bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The heart failure in Internal Medicine in Tuscany: the SMIT Study
Authors: Verdiani Valerio , Panigada Grazia , Fortini Alberto , Masotti Luca , Meini Simone , Biagi Paolo , Study Group For the SMIT
Published: January 2016

The incidence and prevalence associated with the growing age of population have made heart failure (HF) a new epidemic. In Italy most of HF patients are admitted to Internal Medicine Departments (IMD). We conducted a 30-day cross-sectional study involving patients with HF admitted to IMD of Tuscany. The aim of the study was to provide an updated snapshot of in-hospital management of HF in Tuscany and to analyze the differences in relation to the most recent guidelines. We have recruited 770 patients (M=45.4%) with a mean age of 82.5±8.9 years. Only 16.1% had a de novo HF. Most of them were re-admitted for decompensated HF. Hypertension and ischemic disease are the prevailing etiologies. HF alone was in less than 2%. 71.5% of patients had more than two comorbidities and 40.6% more than three concomitant diseases. The mean hospital stay (overall 8.6±5.5 days) correlated with the number of comorbidity. About 25% of patients had a creatinine clearance <30 mL/min. Nearly 50% of patients had atrial fibrillation but only the half was anti-coagulated. β-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme-inhibitors (ACE-I) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) were prescribed in about two-thirds of the subjects. Echocardiography was performed in 64.1% of patients. BNP or NT-pro BNP was tested in 67% at the hospital admission and in 18.3% at the discharge. At the discharge 50.1% of patients had loss of autonomy, 57% a polypharmacy prescription (≥8 classes of medicines) and 21.2% needed domiciliary oxygen therapy, but despite these critical points only 8% of the patients were transferred to long-term/intermediate care settings. In conclusion, the main characteristics of patients with HF admitted to IMD in Tuscany are the advanced age (the patients are old and very old) and the presence of multiple comorbidities (HF alone is a rarity indeed). The use of echocardiography and the pharmacological therapy with ACE-I, ARB, β-blocker and anti-aldosterone agents is wider than previous surveys, but some diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic aspects are not similar to that recommended by the most recent HF guidelines. This survey underscores again some differences between HF trials world and HF real world, where the management is probably also driven by a clinical holistic approach.
Methods of sociological diagnostics in the assessment of staff's competencies: a case of a state museum (St. Petersburg, Russia)
Authors: Usiaeva Asiia , Rubtcova Mariia , Pavlenkova Irina , Petropavlovskaya Svetlana
Published: January 2016

The study is dedicated to research of methods of sociological diagnostics, which can be used in the assessment of staff's competencies. Theoretical framework of this survey is T. Parson’s structural functionalism, the approach that sees the society as a complex system. The research questions were how we can analyze competencies by using sociological diagnostics and what the features of sociological diagnostics are. In order to achieve the target, it was analyzed the assessment of staff's competencies in the museum complex “The Cathedral”, Saint-Petersburg, Russia. Methodology of the research was structured observation, data collected by using “Mystery shopper” method. As a result, it was showed which techniques were applied in the staff’s assessment in this museum. Besides, the researcher discovered the level of museum staff’s competencies and revealed that the least developed employees’ competence was communication with visitors.
Driving Rehabilitation Specialists’ Perspectives on Older Driver Evaluations
Authors: Jones Jacqueline , Dickerson Anne , Flaten Hanna K. , Belmashkan Saddyna , Betz Marian E.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE. We explored driving rehabilitation specialists’ (DRSs’) perspectives on older driver evaluations.

METHOD. We conducted interviews with 26 DRSs across the United States who evaluate older drivers. Transcript analysis followed general inductive techniques to identify themes related to current systems and barriers to use.

RESULTS. Themes, by Social–Ecological Model level, were as follows: (1) individual occupational therapists’ commitment to mobility and safety, perceived responsibilities, and experience; (2) DRSs’ relationships with drivers, medical providers, and licensing bureaus; (3) the community surrounding the DRSs, including the health care system and transportation resources; and (4) societal factors, including DRS reimbursement, reporting requirements and liability coverage, and role of national organizations.

CONCLUSIONS. This qualitative study identified barriers to the development of an effective system for older driver evaluations. Future work should verify, refine, and expand these findings by targeting other stakeholder groups.
Evidence-Based Approach to Treating Lateral Epicondylitis Using the Occupational Adaptation Model
Authors: Bachman Stephanie
Published: January 2016

The occupational therapy Centennial Vision reinforces the importance of informing consumers about the benefit of occupational therapy and continuing to advocate for the unique client-centered role of occupational therapy. Occupational therapy practitioners working in hand therapy have traditionally found it difficult to combine the biomechanical foundations of hand therapy with the fundamental client-centered tenets of occupational therapy. Embracing our historical roots will become more important as health care evolves and third-party payers continue to scrutinize the need for the profession of occupational therapy. This article outlines a client-centered approach for hand therapists for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis using the Occupational Adaptation Model.
"Lavinia" de Úrsula K. Le Guin, una novela virgiliana
Authors: Cristóbal Vicente
Published: January 2016

