bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perception of Supervisory Styles
Authors: Schaaf Stephanie , Liljequist Laura , Wilson Randal , Hart Sharon B.
Published: August 2023

Supervision is a dynamic and challenging leadership process that remains an essential element within the field of speech-language pathology. This study examines a facet of the supervisory relationship and investigates whether supervision styles are similarly perceived by the supervisor and supervisee and if a mismatch in perceptions relates to satisfaction between supervisor–supervisee dyads. Data were collected through completion of a demographic questionnaire as well as the Supervisory Style Inventory, which categorizes supervisory style as being attractive, interpersonally sensitive, task-oriented, or mixed. Findings demonstrate notable variance in the self-reported supervisor style and the style supervisees perceived as being demonstrated with over half (66%) of supervisor–supervisee dyads reporting a perceived mismatch in style. There was not a significant difference in the level of supervisee satisfaction for supervisor dyads reporting a match in style compared with mismatch. Satisfaction was correlated with all three reported style characteristics; however, interpersonal and task-oriented supervisory style characteristics were more strongly correlated with supervisee satisfaction. Having a mixed style was the only style that was significantly correlated with supervisees reporting having their needs met. Discussions include practical implications, limitations of the study, as well as recommendations for future research.
A Neuroenteric Cyst of the Cavernous Sinus: A Case Report
Authors: Elshamy Walid , Ozaydin Burak , Sayyahmelli Sima , Salamat M. Shahriar , Baskaya Mustafa K.
Published: August 2023

Background Neuroenteric cysts (NECs) are benign lesions mostly found as intradural extramedullary lesions in the cervicothoracic spinal cord. NECs in the cavernous sinus are very rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second reported case and the first in an adult.

Presentation We present a left cavernous sinus NEC in a 75-year-old female with gradually worsening headache and facial pain unresponsive to medical treatment. Imaging revealed a cystic mass lesion in the left cavernous sinus encasing the distal petrosal and cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery. Initial differential diagnoses included more common pathologies located near the cavernous sinus, including cystic schwannoma, craniopharyngioma, and dermoid and epidermoid tumors. The patient underwent a left pterional craniotomy with an extradural transcavernous approach for surgical exploration and possible resection of this mass lesion. Histopathology revealed an NEC lined with benign respiratory-type epithelium. Postoperative imaging revealed gross total tumor resection. The patient remained neurologically intact with complete resolution of facial pain.

Conclusion We present a rare pathology that can easily be misinterpreted as other types of lesions. NECs should be kept in mind for differential diagnosis of cavernous sinus cystic lesions. The surgical aim should be maximal safe excision.
Nested invariant tori foliating a vector field and its curl: Toward MHD equilibria and steady Euler flows in toroidal domains without continuous Euclidean isometries
Authors: Sato Naoki , Yamada Michio
Published: August 2023

This paper studies the problem of finding a three-dimensional solenoidal vector field such that both the vector field and its curl are tangential to a given family of toroidal surfaces. We show that this question can be translated into the problem of determining a periodic solution with periodic derivatives of a two-dimensional linear elliptic second-order partial differential equation on each toroidal surface and prove the existence of smooth solutions. Examples of smooth solutions foliated by toroidal surfaces that are not invariant under continuous Euclidean isometries are also constructed explicitly, and they are identified as equilibria of anisotropic magnetohydrodynamics. The problem examined here represents a weaker version of a fundamental mathematical problem that arises in the context of magnetohydrodynamics and fluid mechanics concerning the existence of regular equilibrium magnetic fields and steady Euler flows in bounded domains without continuous Euclidean isometries. The existence of such configurations represents a key theoretical issue for the design of the confining magnetic field in nuclear fusion reactors known as stellarators.
An extreme value statistics model of heterogeneous ice nucleation for quantifying the stability of supercooled aqueous systems
Authors: Consiglio Anthony N. , Ouyang Yu , Powell-Palm Matthew J. , Rubinsky Boris
Published: August 2023

The propensity of water to remain in a metastable liquid state at temperatures below its equilibrium melting point holds significant potential for cryopreserving biological material such as tissues and organs. The benefits conferred are a direct result of progressively reducing metabolic expenditure due to colder temperatures while simultaneously avoiding the irreversible damage caused by the crystallization of ice. Unfortunately, the freezing of water in bulk systems of clinical relevance is dominated by random heterogeneous nucleation initiated by uncharacterized trace impurities, and the marked unpredictability of this behavior has prevented the implementation of supercooling outside of controlled laboratory settings and in volumes larger than a few milliliters. Here, we develop a statistical model that jointly captures both the inherent stochastic nature of nucleation using conventional Poisson statistics as well as the random variability of heterogeneous nucleation catalysis through bivariate extreme value statistics. Individually, these two classes of models cannot account for both the time-dependent nature of nucleation and the sample-to-sample variability associated with heterogeneous catalysis, and traditional extreme value models have only considered variations of the characteristic nucleation temperature. We conduct a series of constant cooling rate and isothermal nucleation experiments with physiological saline solutions and leverage the statistical model to evaluate the natural variability of kinetic and thermodynamic nucleation parameters. By quantifying freezing probability as a function of temperature, supercooled duration, and system volume while accounting for nucleation site variability, this study also provides a basis for the rational design of stable supercooled biopreservation protocols.
Computational analysis of the coronavirus epidemic model involving nonlinear stochastic differential equations
Authors: Alfwzan Wafa F. , Abuasbeh Kinda , Raza Ali , Zeb Zunair , Awadalla Muath , Alfadhli Norah
Published: August 2023

