bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research progress of postoperative cognitive dysfunction in cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Zhuang Yi‐Ming , Xu Ji‐Yang , Zheng Kun , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2023

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is often used in cardiothoracic surgery because its nonphysiological state causes pathophysiological changes in the body, causing multiorgan and multitissue damage to varying degrees. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common central nervous system complication after cardiac surgery. The etiology and mechanism of POCD are not clear. Neuroinflammation, brain mitochondrial dysfunction, cerebral embolism, ischemia, hypoxia, and other factors are related to the pathogenesis of POCD. There is a close relationship between CPB and POCD, as CPB can cause inflammation, hypoxia and reperfusion injury, and microemboli formation, all of which can trigger POCD. POCD increases medical costs, seriously affects patients' quality of life, and increases mortality. Currently, there is a lack of effective treatment methods for POCD. Commonly used methods include preoperative health management, reducing inflammation response during surgery, preventing microemboli formation, and implementing individualized rehabilitation programs after surgery. Strengthening preventive measures can minimize the occurrence of POCD and its adverse effects.
Recommended updates to the USEPA Framework for Metals Risk Assessment: Aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Adams William J. , Garman Emily R.
Published: August 2023

In 2007, the USEPA issued its “Framework for Metals Risk Assessment.” The framework provides technical guidance to risk assessors and regulators when performing human health and environmental risk assessments of metals. This article focuses on advances in the science including assessing bioavailability in aquatic ecosystems, short- and long-term fate of metals in aquatic ecosystems, and advances in risk assessment of metals in sediments. Notable advances have occurred in the development of bioavailability models for assessing toxicity as a function of water chemistry in freshwater ecosystems. The biotic ligand model (BLM), the multiple linear regression model, and multimetal BLM now exist for most of the common mono- and divalent metals. Species sensitivity distributions for many metals exist, making it possible for many jurisdictions to develop or update their water quality criteria or guidelines. The understanding of the fate of metals in the environment has undergone significant scrutiny over the past 20 years. Transport and toxicity models have evolved including the Unit World Model allowing for estimation of concentrations of metals in various compartments as a function of loading and time. There has been significant focus on the transformation of metals in sediments into forms that are less bioavailable and on understanding conditions that result in resolubilization or redistribution of metals in and from sediments. Methods for spiking sediments have advanced such that the resulting chemistry in the laboratory mimics that in natural systems. Sediment bioavailability models are emerging including models that allow for prediction of toxicity in sediments for copper and nickel. Biodynamic models have been developed for several organisms and many metals. The models allow for estimates of transport of metals from sediments to organisms via their diet as well as their water exposure. All these advances expand the tool set available to risk assessors. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:924–951. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

Key Points

Models for measuring bioavailability of common metals in freshwater on a chronic basis are now available. Multiple linear regression models for bioavailability assessment of metals in freshwater have become available. Tools to measure rate of loss of metals from the water column have been developed and are available for risk assessment and metal classification. Models to assess metal bioavailability in sediments are available for copper and nickel and are emerging for other metals.
Deep learning analysis of mid‐infrared microscopic imaging data for the diagnosis and classification of human lymphomas
Authors: Zelger P. , Brunner A. , Zelger B. , Willenbacher E. , Unterberger S. H. , Stalder R. , Huck C. W. , Willenbacher W. , Pallua J. D.
Published: August 2023

The present study presents an alternative analytical workflow that combines mid‐infrared (MIR) microscopic imaging and deep learning to diagnose human lymphoma and differentiate between small and large cell lymphoma. We could show that using a deep learning approach to analyze MIR hyperspectral data obtained from benign and malignant lymph node pathology results in high accuracy for correct classification, learning the distinct region of 3900 to 850 cm−1. The accuracy is above 95% for every pair of malignant lymphoid tissue and still above 90% for the distinction between benign and malignant lymphoid tissue for binary classification. These results demonstrate that a preliminary diagnosis and subtyping of human lymphoma could be streamlined by applying a deep learning approach to analyze MIR spectroscopic data.
Lactobacillus Reuteri 6475 Prevents Bone Loss in a Clinically Relevant Oral Model of Glucocorticoid‐Induced Osteoporosis in Male CD‐1 Mice
Authors: Chargo Nicholas J , Schepper Jonathan D , Rios‐Arce Naoimy , Kang Ho Jun , Gardinier Joseph D , Parameswaran Narayanan , McCabe Laura R
Published: August 2023

