bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of crucial information exacerbates barriers to mitigating human–elephant conflicts in rural Kenya
Authors: Von Hagen Lynn , Schulte Bruce A. , Steury Todd D. , Dunning Kelly , Githiru Mwangi , Zohdy Sarah , Lepczyk Christopher A.
Published: September 2024

Crop foraging by African savannah elephantsLoxodonta africananegatively affects farmer livelihoods and support for conservation, yet affordable, sustainable and practical solutions remain elusive. To inform conservation priorities, our goal was to assess the hitherto little explored relationships between farmers’ views on agricultural damage and the socio-economic factors limiting their use of elephant deterrents. We tested our hypotheses associated with the demographic categories of age, education level, years spent farming, gender, exposure to information on deterrent methods, farm size, village and relevant combinations of these factors by surveying 206 respondents across six villages in rural Kenya and analysing the resulting data using an information theoretic approach. Respondents were almost four times more likely to use deterrents if exposed to the relevant information, and almost five times more likely to do so if they had secondary education as opposed to none. Farmers with a higher level of education were five times more likely to have received information on deterrents compared to those with no formal education. Participants who had not received information on deterrents were almost three times more likely to believe that they could implement deterrent methods. Respondents who stated that they could not implement deterrents overwhelmingly cited a lack of financial resources as the reason. Overall, we found that crucial information on reducing elephant crop foraging is not reaching the relevant stakeholders, and socio-economic factors such as education and exposure to information appear to limit uptake of protective measures. These insights are important for developing mitigation strategies and supporting the livelihoods of people affected by negative human–elephant interactions, and thus for effective elephant conservation. Our findings also have broader applications for practitioners seeking to understand barriers stakeholders face in their efforts to mitigate negative interactions with wildlife.
Examining contemporaneous and temporal associations of real-time suicidal ideation using network analysis
Authors: Kivelä Liia M. M. , Fried Eiko I. , van der Does Willem , Antypa Niki
Published: September 2024

Background

Suicidal ideation arises from a complex interplay of multiple interacting risk factors over time. Recently, ecological momentary assessment (EMA) has increased our understanding of factors associated with real-time suicidal ideation, as well as those predicting ideation at the level of hours and days. Here we used statistical network methods to investigate which cognitive-affective risk and protective factors are associated with the temporal dynamics of suicidal ideation.

Methods

The SAFE study is a longitudinal cohort study of 82 participants with current suicidal ideation who completed 4×/day EMA over 21 days. We modeled contemporaneous (t) and temporal (t + 1) associations of three suicidal ideation components (passive ideation, active ideation, and acquired capability) and their predictors (positive and negative affect, anxiety, hopelessness, loneliness, burdensomeness, and optimism) using multilevel vector auto-regression models.

Results

Contemporaneously, passive suicidal ideation was positively associated with sadness, hopelessness, loneliness, and burdensomeness, and negatively with happiness, calmness, and optimism; active suicidal ideation was positively associated with passive suicidal ideation, sadness, and shame; and acquired capability only with passive and active suicidal ideation. Acquired capability and hopelessness positively predicted passive ideation at t + 1, which in turn predicted active ideation; acquired capability was positively predicted at t + 1 by shame, and negatively by burdensomeness.

Conclusions

Our findings show that systematic real-time associations exist between suicidal ideation and its predictors, and that different factors may uniquely influence distinct components of ideation. These factors may represent important targets for safety planning and risk detection.
Cognitive behavioral self-help interventions for individuals experiencing psychosis: a systematic review
Authors: Kruger Emily , Hall Laura , Martinez Anton P. , Bentall Richard P.
Published: September 2024

Little is known about the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) specific self-help for psychosis, given that CBT is a highly recommended treatment for psychosis. Thus, research has grown regarding CBT-specific self-help for psychosis, warranting an overall review of the literature. A systematic literature review was conducted, following a published protocol which can be found at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/export_record_pdf.php. A search was conducted across Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Science to identify relevant literature, exploring CBT-based self-help interventions for individuals experiencing psychosis. The PICO search strategy tool was used to generate search terms. A narrative synthesis was conducted of all papers, and papers were appraised for quality. Ten studies were included in the review. Seven papers found credible evidence to support the effectiveness of CBT-based self-help in reducing features of psychosis. Across the studies, common secondary outcomes included depression, overall psychological well-being, and daily functioning, all of which were also found to significantly improve following self-help intervention, as well as evidence to support its secondary benefit for depression, anxiety, overall well-being, and functioning. Due to methodological shortcomings, long-term outcomes are unclear.
Challenges and Clinical Impact of Medical Search and Rescue Efforts Following the Kahramanmaraş Earthquake
Authors: Celikmen Mustafa Ferudun , Tatliparmak Ali Cankut , Tunaligil Verda , Yilmaz Sarper
Published: September 2024

Background:

This study assesses the operational challenges and clinical outcomes encountered by a university-based Emergency Medical Team (EMT) during the medical search and rescue (mSAR) response to the February 2023 earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey.

Methods:

In this observational study, data were retrospectively collected from 42 individuals who received mSAR services post-earthquake. The challenges were categorized as environmental, logistical, or medical, with detailed documentation of rescue times, patient demographics, injury types, and medical interventions.

