bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of vesicoenteric fistulas arising from perforated Meckel’s diverticulum: a report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Diamantidis Dimitrios , Papatheodorou Nikolaos , Kostoglou Panagiotis , Tsakaldimis Georgios , Botaitis Sotirios
Published: February 2024

Vesicoenteric fistulas are rare, with an incidence of 0.1%–0.2% in the general population, and Meckel’s diverticulum is a rare cause, accounting for less than 5% of cases with challenging diagnosis due to atypical symptoms at the admission. This article presents a case of a vesicoenteric fistula formation between Meckel’s diverticulum perforated by a foreign body and urinary bladder in a 38-years-old Caucasian male admitted to emergency department due to colicky abdominal pain located in the lower abdomen. An extensive review of the literature was conducted referring all the cases of vesicoenteric fistula incorporating Meckel’s diverticulum to elucidate the clinical characteristics, explore the diagnostic yield, and to summarize the therapeutic approach.
Spider angioma at the injection site of the meningitis vaccine
Authors: Alabdullah Hadi , Almousa Maher , Alabdullah Muhammad Nour , Al-shawaf Ahmad Zahi , Douri Thaer
Published: February 2024

Spider angioma is a cutaneous nevus caused by a vascular abnormality, characterized by a central red area with radiating reddish, web-like extensions. It is typically associated with liver cirrhosis, hyperestrogenism, and alcohol consumption. In this case report, we present a unique instance of a patient who developed spider angioma at the injection site of the meningitis vaccine as a long-term adverse effect. The lesion was treated with electrocautery and diminished within one week of treatment. This case highlights the potential for spider angioma to develop as a long-term adverse effect of the meningitis vaccine, a possibility that has not been previously reported. Further research is required to understand the underlying mechanisms and identify potential risk factors for this rare adverse effect.
Dermoscopic and reflectance confocal microscopy findings in palisaded encapsulated neuroma (PEN): report of two histologically confirmed cases
Authors: Konisky Hailey , Huho Hubert , Suvarnakar Aashka , Krishna Sharma , Huho Albert
Published: February 2024

These medical case reports discuss the reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) features of palisaded encapsulated neuromas (PEN), a relatively uncommon benign neural tumor that predominantly manifests in middle-aged females, most notably on the facial cheek. These reports feature two middle-aged females who both presented with concern for progressively enlarging cheek papules. Dermoscopy revealed the presence of symmetrical, dome-shaped papules with arborizing blood vessels that were not in sharp focus. RCM images revealed a honeycomb pattern, replete with follicular openings and slight papillary dermal fibrosis. Horizontally oriented blood vessels and vellus hair follicles, as well as prominent vellus hair bulbs were noted. The findings were initially perplexing and collectively raised the possibility of a skin adnexal neoplasm. However, subsequent biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of PEN in both cases. In retrospect, the neoplastic cells were beyond the imaging depths of RCM but the observed changes, including alterations in hair follicles on confocal microscopy, were likely due to pressure from the underlying tumor. Consideration of these features aids in diagnosing this unique yet benign neoplasm.
Comparing Drug Shortages Experienced by Institutions With National Metrics
Authors: Pytlowany Austin , Leja Noah , Kent Stanley
Published: February 2024

Drug shortages have steadily increased, in both volume and management complexity, for decades. In turn, this trend has resulted in significant challenges for healthcare staff and patients. Each drug shortage has its own set of variables that determine supply distribution, mitigation strategy, healthcare system strain, and patient impact. The catalyst for the aforementioned chain reaction is a drug shortage’s root cause - which is often unknown. The degree of transparency of this root cause can be correlated with a health system’s ability to effectively manage a drug shortage.
Efficacy and Safety of Trifluridine/Tipiracil-Containing Combinations in Colorectal Cancer and Other Advanced Solid Tumors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shitara Kohei , Falcone Alfred , Fakih Marwan G , George Ben , Sundar Raghav , Ranjan Sandip , Van Cutsem Eric
Published: February 2024

