bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long term emission and simulation on air quality from residential coal burning in China
Authors: Yan Qin , Xiao Tingyu , Zhang Wenjie , Kong Shaofei , Zhang Yuzhe , Gao Qingxian , Shu Yun , Li Hui , Wang Han
Published: February 2025

Residential coal burning (RCB) is a notable contribution source of airborne pollution in China. To address this, a suite of control policies has been implemented, leading to a shift in the energy structure and a limitation in pollution emission within RCB sector. This study presents emission inventories for SO2, NOx, CO, and PM2.5 from RCB between 2010 and 2020, utilizing both published and measured emission factors (EFs). Furthermore, the emission amounts of pollution in year 2030 and 2050 were projected. Since 2010 to 2020, emission of pollution from RCB sector has demonstrated a noticeable decreasing trend, especially in policy priority regions. The emission amounts in policy priority regions are at a similar level to those in the South region. The most substantial reductions were observed in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region, with decreases of 69.8%, 74.2%, 74.8%, 79.8% 60.6% for SO2, NOx, CO, PM2.5 and BC respectively. Finally, the updated emission data used to calibrate the emission in GEOS-Chem model and to simulated national particle and gas pollution concentration in heating season emitted from RCB for year 2020 and 2030. The simulation results demonstrate a migration in the emission intensity center in the Northeast region. For SO2, NO2 and PM2.5, the RCB contribution decreased from 3.1, 18.3 and 19.9 μg m−3 in 2020 to 1.8, 11.6 and 9.8 μg m−3 in 2030, respectively. The SO2, NO2 and PM2.5 impact from RCB was −0.03 to 0.29, 0.61 to 7.04 and 1.2 to 2.9 μg m−3 on average in 2030 which shown a minor impact on ambient pollution in BTH region during heating season.
Investigation of the optical and electrical structure of Al1-xInxN alloys: a DFT study
Authors: Al‐Jobory Alaa A , Nawaf Sameer , Motlak Moaaed
Published: February 2025

The electrical structure and optical properties of the Al1−x
In
x
N alloys were calculated via DFT calculations as a function of the indium content. To combine aluminum nitride (AlN) and indium nitride (InN), aluminum is partly substituted by indium in an AlN matrix. Our results reveal that increasing the indium content reduces the energy gap of the (AlInN) alloy. The alloy has an equivalent number of electronic states at each energy level for both spin directions. This means that the structures of Al1-
x
In
x
N are nonmagnetic materials. The optical calculations indicated that the absorption peaks of indium-doped AlN shifted toward lower energy (redshift) because of the reduction in the energy gap. As the indium concentration increases, the shift becomes more apparent, moving the absorption peak further into the visible or near-infrared region. Additionally, doping AlN with indium shifts the peak of the imaginary dielectric function toward lower energies due to energy gap reduction. Phonon dispersion calculations stated that all the studied structures of Al1−x
In
x
N for different In content are stable.
Neutralization of Naja naja venom by green and chemically synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles
Authors: Farrukh Fatima , Ahmed Syeda Mahnoor , Gul Anum , Waheed Humera
Published: February 2025

Snake envenomation affects millions of people worldwide especially rural population in developing countries. High production cost, poor accessibility and side-effects associated with antivenom treatment call for newer approaches. Nanoparticles could provide alternative therapy due to their biocompatibility, ease of production and stability. In this study, Titanium (IV) isopropoxide was reduced to make TiO2 nanoparticles by chemical and green synthesis method utilizing potato peels and neem leaves extract. The synthesized particles were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope, Electron Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles are spherical in shape with sizes ranging from 41–64 nm and molecules, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids in plant extracts act as reducing and capping agents. The nanoparticles were evaluated for in vitro venom neutralization assays against the Naja naja venom. The hemocompatibility assay showed that the TiO2 NPs are non-toxic, indicating their safe use. The TiO2 NPs were able to significantly inhibit venom induced hemolysis of RBCs and blood anticoagulation effect (p-values ≤0.000). Overall, the study suggests that TiO2 NPs could be effective in reducing the toxicity of Naja naja venom, providing a practical and cost-effective therapeutic option to be used as alternative treatments for snake envenomation.
Introduction
Authors: Deeks Ashley S
Published: February 2025

The Introduction sets the stage for the core dilemma that the book addresses: as the United States continues to rapidly develop classified AI tools for its military and intelligence activities, how will the public know whether, in doing so, it is preserving its core values? It identifies and defines the “double black box” problem, which arises when a state introduces “black box” algorithms into its already secret national security operations. It explains what is at stake when we struggle to provide adequate oversight of national security agencies, and it introduces public law values such as legality, effectiveness, and accountability as the standards against which we should measure national security AI operations. Finally, it identifies the sets of actors who will play critical roles in addressing the challenges posed by the double black box.
Using Traditional Checks in the U.S. System
Authors: Deeks Ashley S
Published: February 2025

