bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescents' perceptions of privacy violations by parents, siblings, and friends
Authors: Laird Robert D. , Hawk Skyler T.
Published: July 2024

Adolescence is a life stage beset by a growing desire for privacy. This study evaluated adolescents' experiences across four types of potentially privacy‐invasive behaviors (PPIVBs) and within four different types of relationships. 158 adolescents (Mage = 16.9 years, SD = 1.0; 53.5% female) reported on the frequency of the PPIVBs, perceived control over the behaviors, secret/private information threatened by the behaviors, and feelings of privacy invasion produced by the behaviors. Privacy experiences were more similar across relationships than across types of behavior. Stronger feelings of privacy invasion were reported for PPIVBs involving electronics and information, for behaviors by family members, when behaviors occurred infrequently, when adolescents perceived greater control over whether the behaviors occurred, and when behaviors threated secret/private information.
High end‐of‐treatment hepatitis B core‐related antigen levels predict hepatitis flare after stopping nucleot(s)ide analogue therapy
Authors: Hume Simon J. , Wong Danny K. , Yuen Man‐Fung , Jackson Kathy , Bonanzinga Sara , Vogrin Sara , Hall Samuel A. L. , Burns Gareth S. , Desmond Paul V. , Sundararajan Vijaya , Ratnam Dilip , Levy Miriam T. , Lubel John S. , Nicoll Amanda J. , Strasser Simone I. , Sievert William , Ngu Meng C. , Sinclair Marie , Meredith Christopher , Matthews Gail , Revill Peter A. , Littlejohn Margaret , Bowden Scott , Visvanathan Kumar , Holmes Jacinta A. , Thompson Alexander J.
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Accurate biomarkers to predict outcomes following discontinuation of nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy are needed. We evaluated serum hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg) level as a biomarker for predicting outcomes after NA discontinuation.

Methods

Patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) without cirrhosis were enrolled in a prospective trial evaluating clinical outcomes until 96 weeks after NA discontinuation. End of treatment (EOT) and off‐treatment levels of serum HBcrAg, HBsAg, HBV RNA and HBV DNA were used to predict key clinical outcomes including hepatitis flare (ALT ≥5 × ULN and HBV DNA > 2000 IU/mL). The SCALE‐B score was calculated for the purposes of model validation.

Results

HBcrAg was tested amongst 65 participants. The median age was 54 years, 54% were male and 83% were Asian. HBcrAg was detectable in 86% patients. HBcrAg level ≥4 log U/mL at EOT was predictive of hepatitis flare [8/10 (80%) vs. 17/55 (31%), p = .001]. The presence of either HBcrAg ≥4 log U/mL or detectable HBV RNA at EOT predicted for both biochemical relapse and hepatitis flare. The SCALE‐B model at EOT predicted for virological relapse, biochemical relapse, hepatitis flare and HBsAg loss in this cohort. An increase in the serum HBcrAg level off‐treatment was also associated with hepatitis flare. No participant with EOT HBcrAg level ≥4 log U/mL achieved HBsAg loss.

Conclusions

High levels of serum HBcrAg predict for hepatitis flare after stopping NA therapy and low likelihood of HBsAg loss at week 96. People with high levels of serum HBcrAg are not suitable candidates for NA discontinuation.
Tumor‐Derived Exosomes Promote Tumor Growth Through Modulating Microvascular Hemodynamics in a Human Ovarian Cancer Xenograft Model
Authors: Wang Qin , Zhang Xiaoyan , Li Bingwei , Liu Xueting , Li Ailing , Li Hongwei , Shi Xiaohua , Han Jianqun
Published: July 2024

Objective

Abnormal tumor vascular network contributes to aberrant blood perfusion and reduced oxygenation in tumors, which lead to poor efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We aimed to explore the effects of the tumor‐derived exosomes (TDEs) and C188‐9 (a small molecule inhibitor of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, STAT3) on tumor microvascular hemodynamics and determine which blood flow oscillations for various frequency intervals are responsible for these changes.

Methods

Microvascular hemodynamics parameters were recorded using a PeriFlux 6000 EPOS system in tumor surface in a nude mouse subcutaneous xenograft model. Oscillations of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) signal were investigated by wavelet transform analysis.

Results

TDEs facilitated tumor growth at least partially was associated with increasing blood flow in smaller vessels with lower speed and decreasing the blood flow at larger vessels with higher speed. Lower oxyhemoglobin saturation (SO2) on tumor surface was aggravated by TDEs, and C188‐9 treatment significantly alleviated this decrease. Wavelet transform spectral analysis revealed that TDEs increased the amplitude of oscillations in four frequency intervals related to endothelial (NO‐dependent and ‐independent), myogenic and neurogenic activities, and C188‐9 had no effect on this increase.