We performed a systematic literature review to identify and summarize data from studies reporting clinical efficacy and safety outcomes for trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) combined with other antineoplastic agents in advanced cancers, including metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We conducted a systematic search on May 29, 2021, for studies reporting one or more efficacy or safety outcome with FTD/TPI-containing combinations. Our search yielded 1378 publications, with 38 records meeting selection criteria: 35 studies of FTD/TPI-containing combinations in mCRC (31 studies second line or later) and 3 studies in other tumor types. FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab was extensively studied, including 19 studies in chemorefractory mCRC. Median overall survival ranged 8.6-14.4 months and median progression-free survival 3.7-6.8 months with FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab in refractory mCRC. Based on one randomized and several retrospective studies, FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab was associated with improved outcomes compared with FTD/TPI monotherapy. FTD/TPI combinations with chemotherapy or other targeted agents were reported in small early-phase studies; preliminary data indicated higher antitumor activity for certain combinations. Overall, no safety concerns existed with FTD/TPI combinations; most common grade ≥ 3 adverse event was neutropenia, ranging 5%-100% across all studies. In studies comparing FTD/TPI combinations with monotherapy, grade ≥ 3 neutropenia appeared more frequently with combinations (29%-67%) vs. monotherapy (5%-41%). Discontinuation rates due to adverse events ranged 0%-11% for FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab and 0%-17% with other combinations. This systematic review supports feasibility and safety of FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab in refractory mCRC. Data on non-bevacizumab FTD/TPI combinations remain preliminary and need further validation.
Finite element modelling of complex 3D image data with quantification and analysis
Authors: Chakkour Tarik
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine how to model aggregated material microstructure and its meshing volumic generation that is provided by any data from 3D tomographic image data. The accurate reconstruction of 3D geometry structures from tomographic images is a powerful method in various application areas of materials science. The resulting mesh can be voxelized or conforming based on volumetric tetrahedral meshing. We investigate this creation depending on improving multiple materials marching cubes algorithm (M3C) with smoothing and remeshing algorithms. Then, a strategy for generating good-quality meshing and its robustness is presented, and this is performed with numerical tests. The novelty of this study is to generate a conforming mesh from complicated topology structures, particularly, when the interfaces of bi-materials are connected. This leads to a reduction in the node count in the generated mesh. The influence of some parameters involved in this algorithm is explored during different levels of meshing. In this work, the numerical homogenization approach from various spherical inclusions in the two-phase system using the algorithm M3C is considered to estimate the effective elastic properties. We created the framework with all the associated information, such as inputs in the format .inp files, to make it possible to run it over the Abaqus solver. Then, the Abaqus model based on the finite element method (FEM) was executed in this case for various material microstructures such as polycrystalline, composite, and fiber. We show the main workflow for providing desired results by visualizing the FEM analysis. We also demonstrate the capabilities of meshing methodology in the solver for these material models. The validation of the local mechanical environment from FEM with loading scenarios is achieved to predict displacements and deformations. Mechanical compression tests are performed to investigate the compressive behavior. Finally, stress-strain curves provided a comparison between simulations and experimental data for materials, and a good agreement is obtained.
Double-blinded, randomized clinical trial of Gegen Qinlian decoction pinpointsFaecalibacteriumas key gut bacteria in alleviating hyperglycemia
Authors: Gao Zezheng , Zhang Wenhui , He Lisha , Wang Han , Li Yufei , Jiang Xiaotian , D I Sha , Wang Xinmiao , Zhang Xuan , Han Lin , Liu Yanwen , Gu Chengjuan , Wu Mengyi , He Xinhui , Cheng Lei , Wang Jun , Tong Xiaolin , Zhao Linhua
Published: February 2024

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), can be treated with traditional Chinese medicine formulas, such as the Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD). This study elucidates the mechanisms by which gut microbes mediate the anti-diabetic effects of GQD.

Methods

We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial involving 120 untreated participants with T2DM. During the 12-week intervention, anthropometric measurements and diabetic traits were recorded every 4 weeks. Fecal microbiota and serum metabolites were measured before and after the intervention using 16S rDNA sequencing, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and Bio-Plex panels.

Results

Anti-diabetic effects were observed in the GQD group in the human trial. Specifically, glycated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, and two-hour postprandial blood glucose levels were significantly lower in the GQD group than in the placebo group. Additionally, Faecalibacterium was significantly enriched in the GQD group, and the short-chain fatty acid levels were higher and the serum inflammation-associated marker levels were lower in the GQD group compared to the placebo group. Moreover, Faecalibacterium abundance negatively correlated with the levels of serum hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Finally, the diabetes-alleviating effect of Faecalibacterium was confirmed by oral administration of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (DSMZ 17677) in T2DM mouse model.

Conclusions

GQD improved type 2 diabetes primarily by modulating the abundance of Faecalibacterium in the gut microbiota, alleviating metabolic disorders and the inflammatory state.

Trial registration

Registry No. ChiCTR-IOR-15006626.
Climate change effects on plankton recruitment from coastal sediments
Authors: Hedberg Per , Olsson Markus , Höglander Helena , Brüchert Volker , Winder Monika
Published: February 2024

In highly seasonal systems, the emergence of planktonic resting stages from the sediment is a key driver for bloom timing and plankton community composition. The termination of the resting phase is often linked to environmental cues, but the extent to which recruitment of resting stages is affected by climate change remains largely unknown for coastal environments. Here we investigate phyto- and zooplankton recruitment from oxic sediments in the Baltic Sea in a controlled experiment under proposed temperature and light increase during the spring and summer. We find that emergence of resting stage differs between seasons and the abiotic environment. Phytoplankton recruitment from resting stages were high in spring with significantly higher emergence rates at increased temperature and light levels for dinoflagellate and cyanobacteria than for diatoms, which had highest emergence under cold and dark conditions. In comparison, hatching of copepod nauplii was not affected by increased temperature and light levels. These results show that activation of plankton resting stages are affected to different degrees by increasing temperature and light levels, indicating that climate change affects plankton dynamics through processes related to resting stage termination with potential consequences for bloom timing, community composition and trophic mismatch.
PECTIN ACETYLESTERASE12 regulates shoot branching via acetic acid and auxin accumulation in alfalfa shoots
Authors: Fan Nana , Su Liantai , Lv Aimin , Wen Wuwu , Gao Li , You Xiangkai , Zhou Peng , An Yuan
Published: February 2024

