bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A nomogram‐based prediction model for dysphagia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fan Ying , Shi Yuxin , Wu Yunyun , Yang Fang , Zhang Chao , Gu Mengjun , Hu Pengchao , Duan Wenjie , Wang Hongli , Zhou Yumei
Published: May 2024

Aim and Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of dysphagia in patients with COPD, identify the risk factors for dysphagia, develop a visual clinical prediction model and quantitatively predict the probability of developing dysphagia.

Background

Patients with COPD are at high risk of dysphagia, which is strongly linked to the acute exacerbation of their condition. The use of effective tools to predict its risk may contribute to the early identification and treatment of dysphagia in patients with COPD.

Design

A cross‐sectional design.

Methods

From July 2021 to April 2023, we enrolled 405 patients with COPD for this study. The clinical prediction model was constructed according to the results of a univariate analysis and a logistic regression analysis, evaluated by discrimination, calibration and decision curve analysis and visualized by a nomogram. This study was reported using the TRIPOD checklist.

Results

In total, 405 patients with COPD experienced dysphagia with a prevalence of 59.01%. A visual prediction model was constructed based on age, whether combined with cerebrovascular disease, chronic pulmonary heart disease, acute exacerbation of COPD, home noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, dyspnoea level and xerostomia level. The model exhibited excellent discrimination at an AUC of .879. Calibration curve analysis indicated a good agreement between experimental and predicted values, and the decision curve analysis showed a high clinical utility.

Conclusion

The model we devised may be used in clinical settings to predict the occurrence of dysphagia in patients with COPD at an early stage.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The model can help nursing staff to calculate the risk probability of dysphagia in patients with COPD, formulate personalized preventive care measures for high‐risk groups as soon as possible to achieve early prevention or delay of dysphagia and its related complications and improve the prognosis.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Man and embryo: Historicizing ideas about humanity in the study of reproduction, 18th–19th centuries
Authors: Lacroix Chiara
Published: May 2024

This article is concerned with historicizing the idea that all people belong to a single collective of biological human beings. It analyzes implications and changes in the concept of “Man” over the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in the study of reproduction and embryos. Examining gendered assumptions in 18th‐century generation systems shows how these theories described the formation of male more than female embryos. This asymmetry matched the idea that only rational males, standing above nature, were determinant for the concept of Man. In the 19th century, new studies pushed Man closer to the rest of the natural world, provoking a readjustment in definitions of Man and understandings of the human embryo. However, far from equalizing humanity, the 19th‐century concept of Man introduced a hierarchy in the human species based on different levels of embryonic and evolutionary development.
Test of mastication and swallowing solids in healthy individuals aged 6 to 20 years: A normative study in an Indian context
Authors: Aseef Ambreen , Dodderi Thejaswi , Muthukumar Varsha , Krishnamurthy Rahul , Balasubramanium Radish Kumar , Kothari Mohit
Published: May 2024

Background

The Test of Mastication and Swallowing Solids (TOMASS) is a reliable tool for assessing chewing and swallowing in healthy adults, using commercially available crackers. TOMASS‐Children (TOMASS‐C) is the paediatric version of TOMASS.

Objective

The present study aimed to establish normative data for TOMASS‐C using a validated regional commercial cracker among healthy individuals aged between 6–20 years of India.

Methods

327 healthy individuals between 6–20 years were recruited in a cross‐sectional study design following a convenient sampling procedure. Participants consumed one validated regional cracker and the procedure was video recorded. Data were stratified according to age groups (6–7, 8–9, 10–13, 14–17 and 18–20 years) and sex (boys and girls). Two Speech Language Pathologists independently analysed the video recordings to derive discrete bites, masticatory cycles, swallows and total swallow time indices. Using them, time/swallow, masticatory cycles/bite, swallows/bite and time/bite were calculated.

Results

All parameters of TOMASS‐C had moderate to good (0.6–0.85) test–retest reliability and moderate to excellent (0.69–0.99) inter‐rater reliability at p > .000. Younger participants took more bites, chewed more times and swallowed more frequently with longer chewing and swallowing time. Boys exhibited a lower number of swallows, shorter swallow time and reduced total masticatory time at p > .05. Additionally, girls demonstrated fewer bites and chewing cycles compared to boys at p > .05.

Conclusion

TOMASS‐C using a validated regional cracker was feasible and reliable. Normative data established for healthy boys and girls between 6–20 years offers much‐needed quantitative data to objectively delineate individuals with and without chewing and swallowing solid food difficulties.
Cultivating the transfer landscape: Using a CRT framework to examine transfer receptivity at a Hispanic Serving Research Institution
Authors: Casanova Saskias , Alonso Blanco Valeria , Radoff Sara , Cruz Silva Francia
Published: May 2024

