bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress/cell death pathways, neuroinflammation, and neuropathic pain
Authors: Li Lu , Li Tian , Qu Xinyu , Sun Guangwei , Fu Qi , Han Guang
Published: September 2023

Neuropathic pain is a common and debilitating modality of chronic pain induced by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system. Albeit the elucidation of numerous pathophysiological mechanisms and the development of potential treatment compounds, safe and reliable therapies of neuropathic pain remain poor. Multiple stress/cell death pathways have been shown to be implicated in neuroinflammation during neuropathic pain. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of stress/cell death pathways and present an overview of the roles and molecular mechanisms of stress/cell death pathways in neuroinflammation during neuropathic pain, covering intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis, autophagy, mitophagy, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis, and phagoptosis. Small molecule compounds that modulate stress/cell death pathways in alleviating neuropathic pain are discussed mainly based on preclinical neuropathic pain models. These findings will contribute to in‐depth understanding of the pathological processes during neuropathic pain as well as bridge the gap between basic and translational research to uncover new neuroprotective interventions.
Multifunctional tantalum disilicide ceramics sintered at high temperature and high pressure
Authors: Yu Yajie , He Shi , Zhang Zhengang , Chen Haihua , Jin Peipeng , Zhong Binnian , Zhang Linhui , Wang Liping , Lu Cheng
Published: September 2023

Silicide ceramics are attracted significant attention due to their exceptional physical properties. However, their inherent brittleness at room temperature limits their practical applications. Here, we aim to improve the mechanical properties of tantalum disilicide (TaSi2) ceramics by modifying the preparation methods and sintering conditions. We fabricate the dense TaSi2 ceramics using high‐pressure and high‐temperature (HPHT) sintering technology at 5.5 GPa and 800–1300°C. We characterize the microstructures, mechanical, and electronic properties of bulk TaSi2 ceramics at HPHT conditions. Our results indicate an enhancement in the fracture toughness of 11.97 MPa m1/2 for TaSi2 ceramics. More importantly, the electrical conductivity (47.13 × 105 S/m) of TaSi2 ceramic is increased and verified by theoretical calculations. These findings provide crucial insights for future applications of TaSi2 and offer valuable avenues for the design and synthesis of advanced ceramic materials.
Influence of ion‐induced lattice stress and phase transition on the irradiation resistance of high‐entropy ceramics
Authors: He Jiabei , Song Mengshan , Yang Ming , Zhu Miaomiao
Published: September 2023

The influence of ion irradiation on intrinsic lattice stress and phase transition is closely related to the irradiation resistance of high‐entropy ceramics. In this study, the ion‐induced response of high‐entropy‐stabilized o‐(ZrHfTiSn)O2 ceramic was investigated under Au2+ irradiation with different fluences. The results revealed that high‐fluence irradiation caused the minimal (orthorhombic‐to‐triclinic) phase transformation underneath the ion‐induced amorphous layer via. fast fourier transformation (FFT) pattern. The cation recombination led to cation rearrangement followed by the increase of lattice expansion induced stress. The lattice stability of residual crystal grains in the mixed layer was significantly improved after lattice rearrangement. This was evidenced by the fact that the X‐ray diffraction profile of the lattice remained unchanged, whereas the selected area electron diffraction (SAED) image exhibited drastic variations with the increase of irradiation fluence. Therefore, irradiation‐induced lattice rearrangement seems to be a reliable way to improve radiation resistance of high‐entropy ceramics.
How and where does “care” fit within seminal life‐course approaches? A narrative review and critical analysis
Authors: Lawless Michael T. , Tieu Matthew , Golley Rebecca , Kitson Alison
Published: September 2023

Aims

To map the concepts of the caring life‐course theory that are used in life‐course approaches from different disciplines; establish whether there is a common recognition of, or language used, to describe care in those life‐course approaches; and identify the role and contribution of care to the life‐course literature.

Design

This discursive paper uses a narrative review process to explore points of convergence and divergence between life‐course approaches and the caring life‐course theory.

Methods

Categories for analysis were developed deductively and inductively, focusing on the constructs of fundamental care, capacity and capability, care network, care transition, care trajectory and care biography.

Results

We identified four disciplinary perspectives: (1) life‐course sociology; (2) life‐course epidemiology; (3) lifespan developmental psychology; and (4) life‐course health development. While six core constructs of the caring life‐course theory were described, either explicitly or implicitly, in existing life‐course approaches, no single approach fully describes the role and contribution of care across the lifespan.

Conclusion

Life‐course approaches have largely neglected the contribution and role of care in informing the life‐course discourse. This review highlights the significance of care beyond traditional healthcare settings and recognizes it as a fundamental human need for well‐being and development, which can contribute to existing life‐course literature.

Implication for the Profession and/or Patient Care

There is a need to understand care as a complex system and embrace a whole‐system, life‐course approach to enable nurses and other healthcare professionals to provide high‐quality, patient‐centred care.