Shoot branching is an important biological trait affecting alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production, but its development is complicated and the mechanism is not fully clear. In the present study, pectin acetylesterase 12 (MsPAE12) and NAM/ATAF/CUC-domain transcription factor gene (MsNAC73) were isolated from alfalfa. MsPAE12 was highly expressed in shoot apexes, and MsNAC73 was found to be a key transcriptional repressor of MsPAE12 by directly binding to salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) elements in the MsPAE12 promoter. The biological functions of MsPAE12 and MsNAC73 were studied through overexpression (OE) and down-expression (RNAi) of the 2 genes in alfalfa. The numbers of shoot branches increased in MsPAE12-OE lines but decreased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants, which was negatively related to their indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) accumulation in shoot apexes. Furthermore, the contents of acetic acid (AA) in shoot apexes decreased in MsPAE12-OE plants but increased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants. The changes of AA contents were positively related to the expression of TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE 1 (MsTAA1), TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE-RELATED 2 (MsTAR2), and YUCCA flavin monooxygenase (MsYUCC4) and the contents of tryptophan (Trp), indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPA), and IAA in shoot apexes of MsPAE12-OE, MsPAE12-RNAi, and MsNAC73-OE plants. Exogenous application of AA to wild type (WT) and MsPAE12-OE plants increased Trp, IPA, and IAA contents and decreased branch number. Exogenous IAA suppressed shoot branching in MsPAE12-OE plants, but exogenous IAA inhibitors increased shoot branching in MsPAE12-RNAi plants. These results indicate that the MsNAC73-MsPAE12 module regulates auxin-modulated shoot branching via affecting AA accumulation in shoot apexes of alfalfa.
RNA-directed DNA methylation mutants reduce histone methylation at the paramutated maize booster1 enhancer
Authors: Hövel Iris , Bader Rechien , Louwers Marieke , Haring Max , Peek Kevin , Gent Jonathan I , Stam Maike
Published: February 2024

Paramutation is the transfer of mitotically and meiotically heritable silencing information between two alleles. With paramutation at the maize (Zea mays) booster1 (b1) locus, the low-expressed B′ epiallele heritably changes the high-expressed B-I epiallele into B′ with 100% frequency. This requires specific tandem repeats and multiple components of the RNA-directed DNA methylation pathway, including the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (encoded by mediator of paramutation1, mop1), the second-largest subunit of RNA polymerase IV and V (NRP(D/E)2a, encoded by mop2), and the largest subunit of RNA Polymerase IV (NRPD1, encoded by mop3). Mutations in mop genes prevent paramutation and release silencing at the B′ epiallele. In this study, we investigated the effect of mutations in mop1, mop2, and mop3 on chromatin structure and DNA methylation at the B′ epiallele, and especially the regulatory hepta-repeat 100 kb upstream of the b1 gene. Mutations in mop1 and mop3 resulted in decreased repressive histone modifications H3K9me2 and H3K27me2 at the hepta-repeat. Associated with this decrease were partial activation of the hepta-repeat enhancer function, formation of a multi-loop structure, and elevated b1 expression. In mop2 mutants, which do not show elevated b1 expression, H3K9me2, H3K27me2 and a single-loop structure like in wild-type B′ were retained. Surprisingly, high CG and CHG methylation levels at the B′ hepta-repeat remained in all three mutants, and CHH methylation was low in both wild type and mutants. Our results raise the possibility of MOP factors mediating RNA-directed histone methylation rather than RNA-directed DNA methylation at the b1 locus.
Mediator kinase subunit CDK8 phosphorylates transcription factor TCP15 during tomato pollen development
Authors: Xu Rui , Chong Leelyn , Zhu Yingfang
Published: February 2024

Pollen development in flowering plants has strong implications for reproductive success. Pollen DNA can be targeted to improve plant traits for yield and stress tolerance. In this study, we demonstrated that the Mediator subunit CYCLIN-DEPENDENT KINASE 8 (CDK8) is a key modulator of pollen development in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). SlCDK8 knockout led to significant decreases in pollen viability, fruit yield, and fruit seed number. We also found that SlCDK8 directly interacts with transcription factor TEOSINTE BRANCHED1-CYCLOIDEA-PCF15 (SlTCP15) using yeast two-hybrid screens. We subsequently showed that SlCDK8 phosphorylates Ser 187 of SlTCP15 to promote SlTCP15 stability. Phosphorylated TCP15 directly bound to the TGGGCY sequence in the promoters of DYSFUNCTIONAL TAPETUM 1 (SlDYT1) and MYB DOMAIN PROTEIN 103 (SlMYB103), which are responsible for pollen development. Consistently, disruption of SlTCP15 resembled slcdk8 tomato mutants. In sum, our work identified a new substrate of Mediator CDK8 and revealed an important regulatory role of SlCDK8 in pollen development via cooperation with SlTCP15.
Defying gravity: WEEP promotes negative gravitropism in peach trees by establishing asymmetric auxin gradients
Authors: Kohler Andrea R , Scheil Andrew , Hill Joseph L , Allen Jeffrey R , Al-Haddad Jameel M , Goeckeritz Charity Z , Strader Lucia C , Telewski Frank W , Hollender Courtney A
Published: February 2024

