bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of prostate volume on pathological outcomes after radical prostatectomy: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Li Qinchen , Yang Zitong , Wang Zhize , Sun Jiazhu , Wen Chao , Yan Huaqing , Shen Haixiang , Wang Weiyu , Xu Bohan , Xiang Jianjian , Teng Xiaodong , Zhang Cheng , Zheng Xiangyi , Xie Liping
Published: February 2024

Currently, the association between prostate volume (PV) or prostate weight with pathological outcomes in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) is not well understood. This study aimed to explore whether PV can predict the adverse pathological outcomes of PCa patients after radical prostatectomy (RP). A total of 1063 men with confirmed localized PCa who underwent RP at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University from January 2014 to April 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were assigned into small, medium and large groups based on the PV. The analysis of variance, χ2 test or Student t test was performed to compare differences among groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify significant predictors of pathological outcomes upgrading. Among the 1063 cases, approximately 35.0% had an upgrade of postoperative pathology. Compared with the small prostate group, more patients in the large prostate group achieved a Gleason score (GS) 6 and International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade 1 of postoperative pathological findings, clinical cT1c and cT2a stages and pathological pT2a and pT2b stages; the incidence of positive surgical margins and extraprostatic extension was relatively low (all P < .001). In multiple logistic regression, PV served as a significant predictor of any Gleason score upgrading (GSU) (odds ratio [OR] 0.988, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.978–0.998), major GSU (OR 0.980, 95% CI 0.965–0.995) and any ISUP grade group upgrading (GGU) (OR 0.989, 95% CI 0.979–0.999). This study shows that PV can predict adverse pathological outcomes in PCa patients after radical prostatectomy. Pca patients with smaller prostate volume tend to have the high-grade disease at postoperative pathology as well as pathological outcome upgrading.
Prospective, comparative, pilot study of maintenance treatment in comorbid bipolar disorders with post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Guillen-Burgos Hernán F. , Gálvez-Flórez Juan F. , Moreno-Lopez Sergio , Kwan Angela T.H. , McIntyre Roger S.
Published: February 2024

There is limited real-world evidence that evaluates the impact of monotherapy vs. combination therapy as a maintenance treatment in comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in bipolar disorder (BD). Our aim was to compare lithium vs. lithium plus quetiapine in maintenance treatment in a sample of comorbid BD with PTSD. An exploratory, comparative pilot study over a 28-week period in 34 comorbid BD with PTSD patients was performed to compare monotherapy (n = 18) vs. combination therapy (n = 16) during maintenance treatment. The primary outcome was the time to event of recurrence of any mood episode. The secondary outcomes were regarding change from the baseline to endpoint in the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS). A Cox regression, Kaplan-Meir survival, and mixed-effects model for repeated measures analyses were performed. Lithium plus quetiapine reduces the risk of recurrence of any mood episode. There are significant differences between baseline and endpoint for YMRS, MADRS, and CGI-BP scales in the sample. In this pilot, exploratory analysis, combination therapy during maintenance treatment for comorbid BD with PTSD may be effective in preventing recurrences of any type of mood episode.
Inhibiting responses under the watch of a recently synchronized peer increases self-monitoring: evidence from functional near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Moffat R. , Caruana N. , Cross E. S.
Published: February 2024

Developing motor synchrony with a peer (through interventions such as the mirror game) can yield collaborative, cognitive and social benefits. However, it is also well established that observation by an audience can improve cognition. The combined and relative advantages offered by motor synchronization and audience effects are not yet understood. It is important to address this gap to determine the extent to which synchronizing activities might interact with the positive effects of an audience. In this preregistered study, we investigate the extent to which response inhibition may be improved when observed by a peer after motor synchronization with this peer. We compare behavioural and cortical (functional near-infrared spectroscopy; fNIRS) measures of inhibition between synchronized and non-synchronized dyads and find that the presence of a synchronized peer-audience introduces a speed–accuracy trade-off, consisting of slower reaction times and improved accuracy. This co-occurs with cortical activation in bilateral inferior frontal and middle prefrontal cortices, which are implicated in monitoring and maintenance of social alignment. Our findings have implications for carers and support people, who may benefit from synchronizing activities for rehabilitating inhibition and social skills in clinical settings.
Unified wavefront singularity characterization of three-dimensional elastodynamic time-domain half-space Green's function under impulsive boundary and internal loads
Authors: Pak Ronald Y. S. , Bai Xiaoyong
Published: February 2024