When students of color transfer to Hispanic Serving Research Institutions (HSRI), they experience institutional barriers and stigmatization. Through 268 HSRI transfer students of color (TSOC) surveys and 12 interviews from four focus groups, we examined the role of stigmatization, campus relationships, and cultural strengths on TSOC's sense of belonging. Quantitative results showed greater stigmatization was associated with a lower sense of belonging, while stronger faculty and peer relationships and greater navigational and aspirational capital positively predicted a greater sense of belonging. Faculty and peer relationships mitigated the negative effects of stigmatization on sense of belonging. Qualitative results capture the intersectional marginalities experienced by our participants and how transfer receptivity was shaped by the prejudiced assumptions others have of TSOC, isolating white spaces, and a lack of transfer‐specific resources. We highlight the importance of campus relationships and students’ cultural strengths in navigating the transfer landscape and make institutional recommendations to cultivate transfer receptivity.
Sleep “ON”, sleep better! Positive effects of levodopa on sleep behaviour in people with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Costa Elisa de Carvalho , Filho Carlos Augusto Kalva , Esteves Andrea Maculano , Guelfi Érica Tardelli Neves , Vuillerme Nicolas , Barbieri Fabio Augusto
Published: May 2024

People with Parkinson's disease experience reduced sleep quality compared with their peers. Levodopa may have a direct effect on sleep macrostructure or may improve sleep by enhancing nocturnal motor performance. Therefore, it is important to understand the acute effects of withdrawing levodopa on sleep measures in Parkinson's disease. The purpose of this study was to compare the estimated objective and subjective sleep measures of people with Parkinson's disease sleeping under (ON‐night) versus without (OFF‐night) the effects of the last daily dopaminergic medication before going to bed. A total of 23 people with Parkinson's disease were instructed to wear an actigraphy device for 4 consecutive nights to objectively measure the sleep behaviour. Subjective sleep measure was assessed each morning using a Likert scale. Participants slept for 3 nights on ON‐night and 1 night on OFF‐night. They were instructed not to take their last dose of levodopa before going to bed in OFF‐night. Sleeping in ON‐ versus OFF‐night increased total sleep time (7.8%, p = 0.032) and sleep efficiency (3.7%, p = 0.019), and decreased duration and number of wakes after sleep onset (22.3%, p = 0.050; and 29.2%, p = 0.013, respectively). However, subjective sleep analysis indicated no significant differences between the two conditions. From a clinical point of view, our results suggest that sleeping on ON‐night resulted in an improvement in estimated objective sleep measures compared with sleeping on OFF‐night. From a methodological point of view, our findings emphasize the importance of relying on objective sleep measurements to accurately assess OFF‐night sleep behaviour in people with Parkinson's disease.
From chemistry to genomics: A concise history of the porphyrias
Authors: Badminton Michael N. , Anderson Karl E. , Deybach Jean‐Charles , Harper Pauline , Sandberg Sverre , Elder George H.
Published: May 2024

We describe developments in understanding of the porphyrias associated with each step in the haem biosynthesis pathway and the role of individuals whose contributions led to major advances over the past 150 years. The first case of erythropoietic porphyria was reported in 1870, and the first with acute porphyria in 1889. Photosensitisation by porphyrin was confirmed by Meyer‐Betz, who self‐injected haematoporphyrin. Günther classified porphyrias into haematoporphyria acuta, acuta toxica, congenita and chronica. This was revised by Waldenström into porphyria congenita, acuta and cutanea tarda, with the latter describing those with late‐onset skin lesions. Waldenström was the first to recognise porphobilinogen's association with acute porphyria, although its structure was not solved until 1953. Hans Fischer was awarded the Nobel prize in 1930 for solving the structure of porphyrins and the synthesis of haemin. After 1945, research by several groups elucidated the pathway of haem biosynthesis and its negative feedback regulation by haem. By 1961, following the work of Watson, Schmid, Rimington, Goldberg, Dean, Magnus and others, aided by the availability of modern techniques of porphyrin separation, six of the porphyrias were identified and classified as erythropoietic or hepatic. The seventh, 5‐aminolaevulinate dehydratase deficiency porphyria, was described by Doss in 1979. The discovery of increased hepatic 5‐aminolaevulinate synthase activity in acute porphyria led to development of haematin as a treatment for acute attacks. By 2000, all the haem biosynthesis genes were cloned, sequenced and assigned to chromosomes and disease‐specific mutations identified in all inherited porphyrias. These advances have allowed definitive family studies and development of new treatments.
Competing discourses, contested roles: Electronic health records in medical education
Authors: Huang Daniel , Whitehead Cynthia , Kuper Ayelet
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) into medical education remains contested despite their widespread use in clinical practice. For medical trainees, this has resulted in idiosyncratic and often ad hoc methods of instruction on EHR use. The purpose of this study was to understand the currently fragmented nature of EHR instruction by examining discourses of EHR use within the medical education literature.

Methods

We conducted a Foucauldian critical discourse analysis to identify discourses of EHRs in the medical education literature. We found our texts through a systematic search of widely cited medical education journals from 2013–2023. Each text was analysed for recurring truth statements—claims framed as self‐evidently true and thus not needing supporting evidence—about the role of EHRs in medical education.

Results

We identified three major discourses: (1) EHRs as a clinical skill and competency, emphasising training of physical interactions between learners, patients and computers; (2) EHRs as a system, emphasising the creation and facilitation of networks of people, technologies, institutions and standards; and (3) EHRs as a cognitive process, framed as a method to shape processes like clinical reasoning and bias. Each discourse privileged certain stakeholders over others and served to rationalise educational interventions that could be seen as beneficial in isolation yet were often disjointed in combination.

