bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Electrode Reactions in Energy‐Related Electrocatalysis Systems
Authors: Du Shiqian , Zhou Yangyang , Tao Li , Wang Shuangyin , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: June 2024

Hydrogen electrode reactions, including hydrogen evolution reactions and hydrogen oxidation reactions, are fundamental and crucial within aqueous electrochemistry. Particularly in energy‐related electrocatalysis processes, there is a consistent involvement of hydrogen‐related electrochemical processes, underscoring the need for in‐depth study. This review encompasses significant reports, delving into elementary steps and reaction mechanisms of hydrogen electrode reactions, as well as catalyst design strategies. In addition, we focus on the application of hydrogen electrode reaction mechanism in different energy‐related electrocatalytic reactions, and the significance of the promotion and suppression of reaction kinetics in different reaction systems. It thoroughly elucidated the significance of these reactions and the need for a deeper understanding, offering a novel perspective for the future development of this field.
High‐gain dual‐wideband ±45° dual polarization (DWDP) antenna for indoor distributed antenna system (IDAS) applications
Authors: Hsu Heng‐Tung , Tsao Yi‐Fan , Desai Arpan
Published: June 2024

This paper presents two different configurations of ±45° dual‐wideband dual‐polarized (DWDP) antennas. The antenna comprises eight end‐loaded broadband dipoles grouped into two sets based on the bands of operation. The high‐frequency dipoles are strategically placed within the low‐frequency ones to form the elementary unit. Further optimization has been performed on the elementary unit in terms of the radiator placement to suppress sidelobe levels for array formation. Both configurations are meticulously fabricated using an all‐metal structure, demonstrating durability and the simplicity of fabrication. The antenna designs achieve ±45° polarization, high gain, satisfactory cross‐polarization discrimination (XPD), and wide impedance bandwidth covering 0.67–1.04 GHz and 1.54–3 GHz bands. Despite the nested configuration, mutual coupling is well within acceptable limits. Formation of the array based on the optimum elementary unit has been investigated by simulation, revealing reasonable gain enhancement and low sidelobe levels across all bands. This comprehensive approach yields a robust, high‐performing antenna configuration suitable for indoor distributed antenna system (IDAS) applications.
Modeling climate influences on male survival in the highly polygynous southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina)
Authors: Volzke Sophia , Cleeland Jaimie B. , McMahon Clive R. , Hindell Mark A. , Corney Stuart P. , Wotherspoon Simon J.
Published: June 2024

The Southern Ocean, its ecosystem, and inhabitants are vulnerable to climate‐mediated shifts in habitat conditions. These changes can affect marine predators in the long term through changes in the distribution, density, and quality of prey. To understand how these changes affect vital rates requires longitudinal studies integrating demography and environmental states. We analyzed 22 years of capture–mark–recapture data to quantify the influence of broad‐scale climate on the survival of male southern elephant seals from Macquarie Island, Tasmania, Australia. Weaning mass was incorporated as a quadratic predictor of survival to account for the known influence of maternal investment. First‐year survival was greatest for weaners weighing 160 kg. Subsequent developmental stages were grouped into juvenile, subordinate, and breeding adult states to reflect the known life history of individuals. We found increased juvenile and subordinate survival with positive values of the previous years' Southern Annular Mode. This is likely due to the northward shift of westerly winds increasing productivity and prey availability in the Sub‐Antarctic region. In contrast to females of this population, the Southern Oscillation Index did not affect male survival. In this highly polygynous mating system, sex‐dependent differences in foraging behavior may be causing the small number of successful breeding adult males to be less susceptible to external influences after reaching the minimum age and body size required to be socially competitive for mating. These extremely large bulls will breed with multiple females and thus make a disproportionate contribution to the gene pool of the next generation. Considering the susceptibility of males to climate influences is therefore highly relevant to assessing the future adaptive capability of the species.
Streamlined Electrochemical Dihalogenation (F, Cl, and Br) of gem‐Difluoroalkenes Using Hydrogen Halides as Reagents
Authors: Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Rui , Cai Jiaxi , Liu Xin , Song Haixia , Liu Le , Duan Xin‐Hua , Hu Mingyou
Published: June 2024

We established a straightforward electrochemical dihalogenation (F, Cl, and Br) process for gem‐difluoroalkenes. This reaction exhibits a broad functional group tolerance and has been effectively utilized in the construction of complex molecules. The subsequent synthetic transformations of the products have highlighted the adaptable nature of the dihalogenated compounds, demonstrating their potential application in drug discovery and the investigation of innovative materials. The effective utilization of the dihalogenated product for 18F‐labeling represents a novel approach in generating highly potent 18F‐labeled tracers.
Mutation spectra of the BRCA1/2 genes in human breast and ovarian cancer and germline
Authors: Koi Yumiko , Watanabe Arisa , Kawasaki Akari , Ideo Satomi , Matsutani Nao , Miyashita Kaname , Shioi Seijiro , Tokunaga Eriko , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Nakatsu Yoshimichi , Kuraoka Isao , Oda Shinya
Published: June 2024

