bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired progenitor cell function in HIV-negative infants of HIV-positive mothers results in decreased thymic output and low CD4 counts
Authors: Nielsen Susanne D. , Jeppesen Dorthe L. , Kolte Lilian , Clark Dawn R. , Sørensen Tine U. , Dreves Anne-Mette , Ersbøll Annette K. , Ryder Lars P. , Valerius Niels H. , Nielsen Jens O.
Published: July 2002

Hematologic and immunologic functions were examined in 19 HIV-negative infants of HIV-positive mothers and 19 control infants of HIV-negative mothers. Control infants were selected to match for gestational age, weight, and mode of delivery. Cord blood was obtained from all infants and used for flow cytometric determination of lymphocyte subsets, including the naive CD4 count. Furthermore, to determine thymic output, cord blood mononuclear cells were used for determination of T-cell receptor excision circles (TRECs). Evaluation of progenitor cell function was done by means of colony-forming cell assay and fetal thymic organ cultures (FTOCs). Lower naive CD4 counts (459.3 ± 68.9 vs 1128.9 ± 146.8 cells/μL,P < .001) and reduced thymic output in infants of HIV-positive mothers were found (frequency of CD4+cells with TRECs was 3.6% ± 0.7% compared with 14.3% ± 2.2% in controls, P < .001). In combination with lower red blood cell counts in infants of HIV-positive mothers, this finding suggested impairment of progenitor cell function. Indeed, progenitors from infants of HIV-positive mothers had decreased cloning efficiency (15.7% ± 2.6% vs 55.8% ± 15.9%,P = .009) and seemed to generate fewer T cells in FTOCs. In conclusion, lower numbers of naive CD4+ cells and reduced thymic output in HIV-negative infants of HIV-positive mothers may be due to impaired progenitor cell function.
A comparison of the in vivo kinetics of Plasmodium falciparum ring–infected erythrocyte surface antigen–positive and –negative erythrocytes
Authors: Newton Paul N. , Chotivanich Kesinee , Chierakul Wirongrong , Ruangveerayuth Ronatrai , Teerapong Pramote , Silamut Kamolrat , Looareesuwan Sornchai , White Nicholas J.
Published: July 2002

Ring-infected erythrocyte surface antigen (RESA)-positive,Plasmodium falciparum–negative red blood cells (RBCs) are cells from which the malaria parasite has been removed by the host without the destruction of the erythrocyte (“pitting”). The survival of RESA-RBCs in vivo was assessed in 14 severe and 6 uncomplicated falciparum malaria patients. The mean RESA-RBC life of 183 hours (95% confidence interval [CI], 136-246) was longer than the median parasite clearance time of 66 hours (range, 30-108 hours) but shorter than the mean red cell life of 1027 hours (95% CI, 840-1213) (P = .0004), with a median ratio of 0.2:1.0 (range, 0.1-0.7). The estimated median percentage of parasites pitted/body transit was 0.003% (range, 0.001%-0.05%). The rate of rise of the RESA-RBC count during the first 24 hours after antimalarial treatment was significantly faster (P = .036) and the subsequent RESA-RBC survival significantly shorter (P = .017) after treatment with an artemisinin derivative than after treatment with quinine. Parasitization of red cells leads to changes in the erythrocyte that shorten their survival even if the parasite is removed subsequently.
The Fanconi anemia complementation group C gene product: structural evidence of multifunctionality
Authors: Pang Qishen , Christianson Tracy A. , Keeble Winifred , Diaz Jane , Faulkner Gregory R. , Reifsteck Carol , Olson Susan , Bagby Grover C.
Published: July 2002

The Fanconi anemia (FA) group C gene product (FANCC) functions to protect cells from cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of cross-linking agents. FANCC is also required for optimal activation of STAT1 in response to cytokine and growth factors and for suppressing cytokine-induced apoptosis by modulating the activity of double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase. Because not all FANCC mutations affect STAT1 activation, the hypothesis was considered that cross-linker resistance function of FANCC depends on structural elements that differ from those required for the cytokine signaling functions of FANCC. Structure-function studies were designed to test this notion. Six separate alanine-substituted mutations were generated in 3 highly conserved motifs of FANCC. All mutants complemented mitomycin C (MMC) hypersensitive phenotype of FA-C cells and corrected aberrant posttranslational activation of FANCD2 in FA-C mutant cells. However, 2 of the mutants, S249A and E251A, failed to correct defective STAT1 activation. FA-C lymphoblasts carrying these 2 mutants demonstrated a defect in recruitment of STAT1 to the interferon γ (IFN-γ) receptor and GST-fusion proteins bearing S249A and E251A mutations were less efficient binding partners for STAT1 in stimulated lymphoblasts. These same mutations failed to complement the characteristic hypersensitive apoptotic responses of FA-C cells to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IFN-γ. Cells bearing a naturally occurring FANCC mutation (322delG) that preserves this conserved region showed normal STAT1 activation but remained hypersensitive to MMC. The conclusion is that a central highly conserved domain of FANCC is required for functional interaction with STAT1 and that structural elements required for STAT1-related functions differ from those required for genotoxic responses to cross-linking agents. Preservation of signaling capacity of cells bearing the del322G mutation may account for the reduced severity and later onset of bone marrow failure associated with this mutation.
X-linked thrombocytopenia caused by a novel mutation ofGATA-1
Authors: Mehaffey Michele G. , Newton Anthea L. , Gandhi Manish J. , Crossley Merlin , Drachman Jonathan G.
Published: July 2002

