bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of intraluminal PRESERFLO stenting in avoiding early postoperative hypotony
Authors: Verma-Fuehring Raoul , Dakroub Mohamad , Bamousa Ahmed , Kann Gunda , Hillenkamp Jost , Kampik Daniel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Postoperative hypotony following PRESERFLO MicroShunt (PMS) implantation is a frequent cause of complications such as choroidal detachment and hypotony maculopathy. This study aims at evaluating the impact of intraluminal stenting of the PMS during the early postoperative period.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 97 patients who underwent PMS implantation with intraoperative placement of a Nylon 10–0 suture as intraluminal stent (PStent) and compared the outcomes to those of an existing database of the traditional MicroShunt implantation technique (PTrad, n = 120). The primary outcome measure was the intraocular pressure (IOP) at one week postoperatively. As a secondary outcome measure, adverse hypotony, defined as an IOP ≤ 5 mmHg with significant choroidal effusion and/or anterior chamber shallowing or the presence of macular folds was also assessed. Additionally, the time to stent removal and the IOP one week after stent removal were reported.

Results

Preoperative median IOP was 25.0 (20.5–30.3) mmHg in PStent and 25.0 (19.3–32.0) mmHg in PTrad (p = 0.62). One week after surgery, the median IOP dropped to 10.0 (8.0–13.0) mmHg in PStent and 7.0 (5.0–9.0) in PTrad (p < 0.01). At one month, the IOP was 12.0 (10.0–14.0) mmHg in PStent and 10.0 (8.0–11.0) mmHg in PTrad (p < 0.01). After 3 months, both groups showed similar median IOP levels of 11.0 (8.0–13.5) mmHg and 10.0 (9.75–13.0) mmHg in PStent and PTrad, respectively (p = 0.66). The presence of adverse hypotony was significantly lower in PStent compared to PTrad (6.2% vs 15.8%, p < 0.05). In PStent the stent was removed after 30.0 (21.0–42.5) days. One week after stent removal the mean IOP drop was 6.1 ± 0.5 mmHg (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

In the early follow-up period, intraluminal stenting of the PMS appears to be safe and effective in controlling the IOP while reducing early postoperative hypotony. Surgical success is not compromised by stent placement. Based on our data, it is recommended to remove the suture two to six weeks after surgery for most patients with uncomplicated postoperative clinical findings.
Genome-wide analysis of R2R3-MYB transcription factors in poplar and functional validation of PagMYB147 in defense against Melampsora magnusiana
Authors: Wang Bin , Xiong Chaowei , Peng Zijia , Luo Zeyu , Wang Xiujuan , Peng Shaobing , Yu Zhongdong
Published: July 2024

Main conclusion

Transcription of PagMYB147 was induced in poplar infected by Melampsora magnusiana, and a decline in its expression levels increases the host's susceptibility, whereas its overexpression promotes resistance to rust disease.

Poplars are valuable tree species with diverse industrial and silvicultural applications. The R2R3-MYB subfamily of transcription factors plays a crucial role in response to biotic stresses. However, the functional studies on poplar R2R3-MYB genes in resistance to leaf rust disease are still insufficient. We identified 191 putative R2R3-MYB genes in the Populus trichocarpa genome. A phylogenetic analysis grouped poplar R2R3-MYBs and Arabidopsis R2R3-MYBs into 33 subgroups. We detected 12 tandem duplication events and 148 segmental duplication events, with the latter likely being the main contributor to the expansion of poplar R2R3-MYB genes. The promoter regions of these genes contained numerous cis-acting regulatory elements associated with response to stress and phytohormones. Analyses of RNA-Seq data identified a multiple R2R3-MYB genes response to Melampsora magnusiana (Mmag). Among them, PagMYB147 was significantly up-regulated under Mmag inoculation, salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment, and its encoded product was primarily localized to the cell nucleus. Silencing of PagMYB147 exacerbated the severity of Mmag infection, likely because of decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzyme activity, and up-regulation of genes related to ROS scavenging and down-regulation of genes related to PAL, SA and JA signaling pathway. In contrast, plants overexpressing PagMYB147 showed the opposite ROS accumulation, PAL enzyme activity, SA and JA-related gene expressions, and improved Mmag resistance. Our findings suggest that PagMYB147 acts as a positive regulatory factor, affecting resistance in poplar to Mmag by its involvement in the regulation of ROS homeostasis, SA and JA signaling pathway.
Neonatal phototherapy and risk of epilepsy—A Danish population based study
Authors: Sun Yuelian , Dreier Julie Werenberg , Wu Chunsen , Petersen Jesper Padkær , Henriksen Tine Brink , Christensen Jakob , Maimburg Rikke Damkjær
Published: July 2024

