bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Androgen Receptor is a Negative Regulator of PRDM16 in Beige Adipocyte
Authors: Zhao Shiting , Nie Tao , Li Lei , Long Qiaoyun , Gu Ping , Zhang Yuwei , Sun Wei , Lin Zexin , Liu Qing , Qi Yue , Wang Wei , Xie Mengyuan , Loomes Kerry , Cai Chenleng , Wu Donghai , Hui Hannah Xiaoyan
Published: May 2023

PRDM16 (PR domain containing protein 16) serves as a dominant activator of brown and beige adipocyte. However, mechanisms underlying the regulation of PRDM16 expression are incompletely understood. A Prdm16 luciferase knockin reporter mouse model is generated, enabling high throughput monitoring of Prdm16 transcription. Single clonal analysis reveals high heterogeneity of Prdm16 expression in the inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) cells. Amongst all transcription factors, androgen receptor (Ar) shows the strongest negative correlation with Prdm16. A sex dimorphism for PRDM16 mRNA expression is present in human WAT, with female individuals exhibiting increased expression than males. Androgen‐AR signaling mobilization suppresses Prdm16 expression, accompanied by attenuated beiging in beige adipocytes, but not in brown adipose tissue. The suppressive effect of androgens on beiging is abolished upon overexpression of Prdm16. Cleavage under targets and tagmentation mapping reveals direct binding of AR within the intronic region of Prdm16 locus, whereas no direct binding is detected on Ucp1 and other browning‐related genes. Adipocyte‐selective deletion of Ar potentiates beige cell biogenesis whereas adipocyte‐specific overexpression of AR attenuates white adipose beiging. This study highlights an essential role of AR in negative regulation of PRDM16 in WAT and provides an explanation for the observed sex difference in adipose beiging.
Melanin‐Integrated Structural Color Hybrid Hydrogels for Wound Healing
Authors: Cao Xinyue , Sun Lingyu , Xu Dongyu , Miao Shuangshuang , Li Ning , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: May 2023

Hydrogel patches have outstanding values in wound treatment; challenges in this field are concentrated on developing functional and intelligent hydrogel patches with new antibacterial strategies for improving healing process. Herein, a novel melanin‐integrated structural color hybrid hydrogel patches for wound healing is presented. Such hybrid hydrogel patches are fabricated by infusing asiatic acid (AA)‐loaded low melting‐point agarose (AG) pregel into the melanin nanoparticles (MNPs)‐integrated fish gelatin inverse opal film. In this system, MNPs not only impart the hybrid hydrogels with properties of photothermal antibacterial and antioxidant, but also improve the visibility of structural colors by providing an inherent dark background. Besides, the photothermal effect of MNPs under near‐infrared irradiation can also trigger liquid transformation of AG component in hybrid patch, resulting in the controllable release of its loaded proangiogenic AA. Attracting, this drug release induced refractive index variations in the patch can be detected as visible structural color shifting, which can be used to monitor their delivery processes. Benefiting from these features, the hybrid hydrogel patches are demonstrated to achieve excellent therapeutic effects for in vivo wound treatment. Thus, it is believed that the proposed melanin‐integrated structural color hybrid hydrogels are valuable as multifunctional patches for clinical applications.
Effect of the trap net emptying method on release mortality of Atlantic salmon estimated by a Bayesian system model
Authors: Ruokonen Timo J. , Pulkkinen Henni , Mäntyniemi Samu , Erkinaro Jaakko , Suuronen Petri
Published: May 2023

