxygen‐enhanced MRI (OE‐MRI) is challenging due to the presence of confounding signals and poor signal‐to‐noise ratio, particularly at 3 T. We have created a robust pipeline utilizing independent component analysis (ICA) to automatically extract the oxygen‐induced signal change from confounding factors to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of lung OE‐MRI.

Methods

Dynamic OE‐MRI was performed on healthy participants using a dual‐echo multi‐slice spoiled gradient echo sequence at 3 T and cyclical gas delivery. ICA was applied to each echo within a thoracic mask. The ICA component relating to the oxygen‐enhancement signal was automatically identified using correlation analysis. The oxygen‐enhancement component was reconstructed, and the percentage signal enhancement (PSE) was calculated. The lung PSE of current smokers was compared with nonsmokers; scan–rescan repeatability, ICA pipeline repeatability, and reproducibility between two vendors were assessed.

Results

ICA successfully extracted a consistent oxygen‐enhancement component for all participants. Lung tissue and oxygenated blood displayed the opposite oxygen‐induced signal enhancements. A significant difference in PSE was observed between the lungs of current smokers and nonsmokers. The scan–rescan repeatability and the ICA pipeline repeatability were good.

Conclusion

The developed pipeline demonstrated sensitivity to the signal enhancements of the lung tissue and oxygenated blood at 3 T. The difference in lung PSE between current smokers and nonsmokers indicates a likely sensitivity to lung function alterations that may be seen in mild pathology, supporting future use of our methods in patient studies.
Laboratory-bred Longfin Smelt produced offspring in the first year in captivity
Authors: Hung Tien-Chieh , Rahman Md. Moshiur , Lewis Levi S. , Yang Ya-Chi , Stevenson Troy A. , Menard Karl L. , Connon Richard E. , Bell Heather , Fangue Nann A.
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aims to develop the culture methods for Longfin Smelt Spirinchus thaleichthys in a laboratory setting, achieving the first production of a fully captive second generation (F2). The objective includes understanding the critical factors influencing the breeding and maturation of this species in captivity, contributing to conservation efforts and potential revival of this threatened species.

Methods

Longfin Smelt broodstock were collected from the San Francisco Estuary and reared in controlled conditions at the University of California Davis Fish Conservation and Culture Laboratory (FCCL). The study involved spawning of wild broodstock, rearing of first generation (F1) progeny to adulthood, and subsequent spawning to produce F2 offspring. Key variables such as salinity, temperature, and diet were carefully managed throughout the process. Fertilization and hatching rates were calculated, and the larvae were reared using the same methods to closely monitor and understand their growth and development.

Result

First generation Longfin Smelt successfully matured and spawned at age 1, earlier than commonly observed in the wild. From five crosses, four produced viable offspring. The study recorded a range of fertilization rates (10–40%) and high hatching rates (75–97%). Salinity was identified as a critical factor in both larval development and adult maturation. While initial larval survival was challenging, the larval rearing system used in this study proved effective.

Conclusion

The study represents a major breakthrough in the cultivation of Longfin Smelt, showing that it is possible to complete their life cycle under controlled conditions. It has provided valuable understanding of the maturation and breeding processes in these fish, with an emphasis on the influence of salinity. These outcomes are crucial for conservation strategies, offering the potential to help establish a refuge population and laying the groundwork for further research aimed at refining captive breeding methods for this species.
Patterns in distribution and density of larval lampreys in the main-stem Columbia River, Washington–Oregon
Authors: Blanchard Monica R. , Harris Julianne E. , Skalicky Joseph J. , Silver Gregory S. , Jolley Jeffrey C.
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study compiled data sets from multiple research efforts from 2010 to 2018 to describe patterns in the presence and density of larval lampreys in deep water habitats across 430 river kilometers of the lower and middle main-stem Columbia River.

Methods

We used logistic regression to evaluate the influence of landscape-level factors on Pacific Lamprey Enthosphenus tridentatus and Lampetra spp. presence. Additionally, we used N-mixture models to estimate larval lamprey densities in six river mouths in the spring and fall of multiple years.

