bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the Suomi NPP Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite total column ozone using Brewer and Dobson spectrophotometers
Authors: Bai K. , Liu C. , Shi R. , Gao W.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. This study mainly focuses on the validation of total column (TC) ozone data derived from the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) on board the NASA's Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership satellite (NPP). OMPS is an advanced suite of three hyperspectral instruments that maps global ozone on a daily basis and extends the more than 30 yr total ozone and ozone profile records. The algorithm used to derive OMPS TC ozone is adapted from the heritage of Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) Version 7 algorithm but with a number of enhancements. Validation is primarily performed through comparisons with an ensemble of 74 global distributed Brewer and Dobson spectrophotometers measurements. Linear regression performs fair agreement between OMPS TC ozone and ground-based TC ozone measurements with root mean square error (RMSE) around of 3% (10 DU). Comparison shows that OMPS TC ozone estimates 0.21% higher than Brewer measurements average, with station-to-station standard deviation of 3.14%. As comparing with Dobson measurements, OMPS TC ozone averages 0.86% higher than the station average with standard deviation of 3.05%. The relative differences between OMPS and ground TC ozone were analysed varying with latitude and time as well as viewing geometry respectively. Comparisons show relative differences within 2% over most of latitude and viewing conditions. Only comparing with Brewer measurements did it show an OMPS TC ozone dependent error, large negative bias was observed as OMPS TC ozone below 220 DU and positive bias shown above 460 DU.
Urine Bag as a Modern Day Matula
Authors: Viswanathan Stalin
Published: May 2013

Since time immemorial uroscopic analysis has been a staple of diagnostic medicine. It received prominence during the middle ages with the introduction of the matula. Urinary discoloration is generally due to changes in urochrome concentration associated with the presence of other endogenous or exogenous pigments. Observation of urine colors has received less attention due to the advances made in urinalysis. A gamut of urine colors can be seen in urine bags of hospitalized patients that may give clue to presence of infections, medications, poisons, and hemolysis. Although worrisome to the patient, urine discoloration is mostly benign and resolves with removal of the offending agent. Twelve urine bags with discolored urine (and their predisposing causes) have been shown as examples. Urine colors (blue-green, yellow, orange, pink, red, brown, black, white, and purple) and their etiologies have been reviewed following a literature search in these databases: Pubmed, EBSCO, Science Direct, Proquest, Google Scholar, Springer, and Ovid.
A Newly Designed Anal Fistula Plug: Clinicopathological Study in an Experimental Iatrogenic Fistula Model
Authors: Aikawa Masayasu , Miyazawa Mitsuo , Okada Katsuya , Akimoto Naoe , Koyama Isamu , Yamaguchi Shigeki , Ikada Yoshito
Published: May 2013

We report on a clinicopathologic study in an animal model of treatment with a new bioabsorbable polymer plug (BAPP). Over a 2-week period, 6 porcine models, which each had 4 anal fistulae, were created using Blake drains. The pigs were divided into 2 groups: the BAPP-treatment group (n = 12 fistulae) and the control group (n = 12 fistulae). Two weeks later, the pigs were humanely killed, and the perianal sites were excised and examined with gross and pathologic studies. Each fistula in the BAPP group was completely cured. In the pathologic study, the treatment sites had little disarray, few defects in the muscular layer, and small numbers of inflammatory cells. The control group had a significantly greater number of inflammatory cells and microabscesses than the BAPP group. The newly developed BAPP reduced the infection and induced good healing in anal fistulae. The BAPP may be a useful new device for the clinical treatment of anal fistulae.
Cervical Priming Before Diagnostic Operative Hysteroscopy in Infertile Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Comparison of 2 Vaginal Misoprostol Doses
Authors: Bastu Ercan , Celik Cem , Nehir Asli , Dogan Murat , Yuksel Bahar , Ergun Bulent
Published: May 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of vaginal misoprostol for cervical priming at doses of 200 mcg and 400 mcg, 12 to 15 hours before diagnostic office hysteroscopy (OH) without anesthesia in patients with infertility. Sixty infertile patients requiring a diagnostic office hysteroscopy for investigation of infertility were included in the study. The patients were randomly allocated into 3 vaginally administered misoprostol groups: (1) control group, (2) 200-mcg dose group, and (3) 400-mcg dose group. Misoprostol significantly facilitated the procedure of OH: cervical entry was easier; procedural time was shorter; baseline cervical width was larger; and pain scoring was lower in the misoprostol groups compared with the control group. Increasing the dose of misoprostol from 200 mcg to 400 mcg did not improve the effect on cervical dilation. Misoprostol is a promising analog to use for cervical priming before OH. Since doses of 200 mcg and 400 mcg vaginal misoprostol 12 hours before the OH both have proven to be effective regimens, 200 mcg may be preferred. However, before routine clinical usage, further research is needed through large, randomized, controlled trials powered to detect a difference in complications to determine whether misoprostol reduces complications in OH.
Treatment Approaches for Opioid Use Disorder Offered in US Substance Use Treatment Facilities
Authors: Park Tae Woo , Shuey Bryant , Liebschutz Jane , Cantor Jonathan , Anderson Timothy S.
Published: July 2024

