bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effect of Salvia plebeia R. Br ethanol extract on UVB‐induced skin photoaging in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Guo Yu , Zhang Yue , Wang Yu‐shuai , Ma LinYan , Liu Hao , Gao Wei
Published: May 2023

Background

UV exposure is one of the primary factors responsible for photoaging, causing the increase in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the reduction in collagen. Salvia plebeia R. Br (SP), as an herbaceous plant, contains abundant flavonoids and possesses excellent anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This study aimed to investigate the photoprotective effects of SP on UVB‐induced photodamage in immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaTs) and Kunming mice, as well as its main active components such as homoplantaginin (HP).

Methods

CCK‐8 was applied to detect the cell viability in UVB‐irradiated or non‐irradiated HaCaTs. Commercial kits were used to evaluate the levels of ROS, MDA, SA‐β‐Gal, MMP‐1, and IL‐6. The expression of MAPK and TGF‐β/Smad pathways was detected by western blot. HE and Masson's trichrome staining were performed to examine the epidermis thickness and collagen degradation of Kunming mice.

Results

Our results found that SP and HP notably decreased UVB‐induced ROS, MDA, and SA‐β‐Gal production, and inhibited MMP‐1 and IL‐6 secretion by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, SP and HP significantly promoted type I procollagen synthesis by activation of TGF‐β/Smad pathway. Consistently, the in vivo experiments also indicated that SP and HP had a photoprotective effect, which significantly reversed UVB‐induced epidermis thickness and collagen degradation.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that SP effectively could protect skin from UVB‐induced photoaging, while HP acted as the active substance in SP. All these findings provided a new strategy for skin photoaging treatment.
Visuospatial attention revamps cortical processing of sound amid audiovisual uncertainty
Authors: Cervantes Constantino Francisco , Sánchez‐Costa Thaiz , Cipriani Germán A. , Carboni Alejandra
Published: May 2023

Selective attentional biases arising from one sensory modality manifest in others. The effects of visuospatial attention, important in visual object perception, are unclear in the auditory domain during audiovisual (AV) scene processing. We investigate temporal and spatial factors that underlie such transfer neurally. Auditory encoding of random tone pips in AV scenes was addressed via a temporal response function model (TRF) of participants' electroencephalogram (N = 30). The spatially uninformative pips were associated with spatially distributed visual contrast reversals (“flips”), through asynchronous probabilistic AV temporal onset distributions. Participants deployed visuospatial selection on these AV stimuli to perform a task. A late (~300 ms) cross‐modal influence over the neural representation of pips was found in the original and a replication study (N = 21). Transfer depended on selected visual input being (i) presented during or shortly after a related sound, in relatively limited temporal distributions (<165 ms); (ii) positioned across limited (1:4) visual foreground to background ratios. Neural encoding of auditory input, as a function of visual input, was largest at visual foreground quadrant sectors and lowest at locations opposite to the target. The results indicate that ongoing neural representations of sounds incorporate visuospatial attributes for auditory stream segregation, as cross‐modal transfer conveys information that specifies the identity of multisensory signals. A potential mechanism is by enhancing or recalibrating the tuning properties of the auditory populations that represent them as objects. The results account for the dynamic evolution under visual attention of multisensory integration, specifying critical latencies at which relevant cortical networks operate.
Assessment of the effects of targeted poverty alleviation policy on differently poverty‐stricken households: A multi‐propensity score weighting model
Authors: Yan Shiyu , Wang Jiao , Hu Zhineng
Published: May 2023

Eliminating poverty is a multifaceted global challenge and a focal point of global development governance. With the implementation of targeted poverty alleviation (TPA), China's poverty alleviation efforts have had significant achievements. This study provides a new perspective by classifying poverty‐stricken households based on poverty root causes at the household level, a multi‐propensity score weighting model based on counterfactual inference is employed to examine the poverty reduction effect and policy precision on six non‐equivalent poverty‐stricken household groups in a Chinese county. The results reveal that the poverty reduction effects differed among poverty‐stricken households with different root causes of poverty. Specifically, households impoverished due to disability have the lowest income of the six groups. The assistance policy effects also vary significantly and are found to be poorly suited to poverty‐stricken households a lack of labor force and funds. A robustness test confirms this conclusion and a more nuanced analysis reveals that these differences are reflected in the wage and transfer incomes. Therefore, to ensure the stability of poverty reduction and the sustainability of income for poverty‐stricken households, relevant associated aid policies need to place different emphases based on their household characteristics.
Pathogenesis of psoriasis via miR‐149‐5p/AKT1axis by long noncoding RNA BLACAT1
Authors: Hua Xiang , Li JiaZheng , Shang MingWei , He WanMei , Gao PengFei , Min Li , Peng XueBiao
Published: May 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic, complicated, and recurrent inflammatory skin disease, whose precise molecular mechanisms need to be further explored. The lncRNA bladder cancer‐associated transcript 1 (BLACAT1) is aberrantly expressed in many cancers and associated with cellular hyperproliferation and may play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Thus, this study aimed at identifying the primary mechanism associated with BLACAT1 in psoriasis pathogenesis.

Materials and methods

Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was performed to detect the expression of BLACAT1 in psoriasis tissues. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed using cell counting kit‐8 and apoptosis assays, respectively. In vivo experiments and histopathological examinations were performed to investigate the effects of BLACAT1 on psoriasis. Dual‐luciferase Reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to evaluate the relationship among BLACAT1 and miR‐149‐5p and AKT1.