A family with recessive X-linked thrombocytopenia affecting 4 males in 2 generations, characterized by macrothrombocytopenia, profound bleeding, and mild dyserythropoiesis, is described. Microsatellite linkage analysis identified a region of the X chromosome including theGATA-1 gene, which encodes a critical transcription factor involved in erythrocyte and megakaryocyte development. By sequencing the entire coding region of GATA-1, a 2-base mutation was detected that results in a single amino acid substitution (glycine 208 to serine) within a highly conserved portion of the N-terminal zinc finger domain. Restriction fragment length polymorphism confirmed that this novel mutation segregated with the affected males and female carrier. Although not required for DNA binding, Gly208 of GATA-1 is involved in direct interaction with Friend of GATA-1 (FOG), a cofactor required for normal megakaryocytic and erythroid development. These results demonstrate that the GATA-1–FOG interaction is partially disrupted by the mutation and that the greatest effect involves contact with the FOG zinc finger 9. These findings help describe a novel mutation of GATA-1 in humans as a cause of X-linked thrombocytopenia, and they confirm the vital role played by this transcription factor during in vivo megakaryocyte development.
Severe coagulation factor V deficiency caused by 2 novel frameshift mutations: 2952delT in exon 13 and 5493insG in exon 16 of factor 5 gene
Authors: Ajzner Éva , Balogh István , Szabó Teréz , Marosi Anikó , Haramura Gizella , Muszbek László
Published: July 2002

A male infant with severe bleeding tendency had undetectable factor V activity. Sequence analysis of the proband's DNA revealed one base deletion in exon 13 (2952delT) and one base insertion in exon 16 (5493insG) in heterozygous form. Both mutations introduced a frameshift and a premature stop at codons 930 and 1776, respectively. The proband's father and mother were heterozygous for 2952delT and for 5493insG, respectively. Both mutations would result in the synthesis of truncated proteins lacking complete light chain or its C-terminal part. In the patient's plasma, no factor V light chain was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The N-terminal portion of factor V containing the heavy chain, and the connecting B domain was severely reduced but detectable (1.7%). A small amount of truncated factor V–specific protein with a molecular weight ratio of 236 kd could be immunoprecipitated from the plasma and detected by Western blotting. This protein, factor VDebrecen, corresponds to the translated product of exon 16 mutant allele.
Sequential production of interferon-γ by NK1.1+ T cells and natural killer cells is essential for the antimetastatic effect of α-galactosylceramide
Authors: Smyth Mark J. , Crowe Nadine Y. , Pellicci Daniel G. , Kyparissoudis Konstantinos , Kelly Janice M. , Takeda Kazuyoshi , Yagita Hideo , Godfrey Dale I.
Published: July 2002

The antimetastatic effect of the CD1d-binding glycolipid, α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), is mediated by NK1.1+T (NKT) cells; however, the mechanisms behind this process are poorly defined. Although it has been shown to involve NK cells and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production, the way these factors collaborate to mediate effective tumor rejection and the importance of other factors characteristic of NKT cell and NK cell activation are unknown. Using gene-targeted mice and antibody treatments, the critical need for interleukin 12 (IL-12), IFN-γ, and NK cells has been shown in the antimetastatic activity of α-GalCer in the lungs and the liver. By contrast, in lung and liver metastasis models, cytotoxic molecules expressed by NK cells and NKT cells (perforin, Fas ligand, and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) and an NKT cell-secreted cytokine, IL-4, were not necessary for the antitumor activity of α-GalCer. Like IL-12, IL-18 was required for optimal serum IFN-γ induction and control of lung metastases by α-GalCer. IL-18 was unnecessary for α-GalCer–related suppression of liver metastases. Most importantly, after adoptive transfer of α-GalCer–reactive NKT cells or NK cells into NKT cell-deficient, IFN-γ–deficient, or RAG-1–deficient mice, it was demonstrated that the sequential production of IFN-γ by NKT cells and NK cells was absolutely required to reconstitute the antimetastatic activity of α-GalCer.
Global gene expression profiling of multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, and normal bone marrow plasma cells
Authors: Zhan Fenghuang , Hardin Johanna , Kordsmeier Bob , Bumm Klaus , Zheng Mingzhong , Tian Erming , Sanderson Ralph , Yang Yang , Wilson Carla , Zangari Maurizio , Anaissie Elias , Morris Christopher , Muwalla Firas , van Rhee Frits , Fassas Athanasios , Crowley John , Tricot Guido , Barlogie Bart , Shaughnessy John
Published: July 2002