Análisis de las dependencias y novedades que, respecto al argumento de la Eneida de Virgilio, ofrece la reciente novela Lavinia (2009), de la escritora norteamericana Úrsula K. Le Guin.
Grass pollen seasons in Poland against a background of the meteorological conditions
Authors: Myszkowska Dorota , Piotrowicz Katarzyna , Ziemianin Monika , Chłopek Kazimiera , Dąbrowska-Zapart Katarzyna , Kasprzyk Idalia , Grewling Łukasz , Majkowska-Wojciechowska Barbara , Malkiewicz Małgorzata , Nowak Małgorzata , Piotrowska-Weryszko Krystyna , Puc Małgorzata , Weryszko-Chmielewska Elzbieta
Published: January 2016

The paper refers to the estimation of Poaceae pollen seasons in Poland in selected areas. The aim of the study was to present the long-term variability of the start, end and duration of grass pollen seasons and the seasonal pollen index (SPI) in Poland against a background of the meteorological conditions over pollen seasons. The study was performed in eight Polish cities in 1992–2014 (the common seasons were 2003–2012). Pollen season start was relatively stable in the studied period, the seasons began about the 10th of May, a bit earlier in the south part of Poland. Pollen season ends were more changeable in comparison to the season start and fluctuated from the middle of July to the middle of September. SPI clearly depended on temperature and precipitation in April–August. Daily maximum pollen concentrations were achieved between the end of May and the first decade of July and no evident relationship between this day and weather conditions was found, apart from 2004.
Pollen monitoring in Perm Krai (Russia) – experience of 6 years
Authors: Novoselova Larisa Viktorovna , Minaeva Nataliya
Published: January 2016

Medical observations show that the level of pollinosis increased by 34.6% in central Russia in 2005–2012. This paper presents the results of 6-year pollen monitoring carried out with a Hirst-type pollen trap (Burkard Manufacturing Co. Ltd) between 2010 and 2015 in Perm Krai (Russia). Usually, sensitization of allergic people occurs in three periods: (i) spring due to the pollen of Betula, (ii) early summer due to Poaceae pollen, and (iii) late summer as a result of Artemisia pollen. Betula pollen, which is dominant (26.9–65.2% of total pollen counts), is recorded in large numbers in the period of flowering and occasionally during the entire period of pollination. Among herbaceous plants, the pollen of Poaceae, Urticaceae and Artemisia dominates in airborne pollen. The concentration of allergenic pollen grains in the air of Perm Krai is lower than in other European geographical regions.
New species of “giant” plume moths of the genus Platyptilia (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) from Uganda
Authors: Ustjuzhanin Peter , Kovtunovich Vasiliy , Ustjuzhanina Anna
Published: January 2016

This paper describes two new species of plume moths from the group of the so-called “giant” Platyptilia Hubner, 1825: Platyptilia fletcheri Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich sp. nov. and P. stanleyi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich sp. nov. Both species were collected in the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda and Rwanda, respectively. Platyptilia stanleyi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich sp. nov. exceeds all the known African species of Pterophoridae in its wingspan of 49 mm.
Programmed Death Ligand-1 Immunohistochemistry— A New Challenge for Pathologists: A Perspective From Members of the Pulmonary Pathology Society
Authors: Sholl Lynette M. , Aisner Dara L. , Allen Timothy Craig , Beasley Mary Beth , Borczuk Alain C. , Cagle Philip T. , Capelozzi Vera , Dacic Sanja , Hariri Lida , Kerr Keith M. , Lantuejoul Sylvie , Mino-Kenudson Mari , Raparia Kirtee , Rekhtman Natasha , Roy-Chowdhuri Sinchita , Thunnissen Eric , Tsao Ming Sound , Yatabe Yasushi ,   for the members of the Pulmonary Pathology Society
Published: January 2016

The binding of programmed death ligand-1 and ligand-2 (PD-L1 and PD-L2) to PD-1 blocks T-cell–mediated immune response to tumor. Antibodies that target programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) will block the ligand-receptor interface, thereby allowing T cells to attack the tumor and increase antitumor immune response. In clinical trials, PD-1 inhibitors have been associated with an approximately 20% overall response rate in unselected patients with non–small cell lung cancer, with sustained tumor response in a subset of patients treated by these immune checkpoint inhibitors. Facing a proliferation of PD-L1 immunohistochemistry clones, staining platforms, and scoring criteria, the pathologist must decide on the feasibility of introducing a newly approved companion diagnostic assay that may require purchase not only of a specific antibody kit but of a particular staining platform. Given the likely reality that clinical practice may, in the near future, demand access to 4 different PD-L1 antibodies coupled with different immunohistochemistry platforms, laboratories will be challenged with deciding among this variety of testing methods, each with its own potential benefits. Another immediate challenge to PD-L1 testing in lung cancer patients is that of access to adequate tumor tissue, given that non–small cell lung cancer samples are often extremely limited in size. With PD-L1 testing it has become clear that the historically used US regulatory approach of one assay–one drug will not be sustainable. One evolving concept is that of complementary diagnostics, a novel regulatory pathway initiated by the US Food and Drug Administration, which is distinct from companion diagnostics in that it may present additional flexibility. Although pathologists need to face the practical reality that oncologists will be asking regularly for the PD-L1 immunohistochemistry status of their patients' tumors, we should also keep in mind that there may be room for improvement of biomarkers for immunotherapy response. The field is rich with opportunities for investigation into biomarkers of immunotherapy response, particularly in the form of collaborative, multidisciplinary studies that incorporate oncologists, pathologists, and basic scientists. Pathologists must take the lead in the rational incorporation of these biomarkers into clinical practice.
Expression patterns of cysteine peptidase genes across theTribolium castaneumlife cycle provide clues to biological function
Authors: Perkin Lindsey , Elpidina Elena N. , Oppert Brenda
Published: January 2016