Conclusions

Competing discourses of EHR use in medical education produce divergent interventions that exacerbate their contested role in contemporary medical education. Identifying different claims for the benefits of EHR use in these settings allows educators to make rational choices between competing educational directions.
AtHVA22a, a plant‐specific homologue of Reep/DP1/Yop1 family proteins is involved in turnip mosaic virus propagation
Authors: Xue Mingshuo , Sofer Luc , Simon Vincent , Arvy Nathalie , Diop Mamoudou , Lion Roxane , Beucher Guillaume , Bordat Amandine , Tilsner Jens , Gallois Jean‐Luc , German‐Retana Sylvie
Published: May 2024

The movement of potyviruses, the largest genus of single‐stranded, positive‐sense RNA viruses responsible for serious diseases in crops, is very complex. As potyviruses developed strategies to hijack the host secretory pathway and plasmodesmata (PD) for their transport, the goal of this study was to identify membrane and/or PD‐proteins that interact with the 6K2 protein, a potyviral protein involved in replication and cell‐to‐cell movement of turnip mosaic virus (TuMV). Using split‐ubiquitin membrane yeast two‐hybrid assays, we screened an Arabidopsis cDNA library for interactors of TuMV6K2. We isolated AtHVA22a (Hordeum vulgare abscisic acid responsive gene 22), which belongs to a multigenic family of transmembrane proteins, homologous to Receptor expression‐enhancing protein (Reep)/Deleted in polyposis (DP1)/Yop1 family proteins in animal and yeast. HVA22/DP1/Yop1 family genes are widely distributed in eukaryotes, but the role of HVA22 proteins in plants is still not well known, although proteomics analysis of PD fractions purified from Arabidopsis suspension cells showed that AtHVA22a is highly enriched in a PD proteome. We confirmed the interaction between TuMV6K2 and AtHVA22a in yeast, as well as in planta by using bimolecular fluorescence complementation and showed that TuMV6K2/AtHVA22a interaction occurs at the level of the viral replication compartment during TuMV infection. Finally, we showed that the propagation of TuMV is increased when AtHVA22a is overexpressed in planta but slowed down upon mutagenesis of AtHVA22a by CRISPR‐Cas9. Altogether, our results indicate that AtHVA22a plays an agonistic effect on TuMV propagation and that the C‐terminal tail of the protein is important in this process.
‘AgTech’ and the restructuring of agrifood labour regimes: Digital technologies, migrant labour and the intensification of production in the UK glasshouse sector
Authors: Smith Adrian
Published: May 2024

This article examines the challenges surrounding the adoption of robotic automation and ‘AgTech’ in glasshouse agrifood production and considers ways in which growers and technology capital are seeking to transform the organisation of work at the point of production because of digital technological interventions. The article does so by examining the deployment by growers of ‘AgTech’ in the glasshouse agrifood sector in the context of the labour regime centred around seasonal migrant labour supply in the UK. The article makes three main contributions. Conceptually it centres technological transformation of the workplace within the context of wider labour regimes. Second, it argues that transformations of the labour process at the point of production through the introduction of ‘AgTech’ are one response by growers to labour supply shortages. Third, it examines the attempts by grower capital to intensify and fragment the nature of work as a result of the introduction of ‘AgTech’.
Efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell‐based therapy on the bone repair of hypertensive rats
Authors: Souza Alann Thaffarell Portilho , Freitas Gileade Pereira , Lopes Helena Bacha , Weffort Denise , Adolpho Leticia Faustino , Gomes Maria Paula Oliveira , Oliveira Fabiola Singaretti , Almeida Adriana Luisa Gonçalves , Beloti Marcio Mateus , Rosa Adalberto Luiz
Published: May 2024

Objective

Hypertension disrupts the bone integrity and its repair ability. This study explores the efficiency of a therapy based on the application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to repair bone defects of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Methods

First, we evaluated SHR in terms of bone morphometry and differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts. Then, the effects of the interactions between MSCs from normotensive rats (NTR‐MSCs) cocultured with SHR (SHR‐MSCs) on the osteoblast differentiation of both cell populations were evaluated. Also, bone formation into calvarial defects of SHR treated with NTR‐MSCs was analyzed.

Results

Hypertension induced bone loss evidenced by reduced bone morphometric parameters of femurs of SHR compared with NTR as well as decreased osteoblast differentiation of SHR‐MSCs compared with NTR‐MSCs. NTR‐MSCs partially restored the capacity of SHR‐MSCs to differentiate into osteoblasts, while SHR‐MSCs exhibited a slight negative effect on NTR‐MSCs. An enhanced bone repair was observed in defects treated with NTR‐MSCs compared with control, stressing this cell therapy efficacy even in bones damaged by hypertension.

