bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mild endoplasmic reticulum stress alleviates FB1-triggered intestinal pyroptosis via the Sec62-PERK pathway
Authors: Ma Li , Li Zhengqing , Yue Dongmei , Qu Jie , Zhang Ping , Zhang Shuxia , Huang Kehe , Zou Yinuo , Wang Chunfeng , Chen Xingxiang
Published: May 2024

Fumonisin B1 (FB1), a water-soluble mycotoxin released by Fusarium moniliforme Sheld, is widely present in corn and its derivative products, and seriously endangers human life and health. Recent studies have reported that FB1 can lead to pyroptosis, however, the mechanisms by which FB1-induced pyroptosis remain indistinct. In the present study, we aim to investigate the mechanisms of pyroptosis in intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) and the relationship between FB1-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and pyroptosis. Our experimental results showed that the pyroptosis protein indicators in IPEC-J2 were significantly increased after exposure to FB1. The ERS markers, including glucose-regulated Protein 78 (GRP78), PKR-like ER kinase protein (PERK), and preprotein translocation factor (Sec62) were also significantly increased. Using small interfering RNA silencing of PERK or Sec62, the results demonstrated that upregulation of Sec62 activates the PERK pathway, and activation of the PERK signaling pathway is upstream of FB1-induced pyroptosis. After using the ERS inhibitor 4-PBA reduced the FB1-triggered intestinal injury by the Sec62-PERK pathway. In conclusion, we found that FB1 induced pyroptosis by upregulating Sec62 to activate the PERK pathway, and mild ERS alleviates FB1-triggered damage. It all boils down to one fact, the study provides a new perspective for further, and improving the toxicological mechanism of FB1.

Graphical Abstract
Serum neurofilament light chain as a prognostic marker of all-cause mortality in a national sample of US adults
Authors: Beydoun May A. , Noren Hooten Nicole , Georgescu Michael F. , Beydoun Hind A. , Eid Shaker M. , Fanelli-Kuczmarski Marie T. , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: May 2024

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a neuron-specific structural protein released into the extracellular space, including body fluids, upon neuroaxonal damage. Despite evidence of a link in neurological disorders, few studies have examined the association of serum NfL with mortality in population-based studies. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey were utilized including 2,071 Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic adult participants and adult participants of other ethnic groups (20–85 years) with serum NfL measurements who were followed for ≤ 6 years till 2019. We tested the association of serum NfL with mortality in the overall population and stratified by sex with the addition of potential interactive and mediating effects of cardio-metabolic risk factors and nutritional biomarkers. Elevated serum NfL levels (above median group) were associated with mortality risk compared to the below median NfL group in the overall sample (P = 0.010), with trends observed within each sex group (P < 0.10). When examining Loge NfL as a continuum, one standard deviation of Loge NfL was associated with an increased mortality risk (HR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.60–2.20, P < 0.001) in the reduced model adjusted for age, sex, race, and poverty income ratio; a finding only slightly attenuated with the adjustment of lifestyle and health-related factors. Four-way decomposition indicated that there was, among others, mediated interaction between NfL and HbA1c and a pure inconsistent mediation with 25(OH)D3 in predicting all-cause mortality, in models adjusted for all other covariates. Furthermore, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio interacted synergistically with NfL in relation to mortality risk both on the additive and multiplicative scales. These data indicate that elevated serum NfL levels were associated with all-cause mortality in a nationally representative sample of US adults.
A machine learning framework for interpretable predictions in patient pathways: The case of predicting ICU admission for patients with symptoms of sepsis
Authors: Zilker Sandra , Weinzierl Sven , Kraus Mathias , Zschech Patrick , Matzner Martin
Published: May 2024

Proactive analysis of patient pathways helps healthcare providers anticipate treatment-related risks, identify outcomes, and allocate resources. Machine learning (ML) can leverage a patient’s complete health history to make informed decisions about future events. However, previous work has mostly relied on so-called black-box models, which are unintelligible to humans, making it difficult for clinicians to apply such models. Our work introduces PatWay-Net, an ML framework designed for interpretable predictions of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) for patients with symptoms of sepsis. We propose a novel type of recurrent neural network and combine it with multi-layer perceptrons to process the patient pathways and produce predictive yet interpretable results. We demonstrate its utility through a comprehensive dashboard that visualizes patient health trajectories, predictive outcomes, and associated risks. Our evaluation includes both predictive performance – where PatWay-Net outperforms standard models such as decision trees, random forests, and gradient-boosted decision trees – and clinical utility, validated through structured interviews with clinicians. By providing improved predictive accuracy along with interpretable and actionable insights, PatWay-Net serves as a valuable tool for healthcare decision support in the critical case of patients with symptoms of sepsis.
Informal and formal long-term care utilization and unmet needs in Europe: examining socioeconomic disparities and the role of social policies for older adults
Authors: Szenkurök Viktoria , Weber Daniela , Bilger Marcel
Published: May 2024