To evaluate the risk of epilepsy in children who received neonatal phototherapy. A cohort of live singletons born at a Danish hospital (2002–2016) with a gestational age ≥ 35 weeks. We used Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of epilepsy in children treated with neonatal phototherapy compared to children not treated with neonatal phototherapy in the general population, and in a subpopulation of children who had serum bilirubin measurement. Adjusted HRs (aHR) were computed using multivariable and propensity score matching models to take maternal and neonatal factors into consideration. Children were followed from day 29 after birth to diagnosis of epilepsy, death, emigration, or December 31, 2016. Among 65,365 children, 958 (1.5%) received neonatal phototherapy. Seven children (incidence rates (IRs): 10.8 /10,000 person-years) who received neonatal phototherapy and 354 children (IR: 7.7) who did not receive neonatal phototherapy were diagnosed with epilepsy. Neonatal phototherapy was not associated with an increased risk of epilepsy using the multivariable (aHR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.43–2.09) and propensity score matched (aHR 0.94, 95% CI: 0.39–2.28) models. In the subpopulation of 9,378 children with bilirubin measurement, 928 (9.9%) received neonatal phototherapy. In the analysis of the subpopulation in which bilirubin level and age at the time of bilirubin measurement were further taking into consideration, neonatal phototherapy was not associated with an increased risk of epilepsy using the multivariable (aHR 1.26, 95% CI: 0.54–2.97) and propensity score matched (aHR 1.24, 95% CI: 0.47–3.25) models,

Conclusions: Neonatal phototherapy was not associated with an increased risk of epilepsy after taking maternal and neonatal factors into consideration.

What is known:• A few studies have suggested that neonatal phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia may increase the risk of childhood epilepsy.• Whether the observed associations contribute to hyperbilirubinemia, phototherapy, or underlying factors requires further investigation.

What is new:• This study revealed no increased risk of epilepsy in children treated with neonatal phototherapy compared to children not treated with phototherapy after taking maternal and neonatal factors into consideration.• After further taking bilirubin level and age at the time of bilirubin measurement into consideration, neonatal phototherapy was not associated with an increased risk of epilepsy.
Homoharringtonine may help improve the outcomes of venetoclax and azacitidine in AML1-ETO positive acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Yin Zhao , Yao Zurong , Chen Dandan , Zhang Yu , Weng Guangyang , Du Xin , Lin Dongjun , Xiao Jie , Sun Zhiqiang , Zhang Hongyu , Liang Xinquan , Guo Ziwen , Zhao Weihua , Xuan Li , Jiang Xuejie , Shi Pengcheng , Liu Qifa , Ping Baohong , Yu Guopan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

T(8;21)(q22;q22.1)/AML1-ETO positive acute myeloid leukemia (AE-AML) is sensitive to conventional chemotherapy with a favorable prognosis. However, recent small case reports suggest the limited effectiveness of venetoclax (VEN) and hypomethylating agents (HMA) in treating AE-AML. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of VEN plus AZA (VA) in AE-AML and explore whether adding homoharringtonine (HHT) to VA (VAH) could improve the response.

Methods

Patients who received VEN plus AZA and HHT (VAH) or VEN plus AZA (VA) regimens were included in this retrospective study. The endpoints of this study were to evaluate the rate of composite complete remission (CRc), measurable residual disease (MRD), event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and relapse between VAH and VA groups.

Results

A total of 32 AE-AML patients who underwent VA or VAH treatments (newly diagnosed with VA, ND-VA, n = 8; relapsed/refractory with VA, R/R-VA, n = 10; relapsed/refractory with VAH, R/R-VAH, n = 14) were included. The CR (complete remission) /CRi (CR with incomplete count recovery) rate of ND-VA, R/R-VA and R/R-VAH were 25%, 10%, and 64.3%, respectively. Measurable residual disease (MRD) negative was observed in 66.7% of R/R-VAH and none of VA-R/R patients. Co-occurring methylation mutations are associated with poor outcomes with VA but exhibit a more favorable response with VAH treatment. Additionally, patients with c-kit mutation presented inferior outcomes with both VEN-based regimens. All regimens were tolerated well by all patients.

Conclusion

Our data confirmed the poor response of VA in AE-AML, whether used as frontline or salvage therapy. Adding HHT to VA may improve outcomes and enhance the efficacy of VEN in this population.
Nasopharyngeal amyloidoma: report of three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Zuo Wangsheng , Du Yu , Chen Jian-ning
Published: July 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal amyloidoma is a rare, locally aggressive tumor that has been reported in the English literature in only 38 cases to date, most of which were in the form of case reports. The present study was aimed to summarize the characteristics of this rare tumor, with the goal of providing new insights for diagnosis and treatment.

Materials and methods

We report three cases of nasopharyngeal amyloidoma diagnosed in our hospital following comprehensive medical examination and review the current literature on all cases of nasopharyngeal amyloidoma from PubMed. The journey of nasopharyngeal amyloidoma, including presentation, diagnostics, surgeries, and follow-up was outlined.

Results

None of the three patients had systemic amyloidosis. CT and nasal endoscopy showed irregular masses obstructing the nasopharyngeal cavity. Congo red staining confirmed the deposition of amyloid, and immunohistochemical analysis showed that the amyloid deposition was the AL light chain type. Through literature review, we found that nasopharyngeal amyloidoma most commonly occurred in individuals over the age of 40, patients usually had a good prognosis after complete tumor resection; however, there were still cases of recurrence, and unresected patients were at risk of progression to systemic amyloidosis. The efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy was currently uncertain.

