bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putative role of non‐invasive vagus nerve stimulation in cancer pathology and immunotherapy: Can this be a hidden treasure, especially for the elderly?
Authors: Abdullahi Auwal , Wong Thomson W. L. , Ng Shamay S. M.
Published: August 2023

Cancer is globally a disease of significant public health concern owing to its prevalence, and association with morbidity and mortality. Thus, cost‐effective treatments for cancer are important to help reduce its significant morbidity and mortality. However, the current therapeutic options for cancer such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery may produce serious adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy, especially in the long term. In addition, these therapeutic options may not be well tolerated by the elderly especially those who are frail. The current article is aimed at discussing an alternative therapeutic option, non‐invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and the roles it plays in cancer pathology and immunotherapy. The VNS does this by reducing oxidative stress via silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1); inhibiting inflammation via both hypothalamic–pituitary–axis (HPA) and the release of corticosteroid from the adrenal gland, and cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway (CAP), and increasing vagal activity which helps in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism, and increase chance of survival. Furthermore, it helps with reducing complications due to cancer or its treatments such as postoperative ileus and severity of peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapy, and improves cancer‐related fatigue, lymphopenia, and quality of life. These suggest that the importance of non‐invasive VNS in cancer pathology and immunotherapy cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, considering the safety of non‐invasive VNS and its cost‐effectiveness, it is a therapeutic option worth trying for these patients, especially in combination with other therapies.
Anti‐inflammatory effect of polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) extracted from red alga (Porphyra sp.) (Ps‐PDRN) in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides: A comparative study with commercial PDRN
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hee , Heo Seong‐Yeong , Han Ji Sung , Jung Won‐Kyo
Published: August 2023

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a DNA‐derived drug extracted from the sperm cells of Oncorhynchus mykiss or O. keta. PDRN exhibits wound healing and anti‐inflammatory activities by activating adenosine A2A receptor and salvage pathways. However, commercial PDRN products (e.g., Placentex, Rejuvenex, and HiDr) have limitations as they are exclusively extracted O. mykiss and O. keta, which are expensive and can only be used as extraction sources during a specific period when their sperm cells are activated. Therefore, this study aimed to extract PDRN from Porphyra sp. (Ps‐PDRN) and investigate whether it has anti‐inflammatory activity through a comparative study with commercial product. The results indicated that Ps‐PDRN had an anti‐inflammatory effect on Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. It inhibited nitric oxide production and inducible nitric oxygen synthase protein expression by suppressing phosphorylation of p38 and ERK, without cytotoxicity. Furthermore, Ps‐PDRN promoted cell proliferation and collagen production in human dermal fibroblast. In conclusion, our study confirms that Ps‐PDRN exhibits both anti‐inflammatory and cell proliferative effects. These results indicated that Ps‐PDRN has the potential as a bioactive drug for tissue engineering.
Characteristics and treatments of patients with significantly elevated creatine kinase levels induced by seizures: Case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Kai , Yang Jinwei , Xu Wenhao , Wang Lei , Wang Yu
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Motor signs accompanying seizures have been considered to result in overexertion of muscles and have the ability to cause elevated levels of serum creatine kinase (CK). There were no previous studies on the treatment of seizure‐induced elevated CK. We summarized the characteristics and treatments of six patients with significant elevation of CK after seizure onset. There were four males and two females, the age range was 16–68 years. The CK levels were greater than 5000 U/L in five of the six patients and the highest CK level was 39,300 U/L. All patients exhibited an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 90 mL/min/1.73m2. No patient developed renal failure or required continuous renal replacement therapy. We determined that serial assessment of CK, myoglobin, eGFR, and electrolytes should be performed in patients following seizures. Furthermore, fluid resuscitation, urine alkalization, and diuretic agents should be administrated when CK are significantly elevated after seizure onset. Serial assessment of CK levels after seizures should be performed, especially when the patient experiences electrolyte disorders. Fluid resuscitation, urine alkalization, and diuretic agents also should be administrated to patients when they exhibit a significantly elevated CK or myoglobin after seizures.
Variable CD18 expression in a 22‐year‐old female with leukocyte adhesion deficiency I: Clinical case and literature review
Authors: Bondarenko Anastasiia V. , Boyarchuk Oksana R. , Sakovich Inga S. , Polyakova Ekaterina A. , Migas Alexander A. , Kupchinskaya Aleksandra N. , Opalinska Aleksandra , Reich Adam , Volianska Liubov , Hilfanova Anna M. , Lapiy Fedir I. , Chernyshova Liudmyla I. , Volokha Alla P. , Zabara Dariia V. , Belevtsev Mikhail V. , Shman Tatsiana V. , Kukharenko Lyudmila V. , Goltsev Mikhail V. , Dubouskaya Tatsiana G. , Hancharou Andrei Y. , Ji Weizhen , Lakhani Saquib , Lucas Carrie L. , Aleinikova Olga V. , Sharapova Svetlana O.
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Partial leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 1 (LAD‐1) deficiency is extremely rare condition with milder infectious manifestation and immune system imbalance leads to increased risks of autoinflammatory complications, such as pyoderma gangrenosum, that can be triggered by trauma or pregnancy. In patients with spice‐site ITGB2 variants, partial expression can occur due to different β2 integrin isophorms expression.