Results

BLACAT1 was upregulated in psoriasis tissues. Overexpression exacerbated the clinical manifestation of psoriasis and increased the epidermal thickness in imiquimod‐induced mice. BLACAT1 could promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of keratinocytes. Further studies demonstrated that BLACAT1 positively regulated AKT1 expression, functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR‐149‐5p.

Conclusions

The combination of lncRNA BLACAT1 and miR‐149‐5p regulates AKT1 expression and promotes psoriasis formation thus may provide a new direction for psoriasis treatment.
Identification of four novel HLA‐DQA1 alleles: HLA‐DQA1*01:01:02:04, 01:04:01:05, 03:03:01:19 and 05:01:01:08
Authors: Marin Rubio Luis Alberto , Ontañon Jesus
Published: May 2023

Four novel HLA‐DQA1 alleles, ‐DQA1*01:01:02:04, ‐DQA1*01:04:01:05, ‐DQA1*03:03:01:19 and ‐DQA1*05:01:01:08, characterized in Spanish individuals.
A complex tissue‐specific interplay between the Arabidopsis transcription factors AtMYB68, AtHB23, and AtPHL1 modulates primary and lateral root development and adaptation to salinity
Authors: Spies Fiorella Paola , Perotti María Florencia , Cho Yuhan , Jo Chang Ig , Hong Jong Chan , Chan Raquel Lía
Published: May 2023

Adaptation to different soil conditions is a well‐regulated process vital for plant life. AtHB23 is a homeodomain‐leucine zipper I transcription factor (TF) that was previously revealed as crucial for plant survival under salinity conditions. We wondered whether this TF has partners to perform this essential function. Therefore, TF cDNA library screening, yeast two‐hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, and coimmunoprecipitation assays were complemented with expression analyses and phenotypic characterization of silenced, mutant, overexpression, and crossed plants in normal and salinity conditions. We revealed that AtHB23, AtPHL1, and AtMYB68 interact with each other, modulating root development and the salinity response. The encoding genes are coexpressed in specific root tissues and at specific developmental stages. In normal conditions, amiR68 silenced plants have fewer initiated roots, the opposite phenotype to that shown by amiR23 plants. AtMYB68 and AtPHL1 play opposite roles in lateral root elongation. Under salinity conditions, AtHB23 plays a crucial positive role in cooperating with AtMYB68, whereas AtPHL1 acts oppositely by obstructing the function of the former, impacting the plant's survival ability. Such interplay supports the complex interaction between these TF in primary and lateral roots. The root adaptation capability is associated with the amyloplast state. We identified new molecular players that through a complex relationship determine Arabidopsis root architecture and survival in salinity conditions.
Blood donation among women in Nigeria: Motivators, barriers and appealing incentives
Authors: Olawumi Hannah Oluwayemisi , Fasola Foluke Atinuke , Otu Theresa Ize , Ugwu Ngozi Immaculata , Durotoye Idayat Adenike , Omokanye Khadijat Olaitan , Ogunfemi Mutiat Kehinde , Ijei‐Enesi Ifeoma Patience , Abba Aisha Mohammed , Mariere Ulunma Ikwuoma , Oyekunle Janet Olufunmike
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

Women are grossly under‐represented among blood donors in Nigeria. We, therefore, determined the barriers, motivators and appealing incentives to blood donation among women in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

This was an internet‐based cross‐sectional study among women aged 18–65 years. A well‐structured questionnaire was used to determine sociodemographic characteristics, motivation, barriers and appealing incentives. Motivational and barrier differences in some sociodemographic characteristics were determined using the chi‐squared test. A p‐value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The most common motivators among blood donors were ‘when family or friend is in need of blood’, ‘health benefits’ and ‘reminders to donate’. One‐time donors who were willing to become regular donors were more motivated by reminders to donate than those not willing (p = 0.000). The most common barriers among non‐donors were ‘poor attitude of hospital staff’ and ‘fear of contracting infections’. Younger women and those of the Hausa tribe were more debarred by ‘lack of privacy during blood donation exercise’ than older women and those of the other tribes (p‐values of 0.008 and 0.006, respectively). The most appealing incentives for blood donation were medical consultation and a blood donation certificate.

Conclusion

Women's participation in blood donation in Nigeria can be improved by sending regular reminders to donors, especially one‐time donors and by infrastructural adjustments to improve privacy at the blood donation sites. Specific and targeted capacity‐building initiatives should also be put in place to drive a paradigm shift in the attitude of hospital staff to work in Nigeria.
Investigation of a Staphylococcus aureus sequence type 72 food poisoning outbreak associated with food‐handler contamination in Italy
Authors: Savini Federica , Romano Angelo , Giacometti Federica , Indio Valentina , Pitti Monica , Decastelli Lucia , Devalle Pietro Luigi , Gorrasi Ilaria Silvia Rossella , Miaglia Sergio , Serraino Andrea
Published: May 2023