The rising number of older adults with limitations in their daily activities has major implications for the demands placed on long-term care (LTC) systems across Europe. Recognizing that demand can be both constrained and encouraged by individual and country-specific factors, this study explains the uptake of home-based long-term care in 18 European countries with LTC policies and pension generosity along with individual factors such as socioeconomic status. Using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe conducted in 2019, we apply a two-part multilevel model to assess if disparities in use of LTC are driven by disparities in needs or disparities in use of care when in need. While individual characteristics largely affect the use of care through its association with disparities in need, country-level characteristics are important for the use of care when in need. In particular, the better health of wealthier and more educated individuals makes them less likely to use any type of home-based personal care. At the country level, results show that the absence of a means-tested benefit scheme and the availability of cash-for-care benefits (as opposed to in-kind) are strongly associated with the use of formal care, whether it is mixed (with informal care) or exclusive. LTC policies are, however, shown to be insufficient to significantly reduce unmet needs for personal care. Conversely, generous pensions are significantly associated with lower unmet needs, underscoring the importance of considering the likely adverse effects of future pension reforms.
“This Wall Does More for Mental Health than the Uni Does”: Theorising Toilet Graffiti as Safe House for Students
Authors: Victoria Mabel
Published: May 2024

Despite sometimes being considered unworthy of scholarly attention, the study of toilet graffiti, also known as latrinalia, has nevertheless garnered increasing interest among researchers. Graffiti writing still suffers from the stigma of being associated with transgression, vandalism, and a deviant subculture. However, findings from this study show that writing on the restroom wall can facilitate a unique form of communication among the writers. Drawing from semiotic linguistic landscaping and serendipity as methodological inspiration, this research explores data collected from a women's restroom at a UK university over a ten-month period. It examines how restroom users utilized the graffiti-covered wall as a safe house and a repository for their anxieties and concerns. The findings illustrate a palpable emotional connection to this specific wall, where writers seek and offer advice, share personal struggles, and provide mutual support to the extent that they see it as contributing more to their mental health than the university does. Through an analysis of the conversational threads present in the graffiti, this study underscores the potential for examining latrinalia within educational institutions to gain valuable and meaningful insights into the student body. The main implication is for educators to consider innovative, non-traditional ways of reaching out to students outside of the formal spaces of learning such as classrooms and libraries. This study, therefore, encourages us to reconsider toilet graffiti as potentially offering an additional or supplementary communication platform for individuals who might otherwise lack the confidence to express themselves openly through traditional means of soliciting feedback.
The characterization of functional conduction block in patients with multiple types of atrial tachycardia- A discussion on the mechanism of multiple atrial tachycardia
Authors: Zhu Bin , Zhang GuoHua , Xie SongCai , Luan Ying , Cao Wei , Xu Jian , Zhang Shuo , Tian JinWei , Wang Fan , Li ShuFeng
Published: May 2024

Background

High-resolution mapping offers superior accuracy in delineating conduction features; however, certain characteristics are still linked to elevated recurrence rates of atrial tachycardia (AT), suggesting the influence of additional mechanisms. This study systematically assessed the substrate of functional conduction block (FCB) regions in relation to the mechanisms of multiple ATs.

Methods

In this study, the Carto system facilitated the mapping of ATs in 13 patients undergoing ablation, each presenting with more than two AT variants. FCB regions were marked and further analyzed.

Results

A total of 33 sustained ATs were mapped across the patient cohort. FCB regions showed convertibility in 7 of 13 patients (54%). Three kinds of presentations can be summarized by the FCB region: Firstly, the FCB region could act as the main obstacle sustaining the localized reentrant pathway, for which rounding obviously has a direct correlation with the mechanism of the AT (27%). Secondly, the FCB regions could act as obstacle lines to reorganize the propagation of the reentry in localized AT and macroreentrant AT (55%). Lastly, the FCB region could act as a bystander and may not be related to the mechanism of the ATs (18%). The potentials in FCB regions mostly performed low voltages or fragmented potentials (FPs) in the ATs which they did not perform the conduction block (90%).

Conclusion

In multiple ATs, FCB regions may not be uncommon. The participation of FCB regions in the mechanism of ATs showed three different kinds of performance. The dynamic nature of this substrate may provide insight into the reasons for the high recurrence of related ATs.
Patient Information Needs and Decision-Making Before a Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device: A Qualitative Study Utilizing Social Media Data
Authors: Nicmanis Mitchell , Holmes Joshua , Oxlad Melissa , Chur-Hansen Anna
Published: May 2024

The decision to receive a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) represents a challenging experience for patients. However, the majority of previous research has only considered retrospective accounts of patient experiences. This study aimed to use social media data to characterize the information sought by people anticipating or considering CIED implantation and factors that influence their decision-making experiences. A Python-based script was used to collect posts made to a community intended for discussions concerning CIEDs on the social media platform Reddit. Reflexive content analysis was used to analyze the collected data. From 799 posts collected, 101 made by 86 participants were analyzed. The reported median (range) age of participants was 34 (16–67), and most were anticipating or considering a pacemaker. Three overarching categories classified the data: “Use of social media to meet informational and other needs”; “Factors influencing acceptance of the need for implantation”; and “Specific concerns considered during decision-making.” Participants anticipating or considering a CIED predominantly sought experiential information. Among asymptomatic participants, doubts were prevalent, with acceptance being an influential factor in decision-making. Healthcare professionals should recognize the informational and emotional needs of prospective CIED patients and tailor support mechanisms to better facilitate their decision-making.
Modeling of low Mach number unsteady turbulent pipe flows
Authors: Di Nucci Carmine , Michele Simone , Di Risio Marcello
Published: May 2024

