bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Far‐reaching blues: Long‐distance migration of the invasive Atlantic blue crab
Authors: Bedmar Sergio , Oficialdegui Francisco J. , Clavero Miguel
Published: April 2024

Upstream migration of the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus is well described in its native range, but it is little known in invaded areas.

Here, we report several long‐distance migration events of the blue crab in the Iberian Peninsula and use a global database to calculate the probability of occurrence of the species in relation to distance to sea. We then exemplify the potential of blue crab impacts on freshwaters by overlapping its probability of occurrence with that of the critically endangered European eel Anguilla anguilla. Finally, we evaluate the extent to which dam barriers can halt the upstream migration of the blue crab.

Invasive blue crab has been detected at 108 km from the sea in the Guadalquivir River (the farthest distance reported in the non‐native range), at 71 km in the Guadiana River and at 53 km in the Ebro River. The probability of occurrence decreased steeply in the first upstream kilometres, but it is still concerning at a dozen kilometres from the river mouth (50% at 19 km, 25% at 38 km, and 3% at 100 km). The blue crab invasive potential widely overlaps (63%) with the Iberian range of the European eel. The blocking effect of dams on the potential invasion of freshwater systems by the blue crab was limited (13%).

Our study highlights the need to study the upstream migration of the blue crab within its non‐native range, since it could involve serious impacts in reachable river and stream habitats.
Marine biodiversity conservation: The cultural aspect of marine protected areas in Ghana
Authors: Karakara Alhassan Abdul‐Wakeel , Peprah James A. , Dasmani Isaac
Published: April 2024

Studying fishers and fishing communities' social‐cultural structures is vital in policy‐making concerning local marine ecosystem sustainability. Previous studies on marine communities seldom neglected the role of culture in marine biodiversity conservation, especially a marine protected area (MPA) establishment.

This study first explores the cultural practices in coastal communities in Ghana that have the potential for the conservation of the marine ecosystem (MPA); second, it examines the willingness of coastal communities to welcome an MPA establishment.

Primary data were collected using focus group discussions with 9 fishermen, key informant interviews with 20 chief fishermen, and self‐administered questionnaires to 491 fishermen across 9 semi‐urban, 2 urban, and 16 villages along the coast of Ghana.

Adopting the convergent parallel mixed‐methods research design (quantitative method includes descriptive analysis using tables, charts, diagrams, and χ2 bivariate analysis; and qualitative method involves a narrative format), the study underscored that the socioeconomic characteristics of fishermen are diverse and mixed. Most of the fishermen do not know what an MPA is but are willing to accept an MPA initiative. Certain cultural practices such as the prohibition of gathering certain species, traditional close season, and fishing holidays are found to be conducive to an MPA initiative.

These cultural practices should be integrated into an MPA policy. Fisheries practitioners should consider an ecosystem‐based approach (including cultural values) to fisheries management and fishermen should endeavour to learn new skills outside the industry.
Outcomes and considerations for retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in the setting of multiple and large renal stones (>15 mm) in children: Findings from multicentre and real‐world setting
Authors: Juliebø‐Jones Patrick , Gauhar Vineet , Lim Ee Jean , Traxer Olivier , Madarriaga Yesica Quiroz , Castellani Daniele , Fong Khi Yung , Bujons Anna , Ragoori Deepak , Shrestha Anil , Vaddi Chandra Mohan , Bhatia Tanuj Paul , Sekerci Cagri Akin , Tanidir Yiloren , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun , Somani Bhaskar Kumar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of retrograde intra renal surgery (RIRS) in the setting of large or multiple stones in children (<18 years).

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed of paediatric RIRS cases at nine centres worldwide over a 6‐year period. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 had a single stone <15 mm. Group 2 had either multiple stones, maximum stone diameter of >15 mm, or both. Outcomes included stone free rate (SFR) and complications within 30 days.

Results

In total, 344 patients were included with 197 and 147 in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Ureteric access sheaths were more frequently used in Group 2 (39.5% vs. 56.8%, p = 0.021). The operation time was significantly longer in Group 2 (p < 0.001). SFR after a single procedure was 84.7% in Group 1 and 63.7% in Group 2. Overall complication rates in Groups 1 and 2 were 7.6% and 33.3%, respectively. The most frequently reported complication in both groups was post‐operative fever (4.4% vs. 14%, p = 0.004). The rate of Clavien I/II complications in groups 1 and 2 was 6% and 25.1%, respectively (p < 0.05). The rate of Clavien ≥ III complications in groups 1 and 2 was 1.6% and 8.1%, respectively (p < 0.05). On multivariate analysis, total operation time, stone size and multiplicity were significant predictors of residual fragments.