Stochastic methods significantly solve stochastic differential equations such as stochastic equations with a delay, stochastic fractional and fractal equations, stochastic partial differential equations, and many more. The coronavirus is still a threat to humans and puts people in danger. The model is a symmetric and compatible distribution family. In this case, the present model contains seven sub-populations of humans: susceptible, exposed, infected, quarantined, vaccinated, recovered, and dead. Two deterministic to stochastic formation types are studied, namely, transition probabilities and nonparametric perturbations. The positivity and boundedness of the stochastic model are analyzed. The stochastic Euler, stochastic Runge–Kutta, and Euler–Maruyama methods solve the stochastic system. Unfortunately, many issues originate, such as negativity, boundedness, and violation of dynamical consistency. The nonstandard finite difference method is designed in the sense of stochasticity to restore the dynamic properties of the model. In the end, simulations are carried out in contrast to deterministic and stochastic solutions. Overall, our findings shed light on the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19 dynamics and the influence of environmental factors on the spread of the disease, which can help make informed policy decisions and public health interventions.
Corrigendum to: A holistic approach towards a generalizable machine learning predictor of cell penetrating peptides
Authors: Ismail Bahaa , Jones Sarah , Howl John
Published: August 2023

The development of machine learning (ML) predictors does not necessarily require the employment of expansive classifiers and complex feature encoding schemes to achieve the highest accuracy scores. It rather requires data pre-processing, feature optimization, and robust evaluation to ensure consistent results and generalizability. Herein, we describe a multi-stage process to develop a reliable ML predictor of cell penetrating peptides (CPPs). We emphasize the challenges of: (i) the generation of representative datasets with all required pre-processing procedures; (ii) comprehensive and exclusive encoding of peptides using their amino acid composition; (iii) obtaining an optimized feature set using a simple classifier (support vector machine, SVM); (iv) ensuring consistent results; and (v) verifying generalizability at the highest achievable accuracy scores. Two peptide sub-spaces were used to generate the negative examples, which are required, along with the known CPPs, to train the classifier. These included: (i) randomly generated peptides with all amino acid types being equally represented and (ii) extracted peptides from receptor proteins. Results indicated that the randomly generated dataset performed perfectly well within its own peptide sub-space, while it poorly generalized to the other sub-space. Conversely, the dataset extracted from receptor proteins, while achieving lower accuracies, showed a perfect generalizability to the other peptide sub-space. We combined the qualities of these two datasets by utilizing the average of their predictions within our ultimate framework. This functional ML predictor, WLVCPP, and associated software and datasets can be downloaded from https://github.com/BahaaIsmail/WLVCPP.
Two conformations of the Tom20 preprotein receptor in the TOM holo complex
Authors: Ornelas Pamela , Bausewein Thomas , Martin Janosch , Morgner Nina , Nussberger Stephan , Kühlbrandt Werner
Published: August 2023

The TOM complex is the main entry point for precursor proteins (preproteins) into mitochondria. Preproteins containing targeting sequences are recognized by the TOM complex and imported into mitochondria. We have determined the structure of the TOM core complex from
Neurospora crassa
by single-particle electron cryomicroscopy at 3.3 Å resolution, showing its interaction with a bound preprotein at 4 Å resolution, and of the TOM holo complex including the Tom20 receptor at 6 to 7 Å resolution. TOM is a transmembrane complex consisting of two β-barrels, three receptor subunits, and three short transmembrane subunits. Tom20 has a transmembrane helix and a receptor domain on the cytoplasmic side. We propose that Tom20 acts as a dynamic gatekeeper, guiding preproteins into the pores of the TOM complex. We analyze the interactions of Tom20 with other TOM subunits, present insights into the structure of the TOM holo complex, and suggest a translocation mechanism.
Recovery of multiple parameters in subdiffusion from one lateral boundary measurement
Authors: Cen Siyu , Jin Bangti , Liu Yikan , Zhou Zhi
Published: August 2023

This work is concerned with numerically recovering multiple parameters simultaneously in the subdiffusion model from one single lateral measurement on a part of the boundary, while in an incompletely known medium. We prove that the boundary measurement corresponding to a fairly general boundary excitation uniquely determines the order of the fractional derivative and the polygonal support of the diffusion coefficient, without knowing either the initial condition or the source. The uniqueness analysis further inspires the development of a robust numerical algorithm for recovering the fractional order and diffusion coefficient. The proposed algorithm combines small-time asymptotic expansion, analytic continuation of the solution and the level set method. We present extensive numerical experiments to illustrate the feasibility of the simultaneous recovery. In addition, we discuss the uniqueness of recovering general diffusion and potential coefficients from one single partial boundary measurement, when the boundary excitation is more specialized.
The Radon transform with finitely many angles
*
Authors: Stefanov Plamen
Published: August 2023