Annotating genomic sequence alterations is sometimes a difficult decision, particularly in missense variants with uncertain pathogenic significance and also in those presumed as germline pathogenic variants. We here suggest that mutation spectrum may also be useful for judging them. From the public databases, 982 BRCA1/1861 BRCA2 germline missense variants and 294 BRCA1/420 BRCA2 somatic missense variants were obtained. We then compared their mutation spectra, i.e., the frequencies of two transition‐ and four transversion‐type mutations, in each category. Intriguingly, in BRCA1 variants, A:T to C:G transversion, which was relatively frequent in the germline, was extremely rare in somatic, particularly breast cancer, cells (p = .03). Conversely, A:T to T:A transversion was most infrequent in the germline, but not rare in somatic cells. Thus, BRCA1 variants with A:T to T:A transversion may be suspected as somatic, and those with A:T to C:G as being in the germline. These tendencies of mutation spectrum may also suggest the biological and chemical origins of the base alterations. On the other hand, unfortunately, variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were not distinguishable by mutation spectrum. Our findings warrant further and more detailed studies.
Characterizing Freshwater Ecotoxicity of More Than 9000 Chemicals by Combining Different Levels of Available Measured Test Data with In Silico Predictions
Authors: Douziech Mélanie , Oginah Susan Anyango , Golsteijn Laura , Hauschild Michael Zwicky , Jolliet Olivier , Owsianiak Mikołaj , Posthuma Leo , Fantke Peter
Published: June 2024

Ecotoxicological impacts of chemicals released into the environment are characterized by combining fate, exposure, and effects. For characterizing effects, species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) estimate toxic pressures of chemicals as the potentially affected fraction of species. Life cycle assessment (LCA) uses SSDs to identify products with lowest ecotoxicological impacts. To reflect ambient concentrations, the Global Life Cycle Impact Assessment Method (GLAM) ecotoxicity task force recently recommended deriving SSDs for LCA based on chronic EC10s (10% effect concentration, for a life-history trait) and using the 20th percentile of an EC10-based SSD as a working point. However, because we lacked measured effect concentrations, impacts of only few chemicals were assessed, underlining data limitations for decision support. The aims of this paper were therefore to derive and validate freshwater SSDs by combining measured effect concentrations with in silico methods. Freshwater effect factors (EFs) and uncertainty estimates for use in GLAM-consistent life cycle impact assessment were then derived by combining three elements: (1) using intraspecies extrapolating effect data to estimate EC10s, (2) using interspecies quantitative structure–activity relationships, or (3) assuming a constant slope of 0.7 to derive SSDs. Species sensitivity distributions, associated EFs, and EF confidence intervals for 9862 chemicals, including data-poor ones, were estimated based on these elements. Intraspecies extrapolations and the fixed slope approach were most often applied. The resulting EFs were consistent with EFs derived from SSD-EC50 models, implying a similar chemical ecotoxicity rank order and method robustness. Our approach is an important step toward considering the potential ecotoxic impacts of chemicals currently neglected in assessment frameworks due to limited test data. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1914–1927. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Numerical modeling of optimum spacing of TBM disk cutters, using a finite element method simulation
Authors: Tilehnoei Mohammadreza Faraji , Shahriar Kourosh , Madani Hassan
Published: June 2024

Due to the growing demand for underground communication methods, water transfer, and utility tunnels, employing mechanized tunneling methods is unavoidable. Diverse disk cutters are built and operated. A proper cutterhead design will have a direct impact on the net advance rate and therefore significantly contribute to the project success. The research effort presented in this contribution is dealing with the spacing effect on the forces on disk cutters, and their specific energy (SE) has been investigated. It uses finite element numerical modeling with ABAQUS software to simulate the rock‐cutting process to find an optimal spacing in barre granite. The results show that theratio of the disk spacing to the penetration rate, the normal and rotational forces on the disk cutters, and the SE values increase to the optimal level and then decrease. The optimal spacing for the examined rock type is discussed in further detail, and a recommendation for the optimum cutterhead layout is presented.
Local restrictions, population movement, and spillovers during the pandemic: Evidence from Japan's restaurant restriction
Authors: Xu Zihan , Shimokawa Satoru
Published: June 2024

We investigate how a local restaurant restriction aimed at containing the COVID‐19 pandemic influenced population movement and COVID‐19 prevalence within and outside the restricted districts. Using data on restaurant location and hourly population at the 500‐m‐mesh level and on COVID‐19 prevalence at both prefecture and municipality level in Japan, we employ a triple‐difference approach and a difference‐in‐differences approach with fixed effects. While the policy decreased population movement to restaurant areas in the restricted districts, it caused spillovers of increasing population movement to restaurant areas in the neighboring nonrestricted districts. Consequently, COVID‐19 prevalence worsened in the neighboring nonrestricted districts but improved in the restricted districts. Our findings suggest that imposing such local restrictions in the context of the pandemic may contain the pandemic only in the restricted districts while sacrificing economic activities within these districts and public health in neighboring nonrestricted districts.
Detection of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders using artificial intelligence‐based image analysis
Authors: Kouketsu Atsumu , Doi Chiaki , Tanaka Hiroaki , Araki Takashi , Nakayama Rina , Toyooka Tsuguyoshi , Hiyama Satoshi , Iikubo Masahiro , Osaka Ken , Sasaki Keiichi , Nagai Hirokazu , Sugiura Tsuyoshi , Yamauchi Kensuke , Kuroda Kanako , Yanagisawa Yuta , Miyashita Hitoshi , Kajita Tomonari , Iwama Ryosuke , Kurobane Tsuyoshi , Takahashi Tetsu
Published: June 2024

Background

We aimed to construct an artificial intelligence‐based model for detecting oral cancer and dysplastic leukoplakia using oral cavity images captured with a single‐lens reflex camera.