Impact

Incorporating care within a life‐course approach provides opportunities to integrate and deliver care centred around the person, their life transitions, trajectories and care networks, including informal carers and healthcare professionals.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Patients or members of the public were not involved in this study as it is a discursive paper based on the relevant literature.
Functional responses in a lizard along a 3.5‐km altitudinal gradient
Authors: Serén Nina , Megía‐Palma Rodrigo , Simčič Tatjana , Krofel Miha , Guarino Fabio Maria , Pinho Catarina , Žagar Anamarija , Carretero Miguel A.
Published: September 2023

Aim

Physiological and metabolic performance are key mediators of the functional response of species to environmental change. Few environments offer such a multifaceted array of stressors as high‐altitude habitats, which differ markedly in temperature, water availability, UV radiation and oxygen pressure compared to low‐altitude habitats. Species that inhabit large altitudinal gradients are thus excellent models to study how organisms respond to environmental variation.

Location

Tenerife island, Canary Islands archipelago (Spain).

Taxon

Tenerife lizard (Gallotia galloti, Lacertidae).

Methods

We integrated data on age structure, thermal and hydric regulatory behaviour and four metabolic and stress‐related biomarkers for an insular lizard that inhabits an extreme altitudinal range (sea level to 3700 m a.s.l.), to understand how an ectotherms' age, ecophysiology and metabolism can be affected by extreme environmental variation.

Results

We found marked differences in metabolic stress markers associated with altitude (particularly in the abundance of carbonyl metabolites and relative telomere length), but without a linear pattern along the altitudinal cline. Contrary to expectations, longer telomeres and lower carbonyl content were detected at the highest altitude, suggesting reduced stress in these populations. Evaporative water loss differed between populations but did not follow a linear altitudinal gradient. Lizard age structure or thermal physiological performance did not markedly change across different altitudes. Mixed signals in life‐history and thermal ecology across populations and altitude suggest complex responses to variable conditions across altitude in this species.

Main Conclusions

Our integrative study of multiple functional traits demonstrated that adaptation to highly divergent environmental conditions in this lizard is potentially linked to an interplay between plasticity and local adaptation variably associated with different functional traits.
Triglyceride glucose index and renal function decline in Han Chinese hypertensive patients
Authors: Chen Hung‐Chang , Tsai Yun‐Hsuan , Huang Chin‐Chou
Published: September 2023

Elevated triglyceride glucose (TyG) index is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The current study aimed to investigate whether the TyG index was correlated with renal function decline in patients with hypertension. Han Chinese participants with essential hypertension were included. The TyG index was calculated as ln[fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) * fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2]. Renal function decline was defined as >25% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to examine the independent effect of the TyG index on renal events. In total, 548 Han Chinese hypertensive participants with a mean age of 62.1 ± 14.3 years were eligible for enrollment. During a mean follow‐up period of 4.7 ± 3.1 years, 97 patients suffered from >25% decline in eGFR. When compared to those without eGFR decline, patients with eGFR decline had higher fasting triglyceride levels (P = .056), fasting glucose levels (P = .014), and TyG indexes (P = .014). The Cox proportional hazard regression model revealed that the TyG index (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.490; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.016–2.185, P = .041), office systolic blood pressure (HR = 1.013; 95% CI = 1.000–1.026, P = .047), diabetes mellitus (HR = 1.797, 95% CI = 1.026–3.147, P = .040), and baseline eGFR (HR = 1.015; 95% CI = 1.002–1.028, P = .025) were associated with renal events. In conclusions, an elevated TyG index is independently associated with an increased risk of eGFR decline in hypertensive patients.
High BMP7 expression is associated with poor prognosis in ovarian cancer
Authors: Vasan Richa , Yadav Jahnavi , Aiyappa‐Maudsley Radhika , Deen Suha , Storr Sarah J. , Martin Stewart G.
Published: September 2023

Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 (BMP7) is an extracellular signalling protein that belongs to the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐ β) superfamily. Previous transcriptomic data suggested that BMP7 expression may be disrupted in ovarian carcinoma and may play an important role in the aggressiveness of the disease. However, the protein expression in patient tumours has not been well studied. The current study aimed to assess BMP7 protein expression in a large cohort of ovarian carcinoma patient tumour samples to establish its associations with different clinical endpoints. Ovarian carcinoma tissue samples from 575 patients who underwent surgery for different subtypes of ovarian cancer were used. BMP7 protein expression was analysed by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarray and full face tumour sections. High BMP7 expression is associated with aggressive ovarian cancer clinicopathological variables including advanced FIGO stage, high grade, residual disease and poor overall survival. Elevated cytoplasmic and nuclear BMP7 expression was significantly associated with advanced FIGO stage, high tumour grade, presence of residual tumours and high‐grade serous carcinomas (p = 0.001, 0.005, 0.004, <0.001 and p < 0.001, <0.001, 0.002, 0.001 respectively). Increased cytoplasmic and nuclear BMP7 expression was also significantly associated with an adverse overall survival (p = 0.001 and 0.046 respectively). The study highlights the potential of BMP7 as a prognostic tool and as a potential novel target for ovarian cancer therapies to limit disease progression.
Type 1 diabetes, COVID‐19 vaccines and short‐term safety: Subgroup analysis from the global COVAD study
Authors: Chatterjee Tulika , Ravichandran Naveen , Nair Narmadha , Gracia‐Ramos Abraham Edgar , Barman Bhupen , Sen Parikshit , Joshi Mrudula , Saha Sreoshy , Nune Arvind , Pande Arun Kumar R , Velikova Tsvetelina , Parodis Ioannis , Tan Ai Lyn , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki , Boro Hiya , Agarwal Vikas , Aggarwal Rohit , Gupta Latika ,   COVAD Study Group
Published: September 2023

Aims/Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccinations have been proven to be generally safe in healthy populations. However, the data on vaccine safety in patients with type 1 diabetes are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and severity of short‐term (<7‐day) adverse vaccination events (AEs) and their risk factors among type 1 diabetes patients.