Conclusion

Early clinical and pathological diagnosis is crucial, and surgical intervention is the primary treatment option for this disease. Although patients usually have a favorable prognosis, long-term monitoring is necessary to detect potential relapses and initiate timely intervention.
GIS-based spatiotemporal mapping of malaria prevalence and exploration of environmental inequalities
Authors: Ogunsakin Ropo Ebenezer , Babalola Bayowa Teniola , Olusola Johnson Adedeji , Joshua Ayodele Oluwasola , Okpeku Moses
Published: July 2024

Malaria poses a significant threat to global health, with particular severity in Nigeria. Understanding key factors influencing health outcomes is crucial for addressing health disparities. Disease mapping plays a vital role in assessing the geographical distribution of diseases and has been instrumental in epidemiological research. By delving into the spatiotemporal dynamics of malaria trends, valuable insights can be gained into population dynamics, leading to more informed spatial management decisions. This study focused on examining the evolution of malaria in Nigeria over twenty years (2000–2020) and exploring the impact of environmental factors on this variation. A 5-year-period raster map was developed using malaria indicator survey data for Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Various spatial analysis techniques, such as point density, spatial autocorrelation, and hotspot analysis, were employed to analyze spatial patterns. Additionally, statistical methods, including Principal Component Analysis, Spearman correlation, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, were used to investigate relationships between indicators and develop a predictive model. The study revealed regional variations in malaria prevalence over time, with the highest number of cases concentrated in northern Nigeria. The raster map illustrated a shift in the distribution of malaria cases over the five years. Environmental factors such as the Enhanced Vegetation Index, annual land surface temperature, and precipitation exhibited a strong positive association with malaria cases in the OLS model. Conversely, insecticide-treated bed net coverage and mean temperature negatively correlated with malaria cases in the same model. The findings from this research provide valuable insights into the spatiotemporal patterns of malaria in Nigeria and highlight the significant role of environmental drivers in influencing disease transmission. This scientific knowledge can inform policymakers and aid in developing targeted interventions to combat malaria effectively.
Age and tectonic setting of Mesozoic extension constrained by the first volcanic events in the Eastern Cordillera and Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia
Authors: Reyes Martin , Kley Jonas , Mora Andrés , Dunkl István , Carvajal-Torres Juan
Published: July 2024

Before the rise of the Northern Andes in Cenozoic time, Triassic to Jurassic extensional basins in northwestern South America accommodated predominantly continental strata partly intercalated with volcanic rocks. Coeval plutonism is attributed to a magmatic arc related to the subduction of the Farallon plate beneath South America. The basins later became involved in the Andean orogeny and are now partially exposed in the Eastern Cordillera and Middle Magdalena Valley of Colombia. We have employed (U/Pb) geochronology on zircons from Triassic-Jurassic felsic to intermediate volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks. Most of the ten samples have a substantial proportion of detrital zircons, but only three had no Mesozoic grains. The Mesozoic ages obtained range from ca. 201 Ma to ca. 177 Ma and overlap with published crystallization ages (K/Ar; Ar/Ar; U/Pb) from plutonic bodies. Volcanics from the Jordán and Girón formations are latest Triassic to Early Jurassic and synchronous with major plutonic activity. These ages constrain the early evolution of the extensional basins that formed from about the Triassic-Jurassic transition in an intra-arc position and facilitated the preservation of sediment and arc-derived volcanics. Middle Jurassic ages from the Noreán Fm. are synchronous with sparse plutonism west of the Middle Magdalena Valley. At this time, the magmatic arc had migrated westward, while intrusive activity in the Eastern Cordillera ceased. A geochemical rift signature only appears in scarce Early Cretaceous mafic intrusions that resumed magmatic activity in the Eastern Cordillera. This magmatism, now in a back-arc position, coincides with maximum subsidence of the large Cretaceous basin that extended across the older intra-arc rift basins. Extension and lithospheric thinning ceased by the end of the Early Cretaceous.

Graphical abstract
Biocompatibility, bioactivity and immunomodulatory properties of three calcium silicate-based sealers: an in vitro study on hPDLSCs
Authors: Mora Alejandro , García-Bernal David , Rodríguez-Lozano Francisco Javier , Sanz José Luis , Forner Leopoldo , Ghilotti James , Lozano Adrián , López-García Sergio
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To assess the biocompatibility, bioactivity, and immunomodulatory properties of three new calcium silicate cement-based sealers: Ceraseal (CS), Totalfill BC Sealer (TFbc) and WellRoot ST (WR-ST) on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs).

Materials and methods

HPDLSCs were isolated from extracted third molars from healthy patients. Eluates (1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 ratio) and sample discs of CS, TFbc and WR-ST after setting were prepared. A series of assays were performed: cell characterization, cell metabolic activity (MTT assay) cell attachment and morphology (SEM assay), cell migration (wound-healing assay), cytoskeleton organization (phaloidin-based assay); IL-6 and IL-8 release (ELISA); differentiation marker expression (RT-qPCR assay), and cell mineralization (Alizarin Red S staining). HPDLSCs cultured in unconditioned (negative control) or osteogenic (positive control) culture media were used as a comparison. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05.

