bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Sulfo(xo)nium Diacylmethylides
Authors: Fu Duo , Xu Jiaxi
Published: April 2024

Sulfo(xo)nium diacylmethylides (sulfur ylides) are simple, stable, readily prepared, and versatile synthons. Compared with the sulfo(xo)nium monoacylmethylides, they can be compatible with more rigorous reaction conditions and showcase unique characteristics due to their excellent stability. This concept article provides an account for the syntheses of sulfo(xo)nium diacylmethylides, including the utilization of active methylene compounds, carbene precursors, sulfo(xo)nium monoacylmethylides, and electron‐deficient alkynes as substrates, with discussions on substrate scopes, proposed mechanisms, selected product examples, and applications. Challenges for further exploration and prospect on sulfo(xo)nium diacylmethylides in the future are also suggested.
Methylmercury Effects on Birds: A Review, Meta-Analysis, and Development of Toxicity Reference Values for Injury Assessment Based on Tissue Residues and Diet
Authors: Ackerman Joshua T. , Peterson Sarah H. , Herzog Mark P. , Yee Julie L.
Published: April 2024

Birds are used as bioindicators of environmental mercury (Hg) contamination, and toxicity reference values are needed for injury assessments. We conducted a comprehensive review, summarized data from 168 studies, performed a series of Bayesian hierarchical meta-analyses, and developed new toxicity reference values for the effects of methylmercury (MeHg) on birds using a benchmark dose analysis framework. Lethal and sublethal effects of MeHg on birds were categorized into nine biologically relevant endpoint categories and three age classes. Effective Hg concentrations where there was a 10% reduction (EC10) in the production of juvenile offspring (0.55 µg/g wet wt adult blood-equivalent Hg concentrations, 80% credible interval: [0.33, 0.85]), histology endpoints (0.49 [0.15, 0.96] and 0.61 [0.09, 2.48]), and biochemical markers (0.77 [<0.25, 2.12] and 0.57 [0.35, 0.92]) were substantially lower than those for survival (2.97 [2.10, 4.73] and 5.24 [3.30, 9.55]) and behavior (6.23 [1.84, >13.42] and 3.11 [2.10, 4.64]) of juveniles and adults, respectively. Within the egg age class, survival was the most sensitive endpoint (EC10 = 2.02 µg/g wet wt adult blood-equivalent Hg concentrations [1.39, 2.94] or 1.17 µg/g fresh wet wt egg-equivalent Hg concentrations [0.80, 1.70]). Body morphology was not particularly sensitive to Hg. We developed toxicity reference values using a combined survival and reproduction endpoints category for juveniles, because juveniles were more sensitive to Hg toxicity than eggs or adults. Adult blood-equivalent Hg concentrations (µg/g wet wt) and egg-equivalent Hg concentrations (µg/g fresh wet wt) caused low injury to birds (EC1) at 0.09 [0.04, 0.17] and 0.04 [0.01, 0.08], moderate injury (EC5) at 0.6 [0.37, 0.84] and 0.3 [0.17, 0.44], high injury (EC10) at 1.3 [0.94, 1.89] and 0.7 [0.49, 1.02], and severe injury (EC20) at 3.2 [2.24, 4.78] and 1.8 [1.28, 2.79], respectively. Maternal dietary Hg (µg/g dry wt) caused low injury to juveniles at 0.16 [0.05, 0.38], moderate injury at 0.6 [0.29, 1.03], high injury at 1.1 [0.63, 1.87], and severe injury at 2.4 [1.42, 4.13]. We found few substantial differences in Hg toxicity among avian taxonomic orders, including for controlled laboratory studies that injected Hg into eggs. Our results can be used to quantify injury to birds caused by Hg pollution. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1195–1241. Published 2024. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Association between monosodium glutamate consumption with changes in gut microbiota and related metabolic dysbiosis—A systematic review
Authors: Ahangari Hossein , Bahramian Behnam , Khezerlou Arezou , Tavassoli Milad , Kiani‐Salmi Narges , Tarhriz Vahideh , Ehsani Ali
Published: April 2024

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as a common food additive in some foods. However, based on our search and knowledge, no comprehensive study discussed the effect of MSG on the human gut microbiome. In this study, the effects of MSG on the gut microbiome, liver, and kidney were performed. Data were collected from databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect using the search strategy and keywords. Finally, 14 eligible studies were selected for systematic review. This study provides a new perspective on the effects of MSG on the gut flora, shedding light on the potential relationship between MSG intake and human health.
Inequality and poverty in Spain: Insights from a regional convergence analysis
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Delgado Francisco J. , Suárez‐Arbesú Claudia
Published: April 2024

We study the dynamics of inequality and poverty across 17 Spanish regions during 2008–2021. Through a club convergence approach, the results show noticeable differences in both indicators, income inequality (S80/S20) and poverty rate: two clubs are endogenously derived from inequality, while the analysis of the poverty was conducted in four clubs. In addition, the results are complemented with the outcomes for the GDP per capita, where more heterogeneity is detected, with three clubs, but with six divergent regions. The ordered logit model allows to identify the driving factors of such clubs. Finally, policy implications are discussed: the findings recommend the need for specific public policies to address regional differences in terms of economic and social growth also considering the trajectories—convergence or divergence—in inequality and poverty and their determining factors.
Castles in the Air: Relationships on Castle, the TV Show
Authors: Kirtley William M. , Kirtley Patricia M.
Published: April 2024