LAD‐1, OMIM ID #116920 is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder that results from mutations in the ITGB2 gene that encodes the CD18 β2 integrin subunit. According to the CD18 expression, LAD‐1 is categorized as severe (<2%), moderate (2%–30%), or mild (>30%). Here, we describe a 22‐year‐old female, who presented with inflammatory skin disease and oral cavity, as well as respiratory tract infections during the first year of life. LAD‐1 was diagnosed at the age of 2 years by low expression of CD18 (1%). Whole‐exome sequencing identified homozygous c. 59‐10C>A variant in the ITGB2 gene. Despite severe phenotype, the patient survived to adulthood without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and became pregnant at the age of 20 years, with pregnancy complicated by a pyoderma gangrenosum‐like lesion. During her life, CD18 expression increased from 1% to 9%; at 22 years of age, 5% of neutrophils and 9% of lymphocytes were CD18+. All CD18+‐lymphocytes were predominantly memory/effector cytotoxic T cells. However, revertant mosaicism was not being established suggesting that CD18 expression variability may be mediated by other mechanisms such as different β2 integrin isophorms expression.
Homogeneous Iron‐Catalysed Oxidation Of Non‐Activated Alkanes With Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Mao Shuxin , Verspeek Dennis , Wen Xiaodong , Yang Yong , Li Yong‐Wang , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: August 2023

A novel synthetic protocol for the direct oxidation of alkanes, including cyclic and linear ones, to give ketones and alcohols using hydrogen peroxide as terminal oxidant under ambient conditions is presented. The active catalyst for this challenging transformation is conveniently generated by combination of simple Fe salts with N‐methyl bis(picolylamine) (Me‐bpa). Utilizing picolinic acid as additive leads to improved yields of ketones and alcohols (32‐57 %). The reaction can be conveniently scaled up to multi‐g scale.
Removal of Organochlorine Compounds from Coal Tar by Nucleophilic Substitution and Coalescence
Authors: Du Hengxing , Gao Zhongyang , Li Wangliang
Published: August 2023

An integrated process of phase transfer nucleophilic substitution and coalescence is proposed to upgrade coal tar by simultaneously removing organochlorine compounds (OOCs) and water. For the phase transfer catalysts (PTCs) and nucleophiles, polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG‐400) and triethanolamine (TEOA) were the most effective to remove OOCs from coal tar. The optimal parameters of the dichlorination process in terms of molar ratio of PEG‐400 and TEOA to OOCs, reaction temperature, reaction time, and stirring speed were determined. The chloride removal efficiency reached 80.66 % when glass fiber was used for oil‐water coalescence separation. A promising method for simulllltaneously removing chloride and water from coal tar is provided.
Photoreduction of Anthracenes Catalyzed by peri‐Xanthenoxanthene: a Scalable and Sustainable Birch‐Type Alternative
Authors: De Luca Cristian , Zanetti Davide , Battisti Tommaso , Ferreira Rúben R. , Lopez Sofia , McMillan Alexander H. , Lesher‐Pérez Sasha Cai , Maggini Laura , Bonifazi Davide
Published: August 2023

The typical Birch reduction transforms arenes into cyclohexa‐1,4‐dienes by using alkali metals, an alcohol as a proton source, and an amine as solvent. Capitalizing on the strong photoreductive properties of peri‐xanthenoxanthene (PXX), herein we report the photocatalyzed “Birch‐type” reduction of acenes by employing visible blue light irradiation at room temperature in the presence of air. Upon excitation at 405 or 460 nm in the presence of a mixture of N,N‐diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA) and trifluoromethanesulfonimide (HNTf2) in DMSO, PXX photocatalyzes the selective reduction of full‐carbon acene derivatives (24–75 %). Immobilization of PXX onto polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) beads (PXX‐PDMS) allowed the use of the catalyst in heterogeneous batch reactions, giving 9‐phenyl‐9,10‐dihydroanthracene in high yield (68 %). The catalyst could easily be recovered and reused, with no notable drop in performance observed after five reaction cycles. Integration of the PXX‐PDMS beads into a microreactor enabled the reduction of acenes under continuous‐flow conditions, thereby validating the sustainability and scalability of this heterogeneous‐phase approach.
PROTOCOL: Evidence‐based frameworks used to promote self‐employment with persons with disabilities: A scoping review
Authors: Lebogang Monareng Luther , Soeker Shaheed Mogammad , Naidoo Deshini
Published: August 2023

Aim

This scoping review aims to highlight literature on self‐employment evidence‐based frameworks used to promote self‐employment among persons with disabilities. This will be achieved by answering this research question, what evidence‐based self‐employment frameworks have been successfully used to promote self‐employment among persons with disabilities?

Methods

To answer the research question, the steps followed will be based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). Arksey and O'Malley's sequential stages will be used to guide the scoping review process. An experienced librarian and a second reviewer will assist with this review. A third reviewer will only be involved, when necessary, for example, to help resolve decision conflicts between reviewers one and two.