Chapter 4 considers how we can make inroads into the challenges to public law values posed by the double black box, with a focus on the traditional sources of checks: Congress, the courts, whistleblowers, leakers, and internal executive processes. Recognizing that there is no silver bullet, the chapter argues that these traditional checks provide the public with options and tools to help ensure that new AI systems comport with public law values; it will just require more work to maintain the tools’ effectiveness. Proposals emphasize structural and procedural (rather than substantive) adjustments, because process rules are more likely to achieve consensus among groups with disparate views about the use of national security AI, and as a result are more likely to take root in this partisan era. In creating procedures that strengthen compliance with public law values, the Executive will be more likely to make intelligent substantive choices that reflect a wider range of input than that of the national security bureaucracy alone.
The Hurdles to International Regulation
Authors: Deeks Ashley S
Published: February 2025

Chapter 6 describes the challenges that states face in developing international rules for the use of national security AI, rules that, if effected, could shrink the size of the double black box. It explores the similarities between international efforts to regulate hostile cyber operations and national security AI, using the former to help predict what will happen in international discussions about the latter. The analogy suggests that (1) a binding global agreement containing new rules about national security AI will be beyond reach unless and until there is a major crisis; (2) basic agreement about how existing international law applies to national security AI may be possible, though subject to contestation; (3) close allies can do useful work to set guardrails around certain uses of national security AI, at least among themselves; (4) there may be very narrow areas in which the United States, Russia, and China might agree not to deploy AI systems; and (5) much of the work to sketch out expectations about how states generally should and should not use national security AI will be done unilaterally, in the form of government statements, sanctions, and criminal prosecutions. The chapter concludes that the weak forecast for new international rules on how to regulate the use of national security AI suggests that international engagement will do limited work to decrease the size of the double black box confronting democracies.
El amor brujo
Authors: Hess Carol A
Published: February 2025

El amor brujo (Love, the Sorcerer), is a theater work by the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. It showcases flamenco, the music of the Gitanos (gypsies), Spain’s underclass. Since its premiere in Madrid in 1915, it has been repeatedly reshaped, rearranged, and repackaged, either by Falla himself or by others. Jazz and pop arrangements, along with El amor brujo’s presence in various films, challenge our conception of classical music as unchanging or transcendent. This chapter prepares these issues by surveying flamenco’s basic musical ingredients and its status as the music of Spain’s marginalized Gitano population. While some of Falla’s compatriots considered flamenco a threat to what they deemed “true” Spanish identity—namely White and Christian—others were drawn to flamenco’s musical richness. Also discussed here is Falla’s biography prior to El amor brujo, including the seven years he spent in Paris, where he absorbed the latest music of Debussy, Ravel, and Stravinsky. Their influence would prove a liability for Falla once he returned to Spain.
El Amor Brujo
Authors: Hess Carol A
Published: February 2025

This chapter discusses El amor brujo in the final years of Falla’s life. In fall 1939, when Franco had declared victory in the Spanish Civil War, Falla sailed for Argentina. After conducting several concerts, he settled in the Southern Hemisphere. The composer found himself in straitened circumstances thanks to World War II, which delayed his royalties, and loopholes in U.S. copyright law, which afforded him inadequate protection. El amor brujo offered unexpected relief: in 1944, the movie musical Two Girls and a Sailor featured the Spanish pianist-actor José Iturbi and his sister Amparo Iturbi performing the “Ritual Fire Dance.” Falla was handsomely paid and was soon negotiating with various studios. Two additional films resulted, each showcasing the “Ritual Fire Dance.” After Falla’s death in 1946, “serious” artists continued to perform El amor brujo as an orchestral suite while popular entertainers focused on the “Ritual Fire Dance.” They included the “Sentimental Gentleman of Swing” Tommy Dorsey; Fred Waring and his fresh-faced dance band, the Pennsylvanians; and the all-harmonica ensemble the Harmonicats. Perhaps most spectacular was the version by Liberace, the super-showman pianist who performed the “Ritual Fire Dance” for that exciting new medium, television.
El amor brujo
Authors: Hess Carol A
Published: February 2025