Trees with weeping shoot architectures are valued for their beauty and are a resource for understanding how plants regulate posture control. The peach (Prunus persica) weeping phenotype, which has elliptical downward arching branches, is caused by a homozygous mutation in the WEEP gene. Little is known about the function of WEEP despite its high conservation throughout Plantae. Here, we present the results of anatomical, biochemical, biomechanical, physiological, and molecular experiments that provide insight into WEEP function. Our data suggest that weeping peach trees do not have defects in branch structure. Rather, transcriptomes from the adaxial (upper) and abaxial (lower) sides of standard and weeping branch shoot tips revealed flipped expression patterns for genes associated with early auxin response, tissue patterning, cell elongation, and tension wood development. This suggests that WEEP promotes polar auxin transport toward the lower side during shoot gravitropic response, leading to cell elongation and tension wood development. In addition, weeping peach trees exhibited steeper root systems and faster lateral root gravitropic response. This suggests that WEEP moderates root gravitropism and is essential to establishing the set-point angle of lateral roots from the gravity vector. Additionally, size exclusion chromatography indicated that WEEP proteins self-oligomerize, like other proteins with sterile alpha motif domains. Collectively, our results from weeping peach provide insight into polar auxin transport mechanisms associated with gravitropism and lateral shoot and root orientation.
FLOWERING LOCUS T1 and TERMINAL FLOWER1 regulatory networks mediate flowering initiation in apple
Authors: Zuo Xiya , Wang Shixiang , Liu Xiuxiu , Tang Ting , Li Youmei , Tong Lu , Shah Kamran , Ma Juanjuan , An Na , Zhao Caiping , Xing Libo , Zhang Dong
Published: February 2024

Flower bud formation is a critical process that directly determines yield and fruit quality in fruit crops. Floral induction is modulated by the balance between 2 flowering-related proteins, FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) and TERMINAL FLOWER1 (TFL1); however, the mechanisms underlying the establishment and maintenance of this dynamic balance remain largely elusive. Here, we showed that in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.), MdFT1 is predominantly expressed in spur buds and exhibits an increase in expression coinciding with flower induction; in contrast, MdTFL1 exhibited downregulation in apices during flower induction, suggesting that MdTFL1 has a role in floral repression. Interestingly, both the MdFT1 and MdTFL1 transcripts are directly regulated by transcription factor basic HELIX–LOOP–HELIX48 (MdbHLH48), and overexpression of MdbHLH48 in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) results in accelerated flowering. Binding and activation analyses revealed that MdbHLH48 functions as a positive regulator of MdFT1 and a negative regulator of MdTFL1. Further studies established that both MdFT1 and MdTFL1 interact competitively with MdWRKY6 protein to facilitate and inhibit, respectively, MdWRKY6-mediated transcriptional activation of target gene APPLE FLORICAULA/LFY (AFL1, an apple LEAFY-like gene), ultimately regulating apple flower bud formation. These findings illustrate the fine-tuned regulation of flowering by the MdbHLH48-MdFT1/MdTFL1-MdWRKY6 module and provide insights into flower bud formation in apples.
Far-red light-enhanced apical dominance stimulates flower and fruit abortion in sweet pepper
Authors: Chen Sijia , Marcelis Leo F M , Offringa Remko , Kohlen Wouter , Heuvelink Ep
Published: February 2024

Far-red radiation affects many plant processes, including reproductive organ abortion. Our research aimed to determine the role of apical dominance in far-red light-induced flower and fruit abortion in sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). We conducted several climate room experiments where plants were grown under white- or red-rich LED light, with or without additional far-red light. Additional far-red light enhanced apical dominance: it increased auxin levels in the apices of dominant shoots, and caused a greater difference in internode length and apical auxin levels between dominant and subordinate shoots. Additional far-red light stimulated fruit abortion in intact plants but not in decapitated plants, suggesting a crucial role of shoot apices in this effect. However, reducing basipetal auxin transport in the stems with N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid did not influence far-red light-stimulated fruit abortion, although auxin levels in the stem were largely reduced. Applying the synthetic auxin 1-naphthaleneacetic acid on decapitated apices did not influence fruit abortion. However, applying the auxin biosynthesis inhibitor yucasin to shoot apices reduced fruit abortion regardless of the light conditions, accompanied by slight shoot growth retardation. These findings suggest that the basipetal auxin stream does not mediate far-red light-stimulated fruit abortion. Far-red light-stimulated fruit abortion was associated with reduced sucrose accumulation and lower invertase activities in flowers. We suggest that under additional far-red light conditions, increased auxin levels in shoot apices promote fruit abortion probably through enhanced competition for assimilates between apices and flowers, which limits assimilate import into flowers.
Distinct senescence mechanisms restrain progression of dysplastic nevi
Authors: Lorbeer Franziska K , Rieser Gabrielle , Goel Aditya , Wang Meng , Oh Areum , Yeh Iwei , Bastian Boris C , Hockemeyer Dirk
Published: February 2024

