bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying epilepsy surgery referral candidates with natural language processing in an Australian context
Authors: Tan Sheryn , Goh Rudy , Ng Jeng Swen , Tang Charis , Ng Cleo , Kovoor Joshua , Stretton Brandon , Gupta Aashray , Ovenden Christopher , Courtney Merran R. , Neal Andrew , Whitham Emma , Frasca Joseph , Kiley Michelle , Abou‐Hamden Amal , Bacchi Stephen
Published: January 2024

Objective

Epilepsy surgery is known to be underutilized. Machine learning‐natural language processing (ML‐NLP) may be able to assist with identifying patients suitable for referral for epilepsy surgery evaluation.

Methods

Data were collected from two tertiary hospitals for patients seen in neurology outpatients for whom the diagnosis of “epilepsy” was mentioned. Individual case note review was undertaken to characterize the nature of the diagnoses discussed in these notes, and whether those with epilepsy fulfilled prespecified criteria for epilepsy surgery workup (namely focal drug refractory epilepsy without contraindications). ML‐NLP algorithms were then developed using fivefold cross‐validation on the first free‐text clinic note for each patient to identify these criteria.

Results

There were 457 notes included in the study, of which 250 patients had epilepsy. There were 37 (14.8%) individuals who fulfilled the prespecified criteria for epilepsy surgery referral without described contraindications, 32 (12.8%) of whom were not referred for epilepsy surgical evaluation in the given clinic visit. In the prediction of suitability for epilepsy surgery workup using the prespecified criteria, the tested models performed similarly. For example, the random forest model returned an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.97 (95% confidence interval 0.93–1.0) for this task, sensitivity of 1.0, and specificity of 0.93.

Significance

This study has shown that there are patients in tertiary hospitals in South Australia who fulfill prespecified criteria for epilepsy surgery evaluation who may not have been referred for such evaluation. ML‐NLP may assist with the identification of patients suitable for such referral.

Plain Language Summary

Epilepsy surgery is a beneficial treatment for selected individuals with drug‐resistant epilepsy. However, it is vastly underutilized. One reason for this underutilization is a lack of prompt referral of possible epilepsy surgery candidates to comprehensive epilepsy centers. Natural language processing, coupled with machine learning, may be able to identify possible epilepsy surgery candidates through the analysis of unstructured clinic notes. This study, conducted in two tertiary hospitals in South Australia, demonstrated that there are individuals who fulfill criteria for epilepsy surgery evaluation referral but have not yet been referred. Machine learning‐natural language processing demonstrates promising results in assisting with the identification of such suitable candidates in Australia.
Research on bi‐layer low carbon scheduling strategy for source‐load collaborative optimization based on node carbon emission intensity
Authors: Liu Xiaoou
Published: January 2024

To accurately calculate the carbon emission of integrated energy system (IES), and fully explore the potential for load side on carbon emission reduction, this paper proposes a method of guiding load to participate in demand response based on node carbon emission intensity, and constructs a bi‐layer low‐carbon scheduling model for source‐load collaborative optimization. First, the carbon flow calculation model of IES in the total process is established, such as source, network, load, and storage. It can depict the carbon emission characteristics of energy conversion equipment and energy storage devices. The principle of proportional sharing is used to track carbon emission flows, the changes in carbon emission intensity at each node is perceived from a spatiotemporal perspective. Second, carbon flow analysis is incorporated into the load demand response mechanism, and a carbon emission model for load aggregator (LA) after demand response is established based on the node carbon emission intensity. Third, a bi‐layer low‐carbon scheduling model is constructed, which considers the source‐load collaborative optimization. The upper layer is the optimal economic dispatch of IES operators, while the lower layer is the optimal economic dispatch of LAs. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified using the system as an example, such as improved 14‐node power grid, 6‐node heating network, and 6‐node nature gas network.
SimLivA–Modeling ischemia‐reperfusion injury in the liver: A first step towards a clinical decision support tool
Authors: Tautenhahn Hans‐Michael , Ricken Tim , Dahmen Uta , Mandl Luis , Bütow Laura , Gerhäusser Steffen , Lambers Lena , Chen Xinpei , Lehmann Elina , Dirsch Olaf , König Matthias
Published: January 2024