Results:

In this mSAR study, 42 patients from 30 operations were analyzed and divided into environmental (26.2%), logistical (52.4%), and medical (21.4%) challenge groups. Median rescue times were 29 (IQR 28–30), 36.5 (IQR 33.75–77.75), and 30.5 (IQR 29.5–35.5) hours for each group, respectively (P = .002). Age distribution did not significantly differ across groups (P = .067). Hypothermia affected 18.2%, 45.5%, and 66.7% in the respective groups. Extremity injuries were most common in the medical group (88.9%). Intravenous access was highest in the medical group (88.9%), while splinting was more frequent in the medical (55.6%) and logistical (18.2%) groups. Hypothermia was most prevalent in the medical group (66.7%), followed by the logistical group (45.5%). Ambulance transport post-rescue was utilized for a minority in all groups.

Conclusion:

The study concludes that logistical challenges, more than environmental or medical challenges, significantly prolong the duration of mSAR operations and exacerbate clinical outcomes like hypothermia, informing future enhancements in disaster response planning and execution.
Receiving and adjusting to a diagnosis of ALS: A qualitative study with informal caregivers
Authors: Iseli Luzia M. , Poppe Christopher , Wangmo Tenzin
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) takes more than 1year from detection of first symptoms. The paper seeks to understand the ALS diagnostic process and adjustment from the perspective of informal caregivers.

Methods

The data stems from an interview study with 9 current and 13 bereaved informal caregivers of people with ALS in Switzerland. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

We identified 3 key themes pertaining to ALS diagnosis. In the first theme, we present the close involvement of informal caregivers in the “diagnosis journey.” Highlighted within this theme is the important role they play, which ultimately leads to diagnosis of ALS avoiding further delays. Second, we relay their perceptions on “diagnosis communication pitfalls” where they underlined empathy and planning from the part of medical professional, while communicating the terminal diagnosis of ALS. Participants’ reactions and adjustments post-ALS diagnosis are described in “the aftermath of diagnosis.” In this third theme, we highlight participants’ shock and their need to rethink overall life plans and roles in their family.

Significance of the results

Diagnosis communication that is clear, empathetic, and adjusted to the needs of the patients as well as their caregivers is critical. More work is needed to improve diagnosis communication for ALS patients. Receiving the diagnosis of ALS leads to complete changes in life of caregivers. It is therefore necessary that medical professionals provide adequate support that allows them to plan for their future.
Early-life family meal participation and anthropometric measures at 4 years of age
Authors: Hillesund Elisabet Rudjord , Sagedal Linda Reme , Øverby Nina Cecilie
Published: September 2024

Early-life family meal participation has been associated with several aspects of nutritional health, but longitudinal associations with linear growth have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate whether family meal participation at 12 months of age associates with anthropometric measures 3 years later. We used follow-up data from children born to mothers in the Norwegian Fit for Delivery trial (NFFD) and included 368 first-borns with dietary and anthropometric data at 12 months and 4 years of age. We treated the sample as a cohort and conducted subgroup analyses by randomization status. A family meal participation score was used as exposure, and weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) as outcomes in crude and multivariable linear regression models adjusted for maternal education, randomization status, and child sex.

Higher family meal participation score at 12 months was positively associated with length at 12 months (B = 0.198, 95% CI 0.028, 0.367, p = 0.022) and 4 years (B = 0.283, 95% CI 0.011, 0.555, p = 0.042) in multivariable models. After additional adjustment for maternal height the associations attenuated and were no longer significant. An inverse association with BMI at 4 years of age was observed in children born to mothers that had been exposed to the NFFD intervention (B = −0.144, 95% CI −0.275, −0.014, p = 0.030), but attenuated after adjustment for maternal BMI.

The longitudinal association observed between early family meal participation and child height was largely explained by maternal height. The relationship with BMI differed according to maternal participation in a lifestyle intervention trial during pregnancy.
Quantum Calculation of the Vibrational Excitation of Nitrogen Molecules by Fast Ions: Can It Contribute to STEVE Formation?
Authors: Liang Jun , Donovan Eric
Published: September 2024

The vibrational‐translational (VT) excitation of nitrogen molecules led by collisions with fast ions in subauroral ion drifts (SAID) has been conceived as a potential underlying mechanism contributing to the formation of the Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement (STEVE) phenomenon (Harding et al., 2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2020gl087102). In this study, we perform quantum calculations of the VT excitation rates of N2 led by fast‐drifting ions, and evaluate the resulting vibrational distribution of N2 with ionospheric/thermospheric parameters expected under intense SAID condition. We conclude that, while the VT energy transfer led by SAID plays a distinguishable role in the vibrational excitation of N2, it is incapable of populating the high vibrational levels to the required concentration (Harding et al., 2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2020gl087102) to produce adequate nitric oxide density, and in turn the nitrogen‐dioxide continuum intensity, to account for the STEVE brightness.
Reconciling Global Terrestrial Evapotranspiration Estimates From Multi‐Product Intercomparison and Evaluation
Authors: Cai Yaoting , Xu Qingchen , Bai Fan , Cao Xueqi , Wei Zhongwang , Lu Xingjie , Wei Nan , Yuan Hua , Zhang Shupeng , Liu Shaofeng , Zhang Yonggen , Li Xueyan , Dai Yongjiu
Published: September 2024