Bone marrow plasma cells (PCs) from 74 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM), 5 with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and 31 healthy volunteers (normal PCs) were purified by CD138+ selection. Gene expression of purified PCs and 7 MM cell lines were profiled using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays interrogating about 6800 genes. On hierarchical clustering analysis, normal and MM PCs were differentiated and 4 distinct subgroups of MM (MM1, MM2, MM3, and MM4) were identified. The expression pattern of MM1 was similar to normal PCs and MGUS, whereas MM4 was similar to MM cell lines. Clinical parameters linked to poor prognosis, abnormal karyotype (P = .002) and high serum β2-microglobulin levels (P = .0005), were most prevalent in MM4. Also, genes involved in DNA metabolism and cell cycle control were overexpressed in a comparison of MM1 and MM4. In addition, using χ2 and Wilcoxon rank sum tests, 120 novel candidate disease genes were identified that discriminate normal and malignant PCs (P < .0001); many are involved in adhesion, apoptosis, cell cycle, drug resistance, growth arrest, oncogenesis, signaling, and transcription. A total of 156 genes, including FGFR3 andCCND1, exhibited highly elevated (“spiked”) expression in at least 4 of the 74 MM cases (range, 4-25 spikes). Elevated expression of these 2 genes was caused by the translocation t(4;14)(p16;q32) or t(11;14)(q13;q32). Thus, novel candidate MM disease genes have been identified using gene expression profiling and this profiling has led to the development of a gene-based classification system for MM.
The Supreme Court and the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act—A Dangerous Time for Us All
Authors: Goodwin Michele B. , Whelan Allison M. , Gostin Lawrence O.
Published: September 2024

This Viewpoint explores recent US Supreme Court decisions and how they threaten the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act and the health, safety, and rights of pregnant persons throughout the country.
Heterogeneity in Methods of Estimating Kidney Function for Cancer Clinical Trial Eligibility
Authors: Karol Alexander B. , Paredes Rodrigo , Fujiwara Yu , Argulian Anna , Joshi Himanshu , Abramson Matthew , Galsky Matthew D.
Published: September 2024

This cross-sectional study examined the kidney-function eligibility criteria for patients for enrollment in contemporary cancer clinical trials.
Leukemia Cell Hitchhiking Hypoxia Responsive Nanogel for Improved Immunotherapy of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Chen Haoting , Wang Dongyao , Yao Yuying , Xiao Yafang , Zhao Zhuangzhuang , Zhang Ziqi , Liu Shaoyu , Wang Xinlu , Yang Shiying , Huang Panpan , Zhou Zijian , Zhu Xiaoyu , Guo Weisheng
Published: September 2024

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) with anti‐CD47 antibodies (aCD47) is a promising therapeutic approach that has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the low immune response rate and high systemic hematotoxicity remain substantial barriers to its success in clinical AML treatment. A synthetic protein nanogel formulation of aCD47 and resiquimod (R848) (termed CR‐TNG) is developed that targets TIM‐3 on the surface of leukemia cells. Upon intravenous injection, the CR‐TNG efficiently conjugates onto the blood‐circulating leukemia cells and migrates toward the bone marrow (BM) by exploiting the natural BM homing capability of leukemia cells. CR‐TNG releases aCD47 and R848 in a bone marrow hypoxic microenvironment, which significantly induces immunosuppression and enhances the anti‐leukemia immune response by activating macrophage “eat me” signaling and priming myeloid macrophages in the BM niche. These findings provide a leukemia cell‐hitchhiking drug delivery strategy that addresses both systemic hematotoxicity and low immune response rate in AML.
A Novel Method for Increasing Phase‐Change Microcapsules in Nanofiber Textile through Electrospinning
Authors: Gu Bin , Li Guo , Zhang Qiang , Pan Haodan , Duan Mengfan , Weng Liqing , Zhao Dongliang
Published: September 2024

Phase‐change textiles can achieve temperature regulation in variable ambient environments, however, augmenting the amounts of phase‐change materials (PCMs) in textiles remains a significant challenge due to the occurrence of leakage with higher amounts. Herein, a novel approach is proposed for the fabrication of a hierarchical nanofiber textile embedded with a substantial quantity of phase‐change microcapsules (PCMC) using electrospinning. Such nanofiber textile is composed of a polyvinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene fibers (PVDF‐HFP) layer and a polyvinyl butyral fibers doped with 60 wt% of PCMC (PVB/PCMC‐60) layer. Gratifyingly, doped PCMC shows no signs of rupture and exhibits excellent cycling stability. Furthermore, the incorporation of the PCMC does not affect the spectral characteristics of the PVDF‐HFP layer while providing a substantial enthalpy of fusion (92.6 J g−1) to the PVB/PCMC‐60 layer. This serves to compensate for the deficiency in radiative cooling capacity and effectively mitigates temperature fluctuations and overheating of the textile. Outdoor test results indicate that the nanofiber textile can achieve temperature drops of 3.7 and 14.8 °C compared to textile without the PCMC (namely PVDF‐HFP/PVB) and cotton, and attains a subambient temperature drop of 6.5 °C. Additionally, the nanofiber textile exhibits desirable mechanical strength, flexibility, washability, breathability, moisture permeability, and sun protection.
Divergent Synthesis of (CF3)‐Indazolo[3,2‐a]Isoquinolines with Potent Photophysical Property and Anticancer Activity from 3‐Aryl‐1H‐Indazoles and Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Zhou Qianting , Yan Shengnan , Ma Chunhua , Gong Yi‐Jun , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: September 2024

