bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coding-complete genomic sequence of a rhinovirus C-32 in a human nasal swab sample that tested false positive in a SARS-CoV-2 antigen test
Authors: Moquin Tracey L. , Subramaniam Kuttichantran , Lednicky John A.
Published: March 2024

Rhinovirus-A was previously shown to cause false-positive results in a Japanese SARS-CoV-2 antigen test. We report that a false-positive result was obtained in a specimen with rhinovirus C-32 that had been tested using an American SARS-CoV-2 antigen test.
Prognostic value of poly-microorganisms detected by droplet digital PCR and pathogen load kinetics in sepsis patients: a multi-center prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Yuanhan , Lin Ke , Zhang Haocheng , Zhang Yanliang , Li Shaling , Zhang Shengguo , Zhang Wei , Zhou Aiming , Zhuang Yangyang , Chen Jie , Wu Caixia , Zhou Wei , He Xiaoju , Yue Qiaoyan , Zhang Meng , Huang Yan , Li Liang , Hong Liang , Cai Fujing , Huang Lisu , Ruan Zhengshang , Xu Shanshan , Zhang Yan , Chen Xiaohua , Chen Jie , Ye Ying , Bian Tingting , Li Jiabin , Yin Jun , Li Xiang , Jiang Lijing , Lei Chen , Liu Jun , Zhang Ying , Jin Jialin , Ai Jingwen , Pan Jingye , Zhang Wenhong
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of a novel droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (DDPCR) assay in sepsis patients. In this prospective cohort study, univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were used to assess risk factors for 28-day mortality. We also monitored pathogen load together with clinical indicators in a subgroup of the cohort. A total of 107 sepsis patients with positive baseline DDPCR results were included. Detection of poly-microorganisms [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 3.19; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.34–7.62;
P
= 0.009], high Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score (adjusted HR = 1.14; 95% CI = 1.01–1.29;
P
= 0.041), and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (adjusted HR = 1.18; 95% CI = 1.05–1.32;
P
= 0.005) at baseline were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality while initial pathogen load was not associated (adjusted HR = 1.17; 95% CI = 0.82–1.66;
P
= 0.385). Among 63 patients with serial DDPCR results, an increase in pathogen load at days 6–8 compared to baseline was a risk factor for 28-day mortality (
P
= 0.008). Also, pathogen load kinetics were significantly different between day-28 survivors and nonsurvivors (
P
= 0.022), with a decline overtime only in survivors and an increase from days 3 and 4 to days 6–8 in nonsurvivors. Using DDPCR technique, we found that poly-microorganisms detected and increased pathogen load a week after sepsis diagnosis were associated with poor prognosis.

IMPORTANCE

This prospective study was initiated to explore the prognostic implications of a novel multiplex PCR assay in sepsis. Notably, our study was the largest cohort of sepsis with droplet digital polymerase chain reaction pathogen monitoring to date, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the prognostic significance of both pathogen species and load. We found that detection of poly-microorganisms was an independent risk factors for 28-day mortality. Also, pathogen load increase 1 week after sepsis diagnosis was a risk factor for 28-day mortality, and differential pathogen load kinetics were identified between day-28 survivors and nonsurvivors. Overall, this study demonstrated that pathogen species and load were highly correlated with sepsis prognosis. Patients exhibiting conditions mentioned above face a more adverse prognosis, suggesting the potential need for an escalation of antimicrobial therapy.

Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (
NCT05190861
).
When the Trojan horse is unable to reach inside the city: investigation of the mechanism of resistance behind the first reported cefiderocol-resistant
E. coli
in Canada
Authors: Barker Kevin R. , Rebick Gabriel W. , Fakharuddin Ken , MacDonald Clayton , Mulvey Michael R. , Mataseje Laura F.
Published: March 2024

Gram-negative metallo-β-lactamase-producing bacteria can be extremely problematic, especially when found to be extensively drug-resistant (XDR). Cefiderocol is a novel antimicrobial that has been shown to overcome most carbapenemases, with very rare resistance reported to date. Within our institution, two multidrug-resistant and one XDR strains were isolated from a patient who recently emigrated from India. Each isolate underwent whole-genome sequencing to resolve plasmids and determine phylogenetics, strain typing, and mechanisms of resistance. The XDR
E. coli
was ST167, harbored NDM-5,
cirA
and PBP3 mutations, consistent with cefiderocol resistance. Our study suggests that the NDM region is required in conjunction with
cirA
and PBP3 mutations. It is not clear why; however, our study did determine a potential novel iron-transport region unique to the cefiderocol-resistant isolate. This is the first characterized cefiderocol-resistant
E.coli
reported from Canada. Health centers should be on alert for this clone.