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations (TPMs) are frequently found in different cancer types, including ∼70% of sun-exposed skin melanomas. In melanoma, TPMs are among the earliest mutations and can be present during the transition from nevus to melanoma. However, the specific factors that contribute to the selection of TPMs in certain nevi subsets are not well understood. To investigate this, we analyzed a group of dysplastic nevi (DN) by sequencing genes commonly mutated in melanocytic neoplasms. We examined the relationship between the identified mutations, patient age, telomere length, histological features, and the expression of p16. Our findings reveal that TPMs are more prevalent in DN from older patients and are associated with shorter telomeres. Importantly, these TPMs were not found in nevi with BRAF V600E mutations. Conversely, DN with BRAF V600E mutations were observed in younger patients, had longer telomeres and a higher proportion of p16-positive cells. This suggests that these nevi arrest growth independently of telomere shortening through a mechanism known as oncogene-induced senescence (OIS). These characteristics extend to melanoma-sequencing datasets, where melanomas with BRAF V600E mutations were more likely to have a CDKN2A inactivation, overriding OIS. In contrast, melanomas without BRAF V600E mutations showed a higher frequency of TPMs. Our data imply that TPMs are selected to bypass replicative senescence (RS) in cells that were not arrested by OIS. Overall, our results indicate that a subset of melanocytic neoplasms face constraints from RS, while others encounter OIS and RS. The order in which these barriers are overcome during progression to melanoma depends on the mutational context.
Estimating the loss of economic predictability from aggregating firm-level production networks
Authors: Diem Christian , Borsos András , Reisch Tobias , Kertész János , Thurner Stefan
Published: February 2024

To estimate the reaction of economies to political interventions or external disturbances, input–output (IO) tables—constructed by aggregating data into industrial sectors—are extensively used. However, economic growth, robustness, and resilience crucially depend on the detailed structure of nonaggregated firm-level production networks (FPNs). Due to nonavailability of data, little is known about how much aggregated sector-based and detailed firm-level-based model predictions differ. Using a nearly complete nationwide FPN, containing 243,399 Hungarian firms with 1,104,141 supplier–buyer relations, we self-consistently compare production losses on the aggregated industry-level production network (IPN) and the granular FPN. For this, we model the propagation of shocks of the same size on both, the IPN and FPN, where the latter captures relevant heterogeneities within industries. In a COVID-19 inspired scenario, we model the shock based on detailed firm-level data during the early pandemic. We find that using IPNs instead of FPNs leads to an underestimation of economic losses of up to 37%, demonstrating a natural limitation of industry-level IO models in predicting economic outcomes. We ascribe the large discrepancy to the significant heterogeneity of firms within industries: we find that firms within one sector only sell 23.5% to and buy 19.3% from the same industries on average, emphasizing the strong limitations of industrial sectors for representing the firms they include. Similar error levels are expected when estimating economic growth, CO2 emissions, and the impact of policy interventions with industry-level IO models. Granular data are key for reasonable predictions of dynamical economic systems.
Tailbeat perturbations improve swimming efficiency by reducing the phase lag between body motion and the resulting fluid response
Authors: Chao Li-Ming , Jia Laibing , Wang Siyuan , Liberzon Alexander , Ravi Sridhar , Couzin Iain D , Li Liang
Published: February 2024

Understanding how animals swim efficiently and generate high thrust in complex fluid environments is of considerable interest to researchers in various fields, including biology, physics, and engineering. However, the influence of often-overlooked perturbations on swimming fish remains largely unexplored. Here, we investigate the propulsion generated by oscillating tailbeats with superimposed rhythmic perturbations of high frequency and low amplitude. We reveal, using a combination of experiments in a biomimetic fish-like robotic platform, computational fluid dynamics simulations, and theoretical analysis, that rhythmic perturbations can significantly increase both swimming efficiency and thrust production. The introduction of perturbations increases pressure-induced thrust, while reduced phase lag between body motion and the subsequent fluid dynamics response improves swimming efficiency. Moreover, our findings suggest that beneficial perturbations are sensitive to kinematic parameters, resolving previous conflicts regarding the effects of such perturbations. Our results highlight the potential benefits of introducing perturbations in propulsion generators, providing potential hypotheses for living systems and inspiring the design of artificial flapping-based propulsion systems.
Quantitative description of the phase-separation behavior of the multivalent SLP65–CIN85 complex
Authors: Maier Joachim , Sieme Daniel , Wong Leo E , Dar Furqan , Wienands Jürgen , Becker Stefan , Griesinger Christian
Published: February 2024