Under adiabatic conditions, and neglecting temperature variations due to entropy production, we present a set of Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations for fluids of low compressibility, i.e., fluids in the liquid state. In the low Mach number limit, we specialize the RANS equations to the one-dimensional unsteady pipe flow, and we deduce the dimensionless number that plays a predominant role in the flow behavior. We reduce the system of equations to a linear damped wave equation, and use its analytical solution to investigate the propagation of large amplitude pressure waves in liquid-filled pipes (water hammer phenomenon). We test the model reliability by comparing the analytical solution of the proposed model against experimental data available in the literature.
Enhanced collapsible linear blocks for arbitrary sized image super-resolution
Authors: Soma Prathap , Yang Xiaosong , Chang Jian , Zhang Jian Jun
Published: May 2024

Image up-scaling and super-resolution (SR) techniques have been a hot research topic for many years due to its large impact in the field of medical imaging, surveillance etc. Especially single image super-resolution (SISR) become very popular because of the fast development of deep convolution neural network (DCNN) and the low requirement on the input. They are achieving outstanding performance. However, there are still problems in the state-of-the-art works, especially from two perspectives: 1. failed at exploiting the hierarchical characteristics from the input, resulting in loss of information and artifacts in the final high resolution (HR) image; 2. failed to handle arbitrary-sized images; the existing research works are focused on fixed size input images. To address these challenges, this paper proposed a residual dense network (RDN) and multi-scale sub-pixel convolution network (MSSPCN) which are integrated into a Collapsible Linear Block Super Efficient Super-Resolution (SESR) network. The RDNs aims to tackle the first challenge, carrying the hierarchical features from end-to-end. An adaptive cropping strategy (ACS) technique is introduced before feature extraction targeting at the image size challenge. The novelty of this work is extracting the hierarchical features and integrating RDNs with MSSPCNs. The proposed network can upscale any arbitrary-sized image (1080p) to ×2 (4K) and ×4 (8K). To secure ground truth for evaluation, this paper follows the opposite flow, generating the input LR images by down-sampling the given HR images (ground truth). To evaluate the performance, the proposed algorithm is compared with eight state-of-the-art algorithms, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The results are verified on six benchmark datasets. The extensive experiments justify that the proposed architecture performs better than other methods and upscales the images satisfactorily.
Compression of electrocardiogram signals using compressive sensing technique based on curvelet transform toward medical applications
Authors: Hassan Ashraf Mohamed Ali , Mohsen Saeed
Published: May 2024

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signals can be monitored from many patients based on healthcare systems. To enhance these systems, the ECG signals should be collected and then stored in a cloud platform for later analysis. Hence, ECG signals can be utilized to diagnose heart diseases. However, the ECG signals require great internet capacity. So, compression techniques can be implemented to reduce a memory storage capacity for these signals. One of the potential compression techniques is the compressive sensing (CS). This paper proposes a CS technique to compress ECG signals. This technique is used to reduce sampling rates of the ECG signals to be less than the Nyquist rate. Moreover, a framework is suggested for the compression of maternal and fetal ECG signals. The compression of these signals is based on the curvelet transform (CT) to produce sparsity in ECG signals. The MIT-BIH database are utilized for testing the ECG signals. This database includes several ECG signals with various sampling rates, such as aberrant and normal signals. The proposed CS technique achieved a compression ratio (CR) of 15.7 with an accuracy of 98.2%. Also, a percentage root mean difference (PRD) is utilized to calculate the performance of the reconstructed ECG signals. The achieved value of the PRD is 2.0.
Pattern Control of Neural Networks with Two-Dimensional Diffusion and Mixed Delays
Authors: Luan Yifeng , Xiao Min , Yang Xinsong , Du Xiangyu , Ding Jie , Cao Jinde
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a two-neuron reaction–diffusion neural network with discrete and distributed delays is proposed, and the state feedback control strategy is adopted to achieve control of its spatiotemporal dynamical behaviours. Adding two virtual neurons, the original system is transformed into a neural network only containing the discrete delay. The conditions under which Hopf bifurcation and Turing instability arise are determined through analysis of the characteristic equation. Additionally, the amplitude equations are derived with the aid of weakly nonlinear analysis, and the selection of the Turing patterns is determined. The simulation results demonstrate that the state feedback controller can delay the onset of Hopf bifurcation and suppress the generation of Turing patterns.
Silicon-based ultra-broadband mid-IR and LWIR near-perfect metamaterial absorber
Authors: Abouelez Ahmed Elsayed , Eldiwany Essam A. , Swillam Mohamed A.
Published: May 2024