This study compares medication and psychosocial treatments for opioid use disorder, as well as treatments offered at opioid and nonopioid treatment program facilities for commonly co-occurring substance use disorders and mental disorders.
Initial Management of BRAF V600E-Variant Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Hamidi Sarah , Dadu Ramona , Zafereo Mark E. , Ferrarotto Renata , Wang Jennifer R. , Maniakas Anastasios , Gunn G. Brandon , Lee Anna , Spiotto Michael T. , Iyer Priyanka C. , Sousa Luana G. , Akhave Neal S. , Ahmed Salmaan , Learned Kim O. , Lu Charles , Lai Stephen Y. , Williams Michelle , Hosseini S. Mohsen , Busaidy Naifa L. , Cabanillas Maria E.
Published: July 2024

Importance

BRAF/MEK inhibitors revolutionized the treatment of BRAF V600E-variant anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (BRAFv-ATC), offering improved outcomes for patients with this previously incurable disease.

Observations

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) accounts for approximately half of thyroid cancer−related deaths. It presents as a rapidly growing tumor that often invades locoregional structures and spreads to distant sites early; therefore, prompt diagnosis, staging, and treatment initiation are of the essence in the treatment of ATC. Although most oncologists will encounter a patient with ATC in their practice, the rarity of this disease makes treatment challenging, particularly because those with BRAFv-ATC no longer have a dismal prognosis. BRAF/MEK kinase inhibitors have transformed the outlook and treatment of BRAFv-ATC. Therefore, molecular profiling to identify these patients is critical. More recently, the addition of immunotherapy to BRAF/MEK inhibitors as well as the use of the neoadjuvant approach were shown to further improve survival outcomes in BRAFv-ATC. Many of these recent advances have not yet been incorporated in the currently available guidelines, allowing for disparities in the treatment of patients with BRAFv-ATC across the US. With the increasing complexity in the management of BRAFv-ATC, this Consensus Statement aims to formulate guiding recommendations from a group of experts to facilitate therapeutic decision-making.

Conclusions and Relevance

This Consensus Statement from the FAST (Facilitating Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Specialized Treatment) group at MD Anderson Cancer Center emphasizes that rapid identification of a BRAF V600E pathogenic variant and timely initiation of sequential therapy are critical to avoid excess morbidity and mortality in patients with BRAFv-ATC. In the past decade, remarkable progress has been made in the treatment of patients with BRAFv-ATC, justifying these new evidence-based recommendations reached through a consensus of experts from a high-volume center.
E‐waste: mechanisms of toxicity and safety testing
Authors: Eze Chukwuebuka , Vinken Mathieu
Published: July 2024

Currently, information on the toxicity profile of the majority of the identified e‐waste chemicals, while extensive and growing, is admittedly fragmentary, particularly at the cellular and molecular levels. Furthermore, the toxicity of the chemical mixtures likely to be encountered by humans during and after informal e‐waste recycling, as well as their underlying mechanisms of action, is largely unknown. This review paper summarizes state‐of‐the‐art knowledge of the potential underlying toxicity mechanisms associated with e‐waste exposures, with a focus on toxic responses connected to specific organs, organ systems, and overall effects on the organism. To overcome the complexities associated with assessing the possible adverse outcomes from exposure to chemicals, a growing number of new approach methodologies have emerged in recent years, with the long‐term objective of providing a human‐based and animal‐free system that is scientifically superior to animal testing, more effective, and acceptable. This encompasses a variety of techniques, typically regarded as alternative approaches for determining chemical‐induced toxicities and holds greater promise for a better understanding of key events in the metabolic pathways that mediate known adverse health outcomes in e‐waste exposure scenarios. This is crucial to establishing accurate scientific knowledge on mixed e‐waste chemical exposures in shorter time frames and with greater efficacy, as well as supporting the need for safe management of hazardous chemicals. The present review paper discusses important gaps in knowledge and shows promising directions for mechanistically anchored effect‐based monitoring strategies that will contribute to the advancement of the methods currently used in characterizing and monitoring e‐waste‐impacted ecosystems.
Biometric‐Tuned E‐Skin Sensor with Real Fingerprints Provides Insights on Tactile Perception: Rosa Parks Had Better Surface Vibrational Sensation than Richard Nixon
Authors: Hou Senlin , Huang Qingyun , Zhang Hongyu , Chen Qingjiu , Wu Cong , Wu Mengge , Meng Chen , Yao Kuanming , Yu Xinge , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Daoud Walid , Wang Jianping , Li Wen Jung
Published: July 2024