IMPORTANCE

The development of cefiderocol, a novel siderophore cephalosporin, has provided additional options to the treatment of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Gram-negative bacteria. Resistance to cefiderocol is poorly understood and only recently described. Here, we describe a case of a patient with recent travel to India harboring three
Escherichia coli
isolates, one resistant and two susceptible to cefiderocol. Two isolates are highly similar genetically, allowing the mechanism of resistance to be described more closely. The importance of this manuscript contributes both globally to the understanding of cefiderocol resistance in
E. coli
as well as nationally as this is the first resistant case reported in Canada. This is especially concerning as cefiderocol is not currently approved in Canada. The implications of reporting emerging resistance to new antimicrobials for XDR Gram negatives are impactful to infectious disease specialists, clinical microbiologists, physicians, and public health.
Ortho-positronium annihilation processes in Y zeolites under different environments by measurements of the energy spectra of the positron annihilation radiation
Authors: Noguchi Haruka , Chiari Luca
Published: March 2024

Measurements of the energy distribution of the positron annihilation radiation in Y zeolites are carried out to elucidate the various ortho-positronium annihilation processes that take place in these microporous materials and relate them to the ortho-positronium lifetime components observed by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy in earlier studies. Y zeolites with various Si/Al ratios in the range from 2.6 to 40 are investigated under a controlled atmosphere of N2 gas and after exposure to the atmosphere. The ortho-positronium annihilation modes are characterized by analyzing the γ-ray spectra through the use of the f3γ index, which represents the fraction of 3γ-annihilation, and the S parameter. The proportion of ortho-positronium self-annihilation is found to be no less than 15% in N2 gas, but drastically decreases by the physisorption of water molecules and possibly positronium spin exchange interaction with oxygen in the atmosphere. The presence of water molecules suppresses ortho-positronium intrinsic annihilation and, at the same time, promotes ortho-positronium pick-off annihilation in the pores. Similarly, the S parameter rises due to an increased contribution from para-positronium annihilation and ortho-positronium pick-off annihilation, which is also consistent with the physisorption of water and positronium spin exchange. In conjunction with the previously measured ortho-positronium lifetime components, the specific ortho-positronium annihilation sites and processes in these porous materials under different environments are determined and a complete picture of the ortho-positronium behavior in Y zeolites is obtained.

Graphical abstract
Cryptanalysis and improvement of efficient multiparty quantum secret sharing based on a novel structure and single qubits
Authors: Gao Gan
Published: March 2024

In the paper (EPJ Quant. Technol. 10:29, 2023), Kuo et al. proposed a multiparty quantum secret sharing protocol based on a novel structure and single qubits. Owing to the absence of an entanglement state, the proposed protocol is more practical than other quantum secret sharing protocols which use entanglement properties. Therefore, we study the security of the proposed protocol and find there exists a security loophole in the n-party ($n\geq 4$
n
≥
4
) secret sharing case in it, that is, two dishonest agents can collude to obtain (part of) Alice’s secret without the help of the other agents. In order to overcome the security loophole, we give an improved protocol and make a security analysis for it. By calculating, the qubit efficiency of the three-party case in it is equal to $\frac{1}{8}$

1

8

, which is higher than that in Hillery et al.’s protocol (Phys. Rev. A 59:1829, 1999).
Control of NLO and photocatalysis properties based on the use of Sn-doped ZnO thin films for optoelectronics applications
Authors: Abed S. , Djaaboube H. , Aouati R. , Bouaballou A. , Bouchouit K. , Andrushchak A. , Wielgosz R. , Taboukhat S. , Sahraoui B.
Published: March 2024

Thin films of zinc oxide (ZnO) have unique properties that make them suitable for various applications. In this study, we used a spray pyrolysis process to develop undoped ZnO and ZnO doped with Sn thin films on a glass substrate. We aimed to investigate the effect of Sn concentration on the optical, nonlinear optical, and structural properties of ZnO:Sn thin films. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that all the deposited ZnO thin films exhibit polycrystalline hexagonal structures well-oriented along the c-axis. The obtained films were transparent in the visible range, with a transmittance between 70% and 80%. The optical energy bandgap values for the films varied from 3.16 eV to 3.29 eV. We also determined the second- and third-order nonlinear susceptibilities, which decreased with increasing Sn concentration. We investigated the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO-doped Sn thin films using methylene blue dye under visible light. Sn doping enhanced the photocatalytic activity of ZnO thin films, with constant rate values of 0.00046 and 0.00074 min[Formula: see text] for ZnO and ZnO:Sn thin films, respectively.
Hedging rainfall risk: An illustrative analysis of rainfall index-based futures contracts
Authors: Dileep N. , Kotreshwar G.
Published: March 2024

Various studies have attempted to explore rainfall index (RI)-based derivatives as a tool to hedge rainfall risk. But no study delved into the issue to discuss the potential deployment of those tools for hedging rainfall risk on a model based on RI-based futures (RIBFs). An illustrative analysis of RIBFs contracts as hedging instruments has been undertaken in this study. The study is fundamentally based on empirical data. A brief account of the rainfall risk profile is presented to indicate the risk diversification opportunity. Besides, the results of an analysis of the correlation between the RI and the stock market index are projected to establish the RI as a unique asset class. The monsoon rainfall data for 50 years, i.e., from 1971 to 2020 have been considered. The Sensex and Nifty stock market indices data covered a period of 30 years, from 1991 to 2020. The study used correlation, the GARCH (1,1) model, and ratio analysis to test the hypotheses. A hypothetical insurance company representing major stakeholders in need of rainfall risk hedging has been taken as an example for evaluating the utility of RIBFs contracts as hedging tools. The results reveal that the party buying RIBFs contracts can significantly reduce the loss of revenue due to adverse monsoon outcomes.
Li6.28La3Zr2Al0.24O12-reinforced Single-ion Conducting Composite Polymer Electrolyte for Room-Temperature Li-Metal Batteries
Authors: Cheng Hui , Yan Chaoyi , Orenstein Raphael , Chang Liang , Zhang Xiangwu
Published: March 2024