Conclusions

RIRS can be performed in paediatric cases with large and multiple stone burdens, but the complication rate is significantly higher when compared to smaller stones.
Solvent Effects on Heterogeneous Catalysis for the Selective Hydrogenation
Authors: Li Jinlei , Xi Yongjie , Qiao Yan , Zhao Zelun , Liu Jianhua , Li Fuwei
Published: April 2024

Solvent effects add a new dimension for tuning the activity and selectivity of heterogeneous catalytic reactions, which is extensively employed in the hydrogenation of unsaturated compounds with multiple functional groups. In this concept, we briefly summarize recent developments on how the solvent effects affect the catalytic performance from the following aspects: 1) the polarity of the solvent can influence the interaction between the solvent and the reactant or intermediate; 2) the composition of mixed solvent can influence the reactivity of the reactant or intermediate; 3) solvent effect varies with the metal identity and support; 4) the solvent can induce surface modification of the supported catalysts. This summarization will provide insights into the rational development of efficient and selective heterogeneous hydrogenation catalytic system to realize the precise synthesis of desired chemicals.
Unveiling a novel cellular stress response mechanism to photodamage
Authors: Dutta Naibedya , Garcia Gilberto , Higuchi‐Sanabria Ryo
Published: April 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a component of sunlight, holds both advantageous anddetrimental effects on human health. While shorter wavelengths of UV radiationaid in melanin and vitamin D synthesis, longer wavelengths pose risks like skincancer and premature aging due to DNA damage. To combat such stress, cellsemploy various mechanisms, including the heat shock response (HSR). Activation of this response involves a highly regulated transcriptional processorchestrated by heat shock factors (HSFs). While HSF1 has been observed as a keytranscription factor for HSR, other HSFs are also found to be associated withdiverse cellular functions, including stress responses. Here, we discuss arecent study by Feng et al., published in Clinical and Translational Medicine, shedding light on the novel function of HSF4 in regulating inflammation and senescence following UV exposure. The researchers observed acomplex of HSF4 and the cofactor COIL (Coilin) at R‐loops–aberrant DNA‐RNAhybrid structures arising from UV‐induced DNA damage in human skin cells. Inthe study, they proposed the HSF4‐COIL complex at R‐loops as a potential therapeutic target to mitigate UV‐induced skin damage.
Cross‐scale analysis reveals interacting predictors of annual and perennial cover in Northern Great Basin rangelands
Authors: Case Madelon F. , Davies Kirk W. , Boyd Chad S. , Aoyama Lina , Merson Joanna , Penkauskas Calvin , Hallett Lauren M.
Published: April 2024

Exotic annual grass invasion is a widespread threat to the integrity of sagebrush ecosystems in Western North America. Although many predictors of annual grass prevalence and native perennial vegetation have been identified, there remains substantial uncertainty about how regional‐scale and local‐scale predictors interact to determine vegetation heterogeneity, and how associations between vegetation and cattle grazing vary with environmental context. Here, we conducted a regionally extensive, one‐season field survey across burned and unburned, grazed, public lands in Oregon and Idaho, with plots stratified by aspect and distance to water within pastures to capture variation in environmental context and grazing intensity. We analyzed regional‐scale and local‐scale patterns of annual grass, perennial grass, and shrub cover, and examined to what extent plot‐level variation was contingent on pasture‐level predictions of site favorability. Annual grasses were widespread at burned and unburned sites alike, contrary to assumptions of annual grasses depending on fire, and more common at lower elevations and higher temperatures regionally, as well as on warmer slopes locally. Pasture‐level grazing pressure interacted with temperature such that annual grass cover was associated positively with grazing pressure at higher temperatures but associated negatively with grazing pressure at lower temperatures. This suggests that pasture‐level temperature and grazing relationships with annual grass abundance are complex and context dependent, although the causality of this relationship deserves further examination. At the plot‐level within pastures, annual grass cover did not vary with grazing metrics, but perennial cover did; perennial grasses, for example, had lower cover closer to water sources, but higher cover at higher dung counts within a pasture, suggesting contrasting interpretations of these two grazing proxies. Importantly for predictions of ecosystem response to temperature change, we found that pasture‐level and plot‐level favorability interacted: perennial grasses had a higher plot‐level cover on cooler slopes, and this difference across topography was starkest in pastures that were less favorable for perennial grasses regionally. Understanding the mechanisms behind cross‐scale interactions and contingent responses of vegetation to grazing in these increasingly invaded ecosystems will be critical to land management in a changing world.
Quality‐related descriptors to increase fresh blueberries purchase—Evidence from a basket‐based choice experiment
Authors: Ma Xueying , Gallardo R. Karina , Canales Elizabeth , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: April 2024

This study addresses the need to boost fruit and vegetable consumption amidst rising diet‐related health concerns. Blueberries, rich in phenolic phytochemicals, offer significant health benefits. Using a basket‐based choice experiment (BBCE), the study identifies sensory descriptors that enhance blueberry purchasing likelihood. Packaging with a “Stay Fresh” label reduces price sensitivity compared to others. Additionally, blueberries are commonly purchased alongside other berries rather than as substitutes. Demographic factors such as gender, age, education, employment, fitness, ethnicity, region, nutritional value perception, and budget influence blueberry selection. These insights can aid growers, retailers, and marketers in increasing fresh blueberry demand.
Biventricular Impairment and Ventricular Interdependence in Patients With Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy: Insights Through Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wang Jin , Yang Zhi‐Gang , Fang Han , Yan Wei‐Feng , Shen Meng‐Ting , Guo Ying‐Kun , Jiang Li , Jiang Yu , Min Chen‐Yan , Li Yuan
Published: April 2024

Background

Alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM) can lead to progressive cardiac dysfunction and heart failure, but little is known about biventricular impairment and ventricular interdependence (VI) in ACM patients.