Founded on a novel analytical formulation that led to a rigorous yet compact path-integral representation of the time-domain elastodynamic half-space Green's function, a unified analysis of the possible occurrence of different singular wavefront behaviour in the response under arbitrary impulsive internal or surface point loads at arbitrary source-receiver locations is presented. With the decomposition of the general solution into distinct initiating and reflected wave group integrals that share a common factored format and simple contour definitions, the mathematical framework is shown to allow a straightforward identification of the specific conditions and the particular wave groups that are responsible for the singular wavefront phenomena without resorting to advanced analytic function theories or asymptotic methods. Analytic characterizations of the nature, strength and direction of all intrinsic singular wavefront behaviours of the three-dimensional Green's function in three canonical cases of source-receiver configurations are given in a dual integral-closed form format to facilitate their theoretical understanding as well as computational applications. Graphical illustrations of their variation with the source-receiver configuration and the medium's Poisson's ratio together with relevant comparison and clarifications of some classical treatments are included.
Submesoscale coupling of krill and whales revealed by aggregative Lagrangian coherent structures
Authors: Fahlbusch James A. , Cade David E. , Hazen Elliott L. , Elliott Meredith L. , Saenz Benjamin T. , Goldbogen Jeremy A. , Jahncke Jaime
Published: February 2024

In the marine environment, dynamic physical processes shape biological productivity and predator–prey interactions across multiple scales. Identifying pathways of physical–biological coupling is fundamental to understand the functioning of marine ecosystems yet it is challenging because the interactions are difficult to measure. We examined submesoscale (less than 100 km) surface current features using remote sensing techniques alongside ship-based surveys of krill and baleen whale distributions in the California Current System. We found that aggregative surface current features, represented by Lagrangian coherent structures (LCS) integrated over temporal scales between 2 and 10 days, were associated with increased (a) krill density (up to 2.6 times more dense), (b) baleen whale presence (up to 8.3 times more likely) and (c) subsurface seawater density (at depths up to 10 m). The link between physical oceanography, krill density and krill–predator distributions suggests that LCS are important features that drive the flux of energy and nutrients across trophic levels. Our results may help inform dynamic management strategies aimed at reducing large whales ship strikes and help assess the potential impacts of environmental change on this critical ecosystem.
Commissioning and optimization of superconducting undulator in the horizontal state
Authors: Chen Zilin , Yang Xiangchen , Zhang Xiangzhen , Wei Junhao , Bian Xiaojuan , Geng Jieru , Gao Yao , Li Yuhui
Published: February 2024

Taking advantage of a higher field than a conventional permanent magnet undulator, superconducting undulators (SCUs) have been rapidly developed in recent years for applications at synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers. The Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has developed a 1.5-m long planar SCU with a short period of 15 mm. This SCU has been commissioned and optimized in the horizontal position. In contrast to the vertical position, where the undulator coils are immersed in liquid helium for superconductivity, the horizontal test requires the assembly of the complete device, including the cryostat, current conductor, cryocooler, vacuum chamber, and undulator coils. This test reflects the operation status and measures the SCU’s characteristics under working conditions. Although experiences from the vertical test provided good guidance for horizontal optimization, special care needs to be taken for effects such as gravity. After improving field uniformity through iterative measurements, the rms phase error of the SCU is reduced to 7.3° at a current of 400 A. Additionally, the functions of the end correction coils to mitigate field integral errors have been verified. This paper also demonstrates and analyzes other phenomena and interesting observations during the commissioning process. It discusses important issues that impact field quality and measurement accuracy and suggests further improvement measures for an even better field.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Static black hole in minimal Horndeski gravity with Maxwell and Yang-Mills fields and some aspects of its thermodynamics
Authors: Stetsko M. M.
Published: February 2024

In this work we obtain a static spherically symmetric charged black hole solution in the framework of minimal Horndeski gravity with additional Maxwell and Yang-Mills fields. The obtained solution is examined; in particular, its asymptotics are studied. Thermodynamics of the black hole is investigated, namely, we use an effective surface gravity to derive black hole temperature. To obtain the first law of black hole thermodynamics, the Wald method is applied. We also use the extended thermodynamics approach, namely, it allows us to derive the Smarr relation, Gibbs free energy, and the thermal equation of state. The study of thermal values in the extended space shows rich phase behavior, in particular, the domain where the first-order phase transition takes place and the critical point with the second-order phase transition. We also study thermal behavior near the critical point, obtain critical exponents, and analyze the Ehrenfest equations at the critical point. Finally, we calculate the Prigogine-Defay ratio confirming the conclusion about the second-order phase transition at the critical point.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Numerical analysis of flow anisotropy in rotated-square deterministic lateral displacement devices at moderate Reynolds number
Authors: Mallorie Calum , Vernekar Rohan , Owen Benjamin , Inglis David W. , Krüger Timm
Published: February 2024

Deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) is a microfluidic method for accurately separating particles by size or deformability. Recent efforts to operate DLD devices in the inertial, rather than in the Stokes flow regime, have been hindered by a loss of separation efficiency and difficulty predicting the separation behavior. One factor contributing to these problems is the onset of inertia-induced flow anisotropy where the average flow direction does not align with the direction of the pressure gradient in the device. We use the lattice-Boltzmann method to simulate two-dimensional flow through a rotated-square DLD geometry with circular pillars at a Reynolds number up to 100 for different gap sizes and rotation angles. We find that anisotropy in this geometry is a nonmonotonous function of Reynolds number and can be positive or negative. This finding is in contradiction to the naive expectation that inertia would always drive flow along the principal direction of the pillar array. Anisotropy tends to increase in magnitude with gap size and rotation angle. By analyzing the traction distribution along the pillar surface, we explain how the change of the flow field upon increasing inertia leads to the observed trends of anisotropy. Our work contributes to a better understanding of the inertial flow behavior in ordered cylindrical porous media, and it might contribute to improved DLD designs for operation in the inertial regime.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Tuning the carrier localization, magnetic and thermoelectric properties of ultrathin (
LaNiO3−δ)1
/(
LaAlO3)1
(001) superlattices by oxygen vacancies
Authors: Verma Manish , Pentcheva Rossitza
Published: February 2024

Using a combination of density functional theory calculations with an on-site Coulomb repulsion term (DFT+U) and Boltzmann transport theory within the constant relaxation time approximation, we explore the effect of oxygen vacancies on the electronic, magnetic, and thermoelectric properties in ultrathin (LaNiO3−δ)1/(LaAlO3)1(001) superlattices (SLs). For the pristine SL (δ=0), an antiferromagnetic charge-disproportionated (AFM-CD) (d8L̲2)S=0(d8)S=1 phase is stabilized, irrespective of strain. At δ=0.125 and 0.25, the localization of electrons released from the oxygen defects in the NiO2 plane triggers a charge-disproportionation, leading to a ferrimagnetic insulator both at aSrTiO3 (tensile strain) and aLaSrAlO4 (compressive strain). At δ=0.5, an insulating phase emerges with alternating stripes of Ni2+ (high-spin) and Ni2+ (low-spin) and oxygen vacancies ordered along the [110] direction (S-AFM), irrespective of strain. This results in a robust n-type in-plane power factor of 24µW/K2 cm at aSTO and 14µW/K2 cm at aLSAO at 300 K (assuming relaxation time τ=4 fs). Additionally, the pristine and δ = 0.5 SLs are shown to be dynamically stable. This demonstrates the fine tunability of electronic, magnetic, and thermoelectric properties of ultrathin nickelate superlattices by oxygen vacancies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Thermodynamic ground and Berry-phase origin of the planar spin Hall effect
Authors: Pan Haolin , Liu Zheng , Hou Dazhi , Gao Yang , Niu Qian
Published: February 2024

The thermodynamic ground of the spin transport is elaborated, demonstrating the Onsager's reciprocal relation. The latter is also confirmed by deriving the spin Hall effect and its inverse using the semiclassical theory and the linear response theory. Importantly, the intrinsic contribution to the spin conductivity that satisfies the Onsager's relation has only Hall-type component and hence does not dissipate heat, in analogy to the anomalous Hall effect and fulfilling the thermodynamic requirement. Based on the expression of the spin Hall conductivity, the Berry-phase origin is elaborated for the recent-discovered planar spin Hall effect which features current-induced spin polarization within the plane of the Hall deflection. We unravel a spin-repulsion vector governing the planar spin Hall effect, providing a transparent criteria for identifying intrinsic planar spin Hall materials. Finite spin-repulsion vector is found permitted in 13 crystalline point groups, revealing a big number of unexplored planar spin Hall systems. Our result can be used for the quantitative calculation of the planar spin Hall effect, facilitating further material hunting and experimental investigation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Towards customer-centric sustainability: how mindful advertising influences mindful consumption behaviour
Authors: Shikalgar Amir , Menon Preetha , Mahajan Vaishali C.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Though there is consensus that mindfulness induces mindful consumption (MC), empirical testing is needed to uncover the mechanism underlying temperance behaviour in the MC model proposed by Sheth et al. (2011). The role of mindful advertising in influencing MC needs deeper investigation. The purpose of this research paper is to bridge the gap.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationship between mindfulness and temperance in consumption was investigated using an online simulation. Mindful advertising by Patagonia, with a message to buy less yet demand organic, fair-trade and recycled products, was introduced as a moderator in experimental group one. The second group was exposed to an aspirational advertisement of Tommy Hilfiger, symbolic of consumption-driving communication.

Findings

Not buying any brands was the uppermost preference by the participants followed by Patagonia, which used a mindful advertisement. Tommy Hilfiger was a distant third despite using an aspirational advertisement. A predictive relationship between mindfulness and temperance in consumption remained elusive.

Practical implications

Consumer purchase decisions favouring mindfully advertised Patagonia make a strong business case for nurturing a mindful mindset and promoting mindful behaviour. The customer-centric sustainability strategy of caring for the people and the planet beforehand should take precedence over corporate social responsibility which is usually an afterthought.