Composite polymer electrolytes composed of inorganic fillers and organic polymers are promising electrolyte candidates for Li metal batteries, with benefits of improved safety and suppressed lithium dendrite growth. However, a severe concentration polarization effect often occurs when using conventional dual-ion electrolytes, and the increase in internal impedance during cycling results in decreased lifespan of the battery. To address this challenge, a plasticized single-ion conducting composite polymer electrolyte (SICE) was designed and fabricated by polymerizing the monomers of lithium (4-styrenesulfonyl) (trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiSTFSI) and poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate (PEGMEA), crosslinker poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), silane-modified Li6.28La3Al0.24Zr2O12 nanofibers (s@LLAZO NFs), along with a PEG-based plasticizer tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME), by heat-initiation. The anions were restrained and delocalized so that only Li cation migration occurred during the charging/discharging process, leading to a superior lithium-ion transference number. The s@LLAZO NFs enabled direct monomer grafting with the polymer matrix, resulting in controlled formation of an organic-inorganic network with increased filler content and improved filler distribution in the SICE system. The SICE membrane exhibited high ionic conductivity at room temperature, reduced activation energy and excellent oxidation stability. Most importantly, the all-solid-state Li-metal batteries assembled with the fabricated SICE demonstrated stable long-term cycling performance and remarkable rate capability at room temperature.
Towards Long-Term Monitoring of Commercial Lithium-Ion Batteries Enabled by Externally Affixed Fiber Sensors and Strain-Based Prognostic Strategies
Authors: Ghashghaie Sasan , Bonefacino Julien , Cheung Yin-Nee , Cheng Xin , Wang Mingde , Tam Hwa-Yaw , Tarascon Jean-Marie , Boles Steven T.
Published: March 2024

Real-time monitoring of both continuous and spontaneous degradation in lithium-ion batteries is challenging due to the limited number of quantitative metrics available during cycling. In this regard, improved sensing approaches enabled by sensors of high accuracy, precision, and durability are key to achieving comprehensive state estimation and meeting rigorous safety standards. In this work, external temperature and strain monitoring in commercial Li-ion button cells was carried out using tandem pairs of polymer-based and silica-based optical fiber Bragg grating sensors. The decoupled data revealed that the sensors can reliably track strain and temperature evolution for over 500 cycles, as evidenced by periodic patterns with no sign of sensor degradation or loss of fidelity. Moreover, monitoring the strain signal enabled early detection of an anomalous cell over ∼60 cycles ahead of an electrochemical signature and abrupt drop in capacity, suggesting that mechanical sensing data may offer unique benefits in some cases. Detailed mechanical monitoring via incremental strain analysis suggests a parallel path toward understanding cell degradation mechanisms, regardless of whether they are continuous or discrete in nature. The accuracy and durability of such a package-level optical fiber sensing platform offers a promising pathway for developing robust real-time battery health monitoring techniques and prognostic strategies.
Establishing an OCD Model in BALB/c Mice Using RU24969: A Molecular and Behavioural Study of Optimal Dose Selection
Authors: Salloum Fatima , Farran Mohamad , Shaib Houssam , Jurjus Abdo , Sleiman Roni , Khalil Mahmoud I.
Published: March 2024

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disabling disease characterized by distressing obsessions and repetitive compulsions. The etiology of OCD is poorly known, and mouse modeling allows to clarify the genetic and neurochemical basis of this disorder and to investigate potential treatments. This study evaluates the impact of the 5‐HT1B agonist RU24969 on the induction of OCD‐like behaviours in female BALB/c mice (n = 30), distributed across five groups receiving varying doses of RU24969. Behavioural assessments, including marble test, tail suspension test, sucrose preference test, forced swim test, and nestlet shredding test, were conducted. Gene expression and protein quantitation of Gabra1 and serotonin transporter in mouse brain were also performed. Marble‐burying behaviour increased significantly at high doses of RU24969 (15‐20 mg/kg). The forced swimming test consistently showed elevated values at the same high concentrations, compared to the control. Altered reward‐seeking behaviour was indicated by the sucrose preference test, notably at 15 and 20 mg/kg doses of RU24969. Nestlet shredding results did not show statistical significance among the tested animal groups. Gene expression analysis revealed reduced Gabra1 expression with increasing doses of RU, while serotonin transporter was not related to varying doses of RU24969. Western blotting corroborated these trends. The results underscore complex interactions between the serotonin system, GABAergic signaling, and OCD‐relevant behaviours and suggest the use of intraperitoneal injection of 15 mg/kg of RU24969 to induce OCD‐like behaviour in BALB/c mouse models.
TABLE 2 from Spectral Flow Cytometry Methods and Pipelines for Comprehensive Immunoprofiling of Human Peripheral Blood and Bone Marrow
Authors: Spasic Milos , Ogayo Esther R. , Parsons Adrienne M. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , van Galen Peter , McAllister Sandra S.
Published: March 2024