Terrestrial evapotranspiration (ET) is a vital process regulating the terrestrial water balance. However, significant uncertainties persist in global ET estimates. Focusing on the area between 60°, we performed an intercomparison of 90 state‐of‐the‐art ET products from 1980 to 2014. These products were obtained from various sources or methods and were grouped into six categories: remote sensing, reanalysis, land surface models, climate models, machine learning methods, and ensemble estimates. It is shown that global ET magnitudes of categories differ considerably, with averages ranging from 518.4 to 706.3 mm yr−1. Spatial patterns are generally consistent but with significant divergence in tropical rainforests. Global trends are mildly positive or negative (−0.10 to 0.37 mm yr−2) depending on categories but with distinct spatial variability. Evaluation against site measurements reveals various performances across land cover types; the ideal point error values range from 0.45 to 0.83, with wetlands performing the worst and open shrublands the best. Using the three‐cornered hat method, there are spatial differences in ET uncertainty, with lower uncertainty for ensemble estimates, showing less than 15% relative uncertainty in most areas. The best global ET data set varies depending on the intended use and study region. Distinct spatial patterns of controlling factors across categories have been identified, with precipitation driving arid and semi‐arid regions and leaf area index dominating tropical regions. It is suggested to include advancing precipitation inputs, incorporate vegetation dynamics, and employ hybrid modeling in future ET estimates. Constraining estimates using complementary data and robust theoretical frameworks can enhance credibility in ET estimation.
A review of geospatial exposure models and approaches for health data integration
Authors: Clark Lara P. , Zilber Daniel , Schmitt Charles , Fargo David C. , Reif David M. , Motsinger-Reif Alison A. , Messier Kyle P.
Published: September 2024

Background

Geospatial methods are common in environmental exposure assessments and increasingly integrated with health data to generate comprehensive models of environmental impacts on public health.

Objective

Our objective is to review geospatial exposure models and approaches for health data integration in environmental health applications.

Methods

We conduct a literature review and synthesis.

Results

First, we discuss key concepts and terminology for geospatial exposure data and models. Second, we provide an overview of workflows in geospatial exposure model development and health data integration. Third, we review modeling approaches, including proximity-based, statistical, and mechanistic approaches, across diverse exposure types, such as air quality, water quality, climate, and socioeconomic factors. For each model type, we provide descriptions, general equations, and example applications for environmental exposure assessment. Fourth, we discuss the approaches used to integrate geospatial exposure data and health data, such as methods to link data sources with disparate spatial and temporal scales. Fifth, we describe the landscape of open-source tools supporting these workflows.
Implications of obesity and insulin resistance for the treatment of oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Authors: Javed Sohail Rooman , Skolariki Aglaia , Zameer Mohammed Zeeshan , Lord Simon R.
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and incidence rates are rising, it is thought in part, due to increasing levels of obesity. Endocrine therapy (ET) remains the cornerstone of systemic therapy for early and advanced oestrogen receptor-positive (ER + ) breast cancer, but despite treatment advances, it is becoming more evident that obesity and insulin resistance are associated with worse outcomes. Here, we describe the current understanding of the relationship between both obesity and diabetes and the prevalence and outcomes for ER+ breast cancer. We also discuss the mechanisms associated with resistance to ET and the relationship to treatment toxicity.
Mesenchymal stromal cells restrain the Th17 cell response via L-amino-acid oxidase within lymph nodes
Authors: Ni Qi , Zhen Le , Zeng Zhu , Yang Jingwen , Wang Yukai , Xu Huanke , Zhang Qixiang , Zhu Yongcheng , Tao Yu , Wang Jing , Liu Qing , Yi Kezheng , Chen Yang , Chen Qian , Wang Guangji , Zhou Fang , Shan Yunlong
Published: September 2024

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSC) have emerged as a promising therapeutic avenue for treating autoimmune diseases, eliciting considerable interest and discussion regarding their underlying mechanisms. This study revealed the distinctive ability of human umbilical cord MSC to aggregate within the lymph nodes of mice afflicted with autoimmune diseases, but this phenomenon was not observed in healthy mice. The specific distribution is driven by the heightened expression of the CCL21-CCR7 axis in mice with autoimmune diseases, facilitating the targeted homing of MSC to the lymph nodes. Within the lymph nodes, MSC exhibit a remarkable capacity to modulate Th17 cell function, exerting a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Transplanted MSC stimulates the secretion of L-amino-acid oxidase (LAAO), a response triggered by elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in mice with autoimmune diseases through the NF-κB pathway. The presence of LAAO is indispensable for the efficacy of MSC, as it significantly contributes to the inhibition of Th17 cells. Furthermore, LAAO-derived indole-3-pyruvic acid (I3P) serves as a potent suppressor of Th17 cells by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. These findings advance our understanding of the global immunomodulatory effects exerted by MSC, providing valuable information for optimizing therapeutic outcomes.
Distributed representations of behaviour-derived object dimensions in the human visual system
Authors: Contier Oliver , Baker Chris I. , Hebart Martin N.
Published: September 2024