Purpose

To use cardiac MRI to investigate biventricular impairment and VI in ACM patients.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Forty‐one male patients with ACM and 45 sex‐ and age‐matched controls.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/balanced steady‐state free precession sequence, inversion recovery prepared echo‐planar imaging sequence and phase‐sensitive inversion recovery sequence.

Assessment

Biventricular structure, function, and global strain (encompassing peak strain [PS], peak systolic, and diastolic strain rate), PS of interventricular septal (IVS), microvascular perfusion (including upslope and time to maximum signal intensity [TTM]), late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and baseline characteristics were compared between the controls and ACM patients.

Statistical Tests

Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney U test, Pearson's correlation, and multivariable linear regression models with a stepwise selection procedure. A two‐tailed P value <0.05 was deemed as statistically significant.

Results

Compared to control subjects, ACM patients showed significantly biventricular adverse remodeling, reduced left ventricle (LV) global upslope and prolonged global TTM, and the presence of LGE. ACM patients were characterized by a significant decline in all global strain within the LV, right ventricle (RV), and IVS compared with the controls. RV global PS was significantly associated with LV global PS and IVS PS in radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions. Multivariable analyses demonstrated the longitudinal PS of IVS was significantly correlated with RV global radial PS (β = 0.614) and circumferential PS (β = 0.545). Additionally, RV global longitudinal PS (GLPS) was significantly associated with radial PS of IVS (β = −0.631) and LV GLPS (β = 1.096).

Data Conclusion

ACM patients exhibited biventricular adverse structural alterations and impaired systolic and diastolic function. This cohort also showed reduced LV microvascular perfusion, the presence of LGE, and unfavorable VI.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Fully Automated Valve Segmentation for Blood Flow Assessment From 4D Flow MRI Including Automated Cardiac Valve Tracking and Transvalvular Velocity Mapping
Authors: in de Braekt Thomas , Aben Jean‐Paul , Maussen Marc , van den Bosch Harrie C.M. , Houthuizen Patrick , Roest Arno A.W. , van den Boogaard Pieter J. , Lamb Hildo J. , Westenberg Jos J.M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Automated 4D flow MRI valvular flow quantification without time‐consuming manual segmentation might improve workflow.

Purpose

Compare automated valve segmentation (AS) to manual (MS), and manually corrected automated segmentation (AMS), in corrected atrioventricular septum defect (c‐AVSD) patients and healthy volunteers, for assessing net forward volume (NFV) and regurgitation fraction (RF).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

27 c‐AVSD patients (median, 23 years; interquartile range, 16–31 years) and 24 healthy volunteers (25 years; 12.5–36.5 years).

Field strength/Sequence

Whole‐heart 4D flow MRI and cine steady‐state free precession at 3T.

Assessment

After automatic valve tracking, valve annuli were segmented on time‐resolved reformatted trans‐valvular velocity images by AS, MS, and AMS. NFV was calculated for all valves, and RF for right and left atrioventricular valves (RAVV and LAVV). NFV variation (standard deviation divided by mean NFV) and NFV differences (NFV difference of a valve vs. mean NFV of other valves) expressed internal NFV consistency.

Statistical Tests

Comparisons between methods were assessed by Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests, and intra/interobserver variability by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant, with multiple testing correction.

Results

AMS mean analysis time was significantly shorter compared with MS (5.3 ± 1.6 minutes vs. 9.1 ± 2.5 minutes). MS NFV variation (6.0%) was significantly smaller compared with AMS (6.3%), and AS (8.2%). Median NFV difference of RAVV, LAVV, PV, and AoV between segmentation methods ranged from −0.7–1.0 mL, −0.5–2.8 mL, −1.1–3.6 mL, and − 3.1–‐2.1 mL, respectively. Median RAVV and LAVV RF, between 7.1%–7.5% and 3.8%–4.3%, respectively, were not significantly different between methods. Intraobserver/interobserver agreement for AMS and MS was strong‐to‐excellent for NFV and RF (ICC ≥0.88).