Conclusion

The use of MSCs derived from a heathy environment can be in the near future a smart approach to treat bone loss in the context of regenerative dentistry for oral rehabilitation of hypertensive patients.
KIN10‐mediated HB16 protein phosphorylation and self‐association improve cassava disease resistance by transcriptional activation of lignin biosynthesis genes
Authors: Yan Yu , Wang Peng , He Jiaoyan , Shi Haitao
Published: May 2024

Cassava bacterial blight significantly affects cassava yield worldwide, while major cassava cultivars are susceptible to this disease. Therefore, it is crucial to identify cassava disease resistance gene networks and defence molecules for the genetic improvement of cassava cultivars. In this study, we found that MeHB16 transcription factor as a differentially expressed gene in cassava cultivars with contrasting disease resistance, positively modulated disease resistance by modulating defence molecule lignin accumulation. Further investigation showed that MeHB16 physically interacted with itself via the leucine‐Zippe domain (L‐Zip), which was necessary for the transcriptional activation of downstream lignin biosynthesis genes. In addition, protein kinase MeKIN10 directly interacted with MeHB16 to promote its phosphorylation at Ser6, which in turn enhanced MeHB16 self‐association and downstream lignin biosynthesis. In summary, this study revealed the molecular network of MeKIN10‐mediated MeHB16 protein phosphorylation improved cassava bacterial blight resistance by fine‐tuning lignin biosynthesis and provides candidate genes and the defence molecule for improving cassava disease resistance.
Dissecting root system architecture traits in durum wheat–goatgrass (Triticum durum–Aegilops speltoides) backcross introgression lines
Authors: Navaneetha Krishnan Jayaraman , Kumar Uttam , Dhillon Guriqbal Singh , Singh Rohtas , Sandhu Nitika , Kaur Satinder , Chhuneja Parveen
Published: May 2024

A well‐developed root system is essential for efficient nutrient and water uptake. We phenotyped a set of 172 Triticum durum–Aegilops speltoides backcross introgression lines (BILs) for various root architecture traits during 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 cropping seasons. The roots were sampled at the maximum tillering stage, and data on various root architecture traits were recorded. The quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping was carried out using 5672 polymorphic SNPs obtained from genotyping‐by‐sequencing. A total of 21 QTLs were detected for various root architecture traits on chromosomes 1A, 2A, 2B, 3B, 5A and 6B. Stable QTLs were detected for total root length, number of root tips and root dry weight over the two seasons. Candidate genes were identified by scanning the physical interval corresponding to the linkage disequilibrium (LD) decay flanking the SNPs linked to the stable QTLs. In silico expression studies of postulated candidate genes revealed root‐specific upregulation of some of the genes. These QTLs can be used in breeding programmes after the development and validation of suitable marker assays.
Impact of ventricular assist device use on pediatric heart transplant waitlist mortality: Analysis of the scientific registry of transplant recipients database
Authors: Butto Arene , Wright Lydia K. , Dyal Jameson , Mao Chad Y. , Garcia Richard , Mahle William T.
Published: May 2024

Background

Children awaiting heart transplant (Tx) have a high risk of death due to donor organ scarcity. Historically, ventricular assist devices (VADs) reduced waitlist mortality, prompting increased VAD use. We sought to determine whether the VAD survival benefit persists in the current era.

Methods

Using the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, we identified patients listed for Tx between 3/22/2016 and 9/1/2020. We compared characteristics of VAD and non‐VAD groups at Tx listing. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify risk factors for 1‐year waitlist mortality.

Results

Among 5054 patients, 764 (15%) had a VAD at Tx listing. The VAD group was older with more mechanical ventilation and renal impairment. Unadjusted waitlist mortality was similar between groups; the curves crossed ~90 days after listing (p = .55). In multivariable analysis, infant age (HR 2.77, 95%CI 2.13–3.60), Black race (HR 1.57, 95%CI 1.31–1.88), congenital heart disease (HR 1.23, 95%CI 1.04–1.46), renal impairment (HR 2.67, 95%CI 2.19–3.26), inotropes (HR 1.28, 95%CI 1.09–1.52), and mechanical ventilation (HR 2.23, 95%CI 1.84–2.70) were associated with 1‐year waitlist mortality. VADs were not associated with mortality in the first 90 waitlist days but were protective for those waiting ≥90 days (HR 0.43, 95%CI 0.26–0.71).

Conclusions

In the current era, VADs reduce waitlist mortality, but only for those waitlisted ≥90 days. The differential effect by race, size, and VAD type is less clear. These findings suggest that Tx listing without VAD may be reasonable if a short waitlist time is anticipated, but VADs may benefit those expected to wait >90 days.
Introduction
Authors: Fratto Elena , Nicolosi Riccardo
Published: May 2024

This Introduction provides a description of the cluster, complete with the background and rationale for it, the research questions it poses, and an article‐by‐article succinct presentation.
The isomorphism problem for oligomorphic groups with weak elimination of imaginaries
Authors: Paolini Gianluca
Published: May 2024

In Kechris et al. [J. Symb. Log. 83 (2018), no. 3, 1190–1203], it was asked if equality on the reals is sharp as a lower bound for the complexity of topological isomorphism between oligomorphic groups. We prove that under the assumption of weak elimination of imaginaries, this is indeed the case. Our methods are model theoretic and they also have applications on the classical problem of reconstruction of isomorphisms of permutation groups from (topological) isomorphisms of automorphisms groups. As a concrete application, we give an explicit description of for any vector space of dimension over a finite field, in affinity with the classical description for finite‐dimensional spaces due to Schreier and van der Waerden.
Infinitely many Riemann surfaces with a transitive action on the Weierstrass points
Authors: Reyes‐Carocca Sebastián , Speziali Pietro
Published: May 2024