Biomolecular condensates play a major role in cell compartmentalization, besides membrane-enclosed organelles. The multivalent SLP65 and CIN85 proteins are proximal B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) signal effectors and critical for proper immune responses. In association with intracellular vesicles, the two effector proteins form phase separated condensates prior to antigen stimulation, thereby preparing B lymphocytes for rapid and effective activation upon BCR ligation. Within this tripartite system, 6 proline-rich motifs (PRMs) of SLP65 interact promiscuously with 3 SH3 domains of the CIN85 monomer, establishing 18 individual SH3–PRM interactions whose individual dissociation constants we determined. Based on these 18 dissociation constants, we measured the phase-separation properties of the natural SLP65/CIN85 system as well as designer constructs that emphasize the strongest SH3/PRM interactions. By modeling these various SLP65/CIN85 constructs with the program LASSI (LAttice simulation engine for Sticker and Spacer Interactions), we reproduced the observed phase-separation properties. In addition, LASSI revealed a deviation in the experimental measurement, which was independently identified as a previously unknown intramolecular interaction. Thus, thermodynamic properties of the individual PRM/SH3 interactions allow us to model the phase-separation behavior of the SLP65/CIN85 system faithfully.
Buckling mediated by mobile localized elastic excitations
Authors: Hutton Robert S , Vitral Eduardo , Hamm Eugenio , Hanna James
Published: February 2024

Experiments reveal that structural transitions in thin sheets are mediated by the passage of transient and stable mobile localized elastic excitations. These “crumples” or “d-cones” nucleate, propagate, interact, annihilate, and escape. Much of the dynamics occurs on millisecond time scales. Nucleation sites correspond to regions where generators of the ideal unstretched surface converge. Additional stable intermediate states illustrate two forms of quasistatic inter-crumple interaction through ridges or valleys. These interactions create pairs from which extended patterns may be constructed in larger specimens. The onset of localized transient deformation with increasing sheet size is correlated with a characteristic stable crumple size, whose measured scaling with thickness is consistent with prior theory and experiment for localized elastic features in thin sheets. We offer a new theoretical justification of this scaling.
Arresting ambitions: Obstacles associated with recruiting college educated women to policing
Authors: Powers Edward L , Skaggs Sherry Lynn , Hardwick Kisha
Published: February 2024

Recruitment and retention are two of the greatest challenges for police agencies, community members, and leaders. Recently, agencies have faced shallow applicant pools and significant declines in retention longevity. Concerns over excessive force, especially fatal incidents in minority communities, have fostered anti-police sentiment, reduced the prestige of police work, and elevated negative perceptions of risk in policing careers. These factors contribute to recruitment and retention woes, especially in women, who often harbour reservations about pursuing careers in a male-dominated work environment. Using data collected from a series of six single-sex focus groups, this study assesses the challenges faced in recruitment of college educated females and their attitudes toward policing as a profession. Findings reveal support for theories of person-vocation fit as primary motivations and barriers to careers in policing for women. Respondent concerns centre around personal interest, family and media pressures, and perceptions about the nature of police work.
Staffing levels are the most important factor influencing police response times
Authors: Mourtgos Scott M , Adams Ian T , Nix Justin
Published: February 2024

We examine the factors influencing police response times, with a particular focus on staffing levels, calls for service (CFS), and proactive police work. We estimate Bayesian Holt-Winters state-space models for each CFS priority level. Using a novel dataset that combines data from the Salt Lake City Police Department's staffing and Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems at the daily level over seven years, we estimate the effects that staffing, overtime, call volume, and the level of proactive work (e.g., traffic stops, pedestrian stops, business checks) have on police response times. Our findings indicate that the impact of staffing on response times is significantly greater than that of other independent variables in the models. Furthermore, improvements in response times for higher-priority (i.e., more serious) CFS have a lower elasticity response to increases in staffing levels. As police agencies face increasingly complex challenges, the empirical evidence presented herein serves as a cornerstone for making informed decisions in the intricate balancing act of resources, officer well-being, and public safety priorities.
‘I really felt wanted’: Police recruitment strategies within a competitive labour market
Authors: Wojslawowicz Ashleigh N , Payne Jeffrey S , Gibson Anthony , Cherry W Terry
Published: February 2024

As law enforcement organizations report challenges surrounding recruitment, evidence-based practices are critical and cost-effective measures which fundamentally support and advance the policing profession. To combat a hiring crisis and remain competitive among endless options of agency vacancies, employers must recognize internal data resources at hand along with the advantages of researcher-practitioner partnerships. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the effectiveness of a single mid-size southeastern municipal law enforcement agency’s recruitment program to identify unique indicators present within career decisions from the incoming officer workforce. Primary findings identified the recruitment process to play an integral role in the ultimate application and agency selection decision for participants, regardless of participant background. Further, participant interviews identified elements such as Responsiveness, Communication, Personal, and Timeliness critical to perceived success of the recruitment program. Regarding police staffing, this study introduces a self-sustaining model for agency-specific key motivating factors in recruit agency selection, to include application of strong recruitment practices and benchmark identification for sustained program effectiveness. Implications include the impact of customer-service approaches to police staffing and evidence-based strategies for agency-specific strengths during a nation-wide staffing crisis.
Flexible education reform and Iceland’s police staffing crisis
Authors: Oddsson Guðmundur , Bragason Ólafur Örn , Þórisdóttir Rannveig
Published: February 2024