BMC panel markers. Cell-surface markers used to gate and identify indicated cell types in BMC samples
Figure S6 from Spectral Flow Cytometry Methods and Pipelines for Comprehensive Immunoprofiling of Human Peripheral Blood and Bone Marrow
Authors: Spasic Milos , Ogayo Esther R. , Parsons Adrienne M. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , van Galen Peter , McAllister Sandra S.
Published: March 2024

Figure S6. Detection of Rare and Unexpected Cell Populations. Density plots of CD4+/CD8+ double-positive T cells (A), Basophils (B) and ILCs (C) identified in the PBMC samples. Gates indicate positive populations, with the percentage of the parental population displayed in each panel. Both concatenated and individual donor plots are shown.
FIGURE 1 from Identification of Nonfunctional Alternatively Spliced Isoforms of STING in Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Boda Akash R. , Liu Arthur J. , Castro-Pando Susana , Whitfield Benjamin T. , Molldrem Jeffrey J. , Al-Atrash Gheath , Di Francesco Maria Emilia , Jones Philip , Ager Casey R. , Curran Michael A.
Published: March 2024

Evaluating activity of novel STING agonists on alternate STING isoforms. A total of 5 × 104 HEK-Blue reporter cells expressing indicated STING alleles were incubated with 100 µg/mL CDN for 24 hours. IRF3/9 activity was measured by secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) assay. IFNα positive control indicates presence and functionality of the IRF3/9 SEAP reporter in these cells. Statistical significance was calculated using repeated measures one-way ANOVA (n = 2). ns, not significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001.
Association of Circulating Autophagy Proteins ATG5 and Beclin 1 with Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Case-Control Study
Authors: Grazide Marie-Hélène , Ruidavets Jean-Bernard , Martinet Wim , Elbaz Meyer , Vindis Cécile
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a main contributor of sudden cardiac death worldwide. The discovery of new biomarkers that can improve AMI risk prediction meets a major clinical need for the identification of high-risk patients and the tailoring of medical treatment. Previously, we reported that autophagy a highly conserved catabolic mechanism for intracellular degradation of cellular components is involved in atherosclerotic plaque phenotype and cardiac pathological remodeling. The crucial role of autophagy in the normal and diseased heart has been well described, and its activation functions as a pro-survival process in response to myocardial ischemia. However, autophagy is dysregulated in ischemia/reperfusion injury, thus promoting necrotic or apoptotic cardiac cell death. Very few studies have focused on the plasma levels of autophagy markers in cardiovascular disease patients, even though they could be companion biomarkers of AMI injury. The aims of the present study were to evaluate (1) whether variations in plasma levels of two key autophagy regulators autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) and Beclin 1 (the mammalian yeast ortholog Atg6/Vps30) are associated with AMI and (2) their potential for predicting AMI risk. Methods: The case-control study population included AMI patients (n = 100) and control subjects (n = 99) at high cardiovascular risk but without known coronary disease. Plasma levels of ATG5 and Beclin 1 were measured in the whole population study by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Multivariate analyses adjusted on common cardiovascular factors and medical treatments, and receiver operating characteristic curves demonstrated that ATG5 and Beclin 1 levels were inversely associated with AMI and provided original biomarkers for AMI risk prediction. Conclusion: Plasma levels of autophagy regulators ATG5 and Beclin 1 represent relevant candidate biomarkers associated with AMI.
Scrutinizing the Role of Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Has Clinical Practice Outpaced the Evidence?
Authors: Lüsebrink Enzo , Binzenhöfer Leonhard , Hering Daniel , Villegas Sierra Laura , Schrage Benedikt , Scherer Clemens , Speidl Walter S. , Uribarri Aitor , Sabate Manel , Noc Marko , Sandoval Elena , Erglis Andrejs , Pappalardo Federico , De Roeck Frederic , Tavazzi Guido , Riera Jordi , Roncon-Albuquerque Roberto , Meder Benjamin , Luedike Peter , Rassaf Tienush , Hausleiter Jörg , Hagl Christian , Zimmer Sebastian , Westermann Dirk , Combes Alain , Zeymer Uwe , Massberg Steffen , Schäfer Andreas , Orban Martin , Thiele Holger
Published: March 2024