Originality/value

Measuring mindfulness and MC, two constructs combined in one experimental design, using a simulation built around real-life marketing communication distinguishes this research paper.
Corporate governance and firm’s risk behavior: the moderating role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Ali Rizwan , Rehman Ramiz Ur
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the nexus of corporate governance with firms' financial risk-taking behavior under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosures in the context of non-financial listed firms of an emerging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the relationship between corporate governance as evaluated by an index and several financial risks, including idiosyncratic, default and systematic risks. The connection of corporate governance with financial risks is also studied while considering the moderation of CSR disclosures. The data are collected from 2014 to 2018 of 73 top 100-index listed non-financial firms of Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). Panel regression fixed effect and 2-step generalized method of moments techniques are applied to confirm the hypothesis along with the diagnostic tests to confirm that all outcomes of models must be authentic and reliable.

Findings

The study’s findings confirm that enhancing the overall corporate governance measures resulted in an augment in the firm’s risk due to weak control and regulations prevailing in emerging economies. Moreover, CSR disclosures enhance stakeholder information, lessen information asymmetry about management policies and mitigate the risk associated with operational uncertainties.

Practical implications

This study has a practical implementation to policymakers that effective monitoring and controlling measures facilitate the corporate management for minimizing the financial risks. Further, the study’s findings shed light that implementing corporate governance measures is not enough to mitigate financial risks until supervisory measures in the form of CSR disclosures are not taken to analyse corporate governance effectiveness.

Originality/value

This paper enhances the key findings in the literature by examining the role of corporate governance measures with respect to firms’ financial risks considering the moderating role of CSR disclosures. Furthermore, this research adds to the body of knowledge regarding the implementation of monitoring measures that assist in the mitigation of firms’ financial risks hence firm value.
The multifaceted impact of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation: a sector-specific analysis in civil engineering testing and calibration laboratories
Authors: Panagiotidou Evangelia , Chountalas Panos T. , Magoutas Anastasios Ι. , Kitsios Fotis C.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to dissect the multifaceted impact of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, specifically within civil engineering testing and calibration laboratories. To achieve this, it intends to explore several key objectives: identifying the prominent benefits of accreditation to laboratory performance, understanding the advantages conferred through participation in proficiency testing schemes, assessing the role of accreditation in enhancing laboratory competitiveness, examining the primary challenges encountered during the accreditation process, investigating any discernible adverse effects of accreditation on laboratory performance and evaluating whether the financial cost of accreditation justifies the resultant profitability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with 23 industry professionals—including technical managers, quality managers, external auditors and clients. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s six-stage paradigm, was utilized to interpret the data, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the accreditation’s impact.

Findings

Findings reveal that accreditation significantly enhances operational processes, fosters quality awareness and facilitates continuous improvement, contributing to greater client satisfaction. In addition, standardized operations and rigorous quality controls further result in enhanced performance metrics, such as staff capability and measurement accuracy. However, the study also uncovers the challenges of accreditation, including high resource costs and bureaucratic hurdles that can inhibit innovation and slow routine operations. Importantly, the research underscores that the impact of accreditation on profitability is not universal, but contingent upon various factors like sector-specific regulations and market demand. The study also highlights sector-specific variations in the role of accreditation as a marketing tool and differing perceptions of its value among clients. It further emphasizes the psychological stress of high-stakes evaluations during audits.

Originality/value

This study represents the first in-depth investigation into the impact of ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation on civil engineering testing and calibration laboratories, directly contributing to the enhancement of their quality and operational standards. Providing actionable insights for laboratories, it underscores the importance of weighing accreditation costs and benefits and the necessity for a tailored approach to the unique market and regulatory landscapes they operate in.
Scutellarin inhibits oleic acid induced vascular smooth muscle foam cell formation via activating autophagy and inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Gao Wen‐Cong , Yang Tie‐Hua , Wang Bin‐Bao , Liu Qian , Li Qing , Zhou Xiao‐Huan , Zheng Chang‐Bo , Chen Peng
Published: February 2024

Abnormalities in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are pivotal in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular pathologies such as atherosclerosis and hypertension. Scutellarin (Scu), a flavonoid derived from marigold flowers, exhibits a spectrum of biological activities including anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects. Notably, Scu has demonstrated the capacity to mitigate vascular endothelial damage and prevent atherosclerosis via its antioxidative properties. Nevertheless, the influence of Scu on the formation of VSMC‐derived foam cells remains underexplored. In this study, Scu was evidenced to efficaciously attenuate oleic acid (OA)‐induced lipid accumulation and the upregulation of adipose differentiation‐associated protein Plin2 in a dose‐ and time‐responsive manner. We elucidated that Scu effectively diminishes OA‐provoked VSMC foam cell formation. Further, it was established that Scu pretreatment augments the protein expression of LC3B‐II and the mRNA levels of Map1lc3b and Becn1, concurrently diminishing the protein levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome compared to the OA group. Activation of autophagy through rapamycin attenuated NLRP3 inflammasome protein expression, intracellular lipid droplet content and Plin2 mRNA levels. Scu also counteracted the OA‐induced decrement of LC3B‐II levels in the presence of bafilomycin‐a1, facilitating the genesis of autophagosomes and autolysosomes. Complementarily, in vivo experiments revealed that Scu administration substantially reduced arterial wall thickness, vessel wall cross‐sectional area, wall‐to‐lumen ratio and serum total cholesterol levels in comparison to the high‐fat diet model group. Collectively, our findings suggest that Scu attenuates OA‐induced VSMC foam cell formation through the induction of autophagy and the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Database of aquatic macrophytes in Japanese lakes
Authors: Kato Syou , Shiga Takashi , Yamanouchi Takashi , Nishihiro Jun
Published: February 2024