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed inert C−H bond functionalization using sulfoxonium ylides as metal carbene surrogates to replace the explosive and labile diazo compounds is synthetically attractive. Presented herein is a divergent synthesis of (CF3)‐indazolo[3,2‐a]isoquinoline derivatives based on C−H bond activation‐initiated cascade reactions of 3‐aryl‐1H‐indazoles with sulfoxonium ylides. The formation of products involves Rh(III)‐catalyzed C(sp2)−H bond metalation, carbene formation, migratory insertion, proto‐demetalation and intramolecular condensation. In general, this newly developed protocol features simple substrates, structurally diverse products, step‐economy and scalability. In addition, evaluation of the photophysical properties and anti‐proliferative activity against three human cancer cell lines of the products thus obtained showed that some of them possess potent anticancer activity with potential self‐tracking capability through fluorescence detection.
Obtaining a Practical Wearable Supercapacitor Power Supply
Authors: Inman Alex , Parker Tetiana , Zhang Yuan , Saraf Mohit , Gogotsi Yury
Published: September 2024

Due to the ubiquity of textiles in the lives, electronic textiles (E‐textiles) have emerged as a future technology capable of addressing a myriad of challenges from mixed reality interfaces, on‐garment climate control, patient diagnostics, and interactive athletic wear. However, providing sufficient electrical power in a textile form factor has remained elusive. To address this issue, different approaches are discussed, starting with supercapacitors' advantages and limitations and material choices for textile‐based supercapacitors before discussing proper data analysis and design considerations of textile‐based energy storage to power wearable electronics.
Directional‐Thermal‐Conductive Phase Change Composites Enabling Efficient and Durable Water‐Electricity Co‐Generation Beyond Daytime
Authors: Yang Huachao , Hu Zhongkai , Wu Shiwen , Yan Jianhua , Cen Kefa , Bo Zheng , Xiong Guoping
Published: September 2024

Solar‐driven water‐electricity co‐generation (WEC) emerges as a viable solution to address global freshwater and energy scarcity. Phase change materials (PCMs)‐based WEC systems have been proposed to solve intermittent solar radiation issues. Nevertheless, WEC performances decline significantly leading to limited operating durations in dark. The study proposes a new concept of directional‐thermal‐conductive PCMs to address above challenges. By precisely regulating hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity distribution of Cu substrates, the structural disorder of boron nitride‐based PCMs is effectively tuned to achieve directional thermal transport. These directional‐thermal‐conductive PCMs exhibit a high phase transition enthalpy of 250.4 J g−1 and a large thermal‐conductivity anisotropy index of 3.24, which improves heat exchange between PCMs and photothermal/thermoelectric, and minimizes transverse heat dissipation simultaneously. Consequently, the directional‐thermal‐conductive PCMs‐based WEC achieves evaporation rates of 2.51 kg m−2 h−1 with power outputs of 1759.7 mW m−2 at 1 sun, among the best performance reported in the state‐of‐the‐art studies. More impressively, its evaporation rate still reaches 0.93 kg m−2 h−1 with a superior power output of 411.0 mW m−2 and a prolonged operation time of 90 minutes in nighttime, significantly surpassing previously‐reported devices with nondirectional‐thermal‐conductive designs. Finally, an omniphobic PVDF membrane is demonstrated that can improve the anti‐fouling performance of WEC systems for prolonged lifespan.
TLR7/8 Activation in Immune Cells and Muscle by RNA‐Containing Immune Complexes: Role in Inflammation and the Pathogenesis of Myositis
Authors: Wu Yin , Deshpande Aditee , Geraci Nicholas , Budde Petra , Sellers Vera , Velisetty Phanindra , Sun Chia‐Chi , Strand Fatima , Bhavsar Carmina , Niewold Timothy B. , Jensen Mark A. , Kalatskaya Irina , Sarin Kavita Y. , Fiorentino David , Bender Andrew T.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Activation of endosomal toll‐like receptors (TLRs) is one possible driver of inflammation in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM). We investigated the potential contribution of TLR7 and TLR8 to IIM pathogenesis.

Methods

Activation of TLR7/8 in healthy donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by immune complexes from patients with IIMs and lupus was tested. Autoantibody profiling of patient IgG samples was performed using a 1581 antigen array. TLR7 and/or TLR8 activation by RNA molecules associated with autoantibodies was assessed. Gene expression in human myoblasts and satellite cells following treatment with supernatants from TLR7/8‐activated PBMCs was evaluated by NanoString. C57BL/6 mice were dosed intramuscularly with the TLR7/8 agonist R848 and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing was performed on the muscle to ascertain the cell types responding to TLR7/8 activation and the downstream effects.

Results

Overall, 69 patients with IIMs were included with representation of dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and inclusion body myositis subsets. Immune complexes from patients with IIMs, as well as autoantibody‐associated RNAs histidyl‐transfer RNA, Y1, Y4, and U1, activated PBMCs to produce interferon‐α and IL‐6 via TLR7/8. Several canonical (Ro60, Ro52, and HIST1H4A) and novel (IL‐36RN) autoreactivities correlated highly with TLR7/8 activation. Supernatants from TLR7/8‐activated PBMCs had a negative impact on human myoblasts and satellite cells. Endothelial cells were activated by R848 in mouse muscle in vivo in addition to immune cells such as monocytes and macrophages.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that patients with IIMs have autoantibodies in their blood causing TLR7/8 activation, which leads to inflammation in muscles with potential deleterious effects.

