bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of collision damage of Fritillaria ussuriensis Maxim during drum screening
Authors: Song Jiang , Wang Yaoshen , Xia Renjie , Tian Shuai , Wang Sibo , Bian Jingyang , Han Xia , Wang Ming , Yi Shujuan
Published: January 2024

During the drum screening of Fritillaria ussuriensis Maxim (FUM), collisions between FUM bulbs are the main cause of mechanical damage. The effects of the mass relationship and the position, direction, and height of the collision on the absorbed energy and mass–loss ratio of FUM were analyzed through collision tests. The results of the constructed regression models showed that the collision direction has no significant effect on the mass–loss ratio, whereas the mass relationship and the position, direction, and height of the collision showed significance. Under different mass relationships, the collision positions and direction, and the collision height are positively correlated with the absorbed energy and mass–loss ratio, and the absorbed energy is also positively correlated with the mass–loss ratio. In addition, the influence of the mass relationship and collision height, position, and direction on the absorbed energy are highly significant. The research findings serve as a valuable reference for designing and developing low‐loss drum screening processes.

Practical applications

Fritillaria ussuriensis Maxim (FUM) is a traditional Chinese medicine. The planting area is wide and the economic benefit is high. The annual economic benefit for farmers is about 1.8 billion yuan. However, the existing production method has a low degree of mechanization, especially the harvest stage, which mainly relies on manual harvesting, is limited by the number of labor force and the harvest time is in the rainy season (FUM is easily spoiled in water), which is easy to cause economic losses. To determine better working parameters, the damage factors of FUM during screening were analyzed by developing and testing the drum‐type FUM harvester. It is helpful to improve the production efficiency of FUM, and reduce the labor demand and the damage of screening to FUM.
Increasing urban flood resilience through public participation: A case study of Tuti Island in Khartoum, Sudan
Authors: Tambal Samah Abdel Rhman Mohammed Ahmed , Elsawahli Hanan Mohamed Hassan , Ibrahim Eltayeb Ibrahim Elmadih , Lumbroso Darren
Published: January 2024

Over the past 30 years, Sudan has experienced several severe floods which have caused loss of life and significant damage to property. The frequency and intensity of floods in Sudan are predicted to increase as a result of climate change. The main objective of this research was to assist policymakers in establishing a mechanism for public participation in Sudan to enable communities to be engaged in improving flood risk management. This paper focuses on Tuti Island, which is located near the confluence of the Blue and White Niles in Khartoum which is severely affected by flooding. The research was based on surveys and interviews with both officials and the public to examine the degree of public participation in mitigating flood risks. The research concluded that Sudan has no policy or official way of engaging the public in disaster risk reduction; however, the traditional method of social mobilization called Nafeer (building together) can play a significant role in increasing communities' flood resilience. Establishing a clear framework for public participation, such as Nafeer, for the various stages of the flood management cycle that coordinates with decision‐makers can help increase the resilience of urban areas in low‐income countries like Sudan.
Teaching and assessment of communication skills in dietetics: a scoping review
Authors: Knight Annemarie , Palermo Claire , Reedy Gabriel , Whelan Kevin
Published: January 2024

Background

Communication is a core element of dietetic practice, and although communication skills are a prominent feature of dietetic curricula, research suggests a need for more consistent approaches. The evidence on how communication skills are taught and assessed in dietetics has not been synthesised leaving uncertainty about best practice. This scoping review aimed to examine and map the research literature relating to the teaching and assessment of communication skills in dietetics.

Methods

The review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. Five electronic databases, two theses databases and eight conference proceedings were systematically searched for research on how communication skills are taught and assessed in dietetics. The search had no geographical or time limits. Studies were independently screened by two authors, summarised thematically using the Kirkpatrick Model and narratively synthesised.

Results

The 45 included studies were organised thematically into three categories: (i) the inclusion of communication skills education in dietetics, suggesting that dietitians have variable experiences; (ii) approaches to teaching communication skills in dietetics, characterised predominantly by a move away from didactic approaches in favour of experiential opportunities for learning such as simulation; and (iii) assessment of communication skills in dietetics, including the use of both dietetic‐specific and generic tools.

Conclusions

The included studies demonstrate that although a variety of teaching strategies are used in the development of communication skills in dietetics, there is potential for more robust evaluation and more diverse approaches to support dietetic educators to prepare the dietetic workforce.
Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Sustainable Entrepreneurship
Authors: Bickley Steve J. , Macintyre Alison , Torgler Benno
Published: January 2024

There is an urgent need to transition our economy, society, and culture towards systems and actions that facilitate ecological sustainability. Such radical change requires equally radical transformation of approaches to decision making and resource use. Sustainable entrepreneurship (SE) is often presented as the answer to meeting the triple‐bottom‐line challenges that businesses face; however, there are very real limits to what it can achieve. SE is in the early stages of adopting tools at the technological frontier that offer empirical guidance at every point of an entrepreneurial decision‐making process. Big Data (BD) advances the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to inform decision making, while also charting pathways to achieve desired outcomes. So far, the interactions between AI, BD, and SE have been generally under‐studied. In this primarily conceptual paper, we address the lack of work consolidating and synthesizing these literatures. We suggest that AI and BD readily contribute to further sustainable development of the weak form, but that it also holds great promise for achieving the strong sustainability ideal. We offer two propositions regarding how the integration of AI and BD can inform/support SE. We conclude by mapping out potential avenues for future research.
Causal effects of educational attainment on temporomandibular disorders and the mediating pathways: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Xin , Cheng Zheng , Xu Junyu , Wang Qianyi , Zhao Zhibai , Jiang Qianglin
Published: January 2024