Results

All the tested sealers exhibited similar results in the cytocompatibility assays (cell metabolic activity, migration, attachment, morphology, and cytoskeleton organization) compared with a negative control group. CS and TFbc exhibited an upregulation of at least one osteo/cementogenic marker compared to the negative and positive control groups. CS and TFbc also showed a significantly higher calcified nodule formation than the negative and positive control groups. Both the marker expression and calcified nodule formation were significantly higher in CS-treated cells than TFbc treated cells. WR-ST exhibited similar results to the control group. CS and TFbc-treated cells exhibited a significant downregulation of IL-6 after 72 h of culture compared to the negative control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

All the tested sealers exhibited an adequate cytocompatibility. CS significantly enhances cell differentiation by upregulating the expression of key genes associated with bone and cementum formation. Additionally, CS was observed to facilitate the mineralization of the extracellular matrix effectively. In contrast, the effects of TFbc and WR-ST on these processes were less pronounced compared to CS. Furthermore, both CS and TFbc exhibited an anti-inflammatory potential, contributing to their potential therapeutic benefits in regenerative endodontics.

Clinical relevance

This is the first study to compare the biological properties and immunomodulatory potential of Ceraseal, Totalfill BC Sealer, and WellRoot ST. The results act as supporting evidence for their use in root canal treatment.
High-frequency low-intensity semiconductor laser irradiation enhances osteogenic differentiation of human cementoblast lineage cells
Authors: Nakatani Ayaka , Kunimatsu Ryo , Sakata Shuzo , Tsuka Yuji , Miyauchi Mutsumi , Takata Takashi , Tanimoto Kotaro
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Laser irradiation activates a range of cellular processes in the periodontal components and promotes tissue repair. However, its effect on osteogenic differentiation of human cementoblast lineage cells remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of high-frequency semiconductor laser irradiation on the osteogenic differentiation of human cementoblast lineage (HCEM) cells.

Methods

HCEM cells were cultured to reach 80% confluence and irradiated with a gallium-aluminum-arsenide (Ga-Al-As) semiconductor laser with a pulse width of 200 ns and wavelength of 910 at a dose of 0–2.0 J/cm2. The outcomes were assessed by analyzing the mRNA levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and type I collagen (COLL1) using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis 24 h after laser irradiation. Cell mineralization was evaluated using ALP activity, calcium deposition, and Alizarin Red staining.

Results

The laser-irradiated HCEM cells showed significantly enhanced gene expression levels of ALP, RUNX2, and COLL1 as well as ALP activity and calcium concentration in the culture medium compared with the non-irradiated cells. In addition, enhanced calcification deposits were confirmed in the laser-irradiated group compared with the non-irradiated group at 21 and 28 days after the induction of osteogenic differentiation.

Conclusion

High-frequency semiconductor laser irradiation enhances the osteogenic differentiation potential of cultured HCEM cells, underscoring its potential utility for periodontal tissue regeneration.
Mind the gap in kidney care: translating what we know into what we do
Authors: Luyckx Valerie A. , Tuttle Katherine R. , Abdellatif Dina , Correa-Rotter Ricardo , Fung Winston W. S. , Haris Agnès , Hsiao Li-Li , Khalife Makram , Kumaraswami Latha A. , Loud Fiona , Raghavan Vasundhara , Roumeliotis Stefanos , Sierra Marianella , Ulasi Ifeoma , Wang Bill , Lui Siu-Fai , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Balducci Alessandro ,   for the World Kidney Day Joint Steering Committee, Balducci Alessandro , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Hsiao Li-Li , Correa-Rotter Ricardo , Ulasi Ifeoma , Kumaraswami Latha , Lui Siu Fai , Abdellatif Dina , Haris Ágnes
Published: July 2024

