bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It takes a village to grow a tree: Most tree species benefit from dissimilar neighbors
Authors: Di Maurizio Vanessa , Searle Eric , Paquette Alain
Published: December 2023

Scientific consensus is that diverse tree species positively impact forest productivity, especially when species are functionally dissimilar. Under the complementarity hypothesis, differences in species traits reduce competition among neighboring tree species. However, while this relationship has been extensively studied at the community level, there is a lack of understanding regarding how individuals of different species specifically respond to a functionally dissimilar neighborhood. In this study, we used permanent plots from Quebec, Canada, and 19 focal tree species to test whether: (1) tree growth response to neighborhood dissimilarity varies with their identity and competition intensity, and (2) focal tree species’ traits explain their response to neighborhood dissimilarity. We demonstrate that: tree growth is primarily influenced by competition, species identity, and their interactions, but that dissimilarity, alone and in interaction with the main drivers of tree growth, explains an additional 1.8% of the variation in species growth. Within this context, (1) most species’ respond positively to neighborhood dissimilarity, with magnitude being species and competition dependent, and (2) focal tree traits partly explain these dependencies, with shade‐intolerant species benefiting most from dissimilar neighbors under high competition. Our study provides empirical support for the complementarity hypothesis, emphasizing the small but consistent positive effect of functional dissimilarity on tree growth in local neighborhoods. Our findings identify the species with the highest potential of benefiting from dissimilar neighbors but also demonstrate that the positive effect of neighborhood dissimilarity is not limited to a select few species with specific traits; rather, it is observed across a diverse range of species. The cumulative growth responses of individuals to functionally dissimilar neighbors may help explain the commonly observed higher productivity in more diverse communities.
Integrated phylogenetic analyses reveal the evolutionary, biogeographic, and diversification history of Asian warty treefrog genus Theloderma (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
Authors: Luo Tao , Zhao Xin‐Rui , Lan Chang‐Ting , Li Wei , Deng Huai‐Qing , Xiao Ning , Zhou Jiang
Published: December 2023

Asian warty treefrogs, genus Theloderma, are morphologically variable arboreal frogs endemic to Southeast Asia and Southern China. However, integrated systematic studies are lacking, and knowledge of the genus in terms of diversity, origin, and historical diversification remains limited. To address these knowledge gaps, we used three mitochondrial and five nuclear gene fragments to reconstruct the Theloderma phylogeny, estimate divergence times, and examine the biogeography of the genus. Phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses suggest that the genus Theloderma comprises three major clades corresponding to two subgenera and seven species groups, and mPTP identified at least 12 putative cryptic species, suggesting that species diversity has been underestimated. Biogeographic analyses indicated that most recent common ancestor of Theloderma originated in the Indochina Peninsula during the Middle Oligocene (ca. 27.77 Ma) and the splitting of Clade A to C occurred in the Late Oligocene (ca. 23.55–25.57 Ma). Current biogeographic patterns result from two distinct processes: in situ diversification in the Indochina Peninsula and dispersal in multiple areas, namely southward dispersal to the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, northeastward dispersal to Southern China, northward dispersal to the Himalayas, and dispersal from Southern China to the Indochina Peninsula. Ancestral character reconstruction suggests that the ancestor of Theloderma may have possessed a small body size, rough dorsal skin, and absence of vomerine teeth and hand webbing, and that these four characters have undergone multiple evolutions. Principal component analysis based on eight bioclimatic variables did not clearly distinguish the three major clades of Theloderma, suggesting that species in these clades may occupy similar climatic ecological niches. Our research highlights the importance of orogeny and paleoclimatic changes, in shaping amphibian biodiversity in mountain ecosystems.
Prospects of pollinator community surveillance using terrestrial environmental DNA metagenetics
Authors: Avalos Grace , Trott Regina , Ballas John , Lin Chia Hua , Raines Clayton , Iwanowicz Deborah , Goodell Karen , Richardson Rodney T
Published: December 2023