This chapter discusses El amor brujo in later films. After Franco’s death, in 1975, Spanish filmmakers were no longer bound by censorship and challenged the rosy view of Spanish life promoted by Franco’s censors. Carlos Saura, for example, depicted the gritty reality of Gitano shantytowns via a new reading of El amor brujo in a film of the same name, with extended passages from Falla’s score. A more direct critique of Franco was El silencio de otros (The Silence of Others), which fleetingly quotes El amor brujo. In the United States, Black writers and artists such as Langston Hughes, Nella Larsen, Claude McKay, and Paul Robeson had long expressed their affinity for Spain, many likening flamenco to the music of oppressed African American. The question arises: is it a coincidence that so many Black artists in the United States were drawn to El amor brujo? Among the Black singers who performed it was the contralto Carol Brice, whose 1947 recording with Fritz Reiner and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra was treasured for years. Another surprising twist in the story of El amor brujo is its presence in films on anti-Black racism, including one by the African American director Spike Lee.
Pilot study: Urine cell-free DNA with low-pass whole genome sequencing can detect and molecularly type upper tract urothelial carcinomas
Authors: Quinn Chaz , Lerma L Angelica , Zhu Alexander , Monnat Raymond J , Wright Jonathan L , Lockwood Christina M , Tretiakova Maria S
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is an aggressive disease that is challenging to biopsy and diagnose, frequently yielding nondiagnostic cytology and tissue specimens. Therefore, UTUC is often late stage when diagnosed, with poor outcomes. Cell-free tumor DNA (cfDNA) may improve UTUC early diagnosis and assessments of heterogeneity, treatment response, and recurrence but has not been studied in the urine from patients with UTUC. This study aimed to detect recurrent, diagnostic UTUC cytogenetic abnormalities by low-pass whole genome sequencing (LPWGS) and to compare urine-derived and plasma cfDNA against abnormalities identified in patient tumor tissue.

Methods

Cell-free tumor DNA extracted from voided urine and plasma before nephroureterectomy in 4 patients with UTUC was compared with genomic DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue after LPWGS.

Results

Abnormal autosomal genomic regions were highest in tissue (n = 11,843), intermediate in urine (n = 5,072) and lowest in plasma (n = 763), with a high concordance of flagged regions identified in tissue and urine (r = 0.88). Pairwise analysis of whole chromosome gains/losses and subchromosomal alterations between tissue and urine showed nearly identical patterns in all 4 patients (r = 0.88-0.99) in contrast to plasma (r < 0.25). Abnormal genomic regions identified by LPWGS showed a high degree of overlap (100% for tumor tissue, 94% for urine cfDNA) with cBioPortal UTUC-associated genes.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the superiority of urine vs plasma cfDNA when LPWGS was used to identify UTUC-associated gene abnormalities. Voided urine cfDNA molecular signatures are highly concordant with matched tumor tissue on chromosomal and subchromosomal levels, emphasizing its feasibility as a noninvasive biomarker for UTUC detection and surveillance.
Implementation of an enhanced medication access workflow within a health-system specialty pharmacy: Impact on patient and clinician experience
Authors: Harkonen Brandon , Cuttitta Anthony , Henderson James , Gavrila Valerie , Mckibbin Jey , Luttman Sherrie , Benedict Wendy , Kelley Lindsey R , Flanders Scott A , Choe Hae Mi , Barnes Geoffrey D
Published: February 2025

Disclaimer

In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time.

Purpose

The initiation of specialty medications is associated with patient access challenges and clinician burden. This evaluation assessed the impact on patient and clinician experience of an intervention to improve medication access by investing resources upstream of the prescribing step.

Methods

The specialty pharmacy intervention was designed to improve medication access within 5 medical specialty clinics by utilizing an embedded medication access team assigned to patients and prescribers of targeted medications. Using a multimethods evaluative approach to quantitatively assess associations between the referral process and patient experience, we analyzed the emotional valence of patient portal messages using a retrospective cohort study within the event study framework of a nonrandomized, stepped wedge implementation design. Semistructured qualitative interviews provided an understanding of clinician experience.

Results

The intervention was associated with an increase in the net positive emotional valence of patient portal messages (average marginal effect, 5.3; 95% CI, 3.8-6.8; P < 0.001). Except for patients seen by gastroenterologists for irritable bowel disease, patients cared for in all other specialties experienced statistically significant increases in net positive valence in the primary analysis. Regarding clinician experience, 4 major interrelated themes emerged from 17 qualitative interviews with prescribers and pharmacists: (1) decreased clinician burden, general praise, (2) improved experience and satisfaction, reduced anxiety and concerns, (3) rewarding praise for other prescribers/colleagues, and (4) excellent coordination, efficiency, and speed.

Conclusion

Investing staff resources before, during, and after the prior authorization process greatly improved clinician experience. The positive valence of patient portal messages also increased, suggesting patient experience improvements.
Evaluating the light environment as a contributor to colour differences among related bird species
Authors: Fialko Kristina , Price Trevor D
Published: February 2025

Understanding the diversity of colour in nature has been one of the more elusive evolutionary problems. In the terrestrial environment, comparative analyses have associated differences in colour between species to light environment, background, and receiver perception. However, these account for only a small fraction of colour diversity, and it has been difficult to explain why a certain species is the colour it is. Here we examine colour variation across 12 very similar species of warblers belonging to the genus Phylloscopus, whose general brightness along an achromatic axis has previously been related to light intensity in their habitat. Many of these species also show variation in the colour of several plumage regions, including the wing bar, belly, and white vs. green in the outer tail feathers. We ask if these differences can be connected to the spectrum of light found in the habitat of each species. We find little evidence that contrast between patches and adjacent plumage or colour per se is affected by light environment. We argue that the heterogeneity of light environments experienced within a habitat and throughout the day make it unlikely that downwelling irradiance alone has a direct influence on colour variation. Accordingly, other features must have driven colour evolution. Diversification may be driven by environmental characteristics, such as background, or unrelated to environment altogether, reflecting the possibility that many different variants may effectively stimulate a receiver, and those that appear in a certain species reflect stochastic processes (e.g. mutation) and contingency (form of the ancestor).
Acute and long-term transcriptomic responses of granulosa cells to obesogenic diet and concomitant effects on oocyte quality: insight from an outbred mouse model
Authors: Marei Waleed F A , Moorkens Kerlijne , Gansemans Yannick , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Leroy Jo L M R
Published: February 2025