We study the Radon transform in the plane in parallel geometry possibly undersampled in the angular variable. We study resolution, aliasing artifacts, and edge recovery.
Multifunctional starch-based double-network hydrogels as electronic skin
Authors: Zheng Anbo , Qin Yuxiang , Xia Qing , Chen Yanxu , Zhang Xueshuo
Published: August 2023

The realization of flexible pressure sensors that could mimic the perception functions of human skin (touch, temperature, and humidity) is important for development of electronic skin. However, the design and preparation of highly sensitive sensors for multifunctional sensing of pressure, temperature and humidity remains a challenge. Here, we first designed and prepared a flexible starch/polyacrylamide (PAM) double-network hydrogel, with additional introduction of Na+ and Cl− to further enhance the electrical properties. Subsequently, a multifunctional pressure sensor was fabricated by sandwiching a microstructured starch-based hydrogel into two flexible AgNWs electrodes. In the test run, the prepared sensor exhibited a high sensitivity of 48.35 kPa−1, a fast response time of 11 ms, and remarkable mechanical stability (>3000 cycles). Given the satisfactory performance for pressure sensing, we demonstrated the ability of the sensor to monitor various human dynamics. Moreover, the starch-based hydrogel was further developed as a flexible temperature and humidity sensor for its water absorption and swelling properties. In particular, the asynchrony of pressure, temperature and humidity strains (straining to stability at 11 ms, 2 s and 10 s, respectively) resulted in the automatic separation of different electrical signals. The intuitive interpretation of the data without involving complex parameter separation calculations allowed the starch-based hydrogels to be developed as an integrated, multifunctional sensor of pressure, temperature and humidity with high sensitivity and flexibility. The above properties suggest that the prepared bio-based hydrogels may provide a new solution for the prospect of green and multifunctional electronic skin development.
Implementation of logical operations using antiferromagnetic helical molecule
Authors: Das Gupta Debjani , Maiti Santanu K
Published: August 2023

For the first time, we explore all possible two-input logical operations (OR, AND, NOT, NOR, NAND, XOR, and XNOR) using a single-stranded antiferromagnetic (AFM) helix system. The AFM helix produces a large amount of spin current in the presence of a transverse electric field. The spin current, considered as the output, can be tuned by the strength and direction of the electric field that are taken as the inputs of the logic gates. All the results are spin-based, which reduces the loss due to heating energy, and since the operations are reprogrammable, one can have all the gates in a single system simply by rearranging the setup. Based on the growth of experimental realization of AFM helical systems we believe that our results can be verified and may lead to a new direction in the branch of AFM spintronics.
The Einstein-de Haas effect in an Fe15 cluster
Authors: Wells T , Foulkes W M C , Dudarev S L , Horsfield A P
Published: August 2023

Classical models of spin-lattice coupling are at present unable to accurately reproduce results for numerous properties of ferromagnetic materials, such as heat transport coefficients or the sudden collapse of the magnetic moment in hcp-Fe under pressure. This inability has been attributed to the absence of a proper treatment of effects that are inherently quantum mechanical in nature, notably spin–orbit coupling (SOC). This paper introduces a time-dependent, non-collinear tight binding model, complete with SOC and vector Stoner exchange terms, that is capable of simulating the Einstein-de Haas (EdH) effect in a ferromagnetic Fe15 cluster. The tight binding model is used to investigate the adiabaticity timescales that determine the response of the orbital and spin angular momenta to a rotating, externally applied B field, and we show that the qualitative behaviors of our simulations can be extrapolated to realistic timescales by use of the adiabatic theorem. An analysis of the trends in the torque contributions with respect to the field strength demonstrates that SOC is necessary to observe a transfer of angular momentum from the electrons to the nuclei at experimentally realistic B fields. The simulations presented in this paper demonstrate the EdH effect from first principles using a Fe cluster.
Magnetization reversal of [Co/Pd] perpendicular magnetic thin film dot on (Bi,La)(Fe,Co)O3multiferroic thin film by applying electric field
Authors: Yoshimura Satoru , Oshita Naoya , Egawa Genta , Kuppan Munusamy
Published: August 2023