Data Conclusion

MS demonstrates strongest internal consistency, followed closely by AMS, and AS. Automated segmentation, with or without manual correction, can be considered for 4D flow MRI valvular flow quantification.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Understanding disparities in hidradenitis suppurativa through social and structural determinants of health
Authors: Polaskey Meredith Tyree , Chovatiya Raj
Published: April 2024

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a global prevalence and presentation that varies widely and is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. While research into disease heterogeneity and burden has traditionally focused on biological and genetic differences (i.e., intrinsic factors), emerging evidence suggests that social determinants of health (SDOH) and structural determinants of health (StDOH) (i.e., extrinsic factors) play a pivotal role in the disparities observed in HS. This narrative review consolidates insights on the influence of SDOH and StDOH on HS incidence, severity, and health disparities. We highlight the importance of SDOH, including economic stability, education quality and access, healthcare quality and access, neighbourhood environment, and social/community context in shaping HS outcomes. Furthermore, we emphasize the overarching role of StDOH, including government processes, economic policies, social/public policies, and cultural and societal values in determining health outcomes. Addressing these determinants is crucial for devising effective interventions and enhancing patient outcomes. Future research should focus on a holistic understanding of HS, moving beyond a purely biological perspective to consider the intricate interplay of social and structural determinants.
Ambulatory knee arthroscopic surgery yields cost savings and improved health outcomes
Authors: Luksameesate Parnnaphat , Watcharopas Ratthapoom , Sangkum Lisa , Saengpetch Nadhaporn , Taychakhoonavudh Suthira
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study measured the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and costs and conducted a cost–utility analysis and budget impact analysis of ambulatory knee arthroscopic surgery compared with inpatient knee arthroscopic surgery in Thailand from a societal perspective.

Methods

Health outcomes were measured in units of quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) based on the Thai version of the EQ‐5D‐5L Health Questionnaire, and costs were obtained from an electronic database at a tertiary care hospital (Ramathibodi Hospital). A cost–utility analysis was performed to evaluate ambulatory and inpatient surgery using the societal perspective and a 2‐week time horizon. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was applied to examine the costs and QALYs. One‐way sensitivity analysis was used to investigate the robustness of the model. Budget impact analysis was performed considering over 5 years.

Results

A total of 161 knee arthroscopic patients were included and divided into two groups: ambulatory surgery (58 patients) and inpatient surgery (103 patients). The total cost of the inpatient surgery was 2235 United States dollars (USD), while the ambulatory surgery cost was 2002 USD. The QALYs of inpatient surgery and ambulatory surgery were 0.79 and 0.81, respectively, resulting in the ambulatory surgery becoming a dominant strategy (cost reduction of 233 USD with an increase of 0.02 QALY) over the inpatient surgery. The ambulatory surgery led to net savings of 4.5 million USD over 5 years. Medical supply costs are one of the most influential factors affecting the change in results.

Conclusion

Ambulatory knee arthroscopic surgery emerged as a cost‐saving strategy over inpatient surgery, driven by lower treatment costs and enhanced HRQoL. Budget impact analysis indicated net savings over 5 years, supporting the feasibility of adopting ambulatory knee arthroscopic surgery. Our findings were advocated for its application across diverse hospitals and informed policymakers to improve reimbursement systems in low‐ to middle‐income countries and Thailand.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Using lessons learned from a multidecadal intercept survey of Puerto Rico spear fishers to improve data collection in the U.S. Caribbean
Authors: Coffill-Rivera Manuel E. , Neal J. Wesley , Rodríguez-Ferrer Grisel , Lilyestrom Craig G.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Spearfishing is a common activity used to harvest coastal marine species worldwide and can be a significant contributor to landings of ecologically and economically relevant species. As such, it is important to monitor spearfishing catch and effort. Spearfishing is commonly practiced throughout the Caribbean, yet characteristics of this gear's fishery remain understudied in the region. Thus, the objectives of this study were to provide a description of the Puerto Rico spearfishing fishery utilizing a long-term MRIP APAIS data set, examine the data set quality of this survey, and provide suggestions to improve MRIP implementation in the U.S. Caribbean.

Methods

We described the Puerto Rico recreational spearfishing fishery using a multidecadal (2000–2015) Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) Access Point Angler Intercept Survey conducted along the coast of Puerto Rico and surrounding territories. Data issues were identified in the survey results, including possible errors in measurement and identification; therefore, we limited analyses to species composition, enumeration, and mean catch rates.

Result

There were 89 species identified, with snappers (family Lutjanidae) being the most encountered family. Other economically relevant finfish frequently reported were Hogfish Lachnolaimus maximus (n = 121), Queen Triggerfish Balistes vetula (n = 115), and Red Hind Epinephelus guttatus (n = 90). Multiple reef fishes were landed during their spawning season, while prohibited by seasonal closures. Further, spearfishing accounted for 25.8% of the total harvest throughout the study period.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that spearfishing could be a considerable contributor to finfish landings in Puerto Rico, warranting its continued and improved monitoring in the region. Further, modifications in the design of fisheries surveys are warranted. We suggest increasing the allocation of resources, training, data quality assurance and quality control, and funding for the MRIP to maximize the accuracy of data obtained and meet MRIP U.S. Caribbean priorities. Implementation of a recreational fishing license would assist by creating a registry to monitor total recreational fishing effort and by generating funds to supplement the MRIP. The use of electronic reporting can help mitigate discrepancies with species identification and size measurements and enhance overall recreational fisheries data collection.
What are Internal medicine residents' attitudes toward obesity as a disease, people living with obesity, and obesity treatment?
Authors: Chae Kacey , German Jashalynn , Kendrick Karla , Tackett Sean , O’Rourke Paul , Gudzune Kimberly A. , Laudenslager Marci
Published: April 2024