The writers of the TV show Castle, starring Nathan Fillion (Castle) and Stana Katic (Beckett) cultivated shippers, a loyal fan base devoted to this series. The writers' deviation from the established scenario and cancellation of Katic's contract brought viewer displeasure on social media and forced the cancellation of the show. Castle helped people escape their everyday doldrums. This brilliant show captured moments when time stood still in the face of a magnetic attraction between two fascinating people.
Economic gains from individual fishing quotas: The Norwegian coastal groundfish fisheries
Authors: Liu Yaqin , Pincinato Ruth B. M. , Asche Frank , Smith Martin D. , Ventura Francesco
Published: April 2024

Many rights‐based systems in fisheries use individual fishing quotas (IFQs) that allocate shares of total allowable catch to individual fishers, vessels, or groups of fishers. We analyze the performance of IFQs in the Norwegian coastal groundfish fisheries that substantially limit transferability. We use data from two similar fishing groups that were treated with different management. Difference‐in‐differences results show that IFQs increase productivity and prices for some of the main groundfish species. Results suggest that expected productivity gains and price gains from first‐best rights‐based policies that create highly transferable IFQs can result from second‐best policies that substantially limit transferability.
Relative Bioavailability of Cenobamate Administered as a Crushed Tablet, Either Orally or via Nasogastric Tube, versus an Intact Whole Tablet
Authors: Vashi Vijay , Laramy Janice , Kamin Marc , Ferrari Louis , Hand Alan
Published: April 2024

Cenobamate is approved for the treatment of focal seizures in adults and is currently available as an oral tablet. Alternative methods of drug administration are needed for patients who are unable to swallow whole intact tablets. This phase 1, open‐label, randomized, single‐dose, three‐way crossover (3‐period, 3‐treatment, 6‐sequence) study (NCT05572255), conducted in healthy volunteers, assessed the relative bioavailability of a crushed 200‐mg cenobamate tablet administered orally or via nasogastric (NG) tube compared with an intact 200‐mg tablet. Each treatment was separated by a 13‐day washout period. Plasma samples for cenobamate concentration analysis were collected pre‐dose and at multiple time points up to 264 h post‐dose. Standard bioequivalence study criteria were applied to the relative bioavailability assessments. All 90% confidence intervals of test‐to‐reference geometric mean ratios for cenobamate pharmacokinetic parameters (Cmax, AUClast, and AUCinf) were within 85‐110% (predefined limit, 80‐125%), suggesting no difference in cenobamate exposures following administration of an intact tablet orally or a crushed tablet orally or via NG tube. All treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were classified as mild and resolved. There were no deaths or other serious AEs (SAEs), and no TEAEs led to discontinuation. Our results indicate that the administration of cenobamate as a crushed tablet taken orally or via an NG tube can provide additional flexibility when patients cannot swallow intact tablets. Based on the results of this study, cenobamate is now approved by FDA to be taken whole or the tablets can be crushed. The crushed tablet can be mixed with water and either administered by mouth as an oral suspension or administered via a nasogastric tube.
Study on the factors affecting the mechanical properties of antler under quasi‐static compression
Authors: Chen Lining , Wang Yuzhi , Xie Haoran , Wu Ruizhe , Xie Jiyin , Zou Meng
Published: April 2024

In the natural environment, antlers have a significant mechanical structure that protects the deer head from injury. In this paper, the mechanical properties of antlers were evaluated through quasi‐static compression tests and microstructural observation of samples from antlers, and the relationship between the sampling position, load direction, and microstructure and their mechanical properties were investigated. Compression experiments confirmed that the tines had the strongest mechanical properties, followed by the main beams and finally the brow tines. The mechanical properties of the test specimens subjected to axial compression were higher than those of lateral compression. The axial load test of the longitudinal sample of the tine of the antler has the best mechanical properties. Its specific energy absorption is 51.33 J/g, the peak crushing force is 1.26 kN, and the mean crushing force is 1.47 kN. There are many tubular structures in the transverse sections of antlers, and the distribution of fibers in the vertical direction is laminar with alternating rows forming a helical structure. Tubular structures were found to be prevalent in some of the better biomechanical structures by comparison. Numerical modeling simulations to describe the effect of tubular structures on the mechanical properties of antlers. The simulation results show that the increase in the size of the tubular structure improves its energy absorption within the variation of a 20% increase in the size of the long and short axis. These findings provide a theoretical and experimental basis for the design of energy‐absorbing structures.

Research Highlights

In this paper, transverse and longitudinal samples were taken from the main beam, tine, and brow tine of antlers, and axial and lateral compression were carried out, respectively.

In this paper, quasi‐static compression experiments were carried out on antler samples to study the effects of sampling position, loading direction, and microstructure on antler mechanical properties.