Ultra-broadband metamaterial absorbers (UBMAs) that are compatible with CMOS technology for use in the mid-infrared and long-wave infrared regions are crucial for a variety of applications, including radiative cooling, thermal photovoltaic, and thermal imaging. In this regard, we propose, in this work, a design of an UBMA based on the heavily doped silicon (D-Si) and silicon carbide (SiC). The 3D finite-difference time-domain method is used, mainly, to numerically calculate the optical characteristics of the proposed UBMA. The absorber, which is made up of a periodic array of symmetrical multilayered square rings of D-Si and SiC, achieves high absorption with an average absorption of 95% over a wavelength range of 2.5–22 µm. This broad range of wavelength absorption is attained, encompassing the mid-, long-wave, and partial far-infrared regions. In addition to the materials' inherent absorption, the stimulation of magnetic polaritons, surface plasmon polaritons, localized surface plasmon resonance, and cavity resonance are responsible for the nearly perfect broadband absorption. Under normal incidence, the proposed UBMA is polarization-independent due to the symmetrical design of the absorber. Furthermore, the impact of the incidence angle on the absorption of transverse electric and transverse magnetic waves is examined.
Ectomycorrhizal communities of adult and young European larch are diverse and dynamics at high altitudinal sites
Authors: Mandolini Edoardo , Bacher Margit , Peintner Ursula
Published: May 2024

Background/Aims

The European larch is a pioneer tree and a valuable economic resource in subalpine ecosystems, thus playing crucial roles to ecosystem services and human activities. However, their ectomycorrhizal fungal community remains unknown in high altitudinal natural habitats. Here, we explore the mycobiont diversity of Larix decidua var. decidua between naturally rejuvenated and adult trees, compare ectomycorrhizal colonization patterns in geographically disjunct areas within the Alps of South Tyrol, Italy, characterized by distinct climatic conditions, and explore turnover rates across various seasons.

Methods

Our approach combines morphotyping of mycorrhized root tips with molecular analysis. Particular effort was given to monitor both ectomycorrhizal host-specialist and -generalist fungi.

Results

Both adult and young trees show a 100% mycorrhization rate, with a total diversity of 68 ectomycorrhizal species. The ectomycorrhizal composition is dominated by typical host specialists of larch trees (e.g., Lactarius porninsis, Russula laricina, Suillus cavipes, S. grevillei, S. viscidus), which are widely distributed across sites. A rich diversity of host generalists was also detected. The composition of rare species within a habitat was comparatively consistent during one sampling campaign, but exhibited significant differences among individual sampling campaigns. The ectomycorrhizal compositions were only weakly correlated with distinct climatic conditions and tree ages. However, species richness and diversity, particularly of generalist fungi, was consistently higher in warmer, drier sites compared to cooler, more humid ones.

Conclusions

This study suggests potential mycobiont community shifts across climatic conditions with significant implications for the adaptability and resilience of subalpine forests in the face of climate change.
Exploring the potential of root-associated bacteria to control an outbreak weed
Authors: Liu Xiangyu , Vrieling Klaas , Gomes Sofia I. F. , Ossowicki Adam , Lommen Suzanne T. E. , van der Drift Matthijs C. H. , Zwart Froukje A. , Ekas Lennert Sake , de Sousa Tiago X. Mascarenhas , Erol Özlem , Bezemer T. Martijn
Published: May 2024

Aims

The spread of invasive weeds threatens biodiversity and stability of ecosystems. Jacobaea vulgaris is an invasive weed in some countries and an outbreak species in its native European range. Although biological control using specialist herbivores is available, controlling with soil microorganisms remains far less explored.

Methods

Twenty bacteria strains isolated from roots of J. vulgaris were used to examine bacterial effects on seed germination, root morphology and early plant growth. Moreover, we tested direct effects of the bacteria on a specialist herbivore of J. vulgaris, the leaf chewing caterpillar (Tyria jacobaeae), commonly used in biocontrol. We also tested indirect effects of bacteria, via the plant, on the performance of T. jacobaeae and the aphid species Aphis jacobaeae. Lastly, we examined the host specificity of two tested bacteria on three other forbs.

Results

Two Gammaproteobacteria, Pseudomonas brassicacearum and Serratia plymuthica, significantly reduced root growth of seedlings in-vitro, while seed germination was unaffected. However, these negative effects were observed across other forb species as well. Bacillus spp. injection led to the highest T. jacobaeae caterpillar mortality, while ingestion had no effect. Inoculation of the plants with bacteria did not affect aphid performance, but significantly affected T. jacobaeae preference. Specifically, P. syringae and one Bacillus sp. strain significantly increased T. jacobaeae preference.