Objective

Despite the rising prevalence of people living with obesity, physicians are providing suboptimal care to these individuals, which may be a consequence of inadequate education in weight management and negative attitudes toward people living with obesity. Internal Medicine (IM) residency is an ideal setting to address physicians' attitudes toward people living with obesity. However, there is a paucity of recent literature on this topic. This study sought to assess the current attitudes of IM residents toward obesity as a disease, people living with obesity, and obesity treatment.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 2020 across two IM programs assessing residents' attitudes toward obesity as a disease, people living with obesity, and obesity treatment.

RESULTS

Among 42 residents who participated in the survey, 64% were women; 31 percent were Post Graduate Year 1, 31% PGY‐2, and 38% PGY‐3. Mean attitude scores were high on statements regarding obesity as a chronic disease [4.7 (SD 0.4)] and its association with serious medical conditions [4.9 (SD 0.3)]. Residents had overall positive attitudes toward people living with obesity. In contrast, residents felt negatively regarding their level of success in helping patients lose weight [2.0 (SD 0.7)].

CONCLUSIONS

While residents recognized obesity as a chronic disease and had positive attitudes toward people living with obesity, their low ratings regarding weight management success suggest that targeted educational efforts are needed to increase obesity treatment self‐efficacy.
Implementation of a light therapy team to administer photobiomodulation therapy: A standardized protocol to prevent and treat oral mucositis in the pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant population
Authors: Magee Kathleen , Robins Jenell , Staton Sharon , Llaurador Gabriella , Stevens Alexandra M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Oral mucositis (OM) is a painful and common complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The Children's Oncology Group recently published guidelines recommending photobiomodulation (PBM) for preventing and treating OM in pediatric HSCT patients. However, this is a rarely used intervention in pediatric hospitals.

Procedure

Patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT, or autologous HSCT for a neuroblastoma diagnosis, had PBM administered from the first day of conditioning to transplant Day +20. We successfully developed a standardized treatment protocol and workflow to ensure consistent and uniform delivery of PBM. In addition, clinical patient data were compared before and after PBM implementation.

Results

The administration of PBM at our center was feasible, but required dedicated staff. A registered nurse (RN) was determined to be the best fit to deliver PBM. Sixty‐two patients received PBM from October 2022 to September 2023; patients from 2021 before PBM implementation were used for comparison. Patients receiving PBM were more likely (p = .03) to engage in teeth brushing (56/62 = 90%) compared to baseline (61/81 = 75%). Mean days of OM decreased from 11.3 to 9 days; patients who received PBM were less likely (p < .001) to be discharged on total parental nutrition (TPN) (11/62 = 18%) compared to baseline (50/82 = 61%). OM‐related supportive care costs (TPN and patient‐controlled anesthesia [PCA]) were lower (p = .02) for those who received PBM (median cost = $31,229.87 vs. $37,370.66).

Conclusion

PBM, as the standard of care in the pediatric HSCT population, is safe, feasible, and well‐tolerated. At our center, a dedicated RN was critical to providing standardized treatment and ensuring sustainability.
First‐Principles Study of Lattice Thermal Conductivity in SnSe Bilayer and Trilayer
Authors: Li Wentao , Yang Chenxiu
Published: April 2024

The assembly of 2D materials via vertical stacking has shown great advantages in modern device design, while the interface formed by two 2D materials also provides a new opportunity to tune various physical properties. Herein, the impact of homogeneous stacking on the thermal conductivity of 2D SnSe, a promising thermoelectric material, has been elucidated by solving the phonon‐Boltzmann transport equation with the first‐principles approach. SnSe bilayer and trilayer stacks, involving diverse interfacial configurations, are constructed to reveal potential modulation of in‐plane lattice thermal conductivity. Compared to the single‐layer counterpart, the result demonstrates a reduced thermal transport capacity in both the SnSe bilayer and trilayer due to van der Waals interaction, and the SnSe bilayer could exhibit a greater potential for thermoelectric applications due to the significantly suppressed phonon transport. Moreover, the interface effect can be further verified by the stacking‐dependent behavior of thermal conductivity, while the reduced thermal conductivity in SnSe stacks can be attributed to the decreased phonon relaxation time caused by interlayer interactions, implying great potential to further promote 2D SnSe‐based thermoelectric applications by stacking modulation.
Promising natural products targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 for cancer therapy
Authors: Lu Jiani , Yu Danmei , Li Hongtao , Qin Pengcheng , Chen Hongzhuan , Chen Lili
Published: April 2024