By means of microstructure observation and numerical modeling, it is determined that the size of the antler Havel tube has an effect on its mechanical properties.
Antibacterial efficacy of silver nanoparticles, sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine, and hypochlorous acid on dentinal surfaces infected with Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Oncu Aysenur , Celikten Berkan , Aydın Betül , Amasya Gulin , Tuncay Erkan , Eskiler Gamze Guney , Açık Leyla , Sevimay Fatma Semra
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Enterococcus faecalis and compare it with different irrigation solutions. This study was performed using 64 dentin blocks. E. faecalis suspension was dispensed to each sample and incubated under anaerobic conditions at 37°C throughout 21 days. After the inoculation period, the following solutions were added to each group and kept for 5 min: Group 1, 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); Group 2, 2.5% NaOCl; Group 3, 1% NaOCl; Group 4, 2% chlorhexidine (CHX); Group 5, 200 ppm hypochlorous acid (HOCl); and Group 6, AgNPs. The samples of positive control were treated with sterile saline. Biofilm viability assay was performed using the LIVE/DEAD BacLight Bacterial Viability Kit. Samples were examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy, respectively. There was no significant difference between the 5.25% NaOCl, 2.5% NaOCl, and 1%NaOCl groups (p > .05). However, these groups showed statistically higher antibacterial activity than the 2% CHX, 200 ppm HOCl, and AgNP groups. Also, 2% CHX showed greater percentage of dead cells compared with the AgNP and HOCl groups. While AgNPs group showed lower dead cell rate than all NaOCl groups and 2% CHX, it caused higher dead cells than 200 ppm HOCl group. The 200 ppm HOCl group showed the lowest percentage of dead cells (p < .05) Although the antibacterial effect of AgNPs is not as high as NaOCl and CHX, it has considerable bactericidal activity against E. faecalis and can be improved by further studies.

Research Highlights

New antimicrobial approaches for root canal irrigation.

Antimicrobial effect of silver nanoparticles against E. faecalis.

Elimination of the biofilm layer for the success of endodontic treatment.
Long‐term follow‐up of outcomes including progression‐free survival 2 in patients with transplant‐ineligible multiple myeloma in the real‐world practice: A multi‐institutional report from the Canadian Myeloma Research Group (CMRG) database
Authors: Kaedbey Rayan , Reece Donna , Venner Christopher P. , McCurdy Arleigh , Su Jiandong , Chu Michael , Louzada Martha , Jimenez‐Zepeda Victor H , Mian Hira , Song Kevin , Sebag Michael , Stakiw Julie , White Darrell , Reiman Anthony , Aslam Muhammad , Kotb Rami , Bergstrom Debra , Gul Engin , LeBlanc Richard
Published: April 2024

Multiple myeloma remains an incurable cancer mostly affecting older adults and is characterized by a series of remission inductions and relapses. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes in newly diagnosed transplant‐ineligible patients using bortezomib/lenalidomide‐based regimens in the Canadian real world as well as their outcomes in the second line. The Canadian Myeloma Research Group Database (CMRG‐DB) is a national database with input from multiple Canadian Centres with now up to 8000 patients entered. A total of 1980 transplant ineligible patients were identified in the CMRG‐DB between the years of 2007–2021. The four most commonly used induction regimens are bortezomib/melphalan/prednisone (VMP) (23%), cyclophosphamide/bortezomib/dexamethasone (CyBorD) (47%), lenalidomide/dexamethasone (Rd) (24%), and bortezomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone (VRd) (6%). After a median follow‐up of 30.46 months (0.89–168.42), the median progression‐free survival (mPFS) and median overall survival (mOS) of each cohort are 23.5, 22.9, 34.0 months, and not reached (NR) and 64.1, 51.1, 61.5 months, and NR respectively. At the time of data cut‐off, 1128 patients had gone on to second‐line therapy. The mPFS2 based on first‐line therapy, VMP, CyBorD, Rd, and VRd is 53.3, 48.4, 62.7 months, and NR respectively. The most common second‐line regimens are Rd (47.4%), DRd (12.9%), CyBorD (10.3%), and RVd (8.9%) with a mPFS and a mOS of 17.0, 31.1, 15.4, and 14.0 months and 34.7, NR, 47.6, 33.4 months, respectively. This study represents the real‐world outcomes in newly diagnosed transplant‐ineligible myeloma patients in Canada. The spectra of therapy presented here reflect the regimens still widely used around the world. While this is sure to change with anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibodies now reflecting a new standard of care in frontline therapy, this cohort is reflective of the type of multiple myeloma patient currently experiencing relapse in the real‐world setting.
Viral RNA capping: Mechanisms and antiviral therapy
Authors: Chen Saini , Jiang Zhimin , Li Qiuchen , Pan Wenliang , Chen Yu , Liu Jinhua
Published: April 2024