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An exploration of metacognitive practices in medical educators
Authors: Cale Andrew S. , McNulty Margaret A.
Published: September 2024

Metacognition is the ability to monitor and evaluate one's thoughts about learning and has been shown in some studies to improve the effectiveness of instructors. With dissection‐based gross anatomy, instructors dynamically use their metacognition to monitor student learning and adapt their teaching at tableside. This study explored the metacognition of instructors as they taught in an anatomy course for allied health students. All instructors in a doctoral‐level gross anatomy course at a single institution, including faculty, associate instructors (AIs), and teaching assistants (TAs), were invited to participate. At the start and end of the course, participating instructors completed pre‐ and post‐questionnaires, which included the Teacher Metacognition Inventory (TMI), a 28‐item survey that assesses metacognition as it relates to teaching. After labs, instructors completed reflective journals to provide deeper insight into their metacognition. Reflective journals were then thematically analyzed. Thirteen (52%) instructors participated in this study, including five faculty, three AI, and five TAs. Between the start and end of the course, total TMI score increased from 108.8 to 114.3 (p = 0.046). TAs exhibited the greatest change in total TMI score (Δmean = +11.4) followed by faculty (Δmean = +3.2) and AIs (Δmean = −0.7). Several themes were also identified. For example, TAs were more internally focused on content mastery, whereas faculty were externally focused on interpersonal factors (e.g., inclusive language). These insights into the metacognition of anatomy instructors, though limited in reliability and generalizability, may inform how to best support their professional development. Novices may benefit from content reviews, while experienced instructors may benefit from inclusivity or communications training.
Understanding Drinking Water Quality in Appalachia
Authors: Erfanian Elham , Lee Gi‐Eu , Gomez Dominic
Published: September 2024

Key Takeaways

While the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) applies to all public water systems in the United States, the severity and prevalence of violations vary among locations.

A study investigated drinking water quality, indicated by statistics of the SDWA in the 13 Appalachian states from 2010 to 2022, to identify any differences in violations.

The need for better water system management and infrastructure in economically disadvantaged regions is clear, along with public education and effective policies.
Silver secnidazole nano‐hybrid emulsion‐based probiotics as a novel antifungal formula against multidrug‐resistant vaginal pathogens
Authors: Mosallam Farag M. , Helmy Eman A. , El‐Bastawisy Hanan S. , El‐Batal Ahmed I.
Published: September 2024

This study presents a novel approach to manage vaginal infections due to Candidiasis, utilizing a novel silver secnidazole nano‐hybrid emulsion (Ag‐Secn‐NHE)‐based probiotics and free Ag‐Secn‐NHE. Ag‐Secn‐NHE was prepared by simple homogenization‒ultrasonication technique and validated by using a ultraviolet‒visible scan, dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and zeta potential. Saccharomyces cerevisiae (RCMB 002Y001) is the most effective probiotic‐producing organism that demonstrates significant effects when combined with Ag‐Secn‐NHE. Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based probiotics showed significant antifungal effect compared to free Ag‐Secn‐NHE, silver nitrate, silver nanoparticles, secnidazole, secnidazole nanoemulsion, and commercial vaginal wash against multidrug‐resistant vaginal pathogens. The highest inhibitory effect was achieved with Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based probiotic against Candida auris, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) 0.625 ± 0.002, 0.00625:1.25 ± 0.012 and 0.00625:1.25 ± 0.032 mg/mL, respectively, in comparison with Ag‐Secn‐NHE that show MIC at 0.00625:1.25 ± 0.612, 0.0125:2.5 ± 0.812, and 0.0125:2.5 ± 0.112 mg/mL (Ag:Secn). Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based‐ probiotic show minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) at range from 2.5 to 20 mg/mL, wherever free Ag‐Secn‐NHE show MFC range from 5 to >20 mg/mL. Additionally, Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based probiotics have 75% inhibition of biofilm formation against C. auris and 60% inhibition of biofilm formation against both Cryptococcus neoformans and C. albicans in comparison with free Ag‐Secn‐NHE. Time‐kill curves showed that the antifungal effect of Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based probiotics was fungistatic at 2MIC value after 4 h and after 16 h for Ag‐Secn‐NHE. TEM photographs showed that C. auris cells treated with Ag‐Secn‐NHE‐based probiotic formula revealed severe deformations and distored ultrastructural changes. furthermore, results indicated that the Gamma radiation up to 15 kGy increases production of Ag‐Secn‐NHE in comparison with non‐irradiated one.
A critical analysis of Athena Swan as a policy‐scoring scheme
Authors: Armstrong John , Sullivan Alice
Published: September 2024

Athena Swan was established in 2005 with the goal of advancing the careers of women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) subjects in higher education. Since then, it has expanded its remit in various ways and has generated some controversy. This paper explains how Athena Swan operates as a policy‐scoring scheme, requiring universities to submit plans for policy improvement in order to receive a bronze, silver or gold award. We explain that the implications of rewarding plans for improvement have not been widely understood. We document Athena Swan's changing policies on sex and data collection, which for a period discouraged data collection on sex. We demonstrate the way in which activists were able to capture Athena Swan's policy development process and argue that policy‐scoring schemes can lead to groupthink and pose risks to academic freedom. The outsourcing of equalities work to such schemes does not encourage evidence‐based prioritisation and discussion of the needs of competing characteristics.
Inclusive business and partnerships: Enhancing value creation for producers in the global south
Authors: Weng Xiaoxue , Pokorny Benno , Schoneveld George C. , Mutayoba Geofrey
Published: September 2024