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used anti‐inflammatory medications with significant side effects, including glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIO). We have previously demonstrated that chronic subcutaneous GC treatment in mice leads to gut barrier dysfunction and trabecular bone loss. We further showed that treating with probiotics or barrier enhancers improves gut barrier function and prevents GIO. The overall goal of this study was to test if probiotics could prevent GC‐induced gut barrier dysfunction and bone loss in a clinically relevant oral‐GC model of GIO. Eight‐week‐old male CD‐1 mice were treated with vehicle or corticosterone in the drinking water for 4 weeks and administered probiotics Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 6475 (LR 6475) or VSL#3 thrice weekly via oral gavage. As expected, GC treatment led to significant gut barrier dysfunction (assessed by measuring serum endotoxin levels) and bone loss after 4 weeks. Serum endotoxin levels significantly and negatively correlated with bone volume. Importantly, LR 6475 treatment effectively prevented both GC‐induced increase in serum endotoxin and trabecular bone loss. VSL#3 had intermediate results, not differing from either control or GC‐treated animals. GC‐induced reductions in femur length, cortical thickness, and cortical area were not affected by probiotic treatment. Taken together, these results are the first to demonstrate that LR 6475 effectively prevents the detrimental effects of GC treatment on gut barrier, which correlates with enhanced trabecular bone health in an oral mouse model of GIO. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Immune‐related biomarkers in myocardial infarction; diagnostic/prognostic value and therapeutic potential
Authors: Wang Yanhai
Published: August 2023

The incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) is increasing worldwide on an annual basis. The incorporation of circulating biomarkers, along with electrocardiography, echocardiography, coronary angiograms, and other diagnostic techniques, is essential in the evaluation, prediction, and therapeutic efficacy assessment of patients afflicted with MI. Biomarker evaluation has been employed in the diagnosis of MI for over five decades. Further biomarker research can be carried out as newer biomarkers have been discovered in pathways such as inflammatory response, neurohormonal stimulation, or myocardial stress that initiate significantly earlier than myocyte necrosis and the diagnostic establishment of cardiac troponins. The assessment of biomarkers for MI is on the brink of a significant transformation due to advancements in comprehending the intricate pathophysiology of the condition. This has led to a pursuit of innovative biomarkers that could potentially overcome the limitations of current biomarkers. For individuals with a high‐risk profile, this may facilitate tailoring of appropriate treatment. This review places emphasis on a diverse array of biomarkers that have the potential to offer diagnostic and prognostic information, as well as the latest clinical and preclinical evidence that is driving theoretical advancements in cardiovascular immunotherapy.
Molecular mechanisms of alcohol's effects on the human body: A review and update
Authors: Renu Kaviyarasi , Myakala Haritha , Chakraborty Rituraj , Bhattacharya Sharmishtha , Abuwani Asmita , Lokhandwala Mariyam , Vellingiri Balachandar , Gopalakrishnan Abilash Valsala
Published: August 2023

Alcohol consumption has been linked to numerous negative health outcomes although it has some beneficial effects on moderate dosages, the most severe of which being alcohol‐induced hepatitis. The number of people dying from this liver illness has been shown to climb steadily over time, and its prevalence has been increasing. Researchers have found that alcohol consumption primarily affects the brain, leading to a wide range of neurological and psychological diseases. High‐alcohol‐consumption addicts not only experienced seizures, but also ataxia, aggression, social anxiety, and variceal hemorrhage that ultimately resulted in death, ascites, and schizophrenia. Drugs treating this liver condition are limited and can cause serious side effects like depression. Serine‐threonine kinases, cAMP protein kinases, protein kinase C, ERK, RACK 1, Homer 2, and more have all been observed to have their signaling pathways disrupted by alcohol, and alcohol has also been linked to epigenetic changes. In addition, alcohol consumption induces dysbiosis by changing the composition of the microbiome found in the gastrointestinal tract. Although more studies are needed, those that have been done suggest that probiotics aid in keeping the various microbiota concentrations stable. It has been argued that reducing one's alcohol intake may seem less harmful because excessive drinking is a lifestyle disorder.
Growth pattern and electronic and magnetic properties of Cr‐doped silver clusters
Authors: Xu Yu‐Sheng , Die Dong , Zheng Ben‐Xia
Published: August 2023

Growth pattern and electronic and magnetic properties of AgnCr (n = 1–16) clusters have been investigated via density functional theory (DFT) combined with CALYPSO structure search method. The optimized geometry shows that the growth of the global minimum structures of AgnCr clusters have obvious rule. when n > 12, silver atoms grow around an icosahedron which is almost unchanged in each structure. Analyses of electronic properties indicate that the doped Cr atom can only enhance the stability of larger silver clusters. Optical absorption and photoelectron spectra of AgnCr isomers have been predicted and can be used for their structural identification. The icosahedral Ag12Cr cluster with large energy level gap can be seen as a superatom. The adsorption capacity of Cr atom in AgnCr cluster to CO is much higher than that of free Cr atom. The intensity of IR and Ramam spectra can be dramatically enhanced when CO is absorbed on AgnCr cluster that Cr atom is encapsulated by Ag atoms. Moreover, the red shift of IR and Raman spectra of CO adsorbed on these clusters is also very small compared to free CO. Magnetism calculations show that the magnetic moment of AgnCr clusters decreases linearly from n = 6 to 12 and increases linearly from n = 12 to 16. The total magnetic moment of AgnCr cluster is mainly localized on the Cr atom. The change of magnetic moment of Cr atom is related to the charge transfer between Cr and Ag atoms.
A multisite, quasiexperimental trial of a college course to support student mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Chugani Carla D. , Mazza James J. , Fuhrman Barbara J. , Lavage Daniel R. , Murphy Courtney , Talis Janine , Miller Elizabeth , Coulter Robert W. S.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of a three‐credit college Wellness and Resilience Course (WRC) for improving student mental health and well‐being outcomes in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Method

Undergraduate students aged 18–24 years old on five campuses in Western Pennsylvania or West Virginia who had either enrolled in the WRC (n = 81) or were attending university as usual (i.e., not enrolled in the WRC; n = 171) participated in surveys at baseline (beginning of semester), end of semester, and 3‐month follow‐up during the Spring and Fall 2020 semesters.