On August 2019 a staphylococcal food poisoning outbreak occurred in an elderly home in Piedmont, Italy. The epidemiological investigation performed among the persons that consumed the meal identified chicken salad as the most likely source of the outbreak. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from a total of seven samples, namely one vomit sample from a guest of the nursing home, two food samples (chicken salad with and without mayonnaise) and nasal swabs collected from a total of four persons working in the kitchen of the nursing home. The maximum likelihood tree obtained using single nucleotide polymorphisms analysis revealed that the isolates from the aforementioned samples clustered together. Multilocus sequence typing revealed that they belonged to Sequence Type 72. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used in parallel to single nucleotide polymorphisms and whole genome sequencing for the determination of the degree of relatedness of the isolates. The results of the FTIR showed the same clustering obtained with single nucleotide polymorphisms and whole genome sequencing and revealed the source of infection. This study underlines the importance of both laboratory evidence and epidemiological data for outbreak investigation and further confirms that FTIR is a suitable support for the short‐term epidemiological investigation on source attribution in case of a S. aureus infection.
Impaired lower limb muscle mass, quality and function in end stage liver disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Quinlan Jonathan I. , Dhaliwal Amritpal , Williams Felicity R. , Allen Sophie L. , Choudhary Surabhi , Rowlands Alex , Breen Leigh , Lavery Gareth G. , Lord Janet M. , Elsharkawy Ahmed M. , Armstrong Matthew J. , Greig Carolyn A.
Published: May 2023

Sarcopenia is associated with reduced quality of life and increased mortality in patients with end stage liver disease (ESLD). Historically, sarcopenia identification in ESLD utilised L3 skeletal muscle index (SMI). There are few data on muscle quality and function within lower limb muscle groups with high functional relevance. The aim of this prospective case–control study was to evaluate the quadriceps muscle in patients with ESLD. Muscle mass and quality were evaluated using MRI (quadriceps anatomical cross sectional area (ACSA), quadriceps volume index, L3 SMI, quadriceps intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT)), mid‐arm muscle circumference (MAMC) and ultrasonography (vastus lateralis (VL) thickness and quadriceps ACSA). Muscle strength/function was assessed by handgrip strength, peak quadriceps isokinetic torque and chair rise time. Thirty‐nine patients with ESLD (55 years, 61% male, 48% alcoholic related liver disease (ArLD), 71% Child–Pugh B/C) and 18 age/sex‐matched healthy control participants (HC) were studied. Quadriceps mass was significantly reduced in ESLD versus HC (−17%), but L3 SMI and MAMC were unchanged. Quadriceps IMAT percentage was increased in ESLD (+103%). Handgrip strength (−15%), peak isokinetic torque (−29%), and chair rise time (+56%) were impaired in ESLD. Ultrasound measures of VL thickness (r = 0.56, r = 0.57, r = 0.42) and quadriceps ACSA (r = 0.98, r = 0.86, r = 0.67) correlated to MRI quadriceps ACSA, quadriceps volume and L3 SMI, respectively. Quadriceps muscle mass, quality, and function were impaired in patients with ESLD, whereas conventional assessments of muscle (L3 SMI and MAMC) highlighted no differences between ESLD and HC. Full evaluation of lower limb muscle health is essential in ESLD in order to accurately assess sarcopenia and target future interventions.
The synovial environment steers cartilage deterioration and regeneration
Authors: Bolander Johanna , Moviglia Brandolina Maria Teresita , Poehling Gary , Jochl Olivia , Parsons Emma , Vaughan William , Moviglia Gustavo , Atala Anthony
Published: May 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) was recently defined as an epidemic, and the lack of effective treatment is highly correlated to the limited knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiology. Failure to regenerate upon trauma is thought to be one of the underlying causes for degenerative diseases, including OA. To investigate why lesions within an OA environment fail to heal, a heterogeneous cell population was isolated from the synovial fluid (SF) of OA patients. The cells’ ability to undergo processes required for functional tissue regeneration was evaluated in the presence or absence of autologous SF. The obtained mechanistic findings were then used for the development of an immunomodulatory cell treatment, aimed to restore the pro-regenerative environment. Intra-articular injection in a clinical compassionate use study showed that the treatment restored the articular cartilage and joint homeostasis of OA patients. These findings confirm the role of pro-regenerative immune cells and their targeted influence on progenitor cells for degenerative joint disease therapies.
Structural basis for CEP192-mediated regulation of centrosomal AURKA
Authors: Park Jin-Gyeong , Jeon Hanul , Shin Sangchul , Song Chiman , Lee Hyomin , Kim Nak-Kyoon , Kim Eunice EunKyeong , Hwang Kwang Yeon , Lee Bong-Jin , Lee In-Gyun
Published: May 2023

Aurora kinase A (AURKA) performs critical functions in mitosis. Thus, the activity and subcellular localization of AURKA are tightly regulated and depend on diverse factors including interactions with the multiple binding cofactors. How these different cofactors regulate AURKA to elicit different levels of activity at distinct subcellular locations and times is poorly understood. Here, we identified a conserved region of CEP192, the major cofactor of AURKA, that mediates the interaction with AURKA. Quantitative binding studies were performed to map the interactions of a conserved helix (Helix-1) within CEP192. The crystal structure of Helix-1 bound to AURKA revealed a distinct binding site that is different from other cofactor proteins such as TPX2. Inhibiting the interaction between Helix-1 and AURKA in cells led to the mitotic defects, demonstrating the importance of the interaction. Collectively, we revealed a structural basis for the CEP192-mediated AURKA regulation at the centrosome, which is distinct from TPX2-mediated regulation on the spindle microtubule.
Giving heart
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: May 2023