The dense mechanoreceptors in human fingertips enable texture discrimination. Recent advances in flexible electronics have created tactile sensors that effectively replicate slowly adapting (SA) and rapidly adapting (RA) mechanoreceptors. However, the influence of dermatoglyphic structures on tactile signal transmission, such as the effect of fingerprint ridge filtering on friction‐induced vibration frequencies, remains unexplored. A novel multi‐layer flexible sensor with an artificially synthesized skin surface capable of replicating arbitrary fingerprints is developed. This sensor simultaneously detects pressure (SA response) and vibration (RA response), enabling texture recognition. Fingerprint ridge patterns from notable historical figures – Rosa Parks, Richard Nixon, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ronald Reagan – are fabricated on the sensor surface. Vibration frequency responses to assorted fabric textures are measured and compared between fingerprint replicas. Results demonstrate that fingerprint topography substantially impacts skin‐surface vibrational transmission. Specifically, Parks' fingerprint structure conveyed higher frequencies more clearly than those of Nixon, King, or Reagan. This work suggests individual fingerprint ridge morphological variation influences tactile perception and can confer adaptive advantages for fine texture discrimination. The flexible bioinspired sensor provides new insights into human vibrotactile processing by modeling fingerprint‐filtered mechanical signals at the finger‐object interface.
Occurrence of cancer in Marfan syndrome: Report of two patients with neuroblastoma and review of the literature
Authors: Maya‐González Carolina , Delgado‐Vega Angelica Maria , Taylan Fulya , Lagerstedt Robinson Kristina , Hansson Lina , Pal Niklas , Fagman Henrik , Puls Florian , Wessman Sandra , Stenman Jakob , Georgantzi Kleopatra , Fransson Susanne , Díaz De Ståhl Teresita , Ek Torben , Palmer Ruth , Tesi Bianca , Kogner Per , Martinsson Tommy , Nordgren Ann
Published: July 2024

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder caused by pathogenic variants in FBN1, with a hitherto unknown association with cancer. Here, we present two females with MFS who developed pediatric neuroblastoma. Patient 1 presented with neonatal MFS and developed an adrenal neuroblastoma with unfavorable tumor genetics at 10 months of age. Whole genome sequencing revealed a germline de novo missense FBN1 variant (NP_000129.3:p.(Asp1322Asn)), resulting in intron 32 inclusion and exon 32 retention. Patient 2 was diagnosed with classic MFS, caused by a germline de novo frameshift variant in FBN1 (NP_000129.3:p.(Cys805Ter)). At 18 years, she developed high‐risk neuroblastoma with a somatic ALK pathogenic variant (NP_004295.2:p.(Arg1275Gln)). We identified 32 reported cases of MFS with cancer in PubMed, yet none with neuroblastoma. Among patients, we observed an early cancer onset and high frequency of MFS complications. We also queried cancer databases for somatic FBN1 variants, finding 49 alterations reported in PeCan, and variants in 2% of patients in cBioPortal. In conclusion, we report the first two patients with MFS and neuroblastoma and highlight an early age at cancer diagnosis in reported patients with MFS. Further epidemiological and functional studies are needed to clarify the growing evidence linking MFS and cancer.
Carbonate Ester‐Based Sodium Metal Battery with High‐Capacity Retention at −50 °C Enabled by Weak Solvents and Electrodeposited Anode
Authors: Hu Chao , Guo Shan , Huang Fei , Yang Yi , Yan Chong , Zhao Chen‐Zi , Liang Shuquan , Fang Guozhao , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2024

Sodium metal batteries (SMBs) have received increasing attention due to the abundant sodium resources and high energy density, but suffered from the sluggish interfacial kinetic and unstable plating/stripping of sodium anode at low temperature, especially when matched with ester electrolytes. Here, we develop a stable ultra‐low‐temperature SMBs with high‐capacity retention at −50 °C in a weak solvated carbonate ester‐based electrolyte, combined with an electrodeposited Na (Cu/Na) anode. The Cu/Na anode with electrochemically activated “deposited sodium” and stable inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is favor for the fast Na+ migration, therefore accelerating the interfacial kinetic process. As a result, the Cu/Na||NaCrO2 battery exhibited the highest capacity retention (compared to room‐temperature capacity) in carbonate ester‐based SMBs (98.05 % at −25 °C, 91.3 % at −40 °C, 87.9 % at −50 °C, respectively). The cyclic stability of 350 cycles at −25 °C with a high energy efficiency of 96.15 % and 70 cycles at −50 °C can be achieved. Even in chill atmospheric environment with the fluctuant temperature, the battery can still operate over one month. This work provides a new opportunity for the development of low‐temperature carbonate ester‐based SMBs.
Ionic Covalent Organic Frameworks Consisting of Tetraborate Nodes and Flexible Linkers
Authors: Wayment Lacey J. , Huang Shaofeng , Chen Hongxuan , Lei Zepeng , Ley Ashley , Lee Se‐Hee , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as versatile materials with many applications, such as carbon capture, molecular separation, catalysis, and energy storage. Traditionally, flexible building blocks have been avoided due to their potential to disrupt ordered structures. Recent studies have demonstrated the intriguing properties and enhanced structural diversity achievable with flexible components by judicious selection of building blocks. This study presents a novel series of ionic COFs (ICOFs) consisting of tetraborate nodes and flexible linkers. These ICOFs use borohydrides to irreversibly deprotonate the alcohol monomers to achieve a high degree of polymerization. Structural analysis confirms the dia topologies. Reticulation is explored using various monomers and metal counterions. Also, these frameworks exhibit excellent stability in alcohols and coordinating solvents. The materials have been tested as single‐ion conductive solid‐state electrolytes. ICOF‐203‐Li displays one of the lowest activation energies reported for ion conduction. This tetraborate chemistry is anticipated to facilitate further structural diversity and functionality in crystalline polymers.
In Vivo Synthetic Anticancer Approach by Resourcing Mouse Blood Albumin as a Biocompatible Artificial Metalloenzyme
Authors: Imai Kyosuke , Muguruma Kyohei , Nakamura Akiko , Kusakari Yuriko , Chang Tsung‐Che , Pradipta Ambara R. , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: July 2024