Inclusive businesses (IBs) are promoted to alleviate poverty and contribute to sustainable development at the base of the pyramid (BOP). In the agri‐food sector, there is limited evidence regarding what types of partnerships enhance IBs' value creation potential for low‐income producers. This prevents policymakers from providing effective support to IBs and leveraging their full potential for sustainable development. To understand what types of partnerships are more effective for social value creation, this paper conducts a mixed‐method analysis of 46 cases from Tanzania and Ghana. It finds that transactional partnerships create efficient IB networks that require limited external support. Such IBs, however, generally undertake business‐as‐usual activities. In contrast, IBs adopt more innovative business models when their partners are integrated in decision‐making and strategic planning. Such IBs, however, often require tailored support to resolve their inter‐ and intra‐organizational challenges. This paper suggests practical considerations for designing IB partnerships to maximize impact potential.
Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activity of Dioscorea bulbifera: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Narzary Christina , Sarkar Dhrubajyoti , Das Priyanka , Papi Dakme
Published: September 2024

Dioscorea bulbifera (Family: Dioscoreaceae) also referred to as ′Air potato,′ carries significant importance in the traditional medicine of China, West Africa and India. It is a common ingredient in numerous herbals and Ayurvedic formulations used to treat a variety of ailments. The literature review extensively examined the historical usage, phytoconstituents, characterisation of phytoconstituents, and medicinal uses of tubers, leaves, rhizomes and bulbils, with a particular focus on comparing research findings. Among the bioactive constituents, aglycone forms of steroidal saponins such as dioscorine, dioscin, diosbulbins, and diosgenin exhibit significant biological activities. Extracts from different parts of the plant exhibited pharmacological activities like anti‐viral, anti‐malarial, analgesic, antidiabetic, and anticancer. It is necessary to conduct an in‐depth investigation to bridge between traditional knowledge and scientific evidence. This comprehensive review aims to provide a detailed understanding of the ethnobotany, phytoconstituent, chemical characterization and pharmacological potential of D. bulbifera, highlighting its prospects and challenges for future research and medicinal application.
A New Triketone Ligand for Extraction of Lithium from Brines**
Authors: Evans Barbara R. , Popovs Ilja , Johnson Katherine R. , Einkauf Jeffrey D. , Moyer Bruce A. , Paranthaman Mariappan Parans
Published: September 2024

Recovery of lithium from brines by liquid‐liquid solvent extraction (LLE) with diketones and synergistic co‐ligands has been investigated for decades, but industrial application has been limited. In pursuit of a ligand with improved properties, a series of ketonamides with beta‐carbonyl groups were designed, synthesized, and tested in extraction of lithium from sulfate and carbonate simulants of clay mineral tailing leachates. The best performing ligand, a novel tricarbonyl amide, was characterized for lithium extraction with and without four synergistic co‐ligands. The tricarbonyl amide combined with the synergistic co‐ligand Cyanex‐923 was absorbed on a resin support. The ligand‐modified resin was tested for performance in extraction of dilute brine simulants and up to 60 % recovery of lithium was achieved.
Explainable Deep Learning Approach for High Impedance Fault Localization in Resonant Distribution Networks Considering Quantization Noise
Authors: Gao Jian‐Hong , Guo Mou‐Fa , Lin Shuyue , Hong Qiteng
Published: September 2024

In addressing the quantization noise challenge in high impedance fault (HIF) localization within resonant distribution networks, we propose a cutting‐edge, explainable deep learning approach that significantly advances existing methods. This approach utilizes differential zero‐sequence voltage (DZSV) and zero‐sequence current (ZSC) and introduces a novel “Vague” classification to improve localization accuracy by effectively managing quantization noise‐distorted signals. This approach extends beyond the conventional binary classification of “Fault” and “Sound,” incorporating a multi‐scale feature attention (MFA) mechanism for enriched internal explainability and applying gradient‐weighted class activation mapping (Grad‐CAM) to visualize critical input areas precisely. Our model, validated in an industrial prototype, exhibits unparalleled adaptability across various environmental conditions, including environmental noise, variable sampling rates, and triggering deviations. Comparative analysis reveals that our approach outperforms existing methods in managing diverse fault scenarios.
The Stenhouse legacy and the development of an applied research in education tradition
Authors: Elliott John
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on the nature of the legacy that Lawrence Stenhouse bequeathed in the field of curriculum development and research, particularly in relation to his idea of ‘the teacher as researcher’. In the process, it explores the contemporary relevance of this legacy to those who are currently attempting to rethink and re‐enact the relationship between teachers and the school curriculum in a policy context. It also explores the impact of Stenhouse's work on the development of a collaborative action research movement within the United Kingdom and beyond. The author distinguishes a particular strand of collaborative action research which he depicts as the neo‐Stenhouse tradition of applied research in education and distinguishes from the Stenhouse legacy as such. This distinction is based on a recognition that Stenhouse's legacy and idea of ‘the teacher as researcher’ was a work in progress, which he himself acknowledged. Drawing on ambiguities in Stenhouse's thinking about the relationships between educational theory and practice and between teachers and researchers, the author argues that there are strong conceptual links between Stenhouse's idea of ‘the teacher as researcher’ and his account of case study as a method of applied research in education. The paper concludes with an argument for the contemporary relevance of Stenhouse's work, and the tradition of applied research in education he wanted to establish, in policy contexts where curriculum development and research is dominated by a performative model of rationality.
Meristic co‐evolution and genomic co‐localization of lateral line scales and vertebrae in Central American cichlid fishes
Authors: Ehemann Nicolas , Franchini Paolo , Meyer Axel , Hulsey C. Darrin
Published: September 2024