A multilayer structure with a high-quality (Bi,La)(Fe,Co)O3multiferroic thin film/[Co/Pd] perpendicular magnetic thin film dots was fabricated for demonstrating magnetization reversal of [Co/Pd] dots under an applied electric field. Although the magnetization direction of the multiferroic thin film was reversed under the electric field, the magnetic properties of the multiferroic thin films were generally low. If the multiferroic thin film in this structure can control the magnetization direction of the highly functional magnetic thin film under an electric field, high-performance magnetic devices with low power consumption are easily obtained. The magnetic domain structure of the [Co/Pd] dots fabricated on the (Bi,La)(Fe,Co)O3thin film was analyzed by magnetic force microscopy (MFM). The structure was de-magnetized before the local electric-field application and magnetized after applying the field, showing reduced magnetic contrast of the dot. The line profile of the MFM image revealed a downward magnetic moment of 75%, which reversed to upward under the local electric field. Magnetic interaction between the (Bi,La)(Fe,Co)O3and [Co/Pd] layers was also observed in magnetization hysteresis measurements. These results indicate that the magnetization direction of the [Co/Pd] dots was transferred through the magnetization reversal of the (Bi,La)(Fe,Co)O3layer under a local electric field. That is, the magnetization of [Co/Pd] dots were reversed by applying a local electric field to the multilayer structure. This demonstration can potentially realize high-performance magnetic devices such as large capacity memory with low power consumption.
Oxygen evolution reaction on MoS2/C rods—robust and highly active electrocatalyst
Authors: Wenelska Karolina , Dymerska Anna , Mijowska Ewa
Published: August 2023

Recently, water oxidation or oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in electrocatalysis has attracted huge attention due to its prime role in water splitting, rechargeable metal–air batteries, and fuel cells. Here, we demonstrate a facile and scalable fabrication method of a rod-like structure composed of molybdenum disulfide and carbon (MoS2/C) from parent 2D MoS2. This novel composite, induced via the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process, exhibits superior oxygen evolution performance (overpotential = 132 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and Tafel slope = 55.6 mV dec−1) in an alkaline medium. Additionally, stability tests of the obtained structures at 10 mA cm−2 during 10 h followed by 20 mA cm−2 during 5 h and 50 mA cm−2 during 2.5 h have been performed and clearly prove that MoS2/C can be successfully used as robust noble-metal-free electrocatalysts. The promoted activity of the rods is ascribed to the abundance of active surface (ECSA) of the catalyst induced due to the curvature effect during the reshaping of the composite from 2D precursor (MoS2) in the CVD process. Moreover, the presence of Fe species contributes to the observed excellent OER performance. FeOOH, Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 are known to possess favorable electrocatalytic properties, including high catalytic activity and stability, which facilitate the electrocatalytic reaction. Additionally, Fe-based species like Fe7C3 and FeMo2S5 offer synergistic effects with MoS2, leading to improved catalytic activity and durability due to their unique electronic structure and surface properties. Additionally, turnover frequency (TOF) (58 1/s at the current density of 10 mA cm−2), as a direct indicator of intrinsic activity, indicates the efficiency of this catalyst in OER. Based on ex situ analyzes (XPS, XRD, Raman) of the electrocatalyst the possible reaction mechanism is explored and discussed in great detail showing that MoS2, carbon, and iron oxide are the main active species of the reaction.
Monte Carlo simulation for proton dosimetry in magnetic fields: Fano test and magnetic field correction factors k
B for Farmer-type ionization chambers
Authors: Marot M , Jäger F , Greilich S , Karger C P , Jäkel O , Burigo L N
Published: August 2023

Objective. In this contribution we present a special Fano test for charged particles in presence of magnetic fields in the MC code TOol for PArticle Simulation (TOPAS), as well as the determination of magnetic field correction factors k
B for Farmer-type ionization chambers using proton beams. Approach. Customized C++ extensions for TOPAS were implemented to model the special Fano tests in presence of magnetic fields for electrons and protons. The Geant4-specific transport parameters, DRoverR and finalRange, were investigated to optimize passing rate and computation time. The k
B was determined for the Farmer-type PTW 30013 ionization chamber, and 5 custom built ionization chambers with same geometry but varying inner radius, testing magnetic flux density ranging from 0 to 1.0 T and two proton beam energies of 157.43 and 221.05 MeV. Main results. Using the investigated parameters, TOPAS passed the Fano test within 0.39 ± 0.15% and 0.82 ± 0.42%, respectively for electrons and protons. The chamber response (k
B,M,Q) gives a maximum at different magnetic flux densities depending of the chamber size, 1.0043 at 1.0 T for the smallest chamber and 1.0051 at 0.2 T for the largest chamber. The local dose difference c
B remained ≤ 0.1% for both tested energies. The magnetic field correction factor k
B, for the chamber PTW 30013, varied from 0.9946 to 1.0036 for both tested energies. Significance. The developed extension for the special Fano test in TOPAS MC code with the adjusted transport parameters, can accurately transport electron and proton particles in magnetic field. This makes TOPAS a valuable tool for the determination of k
B. The ionization chambers we tested showed that k
B remains small (≤0.72%). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first calculations of k
B for proton beams. This work represents a significant step forward in the development of MRgPT and protocols for proton dosimetry in presence of magnetic field.
Light impurities: equilibrium, transport and density profiles in tokamak and stellarator plasmas
Authors: Shurygin V A
Published: August 2023