Background

As one of the most important indicators of socioeconomic status, educational attainment (EA) exhibits a strong association with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Despite this link, there is a lack of evidence regarding the causal role of EA in either facilitating or preventing TMDs.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the causal effect of education on TMDs and explore potential mediating pathways.

Methods

Utilizing summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies on years of schooling (N = 766 345) and TMDs (N = 211 023), we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the overall effect of education. Additionally, a two‐step MR approach was employed to evaluate 30 potential mediators and calculate the mediation proportions in the association. Comprehensive sensitivity analyses were used to verify the robustness, heterogeneity, and pleiotropy.

Results

Univariable MR analyses revealed a causal effect of lower EA on an increased risk of TMDs (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.43–0.66, p < .001). Five out of 30 modifiable factors were identified as causal mediators in the associations of EA with TMDs, including feeling nervous (mediation proportion: 11.6%), feeling tense (10.2%), depression (9.6%), feeling worry (7.6%) and daily smoking (8.9%). Meanwhile, no pleiotropy was detected in the analyses (p > .05).

Conclusion

Our findings supported that higher EA has a protective effect on the onset of TMDs, with partial mediation by psychological disorders and daily smoking. Interventions on these factors thus have the potential of substantially reducing the burden of TMDs attributed to low education.
Self‐esteem and self‐concept as correlates of life satisfaction and attitudes toward school among Ghanaian girls
Authors: Sensoy Bahar Ozge , Byansi William , Nartey Portia Buernarkie , Ibrahim Abdallah , Boateng Alice , Kumbelim Kingsley , Nabunya Proscovia , McKay Mary M. , Ssewamala Fred M.
Published: January 2024

During adolescence, youth experience several physical, psychosocial, and cognitive changes. Self‐esteem and self‐concept are identified as protective factors for adolescents in high‐income countries, but studies are limited in sub‐Saharan Africa. We examined the associations of self‐esteem and self‐concept with life satisfaction and attitudes toward school using baseline data from 97 Ghanaian adolescent girls at risk of school dropout. Ordinary Least Squares regression models were fitted to examine the association between self‐esteem and self‐concept on school attitudes and life satisfaction. Self‐esteem was positively associated with life satisfaction. Self‐concept was associated with more positive attitudes toward school. Hence, self‐esteem and self‐concept may be critical protective factors in promoting adolescent girls' life satisfaction and positive attitudes toward school.
Empowerment‐based cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in persons with mild cognitive impairment: A sequential explanatory mixed‐method pilot study
Authors: Li Polly W. C. , Yu Doris S. F.
Published: January 2024

Insomnia is an emerging risk factor for the onset of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and its progression to dementia. Impaired cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms create challenges for persons with MCI to participate actively in non‐pharmacological interventions. This study examined the feasibility and preliminary effects of empowerment‐based cognitive‐behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) on sleep, cognitive function, and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in persons with MCI and sleep problems. Sixty participants were randomly allocated to the intervention or control group to receive empowerment‐based CBT‐I or usual care, respectively. The 12 week intervention comprised all core CBT‐I techniques delivered through a group and individualised face‐to‐face approach. An empowerment approach with interactive teaching methods, goal setting, and action planning was used to deliver the intervention. Outcome measures included subjective and objective sleep quality and pattern, and a battery of neuropsychological tests and the 12‐item Short Form Survey were administered 3 months (T1) and 6 months post‐randomisation (T2). This intervention is feasible and highly acceptable for persons with MCI. The intervention group showed significant improvements in subjective and objective sleep‐related outcomes compared with the control group. Moreover, the intervention group showed greater improvements in global cognition, processing speed, attention, and mental flexibility than the control group at T1 and/or T2. No significant between‐group differences were observed in memory or HRQoL scores. The qualitative data converged with the quantitative data. In conclusion, empowerment‐based CBT‐I was well received by persons with MCI and had potential positive effects on improving sleep and cognition in this cohort.
Maternal ploidy shapes reproductive pathways in the triploid hybrid Chrosomus eos × eos‐neogaeus
Authors: Lafond Joëlle , Angers Bernard
Published: January 2024