Diet-induced obesity can cause long-term alterations in ovarian functions, but the acute effects of obesogenic diets on the follicular cells and their progression over time, when intake is continued and obesity develops, remain unclear. We aimed to determine the onset and progression of changes in the granulosa cell transcriptomic profile after starting a high-fat/high sugar (HFHS)-diet feeding in mice. We also examined the changes in oocyte lipid droplet content and mitochondrial ultrastructural abnormalities. Swiss (outbred) mice were sacrificed at 24 h, 3 days, and at 1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks of feeding HFHS and control diets. Lipid droplet content significantly increased in the HFHS oocytes within 24 h compared to controls (P < 0.05). Oocyte mitochondrial abnormalities only increased starting from 8 weeks. Granulosa RNA-seq revealed altered transcriptomic gene-set enrichments (GO terms and KEGG pathways, Padj < 0.05) already at 3 days and 1 week indicating acute endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein responses, with concomitant fluctuations in several cellular metabolic pathways and gene sets related to mitochondrial bioenergetic functions, some of which persisted after 8 weeks. Interestingly, the short- and long-term patterns of changes in cytochrome P450, steroid hormone biosynthesis, retinol metabolism, bile acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and Pi3K/Akt signaling pathways were most prominent and highly correlated; all being acutely upregulated, then chronically downregulated. These results show that the impact of obesogenic diet on the oocyte and granulosa cells is prompt, while the response depends on the duration of feeding and occurs in a multiphasic cascade together with a progressive deterioration in oocyte quality.
Waterbody connectivity: Linking science and policy for improved waterbody protection
Authors: Sulliván S Mažeika Patricio , Hughes Robert M , Vadas Robert L , Davies Gillian T , Shirey Patrick D , Colvin Susan A R , Infante Dana M , Danehy Robert J , Sanchez Nayeli K , Keast Robert B
Published: February 2025

Connectivity—the flows and exchanges of organisms, materials, and energy within and among watersheds—is a central paradigm in ecosystem science. Changes in those connections have consequences for ecosystem functioning and water quality downstream and upstream. Therefore, connectivity is a cornerstone for federal water protection under the United States Clean Water Act (CWA). In the present article, we review the science of connectivity, explain the history of changes in CWA jurisdiction defining waters of the United States, discuss implications for US water policy, and highlight key steps to align that policy with science. The Sackett v. EPA (2023) Supreme Court decision significantly reduced federal water protection for wetlands and headwaters, disregarding their connectivity with larger, protected waterbodies. To fulfill the goals of the CWA to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of U.S. waters, Congress must amend the act, fully recognizing the multidimensional connectivity of aquatic ecosystems and ultimately incorporating these connections into ecosystem-level policy.
Neuronal α-synuclein toxicity is the key driver of neurodegeneration in multiple system atrophy
Authors: Wiseman James A , Halliday Glenda M , Dieriks Birger Victor
Published: February 2025

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare, rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disorder often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease (PD). While both conditions share some clinical features, MSA is distinct in its pathological hallmark: oligodendroglial cytoplasmic α-synuclein (α-Syn) inclusions, known as glial cytoplasmic inclusions (GCIs). These GCIs are pathognomonic for MSA, but they do not lead to significant oligodendroglial cell loss. Instead, MSA is characterised by a substantially greater loss of non-dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal and olivopontocerebellar systems compared to PD. This widespread neuronal degeneration, which is not seen to the same extent in PD, plays a critical role in MSA’s clinical presentation and is important to consider if PD is to be redefined as a neuronal α-Syn disease. It also raises the question of differences in the potential toxicity of lesions in MSA and the underlying cause of neuronal death in MSA.

By combining an N-terminus α-Syn antibody that reveals more α-Syn pathology and super-resolution microscopy, we identified α-Syn fibrils in MSA neurons penetrating the nucleus from the cytoplasm, leading to nuclear destruction and neuronal death. Our data indicate an early invasion of neuronal nuclei by α-Syn pathology in MSA, precipitating rapid nuclear envelope destruction, as observed through significant structural damage, including the loss of Lamin integrity. Although the progression of α-Syn pathology from the cytoplasm to the nucleus may be similar in oligodendroglia and neurons, the aggregation state of the α-Syn proteoforms involved differs as proteolytic resistance of α-Syn inclusions is significantly higher in neurons and the nucleus is destroyed.