Materials and Methods

This study analyzed data from the COVID‐19 vaccination in Autoimmune Diseases (COVAD) survey database (May to December 2021; 110 collaborators, 94 countries), comparing <7‐day COVID‐19 vaccine AE among type 1 diabetes patients and healthy controls (HCs). Descriptive statistics; propensity score matching (1:4) using the variables age, sex and ethnicity; and multivariate analyses were carried out.

Results

This study analyzed 5,480 completed survey responses. Of all responses, 5,408 were HCs, 72 were type 1 diabetes patients (43 females, 48.0% white European ancestry) and Pfizer was the most administered vaccine (39%). A total of 4,052 (73.9%) respondents had received two vaccine doses. Patients with type 1 diabetes had a comparable risk of injection site pain, minor and major vaccine AEs, as well as associated hospitalizations to HCs. However, type 1 diabetes patients had a higher risk of severe rashes (3% vs 0.4%, OR 8.0, 95% confidence interval 1.7–36), P = 0.007), although reassuringly, these were rare (n = 2 among type 1 diabetes patients).

Conclusions

COVID‐19 vaccination was safe and well tolerated in patients with type 1 diabetes with similar AE profiles compared with HCs, although severe rashes were more common in type 1 diabetes patients.
A novel protein‐based fruit fly trap in melon flies Bactrocera cucurbitae for effective pest control management
Authors: McCracken Andrew W. , Niazy Nurah , Turi Samu , Arya Vijeth , Kempraj Vivek , Morimoto Juliano
Published: September 2023

Agriculture remains a major source of subsistence for local communities in India. However, agricultural yield can be strongly affected by agricultural pest outbreaks. This can result in economic losses for small‐scale farmers who already experience socio‐economic challenges, such as lack of appropriate infrastructure and subsides. Sophisticated pest management techniques (e.g. sterile insect technique) are less accessible to small farmers in developing countries, and therefore, alternative cost‐effective approaches for pest management are needed. Here, we report our findings of a 3‐year field trial (2018–2020) in India, which was designed to test for the potential effectiveness of a novel, slow‐release formulation protein‐based trap, compared to standard Cuelure traps against melon flies Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae). Protein‐bait traps can attract flies from both sexes (as opposed to male‐only, chemical traps), bearing the potential to have a greater long‐term impact on pest populations by decreasing future reproductive potential of trapped individuals. We found that, despite uneven sampling efforts, Cuelure had overall higher trapping performance, while protein‐bait traps, despite trapping at lower efficiency, were equally effective for trapping males and females. Simulations with our field data revealed that protein‐bait traps can have an ‘inclusive’ advantage by trapping females and thereby preventing future individuals. Overall, our study highlights the potential benefits of using this alternative trapping technique to supplement pest management in developing countries.
Differential modulation of digestive enzymes and energy reserves at different times after feeding in juveniles of the marine estuarine‐dependent flatfish Paralichthys orbignyanus (Valenciennes, 1839)
Authors: Albanesi Camila Paula , Méndez Eugenia , Michiels María Soledad , Radonic Mariela , López Andrea , López‐Mañanes Alejandra A.
Published: September 2023

Integrative studies are lacking on the responses of digestive enzymes and energy reserves in conjunction with morphological traits at distinct postprandial times in marine estuarine‐dependent flatfishes of ecological and economic importance, such as Paralichthys orbignyanus. We determined total weight (TW), hepato‐somatic index (IH), activities of digestive enzymes in the intestine, and the concentration of energy reserves in the liver and the muscle at 0, 24, 72, and 360 h after feeding in juveniles of P. orbignyanus. Amylase activity decreased at 72 h (about 30%). Maltase, sucrose, and lipase activities reached peak at 24 h (67%, 600%, and 35%, respectively). Trypsin and aminopeptidase‐N activities at 24 and 72 h, respectively, were lower than those at t = 0 (53% and 30%). A peak increase in the concentration of glycogen and triglycerides in the liver (24 h) (86% and 89%, respectively) occurred. In muscle, glycogen and triglyceride concentrations were unchanged at 24 h and higher at 72 and 360 h (100% and 60%). No changes were found in TW, IH, free glucose in the liver and muscle, and protein in the liver. The protein concentration in the muscle sharply increased at 24 and 360 h after feeding (60%). The results indicate a distinct and specific response of central components of carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism that could be adjustments at the biochemical level upon periods of irregular feeding and even of long‐term food deprivation inside coastal lagoons or estuaries. The distinct responses of digestive enzymes in the intestine and energy reserves in the liver and muscle suggest the differential modulation of tissue‐specific anabolic and catabolic pathways that would allow the maintenance of physical conditions.
Multi‐omics analysis reveals the evolutionary origin of diterpenoid alkaloid biosynthesis pathways in Aconitum
Authors: Zhao Dake , Zhang Ya , Ren Huanxing , Shi Yana , Dong Ding , Li Zonghang , Cui Guanghong , Shen Yong , Mou Zongmin , Kennelly Edward J. , Huang Luqi , Ruan Jue , Chen Suiyun , Yu Diqiu , Cun Yupeng
Published: September 2023

Diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs) have been often utilized in clinical practice due to their analgesic and anti‐inflammatory properties. Natural DAs are prevalent in the family Ranunculaceae, notably in the Aconitum genus. Nevertheless, the evolutionary origin of the biosynthesis pathway responsible for DA production remains unknown. In this study, we successfully assembled a high‐quality, pseudochromosome‐level genome of the DA‐rich species Aconitum vilmorinianum (A. vilmorinianum) (5.76 Gb). An A. vilmorinianum‐specific whole‐genome duplication event was discovered using comparative genomic analysis, which may aid in the evolution of the DA biosynthesis pathway. We identified several genes involved in DA biosynthesis via integrated genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. These genes included enzymes encoding target ent‐kaurene oxidases and aminotransferases, which facilitated the activation of diterpenes and insertion of nitrogen atoms into diterpene skeletons, thereby mediating the transformation of diterpenes into DAs. The divergence periods of these genes in A. vilmorinianum were further assessed, and it was shown that two major types of genes were involved in the establishment of the DA biosynthesis pathway. Our integrated analysis offers fresh insights into the evolutionary origin of DAs in A. vilmorinianum as well as suggestions for engineering the biosynthetic pathways to obtain desired DAs.
Positive and negative intergroup contact in school andout‐of‐schoolcontexts: A longitudinal approach to spillover effects
Authors: Karataş Savaş , Eckstein Katharina , Noack Peter , Rubini Monica , Crocetti Elisabetta
Published: September 2023

This study aims to tackle positive and negative intergroup contact in school and out‐of‐school contexts to test whether a spillover effect (i.e., the extent to which experiences that individuals have in one context spill over into another) applies to intergroup contact. Participants were 984 adolescents (Mage = 14.66; 62.7% female; 24.8% ethnic minority). Results indicated that positive contact in school was related over time to higher positive contact in out‐of‐school contexts and vice versa (i.e.,valence consistent spillover effect). Positive contact in school was linked over time to lower negative contact in out‐of‐school contexts (i.e.,valence inconsistent spillover effect). Overall, this study provides novel insights into the transmission of adolescents' intergroup contact across socialization contexts by emphasizing the leading role of positive contact in schools.
Longitudinal course and outcome of social jetlag in adolescents: A 1‐year follow‐up study of the adolescent sleep health epidemiological cohorts
Authors: Tamura Norihisa , Okamura Kayoko
Published: September 2023

The discrepancy in sleep timing between weekdays and weekends – social jetlag (SJL) – is known to negatively affect student quality of life (QOL). However, the association between social jetlag and physical/mental QOL among adolescents and the precise effect of social jetlag on depressive symptoms and daytime sleepiness remains unknown. This study investigated the longitudinal course, risk factors, and effects of social jetlag, a circadian misalignment, in a school‐based cohort. The participants were 427 students (13.3 ± 0.6 years, 45.2% girls) from five junior high schools. We performed a baseline survey in 2019 and a 1‐year follow‐up survey in 2020. Depressive symptoms, QOL, and daytime sleepiness were assessed using the Birleson Depression Self‐Rating Scale for Children, Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory, and Paediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale. In the baseline survey, 49.6% of the students reported SJL ≥1 h, and 17.1% reported SJL ≥2 h. Among them, 37.2% and 6.8% reported persistent SJL at follow‐up, respectively. New incidences of SJL ≥1 h were associated with older age, non‐attainment of menarche or voice changes, and longer duration of smartphone use, whereas its persistence was associated with a later chronotype. Persistence of SJL ≥1 h and ≥2 h predicted depressive symptoms and daytime sleepiness at follow‐up, whereas new incidences of SJL ≥2 h predicted lower QOL. In conclusion, social jetlag has a persistent course, and daytime functioning can deteriorate as social jetlag becomes chronic. Our findings suggest the need for intensive interventions for social jetlag among adolescents.
Unsocial media: A toxic place for women
Authors: Dhrodia Azmina
Published: September 2023

Online abuse has become an everyday occurrence for women politicians. Azmina Dhrodia explores the 2017 General Election campaign and argues that failure to tackle this urgent problem will have serious consequences both for women now, and in generations to come.
Food allergy—A holistic approach to dietary management. A joint EAACI Research & Outreach Committee and INDANA review
Authors: Skypala Isabel J. , Reese Imke , Durban Raquel , Hunter Hannah , Podesta Marcia , Chaddad Maria Cecília Cury , Santos Alexandra F. , Agache Ioana
Published: September 2023