Conclusions

Our results show that two root-associated bacteria inhibit J. vulgaris growth, but their lack of host specificity restricts their potential for biocontrol. Our study also highlights that belowground microorganisms can hamper or enhance the performance of aboveground insects.
Removal of beryllium (Be2+) from aqueous solution by 5-sulfosalicylic acid-loaded anion-exchange resin
Authors: Dündar Ozan Ali , Arar Özgür
Published: May 2024

This study presents the preparation and application of a 5-sulfosalicylic acid-loaded anion-exchange resin to remove Be2+from aqueous solutions. Optimization efforts focused on critical parameters, including resin dosage, initial solution pH, and the influence of interfering ions. Results indicate an optimal resin dose of 0.3 g and a working pH of ≥ 4.0 for maximal Be2+removal efficiency. Kinetic analysis reveals rapid removal kinetics, with 99% removal achieved within 45 min. Notably, the resin exhibits remarkable selectivity, maintaining consistent removal rates for Be2+even in the presence of common interfering ions such as Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Fe2+. Sorption isotherms fitting the Langmuir model further support the resin's effectiveness in Be2+removal. Thermodynamic evaluation suggests the removal process is spontaneous (∆G° < 0) and endothermic (∆H° > 0), indicating favorable energetics. Crucially, the Be-loaded resin is easily regenerated using 0.1 M HCl, enhancing its practical applicability. These results highlight the effectiveness and potency of the prepared resin in Be2+removal, suggesting promising solutions for addressing environmental contamination.
Non-oxidative ethane dehydrogenation reaction over molybdenum and chromium incorporated MgO encapsulated carbon-core catalysts in microwave reactor
Authors: Karaman Birce Pekmezci , Ekinci Emine Kaya
Published: May 2024

Chromium and molybdenum incorporated MgO and MgO–C catalysts were synthesized for hydrogen production from a non-oxidative ethane dehydration reaction. Hydrogen production studies were carried out using a microwave-heated reactor system. The study investigated the effects of reaction temperature, type of active metal, and catalyst preparation method (physical mixture or core–shell structure) on hydrogen selectivity and ethane conversion during dehydrogenation reactions. The results showed that the optimal reaction temperature for the non-oxidative ethane dehydration reaction was 450 °C. Above this temperature, the selectivity of undesired byproducts increased. Catalysts containing molybdenum exhibited higher ethane conversion. Moreover, a comparison of MgO–C-supported catalysts with MgO-supported catalysts revealed that the core–shell catalysts exhibited superior ethane conversion. Notably, the 5Mo@MgO–C catalyst demonstrated exceptional catalytic activity, achieving a high ethane conversion rate of 72% along with excellent stability.
Embracing ambivalence as the key to promoting tree diversities as nature-based solutions in European cities
Authors: Haase Dagmar , Dushkova Diana
Published: May 2024

Urban trees are recognised worldwide as one of the most sustainable and effective nature-based solutions to combat the effects of climate change and improve the quality of life for city dwellers by cooling the air, absorbing pollutants and damping noise. Along with protection from flooding and soil retention/restoration, trees also symbolise beauty, aesthetic quality, and orientation in urban spaces. Nevertheless, the relationship between street/park trees and urban society is highly ambivalent when it comes to pollen emissions and allergies, but also due to clearing space for new housing, road extensions, or parking places, which is accepted by large sections of urban society. In addition, climate change in itself is a major challenge to urban trees, as they suffer from drought and are increasingly attacked by pests. Urban planners and community partnerships have already developed a range of strategies (from more expert-led approaches to participatory co-design and actions) to maintain, increase, and diversify tree cover. They have also created new habitats and at the same time caused competition for space in the city, where every square centimetre is fought over. Using the case studies from Central and Eastern Europe and also considering the examples from Northern America and Asia, this commentary highlights the ambivalent relationship between humans and nature in regard to urban trees. It also demonstrates that the acceptance of this ambivalence can be a key to the conservation and maintenance of urban biodiversity through the involvement of different stakeholders including citizens.
Deletion of Nrf2 induced severe oxidative stress and apoptosis in mice model of diabetic bladder dysfunction
Authors: Wang Lei , Sun Weiaho , Ren Guanyu , Sun Yi , Xu Cheng , Song Qixiang , Zhang Xinhui , Yang Chenghua , Liu Zhiyong
Published: May 2024

The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway has been confirmed as a therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), however few studies revealed its effect in diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD). Herein, we reported a Nrf2 deletion diabetic mouse model induced by 8-week high-fat diet feeding combined with streptozocin (STZ) injection in Nrf2 knockout mice. Besides, wild-type mice (WT) were used as control group, wild-type mice with high-fat diet feeding and STZ injection as diabetic group (WT-T2DM), and Nrf2 knockout mice as Nrf2 deletion group (KO). The pathophysiological indexes and bladder morphology showed typical pathological features of diabetic bladder dysfunction in Nrf2 knockout diabetic mouse mice (KO-T2DM). ELISA results showed that advanced glycation end products (AGEs), ROS and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in bladder was were up-regulated in both WT-T2DM and KO-T2DM group, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels decreased in these two groups. Compared with WT-T2DM group, western blot analysis of the bladder showed down-regulated expression of NQO1 and HO-1 in KO-T2DM group. However, apoptosis, marked by Caspase3 and bax/bcl-2 ratio, was increased in KO-T2DM group. Neurotrophic factor (NGF) was significantly decreased in DBD model, and even much lower in KO-T2DM group. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that deletion of Nrf2 lead to severe oxidative stress, apoptosis, and lower level of neurotrophic factor, and provided the first set of experimental evidence, in a mouse model, to support Nrf2 as a promising target for DBD.
Multicountry Time-Varying Taylor Rule: Modeling Unconventional Monetary Policies and Bond Premiums
Authors: Morita Tohru
Published: May 2024