Object vision is commonly thought to involve a hierarchy of brain regions processing increasingly complex image features, with high-level visual cortex supporting object recognition and categorization. However, object vision supports diverse behavioural goals, suggesting basic limitations of this category-centric framework. To address these limitations, we mapped a series of dimensions derived from a large-scale analysis of human similarity judgements directly onto the brain. Our results reveal broadly distributed representations of behaviourally relevant information, demonstrating selectivity to a wide variety of novel dimensions while capturing known selectivities for visual features and categories. Behaviour-derived dimensions were superior to categories at predicting brain responses, yielding mixed selectivity in much of visual cortex and sparse selectivity in category-selective clusters. This framework reconciles seemingly disparate findings regarding regional specialization, explaining category selectivity as a special case of sparse response profiles among representational dimensions, suggesting a more expansive view on visual processing in the human brain.
The protective effects of chitosan and curcumin nanoparticles against the hydroxyapatite nanoparticles-induced neurotoxicity in rats
Authors: Eldeeb Gihan Mahmoud , Yousef Mokhtar Ibrahim , Helmy Yasser Mohamed , Aboudeya Hebatallah Mohammed , Mahmoud Shimaa A. , Kamel Maher A.
Published: September 2024

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HANPs) have extensive applications in biomedicine and tissue engineering. However, little information is known about their toxicity. Here, we aim to investigate the possible neurotoxicity of HANPs and the possible protective role of chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) and curcumin nanoparticles (CUNPs) against this toxicity. In our study, HANPs significantly reduced the levels of neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine (Ach), dopamine (DA), serotonin (SER), epinephrine (EPI), and norepinephrine (NOR). HANPs significantly suppressed cortical expression of the genes controlling mitochondrial biogenesis such as peroxisome proliferator activator receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (mTFA). Our findings revealed significant neuroinflammation associated with elevated apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, oxidative DNA damage and nitric oxide levels with significant decline in the antioxidant enzymes activities and glutathione (GSH) levels in HANPs-exposed rats. Meanwhile, co-supplementation of HANP-rats with CNPs and/or CUNPs significantly showed improvement in levels of neurotransmitters, mitochondrial biogenesis, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and neuroinflammation. The co-supplementation with both CNPs and CUNPs was more effective to ameliorate HANPs-induced neurotoxicity than each one alone. So, CNPs and CUNPs could be promising protective agents for prevention of HANPs-induced neurotoxicity.
The relationship of the source of punishment and personality traits with investment and punishment in a public goods game
Authors: Rodrigues Johannes , Leipold Natasha , Hewig Johannes , Hein Grit
Published: September 2024

In this study, we investigated the motivations behind punishing individuals who exploit common resources, a phenomenon crucial for resource preservation. While some researchers suggest punishment stems from concern for the common good, others propose it is driven by anger toward free riders. To probe these motivations, we developed a modified public goods game in which participants had the option to use their own money or the money from the common pool to punish free riders. The analysis included choice behavior, mouse trajectories, and personality traits like anger, empathy, and altruism. According to our results, investments were highest, and punishment was strongest if participants could punish using credits from the common pool, indicating that this is the preferred option to diminish free riding and maintain cooperation in public goods and common good contexts. Also, punishment was highest if the punisher’s own investment was high, and the investment of others was low. Concerning traits, highly altruistic individuals tended to invest more and punish less in general but gave harsher punishments when they did choose to use the common pool punitively. Conversely, trait anger and trait empathy were linked to low investment while trait empathy also tended to be related to lower punishment. Taken together, these findings underscore the role of situational factors and personality traits in fostering cooperative behavior and shaping societal norms around costly punishment.
Seminal plasma inhibits Chlamydia trachomatis infection in vitro, and may have consequences on mucosal immunity
Authors: Reot Louis , Adapen Cindy , Cannou Claude , Nunez Natalia , Lakoum Sabrine , Pimienta Camille , Lacroix Laetitia , Binois Olivier , Frydman Nelly , Nugeyre Marie-Thérèse , Le Grand Roger , Menu Elisabeth
Published: September 2024

Seminal plasma (SP) is the main vector of C. trachomatis (CT) during heterosexual transmission from male to female. It has immunomodulatory properties and impacts the susceptibility to HIV-1 infection, but its role has not been explored during CT infection. In the female reproductive tract (FRT), CT infection induces cytokine production and neutrophil recruitment. The role of neutrophils during CT infection is partially described, they could be at the origin of the pathology observed during CT infection. During this study, we developed an experimental in vitro model to characterize the impact of CT infection and SP on endocervical epithelial cell immune response in the FRT. We also studied the impact of the epithelial cell response on neutrophil phenotype and functions. We showed that the production by epithelial cells of pro-inflammatory cytokines increased during CT infection. Moreover, the pool of SP as well as individuals SP inhibited CT infection in a dose-dependent manner. The pool of SP inhibited cytokine production in a dose-dependent manner. The pool of SP altered gene expression profiles of infected cells. The culture supernatants of cells infected or not with CT, in presence or not of the pool of SP, had an impact on neutrophil phenotype and functions: they affected markers of neutrophil maturation, activation and adhesion capacity, as well as the survival, ROS production and phagocytosis ability. This study proposes a novel approach to study the impact of the environment on the phenotype and functions of neutrophils in the FRT. It highlights the impact of the factors of the FRT environment, in particular SP and CT infection, on the mucosal inflammation and the need to take into account the SP component while studying sexually transmitted infections during heterosexual transmission from male to female.
Jagged-1+ skin Tregs modulate cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Lui Prudence PokWai , Xu Jessie Z. , Aziz Hafsah , Sen Monica , Ali Niwa
Published: September 2024