Results

Overall, students rated the WRC as acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. From baseline to the end of semester, students who received the WRC reported significant improvements in psychological flexibility (d = 0.30), mindfulness (d = 0.42), distress tolerance (d = 0.36), and use of dysfunctional and adaptive coping skills (d = 0.32), compared with students who did not receive the WRC. At follow‐up, all gains remained statistically significant and students who received the WRC additionally reported significant improvements in stress (d = 0.44) and life satisfaction (d = 0.35) compared with students who did not receive the WRC.

Conclusions

These findings offer preliminary evidence that college courses focused on mental wellness may be an important component of campus strategies to increase universal access to mental health support and skills. This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov on April 8, 2020.
Salinity effects on expression and localization of aquaporin 3 in gills of the euryhaline milkfish (Chanos chanos)
Authors: Lin Yu‐Ting , Wu Shao‐Ying , Lee Tsung‐Han
Published: August 2023

Milkfish (Chanos chanos) are important euryhaline fish in Southeast Asian countries that can tolerate a wide range of salinity changes. Previous studies have revealed that milkfish have strong ion regulation and survival abilities under osmotic stress. In addition to ion regulation, water homeostasis in euryhaline teleosts is important during environmental salinity shifts. Aquaporins (AQP) are vital water channels in fish, and different AQPs can transport water influx or outflux from the body. AQP3 is one of the AQP channels, and the function of AQP3 in the gills of euryhaline milkfish is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and localization of AQP3 in the gills of euryhaline milkfish to contribute to our understanding of the physiological role and localization of AQP3 in fish. The AQP3 sequence was found in the milkfish next‐generation sequencing (NGS) database and is mainly distributed in the gills of freshwater (FW)‐acclimated milkfish. Under hypoosmotic and hyperosmotic stress, the osmolality of milkfish immediately shifted, similar to the aqp3 gene expression. Moreover, the abundance of AQP3 protein significantly decreased 3 h after transferring milkfish from FW to seawater (SW). However, there was no change within 7 days when the milkfish experienced hypoosmotic stress. Moreover, double immunofluorescence staining of milkfish gills showed that AQP3 colocalized with Na+/K+ ATPase at the basolateral membrane of ionocytes. These results combined indicate that milkfish have a strong osmoregulation ability under acute osmotic stress because of the quick shift in the gene and protein expression of AQP3 in their gills.
Neighbourhood social capital, account usage and savings behaviour in low‐income countries: Field experimental evidence from Senegal
Authors: Behr Patrick , Jacob Jorge
Published: August 2023

Financial inclusion is an important driver of economic growth, but gender gaps persist in financial activity, especially in low‐income countries. This study analyses the impact of text messages that make salient neighbours' savings behaviour on account usage and savings behaviour of low‐income men and women in Senegal. We performed a randomized field experiment in which 2056 clients of a local financial institution were assigned to one of three experimental conditions. We found gender differences in how these text messages impact savings and account usage. Account usage, account activity and average savings balances of female clients who received weekly savings reminders making their neighbours' savings behaviour salient increased compared to those who received generic savings reminders and those who received no savings reminders. The treatment had no impact on male clients. These results suggest that content‐specific text message reminders can create benefits for both the supply and demand side of financial services for women in low‐income countries, thereby increasing financial inclusion.
Sweetpotato cultivation: characteristics, constraints and preferred traits of producers and consumers in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouassi Jean Hugues Martial , Dibi Konan Evrard Brice , Boye Mambé Auguste‐Dénise , Essis Brice Sidoine , Kouakou Amani Michel , N'zué Boni , Dufour Dominique
Published: August 2023

Background

In an environment where the adoption of improved varieties resulting from plant breeding programs is limited, it is essential to identify end‐user preferences beforehand. A participatory survey was conducted in eight localities in Korhogo and Bouaké regions (central and northern Cote d'Ivoire respectively) to identify producers' preferences and increase the adoption of improved varieties. The study involved 160 producers and consumers through focus group discussions and individual interviews.

Results

Sweetpotato is mostly grown on small plots (<1 ha) of land (89.2%), with women (66%) as the main producers. In the Bouaké region, sweetpotatoes are grown on mounds (100%), whereas in Korhogo they are grown on ridges (86.2%). The main food products or forms of preparation from roots are fries (34.7%), boiled (34.3%), mashed (12.4%), and sweetpotato stew (9.1%). Major constraints, including low price of roots (26.3%), low productivity (16.2%), and post‐harvest storage issues (14.5%), were identified as affecting sweetpotato production.