Current pollinator survey methods exhibit bias, require highly‐trained practitioners, and are difficult to scale to large sample sizes. High‐throughput sequencing of terrestrial eDNA could provide a complementary tool for studying pollinator communities, but eDNA methods have not been extensively evaluated. We conducted metagenetic analysis of whole arthropod community eDNA from 20 flower and seven honey bee‐collected pollen samples and compared eDNA‐derived data with traditional netting‐based surveys of the pollinator communities present during sampling. We focused our analysis on Anthophila (bees) and detected eight bee genera belonging to four families across COI, 16S, and 28S markers. Results varied considerably by marker and eDNA substrate. Detected bee genera were plausible for the study system and about 43 percent of total bee genera were detected with both eDNA and net‐based surveys, though netting resulted in more detections across a wider diversity of genera. Data from sequenced controls suggest that eDNA identifications were unlikely to have resulted from cross‐contamination. Our results demonstrate that bee communities can be documented with eDNA techniques and that the choice of marker and substrate substantially influences detection. Future improvements to our methods are required, but eDNA surveys appear well‐suited to characterize diverse pollinator communities and provide novel sampling perspectives within plant‐pollinator networks. Future efforts should focus on improving the selection of markers available for pollinator eDNA metagenetics, addressing taxonomic gaps within reference sequence databases and optimizing sampling and eDNA isolation protocols. We anticipate that such improvements are highly feasible and that eDNA will be a useful tool to those who study pollinators and plant‐pollinator interactions.
Epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of chronic right‐sided heart failure and tricuspid regurgitation. A clinical consensus statement of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) and the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) of the ESC
Authors: Adamo Marianna , Chioncel Ovidiu , Pagnesi Matteo , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Abdelhamid Magdy , Anker Stefan D. , Antohi Elena‐Laura , Badano Luigi , Ben Gal Tuvia , Böhm Michael , Delgado Victoria , Dreyfus Julien , Faletra Francesco F. , Farmakis Dimitrios , Filippatos Gerasimos , Grapsa Julia , Gustafsson Finn , Hausleiter Jörg , Jaarsma Tiny , Karam Nicole , Lund Lars , Lurz Philipp , Maisano Francesco , Moura Brenda , Mullens Wilfred , Praz Fabien , Sannino Anna , Savarese Gianluigi , Tocchetti Carlo Gabriele , van Empel Vanessa P.M. , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Yilmaz Mehmet Birhan , Zamorano José Luis , Ponikowski Piotr , Barbato Emanuele , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Metra Marco
Published: December 2023

Right‐sided heart failure and tricuspid regurgitation are common and strongly associated with poor quality of life and an increased risk of heart failure hospitalizations and death. While medical therapy for right‐sided heart failure is limited, treatment options for tricuspid regurgitation include surgery and, based on recent developments, several transcatheter interventions. However, the patients who might benefit from tricuspid valve interventions are yet unknown, as is the ideal time for these treatments given the paucity of clinical evidence. In this context, it is crucial to elucidate aetiology and pathophysiological mechanisms leading to right‐sided heart failure and tricuspid regurgitation in order to recognize when tricuspid regurgitation is a mere bystander and when it can cause or contribute to heart failure progression. Notably, early identification of right heart failure and tricuspid regurgitation may be crucial and optimal management requires knowledge about the different mechanisms and causes, clinical course and presentation, as well as possible treatment options. The aim of this clinical consensus statement is to summarize current knowledge about epidemiology, pathophysiology and treatment of tricuspid regurgitation in right‐sided heart failure providing practical suggestions for patient identification and management.
Three different oils improve HFD‐induced lipid metabolism disorders via driving gut microbiota
Authors: Lai Meiying , Liu Yilin , Han Xianjing , Chen Yihan , Liu Bin , Zeng Feng
Published: December 2023

Schizochytrium sp. L. oil (SO), fish oil (FO), and sacha inchi oil (SIO) can regulate high‐fat diet‐induced obesity, but the effect on gut microbiota and the mechanism remain unclear. This study aimed to find out the different effects of the three oils mediated the gut microbiota on lipid metabolism. In comparison with the high‐fat diet (HFD) group, SO, FO, and SIO could reduce fat mass accumulation and decrease the levels of the serum and liver biochemical parameters in mice. The regulatory effect on gut microbiota in mice is determined by 16S rRNA gene high‐throughput sequencing. Caulobacter, Acetatifactor, and Mucispirillum as dominant bacterial genus are enriched in intervention groups. SO, SIO, and FO could distinctly decrease interleukin 6, nuclear factor‐kappa B, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1c, FAS, and HMGCR expressions in liver, upregulate the expression of acyl‐coenzyme A oxidase 1 and A acetyltransferases and regulate the thermogenesis. SO, SIO, and FO has a comprehensive impact on lipid metabolism by the expression of genes related to fat synthesis, cholesterol synthesis, inflammation, energy consumption, the structure of intestinal flora, abundance of beneficial bacteria, and intestinal diversity. Based on these results, SO, SIO, and FO may be used as functional food to drive beneficial changes in gut microbiota and then regulate the lipid metabolism disorders.

Practical Applications: Obesity‐related diseases caused by lipid metabolism disorders have driven the rapid development of the diet drug market. However, the side effects of diet drugs on the human body also make the majority of consumers worried. Natural oil products that regulate lipid metabolism disorders and dietary obesity provide a substitute. Schizochytrium sp. L. oil (SO), fish oil (FO), and sacha inchi oil (SIO) are rich in high‐quality unsaturated fatty acids and are not suitable for high temperature cooking but can be eaten in low temperature cooking and sauces and so on. SO, FO, and SIO can be used to develop functional food that could reduce lipid metabolism disorders.
Stabilization of infant formulas against lipid oxidation: What are the key structural levers?
Authors: Cancalon Mathilde , Barouh Nathalie , Hemery Youna , Baréa Bruno , Durand Erwann , Bourlieu‐Lacanal Claire , Villeneuve Pierre
Published: December 2023