Methods for producing drugs directly at the cancer site, particularly using bioorthogonal metal catalysts, are being explored to mitigate the side effects of therapy. Albumin‐based artificial metalloenzymes (ArMs) catalyze reactions in living mice while protecting the catalyst in the hydrophobic pocket. Here, we describe the in situ preparation and application of biocompatible tumor‐targeting ArMs using circulating albumin, which is abundant in the bloodstream. The ArM was formed using blood albumin through the intravenous injection of ruthenium conjugated with an albumin‐binding ligand; the tumor‐targeting unit was conjugated to the ArM using its catalytic activity, and the ArM was transported to the cancer site. The delivered ArM catalyzed a second tagging reaction of the proapoptotic peptide on the cancer surface, successfully suppressing cancer proliferation. This approach, which efficiently leveraged the persisting reactivity twice in vivo, holds promise for future in vivo metal‐catalyzed drug synthesis utilizing endogenous albumin.
“I've got yer back”: A community art and anatomy project
Authors: Philp Janet , Smith Joan
Published: July 2024

This article describes a community collaborative project, “I've got yer back,” that utilized the craft of needle felting to raise awareness and develop understanding of the anatomy of the human spine. The project took place in 2023 and engaged with participants from across the United Kingdom and abroad and its completion was timed to coincide with National Back Health Awareness week in October 2023. We describe the process of creating a vertebra using needle felt and examine how the particularities of the process and the use of the sense of touch helped participants notice and understand the complex form of the human vertebra. We consider how the project encompassed creative processes of hands‐on learning to enhance knowledge about this aspect of human anatomy. We discuss how the project evolved to include public and academic participation in a shared goal and argue for the effectiveness of seemingly simple and straightforward art or craft workshops in teaching relatively complex science. The article includes detailed feedback from participants who reflect on the process of learning through making and how it went on to affect individuals in very different, and sometimes very personal, ways.
Land‐use systems for biomass, carbon storage, and carbon credit: implications for climate change mitigation in subtropical pockets of Vindhyan region, India
Authors: Gupta Hitesh , Sanodiya Pratik , Singh Abhinav , Dogra Rushal
Published: July 2024

Biomass estimation forms the foundation for tackling global climate issues across diverse land use systems (LUSs). A research initiative was undertaken to identify the maximum biomass allocation using an allometric approach, and to assess the carbon stock, CO2 sequestration, and carbon credit across diverse land use systems (LUSs) in the Vindhyan region of Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, India. This study aims to address climate change by identifying land‐use strategies that stabilize income and are easily adoptable by farmers. Tropical dry deciduous forest, agriculture, plantation, horticulture and agri‐horticulture LUSs were investigated using three combinations of custard apple (Annona squamosa), guava (Psidium guajava), bael (Aegle marmelos), mustard (Giriraj) (Brassica nigra), mustard (Pitambri) (Brassica juncea), and lentil (Lens culinaris) in an agri‐horticulture system. Seven treatments with varying carbon stocks were identified: tropical dry deciduous forest (T1) LUS (TDDFLUS); wheat based agriculture (T2) LUS (WBALUS); plantation based on teak (Tectona grandis) (T3) LUS (TBPLUS); horticulture based on karonda (Carissa carandas) (T4) LUS (KBHLUS); bael + lentil (Hul‐57) (T5) LUS (BLBLUS); guava + mustard (Giriraj) (T6) LUS (GMBLUS); and custard apple + mustard (Pitambri) (T7) LUS (CAMBLUS). The results indicate that the lowest and the highest bulk densities (ρb) were recorded in TDDFLUS and WBALUS at the depths of 0–20 cm and 20‐40 cm, respectively. The mean value of the soil organic carbon (SOC) stock ranged from 11.24–18.09 t ha−1. The average value of biomass, biomass carbon stock and biomass CO2 sequestration of seven treatments varied from 9.76–88.49 t ha−1, 4.88–44.25 t ha−1, and 17.91–162.39 t ha−1, respectively. The total carbon stock, CO2 sequestration, and carbon credit for the seven treatments varied from 16.57–64.64 t ha−1, 60.82–237.28 t ha−1 and 3040.821–11 863.89US$ ha−1, respectively. The results demonstrated that different LUSs have specific advantages and their application at farm level can encourage sustainability and increase biomass accumulation, leading to carbon sequestration. Agri‐horticulture‐based LUSs can lead to better livelihoods and can also offer numerous advantages such as increased yields of staple food crops and fruits, improved soil health, reduced soil erosion, and significant contributions to the mitigation of anthropogenic warming through CO2 sequestration.
Effects of check‐in interval on active engagement in people with dementia
Authors: Hodder Ebonee , Virúes‐Ortega Javier , Taylor Sarah , Phillips Katrina J. , Sharp Rebecca A.
Published: July 2024