Macrophytes, comprising aquatic vascular plants, bryophytes, and macroalgae, including charophytes, are crucial components of lake ecosystems. Their diversity affects ecosystem functions and services, and they are sensitive to environmental changes, making them effective indicators of lake health. Historical records of macrophyte species composition are essential for evaluating environmental changes and conservation goals. In this study, we compiled a comprehensive database of macrophytes, along with lake and survey information from the literature, providing a historical record of macrophyte biodiversity for lakes in Japan. This database enables the analysis of changes in the flora of Japanese lakes and fluctuations in species distribution, facilitating future monitoring. The complete dataset for this abstract published in the Data Article section of the journal is available in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2024-02.1/jalter-en.
The attitudes of teaching staff in specialised education towards inclusion and integration
Authors: Tenback Christy , de Boer Anke , Bijstra Jan
Published: February 2024

The attitudes of teaching staff are key in developing more inclusive schools. In the Netherlands, different types of schools for special education use integration as a step towards inclusive education. The Dutch government supports this development by a policy rule that enables schools to integrate both pupils and staff. This cross‐sectional study focuses on the attitudes of teaching staff towards inclusion and integration, their sense of self‐efficacy and what their concerns are, and how age, teaching experience, self‐efficacy and concerns relate to their attitudes. Teachers and teaching assistants (N = 82) from seven different schools participated in the study by completing a survey. The results showed that teaching staff hold neutral to moderately positive attitudes towards inclusion and integration. The self‐efficacy of the teaching staff was positive, and they had neutral to moderate concerns about the integration process. This was explicitly the case when working with mixed‐ability groups; that is, pupils with diverse special educational needs. The regression model showed that concerns were significantly related to attitudes: the more concerns teaching staff have, the less positive their attitudes towards inclusion and integration. Recommendations for practice and future research are suggested in the discussion.
The Good, the Not so Good, and Liz Truss: MPs’ Evaluations of Postwar Prime Ministers
Authors:   Royal Holloway Group PR3710
Published: February 2024

This article reports the findings from a 2023 survey that invited all MPs to evaluate the performance of postwar prime ministers from Clement Attlee to Liz Truss. It also compares MPs’ responses with those from a similar survey conducted in 2013. Among the MPs who responded in 2023, Margaret Thatcher was ranked as the most successful postwar prime minister, and Truss was ranked as the least successful. The results further suggest that prime ministers’ historical reputations among MPs are relatively sticky, closely associated with their length of tenure in 10 Downing Street, and greatly affected by party loyalties. Lastly, the rankings based on parliamentary opinion in 2023 are broadly comparable with those based on recent surveys of academic and public opinion.
Systematic study of a method to determine the sequence of crossing lines on stamping before writing
Authors: Wu Xiang
Published: February 2024

Determining specific line‐crossing sequences has always posed a challenge for document examiners. Interactions between pen ink and stamp seal ink can be complicated and changeable due to the many seals and writing inks available in the market. This study determines the line‐crossing sequence of stamping before writing by observing the influence of seal ink on pen writing. The results of examining four types of pens and six types of seal ink crossings reveal that assessing the completeness of writing strokes can determine sequencing. Different ink types interact to produce different phenomena. In addition, time interval and pen structure affected the interaction between two inks in a crossing. A 70% accuracy rate was achieved in a nationwide blind test, which will be discussed in this article.
Efficacy and safety of ketamine alone and ketamine‐dexmedetomidine combination for sedation for brain computed tomography in paediatric patients with head injuries: A retrospective study
Authors: Yoon Jaeyeon , Park Ju Ok , Song Hyeonyoung , Lee Choung A , Wang Soon‐Joo , Park Hang A
Published: February 2024

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of ketamine alone with those of ketamine‐dexmedetomidine combination for sedation during brain CT in paediatric patients with head injuries.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed the data of paediatric patients who underwent sedation for brain CT at the ED. We included patients aged 6 months to 6 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II. The sedative protocol involved the administration of intramuscular (IM) ketamine 3 mg/kg (K), ketamine 2 mg/kg with dexmedetomidine 1.5 μg/kg (KD) or ketamine 1.5 mg/kg with dexmedetomidine 1.5 μg/kg (low‐KD). The primary and secondary outcomes were sedation failure and adverse events, respectively.