The SIMulation supported LIVer Assessment for donor organs (SimLivA) project aims to develop a mathematical model to accurately simulate the influence of mechanical alterations in marginal liver grafts (specifically steatotic ones) and cold ischemia on early ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) during liver transplantation. Our project tackles significant research challenges, including the co‐development of computational methodologies, experimental studies, clinical processes, and technical workflows. We aim to refine a continuum‐biomechanical model for enhanced IRI prediction, collect pivotal experimental and clinical data, and assess the clinical applicability of our model. Our efforts involve augmenting and tailoring a coupled continuum‐biomechanical, multiphase, and multi‐scale partial differential equation‐ordinary differential equation (PDE‐ODE) model of the liver lobule, allowing us to numerically simulate IRI depending on the degree of steatosis and the duration of ischemia. The envisaged model will intertwine the structure, perfusion, and function of the liver, serving as a crucial aid in clinical decision‐making processes. We view this as the initial step towards an in‐silico clinical decision support tool aimed at enhancing the outcomes of liver transplantation. In this paper, we provide an overview of the SimLivA project and our preliminary findings, which include: a cellular model that delineates critical processes in the context of IRI during transplantation; and the integration of this model into a multi‐scale PDE‐ODE model using a homogenized, multi‐scale, multi‐component approach within the Theory of Porous Media (TPM) framework. The model has successfully simulated the interconnected relationship between structure, perfusion, and function—all of which are integral to IRI. Initial results show simulations at the cellular scale that describe critical processes related to IRI during transplantation. After integrating this model into a multiscale PDE‐ODE model, first simulations were performed on the spatial distribution of key functions during warm and cold ischaemia. In addition, we were able to study the effect of tissue perfusion and temperature, two critical parameters in the context of liver transplantation and IRI.
Caregivers' knowledge, practice, and associated factors toward oral rehydration salt with zinc to treat diarrhea among under 5 children in Burayu town, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2022: Cross‐sectional study: An implication for action
Authors: Duguma Nadhi A. , Bala Elias Teferi , Abdisa Bayisa , Adula Timketa , Adeba Emiru , Egata Gudina
Published: January 2024

Background

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in under 5 children of Ethiopia. Millions of young lives could be saved if mothers know and practice the three rules of diarrhea management: giving extra fluid (particularly oral rehydration salt [ORS]), zinc, and giving additional food during diarrhea illness.

Aim

The objective of this study was to determine mothers'/caregivers' Knowledge, Practice, and associated factors toward ORS with zinc to treat diarrhea among under 5 children in Burayu town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 422 study participants from September 25 to October 10, 2022; in Burayu town, Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling technique was used to enroll study subjects from two randomly selected kebeles. Interviewer‐administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were entered into Epi‐info version 3.5.1 and exported to SPSS Version 21 for analysis. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with knowledge and practice of ORS with zinc at p < 0.05% and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The findings showed that 59% and 52% of the respondents had good knowledge and practice toward ORS with zinc, respectively. Being housewives (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 0.407, 95% CI: [0.195, 0.848]), primary education (AOR = 3.246, 95% CI: [1.614, 6.530]), income of >4000 (AOR = 5.132, 95% CI: [1.947, 13.524]), health seeking behavior (AOR = 0.369, 95% CI: [0.139, 0.979]), being divorced (AOR = 0.275, 95% CI: [0.09,0.842]) were found to be significantly associated with knowledge toward management of diarrhea with ORS and zinc. Housewives in occupation (AOR = 0.084, 95% CI: [0.029, 0.243]), secondary and above education (AOR = 6.26: 95% CI: [1.51, 25.86]), health seeking behavior (AOR = 6.885, 95% CI: [2.29, 20.67]), having good knowledge of ORS and zinc (AOR = 22.14, 95% CI: [8.44, 58.07]) were found to be significantly associated with practice of managing diarrhea with ORS and zinc.

Conclusion

This study revealed low level of knowledge and practice of caregivers toward ORS with zinc. The more mothers/caregivers are knowledgeable, the more they are active to practice the use of ORS with zinc. Thus, health education and awareness creation for the mothers/caregivers on management of diarrhea is very crucial. Special attention should be given to enhancing income for mothers/caregivers.
The optimal cutoff for intertwin delivery interval: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Justman Naphtali , Somer Shmuel , Goldfreind Roee , Abu‐Rass Hiba , Siegler Yoav , Shahak Gilad , Bachar Gal , Copel Joshua A. , Zipori Yaniv , Khatib Nizar , Weiner Zeev , Vitner Dana
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine the cutoff of intertwin delivery intervals (IDIs) as a predictor for neonatal acidemia.

Method

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single tertiary care center. Women attempting vaginal delivery of twins between 2010 and 2019 and who reached the second stage of labor were included. The cutoff point for prolonged IDI was established using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Youden's J statistic. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between short and prolonged IDI cohorts.

Results

A total of 461 women were included in the study. A cutoff time of 10 min was found to be the best predictor for neonatal acidemia (arterial cord pH ≤ 7.1), with a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 59%. Second twins delivered more than 10 min after the first twin were more likely to be acidemic and to have a 5‐min Apgar score of 7 or less (13.5% vs 3.3%, P = 0.01, and 8.4% vs 3.2%, P = 0.02, respectively). An IDI of more than 10 min was also associated with increased rate of cesarean delivery and placental abruption (13.5% vs 0.8%, P < 0.001, and 3.4% vs 0.8%, P = 0.047, respectively). No other adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes were statistically significant between cohorts.