In this short note, we prove the existence of infinitely many pairwise nonisomorphic, non‐hyperelliptic Riemann surfaces with automorphism group acting transitively on the Weierstrass points. We also find all compact Riemann surfaces with automorphism group acting transitively on the Weierstrass points, under the assumption that they are simple.
An Integrated Dimension Theory and Modulation Signal Bispectrum Technique for Analyzing Bearing Fault in Industrial Fibrizer
Authors: Salunkhe Vishal G. , Khot S. M. , Desavale R. G. , Yelve Nitesh P. , Jadhav Prashant S.
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the dynamics of roller bearings by utilizing the dimension theory technique to diagnose the bearing clearance faults of revolving machines. The generation of local defects in rotating machines is closely related to the clearance behavior of the rotor-bearing system. A dynamic model of bearing with dimension theory by matrix method (DTMM) is developed for characteristics of bearing clearance considering the influence of local defects on the inner and outer bearings races. The characteristics of bearing internal radial clearance considering the impact of the defect on the bearing are analyzed. An experimental study has been performed under various operational conditions. The noisy signal is subsequently eliminated using the modulation signal bispectrum (MSB). The efficiency and reliability of the stated approach are evaluated using a specialized bearing test and a run-to-failure fibrizer test. As a result, this technology offers a significant opportunity to execute more cost-effective maintenance work to eliminate the breakdown of machinery.
Effects of Fetal Position on the Loading of the Fetal Brain During the Onset of the Second Stage of Labor
Authors: Collier Alice M. , Louwagie Erin , Khalid Ghaidaa A. , Jones Michael D. , Myers Kristin , Jerusalem Antoine
Published: May 2024

During vaginal delivery, the delivery requires the fetal head to mold to accommodate the geometric constraints of the birth canal. Excessive molding can produce brain injuries and long-term sequelae. Understanding the loading of the fetal brain during the second stage of labor (fully dilated cervix, active pushing, and expulsion of fetus) could thus help predict the safety of the newborn during vaginal delivery. To this end, this study proposes a finite element model of the fetal head and maternal canal environment that is capable of predicting the stresses experienced by the fetal brain at the onset of the second phase of labor. Both fetal and maternal models were adapted from existing studies to represent the geometry of full-term pregnancy. Two fetal positions were compared: left-occiput-anterior and left-occiput-posterior. The results demonstrate that left-occiput-anterior position reduces the maternal tissue deformation, at the cost of higher stress in the fetal brain. In both cases, stress is concentrated underneath the sutures, though the location varies depending on the presentation. In summary, this study provides a patient-specific simulation platform for the study of vaginal delivery and its effect on both the fetal brain and maternal anatomy. Finally, it is suggested that such an approach has the potential to be used by obstetricians to support their decision-making processes through the simulation of various delivery scenarios.
Effect of an internal Kelvin wave on sound propagation in a coastal wedge
Authors: Uzhansky E. , Lunkov A. , Katsnelson B.
Published: May 2024

Spatiotemporal variability of the low-frequency sound field in a coastal wedge in the presence of an internal Kelvin wave (IKW) is studied both experimentally and theoretically. The experiments were carried out in Lake Kinneret, Israel (also known as the Sea of Galilee) in August 2021, with a wideband sound source deployed near the shore and receiving vertical line arrays located at the lake's center. Parameters of the IKW were obtained earlier from long-term thermistor string measurements combined with conductivity, temperature, and depth data. The IKW initiated range-dependent vertical displacements of the thermocline with a maximum amplitude near the shore and almost zero amplitude in the center of the lake. It corresponded to a thermocline inclination angle of ±0.08° with respect to the horizontal. Temporal variations in depth-averaged acoustic intensity, reaching almost 8 dB, and remarkable changes in the normal mode composition were registered. These effects are explained based on simulations using a parabolic equation and normal mode models. The role of mode coupling in acoustic intensity variations is assessed.
mTOR signaling is required for phagocyte free radical production, GLUT1 expression, and control of
Staphylococcus aureus
infection
Authors: Genito Christopher J. , Darwitz Benjamin P. , Reber Callista P. , Moorman Nathaniel J. , Graves Christina L. , Monteith Andrew J. , Thurlow Lance R.
Published: May 2024

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of metabolism in the mammalian cell. Here, we show the essential role for mTOR signaling in the immune response to bacterial infection. Inhibition of mTOR during infection with
Staphylococcus aureus
revealed that mTOR signaling is required for bactericidal free radical production by phagocytes. Mechanistically, mTOR supported glucose transporter GLUT1 expression, potentially through hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, upon phagocyte activation. Cytokine and chemokine signaling, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and p65 nuclear translocation were present at similar levels during mTOR suppression, suggesting an NF-κB-independent role for mTOR signaling in the immune response during bacterial infection. We propose that mTOR signaling primarily mediates the metabolic requirements necessary for phagocyte bactericidal free radical production. This study has important implications for the metabolic requirements of innate immune cells during bacterial infection as well as the clinical use of mTOR inhibitors.