Skin-resident regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an irreplaceable role in orchestrating cutaneous immune homeostasis and repair, including the promotion of hair regeneration via the Notch signaling ligand Jagged-1 (Jag1). While skin Tregs are indispensable for facilitating tissue repair post-wounding, it remains unknown if Jag1-expressing skin Tregs impact wound healing. Using a tamoxifen inducible Foxp3creERT2Jag1fl/fl model, we show that loss of functional Jag1 in Tregs significantly delays the rate of full-thickness wound closure. Unlike in hair regeneration, skin Tregs do not utilize Jag1 to impact epithelial stem cells during wound healing. Instead, mice with Treg-specific Jag1 ablation exhibit a significant reduction in Ly6G + neutrophil accumulation at the wound site. However, during both homeostasis and wound healing, the loss of Jag1 in Tregs does not impact the overall abundance or activation profile of immune cell targets in the skin, such as CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, or pro-inflammatory macrophages. This collectively suggests that skin Tregs may utilize Jag1-Notch signalling to co-ordinate innate cell recruitment under conditions of injury but not homeostasis. Overall, our study demonstrates the importance of Jag1 expression in Tregs to facilitate adequate wound repair in the skin.
Serum neurofilament light chain as a sensitive biomarker for neuromonitoring during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Fischer Stefanie , Heubner Lars , May Stephanie , Amirkhiz Puya Shalchi , Kuhle Jens , Benkert Pascal , Ziemssen Tjalf , Spieth Peter , Akgün Katja
Published: September 2024

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has grown rapidly, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its widespread adoption, neurological complications pose a significant risk, impacting both mortality and survivors’ quality of life. Detecting these complications is challenging due to sedation and the heterogeneous nature of ECMO-associated neurological injury. Still, consensus of neurologic monitoring during ECMO is lacking since utilization and effectiveness of current neuromonitoring methods are limited. Especially in view of the heterogeneous nature of neurological injury during ECMO support an easily acquirable biomarker tracing neuronal damage independently from the underlying pathomechanism would be favorable. In a single-center prospective study on 34 severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients undergoing ECMO, we explored the potential of serum neurofilament light chain levels (NfL) as a biomarker for neurological complications and its predictive power towards the overall outcome of ECMO patients. Individuals experiencing neurological complications (41%) demonstrated a notable rise in NfL levels (Tbaseline median 92.95 pg/ml; T24h median 132 pg/ml (IQR 88.6–924 pg/ml), p = 0.008; T7d median 248 pg/ml (IQR 157–1090 pg/ml), p = 0.001). Moreover, under ECMO therapy, these patients exhibited markedly elevated concentrations compared to those without neurological complications (T24h median 70.75 pg/ml (IQR 22.2–290 pg/ml), p = 0.023; T7d median 128 pg/ml (IQR 51.8–244 pg/ml), p = 0.002). There was no significant difference in the NfL dynamics between surviving patients and those who died during or shortly after ECMO therapy. While NfL indicates neuro-axonal damage during intensive care with ECMO therapy, we could not identify any correlation between survival outcome and the levels of NfL, indicating that NfL may not serve as a prognostic marker for survival. Nevertheless, additional studies involving a larger patient cohort are required.
Sewage sludge fertilization affects microbial community structure and its resistome in agricultural soils
Authors: Serwecińska Liliana , Font-Nájera Arnoldo , Strapagiel Dominik , Lach Jakub , Tołoczko Wojciech , Bołdak Małgorzata , Urbaniak Magdalena
Published: September 2024

Global sewage sludge production is rapidly increasing, and its safe disposal is becoming an increasingly serious issue. One of the main methods of municipal sewage sludge management is based on its agricultural use. The wastewater and sewage sludge contain numerous antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and its microbiome differs significantly from the soil microbial community. The aim of the study was to assess the changes occurring in the soil microbial community and resistome after the addition of sewage sludge from municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in central Poland, from which the sludge is used for fertilizing agricultural soils on a regular basis. This study used a high-throughput shotgun metagenomics approach to compare the microbial communities and ARGs present in two soils fertilized with sewage sludge. The two soils represented different land uses and different physicochemical and granulometric properties. Both soils were characterized by a similar taxonomic composition of the bacterial community, despite dissimilarities between soils properties. Five phyla predominated, viz. Planctomycetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi and Firmicutes, and they were present in comparable proportions in both soils. Network analysis revealed that the application of sewage sludge resulted in substantial qualitative and quantitative changes in bacterial taxonomic profile, with most abundant phyla being considerably depleted and replaced by Proteobacteria and Spirochaetes. In addition, the ratio of oligotrophic to copiotrophic bacteria substantially decreased in both amended soils. Furthermore, fertilized soils demonstrated greater diversity and richness of ARGs compared to control soils. The increased abundance concerned mainly genes of resistance to antibiotics most commonly used in human and animal medicine. The level of heavy metals in sewage sludge was low and did not exceed the standards permitted in Poland for sludge used in agriculture, and their level in fertilized soils was still inconsiderable.
Training robust T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging liver segmentation models using ensembles of datasets with different contrast protocols and liver disease etiologies
Authors: Patel Nihil , Celaya Adrian , Eltaher Mohamed , Glenn Rachel , Savannah Kari Brewer , Brock Kristy K. , Sanchez Jessica I. , Calderone Tiffany L. , Cleere Darrel , Elsaiey Ahmed , Cagley Matthew , Gupta Nakul , Victor David , Beretta Laura , Koay Eugene J. , Netherton Tucker J. , Fuentes David T.
Published: September 2024