The density profiles of light impurities observed in recent decades in a relatively wide variety of experiments on tokamaks and stellarators are analyzed and modeled based on the concept of self-consistent equilibrium and transport of impurity charge states (Shurygin 2020 Nuclear Fusion
60 046001). The emphasis is on the formation of charge-radial equilibrium and its invariant properties affecting transport and density profile. The impurity invariant equilibrium arises due to random compatible charge-radial variations, linking the impurity motion into a general ergodic (Markovian) process governed by a matrix of final probabilities. More than 60 profiles of helium, boron and carbon with central accumulation, flat and hollow were accurately reproduced by invariant dimensionless transport functions. It is shown that the leading processes determining the formation of impurity invariant density profiles in stationary plasma are the processes of ionization-recombination, and not the transport of particles. Successive variations in the hollow density profiles of helium, boron, and carbon observed in experiments can be described as successive invariant profile changes in the recombination rate profiles. The invariant particle diffusive-convective profiles can be calculated directly from the impurity density profiles. A general empirical formula for equilibrium constant of light impurities was proposed.
Homogeneous electron liquid in arbitrary dimensions beyond the random phase approximation
Authors: Duc Pham L V , Sattler Pascal , Marques Miguel A L , Benavides-Riveros Carlos L
Published: August 2023

The homogeneous electron liquid is a cornerstone in quantum physics and chemistry. It is an archetypal system in the regime of slowly varying densities in which the exchange-correlation energy can be estimated with many methods. For high densities, the behavior of the ground-state energy is well-known for 1, 2, and 3 dimensions. Here, we extend this model to arbitrary integer dimensions and compute its correlation energy beyond the random phase approximation (RPA). We employ the approach developed by Singwi, Tosi, Land, and Sjölander (STLS), whose description of the electronic density response for 2D and 3D for metallic densities is known to be comparable to Quantum Monte-Carlo. For higher dimensions, we compare the results obtained for the correlation energy with the values previously obtained using RPA. We find that in agreement with what is known for 2 and 3 dimensions, the RPA tends to over-correlate the liquid also at higher dimensions. We furthermore provide new analytical formulae for the unconventional-dimensional case both for the real and imaginary parts of the Lindhard polarizability and for the local field correction of the STLS theory, and illustrate the importance of the plasmon contribution at those high dimensions.
Anisotropic photocurrent response at MnBi2Te4-metal interface
Authors: Zhang Xiaolan , Zheng Jingchuan , Ma Junchao , Song Yuxin , Zhang Xin , Liu Qinghang , Wang Linghan , Xiao Peiyao , Li Yongkai , Wang Zhiwei , Xiao Wende , Duan Junxi , Cao Zhaolong , Wang Qinsheng
Published: August 2023

The magnetic topological insulator MnBi2Te4 has attracted a lot of research interests for its exotic properties due to the interplay between nontrivial topology and magnetism. Here, we report the photocurrent (PC) response of MnBi2Te4 flakes under the excitation wavelengths between 633 nm and 4000 nm measured by scanning PC microscopy. We observe a significant polarization dependent PC response at the interface between metal electrode and MnBi2Te4, while the PC response remains polarization-independent at MnBi2Te4 layer steps. The polarization dependent PC at the MnBi2Te4-metal electrode interface, which is attributed to the polarization dependent light absorption at the interface, preserves in the whole tested wavelength range. The responsivity of the device is 80 μA W−1. This responsivity as well as PC polarity is consistent with the results calculated based on a photo-thermoelectric generation mechanism, thus we infer that photo-thermoelectric effect dominates in the PC generation at MnBi2Te4-metal interface. Our results reveal the photoelectric response mechanism of the emerging material MnBi2Te4 for its potential optoelectronic applications.
Honeycomb pattern formation on poly(vinyl chloride) films: electrically-driven microparticle trapping and the effect of drying temperature
Authors: Budlayan Marco Laurence M , Patricio Jonathan N , Yap Gillian Kathryn B , Gayosa Jose Jesus A , Arco Susan D , Diaz Jose Mario A , Guerrero Raphael A
Published: August 2023

This work presents the effect of drying temperature on the formation of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) honeycomb microstructures formed by the breath figure technique. Results revealed the self-assembly of honeycomb patterns with small cell diameter and thick cell walls dried at room temperature. An increase in cell diameter and a decrease in wall thickness were observed as drying temperature was increased up to 70 °C while no formation of patterns was noted at temperatures greater than or equal to 80 °C. The presence of honeycomb patterns consequently enhanced the static water contact angle of the PVC layer. Electrowetting experiments revealed more pronounced reduction in the water contact angle on honeycomb-structured PVC compared to a flat PVC layer at any given applied voltage. A proof-of-concept on the feasibility of the honeycomb structures to trap microparticles by electrically-driven droplet actuation was further demonstrated. Corresponding SEM images confirmed the entrapment of microparticles in the honeycomb cells and walls after the electrowetting experiment. These results offer new and facile strategies for tuning the morphological properties of polymeric honeycomb microstructures and its possible application in microparticle trapping and sensing.
Moderate-high intensity exercise associates with reduced incident alcohol-associated liver disease in high-risk patients
Authors: Shay Jessica E S , Vannier Augustin , Tsai Stephanie , Mahle Rachel , Diaz Paige McLean , Przybyszewski Eric , Challa Prasanna K , Patel Suraj J , Suzuki Joji , Schaefer Esperance , Goodman Russell P , Luther Jay
Published: August 2023