The use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for temporary mechanical circulatory support in various clinical scenarios has been increasing consistently, despite the lack of sufficient evidence regarding its benefit and safety from adequately powered randomized controlled trials. Although the ARREST trial (Advanced Reperfusion Strategies for Patients with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation) and a secondary analysis of the PRAGUE OHCA trial (Prague Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest) provided some evidence in favor of VA-ECMO in the setting of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, the INCEPTION trial (Early Initiation of Extracorporeal Life Support in Refractory Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest) has not found a relevant improvement of short-term mortality with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In addition, the results of the recently published ECLS-SHOCK trial (Extracorporeal Life Support in Cardiogenic Shock) and ECMO-CS trial (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Therapy of Cardiogenic Shock) discourage the routine use of VA-ECMO in patients with infarct-related cardiogenic shock. Ongoing clinical trials (ANCHOR [Assessment of ECMO in Acute Myocardial Infarction Cardiogenic Shock, NCT04184635], REVERSE [Impella CP With VA ECMO for Cardiogenic Shock, NCT03431467], UNLOAD ECMO [Left Ventricular Unloading to Improve Outcome in Cardiogenic Shock Patients on VA-ECMO, NCT05577195], PIONEER [Hemodynamic Support With ECMO and IABP in Elective Complex High-risk PCI, NCT04045873]) may clarify the usefulness of VA-ECMO in specific patient subpopulations and the efficacy of combined mechanical circulatory support strategies. Pending further data to refine patient selection and management recommendations for VA-ECMO, it remains uncertain whether the present usage of this device improves outcomes.
Outdoor Light at Night, Air Pollution, and Risk of Cerebrovascular Disease: A Cohort Study in China
Authors: Wu Yonghao , Shen Peng , Yang Zongming , Yu Luhua , Xu Lisha , Zhu Zhanghang , Li Tiezheng , Luo Dan , Lin Hongbo , Shui Liming , Tang Mengling , Jin Mingjuan , Chen Kun , Wang Jianbing
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

We sought to explore the associations of outdoor light at night (LAN) and air pollution with the risk of cerebrovascular disease (CeVD).

METHODS:

We included a total of 28 302 participants enrolled in Ningbo, China from 2015 to 2018. Outdoor LAN and air pollution were assessed by Satellite-derived images and land-use regression models. CeVD cases were confirmed by medical records and death certificates and further subdivided into ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% CIs.

RESULTS:

A total of 1278 CeVD cases (including 777 ischemic and 133 hemorrhagic stroke cases) were identified during 127 877 person-years of follow-up. In the single-exposure models, the hazard ratios for CeVD were 1.17 (95% CI, 1.06–1.29) for outdoor LAN, 1.25 (1.12–1.39) for particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm, 1.14 (1.06–1.22) for particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm, and 1.21 (1.06–1.38) for NO
2
in every interquartile range increase. The results were similar for ischemic stroke, whereas no association was observed for hemorrhagic stroke. In the multiple-exposure models, the associations of outdoor LAN and PM with CeVD persisted but not for ischemic stroke. Furthermore, no interaction was observed between outdoor LAN and air pollution.

CONCLUSIONS:

Levels of exposure to outdoor LAN and air pollution were positively associated with the risk of CeVD. Furthermore, the detrimental effects of outdoor LAN and air pollution might be mutually independent.
Disaster Awareness of University Students and Their Crisis Management Skills During a Disaster Situation: The Case of the Vocational School of Health Services
Authors: Tercan Bahadır
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the university students’ levels of disaster awareness and to examine how they demonstrate crisis management skills in the case of a disaster and how they vary in terms of their level of disaster awareness. Data collected by the survey method were analysed by statistical analysis methods. The students’ levels of disaster awareness and crisis management skills in the event of a disaster were moderate. Variables such as gender, department, disaster training, attendance at disaster drills, and disaster volunteerism were effective in disaster awareness and crisis management skills in the event of a disaster, and the variable of the place of residence was also effective on disaster awareness. The results showed that disaster awareness positively and significantly affected crisis management skills in the event of a disaster.
Two new diploid species of Isoetes (Isoetaceae: Lycopodiopsida) from Southeastern China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: LIU CHENLAI , YU XIAOLEI , SONG XIAOLI , SHAO JINGJING , CHEN YUCHU , LIU XING
Published: March 2024

Two new endemic Isoetes from Zhejiang, China, Isoetes changleensis (2n = 22) and Isoetes yuhangensis (2n = 22), are described and illustrated. The morphological characteristics of I. changleensis, such as the presence of tuberculate and irregularly rugulate megaspores having a broad equatorial band with densely rugulate ornamentation, make it easy to distinguish it from Isoetes longpingii. Isoetes yuhangensis has rugulate megaspores with fibrous perispores, which sets it apart from closely related species. To distinguish the new Isoetes species and explore their phylogenetic position, this study employed complete nuclear genomes and plastomes. Both proposed species obtained high support in the phylogenetic analysis as new species. On the basis of morphological traits, chromosome information, and molecular evidence from chloroplast and nuclear DNA, these two taxa are regarded as two new diploid species of Isoetes.
Taxonomic description of a new species of Leucoagaricus and utilization of the Pantone Connect app in classification research
Authors: ZHU XUE-TAI , ZHANG JINMING , ZHANG GUO-QING , FAN JIA-XIN , DANG YONG-XIANG
Published: March 2024

A new species, Leucoagaricus brunneorube, is described based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses. It was discovered at Northwest Normal University in Lanzhou City, Gansu Province, China. Leucoagaricus brunneorube is characterized by its epigeous, with small to medium-sized basidiomata, pileal surface felty and white, densely covered with brownish red to maroon furfuraceous squamules, lamella edge darkens when dry, and stipe glabrous and cylindrical with a prominent bulbous base, bulb turning orange-red when bruised, and basidiospores ellipsoid and lack a germ pore, lamella edge sterile, cheilocystidia clavate, some with crystals at the apex, pleurocystidia absent, clamp connections absent in all tissues . In the process, the Pantone Connect app was used to describe the color of the fruitbody, thereby facilitating an exploration of the app’s potential in accurately describing colors in classification research of macrofungi.
A preliminary taxonomic revision of the girii clade of South Asian Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) with the description of four new species from southern Maharashtra, India
Authors: KHANDEKAR AKSHAY , GAIKWAD SUNIL M. , THACKERAY TEJAS , GANGALMALE SATPAL , AGARWAL ISHAN
Published: March 2024