Conclusions

TDEs facilitated tumor growth partially was associated with increasing blood flow in distributing vessels, reducing blood perfusion in larger vessels, and lowering SO2 on tumor surface. Enhanced vascular smooth muscle, endothelial and neurogenic activities occurred in tumor superficial zone.
Sacral nerve stimulation leads to long‐term improvement in fecal incontinence and quality of life for children with functional and organic defecation disorders
Authors: Park Candice K. , Wang Lyon , Koppen Ilan J. K. , Alpert Seth A. , Diefenbach Karen A. , Wood Richard J. , Bali Neetu , Vaz Karla , Yacob Desale , Di Lorenzo Carlo , Lu Peter L.
Published: July 2024

Background

Our objective was to evaluate long‐term outcomes of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for children with functional and organic defecation disorders.

Methods

We performed a prospective study of children <21 years of age who started SNS treatment between 2012 and 2018. We recorded demographics, medical history, and diagnostic testing. We obtained measures of symptom severity and quality of life at baseline and follow up at 1, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and ≥60 months. Successful response was defined as bowel movements >2 times/week and fecal incontinence (FI) <1 time/week. Families were contacted to administer the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory and to evaluate patient satisfaction.

Key Results

We included 65 patients (59% female, median age at SNS 14 years, range 9–21) with median follow‐up of 32 months. Thirty patients had functional constipation (FC), 15 had non‐retentive FI (NRFI), and 16 had an anorectal malformation (ARM). The percentage with FI <1 time/week improved from 30% at baseline to 64% at 1 year (p < 0.001) and 77% at most recent follow‐up (p < 0.001). Patients with FC, NRFI, and ARM had sustained improvement in FI (p = 0.02, p < 0.001, p = 0.02). Patients also reported fewer hard stools (p = 0.001). Bowel movement frequency did not improve after SNS. At most recent follow‐up, 77% of patients with a functional disorder and 50% with an organic disorder had responded (p = 0.03). Nearly all families reported benefit.

Conclusions and Inferences

SNS led to sustained improvement in FI regardless of underlying etiology, but children with functional disorders were more likely to respond than those with organic disorders.
Evolutionary history and root trait coordination predict nutrient strategy in tropical legume trees
Authors: Marcellus Mia , Goud Ellie M. , Swartz Natalie , Brown Emily , Soper Fiona M.
Published: July 2024

Plants express diverse nutrient use and acquisition traits, but it is unclear how trait combinations at the species level are constrained by phylogeny, trait coordination, or trade‐offs in resource investment. One trait – nitrogen (N) fixation – is assumed to correlate with other traits and used to define plant functional groups, despite potential confounding effects of phylogeny.

We quantified growth, carbon metabolism, fixation rate, root phosphatase activity (RPA), mycorrhizal colonization, and leaf and root morphology/chemistry across 22 species of fixing and nonfixing tropical Fabaceae trees under common conditions.

Belowground trait variation was high even among closely related species, and most traits displayed a phylogenetic signal, including N‐fixation rate and nodule biomass. Across species, we observed strong positive correlations between physiological traits such as RPA and root respiration. RPA increased ~ fourfold per unit increase in fixation, supporting the debated hypothesis that N‐fixers ‘trade’ N for phosphatases to enhance phosphorus acquisition. Specific root length and root N differed between functional groups, though for other traits, apparent differences became nonsignificant after accounting for phylogenetic nonindependence.

We conclude that evolutionary history, trait coordination, and fixation ability contribute to nutrient trait expression at the species level, and recommend explicitly considering phylogeny in analyses of functional groupings.
Sucrose promotes cone enlargement via the TgNGA1‐TgWRKY47‐TgEXPA2 module in Torreya grandis
Authors: Suo Jinwei , Liu Ya , Yan Jiawen , Li Qianxi , Chen Weijie , Liu Zhihui , Zhang Zuying , Hu Yuanyuan , Yu Weiwu , Yan Jingwei , Song Lili , Wu Jiasheng
Published: July 2024

Cone enlargement is a crucial process for seed production and reproduction in gymnosperms. Most of our knowledge of cone development is derived from observing anatomical structure during gametophyte development. Therefore, the exact molecular mechanism underlying cone enlargement after fertilization is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that sucrose promotes cone enlargement in Torreya grandis, a gymnosperm species with relatively low rates of cone enlargement, via the TgNGA1‐TgWRKY47‐TgEXPA2 pathway.

Cell expansion plays a significant role in cone enlargement in T. grandis. 13C labeling and sucrose feeding experiments indicated that sucrose‐induced changes in cell size and number contribute to cone enlargement in this species. RNA‐sequencing analysis, transient overexpression in T. grandis cones, and stable overexpression in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) suggested that the expansin gene TgEXPA2 positively regulates cell expansion in T. grandis cones.

The WRKY transcription factor TgWRKY47 directly enhances TgEXPA2 expression by binding to its promoter. Additionally, the NGATHA transcription factor TgNGA1 directly interacts with TgWRKY47. This interaction suppresses the DNA‐binding ability of TgWRKY47, thereby reducing its transcriptional activation on TgEXPA2 without affecting the transactivation ability of TgWRKY47.