Background: Therapies to prevent alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) in high-risk patients are needed. Aims: In this retrospective association study, we examined whether patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) who reported greater exercise were less likely to develop liver disease. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we used the Mass General Brigham Biobank to investigate the impact of both moderate-high and light-intensity exercise on the development of ALD in patients with AUD, using clinician-provided diagnostic International Classification of Diseases 10 codes. Exercise was evaluated using a questionnaire completed after an AUD diagnosis, and before evidence of liver disease. Cox regressions were used to generate hazard ratios (HRs) for the development of ALD. Results: 1987 patients met inclusion criteria. These patients were followed for an average of 10.7 years. In multivariable analyses, we found that patients that reported at least 2.5 h of moderate-high intensity exercise/week (confidence interval recommendation for exercise) were less likely to develop ALD compared to patients that did not exercise (HR: 0.26, 95%CI: 0.085–0.64, P = 0.007). Indeed, each hour of moderate-high intensity exercise was associated with progressively decreasing odds of developing ALD (HR: 0.76, 95%CI: 0.58–0.91, P = 0.02). Conversely, patients who did not engage in any moderate-high intensity exercise were more likely to develop ALD (HR: 2.76, 95%CI: 1.44–5.40, P = 0.003). Conclusions: In our cohort, patients with AUD who reported moderate-high intensity exercise showed a lower association with incidence of ALD development than patients who did not exercise.
Getting it right the first time: an Irish paediatric dermatology perspective from a national care centre
Authors: Fagan Nicole , Browne Fiona , Dvorakova Veronika , Carroll Áine , Irvine Alan D
Published: August 2023

The Dermatology: ‘Getting It Right the First Time’ (GIRFT) Programme National Specialty Report recommended improving access to, and the quality of, paediatric dermatology services. Understanding referral patterns makes it easier to identify areas that can be improved. This study analysed 292 new referrals to a national care centre that provides secondary care to 50% of all Irish children. Results showed that 51% of new referrals could have been managed in primary care and 41% of new referrals were inappropriate, including 5.5% having no abnormal skin findings. These results indicate that up to 876 referrals could have been avoided over a 13-month period, freeing up resources and reducing wait times for cases more appropriate for a secondary and tertiary care centre. This would improve access for children, allowing them to be diagnosed at the right place and time, in alignment with GIRFT values.
Regulatory T cells in autoimmune primary adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Sjøgren Thea , Bjune Jan-Inge , Husebye Eystein S , Oftedal Bergithe E , Wolff Anette S B
Published: August 2023

Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is most often caused by an autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex resulting in failure to produce cortisol and aldosterone. The aetiology is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors, leading to breakdown of immunological tolerance. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are deficient in many autoimmune disorders, but it is not known whether they contribute to development of PAI. We aimed to investigate the frequency and function of naive and expanded Tregs in patients with PAI and polyendocrine syndromes compared to age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used to assess the frequency and characterize functional markers of blood Tregs in PAI (N = 15). Expanded Treg suppressive abilities were assessed with a flow cytometry based suppression assay (N = 20), while bulk RNA-sequencing was used to examine transcriptomic differences (N = 16) and oxygen consumption rate was measured by a Seahorse cell metabolic assay (N = 11). Our results showed that Treg frequency and suppressive capacity were similar between patients and controls. An increased expression of killer-cell leptin-like receptors and mitochondrial genes was revealed in PAI patients, but their expanded Tregs did not display signs of mitochondrial dysfunction. Our findings do not support a clear role for Tregs in the contribution of PAI development.
Effects of three immobilizing drug combinations on ventilation, gas exchange and metabolism in free-living African lions (Panthera leo)
Authors: Donaldson Ashleigh Claire , Buss Peter Erik , Fuller Andrea , Meyer Leith Carl Rodney
Published: August 2023