Conclusion

An IDI of more than 10 min is associated with a higher risk for neonatal academia, with a low 5‐min Apgar score, and higher cesarean delivery and placental abruption rates. These findings provide insights that are valuable when counseling and managing twin pregnancies attempting vaginal delivery. Interventions aimed at shortening the IDI should be considered to prevent adverse neonatal outcomes.
Cultural values, parenting and child adjustment in Thailand
Authors: Junla Daranee , Yotanyamaneewong Saengduean
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to understand the associations of Thai parents' cultural values (i.e., individualism, collectivism and conformity) with parenting behaviour (i.e., warmth, autonomy granting, rules/limit‐setting, knowledge solicitation and expectations regarding children's family obligations) and children's adjustment (i.e., internalising and externalising problems). These data were collected via child, mother and father reports when the children were 10 years old, on average. Mothers' individualism was correlated with more parental autonomy granting. Fathers' individualism was correlated with higher maternal expectations regarding children's family obligations. Parents' higher collectivism was correlated with more with parental warmth. Mothers' higher collectivism was also correlated with more parental knowledge solicitation, and fathers' higher collectivism was also associated with mothers' and fathers' higher expectations regarding children's family obligations. Fathers' higher conformity values were correlated with more parental autonomy granting and with fewer child internalising and externalising behaviours. However, after controlling for child gender, parent education and the other cultural values, mothers' and fathers' collectivism remained the only significant cultural value predicting parenting behaviours. Results advance understanding of relations between cultural values of Thai mothers and fathers and their parenting behaviours and children's adjustment.
How do maternal and child health nurses incorporate infant mental health promotion into their clinical practice? Experiences of an Australian municipality
Authors: Stevens Helen , Sheeran Leanne , Buist Anne
Published: January 2024

The field of infant mental health (IMH) has offered valuable insights into the critical importance of social–emotional development, including the enduring influence of early experiences throughout life. Maternal and Child Health (MCH) nurses are ideally placed to facilitate knowledge sharing with parents. This Australian‐based qualitative exploratory descriptive study explored how MCH nurses incorporate IMH in their clinical practice, and how they share this information with caregivers. Ten community‐based MCH nurses participated in voluntary, semi‐structured interviews which were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Findings identified five themes that characterized how MCH nurses incorporated IMH concepts into their practice. These themes were: prioritizing physical health promotion activities, highlighting infant communications, variations in knowledge and application of IMH concepts, workplace time schedules, and the relational nature of the work. Recommendations include encouraging IMH as a health promotion activity, facilitating IMH assessment, further education, reflective supervision, and extension of predetermined appointment times to enable knowledge and skill sharing. Further research is also recommended to provide additional insights into how nurses with IMH training promote and share IMH concepts with caregivers. Adoption of these recommendations would further enhance the care given to families and the role of the MCH nurses.
Intestinal flora and pregnancy complications: Current insights and future prospects
Authors: Tian Zhenyu , Zhang Xinjie , Yao Guixiang , Jin Jiajia , Zhang Tongxue , Sun Chunhua , Wang Zhe , Zhang Qunye
Published: January 2024

Numerous studies have demonstrated the pivotal roles of intestinal microbiota in many physiopathological processes through complex interactions with the host. As a unique period in a woman's lifespan, pregnancy is characterized by changes in hormones, immunity, and metabolism. The gut microbiota also changes during this period and plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Consequently, anomalies in the composition and function of the gut microbiota, namely, gut microbiota dysbiosis, can predispose individuals to various pregnancy complications, posing substantial risks to both maternal and neonatal health. However, there are still many controversies in this field, such as “sterile womb” versus “in utero colonization.” Therefore, a thorough understanding of the roles and mechanisms of gut microbiota in pregnancy and its complications is essential to safeguard the health of both mother and child. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the changes in gut microbiota during pregnancy, its abnormalities in common pregnancy complications, and potential etiological implications. It also explores the potential of gut microbiota in diagnosing and treating pregnancy complications and examines the possibility of gut‐derived bacteria residing in the uterus/placenta. Our aim is to expand knowledge in maternal and infant health from the gut microbiota perspective, aiding in developing new preventive and therapeutic strategies for pregnancy complications based on intestinal microecology.
CO2 reduction using aluminum hydride: Generation of in‐situ frustrated Lewis pairs and small molecule activation therein
Authors: Mondal Himangshu , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: January 2024

CO2 reduction is appealing for the long‐term production of high‐value fuels and chemicals. Herein, using density functional theory (DFT) based calculations, we study the CO2 reduction pathway to formic acid using aluminum hydride and phosphine derivatives. Our primary focus is on aluminum hydride derivatives, aimed at improving the efficiency of the CO2 reduction process. Substituents with σ‐donating properties at the aluminum center are discovered to lower the activation barriers. We demonstrate how di‐tert‐butylphosphine oxide (LB‐O)/di‐tert‐butylphosphine sulfide (LB‐S)/di‐tert‐butylphosphanimine (LB‐N) work together with aluminum hydride to facilitate CO2 reduction process and generate in‐situ frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs), such as FLP‐O, FLP‐S, and FLP‐N. The activation strain model (ASM) analysis reveals the significance of strain energy in determining activation barriers. EDA‐NOCV and PIO analyses elucidate the orbital interactions at the corresponding transition states. Furthermore, the study delves into the activation of various small molecules, such as dihydrogen, acetylene, ethylene, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and acetonitrile, using those in‐situ generated FLPs. The study highlights the low activation barriers and emphasizes the potential for small molecule activation in this context.
Optimization of mineral nutrients to improve rhamnolipid production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa6 K‐11
Authors: Alcalde Miguel Angel , Merino‐Rafael Fernando Abilio , Gutiérrez‐Moreno Susana Mónica
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhamnolipids are biosurfactants that have their main application in bioremediation processes. They are able to increase the biodegradation and detoxification rates from industrial effluents. The north of Peru and Iquitos have been not only major oil producers but also have been responsible for oil spills. This study therefore focused on the optimization of mineral nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, calcium and iron to improve rhamnolipids production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6 K‐11, which was isolated from oil soil in Peru.