Elements transferred from a mother to her eggs may strongly influence the phenotype of her offspring. Such maternal effects depend on the genotype of the mother, and while multiple ploidy levels occur naturally in some vertebrate species, studies evaluating the impact of maternal ploidy on offspring are scarce. This paper aimed to test whether maternal ploidy is responsible for the two reproductive phenotypes observed in the triploid fish Chrosomus eos × eos‐neogaeus. Indeed, these hybrids have two different maternal origins (diploid or triploid) and display two reproductive phenotypes, ameiotic and meiotic hybridogenesis, resulting in diploid and haploid eggs, respectively. To this end, we first conducted a genomic survey to identify epigenetic variations in triploid larvae reared under common garden conditions, concordantly with their maternal origin. The results revealed that the polymorphic epigenetic loci of the larvae clustered into two highly distinct groups consistently with the ploidy of their mother. Diagnostic epigenetic loci were then tested in triploid adult females whose reproductive pathways were already known, to infer their own maternal origin. Altogether, the results suggest that triploid larvae from diploid and triploid mothers will develop the ameiotic and meiotic hybridogenesis pathway, respectively. This confirms that the development of a given reproductive pathway in triploid females results from the ploidy of their mother. Overall, this study supports a strong maternal effect, introducing maternal ploidy and reproductive pathways as additional cause and effect of maternal effects, respectively.
Small secreted effector protein from Fusarium sacchari suppresses host immune response by inhibiting ScPi21‐induced cell death
Authors: Huang Zhen , Wang Caixia , Li Huixue , Zhou Yuming , Duan Zhenzhen , Bao Yixue , Hu Qin , Powell Charles A. , Chen Baoshan , Zhang Jisen , Zhang Muqing , Yao Wei
Published: January 2024

Fusarium sacchari is one of the primary pathogens causing pokkah boeng disease, which impairs the yield and quality of sugarcane around the world. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of the F. sacchari effectors that regulate plant immunity is of great importance for the development of novel strategies for the persistent control of pokkah boeng disease. In a previous study, Fs00367 was identified to inhibit BAX‐induced cell death. In this study, Fs00367nsp (without signal peptide) was found to suppress BAX‐induced cell death, reactive oxygen species bursts and callose accumulation. The amino acid region 113–142 of Fs00367nsp is the functional region. Gene mutagenesis indicated that Fs00367 is important for the full virulence of F. sacchari. A yeast two‐hybrid assay revealed an interaction between Fs00367nsp and sugarcane ScPi21 in yeast that was further confirmed using bimolecular fluorescence complementation, pull‐down assay and co‐immunoprecipitation. ScPi21 can induce plant immunity, but this effect could be blunted by Fs00367nsp. These results suggest that Fs00367 is a core pathogenicity factor that suppresses plant immunity through inhibiting ScPi21‐induced cell death. The findings of this study provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of effectors in regulating plant immunity.
Giant cell glioblastoma with lipogenic differentiation in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report
Authors: Shintaku Masayuki , Hashiba Tetsuo , Nonaka Masahiro , Asai Akio , Tsuta Koji
Published: January 2024

A 45‐year‐old woman with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) developed a tumor in the left frontal lobe that showed features of giant cell glioblastoma (GC‐GB). In addition to the typical GC‐GB features, the tumor showed lipogenic differentiation, with many atypical lipoblasts and mature adipocytes. Tumor cells, including the lipogenic cells, were immunoreactive for GFAP, S‐100 protein, ATRX, and p53. They were negative for IDH1‐R132H, BRAF V600E, synaptophysin, NeuN, p16, mismatch repair proteins, and CD34. The patient is free from recurrence at approximately two years postoperatively. This is the fifth reported case of NF1‐associated GC‐GB (the second adult case). NF1 gene mutation might have played a role in the pathogenesis of lipogenic differentiation of GC‐GB. The differential diagnosis of lipidized GC‐GB from gliosarcoma or anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma is briefly discussed.
Obesity care for youth during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Challenges youth healthcare nurses experienced in providing obesity care in the Netherlands
Authors: Concincion Siegnella , van Houtum Lieke , van de Vorst Birgitta , Verhoeff Arnoud , Dedding Christine
Published: January 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic deeply affected the lives of children and young people; studies report adverse effects on mental, physical, and social well‐being. However, the impact of the pandemic on obesity care for children received little attention. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the challenges youth healthcare nurses experienced and to describe implications for future obesity care and policy. We conducted interviews, participant observations, and a group session with youth healthcare nurses during the pandemic in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Youth healthcare nurses reported a deterioration in the problems of children and young people who were already in the highest classification for pediatric obesity, such as increased weight gain, mental health problems, and socio‐economic problems. The nurses experienced immense challenges while trying to provide obesity care, such as a decrease in face‐to‐face contact with youth and their families, as well as loss of continuity of care. It is important to reconnect with these families, invest in a trusted relationship with youth receiving obesity care, and prioritize available and accessible obesity care for those who need it the most.
Petrocosmea wangii sp. nov. and Petrocosmea yei sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Yunnan, China
Authors: Han Meng‐Qi , Liu Cheng , Ya Ji‐Dong , Gong Yan‐Xiong , Cai Jie
Published: January 2024

Two new species of Petrocosmea (Gesneriaceae), P. wangii M.Q.Han, J.Cai & J.D.Ya from Shiping County and P. yei M.Q.Han, C.Liu & Y.X.Gong from Mojiang and Zhenyuan Counties, Yunnan Province, China, are described and illustrated.
Ophiorrhiza ravifolia (Rubiaceae), a new endemic species discovered in Naga‐Kabasalan Protected Landscape (NKPL), Zamboanga Peninsula, southwestern Philippines
Authors: Arcebal K. Naive Mark , Jonathan D. Alejandro Grecebio
Published: January 2024