Free-living lions (12 per group) were immobilized with tiletamine-zolazepam-medetomidine (TZM), ketamine-medetomidine (KM), or ketamine-butorphanol-medetomidine (KBM). During immobilization, respiratory, blood gas and acid–base variables were monitored for 30 minutes. Respiratory rates were within expected ranges and remained constant throughout the immobilizations. Ventilation increased in lions over the immobilization period from 27.2 ± 9.5 to 35.1 ± 25.4 L/min (TZM), 26.1 ± 14.3 to 28.4 ± 18.4 L/min (KM) and 23.2 ± 10.8 to 26.7 ± 14.2 L/min (KBM). Tidal volume increased over the immobilization period from 1800 ± 710 to 2380 ± 1930 mL/breath (TZM), 1580 ± 470 to 1640 ± 500 mL/breath (KM) and 1600 ± 730 to 1820 ± 880 mL/breath (KBM). Carbon dioxide production was initially lower in KBM (0.4 ± 0.2 L/min) than in TZM (0.5 ± 0.2 L/min) lions but increased over time in all groups. Oxygen consumption was 0.6 ± 0.2 L/min (TZM), 0.5 ± 0.2 L/min (KM) and 0.5 ± 0.2 L/min (KBM) and remained constant throughout the immobilization period. Initially the partial pressure of arterial oxygen was lower in KBM (74.0 ± 7.8 mmHg) than in TZM (78.5 ± 4.7 mmHg) lions, but increased to within expected range in all groups over time. The partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide was higher throughout the immobilizations in KBM (34.5 ± 4.2 mmHg) than in TZM (32.6 ± 2.2 mmHg) and KM (32.6 ± 3.8 mmHg) lions. Alveolar-arterial gradients were initially elevated, but decreased over time for all groups, although in KM lions it remained elevated (26.9 ± 10.4 mmHg) above the expected normal. Overall, all three drug combinations caused minor respiratory and metabolic side-effects in the immobilized lions. However, initially hypoxaemia occurred as the drug combinations, and possibly the stress induced by the immobilization procedure, hinder alveoli oxygen gas exchange.
Plant-symbiotic fungal diversity tracks variation in vegetation and the abiotic environment along an extended elevational gradient in the Himalayas
Authors: Hiiesalu Inga , Schweichhart Johannes , Angel Roey , Davison John , Doležal Jiři , Kopecký Martin , Macek Martin , Řehakova Klára
Published: August 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can benefit plants under environmental stress, and influence plant adaptation to warmer climates. However, very little is known about the ecology of these fungi in alpine environments. We sampled plant roots along a large fraction (1941–6150 m asl (above sea level)) of the longest terrestrial elevational gradient on Earth and used DNA metabarcoding to identify AM fungi. We hypothesized that AM fungal alpha and beta diversity decreases with increasing elevation, and that different vegetation types comprise dissimilar communities, with cultured (putatively ruderal) taxa increasingly represented at high elevations. We found that the alpha diversity of AM fungal communities declined linearly with elevation, whereas within-site taxon turnover (beta diversity) was unimodally related to elevation. The composition of AM fungal communities differed between vegetation types and was influenced by elevation, mean annual temperature, and precipitation. In general, Glomeraceae taxa dominated at all elevations and vegetation types; however, higher elevations were associated with increased presence of Acaulosporaceae, Ambisporaceae, and Claroideoglomeraceae. Contrary to our expectation, the proportion of cultured AM fungal taxa in communities decreased with elevation. These results suggest that, in this system, climate-induced shifts in habitat conditions may facilitate more diverse AM fungal communities at higher elevations but could also favour ruderal taxa.
Protein O-mannosylation: one sugar, several pathways, many functions
Authors: Koff Melissa , Monagas-Valentin Pedro , Novikov Boris , Chandel Ishita , Panin Vladislav
Published: August 2023

Recent research has unveiled numerous important functions of protein glycosylation in development, homeostasis, and diseases. A type of glycosylation taking the center stage is protein O-mannosylation, a posttranslational modification conserved in a wide range of organisms, from yeast to humans. In animals, protein O-mannosylation plays a crucial role in the nervous system, whereas protein O-mannosylation defects cause severe neurological abnormalities and congenital muscular dystrophies. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying protein O-mannosylation functions and biosynthesis remain not well understood. This review outlines recent studies on protein O-mannosylation while focusing on the functions in the nervous system, summarizes the current knowledge about protein O-mannosylation biosynthesis, and discusses the pathologies associated with protein O-mannosylation defects. The evolutionary perspective revealed by studies in the Drosophila model system are also highlighted. Finally, the review touches upon important knowledge gaps in the field and discusses critical questions for future research on the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with protein O-mannosylation functions.
The role of the FSGS disease gene product and nuclear pore protein NUP205 in regulating nuclear localization and activity of transcriptional regulators YAP and TAZ
Authors: Ester Lioba , Cabrita Inês , Ventzke Michel , Kieckhöfer Emilia , Christodoulou Marita , Mandel Amrei M , Diefenhardt Paul , Fabretti Francesca , Benzing Thomas , Habbig Sandra , Schermer Bernhard
Published: August 2023

Mutations in genes encoding nuclear pore proteins (NUPs) lead to the development of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which NUP dysfunction contributes to podocyte injury preceding FSGS remain unclear. The tightly regulated activity of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and WW-domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (TAZ), the transcriptional effectors of the Hippo pathway, is crucial for podocytes and the maintenance of the glomerular filter. In this study, we investigate the impact of NUPs on the regulation of YAP/TAZ nuclear import and activity in podocytes. In unbiased interactome studies using quantitative label-free mass spectrometry, we identify the FSGS disease gene products NUP107, NUP133, NUP205, and Exportin-5 (XPO5) as components of YAP and TAZ protein complexes in podocytes. Moreover, we demonstrate that NUP205 is essential for YAP/TAZ nuclear import. Consistently, both the nuclear interaction of YAP/TAZ with TEA domain transcription factor 1 and their transcriptional activity were dependent on NUP205 expression. Additionally, we elucidate a regulatory feedback mechanism whereby YAP activity is modulated in response to TAZ-mediated NUP205 expression. In conclusion, this study establishes a connection between the FSGS disease protein NUP205 and the activity of the transcriptional regulators and Hippo effectors YAP and TAZ and it proposes a potential pathological role of YAP/TAZ dysregulation in podocytes of patients with pathogenic NUP205 variants.
Calculating a Land Carbon Accounting Factor in the United States: an Example and Implications
Authors: Prisley Stephen P , Sonne Hall Edie
Published: August 2023