In 2018, Iceland had Europe’s second-fewest police officers per capita and had experienced the continent’s biggest reduction in officers since 2009—after suffering the biggest financial crisis in modern economic history. Fewer officers, a growing, more diverse population, and a tourist boom fuelled a police staffing crisis peaking in the mid-2010s. In this case study, we document, using secondary data and interrupted time-series analysis, how moving basic police education to the university level in 2016 and shifting from face-to-face to flexible learning—a form of blended learning—helped Iceland accommodate more students, reverse the downward trend of police staffing, improve female representation, and raise the education level. Moreover, public trust in the police remained high after reform. The case of Iceland demonstrates that blended learning can facilitate police–university partnerships, accommodate more students by expanding access, capacity, and capability, help address staffing challenges, and optimize resources.
Investigative decision-making in sexual assault case processing
Authors: Garza Alondra D
Published: February 2024

Police decision-making in sexual assault cases has received considerable attention due to case attrition. Limited studies, however, have focused on early police processes as a path for case attrition. The current study used sexual assault cases reported to a large, urban police department, located in one of the five largest and most diverse U.S. cities to examine the role of case factors along with characteristics that represent the “real rape” stereotype on decisions to: 1) assign a sexual assault case to an investigator and 2) the time to investigator assignment. Results revealed that most cases will be assigned to an investigator and that oftentimes, this will occur promptly. Analyses indicated that victim age, suspect identification, evidentiary strength, and training predicted investigator assignment decisions, while victim race/ethnicity and the “real rape” stereotype predicted time to investigator assignment. Research and policy implications are discussed.
Clinical significance of the Microbleed Anatomical Rating Scale score in ischemic stroke patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Li Guangshuo , Wang Chuanying , Wang Shang , Wang Liyuan , Hao Yahui , Xiong Yunyun , Zhao Xingquan
Published: February 2024

Background

Conflicting results were shown on the relationship between cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) burden and functional outcomes in patients treated with intravenous tissues plasminogen activator (IV tPA). We aimed to investigate the relationship between CMBs burden and functional outcomes using the Microbleed Anatomical Rating Scale (MARS) and determine its optimal cutoff value.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to include patients treated with IV tPA in our stroke center, and the MARS was used to assess the CMBs burden. Other clinical data including demographic factors, stroke severity, vascular risk factors, and clinical outcomes were also documented. Another mediation analysis was performed to investigate whether early neurological improvement could mediate the association between MARS and functional outcomes.

Results

A total of 408 patients were included. A cutoff value of 1.5 could predict functional outcomes in patients treated with IV tPA. Based on that cutoff value, MARS showed an independent relationship with functional outcomes [adjusted OR (Odds Ratio) 0.841, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.720–0.982, P = .029]. A shift analysis showed that higher MARS score (MARS ≥1.5) was related with poor functional outcome according to mRS score distribution (OR = 0.519, 95% CI 0.336–0.803, P = .003). Total effect (indirect + direct effect) was calculated and showed in figure. Early neurological improvement mediated 24% of the effect of MARS score on functional outcomes.

Conclusion

Our study showed that MARS could be a potential method to assess the functional outcome based on CMBs in patients treated with IV tPA, and MARS score ≥ 1.5 might be an optimal threshold for poor functional outcome.
The therapeutic value of vacuum external fixation in polytrauma patients with multiple ribs fracture
Authors: Wang Dongfang , Gu Shuaipeng , Shen Huaqing , Li Tonghan , Yin Enzhi , Wang Xiang , Gao Wei , Liao Yiliu
Published: February 2024

Background

Multiple displaced rib fractures often result in a poor prognosis. Open reduction and internal fixation has been shown to provide benefits for patients with displaced rib fractures and flail chest. Nevertheless, for patients who are unwilling or unsuitable for surgery, the therapeutic options are limited. We developed a novel plastic vacuum device for rib fractures external stabilization. This study aims to compare the therapeutic efficacy of this device against a traditional chest strap in polytrauma patients with multiple rib fractures.

Methods

A retrospective investigation was conducted on polytrauma patients with multiple rib fractures admitted to our trauma center between March 2020 and March 2023. Patients were categorized into two groups: vacuum external fixation and chest strap. Comparative analysis was conducted on baseline parameters, injury characteristics, and clinical outcomes between the two groups.

Results

In this study, 54 patients were included, with 28 receiving chest strap and 26 undergoing vacuum external fixation. Results showed that, at 3 days and 7 days postintervention, the vacuum external fixation group had significantly lower visual analog scale scores during deep breathing and coughing (P < .05). Vacuum external fixation also reduced pleural drainage duration and volume, as well as lowered the risk of pneumonia and other complications (P < .05). Furthermore, the vacuum external fixation group demonstrated notable improvements in vital capacity, tidal volume, blood-gas test results, and a shorter hospital length of stay.