Meristic traits are often treated as distinct phenotypes that can be used to differentiate and delineate recently diverged species. For instance, the number of lateral line scales and vertebrae, two traits that vary substantially among Neotropical Heroine cichlid species, have been previously suggested to co‐evolve. These meristic traits could co‐evolve due to shared adaptive, developmental, or genetic factors. If they were found to be genetically or developmentally non‐independent, this might require a more general re‐evaluation of their role in evolutionary or taxonomic studies. We expanded a previous analysis of correlated evolution of meristic traits (lateral line scales and vertebrae counts) in these fishes to include a range of phylogenetic reconstructions as well as the analyses of 13 Nicaraguan Midas cichlid species (Amphilophus spp.). Additionally, we performed qualitative traits locus (QTL) mapping in a F2 laboratory‐reared hybrid population from two ecologically divergent Midas cichlid fish species to discover and evaluate whether genomic co‐segregation might explain the observed patterns of meristic co‐evolution. Meristic values for these traits were found to morphologically differentiate some species of the Midas cichlid adaptive radiation. Our QTL analysis pinpointed several genomic regions associated with divergence in these traits and highlighted the potential for genomic co‐segregation of the lateral line and vertebrae numbers on two chromosomes. Further, our phylogenetic comparative analyses consistently recovered a significant positive evolutionary correlation between the counts of lateral line scale and vertebrae numbers in Neotropical cichlids. Hence, the findings of genomic co‐segregation could partially explain the co‐evolution of these two meristic traits in these species. Continuing to unravel the genetic architecture governing meristic divergence helps to better understand both trait correlations and the utility of meristic traits in taxonomic diagnoses and how traits in phenotypes might be expected to co‐evolve.
Hydrogen Infrastructure in the Future CO2‐Neutral European Energy System—How Does the Demand for Hydrogen Affect the Need for Infrastructure?
Authors: Fleiter Tobias , Fragoso Joshua , Lux Benjamin , Alibaş Şirin , Al‐Dabbas Khaled , Manz Pia , Neuner Felix , Weißenburger Bastian , Rehfeldt Matthias , Sensfuß Frank
Published: September 2024

The fast rollout of hydrogen generation, transport, and storage infrastructure has become a top priority of the European Union and its member states. Planning hydrogen infrastructure requires a thorough understanding of the future role of hydrogen in the energy system. At the same time, there is still huge uncertainty about the future demand for hydrogen and its overall role. An energy systems analysis is conducted with high temporal and spatial as well as technological resolution under alternative demand scenarios. An energy system model is used to optimize the entire European energy system with hourly time resolution and high spatial consideration of renewable energy potentials. The hydrogen demand in the five scenarios ranges from about 700 TWh for mainly industrial uses to 2800 TWh in all sectors in the EU27 + UK by 2050. The results show that an integrated European hydrogen system is a robust element of the cost‐optimal system design in all scenarios. This encompasses flexible electrolyzers at the most favorable wind and solar locations, long‐distance hydrogen transport network, large‐scale seasonal underground storage, and electricity generation for peak demand periods. Conclusions about the individual components are provided and high‐resolution data on hydrogen demand are available for future research.
How Fisheries Biologists Can Facilitate the Clean Energy Transition
Authors: Pracheil Brenda , Chalishazar Vishvas , Jager Henriette , De Silva Thushara , McDavitt William , McCoskey Dana , Jackson Kathryn , Bockenhauer Samuel
Published: September 2024