In the post-financial-crisis era, advanced economies have increasingly adopted unconventional monetary policies such as zero interest rate policy, negative interest rate policy, forward guidance communication, and international coordination policies. Consequently, the traditional Taylor rule has lost some of its explanatory power. This analysis extends the Taylor rule from a single-country to a multicountry analysis using cross-country panel data, incorporating nonmacro factors and stationary correlation in the diffusion matrix for a dynamic factor analysis, specifically covering the Group of Seven countries with datasets compiled by Bloomberg L.P. for the period 1999–2022. This approach comprehensively models these unconventional monetary policies, demonstrating greater statistical validity than existing models. Notably, the model extracts the impact of zero interest rate policy and negative interest rate policy as nonmacro factors and presents the high correlation of residuals as indicative of international coordination among central banks. Additionally, by interpreting the discrepancy between the Taylor rule and actual rate as unintended interest rate fluctuations by central banks, the study posits that interest rates will eventually return to the central bank’s intended fair value. The model’s estimation errors could be treated akin to bond value factors in global risk premia.
Lipidomics random forest algorithm of seminal plasma is a promising method for enhancing the diagnosis of necrozoospermia
Authors: Deng Tianqin , Wang Wanxue , Fu Zhihong , Xie Yuli , Zhou Yonghong , Pu Jiangbo , Chen Kexin , Yao Bing , Li Xuemei , Yao Jilong
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite the clear clinical diagnostic criteria for necrozoospermia in andrology, the fundamental mechanisms underlying it remain elusive. This study aims to profile the lipid composition in seminal plasma systematically and to ascertain the potential of lipid biomarkers in the accurate diagnosis of necrozoospermia. It also evaluates the efficacy of a lipidomics-based random forest algorithm model in identifying necrozoospermia.

Methods

Seminal plasma samples were collected from patients diagnosed with necrozoospermia (n = 28) and normozoospermia (n = 28). Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) was used to perform lipidomic analysis and identify the underlying biomarkers. A lipid functional enrichment analysis was conducted using the LION lipid ontology database. The top 100 differentially significant lipids were subjected to lipid biomarker examination through random forest machine learning model.

Results

Lipidomic analysis identified 46 lipid classes comprising 1267 lipid metabolites in seminal plasma. The top five enriched lipid functions as follows: fatty acid (FA) with ≤ 18 carbons, FA with 16–18 carbons, monounsaturated FA, FA with 18 carbons, and FA with 16 carbons. The top 100 differentially significant lipids were subjected to machine learning analysis and identified 20 feature lipids. The random forest model identified lipids with an area under the curve > 0.8, including LPE(20:4) and TG(4:0_14:1_16:0).

Conclusions

LPE(20:4) and TG(4:0_14:1_16:0), were identified as differential lipids for necrozoospermia. Seminal plasma lipidomic analysis could provide valuable biochemical information for the diagnosis of necrozoospermia, and its combination with conventional sperm analysis may improve the accuracy and reliability of the diagnosis.
Reviewing neonicotinoid detection with electroanalytical methods
Authors: Barton Bartłomiej , Ullah Nabi , Koszelska Kamila , Smarzewska Sylwia , Ciesielski Witold , Guziejewski Dariusz
Published: May 2024

Neonicotinoids, as the fastest-growing class of insecticides, currently account for over 25% of the global pesticide market. Their effectiveness in controlling a wide range of pests that pose a threat to croplands, home yards/gardens, and golf course greens cannot be denied. However, the extensive use of neonicotinoids has resulted in significant declines in nontarget organisms such as pollinators, insects, and birds. Furthermore, the potential chronic, sublethal effects of these compounds on human health remain largely unknown. To address these pressing issues, it is crucial to explore and understand the capabilities of electrochemical sensors in detecting neonicotinoid residues. Surprisingly, despite the increasing importance of this topic, no comprehensive review article currently exists in the literature. Therefore, our proposed review aims to bridge this gap by providing a thorough analysis of the use of electrochemical methods for neonicotinoid determination. In this review article, we will delve into various aspects of electrochemical analysis, including the influence of electrode materials, employed techniques, and the different types of electrode mechanisms utilized. By synthesizing and analysing the existing research in this field, our review will offer valuable insights and guidance to researchers, scientists, and policymakers alike.
Zeolites synthesis from phyllosilicates and their performance for CO2 adsorption
Authors: Essih Salima , Vilarrasa-García Enrique , Azevedo Diana Cristina Silva , Ballesteros-Plata Daniel , Barroso-Martín Isabel , Infantes-Molina Antonia , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique , Franco Francisco , Cecilia Juan Antonio
Published: May 2024