Conclusions

According to the study findings, vacuum external fixation appears to offer benefits to patients with multiple rib fractures, potentially reducing the risk of complications and improving overall clinical outcomes.
Why Perceptual Experiences cannot be Probabilistic
Authors: Colombo Matteo , Fresco Nir
Published: February 2024

Perceptual Confidence is the thesis that perceptual experiences can be probabilistic. This thesis has been defended and criticised based on a variety of phenomenological, epistemological, and explanatory arguments. One gap in these arguments is that they neglect the question of whether perceptual experiences satisfy the formal conditions that define the notion of probability to which Perceptual Confidence is committed. Here, we focus on this underexplored question and argue that perceptual experiences do not satisfy such conditions. But if they do not, then ascriptions of perceptual confidence are undefined; and so, Perceptual Confidence cannot be true.
Nambu Bracket for 3D Ideal Fluid Dynamics and Magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Fukumoto Yasuhide , Zou Rong
Published: February 2024

The ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) as well as the ideal fluid dynamics is governed by a Hamilton equation with respect to the Lie–Poisson bracket. The Nambu bracket manifestly represents the Lie–Poisson structure in terms of derivatives of the Casimir invariants. We construct a compact Nambu bracket representation for the 3D ideal MHD equations with the use of three Casimirs for the second Hamiltonians, the total entropy, and the magnetic and cross-helicities, whose coefficients are all constant. The Lie–Poisson bracket induced by this Nambu bracket does not coincide with the original one, but is supplemented by terms with an auxiliary variable. The supplemented Lie–Poisson bracket qualifies the cross-helicity as the Casimir. By appealing to Noether’s theorem, we show that the cross-helicity is an integral invariant associated with the particle-relabeling symmetry. Employing a Lagrange label function as the independent variable in the variational framework facilitates implementation of the relabeling transformation. By incorporating the divergence symmetry, other known topological invariants are put on the same ground as Noether’s theorem.
Pooled Minimal Clinically Important Differences of the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test in Patients With Early Subacute Stroke: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Tamura Shuntaro , Miyata Kazuhiro , Hasegawa Satoshi , Kobayashi Sota , Shioura Kosuke , Usuda Shigeru
Published: February 2024

Objective

Balance problems are common in patients with stroke, and the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) is a reliable and valid assessment tool for measuring balance function. Determining the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is crucial for assessing treatment effectiveness. This study aimed to determine the MCID of the Mini-BESTest in patients with early subacute stroke.

Methods

In this prospective multicenter study, 53 patients with early subacute stroke undergoing rehabilitation in inpatient units were included. The mean age of the patients was 72.6 (SD = 12.2) years. The Mini-BESTest, which consists of 14 items assessing various aspects of balance function, including anticipatory postural adjustments, postural responses, sensory orientation, and dynamic gait, was used as the assessment tool. The global rating of change (GRC) scales completed by the participants and physical therapists were used as external anchors to calculate the MCID. The GRC scale measured subjective improvement in balance function, ranging from −3 (very significantly worse) to +3 (very significantly better), with a GRC score of ≥+2 considered as meaningful improvement. Four methods were used to calculate the MCID: mean of participants with GRC of 2, receiver operating characteristic–based method, predictive modeling method, and adjustment of the predictive modeling method based on the rate of improvement. From the MCID values obtained using these methods, a single pooled MCID value was calculated.

Results

The MCID values for the Mini-BESTest obtained through the 4 methods ranged from 3.2 to 4.5 points when using the physical therapist’s GRC score as the anchor but could not be calculated using the participant’s GRC score. The pooled MCID value for the Mini-BESTest was 3.8 (95% CI = 2.9–5.0).

Conclusions

The Mini-BESTest MCID obtained in this study is valuable for identifying improvements in balance function among patients with early subacute stroke.

Impact

Determination of the MCID is valuable for evaluating treatment effectiveness. The study findings provide clinicians with practical values that can assist in interpreting Mini-BESTest results and assessing treatment effectiveness.
State Pride and the Quality of Democracy in the American States
Authors: Flavin Patrick J , Shufeldt Gregory
Published: February 2024

We evaluate whether feelings of state pride in the USA are linked to the quality of democracy in one’s state. Using two original surveys, we find no relationship between an objective measure of the quality of state democracy and feelings of state pride. In contrast, we find a consistent positive relationship between subjective evaluations and state pride such that citizens with more positive evaluations of the quality of democracy in their state report higher levels of state pride. Interestingly, feelings of state pride are not linked to the objective measure of democracy even when citizens are informed of where their state ranks in a survey experiment. However, subsample analyses reveal that there is a relationship between the objective measure and state pride among Democrats and political “losers” (citizens living in states where the government is controlled by the opposite party). We conclude by discussing implications for citizenship and state pride in an era of democratic erosion.