Our findings establish a link between sucrose and cone enlargement in T. grandis and elucidate the potential underlying molecular mechanism.
Māori wards and local government democracy: Contested spaces of representation
Authors: des Forges Sandra
Published: July 2024

This article uses a decolonising geographical approach to critique the limitations of the Eurocentric model of local government democracy in Aotearoa and Tauranga Moana. Thematic analysis of media representations of the Māori ward debate and semi‐structured interviews illuminates how Māori have been marginalised from local government decision‐making. First, I illustrate the way legislation, practices and processes of local government democracy, including referenda, are mechanisms that marginalise Māori and Te Ao Māori. Second, the article highlights that the establishment of Māori wards within the local government structure is the only way to ensure dedicated representation of Māori as elected members.
Calcification of stylohyoid ligaments and its association with obesity: A cross‐sectional retrospective study
Authors: Al‐Amad Suhail H. , Al Bayatti Saad , Alshamsi Hissa Arif
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Obesity is associated with an increase in pro‐inflammatory cytokines, which eventually lead to soft tissue dystrophic calcifications. Calcifications of the stylohyoid ligament (SHL) are incidental findings occasionally seen in head and neck radiographs, the cause of which is not yet established. In this study, we investigated the possible association between obesity and SHL calcification.

Methods

Archived cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 136 patients were retrieved and assessed for the presence and length of calcifications of the SHLs. Patients' height and weight were retrieved from their medical records, from which body mass index (BMI) values were calculated. Later, patients were telephone‐interviewed and asked about histories of tonsillectomy and trauma to the head and neck. Chi‐square and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to assess associations between SHL calcifications and BMI values in their nominal and continuous formats, respectively.

Results

Calcification of SHLs was detected in 63 (46.3%) of the retrieved CBCT scans. BMI values ranged from 17 to 40 (mean 27.4 (SD = 4.9)), with 30% being in the healthy category. Histories of tonsillectomy and head and neck trauma were reported in 13.5% and 7.4%, respectively. SHL calcifications were associated with the female sex (p = 0.02) and normal weight (p = 0.04). No associations were seen between SHL calcifications and age, tonsillectomy or trauma.

Conclusions

Despite being associated with dystrophic calcifications of ligaments, obesity—in our study—was not associated with SHL calcifications.
Long‐read RNA‐Seq for the discovery of long noncoding and antisense RNAs in plant organelles
Authors: Sanita Lima Matheus , Silva Domingues Douglas , Rossi Paschoal Alexandre , Smith David Roy
Published: July 2024

Plant organelle transcription has been studied for decades. As techniques advanced, so did the fields of mitochondrial and plastid transcriptomics. The current view is that organelle genomes are pervasively transcribed, irrespective of their size, content, structure, and taxonomic origin. However, little is known about the nature of organelle noncoding transcriptomes, including pervasively transcribed noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Next‐generation sequencing data have uncovered small ncRNAs in the organelles of plants and other organisms, but long ncRNAs remain poorly understood. Here, we argue that publicly available third‐generation long‐read RNA sequencing data from plants can provide a fine‐tuned picture of long ncRNAs within organelles. Indeed, given their bloated architectures, plant mitochondrial genomes are well suited for studying pervasive transcription of ncRNAs. Ultimately, we hope to showcase this new avenue of plant research while also underlining the limitations of the proposed approach.
Resurrecting plant–animal interactions in the Caribbean can benefit large‐fruited plants
Authors: Kim Seokmin , Lautenschlager Laís , Tarazona‐Tubens Fabio L. , Abels Jason , Lloret Michael , Park Ty , Malcolm‐Parker Ayrimah , Galetti Mauro , Searcy Christopher
Published: July 2024

Many plants benefit from seed dispersal by frugivorous animals. This mutualistic interaction depends largely on interaction‐relevant matching of functional traits (i.e. fruit size of plants and gape size of frugivores). With declines in large‐bodied animal populations, it is likely that fruit–frugivore interactions have eroded, leading to the loss of seed dispersal of large‐fruited plants. Such erosion could be especially evident in vulnerable island ecosystems such as those in the Caribbean, where most large‐bodied frugivore populations have collapsed due to human activities. Here, we aim to understand the consequences of this decline by first quantifying gaps in frugivory function between common, smaller frugivores (birds, smaller reptiles, and bats) and rarer or regionally extinct, larger reptiles (Cyclura spp. and Chelonoidis spp.) in the Caribbean archipelagos. We then assess the benefits of reestablishing these interactions by determining the effects of large reptile ingestion on seed germination for 10 fruiting species, representing a range of fruit sizes, native to the Caribbean. We found that there are significant gaps in frugivory function, with smaller frugivores having many times smaller mean gape sizes than larger reptiles. Furthermore, we found that most fruiting species used in this study could germinate after being consumed by large reptiles, with two species having their germination speed significantly accelerated post‐ingestion. These results indicate that fruiting plants could benefit from reestablishing frugivorous interactions between larger reptiles and fruiting plants. Given the existing gap in frugivory function, additional attention should be given to the possibility of rewilding defaunated islands to restore plant–frugivore networks.
Beliefs about mental health treatment, treatment initiation, and suicidal behaviors among veterans and service members at‐risk for suicide and not in treatment
Authors: Short Nicole A. , Allan Nicholas P. , Ashrafioun Lisham , Stecker Tracy
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Previous research has identified a variety of barriers to mental health care among military personnel and veterans, despite high rates of mental health symptoms. The current study is the first to examine beliefs about mental health treatment barriers among post‐9/11 military personnel and veterans at elevated suicide risk not involved in treatment and whether these beliefs are associated with treatment initiation, engagement, or suicidal behaviors.