Continued extensive field exploration in Zamboanga Peninsula (Philippines) revealed a new endemic Ophiorrhiza species, which is herein described from Naga‐Kabasalan Protected Landscape (NKPL) of Zamboanga Sibugay. The species is unique among Philippine Ophiorrhiza by having leaf lamina with gray to silver gray abaxial surface. The new species is morphologically similar to O. pubescens and O. erythropilosa by having hairy overall morphology, but it is easily distinguished by having a creeping to decumbent habit and inconspicuous, membranous bracts. A detailed description, color photographs, phenology, geographical distribution, habitat and IUCN conservation status are provided in this paper.
The effects of incretin‐based therapies on weight reduction and metabolic parameters in children with obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Jian‐Ying , Kang Jyun‐Wei , Wu Chih‐Yuan , Peng Tzu‐Rong , Liao Ling‐Mei , Lee Ming‐Chia , Lee Jen‐Ai , Chen Shih‐Ming
Published: January 2024

Background

Growing evidence indicates that incretin‐based therapies (IBTs), glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs), and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4is) are effective and safe for treating pediatric obesity patients with or without type 2 diabetes. Therefore, we aimed to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis for updating current evidence.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the EMBASE database for articles published until September 15, 2023, and limited to randomized control trials. The primary outcomes were changed from baseline in weight metrics and the cardiometabolic profile. A random effects model will be used, as high heterogeneity is expected. All analyses were performed using STATA 17.0.

Results

Fifteen trials with a total number of 1286 participants were included in our meta‐analysis. Overall, the mean difference in weight change between the IBTs group and the control group was −2.89 kg (95% confidence interval, −5.12 to −0.65, p = 0.011). Additionally, IBTs significantly reduced the HbA1c level and fasting plasma glucose by 0.37% and 6.99 mg/dl, compared with control groups. IBTs showed a little increased risk of GI side effects and hypoglycemia events, but none of the severe hypoglycemia events were occurred in IBTs group.

Conclusions

Our study results have proved that GLP‐1 RAs are safe, acceptable, and effective in weight reduction and sugar control for children with obesity. In addition, DPP‐4is seems to have no effect on glycemic control and weight loss in childhood obesity. Further research is needed to confirm these findings, especially in younger children.
Cyclodextrins as therapeutic drugs for treating lipid metabolism disorders
Authors: Wu Jiao , Li Jingyi , Shao Wenxiang , Hu Yue , Chen Hongfu , Chen Yunhai , Chen Yong , Liu Qian , Ao Meiying
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study sought to systematically compare the efficacy and mechanism of cyclodextrins as drug interventions in lipid metabolism diseases, potentially providing ideas for subsequent research directions and clinical applications.

Methods

We used the bibliometric method for feature mining, applied VOSviewer software for clustering analysis, and applied content analysis for objective descriptions and accurate analysis.

Results

(1) We collected more than 50 studies, which is the basic database of this study. (2) The academic bubble map showed that this research area was popular in the United States. (3) Cluster analysis showed that the intensively studied diseases in this field were Niemann–Pick type C (NPC), atherosclerosis (AS), and obesity. The hot‐spot cyclodextrin types were HP‐β‐CD. (4) Literature measurement revealed the involvement of 15 types of lipid metabolism diseases. Among them, NPC, diabetes, and obesity were studied in clinical trials. Dyslipidemia and AS have been reported relatively more frequently in animal experiments. The studies of cellular experiments provide insight into the molecular mechanisms that intervene in lipid metabolism diseases from multiple perspectives. The exploration of the molecular mechanisms by which cyclodextrins exert their pharmacological effects mainly revolves around lipid metabolism.

Conclusion

It is worthwhile to investigate the role and mechanism of cyclodextrins in other lipid metabolism diseases. The potential efficacy evaluation of cyclodextrins as pharmaceutical drugs for oral or injectable formulations is less studied and may become a new focus in the future.
Understanding polyploid establishment: temporary persistence or stable coexistence?
Authors: Mortier Frederik , Bafort Quinten , Milosavljevic Silvija , Kauai Felipe , Prost Boxoen Lucas , Van de Peer Yves , Bonte Dries
Published: January 2024

Polyploidy, resulting from whole‐genome duplication (WGD), is ubiquitous in nature and reportedly associated with extreme environments and biological invasions. However, WGD usually comes with great costs, raising questions about the establishment chance of newly formed polyploids. The surprisingly high number of polyploid and mixed‐ploidy species observed in nature may be a consequence of their continuous emergence or may reflect stable polyploid persistence and even coexistence with the ancestral ploidy under certain circumstances. However, empirical studies on contemporary polyploid establishment often neglect the cost–benefit balances of polyploid characteristics, tradeoffs between phenotypic characteristics, intercytotype interactions, recurrent polyploid formation, and stochastic processes. Here, we advocate for considering population‐level success, combining the aforementioned factors that affect polyploid establishment and long‐term coexistence with their ancestors. We approach the paradox of polyploid establishment despite high costs from a modern coexistence theory perspective and give an overview of the diversity of mechanisms and their timing that may potentially enable stable rather than transient persistence.
Life quality, depression, and anxiety levels in parents of children with primary immunodeficiency
Authors: Kaplan Sarıkavak Sibel , Sarıkavak Talat , Türkyılmaz Uçar Özge , Aydoğmuş Çiğdem , Celiksoy Mehmet Halil
Published: January 2024