Subjects and methods

We used 1043 images of lesions from 424 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), leukoplakia, and other oral mucosal diseases. An object detection model was constructed using a Single Shot Multibox Detector to detect oral diseases and their locations using images. The model was trained using 523 images of oral cancer, and its performance was evaluated using images of oral cancer (n = 66), leukoplakia (n = 49), and other oral diseases (n = 405).

Results

For the detection of only OSCC versus OSCC and leukoplakia, the model demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.9% versus 83.7%, a negative predictive value of 98.8% versus 94.5%, and a specificity of 81.2% versus 81.2%.

Conclusions

Our proposed model is a potential diagnostic tool for oral diseases.
The relationship between borderline personality disorder and self‐injurious/suicidal behaviors in adolescents and young adults: A protocol for systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thakur Bhaskar , Pathak Mona , Strenth Chance , Wilmoth Kristin , Arnold Elizabeth Mayfield
Published: June 2024

Background & Aims

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common psychiatric disorder associated with a high risk of suicide attempts, death by suicide, and non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI). A systematic and comprehensive understanding of the link between BPD and suicide and self‐injury in adolescents and young adults is crucial for effective public health prevention strategies. This protocol outlines our approach to summarize the evidence on the association between BPD diagnosis and self‐injurious/suicidal behaviors including death by suicide, nonfatal suicide attempts, NSSI, and self‐harm behavior through a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The protocol is registered (PROSPERO: CRD42022363329) and developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Protocols (PRISMA‐P)‐2015 statement. We will conduct a comprehensive literature search using electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, CINHAL, and PsycINFO. The review will include studies that meet the specific inclusion criteria and will be searched using multiple databases A meta‐analysis will be conducted using a fixed‐effects or random‐effects approach based on the level of heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis and meta‐regression will be performed if necessary.

Conclusion

This study is unique, as it is the first of its kind to systematically review and analyze the existing literature on this topic. The results of this study will provide important evidence on the magnitude of this relationship overall and in different subgroups, which can be used to inform the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies.
The Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway participates in the antiapoptotic and anti‐inflammatory effects of platelet‐rich plasma in the treatment of osteoarthritis
Authors: Du Guangyu , Sun Xuegang , He Shengwei , Mi Lidong
Published: June 2024

Introduction

We aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms through which platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) attenuates osteoarthritis (OA)‐induced pain, apoptosis, and inflammation.

Methods

An in vivo model of OA was established by injuring rats using the anterior cruciate ligament transection method, whereas an in vitro model was generated by exposing chondrocytes to interleukin (IL)‐1β. Both models were then treated with PRP.

Results

In both the in vivo and in vitro models, OA led to the suppression of the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathway, whereas treatment with PRP reactivated this molecular axis. Inhibition of the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway using the Nrf2 inhibitor brusatol or through Nrf2 gene silencing counteracted the effects of PRP in reducing the tenderness and thermal pain thresholds of OA rats. Additionally, PRP reduced the mRNA expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP‐13) and the protein expression of B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2), Bcl‐2 associated X‐protein (Bax), and caspase‐3. Furthermore, inflammation and apoptosis were induced by brusatol treatment or Nrf2 silencing. Additionally, in the in vitro model, PRP treatment increased the proliferation of chondrocytes and attenuated their inflammatory response and apoptosis, effects that were abrogated by Nrf2 depletion.

Conclusions

The Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway participates in the PRP‐mediated attenuation of OA development by suppressing inflammation and apoptosis.
Prevalence of depression and anxiety in women with pelvic floor dysfunctions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Peinado Molina Rocio Adriana , Martínez Vázquez Sergio , Martínez Galiano Juan Miguel , Rivera Izquierdo Mario , Khan Khalid Saeed , Cano‐Ibáñez Naomi
Published: June 2024

Background

Female pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common condition affecting the emotional well‐being of women.

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in women with PFD.

Search Strategy, Selection Criteria, Data Collection and Analysis

Following prospective registration (PROSPERO CRD42022362095) we conducted a search of three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) from inception to April 2023 without language restriction to capture studies reporting the prevalence of depression/anxiety among women with PFD (chronic pelvic pain [CPP], urinary incontinence [UI], pelvic organ prolapse [POP], and/or fecal incontinence [FI]). Only studies with validated tools were included. Data extraction and study quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers. Stratifying by type of PFD, rates of depression and anxiety were pooled using random effects model computing 95% confidence interval (CI) and assessing heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. Funnel plots were used to detect potential reporting biases and small‐study effects.