Methods

Four hundred and twenty‐two participants reported on beliefs about treatment during a cognitive behavioral treatment session and responded to follow‐up questionnaires on mental health treatment initiation, engagement, and suicidal behaviors over 12 months. Beliefs identified in the therapy session were coded thematically, and rates of treatment initiation, engagement, and suicidal behavior were examined by belief category.

Results

Nine belief themes emerged. Participants reporting logistical barriers and preferences about treatment type were least likely to initiate mental health treatment and participated in the fewest number of sessions, respectively. Participants endorsing beliefs about stigma or using other ways to cope were most likely to engage in suicidal behavior.

Conclusions

The current findings point to specific beliefs that may identify individuals who would benefit from systemic and individual interventions for mental health treatment engagement.
Feasibility assessment of inspiration breath‐hold motion management for tumor tracking during cone‐beam computed tomography for setup and radiotherapy in Veterinary Medicine: A pilot study
Authors: Murakami Keiko , Rancilio Nicholas , Foster Lisa
Published: July 2024

Radiotherapy (RT) for lung or liver tumors can be challenging due to respiration‐induced organ motion (RIOM). There are some methodological solutions to minimize RIOM. We explored a new approach to evaluate the feasibility and reproducibility of RIOM during RT with five total client‐owned tumor‐bearing animals using a remote‐triggered breath‐hold ventilator under general anesthesia during image acquisition and RT. There was one stereotactic body radiotherapy, one conventionally fractionated definitive intent, and three conventionally fractionated palliative intent RT cases. Based on repeated cone beam CT, there were no treatment table shifts required prior to initiating beam on. No clinically significant complications such as hypotension occurred during anesthesia. This technique appeared to be safe in this group of patients and was easily clinically implemented and highly reproducible. More complete follow‐up data and larger studies are needed to evaluate clinical outcomes with this breath‐hold ventilator technique in veterinary RT.
Use of an autologous pericardial patch to repair a post‐traumatic caudal vena cava cicatrix in a dog
Authors: Winter Joshua M. , Hannabuss Joshua , Brockman Daniel J.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To report the use of a pericardial patch graft to repair a post‐traumatic caudal vena cava cicatrix in a dog.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

A 1 year‐old Rottweiler presenting with ascites following presumed blunt thoracic trauma.

Methods

Kinking of the caudal vena cava and resultant Budd‐Chiari‐like syndrome was diagnosed on echocardiography and computed tomographic angiography (CTA). Surgical exploration via right sixth intercostal thoracotomy was performed. Release of the cicatrix was unsuccessful in reducing the pressure gradient and a pericardial patch graft repair of the thoracic caudal vena cava was therefore performed to relieve the obstruction.

Results

The dog recovered from surgery and was discharged after 3 days. Follow‐up at 6 weeks showed resolution of ascites and all clinical signs. Owner telephone follow‐up at 24 months post‐surgery confirmed that the dog remained clinically normal.

Conclusion

A pericardial patch graft technique can be used successfully to reconstruct the thoracic caudal vena cava, in cases of traumatic kinking where dissection of the fibrotic band alone fails to reduce caudal caval pressure.
Deprescribing for older adults during acute care admission: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Sprake Erika , Kung Janice , Graham Michelle , Tsuyuki Ross , Gibson William
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to understand the current body of knowledge regarding deprescribing in adults aged 60 years or older in acute care settings, including the deprescribing activities that are being undertaken, and the feasibility, challenges, and outcomes of the practice.

Introduction:

Polypharmacy is prevalent amongst older adults, despite risks to patients. Much of the existing research on deprescribing has occurred in the outpatient context, with recent research emerging on the unique opportunity that acute care may provide.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include deprescribing in adults aged 60 years or older in acute care. It will consider deprescribing occurring during inpatient admission and at the time of discharge from hospital.

Methods:

The JBI method for scoping reviews will guide this review. A search of MEDLINE (Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase (Ovid), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews will be undertaken from inception to present with no language restrictions. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies, clinical practice guidelines, and opinion papers will be considered for inclusion. Systematic reviews and scoping reviews will be excluded. Google Scholar and a general Google search will be conducted for gray literature. Two reviewers will assess articles for inclusion and any disagreements will be discussed and resolved by discussion or a third reviewer, if required. Findings will be presented in the scoping review using a narrative approach with supporting quantitative data in a tabular format according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist (PRISMA-ScR).