Historically, it takes an average of 17 years to move new treatments from clinical evidence to daily practice. Given the highly effective treatments now available to prevent or delay kidney disease onset and progression, this is far too long. The time is now to narrow the gap between what we know and what we do. Clear guidelines exist for the prevention and management of common risk factors for kidney disease, such as hypertension and diabetes, but only a fraction of people with these conditions worldwide are diagnosed, and even fewer are treated to target. Similarly, the vast majority of people living with kidney disease are unaware of their condition, because in the early stages, it is often silent. Even among patients who have been diagnosed, many do not receive appropriate treatment for kidney disease. Considering the serious consequences of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, or death, it is imperative that treatments are initiated early and appropriately. Opportunities to diagnose and treat kidney disease early must be maximized beginning at the primary care level. Many systematic barriers exist, ranging from patient to clinician to health systems to societal factors. To preserve and improve kidney health for everyone everywhere, each of these barriers must be acknowledged so that sustainable solutions are developed and implemented without further delay.
Deciphering glutamine metabolism patterns for malignancy and tumor microenvironment in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Gengrun , Li Teng , Chen Yuanbiao , Ye Shiqi , Zhou Siqi , Tian Xi , Anwaier Aihetaimujiang , Zhu Shuxuan , Xu Wenhao , Hao Xiaohang , Ye Dingwei , Zhang Hailiang
Published: July 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common subtype of kidney cancer characterized by metabolic reprogramming. Glutamine metabolism is pivotal in metabolic reprogramming, contributing to the significant heterogeneity observed in ccRCC. Consequently, developing prognostic markers associated with glutamine metabolism could enhance personalized treatment strategies for ccRCC patients. This study obtained RNA sequencing and clinical data from 763 ccRCC cases sourced from multiple databases. Consensus clustering of 74 glutamine metabolism related genes (GMRGs)- profiles stratified the patients into three clusters, each of which exhibited distinct prognosis, tumor microenvironment, and biological characteristics. Then, six genes (SMTNL2, MIOX, TMEM27, SLC16A12, HRH2, and SAA1) were identified by machine-learning algorithms to develop a predictive signature related to glutamine metabolism, termed as GMRScore. The GMRScore showed significant differences in clinical prognosis, expression profile of immune checkpoints, abundance of immune cells, and immunotherapy response of ccRCC patients. Besides, the nomogram incorporating the GMRScore and clinical features showed strong predictive performance in prognosis of ccRCC patients. ALDH18A1, one of the GRMGs, exhibited elevated expression level in ccRCC and was related to markedly poorer prognosis in the integrated cohort, validated by proteomic profiling of 232 ccRCC samples from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (FUSCC). Conducting western blotting, CCK-8, transwell, and flow cytometry assays, we found the knockdown of ALDH18A1 in ccRCC significantly promoted apoptosis and inhibited proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in two human ccRCC cell lines (786-O and 769-P). In conclusion, we developed a glutamine metabolism-related prognostic signature in ccRCC, which is tightly linked to the tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapy response, potentially facilitating precision therapy for ccRCC patients. Additionally, this study revealed the key role of ALDH18A1 in promoting ccRCC progression for the first time.
Mandibular bone mass density in a medieval population and its relationship with stable isotopes δ13C and δ15N
Authors: López-Leyva Concepción , Jiménez-Brobeil Silvia , Magán-Fernández Antonio , Benavides-Reyes Cristina , Bravo Manuel , Mesa Francisco
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the level of bone mass in digital orthopantomograms in two populations (medieval and current) using two radiomorphometric indexes, and to correlate the mandibular bone mass value, in the medieval mandible population, with stable isotope data δ13C and δ15N. An observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study on mandibles from two diachronic groups, 15 mandibles from the medieval settlement of La Torrecilla (Granada, Spain) and 15 mandibles from current patients at the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Granada (Spain), matched by age and sex was conducted. The bone mass density was determined using the Mandibular Cortical Width Index (MCW) and the Mandibular Panoramic Index (PMI) in digital panoramic radiographs. In the medieval group, the values of bone mass density were correlated with those of two stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N). The mean value of MCW in mm in the medieval group was 3.96 ± 0.60 (mean ± standard deviation) and in the current group was 4.02 ± 1.01. The PMI was 0.33 ± 0.06 and 0.35 ± 0.08 in the medieval and current groups respectively, with similar results in both groups (p = 0.820 and p = 0.575). A negative correlation was found between both morphometric indices and the δ15N isotope (rs = 0.56, p = 0.030 and rs = 0.61, p = 0.016, respectively). The bone mass density in mandibles belonging to the two compared populations, determined by two quantitative radiomorphometric indices, is similar. Within the medieval population, there is an inverse correlation between the δ15N value and bone mass density.
Pre-treatments to reduce metabolism in adult green-lipped mussel, Perna canaliculus, in preparation for live transportation
Authors: Cheng M. C. F. , Zamora L. N. , Ragg N. L. C. , Hickey A. J. R. , Dunphy B. J.
Published: July 2024

Improved sustainability of aquaculture can be achieved by reducing product wastage post-harvest. Aquaculture of the green-lipped mussel, Perna canaliculus, is an important industry for New Zealand, which increasingly exports to live markets. Live transport can keep mussels fresh, but mussels could also be susceptible to handling stresses. To remedy this, pre-treatments that make mussels metabolically depressed, and thus potentially less sensitive to external stressors, were explored. As indicators of depressed metabolism, heart rate (HR), inferred cardiac output (PCO), and relative gaping magnitude (RGM) were simultaneously monitored in mussels experiencing different temperatures, dissolved oxygen levels and anaesthetic (MgCl2) concentrations to compare their efficacy in inducing suppressed metabolism of adult P. canaliculus. We found complex interactions between HR, PCO, and RGM in response to these conditions; however, overall, these response variables were significantly correlated. Mussels showed depressed HR and PCO by up to 100% at 4 °C within 2 h, with correspondingly decreased RGM of up to 48%. Similarly, mussels immersed in 40 g L−1 MgCl2 suppressed HR by up to 97%, accompanied by up to 76% decrease in PCO, and a slight increase in RGM (11%) after 2 h. While responses were variable, low DO levels suppressed HR by up to 50%, yet PCO and RGM increased two- and threefold relative to control groups. The results of the present study indicated that 4 °C and 40 g MgCl2 L−1 were more effective conditions as pre-treatments than low dissolved oxygen lower the metabolism of P. canaliculus before live transport.
Application of soil magnetometry and geochemical methods to investigate soil contamination with antimony
Authors: Jabłońska-Czapla Magdalena , Rachwał Marzena , Grygoyć Katarzyna , Wawer-Liszka Małgorzata
Published: July 2024