Background

Primary immune deficiencies (PID) encompasses genetic disorders that result in recurrent infections and immune dysregulation, often increasing the risk of malignancies. The aim of this study is to determine the quality of life, depression, and anxiety in parents of children with PID.

Methods

Various validated assessment tools, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the 36‐item Short Form Survey (SF‐36), and a demographic form, were employed to gather data from 85 parents of 64 PID patients and 85 parents of 75 healthy children.

Results

The findings reveal that parents of PID patients exhibited higher BDI, STAI‐S, STAI‐T, and fatigue subdomain of SF‐36 (p = .013, p = .013, p = .027, p = .000). Both parents had lower energy levels than the normal population, but mothers experienced higher levels of anxiety and depression. PID mothers' had higher scores than fathers of PID patients with healthy children in BDI, STAI‐S, and STAI‐T (p = .002, p = .010, p = .001). Mothers of PID patients reported lower scores in RLEP, E/F, EWB, P, and GH compared to fathers (p = .009, p = .005, p = .034, p = .001, p = .003). Additionally, the study found that STAI‐T influenced all subdimensions of HRQOL. These results highlight the substantial emotional and psychological burden placed on parents caring for children with PID.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of supporting caregivers to enhance the overall well‐being of both parents and children with PID. Such support can potentially alleviate depression and anxiety levels among parents, ultimately improving their quality of life and aiding in the management of children with PID.
Glucose uptake from the rhizosphere mediated by MdDOF3‐MdHT1.2 regulates drought resistance in apple
Authors: Tian Xiaocheng , Li Yuxing , Wang Shaoteng , Zou Hui , Xiao Qian , Ma Baiquan , Ma Fengwang , Li Mingjun
Published: January 2024

In plants under drought stress, sugar content in roots increases, which is important for drought resistance. However, the molecular mechanisms for controlling the sugar content in roots during response to drought remain elusive. Here, we found that the MdDOF3‐MdHT1.2 module‐mediated glucose influx into the root is essential for drought resistance in apple (Malus × domestica). Drought induced glucose uptake from the rhizosphere and up‐regulated the transcription of hexose transporter MdHT1.2. Compared with the wild‐type plants, overexpression of MdHT1.2 promoted glucose uptake from the rhizosphere, thereby facilitating sugar accumulation in root and enhancing drought resistance, whereas silenced plants showed the opposite phenotype. Furthermore, ATAC‐seq, RNA‐seq and biochemical analysis demonstrated that MdDOF3 directly bound to the promoter of MdHT1.2 and was strongly up‐regulated under drought. Overexpression of MdDOF3 in roots improved MdHT1.2‐mediated glucose transport capacity and enhanced plant resistance to drought, but MdDOF3‐RNAihr apple plants showed the opposite phenotype. Moreover, overexpression of MdDOF3 in roots did not attenuate drought sensitivity in MdHT1.2‐RNAi plants, which was correlated with a lower glucose uptake capacity and glucose content in root. Collectively, our findings deciphered the molecular mechanism through which glucose uptake from the rhizosphere is mediated by MdDOF3‐MdHT1.2, which acts to modulate sugar content in root and promote drought resistance.
Knowledge and the behavioral patterns of photoprotection among Koreans with skin disease
Authors: Jo Seong Jin , Kim Seong Rae , Lee Si Hyung , Seo Young‐Joon , Ahn Hyo Hyun , Lee Jong Hee , Oh Sang Ho , Jeong Ki‐Heon , Park Kui Young , Bang Chul Hwan , Kim Min‐Soo , Jung Jae Yoon , Ryoo Young Wook , Kim Sang Seok , Suh Dae Hun
Published: January 2024

Background

Photoprotection is crucial in preventing the development and progression of various skin diseases. However, patients with skin disease have limited awareness of photoprotection. We evaluated the knowledge and behavioral patterns of photoprotection among Koreans with skin diseases.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in 11 general hospitals across South Korea. The study population consisted of patients aged 19 years or older who visited dermatologic clinics for their skin diseases. A self‐administered questionnaire was used to collect patient demographics, knowledge of photoprotection, and photoprotective habits.