Review registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/pb7aw/
Six weeks of localized passive heat therapy elicits some exercise‐like improvements in resistance artery function
Authors: Kaluhiokalani Jamie P. , Wallace Taysom E. , Ahmadi Mohadeseh , Marchant Erik D. , Mehling Jack , Altuhov Stepan , Dorff Abigail , Leach Olivia K. , James Jessica J. , Hancock Chad R. , Hyldahl Robert D. , Gifford Jayson R.
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of 6 weeks of localized, muscle‐focused (quadriceps femoris) passive heat therapy (PHT) on resistance artery function, exercise haemodynamics and exercise performance relative to knee extension (KE) exercise training (EX). We randomized 34 healthy adults (ages 18–36; n = 17 female, 17 male) to receive either PHT or sham heating sessions (120 min, 3 days/week), or EX (40 min, 3 days/week) over 6 weeks. Blood flow was assessed with Doppler ultrasound of the femoral artery during both passive leg movement (PLM) and a KE graded exercise test. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis at baseline and after 6 weeks. Peak blood flow during PLM increased to the same extent in both the EX (∼10.5% increase, P = 0.009) and PHT groups (∼8.5% increase, P = 0.044). Peak flow during knee extension exercise increased in EX (∼19%, P = 0.005), but did not change in PHT (P = 0.523) and decreased in SHAM (∼7%, P = 0.020). Peak vascular conductance during KE increased by ∼25% in EX (P = 0.030) and PHT (P = 0.012). KE peak power increased in EX by ∼27% (P = 0.001) but did not significantly change in PHT and SHAM groups. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase increased significantly in both EX (P = 0.028) and PHT (P = 0.0095), but only EX resulted in increased angiogenesis. In conclusion, 6 weeks of localized PHT improved resistance artery function at rest and during exercise to the same extent as exercise training but did not yield significant improvements in performance.

image

Key points

Many for whom exercise would be most beneficial are either unable to exercise or have a very low exercise tolerance. In these cases, an alternative treatment to combat declines in resistance artery function is needed.

We tested the hypothesis that passive heat therapy (PHT) would increase resistance artery function, improve exercise haemodynamics and enhance exercise performance compared to a sham treatment, but less than aerobic exercise training.

This report shows that 6 weeks of localized PHT improved resistance artery function at rest and during exercise to the same extent as exercise training but did not improve exercise performance.

Additionally, muscle biopsy analyses revealed that endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression increased in both PHT and exercise training groups, but only exercise resulted in increased angiogenesis.

Our data demonstrate the efficacy of applying passive heat as an alternative treatment to improve resistance artery function for those unable to receive the benefits of regular exercise.
Experimental Investigations on Aeroelastic Stability of Combined Plunge-Pitch Mode Shapes in a Linear Compressor Cascade
Authors: Gambel Julian , Peitsch Dieter , Schneider Sabine
Published: July 2024

The effect of mode shape and reduced frequency on the flutter stability of a linear low-speed compressor cascade was investigated experimentally, employing the aerodynamic influence coefficient (AIC) approach. This paper describes in detail the methodology, experimental setup, and measurement techniques. The paper presents experimentally determined influence coefficients, and discusses the findings with regard to the aeroelastic design parameter “plunge-to-twist incidence ratio” (PTIR), which combines reduced frequency and torsion axis setback in an attempt a design variable reduction. The influence of the vibrating blade on itself was always stabilizing, while other blades, mainly the first pressure side neighbor, vibrating at forward-traveling, low nodal diameter inter-blade phase angles (IBPAs), can destabilize the reference blade. As PTIR is increased, the phase of the complex modal force coefficients (AICs) of all blades is decreased, increasing the stabilizing effect of the vibrating blade on itself and overall cascade stability. Within the considered parameter range, the impact of reduced frequency is eliminated to a large extent if the incidence ratio is kept constant, requiring the torsion axis setback to be adjusted accordingly. The findings show that the plunge-to-twist incidence ratio is a meaningful aeroelastic design parameter that can explain the global effect of mode shape on flutter stability and should be considered early in the aeromechanical blade design process to ensure flutter-free blading.
A New Method for Estimating Oil Well Production Rates Based on Enthalpy Balance Utilizing Temperature Data
Authors: Mirhaseli Igder A. , Mahdiyar H. , Vakili-Nezhaad G. Reza
Published: July 2024

The fundamental objective of this study is to utilize a temperature dataset to achieve accurate rate estimation. This study introduces a graphical method, incorporating suitable assumptions, for predicting flowrates in single-phase vertical oil flow. The method takes into consideration the fouling factor and addresses the steady-state flow of heat in the wellbore, while also accounting for the transient heat conduction in the formation. To evaluate and validate the proposed model, two field cases are examined, and associated uncertainties are discussed. The model's predictions are compared with those obtained from Hassan and Kabir's approach, as well as actual separator flowrate data. The comparisons reveal that the model exhibits a high level of accuracy within its specified range of application. Statistical analyses indicate that most of the models perform comparably, although the suggested graphical model stands out for its higher accuracy and user-friendly nature. The performance of uncertainty is found to be more reliant on the accuracy of data measurement rather than the features of the model itself.
Honeycomb-shaped vertically aligned carbon nanotubes decorated with molybdenum trioxide as an electrochemical sensor for glucose
Authors: Hu Lei , Huang Yu-Chiao , Huang Yung-Jui , Lin Pao-Hung , Wang Huan-Chun , Lee Kuei-Yi
Published: July 2024