The aim of the study was an assessment of the pollution level and identification of the antimony sources in soils in areas subjected to industrial anthropopressure from: transport, metallurgy and electrical waste recycling. The combination of soil magnetometry, chemical analyzes using atomic spectrometry (ICP-OES and ICP-MS), Sb fractionation analysis, statistical analysis (Pearson’s correlation matrix, factor analysis) as well as Geoaccumulation Index, Pollution Load Index, and Sb/As factor allowed not only the assessment of soil contamination degree, but also comprehensive identification of different Sb sources. The results indicate that the soil in the vicinity of the studied objects was characterized by high values of magnetic susceptibility and thus, high contents of potentially toxic elements. The most polluted area was in the vicinity of electrical waste processing plants. Research has shown that the impact of road traffic and wearing off brake blocks, i.e. traffic anthropopression in general, has little effect on the surrounding soil in terms of antimony content. Large amounts of Pb, Zn, As and Cd were found in the soil collected in the vicinity of the heap after the processing of zinc–lead ores, the average antimony (11.31 mg kg−1) content was lower in the vicinity of the heap than in the area around the electrical and electronic waste processing plant, but still very high. Antimony in the studied soils was demobilized and associated mainly with the residual fraction.
Estimating and displaying population attributable fractions using the R package: graphPAF
Authors: Ferguson John , O’Connell Maurice
Published: July 2024

Here we introduce graphPAF, a comprehensive R package designed for estimation, inference and display of population attributable fractions (PAF) and impact fractions. In addition to allowing inference for standard population attributable fractions and impact fractions, graphPAF facilitates display of attributable fractions over multiple risk factors using fan-plots and nomograms, calculations of attributable fractions for continuous exposures, inference for attributable fractions appropriate for specific risk factor $$\rightarrow $$
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outcome pathways (pathway-specific attributable fractions) and Bayesian network-based calculations and inference for joint, sequential and average population attributable fractions in multi-risk factor scenarios. This article can be used as both a guide to the theory of attributable fraction estimation and a tutorial regarding how to use graphPAF in practical examples.
Preach! (Practice not Included): A Qualified Defense of Hypocrisy
Authors: Santana Carlos
Published: July 2024

Hypocrisy is generally treated as particularly repugnant, perhaps the “only unforgivable sin.” I argue that this attitude is misplaced. Hypocrisy—especially quotidian hypocrisy by the average citizen—plays an essential role in maintaining and promoting a good society. Hypocrisy facilitates the establishment and maintenance of beneficial social norms, and can secure better social outcomes when full compliance with a norm is suboptimal. The hypocrite then, is sometimes playing a crucial role in society, and in such cases doesn’t deserve the full measure of the reprobation we usually reserve for them. Instead of focusing our reactions on their hypocrisy, we should instead target our attitudes on the misbehavior itself.
Living together but gates apart: aspirations and place caring practices among residents living outside a gated community in Peri-urban Accra.
Authors: Yekple Edwige Enam Yawa , Overå Ragnhild , Hidle Knut Bjarne
Published: July 2024

Global capital investment in the housing sector has transformed major African cities such as Accra into segregated clusters of high-rise buildings and ultramodern residential areas. The development of housing projects, such as Gated Communities (GCs), in peri-urban areas has resulted in a contrasting phenomenon of residents living in traditional housing units alongside modern housing complexes. This paper maps the impacts of Ayi Mensah Park, a privately built gated community in peri-urban Accra, Ghana. Specifically, it explores the perceptions, emotions and attitudes of residents living in the immediate environs of this gated community and how these opinions shape their life aspirations, particularly regarding housing. Using semistructured interviews and drawing on the concepts of ‘peripheral urbanisation’ and ‘care’, we found that residents express varied emotions (happiness, excitement, admiration, pride, disappointment, anger, apathy, and frustration) towards the presence of the gated community. Some of these emotions resulted in action, such as pulling down old buildings and constructing new modern apartments in their places. We conclude that the presence and aesthetic characteristics of gated communities in peri-urban areas invoke contrasting affective elements of both aspirations and despair among residents, resulting in new practices of care for the community and future generations.
Environmental influences on the phenology of immigrating juvenile eels over weirs at the tidal limit of regulated rivers
Authors: Boardman Rose M. , Pinder Adrian C. , Piper Adam T. , Gutmann Roberts Catherine , Wright Rosalind M. , Britton J. Robert
Published: July 2024