Infant follow‐on formulas (IFF) mimic human milk. This study aimed to identify the key structural levers that influence oxidative stability of IFF. Representative model IFF of marketed products in term of lipid composition were formulated with varying droplet size, lipid droplet core composition, and interfacial composition using different emulsifiers (soy lecithin or dairy phospholipids [DPL]). The oxidative stability of model IFF was assessed in accelerated storage conditions. No significant stabilization effect based on the lipid droplet core composition was observed. However, the nature of the interface, influenced by the emulsifier type, had an impact. Model IFF with DPL showed no loss of tocopherols and peroxide value was up to twice lower than those with soy lecithin after 20 days. This effect was particularly pronounced for the 0.4µm droplets. These results suggest that model IFF with DPL had a greater oxidative stability, likely due to the presence of sphingomyelin and the formation of a rigidified domain at the droplet surface. Model IFF with 0.4 µm droplets stabilized with soy lecithin, especially when added to the water phase, showed a tocopherols loss twice as high as that of IFF with DPL. These results indicate that oxidative stability of IFF is more influenced by the chemical environment rather than droplet size.

Practical Application: Infant follow‐on formulas (IFF) aim to ensure an adequate nutritional intake to support the proper development and infant growth. Therefore, IFF must be stable against degradation phenomena such as lipid oxidation and have a composition and structure that are as biomimetic as possible to mature breast milk. This study provides key information for the development of IFF with a lipid composition and structure that are suitable for the infant nutritional needs and have an acceptable resistance to lipid oxidation. More generally, these results can be applied to all dispersed systems in the form of oil‐in‐water emulsions with a similar composition.
Mandating disability education in medicine: A call to action
Authors: Jordan Julia , Petersen Kristina H.
Published: December 2023

Health care clinicians frequently treat persons with disabilities, yet disability is often overlooked in medical education. Fewer than half of U.S. medical schools include disability education in their undergraduate medical education curriculum. When included, it is often superficial and insufficient to apply to patient care. Although 98% of students at one institution reported receiving disability education, 80% reported that it was inadequate, and 64% of them felt unprepared to evaluate, diagnose, and treat people with disabilities (PWD). This trend continues in graduate medical education (GME), with only 43% of emergency medicine programs including disability content.
Disclosures 7: Parents who initiate request for disclosure, part 1
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: December 2023

A few years back, a registrar posed the following situation on scr‐l: The technology department at his institution told the registrar they had received an “interesting call” from a mother requesting the phone records for her child. She wanted to know 1) who her student was calling and 2) who was calling her student. She also wanted to know the dates and times connected to each call. According to the mother, the student had a large phone bill and she wanted to know why. The registrar said the college sends the phone bills to students (which prompted the mother's call when her student asked her to pay the bill). The registrar also wasn’t sure if “phone records” were education records that fell under FERPA.
Intracerebral electrographic activity following a single dose of diazepam nasal spray: A pilot study
Authors: Privitera Michael D. , Mendoza Lucy C. , Carrazana Enrique , Rabinowicz Adrian L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Rescue benzodiazepine medication can be used to treat seizure clusters, which are intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from a patient's usual seizure pattern. The NeuroPace RNS® System is a device that detects abnormal electrographic activity through intracranial electrodes and administers electrical stimulation to control seizures. Reductions in electrographic activity over days to weeks have been associated with the longer‐term efficacy of daily antiseizure medications (ASMs). In this pilot study, electrographic activity over hours to days was examined to assess the impact of a single dose of a proven rescue therapy (diazepam nasal spray) with a rapid onset of action.

Methods

Adult volunteers (>18 years old) with clinically indicated RNS (stable settings and ASM usage) received a weight‐based dose of diazepam nasal spray in the absence of a clinical seizure. Descriptive statistics for a number of detections and a sum of durations of detections at 10‐min, hourly, and 24‐h intervals during the 7‐day (predose) baseline period were calculated. Post‐dose detections at each time interval were compared with the respective baseline‐detection intervals using a 1 SD threshold. The number of long episodes that occurred after dosing also were compared with the baseline.

Results

Five participants were enrolled, and four completed the study; the excluded participant had recurrent seizures during the study. There were no consistent changes (difference >1 SD) in detections between post‐dose and mean baseline values. Although variability was high (1 SD was often near or exceeded the mean), three participants showed possible trends for reductions in one or more electrographic variables following treatment.

Significance

RNS‐assessed electrographic detections and durations were not shown to be sensitive measures of short‐term effects associated with a single dose of rescue medication in this small group of participants. The variability of detections may have masked a measurable drug effect.