In this study, an electrode based on transition metal oxide molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) was fabricated and applied to electrochemical biosensing for glucose. In the process of making electrodes with relatively larger specific surface areas, an array of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was deposited on a silicon substrate, and then, MoO3 was coated on the array of CNTs by chemical vapor deposition to produce a MoO3/CNTs/Si structure of three-dimensional electrochemical biosensing electrodes. Biosensing measurement was carried out in the concentration region from 20 μM to 7 mM of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The highest sensitivity of 17.4 μA/μM cm2 was measured in the concentration range of 20–100 μM. The correlation coefficient of linear response (R2) was 0.9929, thus showing that MoO3/CNTs/Si is an excellent nonenzymatic glucose electrochemical sensor.
Optical functions of uniaxial rutile and anatase (TiO2) revisited
Authors: Jellison G. E. , Cureton W. F. , Arteaga O.
Published: July 2024

The optical functions of uniaxial rutile and anatase (TiO2) were determined from 200 to 850 nm (6.2 to 1.46 eV) using several of four optical techniques: (1) standard spectroscopic two-modulator generalized ellipsometry (2-MGE), (2) near-normal-incidence two-modulator generalized ellipsometry microscopy (2-MGEM), (3) Mueller matrix transmission of rutile, and (4) polarized transmission of rutile. The 2-MGE measurements yielded highly accurate values of the dielectric functions and error estimates from 1.46 to 6.2 eV, whereas the polarization-dependent transmission yielded more accurate values of the absorption coefficient below the band edge of rutile. The 2-MGEM also measured the diattenuation, which is related to the birefringence, and other parameters but at near-normal incidence at a single wavelength (577 nm).
Contrast factor for standing-wave radiation forces on spheres: Series expansion in powers of sphere radius
Authors: Marston Philip L.
Published: July 2024

Recently researchers often normalize the radiation force on spheres in standing waves in inviscid fluids using an acoustic contrast factor (typically denoted by Φ) that is independent of kR where k is the wave number and R is the sphere radius. An alternative normalization uses a function Ys that depends on kR. Here, standard results for Φ are extended as a power series in kR using prior Ys results. Also, new terms are found for fluid spheres and applied to the kR dependence of Φ for strongly responsive and weakly responsive examples. Partial-wave phase shifts are used in the derivation.
An exopolysaccharide pathway from a freshwater
Sphingomonas
isolate
Authors: Goetsch Alexandra G. , Ufearo Daniel , Keiser Griffin , Heiss Christian , Azadi Parastoo , Hershey David M.
Published: July 2024

Bacteria embellish their cell envelopes with a variety of specialized polysaccharides. Biosynthesis pathways for these glycans are complex, and final products vary greatly in their chemical structures, physical properties, and biological activities. This tremendous diversity comes from the ability to arrange complex pools of monosaccharide building blocks into polymers with many possible linkage configurations. Due to the complex chemistry of bacterial glycans, very few biosynthetic pathways have been defined in detail. As part of an initiative to characterize novel polysaccharide biosynthesis enzymes, we isolated a bacterium from Lake Michigan called
Sphingomonas
sp. LM7 that is proficient in exopolysaccharide (EPS) production. We identified genes that contribute to EPS biosynthesis in LM7 by screening a transposon mutant library for colonies displaying altered colony morphology. A gene cluster was identified that appears to encode a complete
wzy/wzx-
dependent polysaccharide assembly pathway. Deleting individual genes in this cluster caused a non-mucoid phenotype and a corresponding loss of EPS secretion, confirming the role of this gene cluster in polysaccharide production. We extracted EPS from LM7 cultures and determined that it contains a linear chain of 3- and 4-linked glucose, galactose, and glucuronic acid residues. Finally, we show that the EPS pathway in
Sphingomonas
sp. LM7 diverges from that of sphingan-family EPSs and adhesive polysaccharides such as the holdfast that are present in other
Alphaproteobacteria
. Our approach of characterizing complete biosynthetic pathways holds promise for engineering polysaccharides with valuable properties.