The girii clade is the most diverse clade of South Asian Cnemaspis in the Northern Western Ghats, including ten valid species. Recent collections of four divergent lineages from southern Maharashtra prompted us to examine the type material of all species in the girii clade, which led to the discovery of numerous errors and discrepancies in the literature. We take this opportunity to provide an updated and expanded morphological dataset including diagnoses and comparisons for all species of the girii clade and to build an almost complete species-level phylogeny including the first ND2 sequences of C. rajgadensis and C. uttaraghati, as well as the four new species described herein (but excluding C. fortis). We describe the four divergent mitochondrial lineages as new species using morphological data, and provide a key to species of the girii clade. Finally, we list some inconsistences in previous publications and data for the girii clade.
Five
Authors: Felsenstein Frank
Published: March 2024

This chapter tells the beginning of the Nazis’ rise to power, specifically how it began to affect Vera and her family. Touching on notorious names and faces, it is clear that things began to get tougher for many.
Six
Authors: Felsenstein Frank
Published: March 2024

Mope describes the beginning of his career in the fur trade and the rewards that come from it–such as the higher salary and ability to move to a large apartment individually. He introduces his friend, Max Schwimmer, a non-Jewish German artist who continued to call Mope a friend as restrictions in Nazi Germany grew.
Ten
Authors: Felsenstein Frank
Published: March 2024

Vera arrives in London. She stays with Otto Schiff (a leader of the Jewish Refugees Committee) and visits universities in London in the hope that she can continue her education. She befriends several high society ladies who are willing to finance her education, but determines that continuing her studies at the moment would leave her unable to provide for her family back in Germany. She moves in with one of the ladies of London’s high society and gets a job at a high-end boutique–Eve Valère.
Twenty-Four
Authors: Felsenstein Frank
Published: March 2024

Mope receives word that he should not return to Germany. Vera continues to plan the wedding as Mope begins working in Russia.
Philosophies in Community Supervision of Gang-Involved Youth and Adults
Authors: Craig Miltonette Olivia , Zurn Meagan , Elliott Debi , Roark Jenn
Published: March 2024

The wide expansion of community supervision has resulted in large-scale reliance on probation officers to facilitate change among both youth and adults. This is especially true for supervising high-risk populations, such as gang-involved individuals. To understand how probation officers balance the dual goals of public safety and rehabilitation, in-depth interviews with 12 youth and adult officers in Oregon were conducted. Results revealed that both groups had a shared understanding of gang pathways and desistance barriers. However, they held differing views on the factors that drive success and compliance. Youth officers utilize therapeutic philosophies and emphasize restoration through community resources to help youth desist from gang activity. Adult officers endorse law enforcement philosophies, emphasize accountability and personal choices, and center punitive strategies when using interagency collaboration. This study contributes to the literature on role perceptions and decision-making, and suggests that continuity of care in supervision philosophies can yield more successful outcomes for high-risk youth and adults.
Principals’ Conceptions of Their Roles Supporting Self-Contained Programs for Students With Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Bettini Elizabeth , Cumming Michelle M. , Lauterbach Alexandra A. , Morris Mathews Hannah
Published: March 2024

Special educators serving students with emotional/behavioral disorders (EBD) depend on their principals’ support, yet prior research has not explored principals’ roles in supporting these programs. Using constructivist grounded theory methods, we analyzed interviews with five elementary school principals about their roles in supporting self-contained programs for students with EBD. Principals held widely varying conceptions of students with EBD, visions for their program, and understandings of their own roles and responsibilities for their programs; collectively, interactions among these gave rise to principals’ senses of agency, both for the program’s capacity to be a causal agent in promoting student growth and their own capacity, as leaders, to improve the program. Our findings indicate the centrality of principals’ conceptions of EBD for how they support self-contained programs for students with EBD, which has important implications for future research and practice regarding principal leadership for special education.
It Takes a Fool to Remain Sane: How and When HR Executives Use Jesting Techniques to Trickle Up Paradoxical Tensions
Authors: Sender Anna , Mormann Hannah
Published: March 2024

Human resource (HR) experts are continuously confronted with paradoxical tensions, which they need to navigate to benefit the HR function and the organization. Because the members of the top management team (TMT) are important stakeholders for the HR function, the HR executives’ effective navigation involves visibilizing paradoxes and trickling them up during interactions with the TMT. However, how HR executives (as low-powered organizational actors compared to their peers) visibilize tensions for TMT members is less understood from either the paradox literature or the HR scholarship perspectives. In this interview study, we use a court jester prompt as a narrative generator to explore HR executives’ reflections on using techniques to visibilize tensions within the overarching paradox of social and business interests. Our findings enrich the literature on paradox salience and provide examples of what we term jesting techniques on cognitive (e.g., exaggerating,), emotional (e.g., expressing feelings), and behavioral (e.g, reordering) levels.
Osteoporosis: The Brittle Reality of an Epilepsy Diagnosis
Authors: Agashe Shruti
Published: March 2024