The red flour beetle,Tribolium castaneum, is a major agricultural pest responsible for considerable loss of stored grain and cereal products worldwide.T. castaneumlarvae have a highly compartmentalized gut, with cysteine peptidases mostly in the acidic anterior part of the midgut that are critical to the early stages of food digestion. In previous studies, we described 26 putative cysteine peptidase genes inT. castaneum(types B, L, O, F, and K) located mostly on chromosomes 3, 7, 8, and 10. In the present study, we hypothesized that specific cysteine peptidase genes could be associated with digestive functions for food processing based on comparison of gene expression profiles in different developmental stages, feeding and non-feeding. RNA-Seq was used to determine the relative expression of cysteine peptidase genes among four major developmental stages (egg, larvae, pupae, and adult) ofT. castaneum. We also compared cysteine peptidase genes inT. castaneumto those in other model insects and coleopteran pests. By combining transcriptome expression, phylogenetic comparisons, response to dietary inhibitors, and other existing data, we identified key cysteine peptidases thatT. castaneumlarvae and adults use for food digestion, and thus new potential targets for biologically-based control products.
The association between maternal psychological stress and inflammatory cytokines in allergic young children
Authors: Tsuji Mayumi , Koriyama Chihaya , Yamamoto Megumi , Anan Ayumi , Shibata Eiji , Kawamoto Toshihiro
Published: January 2016

Background.Previous studies have shown that psychological stress is linked to asthma prevalence. Parental psychological stress may potentially influence inflammatory responses in their allergic children. The purpose of this study is to clarify the association between maternal psychological status and inflammatory response of allergic young children.

Methods.The study subjects were 152 young allergic children (median age: 13 months) who had not shown any allergic symptoms in the past one month. mRNA expression levels of the inflammatory response genes IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-22 were quantified by qRT-PCR. Maternal psychological status was assessed by standardized questionnaires: the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) for depression and the Japanese Perceived Stress Scale (JPSS) for perceived stress.

Results.A significant positive association was observed between maternal CES-D scores and IL-6 mRNA expression in the children with asthma. The JPSS scores were also positively associated with IL-8mRNAexpression in asthmatic children and IL-6 mRNA expression in children with allergic rhinitis. Similar trends were observed among children positive for house dust mite-specific IgE, but these associations were not significant.

Conclusion.This study supports the hypothesis that maternal psychological stress affects the inflammatory response in their allergic children.
Cranial ontogenetic variation in early saurischians and the role of heterochrony in the diversification of predatory dinosaurs
Authors: Foth Christian , Hedrick Brandon P. , Ezcurra Martin D.
Published: January 2016

Non-avian saurischian skulls underwent at least 165 million years of evolution and shapes varied from elongated skulls, such as in the theropodCoelophysis, to short and box-shaped skulls, such as in the sauropodCamarasaurus. A number of factors have long been considered to drive skull shape, including phylogeny, dietary preferences and functional constraints. However, heterochrony is increasingly being recognized as an important factor in dinosaur evolution. In order to quantitatively analyse the impact of heterochrony on saurischian skull shape, we analysed five ontogenetic trajectories using two-dimensional geometric morphometrics in a phylogenetic framework. This allowed for the comparative investigation of main ontogenetic shape changes and the evaluation of how heterochrony affected skull shape through both ontogenetic and phylogenetic trajectories. Using principal component analyses and multivariate regressions, it was possible to quantify different ontogenetic trajectories and evaluate them for evidence of heterochronic events allowing testing of previous hypotheses on cranial heterochrony in saurischians. We found that the skull shape of the hypothetical ancestor of Saurischia likely led to basal Sauropodomorpha through paedomorphosis, and to basal Theropoda mainly through peramorphosis. Paedomorphosis then led from Orionides to Avetheropoda, indicating that the paedomorphic trend found by previous authors in advanced coelurosaurs may extend back into the early evolution of Avetheropoda. Not only are changes in saurischian skull shape complex due to the large number of factors that affected it, but heterochrony itself is complex, with a number of possible reversals throughout non-avian saurischian evolution. In general, the sampling of complete ontogenetic trajectories including early juveniles is considerably lower than the sampling of single adult or subadult individuals, which is a major impediment to the study of heterochrony on non-avian dinosaurs. Thus, the current work represents an exploratory analysis. To better understand the cranial ontogeny and the impact of heterochrony on skull evolution in saurischians, the data set that we present here must be expanded and complemented with further sampling from future fossil discoveries, especially of juvenile individuals.
Mitochondrial permeability transition mediated by MTCH2 and F‐ATP synthase contributes to ferroptosis defense
Authors: Guo Lishu
Published: September 2024

The opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), a Ca2+‐dependent pore located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, triggers mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) and induces organelle rupture. However, the underlying mechanism of PTP‐induced MOMP remains unclear. Mitochondrial carrier homolog 2 (MTCH2) mediates MOMP process by facilitating the recruitment of tBID to mitochondria. Here, we show that MTCH2 binds to cyclophilin D (CyPD) and promotes the dimerization of F‐ATP synthase via interaction with subunit j. The interplay between MTCH2 and subunit j coordinates MOMP and PTP to mediate the occurrence of mitochondrial permeability transition. Knockdown of CyPD, MTCH2 and subunit j markedly sensitizes cells to RSL3‐induced ferroptosis, which is prevented by MitoTEMPO, suggesting that mitochondrial permeability transition mediates ferroptosis defense.
Environment, Lifestyles, and Climate Change: The Many Nongenetic Contributors to The Long and Winding Road to Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Miller Frederick W.
Published: September 2024

A critical unanswered question is what is causing the increase in the prevalence of autoimmunity and autoimmune diseases around the world. Given the rapidity of change, this is likely the result of major recent alterations in our exposures to environmental risk factors for these diseases. More evidence is becoming available that the evolution of autoimmune disease, years or even decades in the making, results from multiple exposures that alter susceptible genomes and immune systems over time. Exposures during sensitive phases in key developmental or hormonal periods may set the stage for the effects of later exposures. It is likely that synergistic and additive impacts of exposure mixtures result in chronic low‐level inflammation. This inflammation may eventually pass thresholds that lead to immune system activation and autoimmunity, and with further molecular and pathologic changes, the complete clinical syndrome emerges. Much work remains to be done to define the mechanisms and risk and protective factors for autoimmune conditions. However, evidence points to a variety of pollutants, xenobiotics, infections, occupational exposures, medications, smoking, psychosocial stressors, changes in diet, obesity, exercise, and sleep patterns, as well as climate change impacts of increased heat, storms, floods, wildfires, droughts, UV radiation, malnutrition, and changing infections, as possible contributors. Substantial investments in defining the role of causal factors, in whom and when their effects are most important, the necessary and sufficient gene‐environment interactions, improved diagnostics and therapies, and preventive strategies are needed now to limit the many negative personal, societal, and financial impacts that will otherwise occur.
Returning Incidental Research Findings From 18F‐Fluorodeoxyglucose–Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography to Participants: A Survey of Investigators From a Clinical Trial of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kang Jane S. , Andrews Howard F. , Giles Jon T. , Liao Katherine P. , Solomon Daniel H. , Bathon Joan M.
Published: September 2024

Objective

There are limited data on researchers’ attitudes and beliefs on returning and managing incidental research findings from whole body 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) imaging.

Methods

Site principal investigators (PIs) who enrolled participants for the Treatments Against Rheumatoid Arthritis and Effect on FDG PET/CT (TARGET) trial were surveyed.

Results

Of the 28 TARGET site PIs eligible for the study, 18 consented to participate (response rate: 64%). Many site PIs returned incidental findings to participants (61%), and the most common finding that was returned was serious (but not life‐threatening) and treatable (54.5%). More than half of the investigators believed that adequacy of clinical follow up (58.8%) and legal liability if incidental findings are not disclosed (55.6%) were extremely important factors in returning incidental research findings from whole body FDG PET/CT. All investigators felt very obligated to return incidental research findings if scans revealed a treatable, high‐risk medical condition. Most investigators felt very obligated to disclose incidental findings with important health implications (94.4%), for which proven preventive or therapeutic interventions exist (77.8%), that provide early detection of a health problem (72.2%), if participants ask for their incidental findings (72.2%), and if scans have established validity for a particular medical condition (61.1%).

Conclusion

Although it is recommended that researchers report and manage incidental research findings, our data show differing views and uncertainties on what and how to return, and the extent of follow up needed to manage, incidental findings from whole body FDG PET/CT; this highlights the need for more specific and standardized guidance.
Game Theoretic Non‐cooperative Dynamic Target Tracking for Directional Sensing‐Enabled Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Yi Peng , Jin Ge , Wang Wenyuan
Published: September 2024