Conclusions

The selection of new varieties should be oriented towards high‐yielding varieties with high dry matter content, deployed stems, and roots of round, oblong, or elliptical shape with good culinary characteristics (dry matter, sweet taste, dry texture, absence of fiber). Plants must be drought resistant, be tolerant to poor soil, diseases, and pests, and have a good yield. The color of skin and flesh of the sweetpotato, although constituting criteria of choice, are not essential for the acceptance or the rejection of a variety by users. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐performance MEMS shutter display with metal‐oxide thin‐film transistors and optimized MEMS element
Authors: Al Nusayer Sheikh Abdullah , Schalberger Patrick , Baur Holger , Kleber Florian , Fruehauf Norbert
Published: August 2023

Active matrix prestressed microelectromechanical shutter displays enable outstanding optical properties as well as robust operating performance. The microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) shutter elements have been optimized for higher light outcoupling efficiency with lower operation voltage and higher pixel density. The MEMS elements have been co‐fabricated with self‐aligned metal‐oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs). Several optimizations were required to integrate MEMS process without hampering the performance of both elements. The optimized display process requires only seven photolithographic masks with ensuring proper compatibility between MEMS shutter and metal‐oxide TFT process.
Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis
Authors: Nadeem Abdullah , Habte Alexander , Ahsan Areeba , Tariq Rabeea , Basaria Areeba Aamir Ali
Published: August 2023

Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is a subperitoneal intrusion of endometrial tissue. Resulting endometrial nodules may develop on the uterosacral ligament, urinary tract, rectovaginal, and retrocervical areas, and less commonly in the urinary bladder, thoracic, and neural regions. Genetics, age, and environmental factors determine the progression of the disease. DIE manifests with numerous symptoms, which are similar to unrelated diseases, namely dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, urinary tract infections, and infertility. Transvaginal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and physical examination may detect and differentiate endometriosis lesions from other diseases. Its clinical management typically involves laparoscopic surgery and hormonal therapy. These are designed to improve the quality of life and to address individual reproductive goals. This pictorial essay aims to provide clinical cases to highlight the characteristic radiological findings in each diagnostic modality and in addition to elucidate the current clinical management of DIE.
Assessing the Biocompatibility and Regeneration of Electrospun‐Nanofiber Composite Tracheal Grafts
Authors: Kreber Lily , Liu Lumei , Dharmadhikari Sayali , Tan Zheng Hong , Chan Coreena , Huddle Joey , Hussein Zakarie , Shontz Kimberly , Breuer Christopher K. , Johnson Jed , Chiang Tendy
Published: August 2023

Objective

Composite tracheal grafts (CTG) combining decellularized scaffolds with external biomaterial support have been shown to support host‐derived neotissue formation. In this study, we examine the biocompatibility, graft epithelialization, vascularization, and patency of three prototype CTG using a mouse microsurgical model.

Study Design

Tracheal replacement, regenerative medicine, biocompatible airway splints, animal model.

Method

CTG electrospun splints made by combining partially decellularized tracheal grafts (PDTG) with polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PLCL), or PLCL/PGA were orthotopically implanted in mice (N = 10/group). Tracheas were explanted two weeks post‐implantation. Micro‐Computed Tomography was conducted to assess for graft patency, and histological analysis was used to assess for epithelialization and neovascularization.

Result

Most animals (greater than 80%) survived until the planned endpoint and did not exhibit respiratory symptoms. MicroCT confirmed the preservation of graft patency. Grossly, the PDTG component of CTG remained intact. Examining the electrospun component of CTG, PGA degraded significantly, while PLCL+PDTG and PLCL/PGA + PDTG maintained their structure. Microvasculature was observed across the surface of CTG and infiltrating the pores. There were no signs of excessive cellular infiltration or encapsulation. Graft microvasculature and epithelium appear similar in all groups, suggesting that CTG did not hinder endothelialization and epithelialization.

Conclusion

We found that all electrospun nanofiber CTGs are biocompatible and did not affect graft patency, endothelialization and epithelialization. Future directions will explore methods to accelerate graft regeneration of CTG.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:1155–1162, 2024
A 2D elastic wall model to analyze the hyper‐viscous effects on blood flow across abdominal aortic aneurysm in COVID patients by fluid–structure interaction technique with ALE formulation
Authors: Subramani Shankar Narayan
Published: August 2023