Image segmentation of the liver is an important step in treatment planning for liver cancer. However, manual segmentation at a large scale is not practical, leading to increasing reliance on deep learning models to automatically segment the liver. This manuscript develops a generalizable deep learning model to segment the liver on T1-weighted MR images. In particular, three distinct deep learning architectures (nnUNet, PocketNet, Swin UNETR) were considered using data gathered from six geographically different institutions. A total of 819 T1-weighted MR images were gathered from both public and internal sources. Our experiments compared each architecture’s testing performance when trained both intra-institutionally and inter-institutionally. Models trained using nnUNet and its PocketNet variant achieved mean Dice-Sorensen similarity coefficients>0.9 on both intra- and inter-institutional test set data. The performance of these models suggests that nnUNet and PocketNet liver segmentation models trained on a large and diverse collection of T1-weighted MR images would on average achieve good intra-institutional segmentation performance.
The neural basis of attentional selection in goal-directed memory retrieval
Authors: Sabo Melinda , Wascher Edmund , Schneider Daniel
Published: September 2024

Goal-directed memory reactivation involves retrieving the most relevant information for the current behavioral goal. Previous research has linked this process to activations in the fronto-parietal network, but the underlying neurocognitive mechanism remains poorly understood. The current electroencephalogram (EEG) study explores attentional selection as a possible mechanism supporting goal-directed retrieval. We designed a long-term memory experiment containing three phases. First, participants learned associations between objects and two screen locations. In a following phase, we changed the relevance of some locations (selective cue condition) to simulate goal-directed retrieval. We also introduced a control condition, in which the original associations remained unchanged (neutral cue condition). Behavior performance measured during the final retrieval phase revealed faster and more confident responses in the selective vs. neutral condition. At the EEG level, we found significant differences in decoding accuracy, with above-chance effects in the selective cue condition but not in the neutral cue condition. Additionally, we observed a stronger posterior contralateral negativity and lateralized alpha power in the selective cue condition. Overall, these results suggest that attentional selection enhances task-relevant information accessibility, emphasizing its role in goal-directed memory retrieval.
The regulatory status of health apps that employ gamification
Authors: Freyer Oscar , Wrona Kamil J. , de Snoeck Quentin , Hofmann Moritz , Melvin Tom , Stratton-Powell Ashley , Wicks Paul , Parks Acacia C. , Gilbert Stephen
Published: September 2024

Smartphone applications are one of the main delivery modalities in digital health. Many of these mHealth apps use gamification to engage users, improve user experience, and achieve better health outcomes. Yet, it remains unclear whether gamified approaches help to deliver effective, safe, and clinically beneficial products to users. This study examines the compliance of 69 gamified mHealth apps with the EU Medical Device Regulation and assesses the specific risks arising from the gamified nature of these apps. Of the identified apps, 32 (46.4%) were considered non-medical devices; seven (10.1%) were already cleared/approved by the regulatory authorities, and 31 (44.9%) apps were assessed as likely non-compliant or potentially non-compliant with regulatory requirements. These applications and one approved application were assessed as on the market without the required regulatory approvals. According to our analysis, a higher proportion of these apps would be classified as medical devices in the US. The level of risk posed by gamification remains ambiguous. While most apps showed only a weak link between the degree of gamification and potential risks, this link was stronger for those apps with a high degree of gamification or an immersive game experience.
Predictive model of castration resistance in advanced prostate cancer by machine learning using genetic and clinical data: KYUCOG-1401-A study
Authors: Shiota Masaki , Nemoto Shota , Ikegami Ryo , Tatarano Shuichi , Kamoto Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Keita , Sakai Hideki , Igawa Tsukasa , Kamba Tomomi , Fujimoto Naohiro , Yokomizo Akira , Naito Seiji , Eto Masatoshi
Published: September 2024

Background

The predictive power of the treatment efficacy and prognosis in primary androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for advanced prostate cancer is not satisfactory. The objective of this study was to integrate genetic and clinical data to predict castration resistance in primary ADT for advanced prostate cancer by machine learning (ML).

Methods

Clinical and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) data obtained in the KYUCOG-1401-A study (UMIN000022852) that enrolled Japanese patients with advanced prostate cancer were used. All patients were treated with primary ADT. A point-wise linear (PWL) algorithm, logistic regression with elastic-net regularization, and eXtreme Gradient Boosting were the ML algorithms used in this study. Area under the curve for castration resistance and C-index for prognoses were calculated to evaluate the utility of the models.