RESULTS

Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6 K‐11 was reactivated in Trypticase Soy Broth by scaling from 5 to 200 mL of culture medium for 8 h at each stage. The culture was centrifuged and placed in 100 mL Siegmund–Wagner medium for 36 h in a 500 mL Erlenmeyer flask. First, it was determined that sodium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate, calcium chloride and iron sulfate were the best sources of mineral nutrients. Then, by using corn oil as carbon source, the ratios obtained for carbon‐to‐nitrogen and carbon‐to‐phosphorous were 21.172 and 16.279, respectively. In addition, it was found that the optimal concentration for calcium was 0.046 g L−1 and for iron was 0.003 g L−1. The most influential variables were carbon‐to‐nitrogen and carbon‐to‐phosphorus ratio. Finally, 35.124 g L−1 rhamnolipids was produced after 168 h of fermentation with the optimal parameters.

CONCLUSION

The optimization of mineral nutrients was an important achieved goal for rhamnolipid production. In addition, this optimization can be used for modifying the culture medium to grow the biosurfactant producer strain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The association between age and telomere length is age‐dependent: Evidence for a threshold model of telomere length maintenance
Authors: Romero‐Haro Ana Á. , Mulder Ellis , Haussmann Mark F. , Tschirren Barbara
Published: January 2024

Telomere length and dynamics are commonly used biomarkers of somatic state, yet the role of telomeres underlying the aging process is still debated. Indeed, to date, empirical evidence for an association between age and telomere length is mixed. Here, we test if the age‐dependency of the association between age and telomere length can provide a potential explanation for the reported inconsistencies across studies. To this end, we quantified telomere length by telomere restriction fragment analysis in two groups of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) that differed in their age distribution. One group consisted of young adults only, whereas the second group consisted of adults across a wide range of ages. In the young adults group, there was a highly significant negative association between telomere length and age, whereas no association between age and telomere length was found in the all‐ages adults group. This difference between groups was not due to telomere length‐dependent selective disappearance. Our results shows that the association between telomere length and age is age‐dependent and suggest that the costs and benefits associated with telomere maintenance are dynamic across an individual's life course.
Immune escape of BA.2.86 is comparable to XBB subvariants from the plasma of BA.5‐ and BA.5‐XBB‐convalescent subpopulations
Authors: Yang Xiaoyun , Wang Yuan , Liang Ziteng , Cui Tingting , Chen Daxiang , Li Guichang , Xu Hao , Liu Siyi , Zhong Nanshan , Huang Weijin , Wang Zhongfang
Published: January 2024

The EG.5.1 variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has been prevalent since mid‐July 2023 in the United States and China. The variant BA.2.86 has become a major concern because it is 34 mutations away from the parental variant BA.2 and >30 mutations from XBB.1.5. There is an urgent need to evaluate whether the immunity of the population and current vaccines are protective against EG.5.1 and BA.2.86. Based on a cohort of two breakthrough‐infected groups, the levels of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against different subvariants were measured using pseudovirus‐based neutralization assays. XBB.1.5, EG.5.1, and BA.2.86 are comparably immune‐evasive from neutralization by the plasma of individuals recovered from BA.5 infection (BA.5‐convalescent) or XBB.1.9.2/XBB.1.5 infection following BA.5 infection (BA.5‐XBB‐convalescent). NAb levels against EG.5.1 and BA.2.86 subvariants remained >120 geometric mean titers (GMTs) in BA.5‐XBB‐convalescent individuals 2 months postinfection but were <40 GMTs in BA.5‐convalescent individuals. Furthermore, the XBB‐targeting messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine RQ3033 induced higher levels of NAbs against XBB.1.5, EG.5.1, and BA.2.86 than against BA.5‐XBB infection. The results suggest that BA.2.86 and EG.5.1 are unlikely to cause more severe concerns than the currently circulating XBB subvariants and that the XBB.1.5‐targeting mRNA vaccine tested has promising protection against EG.5.1 and BA.2.86.
Genotypic diversity and long‐term impact of human bocavirus on diarrheal disease: Insights from historical fecal samples in Brazil
Authors: Viana Ellen , França Yasmin , de Azevedo Lais S. , Medeiros Roberta S. , Guiducci Raquel , Guadagnucci Simone , Luchs Adriana
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the frequency and genotypic diversity of human bocavirus (HBoV) in historical fecal samples collected before 2005 in Brazil and understand its natural history in patients with diarrhea. Between 1998 and 2005, 3347 samples were tested for HBoV by RT‐PCR, with a detection rate of 5.8% (195/3347). Coinfection with norovirus (NoV) and human adenovirus (HAdV) was found in 34.9% (68/195), indicating HBoV's potential role as a causative agent of diarrheal disease. The detection rate varied over the years (p < 0.05), suggesting natural oscillatory fluctuations. HBoV was more prevalent in fall and winter, with higher positivity in children ≤5 years (p < 0.05), reinforcing that HBoV is an important pathogen in childhood diarrhea. Genotyping (32.8%; 64/195) revealed the circulation of HBoV‐1 (79.7%, 51/64), HBoV‐3 (12.5%, 8/64), HBoV‐2 (6.2%, 4/64), and the rare HBoV‐4 (1.6%, 1/64). Difference in HBoV‐1 and HBoV‐2/‐3 mono‐infections prevalence (p < 0.05), suggests a potential role of HBoV‐1 in the pathogenicity of diarrheal disease. The study highlights HBoV's lasting impact on viral gastroenteritis in Brazil and emphasizes its genotypic diversity. Recommending screening for HBoV in public health laboratories is crucial for understanding its role in gastrointestinal diseases. The data also contribute to understanding the molecular characterization of enteric viruses in historical fecal samples.
Evaluating the impact of lactase supplementation on infant colic: Study protocol for a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kozłowska‐Jalowska Anna , Stróżyk Agata , Horvath Andrea , Szajewska Hania
Published: January 2024