We describe the progressive impact of α-Syn nuclear pathology on MSA neurons and show that this is a more detrimental and rapid pathology driving neurodegeneration. Our data suggest that oligodendroglial inclusions contain more soluble, less toxic α-Syn proteoforms, consistent with two distinct α-Syn filaments in MSA. We propose renaming MSA as a neuronal nuclear and oligodendroglial α-synucleinopathy to better reflect these two distinct pathologies.
Air bubbles around the heart: a rare case report of pneumohydropericardium in heart transplantation
Authors: Brucato Filippo , Gentile Piero , Musca Francesco , Casadei Francesca , Palazzini Matteo
Published: February 2025

Background

Pneumohydropericardium is a rare but significant condition characterized by the presence of both air and fluid in the pericardial space. It is often associated with trauma, invasive procedures, or thoracic pathologies, and its occurrence following heart transplantation is particularly unusual. Early recognition is essential to prevent complications such as cardiac tamponade, although conservative management can be effective in cases without haemodynamic compromise.

Case summary

We present the case of a 40-year-old woman with a history of hypokinetic-dilative cardiomyopathy and heterozygous for TNNT2 gene mutation (c.547C>T p.Arg183Trp), who underwent orthotopic heart transplantation. Following the procedure, she developed pneumohydropericardium, identified by echocardiography as air microbubbles and fluid in the pericardial space, without associated haemodynamic instability. The condition was monitored with serial echocardiograms, and no invasive intervention was required. The air microbubbles resolved after 16 days of echocardiographic follow-up, and the patient was discharged in stable condition. At follow-up, she showed no recurrence of the pneumohydropericardium.

Discussion

This case highlights pneumohydropericardium as a rare post-transplant complication that, when detected early and closely monitored, can be managed conservatively without severe outcomes. While pneumohydropericardium has been previously reported in association with other conditions, its post-transplant manifestation is rare and warrants further awareness. Echocardiographic surveillance played a key role in guiding management, as invasive procedures were avoided, and the patient remained haemodynamically stable throughout. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing pneumohydropericardium in heart transplant patients to ensure optimal outcomes
Single lung transplantation is safe when the other lung is declined
Authors: Asija Richa , Fuller Joshua , Costa Joseph , Abramov Alexey , Grewal Harpreet , Benvenuto Luke , Magda Gabriela , Shah Lori , DiMango Angela , Robbins Hilary , Stanifer Bryan Payne , Sonett Joshua , Arcasoy Selim , D’Ovidio Frank , Lemaitre Philippe
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVES

Single lung transplant (SLT) is an acceptable treatment modality for certain patients with end-stage lung disease. SLT occurs when two appropriate donor lungs are split between recipients (‘split singles’) or when one donor lung is adequate for transplant and the other lung is declined (‘isolated single’). There is a paucity of literature investigating the outcomes in patients who received an isolated SLT. This study analyses the characteristics and survival outcomes of isolated SLT recipients.

METHODS

The transplant database at our institution was queried for all lung transplants between 2010 and 2021. The primary outcome of survival was assessed using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression modelling. Secondary outcomes were assessed using Cox regression and Fisher’s exact test.

RESULTS

Of 759 lung transplant recipients, 164 patients underwent a split SLT, and 271 patients underwent an isolated SLT. There was no significant difference when comparing most demographic characteristics between isolated SLT and split SLT patients. Isolated SLT recipients had similar overall mortality when compared to split SLT recipients (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.72–1.33, P = 0.87). There was no difference in postoperative need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (P = 0.209), duration of postoperative ventilation (P = 0.408) and length of hospitalization (P = 0.443).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis demonstrating similar overall survival between recipients of isolated SLT and split SLT shows that a well-selected isolated donor lung can be used safely in the appropriate recipient population. This practice allows expansion of a known scarce donor lung pool and reduction of the waitlist mortality in lung transplant candidates.
Mechanical Circulatory Support in Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Mentzel Luise , Fengler Karl , Oezkur Mehmet , Lanmüller Pia , Tavazzi Guido , Thevathasan Tharusan , Iannaccone Mario , Werner Nikos
Published: February 2025

Acute pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition caused by the thromboembolic obstruction of pulmonary arteries, which often leads to hemodynamic instability, right ventricular failure, and potentially death. Patients with massive or high-risk PE are particularly vulnerable and may not respond to conventional treatments, necessitating the implementation of mechanical circulatory support. Here, we discuss recent advancements in the diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of patients with high-risk PE and highlight the need for rapid and personalized treatment strategies.
The role of temporary mechanical circulatory support in acute on chronic heart failure
Authors: Vandenbriele Christophe , Bertoldi Letizia , Bruno Francesco , Haneya Assad , Nap Alexander , Potapov Evgenij , Schönrath Felix , Zimpfer Daniel , Pappalardo Federico
Published: February 2025