Following a diagnosis of IgE‐mediated food allergy, to secure the best outcome, the patient should receive individualized advice tailored to their specific needs, which considers the type and presentation of the food involved, level of exclusion required, risk of cross‐contamination and any variance required for age, ethnicity, financial issues, and lifestyle. Issues such as food labels “may contain” statements, and variation in the threshold of reaction and impact of cofactors should also be considered. Most important is the need to ensure that the diagnosis is robust, especially given the nutritional, psychological, and socioeconomic issues that can affect an individual with a diagnosis of food allergy. Unnecessary exclusion of one or more foods that have not triggered allergic reactions, especially in individuals with allergic comorbidities, can result in severe IgE‐mediated reactions on re‐exposure. Given that food allergies may change over time, the diagnosis should be reviewed, to determine whether resolution is likely, or new‐food triggers are reported. Regular assessment is vital, especially during childhood, to ensure reintroduction occurs at an appropriate time, thus enabling increased diversity of the diet and improvement in the quality of life. For some, an IgE‐mediated food allergy may necessitate the life‐long exclusion of foods, and for others, a food habitually eaten suddenly triggers an allergic reaction in adult life. People of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds deserve individual advice on the management of their food allergy to support a healthy diet and improve quality of life.
Effect of education regarding treatment guidelines for schizophrenia and depression on the treatment behavior of psychiatrists: A multicenter study
Authors: Hasegawa Naomi , Yasuda Yuka , Yasui‐Furukori Norio , Yamada Hisashi , Hori Hikaru , Ichihashi Kayo , Takaesu Yoshikazu , Iida Hitoshi , Muraoka Hiroyuki , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Iga Jun‐ichi , Hashimoto Naoki , Ogasawara Kazuyoshi , Ohi Kazutaka , Fukumoto Kentaro , Numata Shusuke , Tsuboi Takashi , Usami Masahide , Hishimoto Akitoyo , Furihata Ryuji , Kishimoto Taishiro , Nakamura Toshinori , Katsumoto Eiichi , Ochi Shinichiro , Nagasawa Tatsuya , Atake Kiyokazu , Kubota Chika , Komatsu Hiroshi , Yamagata Hirotaka , Ide Kenta , Takeshima Masahiro , Kido Mikio , Kikuchi Saya , Okada Tsuyoshi , Matsumoto Junya , Miura Kenichiro , Shimazu Taichi , Inada Ken , Watanabe Koichiro , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aims to examine the real‐world effectiveness of education regarding clinical guidelines for psychiatric disorders using ‘the Effectiveness of guidelines for dissemination and education in psychiatric treatment (EGUIDE)’ project.

Methods

The EGUIDE project is a nationwide prospective implementation study of two clinical practice guidelines, i.e., the Guideline for Pharmacological Therapy of Schizophrenia and the Treatment Guidelines for Major Depressive Disorders, in Japan. Between 2016 and 2019, 782 psychiatrists belonging to 176 hospitals with psychiatric wards participated in the project and attended lectures on clinical practice guidelines. The proportions of guideline‐recommended treatments in 7405 patients with schizophrenia and 3794 patients with major depressive disorder at participating hospitals were compared between patients under the care of psychiatrists participating in the project and those not participating in the project. Clinical and prescribing data on the patients discharged from April to September each year from participating hospitals of the project were also analyzed.

Results

The proportions of three quality indicators (antipsychotic monotherapy regardless of whether other psychotropics medication, antipsychotic monotherapy without other psychotropics and no prescription of anxiolytics or hypnotics) for schizophrenia were higher among participating psychiatrists than among nonparticipating psychiatrists. As similar results were obtained in major depressive disorder, the effectiveness of the project for the dissemination of guideline‐recommended treatment has been replicated.

Conclusion

This strategy of providing education regarding the clinical guidelines for psychiatric disorders was effective in improving the treatment‐related behavior of psychiatrists. The use of this education‐based strategy might contribute to resolving the mental health treatment gap.
Insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐2 as a biomarker for lupus nephritis
Authors: Luong Phuong Thi , Nguyen Thuy Thi Dieu , Nguyen Ngoc Thi , Ngo Hang Thu , Nguyen Huy Ngoc , Pho Diep Hong , Nguyen Huong Thu
Published: September 2023

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to identify serum insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐2 (IGFBP‐2) as a novel non‐invasive biomarker for clinical disease and renal pathology in pediatric LN.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study on 93 newly diagnosed LN children who were biopsy‐proven, 35 SLE children with no renal involvement as disease controls, and 30 healthy controls (HC) with age and gender‐matched. All children were ELISA tested for serum IGFBP‐2 levels. Clinical, laboratory, histopathological features of LN patients were collected.

Results

Compared to SLE or HC, serum IGFBP‐2 levels were significantly elevated in LN patients. Serum IGFBP‐2 could distinguish LN patients from two others (AUC = 0.937, p < 0.001 for LN vs. HC; 0.897, p < 0.0001 for LN vs. SLE). In ROC analysis, IGFBP‐2 had a higher ability to differentiate between LN and SLE than anti‐dsDNA with AUC values of 0.895 and 0.643, respectively. LN children with systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI) in high activity had significantly higher IGFBP‐2 concentration than the others with SLEDAI in moderate activity. Serum IGFBP‐2 correlated with albuminemia levels (r = 0.415, p < 0.001), urine protein‐to‐creatinine levels (r = 0.316, p = 0.002), estimated glomerular filtration rate (r = 0.438, p < 0.001), complement C3 (r = 0.333, p = 0.001). More importantly, serum IGFBP‐2 correlated with the activity index of renal pathology (r = 0.312, p = 0.007, n = 75).