Plain Language Summary

Rescue drugs are used to treat seizure clusters. Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) devices detect and record epilepsy brain waves and then send a pulse to help stop seizures. This pilot study looked at whether one dose of a rescue treatment changes brain activity detected by RNS. There was a very wide range of detections, which made it difficult to see if or how the drug changed brain activity. New studies should look at other types of brain activity, multiple doses, and larger patient groups.
Long‐term drinking of green tea combined with exercise improves hepatic steatosis and obesity in male mice induced by high‐fat diet
Authors: Wang Ruru , Gu Mingxing , Zhang Yanzhong , Zhong Qinglin , Chen Linbo , Li Daxiang , Xie Zhongwen
Published: December 2023

Dietary habits and exercise play an important role in the well‐being of human health. Currently, how long of drinking tea combined with exercise could efficiently ameliorate hepatic steatosis and obesity still needs to be investigated. Here, short‐term and long‐term green tea drinking combined with exercise were studied to improve hepatic steatosis and obesity in high‐fat diet‐induced (HF) mice. Our results showed that Yunkang 10 green tea (GT) combined with exercise (Ex) exhibited synergistic prevention effects on ameliorating hepatic steatosis and obesity. Especially, 22‐week intervention with GT or Ex improved all symptoms of obesity, which indicated that long‐term intervention exhibited profound preventive effects than the short term. Moreover, the combined intervention of 22 weeks inhibited the activation of NF‐κB pathway and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, which suggests that tea combined exercise may improve liver steatosis mainly by inhibiting inflammation. The key molecules for regulating lipid and glucose metabolism SCD1 were obviously downregulated, and GLU2 and PPARγ were significantly upregulated by GT and exercise in the liver of high‐fat diet‐induced mice. This study demonstrated that long‐term intervention with GT and exercise effectively relieved hepatic steatosis and obesity complications by ameliorating hepatic inflammation, reducing lipid synthesis, and accelerating glucose transport.
Relative preference for distinct reinforcers maintaining destructive behavior
Authors: Norris Halle M. , Greer Brian D.
Published: December 2023

The literature offers few recommendations for sequencing exposure to treatment conditions with individuals with multiply maintained destructive behavior. Identifying relative preference for the functional reinforcers maintaining destructive behavior may be one means of guiding that decision. The present study presents a preliminary attempt at developing a robust relative preference and reinforcer assessment for individuals with multiply maintained destructive behavior. Guided and free‐choice trials were implemented in which participants chose between two multiple‐schedule arrangements, each of which programmed signaled periods of isolated reinforcer availability and unavailability. Consistent participant choice and responding during free‐choice trials was then used to thin the corresponding schedule of reinforcement. The results demonstrated a strong preference for one of the two functional reinforcers for all four participants, yet preferences differed across participants and were not well predicted by responding in prior analyses.
A multi‐centre survey of New Zealand cancer patients' preferences for radiation treatment information
Authors: Flockton Alannah , Leong Aidan , Gilfillan Daniel , Larsen Peter
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Patients undergoing radiation therapy have a diverse range of information needs, however, there is a lack of data specific to the needs of New Zealand patients. This cross‐sectional survey captured New Zealand cancer patients' preferences for radiation treatment information. Preferences were assessed regarding the scope of information needs and the satisfaction with which these needs were being met.

Methods

A custom survey was offered to 275 eligible patients undergoing radiation treatment at six of 10 departments across New Zealand over a 2‐day period. The survey captured patient demographics as well as information needs and satisfaction across five distinct domains using Likert scales and one free‐text question. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and directed content analysis.

Results

Over 80% of participants rated all information domains as extremely or very important. Over 90% of participants were extremely satisfied or very well satisfied in four of the five domains. Information on what happens after radiation treatment had the lowest satisfaction at 78%. No demographic subcategories were clearly associated with differences in information needs or satisfaction. 59% of participants indicated their willingness to engage in online education. The qualitative analysis strongly corroborated the quantitative results.

Conclusion

The New Zealand cancer patients surveyed in this study demonstrated high levels of importance and satisfaction with the information provided during radiation treatment. Information on what happens after completing radiation treatment had the lowest satisfaction. These findings support further exploration of New Zealand cancer patients' information needs following radiation treatment as well as strategies to address them.
Molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of norovirus among hospitalized patients with acute gastroenteritis in Shandong, China, 2016–2018
Authors: Li Chao , Song Shaoxia , Huang Xianglin , Liu Xiaolin , Lv Hui , Shen Yuanyuan , Wei Xuemin , Zhang Wenqiang , Xu Yifei
Published: December 2023