Heart failure remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with acute heart failure or cardiogenic shock requiring rapid intervention to prevent fatal outcomes. Advances in temporary mechanical circulatory support devices (tMCS) have revolutionized the management of advanced heart failure, offering temporary, durable, and individualized support options. This manuscript reviews the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of acute heart failure, the role of multidisciplinary Heart Teams, and the growing importance of structured care networks in managing complex cases of heart failure. We explore the strategic deployment of tMCS in acute settings, device options, implications for patient outcomes, and current challenges in the field. This manuscript emphasizes the importance of team-based approaches and underscores the potential of tMCS devices in stabilizing patient haemodynamics, bridging to recovery or definitive therapy, and improving survival in patients facing high-risk heart failure.
Sex differences in secondary prevention needs and recommendations among patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection
Authors: Stragapede Elisa , Bouchard Karen , Coutinho Thais , Mulvagh Sharon , Pacheco Christine , Liu Shuangbo , Saw Jacqueline , So Derek , Reed Jennifer L , Robert Helen , Lappa Nadia , Tulloch Heather
Published: February 2025

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is increasingly recognized as a cause of heart attacks, particularly for female patients; however, ∼10% of cases occur in male patients. While male and female differences pertaining to clinical outcomes and treatment protocols have been addressed in the literature, research is limited on sex differences in secondary prevention programming, such as cardiac rehabilitation. Cardiac rehabilitation is recommended for patients with SCAD to promote physical and mental recovery. This letter highlights sex-specific gaps in existing programming and reports patients’ suggestions for enhancing the recovery of this unique patient population.
Influenza a virus subtype H9N2 infection induces respiratory microbiota dysbiosis in chickens via type-I interferon-mediated mechanisms
Authors: Oladokun Samson , Alizadeh Mohammadali , Mallick Amirul I , Fazel Fatemeh , Doost Janan Shoja , Blake Katherine , Denis Myles St , Raj Sugandha , Sharif Shayan
Published: February 2025

Avian influenza virus (AIV) poses significant threats to poultry and human health. This study investigates the impact of H9N2 AIV infection on the respiratory microbiota of chickens using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Total 48 one-day-old specific pathogen-free chickens were assigned to six groups: a control and five post-infection groups (days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9). After a 15-day microbiota stabilization period, the infected chickens received a viral inoculum (107 TCID50/ml) via ocular, intra-nasal, and intra-tracheal routes. Tracheal and broncho-alveolar lavage samples were analyzed. Significant reductions in microbiota diversity were observed on days 5, 7, and 9 post-infection, compared to d0 controls. Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance confirmed significant beta diversity differences (P = 0.001) between infected and uninfected groups. The microbial shifts from d5 to d9 were marked by increased Proteobacteria, decreased Actinobacteria and Firmicutes, and a rise in Dickeya. Elevated type-I interferon (IFN-β) and viperin gene expression at d5 coincided with reduced microbiota diversity, highlighting the respiratory microbiota’s role in modulating host responses to AIV H9N2 infection and suggesting potential biomarkers for respiratory dysbiosis.
The genome sequence and genomic diversity of soybean tentiform leafminer (Macrosaccus morrisella)
Authors: Faulk Christopher , Ribeiro Arthur V , Walls Carrie , Koch Robert L
Published: February 2025

The soybean tentiform leafminer, Macrosaccus morrisella (Fitch) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), is native to North America where it was known to feed on American hogpeanut and slickseed fuzzybean. However, it has recently expanded its host range to include soybean, an important agricultural crop. Here, we report a new, highly contiguous genome for this species with a length of 245 Mb, N50 of 9 Mb, and 96.33% BUSCO completeness. The mitochondrial genome shares only 81% identity to its nearest relative in the NCBI nucleotide database indicating long-standing divergence or sparse sequencing in this clade. To determine whether host plant choice is genetically driven, we sequenced 18 individuals across 3 locations in Minnesota, USA, collected from both American hogpeanut and soybean plants. Genetic variation did not correlate with population structure based on either geography or host plant species (weighted FST estimate: 0.0058). As a secondary measure, we independently assembled complete mitochondrial genomes from all individuals and observed no delineation between host or location. The overall lack of detectable population structure at the nuclear and mitochondrial genome levels suggests a large population with flexible dietary preferences and does not show evidence of genetically driven host preference.
Caregiver assessment of socioemotional functioning in people living with neurodegenerative disease (Part 2): Concurrent validity and test-retest reliability of a new measure
Authors: Brown Casey K , Otero Marcela C , Ascher Elizabeth A , Merrilees Jennifer , Levenson Robert W
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Care recipients with neurodegenerative disease can have socioemotional impairments that are challenging for their caregivers. We examine the concurrent and incremental validity of a novel informant-rated measure of care recipient functioning, the Caregiver Assessment of Socioemotional Functioning (CASEF), by examining links with clinician-rated behavioral problems, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and disease severity, as well as caregivers’ reported burden and relationship quality. We also examine test-retest reliability of the CASEF.