RNA capping is an essential trigger for protein translation in eukaryotic cells. Many viruses have evolved various strategies for initiating the translation of viral genes and generating progeny virions in infected cells via synthesizing cap structure or stealing the RNA cap from nascent host messenger ribonucleotide acid (mRNA). In addition to protein translation, a new understanding of the role of the RNA cap in antiviral innate immunity has advanced the field of mRNA synthesis in vitro and therapeutic applications. Recent studies on these viral RNA capping systems have revealed startlingly diverse ways and molecular machinery. A comprehensive understanding of how viruses accomplish the RNA capping in infected cells is pivotal for designing effective broad‐spectrum antiviral therapies. Here we systematically review the contemporary insights into the RNA‐capping mechanisms employed by viruses causing human and animal infectious diseases, while also highlighting its impact on host antiviral innate immune response. The therapeutic applications of targeting RNA capping against viral infections and the development of RNA‐capping inhibitors are also summarized.
Utility of colonic manometry in children with Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Fu Yinan , Gayer Christopher , Gould Michelle , Sicolo Anita R. , Danialifar Tanaz F. , Van Speybroeck Alexander , Ambartsumyan Lusine , Punati Jaya
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

Abnormal motility of the residual colon has been reported in post‐pull‐through Hirschsprung disease (PT‐HSCR) patients with persistent defecation problems. We reviewed the role of colonic manometry (CM) in the management of defecation disorders in these patients.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical record of PT‐HSCR children who underwent CM for persistent symptoms of abnormal defecation. We reviewed their clinical course and its relation to CM findings.

Results:

Thirty PT‐HSCR patients underwent CM, of which five were diagnosed with transition zone pull‐through and were excluded. Of the remaining 25 patients, 16 had colonic dysmotility, 8 had normal CM, and one had colonic hypermotility. In patients with dysmotility, five responded to ongoing medical management, three required surgical intervention (ileostomy), three remained symptomatic with medical management but not yet received surgical intervention, and five were lost to follow‐up. In patients with normal CM, four responded to ongoing medical therapy, two required additional surgery (antegrade enema procedure), and two were lost to follow‐up. The patient with hypermotility improved with adding loperamide.

Conclusions:

Colonic dysmotility can occur in PT‐HSCR patients with persistent defecation problems. CM was helpful in delineating the degree of colonic neuromuscular dysfunction. CM results were used in conjunction with other clinical data to determine optimal management. Our findings support that medical management should first be optimized before consideration of colonic manometry and surgical interventions.
Characterization of initial CLABSI culture results to support antimicrobial de‐escalation in pediatric GI inpatients
Authors: Beckman Martina , Firmenich Emily , Cole Conrad R. , Haslam David B. , Mortensen Joel E. , Courter Joshua D.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Central Line‐associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs) pose a serious mortality and morbidity risk. An institutional protocol was developed for the evaluation and empirical antibiotic treatment of possible CLABSIs. The potential impact of de‐escalating antimicrobial therapy based on initial Gram stain and molecular identification was assessed.

Methods

All positive blood cultures from patients admitted to the gastroenterology service at a large pediatric medical center were collected from 1/1/14 to 12/31/20. Cultures that were negative, repeated, or causative organisms that were unable to be identified with susceptibility data were excluded. Timepoints and organism(s) from each culture were recorded. Polymicrobial cultures were classified as containing only gram‐positive organisms (polymicrobial GP), only gram‐negative organisms (polymicrobial GN), or mixed spectrum.

Results

During the 6‐year period, 361 positive blood cultures were included in the study. Single isolates were identified in 79.5% (287/361) of cultures. Polymicrobial cultures from confirmed central line source accounted for 15.0% (54/361), with 6.4% (23/361) Polymicrobial GP, 4.4% (16/361) Polymicrobial GN, and 4.2% (15/361) being mixed‐spectrum cultures. Both organism types were detected on initial gram‐stain in 40% (6/15) of the mixed‐spectrum cultures, another 26.7% (4/15) had the opposite‐spectrum organism identified within an average of <3 h and the remaining 33.3% (5/15) had the opposite‐spectrum organism identified by culture growth.

Conclusions

Polymicrobial mixed‐spectrum cultures accounted for <5% of positive blood cultures and most isolates were identified within 3 h of first positivity. This may allow for further investigation of early de‐escalation of therapy for this population and limit antimicrobial exposure.
Proteasome inhibitor bortezomib prevents proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells
Authors: Liu Yi‐Ching , Tseng Yu‐Hsin , Kuan Yu‐Hsin , Wang Lin‐Yen , Huang Shang‐En , Tsai Siao‐Ping , Yeh Jwu‐Lai , Hsu Jong‐Hau
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary vascular remodeling is a key pathological process of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Bortezomib (BTZ) is the first Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved proteasome inhibitor for multiple myeloma treatment. Recently, there is emerging evidence showing its effect on reversing PAH, although its mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, anti‐proliferative and anti‐migratory effects of BTZ on PASMCs were first examined by different inducers such as fetal bovine serum (FBS), angiotensin II (Ang II) and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐BB, while potential mechanisms including cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS were then investigated; finally, signal transduction of ERK and Akt was examined. Our results showed that BTZ attenuated FBS‐, Ang II‐ and PDGF‐BB‐induced proliferation and migration, with associated decreased cellular ROS production and mitochondrial ROS production. In addition, the phosphorylation of ERK and Akt induced by Ang II and PDGF‐BB was also inhibited by BTZ treatment. This study indicates that BTZ can prevent proliferation and migration of PASMCs, which are possibly mediated by decreased ROS production and down‐regulation of ERK and Akt. Thus, proteasome inhibition can be a novel pharmacological target in the management of PAH.
Multidrug‐resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in residential aged care facilities: An emerging threat
Authors: Sapula Sylvia A. , Hart Bradley J. , Siderius Naomi L. , Amsalu Anteneh , Blaikie Jack M. , Venter Henrietta
Published: April 2024