Norovirus (NoV) infection is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) for people of all ages. Here, we reported the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of NoVs among hospitalized patients with AGE between 2016 and 2018 in Shandong Province, China. Two thousand sixty‐nine AGE patients from sentinel hospitals were enrolled. The stool samples were collected and tested for NoVs by real‐time RT‐PCR. The RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and capsid gene of 163 strains were amplified and sequenced for genotyping. Phylogenetic analyses and genomic characterization were conducted with the VP1 and RdRp region of the full genome sequences. Four hundred seventy two (21.76%) samples were NoV‐positive. The positive rate in 2016 was higher than those of 2017 and 2018. We observed diverse NoV genotypes. GII.2[P16] emerged in January 2017 and became the dominant genotype between May and June 2017. Phylogenetic analyses showed that our GII.2[P16] genomes clustered in the SC1 in VP1 region, while they belonged to the Emerging GⅡ.P16 (2015−2017) clade in RdRp region. Our GⅡ.4 strains displayed two amino acid mutations, positions R297H and D372N, in epitope A of the VP1 region. Our study highlighted that NoV is an important pathogen of viral AGE in Shandong and, therefore, it is necessary to strengthen its surveillance.
New Strategies for Remnant Ear Treatment in Microtia Reconstruction Based on Morphometric Studies
Authors: Xu Zhicheng , Li Yiyuan , Li Datao , Zhang Ruhong , Zhang Qun , Xu Feng , Chen Xia
Published: December 2023

Objective

Given the lack of specific evaluation indices, it is difficult to determine whether to transpose or abandon remnant ears in lobule‐type microtia reconstruction. The authors illuminate referable parameters beneficial for proper treatment of remnant ear in an efficient manner.

Methods

A series of 359 lobule‐type microtia patients underwent autogenous costal cartilage auricular reconstruction between 2016 and 2021. Fourteen measuring points and defined distances as well as six ratios of specific distances based on position, plumpness, similarity and the width‐to‐length ratio of the remnant ear have been described, and relevant tactics for appropriate treatments are introduced.

Results

Definite morphometric results contribute to attaining satisfactory contours of reconstructed auricles with harmonious earlobes, which exhibit highly similar dimensions and appearances compared to the contralateral normal ears.

Conclusion

With the help of the proposed locating points and measuring approaches, the procedure of remnant ear treatment is systematically clarified. This technique ensures operation safety and contributes to the aesthetic contour of the auricle.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 134:2741–2747, 2024
Development of a Tri‐Layered Vascular Construct and In Vitro Evaluation of Endothelization
Authors: Kole Gozde E. , Hasirci Vasif , Yucel Deniz
Published: December 2023

Advances in the development of vascular substitutes for small‐sized arteries are ongoing because the present grafts do not entirely meet the requirements of native equivalents and are suboptimal in clinical performance. This study aims to develop a tri‐layered vascular construct mimicking natural tissue using polyester blends and to investigate its endothelization through in vitro studies as a potential small‐caliber vascular graft. The innermost layer is obtained by dip coating as a tubular porous film with a lumen diameter of 3 mm and a pore size of ≤8 µm. Circumferentially aligned electrospun fiber (diameter 100–800 nm) with a deviation angle of 15° are deposited over the porous film forming the intermediate layer. The random electrospun fibers (diameter 100–1100 nm) deviating at different angles are wrapped as the outermost layer. The mechanical properties of the tri‐layered vascular construct are determined to be 44.80 ± 14.80 MPa for Young's modulus and 4.25 ± 0.75 MPa for ultimate tensile strength. MTS and cell behavior studies show that the isolated human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells proliferate and line the lumen of the vascular substitute. The vascular construct developed, with its biomimetic architecture, mechanical features, size, and endothelization, can be tested with in vivo studies.
Trade policy uncertainty, export destination, and firm's pollution emissions: Analysis from theoretical perspective
Authors: Huang Geng , Lin Xi , Xu Shuying , Wang Junyu , He Ling‐Yun
Published: December 2023

In recent years, global economic and trade frictions have been frequent. Trade policies of many countries have become increasingly uncertain. This may also have an impact on global ecological environment. Trade policy uncertainty (TPU) may lead firms to change export destination, thereby affecting firms' pollution emissions. However, little is known about short‐run environmental effect and long‐run effect of TPU. Using theoretical analysis, this paper incorporates firms' export destination choice into theoretical model. We find that de‐crease in TPU will directly reduce firms' emission intensity. Besides, in the long run, TPU's increase from developed country leads the firm to change export destination to developing country; thus, firm's emission intensity will increase. Altogether, we present the first theoretical explanation on relationship between export destination and environment, providing comprehensive perspective to study TPU's environmental effect.
Hypertension in NF1: A closer look at the primacy of essential hypertension versus secondary causes
Authors: Loponen Niina , Ylä‐Outinen Heli , Kallionpää Roope A. , Valtanen Mikko , Auranen Kari , Järveläinen Hannu , Peltonen Sirkku , Peltonen Juha
Published: December 2023

Background

We aimed to analyze hypertension in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) in a Finnish population‐based cohort in 1996–2014.

Methods

A cohort of 1365 individuals with confirmed NF1 was compared with a control cohort of 13,923 individuals matched for age, sex, and area of residence. Diagnoses of hypertension were retrieved from the Finnish Care Register for Health Care. These registered data were separately analyzed for secondary and essential hypertension. Purchases of antihypertensive drugs were queried from the Finnish Register of Reimbursed Drug Purchases.