Research Design and Methods

Informal caregivers (N=177) of individuals with neurodegenerative disease reported on their care recipients’ socioemotional functioning and completed structured interviews with clinicians to assess care recipients’ disease severity and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Care recipients’ behavioral symptoms were evaluated with clinician rating scales. Another sample of caregivers (N=61) repeated the CASEF four to six months following an initial administration.

Results

CASEF subscales evidenced concurrent validity with other measures of care recipients’ socioemotional functioning, disease severity, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and behavioral symptoms. CASEF subscales also evidenced incremental validity by accounting for significant additional variance in caregiver burden and relationship quality after accounting for care recipients’ neuropsychiatric and behavioral symptoms. Finally, CASEF subscales demonstrated adequate to excellent test-retest reliability.

Discussion and Implications

Findings highlight the validity and reliability of the CASEF. Coupled with findings from Part 1 of this series (which established CASEF’s construct validity), these findings support using the CASEF in clinical and research settings to assess changes in care recipient socioemotional functioning over time and to examine links between care recipient socioemotional changes and caregiver burden, health, and well-being.
Think-aloud test of online education for patients with cardiac diseases: do they meet the needs of women?
Authors: Gunning Emily A , Carson Rachael P , Schotanus Emma , Benn Sydney , Henderson Jordan , Eccles Amy , Grace Sherry L , Ghisi Gabriela L M
Published: February 2025

Patient education is a core component of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR). Recent guidelines call for tailored materials to support women, given their unique needs and preferences. This study investigated women patient’s perspectives of online CR educational materials (Cardiac College, Toronto). Through a cross-sectional design, a think-aloud protocol followed by semistructured qualitative interviews was used to collect data on women’s perceptions of the comprehensive educational webpages with regard to content, format, visuals, length/volume, difficulty, applicability, implementability and suggestions for improvement. Thirty-eight current and previous CR program participants completed 1-h Zoom interviews. Transcripts were coded thematically using best practices in NVivo by two researchers independently. Four themes emerged: (I) materials met their needs (content, presentation, and empowerment), (II) suggestions for improvement in presentation (website design, text, and visuals), (III) content (volume, additions, and difficulty), and (IV) optimizing reach and implementability (inclusiveness, barriers, and dissemination). Overall, the education content met women’s needs and was relatable, but should be updated for currency, visual appeal, and searchability. Cardiac College for Women may meet these needs and preferences.
Decreased susceptibility to cefepime/zidebactam among carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli from Stockholm, Sweden with alterations in PBP2
Authors: Tellapragada Chaitanya , Dunleavy Chantel , Jonsson Patrik , Giske Christian G
Published: February 2025

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the in vitro activity and genetic determinants of decreased susceptibility (DS; MIC > 4 mg/L) to cefepime/zidebactam of carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli.

Methods

Clinical isolates (N = 150) of carbapenemase-producing E. coli (CP-EC) belonging to seven distinct STs, isolated at a university clinical microbiology laboratory during 2019–2023 in Stockholm, Sweden were included. MICs for cefepime/zidebactam were determined using the broth microdilution method and interpreted using the tentative EUCAST clinical breakpoints (Susceptible; MIC < 4 mg/L; based on cefepime breakpoint). Whole genome sequences of the isolates were analysed with an emphasis on identifying alterations in PBPs 2 and 3.

Results

Of the 150 isolates, 145 (96.6%) isolates had MICs <4 mg/L indicating susceptibility and 5 (3.3%) had MICs >4 mg/L. MICs for zidebactam alone among the five isolates with DS to cefepime/zidebactam were ≥8 mg/L. WGS analysis revealed that these five isolates were NDM-5 producers and belonged to ST405 (n = 1), ST410 (n = 2) and ST648 (n = 2). Presence of four-amino-acid inserts (YRIK/YRIN) in PBP3 was observed in 80/150 (53.3%) isolates, and mutations leading to alterations in PBP2 were observed in 41/150 (27.3%) isolates. Presence of other β-lactamases (CTX-M group) and/or cephalosporinases (blaCMY) did not have an impact on the susceptibility to cefepime/zidebactam. Three of the five isolates with DS had a V522I substitution in PBP2.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that DS to cefepime/zidebactam among clinical isolates of E. coli could arise due to targeted mutations in PBP2.
Antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic prescribing practices and antimicrobial stewardship in South Africa: a scoping review
Authors: Ahmed Suwayda , Ahmed Rukshana , Adam Razia Zulfikar , Coetzee Renier
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an emerging global threat, with notable impact evident in low- and middle-income countries. Indiscriminate antibiotic prescribing is recognized as the key factor responsible for the continued spread of AMR.

Objectives

To comprehensively map published data of evidence of AMR in healthcare settings in South Africa, encompassing the exploration of antibiotic prescribing practices and the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship initiatives.

Methods

The scoping review methodology was based on the guidelines outlined by Arksey and O’Malley. The protocol for this scoping review has been registered in the Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/PWMFB). The search strategy was documented using the protocol outlined within the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Databases used were Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Wiley, Directory of Open Access Journals; and health organizations such as the WHO. In addition, the Google search engine was used to search for grey matter. The search was restricted to peer-reviewed articles in English on human studies for the period 2019–24.