Social isolation and a lack of engagement in activities are common among people with dementia living in residential care. The check‐in procedure, in which staff approach a resident to offer a choice of activities and praise engagement every 15 min, is effective in increasing engagement. However, the schedule effects of the check‐in procedure have not been previously evaluated. We assessed whether the check‐in procedure was effective with an extended check‐in interval of 30 min. We found that the procedure remained effective with a leaner schedule and that engagement persisted above baseline levels between check‐in interactions. Staff reported that the intent to increase engagement was valuable and that the procedure was easy to implement. We discuss our findings in the context of participatory interventions for dementia and the potential role of organizational factors in the adoption of evidence‐based procedures in dementia care.
Causal association between family health, perceived relationship quality components, and attitudes toward childbearing in Iranian women: A WHO model analysis
Authors: Taheri Atefeh , Saeieh Sara Esmaelzadeh , Qorbani Mostafa , Mohamadi Farima , Mahmoodi Danial , Mahmoodi Zohreh
Published: July 2024

Background

Given the unprecedented global decline in fertility as a major demographic development in recent years, the present study was conducted to determine Causal association Between Family Health, Perceived Relationship Quality Components, and Attitudes toward Childbearing in Iranian Women: A WHO Model Analysis

Methods

In 2023, this descriptive study recruited 400 married women presenting to selected comprehensive health centers affiliated to Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran. The data were collected through multistage stratified cluster sampling and using a socioeconomic status questionnaire (Ghodratnama), the Perceived Relationship Quality Components (PRQC) scale, the family‐of‐origin scale (FOS), the attitudes toward fertility and childbearing scale (AFCS) and a demographic checklist were analyzed in SPSS 25 and LISREL 8.8.

Results

According to the path analysis, family health exerted the most significant and positive causal effect on attitudes to childbearing directly through one path (B = 0.334) and relationship quality (B = 0.698) and duration of married life (B = 0.387) both directly and indirectly. The number of children (B = –0.057), however, exerted the most significant and negative causal effect on attitudes to childbearing through both paths.

Conclusions

The present findings suggested the significant effects of family health and relationship quality on attitudes toward childbearing. It is therefore recommended that these variables be screened in comprehensive health centers, the associated limitations and problems be identified and appropriate training and counseling solutions be provided by health specialists.
‘My childhood life falling apart’: A retrospective study of young carers managing parental mental illness in Taiwan
Authors: Yuan Esabella Hsiu‐Wen , Ku Yeun‐Wen
Published: July 2024

The population of young carers of parents with mental illness is more likely to be hidden in the community due to the family's concerns related to stigma. Many young carers struggle with caring difficulties with a lack of social support. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the difficulties of young carers managing parental mental illness in Taiwan from retrospective perspectives. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 19 participants who used to be young carers of parents with mental illness. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes emerged. First, participants experienced grief over the loss of their parent's normality and the disruption of the parent–child relationship. Having to deal with issues alone, they described their childhood lives as falling apart. Second, families tended to conceal mental illness by refusing to seek outside support, resulting in young carers struggling in vulnerable situations. Third, participants used coping strategies to find a balance between maintaining parental mental illness and reducing the impact on their well‐being. Most participants used solitary strategies to cope with their emotional distress. Some participants used destructive ways to suppress their pain and sorrow when there seemed no way to improve their family situation. The findings reflect on the vulnerabilities of young carers of parents with mental illness. Services and practitioners should work together to recognise young carers' identities and provide suitable resources to young carers to help them deal with life crises and meet their developmental needs.
Your team can make you a better person: Team cohesion is associated with off‐field prosocial behaviour via fairplay team norms and empathy in rugby union
Authors: Bisagno Elisa , Vitali Francesca , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Livrieri Antonello Antonio , Cadamuro Alessia , Robazza Claudio , Kavussanu Maria , Vezzali Loris
Published: July 2024

Ample research has investigated the relationship between team cohesion and on‐field behaviour, while the association between the first and off‐field prosocial behaviour has been almost overlooked. To fill this gap, we conducted a study in a sample of Italian Rugby Union athletes to examine whether: (a) team cohesion is associated with off‐field prosocial behaviour; and (b) the underlying mechanisms of this association. We focused on the two dimensions of team cohesion, that is social and task cohesion, and hypothesized that social cohesion should be associated with off‐field individual prosocial behaviour via empathy, while the association between task cohesion and off‐field individual prosocial behaviour should be mediated by on‐field fairplay team norms. In total, 497 amateur, sub‐elite, and elite Italian Rugby Union players (128 females) took part in this study by filling out an online survey. Results revealed that social cohesion was associated with greater empathy, which in turn was associated with greater expression of off‐field prosocial behaviour. Task cohesion was associated with both greater on‐field fairplay team norms and greater empathy, which in turn was linked to more off‐field prosocial behaviour. Results are discussed with respect to the role of team cohesion in favouring the expression of prosocial behaviour off‐field, thus underlying the role of sport in fostering moral behaviour (also) in everyday community life.
Highly‐selective Electrocatalytic Reduction of NO to NH3 using Cu Embedded WS2 Monolayer as Single‐atom Catalyst: A DFT Study
Authors: Jacob Rinu , Doulassiramane Thamarainathan , Padmanaban Ramanathan
Published: July 2024