Infant colic is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects infants during their first months of life. The etiology of this condition remains unclear. However, some studies suggest lactase deficiency may be a contributing factor. Currently, the evidence on dietary treatment and lactase supplementation for management of infant colic is limited. We aim to systematically review evidence on the efficacy and safety of using a lactase supplementation for managing infant colic. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, and EMBASE will be searched to identify randomized controlled trials comparing oral lactase supplementation with placebo or no intervention in infants aged less than 6‐month‐old with infant colic using any recognized definition. The risk of bias will be assessed using the second version of the Cochrane Collaboration's risk‐of‐bias tool. The main outcome will be the number of responders in each group after treatment, defined as infants who experienced a decrease in daily crying as reported by the study authors. Additional outcomes will include the duration and frequency of crying episodes, infant sleep duration, parental satisfaction, discomfort of infants, number of hospital admissions, family quality of life, and adverse events during the intervention. The study findings will be published in a peer‐reviewed journal and will be submitted to relevant conferences.
Hollow‐Core Fiber: Breaking the Nonlinearity Limits of Silica Fiber in Long‐Distance Green Laser Pulse Delivery
Authors: Fu Qiang , Davidson Ian A. , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad A. , Mulvad Hans Christian H. , Wheeler Natalie V. , Xu Lin , Poletti Francesco , Richardson David J.
Published: January 2024

Hollow‐core fiber (HCF), in which >99.99% of the light is guided in a central air (or vacuum) filled core, is a radically new fiber technology offering the potential to overcome the nonlinear limits associated with the delivery of high‐brightness laser pulses over long distances in conventional solid‐core fiber. Overcoming these limits is particularly challenging at visible wavelengths where the core sizes of single‐mode fibers (SMFs) are reduced. In this work, the delivery of near‐diffraction‐limited, kilowatt‐peak‐power, sub‐nanosecond laser pulses in the green wavelength range over hundred‐meter scale lengths of a hollow‐core anti‐resonant fiber (HC‐ARF) which offers broadband low‐loss guidance in the visible is experimentally demonstrated. Substantially reduced nonlinearity‐induced spectral broadening is observed relative to silica‐core SMF. The simulation further confirms that the broadening observed (in the HC‐ARF) is entirely due to the interaction of the light with the air in the core and thus can effectively be eliminated by evacuating the fiber. Moreover, access to lower‐loss is noted, and visible guiding HC‐ARFs (that are now becoming available) will improve the throughput efficiency and extend power delivery to kilometer distance scales. The results demonstrated here pave the way for future long‐distance HCF pulse delivery applications, such as remote industrial e‐mobility manufacturing.
Observation of Topological Corner State Arrays in Photonic Quasicrystals
Authors: Shi Aoqian , Peng Yiwei , Jiang Jiapei , Peng Yuchen , Peng Peng , Chen Jianzhi , Chen Hongsheng , Wen Shuangchun , Lin Xiao , Gao Fei , Liu Jianjun
Published: January 2024

Recently, the studies of topological corner states (TCSs) have been extended from crystals to quasicrystals, which are referred to as higher‐order topological quasicrystalline insulators (HOTQIs). However, the TCSs of complete quasi‐periodic structure in photonic systems have yet to be demonstrated. Moreover, there is only one TCS in each corner region in higher‐order topological insulators (HOTIs). Increasing the number of TCS is expected to increase the application potential of TCSs. In this work, HOTQIs in photonic systems are experimentally observed. It is found that HOTQIs possess TCS arrays, and each TCS array contains several TCSs. Furthermore, the universal theoretical framework of the multimer analysis method is improved, and the difference in the average charge density is proposed as a real‐space topological index. These results will open up new ideas for investigating highly integrated, multi‐region localized TCSs and are expected to provide new ways to explore topological phenomena and the applications of photonic quasicrystals.
Emerging Fe3+ Doped Broad NIR‐Emitting Phosphor Ca2.5Hf2.5(Ga, Al)3O12: Fe3+ for LWUV Pumped NIR LED
Authors: Yan Liqing , Zhu Ge , Ma Song , Li Shanshan , Li Zhuowei , Luo Xixian , Dong Bin
Published: January 2024