Recruitment of the catadromous and critically endangered European eel Anguilla anguilla in Europe has declined substantially since the 1980s, with considerable knowledge gaps remaining in many aspects of their life cycle. The aim was to assess eel migration phenology in three regulated rivers in England between 2009 and 2019 through analyses of eel numbers using passes at their tidal limits, with calculation of the annual timings of migration initiation (10% of all eels passed, T10), peak (50%, T50) and conclusion (90%, T90). Across the three rivers, T10 varied between Julian Day (‘Day’) 94 and 173. Years of earlier T10 had significantly earlier T50, where T50 varied between Day 105 and 200. The considerable inter-annual variability in migration timings was associated with environmental variables; earlier T10 and T50 occurred in years of warmer river temperatures (RTs) and cooler sea surface temperatures (SST), and in years where RTs were higher than SSTs. No environmental variables were significant predictors of T90. These results indicate that whilst there is annual variability in the timing of eel migration initiation and peak into freshwaters, this variability is predictable according to differences in environmental conditions. As many of these conditions associated with annual variability in temperature and precipitation then climate change has the potential to shift these migration timings.
Digital Teacher Training in the Portuguese National Plan for Digital Development at Schools: A Case Study
Authors: Carvalhais Lénia , Azevedo Paula
Published: July 2024

Schools have been responding to the ongoing digital transformation, which requires continuous self-reflection and decision-making skills from teachers in the inclusion of new digital technologies in the teaching and learning process. In the present study, descriptive measures were used to understand how 140 teachers, in a school group, perceived their digital competences through the Check-in Questionnaire (Study 1). A school group is a Portuguese organisational unit, constituted by different schools, catering to different age groups, managed by a single director. Study 2 addressed how this specific school group organised teacher training courses, considering the results of Check-in Questionnaire, and the scope of the National Digital Transition Plan. Interviews, in which data content analysis was applied, were undertaken with seven teacher instructors, selected to implement digital training. The results of Study 1 revealed that most teachers are positioned at level 2, an intermediate level, with no differences in age or years of service. In Study 2, instructors revealed that the proficiency level assigned in the Check-in Questionnaire did not always correspond to a teacher’s real digital skills, identifying this as one of the obstacles to achieving the initial training aims. The goal of the training was for these professionals to feel committed to their educational context and understand what is intended in the inclusion of digital skills in the classroom. The relevance of this study relates to the current context, which places education and teachers at the centre of a digital agenda focused on the development of digital skills, thus generating new pedagogical practices, while accompanying the process from the initial assessment to the implementation of training in the National Digital Transition Plan.
The impact of language education policies on Irish sign language in Irish deaf education
Authors: Conama John Bosco
Published: July 2024

This article will explore the impact of various language education policies and their measures on Irish Sign Language (ISL) in Irish deaf education. The focus will be on how previous and current policy decisions regarding language education have affected the use and recognition of ISL as a legitimate language in the education system. The article will discuss both deaf schools and mainstream schools. The article will briefly provide an overview of ISL's history in Ireland, including its recognition as a language in 2017 by legislation (ISL Act 2017) and the current policies regarding its use in education. The impact of these policies on the development and use of ISL in deaf education will be concisely examined, including issues of access to education, teacher training, and curriculum development. Additionally, attitudes towards ISL will be briefly examined. The article will conclude with the ongoing challenges and opportunities for improving the status of ISL in Irish deaf education through policy reform and community advocacy.
A limit theorem for runs containing two types of contaminations
Authors: Fazekas István , Fazekas Borbála , Suja Michael Ochieng
Published: July 2024

In this paper, sequences of trials having three outcomes are studied. The outcomes are labelled as success, failure of type I and failure of type II. A run is called at most

$$1+1$$

1
+
1

contaminated, if it contains at most one failure of type I and at most one failure of type II. The accompanying distribution for the length of the longest at most

$$1+1$$

1
+
1

contaminated run is obtained. The proof is based on a powerful lemma of Csáki, Földes and Komlós. Besides a mathematical proof, simulation results supporting our theorem are also presented.
Lack of cellular prion protein causes Amyloid β accumulation, increased extracellular vesicle abundance, and changes to exosome biogenesis proteins
Authors: Johansson Lovisa , Reyes Juan F. , Ali Tahir , Schätzl Hermann , Gilch Sabine , Hallbeck Martin
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression is closely linked to the propagation of pathological Amyloid β (Aβ), a process increasingly understood to involve extracellular vesicles (EVs), namely exosomes. The specifics of Aβ packaging into exosomes remain elusive, although evidence suggests an ESCRT (Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport)-independent origin to be responsible in spreading of AD pathogenesis. Intriguingly, PrPC, known to influence exosome abundance and bind oligomeric Aβ (oAβ), can be released in exosomes via both ESCRT-dependent and ESCRT-independent pathways, raising questions about its role in oAβ trafficking. Thus, we quantified Aβ levels within EVs, cell medium, and intracellularly, alongside exosome biogenesis-related proteins, following deletion or overexpression of PrPC. The same parameters were also evaluated in the presence of specific exosome inhibitors, namely Manumycin A and GW4869. Our results revealed that deletion of PrPC increases intracellular Aβ accumulation and amplifies EV abundance, alongside significant changes in cellular levels of exosome biogenesis-related proteins Vps25, Chmp2a, and Rab31. In contrast, cellular expression of PrPC did not alter exosomal Aβ levels. This highlights PrPC’s influence on exosome biogenesis, albeit not in direct Aβ packaging. Additionally, our data confirm the ESCRT-independent exosome release of Aβ and we show a direct reduction in Chmp2a levels upon oAβ challenge. Furthermore, inhibition of opposite exosome biogenesis pathway resulted in opposite cellular PrPC levels. In conclusion, our findings highlight the intricate relationship between PrPC, exosome biogenesis, and Aβ release. Specifically, they underscore PrPC’s critical role in modulating exosome-associated proteins, EV abundance, and cellular Aβ levels, thereby reinforcing its involvement in AD pathogenesis.