The development of Src homology‐2 domain containing protein tyrosine phosphatase‐2 (SHP2) inhibitors is a hot spot in the research and development of antitumor drugs, which may induce immunomodulatory effects in the tumor microenvironment and participate in anti‐tumor immune responses. To date, several SHP2 inhibitors have made remarkable progress and entered clinical trials for the treatment of patients with advanced solid tumors. Multiple compounds derived from natural products have been proved to influence tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and other cellular functions, modulate cell cycle and immune cell activation by regulating the function of SHP2 and its mutants. However, there is a paucity of information about their diversity, biochemistry, and therapeutic potential of targeting SHP2 in tumors. This review will provide the structure, classification, inhibitory activities, experimental models, and antitumor effects of the natural products. Notably, this review summarizes recent advance in the efficacy and pharmacological mechanism of natural products targeting SHP2 in inhibiting the various signaling pathways that regulate different cancers and thus pave the way for further development of anticancer drugs targeting SHP2.
Generalized eddy‐diffusivity mass‐flux formulation for the parametrization of atmospheric convection and turbulence
Authors: Vraciu Cristian V.
Published: April 2024

The atmospheric convection is a phenomenon that has a length scale smaller than the resolution at which the state‐of‐the‐art general circulation numerical models are running, and thus the convection needs to be parametrized. In this work, a theoretical formulation for the parametrization of subgrid‐scale convection based on subgrid averaging that represents a generalized eddy‐diffusivity mass‐flux formulation is presented. The subgrid fluxes are derived by considering a decomposition of subgrid variables into convective and turbulent variables, and by assuming that the convection is modeled by round convective plumes with generic radial profiles. The main difference between our formulation and the mass‐flux formulations is that the condition of a very small fractional area occupied by the convection is replaced with the condition that the convective vertical velocity goes to the mean state far from the updraft region of the plume. The plume model can also be generalized by considering that the convective elements are energy‐consistent plumes, governed by the conservation of mass, momentum, kinetic energy, and buoyancy, which provides a physical‐based closure for the entrainment. Therefore, the closing problem of our formulation consists of the specification of the convective radial profiles and the boundary conditions at the initial vertical level. Furthermore, our formulation allows one to consider more realistic profiles for the convective variables, making the formulation suitable for the parametrization of atmospheric convection at the convective gray zone. This aspect is discussed in the last part of this work, where it is showed how the formulation can be implemented at any resolution. Moreover, in the present framework, no distinct assumptions are required for each convective type, thus facilitating the parametrization of convection in a unified way.
A moist‐thermal quasi‐geostrophic model for monsoon depressions
Authors: Chaudhri A. K. , Byrne M. P. , Scott R. K.
Published: April 2024

Monsoon depressions (MDs) are synoptic‐scale storms that occur during the summer phase of the global monsoon cycle and whose dynamical mechanisms remain incompletely understood. To gain insight into the dynamics governing the large‐scale structure of MDs, we formulate an idealised moist‐thermal quasi‐geostrophic model that includes distinct thermal and moisture fields in simple forms. A linear‐stability analysis of the model, with basic states corresponding to typical monsoon conditions, shows three distinct mode classifications: thermal‐Rossby modes, heavy precipitating modes, and a moist‐thermal mode. In the linearised model, the presence of a background precipitation gradient strengthens thermal‐Rossby modes by coupling the dynamics to latent heating. The separation of heavy precipitating modes from fast‐propagating thermal‐Rossby modes is further examined with numerical experiments of large‐amplitude MDs. Wind‐induced evaporation is found to amplify large‐amplitude MDs in conditions analogous to those over the northern Bay of Bengal. An energetic analysis shows the pathways by which the MDs derive energy from the background state. A further series of experiments through a continuum of meridional temperature gradients demonstrates the sensitivity of large‐scale MD dynamics to the background state and suggests a possible mechanism to explain variations in the propagation direction of MDs.
Resonant Raman Scattering Study of Strain and Defects in Chemical Vapor Deposition Grown MoS2 Monolayers
Authors: Gontijo Rafael N. , Bunker Nathaniel , Graiser Samarra L. , Ding Xintong , Smeu Manuel , Elías Ana Laura
Published: April 2024

The development of bottom‐up synthesis routes for semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and the assessment of their defects are of paramount importance to achieve their applications. TMD monolayers grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) can be subjected to significant strain and, here, Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopies are combined to characterize strain in over one hundred MoS2 monolayer samples grown by CVD. The frequency changes of phonons as a function of strain are analyzed, and used to extract the Grüneisen parameter of both zone‐center and edge phonons. Additionally, the intensity of the defect‐induced longitudinal acoustic (LA) and transverse acoustic (TA) Raman bands are discussed in relation to strain and electronic doping. The experimental mode‐Grüneisen parameters obtained are compared with those calculated by density functional theory (DFT), to better characterize the type of strain and its resulting effects on Grüneisen parameters. The findings indicate that the use of Raman spectra to determine defect densities in 2D MoS2 must be always conducted considering strain effects. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this work constitutes the first report on double resonance Raman processes studied as a function of strain in 2D‐MoS2. The new approach to obtain the Grüneisen parameter from zone‐edge phonons in MoS2 can also be extended to other 2D semiconducting TMDs.
On‐Chip Differentiation of Hepatic Cords with Radial Flow
Authors: Rajendran Alan Raj Jeffrey , Bensalem Sakina , Messina Antonietta , Benzoubir Nassima , Ghasemi Rasta , Duclos‐Vallée Jean‐Charles , Le Pioufle Bruno
Published: April 2024