The worldwide dissemination of the coronavirus, as well as its dependencies, is being aided by detrimental urbanization. The impact of the viral infection upon an infected person is also thought to be influenced by any pre‐existing medical issues. Recent investigations have demonstrated that COVID‐19 patients have a higher degree of blood viscosity as a result of alterations in morphology in blood cells. Examining the importance of hyper‐viscosity in patients with COVID is crucial in determining the diseases of the arteries since viscosity is a key flow characteristic that affects the flow across a stenosis as well as an aneurysm. In the current study, a patient‐specific instance with an aneurysm across the abdominal aortal walls was taken into consideration. Given that abdominal aneurysms occur frequently in people, the high viscosity values are taken into account while examining the hyper‐viscous impact of fluid on its passage through the affected aorta. The current study is the initial endeavor to use the Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) Technique to study the impact of fluid–structure interaction (FSI) on the movement of fluid across an aneurysmal aortal section in conjunction with hyper‐viscous anomalous blood characteristics. The investigation backs up the different medical results that described the negative consequences of blood hyper‐viscosity. The computational findings from employing a finite element method (FEM) solver to resolve the fluid mechanical computations complemented alongside the solid mechanical principles indicate a possibility that the increased stress imposed by the hyper‐viscous propagates on the interior walls of the aneurysmal aorta may prompt the aneurysmal pouch to grow or breakdown. Also, the hyper‐viscous blood in COVID patients destroys the smooth muscle cells of the media layer endangering its normal structure and functions and leading to the development of new aneurysms.
Highly selective phase shifter using stub‐loaded coupled‐line resonators
Authors: Xu Wenhao , Li Tianfeng , Chen Xiaokang , Chen Huajin , Feng Linping
Published: August 2023

In this letter, a novel phase shifter with high selectivity is proposed and developed. It is divided into the main line together with the reference line. Firstly, the main line is a bandpass filter implemented by using the new coupled feed lines loading stub‐loaded coupled‐line resonators. Varying the coupling coefficient and the electrical length of the loaded branch can reasonably allocate the passband and transmission zeros/poles. Then, the reference line is a uniform microstrip line with an electrical length related to the phase shift degrees. Compared with conventional phase shifters, this phase shifter has the advantages of good frequency selectivity, as well as easy adjustment of the phase shift value. Finally, the phase shifter of 45°~180° are designed, simulated, and the value of 180° is fabricated and measured. The simulations are in good agreement with the actual measurements.
Physics‐informed deep learning for T2‐deblurred superresolution turbo spin echo MRI
Authors: Chen Zihao , Stapleton Margaret Caroline , Xie Yibin , Li Debiao , Wu Yijen L. , Christodoulou Anthony G.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Deep learning superresolution (SR) is a promising approach to reduce MRI scan time without requiring custom sequences or iterative reconstruction. Previous deep learning SR approaches have generated low‐resolution training images by simple k‐space truncation, but this does not properly model in‐plane turbo spin echo (TSE) MRI resolution degradation, which has variable T2 relaxation effects in different k‐space regions. To fill this gap, we developed a T2‐deblurred deep learning SR method for the SR of 3D‐TSE images.

Methods

A SR generative adversarial network was trained using physically realistic resolution degradation (asymmetric T2 weighting of raw high‐resolution k‐space data). For comparison, we trained the same network structure on previous degradation models without TSE physics modeling. We tested all models for both retrospective and prospective SR with 3 × 3 acceleration factor (in the two phase‐encoding directions) of genetically engineered mouse embryo model TSE‐MR images.

Results

The proposed method can produce high‐quality 3 × 3 SR images for a typical 500‐slice volume with 6–7 mouse embryos. Because 3 × 3 SR was performed, the image acquisition time can be reduced from 15 h to 1.7 h. Compared to previous SR methods without TSE modeling, the proposed method achieved the best quantitative imaging metrics for both retrospective and prospective evaluations and achieved the best imaging‐quality expert scores for prospective evaluation.

Conclusion

The proposed T2‐deblurring method improved accuracy and image quality of deep learning–based SR of TSE MRI. This method has the potential to accelerate TSE image acquisition by a factor of up to 9.
Efficacy of one-time rotenone application for Westslope Cutthroat Trout restoration in Boulder Creek, Montana
Authors: Lampton Jared , Kovach Ryan , Dunnigan James L.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Although piscicides are an important tool for native fish management, our understanding of native fish population dynamics posttreatment (i.e., in putatively vacant habitat) is limited.

Methods

Here, we describe long-term trends in size and abundance of Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii in Lower Boulder Lake and Boulder Creek (Montana).

Result

No significant differences were found before and after treatment with rotenone in mean length and population density in Boulder Creek. Posttreatment genetic samples from Boulder Lake and upper Boulder Creek consisted entirely of the Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi used to refound the population. Middle and lower Boulder Creek genetic samples contained 99.4% and 98.4% Westslope Cutthroat Trout, indicating that some nonnative (Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri hybrid) fish survived the treatment. Population demographics showed robust recovery posttreatment; however, genetic results revealed the limitations of a one-time treatment—that is, an incomplete fish kill.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that Cutthroat Trout populations achieve recovery after rotenone treatment in the long term, but one-time rotenone treatments on large drainages often fail to totally eradicate populations. Therefore, managers should plan on multiple treatments and utilize environmental DNA to help achieve total removal of target species.
Nonlinear consolidation analysis of saturated multi‐layered soil with continuous drainage boundary
Authors: Kim Pyol , Kim Yong‐Gun , Ri Gun‐Hyang , Kwak Songhun , Ri Kil‐Sang
Published: August 2023