[Box: see text]
Long-term treatment with lasmiditan in patients with migraine: post hoc analysis of treatment patterns and outcomes from the open-label extension of the CENTURION randomized trial
Authors: Komori Mika , Ozeki Akichika , Tanji Yuka , Kamiki Eriko , Krege John H. , Li Lily Qian , Suzuki Shiho , Shibata Mamoru , Takeshima Takao
Published: March 2024

Background

The objective of this analysis was to gain new insights into the patient characteristics and other factors associated with lasmiditan usage and clinical outcomes under conditions resembling the real-world setting.

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of data from the 12-month, open-label extension (OLE) of the phase 3, double-blind, randomized, controlled CENTURION trial, which examined the efficacy and safety of lasmiditan as acute treatment across four migraine attacks. Patients completing the main study who treated ≥ 3 attacks could continue in the OLE. The initial lasmiditan dose was 100 mg, with dose adjustments to 50 mg or 200 mg allowed at the investigator’s discretion. Patient and clinical characteristics were summarized by dosing pattern and completion status. Safety was assessed based on adverse event (AE) frequency by number of doses.

Results

In total, 445 patients treated ≥ 1 migraine attacks with lasmiditan during the OLE, 321 of whom (72.1%) completed the study. Forty-seven percent of patients remained on the 100-mg initial dose during the OLE whereas 20.2% used both 100 mg and 50 mg, 30.6% used both 100 mg and 200 mg, and 6 (1.3%) used multiple dose levels. All dosing patterns were associated with clinical and patient-reported improvement; however, the 100-mg group had the highest proportion of patients reporting improvement in the Patient Global Impression of Change – Migraine Headache Condition (56.5% vs 33.4%–52.2%). In comparison, all three groups that made dose adjustments had higher rates of completion compared to the 100-mg group (72.1%–83.3% vs 68.9%). The frequency of AEs decreased with continued use of lasmiditan. Concomitant triptans and lasmiditan use did not increase AE frequency.

Conclusions

Based on high persistence and patient satisfaction rates, the 100-mg dose appears optimal for most patients. For those who adjusted dose levels, dose adjustments appeared beneficial to improve efficacy or tolerability, retaining patients on treatment. Collectively, the data suggest that patients who experienced efficacy continued to use lasmiditan regardless of the occurrence or frequency of AEs, and continued use appeared associated with fewer AEs.

Trial registration

European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT): 2018–001661-17; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03670810; registration date: September 12, 2018.

Graphical Abstract
Automated content analysis as a tool to compare content in sexual selection research with examples of sexual selection in evolutionary biology textbooks: implications for teaching the nature of science
Authors: Jackson J. Kasi , Fuselier Linda , Eason Perri
Published: March 2024

Background

 We used college-level evolution textbooks to examine the presentation of sexual selection research—a field with ongoing debates related to sex, sexuality and gender identity. Many classic sexual selection concepts have been criticized for androcentrism and other forms of gender-sex bias, specifically for de-emphasizing the female role in reproductive behaviors and over-reliance on gender-sex binaries. These classic concepts are fundamentally captured in the idea that animal reproductive-related behaviors can be grouped in sex roles (e.g. competitive males and selective females). Recently developed alternative concepts provide a more nuanced understanding of the flexibility of sexual and reproductive-related behaviors, stemming in part from growing attention to a broader range of female behavior. To assess whether students are receiving content reflecting these insights, we measured the congruence between textbook content and the scientific literature, using insects as a case study because of the importance of this group in the development of sexual selection theory, its prevalence in current sexual selection research, and the number of insect examples included in textbooks. We first coded textbook content for sexual selection concepts. We used automated content analysis to analyze a database of citations, keywords and abstracts in sexual selection research published between 1990 and 2014, inclusive of the period covered by the textbooks.

Results

The textbooks and research literatures prioritized the same taxa (e.g., fruit flies) and sex roles as embodied in classic sexual selection theory. Both the research literature and some textbooks acknowledge androcentrism and other forms of gender-sex bias in classic sexual selection paradigms, especially competitive male and selective female sex roles. Yet, while the research literature included alternative models, textbooks neglected these alternatives, even when researchers had studied both classic and alternative views in the same insect.

Conclusions

 We recommend using this kind of analysis of textbook content to engage students in a conversation around the social factors that impact knowledge construction, a key part of the epistemological understanding they need for a robust grasp of the Nature of Science and of evolutionary theory.
Identification and functional analysis of the LEAFY gene in longan flower induction
Authors: Jue Dengwei , Li Zhexin , Zhang Wenlin , Tang Jianmin , Xie Ting , Sang Xuelian , Guo Qigao
Published: March 2024

Background

Flowering at the right time is a very important factor affecting the stable annual yield of longan. However, a lack of knowledge of the regulatory mechanism and key genes of longan flowering restricts healthy development of the longan industry. Therefore, identifying relevant genes and analysing their regulatory mechanism are essential for scientific research and longan industry development.