Results

Among the three ML algorithms, the area under the curve values to predict castration resistance at 2 years was highest for the PWL algorithm with all the datasets. Three predictive models (clinical model, small SNPs model, and large SNPs model) were created by the PWL algorithm using the clinical data alone, and 2 and 46 SNPs in addition to clinical data. C-indices for overall survival by the clinical, small SNPs, and large SNPs models were 0.636, 0.621, and 0.703, respectively.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that the SNPs models created by ML produced excellent prediction of castration resistance and prognosis in primary ADT for advanced prostate cancer, and will be helpful in treatment choice.
Structural basis for the type I-F Cas8-HNH system
Authors: Li Xuzichao , Liu Yanan , Han Jie , Zhang Lingling , Liu Zhikun , Wang Lin , Zhang Shuqin , Zhang Qian , Fu Pengyu , Yin Hang , Zhu Hongtao , Zhang Heng
Published: September 2024

The Cas3 nuclease is utilized by canonical type I CRISPR-Cas systems for processive target DNA degradation, while a newly identified type I-F CRISPR variant employs an HNH nuclease domain from the natural fusion Cas8-HNH protein for precise target cleavage both in vitro and in human cells. Here, we report multiple cryo-electron microscopy structures of the type I-F Cas8-HNH system at different functional states. The Cas8-HNH Cascade complex adopts an overall G-shaped architecture, with the HNH domain occupying the C-terminal helical bundle domain (HB) of the Cas8 protein in canonical type I systems. The Linker region connecting Cas8-NTD and HNH domains adopts a rigid conformation and interacts with the Cas7.6 subunit, enabling the HNH domain to be in a functional position. The full R-loop formation displaces the HNH domain away from the Cas6 subunit, thus activating the target DNA cleavage. Importantly, our results demonstrate that precise target cleavage is dictated by a C-terminal helix of the HNH domain. Together, our work not only delineates the structural basis for target recognition and activation of the type I-F Cas8-HNH system, but also guides further developments leveraging this system for precise DNA editing.
Assessment of beverage quality for ethyl caproate and procyanidin B2 utilizing binary liposomes
Authors: Yoda Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2024

Observing liposomes offers a rapid and cost-effective method for assessing drink quality by estimating the concentrations of procyanidin B2 (PB2) or ethyl caproate (EC).
Ultra-small water-soluble fluorescent copper nanoclusters for p-nitrophenol detection
Authors: Oyebanji Mayowa , Chen Ling , Qian Ruru , Tu Mengyuan , Zhang Qiangli , Yang Xuejiao , Yu Haizhu , Zhu Manzhou
Published: September 2024

An innovative fluorescence nanoplatform was designed based on glutathione-protected copper nanoclusters. The quenching of the optical emission at 620 nm enables the establishment of a fluorescent sensor for p-nitrophenol detection.
High-performance electrochemical immunosensor based on bimetallic gold/silver functionalized carbon spheres for CYFRA 21-1 detection and information protection
Authors: Wang Lin Sheng , Guo Yu Jian , Li Yu Hao , Zhao Yong Sen , Wei Qin , Gao Zhong Feng
Published: September 2024

Bimetallic gold/silver functionalized carbon sphere-based electrochemical immunosensor demonstrates significant integrated performance in the detection of CYFRA 21-1 and the protection of information.
Effect of iodixanol and propylene glycol as clearing agents in extensor digitorum longus and soleus muscles: mechanical and morphological characterization using the optical coherence tomography technique
Authors: Escobar-Huertas J. F. , Vaca-González J. J. , Garzón-Alvarado D. A. , Trabelsi Olfa
Published: September 2024

Muscle morphology was assessed using histology and OCT. Two clearing agents, PG and IOD, were tested on rat muscles. PG caused stiffening due to dehydration, while IOD, had no significant mechanical effects or extracellular matrix damage.
Enhanced performance of dual-functional ZIF-8/red phosphorus photocatalysts for concurrent degradation of organic dyes and hydrogen generation under natural solar light irradiation
Authors: Shafali Singh  , Kansal Sushil Kumar
Published: September 2024

Herein, zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF)-8/red phosphorus photocatalysts were prepared via a solvothermal method for simultaneous organic dye degradation and hydrogen (H2) generation.
Fluorogenic chemical tools to shed light on CES1-mediated adverse drug interactions
Authors: Karns Carolyn J. , Spidle Taylor P. , Adusah Emmanuel , Gao Mingze , Nehls Jennifer E. , Beck Michael W.
Published: September 2024

Studying factors that cause interindividual variability of carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) activity is currently difficult due to limited methods. To address this, fluorogenic chemical tools that can monitor CES1 activity in live cells were developed.
CO reduction by calcium and ytterbium hydride complexes with a bulky monodentate carbazolyl ligand
Authors: Hinz Alexander , Winkler Lucas , Sun Xiaofei
Published: September 2024

Calcium and ytterbium hydrides supported by a monodentate carbazolyl ligand show three characteristic M2H2 vibrations and reacted with carbon monoxide.
Silane-mediated, facile C–H and N–H methylation using formaldehyde
Authors: Khan Jabir , Taneja Neha , Yadav Naveen , Hazra Chinmoy Kumar
Published: September 2024

The use of (para)-formaldehyde for the methylation/alkylation of C(sp2)–H and N–H bonds, utilizing a combination of silane and hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as activators, is reported.
Pillared lanthanide metal organic frameworks with sinusoidal channels formed from bent mixed-donor phenanthroline based ligands of different length
Authors: Wang Shengyu , Macreadie Lauren K. , Hanton Lyall R.
Published: September 2024