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug‐resistant (MDR), Gram‐negative bacterium intrinsically resistant to beta‐lactams, including last‐resort carbapenems. As an opportunistic pathogen, it can cause serious healthcare‐related infections. This study assesses the prevalence, resistance profiles, and genetic diversity of S. maltophilia isolated from residential aged care facilities (RACFs). RACFs are known for their overuse and often inappropriate use of antibiotics, creating a strong selective environment that favors the development of bacterial resistance. The study was conducted on 73 S. maltophilia isolates recovered from wastewater and facility swab samples obtained from three RACFs and a retirement village. Phenotypic and genotypic assessments of the isolates revealed high carbapenem resistance, exemplifying their intrinsic beta‐lactam resistance. Alarmingly, 49.3% (36/73) of the isolates were non‐wild type for colistin, with minimum inhibitory concentration values of > 4 mg/L, and 11.0% (8/73) were resistant to trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole. No resistance mechanisms were detected for either antimicrobial. Genotypic assessment of known lineages revealed isolates clustering with Sm17 and Sm18, lineages not previously reported in Australia, suggesting the potential ongoing spread of MDR S. maltophilia. Lastly, although only a few isolates were biocide tolerant (2.7%, 2/73), their ability to grow in high concentrations (64 mg/L) of triclosan is concerning, as it may be selecting for their survival and continued dissemination.
Image inpainting via modified exemplar‐based inpainting with two‐stage structure tensor and image sparse representation
Authors: Yodjai Petcharaporn , Kumam Poom , Martínez‐Moreno Juan , Jirakitpuwapat Wachirapong
Published: April 2024

The approach described in this research is an exemplar‐based inpainting problem that combines a two‐stage structure tensor and image sparse representation to fill in any missing pixels. An important step is to select the filling order and local intensity smoothness, as well as to ensure that the structure is not destroyed. We employ a two‐stage structure tensor‐based priority for the filling order: finding the candidate patches and determining the appropriate weight of each candidate patch under the constraint of local patch consistency, then applying a blend of a sparse linear combination of candidate patches to fill in the missing region of the image. In addition, this technique may also be used for object removal. The proposed method yields results that are visually natural and qualitative.
How and why do people with chronic low back pain modify their physical activity? A mixed‐methods survey
Authors: Azer George , Gibbs Mitchell T. , Jones Matthew D. , Morrison Natalie M. V. , Azer Anthony , Marshall Paul W.
Published: April 2024

Background

This study investigated the impact of Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) on individuals' physical activity (PA) behaviours, specifically, how they modify, cease, or continue PA when experiencing CLBP. The primary aim was to explore the relationship between CLBP and PA and how this is influenced in different contexts (e.g., necessity of a task).

Methods

A mixed‐methods survey was administered to 220 participants, including self‐reported outcomes, and capturing responses to three distinct questions related to PA and CLBP. The data was analysed via a content analysis.

Results

The findings revealed that individuals with CLBP are most likely to modify PA in work‐related contexts and least likely to cease it in the same setting. Housework emerged as the most common domain for cessation of PA, while work/study activities were predominantly continued. Reasons for these trends were typically task‐based rather than health or enjoyment based and influenced by the perceived necessity of the task in question.

Conclusion

The study highlights the role of occupational and educational settings in individual responses to CLBP. The findings also highlight a gap in public awareness regarding effective CLBP management strategies, emphasising the need for increased education and awareness programs.
Workload prediction based on improved error correlation logistic regression algorithm and Cross‐TRCN of spatiotemporal neural network
Authors: Wan Xin , Huang Xiang , Wang Fuzhi
Published: April 2024

In view of the randomness of user network usage behavior in data centers, which leads to a large randomness in power load, and considering that a single randomness processing method is usually difficult to fully characterize the uncertain characteristics of the system, this paper proposes a dual fusion prediction analysis model based on an improved error correlation logic regression algorithm and a novel spatiotemporal neural network structure called Cross‐TRCN. Two weight coefficients λ1 and λ2 are introduced to fuse the prediction results with different long‐term sequence prediction performance, thereby further eliminating the influence of random errors. The results show that it is feasible to predict the workload of data centers based on the improved error correlation logic regression algorithm and the innovative spatiotemporal neural network structure Cross‐TRCN.
Exploring the social and cultural values of trees and woodlands in England: A new composite measure
Authors: O'Brien Liz , McConnachie Stephen , Hall Clare , Forster Jack , Dyke Alison , Saraev Vadim , Jones Glyn
Published: April 2024

Existing research on the social and cultural (S&C) values of treescapes tends to be limited in scope, for example to recreation, aesthetic or health values, and much is primarily qualitative, which provides rich detail but does not lend itself easily to incorporation into decision‐making. Having a way to quantify the range of S&C values associated with treescapes is important if decision‐makers are to effectively take these into account. This issue is particularly important currently with ambitious plans to increase tree cover alongside growing threats to treescapes from climate change and tree pests and diseases.