Results

The search yielded a total of 529 articles from electronic databases and search engines. Twenty-nine articles were accepted for inclusion following the application of the study protocol. The majority of the articles were primary research papers.

Conclusions

The findings reveal that South Africa has measures in place to combat AMR; however, inconsistencies were found between the private and public health sectors, in addition to the lack of adherence to guidelines and limitations in AMR education among healthcare workers and students.
FTIR Spectroscopic Analysis of Plant Proteins and Correlation with Functional Properties
Authors: Patel Janvi D , Gao Zili , He Lili
Published: February 2025

Background

The development of plant-based products faces challenges like raw material standardization and time-consuming functionality measurements. FTIR spectroscopy provides a quick, non-destructive way to analyze protein molecular characteristics.

Objective

This study explored the classification capability of FTIR in analyzing five plant protein isolates—soy, mung bean, pea, fava bean, and lentil—and assessed its predictive ability for functional property measurement such as water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC), solubility (SOL), foaming, and emulsification.

Methods

Functional properties were calculated using traditional methods of measurements. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least-squares (PLS) regression analysis were used to study FTIR spectra and their correlation with functional properties.

Results

PCA revealed distinct clusters for each protein source based on their FTIR spectra, indicating molecular differences. WAC and OAC prediction models showed strong correlations, with prediction correlation coefficients (Rp) of more than 0.99 and cross-validation correlation coefficients (Rcv) ranging from 0.85 to 0.92. Models for SOL and emulsifying activity index (EAI) display promising potential. Moreover, WAC and OAC predictions exhibited robust results with protein blends of various ratios. The expanded WAC model predicted with an Rp of 0.99 and an Rcv of 0.95, while the expanded OAC model had an Rp of 0.99 and an Rcv of 0.84.

Conclusion

The results underscore FTIR has the potential to identify plant proteins, aiding in raw material verification and QC as well as being an alternative to analyzing functional properties of plant proteins.

Highlights

This study demonstrates the potential of FTIR spectroscopy as a rapid, non-destructive tool for plant protein characterization and functional property prediction. FTIR successfully distinguished five plant protein isolates—soy, mung bean, pea, fava bean, and lentil—through PCA-based spectral clustering. Strong predictive models for water and oil absorption capacities (WAC and OAC) were developed, with prediction correlation coefficients (Rp) values exceeding 0.99 and cross-validation correlation coefficients (Rcv) ranging from 0.84 to 0.95. Functional property predictions for solubility (SOL) and emulsifying activity index (EAI) showed promising potential. These findings highlight FTIR’s capability for protein classification, raw material verification, and rapid functional property assessment in quality control applications.
Effects of increasing dietary zinc oxide levels on the hepatic mitochondrial energy metabolism, oxidative balance and antioxidant system in weaned piglets
Authors: Villeneuve Geneviève , Roy Caroline , Deschêne Karine , Matte Jean-Jacques , Lapointe Jérôme , Dalto Danyel Bueno
Published: February 2025

This study compared different levels of dietary zinc oxide (ZnO) on mitochondria ATP synthesis and the cellular and systemic redox balance in weaned pigs. One hundred twenty weaned piglets (7.96 ± 1.17 kg, 21 days of age) were randomly allocated in one of three diets containing different Zn levels (as ZnO); 100 (100Zn), 1000 (1000Zn) and 3000 mg/kg (3000Zn), and were slaughtered at day 21, 23, 35 or 42 for the collection of blood and liver samples. Dietary copper (Cu) levels were constant at 131 mg/kg. Hepatic mitochondrial concentrations of Zn and Cu, hepatic mitochondria respiration, antioxidant response and the hepatic expression of related genes were analyzed. Piglets fed 3000Zn had the highest Zn (P < 0.01) and the lowest Cu concentrations (P = 0.01) in hepatic mitochondria. The hepatic oxygen consumption rate for maximal respiration was the highest in 3000Zn piglets (P < 0.05) whereas hepatic cytochrome c oxidase activity tended to be lower (P = 0.06) and intracellular ATP concentrations was the lowest (P = 0.01). Mitochondrial Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) activity was the lowest (P < 0.01) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity tended to be the lowest (P = 0.07) for 3000Zn piglets. The mRNA expression of the antioxidant related genes copper chaperone for superoxide dismutase (CCS) was highest (P = 0.01) in 3000Zn piglets and tended to be the highest (P = 0.07) for glutathione synthetase (GSS). Plasma carbonyls concentrations (P = 0.02) and GPx activity (P = 0.01) were the highest while SOD activity was not impacted (P = 0.55) in 3000Zn piglets. In conclusion, supplementing 3000 mg Zn/kg had detrimental impacts on mitochondria Zn and Cu homeostasis, resulting in a dysfunctional mitochondria respiratory chain and disturbed antioxidant response in post-weaning piglets.