Results

In this study, 1173 patients with skin cancer, hyperpigmentary disorders, hypopigmentary disorders, or other skin diseases participated. Females scored significantly higher in knowledge of photoprotection compared to males (mean score 8.4 vs. 7.8;p < .001), and younger patients (<50 years) scored higher than older patients (mean score 8.7 vs. 7.5;p < .001). Males also reported longer sun exposure times and lower usage of photoprotective measures (bothp < .001). Patients with skin cancer had the lowest mean knowledge score (7.1 ± 2.6) and were less likely to use photoprotective measures compared to other groups (p < .001). In contrast, patients with hyperpigmentation actively avoided sun exposure compared with other groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Knowledge of photoprotection among Korean patients with skin diseases varied depending on the gender, age, and type of skin disease. Their photoprotective behaviors were inadequate, especially among males and those with skin cancer. These findings emphasize the importance of educating and tailoring photoprotection strategies for patients with skin diseases.
Management of a patient with sickle cell disease and multiple red blood cell alloantibodies in preparation for a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Cigna Maude , Leiva‐Torres Gabriel André , Baillargeon Nadia , Yanez Jessica Constanzo , Robitaille Nancy
Published: January 2024

Background

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is currently the only widely available curative option for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Alloimmunization in this population is frequent and can complicate transfusion management during the HSCT period. The case of a pediatric patient with severe SCD clinical phenotype, multiple alloantibodies (9), and hyperhemolysis syndrome who underwent haploidentical HSCT is described.

Study Design and Methods

The patient was known for an anti‐e, despite RHCE*01.01 allele, which predicts a C‐ c+ E‐ weak e+ phenotype. Donors matching the patient's extended phenotype were targeted for RHCE genotyping.

Results

Donors homozygotes or heterozygotes for RHCE*01.01 were selected for compatibility analyses and ranked based on strength of reactions. Discordance between zygosity and strength of reactions was observed, as the most compatible donors were heterozygotes for RHCE*01.01. In total, the patient received seven RBC units from two different donors during HSCT process without transfusion reaction or development of new alloantibodies. Six months post‐HSCT, his hemoglobin level is stable at around 120 g/L and his chimerism is 100%.

Discussion

This case highlights the complexity of transfusion management during HSCT of alloimmunized patients with SCD. Collecting sufficient compatible units requires early involvement of transfusion medicine teams and close communication with the local blood provider. Genotyping of donors self‐identifying as Black is useful for identifying compatible blood for those patients but has some limitations. HSCT for heavily alloimmunized patients is feasible and safe with early involvement of transfusion medicine specialists. Further research on the clinical impact of genotypic matching is needed.
Effects of mitral valve repair on valvular geometry and hemodynamics in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Mihara Kippei , Kanemoto Isamu , Sato Keiichi , Yasuhira Yuma , Watanabe Itsuki , Suzuki Yuya , Nagura Jumpei , Misumi Kazuhiro
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the effects of mitral valve repair on the geometry of the mitral valve complex, hemodynamics, and cardiac function of dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Sample population

Dogs (n = 77) with stage C MMVD undergoing mitral valve repair under cardiopulmonary bypass.

Methods

Mitral valve geometry and cardiac function were assessed using echocardiography preoperatively, 1 week postoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

The coaptation length (0 [0–0] vs. 7 [6–8.5] mm, p < .001) and forward stroke volume index (1.5 ± 0.4 vs. 2.3 ± 0.6 mL/kg, p < .001) were higher at 3‐months postoperatively than preoperatively, whereas the vertebral heart score (12.3 ± 1.2 vs. 10.8 ± 0.8 V, p < .001), left atrial‐to‐aortic ratio (2.2 ± 0.7 vs. 1.2 ± 0.3, p < .001), peak velocity of early diastolic transmitral flow (144 ± 34 vs. 91 ± 18 cm/s, p < .001), and regurgitant volume index (11.3 [8.2–14.0] vs. 1.6 [0.95–2.35] mL/kg, p < .001) were lower. Postoperatively, mitral valve geometry was completely changed within 1 week, whereas changes in vertebral heart score lasted for 3 months.

Conclusion

Mitral valve repair changed valvular geometry and improved hemodynamics as assessed by follow‐up echocardiography.

Clinical significance

This study acts as reference for surgeons and cardiologists considering or evaluating the effects of mitral valve repair in dogs and provides useful data for the enhancement of relevant surgical techniques and the selection of relevant pre‐ and postoperative observations.
A Social Activity-Based Control Model for Rumor Propagation
Authors: Zhu Qingyi , Fan Ziqi , Gan Chenquan , Cheng Kefei , Wu Yu , Yang Lu-Xing
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we introduce the concept of “social activity” to describe individual behavior on social networks, acknowledging its potential impact on rumor propagation within complex networks. With this in mind, we develop a dynamic model of rumor propagation based on social behavior and analyze the influence of various parameters on the scale of rumors through static comparison. Using this model, we investigate an optimal solution that balances costs and benefits. Numerical simulations and comparative experiments demonstrate the practical value of these findings for strategies aimed at suppressing rumors.
Quantitative assessment of early kidney injury using high frame rate contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in a rabbit model of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Yang Fengrong , Jiang Lei , Ma Yue , He Yadong , Xu Yuqing , Yang Ru , Wu Banban , Li Yang
Published: January 2024