Discussion

This section will discuss the data collected. In line with Tricco et al., this scoping review envisages outlining existing literature, identifying gaps and informing future research in the field of self‐employment for persons with disabilities. What evidence‐based self‐employment frameworks have been successfully used to promote self‐employment among persons with disabilities? Is a question that this scoping review seeks to answer. Thus, this research has the potential to add to knowledge and inform or stimulate further research.
Effects of dietary patterns on the all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality in patients with hypertension: A cohort study based on the NHANES database
Authors: Li Fang , Zhang Yanping , Pan Lina , Chen Hui
Published: August 2023

Background

Hypertension (HTN) patients have higher risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD)‐specific mortality. Dietary patterns have been reported related to the risk of mortality, but their roles in HTN patients is unclear.

Hypothesis

To explore the relationships between different dietary patterns and all‐cause/CVD‐specific mortality and provide dietary guidance for HTN patients' prognosis improvement.

Methods

Data of 27 618 HTN patients were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database in this retrospective cohort study. The associations between Healthy Eating Index (HEI)‐2015, Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI)‐2010, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and Mediterranean (MED) diet and all‐cause and CVD‐specific mortality were explored using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses of age, gender, body mass index, and comorbidity were also performed.

Results

The median follow‐up time was 83 months. A total of 3462 patients died for all‐cause and 1064 died due to CVD. After adjusting for covariates, we found that high adherence to AHEI‐2010 (HR = 0.84 for all‐cause; HR = 0.72 for CVD), and MED (HR = 0.84 for all‐cause; HR = 0.77 for CVD) diet were associated with decreased risks of both all‐cause and CVD‐specific mortality. In patients who aged ≥65 years old, were normal/overweight, without complications, the relationships between different dietary patterns and risk of mortality were different.

Conclusion

High scores of AHEI‐2010 and MED may be associated with decreased risks of all‐cause and CVD‐specific mortality in patients with HTN.
Exploring the Mechanism of Single‐Crystal MnO2 as Cathodes for Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Shujun , Wang Fengbo , Diao Qiqi , Zhang Yutong , Li Guangda
Published: August 2023

MnO2 has the advantages of low cost and abundant resources, so it is considered to be an important electrode material in zinc ion batteries. However, its practical application is still challenged by easy collapse and capacity loss. In this paper, a stable single crystal β‐MnO2 nanorod cathode material was prepared. When used as ZIBs cathode material, single crystal β‐MnO2 has high ionic diffusion kinetics and calculability. In this paper, we prepared single‐crystal MnO2 through hydrothermal nanotechnology. By leveraging the benefits of the single‐crystal structure, we optimized the structural stability, ion conductivity, surface reactions, and phase control of the cathode material, resulting in improved battery performance and cycle life. In the fabricated single‐crystal MnO2 aqueous zinc‐ion battery, the elimination of internal crystal faces in MnO2 leads to ordered lattice arrangement, enabling a more direct and unobstructed diffusion path for H+ ions within the lattice. This significantly enhances the ion conductivity of the cathode material, promoting the rate and efficiency of the battery‘s charge and discharge processes. Therefore, single‐crystal MnO2 exhibits excellent cycling performance for zinc‐ion storage in ZIBs, achieving a high specific capacity of 224.7 mA h g−1 after 250 cycles under a current density of 0.3 A g−1, while maintaining a Coulombic efficiency of 99.58 %.
Harmonization and standardization of biofluid‐based biomarker measurements for AT(N) classification in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Giangrande Chiara , Delatour Vincent , Andreasson Ulf , Blennow Kaj , Gobom Johan , Zetterberg Henrik
Published: August 2023

Fluid biomarkers are currently measured in cerebrospinal fluid and blood for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and are promising targets for drug development and for patients’ follow‐up in clinical trials. These biomarkers have been grouped in an unbiased research framework, the amyloid (Aβ), tau, and neurodegeneration (AT[N]) biomarker system to aid patients’ early diagnosis and stratification. Metrological approaches relying on mass spectrometry have been used for the development of reference materials and reference measurement procedures. Despite their excellent performances as clinical tools, fluid biomarkers often present an important between‐laboratory variation. Standardization efforts were carried out on the biomarkers currently included in the AT(N) classification system, involving the collaboration of national metrology institutes, clinicians, researchers, and in vitro diagnostic providers. This article provides an overview of current activities towards standardization. These reference methods and reference materials may be used for recalibration of immunoassays and the establishment of standardized cutoff values allowing a better stratification of Alzheimer's disease patients.

Highlights

The AT(N) biomarker system allows stratifying AD patients on the basis of biomarker profiles.

Fluid biomarker measurements often present an important between‐laboratory variation preventing the establishment of standardized cutoff values.

Overview on the standardization initiatives involving the fluid biomarkers currently included in the AT(N) framework.
Comparison of glass and digital slides for cervical cytopathology screening and interpretation
Authors: de Velozo Guilherme , Cordeiro Juliana , Sousa Jefferson , Holanda Ana Cláudia , Pessoa Giovanni , Porfírio Mônica , Távora Fábio
Published: August 2023