In this article, a game theoretic non‐cooperative dynamic target tracking algorithm that empowers defensive unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with directional sensing capabilities to track and collect information on intrusive UAVs, is proposed. Specifically, defenders aim to maximize the collection of identity information from intruders possessing anti‐tracking and evading capabilities, while simultaneously preventing their entry into protected areas. Game theory is employed to determine the optimal confrontation paths for defenders against the intruders. The probability perception model is utilized for evaluating the dynamic target tracking capability and designing a tracking merit function to assess tracking performance, taking into account both the target's position and the perception relative angle. Furthermore, considering the dynamic interactive behaviors between intruders and defenders, the iterative linear quadratic game (ILQG) algorithm is employed to solve the Nash equilibrium of the non‐cooperative target tracking game. Through simulation experiments, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in accomplishing multi‐agent dynamic target tracking tasks is demonstrated and the performance of the algorithm under varying parameters in the intruder's cost function is evaluated, which represent different intrusion intentions.
Biomechanics‐Based User‐Adaptive Variable Impedance Control for Enhanced Physical Human–Robot Interaction Using Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Zahedi Fatemeh , Lee Hyunglae
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a biomechanics‐based, user‐adaptive variable impedance controller designed to enhance the performance of coupled human–robot systems during motion. The controller integrates the biomechanical characteristics of human limbs and dynamically adjusts the robotic impedance parameters—specifically damping, stiffness, and equilibrium trajectory—based on real‐time estimations of the user's intent and direction of motion. The primary goal is to minimize the energy expenditure of the coupled human–robot system while maintaining system passivity. To address uncertainties in human behavior and noisy observations, the controller employs Bayesian optimization combined with a Gaussian process. To validate the proposed approach, human experiments are conducted using a standard robotic arm manipulator. The results demonstrate that the controller eliminates the need for manual parameter tuning, a process that is typically time‐consuming. A comparative analysis against two variable impedance controllers without user‐adaptive parameter adjustments reveal significant benefits, with the controller improving combined performance metrics—such as accuracy, speed, user effort, and smoothness—by over 13%. Notably, all participants in the study preferred the optimized controller over the alternatives. These findings highlight the effectiveness of the biomechanics‐based, user‐adaptive variable impedance control approach and its potential to enhance physical human–robot interaction in various applications that involve repetitive or continuous motion.
Genetic Contributions to Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction
Authors: Hiltebeitel Lilian R. , Seltzsam Steve , Wang Chunyan , Lee Ted , Bolsius Leah , Shalaby Mohamed , El Desoky Sherif , Kari Jameela A. , Shril Shirlee , Hildebrandt Friedhelm , Mann Nina
Published: September 2024

Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) can manifest as a spectrum of voiding symptoms in childhood, including urinary urgency, frequency, hesitancy, and incontinence. In severe cases, it can lead to frequent urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis, kidney scarring, and chronic kidney disease. Non‐neurogenic neurogenic bladder (NNNB) is a diagnosis of exclusion in which children develop discoordination between the detrusor smooth muscle and external urethral sphincter in the absence of neurological or obstructive lesions, resulting in severe LUTD. Historically, such disorders of voiding were thought to result from behavioral maladaptation. However, it is now increasingly recognized that some individuals may have an underlying genetic etiology for their symptoms. Here, we performed exome sequencing for five probands with NNNB or other forms of severe LUTD, and we identified two individuals with monogenic etiologies for their symptoms. One individual had a homozygous exon 9 deletion in HPSE2 and another had a homozygous single amino acid deletion (p.Gly167del) in ARL6. We performed PCR experiments to identify the breakpoints of the HPSE2 exon 9 deletion and implicate microhomology‐mediated end joining as a potential mechanism by which the deletion arose. These findings suggest that genetic testing should be considered for children with severe LUTD.
Evolutionary selection and morphological integration in the hand of modern humans
Authors: Arlegi Mikel , Lorenzo Carlos
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To enhance our understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of the modern human hand by analyzing the degree of integration and ability to respond to selection pressures of each phalanx and metacarpal bone.

Materials and Methods

The sample comprised 96 adult individuals, both female and male, from Euro‐American, Afro‐American, and European populations. We collected 10 linear measurements from the 19 metacarpals and proximal, middle, and distal phalanges that constitute the five digits of the hand. Using these data, we constructed variance/covariance matrices to quantify the degree of integration and assess the hand ability to respond to selective pressures.

Results

Distal phalanges are the most evolvable and flexible elements, while being the least integrated and constrained. The thumb is similarly integrated as the second and third rays, while medial rays (fourth and fifth digits) are more integrated. However, the thumb presents different integration and response to selection patterns. No significant relationship was found between functionality and the indices of selection and integration. Finally, the correlation between hand and foot indices yielded significant results for conditional evolvability and flexibility.

Discussion

The findings suggest different evolutionary trajectories for the metacarpal and distal phalanx in the modern human thumb, likely reflecting varying functional and developmental pressures. The first metacarpal, characterized by high flexibility and low evolvability, appears to have reached a stable, optimal morphology, under stabilizing selection. In contrast, the distal phalanx seems to have undergone directional evolution, suggesting specialization for a specific function. Comparisons between hands and feet suggest that these structures evolve differently under directional selection but similarly under stabilizing selection.
Quartärstrukturen abiotischer Foldamere
Authors: Wang Shuhe , Allmendinger Lars , Huc Ivan
Published: September 2024

Bei abiotischen aromatischen Foldamer‐Sequenzen wurde bereits gezeigt, dass sie sich in organischen Lösungsmitteln zu Helix‐Turn‐Helix‐Motiven falten. Mithilfe einfacher rechnergestützter Werkzeuge wurde ein neues Helix‐Turn‐Helix‐Motiv entworfen, das zusätzliche OH‐Gruppen als Wasserstoffbrückenbindungs‐Donoren trägt, um die Aggregation zu einer echten, trimeren abiotischen Quartärstruktur zu fördern. Diese Sequenz wurde synthetisiert und ihre Selbstorganisation in Lösung durch Kernmagnetresonanz (NMR), Zirkulardichroismus (CD) und Molekulardynamiksimulationen (MD) untersucht. Es wurde das Vorhandensein zweier stabiler abgrenzbarer Aggregate nachgewiesen, von denen eines dem ursprünglich entworfenen Trimer und das andere einem Dimer mit mehreren Wassermolekülen zugeordnet wird. Die beiden Spezies können bei Änderung des Wassergehalts der Lösung oder der Temperatur quantitativ ineinander umgewandelt werden. Diese Ergebnisse sind ein wichtiger Schritt auf dem Weg zur Entwicklung von proteinähnlichen abiotischen Architekturen.
Cobalt Single‐Atom Catalyst: Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity
Authors: Syal Bindu , Gupta Princy
Published: September 2024