Main Results

The search yielded 767 articles, from which 54 studies containing 632 605 women were included. All the studies were high quality. The prevalence of depression was: CPP 26.8% (95% CI: 19.2–34.4, I2 = 98.7%; 12 studies, 4798 participants with 491 cases; Egger's P value = 0.009); UI 26.3% (95% CI: 19.4–33.2, I2 = 99.9%; 26 studies, a total of 346 114 participants with 25 050 cases; Egger's P value = 0.944); POP 34.9% (95% CI: 24.3–45.6, I2 = 68%; three studies, 297 participants with 104 cases; Egger's P value = 0.973); and FI 25.3% (95% CI: 0.68–49.9, I2 = 99.7%; six studies, 14 663 participants with 1773 cases; Egger's P value = 0.780). The prevalence of anxiety was: CPP 29.5% (95% CI: 16.3–42.7, I2 = 97.7%; nine studies, 2483 participants with 349 cases; Egger's P value = 0.001); UI 46.91% (95% CI: 39.1–54.6, I2 = 99.6%; 11 studies, 198 491 participants with 40 058 cases; Egger's P value = 0.337); and POP 28% (95% CI: 13.6–42.4, I2 = 89%; three studies with 355 participants with 90 cases; Egger's P value = 0.306).

Conclusion

The prevalence of mental health illness was variable in the different types of PFDs. This meta‐analysis helps quantify the burden of depression and anxiety in PFD and will help inform the policies regarding screening of emotional well‐being by healthcare professionals engaged in care of women with PFD.
Oral subchronic toxicity study and genetic toxicity evaluation of mitoquinone mesylate
Authors: Mitchell E. Siobhan , Lemke Shawna , Woodhead Brendon , Coleman David
Published: June 2024

Mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive reactive oxygen species production contributes to the pathophysiology of aging. Coenzyme Q10 is thought to protect mitochondria from oxidative damage; thus, mitoquinone was developed as mitochondria‐targeted analogue with similar antioxidant activity. Mitoquinone is the oxidized form of mitoquinol. Mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate has been proposed as a food ingredient. As part of the safety analysis, we performed genotoxicity assays and a 39‐week toxicity study to determine overall toxicity potential. Mitoquinone mesylate showed no evidence of genotoxic potential in two in vitro assays, bacterial reverse mutation and human lymphocyte chromosome aberration, nor in the in vivo micronucleus test in rats. In the 39‐week study in dogs, there were no findings observed, which were considered to represent adverse systemic toxicity; therefore, the high dose level (40 mg/kg/day) was considered the NOAEL. The principal findings in this study were fecal disturbances and vomiting. These findings were considered to be due to a local, possibly irritant effect of the test substance on the gastrointestinal tract and were not considered adverse as there were no impacts on clinical or histopathology. This highest dose exceeds the expected daily human intake more than 100‐fold. Data from well‐designed clinical trials actively collecting safety endpoints corroborate that 20 mg/day can be safely consumed and is not likely to result in significant gastrointestinal complaints. These results support the conclusion that the use of mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate as a food ingredient is safe.
BMP1 Promotes Keloid by Inducing Fibroblast Inflammation and Fibrogenesis
Authors: Wang Yi , Chen Yahui , Wu Jinfeng , Shi Xiangguang
Published: June 2024

Keloid is a typical fibrotic and inflammatory skin disease with unclear mechanisms and few therapeutic targets. In this study, we found that BMP1 was significantly increased in a collagen high‐expressing subtype of fibroblast by reanalyzing a public single‐cell RNA‐sequence data set of keloid. The number of BMP1‐positive fibroblast cells was increased in keloid fibrotic loci. Increased levels of BMP1 were further validated in the skin tissues and fibroblasts from keloid patients. Additionally, a positive correlation between BMP1 and the Keloid Area and Severity Index was found in keloid patients. In vitro analysis revealed collagen production, the phosphorylation levels of p65, and the IL‐1β secretion decreased in BMP1 interfered keloid fibroblasts. Besides, the knockdown of BMP1 inhibited the growth and migration of keloid fibroblast cells. Mechanistically, BMP1 inhibition downregulated the noncanonical TGF‐β pathways, including p‐p38 and p‐ERK1/2 signaling. Furthermore, we found the delivery of BMP1 siRNAs could significantly alleviate keloid in human keloid‐bearing nude mice. Collectively, our results indicated that BMP1 exhibited various pathogenic effects on keloids as promoting cell proliferation, migration, inflammation, and ECM deposition of fibroblast cells by regulating the noncanonical TGF‐β/p38 MAPK, and TGF‐β/ERK pathways. BMP1‐lowing strategies may appear as a potential new therapeutic target for keloid.
Association between three‐dimensional gait kinematics and joint‐line inclination in osteoarthritic knees compared with normal knees: An epidemiological study
Authors: Chi Fangzhou , Mochizuki Tomoharu , Koga Hiroshi , Omori Go , Nishino Katsutoshi , Takagi Shigeru , Koga Yoshio , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: June 2024

Purpose

No report has proven how tibial and femoral joint‐line inclinations affect thigh and shank motion, respectively, according to Kellgren–Lawrence grade in motion analysis with a sufficient sample size. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the motion of the thigh and shank individually from the ground and the relative motion between bones in a large‐sample motion analysis to determine the differences between normal and osteoarthritic knees and examine the effects of tibial and femoral joint‐line inclination on motion according to osteoarthritis (OA) grade.