Aim: To explore benefits of high-frame-rate contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (H-CEUS) for early kidney injury in a rabbit model of diabetic nephropathy (DN).Methods: Diabetic rabbits were induced with alloxan administration and split into 2 groups with or without urinary microalbuminuria after a fatty and sugary diet: diabetic rabbits with nephropathy (Group A) and diabetic rabbits without nephropathy (Group B). The control group (Group C) comprised healthy rabbits. Renal H-CEUS and conventional CEUS (C-CEUS) imaging were conducted. Serum creatinine (SCR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and urinary microalbuminuria were measured.Results: SCR and BUN levels were barely changed in Groups B and C (p>0.05), whereas Group A exhibited a rise (p<0.05). Perfusion parameters of the two CEUS modalities showed reduced peak intensity (PI) and ascending slope (AS) and elevated area under the curve (AUC) and time to peak (TTP) in Group A versus Group B (p<0.05) and Group B versus Group C (p<0.05). The arrival time (AT) and descending slope (DS) exhibited little difference among the three groups. H-CEUS had a stronger correlation of perfusion parameters with SCR and BUN than C-CEUS.Conclusions: H-CEUS outperforms C-CEUS in diagnosing early renal damage in DN. H-CEUS perfusion parameters demonstrate temporal superiority over routine laboratory indices.
Clinical application value of Ultrafast Pulse Wave Velocity in early cardiovascular injury of Immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Liu Bili , Si Xing , Shan Yue , Xia Wenxia , Li Min , Ge Dan , Zhang Pingping
Published: January 2024

Aim: To investigate the application and the related influencing factors of ultrafast pulse wave velocity (ufPWV) in the evaluation of carotid artery elasticity in patients with Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN).Material and methods: A total of 156 IgAN patients and 50 healthy individuals were selected as the control group. The ufPWV technique was employed to measure carotid arterial elasticity parameters, including carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), pulse wave velocity at the beginning of systole (BS-PWV) and pulse wave velocity at the end of systole (ES-PWV).Results: Across the three groups (control group, IgAN patients with normal renal function, and IgAN patients with renal dysfunction) there was an increasing trend observed in cIMT, BS-PWV, and ES-PWV. Additionally, ES-PWV exhibited higher sensitivity than BS-PWV. Correlation analysis revealed that BS-PWV and ES-PWV were positively correlated with age, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and uric acid (UA) and negatively correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).Conclusion: The ufPWV technique allows for the rapid and direct measurement of arterial elasticity parameters in the neck and represents a novel approach for the early diagnosis and quantitative assessment of arterial stiffness risk in IgAN patients.
Coupling of Butyl Bromide on Hot Magnesium
Authors: Lambert Frank L. , Ellis William D. , Phelan Nelson F. , Flegal Carl F.
Published: January 2024

A report of the formation of octane when butyl bromide is passed over magnesium turnings at high temperatures should be amended. Such coupling does take place over pure magnesium at more moderate temperatures but yields 3-methylheptane and
sec
-butyl bromide in addition to octane.
Sec
-butyl bromide itself forms no coupling product under such conditions but admixed with butyl bromide markedly increases the 3-methylheptane:octane ratio in the product.
Illusory generalizability of clinical prediction models
Authors: Chekroud Adam M. , Hawrilenko Matt , Loho Hieronimus , Bondar Julia , Gueorguieva Ralitza , Hasan Alkomiet , Kambeitz Joseph , Corlett Philip R. , Koutsouleris Nikolaos , Krumholz Harlan M. , Krystal John H. , Paulus Martin
Published: January 2024

It is widely hoped that statistical models can improve decision-making related to medical treatments. Because of the cost and scarcity of medical outcomes data, this hope is typically based on investigators observing a model’s success in one or two datasets or clinical contexts. We scrutinized this optimism by examining how well a machine learning model performed across several independent clinical trials of antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia. Models predicted patient outcomes with high accuracy within the trial in which the model was developed but performed no better than chance when applied out-of-sample. Pooling data across trials to predict outcomes in the trial left out did not improve predictions. These results suggest that models predicting treatment outcomes in schizophrenia are highly context-dependent and may have limited generalizability.
Climate risk assessments must engage with the law
Authors: Wetzer Thom , Stuart-Smith Rupert , Dibley Arjuna
Published: January 2024

Legal actions determine the allocation and magnitude of climate-related financial risk exposures
Free-electron interaction with nonlinear optical states in microresonators
Authors: Yang Yujia , Henke Jan-Wilke , Raja Arslan S. , Kappert F. Jasmin , Huang Guanhao , Arend Germaine , Qiu Zheru , Feist Armin , Wang Rui Ning , Tusnin Aleksandr , Tikan Alexey , Ropers Claus , Kippenberg Tobias J.
Published: January 2024

The short de Broglie wavelength and strong interaction empower free electrons to probe structures and excitations in materials and biomolecules. Recently, electron-photon interactions have enabled new optical manipulation schemes for electron beams. In this work, we demonstrate the interaction of electrons with nonlinear optical states inside a photonic chip–based microresonator. Optical parametric processes give rise to spatiotemporal pattern formation corresponding to coherent or incoherent optical frequency combs. We couple such “microcombs” to electron beams, demonstrate their fingerprints in the electron spectra, and achieve ultrafast temporal gating of the electron beam. Our work demonstrates the ability to access solitons inside an electron microscope and extends the use of microcombs to spatiotemporal control of electrons for imaging and spectroscopy.
Electrons catch light pulses on the fly
Authors: Polman Albert , García de Abajo F. Javier
Published: January 2024