Continuous drainage boundary is widely accepted to overcome the shortcoming of the traditional assumption of fully permeable or impermeable drainage boundary in consolidation theories. This study presents an analytical solution for one‐dimensional small‐strain nonlinear consolidation of saturated multi‐layered soil with constant consolidation coefficients under continuous drainage boundary condition. The proposed solution is validated by comparison with the existing solutions in literature, which shows that the existing solutions are special cases of this solution. A parametric study performed on saturated four‐layered soil with continuous drainage boundary indicates that the interface parameter and the loading stress ratio have great influences on the nonlinear consolidation of saturated multi‐layered soil. The present solution can be effectively applied to provide more reasonable design for soil foundation.
Distinct response of adipocyte progenitors to glucocorticoids determines visceral obesity via the TEAD1‐miR‐27b‐PRDM16 axis
Authors: Lv Yifan , Xia Fan , Yu Jing , Sheng Yunlu , Jin Yi , Li Yanqiang , Ding Guoxian
Published: August 2023

Objective

Visceral obesity contributes to obesity‐related complications; however, the intrinsic mechanism of depot‐specific adipose tissue behavior remains unclear. Despite the pro‐adipogenesis role of glucocorticoids (GCs) in adipogenesis, the role of GCs in visceral adiposity rather than in subcutaneous adipose tissue is not established. Because adipocyte progenitors display a striking depot‐specific pattern, the regulatory pathways of novel progenitor subtypes within different depots remain unclear. This study describes a cell‐specific mechanism underlying visceral adiposity.

Methods

A diverse panel of novel depot‐specific adipose progenitors was screened in mice and human samples. The transcriptome distinction and various responses of novel progenitor subtypes of GCs were further measured using the GC receptor‐chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and RNA sequencing. The mechanism of novel subtypes was identified using transposase‐accessible chromatin analysis and bisulfite sequencing and further confirmed using precise editing of CpG methylation.

Results

Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα+) progenitors, which were dominant in the visceral adipose tissue, were GC‐sensitive beige adipose progenitors, whereas CD137+ progenitors, which were dominant in the subcutaneous adipose tissue, were GC‐passive beige adipose progenitors. Expression of miR‐27b, an inhibitor of adipocyte browning, was significantly increased in PDGFRα+ progenitors treated with GCs. Using transposase‐accessible chromatin analysis, bisulfite sequencing, and precise editing of CpG methylation, TEA domain transcription factor 1 (TEAD1) was discovered to be uniquely hypomethylated in PDGFRα+ progenitors.

Conclusions

GCs inhibited the PDGFRα+ progenitors' browning process via miR‐27b, which was transcriptionally activated by the collaboration of TEAD1 with the GC receptor. These data provide insights into the mechanism of depot‐specific variations in high‐fat diet‐induced obesity.
Efficient removal of dyes by light‐responsive graphene oxide‐blended polyethersulfone nanofiltration membranes
Authors: Bohlool Tohid , Mohamadnia Zahra
Published: August 2023

One of the popular, low‐cost, efficient, and environmentally friendly methods for separating pollutants and water purification are membrane‐based processes. In this study, nanofiltration membranes were modified using the photo‐responsive graphene oxide‐spiropyran (GO‐SP) nanosheets as novel additive. Graphene oxide was employed to improve permeability, antifouling, and mechanical properties of the membranes. Spiropyran was added due to the increase in the self‐cleaning properties of the PES membranes. First, spiropyran (SP) as a photochromic compound was chemically immobilized onto the graphene oxide (GO) surface. Different examinations such as ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to check the effective grafting of spiropyran. Then, nanofiltration membranes containing polyethersulfone (PES) and GO‐SP additive with different weight percentages (0.15, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 wt.%) were prepared. Membranes comprising 0.5 wt.% GO‐SP exhibited the best surface properties, and at concentrations above 0.5 wt.%, aggregation of GO‐SP additive occurred on the surface of the membrane. The Young modulus increased from 45.11 MPa for pure PES membrane to 82.63 MPa for PES/GO‐SP‐0.75. The flux of pure water, rejection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein, and separation of anionic dyes including Congo Red (CR) and Coomassie Brilliant Blue (CBB) were measured to show the filtration performance of the fabricated membranes. It was observed that the addition of 0.5 wt.% GO‐SP increased the flux of pure water of the PES‐based membrane from 2.97 to 14.6 L/m2 h. All prepared membranes rejected more than 94% of CBB and CR dyes. The addition of GO‐SP also developed the performance of the membranes against fouling. In addition, the effects of UV light on membrane fouling, dye rejection, and contact angle were investigated. According to the results, irradiation of GO‐SP with UV light decreased the contact angle and increased the flux of pure water. In the presence of UV light, the membrane containing 0.5 wt.% GO‐SP exhibited 58.74% reversible fouling, 8.30% irreversible fouling, and 93% flux recovery ratio, indicating its better performance than the pure membrane.
Piezoelectric properties of PVDF‐TrFE/BaTiO3 composite foams with different contents of TrFE units
Authors: Kubin Mateja , Makreski Petre , Zanoni Michele , Selleri Giacomo , Gasperini Leonardo , Fabiani Davide , Gualandi Chiara , Bužarovska Aleksandra
Published: August 2023