Methods

Of 459 participants with healthy knees and varus knee OA undergoing three‐dimensional gait analysis, 383 (218 females and 165 males) with an average age of 68 ± 13 years were selected. Gait analysis was performed using a motion–capture system. The six degrees of freedom motion parameters of the knee in the Grood and world coordinate systems and the joint‐line inclination in the standing radiographs were measured.

Results

Osteoarthritic knees demonstrated a relative motion different from that of normal knees, with responsibility for the thigh in the sagittal and rotational planes and the thigh and shank in the coronal plane. The involvement of joint‐line inclination in motion was mainly on the tibial side, and the effect was minimal in normal knees.

Conclusions

The details of the relative motion of both the thigh and shank can be clarified by analysing individual motions to determine the responsible part. The tibial joint‐line affected knee motion: however, the effect was minimal in normal knees. This finding implies that if physical ability can be improved, the negative effects of deformity in osteoarthritic knees may be compensated for.

Level of Evidence

Level Ⅱ.
Parallel CNN‐Deep Learning Clinical‐Imaging Signature for Assessing Pathologic Grade and Prognosis of Soft Tissue Sarcoma Patients
Authors: Guo Jia , Li Yi‐ming , Guo Hongwei , Hao Da‐peng , Xu Jing‐xu , Huang Chen‐cui , Han Hua‐wei , Hou Feng , Yang Shi‐feng , Cui Jian‐ling , Wang He‐xiang
Published: June 2024

Background

Traditional biopsies pose risks and may not accurately reflect soft tissue sarcoma (STS) heterogeneity. MRI provides a noninvasive, comprehensive alternative.

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of histological grading and prognosis in STS patients when integrating clinical‐imaging parameters with deep learning (DL) features from preoperative MR images.

Study Type

Retrospective/prospective.

Population

354 pathologically confirmed STS patients (226 low‐grade, 128 high‐grade) from three hospitals and the Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA), divided into training (n = 185), external test (n = 125), and TCIA cohorts (n = 44). 12 patients (6 low‐grade, 6 high‐grade) were enrolled into prospective validation cohort.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T and 3.0 T/Unenhanced T1‐weighted and fat‐suppressed‐T2‐weighted.

Assessment

DL features were extracted from MR images using a parallel ResNet‐18 model to construct DL signature. Clinical‐imaging characteristics included age, gender, tumor‐node‐metastasis stage and MRI semantic features (depth, number, heterogeneity at T1WI/FS‐T2WI, necrosis, and peritumoral edema). Logistic regression analysis identified significant risk factors for the clinical model. A DL clinical‐imaging signature (DLCS) was constructed by incorporating DL signature with risk factors, evaluated for risk stratification, and assessed for progression‐free survival (PFS) in retrospective cohorts, with an average follow‐up of 23 ± 22 months.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression, Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier curves, log‐rank test, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC)，and decision curve analysis. A P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The AUC values for DLCS in the external test, TCIA, and prospective test cohorts (0.834, 0.838, 0.819) were superior to clinical model (0.662, 0.685, 0.694). Decision curve analysis showed that the DLCS model provided greater clinical net benefit over the DL and clinical models. Also, the DLCS model was able to risk‐stratify patients and assess PFS.

Data Conclusion

The DLCS exhibited strong capabilities in histological grading and prognosis assessment for STS patients, and may have potential to aid in the formulation of personalized treatment plans.

Level of Evidence

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Influence of Geothermal Fumaroles in Driving the Microbial Community Dynamics and Functions of Adjacent Ecosystems
Authors: Asif Aslia , Chen Jung‐Sheng , Hsu Gwo‐Jong , Hussain Bashir , Nagarajan Viji , Koner Suprokash , Huang Shih‐Wei , Hsu Bing‐Mu
Published: June 2024

Growing evidence suggests that the hydrochemical properties of geothermal fumaroles may play a crucial role in shaping the diversity and functions of microbial communities in various environments. In the present study, the impact of geothermal furaneols on the microbial communities and their metabolic functions across the rock‐soil‐plant continuum was explored considering varying distances from the fumarole source. The results revealed that bacterial phylum Proteobacteria was predominant in all sample types, except in the 10 m rock sample, irrespective of the sampling distance. Archaeal phyla, such as Euryarchaeota and Crenarchaeota, were more prevalent in rock and soil samples, whereas bacterial phyla were more prevalent in plant samples. Thermoacidophilic archaeons, including Picrophilus, Ferroplasma, and Thermogymnomonas were dominant in rocks and soil samples of 1 and 5 m distances; acidophilic mesophiles, including Ferrimicrobium and Granulicella were abundant in the rhizoplane samples, whereas rhizosphere‐associated microbes including Pseudomonas, Pedobacter, Rhizobium, and Novosphingobium were found dominant in the rhizosphere samples. The functional analysis highlighted the higher expression of sulfur oxidative pathways in the rock and soil samples; dark iron oxidation and nitrate/nitrogen respiratory functions in the rhizosphere samples. The findings underscore microbial adaptations across the rock‐soil‐plant continuum, emphasizing the intricate relationship between geothermal fumaroles and microbial communities in adjacent ecosystems. These insights offer a crucial understanding of the evolution of microbial life and highlight their pivotal roles in shaping ecosystem dynamics and functions.
The psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on Black social workers
Authors: Collins Daniel G. , Holman Alea R. , Hsu Tina S.
Published: June 2024