Cervical cancer is the second most common form of cancer and a leading cause of premature death among women aged 15 to 44 worldwide. In Brazil, there is a high prevalence of infection by the human papillomavirus – HPV. Digital pathology optimizes time and space for reading cervicovaginal cytology slides. We evaluated the feasibility of using whole slide images (WSI) for the routine interpretation of cytology exams. A total of 99 cases of vaginal cytology were selected from a reference laboratory in Northeastern Brazil. Three cytotechnicians participated in the study. Cellular atypia was the one that most presented concordance values. Two observers almost perfectly agreed (k = 0.86 and k = 0.84, respectively) on the negative diagnoses. The performance of the evaluators for NILM (negative for intraepithelial lesion and malignancy) showed high reproducibility and sensitivity in the digital slides, mainly between evaluators A and C. In contrast, the microbiology group showed disagreement between the diagnoses by digital slides and the standard‐ gold. The concordance between the digital diagnoses and the gold standard for ASCUS was 89%. In the inflammatory category, Spearman's test showed similar results between raters A, B, and C (rs = 0.47, rs = 0.41, and rs = 0.47, respectively). This study reports the diagnostic validation using digital slides in view of the need to optimize the cytology visualization process. Our experience shows good diagnostic agreement between digital and optical microscopy in several analyzed categories, but mainly in relation to cellular atypia and inflammatory processes.
Changing trends in novel benzodiazepine use within Scottish prisons: detection, quantitation, prevalence, and modes of use
Authors: Marland Victoria , Reid Robert , Brandon Andrew M. , Hill Kevin , Cruickshanks Fiona , McKenzie Craig , Norman Caitlyn , Nic Daéid Niamh , Menard Herve
Published: August 2023

Drug use within prisons is increasingly complex and unpredictable. Benzodiazepines are currently one of the most common drugs detected in individuals leaving Scottish prisons; however, understanding illicit benzodiazepine use within prisons and assessing the potential harm to individuals is challenging due to the lack of available analytical data on the substances circulating. Increasingly, materials, such as paper and clothing, infused with novel benzodiazepines have been identified as a smuggling route into Scottish prisons. Methods were developed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of benzodiazepines using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and applied to 495 seized samples from 11 Scottish prisons, including papers, cards, blotters, powders, tablets, and clothing. Evolution in the benzodiazepines being detected was demonstrated, with etizolam being the most prevalent throughout 2020/2021 following which flubromazepam and bromazolam detections increased. Additionally, significant changes in the smuggling methods and drug formats detected occurred over time following policy changes within prisons. These data represent the first reported widescale etizolam quantitation data and demonstrate high levels of variability across all sample types, most notably within tablets (0.34–2.33 mg per tablet). Additionally, concentration mapping of a whole seized card sample revealed the total concentration of drug present (312.5 mg) and demonstrated variability across the surface of the card (1.16–1.87 mg/cm2). These data highlight the challenges of consistent dosing for individuals and the high risks of unintentional overdose. Increased understanding of the challenge of such drug smuggling and benzodiazepine use will aid in the development of strategies to reduce supply and mitigate harm.
Global biodiversity data suggest allopolyploid plants do not occupy larger ranges or harsher conditions compared with their progenitors
Authors: Mata Julia K. , Martin Sara L. , Smith Tyler W.
Published: August 2023

Understanding the factors determining species' geographical and environmental range is a central question in evolution and ecology, and key for developing conservation and management practices. Shortly after the discovery of polyploidy, just over 100 years ago, it was suggested that polyploids generally have greater range sizes and occur in more extreme conditions than their diploid congeners. This suggestion is now widely accepted in the literature and is attributed to polyploids having an increased capacity for genetic diversity that increases their potential for adaptation and invasiveness. However, the data supporting this idea are mixed. Here, we compare the niche of allopolyploid plants to their progenitor species to determine whether allopolyploidization is associated with increased geographic range or extreme environmental tolerance. Our analysis includes 123 allopolyploid species that exist as only one known ploidy level, with at least one known progenitor species, and at least 50 records in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database. We used GBIF occurrence data and range modeling tools to quantify the geographic and environmental distribution of these allopolyploids relative to their progenitors. We find no indication that allopolyploid plants occupy more extreme conditions or larger geographic ranges than their progenitors. Data evaluated here generally indicate no significant difference in range between allopolyploids and progenitors, and where significant differences do occur, the progenitors are more likely to exist in extreme conditions. We concluded that the evidence from these data indicate allopolyploidization does not result in larger or more extreme ranges. Thus, allopolyploidization does not have a consistent effect on species distribution, and we conclude it is more likely the content of an allopolyploid's genome rather than polyploidy per se that determines the potential for invasiveness.
Phylogeography of the Sunda pangolin, Manis javanica: Implications for taxonomy, conservation management and wildlife forensics
Authors: Sitam Frankie T. , Salgado‐Lynn Milena , Denel Azroie , Panjang Elisa , McEwing Ross , Lightson Amanda , Ogden Rob , Maruji Nur Alwanie , Yahya Nurhartini Kamalia , Ngau Cosmas , Mohd Kulaimi Noor Azleen , Ithnin Hartini , Rovie‐Ryan Jeffrine , Abu Bakar Mohd Soffian , Ewart Kyle M.
Published: August 2023

The Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) is the most widely distributed Asian pangolin species, occurring across much of Southeast Asia and in southern China. It is classified as Critically Endangered and is one of the most trafficked mammals in the world, which not only negatively impacts wild Sunda pangolin populations but also poses a potential disease risk to other species, including humans and livestock. Here, we aimed to investigate the species' phylogeography across its distribution to improve our understanding of the species' evolutionary history, elucidate any taxonomic uncertainties and enhance the species' conservation genetic management and potential wildlife forensics applications. We sequenced mtDNA genomes from 23 wild Sunda pangolins of known provenance originating from Malaysia to fill sampling gaps in previous studies, particularly in Borneo. To conduct phylogenetic and population genetic analyses of Sunda pangolins across their range, we integrated these newly generated mitochondrial genomes with previously generated mtDNA and nuclear DNA data sets (RAD‐seq SNP data). We identified an evolutionarily distinct mtDNA lineage in north Borneo, estimated to be ~1.6 million years divergent from lineages in west/south Borneo and the mainland, comparable to the divergence time from the Palawan pangolin. There appeared to be mitonuclear discordance, with no apparent genetic structure across Borneo based on analysis of nuclear SNPs. These findings are consistent with the ‘out of Borneo hypothesis’, whereby Sunda pangolins diversified in Borneo before subsequently migrating throughout Sundaland, and/or a secondary contact scenario between mainland and Borneo. We have elucidated possible taxonomic issues in the Sunda/Palawan pangolin complex and highlight the critical need for additional georeferenced samples to accurately apportion its range‐wide genetic variation into appropriate taxonomic and conservation units. Additionally, these data have improved forensic identification testing involving these species and permit the implementation of geographic provenance testing in some scenarios.
Mammal traits and soil biogeochemistry: Functional diversity relates to composition of soil organic matter
Authors: Losada María , Sobral Mar , Silvius Kirsten M. , Varela Sara , Martínez Cortizas Antonio M. , Fragoso José M. V.
Published: August 2023

Mammal diversity affects carbon concentration in Amazonian soils. It is known that some species traits determine carbon accumulation in organisms (e.g., size and longevity), and are also related to feeding strategies, thus linking species traits to the type of organic remains that are incorporated into the soil. Trait diversity in mammal assemblages – that is, its functional diversity – may therefore constitute another mechanism linking biodiversity to soil organic matter (SOM) accumulation. To address this hypothesis, we analyzed across 83 mammal assemblages in the Amazon biome (Guyana), the elemental (by ED‐XRF and CNH analysis) and molecular (FTIR‐ATR) composition of SOM of topsoils (401 samples) and trait diversity (functional richness, evenness, and divergence) for each mammal assemblage. Lower mammal functional richness but higher functional divergence were related to higher content of carbonyl and aliphatic SOM, potentially affecting SOM recalcitrance. Our results might allow the design of biodiversity management plans that consider the effect of mammal traits on carbon sequestration and accumulation in soils.
Neophytes may promote hybridization and adaptations to a changing planet
Authors: Staude Ingmar R. , Ebersbach Jana
Published: August 2023

Human activities erode geographic barriers, facilitating hybridization among previously isolated taxa. However, limited empirical research exists on the consequences of introduced species (neophytes) for hybridization and subsequent evolutionary outcomes. To address this knowledge gap, we employed a macroecological approach. First, we examined the spatial and phylogenetic overlap between neophytes and hybrids by integrating the Plants of the World Online database with the Global Naturalized Alien Flora database. Second, leveraging the largest dated plant phylogeny available, we compared diversification rates between genera containing hybrids and neophytes versus those without. Third, focusing on the extensively studied hybrid flora of Britain, we studied the spatial distributions of hybrids in relation to neophyte and native parents, assessing potential adaptations to anthropogenic disturbances and impacts on native species. Overall, our findings highlight positive ties between contemporary biodiversity redistribution and hybridization. Spatially (across countries) and phylogenetically (across genera), neophyte incidence was positively associated with hybrid incidence. Genera comprising both hybrids and neophytes displayed significantly higher diversification rates. Neophyte hybrids primarily occupied areas with a higher human footprint, with limited evidence of hybrids threatening native species throughout their range in more natural habitats. These results challenge the notion that species naturalizations and hybridizations exclusively yield negative outcomes for biodiversity. While it is conceivable that anthropogenic hybridization may facilitate recombination of genetic variation and contribute to conserving genetic diversity in disturbed environments, further research is needed to fully understand these processes.
Ecological convergence in phytochemistry and flower–insect visitor interactions along an Andean elevation gradient
Authors: Carvajal Acosta Alma Nalleli , Formenti Ludovico , Godschalx Adrienne , Katsanis Angelos , Schapheer Constanza , Mooney Kailen , Villagra Cristian , Rasmann Sergio
Published: August 2023