One‐pot synthesis of acetamides, benzimidazoles, and benzothiazoles are central reactions for synthesizing pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Despite tremendous progress in heterogeneous catalysis, the synthesis of these nitrogen‐containing compounds still remains challenging. Here, we report an efficient, simple, and cost‐effective nitrogen‐doped CeO2‐supported Co single‐atom catalyst (SAC) (Co/N‐CeO2) enabled synthesis of acetamides, benzimidazoles, and benzothiazoles. As far as we know, this is the first to report that SACs catalyze the synthesis of acetamides, benzimidazoles, and benzothiazoles. Detailed spectroscopic characterization revealed the structure of catalytic center. Harnessing the catalytic activity of SACs, the work offers promising routes for future synthesis of heterocycles.
Superhydrophobic anti‐fouling medicine box material: A dual modification method of UHMWPE surface melting snow wax
Authors: Ning Mengyao , Sun Wei , Kong Linghao , Han Wei , Xu Yuan , Shi Binghong , Li Peiwen , Li Jianwei , Song Guanglong
Published: September 2024

This article researches a superhydrophobic anti‐fouling material that can be used for agricultural medicine boxes, aiming to solve the problems of residual medicine, difficult recovery, and low reuse rate in medicine boxes. Double modification (volume and surface modification) is carried out on the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) matrix, and the high fluidity of melted snow wax is connected to UHMWPE and gas‐phase silica (SiO2) to prepare superhydrophobic composite materials U‐C‐WSiO2, achieving multiple combinations of superhydrophobicity, high mechanical properties, and high stability. The high‐strength bonding between snow wax and UHMWPE matrix acts as an adhesive, strengthening the bonding degree between silica particles and the matrix, achieving excellent superhydrophobicity, static contact angle reaches 157.0° on its surface while maintaining a relatively stable hydrophobic surface after multiple droplet impacts. In addition, unique surface modification methods endow U‐C‐WSiO2 composite materials with high stability, which can resist pesticide erosion and maintain surface corrosion resistance. This superhydrophobic composite material can solve the problem of pesticide residue in medicine boxes and has broad prospects for agricultural applications. Its surface water repellent and drug repellent properties further expand the application of thermoplastic engineering plastics in agricultural production.
Study on mechanical and thermal properties of coir fibers reinforced thermoplastic starch/poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) composites
Authors: Tang Xianggang , Tan Jianwei , Hu Yongxiang , Su Chengzhuang , Liu Zhekun , Wei Chuncheng , Dong Shuhua , Meng Fantao
Published: September 2024

In this study, a novel biodegradable coir fiber (CF) reinforced thermoplastic starch (TPS) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) composites (CF/TPS/PBAT) with a constant TPS: PBAT weight ratio of 70:30 and 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% additions of CF were prepared by the melt blending and injection molding. The effects of fiber content and fiber surface modification on the mechanical and thermal properties of the prepared biocomposites were investigated. The incorporation of fibers effectively enhanced the mechanical and thermal properties of TPS/PBAT blends. Due to the removal of hemicellulose and impurities on the fiber surface after alkali treatment, the interfacial adhesion of the fiber was enhanced, thus improving the compatibility between the fibers and the matrix. At 20 wt% CFs with alkali treatment, the tensile strength exhibited 393% improvement and flexural strength exhibited 536% improvement over TPS/PBAT blends. Thermal analysis showed that the thermal stability, storage modulus, and glass transition temperature of the composites increased with the increase of fiber content. This work is significant for the development of biodegradable materials.
On the thermal degradation of telechelic poly (lactic acid) and FLAX fiber biocomposites
Authors: Albuquerque Ananda K. C. , Nicácio Pedro H. M. , Boskamp Laura , Arnaut Katharina , Koschek Katharina , Wellen Renate Maria Ramos
Published: September 2024