IMPORTANCE

Sirolimus, everolimus, temsirolimus, and similar are a class of pharmaceutics commonly used in the clinical treatment of cancer and the anti-rejection of transplanted organs. Each of these agents suppresses the activity of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a master regulator of metabolism in human cells. Activation of mTOR is also involved in the immune response to bacterial infection, and treatments that inhibit mTOR are associated with increased susceptibility to bacterial infections in the skin and soft tissue. Infections caused by
Staphylococcus aureus
are among the most common and severe. Our study shows that this susceptibility to
S. aureus
infection during mTOR suppression is due to an impaired function of phagocytic immune cells responsible for controlling bacterial infections. Specifically, we observed that mTOR activity is required for phagocytes to produce antimicrobial free radicals. These results have important implications for immune responses during clinical treatments and in disease states where mTOR is suppressed.
Right cardiac intracavitary metastases from a primary intracranial myxofibrosarcoma
Authors: Costa Diogo Alpuim , Barata Pedro , Gouveia Emanuel , Mafra Manuela
Published: May 2024

Primary intracranial myxofibrosarcoma is exceedingly rare, with less than 10 cases published. We present a case of a 23-year-old man with previous history of a primary low grade myxofibrosarcoma of the left parietal-occipital convexity resected in March 1999. He subsequently underwent several interventions for multiple local recurrent disease until March 2004. At that time, complete remission was documented. About 8 years later, in February 2012, the patient was admitted to the emergency room with refractory acute pulmonary oedema. On work up, sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia and hyperechoic myocardial mass with invasion of the right ventricular cavity were detected. Electrical cardioversion was unsuccessful and irreversible cardiac arrest followed. The autopsy confirmed multiple bilateral lung metastases, malignant pulmonary embolism and myocardial invasion by the primary tumour, with intracavitary cardiac thrombosis and absence of intracranial disease. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of extracranial metastases of this neoplasm.
Cosmological implications of non-minimally coupled f(Q) gravity
Authors: Das Santanu , Mahata Nilanjana , Ray Priyanka
Published: May 2024

We experience some challenges in general gravitational theory owing to Einstein to explain late time acceleration of universe. To address this issue, geometric components of gravity have been modified in quite a few occasions to have a more general structure with some freedom. One such approach is to change the geometric components of gravity where gravitational interaction is denoted by Q, Q being the non-metricity. In our work, we have considered symmetric teleparallel gravity i.e, modified the geometry with the help of non-metricity Q or [Formula: see text] gravity. We have considered a specific form of [Formula: see text] which is nothing but the linear combination of Q and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], where Q is coupled with Lagrangian matter. Forming the autonomous system from governing equations and then solving it, we have tried to analyze the nature of universe using dynamical system analysis. We have studied the behavior of the universe under several circumstances. Then, we have studied the stability around critical points and considering the recent observational data available for some cosmological parameters, feasible solutions are noted which depict late time acceleration. We can see that [Formula: see text] gravity model can be considered as an alternative model to [Formula: see text]CDM model.
Anisotropic Durgapal–Fuloria neutron stars in f(ℛ,T2) gravity
Authors: Naseer Tayyab , Sharif M. , Manzoor Sana , Fatima Arooj
Published: May 2024

The main purpose of this paper is to obtain physically stable stellar models coupled with anisotropic matter distribution in the context of [Formula: see text] theory. For this, we consider a static spherical geometry and formulate modified field equations containing various unknowns such as matter determinants and metric potentials. We then obtain a unique solution to these equations by employing Durgapal–Fuloria ansatz possessing a constant doublet. We also use matching criteria to calculate the values of these constants by considering the Schwarzschild exterior spacetime. Two different viable models of this modified theory are adopted to analyze the behavior of effective matter variables, anisotropy, energy conditions, compactness and redshift in the interiors of Her X-1, PSR J0348-0432, LMC X-4, SMC X-1, Cen X-3, and SAX J 1808.4-3658 star candidates. We also check the stability of these models by using three different physical tests. It is concluded that our considered stars satisfy all the physical requirements and are stable in this modified gravity for the considered parametric values.
The influence of cutting direction and nozzle diameter on laser cutting characteristics for STS304L in pressurized underwater environments
Authors: Jeon Jaeook , Lee Sujin , Shin Dongsig , Kim Jong-Do
Published: May 2024

The reactors, in which underwater laser cutting is applied, are usually more than 10[Formula: see text]m high, and the inside of the reactor is filled with coolant. It is necessary to investigate underwater laser cutting by constructing a pressurized water tank that simulates a 10-meter-deep environment in consideration of the 10-meter-deep environment where underwater cutting will be performed during actual reactor dismantling. Therefore, this study aims to first examine the effect of water pressure on laser cutting in an underwater environment and then analyze the quality of the cut part according to the cutting direction and nozzle diameter.
A study on the effect of laser decontamination by beam overlap rate of crud formed on aluminum alloy
Authors: Yun Ye-Sol , Choi Kwang-Deok , Kim Nam-Kyun , Kim Jong-Do
Published: May 2024