A new procedure for donating hearts and other organs is saving lives. But for some it challenges the definition of death
La- and Mn-doped cobalt spinel oxygen evolution catalyst for proton exchange membrane electrolysis
Authors: Chong Lina , Gao Guoping , Wen Jianguo , Li Haixia , Xu Haiping , Green Zach , Sugar Joshua D. , Kropf A. Jeremy , Xu Wenqian , Lin Xiao-Min , Xu Hui , Wang Lin-Wang , Liu Di-Jia
Published: May 2023

Discovery of earth-abundant electrocatalysts to replace iridium for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in a proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) represents a critical step in reducing the cost for green hydrogen production. We report a nanofibrous cobalt spinel catalyst codoped with lanthanum (La) and manganese (Mn) prepared from a zeolitic imidazolate framework embedded in electrospun polymer fiber. The catalyst demonstrated a low overpotential of 353 millivolts at 10 milliamperes per square centimeter and a low degradation for OER over 360 hours in acidic electrolyte. A PEMWE containing this catalyst at the anode demonstrated a current density of 2000 milliamperes per square centimeter at 2.47 volts (Nafion 115 membrane) or 4000 milliamperes per square centimeter at 3.00 volts (Nafion 212 membrane) and low degradation in an accelerated stress test.
Restructuring of titanium oxide overlayers over nickel nanoparticles during catalysis
Authors: Monai Matteo , Jenkinson Kellie , Melcherts Angela E. M. , Louwen Jaap N. , Irmak Ece A. , Van Aert Sandra , Altantzis Thomas , Vogt Charlotte , van der Stam Ward , Duchoň Tomáš , Šmíd Břetislav , Groeneveld Esther , Berben Peter , Bals Sara , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: May 2023

Reducible supports can affect the performance of metal catalysts by the formation of suboxide overlayers upon reduction, a process referred to as the strong metal–support interaction (SMSI). A combination of operando electron microscopy and vibrational spectroscopy revealed that thin TiO
x
overlayers formed on nickel/titanium dioxide catalysts during 400°C reduction were completely removed under carbon dioxide hydrogenation conditions. Conversely, after 600°C reduction, exposure to carbon dioxide hydrogenation reaction conditions led to only partial reexposure of nickel, forming interfacial sites in contact with TiO
x
and favoring carbon–carbon coupling by providing a carbon species reservoir. Our findings challenge the conventional understanding of SMSIs and call for more-detailed operando investigations of nanocatalysts at the single-particle level to revisit static models of structure-activity relationships.
Response to comment on “Exceptional preservation of organs in Devonian placoderms from the Gogo largerstätte”
Authors: Trinajstic Kate , Long John , Sanchez Sophie , Boisvert Catherine A. , Snitting Daniel , Tafforeau Paul , Dupret Vincent , Clement Alice M. , Currie Peter D. , Roelofs Brett , Bevitt Joseph J. , Lee Michael S.Y. , Ahlberg Per E.
Published: May 2023

Jensen
et al
. (

1

) question evidence presented of a chambered heart within placoderms, citing its small size and apparently ventral atrium. However, they fail to note the belly-up orientation of the placoderm within one nodule, and the variability of heart morphology within extant taxa. Thus, we remain confident in our interpretation of the mineralized organ as the heart.
Making meaning from materials
Handmade: A Scientist’s Search for Meaning Through Making
Anna Ploszajski
Bloomsbury, 2023. 320 pp.
Authors: Jones-Davis Dorothy
Published: May 2023

Hands-on experiences can deepen our understanding of the substances that surround us
An origin scenario for a fast radio burst
Authors: Paragi Zsolt
Published: May 2023

Never-before-observed behavior of a repeating burst suggests its possible origin
STEM must meet people where they are
Authors: Panchanathan Sethuraman
Published: May 2023

Ideas in science and engineering drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth—this is true around the world, inspiring people to want to be part of this enterprise. I hear this across the United States. Everywhere I go, people tell me that they want opportunities for themselves and their families to learn and solve real-world problems, to revitalize their communities, and to find paths to build a better life without necessarily having to move away from home. In short, people want to pursue possibilities where they live. Fortunately, this is feasible and finally starting to happen.
Latest Alzheimer’s antibody is ‘not a miracle drug’
Authors: Travis John
Published: May 2023

Results on Eli Lilly’s donanemab highlight stark risk-benefit trade-offs
Complete Genome of African Swine Fever Virus Genotype II in Central Italy
Authors: Giammarioli Monica , Marcacci Maurilia , Scicluna Maria Teresa , Cersini Antonella , Torresi Claudia , Curini Valentina , Ancora Massimo , Rinaldi Antonio , Sala Marcello Giovanni , Rossi Elisabetta , Casciari Cristina , Pela Michela , Pellegrini Claudia , Iscaro Carmen , Cammà Cesare , Feliziani Francesco
Published: May 2023

We report here the whole-genome sequence of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) genotype II, strain 20355/RM/2022_Italy, identified in a wild boar in the city of Rome (Lazio region, Italy) in April 2022.
Detection of Atypical Salmonella Infantis Phenotypes in Broiler Environmental Samples
Authors: Hess Claudia , Drauch Victoria , Spergser Joachim , Kornschober Christian , Hess Michael
Published: May 2023