Results

We identified 115 NF1 patients with hospital diagnosis of hypertension. Our findings revealed a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.64 (95% CI 1.34–2.00, p < 0.001) in NF1 versus controls. NF1 patients presented with a significantly increased hazard for both secondary hypertension (n = 9, HR 3.76, 95% CI 1.77–7.95, p < 0.001) and essential hypertension (n = 98, HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.39–2.14, p < 0.001). No difference in the HR of hypertension was observed between men and women, while NF1 patients with essential hypertension were, on average, younger than the controls. The proportions of individuals with antihypertensive medication did not differ between NF1 patients and controls (OR 0.85).

Conclusion

NF1 is a risk factor for hypertension. Despite the recognized risk for secondary hypertension, essential hypertension is the predominant type in NF1.
Ramipril therapy in integrin α1‐null, autosomal recessive Alport mice triples lifespan: mechanistic clues from RNA‐seq analysis
Authors: Madison Jacob , Wilhelm Kevin , Meehan Daniel T , Gratton Michael Anne , Vosik Denise , Samuelson Gina , Ott Megan , Fascianella John , Nelson Noa , Cosgrove Dominic
Published: December 2023

The standard of care for patients with Alport syndrome (AS) is angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. In autosomal recessive Alport (ARAS) mice, ACE inhibitors double lifespan. We previously showed that deletion of Itga1 in Alport mice [double‐knockout (DKO) mice] increased lifespan by 50%. This effect seemed dependent on the prevention of laminin 211‐mediated podocyte injury. Here, we treated DKO mice with vehicle or ramipril starting at 4 weeks of age. Proteinuria and glomerular filtration rates were measured at 5‐week intervals. Glomeruli were analyzed for laminin 211 deposition in the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and GBM ultrastructure was analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) was performed on isolated glomeruli at all time points and the results were compared with cultured podocytes overlaid (or not) with recombinant laminin 211. Glomerular filtration rate declined in ramipril‐treated DKO mice between 30 and 35 weeks. Proteinuria followed these same patterns with normalization of foot process architecture in ramipril‐treated DKO mice. RNA‐seq revealed a decline in the expression of Foxc2, nephrin (Nphs1), and podocin (Nphs2) mRNAs, which was delayed in the ramipril‐treated DKO mice. GBM accumulation of laminin 211 was delayed in ramipril‐treated DKO mice, likely due to a role for α1β1 integrin in CDC42 activation in Alport mesangial cells, which is required for mesangial filopodial invasion of the subendothelial spaces of the glomerular capillary loops. Ramipril synergized with Itga1 knockout, tripling lifespan compared with untreated ARAS mice. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of surpassing damping and modulus nanocomposites with tunable frequency range via hierarchical bio‐architecture
Authors: Xu Chenhao , Feng Haibo , Li Yan , Li Li
Published: December 2023

The challenges of both high stiff and high dissipative properties are critical obstacles in structural engineering, particularly for the wide frequency range. This study proposes an innovative design method for creating nanocomposites with exceptional damping and modulus, offering tunability in temperature or frequency. The design principle is based on the hierarchical microstructure of the nanocomposite encompasses dangling chains at the atomic level, devisable microstructures in intermolecular macromolecules at the molecular level, and compatible domains between multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and macromolecules at the coarse level. To enhance damping performance, a self‐healing epoxy resin based on transesterification, known for its atomic‐level dangling chains, serves as the matrix. Control of the glass transition temperature is achieved by adjusting the ratios of glutaric anhydride (stiff) and sebacic acid (flexible) in the curing agent. Dangling chains and the soft curing agent can improve damping, but they are negative to modulus. To counterbalance this, this study introduces high‐modulus MWCNTs, resolving the inherent conflict between stiffness and damping. A damping model is constructed to recognize the continuous distribution of relaxation times of our designed composites. The designed nanocomposites have surpassing damping and modulus with tunable temperature or frequency range, surpassing the limited loss modulus of conventional engineering materials.

Highlights

The design principle of both high stiff and lossy properties of bones is revealed.

Microstructural features are employed for fabricating our nanocomposite.

High damping and moduli composites with tunable temperature are attained.

A damping model is established for the distribution of relaxation times.