Fisheries and aquatic biologists play a critical role in creating environmentally protective hydropower flow requirements that govern flow timing, frequency, magnitude, and rate of change. Hydropower's role in the U.S. electrical grid is expected to evolve in response to increased wind and solar generation as hydropower will be called upon to quickly ramp up and down in response to changes in wind and solar generation. For this reason, hydropower is expected to have increased value as fossil generation is phased out, even as rapid flow fluctuations linked with hydropower flexibility may strand fish, alter habitat, and create unsafe recreational conditions. We face a new challenge in facilitating the renewable energy transition—designing environmental flow requirements that protect against the impacts of flow fluctuations while allowing adequate hydropower flexibility to support a stable grid. In this paper, we discuss hydropower environmental flow requirements, operational flexibility, and electrical grid stability, their potential interactions, and opportunities to align environmental and power system needs to support healthy ecosystems, multiple water uses, and decarbonization of the electric grid.
The effect of parental health shocks on living arrangements and employment
Authors: Bergeot Julien , Ferrari Irene , Gao Ya
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impacts of health shocks among older individuals on the dynamics of their living arrangements in Europe and the United States. Exploiting unpredicted health shocks, we use an event‐study difference‐in‐differences approach to demonstrate that health shocks increase difficulties with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, thereby increasing the need for care. Our findings indicate that health shocks raise the probability of nursing home residency and co‐residence with adult children by 0.7 and 1.4 percentage points in Europe, and by 2.1 and 1.8 percentage points in the U.S., respectively. Further analyses reveal that more generous long‐term care public policies correlate with a higher probability of nursing home residency and a lower probability of co‐residing with adult children, highlighting the significant role of public policies in household responses to health shocks. Additionally, we find that health shocks negatively impact adult children's labor supply, particularly in the U.S.
How does board gender diversity drive the ESG performance‐cash holdings relationship? Evidence from China
Authors: Marie Mohamed , Qi Baolei , Elamer Ahmed A. , Khatatbeh Ibrahim N. , Al‐Fakir Al Rabab'a Eltayyeb
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the influence of board gender diversity on the relationship between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and corporate cash holdings in Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2015 to 2022. Our research shows that ESG performance is positively associated with cash holdings. Drawing on critical mass theory, the study finds a moderating effect of board gender diversity in the relationship between ESG performance and the cash‐holding relationship. Specifically, the study finds a negative relation between ESG performance and cash holdings with the presence of a single female board member. However, this relationship shifts to a highly positive association when three or more female directors are on the board, underscoring the significant impact of gender diversity. Further heterogeneity analysis reveals that firms with a younger age profile and a strong commitment to green innovation exhibit a negative relationship between ESG performance and cash holdings. These findings highlight the complex and dynamic nature of the ESG performance‐cash holdings relationship, which varies according to specific firm characteristics. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the multifaceted dynamics of ESG factors, enhancing our understanding of their impact on corporate financial strategies.
An evaluation of delivery of the parent Preschool Life Skills program via telehealth
Authors: Lee Helena , Gunning Ciara , Leow Jolyene , Holloway Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Using telehealth technology to deliver parent training in evidence‐based intervention has been suggested to increase the accessibility of such interventions and improve skill acquisition and generalization. Within behavior analysis, global restrictions in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic highlighted the need for the development of telehealth supports for families. The current research examined the online delivery of a parent‐mediated implementation of the Preschool Life Skills program (PLS). Four parents completed the parent PLS program with their typically developing children (aged 3–5 years) via weekly videoconferencing sessions. A multiple‐probe experimental design was employed to assess the effect of the intervention on children's preschool life skills and challenging behavior. Parental embedding of PLS strategies during daily activities was also evaluated. The results demonstrated increases in children's preschool life skills, decreases in challenging behavior, and evidence of parent acquisition and use of PLS strategies.
Comparative Study Between Variable Flip Angle and Modified Look–Locker Inversion Recovery for Evaluating Renal Interstitial Fibrosis
Authors: Hua Chenchen , Zhuang Yi , Wang Miaoyan , Cai Ting , Xu Bin , Hao Shaowei , Fang Xiangming , Wang Liang , Zhou Leting
Published: September 2024

Background

Variable flip angle (VFA) and modified Look–Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) are frequently used for noninvasive evaluation of renal interstitial fibrosis (IF) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, controversy remains over which method is preferred.

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic efficacy of VFA and MOLLI for T1 mapping in evaluating renal IF.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Fifty‐one participants with CKD (CKD stage 1–5, 35 males) and 18 healthy volunteers (eight males).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T, three‐dimensional gradient echo sequence for B1+ VFA, and two‐dimensional gradient echo sequence for MOLLI.

Assessment

Image quality was assessed on a five‐point scale. Cortex and medulla T1 values (cT1 and mT1), corticomedullary T1 value difference (ΔT1, medulla − cortex), and corticomedullary T1 value ratio (ratio T1, cortex:medulla) were compared between VFA and MOLLI as well as between IF grade (0–4) based on biopsy.

Statistical Tests

Intraclass correlation coefficient, Bland–Altman analysis, analysis of variance, Kruskal–Wallis test, correlation analysis, and receiver operating characteristics analysis with the area under the curve (AUC). P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

MOLLI provided significantly better image quality compared to VFA. cT1 and mT1 values significantly differed between VFA and MOLLI (cT1‐VFA: 1771.4 ± 139.4 msec vs. cT1‐MOLLI: 1729.9 ± 132.1 msec; mT1‐VFA: 2076.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 2045.9–2129.9] msec vs. mT1‐MOLLI: 2039.2 [IQR: 1997.8–2071.6] msec). ΔT1 and ratio T1 values were not different between VFA and MOLLI (ΔT1: 300.8 ± 71.4 vs. 306.0 ± 78.4, respectively, P = 0.33 and ratio T1: 0.85 ± 0.038 vs. 0.85 ± 0.041, respectively, P = 0.064). No difference was observed between T1 variables and T1 mapping methods in diagnosing IF.

Data Conclusion

ΔT1 and ratio T1 were not different between VFA and MOLLI. Both VFA and MOLLI are effective for noninvasive assessment of renal IF.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2