Electrocatalytic nitric oxide reduction reaction (NORR) is a promising method for generating NH3 and eliminating harmful NO pollutants. However, developing a NORR catalyst for NH3 synthesis with low cost and high efficiency is still challenging. We here report a series of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), designed by embedding nine different transition metals from Sc to Cu in S‐vacant WS2 monolayer (TM@WS2), and investigate the electrocatalytic performance for NORR process using the dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Among the nine SACs, Cu‐based one shows a strong binding to the WS2 surface and high selectivity for the NORR process, and also it greatly inhibits the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Through ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, the thermal stability of SAC is assessed and found no structure deformation even at 500 K temperature. With the advent of energy descriptor, all possible reactive pathways including distal and alternating mode at both N‐ and O‐end configurations for NH3 production were explored. We predicted that the Cu@WS2 SAC exhibits remarkable catalytic activity and selectivity with lowest limiting potential of−0.41 V via the N‐alternating pathway. Our study emphasize that the transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) based SACs are potential candidates for converting NO to NH3, and this opens a new avenue in designing NORR catalysts with high catalytic performance.
Generalized nonlinearity in animal ecology: Research, review, and recommendations
Authors: Heit David R. , Ortiz‐Calo Waldemar , Poisson Mairi K. P. , Butler Andrew R. , Moll Remington J.
Published: July 2024

Generalized linear models (GLMs) are an integral tool in ecology. Like general linear models, GLMs assume linearity, which entails a linear relationship between independent and dependent variables. However, because this assumption acts on the link rather than the natural scale in GLMs, it is more easily overlooked. We reviewed recent ecological literature to quantify the use of linearity. We then used two case studies to confront the linearity assumption via two GLMs fit to empirical data. In the first case study we compared GLMs to generalized additive models (GAMs) fit to mammal relative abundance data. In the second case study we tested for linearity in occupancy models using passerine point‐count data. We reviewed 162 studies published in the last 5 years in five leading ecology journals and found less than 15% reported testing for linearity. These studies used transformations and GAMs more often than they reported a linearity test. In the first case study, GAMs strongly out‐performed GLMs as measured by AIC in modeling relative abundance, and GAMs helped uncover nonlinear responses of carnivore species to landscape development. In the second case study, 14% of species‐specific models failed a formal statistical test for linearity. We also found that differences between linear and nonlinear (i.e., those with a transformed independent variable) model predictions were similar for some species but not for others, with implications for inference and conservation decision‐making. Our review suggests that reporting tests for linearity are rare in recent studies employing GLMs. Our case studies show how formally comparing models that allow for nonlinear relationships between the dependent and independent variables has the potential to impact inference, generate new hypotheses, and alter conservation implications. We conclude by suggesting that ecological studies report tests for linearity and use formal methods to address linearity assumption violations in GLMs.
Stay or go? Changing breeding conditions affect sexual difference in colony attendance strategies of Atlantic puffins Fratercula arctica
Authors: Anker‐Nilssen Tycho , Kadin Martina , Hilde Christoffer Høyvik
Published: July 2024

Male and female birds have different roles in reproduction and, thereby in their reproductive investment, which in turn may increase negative effects of poorer breeding conditions caused by e.g., climate change or ecosystem regime shifts. By using a 33‐year time series of resightings of Atlantic puffins Fratercula arctica individually colour‐ringed as breeders in previous years, we showed that the difference in colony attendance of male and female birds depended on the environmental conditions for raising young, proxied by the average duration of the chick period and size of the herring Clupea harengus fed to the chicks in the colony each year. The longer the chick period, the more was the sex ratio of adults sitting visibly in the colony biased in favour of males. An increase in herring size, indicating better feeding conditions for raising chicks, led to more observations of both sexes. Additionally, we found that birds were observed less with age and females more so than males. We discuss the results in relation to general life‐history theory on sexual differences in trade‐offs between individual investment in breeding and own survival. Our results suggest that females are increasingly more willing than males to invest in provisioning for the chick the more and longer the chick needs such care.
Domestication as the evolution of interspecies cooperative breeding
Authors: Mueller Natalie G. , Willman John C.
Published: July 2024

We propose that domestication is the result of interspecies cooperative breeding. Considering domestication as an outcome of cooperative breeding can explain how domestication occurs in both plants and animals, encompass cases of domestication that do not involve humans, and shed light on why humans are involved in so many domesticatory relationships. We review the cooperative breeding model of human evolution, which posits that care of human infants by alloparents enabled the evolution of costly human brains and long juvenile development, while selecting for tolerance of strangers. We then explore how human cooperation in the protection and provisioning of young plants and animals can explain the evolution of domestication traits such as changes in development; loss of aggressive, defensive, and bet‐hedging aspects of the phenotype; and increased fertility. We argue that the importance of cooperative breeding to human societies has made humans especially likely to enter into interspecies cooperative breeding relationships.
Loss of YAP in Schwann cells improves HNPP pathophysiology
Authors: Moore Seth M. , Jeong Eunbi , Zahid Muhammad , Gawron Joseph , Arora Simar , Belin Sophie , Sim Fraser , Poitelon Yannick , Feltri M. Laura
Published: July 2024