Results

DlLFY (Dimocarpus longan LEAFY) contains a 1167 bp open reading frame and encodes 388 amino acids. The amino acid sequence has a typical LFY/FLO family domain. DlLFY was expressed in all tissues tested, except for the leaf, pericarp, and pulp, with the highest expression occurring in flower buds. Expression of DlLFY was significantly upregulated at the early flower induction stage in “SX” (“Shixia”). The results of subcellular localization and transactivation analysis showed that DlLFY is a typical transcription factor acting as a transcriptional activator. Moreover, overexpression of DlLFY in Arabidopsis promoted early flowering and restrained growth, resulting in reduced plant height and rosette leaf number and area in transgenic plants. DNA affinity purification sequencing (DAP-Seq) analysis showed that 13 flower-related genes corresponding to five homologous genes of Arabidopsis may have binding sites and be putative target genes. Among these five flower-related genes, only AtTFL1 (terminal flower 1) was strongly inhibited in transgenic lines.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results indicate that DlLFY plays a pivotal role in controlling longan flowering, possibly by interacting with TFL1.
Pituitary transcriptome profile from laying period to incubation period of Changshun green-shell laying hens
Authors: Chen Zhi , Wen Di , Zhang Yan , Chen Jiaying , Pan Fengqian , Zhang Wen , Zhou Shuangshuang , Wang Fen , Mu Ren
Published: March 2024

Background

Incubation behaviour, an instinct for natural breeding in poultry, is strictly controlled by the central nervous system and multiple neuroendocrine hormones and neurotransmitters, and is closely associated with the cessation of egg laying. Therefore, it is essential for the commercial poultry industry to clarify the molecular regulation mechanism of incubation behaviour. Here, we used high-throughput sequencing technology to examine the pituitary transcriptome of Changshun green-shell laying hen, a local breed from Guizhou province, China, with strong broodiness, in two reproductive stages, including egg-laying phase (LP) and incubation phase (BP). We also analyze the differences in gene expression during the transition from egg-laying to incubation, and identify critical pathways and candidate genes involved in controlling the incubation behaviour in the pituitary.

Results

In this study, we demonstrated that a total of 2089 differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the pituitary, including 842 up-regulated and 1247 down-regulated genes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that steroid biosynthesis pathway and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction were significantly enriched based on DEGs commonly identified in pituitary. Further analysis revealed that SRC, ITGB4, ITGB3, PIK3R3 and DRD2 may play crucial roles in the regulation of incubation behaviour.

Conclusions

We identified 2089 DEGs and the key signaling pathways which may be closely correlated with incubation in Changshun green-shell laying hens, and clarified the molecular regulation mechanism of incubation behaviour. Our results indicate the complexity and variety of differences in reproductive behaviour of different chicken breeds.
Evaluation of therapeutic efficacy of Emustil drops for ocular discomfort and tear film osmolarity using different treatment management modes under dry environmental conditions
Authors: Abusharha Ali , Pearce E. Ian , Afsar Tayyaba , Razak Suhail
Published: March 2024

Background

We aimed to check the efficacy of Emustil (oil in water emulsion) drops on tear film index and ocular surface dynamics in dry environments through protection and relief treatment modalities.

Methods

The subjects were exposed to a dry environment using a Controlled Environment Chamber (CEC) where the relative humidity (RH) was 5% and the temperature was 21 °C and screened for ocular symptoms, tear osmolarity, ocular surface temperature (OST) and tear production using ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire (OSDI), OcuSense TearLab Osmometer, FLIR System ThermaCAM P620 and Schirmer strips/phenol red test respectively. Tear production was calculated by the Tear Function Index test (TFI).

Results

The mean tear film osmolarity decreased significantly from 296.8 mOsm/l at 40% RH to 291 mOsm/l at 5%. (p = 0.01). Instillation of Emustil resulted in a significant increase in tear osmolarity in the relief method compared with osmolarity seen at 5% RH when no drop was used. The mean PRT value decreased from 26 ± 9 in normal conditions (40% RH) to 22 ± 4 mm in dry conditions (5% RH). Emustil drops did not induce any significant change in tear production in the PRT test. No significant change was found in OST following exposure to 5% RH. OST did not show a statistically significant change with the emulsion when used for relief (p > 0.05). The mean score of ocular discomfort observed was 70 at 5% RH. Still, the instillation of the oil-in-water emulsion (Emustil) resulted in a noticeable decrease in visual discomfort to 37 (p = 0.00) in protection and 59 in relief (p = 0.05). Emustil drops substantially improved tear film parameters under a desiccating environment, however, tear film parameters respond differently to the management modalities. In the protection method, tear film osmolarity was protected against a dry environment, while in the relief mode, tear production was improved.

Conclusion

CEC allows for a thorough evaluation of tear film parameters and dry eye treatment protocols in labs, providing greater confidence when applying them to patients. In addition, our study showed that Emustil not only provides protection and relief for dry eyes but also helps to maintain ocular homeostasis in desiccating environments. This indicates a promising potential for improving dry eye treatment protocols.