Salmonellosis caused by non-typhoidal
Salmonella
serovars is the second most frequently reported zoonotic disease in humans in the EU. The transmission of these agents is mainly via contaminated food of animal origin.
Studies on Antifungal Properties of Methacrylamido Propyl Trimethyl Ammonium Chloride Polycations and Their Toxicity
In Vitro
Authors: Skóra Magdalena , Obłoza Magdalena , Tymecka Małgorzata , Kalaska Bartlomiej , Gurgul Magdalena , Kamiński Kamil
Published: May 2023

Infectious diseases are a very big medical, social, and economic problem. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, certain infections were among of the most common causes of death.
A Reagent and Virus Benchmarking Panel for a Uniform Analytical Performance Assessment of N Antigen-Based Diagnostic Tests for COVID-19
Authors: Golden Allison , Cantera Jason L. , Lillis Lorraine , Phan Thanh T. , Slater Hannah , Webb Edwin J. , Peck Roger B. , Boyle David S. , Domingo Gonzalo J.
Published: May 2023

This study reports the results for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) antigen quantification assays and their performance against clinical reverse transcription (RT)-PCR results, thus describing an open-access quantification method for two important SARS-CoV-2 protein analytes. Characterized N antigen panels were used to evaluate the limits of detection of four different rapid tests for SARS-CoV-2 against multiple sources of nucleocapsid antigen, demonstrating proof-of-concept materials and methodology to evaluate SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen detection tests.
Crustal recycling and growth via mélange diapir in subduction zones: Insights from two episodes of magmatism in the Northern Yili Block, NW China
Authors: Wang Xiangsong , Sun Min , Cai Keda , Zhao Guochun , Xiao Wenjiao , Xia Xiaoping , Li Pengfei
Published: May 2023

Arc magmatism can provide crucial information about crustal recycling and growth in subduction zones. However, the crustal material transfer process and mechanism from subducting slab to overlying mantle wedge are controversial. Here, we present detailed petrological, geochronological, geochemical, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic data, and previously published data for two episodes of subduction-related magmatism in the Northern Yili Block, NW China, to study these issues in relation to the recycling of continental crust and the growth of two separate magmatic episodes at 400−350 Ma and 350−300 Ma, respectively. The Nd-Sr isotope modeling results, low Nd/Sr, and variable Hf/Nd ratios demonstrate that the arc magmatism of these two episodes could be derived from two distinct mélange sources that formed at the slab-mantle interface during subduction of the Junggar oceanic plate. In the first episode, magmatic rocks exhibit high Th/Yb and (La/Sm)N ratios and the decoupling of Nd-Hf isotopes, which leads to an interpretation that the primary magmas were derived from sources mainly mixed by sediments and mantle-wedge peridotites. In contrast, the magmas of the second episode exhibit high Ba/La and Ba/Th ratios and the coupling of Nd-Hf isotopes, which implies that these magmas were likely produced from mélange diapirs dominated by the mixing of mid-oceanic-ridge basalts and mantle peridotites. The episodes of Nd-Hf isotopic decoupling and coupling coincided with crustal material recycling and crustal growth in subduction zones, respectively. Considering that the Northern Yili Block at 400−350 Ma was characterized mainly by enriched Nd-Hf isotopes of magmatic rocks and no development of the forearc accretionary complex, while the Northern Yili Block at 350−300 Ma featured high εHf(t)-εNd(t) values of magmatic rocks, occurrences of extension-related magmatism, and distribution of the forearc accretionary complex and immature back-arc basin, we propose that these two different mélange sources probably developed in response to subduction transition. That is, one resulted from advancing and the other was relevant to retreating regime. The partial melting of these mélanges in the mantle wedge generated intermediate felsic magmas, which might have acted as a leading mechanism for crustal recycling and growth of the accretionary orogenic belt.
Association between inequalities in human resources for health and all cause and cause specific mortality in 172 countries and territories, 1990-2019: observational study
Authors: Yan Wenxin , Qin Chenyuan , Tao Liyuan , Guo Xin , Liu Qiao , Du Min , Zhu Lin , Chen Zhongdan , Liang Wannian , Liu Min , Liu Jue
Published: May 2023

Objective

To explore inequalities in human resources for health (HRH) in relation to all cause and cause specific mortality globally in 1990-2019.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

172 countries and territories.

Data sources

Databases of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, United Nations Statistics, and Our World in Data.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome was age standardized all cause mortality per 100 000 population in relation to HRH density per 10 000 population, and secondary outcome was age standardized cause specific mortality. The Lorenz curve and the concentration index (CCI) were used to assess trends and inequalities in HRH.

Results

Globally, the total HRH density per 10 000 population increased, from 56.0 in 1990 to 142.5 in 2019, whereas age standardized all cause mortality per 100 000 population decreased, from 995.5 in 1990 to 743.8 in 2019. The Lorenz curve lay below the equality line and CCI was 0.43 (P<0.05), indicating that the health workforce was more concentrated among countries and territories ranked high on the human development index. The CCI for HRH was stable, at about 0.42-0.43 between 1990 and 2001 and continued to decline (narrowed inequality), from 0.43 in 2001 to 0.38 in 2019 (P<0.001). In the multivariable generalized estimating equation model, a negative association was found between total HRH level and all cause mortality, with the highest levels of HRH as reference (low: incidence risk ratio 1.15, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.32; middle: 1.14, 1.01 to 1.29; high: 1.18, 1.08 to 1.28). A negative association between total HRH density and mortality rate was more pronounced for some types of cause specific mortality, including neglected tropical diseases and malaria, enteric infections, maternal and neonatal disorders, and diabetes and kidney diseases. The risk of death was more likely to be higher in people from countries and territories with a lower density of doctors, dentistry staff, pharmaceutical staff, aides and emergency medical workers, optometrists, psychologists, personal care workers, physiotherapists, and radiographers.