IMPORTANCE

Bacteria produce complex polysaccharides that serve a range of biological functions. These polymers often have properties that make them attractive for industrial applications, but they remain woefully underutilized. In this work, we studied a novel polysaccharide called promonan that is produced by
Sphingomonas
sp. LM7, a bacterium we isolated from Lake Michigan. We extracted promonan from LM7 cultures and identified which sugars are present in the polymer. We also identified the genes responsible for polysaccharide production. Comparing the promonan genes to those of other bacteria showed that promonan is distinct from previously characterized polysaccharides. We conclude by discussing how the promonan pathway could be used to produce new polysaccharides through genetic engineering.
Improved efficiency using sequential automated immunoassays for syphilis screening in blood donors
Authors: Cheng Anthea , Das Anindita , Styles Claire E. , Naing Zin , Rawlinson William D. , Gosbell Iain B.
Published: July 2024

Using sequential immunoassays for the screening of blood donors is well described for viral serology testing but not for the screening of syphilis. In this study, we report the evaluation results and 2-year sequential testing data using two highly sensitive automated serology assays, the Alinity s Syphilis chemiluminescent immunoassay for screening, with all repeatedly reactive samples then tested on the Elecsys Syphilis electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. We screened 1,767,782 blood donor samples between 7 July 2021 and 6 July 2023 and found the Alinity false-positive rate to be low at 0.08% (1,456/1,767,782). The common false-positive rate between the two assays was also low (3.83%, 58/1,514). Concordantly reactive samples were further tested using a
Treponema pallidum
particle agglutination test, a rapid plasma reagin test, and a fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test. There were 262/1,376 concordantly reactive Alinity and Elecsys blood donor samples with reactivity on one or more of the confirmatory tests. A total of 26/1,376 donors had a current syphilis infection, 152/1,376 reported a past history of syphilis and had been treated, and 84/1,376 did not report a past history of syphilis. We suggest that future studies could explore the use of sequential immunoassays to aid in the serodiagnosis for syphilis.

IMPORTANCE

The serodiagnosis for syphilis usually follows two methodologies—a “traditional” algorithm using a non-treponemal test followed by confirmation using a treponemal test, or a “reverse” algorithm using a treponemal test followed by a non-treponemal test. There are limited reports in the literature of using a modified reverse algorithm (treponemal test followed by a second treponemal test), and to the best of knowledge, there are currently no published articles using two highly sensitive automated immunoassays to aid the serodiagnosis of syphilis. In addition, the
Treponema pallidum
particle agglutination (TPPA) assay is commonly used as a confirmatory test for the diagnosis of syphilis. With the withdrawal of the TPPA assay from Australia and presumably from the global market also, alternative testing algorithms are now required. This study provides proof of concept for using sequential immunoassays in the diagnosis of syphilis.
Identification of distinct genotypes in circulating RSV A strains based on variants in the virus replication-associated genes
Authors: Musa Abdulafiz O. , Faber Sydney R. , Forrest Kaitlyn , Smith Kenneth P. , Sengupta Shaon , López Carolina B.
Published: July 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infection that often leads to hospitalization of infected younger children and older adults. RSV is classified into two strains, A and B, each with several subgroups or genotypes. One issue with the definition of these subgroups is the lack of a unified method of identification or genotyping. We propose that genotyping strategies based on the genes coding for replication-associated proteins could provide critical information on the replication capacity of the distinct subgroups, while clearly distinguishing genotypes. Here, we analyzed the virus replication-associated genes N, P, M2, and L from
de novo
assembled RSV A sequences obtained from 31 newly sequenced samples from hospitalized patients in Philadelphia and 78 additional publicly available sequences from different geographic locations within the United States. In-depth analysis and annotation of variants in the replication-associated proteins identified the polymerase protein L as a robust target for genotyping RSV subgroups. Importantly, our analysis revealed non-synonymous variations in L that were consistently accompanied by conserved changes in its co-factor P or the M2-2 protein, suggesting associations and interactions between specific domains of these proteins. Similar associations were seen among sequences of the related human metapneumovirus. These results highlight L as an alternative to other RSV genotyping targets and demonstrate the value of in-depth analyses and annotations of RSV sequences as it can serve as a foundation for subsequent
in vitro
and clinical studies on the efficiency of the polymerase and fitness of different virus isolates.

IMPORTANCE

Given the historical heterogeneity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the disease it causes, there is a need to understand the properties of the circulating RSV strains each season. This information would benefit from an informative and consensus method of genotyping the virus. Here, we carried out a variant analysis that shows a pattern of specific variations among the replication-associated genes of RSV A across different seasons. Interestingly, these variation patterns, which were also seen in human metapneumovirus sequences, point to previously defined interactions of domains within these genes, suggesting co-variation in the replication-associated genes. Our results also suggest a genotyping strategy that can prove to be particularly important in understanding the genotype-phenotype correlation in the era of RSV vaccination, where selective pressure on the virus to evolve is anticipated. More importantly, the categorization of pneumoviruses based on these patterns may be of prognostic value.
Long-read sequencing reveals two chromosomes and one plasmid in
Vibrio
sp. strain MAO6 isolated from a Marine Beach in Fukui, Japan
Authors: Tsukamoto Mao , Machii Yuka , Kataoka Takafumi , Kondo Ryuji
Published: July 2024

A marine bacterium
Vibrio
sp. strain MAO6 was isolated from a marine beach in Fukui, Japan. Its complete genome comprises two circular chromosomes (3,418,677 bp and 1,629,627 bp) and one circular plasmid (299,686 bp).
Systemic and ocular outcomes in TB-immunoreactive patients receiving immunomodulatory therapy for non-infectious uveitis: a case-control study
Authors: Choudhary Balla Shravya , Ali Mohammed Hasnat , Tyagi Mudit , Basu Soumyava
Published: July 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB)-immunoreactivity, measured in vivo (tuberculin skin test (TST)) or in vitro (interferon gamma release assay (IGRA)), can be found in latent, active or even following clearance of TB infection. In this case-control study, we compared the systemic and ocular outcomes between patients with or without TB-immunoreactivity, who received immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) for non-infectious uveitis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients with (cases) or without (controls) TB-immunoreactivity (TST±IGRA), who received conventional IMT for ≥6 months, for the treatment of non-infectious uveitis. Patients who received prior or concomitant anti-TB therapy were excluded. Systemic and ocular outcomes were compared between both groups.