The corrosion products formed on the internal surfaces of the primary system are the major factor that generates radioactive contaminants such as oxide films and cruds during decommissioning, causing radiation exposure to workers. Thus, decontamination of nuclear facility surfaces is crucial to ensure the safe completion of decommissioning work. This study applied laser decontamination, which enables precise work while minimizing the deformation of the material surface through the control of process parameters, and investigated the characteristics of the decontaminated area. Specimens coated with Ni-ferrite on an aluminum alloy (A6061) substrate were fabricated and used in this experiment. Laser decontamination was performed using a low-power Q’switching fiber laser while varying the laser beam overlap rate and number of scans. The results of laser decontamination differed by the process parameters and material characteristics. It is determined that high decontamination efficiency can be achieved if appropriate conditions are applied.
Effect of different BaO contents on the photoluminescence properties of the Eu2+-doped high thermal stability Sr3−xBaxMgSi2O8 phosphors
Authors: Lu Juan , Tang Wan-Chi , Yang Cheng-Fu , Chang Jui-Yang
Published: May 2024

In this study, 0.015 Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 ([Formula: see text], 0.3, 0.6, 0.9) were used as compositions to find the effect of BaO content on their photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence emission (PL) properties. They were sintered at 1400°C in a reduction atmosphere of 95% N[Formula: see text]% H2 to form blue phosphors. X-ray diffraction pattern and SEM observation were used to analyze their crystal properties, and a fluorescence spectrophotometer was used to analyze their PLE and PL properties. After conducting a thorough analysis, our research primarily encompasses four significant research themes. First, SEM observations revealed that synthesized Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 phosphors exhibit the formation of whisker-like structures. Therefore, the whisker-like structures in all the Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 phosphors were analyzed using the HRTEM and its equipped EDS to find how BaO content influenced both the quantity and fineness of these whiskers. Second, we examined the impact of BaO content on the PLE and PL emission intensities of the Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 phosphors across a temperature range from room temperature to 210°C. This investigation aimed to uncover the effects of BaO content and temperature on the thermal stability of the Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 phosphors. Lastly, our fourth important investigation involved reorganizing the PLE spectra of the Eu[Formula: see text]-doped Sr[Formula: see text]BaxMgSi2O8 phosphors with the energy band as the x-axis. The Gaussian fitting function was applied to analyze the excitation spectra and discern the influence of BaO content on the value of the Stokes shift.
Preparation and Sensing Properties of BC-PVA@PPY Nanofiber Composite Organohydrogels
Authors: Feng Changqi , Peng Songlin , Xiong Ning , Liu Yuping , Liu Huiling , Niu Tao , Xu Jie
Published: May 2024

In this work, BC-PVA composite organohydrogels are prepared using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as matrix and bacterial cellulose (BC) nanofibers as reinforcement. BC-PVA@PPY conductive organohydrogels are obtained by depositing polypyrrole (PPY) on the BC-PVA organohydrogels via in situ polymerization of pyrrole. The mechanical properties of the organohydrogels are improved by the addition of BC nanofibers. The BC-PVA@PPY organohydrogels show good stability and repeatability in strain sensing. Due to their superior sensing performance, the BC-PVA@PPY organohydrogels can be used to monitor human activities (such as elbow movement and finger movement), indicating potential applications in wearable electronic devices.
CuFeS2/Carbon Sphere Nanocomposites for Improved Capacitive Performance
Authors: Shu Lei , Wei Zian , Guo Yan
Published: May 2024

CuFeS2 has many advantages, like high electrical conductivity, multiple redox centers, natural abundance and nontoxic. However, the low capacitance limits their application. In this work, we use carbon spheres (CS) prepared from starch to modify CuFeS2. The prepared CuFeS2/CS shows special structures with the CS as the core and CuFeS2 as the shell. These CuFeS2/CS nanocomposites show improved capacitive performance. CuFeS2/CS has a specific capacitance of 349.4[Formula: see text]F[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at 0.5[Formula: see text]A[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], four times that of pristine CuFeS2 (88.8[Formula: see text]F[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], which might be attributed to the increased electrolyte diffusion capacity. The cyclic stability is also slightly improved, from 86.4% of the pristine CuFeS2 to 90.5% of the CuFeS2/CS nanocomposites due to the rigid structure of both crystal CuFeS2 and firm CS. These CuFeS2/CS nanocomposites are expected to be used in high-performance supercapacitor applications.
From Happiness Data to Economic Conclusions
Authors: Benjamin Daniel J. , Cooper Kristen , Heffetz Ori , Kimball Miles
Published: May 2024

Happiness data—survey respondents’ self-reported well-being (SWB)—have become increasingly common in economics research, with recent calls to use them in policymaking. Researchers have used SWB data in novel ways—for example, to learn about welfare or preferences when choice data are unavailable or difficult to interpret. Focusing on leading examples of this pioneering research, the first part of this review uses a simple theoretical framework to reverse-engineer some of the crucial assumptions that underlie existing applications. The second part discusses evidence bearing on these assumptions and provides practical advice to the agencies and institutions that generate SWB data, the researchers who use them, and the policymakers who may use the resulting research. While we advocate creative uses of SWB data in economics, we caution that their use in policy will likely require both additional data collection and further research to better understand the data.
The Evolution of Simplifying Heuristics in Visual Cognition: Categorization, Specialization, and Visual Illusions
Authors: Tibbetts Elizabeth A. , Harris Olivia K. , Morehouse Nathan I. , Caves Eleanor M.
Published: May 2024