The diversity of specialized molecules produced by plants radiating along ecological gradients is thought to arise from plants' adaptations to local conditions. Therefore, closely related species growing in similar habitats should phylogenetically converge, or diverge, in response to similar climates, or similar interacting animal communities. We here asked whether closely related species in the genus Haplopappus (Asteraceae) growing within the same elevation bands in the Andes, converged to produce similar floral odors. To do so, we combine untargeted analysis of floral volatile organic compounds with insect olfactory bioassay in congeneric Haplopappus (Asteraceae) species growing within the same elevation bands along the Andean elevational gradient. We then asked whether the outcome of biotic interactions (i.e., pollination vs. seed predation) would also converge across species within the same elevation. We found that flower odors grouped according to their elevational band and that the main floral visitor preferred floral heads from low‐elevation band species. Furthermore, the cost–benefit ratio of predated versus fertilized seeds was consistent within elevation bands, but increased with elevation, from 6:1 at low to 8:1 at high elevations. In the light of our findings, we propose that climate and insect community changes along elevation molded a common floral odor blend, best adapted for the local conditions. Moreover, we suggest that at low elevation where floral resources are abundant, the per capita cost of attracting seed predators is diluted, while at high elevation, sparse plants incur a higher herbivory cost per capita. Together, our results suggest that phytochemical convergence may be an important factor driving plant–insect interactions and their ecological outcomes along ecological gradients.
Evaluating the driving forces of spectral inversion methods used for assessing water quality parameters in Poyang Lake, China
Authors: Wang Wenyu , Zhai Xiaoyan , Yang Peng , Xia Jun , Hu Sheng , Zhou Libo , Fu Cai
Published: August 2023

Water quality parameters are key indicators of quality of water and can indicate the algal biomass and eutrophication in lakes. Therefore, this study spectrally inverted and evaluated the water quality of the Poyang Lake in China by analysing the differences between the measured water quality parameters and the observed image spectra of Sentinel‐2 remote sensing. This analysis was done using statistical regression models (SRMs) and various machine learning models (e.g., support vector machine [SVM] and random forest [RF]). The following major conclusions were drawn: (1) nutrients accumulated more in summer (June–August) than in winter (December–February). For example, in local areas of the main river, total nitrogen (TN) concentration reached 3.4 mg/L in summer of 2016, whereas total phosphorus (TP) concentrations were below 0.052 mg/L in winters of 2016 and 2017. (2) The three models, SRM, RF and SVM, achieved good results in the inversions of Secchi depth and permanganate index. However, differences were noted in the inversions of other parameters. For example, the goodness‐of‐fit (r2) between the inversion and measured values of TN concentration from RF was 0.81, while that from SR was 0.73. (3) The spatial distribution patterns of the water quality parameters showed differences. The ammoniacal nitrogen concentration was higher in the central region than that in the western region of the lake, whereas TP concentration was higher at the shoreline of the lake at 0.07 mg/L on 2 April 2017 but was relatively low in the main channel.
Surveyor and analyst biases in forest density estimation from United States Public Land Surveys
Authors: Cogbill Charles V.
Published: August 2023

Accurate forest density estimates based on United States Public Land Surveys have long been questioned because of doubts about randomness of both the surveyors' selection of witness trees and the underlying tree dispersion. This study analyzes the surveyor sampling of witness trees in six Midwestern states in the mid‐1800s. It develops universal methods for identification, quantification, and correction of bias, and then calculation of unbiased density. Applying these techniques produces unbiased site‐specific densities before Euro‐American settlement, which are the essential baseline for determining historic changes in forest structure. Previous analysts used untested assumptions, inaccurate estimators, unknown or unrealistic sampling designs, and omitted or poorly corrected surveyor bias, resulting in hundreds of unreliable density estimates. The surveyors' recording of the empirical distance, bearing, and diameter of witness trees documented the exact sampling design. The intended design and deviation from it are investigated with a combination of descriptive statistics, probability theory, computer simulations, analogue geometric models, and modern stand conditions. Herein, analyst bias is eliminated using the robust Morisita II density estimator matching the predominant sampling design of two trees in opposing semicircles. Six widespread surveyor biases deviating from the nearest tree to the corner are evaluated. Quadrant bias and diameter bias for medium‐sized trees are subsumed under newly framed design and small tree biases. Two novel surveyor positional biases (pair angle and near‐post) are introduced here. Previously recognized azimuthal and species biases are analyzed with new techniques. Widely postulated surveyor bias for certain species was found to be minimal. Bias correction and density estimation are applied in detail over 68 townships in northern Wisconsin. The estimated historical forest density in northern Wisconsin, corrected for bias and small tree truncation, averaged 323 trees/ha ≥20 cm. Over 80 Midwestern subregions, surveyors bypassed an estimated 17% of the nearest trees due to their position, resulting in an average bias correction of +24% over the base density. If censored trees below a 20‐cm “veil‐line” are considered, the surveyors bypassed 48% of the nearest trees >12.7 cm in diameter. This study resolves a 70‐year‐old conundrum of surveyor and analyst biases in historical density estimation.
Real‐time pulmonary artery pressure monitoring in heart failure patients: an updated cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Cowie Martin R. , Thokala Praveen , Ihara Zenichi , Adamson Philip B. , Angermann Christiane
Published: August 2023

Aims

Previous cost‐effectiveness analysis suggests that CardioMEMS is cost‐effective compared with usual care for patients with persistent New York Heart Association class III symptoms and at least one heart failure (HF) hospitalization within 12 months. The aim of the paper is to perform an update of the cost‐effectiveness analysis of CardioMEMS using the most recent data from the published literature.