Five phyllosilicates (kaolinite, montmorillonite, saponite, sepiolite and palygorskite) have been selected as starting materials for the synthesis of zeolites. Among them, kaolinite and montmorillonite display the lowest Si/Al molar ratio leading to aluminosilicates with high crystallinity. Thus, the hydrothermal treatment under basic conditions forms 4A zeolite when kaolinite is used as starting material while 13X zeolite is obtained when montmorillonite is used as starting material. The microporosity and CO2-adsorption capacity of the prepared zeolites are directly related to its crystallinity. Thus, in order to improve it, raw phyllosilicates were subjected to a microwave-assisted treatment to remove undesired Mg or Fe-species, which have a negative effect in the assembling of the zeolites by hydrothermal basic conditions in a second step. The highest adsorption value was 3.85 mmol/g at 25 °C and 760 mm of Hg for Mont-A-B sample after the consecutive treatments.
Teachers’ trajectories of technology integration during participation in an online professional development program
Authors: Fütterer Tim , Backfisch Iris , Lachner Andreas
Published: May 2024

Technology-related professional development (PD) is a crucial strategy to prepare and encourage teachers to integrate technology into their teaching in a high-quality way. During teachers’ participation in technology-related PD, change processes occur from a current to a desired status of technology-enhanced teaching (TET). A higher probability of disruption of TET can be assumed during these change processes. However, previous research on PD is mainly based on cross-sectional data that does not provide insight into such change processes (especially during PD participation). In this study, we examined teachers’ trajectories closely during their participation in a 3-month technology-related online PD (OPD). We conducted a concurrent explanatory mixed-methods approach to analyze longitudinal data from the first four weeks of the OPD, focusing on 23 teachers who completed weekly reflection diaries. Findings from a multilevel framework revealed that most of the variances in the development of teachers’ technology integration (i.e., frequency and quality) and motivation to use technology for teaching (i.e., self-efficacy and utility value) was due to contextual factors. Using linear mixed-effects models, we found a statistically significant decrease in teachers’ quality of TET over time. Analyses of reflections on TET of extreme cases allowed us to identify possible relevant contextual characteristics related to smoother TET: 1) the use of one generic technology across lessons and 2) the use of ready-to-use domain-specific technology. Implications for practice are discussed, such as attention to unintended side effects of teachers’ TET during instructional phases of technology-related OPD.
ORF, an operational framework to measure resilience in social–ecological systems: the forest case study
Authors: Lloret Francisco , Hurtado Pilar , Espelta Josep Maria , Jaime Luciana , Nikinmaa Laura , Lindner Marcus , Martínez-Vilalta Jordi
Published: May 2024

Resilience is commonly addressed when dealing with the sustainable planning and management of social–ecological systems, but we lack a unified framework for its quantitative assessment and application. We present an operational resilience framework (ORF) based on recognizing and relating several elements: system variables (e.g., ecosystem services), disturbances and stressors acting at given spatiotemporal scales, a reference state, and metrics comparing the observed system variables to the reference state. These elements fit into a rationale aimed at identifying resilience predictors suitable to be managed and co-drivers which describe non-manageable context, reflecting the mechanisms involved in resilience. By a systematic search of the presence of the ORF concepts in 453 empirical studies assessing resilience, we corroborate that ORF can be applied to studies on forest social–ecological systems. This literature survey shows that ORF elements are commonly recognized, although the logical narrative relating them is not always explicit, particularly in socioeconomic-focused studies. We advocate that the proposed ORF allows to standardize the terminology and to frame and measure resilience, allowing sounder comparisons and better-supported recommendations for the improvement of resilience in social–ecological systems, particularly in forest systems.
Distinguishing Turkish pine honey from multi-floral honey through MALDI-MS-based N-glycomics and machine learning
Authors: Masri Saad , Aksoy Sena , Duman Hatice , Karav Sercan , Kayili Haci Mehmet , Salih Bekir
Published: May 2024

Honey, a multifaceted blend of sugars, amino acids, vitamins, proteins, and minerals, exhibits compositional variability dependent upon the floral source. While previous studies have attempted to categorize honey, the use of glycomic profiles for honey classification remains an unexplored avenue. This investigation seeks to establish a methodology for distinguishing honey types, specifically multi-floral and pine honey, employing mass spectrometry-based glycomic analysis in tandem with machine learning. In this search, seven samples of pine honey and eight samples of multi-floral honey were obtained from diverse regions of Turkey. Subsequently, the proteins within these honey samples were extracted, and glycans were enzymatically released. The released glycans were labeled with 2-aminobenzoic acid (2-AA) and subjected to analysis via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). The glycan profiles of pine and multi-floral honey were determined through these analytical procedures, revealing a total of 76 distinct N-glycan structures. Among these, 13 N-glycan profiles consistently established at high levels across experimental replicates and were incorporated in subsequent analyses. Following the quantification of individual glycan abundances, statistically significant differences in glycan profiles were determined. Notably, N-glycans Hex5HexNAc2, Hex4HexNAc3, and Hex5HexNAc3 displayed considerable differences. Using the 13 N-glycan profiles, an accuracy rate of 93.5% was obtained from machine learning analysis, which increased to 100% when incorporating the identified significantly changed glycans. The most productive models were identified as “subspace and fine k-nearest neighbors (KNN).” The findings underscore the potential of mass spectrometry-based glycomics in conjunction with machine learning as a robust tool for precise honey type classification and its prospective utility in quality control and honey product authentication.
Perioperative Cannabis Use in Bariatric Patients: A Review of Outcomes and Proposed Clinical Pathway for Management
Authors: Maceyko Meghan H. , Neff Marc , Halevy Jonathan , Dunham Marguerite
Published: May 2024