Conclusions

Inequalities in HRH have been decreasing over the past 30 years globally but persist. All cause mortality and most types of cause specific mortality were relatively higher in countries and territories with a limited health workforce, especially for several specific HRH types among priority diseases. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening political commitment to develop equity oriented health workforce policies, expanding health financing, and implementing targeted measures to reduce deaths related to inadequate HRH to achieve universal health coverage by 2030.
Patient-reported impact of myasthenia gravis in the real world: findings from a digital observational survey-based study (MyRealWorld MG)
Authors: Berrih-Aknin Sonia , Palace Jacqueline , Meisel Andreas , Claeys Kristl G , Muppidi Srikanth , Saccà Francesco , Amini Fatemeh , Larkin Mark , Quinn Casey , Beauchamp Jon , Philips Glenn , De Ruyck Femke , Ramirez Joyce , Paci Sandra
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study aims to explore the impact of myasthenia gravis (MG) — in terms of treatments, side effects, comorbidities, psychological health and work or study— in the real world from a patient perspective.

Design and participants

This is a prospective, observational, digital, longitudinal study. Adults diagnosed with MG residing in the USA, Japan, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain or Canada were eligible to participate in the study. There were no other exclusion criteria. Participants used a bespoke smartphone application to confirm eligibility, provide consent and enter data about their MG into a profile, a tracker to record MG-related events and a series of patient-reported outcome instruments. 1693 participants completed at least 1 survey and were included in this analysis.

Results

Results are presented as a percentage of respondents to each survey question. The study population was largely female (69% of 1586 respondents), with an average age of 49.9 years (SD 14.8). In the previous 12 months, 83.7% of 1412 respondents confirmed that they had received one or more routine treatments for MG, and 67.1% of 255 respondents confirmed that they had experienced a side effect in the previous month. Commonly experienced comorbidities reported by 966 respondents were thyroid problems, hypertension and anxiety, experienced by 37.5%, 31.4% and 28.0% of respondents, respectively.

According to 889 respondents to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale survey, 52.7% and 43.2% had a score indicative of at least mild anxiety and mild depression, respectively. Of 257 respondents, 33.0% reported experiencing a work or study impact in the past month.

Conclusions

This analysis of baseline characteristics of the MyRealWorld MG study population indicates that, despite current treatments, patients experience notable burden. Further scheduled analyses will develop a longitudinal picture of MG burden.

Trial registration number

NCT04176211.
Effect of a 12-week high-intensity exercise intervention: a comparison of cardiac exercise adaptations during biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug treatment (TNF inhibitors vs IL-6 signalling inhibitors) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis – study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jønck Simon , Adamsen Malte Lund , Højgaard Pil , Rasmussen Iben Elmerdahl , Ellingsgaard Helga , Lund Morten Asp Vonsild , Jørgensen Peter Godsk , Jacobsen Søren , Køber Lars , Vejlstrup Niels , Dreyer Lene , Pedersen Bente Klarlund , Berg Ronan M G , Christensen Regitse Højgaard
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The chronic inflammatory state in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) augments the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), with pro-inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) playing a vital role. Consequently, biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) may attenuate that risk. IL-6 is also a myokine, secreted from exercising skeletal muscles, where IL-6 exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that may ameliorate the risk of CVD. In healthy humans treated with IL-6 signalling inhibitors (IL-6i), exercise induced loss of visceral fat mass and cardiac adaptations were abolished. We hypothesise that IL-6 signalling inhibition will impair the cardiac and metabolic adaptions to exercise training compared with TNF inhibition in RA patients.

Methods and analysis

80 RA patients treated with IL-6i (n=40) or TNF inhibitors (n=40) are included in a 12-week randomised investigator-blinded 4×4 min high-intensity interval training (HIIT) study. Patients are stratified for medical treatment and sex and allocated 1:1 to an exercise or a no exercise control group (four groups). The supervised exercise intervention comprises 3 weekly HIIT sessions on an ergometer bicycle. The primary outcome is the change in left ventricular mass (LVM), and key secondary outcome is change in visceral fat mass. Both outcomes are measured by MRI. Primary statistical analysis will evaluate LVM at follow-up in a regression model. Intention-to-treat and per protocol analyses will be conducted. The latter necessitates a minimum attendance rate of 80%, adherence to bDMARDs treatment of ≥80% and minimum 8 min (50%) of maximal heart rate above 85% per session.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Capital Region Ethics Committee (H-21010559 amendments 86424, 87463 and 88044) and the Danish Medicines Agency (2021-b005287-21). The trial will follow ICH-GCP guidelines. Regardless of outcome, results will be published in relevant peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration numbers

Eudra-CT: 2021-b005287-21 andNCT05215509.
Latent classes of unhealthy behaviours and their associations with subsequent sickness absence: a prospective register-linkage study among Finnish young and early midlife employees
Authors: Salmela Jatta , Lahti Jouni , Kanerva Noora , Rahkonen Ossi , Kouvonen Anne , Lallukka Tea
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Unhealthy behaviours are associated with increased sickness absence (SA), but few studies have considered person-oriented approach in these associations. Using latent class analysis, we examined clustering of unhealthy behaviours among Finnish municipal employees and their associations with subsequent SA.