This paper outlines the development of a new composite measure to quantify the S&C values associated with treescapes. The development of the measure resulted in a set of 19 statements across six categories of S&C value.

We present results from using the measure in a survey with a representative sample of 5000 people across England together with the results of a factor analysis, which suggests a way to simplify the measure into five statements.

We examine the measure through the lens of relational values and suggest that a majority of the values in our measure are relational.

Policy implications. The composite measure can be used by decision‐makers looking to develop their evidence base regarding the value of treescapes in their area, or for exploring the impact of tree pests and diseases. It has already been used by more than one local authority in England. While data collection was limited to England, we suggest that the measure is applicable across a wider range of countries.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Juvenile xanthogranuloma manifesting with LCH‐associated neurodegenerative disease‐like radiological findings
Authors: Daifu Tomoo , Umeda Katsutsugu , Yokoyama Atsushi , Yoshida Takeshi , Saida Satoshi , Kato Itaru , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Kudo Ko , Higuchi Yoshihisa , Takita Junko
Published: April 2024

Here, we describe two patients with juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) manifesting with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH)‐associated neurodegenerative disease (ND)‐like radiological findings. One patient showed typical radiological abnormalities at onset, which worsened with progressing central nervous system symptoms 7 years after LCH‐oriented chemotherapy. Another showed spontaneous regression of clinical symptoms, with a transient radiological change 1 year after salvage chemotherapy for recurrence of JXG. These data regarding JXG‐associated ND will facilitate future investigation of the disease, as well as development of therapeutic interventions.
Risk of bleeding amongst warfarin and direct oral anticoagulant users prescribed immediate antibiotics for respiratory tract infection: Cohort study
Authors: Ahmed Haroon , Reeve Nicola , Farewell Daniel , Hamilton Fergus , Ponsford Mark , Hippisley‐Cox Julia , Noble Simon
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Incidence of bleeding amongst warfarin and direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) users is greater following a respiratory tract infection (RTI). It is unclear whether immediate antibiotics modify this association. We estimated the risk of bleeding amongst warfarin and DOAC users with RTI by antibiotic treatment.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD for adults in England prescribed warfarin or a DOAC, who sought primary care for an RTI between 1st January 2011 and 31st December 2019. Outcomes were major bleeding (hospital admission for intracranial or gastrointestinal bleeding), and non‐major bleeding (hospital admission or General Practice consult for epistaxis, haemoptysis, or haematuria). Cox models derived hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each outcome, adjusting for confounders using inverse probability of treatment weighting.

Results

Of 14 817 warfarin and DOAC users consulting for an RTI, 8768 (59%) were prescribed immediate antibiotics and 6049 (41%) were not. Approximately 49% were female, and median age was 76 years. Antibiotics were associated with reduced risk of major bleeding (adjusted HR 0.38, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.58). This was consistent across several sensitivity analyses. Antibiotics were also associated with a reduced risk of non‐major bleeding (adjusted HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.99).

Conclusions

Immediate antibiotics were associated with reduced risk of bleeding amongst warfarin and DOAC users with an RTI. Further work is needed to understand mechanisms and confirm whether a lower threshold for antibiotic use for RTI in this population may be beneficial.
Farbe im Doppelpack
Authors: Suhr Wilfried , Wengenmayr Roland
Published: April 2024

Zum Drucken oder Schreiben werden oftmals Farbstoffe verwendet, die durchscheinend sind. Die Farbe der Farbschicht rührt dann daher, dass sie wie ein Farbfilter wirkt. Einige dieser Farbstoffe besitzen eine Oberflächenfarbe, was sich darin äußert, dass das an ihrer Oberfläche gespiegelte Licht eine andere Farbe hat. Zu dieser Stoffklasse gehörige Farbstoffe absorbieren Licht besonders stark in dem Wellenlängenbereich, in dem sie es an der Oberfläche selektiv reflektieren. Dass dies mit einem anomalen Brechungsvermögen zusammenhängt, wird an einem Beispiel veranschaulicht.
Nanosecond pulsed discharge plasma modified porous polymer adsorbent materials for efficient removal of low‐concentration bisphenol A in liquid
Authors: Chen Chao‐Jun , Li Yi‐Nong , Wang Hong‐Li , Lu Ke , Zheng Zhi , Yuan Hao , Liang Jian‐Ping , Wang Wen‐Chun , Han Li‐Ping , Yang De‐Zheng
Published: April 2024

The efficient removal of low‐concentration endocrine disruptors is crucial for the protection of the aquatic environment. In this study, porous polymer adsorbent materials were modified by nanosecond pulsed discharge plasma to achieve efficient adsorption of low‐concentration bisphenol A (BPA). The removal efficiency of BPA reached 99% after 10 min of plasma modification at a pulse peak voltage of 28 kV, which increased by 25.8% compared to the raw materials. This enhancement was attributed to the increase of active sites and oxygen‐containing functional groups. The adsorption behaviors of the porous polymer materials were primarily dominated by monolayer chemisorption. Subsequently, comparative experiments further verified the high‐efficiency adsorption performance of porous polymer materials after plasma treatment.
Role of Silica, Carbon, and ZnO Nanomaterials in the Fabrication of Electrochemical Sensors for the Detection of Water Contaminants and Food Dye
Authors: Santra Sampurna , Datta Deepshikha , Biswas Soheli , Das Bimal
Published: April 2024