Legalization of marijuana has led to increased prevalence of medical and recreational cannabis use, underscoring the importance for anesthesiologists, surgeons, and perioperative physicians to understand the effects of this drug in patient care. Bariatric surgical patients represent a unique target population to understand peri-operative cannabis use and its effects as these patients undergo an extensive preoperative psychological and nutritional evaluation. Standardized guidelines on cannabis use in bariatric surgery are lacking and many clinicians remain uncertain on how to handle cannabis use in the peri-operative period. Here, we summarize the data on cannabis use in bariatric patients, specifically exploring anesthetic considerations, weight loss, complications, mortality, and psychiatric outcomes. We propose a clinical pathway to assist clinicians with perioperative decision making in bariatric patients who use marijuana.
Development of the edible Tenebrio molitor at different temperatures: a Poisson log-linear regression modeling approach
Authors: Kavallieratos Nickolas G. , Skourti Anna , Nika Erifili P. , Malesios Chrisovalantis
Published: May 2024

Tenebrio molitor gained recognition for its nutritional value for human and/or animal consumption, its utilization as a model species in research studies, and its ability to degrade many types of plastics. However, it is a stored-product pest infesting a wide range of commodities in storages. The impact of temperature on the development of T. molitor was evaluated, taking into account confounding effects of other covariates such as developmental stage and larval instar. The time for larval development was longer at 22.5 °C than at 25 °C, 27.5 °C, and 30 °C. Tenebrio molitor spent most of its lifetime as larva > egg, pupa, since the outcome of our model inference resulted that the estimated probability of longer duration in larvae is approximately 25.5 times higher compared to eggs and pupae, and passed through 26 instars before it became pupa. Duration of larval instars increased significantly up to L22 and then decreased until L26. Among larval instars, L22 exhibited the highest developmental duration while the lowest was recorded for L1. These findings enhance the knowledge about the biology of T. molitor, leading to precise decisions for its successful culture.
Und jetzt noch eine Geschichte… – Pilotstudie zur Veränderung schlafbezogener Ängste von Kindern durch das Vorlesen von Bilderbüchern
Authors: Mühr Yvonne , Teichmüller Karolin , Trübner Louisa , Quante Mirja , Kübler Andrea , Schlarb Angelika A.
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Schlafschwierigkeiten im Kindesalter sind weit verbreitet. Etwa zwei Drittel aller Kinder und Jugendlichen erleben im Laufe ihres Heranwachsens belastende schlafbezogene Ängste. Dies allein ist keine Diagnose, hat jedoch weitreichende Folgen, da sich die Prävalenz für Folgestörungen wie beispielsweise Angststörungen und Insomnie erhöht.

Einzelfallstudien haben ergeben, dass bereits kurze bibliotherapeutische Interventionsprogramme von wenigen Wochen Veränderungen im Angsterleben und problematischen Zubettgehverhalten bewirken können. Bilderbücher sind, vor allem für jüngere Kinder, bei denen schlafbezogene Ängste besonders häufig auftreten, eine frühe, risikoarme und kosteneffektive Hilfe bei der Bewältigung. Ziel der Studie war daher, die Wirksamkeit einer niederschwelligen, präventiv ausgerichteten, strukturiert angeleiteten und supervidierten bibliotherapeutischen Maßnahme im Hinblick auf schlafbezogene Ängste zu überprüfen.

Methoden

19 Kinder im Alter von 4,5–7 Jahren und deren Eltern wurden in einem Vorher-Nachher-Design mit Baseline und Follow-up vor und nach dem Lesen ausgewählter Bilderbücher nach ihren Ängsten und ihrem Zubettgehverhalten befragt. Jede Familie erhielt ein gleiches Set aus vier Bilderbüchern sowie standardisierten Instruktionen zum Vorleseverhalten. Zur Befragung wurden Schlafprotokolle, Interviews, Fremdbeurteilungs- und Selbstbeurteilungsinstrumente eingesetzt. Nach einer zweiwöchigen Baseline folgte eine zweiwöchige Testphase und nach vier Wochen eine Nachbefragung.

Ergebnisse

Die Ergebnisse zeigen eine signifikante Verbesserung der schlafbezogenen Ängste und einiger problematischer Verhaltensweisen beim Zubettgehen im Prä-Post-Vergleich. Die Anzahl der geäußerten Ängste, der Widerstand beim Zubettgehen sowie die Häufigkeit des nächtlichen Erwachens wurden signifikant reduziert. Die Veränderungen blieben vier Wochen nach der Testphase stabil.

In der vorliegenden Pilotstudie konnte erstmals anhand einer größeren Stichprobe die positive Wirkung von Bilderbüchern auf schlafbezogene Ängste und problematisches Zubettgehverhalten gezeigt werden. Die positiven Effekte wurden sowohl von den Eltern als auch von den Kindern berichtet. Umfassendere Studien mit Kontrollgruppendesign sind notwendig.