Hierarchical bio‐architecture defeats the conflict of stiffness versus damping.
Use of physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling to understand the effect of omeprazole administration on the pharmacokinetics of oral extended‐release nifedipine
Authors: Tan Ming‐Liang , Gao Zongming , Babiskin Andrew , Kim Myong‐Jin , Fang Lanyan , Zhang Lei , Zhao Liang
Published: December 2023

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can affect the release of drugs from their dosage forms in vivo by elevating the gastric pH. Our recent clinical study has demonstrated that drug–drug interactions (DDIs) exist between a PPI, omeprazole, and nifedipine extended‐release formulations, where systemic exposure of nifedipine was increased in subjects after multiple‐dose pretreatment of omeprazole. However, the mechanism of the observed DDIs between omeprazole and nifedipine has not been well‐understood, as the DDI may also be mediated through CYP3A4 enzyme inhibition in addition to the elevated gastric pH caused by omeprazole. This study used physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and simulations to investigate the underlying mechanism of these complex DDIs. A formulation exhibiting differences in in vitro dissolution across physiological pH range and another formulation where pH does not impact dissolution appreciably (e.g., an osmotic pump) were chosen to characterize the potential impact of pH. The PBPK models incorporated two‐stage in vitro release profiles via US Pharmacopeia 2 apparatus. PBPK simulations suggest that the elevated gastric pH following multiple‐dose administration of omeprazole has a minimal effect on nifedipine pharmacokinetics (PKs), whereas CYP3A4‐mediated DDI is likely the main driver to the observed change of nifedipine PKs in the presence of omeprazole. Compared to the osmotic formulation, the slightly increased exposure of nifedipine can be accounted for by the enhanced drug release in the pH‐dependent formulation. The reported model‐based approach may be useful in DDI risk assessments, product formulation designs, and bioequivalence evaluations.
Assessing the calibration of multivariate probabilistic forecasts
Authors: Allen Sam , Ziegel Johanna , Ginsbourger David
Published: December 2023

Rank and probability integral transform histograms are established tools to assess the calibration of probabilistic forecasts. They not only check whether a forecast is calibrated, but they also reveal what systematic biases (if any) are present in the forecasts. Several extensions of rank histograms have been proposed to evaluate the calibration of probabilistic forecasts for multivariate outcomes. These extensions introduce a so‐called pre‐rank function that condenses the multivariate forecasts and observations into univariate objects, from which a standard rank histogram can be produced. Existing pre‐rank functions typically aim to preserve as much information as possible when condensing the multivariate forecasts and observations into univariate objects. Although this is sensible when conducting statistical tests for multivariate calibration, it can hinder the interpretation of the resulting histograms. In this article, we demonstrate that there are few restrictions on the choice of pre‐rank function, meaning forecasters can choose a pre‐rank function depending on what information they want to extract concerning forecast performance. We introduce the concept of simple pre‐rank functions and provide examples that can be used to assess the mean, spread, and dependence structure of multivariate probabilistic forecasts, as well as pre‐rank functions that could be useful when evaluating probabilistic spatial field forecasts. The simple pre‐rank functions that we introduce are easy to interpret, easy to implement, and they deliberately provide complementary information, meaning several pre‐rank functions can be employed to achieve a more complete understanding of multivariate forecast performance. We then discuss how e‐values can be employed to formally test for multivariate calibration over time. This is demonstrated in an application to wind‐speed forecasting using the EUPPBench post‐processing benchmark dataset.
Gene regulatory network inference based on causal discovery integrating with graph neural network
Authors: Feng Ke , Jiang Hongyang , Yin Chaoyi , Sun Huiyan
Published: December 2023

Gene regulatory network (GRN) inference from gene expression data is a significant approach to understanding aspects of the biological system. Compared with generalized correlation‐based methods, causality‐inspired ones seem more rational to infer regulatory relationships. We propose GRINCD, a novel GRN inference framework empowered by graph representation learning and causal asymmetric learning, considering both linear and non‐linear regulatory relationships. First, high‐quality representation of each gene is generated using graph neural network. Then, we apply the additive noise model to predict the causal regulation of each regulator‐target pair. Additionally, we design two channels and finally assemble them for robust prediction. Through comprehensive comparisons of our framework with state‐of‐the‐art methods based on different principles on numerous datasets of diverse types and scales, the experimental results show that our framework achieves superior or comparable performance under various evaluation metrics. Our work provides a new clue for constructing GRNs, and our proposed framework GRINCD also shows potential in identifying key factors affecting cancer development.
User‐friendly relative quantification procedure for gas chromatography/mass spectrometry–based plasma metabolome analysis
Authors: Nishiumi Shin , Yokoyama Tomonori , Ojima Noriyuki
Published: December 2023

Rationale

Recently, metabolome analysis has been applied to a variety of research fields, but differences between batches or facilities can cause discrepancies in the results of such analyses. To resolve these issues using comprehensive metabolome analysis, in which it is difficult to perform quantitative analyses of all detected metabolites, internal standard compounds are used to obtain relative metabolite levels. This study investigated gas chromatography/mass spectrometry–based plasma metabolome analysis methods that are superior to relative quantification using internal standard compounds.

Methods

In experiment I, four analyses were performed under different analytical conditions at one facility, and then the data from the four analyses were compared. In experiment II, the same samples were analyzed at three facilities, and then the data from the three facilities were compared.