Silica‐based nanomaterials have attracted huge attention for maximizing their safety and efficacy due to their nontoxicity, chemical and thermal stability, size tunability, and versatile functionality. Nanosilica with ZnO or carbon in a composite has excellent usage as an electrochemical sensor. Recent technological progression in nanotechnology and nanoscience has seen a number of applications of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanomaterials ranging from electronics, and sensing to environmental, and biomedical applications because of its various applications, multifunction, high specific surface area, stability, biocompatibility, nontoxicity, electrochemical activities, and so on. Carbon also has various advantageous properties like renewability, low ohmic resistance, and very stable response due to which carbon paste electrodes have attracted attention in the fabrication of electrochemical sensors. Electrochemical sensors are inexpensive, portable, and have excellent ability in detecting water contaminants, pesticides, disinfectants, pathogens, and different molecules. Artificial dyes are usually mixed with vegetable sauces, drinks, and other food items, which can cause cancer in human body. Voltametric methods with electrochemical sensors can be used to detect them in food samples. In this review, the present applications of ZnO and carbon nanomaterial‐based chemical sensors are meticulously studied to detect water contaminants and food dyes where nanosilica plays an important role as a sensor modifier.
Persistent racial diversity in neighbourhoods across the United States: Where does it occur?
Authors: Hipp John R. , Kim Jae Hong
Published: April 2024

While there is a long history of racial change in the United States, and how this plays out within neighbourhoods, a key recurring question is whether some neighbourhoods are able to achieve and maintain racial diversity, or whether they simply transition to dominance by a new racial group. We test and find evidence of 1631 neighbourhoods across the United States from 1980 to 2020 that exhibit persistent racial diversity (PRD), and assess where this PRD occurs. Our analysis shows that PRD neighbourhoods (PRDNs) are likely to be present in counties with more economic opportunities–that is, counties with higher socioeconomic status (SES). PRDNs themselves, however, tend to be relatively lower SES neighbourhoods within relatively higher SES counties, suggesting that affordable locations surrounded by more economic opportunities may have served as an environment in which diversity can persist over a long period of time in the United States.
Resveratrol triggers autophagy‐related apoptosis to inhibit the progression of colorectal cancer via inhibition of FOXQ1
Authors: Zhou MinFeng , Niu HuiFang , Cui DanDan , Huang GuoQuan , Li JinXiao , Tian HaoRan , Xu XiaoJuan , Liang FengXia , Chen Rui
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant health problem with elevated mortality rates, prompting intense exploration of its complex molecular mechanisms and innovative therapeutic avenues. Resveratrol (RSV), recognised for its anticancer effects through SIRT1 activation, is a promising candidate for CRC treatment. This study focuses on elucidating RSV's role in CRC progression, particularly its effect on autophagy‐related apoptosis. Using bioinformatics, protein imprinting and immunohistochemistry, we established a direct correlation between FOXQ1 and adverse CRC prognosis. Comprehensive in vitro experiments confirmed RSV's ability to promote autophagy‐related apoptosis in CRC cells. Plasmids for SIRT1 modulation were used to investigate underlying mechanisms. Molecular docking, glutathione‐S‐transferase pull‐down experiments and immunoprecipitation highlighted RSV's direct activation of SIRT1, resulting in the inhibition of FOXQ1 expression. Downstream interventions identified ATG16L as a crucial autophagic target. In vivo and in vitro studies validated RSV's potential for CRC therapy through the SIRT1/FOXQ1/ATG16L pathway. This study establishes RSV's capacity to enhance autophagy‐related cell apoptosis in CRC, positioning RSV as a prospective therapeutic agent for CRC within the SIRT1/FOXQ1/ATG16L pathway.
Skilful multiweek predictions of tropical cyclone frequency in the Northern Hemisphere using ACCESS‐S2
Authors: Camp J. , Gregory P. , Marshall A. G. , Wheeler M. C.
Published: April 2024

The skill of subseasonal (multiweek) forecasts of tropical‐cyclone (TC) occurrence over the Northern Hemisphere is examined in the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's (BoM) multiweek to seasonal prediction system, ACCESS‐S2. ACCESS‐S2 shows a good representation of the spatial distribution of TCs in the Northern Hemisphere; however, TC track frequency is generally underpredicted in the western North Pacific to the east of the Philippines and in the eastern North Pacific. The reduced activity relative to observations could be due to a significant positive bias in 850–200‐hPa wind shear in both of these regions, as well as a significant negative sea‐surface temperature (SST) bias in the eastern North Pacific. Despite biases in climatological TC frequency, the observed change in TC track frequency across the Northern Hemisphere with the phase of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is well captured by ACCESS‐S2. Changes in the large‐scale environment (e.g., precipitation, 600‐hPa relative humidity, 850‐hPa absolute vorticity and 850–200‐hPa wind shear) are also well represented, with the location and size of the anomalies comparable to ERA‐Interim, apart from SST which shows a different response during some phases. ACCESS‐S2 shows skill relative to climatology for multiweek predictions of TC occurrence out to week 5 in the western North Pacific, eastern North Pacific and North Atlantic; and out to week 2 for the North Indian Ocean. Assessment of real‐time forecasts for Typhoon Rai (December 2021) showed that ACCESS‐S2 provided good guidance of the development and potential landfall of a TC in the Philippines at four weeks lead time.
Rapid analysis of the chemical constituents of traditional Tibetan medicine Sbyor‐bzo‐ghi‐wang using ballpoint electrospray ionization technique
Authors: Song Rui , Wang Yu , Drolma Gazang , Drolga Nima , Drolma Dawa , Xia Bing , Zhou Yan
Published: April 2024