Companies that produce and use wood for products and energy find it increasingly important to communicate the carbon balance and potential climate effects of these activities. Computing forest carbon stocks and stock changes, and emissions from operations, are often part of institutional reporting for environmental, social, and governance purposes. This article describes an example methodology to assess forest carbon changes associated with the harvesting of wood products and proposes metrics that could be used to allocate harvesting effects to individual organizations for their reporting purposes. We discuss boundaries (types of forests and carbon pools to include), spatially appropriate evaluations given uncertainty, temporal considerations, risk of reversals, and allocation of net sequestration to products sourced from the region. We also discuss the complex nature of the biogenic carbon cycle and warn about the appropriate interpretation of this methodology.
Reconstruction of cervico-thoracic defect with bipedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator free flap following resection of a giant recurrent thyroid tumor: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Zavala Abraham , Vargas María I , Ayala Walter , Muñoz Antonio , Chávez Miguel A , López Jesús , Delgado Ricardo
Published: August 2023

The bipedicled Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap, originally described and primarily utilized in autologous breast reconstruction for specific cases, has expanded its applications to encompass diverse anatomical regions in recent years. This report presents the case of a 69-year-old woman with a recurrent giant thyroid tumor who underwent surgical resection, resulting in a large cervico-thoracic defect effectively reconstructed using a bipedicled DIEP flap. The patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the follow-up assessments revealed a healthy, well-perfused flap that provided sufficient coverage to critical structures, adequate restoration of the region contour, and enough volume to offset potential adverse effects of subsequent radiation therapy. In addition, this report incorporates a concise literature review highlighting the expanding indications of the bipedicled DIEP flap beyond breast reconstruction, showing the versatility and efficacy of the bipedicled DIEP flap in addressing complex soft-tissue defects in various anatomical areas.
Two Times Versus Four Times Daily Cephalexin Dosing for the Treatment of Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections in Females
Authors: Yetsko Aidan , Draper Heather M , Eid Kristen , Jameson Andrew P , Dumkow Lisa E
Published: August 2023

Background

The current treatment guidelines of the Infectious Diseases Society of America recommend β-lactam antibiotics as alternative rather than first-line agents for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (uUTI). Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed first-generation cephalosporin with excellent bioavailability and urinary penetration; however, little data exist to support optimal dosing for uUTI.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter cohort study included adult female patients who received 5 to 7 days of cephalexin for symptomatic uUTI with a cefazolin-susceptible urine culture. The primary objective was to compare uUTI treatment failure (eg, continued or recurrent symptoms within 30 days) between patients treated with cephalexin 500 mg twice daily (BID group) and 500 mg 4 times daily (QID group) in the outpatient setting. Secondary outcomes included time to treatment failure, reported adverse events within 7 days of treatment, and occurrence of Clostridioides difficile within 30 days of treatment.

Results

A total of 261 patients were included (BID, n = 173; QID, n = 88). Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated pathogen (85.4%). There was no difference in treatment failure observed between the groups (BID 12.7% vs QID 17%, P = .343), including failure while undergoing therapy (BID 2.3% vs QID 5.7%, P = .438) or recurrence within 30 days (BID 10.4% vs QID 11.3%, P = .438). No differences in reported adverse events (BID 4.6% vs QID 5.6%, P = .103) were observed between groups.

Conclusions

Twice-daily cephalexin is as effective as 4-times-daily dosing for uUTI. A twice-daily dosing strategy may improve patient adherence.
Nuclear protein‐1 is the common link for pathways activated by aging and obesity in chondrocytes: A potential therapeutic target for osteoarthritis
Authors: Tan Li , Armstrong Alexandra R. , Rosas Samuel , Patel Chirayu M. , Vander Wiele Sabrina S. , Willey Jeffrey S. , Carlson Cathy S. , Yammani Raghunatha R.
Published: August 2023

Pathways leading to osteoarthritis (OA) are diverse depending on the risk factors involved; thus, developing OA therapeutics has been challenging. Here we report that nuclear protein‐1 (Nupr1), a stress‐inducible protein/transcription factor, is activated by pathways associated with obesity and aging in chondrocytes. Treatment of human chondrocytes with free fatty acids (palmitate and oleate; a model for high‐fat diet/obesity) induced PERK signaling and increased expression of caspase‐3, TRB3, and Nupr1. On the other hand, treatment of chondrocytes with menadione (oxidative stress inducer) induced oxidation of IRE1, activated antioxidant response (higher Nrf2 expression), and increased expression of Nupr1 and matrix metalloproteinases. Experimental OA was induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) in the knee joints of Nupr1+/+ and Nupr1−/− mice. Loss of Nupr1 expression reduced the severity of cartilage lesions in this model. Together, our findings suggest that Nupr1 is a common factor activated by signaling pathways activated by obesity (ER stress) and age (oxidative stress) and a potential drug target for OA resulting from various risk factors.