Result

At the landscape-level, the models suggested that the probability of presence for both Pacific Lampreys and Lampetra spp. decreased with increasing distance from the ocean, distance from the closest upstream tributary river mouth, and distance from the nearest main-stem riverbank. The probability of presence also varied by upstream tributary river mouth. The probability of larval presence in river mouths was an order of magnitude greater than in reservoir pools. Evaluating river mouth habitats, larval lamprey densities varied seasonally, annually, and among river mouths, ranging from 0.04 to 9.63 larvae/m2. Results generally suggested broader distributions and higher densities within river mouths during spring when flows were high compared to the fall when flows were lower, although not in all river mouths or across all years. Larval densities increased in the Wind and Klickitat rivers (the most consistently examined tributary river mouths) over the study period.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the main-stem Columbia River supports larval lamprey rearing year-round. Probability of presence was highest and variable among river mouths, suggesting the importance of some river mouths as rearing habitats. Understanding shifts (seasonal, annual, and those as result of changes in environmental conditions) in lamprey presence and density could inform how specific management actions (e.g., dewatering for in-river work) and their timing could affect larval lampreys in rivers.
Downwind and upwind approximations for mesh and model adaptivity of elasto‐plastic composites
Authors: Simeu Arnold Tchomgue , Mahnken Rolf
Published: November 2023

The use of heterogeneous materials, such as composites with Prandtl‐Reuss‐type material laws, has increased in industrial praxis, making finite element modeling with homogenization techniques a well‐accepted tool. These methods are particularly advantageous to account for microstructural mechanisms which can be related to nonlinearities and time‐dependency due to elasto‐plasticity behavior. However, their advantages are diminished by increasing computational demand. The present contribution deals with the balance of accuracy and numerical efficiency of nonlinear homogenization associated with a framework of goal‐oriented adaptivity, which takes into account error accumulation over time. To this end, model adaptivity of homogenization methods is coupled to mesh adaptivity on the macro scale. Our new proposed adaptive procedure is driven by a goal‐oriented a posteriori error estimator based on duality techniques using downwind and upwind approximations. Due to nonlinearities and time‐dependency of the plasticity, the estimation of error transport and error generation is obtained with a backward‐in‐time dual method despite a high demand on memory capacity. In this contribution, the dual problem is solved with a forward‐in‐time dual method that allows estimating the full error during the resolution of the primal problem without the need for extra memory capacity. Finally, a numerical example illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive approach.
Evaluation of ChatGPT's performance in providing treatment recommendations for pediatric diseases
Authors: Wei Qiuhong , Wang Yanqin , Yao Zhengxiong , Cui Ying , Wei Bo , Li Tingyu , Xu Ximing
Published: November 2023

With the advance of artificial intelligence technology, large language models such as ChatGPT are drawing substantial interest in the healthcare field. A growing body of research has evaluated ChatGPT's performance in various medical departments, yet its potential in pediatrics remains under‐studied. In this study, we presented ChatGPT with a total of 4160 clinical consultation questions in both English and Chinese, covering 104 pediatric conditions, and repeated each question independently 10 times to assess the accuracy of its responses in pediatric disease treatment recommendations. ChatGPT achieved an overall accuracy of 82.2% (95% CI: 81.0%–83.4%), with superior performance in addressing common diseases (84.4%, 95% CI: 83.2%–85.7%), offering general treatment advice (83.5%, 95% CI: 81.9%–85.1%), and responding in English (93.0%, 95% CI: 91.9%–94.1%). However, it was prone to errors in disease definitions, medications, and surgical treatment. In conclusion, while ChatGPT shows promise in pediatric treatment recommendations with notable accuracy, cautious optimism is warranted regarding the potential application of large language models in enhancing patient care.
The PB1 and the ZZ domain of the autophagy receptor p62/SQSTM1 regulate the interaction of p62/SQSTM1 with the autophagosome protein LC3B
Authors: Alcober‐Boquet Lucia , Zang Tabea , Pietsch Larissa , Suess Evelyn , Hartmann Markus , Proschak Ewgenij , Gross Lissy Z. F. , Sacerdoti Mariana , Zeuzem Stefan , Rogov Vladimir V. , Leroux Alejandro E. , Piiper Albrecht , Biondi Ricardo M.
Published: November 2023

Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular process that allows degradation of large macromolecules. p62/SQSTM1 is a key adaptor protein that interacts both with material to be degraded and with LC3 at the autophagosome, enabling degradation of cargos such as protein aggregates, lipid droplets and damaged organelles by selective autophagy. Dysregulation of autophagy contributes to the pathogenesis of many diseases. In this study, we investigated if the interaction of p62/SQSTM1 with LC3B could be regulated. We purified full‐length p62/SQSTM1 and established an in vitro assay that measures the interaction with LC3B. We used the assay to determine the role of the different domains of p62/SQSTM1 in the interaction with LC3B. We identified a mechanism of regulation of p62/SQSTM1 where the ZZ and the PB1 domains regulate the exposure of the LIR‐sequence to enable or inhibit the interaction with LC3B. A mutation to mimic the phosphorylation of a site on the ZZ domain leads to increased interaction with LC3B. Also, a small compound that binds to the ZZ domain enhances interaction with LC3B. Dysregulation of these mechanisms in p62/SQSTM1 could have implications for diseases where autophagy is affected. In conclusion, our study highlights the regulated nature of p62/SQSTM1 and its ability to modulate the interaction with LC3B through a LIR‐sequence Accessibility Mechanism (LAM). Furthermore, our findings suggest the potential for pharmacological modulation of the exposure of LIR, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies.
Entomopathogens in the integrated management of forest insects: from science to practice
Authors: Skrzecz Iwona , Sierpińska Alicja , Tumialis Dorota
Published: November 2023

The most important aim of the integrated management of forest insect pests remains the prevention of insect outbreaks, which are a consequence of the interaction of many factors in forest ecosystems, including species composition, age and health of the forest, soil type, the presence of natural enemies, and climatic factors. Integrated pest management until now has been achieved using measures aimed at shaping the functioning of stands in a changing environment. The aim of this review is to summarize research on the use of entomopathogens (microorganisms and nematodes) in the management of forest insect pests and to identify the principal knowledge gaps. We briefly describe the main research directions on the use of pathogens and nematodes to control insect pests and discuss limitations affecting their implementation. Research on entomopathogens for the biocontrol of forest insects has provided a wealth of knowledge that can be used effectively to reduce insect populations. Despite this, few entomopathogens are currently used in integrated pest management in forestry. They are applied in inoculation or inundation biocontrol strategies. While the use of entomopathogens in forest pest management shows great promise, practical implementation remains a distant goal. Consequently, sustainable reduction of forest pests, mainly native species, will be largely based on conservation biological control, which aims to modify the environment to favor the activity of natural enemies that regulate pest populations. This type of biocontrol can be supported by a range of silvicultural measures to increase the resilience of stands to insect infestations. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Functional analysis of a down‐regulated transcription factor‐SoxNeuroA gene involved in the acaricidal mechanism of scopoletin against spider mites
Authors: Zhou Hong , Ning Yeshuang , Jian Yufan , Zhang Miao , Klakong Matthana , Guo Fuyou , Shao Qingyi , Li Yanhong , Yang Pinglong , Li Zongquan , Yang Liang , Li Shili , Ding Wei
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Insight into the mode of action of plant‐derived acaricides will help in the development of sustainable control strategies for mite pests. Scopoletin, a promising plant‐derived bioactive compound, displays prominent acaricidal activity against Tetranychus cinnabarinus. The transcription factor SoxNeuroA plays a vital role in maintaining calcium ion (Ca2+) homeostasis. Down‐regulation of SoxNeuroA gene expression occurs in scopoletin‐exposed mites, but the functional role of this gene remains unknown.

RESULTS

A SoxNeuroA gene from T. cinnabarinus (TcSoxNeuroA) was first cloned and identified. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and Western blotting assays all confirmed that the gene expression and protein levels of TcSoxNeuroA were significantly reduced under scopoletin exposure. Furthermore, RNA interference silencing of the weakly expressed SoxNeuroA gene significantly enhanced the susceptibility of mites to scopoletin, suggesting that the acaricidal mechanism of scopoletin was mediated by the weakly expressed SoxNeuroA gene. Additionally, yeast one‐hybrid (Y1H) and dual‐luciferase reporter assays revealed that TcSoxNeuroA was a repressor of Orai1 Ca2+ channel gene transcription, and the key binding sequence was ATCAAAG (positions −361 to −368 of the Orai1 promoter). Importantly, site‐directed mutagenesis and microscale thermophoresis assays further indicated that ASP185, ARG189, and LYS217, which were key predicted hydrogen‐bonding sites in the molecular docking model, may be the vital binding sites for scopoletin in TcSoxNeuroA.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that the acaricidal mechanism of scopoletin involves inhibition of the transcription factor SoxNeuroA, thus inducing the activation of the Orai1 Ca2+ channel, eventually leading to Ca2+ overload and lethality. Elucidation of the transcription factor‐targeted mechanism for this potent plant‐derived acaricide has vital implications for the design of next‐generation green acaricides with novel targets. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Climate zoning: identifying suitable regions for the occurrence of Alternaria Brown spot in tangerine trees in Brazil
Authors: Aparecido Lucas Eduardo de Oliveira , Torsoni Guilherme Botega , Lima Rafael Fausto de , Baratti Ana Claudia Costa , Rossi Maíra Ferreira de Melo , dos Santos Adão Felipe , Peche Pedro Maranha
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Brazilian citrus farming has been migrating to nontraditional citrus‐growing regions, which can be considered a challenge for citrus growers, as not all these areas are suitable for tangerine cultivation. Thus, the mapping of regions exhibiting favorable climatic conditions for Alternaria brown spot has become crucial in the selection of appropriate locations for the establishment of new orchards. This mapping enables the implementation of an avoidance strategy, which entails steering clear of areas where the disease is prevalent, aligning with fundamental principles of disease control.