Rationale

The chemical constituents of traditional Tibetan medicines (TTM) can be identified using high‐performance liquid chromatography and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) technique. However, the HPLC–MS/MS technique requires the sample to be pretreated and then separated using the specific liquid chromatography method, which is time consuming. This study developed a ballpoint electrospray ionization (BPESI) technique for analyzing the chemical constituents of Sbyor‐bzo‐ghi‐wang. This technique is a simple and inexpensive method for the rapid identification of the chemical constituents of TTMs.

Methods

After the important parameters of the homemade BPESI device were optimized, the chemical constituents of Sbyor‐bzo‐ghi‐wang were quickly identified without sample pretreatment. The raw data were converted to mzML file using MSConvert and then identified using SIRIUS 5 software.

Results

The results showed that 30 compounds were identified from Sbyor‐bzo‐ghi‐wang, namely eight bile acids, six flavonoids, four alkaloids, three amino acids, and nine others. Compared to the ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Q/Orbitrap and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q/Orbitrap HRMS) technique, the BPESI technique identified almost similar types of compounds and also a comparable number of compounds.

Conclusions

Compared with the traditional HPLC–MS/MS methods, the BPESI technique does not require complex sample pretreatment and subsequent chromatographic separation steps; also it consumes a small quantity of samples. Therefore, BPESI can be used for the qualitative analysis of the chemical constituents of Sbyor‐bzo‐ghi‐wang.
Dynamic path planning for mobile robots based on artificial potential field enhanced improved multiobjective snake optimization (APF‐IMOSO)
Authors: Li Qilin , Ma Qihua , Weng Xin
Published: April 2024

With the widespread adoption of mobile robots, effective path planning has become increasingly critical. Although traditional search methods have been extensively utilized, meta‐heuristic algorithms have gained popularity owing to their efficiency and problem‐specific heuristics. However, challenges remain in terms of premature convergence and lack of solution diversity. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel artificial potential field enhanced improved multiobjective snake optimization algorithm (APF‐IMOSO). This paper presents four key enhancements to the snake optimizer to significantly improve its performance. Additionally, it introduces four fitness functions focused on optimizing path length, safety (evaluated via artificial potential field method), energy consumption, and time efficiency. The results of simulation and experiment in four scenarios including static and dynamic highlight APF‐IMOSO's advantages, delivering improvements of 8.02%, 7.61%, 50.71%, and 12.74% in path length, safety, energy efficiency, and time‐savings, respectively, over the original snake optimization algorithm. Compared with other advanced meta‐heuristics, APF‐IMOSO also excels in these indexes. Real robot experiments show an average path length error of 1.19% across four scenarios. The results reveal that APF‐IMOSO can generate multiple viable collision‐free paths in complex environments under various constraints, showcasing its potential for use in dynamic path planning within the realm of robot navigation.
An online hyper‐volume action bounding approach for accelerating the process of deep reinforcement learning from multiple controllers
Authors: Aflakian Ali , Rastegarpanah Alireza , Hathaway Jamie , Stolkin Rustam
Published: April 2024

This paper fuses ideas from reinforcement learning (RL), Learning from Demonstration (LfD), and Ensemble Learning into a single paradigm. Knowledge from a mixture of control algorithms (experts) are used to constrain the action space of the agent, enabling faster RL refining of a control policy, by avoiding unnecessary explorative actions. Domain‐specific knowledge of each expert is exploited. However, the resulting policy is robust against errors of individual experts, since it is refined by a RL reward function without copying any particular demonstration. Our method has the potential to supplement existing RLfD methods when multiple algorithmic approaches are available to function as experts, specifically in tasks involving continuous action spaces. We illustrate our method in the context of a visual servoing (VS) task, in which a 7‐DoF robot arm is controlled to maintain a desired pose relative to a target object. We explore four methods for bounding the actions of the RL agent during training. These methods include using a hypercube and convex hull with modified loss functions, ignoring actions outside the convex hull, and projecting actions onto the convex hull. We compare the training progress of each method using expert demonstrators, employing one expert demonstrator with the DAgger algorithm, and without using any demonstrators. Our experiments show that using the convex hull with a modified loss function not only accelerates learning but also provides the most optimal solution compared with other approaches. Furthermore, we demonstrate faster VS error convergence while maintaining higher manipulability of the arm, compared with classical image‐based VS, position‐based VS, and hybrid‐decoupled VS.