Energy exchange between electrons and photons enables ultrafast probing of materials
Tectonic plate under Tibet may be splitting in two
Authors: Wei-Haas Maya
Published: January 2024

Peeled-apart Indian Plate could be affecting earthquake hazards
UNC93B1 variants underlie TLR7-dependent autoimmunity
Authors: Wolf Christine , Lim Ee Lyn , Mokhtari Mohammad , Kind Barbara , Odainic Alexandru , Lara-Villacanas Eusebia , Koss Sarah , Mages Simon , Menzel Katharina , Engel Kerstin , Dückers Gregor , Bernbeck Benedikt , Schneider Dominik T. , Siepermann Kathrin , Niehues Tim , Goetzke Carl Christoph , Durek Pawel , Minden Kirsten , Dörner Thomas , Stittrich Anna , Szelinski Franziska , Guerra Gabriela Maria , Massoud Mona , Bieringer Markus , de Oliveira Mann Carina C. , Beltrán Eduardo , Kallinich Tilmann , Mashreghi Mir-Farzin , Schmidt Susanne V. , Latz Eicke , Klughammer Johanna , Majer Olivia , Lee-Kirsch Min Ae
Published: January 2024

UNC93B1 is critical for trafficking and function of nucleic acid–sensing Toll-like receptors (TLRs) TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9, which are essential for antiviral immunity. Overactive TLR7 signaling induced by recognition of self–nucleic acids has been implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here, we report UNC93B1 variants (E92G and R336L) in four patients with early-onset SLE. Patient cells or mouse macrophages carrying the UNC93B1 variants produced high amounts of TNF-α and IL-6 and upon stimulation with TLR7/TLR8 agonist, but not with TLR3 or TLR9 agonists. E92G causes UNC93B1 protein instability and reduced interaction with TLR7, leading to selective TLR7 hyperactivation with constitutive type I IFN signaling. Thus, UNC93B1 regulates TLR subtype–specific mechanisms of ligand recognition. Our findings establish a pivotal role for UNC93B1 in TLR7-dependent autoimmunity and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting TLR7 in SLE.
KSHV 3.0: a state-of-the-art annotation of the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus transcriptome using cross-platform sequencing
Authors: Prazsák István , Tombácz Dóra , Fülöp Ádám , Torma Gábor , Gulyás Gábor , Dörmő Ákos , Kakuk Balázs , McKenzie Spires Lauren , Toth Zsolt , Boldogkői Zsolt
Published: January 2024

Deciphering the viral transcriptome of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus is of great importance because we can gain insight into the molecular mechanism of viral replication and pathogenesis, which can help develop potential targets for antiviral interventions. Specifically, the identification of substantial transcriptional overlaps by this work suggests the existence of a genome-wide interference between transcriptional machineries. This finding indicates the presence of a novel regulatory layer, potentially controlling the expression of viral genes.
Cefiderocol: early clinical experience for multi-drug resistant gram-negative infections
Authors: El Ghali Amer , Kunz Coyne Ashlan J. , Lucas Kristen , Tieman Molly , Xhemali Xhilda , Lau Suet-ping , Iturralde Gabriela , Purdy Andrew , Holger Dana J. , Garcia Esther , Veve Michael P. , Rybak Michael J.
Published: January 2024

Multi-drug resistant gram-negative bacteria present a significant global health threat. Cefiderocol (CFDC), a siderophore cephalosporin, has shown potential in combating this threat, but with the currently available data, its role in therapy remains poorly defined. This multi-center, retrospective cohort study evaluated the real-world application of CFDC across six U.S. medical centers from January 2018 to May 2023. Patients aged ≥18 years and who had received ≥72 hours of CFDC were included. The primary outcome was a composite of clinical success: survival at 30 days, absence of symptomatic microbiologic recurrence at 30 days following CFDC treatment initiation, and resolution of signs and symptoms. Secondary outcomes included time to CFDC therapy and on-treatment non-susceptibility to CFDC. A total of 112 patients were included, with median (interquartile range [IQR]) APACHE II scores of 15 (19–18). Clinical success was observed in 68.8% of patients, with a mortality rate of 16.1% and comparable success rates across patients infected with carbapenem-resistant gram-negative infections. The most common isolated organisms were
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(61/112, 54.5%, of which 55/61 were carbapenem-resistant) and carbapenem-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
(32/112, 28.6%). Median (IQR) time to CFDC therapy was 77 (14–141) hours. Two patients experienced a non-anaphylactic rash as an adverse drug reaction. On-treatment non-susceptibility to CFDC was found in six patients, notably due to
P. aeruginosa
and
A. baumannii
.

IMPORTANCE

CFDC was safe and clinically effective as a monotherapy or in combination in treating a variety of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative infections. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.