Animals live in visually complex environments. As a result, visual systems have evolved mechanisms that simplify visual processing and allow animals to focus on the information that is most relevant to adaptive decision making. This review explores two key mechanisms that animals use to efficiently process visual information: categorization and specialization. Categorization occurs when an animal's perceptual system sorts continuously varying stimuli into a set of discrete categories. Specialization occurs when particular classes of stimuli are processed using distinct cognitive operations that are not used for other classes of stimuli. We also describe a nonadaptive consequence of simplifying heuristics: visual illusions, where visual perception consistently misleads the viewer about the state of the external world or objects within it. We take an explicitly comparative approach by exploring similarities and differences in visual cognition across human and nonhuman taxa. Considering areas of convergence and divergence across taxa provides insight into the evolution and function of visual systems and associated perceptual strategies.
Determination of Trace Cd(II) in Water and Cosmetics based on Au/GO/CuO Nanocomposite Functionalized Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: Cao Rui , Chen Guoshun , Feng Chuanyi , Qi Yu , Xiang Kun , Li Peipei , Wang Jun , Fu Xucheng , Yang Cheng , Wu Ju
Published: May 2024

Cadmium (Cd(II)) is highly toxic to environmental, and while many approaches have been developed to measure cumulative Cd(II) concentration over time, online monitoring of spatiotemporal changes remains challenging. To address this, an electrochemical sensor for determination of ultra-trace Cd(II) was developed, based on gold/graphene oxide/copper oxide (Au/GO/CuO) nanomaterials modifying glassy carbon electrode. CuO nanoparticles were prepared by a green synthesis method using plant extract, and the Au nanoparticles were deposited on the GO/CuO nanosubstrates by an in situ electrochemical method. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The CuO nanoparticles are layered flower-like with an average particle size of 200–500 nm. Au/GO/CuO nanocomposites with high specific surface area and excellent electronic transmission capability enhanced the electrochemical signal of the sensor. Owing to the synergistic effect of Au/GO/CuO, the sensor exhibited good performance to Cd(II) in the ultra-wide range of 5 × 10−11–5 × 10−7 M with a detection limit of 2 × 10−11 M. The sensor was successfully quantified for determining Cd(II) with desirable recovery, displaying outstanding long-term stability, high sensitivity, and reproducibility. After validating its accuracy, this sensor was successfully used for detection of Cd(II) in water and cosmetic samples.
Identifying vagal bronchopulmonary afferents mediating cough response to inhaled sulfur dioxide in mice
Authors: Lin Ruei-Lung , Lin An-Hsuan , Athukorala Ashami S. , Chan Nai-Ju , Khosravi Mehdi , Lee Lu-Yuan
Published: May 2024

This study demonstrated that inhalation of a high concentration of sulfur dioxide, an irritant gas and common air pollutant, completely and reversibly inhibited the neural activities of both slowly adapting receptor and rapidly adapting receptor, two major types of mechanoreceptors in the lungs with their activities conducted by myelinated fibers. Furthermore, the results of this study suggested that stimulation of vagal bronchopulmonary C-fibers is primarily responsible for triggering the cough reflex responses to inhaled sulfur dioxide.
Bevacizumab as Adjuvant Therapy in the Treatment of Keloid: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Shahmoradi Zabihollah , Khalili-Tembi Roghayeh-Sadat , Faghihi Gita , Feizi Awat , Kimia Afshar  , Abtahi-Naeini Bahareh
Published: May 2024

Background. Despite the availability of numerous therapies, keloid treatment remains a challenging clinical issue. Intralesional triamcinolone has been established as an effective corticosteroid treatment for keloids, while sporadic reports suggest the efficacy of intralesional verapamil. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of bevacizumab as an adjuvant therapy for keloid treatment. Methods. This randomized controlled trial involved 38 patients diagnosed with keloid according to clinical criteria. The study compared the effects of intralesional triamcinolone combined with bevacizumab injections with intralesional triamcinolone alone. Patients were randomly assigned to either the combination treatment group, which received intralesional triamHEXAL® (20 mg/ml, every two weeks for three months) plus Avastin® (2.5 mg/ml, every two weeks for two months), or the single treatment group, which received intralesional triamHEXAL® alone. The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was used for serial photographic records of scar evaluation, with differences in VSS scores considered the primary outcome, and changes in height and patient satisfaction visual analog score (VAS) were secondary outcomes. Results. A total of 38 patients participated, with a mean age (SD) of 35.32 (14.02) years and 50% male. No significant differences in age, BMI, disease duration, gender, causing, family history, or site were observed between the two groups. The single treatment group exhibited a mean reduction of 0.60 (95% CI: (−1.18, −0.01); P = 0.045) in pigmentation score and a mean decrease of 1.37 (95% CI: (−2.68, −0.07); P = 0.039) in total score compared to the combination treatment group after three months of treatment. There was a significant reduction in keloid height in the combination group after the end of the treatment (P = 0.024). No significant differences in side effects were observed between the two groups. Conclusion. Our study demonstrates that bevacizumab can be considered an effective and safe adjuvant therapy option for keloid treatment, suggesting its potential as a promising treatment for the management of keloids. This trial is registered with IRCT20131119015455N5.