Due to a more physiological reproduction of the in vivo situation, liver‐on‐a‐chip devices in recent studies have shown higher sensitivity and accuracy for hepatotoxicity testing compared to traditional in vitro liver models. In this context, this work presents an original microfluidic device mimicking 3D hepatic cords organized radially, like in the liver lobule. Ten cell‐culture chambers seeded at a high density are disposed with a parallelized flow that emulates blood flow from the portal triad to the central vein in the liver lobule. Using this device, on‐chip differentiation of human HepaRG‐Hepatoblast (HepaRG‐HB) to HepaRG‐Hepatocytes (HepaRG‐HC) has been studied in terms of self‐organization capabilities, bile canaliculi formation and albumin expression. Our results indicate that due to the design of the cell culture chamber, which mechanically constrains tissue proliferation, and the physiologically relevant microfluidic flow condition used during tissue development, the HepaRG‐HBs in the device can proliferate, self‐organize, and spontaneously differentiate in a DMSO free medium forming long, directional bile canaliculi. On the contrary, under the same conditions, differentiated HepaRG‐HC is observed to aggregate without long bile canaliculi and form tissues resembling traditional HepaRG‐HC cultures. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Pachymic acid activates TP53INP2/TRAF6/caspase‐8 pathway to promote apoptosis in renal cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Xunjia , He An , Liu Chengxuan , Li Ying , Luo Yan , Xiong Weijian , Nian Weiqi , Zuo Deyu
Published: April 2024

While pachymic acid (PA), a key component of Poria cocos (Schw.), has demonstrated anti‐tumor effects in lung, breast, and pancreatic cancers, its impact on renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is unclear. This study evaluated the effect of PA on proliferation, migration, and apoptosis in human renal cancer A498 and ACHN cells as well as in cancer xenograft mice using wound scratch test, Western blotting, and co‐immunoprecipitation assays. In a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, PA exhibited significant inhibition of RCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, accompanied by the induction of apoptosis. Additionally, PA upregulated the expression of tumor protein p53‐inducible nuclear protein 2 (TP53INP2) and tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6), which were downregulated in renal papillary and chromophobe carcinoma, resulting in inhibited tumor growth in mice. PA treatment elevated cleaved‐caspase 3 and 8, and PARP levels, and facilitated TP53INP2 and TRAF6 binding to caspase 8, promoting its ubiquitination. Molecular docking revealed interactions between PA and TP53INP2, TRAF6. In summary, PA inhibits RCC development by upregulating TP53INP2 and promoting TRAF6‐induced caspase 8 ubiquitination, activating apoptotic pathways.
Einleitung
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Hüning Nadine
Published: April 2024

Gesellschaftliche Teilhabe bedeutet laut Weltgesundheitsorganisation [WHO] „das Einbezogensein in eine Lebenssituation“. Die UN-Behindertenrechtskonvention [UN-BRK] und das Gesetz zur Stärkung der Teilhabe und Selbstbestimmung von Menschen mit Behinderungen [BTHG] sichern Menschen mit einer Beeinträchtigung [MB] umfängliche Teilhabe am gesellschaftlichen Leben zu. Dazu gehört die aktive Teilhabe am gesellschaftlichen und sozialen Leben, die Mitgestaltung sozialer und gesellschaftlicher Prozesse sowie die aktive und möglichst selbstständige Gestaltung des eigenen Lebens. Für das Individuum bedeutet dies, einerseits über Teilhabemöglichkeiten zu verfügen und andererseits diese Möglichkeiten aktiv zu nutzen.
Menschen mit einer geistigen Beeinträchtigung
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Hüning Nadine
Published: April 2024

„Niemand darf wegen seiner Behinderung benachteiligt werden“. Diese Formulierung ist eindeutig, jedoch hängt die Beurteilung einer behinderungsbezogenen Benachteiligung unter anderem von dem Verständnis des gesellschaftlich verankerten Behinderungsbegriffs ab. Dieses Verständnis hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten im deutschsprachigen Raum verändert.
Robot revolution and human capital accumulation: implications for growth and labour income
Authors: Le Thanh , Nguyen Huong Quynh , Vu Mai
Published: April 2024