Results

We included 77 patients; among them, 28, 23 and 26 were in the K, KD and low‐KD groups, respectively. In multivariable analysis, the combination groups (KD and low‐KD groups) were significantly associated with a lower possibility of sedation failure compared to the K group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.12; 95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.56). Moreover, there were no significant differences in adverse events between the groups, and the sedation‐related time variables also did not significantly differ among the three groups.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that a combination of IM ketamine‐dexmedetomidine provides effective sedation for paediatric patients undergoing brain CT without significant adverse events. Further research is needed to investigate the potential benefits of using lower doses of ketamine in combination.
Talc and calcium carbonate inclusions in direct expanded pea starch extrudates exhibit different behavior under increasing screw speeds
Authors: Ikuse Marina , Richter Jana K. , Ganjyal Girish M.
Published: February 2024

The ability to modulate direct expanded product structures improves the versatility and range of product applications. The effect of nucleating agents, namely, talc and calcium carbonate (CC), on the expansion characteristics of pea starch extrudates as impacted by screw speed was explored. Pea starch blends with increasing levels of nucleating agents (0.25%, 1%, and 2%) at 18% moisture (w.b.) were extruded across a range of screw speeds (150, 250, 350, and 450 rpm). The water absorption index, water solubility index (WSI), expansion ratio (ER), unit density, and cell count were determined to evaluate the performance of nucleating agents. The nucleating efficiency of CC, as assessed by cell count, improved with increasing screw speeds. In contrast, the nucleating efficiency of talc was influenced by inclusion levels irrespective of screw speed. ER values ranged from 2.10 to 2.88, where higher nucleating agent inclusions and screw speeds corresponded with lower ER values. Increased nucleating agents and screw speeds corresponded to higher WSI values suggesting the nucleating agents promoted starch degradation. The nucleating agents appeared to promote flow instabilities indicated upon assessment of the extrudate surface.

Practical Application

This study provides helpful information on the expanded extrudate structure of pea starch as influenced by screw speed and nucleating agents. These findings may help the food industry select processing parameters and appropriate nucleating agent inclusion levels when producing new expanded products with unique textures.
In silico guided pre‐treatment of sugarcane juice with natural inhibitors of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) is a new and effective strategy for development of spray‐dried formulation
Authors: Kanagaraj Jaya Chendrayan , Jana Shilpa B. , Marathe Sandesh J. , Singhal Rekha S.
Published: February 2024

Sugarcane juice is a popular beverage and is also processed to produce sugar. The polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in sugarcane juice causes enzymatic browning and makes the process of sugar production complex and cumbersome. Storage of sugarcane juice is also hampered by the high sugar content and rapid microbial fermentation. The present research assessed the potential of lemon juice (LJ) and ginger extract (GE) as natural inhibitors of PPO. Enzyme kinetics and the mechanism of inhibition of LJ and GE were studied. Primary investigation was carried out using molecular docking approach to assess the inhibitory potential of LJ and GE and to determine the nature of interaction between the enzyme and inhibitors. Extracts were used as inhibitors and studies revealed that both reduced the PPO activity. Subsequently, pure bioactive inhibitors such as ascorbic acid, citric acid, and 6‐shogaol present in these natural extracts were used to study the mode of inhibition of PPO. Citric acid decreased PPO activity by lowering pH, while ascorbic acid was found to be a competitive inhibitor of PPO with a Ki of 75.69 µM. The proportion of LJ and GE required in sugarcane juice was optimized on the basis of browning index and sensory acceptance. Further, the sugarcane cane juice after inhibition of PPO under optimized conditions was spray dried and evaluated for reconstitution properties. The product formulated in the present study is a new and effective approach to address quality‐compromising issues associated with long‐term storage of cane juice.
Novel Lactobacillaceae strains and consortia to produce propionate‐containing fermentates as biopreservatives
Authors: Buljubašić Ena , Bambace Maria Florencia , Christensen Mie Henriette Løve , Ng Ker‐Sin , Huertas‐Díaz Lucía , Sundekilde Ulrik , Marietou Angeliki , Schwab Clarissa
Published: February 2024