Design

A prospective register-linkage study.

Setting

Unhealthy behaviours (low leisure-time physical activity, non-daily fruit and vegetable consumption, insufficient sleep, excessive alcohol use and tobacco use) were derived from the Helsinki Health Study questionnaire survey, collected in 2017 among 19- to 39-year-old employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland.

Participants

A total of 4002 employees (81% women) of the City of Helsinki, Finland.

Primary outcome measures

The questionnaire data were prospectively linked to employer’s SA register through March 2020. Associations between latent classes of unhealthy behaviours and subsequent SA (1–7 days/8+ days/all lengths) were examined using negative binomial regression.

Results

Among women, a three-class latent class model was selected: (1) few unhealthy behaviours (84%), (2) excessive alcohol and tobacco use (12%) and (3) several unhealthy behaviours (5%). Women belonging to classes 2 and 3 had increased SA rates compared with those in class 1, regardless of the length of SA spells. Among men, a 2-latent class model was selected: (1) few unhealthy behaviours (53%) and (2) several unhealthy behaviours (47%). Men belonging to class 2 had increased rates of 1–7 days’ SA compared with men in class 1.

Conclusions

This study suggests that preventive actions aiming to reduce employees’ SA should consider simultaneously several unhealthy behaviours. Targeted interventions may benefit of identifying the clustering of these behaviours among occupational groups.
Exploring the conceptual framework of a health-promotion faculty from the perspective of members: a qualitative study
Authors: Sedghi Fateme , Mahdizadeh Mehrsadat , Vahedian- Shahroodi Mohammad , Gholian-Aval Mahdi
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Understanding the concepts and structures of health promotion in the faculty from the perspective of its members.

Study design

Qualitative study.

Settings

Faculties of Medical Sciences University.

Participants

A sample of four main groups in the faculty (students, faculty members, staff and managers) were purposively sampled for demographic characteristics and their views on the concepts of health promotion.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative study using thematic analysis of content was conducted. Data were obtained using semistructured interviews and then analysed thematically. MAXQDA V.10 software was used to organise and code the imported interview transcripts.

Results

Three main categories of management policy, environmental structure and executive strategies were identified as health-promotion structures in the faculty based on the views of the interviewees.

Conclusion

The inclusion of a health-promotion approach in university policies requires administrators’ commitment to health promotion and the participation of all members and partners inside and outside the faculty to identify health needs and engagement in programmes.
Traversable wormholes supported by dark matter and monopoles with semiclassical effects
Authors: Rahaman Farook , Samanta Bidisha , Sarkar Nayan , Raychaudhuri Biplab , Sen Banashree
Published: May 2023

We present a new traversable wormhole explication of Einstein’s field equations supported by the profile of Einasto Dark Matter densities (Einasto in Trudy Inst Astrofiz Alma-Ata 51:87, 1965; PTarO 36:414, 1968; Astron Nachr 291:97, 1969) and global monopole charges along with semiclassical effects in the local universe as the galactic halo. The Einasto DM density profile produces a suitable shape function that meets all the requirements for presenting the wormhole geometries. The Null Energy Condition (NEC) is violated by the obtained solution with different redshift functions i.e. the Einasto profile representing DM candidate within the wormholes gives the fuel to sustain these wormhole structures in the galactic halo. Moreover, the reported wormhole geometries are getting asymptotically flat and non-flat depending only on the choices of redshift function whereas all the wormhole structures are maintaining their balance of equilibrium under the action of different forces.
An Al-salen complex for the fluorometric detection of pyrophosphate in water via a disassembly approach
Authors: Bohnhoff-Müller Sherin , Yadav Prerna , Spingler Bernhard , Blacque Olivier , Zelder Felix
Published: May 2023

This report describes the selective fluorometric detection of pyrophosphate in water with a simple Al[Formula: see text]-salen complex. The Al-based probe is synthesized in two steps in 30% yield and disassembled in the presence of pyrophosphate into its molecular building blocks. The released 3-chlorosalicylaldehyde signaling unit leads to a detectable signal with a 29-fold increase in fluorescence ([Formula: see text] = 513 nm; [Formula: see text] = 388 nm). At this emission wavelength, we did not observe a response from the Al[Formula: see text]-salen probe despite its intrinsic blue fluorescence ([Formula: see text] = 460 nm;[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] = 347 nm). The Al[Formula: see text]-complex shows excellent discrimination of pyrophosphate over other ions including phosphate containing adenosine triphosphate, phytic acid, or glyphosate and only fluoride inhibits the pyrophosphate-triggered disassembly process. Related salen-based probes with the same hydrophobic ligand framework but either Zn[Formula: see text] or Fe[Formula: see text] ions instead of Al[Formula: see text] were not sufficiently robust and therefore not suitable for analytical applications in pure water at pH 7.4.
Finding Representative Sampling Subsets in Sensor Graphs Using Time-series Similarities
Authors: Chakraborty Roshni , Holm Josefine , Pedersen Torben Bach , Popovski Petar
Published: May 2023