Fe3+ is a promising dopant for designing near‐infrared (NIR) phosphors due to its broadband emitting, non‐toxic, and inexpensive properties. However, the 4E (4D) and 4E + 4A1 (4G) levels of Fe3+ ions are independent of the crystal‐field parameter, and the spectral regulation has become a huge challenge. Herein, a broadband NIR‐emitting phosphor Ca2.5Hf2.5(Ga, Al)3O12: Fe3+ is successfully developed toward long‐wave ultraviolet (LWUV) light‐pumped NIR phosphor‐converted LED (pc‐LED). Significantly, the excited transition reverse of Ca2.5Hf2.5Ga3O12: Fe3+ can be realized by simply adjusting Fe3+ concentration, which results in the largely enhanced excitation around 410 nm and matches well with the commercial LWUV LED. Moreover, Ca2.5Hf2.5Ga3O12: Fe3+ can exhibit a broadband NIR emission centered at 770 nm with optimized doping content at 0.01 mol%, which are demonstrated to ascribe to Fe3+ occupying both octahedral Hf 4+ and tetrahedral Ga3+ sites. Further, a simple cation modulation strategy is proposed to successfully break the lattice symmetry around Fe3+ ions and largely enhance the NIR‐emission intensity to 200% as much as before. Finally, a NIR pc‐LED is fabricated by employing Ca2.5Hf2.5Ga3O12: Fe3+, Al3+ coating on a 410 nm LED chip, which shows great potential in non‐destructive inspection applications.
Imidazolium‐Based Main‐Chain Copolymers With Alternating Sequences for Broad‐Spectrum Bactericidal Activity and Eradication of Bacterial Biofilms
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Han Jialei , Li Zeyuan , Liu Yadong , Wu Ruodai , Cao Shuaishuai , Wu Dalin
Published: January 2024

In response to the escalating challenge of bacterial drug resistance, the imperative to counteract planktonic cell proliferation and eliminate entrenched biofilms underscores the necessity for cationic polymeric antibacterials. However, limited efficacy and cytotoxicity challenge their practical use. Here, novel imidazolium‐based main‐chain copolymers with imidazolium (PIm+) as the cationic component are introduced. By adjusting precursor molecules, hydrophobicity and cationic density of each unit are fine‐tuned, resulting in broad‐spectrum bactericidal activity against clinically relevant pathogens. PIm+1 stands out for its potent antibacterial performance, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 32 µg mL−1 against Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and substantial biofilm reduction in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) biofilms. The bactericidal mechanism involves disrupting the outer and cytoplasmic membranes, depolarizing the cytoplasmic membrane, and triggering intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Collectively, this study postulates the potential of imidazolium‐based main‐chain copolymers, systematically tailored in their sequences, to serve as a promising candidate in combatting drug‐resistant bacterial infections.
Challenge and Design Strategies of Polymer Organic Electrodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yin Mengjia , Zhou Xingping , Xue Zhigang
Published: January 2024

Due to the scarcity of metallic lithium and the limited specific energy density of traditional inorganic cathodes, the application of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in the large‐scale energy storage market is severely limited. To meet the growing power demands of electric vehicles and electronics, low‐cost and sustainable battery technologies need to be developed. Organic batteries and organic electrode materials emerge at a historic moment and show great potential. Polymer organic materials (POEs) with longer cycle life than small organic molecules that are easily soluble in liquid electrolytes provide more opportunities for advanced electrode materials. However, many issues remain to be addressed before POEs are widely used, such as sluggish electrode reaction kinetics and poor electronic conductivity. Herein, the classification, energy storage mechanism and features of POEs are briefly summarized. Further, the existing problems and design strategies of POEs are discussed and summarized in depth. This review aims to highlight the potential role of structural and morphological design in improving the practical performance of POEs in LIBs and provides insights into the in‐depth understanding and development of organic batteries and organic electrode materials.
SSBP1 is a novel prognostic marker and promotes disease progression via p38MAPK signaling pathway in multiple myeloma
Authors: Xiao Pingping , Wang Jizhen , Li Tingting , Yang Apeng , Qiu Dongbiao , Chen Junmin , Zeng Zhiyong
Published: January 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease. Identification of meaningful co‐expressed gene clusters or representative biomarkers of MM may help to identify new pathological mechanisms and promote the development of new therapies. Here, we performed weighted sgene co‐expression network analysis and a series of bioinformatics analysis to identify single stranded DNA binding protein 1 (SSBP1) as novel hub gene associated with MM development and prognosis. In vitro, CRISPR/cas9 mediated knockdown of SSBP1 can significantly inhibit the proliferation of MM cells through inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase. We also found that decreased SSBP1 expression significantly increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) generation and the level of phosphorylated p38MAPK. Furthermore, it was further verified that disruption of SSBP1 expression could inhibit the tumor growth via p38MAPK pathway in a human myeloma xenograft model. In summary, our study is the first to demonstrate that SSBP1 promotes MM development by regulating the p38MAPK pathway.
Gerstmann‐Sträussler‐Scheinker Disease Presenting as Late‐Onset Slowly Progressive Spinocerebellar Ataxia, and Comparative Case Series with Neuropathology
Authors: Stephen Christopher D. , de Gusmao Claudio Melo , Srinivasan Sharan R. , Olsen Abby , Freua Fernando , Kok Fernando , Montes Garcia Barbosa Renata , Chen Jin Yun (Helen) , Appleby Brian S. , Prior Thomas , Frosch Matthew P. , Schmahmann Jeremy D.
Published: January 2024