This qualitative study investigated the psychological impact of the dual pandemics of COVID‐19 and anti‐Black violence on client‐facing social workers who identify as Black, the coping strategies they used in response to the pandemic, and the ways in which these individuals’ racial and cultural identities impacted their experiences. Such individuals are at unique risk for traumatic stress and burnout. This risk was compounded by the traumatic nature of the dual pandemics and the ways in which they forced confrontation with Yalom's existential givens of human existence: death, isolation, meaninglessness, and freedom and responsibility. Eight client‐facing social workers who identified as Black and lived in the United States were interviewed using a 19‐item semistructured protocol created by the researchers that addressed the research questions. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis methodology. Five themes were constructed: (1) Changes in treatment due to COVID‐19, (2) Emotional toll due to the pandemic, (3) Experiences related to being Black, (4) Beneficial experiences, and (5) Coping with COVID‐19 and ongoing racism. Participants’ experiences demonstrated the compounded psychological risk factors they faced as social workers, Black Americans, and survivors of the pandemic, and the ways in which they confronted existential concerns. Participants demonstrated resilience by making new meanings out of their experiences and implied their successful posttraumatic growth. This study demonstrated the need for greater support of Black social workers in social work practice and policy to ease the compounded stressors they face as a result of the pandemic.
Effects of temperature fluctuations on the quality and microbial diversity of beef meatballs during simulated cold chain distribution
Authors: Yuan Jingjing , Wang Zhaoming , Li Huale , Xu Baocai
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Cold chain distribution with multiple links maintains low temperatures to ensure the quality of meat products, whereas temperature fluctuations during this are often disregarded by the industry. The present study simulated two distinct temperatures cold chain distribution processes. Quality indicators and high‐throughput sequencing were employed to investigate the effects of temperature fluctuations on the quality and microbial diversity of beef meatballs during cold chain distribution.

RESULTS

Quality indicators revealed that temperature fluctuations during simulated cold chain distribution significantly (P < 0.05) exacerbated the quality deterioration of beef meatballs. High‐throughput sequencing demonstrated that temperature fluctuations affected the diversity and structure of microbial community. Lower microbial species abundance and higher microbial species diversity were observed in the temperature fluctuations group. Proteobacteria and Pseudomonas were identified as the dominant phylum and genus in beef meatballs, respectively, exhibiting faster growth rates and greater relative abundance under temperature fluctuations.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that temperature fluctuations during simulated cold chain distribution can worsen spoilage and shorten the shelf life of beef meatballs. It also offers certain insights into the spoilage mechanism and preservation of meat products during cold chain distribution. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Temporal habitat use of mule deer in the Pueblo of Santa Ana, New Mexico
Authors: Bird Daniel E. , D'Acunto Laura E. , Ginter Daniel , Harper Glenn , Zollner Patrick A.
Published: June 2024

Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) are important economically, culturally, and recreationally to the Pueblo of Santa Ana in central New Mexico, USA. Studies of habitat selection improve our understanding of mule deer ecology in central New Mexico and provide the Tribe with valuable information for management of mule deer. We used global positioning system telemetry‐collar data collected on mule deer around the Pueblo of Santa Ana to create resource selection functions from proximity‐based habitat predictors using a generalized linear mixed model. We created separate resource selection functions for females and males during summer and winter at different times of the day. Season generally had a greater effect on mule deer habitat use than the time of day. Female and male mule deer selected for similar habitats but were sexually segregated in their summer distributions. These findings are consistent with results from other locations where mule deer partitioned habitat similarly between seasons and sexes. Supported models reaffirm accepted patterns of habitat selection for mule deer to the Pueblo of Santa Ana where local results were lacking. Our results can help managers identify locations in and around the Pueblo of Santa Ana where future development such as highway expansion are likely to conflict with mule deer activity and locations where habitat enhancement projects such as adding water sources can have the greatest effect for the deer population.
An Online Mindfulness‐Based Group Intervention for Tics: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Reese Hannah E. , Brown William Alan , Summers Berta , Hoeppner Susanne , Miller Sarah B. , Wilhelm Sabine
Published: June 2024

Background

Current treatments for Tourette syndrome (TS) and persistent tic disorder (PTD) are often insufficiently effective, inaccessible, and frequently associated with adverse events. Thus, we must continue to develop and test effective, accessible, and safe treatment options.

Objective

We aimed to conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing a novel, videoconference‐delivered group mindfulness‐based intervention for tics (MBIT) to videoconference‐delivered group psychoeducation, relaxation, and supportive therapy (PRST) for adults with TS or PTD.