RESULTS

Thus, this study seeks to zone areas with high and low climatic favorability for the occurrence of Alternaria brown spot in tangerine trees in Brazil. Historical climate data series from the NASA‐POWER database were used for all municipalities in Brazil. Agrometeorological variables used to determine the development of Alternaria brown spot were average monthly air temperature (Tmean) and duration of leaf wetness period (LWD). Areas were considered unsuitable climatically when Tmean was <17 °C or >33 °C, relatively suitable when Tmean was between 13 °C and 33 °C and LWD <10%, and climatically suitable when Tmean was between 13 °C and 33 °C and LWD >10%. The states of Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul showed greater thermal amplitude within months and throughout the year. The southern region of the country has harsher winters, with minimum temperatures below 15 °C, which is unfavorable for the disease incidence.

CONCLUSION

The states with the greatest favorability for Alternaria brown spot were Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, mainly from May to September. Rio Grande do Sul was the state in this region that showed the greatest favorability, as a consequence of leaf wetness exceeding 10 h. The main tangerine‐producing regions in Brazil, including the southern part of Minas Gerais, the state of São Paulo and the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, were mostly classified as relatively favorable areas for the occurrence of Alternaria brown spot. It is recommended that when establishing new tangerine orchards, regions with lower favorability for the occurrence of Alternaria brown spot, such as the North and Central‐West regions of Brazil, particularly the states of Amazonas, Pará and Mato Grosso, should be selected. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Properties of Black Silicon Layers Fabricated by Different Techniques for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Ayvazyan Gagik , Ayvazyan Karen , Hakhoyan Levon , Liu Xiaolong
Published: November 2023

Black silicon (BS) layers coated with passivation films are widely used as antireflective frontal surfaces for solar cells. The most common BS fabrication techniques are reactive ion etching (RIE), metal‐assisted chemical etching, and laser‐induced processing. Herein, the structural and optical properties, as well as the minority carrier lifetime, of BS are compared with and without atomic layer deposited HfO2 passivation films produced by the above formation methods. The antireflection behavior of the samples is discussed based on the light trapping effect and the change in the BS refractive index from air to the bulk of crystalline Si. Finally, test solar cells are manufactured, and their photovoltaic parameters are studied. The comparison results show that RIE is the most preferred in all technical respects. The features of using different BS fabrication techniques from the solar cell manufacturing point of view are analyzed.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty in the current era of CTEPH treatment: How did we get here?
Authors: Yang Jenny Z. , Poch David S. , Ang Lawrence , Mahmud Ehtisham , Kim Nick H.
Published: November 2023

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is caused by persistent organized thromboembolic obstruction of the pulmonary arteries from incompletely resolved pulmonary embolism. The treatment of choice is pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) surgery and all patients should be evaluated for operability candidacy. Despite advancements in PTE technique allowing more segmental–subsegmental surgeries, up to a third of patients with CTEPH may still be considered inoperable. Over the past decade, there have been increasing treatment options for these inoperable CTEPH patients. Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is a percutaneous‐based interventional treatment option for select CTEPH cases. Early BPA experiences were plagued by high complication rates, but further refinements in technique and equipment pioneered by Japan led to the worldwide spread and adoption of BPA. Multiple centers have shown that patients experience significant improvements in hemodynamics, quality of life, exercise capacity, and survival with BPA treatment. There remain many questions on best practices, but BPA has evolved into a pivotal cornerstone of CTEPH treatment.
Advanced deep learning methods for molecular property prediction
Authors: Pang Chao , Tong Henry H. Y. , Wei Leyi
Published: November 2023