Biopreservation refers to the use of natural or controlled microbial single strains or consortia, and/or their metabolites such as short‐chain carboxylic acids (SCCA), to improve the shelf‐life of foods. This study aimed at establishing a novel Lactobacillaceae‐driven bioprocess that led to the production of the SCCA propionate through the cross‐feeding on 1,2‐propanediol (1,2‐PD) derived from the deoxyhexoses rhamnose or fucose. When grown as single cultures in Hungate tubes, strains of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus preferred fucose over rhamnose and produced 1,2‐PD in addition to lactate, acetate, and formate, while Limosilactobacillus reuteri metabolized 1,2‐PD into propionate, propanol and propanal. Loigolactobacillus coryniformis used fucose to produce 1,2‐PD and only formed propionate when supplied with 1,2‐PD. Fermentates collected from batch fermentations in bioreactor using two‐strain consortia (L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri) or fed‐batch fermentations of single strain cultures of L. coryniformis with rhamnose contained mixtures of SCCA consisting of mainly lactate and acetate and also propionate. Synthetic mixtures that contained SCCA at concentrations present in the fermentates were more antimicrobial against Salmonella enterica if propionate was present. Together, this study (i) demonstrates the potential of single strains and two‐strain consortia to produce propionate in the presence of deoxyhexoses extending the fermentation metabolite profile of Lactobacillaceae, and (ii) emphasizes the potential of applying propionate‐containing fermentates as biopreservatives.
Exploring deep learning techniques for wild animal behaviour classification using animal‐borne accelerometers
Authors: Otsuka Ryoma , Yoshimura Naoya , Tanigaki Kei , Koyama Shiho , Mizutani Yuichi , Yoda Ken , Maekawa Takuya
Published: February 2024

Machine learning‐based behaviour classification using acceleration data is a powerful tool in bio‐logging research. Deep learning architectures such as convolutional neural networks (CNN), long short‐term memory (LSTM) and self‐attention mechanism as well as related training techniques have been extensively studied in human activity recognition. However, they have rarely been used in wild animal studies. The main challenges of acceleration‐based wild animal behaviour classification include data shortages, class imbalance problems, various types of noise in data due to differences in individual behaviour and where the loggers were attached and complexity in data due to complex animal‐specific behaviours, which may have limited the application of deep learning techniques in this area.

To overcome these challenges, we explored the effectiveness of techniques for efficient model training: data augmentation, manifold mixup and pre‐training of deep learning models with unlabelled data, using datasets from two species of wild seabirds and state‐of‐the‐art deep learning model architectures.

Data augmentation improved the overall model performance when one of the various techniques (none, scaling, jittering, permutation, time‐warping and rotation) was randomly applied to each data during mini‐batch training. Manifold mixup also improved model performance, but not as much as random data augmentation. Pre‐training with unlabelled data did not improve model performance. The state‐of‐the‐art deep learning models, including a model consisting of four CNN layers, an LSTM layer and a multi‐head attention layer, as well as its modified version with shortcut connection, showed better performance among other comparative models. Using only raw acceleration data as inputs, these models outperformed classic machine learning approaches that used 119 handcrafted features.

Our experiments showed that deep learning techniques are promising for acceleration‐based behaviour classification of wild animals and highlighted some challenges (e.g. effective use of unlabelled data). There is scope for greater exploration of deep learning techniques in wild animal studies (e.g. advanced data augmentation, multimodal sensor data use, transfer learning and self‐supervised learning). We hope that this study will stimulate the development of deep learning techniques for wild animal behaviour classification using time‐series sensor data.
METTL14 affects UVB‐induced human dermal fibroblasts photoaging via miR‐100‐3p biogenesis in an m6A‐dependent manner
Authors: Chen Lihao , Hu Yu , Zhang Min , Liu Lihao , Ma Jing , Xu Zhuohong , Zhang Jiaan , Gu Heng , Chen Kun
Published: February 2024

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can lead to skin photoaging, which increases the risk of skin tumors. This study aims to investigate how microRNA m6A modification contributes to skin photoaging. This study found that skin fibroblasts exposed to a single UVB dose of 30 mJ/cm2 exhibited characteristics of photoaging. The m6A level of total RNA decreased in photoaged cells with a down‐regulated level of METTL14, and overexpression of METTL14 displayed a photoprotective function. Moreover, miR‐100‐3p was a downstream target of METTL14. And METTL14 could affect pri‐miR‐100 processing to mature miR‐100‐3p in an m6A‐dependent manner via DGCR8. Furthermore, miR‐100‐3p targeted at 3′ end untranslated region of ERRFI1 mRNA with an inhibitory effect on translation. Additionally, photoprotective effects of overexpression of METTL14 were reversed by miR‐100‐3p inhibitor or overexpression of ERRFI1. In UVB‐induced photoaging of human skin fibroblasts, METTL14‐dependent m6A can regulate miR‐100‐3p maturation via DGCR8 and affect skin fibroblasts photoaging through miR‐100‐3p/ERRFI1 axis.
Double mutualism involving Melocactus (Cactaceae) and lizards in the Brazilian Caatinga: Another isolated case or is it an established interaction?
Authors: Bezerra‐Silva Alexsandro , Gomes Vanessa Gabrielle Nóbrega , Albuquerque‐Lima Sinzinando , Nadia Tarcila Lima , Machado Isabel Cristina , Silveira Funch Ligia
Published: February 2024