Background

Genetic prion diseases, including Gerstmann‐Sträussler‐Scheinker disease (GSS), are extremely rare, fatal neurodegenerative disorders, often associated with progressive ataxia and cognitive/neuropsychiatric symptoms. GSS typically presents as a rapidly progressive cerebellar ataxia, associated with cognitive decline. Late‐onset cases are rare.

Objective

To compare a novel GSS phenotype with six other cases and present pathological findings from a single case.

Methods

Case series of seven GSS patients, one proceeding to autopsy.

Results

Case 1 developed slowly progressive gait difficulties at age 71, mimicking a spinocerebellar ataxia, with a family history of balance problems in old age. Genome sequencing revealed a heterozygous c.392G > A (p.G131E) pathogenic variant and a c.395A > G resulting in p.129 M/V polymorphism in the PRNP gene. Probability analyses considering family history, phenotype, and a similar previously reported point mutation (p.G131V) suggest p.G131E as a new pathogenic variant. Clinical features and imaging of this case are compared with those six additional cases harboring p.P102L mutations. Autopsy findings of a case are described and were consistent with the prion pathology of GSS.

Conclusions

We describe a patient with GSS with a novel p.G131E mutation in the PRNP gene, presenting with a late‐onset, slowly progressive phenotype, mimicking a spinocerebellar ataxia, and six additional cases with the typical P102L mutation.
Corruption in Turkey and earthquakes: Policies for tackling corruption in the construction sector
Authors: Cifuentes‐Faura Javier
Published: January 2024

The earthquake in Turkey has resulted in thousands of fatalities and injuries and is considered one of the worst natural disasters in recent history. The disaster has also brought to light another major issue in Turkey, namely, corruption. Failure to comply with building regulations and successive government amnesties for unlicensed construction contributed to the high death toll. This paper aims to draw attention to the ongoing issue of corruption and the potential life‐saving benefits of ethical practices in business and government. Finally, relevant useful policies targeting corruption in real estate have been proposed.
Mental and Substance Use Disorders Prevalence Study: Background and Methods
Authors: Guyer Heidi , Ringeisen Heather , Dever Jill , Liao Dan , Peytchev Andy , Carr Christine , Geiger Paul , Stambaugh Leyla , Smith Tim , Dixon Lisa , Olfson Mark , First Michael , Stroup Scott , Chwastiak Lydia , Monroe‐Devita Maria , Swanson Jeff , Swartz Marvin , Kessler Ronald C. , Gibbons Robert , Bareis Natalie , Sinclair Hancq Elizabeth , Clarke Thomas , Edlund Mark ,   the MDPS Consortium
Published: January 2024

Objective

The Mental and Substance Use Disorders Prevalence Study (MDPS) builds upon previous epidemiologic studies to provide estimates of prevalence and treatment rates of mental and substance use disorders among adults aged 18–65 in the U.S. The study background and methods are described.

Method

The MDPS employed novel techniques such as the inclusion of household, prison, homeless and state psychiatric hospital populations, a semi‐structured clinical interview administered by trained clinical interviewers to assess disorders, the assessment of both past year and lifetime schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) using full Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 criteria, as well as other mental and substance use disorders, and video‐based interviewing. Population specific and combined sample weights were developed to estimate nationally representative prevalence and treatment rates.

Results

Data collection was conducted between October 2020 and October 2022 resulting in 5679 clinical interviews. The statistical weighting and analytic plan are described. Weighted response rates and reasons for non‐response are provided for each study population.

Conclusions

The MDPS successfully developed and employed novel techniques to estimate the prevalence and treatment rates of mental and substance use disorders in both household and non‐household populations, including some of the most impairing disorders such as SSD.
A fully coupled regularized mortar‐type finite element approach for embedding one‐dimensional fibers into three‐dimensional fluid flow
Authors: Hagmeyer Nora , Mayr Matthias , Popp Alexander
Published: January 2024