Methods and results

A Microsoft Excel Markov model from a previous UK cost‐effectiveness study of CardioMEMS was updated using the clinical effectiveness of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP)‐guided treatment derived from the pivotal trials. The model included the device costs (and the implantation procedure and related complications), costs of remote monitoring, costs of HF‐related hospitalizations, and costs of usual care. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated based on utilities from pivotal trials and published literature. Cost‐effectiveness results were estimated as incremental cost per QALY gained of CardioMEMS compared with usual care. Scenario analyses were also performed using data from real‐world studies that showed a significant decrease in HF‐related hospitalizations. In the base case analysis over a time horizon of 10 years, PAP‐guided HF therapy increased cost compared with usual care by £6337 (i.e. from £22 770 in usual care to £29 107 in PAP‐guided HF therapy) and the QALYs per patient for usual care and PAP‐guided patients were 2.62 and 2.94, respectively, reflecting an increase of 0.32 QALYs with PAP‐guided treatment. The resultant incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER), the ratio between incremental costs and the QALYs, is estimated at £19 761/QALY. Scenario analyses suggest that the ICER for CardioMEMS can range from being dominant to £27 910/QALY. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses suggested that PAP‐guided HF therapy has 81.9% probability of being cost‐effective at a threshold of £30 000/QALY.

Conclusions

Our model suggests that CardioMEMS is likely to be cost‐effective in the United Kingdom, at the currently considered thresholds of £20 000–30 000/QALY.
Reprogramming dendritic cells through the immunological synapse: A two‐way street
Authors: Calzada‐Fraile Diego , Sánchez‐Madrid Francisco
Published: August 2023

Dendritic cells (DCs) bridge innate and adaptive immunity. Their main function is to present antigens to prime T cells and initiate and shape adaptive responses. Antigen presentation takes place through intimate contacts between the two cells, termed immune synapses (IS). During the formation of IS, information travels towards the T‐cell side to induce and tune its activation; but it also travels in reverse via engagement of membrane receptors and within extracellular vesicles transferred to the DC. Such reverse information transfer and its consequences on DC fate have been largely neglected. Here, we review the events and effects of IS‐mediated antigen presentation on DCs. In addition, we discuss novel technological advancements that enable monitoring DCs interactions with T lymphocytes, the main effects of DCs undergoing productive IS (postsynaptic DCs, or psDCs), and how reverse information transfer could be harnessed to modulate immune responses for therapeutic intervention.
Exploring LiZnNbO4 as a Host for New Colored Compounds: Synthesis, Structure, and Material Properties of NbZn1‐x Mx LiO4 (M=Mn, Co, Ni, Fe) and Nb1‐ySby Zn1‐x Mx LiO4 (M=Co, Ni)
Authors: Malik Diksha , Natarajan Srinivasan
Published: August 2023

The non ‐ centrosymmetric tetragonal inverse spinel structure of LiZnNbO4 has been explored with a view to prepare new colored compounds. The substitution of Co2+, Ni2+, Fe2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ ions were attempted in the place of Zn2+ ions and Sb5+ ions in place of Nb5+ ions. The studies indicated that 0.75 Zn2+ ions in LiZnNbO4 can be replaced by Co2+ ions and 0.5 Zn2+ ions in LiZnNb0.5Sb0.5O4 compound. The substitution of Co2+ ions gives rise to different shades of blue color in Li(Zn1‐xCox)NbO4 compounds and from ink blue to blue‐green color in Li(Zn1‐xCox)(Nb0.5Sb0.5)O4 compounds. The different colors observed in the present study were explained by the traditional allowed d‐d transitions as well as the metal‐to‐metal charge transfer (MMCT) transitions involving Nb5+ (4d0) ions and partially filled 3d electrons. The SHG studies indicate that the prepared compounds are SHG active. All the compounds exhibit reasonable dielectric behavior with low loss. The XPS studies confirm the oxidation states of the different substituted ions. Raman studies indicate variations in the bands due to the substitutions in the parent LiZnNbO4 phase. Magnetic studies on the Co2+ ions substituted compounds suggest antiferromagnetic behavior.
Musculoskeletal pain in Parkinson's disease: Association with dopaminergic deficiency in the caudate nucleus
Authors: Rukavina Katarina , Mulholland Nicola , Corcoran Benjamin , Skoric Magdalena Krbot , Staunton Juliet , Rota Silvia , Zinzalias Pavlos , Wu Kit , Fieldwalker Anna , Bannister Kirsty , Rizos Alexandra , Chaudhuri K Ray
Published: August 2023

Background

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain affects over 80% of People with Parkinson's (PD, PwP) and may, in part, be dopaminergic in origin, as dopaminergic medication often leads to its relief.

Methods

PwP who underwent striatal dopamine transporter visualization with a radiopharmaceutical DaTscan™ (123I‐Ioflupane Injection) using a single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) as a part of their clinical‐diagnostic work up were enrolled in the “Non‐motor International Longitudinal Study” (NILS; UK National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network Number 10084) and included in this cross‐sectional analysis. The association between specific DaTscan binding ratios for each striatum, the caudate nucleus and putamen and clinical ratings for MSK pain (assessed using the King's Parkinson's Disease Pain Scale (KPPS)) were analysed.