Rapid nerve conduction in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is facilitated by the multilamellar myelin sheath encasing many axons of peripheral nerves. Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type 1A (CMT1A), and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsy (HNPP) are common demyelinating inherited peripheral neuropathies and are caused by mutations in the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene. Duplication of PMP22 leads to its overexpression and causes CMT1A, while its deletion results in PMP22 under expression and causes HNPP. Here, we investigated novel targets for modulating the protein level of PMP22 in HNPP. We found that genetic attenuation of the transcriptional coactivator Yap in Schwann cells reduces p‐TAZ levels, increased TAZ activity, and increases PMP22 in peripheral nerves. Based on these findings, we ablated Yap alleles in Schwann cells of the Pmp22‐haploinsufficient mouse model of HNPP and identified fewer tomacula on morphological assessment and improved nerve conduction in peripheral nerves. These findings suggest YAP modulation may be a new avenue for treatment of HNPP.
MRCM‐UCTransNet: Automatic and Accurate 3D Tooth Segmentation Network From Cone‐Beam CT Images
Authors: Wen Xinyang , Liu Zhuoxuan , Chu Yanbo , Le Min , Li Liang
Published: July 2024

Many scenarios in dental clinical diagnosis and treatment require the segmentation and identification of a specific tooth or the entire dentition in cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. However, traditional segmentation methods struggle to ensure accuracy. In recent years, there has been significant progress in segmentation algorithms based on deep learning, garnering considerable attention. Inspired by models from present neuro networks such as UCTransNet and DC‐Unet, this study proposes an MRCM‐UCTransNet for accurate three‐dimensional tooth segmentation from cone‐beam CT images. To enhance feature extraction while preserving the multi‐head attention mechanism, a multi‐scale residual convolution module (MRCM) is integrated into the UCTransNet architecture. This modification addresses the limitations of traditional segmentation methods and aims to improve accuracy in tooth segmentation from CBCT images. Comparative experiments indicate that, in the situation with a specific image size and small data volume, the proposed method exhibits certain advantages in segmentation accuracy and precision. Compared to traditional Unet approaches, MRCM‐UCTransNet's dice accuracy is improved by 7%, while its sensitivity is improved by about 10%. These findings highlight the efficacy of the proposed approach, particularly in scenarios with specific image size constraints and limited data availability. The proposed MRCM‐UCTransNet algorithm integrates the latest architectural advancements in the Unet model which achieves effective segmentation of six types of teeth within the tooth. It was proved to be efficient for image segmentation on small datasets, requiring less training time and fewer parameters.
Reciprocal relations between future time perspective and academic achievement among adolescents: A four‐wave longitudinal study
Authors: Hao Haiping , Li Xiaobao , Jiang Hong , Lyu Houchao
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Adolescents’ academic achievement is closely associated with their future time perspective. However, the reciprocal nature of this relationship remains ambiguous due to a lack of longitudinal studies. This study investigated the developmental trajectories of future time perspective and academic achievement among adolescents, as well as reciprocal relations between future time perspective and academic achievement.

Methods

Between 2017 and 2019, we collected 373 adolescents’ (baseline Mage = 14.48, SD = 1.90; 49% girls) future time perspective and academic achievement four times from Henan and Hunan Province, China. Each is separated by a 6‐month interval.

Results

Chinese adolescents’ future time perspective was relatively stable. Regarding academic achievement, two distinct developmental trajectories of academic achievement were identified (i.e., high positive growth class and low negative growth class). Those who excel tended to experience an upward trajectory, while those with poorer grades continued to experience a downward trajectory. In the high positive growth class, the intercept of future time perspective was positively correlated with the rate of academic achievement growth, whereas, in the low negative growth class, it negatively predicted the rate of academic achievement decline. More importantly, reciprocal relations existed between future time perspective and academic achievement.

Conclusions

Adolescents’ future time perspective may serve as a protective factor for academic achievement, while high academic achievement may also benefit future time perspective. Interventions to enhance academic achievement should prioritize cultivating adolescents’ future perspectives. Additionally, preventing the adverse consequences of subpar academic achievement on future time perspective is imperative.
Ankrd1 inhibits the FAK/Rho‐GTPase/F‐actin pathway by downregulating ITGA6 transcriptional to regulate myoblast functions
Authors: Huang Cheng , Zhong Qiqi , Lian Weisi , Kang Tingting , Hu Jinling , Lei Minggang
Published: July 2024

Skeletal muscle constitutes the largest percentage of tissue in the animal body and plays a pivotal role in the development of normal life activities in the organism. However, the regulation mechanism of skeletal muscle growth and development remains largely unclear. This study investigated the effects of Ankrd1 on the proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts. Here, we identified Ankrd1 as a potential regulator of muscle cell development, and found that Ankrd1 knockdown resulted in the proliferation ability decrease but the differentiation level increase of C2C12 cells. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyzes as well as RNA‐seq results showed that Ankrd1 knockdown activated focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/F‐actin signal pathway with most genes significantly enriched in this pathway upregulated. The integrin subunit Itga6 promoter activity is increased when Ankrd1 knockdown, as demonstrated by a dual‐luciferase reporter assay. This study revealed the molecular mechanism by which Ankrd1 knockdown enhanced FAK phosphorylation activity through the alteration of integrin subunit levels, thus activating FAK/Rho‐GTPase/F‐actin signal pathway, eventually promoting myoblast differentiation. Our data suggested that Ankrd1 might serve as a potential regulator of muscle cell development. Our findings provide new insights into skeletal muscle growth and development and valuable references for further study of human muscle‐related diseases.
Rapid identification of various chemical components in Cinnamomi ramulus by UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐MS
Authors: Shu Lexin , Liu Sitong , Zhang Fangfang , Qiu Huixin , Zhang Shumin , Qian Jun , Xu Yanyan , Deng Yanru , Wang Yuming , Li Yubo
Published: July 2024