Conclusions

Serum IGFBP‐2 is a promising biomarker for pediatric lupus nephritis, reflective of disease activity and activity index in renal patients.
Kant on punishment and poverty
Authors: Hadsell Nicholas
Published: September 2023

I offer a Kantian argument for the idea that the state lacks the authority to punish neglected, impoverished citizens when they commit crimes to cope with that neglect. Given Kant's own commitments to the value of external freedom and the state's obligation to ensure it, there is no reason a Kantian state can claim authority to punish an impoverished citizen while also failing in significant ways to protect her external freedom.
Libertarian independent ideologies predict lower support for and participation in COVID‐19 safety precautions among Americans
Authors: Coberly Elise , Xu Xiaowen
Published: September 2023

In the US, higher conservatism has consistently been linked to lower receptiveness toward COVID‐19 safety precautions. The present studies extended these findings by examining how specific dimensions of conservatism contributed to this relationship. Three studies (total N = 1123) found that conservatives with higher Libertarian Independent attitudes reported less support for and participation in COVID‐19 safety precautions. These effects remained robust after controlling for demographics, general political orientation, COVID‐19 threat perception, and personality. These findings offer nuanced insight into how those with different conservative ideologies responded to COVID‐19 safety precautions.
Development of cost‐effective and fast KIR genotyping by multiplex PCR‐SSP
Authors: Choi Eun‐Jeong , Baek In‐Cheol , Park Silvia , Kim Hee‐Je , Kim Tai‐Gyu
Published: September 2023

Killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) control natural killer (NK) cell functions by recognizing HLA molecules and modulating the activity of NK cells. The KIR gene cluster contains polymorphic and highly homologous genes. Diversity of the KIR region is achieved through differences in gene content, allelic polymorphism, and gene copy number, which result in unrelated individuals having different KIR genotypes and individualized immune responses that are relevant to multiple aspects of human health and disease. Therefore, KIR genotyping is increasingly used in epidemiological studies. Here, we developed multiplex polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP) to compensate for the shortcomings of the conventional PCR‐SSP method, which is most commonly used for KIR analysis. Multiplex PCR‐SSP method involves six multiplex reactions that detect 16 KIR genes and distinguish variant types of some KIR genes by adding two reactions. The assay was evaluated in a blind survey using a panel of 40 reference DNA standards from the UCLA KIR Exchange Program. The results are 100% concordant with the genotype determined using Luminex‐based reverse sequence‐specific oligonucleotide typing systems. Additionally, we investigated the currently known 16 KIR genes and their common variants in 120 unrelated Korean individuals. The results were consistent with the KIR genotype previously reported by Hwang et al. This multiplex PCR‐SSP is an efficient method for analyzing KIR genotypes in both small‐ and large‐scale studies with minimal labor, reagents, and DNA. Furthermore, by providing a better definition of KIR polymorphisms it can contribute to developments in immunogenetics.
Singularity Structure Optimization for Hexahedral Mesh Via Dual Operations
Authors: Shen Chun , Wang Rui
Published: September 2023

This paper presents an improved method for optimizing the singularity structure of hexahedral meshes using various dual operations. Our approach aims at reducing element distortion by decomposing complex singular nodes into singular curves using high-quality sheet insertion at proper locations. Then, singular curves that meet the topological parallel requirements are paired to perform the semantic column operation, which eliminates the singular curves. Finally, the topological structure is further optimized by collapsing sheets, resulting in a valid hex mesh with a simpler structure. Compared to existing hexahedral mesh simplification methods, our approach can generate higher quality meshes. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Toward an Online Monitoring of Structural Performance Based on Physics-Informed Hybrid Modeling Method
Authors: He Xiwang , Li Kunpeng , Wang Shuo , Lai Xiaonan , Yang Liangliang , Kan Ziyun , Song Xueguan
Published: September 2023

To optimize structures and monitor their health, it is essential to build an accurate dynamic analysis model. However, traditional modeling methods based solely on physical information or data-driven techniques may not suffice for many engineering applications. While physical models can accurately simulate complex equipment, they may also incur high computational time. On the other hand, data-driven models may improve computational efficiency but are subject to significant deviations due to the influence of training data. To address these challenges, the Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) has gained popularity for imposing physical constraints during the training process, leading to better generalization capabilities with fewer data samples. This paper proposes a physics-informed hybrid modeling (PIHM) approach that combines a reduced-order model, kernel functions, and dynamic equations to predict dynamic output with limited training data and physical information. The method integrates prior physics information into function approximation by incorporating the reduced dynamic equation into a surrogate modeling framework. The loss function considers inertial and damping effects, ensuring physical plausibility. Unlike traditional PINN applications, the proposed modeling method is more explainable, as the trained model can be expressed in function form with engineering interpretation. The approach is verified with a real-world engineering example (telehandler boom) under complex load conditions, demonstrating accuracy, efficiency, and physical plausibility. Overall, the proposed method offers promising capabilities in solving problems where high-fidelity simulation is challenging.
Thermal transport and structural improvements due to annealing of wafer bonded β-Ga2O3|4H-SiC
Authors: Liao Michael E. , Huynh Kenny , Cheng Zhe , Shi Jingjing , Graham Samuel , Goorsky Mark S.
Published: September 2023