The present article proposes a partitioned Dirichlet‐Neumann algorithm, that allows to address unique challenges arising from a novel mixed‐dimensional coupling of very slender fibers embedded in fluid flow using a regularized mortar‐type finite element discretization. The fibers are modeled via one‐dimensional (1D) partial differential equations based on geometrically exact nonlinear beam theory, while the flow is described by the three‐dimensional (3D) incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations. The arising truly mixed‐dimensional 1D‐3D coupling scheme constitutes a novel approximate model and numerical strategy, that naturally necessitates specifically tailored solution schemes to ensure an accurate and efficient computational treatment. In particular, we present a strongly coupled partitioned solution algorithm based on a Quasi‐Newton method for applications involving fibers with high slenderness ratios that usually present a challenge with regard to the well‐known added mass effect. The influence of all employed algorithmic and numerical parameters, namely the applied acceleration technique, the employed constraint regularization parameter as well as shape functions, on efficiency and results of the solution procedure is studied through appropriate examples. Finally, the convergence of the two‐way coupled mixed‐dimensional problem solution under uniform mesh refinement is demonstrated, a comparison to a 3D reference solution is performed, and the method's capabilities in capturing flow phenomena at large geometric scale separation is illustrated by the example of a submersed vegetation canopy.
Sustainability: We need to focus on overall system outcomes rather than simplistic targets
Authors: Fisher Len , Gross Thilo , Hillebrand Helmut , Sandberg Anders , Sayama Hiroki
Published: January 2024

Many of the global challenges that confront humanity are interlinked in a dynamic complex network, with multiple feedback loops, nonlinear interactions and interdependencies that make it difficult, if not impossible, to consider individual threats in isolation.

These challenges are mainly dealt with, however, by considering individual threats in isolation (at least in political terms). The mitigation of dual climate and biodiversity threats, for example, is linked to a univariate 1.5°C global warming boundary and a global area conservation target of 30% by 2030.

The situation has been somewhat improved by efforts to account for interactions through multidimensional target setting, adaptive and open management and market‐based decision pathways.

But the fundamental problem still remains—that complex systems such as those formed by the network of global threats have emergent properties that are more than the sum of their parts. We must learn how to deal with or live with these properties if we are to find effective ways to cope with the threats, individually and collectively.

Here, we argue that recent progresses in complex systems research and related fields have enhanced our ability to analyse and model such entwined systems to the extent that it offers the promise of a new approach to sustainability. We discuss how this may be achieved, both in theory and in practice, and how human cultural factors play an important but neglected role that could prove vital to achieving success.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Distinct specificities of the HEMK2 protein methyltransferase in methylation of glutamine and lysine residues
Authors: Weirich Sara , Ulu Gizem T. , Chandrasekaran Thyagarajan T. , Kehl Jana , Schmid Jasmin , Dorscht Franziska , Kublanovsky Margarita , Levy Dan , Jeltsch Albert
Published: January 2024

The HEMK2 protein methyltransferase has been described as glutamine methyltransferase catalyzing ERF1‐Q185me1 and lysine methyltransferase catalyzing H4K12me1. Methylation of two distinct target residues is unique for this class of enzymes. To understand the specific catalytic adaptations of HEMK2 allowing it to master this chemically challenging task, we conducted a detailed investigation of the substrate sequence specificities of HEMK2 for Q‐ and K‐methylation. Our data show that HEMK2 prefers methylation of Q over K at peptide and protein level. Moreover, the ERF1 sequence is strongly preferred as substrate over the H4K12 sequence. With peptide SPOT array methylation experiments, we show that Q‐methylation preferentially occurs in a G‐Q‐X3‐R context, while K‐methylation prefers S/T at the first position of the motif. Based on this, we identified novel HEMK2 K‐methylation peptide substrates with sequences taken from human proteins which are methylated with high activity. Since H4K12 methylation by HEMK2 was very low, other protein lysine methyltransferases were examined for their ability to methylate the H4K12 site. We show that SETD6 has a high H4K12me1 methylation activity (about 1000‐times stronger than HEMK2) and this enzyme is mainly responsible for H4K12me1 in DU145 prostate cancer cells.
Improving enzyme functional annotation by integrating in vitro and in silico approaches: The example of histidinol phosphate phosphatases
Authors: Kinateder Thomas , Mayer Carina , Nazet Julian , Sterner Reinhard
Published: January 2024

Advances in sequencing technologies have led to a rapid growth of public protein sequence databases, whereby the fraction of proteins with experimentally verified function continuously decreases. This problem is currently addressed by automated functional annotations with computational tools, which however lack the accuracy of experimental approaches and are susceptible to error propagation. Here, we present an approach that combines the efficiency of functional annotation by in silico methods with the rigor of enzyme characterization in vitro. First, a thorough experimental analysis of a representative enzyme of a group of homologues is performed which includes a focused alanine scan of the active site to determine a fingerprint of function‐determining residues. In a second step, this fingerprint is used in combination with a sequence similarity network to identify putative isofunctional enzymes among the homologues. Using this approach in a proof‐of‐principle study, homologues of the histidinol phosphate phosphatase (HolPase) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, many of which were annotated as phosphoserine phosphatases, were predicted to be HolPases. This functional annotation of the homologues was verified by in vitro testing of several representatives and an analysis of the occurrence of annotated HolPases in the corresponding phylogenetic groups. Moreover, the application of the same approach to the homologues of the HolPase from the archaeon Nitrosopumilus maritimus, which is not related to the HolPase from P. aeruginosa and was newly discovered in the course of this work, led to the annotation of the putative HolPase from various archaeal species.