Results

53 PwP (30.2% female; age: 63.79 ± 11.31 years; disease duration (DD): 3.32 (0.31–14.41) years; Hoehn & Yahr stage (H&Y): 2 (1–4); Levodopa Equivalent Daily Dose (LEDD): 543.08 ± 308.94 mg) were assessed and included in this analysis. MSK pain was highly prevalent (71.7% of all participants, mean KPPS Item 1 score 5.34 ± 4.76) and did not correlate with the motor symptoms burden (SCOPA‐Motor total score; p = 0.783) but showed a significant correlation with quality of life (PDQ‐8, rs = 0.290, p = 0.035). z‐scores for the caudate nucleus (Exp (B) = 0.367, 95% CI for Exp (B) 0.148–0.910, p = 0.031) and striatum (Exp (B) = 0.338, 95% CI for Exp (B) 0.123–0.931, p = 0.036), adjusted for DD, H&Y and LEDD, were significant determinants of MSK pain.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest an association between MSK pain in PwP and the severity of dopaminergic deficiency in the caudate nucleus.

Significance

In People with Parkinson's, musculoskeletal pain does not arise simply as a direct sequel to motor symptoms—instead, it is linked to the severity of dopaminergic depletion in the caudate nucleus.
Expectation violation and cognitive dissonance theory: Proposal for an epistemic inconsistency management model
Authors: Aubert‐Teillaud Benjamin , Bran Alexandre , Vaidis David C.
Published: August 2023

A crucial dilemma for any individual facing contradictory information is whether to maintain or disengage from an expectation. Cognitive dissonance theory offers an influential model of these situations. However, this theory does not provide clear predictions regarding the use of reduction strategies (methods used to resolve inconsistency) and their consequences. We propose a decision rule and parameters to model decisions faced by individuals who encounter epistemic inconsistency. Inconsistency leads individuals to assess the probabilities and costs associated with the error of disengaging from a correct expectation and the error of maintaining an incorrect expectation. Depending on these assessments, individuals opt for a reduction strategy allowing for maintenance of or disengagement from the expectation. We propose a categorization of reduction strategies derived from this process and oriented towards the explanation of expectation bolstering, contributing to the understanding of radicalization. This model offers new predictions and avenues for empirical work.
A study of vehicle lateral position characteristics and passenger cars' special lane width on expressways
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Wu Shaofeng , Dai Zhenhua , Chen Zhengwei , Pan Cunshu , Xu Jin
Published: August 2023

Lane width is crucial for traffic safety management. Previous studies have shown that inappropriate width will lead to an increase in accident probability and unsafe driving behaviors. However, there have been limited studies on determination method of special lane width for different models, especially for passenger cars. To tackle this problem, the lateral driving behavior characteristics of the expressway need to be clarified. This work aims to obtain the appropriate lane width according to the vehicles' width and lateral position characteristics. In this study, the lane lateral residual width (the distance between the vehicle body's contour and the lane marking on the same side) and the lateral safety margin are extracted as characterization indices of vehicle lateral characteristics from natural driving trajectory data of expressways. The effect of vehicle type, driving speed, and lane position on the expressway's trajectory behavior is investigated. The results show that the utilization rate of lane width is higher in the outer lane compared to the inner lane. As driving speed increases, vehicles in the inner and middle lanes exhibit shy away effect, moving away from obstacles. Substantial variations exist in the lateral width of lanes among different vehicle types. When driving in the same lane, passenger cars' lane lateral residual width that is 0.4–0.5 m wider than that of heavy vehicles. The recommended lane width for the safe operation of trucks on expressways is 3.75 m. After a comprehensive analysis of vehicle width, trajectory oscillation, and lateral safety margin, this study proposes a minimum lane width of 3.25 m and a recommended general width of 3.5 m for a passenger car‐only expressway. This study holds great significance in enhancing road safety and provides a valuable theoretical foundation for the design of lane width in a passenger car‐only expressway.
Introducing a Concept for Designing an Aqueous Electrolyte with pH Buffer Properties for Zn–MnO2Batteries with Mn2+/MnO2Deposition/Dissolution
Authors: Fitz Oliver , Wagner Florian , Pross-Brakhage Julia , Bauer Manuel , Gentischer Harald , Birke Kai Peter , Biro Daniel
Published: August 2023

For large‐scale energy‐storage systems, the aqueous rechargeable zinc–manganese dioxide battery (ARZMB) attracts increasing attention due to its excellent advantages such as high energy density, high safety, low material cost, and environmental friendliness. Still, the reaction mechanism and its influence on the electrolyte's pH are under debate. Herein, a pH buffer concept for ARZMB electrolytes is introduced. Selection criteria for pH buffer substances are defined. Different buffered electrolytes based on a zinc salt (ZnSO4, Zn(CH3COO)2, Zn(CHOO)2), and pH buffer substances (acetic acid, propionic acid, formic acid, citric acid, 4‐hydrobenzoic acid, potassium bisulfate, potassium dihydrogen citrate, and potassium hydrogen phthalate) are selected and compared to an unbuffered 2 mZnSO4reference electrolyte using titration, galvanostatic cycling with pH tracking, and cyclic voltammetry. By adding buffer substances, the pH changes can be reduced and controlled within the defined operating window, supporting the Mn2+/MnO2deposition/dissolution mechanism. Furthermore, the potential plateau during discharge can be increased from ≈1.3 V (ZnSO4) to ≈1.7 V (ZnSO4 + AA) versus Zn/Zn2+and the energy retention from ≈30% after 268 cycles (ZnSO4) to ≈86% after 494 cycles (ZnSO4 + AA). Herein, this work can serve as a basis for the targeted design of long‐term stable ARZMB electrolytes.