The impact of postbond annealing on the structural and thermal characteristics of 130 nm thick exfoliated (201) β-Ga2O3 (via H+ ion implantation) wafer bonded to (0001) 4H-SiC was studied. Thirty nanometer amorphous-Al2O3 was grown on the β-Ga2O3 substrates prior to bonding as an interlayer between β-Ga2O3 and 4H-SiC. The surface activated bonding technique was utilized for bonding, which induces a thin nanometer amorphous interfacial region at the bonded interface (Al2O3|4H-SiC). We demonstrate annealing the bonded structure at 800 °C up to 1 h is beneficial: (1) the removal of residual strain in the exfoliated β-Ga2O3 layer that was due to the exfoliation implant, (2) reduction of lattice mosaicity in the β-Ga2O3 layer, (3) nearly complete recrystallization of the amorphous bonded interfacial region, and (4) partial recrystallization of the initially amorphous-Al2O3 interlayer. The thermal characteristics correspondingly improve with the improvement in structural characteristics. The thermal conductivity of the as-bonded β-Ga2O3 layer was 2.9 W/m K, and the thermal boundary conductance of the bonded interface was 66 MW/m2 K. After annealing at 800 °C for 1 h, triple-axis x-ray diffraction ω:2θ measurements showed a reduction in strain for the β-Ga2O3 layer and the symmetric (201) rocking curve widths. We simultaneously observe a doubling of the β-Ga2O3 thermal conductivity to 6.0 W/m K and a 20% increase in the thermal boundary conductance. However, upon further annealing up to 10 h and fully recrystallizing both the Al2O3 interlayer and bonded interface, the thermal boundary conductance dropped by ∼30%. This preliminary result suggests that crystalline heterointerfaces may not necessarily be the most optimal interfacial structure for thermal transport.
A sperm whale cautionary tale about estimating acoustic cue rates for deep divers
Authors: Marques Tiago A. , Marques Carolina S. , Gkikopoulou Kalliopi C.
Published: September 2023

Passive acoustic density estimation has been gaining traction in recent years. Cue counting uses detected acoustic cues to estimate animal abundance. A cue rate, the number of acoustic cues produced per animal per unit time, is required to convert cue density into animal density. Cue rate information can be obtained from animal borne acoustic tags. For deep divers, like beaked whales, data have been analyzed considering deep dive cycles as a natural sampling unit, based on either weighted averages or generalized estimating equations. Using a sperm whale DTAG (sound-and-orientation recording tag) example we compare different approaches of estimating cue rate from acoustic tags illustrating that both approaches used before might introduce biases and suggest that the natural unit of analysis should be the whole duration of the tag itself.
The Fine-Tuning Approach for Training Monitoring
Authors: Boullosa Daniel , Claudino João Gustavo , Fernandez-Fernandez Jaime , Bok Daniel , Loturco Irineu , Stults-Kolehmainen Matthew , García-López Juan , Foster Carl
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Monitoring is a fundamental part of the training process to guarantee that the programmed training loads are executed by athletes and result in the intended adaptations and enhanced performance. A number of monitoring tools have emerged during the last century in sport. These tools capture different facets (eg, psychophysiological, physical, biomechanical) of acute training bouts and chronic adaptations while presenting specific advantages and limitations. Therefore, there is a need to identify what tools are more efficient in each sport context for better monitoring of training process. Methods and Results: We present and discuss the fine-tuning approach for training monitoring, which consists of identifying and combining the best monitoring tools with experts’ knowledge in different sport settings, designed to improve (1) the control of actual training loads and (2) understanding of athletes’ training adaptations. Instead of using single-tool approaches or merely subjective decision making, the identification of the best combination of monitoring tools to assist experts’ decisions in each specific context (ie, triangulation) is necessary to better understand the link between acute and chronic adaptations and their impact on health and performance. Future studies should elaborate on the identification of the best combination of monitoring tools for each specific sport setting. Conclusion: The fine-tuning monitoring approach requires the simultaneous use of several valid and practical tools, instead of a single tool, to improve the effectiveness of monitoring practices when added to experts’ knowledge.
Birds of Different Feathers: Coaches’ Perspectives of Cultural Diversity and Team Dynamics in Professional Sport
Authors: Eluère Manon , Martin Luc J. , Godfrey Michael , Mallett Clifford J. , Heuzé Jean-Philippe
Published: September 2023

As the number of international transfers increases in professional sport teams, it is unclear how this diversity impacts team functioning, and also, whether coaches feel equipped to meet this new challenge. In this study, we explored professional coaches’ perceptions and experiences of cultural diversity (i.e., national and racioethnic diversity), with a specific emphasis on implications for team dynamics. Semistructured interviews were conducted with nine professional coaches from four interdependent team sports in France (i.e., basketball, football, handball, volleyball). The coaches had experience leading first or second division men’s and/or women’s teams (e.g., two highest national championships in France, Canada, or Italy) and national teams (e.g., France, Belgium, China). Based on a critical realist approach, results indicated that coaches purposefully considered cultural diversity within their teams, and discussed stereotypical differences based on nationalities pertaining to work ethic, communication, and motives for action. Coaches’ international experience and intercultural competence seemed to be key elements that influenced their willingness to consider the cultural diversity of their teams in their coaching/management strategies. Herein, we discuss the importance of purposefully considering a team’s context (e.g., sport, member composition, geographical location) and note that coach intercultural competence appears to be a concept warranting further investigation.
Exploring the Experiences of Community Sport Coaches: Stressors, Coping Strategies, and Mental Health
Authors: Hogan Kelsey , Vierimaa Matthew , Dithurbide Lori
Published: September 2023