Results

Regarding the relative values obtained through comparisons with the internal standard compound, differences in the analytical results were observed among the four analytical conditions in experiment I and among the three facilities in experiment II, and the differences observed among the three facilities (experiment II) were larger. When correction was performed using plasma as a quality control, which is the procedure suggested in this study, these differences were markedly ameliorated.

Conclusion

The suggested procedure involves the analysis of a plasma standard as a quality control for each batch and the calculation of relative target plasma to quality‐control plasma values for each metabolite. This is an easy and low‐cost method and could be readily employed by researchers during comprehensive plasma metabolome analysis.
Find out why emotional intelligence matters
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: December 2023

Generally speaking, I don’t read articles about emotional intelligence. As a matter of course, I avoid them. If I see EI, I just keep scrolling. Why? Well, I haven’t really wanted to know if I’m emotionally intelligent or unintelligent.
UF offers streamlined process for accommodations, modifications in on‐campus housing
Authors: Allarakhia Hawa
Published: December 2023

At the University of Florida, students have the opportunity to reside in Cypress Hall, a residence hall designed with universal design principles. Jenna Gonzalez, the Director of the Disability Resource Center at UF, discusses the accommodations and modifications available to students who choose to live on campus.
Did court dismiss student's Title IX deliberate indifference claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

Jane Doe was a student at Columbia University. She claimed that another Columbia student, John Roe, sexually assaulted her in a campus residence hall. Seven months later, Doe reported the assault to the university's Gender‐Based Misconduct Office. She also reported the incident to the New York City Police Department. The GBM office initiated an investigation into the allegations and issued a no‐contact directive for Doe and Roe.
Student affairs career led to college presidency
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: December 2023

When Donna Brown applied for a fellowship as a student affairs professional working toward her doctorate degree, the application process required her to come up with a “lofty long‐term goal.” Acknowledging her start as a student at a tribal college, she thought, “my life would come full circle if I ever became a president of a tribal college,” she now recalls. “At that time, I don’t know if I believed it, but I wrote that as my long‐term goal,” she added.
Green connection to the world: Building regional responsible sustainable development strategies
Authors: Yang Zhenshan , Wang Haoran
Published: December 2023

Green development and solutions to environmental problems rely on local conditions and green connections between regions during their development. However, it is less understood whether a region's emission of carbon and pollutants is moderate compared to its development. The study proposes the ‘green connection of regional development’ concept from the consumption perspective to enhance the understanding and measurement of regional capacity towards green development and responsible production and consumption. Data envelopment analysis was performed to evaluate the local and embodied emissions of eight pollutants for 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2017. Twenty provinces had optimal capacity of green growth within the region and 15 had an optimal green connection of regional development. Suboptimal levels of overall green growth and green connection of regional development efficiencies were due to insufficient pure technical and scale efficiency levels, with a stronger impact of the former.
Recent Advances in Field‐Effect Transistor‐Based Biosensors for Label‐Free Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Yu Haiyang , Zhang Huibin , Liu Zhe , Feng Linrun , Su Yuezeng , Li Jinhua , Tang Wei , Yan Feng
Published: December 2023

Field‐effect transistor‐based biosensors (FET biosensors) have gained significant attention in the context of the global SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic owing to their label free and highly sensitive detection capabilities. In this comprehensive review, recent advances in the use of electrochemical‐transistor‐based biosensors for the label‐free detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 are analyzed. A general introduction to the electrochemical‐transistor‐based biosensor system is initiated, highlighting its critical technical requirements. Various structural designs and working principles of transistor‐based transducers are described, and the essential aspects of interface engineering for improved sensing performance are summarized. The applications of transistor‐based biosensors for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 are discussed in detail. Finally, perspectives for the future development of transistor‐based sensing systems are provided. This review aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the design and optimization of biochemical sensor systems with the potential to impact health monitoring, disease diagnosis, and biosafety in the field of in vitro diagnostic products.
Feminist Pedagogy in the EFL Classroom in Japan: Evaluating a One‐Shot Intervention Approach
Authors: Nagashima Yuzuko , Lawrence Luke
Published: December 2023

At the turn of the century, bell hooks described the overarching lay view of feminism as a negative, man‐hating ideology. Despite the enormous societal overhauls that have occurred in the decades since, it appears that in Japan little has changed. The marginalized position that women occupy in Japanese society is starkly illustrated by Japan's continually low ranking on the Global Gender Gap Index. In this study, we use a single university lesson in advanced elective English classes to stage a one‐shot intervention in feminist pedagogy. The purpose of the study was to assess the students' understanding of and attitude toward feminism and issues related to male privilege before and after the class. We were also interested in evaluating the suitability of the English language class as a vehicle for feminist pedagogy. The results indicated that many students showed a shift in consciousness away from a largely negative view of feminism and an abstract understanding of gender inequality, to a more positive attitude toward feminism and a clearer understanding of the systemic nature of gender inequality. It also found that English language teaching classes were very conducive to feminist pedagogy with language input, group discussion, and reflective writing providing space for consciousness‐raising.