Methods

Thirty‐two adults with TS or PTD were randomly assigned to receive 8 weeks of either MBIT or PRST. Tic severity, tic‐related impairment, and global improvement were assessed by a trained, independent evaluator who was masked to treatment condition at baseline (week 0), posttreatment (week 9), 1‐month follow‐up, and 6‐month follow‐up. All study procedures were conducted online via secure videoconferencing.

Results

Twenty‐eight participants began treatment and were included in analyses. MBIT, relative to PRST, was associated with a significantly greater decline in tic severity (d = 0.85) and tic‐related impairment (d = 0.99) from baseline to posttreatment. Treatment response was significantly higher in MBIT (69%) than in PRST (13%). Neither treatment resulted in serious adverse effects. The durability of treatment outcomes is also reported and discussed.

Conclusions

The results from this pilot RCT suggest that videoconference‐delivered group MBIT may be an efficacious, accessible, and safe intervention for adults with tics. Future research is necessary to confirm these preliminary findings. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Mutation spectrum of hearing loss patients in Northwest China: Identification of 20 novel variants
Authors: Ma Panpan , Zhou Bingbo , Kang Qichao , Chen Xue , Tian Xinyuan , Hui Ling , Hao Shengju , Wu Huiyan , Zhang Chuan
Published: June 2024

Background

Hearing loss (HL) is the most frequent sensory deficit in humans, with strong genetic heterogeneity. The genetic diagnosis of HL is very important to aid treatment decisions and to provide prognostic information and genetic counselling for the patient's family.

Methods

We detected and analysed 362 Chinese non‐syndromic HL patients by screening of variants in 15 hot spot mutations. Subsequently, 40 patients underwent further whole‐exome sequencing (WES) to determine genetic aetiology. The candidate variants were verified using Sanger sequencing. Twenty‐three carrier couples with pathogenic variants or likely pathogenic variants chose to proceed with prenatal diagnosis using Sanger sequencing.

Results

Among the 362 HL patients, 102 were assigned a molecular diagnosis with 52 different variants in 22 deafness genes. A total of 41 (11.33%) cases with the biallelic GJB2 (OMIM # 220290) gene mutations were detected, and 21 (5.80%) had biallelic SLC26A4 (OMIM # 605646) mutations. Mitochondrial gene (OMIM # 561000) mutations were detected in seven (1.93%) patients. Twenty of the variants in 15 deafness genes were novel. SOX10 (OMIM # 602229), MYO15A (OMIM # 602666) and WFS1 (OMIM # 606201) were each detected in two patients. Meanwhile, OSBPL2 (OMIM # 606731), RRM2B (OMIM # 604712), OTOG (OMIM # 604487), STRC (OMIM # 606440), PCDH15 (OMIM # 605514), LOXHD1 (OMIM # 613072), CDH23 (OMIM # 605516), TMC1 (OMIM # 606706), CHD7 (OMIM # 608892), DIAPH3 (OMIM # 614567), TBC1D24 (OMIM # 613577), TIMM8A (OMIM # 300356), PTPRQ (OMIM # 603317), SALL1 (OMIM # 602218), and GSDME (OMIM # 608798) were each detected in one patient. In addition, as regards one couple with a heterozygous variant of CDH23 and PCDH15, respectively, prenatal diagnosis results suggest that the foetus had double heterozygous (DH) variants of CDH23 and PCDH15, which has a high risk to cause ID/F type Usher syndrome.

Conclusion

Our study expanded the spectrum of deafness gene variation, which will contribute to the genetic diagnosis, prenatal diagnosis and the procreation guidance of deaf couple. In addition, the deafness caused by two genes should be paid attention to in the prenatal diagnosis of families with both deaf patients.
Noninvasive prenatal screening in a pregnant woman with a history of stem cell transplant from a male donor: A case report and literature review
Authors: Liang Dong , Lin Ying , Luo Chunyu , Li Hang , Hu Ping , Xu Zhengfeng
Published: June 2024

Background

As a screening method, inaccuracies in noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) exist, which are often attributable to biological factors. One such factor is the history of transplantation. However, there are still limited reports on such NIPS cases.

Methods

We report an NIPS case of a pregnant woman who had received a stem cell transplant from a male donor. To determine the karyotype in the woman's original cell, we performed chromosome microarray analysis (CMA) on her postnatal blood and oral mucosa. To comprehensively estimate the cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) composition, we further performed standard NIPS procedures on the postnatal plasma. Moreover, we reviewed all published relevant NIPS case reports about pregnant women with transplantation history.

Results

NIPS showed a low‐risk result for common trisomies with a fetal fraction of 65.80%. CMA on maternal white blood cells showed a nonmosaic male karyotype, while the oral mucosa showed a nonmosaic female karyotype. The proportion of donor's cfDNA in postnatal plasma was 94.73% based on the Y‐chromosome reads ratio. The composition of cfDNA in maternal plasma was estimated as follows: prenatally, 13.60% maternal, 65.80% donor, and 20.60% fetal/placental, whereas postnatally, 5.27% maternal and 94.73% donor.