Renewable resources based polymers have been the focus of materials science scientists since they help to protect the environment in addition to reducing the petroleum resources use. Among renewable polymers poly (lactic acid) (PLA) has emerged due to its biodegradable character and proper performance similar to engineering resins, which afford wide field of applications. In this work the thermal degradation of esterified PLA with itaconic acid (PLA ITA) and the biocomposite PLA ITA FLAX was investigated using thermogavimetry (TG) which data were corroborated through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Isothermal TGs scans and FTIRs spectra were acquired from 150 to 600°C, collected data evidenced that FLAX improved PLA ITA thermal stability, delaying the decomposition of PLA ITA by up to 100 min at 250°C, ensuring safer processability at higher temperatures. From the deconvolution of the DTG peaks, the peak at lower temperature is suggested to be linked to itaconic anhydride decomposition which undergoes macromolecule dissociation, converting into itaconic anhydride and releasing water and afterwards being converted into citraconic anhydride, while the peak at higher temperature is associated to the thermal degradation of telechelic PLA. Degradation mechanism is proposed, evidenced by changes in the wavelength of CO group under the effect of temperature, as evidenced in TG‐IR spectra.
Do Existing Magnetic Resonance Imaging Definitions of Knee Osteoarthritis Identify Knees That Will Develop Clinically Significant Disease Over Up To 11 Years of Follow‐Up?
Authors: Chang Alison H. , Roemer Frank W. , Guermazi Ali , Almagor Orit , Lee Jungwha (Julia) , Chmiel Joan S. , Muhammad Lutfiyya N. , Song Jing , Sharma Leena
Published: September 2024

Objective

In individuals without radiographic knee osteoarthritis (OA), we investigated whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–defined knee OA at baseline was associated with incident radiographic and symptomatic disease during up to 11 years of follow‐up.

Methods

Osteoarthritis Initiative participants without tibiofemoral radiographic knee OA at baseline were assessed for MRI‐based tibiofemoral cartilage damage, osteophyte presence, bone marrow lesions, and meniscal damage/extrusion. We defined MRI knee OA using alternative, reported definitions (Def A and Def B). Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade, joint space narrowing (JSN), and frequent knee symptoms (Sx) were assessed at baseline, 1‐, 2‐, 3‐, 4‐, 6‐, 8‐, and 10/11‐year follow‐up visits. Incident tibiofemoral radiographic knee OA (outcome) was defined as (1) KL ≥2, (2) KL ≥2 and JSN, or (3) KL ≥2 and Sx. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models examined associations of baseline MRI‐defined knee OA (Def A and Def B) with incident outcomes during up to 11 years of follow‐up.

Results

Among 1,621 participants (mean ± SD age 58.8 ± 9.0 years, mean ± SD body mass index 27.2 ± 4.5 kg/m2, 59.5% women), 17% had MRI‐defined knee OA by Def A and 24% by Def B. Baseline MRI‐defined knee OA was associated with incident KL ≥2 (odds ratio 2.94 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 2.34–3.68] for Def A and 2.44 [95% CI 1.97–3.03] for Def B). However, a substantial proportion of individuals with baseline MRI‐defined knee OA did not develop incident KL ≥2 during follow‐up (59% for Def A and 64% for Def B). Findings were similar for the other two outcomes.

Conclusion

Current MRI definitions of knee OA do not adequately identify knees that will develop radiographic and symptomatic disease.
Further analysis of fixed‐lean approaches to reinforcement schedule thinning
Authors: Chesbrough Emily A. , King Hunter , Fornah Mariatu , Quigley Shelby , Falligant John Michael
Published: September 2024

Functional communication training is an effective intervention for establishing an appropriate, alternative response that produces the functional reinforcer maintaining challenging behavior. Once the alternative response is established, it is differentially reinforced—typically using dense schedules—while challenging behavior is placed on extinction. After achieving clinically significant reductions in challenging behavior, reinforcement schedule thinning is conducted to promote the maintenance of the alternative response under more practical reinforcement schedules. In the current study, we compared two different methods for thinning the schedule of reinforcement for the alternative response to a terminal schedule. One method, referred to as the dense‐to‐lean (DTL) approach, involves gradually decreasing the density of alternative reinforcement over successive sessions until the terminal schedule is reached. Another method, referred to as the fixed‐lean (FL) approach, involves abruptly decreasing the density of alternative reinforcement by rapidly transitioning to the terminal schedule. Whereas the former approach has been evaluated extensively within the applied literature, the latter approach has not been the focus of much empirical work in either the clinic or the laboratory. An alternating treatment design was used to directly compare these approaches, both of which included noncontingent access to competing stimuli. Participants achieved clinically significant reductions in challenging behavior at the terminal schedule more readily with the FL than the DTL approach. The results are further discussed in terms of the efficacy and efficiency for both approaches, the potential mediating effect of competing stimuli, and implications for future research.
Synthesis and Antifungal Evaluation of Cinnamic Acid‐Geraniol Hybrids as Potential Fungicides
Authors: Huang Xiaobo , Shu Lili , Hao Nan , Wei Zhenyang , Qian Le , Tian Yuee , Cheng Zejun , Chen Genqiang , Liu Shengming , Deng Shuzhen , Guo Yashuang , Che Zhiping
Published: September 2024