In recent years, athlete mental health has received increased attention from researchers; however, coaches also experience stressors that can impact their mental health. This study addressed a gap in the sport coaching literature by using a phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of community sport coaches in Canada—an understudied population that makes up a large portion of the coaching workforce. Nineteen coaches from Atlantic Canada discussed stressors, coping strategies, and mental health in one-on-one semistructured interviews. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results are presented in three higher order themes: mental health culture in sport, influences on coach mental health, and coping strategies and supports. Our findings suggest that community coaches experience a variety of stressors (e.g., interpersonal, personal, organizational) similar to elite coaches, but that the origin of stressors may be different in the community sport context. The impact of stressors can be mitigated by coaches’ coping strategies, access to training and resources, and aspects of the role that support their mental health (e.g., rewarding work). Finally, these results suggest that training should address gaps in mental health literacy for coaches to support their own mental health needs as well as their athletes’ needs.
Evidence for a prehistoric multifault rupture along the southern Calico fault system, Eastern California Shear Zone, USA
Authors: Vadman Michael J. , Garvue Max M. , Spotila James A. , Bemis Sean P. , Stamps D. Sarah , Owen Lewis A. , Figueiredo Paula M.
Published: September 2023

Geomorphic mapping and paleoseismologic data reveal evidence for a late Holocene multifault surface rupture along the Calico-Hidalgo fault system of the southern Eastern California Shear Zone (ECSZ). We have identified ~18 km of continuous surface rupture along the combined Calico and Hidalgo faults in the vicinity of Hidalgo Mountain in the southern Mojave Desert. Based on the freshness of geomorphic fault features and continuity of surface expression, we interpret this feature to reflect a simultaneous paleorupture of both faults. Displacement along the paleorupture is defined by 39 field measurements to be generally pure right-slip with a mean offset of 2.3 m. Scaling relationships for this offset amount imply that the original surface rupture length may have been ~82 km (corresponding to a M7.4 earthquake) and that much of the rupture trace was erased by subsequent erosion of sandy and unconsolidated valley alluvium. Eight luminescence ages from a paleoseismic trench across the paleorupture on the Hidalgo fault bracket the timing of the most recent rupture to 0.9–1.7 ka and a possible penultimate event at 5.5–6.6 ka. This timing is generally consistent with the known earthquake clusters in the southern ECSZ based on previous paleoseismic investigations. The ages of these earthquakes also overlap with the age brackets of the most recent events on the Calico fault 42 km to the north and the Mesquite Lake fault 40 km to the south from earlier work. Based on these age constraints and the expected surface rupture length, we propose that the Calico fault system experienced a major, multifault rupture that spanned the entire length of the fault system between the historical Landers and Hector Mine ruptures but preceded these events by ~1–2 k.y. Coulomb stress change modeling shows that the Calico paleorupture may have delayed the occurrence of the Landers-Hector Mine cluster by placing their respective faults in stress shadows and may have also prevented a triggered event from occurring on the Calico fault following the historic events. This work implies that closely spaced ruptures in complex shear zones may repel each other and thereby stretch out the duration of major earthquake clusters. These results also suggest that complex multifault ruptures in the ECSZ may not follow simple, repeatable patterns.
Geochemistry (TE, REE, Oxygen) of Zircon from Leucogranites of the Belokurikhinsky Massif, Gorny Altai, as Indicator of Formation Conditions
Authors: Levashova E. V. , Mamykina M. E. , Skublov S. G. , Galankina O. L. , Li Q.-L. , Li X.-H.
Published: September 2023

The present contribution deals with the isotopic-geochemical study (by Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA) and Method of Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (SIMS) of zircons from Belokurikhinsky massif leucogranites, which resulted in the determination of two morphological varieties of zircons (zonal and porous). Zonal zircons exhibit low content of trace elements, a “magmatic” type of REE distribution spectra, and geochemical indices consistent with those of magmatic zircons. Anomalously high REE (up to 38 800 ppm), Y (up to 50 700 ppm) and U (up to 24 700 ppm) contents, as well as elevated Hf, P, F, Cl, and water contents (up to 3.5 wt %) were found in porous zircons. They display gently flattened REE distribution spectra with no Ce-anomaly and the persistence of negative Eu-anomaly, as well as geochemical parameters that differ from typical zircons of magmatic origin. The obtained geochemical characteristics of porous zircons reflect the process of enrichment of the magmatic melt with rare and rare earth elements, and indicate a high fluid saturation of the melt. The δ18О determined value for porous zircons is in the range of 9.22 to 12.54‰, which significantly exceeds a mantle value and seems to be caused by influence of external fluids interacting with sedimentary rocks surrounding leucogranites. The detailed isotopic-geochemical study of zircon samples suggests that their crystallization from leucogranites of a third (final) phase in the evolution of the Belokurikhinsky massif took place from fluid-saturated melt with elevated incompatible element concentrations.