Conclusions

This study expanded our understanding of the influence of stem cell transplantation on NIPS, allowing us to optimize NIPS management for these women.
Modeling the random spreading of fake news through a two‐dimensional time‐inhomogeneous birth‐death process
Authors: Di Crescenzo Antonio , Paraggio Paola
Published: June 2024

We consider a two‐dimensional time‐inhomogeneous birth‐death process to model the time‐evolution of fake news in a population. The two components of the process represent, respectively: (i) the number of individuals (say spreaders) who know the rumor and intend to spread it and (ii) the number of individuals (say inactives) who have forgotten the rumor previously received. We employ the probability generating function‐based approach to obtain the moments and the covariance of the two‐dimensional process. We also analyze a new adimensional index to study the correlation between the two components. Some special cases are considered in which both the expected numbers of spreaders and inactives are equal to suitable sigmoidal curves, which are often adopted in modeling growth phenomena. Finally, we provide an application based on real data related to the diffusion of fake news, in which the optimal choice of the sigmoidal curve that fit the datasets is based on the minimization of the mean square error and of the relative absolute error.
Asymptotic expansions for variants of the gamma and Post–Widder operators preserving 1 and xj
Authors: Abel Ulrich , Acu Ana Maria , Heilmann Margareta , Rasa Ioan
Published: June 2024

Recently, the authors constructed operators acting on a space of functions defined on
and preserving 1 and
for a given
. To this end, they considered suitable modifications of the Post–Widder and gamma operators. They proved convergence results and established the associated Voronovskaja type formulas. In this paper, we give asymptotic expansions for the sequences of these operators.
A non‐Newtonian perspective on multiplicative Lorentz–Minkowski space 𝕃∗3
Authors: Has Aykut , Yilmaz Beyhan , Yildirim Hüseyin
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on redesigned the Lorentz–Minkowski space, great importance in both physics and geometry, by employing multiplicative metric concepts (angle, norm, distance etc.). The impact of multiplicative arguments on the Lorentz‐Minkowski space has been elucidated, showcasing how multiplicative vectors, subspaces, and planes exhibit multiplicative spacelike, timelike, or lightlike characteristics. Also, we conducted comprehensive comparisons with conventional scenarios, elucidating the vectors and their characteristics within this distinct space. To facilitate visual comprehension, illustrative examples and figures have been provided, offering a clearer understanding of the subject matter.
Kaempferol‐Enhanced Migration and Differentiation of C2C12 Myoblasts via ITG1B/FAK/Paxillin and IGF1R/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathways
Authors: Hour Tzyh‐Chyuan , Lan Nhi Nguyen Thai , Lai I‐Ju , Chuu Chih‐Pin , Lin Pei‐Chen , Chang Hsi‐Wen , Su Ying‐Fang , Chen Chung‐Hwan , Chen Yu‐Kuei
Published: June 2024

Scope

Kaempferol (KMP), a bioactive flavonoid compound found in fruits and vegetables, contributes to human health in many ways but little is known about its relationship with muscle mass. The effect of KMP on C2C12 myoblast differentiation and the mechanisms that might underlie that effect are studied.

Methods and results

This study finds that KMP (1, 10 µM) increases the migration and differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts in vitro. Studying the possible mechanism underlying its effect on migration, the study finds that KMP activates Integrin Subunit Beta 1 (ITGB1) in C2C12 myoblasts, increasing p‐FAK (Tyr398) and its downstream cell division cycle 42 (CDC42), a protein previously associated with cell migration. Regarding differentiation, KMP upregulates the expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC) and activates IGF1/AKT/mTOR/P70S6K. Interestingly, pretreatment with an AKT inhibitor (LY294002) and siRNA knockdown of IGF1R leads to a decrease in cell differentiation, suggesting that IGF1/AKT activation is required for KMP to induce C2C12 myoblast differentiation.

Conclusion

Together, the findings suggest that KMP enhances the migration and differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts through the ITG1B/FAK/paxillin and IGF1R/AKT/mTOR pathways. Thus, KMP supplementation might potentially be used to prevent or delay age‐related loss of muscle mass and help maintain muscle health.
A size‐dependent energy‐based strain burst criterion
Authors: Verma Rupesh Kumar , Nguyen Giang D. , Karakus Murat , Taheri Abbas
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a size‐dependent energy‐based strain burst criterion linking strength, elasticity, fracture energies and specimen size effect with stress state due to changes in boundary conditions. It proposes the concept of a ‘Burst Envelope’, a surface in three‐dimensional principal stress space derived based on energy storing and dissipation characteristics of a rock sample, taking into account the size of the specimen and potential localised failure pattern. A scalar burst index is also proposed to quantify the bursting scale. To illustrate and verify its functioning, a numerical modelling framework based on the distinct element method and employing a new cohesive‐frictional contact model is used to perform virtual strain burst experiments under different polyaxial loading‐unloading scenarios, mimicking various underground excavation scenarios. The obtained results are in good agreement with the theoretical prediction of burst occurrence. On that basis, the variation of burst possibility and magnitude are investigated with key factors, including confinement level and the material's elastic, strength and fracture properties. The effect of the specimen's aspect ratio and size on the rock burst potential is elaborated and verified using virtual strain burst experiments, facilitating the linking of the proposed theoretical framework with the evaluation of in‐situ strain bursts in rock masses around underground openings.