This work discusses a fascinating ecological relationship, in which the lizard Tropidurus cocorobensis and the cactus Melocactus violaceus engage in a double mutualism. In this interaction, observed in a Caatinga, a dry tropical forest in Northeastern Brazil, T. cocorobensis feed on the nectar and pollen of M. violaceus, transferring the grains to the stigmas of another flower, acting as a potential pollinator. Additionally, the lizards consume fruits of M. violaceus, helping to disperse the seeds. The concentrated nectar of M. violaceus attracts lizards, and the morphological compatibility between the small pink flowers and the size of T. cocorobensis is important to this double mutualism. The findings mentioned here highlight the importance of Tropidurus lizards in the reproductive success of Melocactus species and provide insights into the coevolution of these species in a seasonal and resource‐scarce environment, like the Caatinga.
Recruitment failure of keystone trees in Phytophthora infested forest
Authors: Mansfield Thomas , Hardy Giles , Fleming Patricia , Standish Rachel
Published: February 2024

Invasive plant pathogens cause considerable forest loss worldwide. However, little is known about how tree populations recover post‐invasion. In Western Australia, Phytophthora cinnamomi ‘dieback’ affects jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata), with historical records of mass deaths in this keystone tree species due to infestation, resulting in permanent loss of standing forest. Historical observations of marri (Corymbia calophylla), a co‐dominant keystone jarrah forest tree, suggest it is resistant to P. cinnamomi. Impacts of P. cinnamomi on the population dynamics of jarrah and marri are unknown. We recorded densities and stem diameters of jarrah and marri in a peri‐urban forest to examine their population demographics in >60‐year‐old P. cinnamomi infestations compared with adjacent non‐infested forest. While seedling (<0.5 cm stem diameter, ~ 2 –15 cm tall) densities were not significantly different, total tree densities were 43% (jarrah) and 48% (marri) lower for infested sites. Densities of jarrah 0.5–9 and 20–29 cm stem diameters were lower within infestations. Survival probabilities of jarrah seedlings were significantly greater in P. cinnamomi infestations, but those of mature jarrah were not different. While average marri stem density was 49% greater within infestations, densities of small marri (<20 cm stem diameter) were lower within infestations. Survival probabilities for marri seedlings were significantly decreased in infestations, while there was greater survival probability for mature marri within P. cinnamomi infestations. Our data suggest recruitment of jarrah and marri has likely reduced since P. cinnamomi invasion. This is the first documented impact on marri, which indicates that we have been overlooking the risk of decline due to P. cinnamomi for this species. We stress the need for continued management and highlight the necessity of planting seedlings ~6 months old, and assisting their survival with phosphite and fertilizers, to bolster local tree populations.
Phenotypic correlations of carpal gland diverticular number with production traits and its genome‐wide association analysis in multiple pig populations
Authors: Cui Dengshuai , Li Longyun , Yu Naibiao , Xiong Sanya , Xiao Shijun , Zheng Hao , Huang Zhiyong , Guo Yuanmei , Huang Lusheng
Published: February 2024

Pig carpal glands play crucial roles in territorial recognition, reproductive behavior, and information exchange; however, their effects on production traits and underlying genetic mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, 1028 pigs from six populations were counted for the carpal gland diverticular numbers (CGDNs) on the left (CGDNL) and right (CGDNR) legs, and their carcass and meat quality traits were assessed. The CGDNs were significantly different among the populations, and Licha Black pigs had a lower CGDN than the Bama Xiang breed. It was also significantly different between sexes, with males having more diverticula than females (p ≤ 0.0391). Moreover, the number was asymmetric, with CGDNR being significantly higher than CGDNL. Notably, CGDNs was significantly correlated with each other in phenotype and genetics and with 24‐h pH, 24‐h meat color score, 24‐h marbling score, fat content, moisture content, sodium salt content, and saturated fatty acid content in phenotype. Furthermore, genome‐wide association analyses identified seven SNPs in association with CGDNs at a 5% genome‐wide significance level, all of which were located in a 1.78‐Mb (35.347–37.129 Mb) region on chromosome 1. CNC10010837 and CNC10010840 were the top SNPs: both had an additive effect of 0.789 ± 0.120 on CGDNR with p = 8.31E‐10. These findings provide important insights into the functions and underlying genetic mechanisms of swine carpal glands.
Unified robust estimation
Authors: Wang Zhu
Published: February 2024

Robust estimation is primarily concerned with providing reliable parameter estimates in the presence of outliers. Numerous robust loss functions have been proposed in regression and classification, along with various computing algorithms. In modern penalised generalised linear models (GLMs), however, there is limited research on robust estimation that can provide weights to determine the outlier status of the observations. This article proposes a unified framework based on a large family of loss functions, a composite of concave and convex functions (CC‐family). Properties of the CC‐family are investigated, and CC‐estimation is innovatively conducted via the iteratively reweighted convex optimisation (IRCO), which is a generalisation of the iteratively reweighted least squares in robust linear regression. For robust GLM, the IRCO becomes the iteratively reweighted GLM. The unified framework contains penalised estimation and robust support vector machine (SVM) and is demonstrated with a variety of data applications.