Piezoelectric (PE) materials play an important role in the emerging field of micro and wearable electronics. Achieving high PE response is a key feature for their use in energy harvesting and sensing systems. In this study, highly porous lightweight composite foams composed of PVDF‐TrFE (70/30 and 80/20 mol%) and different BaTiO3 content (5, 10, and 20 wt%) are prepared by thermally induced phase separation method. The PE foams were structurally and thermally examined by using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis analyses. All composite foams were characterized by high β‐phase content, while the addition of ceramic particles resulted in higher crystallinity and thermal stability of the investigated foams. Two distinct poling methods were employed due to the different molar compositions of the copolymers. The PE response was measured by the PE strain coefficient (d33) and the output current (Ip). The composite foams based on PVDF‐TrFE 70/30 mol% copolymer, having two well‐separated Curie temperatures for the organic and inorganic phases, can be polarized to achieve the contribution of both components to the PE performance, reaching the highest value of −28.3 pC N−1 and 130 nA at 10 Hz for the composite with 20 wt% BaTiO3.
Parental styles and adolescent externalizing problems: A cross‐lagged model examining the direction of influence
Authors: Georgiou Stelios N. , Charalampous Kyriakos
Published: August 2023

The present study aimed at examining the transactional effects between parental styles and adolescent externalizing problems. The total sample included 868 students, 410 preadolescents (Mage = 10.63, SD = 0.63) attending the last two grades of elementary school and 458 early adolescents (Mage = 12.65, SD = 0.67) attending the first two grades of high school. Participating schools (N = 15) were purposefully selected to be diverse in terms of urban/rural residence of families they serve, as well as their socioeconomic status, and came from three different Districts of Cyprus. In terms of gender, 451 (52.0%) were girls and 410 (47.5%) were boys. The self‐report version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used for measuring externalizing problems and the Parental Authority Questionnaire was used for measuring parental style. A short‐term longitudinal design was used, with the data collected at two points in time having 5‐month intervals. By means of a cross‐lagged model, and in contrast to prior studies claiming that certain parental styles influence positively or negatively externalizing problems, the current study found that the opposite effect is true. That is, externalizing problems affected positively authoritarian parenting and negative authoritative style. Also, a multigroup analysis revealed that age/developmental phase moderated these relationships. Specifically, T1 authoritarian parenting seemed to be a risk factor for preadolescents, but not for adolescents.
The success of e‐participation. Learning lessons from Decide Madrid and We asked, You said, We did in Scotland
Authors: Royo Sonia , Bellò Benedetta , Torres Lourdes , Downe James
Published: August 2023

Electronic participation (e‐participation) has grown across the world in recent decades and many governments offer a range of opportunities for e‐participation. However, there is a lack of comparative analyses of successful initiatives, which can be useful in supporting subsequent adopters. This study identifies the best practices and areas for improvement of Decide Madrid and We asked, You said, We did in Scotland, whose software has been widely adopted by hundreds of institutions worldwide. Key common enablers include political leadership and senior management support, top‐down approach, high levels of internal and external collaboration, embeddedness in the formal policy‐making processes, and careful consideration of design features. Most of these factors are related to processes, organizational, or managerial dimensions, rather than being linked to the institutional context or information and communication technologies. Areas for improvement relate to the way the initiatives provide feedback, allow discussion and flexibility on policy options, incorporate possibilities for offline participation, and involve a wider range of stakeholders. An important contribution is the identification of factors contributing to the robustness and continuity of e‐participation initiatives, combining the flexibility of collaborative network governance and the stability of public bureaucracy.
Pnictogen bonding‐mediated controlled cationic polymerization of styrene derivatives: Catalytic activity investigation using non‐ionic and ionic pnictogen compounds
Authors: Hasegawa Tomoki , Takagi Koji
Published: August 2023