The prediction of molecular properties is a crucial task in the field of drug discovery. Computational methods that can accurately predict molecular properties can significantly accelerate the drug discovery process and reduce the cost of drug discovery. In recent years, iterative updates in computing hardware and the rise of deep learning have created a new and effective path for molecular property prediction. Deep learning methods can leverage the vast amount of data accumulated over the years in drug discovery and do not require complex feature engineering. In this review, we summarize molecular representations and commonly used datasets in molecular property prediction models and present advanced deep learning methods for molecular property prediction, including state‐of‐the‐art deep learning networks such as graph neural networks and Transformer‐based models, as well as state‐of‐the‐art deep learning strategies such as 3D pre‐train, contrastive learning, multi‐task learning, transfer learning, and meta‐learning. We also point out some critical issues such as lack of datasets, low information utilization, and lack of specificity for diseases.
Nonfragile high‐gain observers for nonlinear systems with output uncertainty
Authors: Zhou Fan , Shen Yanjun , Xia Xiaohua
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present the definitions of nonfragile high‐gain observers and design method for lower‐triangular nonlinear systems with output uncertainty. Radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) are used to approximate the output uncertainty. By inserting an output filter and an input‐output filter, a new augmented adaptive observable canonical form is derived. Then, a corresponding observer with gain perturbations is designed to estimate the states and the coefficients of the RBFNNs, and a disturbance observer is designed to estimate the approximation error. The maximum allowable gain perturbation is also given. Then, the obtained results are extended to nonlinear systems in adaptive observer form with output uncertainty. Finally, some numerical simulations are offered to corroborate the theoretical results.
Comprehending and Learning From Internet Sources: Processing Patterns of Better and Poorer Learners
Authors: Goldman Susan R. , Braasch Jason L.G. , Wiley Jennifer , Graesser Arthur C. , Brodowinska Kamila
Published: November 2023

Readers increasingly attempt to understand and learn from information sources they find on the Internet. Doing so highlights the crucial role that evaluative processes play in selecting and making sense of the information. In a prior study, Wiley et al. (2009, Experiment 1) asked undergraduates to perform a web‐based inquiry task about volcanoes using multiple Internet sources. A major finding established a clear link between learning outcomes, source evaluations, and reading behaviors. The present study used think‐aloud protocol methodology to better understand the processing that learners engaged in during this task: 10 better learners were contrasted with 11 poorer learners. Results indicate that better learners engaged in more sense‐making, self‐explanation, and comprehension‐monitoring processes on reliable sites as compared with unreliable sites, and did so by a larger margin than did poorer learners. Better learners also engaged in more goal‐directed navigation than poorer learners. Case studies of two better and two poorer learners further illustrate how evaluation processes contributed to navigation decisions. Findings suggest that multiple‐source comprehension is a dynamic process that involves interplay among sense‐making, monitoring, and evaluation processes, all of which promote strategic reading.
Appropriating Written French: Literacy Practices in a Parisian Elementary Classroom
Authors: Rockwell Elsie
Published: November 2023

In this article, I examine French language instruction in an elementary classroom serving primarily children of Afro‐French immigrants in Paris. I show that a prevalent French language ideology privileges written over oral expression and associates full mastery of written French with rational thought and full inclusion in the French polity. This ideology has over two centuries generated particular means for regimenting standard language forms through classroom instruction, inculcating enduring orthographic and grammatical forms, and socializing literary works as models of correct French prose. My field research employed ethnographic principles and data collection techniques including participant ethnographic observation in multiple school and community settings during six months of 2005–2006, with a follow‐up study in 2010. Data for this article are taken from ethnographic interviews, field notes, writing samples and audiotaped language classes of a fifth grade class, as well as relevant contextual documentation. Although ethnographic observation confirmed the cultural reproduction of the historically constructed distinction between written and oral French, closer examination of typical classroom sequences in which work with texts was embedded in verbal interaction revealed the shifting and permeable boundaries that existed among varieties of oral and written French language, as the normative structures were enacted but also continually negotiated, ignored or contested by both teacher and children. By regarding “scriptal‐schooled” French as a “regime of language” (Kroskrity, 2000), the interweaving of oral and written language performances and their contradictory and contested nature is examined as “dialectically related linguistic practices” (Collins & Blot, , p. 165). By focusing on the multiple appropriations (R. Chartier, ) of literacy occurring in the classroom, which tend to blur boundaries between oral and written language, my findings help recast prevailing explanations that assume that reflexive mastery of written French requires severing links with an oral‐practical relation to language.