Cinnamomi ramulus (CR) is a common Chinese herbal medicine with a long history. It is often used to treat exogenous wind‐cold diseases in clinic, but its chemical compositions remain to be studied. In this study, CR was extracted with 75% ethanol, and UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐MS combined with data post‐processing method was used to identify the chemical components in the extract. Through this technology, the components in CR can be separated and accurately identified. A total of 61 compounds were identified, including 14 simple phenylpropanoids, 3 coumarins, 5 lignans, 14 flavonoids, 10 benzoic acids, 8 organic acids, and 7 others. This study confirmed the existence of these compounds in CR and speculated the cleavage pathways of each compound, which enriched the mass spectrometry data and cleavage rules. This study can provide a reference for CR and other research.
Untargeted metabolomic profiling of Prinsepia utilis Royle leaves by Ultra‐Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Quadrupole‐Time of Flight‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chauhan Kiran , Bhalla Piyush , Bhadoriya Khushaboo , Varshney Vinay Kumar
Published: July 2024

Prinsepia utilis Royle, native to the Himalayas, is esteemed in Chinese and Indian folk medicine for its diverse medicinal benefits, targeting arthritis, pain relief, bone disorders, and joint discomfort. This study examined the 25% aqueous methanol extract of P. utilis leaves using UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS, identifying 78 metabolites, 76 of which were reported for the first time in P. utilis. These included 64 phenolics represented by 56 flavonoids, 5 phenolic acids, 3 phenolic glycosides, 4 terpenoids, 2 lignan glycosides, and 8 other compounds, expanding the knowledge of its chemical composition. These findings lay a foundation for further research, providing insights into potential bioactive compounds and opening avenues for applications in natural product drug discovery, traditional medicine, and nutraceutical development, leveraging the plant's established traditional uses.
Evaluating surgeon communication of pancreatic cancer prognosis using the VitalTalk ADAPT framework
Authors: Dickerson Lindsay K. , Lipson Trisha A. , Chauhan Sardar Shahmir B. , Allen Griffen I. , Young Bill , Park James O. , Pillarisetty Venu G. , O'Connell Kathleen M. , Sham Jonathan G.
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives

Few data exist to guide optimal communication practices for surgical oncologists. VitalTalk, an evidence‐based communication skills training model for clinicians, offers the five‐step ADAPT tool for discussing prognosis. This study aimed to characterize surgeon communication of pancreatic cancer prognosis using VitalTalk's ADAPT framework.

Methods

Contemporaneous audio recordings from 12 initial surgeon–patient encounters for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer were transcribed. Directed qualitative content analysis based on ADAPT (Ask, Discover, Anticipate, Provide, and Track) was used to deductively code transcripts.

Results

All encounters contained at least one ADAPT step while only one (8%) incorporated four or five steps. Surgeons provided prognostic information (Provide) in all but one encounter (92%); most was qualitative and clustered into themes: serious illness, surgical candidacy, prognostic ambiguity, and cancer recurrence. Surgeons elicited understanding (Ask), requested information preferences (Discover), anticipated ambivalence (Anticipate), and responded to emotion (Track) in a minority of encounters (25%–42%); of 15 patient emotional cues, six were not addressed by surgeons.

Conclusions

During an initial encounter for pancreatic cancer, surgeons focus heavily on providing information but omit critical prognostic communication steps. Future studies are needed to investigate if surgeon training in palliative care‐based communication is feasible and impacts patient‐perceived quality of communication.
3D Printable Antimicrobial Polymer Blend
Authors: Daniels Miché , Rautenbach Marina , du Plessis Anton , Pfukwa Rueben
Published: July 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing is an innovative manufacturing method for preparing designer materials with complex geometries. However, there are very few studies on the fabrication of antimicrobial polymer materials suitable for use in everyday clinical objects, via 3D printing. In this work, an antibacterial polymer material is prepared by blending polyamide 11 (matrix), a high‐performance engineering thermoplastic, and a styrene maleimide copolymer with pendant quaternary amine moieties, and the blend 3D printed via selective laser sintering. The quaternary amine functionalities confer permanent antimicrobial properties. Blend properties are studied prior to printing via differential scanning calorimetry, powder X‐ray diffraction, and FTIR spectroscopy. Additionally, the mechanical and antimicrobial properties of the polymer blends and printed material are also assessed. The microstructure of the 3D printed polymer materials is further characterized via DOSY NMR spectroscopy. This study indicates that this is a promising approach for preparing nonleaching antimicrobial 3D printable materials.