With the increasing use of Internet-of-Things–enabled sensors, it is important to have effective methods to query the sensors. For example, in a dense network of battery-driven temperature sensors, it is often possible to query (sample) only a subset of the sensors at any given time, since the values of the non-sampled sensors can be estimated from the sampled values. If we can divide the set of sensors into disjoint so-calledrepresentative sampling subsets, in which each represents all the other sensors sufficiently well, then we can alternate between the sampling subsets and, thus, increase the battery life significantly of the sensor network. In this article, we formulate the problem of finding representative sampling subsets as a graph problem on a so-calledsensor graphwith the sensors as nodes. Our proposed solution,SubGraphSample, consists of two phases. In Phase-I, we create edges in thesimilarity graphbased on the similarities between the time-series of sensor values, analyzing six different techniques based on proven time-series similarity metrics. In Phase-II, we propose six different sampling techniques to find the maximum number ofrepresentative sampling subsets. Finally, we proposeAutoSubGraphSample, which auto-selects the best technique for Phase-I and Phase-II for a given dataset. Our extensive experimental evaluation shows thatAutoSubGraphSamplecan yield significant battery-life improvements within realistic error bounds.
Enhanced Electrochemical Properties of Cobalt by Varying the Ethylene Glycol - Choline Chloride Composition in a Deep Eutectic Solvent Mixture
Authors: Perera Isuri N. , Pringle Jennifer M. , Periyapperuma Kalani , Somers Anthony , Siriwardana Amal , Pozo Guillermo , Pozo-Gonzalo Cristina
Published: May 2023

The increased demand for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles has resulted in an exponential increase in lithium-ion battery (LIB) waste, and becoming in turn an important secondary source for critical metals. Electrowinning is a commonly used method to recover base and precious metals from a solution, which can also be used to recover valuable metals from spent LIBs. This study unveiled the cobalt electrochemical recovery using model Co sources in increasing amounts of ethylene glycol (EG), 67 molar %, 82 molar % and 100 molar %, in a mixture with choline chloride. The electrochemical results show that increasing the amount of EG together with a small concentration of sulfate anions, in conjunction with chloride anions, in the solution mixture favours the reduction of Co2+. This improved electrochemistry seems to be related to changes of Co2+ speciation easing the reduction process. Additionally, the nature of the Co salt has a significant impact on the recovery efficiency, morphology, and purity of the Co electrodeposit. This work will underpin the science to design safe electrolyte mixtures to enhance the electrochemical recovery of Co2+ in solution from secondary sources.
Defect Chemistry and Mixed Conduction in Lithium Lanthanum Titanate During the Transition from Electrolyte to Anode Material
Authors: Ring Joseph , Nenning Andreas , Fleig Jürgen
Published: May 2023

Lithium lanthanum titanate Li0.29+δ
La0.57TiO3 (LLTO) is a promising material in Li ion battery application, due to its ambient stability and high ionic conductivity. When it is subjected to a high Li chemical potential, additional Li ions intercalate into vacant A sites, which is balanced by the reduction of Ti4+ ions to Ti3+. At this point, LLTO becomes a mixed ion and electron conductor, which means that it undergoes a transition from an electrolyte to a high rate capable electrode material in the potential range below ca 1.7 V vs Li metal. However, the exact voltage of the transition from electrolyte to the electrode, as well as the electronic conductivity of reduced LLTO were still unknown. Here, we investigate the thermodynamics of lithium insertion as well as ion and electron conductivity of reduced LLTO by employing a galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). We can show that LLTO gradually changes from electrolyte material to a mixed conductor, with an ion transference number that depends on the Li chemical potential. Lastly, we present a defect chemical model that fits excellently to the U(δ) curves and the conductivity data.
Electrochemical Mechanisms of Copper Bipyridine Complexes in Dichloromethane and Water
Authors: Haas Christian D. , Lazicki Andrew , Carroll Emily , Tran Lam Emerson , Van Daele Ryan , Leddy Johna
Published: May 2023

Voltammetric mechanisms for copper bipyridine complexes are evaluated for Cu(bpy)3(PF6)2 in dichloromethane (DCM), Cu(bpy)3(ClO4)2 in water, and copper bipyridine complexes formed in situ from a stoichiometric 1:3 mix of Cu(II) and bpy in water. The mechanism for Cu(bpy)3(PF6)2 in aprotic DCM is a simple irreversible (slow) heterogeneous electron transfer,

E

irrev

, with a standard heterogeneous electron transfer rate of 6 × 10−4 cm s−1. For Cu(bpy)3(ClO4)2 in water near pH 6, the mechanism is a six species square scheme, with multiple chemical and electrochemical steps. Voltammetric morphologies for Cu(bpy)3(PF6)2 in DCM and Cu(bpy)3(ClO4)2 in water were evaluated by established diagnostics and modeled with digital simulations. Established diagnostics underrepresent the complexity of copper bipyridines in water. For the complexes formed in situ, the stoichiometric ratio is insufficient to form only Cu(bpy)3
2+, so an equilibrium model that characterizes speciation at given pH and electrode potentials is used. Solvent, pH, and speciation impact the observed voltammetry of copper bipyridine complexes.