Results

36 cases and 70 controls (gender-matched and age-matched) were included. New-onset pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB developed in one case and none of the controls. Based on this outcome, the absolute risk increase for systemic TB reactivation was noted to be 0.028 (95% CI 0.005 to 0.051) and the number needed to harm was 36. The incidence of persistent or recurrent (worsening ≥2 grades) intraocular inflammation during IMT was comparable between both groups (cases 18/36, controls 35/70, p=1.0). A change in anatomical site of presentation at recurrence was not seen in any case, but in six controls (p=0.15). No new focal chorio-retinal lesions were noted in either group.

Conclusions

Conventional IMT has a very low risk of systemic TB reactivation, and no additional detrimental effect on ocular outcomes, in TB-immunoreactive patients with non-infectious uveitis.
Novel anthropometric indices are superior adiposity indexes to portend visual impairment in middle-aged and older Chinese population
Authors: Zhou Yifan , Chen Qing , Abuduxukuer KaiweiSa , Wang Chuchu , Dong Jialong , Wang Yiting , Shi Wenming , Hou Yanan , Shi Fei , Luo Jianfeng , Peng Qing
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate differential associations of traditional and novel adiposity indices with visual impairment (VI) in the middle-aged and older Chinese population.

Methods and analysis

Based on the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, 7750 Chinese older adults aged over 45 were included at baseline 2011, and 4133 participants who accomplished all three interviews from 2011 to 2015 were adapted for longitudinal analyses. We enrolled six adiposity indices, including the body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI), a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI) and conicity index (ConI). Visual status and other covariates included sociodemographic characteristics, medical supports and lifestyle-related factors. Cross-sectional correlations were assessed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. For longitudinal analysis, generalised linear models with generalised estimating equations were used to determine the association between time-varying adiposity and visual status.

Results

Higher levels of WHtR/WWI/ABSI/BRI/ConI were significantly associated with an increased prevalence of VI, whereas a higher BMI was associated with a decreased prevalence of VI. Only WWI was significantly related to the prevalence of VI after adjustment for multiple confounders in both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses (all p values <0.05). The multivariable-adjusted OR (95% CI) of VI associated with the highest (vs lowest) quintile of WWI was 1.900 (1.407 to 2.565).

Conclusion

WWI is a reliable alternative adiposity index that exhibits a dose–response association with the prevalence of VI in the Chinese population. The WWI-VI correlation may eliminate the obesity paradox in the ophthalmic epidemiological area and indicate the detrimental impact of changes in body composition on VI.
Comparative analysis of child injuries in passenger vehicles and school buses: a multicentre cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Yu-Na , Kong So Yeon , Jun Joon-Ho , Jeon Seong-Man , Shin In Chan , Park Gwan Jin , Kim Young Min , Chai Hyun Seok , Yeon Je Sun , Jung Woo Chul , Kim Sang Chul
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study investigated the differences in injury profiles and safety device effectiveness among children with road traffic injuries (RTIs) involving passenger vehicles and school buses.

Methods

Using data from the Emergency Department-based Injury In-depth Surveillance database, this multicentre cross-sectional study investigated the injury profiles of 14 669 children aged 12 years old and younger who experienced RTIs from 2011–2021. Demographic factors, injury distribution, severity and effect of safety device use between RITs involving passenger vehicles and school buses were compared.

Results

RTIs in children most frequently occurred between 12:00 and 18:00 hours (46.9%). School bus-related RTIs peaked during school commute hours, that is, from 06:00 to 12:00 hours, and were associated with a higher prevalence of head (63.1% vs 58.9%, p<0.05) and extremity injuries (upper extremity: 8.0% vs 6.4% and lower extremity: 11.1% vs 7.6 %, p<0.05) compared with those involving passenger vehicles. However, passenger vehicle crashes showed higher proportions of neck and chest injuries, along with injuries requiring hospitalisation and intensive care. Safety devices exhibited preventive effects against head and lower extremity injuries in both vehicle types. While safety devices showed effective in reducing hospital admissions and severe injuries in passenger vehicles, their effectiveness in school buses was not observed.

Conclusion

This study highlights the different epidemiology and injury profiles of RTIs among children involving passenger vehicles and school buses. Improved safety devices, particularly in school buses, are necessary to ensure the comprehensive protection of child passengers and reduce the risk of severe injuries during road traffic incidents.