Cinnamic acid and geraniol are two well‐known antifungal natural products and widely applied in food and cosmetics industries. To discover novel natural product‐based fungicide candidates with more potent activity and good ecological compatibility for the management of plant diseases, a series of cinnamic acid‐geraniol hybrids were prepared by means of molecular hybridization and their chemical structures were well confirmed by spectral analysis. The antifungal activities of the target compounds against three phytopathogenic fungi Fusarium graminearum, Gaeumannomyces graminis (Sacc.) Arx et Oliver var. tritici (Sacc.) Walker, and Valsa mali were evaluated. Among them, compounds 5 e and 5 f showed the remarkable antifungal activity against G. graminis with the EC50 values of 82.719 and 91.828 μg/mL, respectively; while compounds 5 f and 6 b exhibited the obvious antifungal activity against V. mali. It suggested that compound 5 f can be further optimized for the design of novel broad‐spectrum fungicide molecules as the secondary lead compound. In addition, some interesting structure‐antifungal activity relationships were obtained. This work will provide some reference and guidance for the further discovery of novel fungicide candidates based on cinnamic acid and geraniol.
Chemical Compositions, Molecular Docking, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Anti‐Cancer Effects of the Leaf Essential Oils Isolated from Three Species of the Rutaceae Family in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Ty Viet , Hoang Thao Xuan , Do Bich Hang , Nguyen Khanh‐Quynh Thi , Nguyen Nguyen Hoai , Tran Gia‐Buu
Published: September 2024

Three species of the Rutaceae family, including Acronychia pedunculata, Euodia lepta, and Severinia monophylla have been used in traditional medicine. However, the comparison of the chemical composition, anti‐cancer, and anti‐inflammatory effects of the leaf essential oils of these species have not been investigated yet. A total of 38 compounds were identified via gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, comprising 96.5–99.8 % of the total composition. Both A. pedunculata and E. lepta essential oils exhibited strong inhibitory effects against cancer cells (IC50: 59.04–97.52 μg/mL) while that of S. monophylla showed a lower anti‐cancer effect (IC50>100 μg/mL). Among three essential oils, only the E. lepta leaf oil demonstrated a high anti‐inflammatory effect on LPS‐stimulated macrophages (IC50=6.47±0.65 μg/mL), while the others showed a moderate anti‐inflammatory effect (IC50>50 μg/mL). Molecular docking studies also suggested the binding potential of the key compounds from three essential oils against inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase‐2, two proteins associated with inflammatory response, with the negative energies ranging from −41.0 to −71.9 kcal/mol. The present findings suggest the leaf essential oils from these species as potential medicines for treatment of cancer or inflammation associated diseases, especially the ones from A. pedunculata and E. lepta oils.
Selenol Switch Assay for Selenoprotein Derivatization
Authors: Wei Haopai , Zhang Baoxin , Shi Suntao , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhang Fang , Fang Jianguo
Published: September 2024

Selenoproteins are a class of protein that have selenocysteine (Sec) residues, and essential for diverse cellular functions. Although the human genome encodes 25 selenoproteins, nearly half of these selenoproteins’ function is not clear. This is largely due to the lack of convenient methods to study selenoproteins. We report in this work a novel Selenol Switch assay to exclusively derivatize selenoproteins. The Selenol Switch assay relies on the selective conversion of the Sec residue to the electrophilic dehydroalanine (DHA) residue, which is then labeled by nucleophiles. The multiple reactions of the Selenol Switch assay are readily performed in a single test tube, and the conversion yield is nearly quantitative. The abundance of selenoproteins in mouse tissues determined by the Selenol Switch assay is consistent with that from the classical ICP‐MS assay, validating the reliability of the Selenol Switch assay in studying selenoproteins.
Differences between sexes in STEMI treatment and outcomes with contemporary primary PCI
Authors: Savage Michael L. , Hay Karen , Vollbon William , Murdoch Dale J. , Hammett Christopher , Crowhurst James , Poon Karl , Poulter Rohan , Walters Darren L. , Denman Russell , Ranasinghe Isuru , Raffel Owen Christopher
Published: September 2024

Background

Historically, differences in timely reperfusion and outcomes have been described in females who suffer ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, there have been improvements in the treatment of STEMI patients with contemporary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) strategies.

Methods

Comparisons between sexes were performed on STEMI patients treated with primary PCI over a 4‐year period (January 1, 2017–December 31, 2020) from the Queensland Cardiac Outcomes Registry. Primary outcomes were 30‐day and 1‐year cardiovascular mortality. Secondary outcomes were STEMI performance measures. The total and direct effects of gender on mortality outcomes were estimated using logistic and multinomial logistic regression models.

Results

Overall, 2747 (76% male) were included. Females were on average older (65.9 vs. 61.9 years; p < 0.001), had longer total ischemic time (69 min vs. 52 min; p < 0.001) and less achievement of STEMI performance targets (<90 min) (50% vs. 58%; p < 0.001). There was no evidence for a total (odds ratio [OR] 1.3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8–2.2; p = 0.35) or direct (adjusted OR 1.2 (95% CI: 0.7–2.1; p = 0.58) effect of female sex on 30‐day mortality. One‐year mortality was higher in females (6.9% vs. 4.4%; p = 0.014) with total effect estimates consistent with increased risk of cardiovascular mortality (Incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.0–2.3; p = 0.059) and noncardiovascular mortality (IRR: 2.1; 95% CI: 0.9–4.7; p = 0.077) in females. However, direct (adjusted) effect estimates of cardiovascular mortality (IRR: 1.0; 95% CI: 0.6–1.6; p = 0.94) indicated sex differences were explained by confounders and mediators.

Conclusion

Small sex differences in STEMI performance measures still exist; however, with contemporary primary PCI strategies, sex is not associated with cardiovascular mortality at 30 days or 1 year.