Graphical abstract

There are two main exosome biogenesis pathways: ESCRT dependent and ESCRT independent. In this study, we explored the effect of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) on the release of Amyloid β via exosomes. Our findings demonstrate that Amyloid β mainly is released via an ESCRT-independent pathway, independent of PrPC. However, lack of PrPC resulted in upregulation of the ESCRT-dependent proteins Tsg101 and VPS25, a decrease in Chmp2a, and an overall increase in extracellular vesicles. Lack of PrPC also caused an accumulation of cellular, but not exosomal, Amyloid β.
Inhomogeneous broadening effects on bistable behavior in a hybrid optomechanical system
Authors: Sharaby Y. A. , Mohamed A. A. , Kandil I. M. , Hassan S. S.
Published: July 2024

Optical bistability is investigated for optomechanical system composed of an ensemble of inhomogeneously broadened two-level atoms embedded between the two mirrors of the optical cavity, that is subjected to two input (strong and probe) fields. We consider two types of inhomogeneous broadened distributions, namely, Lorentzian and Gaussian line shapes. The first order harmonic components of the output fields (due to the presence of probe field) show reversed and knotted bistability shapes simultaneously with the standard bistable shape of the fundamental component of the field at frequency $$\omega _{c}$$

ω
c

. The inhomogeneous broadened line width for both Lorentzian and Gaussian distribution affects the dispersive switching of the system, as well as the bistable behavior. Locations of the maxima of photon numbers associated with higher harmonics of the output fields are identified with respect to the probe field frequency.
How representative is the Swedish PISA sample? A comparison of PISA and register data
Authors: Borger Linda , Johansson Stefan , Strietholt Rolf
Published: July 2024

PISA aims to serve as a “global yardstick” for educational success, as measured by student performance. For comparisons to be meaningful across countries or over time, PISA samples must be representative of the population of 15-year-old students in each country. Exclusions and non-response can undermine this representativeness and potentially bias estimates of student performance. Unfortunately, testing the representativeness of PISA samples is typically infeasible due to unknown population parameters. To address this issue, we integrate PISA 2018 data with comprehensive Swedish registry data, which includes all students in Sweden. Utilizing various achievement measures, we find that the Swedish PISA sample significantly overestimates the achievement levels in Sweden. The observed difference equates to standardized effect sizes ranging fromd = .19 to .28, corresponding to approximately 25 points on the PISA scale or an additional year of schooling. The paper concludes with a plea for more rigorous quality standards and their strict enforcement.
Downscaling crop production data to fine scale estimates with geostatistics and remote sensing: a case study in mapping cotton fibre quality
Authors: Tilse M. J. , Filippi P. , Whelan B. , Bishop T. F. A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

A generalised approach to downscale areal observations of crop production data is illustrated using cotton yield and fibre quality (length and micronaire) data which is measured as a module (areal/block) average.

Methods

Two features of the downscaling algorithm are; (i) to estimate spatial trends in yield and quality using regression with fine resolution predictors such as remote sensing imagery, and (ii) use area-to-point kriging (A2PK) to downscale either the observations in the absence of a useful spatial trend model or the residuals from the trend model (if useful) from areal averages.

Results

Correlations with remote sensing covariates were stronger for cotton fibre yield than for cotton fibre micronaire, and much stronger compared to those for cotton fibre length. Spatial trends in cotton fibre yield and micronaire could be estimated with good model quality using regression with remote sensing covariates with or without A2PK in almost all fields. Conversely, model quality was poorer for cotton fibre length and there was only a small difference in model performance between the null and trend models. When the downscaling approach was tested using fine-resolution yield observations, model performance was poorer at a fine-resolution compared to the module-resolution, which was to be expected.

Conclusion

This approach enables the creation of high-resolution raster maps of variables of interest with a much finer spatial resolution compared to the areal observations, and can be applied for any areal averaged crop production data in a range of broadacre and horticultural industries (e.g. sugarcane, apples, citrus). The finer spatial resolution may allow growers or agronomists to better understand the drivers of variability within fields, assess management implications, and create management plans at a higher resolution.