We develop a model of endogenous growth with automation to study the impact of industrial robots on growth and labour income. We incorporate human capital accumulation into that framework to examine the role of human capital in sustaining growth without displacing low-skilled labour. While automation replaces low-skilled labour with industrial robots in conducting routine tasks, horizontal innovation creates new varieties in which low-skilled labour has an employment advantage. Labour-augmenting technology takes place to improve productivity of low-skilled labour. As such, those latter types of innovation help counterbalance the adverse effect of automation on low-skilled labour. Human capital, the essential production factor that takes part in every economic activity, including conducting non-routine tasks, accumulates over time through education and training. We show that there exists a long-run equilibrium at which either robots or low-skilled workers are employed, together with human capital, to produce varieties. In the fully endogenous model, final output grows at the rate of human capital accumulation. An improvement in the quality of education and training leads to an acceleration of both automation and variety expansion, but not human capital growth. Our numerical exercise indicates that a permanent increase in automation entails a permanent impact on the range of automated varieties, long-run output level and human capital wage. The shock lowers long-run growth and low-skilled workers’ wage and their effective income share. However, it has no effect on the effective income share of human capital.
Sampling of microplastics at a materials recovery facility
Authors: Lindstrom Abigail P. , Conny Joseph M. , Ortiz-Montalvo Diana L.
Published: April 2024

Detecting, separating, and characterizing airborne microplastics from other airborne particulates is currently challenging due to the various instrumental constraints and related sample preparation hurdles that must be overcome. The ability to measure these real-world environments is needed to better assess the risks associated with microplastics. To that end, the current study focused on developing a methodology for sampling and characterizing airborne microplastics. Particulate sampling was carried out at a municipal materials recovery facility near a conveyer belt containing sorted plastic materials to collect airborne environmental particles on filters. Nucleopore filters were mounted on Teflon support rings, coated with 100 nm aluminum to reduce the background signal for micro-Raman spectroscopy, and marked with a fiducial pattern using a laser engraver. The fiducial pattern was crucial in identifying samples, relocating particles, and efficiently enabling orthogonal measurements on the same samples. Optimum sampling conditions of 2 h at 25 L/min were determined using light microscopy to evaluate the particle loadings. The filters were then cut into slices which were attached to sections of thin beryllium-copper sheeting for easy transfer of the filter between microscopy platforms. Scanning electron microscopy was used to identify carbon-rich particles. Light microscopy was used to identify colored particles which were also carbon-rich which were then analyzed using micro-Raman spectroscopy to identify specific polymers.
Handling of problematic ion chromatograms with the Automated Target Screening (ATS) workflow for unsupervised analysis of high-resolution mass spectrometry data
Authors: Braun Georg , Krauss Martin , Spahr Stephanie , Escher Beate I.
Published: April 2024

Liquid chromatography (LC) or gas chromatography (GC) coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) is a versatile analytical method for the analysis of thousands of chemical pollutants that can be found in environmental and biological samples. While the tools for handling such complex datasets have improved, there are still no fully automated workflows for targeted screening analysis. Here we present an R-based workflow that is able to cope with challenging data like noisy ion chromatograms, retention time shifts, and multiple peak patterns. The workflow can be applied to batches of HRMS data recorded after GC with electron ionization (GC-EI) and LC coupled to electrospray ionization in both negative and positive mode (LC-ESIneg/LC-ESIpos) to perform peak annotation and quantitation fully unsupervised. We used Orbitrap HRMS data of surface water extracts to compare the Automated Target Screening (ATS) workflow with data evaluations performed with the vendor software TraceFinder and the established semi-automated analysis workflow in the MZmine software. The ATS approach increased the overall evaluation performance of the peak annotation compared to the established MZmine module without the need for any post-hoc corrections. The overall accuracy increased from 0.80 to 0.86 (LC-ESIpos), from 0.77 to 0.83 (LC-ESIneg), and from 0.67 to 0.76 (GC-EI). The mean average percentage errors for quantification of ATS were around 30% compared to the manual quantification with TraceFinder. The ATS workflow enables time-efficient analysis of GC- and LC-HRMS data and accelerates and improves the applicability of target screening in studies with a large number of analytes and sample sizes without the need for manual intervention.

Graphical Abstract
Soccer (football) and brain health
Authors: Pensato Umberto , Cortelli Pietro
Published: April 2024

Soccer is one of the most popular sports worldwide, played by over 270 million people and followed by many more. Several brain health benefits are promoted by practising soccer and physical exercise at large, which helps contrast the cognitive decline associated with ageing by enhancing neurogenesis processes. However, sport-related concussions have been increasingly recognised as a pressing public health concern, not only due to their acute impact but also, more importantly, due to mounting evidence indicating an elevated risk for the development of neurological sequelae following recurrent head traumas, especially chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). While soccer players experience less frequent concussions compared with other contact or combat sports, such as American football or boxing, it stands alone in its purposeful use of the head to hit the ball (headings), setting its players apart as the only athletes exposed to intentional, sub-concussive head impacts. Additionally, an association between soccer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has been consistently observed, suggesting a potential “soccer-specific” risk factor. In this review, we discuss the neurological sequelae related to soccer playing, the emerging evidence of a detrimental effect related to recurrent headings, and the need for implementation of comprehensive strategies aimed at preventing and managing the burden of head impact in soccer.