In a semi-systematic study, unsymmetrical mixed-donor bridging ligands and pillaring ligands of different lengths generate five new Ln-MOFs.
Dimeric structures of ketones and esters in porous adaptive crystals of adamantane-containing macrocycle
Authors: Shinkawa Shoyo , Kawahata Masatoshi , Yamaguchi Kentaro , Tominaga Masahide
Published: September 2024

Ketones and esters were captured within porous crystals of an adamantane-containing macrocycle through single-crystal-to-single-crystal guest exchange with or without structural changes.
Actinide endohedral inter-metalloid clusters of the group 15 elements
Authors: Zhang Nai-Xin , Wang Cong-Zhi , Lan Jian-Hui , Wu Qun-Yan , Shi Wei-Qun
Published: September 2024

Theoretical calculations demonstrate that actinides can stabilize bismuth and antimony cages, forming stable inter-metalloid clusters.
Additive engineering strategies for improved interfacial stability in lithium metal batteries
Authors: Ryu Kun , Lee Kyungbin , Lim Jeonghoon , Lee Michael J. , Kim Keun-Hee , Lee Un Hwan , Rinkel Bernardine L. D. , Kim Kyungmo , Kim Soohyun , Kim Dayoung , Shin Dongsek , McCloskey Bryan , Kang Joonhee , Lee Seung Woo
Published: September 2024

Additive engineering in low-concentration ether electrolytes enhances the electrode–electrolyte interfacial stability, enabling the stable cycling of high-energy, cost-effective lithium metal batteries.
Long-life sodium–sulfur batteries enabled by super-sodiophilic seeds
Authors: He Jiarui , Bhargav Amruth , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: September 2024

Sodium–metal batteries (SMBs) are an appealing sustainable low-cost alternative to lithium–metal batteries due to their high theoretical capacity (1165 mA h g−1) and abundance of sodium.
Advancements in nanosensors for detecting pathogens in healthcare environments
Authors: Bruno Antonia , Tripodi Farida , Armanni Alice , Barbieri Linda , Colombo Alessandro , Fumagalli Sara , Moukham Hind , Tomaino Giulia , Kukushkina Ekaterina , Lorenzi Roberto , Marchesi Letizia , Monguzzi Angelo , Paleari Alberto , Ronchi Alessandra , Secchi Valeria , Sironi Laura , Colombo Miriam
Published: September 2024

ESKAPEE pathogens: where we can find them in hospital environments and how to detect them through nanotechnologies devices.
Dynamic metal–ligand coordination enables a hydrogel with rewritable dual-mode pattern display
Authors: Shang Hui , Sun Yu , Le Xiaoxia , Shen Ying , Chen Tao
Published: September 2024

Dual-mode hydrogels with structural and fluorescent colors are made of rigid pDGI and flexible PAAm/PAAc-CDs. Al3+ binding shifts the structural color and the fluorescence simultaneously, which can be restored.
Systemic analysis of lipid metabolism from individuals to multi-organism systems
Authors: Furse Samuel , Martel Carlos , Willer David F. , Stabler Daniel , Fernandez-Twinn Denise S. , Scott Jennifer , Patterson-Cross Ryan , Watkins Adam J. , Virtue Samuel , Prescott Thomas A. K. , Baker Ellen , Chennells Jennifer , Vidal-Puig Antonio , Ozanne Susan E. , Kite Geoffrey C. , Vítová Milada , Chiarugi Davide , Moncur John , Koulman Albert , Wright Geraldine A. , Snowden Stuart G. , Stevenson Philip C.
Published: September 2024

Complete pipeline for system-level of biological systems, from indivituals to ecosystems, using only metabolite data.
Structurally and surficially activated TiO2 nanomaterials for photochemical reactions
Authors: Tee Si Yin , Kong Junhua , Koh Justin Junqiang , Teng Choon Peng , Wang Xizu , Wang Xiaobai , Teo Siew Lang , Thitsartarn Warintorn , Han Ming-Yong , Seh Zhi Wei
Published: September 2024

This review highlights recent advancements in TiO2 photocatalysts, emphasizing key strategies to enhance their performance for environmental remediation and energy conversion technologies.
57Fe nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopic studies of tetranuclear iron clusters bearing terminal iron(iii)–oxido/hydroxido moieties
Authors: Xiong Jin , Reed Christopher , Lavina Barbara , Hu Michael Y. , Zhao Jiyong , Alp Esen E. , Agapie Theodor , Guo Yisong
Published: September 2024

57Fe nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy (NRVS) is used to study the tetranuclear iron clusters bearing a terminal Fe(iii)–O/OH moiety. The redox states of the three remote basal iron sites modulate the Fe(iii)–O/OH vibrational frequencies.
2D compounds with heterolayered architecture for infrared photodetectors
Authors: Gu Hao , Zhang Tianshuo , Wang Yunluo , Zhou Tianrui , Chen Haijie
Published: September 2024

This review explores the unique structures and properties of heterolayered compounds, summarizes their progress in the field of infrared photodetection, and discusses the challenges and future research directions from several perspectives.