The cationic polymerization of p‐methoxystyrene (pMOS) was carried out at 25°C using pMOS·HCl and Sb(C6F5)3. Under the condition of [pMOS·HCl]:[Sb(C6F5)3]:[pMOS] = 10:10:500 in mM concentration, the polymerization in CH3CN/CH2Cl2 (3/1 in volume ratio) homogeneously proceeded giving rise to poly(pMOS) with Mn = 5800 and Mw/Mn = 1.50. Based on the monomer consumption rate, the catalytic activity was increased in the order of Sb(C6F5)3 (5.9 × 10−1 h−1) > Te(C6F5)2 (2.0 × 10−1 h−1) > IC6F5 (1.0 × 10−2 h−1). In the presence of nBu4NCl (0.02 equivalent relative to Sb(C6F5)3), the molecular weight distribution became narrower (Mw/Mn = 1.23), but the MALDI‐TOF/MS implied chain transfer reactions. On the other hand, the cationic polymerization of pMOS in CH2Cl2 using [MeSbPh3][TEPB] combined with nBu4NCl resulted in better molecular weight controllability (calculated Mn = 6100 and theoretical Mn = 6300), where chain transfer reactions were decreased as confirmed by the MALDI‐TOF/MS analysis. [SbPh4][TEPB] and [SbPh4][OTf] exhibited a decreased catalytic activity. [EtOCOCH2SbPh3][TEPB] with the electron‐withdrawing ester group showed the highest activity (monomer conversion reached 91% in 8 h) while maintaining narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn = 1.27). p‐Methylstyrene and styrene were also polymerized using catalyst [EtOCOCH2SbPh3][TEPB], although the polymerization was not controlled.
A styrylpyrene‐containing liquid crystal polymer for photoinduced crosslinking
Authors: Huang Yun‐Shuai , Xu Guofeng , Wu Si
Published: August 2023

Photoresponsive polymers have attracted increasing attention. Herein, we designed and synthesized a photoresponsive liquid crystal polymer (LCP). The LCP was prepared through the copolymerization of a styrylpyrene‐containing photoresponsive monomer and a monomer containing mesogen 4‐cyanophenyl benzoate. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) curve and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectrum confirmed that the LCP was successfully synthesized. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry curves showed that the LCP had high thermal stability, with a decomposition temperature at 5% weight loss of 305°C, and Tg and Ti of 46 and 128°C, respectively. Polarized optical microscopy studies suggested that thermal annealing promoted the orientation of the LCP films. Model compounds containing styrylpyrene units showed photo‐controlled dimerization. Furthermore, the dimerization of the styrylpyrene units could control the crosslinking densities in the LCP, thereby regulating the network structures and properties. These properties demonstrate that the LCP is a promising photoresponsive material.
Quantitative comparison of the renal pelvic urine and bladder urine to examine modifications of the urine proteome by the lower urinary tract
Authors: Pan Yilin , Wong Christine Yim‐Ping , Ma Haiying , Tse Ryan Tsz‐Hei , Cheng Carol Ka‐Lo , Tan Miaomiao , Chiu Peter Ka‐Fung , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun , Wang Xin , Ng Chi‐Fai , Zhang Liang
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Urine proteome is a valuable reservoir of biomarkers for disease diagnosis and monitoring. Following formation as the plasma filtrate in the kidney, urine is progressively modified by the active reabsorption and secretion of the urinary tract. However, little is known about how the urine proteome changes as it passes along the urinary tract.

Experimental design

To investigate this, we compared the proteome composition of the renal pelvis urine (RPU) and individually self‐voided bladder urine (BU) collected from seven unilateral urinary tract obstruction male patients by LC‐MS/MS screening. To our knowledge, this is the first proteomic comparison of RPU and BU samples from the same individual.

Results

Overall, RPU and BU proteomes did not exhibit proteins that were exclusively present in all samples of one urine type while in none of the other type. Nonetheless, BU had more overrepresented proteins that were observed at a higher frequency than RPU. Label‐free quantitative analyses revealed BU–RPU differential proteins that are enriched in exosomes and extracellular proteins. However, the differences were not significant after corrections for multiple testing. Interestingly, we observed a significant increase of collagen peptides with hydroxyproline modifications in the BU samples, suggesting differences in protein modifications.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Our study revealed no substantial differences at the protein level between the BU and RPU samples. Future investigations with expanded cohorts would provide more insights about the urothelial–urinary interactions.
ParSe 2.0: A web tool to identify drivers of protein phase separation at the proteome level
Authors: Wilson Colorado , Lewis Karen A. , Fitzkee Nicholas C. , Hough Loren E. , Whitten Steven T.
Published: August 2023

We have developed an algorithm, ParSe, which accurately identifies from the primary sequence those protein regions likely to exhibit physiological phase separation behavior. Originally, ParSe was designed to test the hypothesis that, for flexible proteins, phase separation potential is correlated to hydrodynamic size. While our results were consistent with that idea, we also found that many different descriptors could successfully differentiate between three classes of protein regions: folded, intrinsically disordered, and phase‐separating intrinsically disordered. Consequently, numerous combinations of amino acid property scales can be used to make robust predictions of protein phase separation. Built from that finding, ParSe 2.0 uses an optimal set of property scales to predict domain‐level organization and compute a sequence‐based prediction of phase separation potential. The algorithm is fast enough to scan the whole of the human proteome in minutes on a single computer and is equally or more accurate than other published predictors in identifying proteins and regions within proteins that drive phase separation. Here, we describe a web application for ParSe 2.0 that may be accessed through a browser by visiting https://stevewhitten.github.io/Parse_v2_FASTA to quickly identify phase‐separating proteins within large sequence sets, or by visiting https://stevewhitten.github.io/Parse_v2_web to evaluate individual protein sequences.