We evaluated the effect of emptying techniques of a pontoon trap on mortality of Atlantic salmon on their spawning migration along the Finnish coast of the northern Baltic Sea by tagging and releasing fish from commercial trap nets. Two methods currently used, a traditional emptying chute and a lifting bag, were compared. The lifting bag has been developed primarily for minimising injuries for fish during emptying. A custom‐built Bayesian system model was used for mortality estimation. We also explored external injuries of salmon and compared the probability of getting an injury between the emptying methods. The mean probability of salmon dying due to release from a trap with an emptying chute was 24% (90% HDI 3%–43%), whereas that for salmon released from a trap with a lifting bag was 13% (90% HDI 1%–24%). Results showed a higher probability of injuries and longer air exposure time in salmon caught with a trap with an emptying chute, which may explain the observed difference in mortality. Manual handling of a lifting bag appears to pose a clear work safety risk for fishers. It is noteworthy that the role of release mortality for northern Baltic salmon stocks is small because the number of salmon released in coastal fishery is currently low.
Recessive CHRM5 variant as a potential cause of neurogenic bladder
Authors: Schneider Sophia , Schierbaum Luca , Burger Wessel A. C. , Seltzsam Steve , Wang Chunyan , Zheng Bixia , Wu Chen‐Han Wilfred , Nakayama Makiko , Connaughton Dervla M. , Mann Nina , Shalaby Mohamed A. , Kari Jameela A. , ElDesoky Sherif , Tasic Velibor , Eid Loai A. , Shril Shirlee , Thal David M. , Hildebrandt Friedhelm
Published: May 2023

Neurogenic bladder is caused by disruption of neuronal pathways regulating bladder relaxation and contraction. In severe cases, neurogenic bladder can lead to vesicoureteral reflux, hydroureter, and chronic kidney disease. These complications overlap with manifestations of congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). To identify novel monogenic causes of neurogenic bladder, we applied exome sequencing (ES) to our cohort of families with CAKUT. By ES, we have identified a homozygous missense variant (p.Gln184Arg) in CHRM5 (cholinergic receptor, muscarinic, 5) in a patient with neurogenic bladder and secondary complications of CAKUT. CHRM5 codes for a seven transmembrane‐spanning G‐protein‐coupled muscarinic acetylcholine receptor. CHRM5 is shown to be expressed in murine and human bladder walls and is reported to cause bladder overactivity in Chrm5 knockout mice. We investigated CHRM5 as a potential novel candidate gene for neurogenic bladder with secondary complications of CAKUT. CHRM5 is similar to the cholinergic bladder neuron receptor CHRNA3, which Mann et al. published as the first monogenic cause of neurogenic bladder. However, functional in vitro studies did not reveal evidence to strengthen the status as a candidate gene. Discovering additional families with CHRM5 variants could help to further assess the genes' candidate status.
An interpenetrating polymer networks structure formed by in situ crosslinking of flame retardant for improvement in mechanical properties and flame retardancy of epoxy resins
Authors: Zhao Haihan , Li Junwei , Wang Rui , Liu Huaiyin , Sun Jichang , Wu Jing , Zheng Penglun
Published: May 2023

Epoxy resins (EPs) possess flammable characteristics inherently, and various methods have been utilized to enhance their flame retardancy. However, the improvement of flame retardancy may reduce its mechanical properties at the same time. Hence, this work synthesized a novel interpenetrating polymer network structure by introducing double bonds into flame retardants based on crosslinking strategy. When the flame retardant was crosslinked inside the EPs, the increased crosslink density improved the mechanical properties and the fire retardancy of the EP thermosets. With the addition of just 3 wt% of a crosslinked flame retardant, its vertical combustion achieved grade V‐0 and had a limited oxygen index of 31.8%. In the cone calorimeter test, the heat release rate was significantly decreased by 56.7% compared with pure EP when the crosslinked flame retardant reached 5 wt%. The study on the pyrolysis behavior of the material and the residual char further revealed that the flame retardant has a biphasic flame‐retardant effect.
Red mud waste/nanoclay/polystyrene‐modified epoxy hybrid composites: Mechanical, thermal, and flammability properties
Authors: Özmeral Nimet , Soydal Ulku , Kocaman Suheyla , Ahmetli Gulnare
Published: May 2023

In this study, bisphenol A‐type epoxy (ER) and epoxy phenol novolac resins (EPN) with two amine‐type curing agents (KH 816 and IPOX EH 2041) having different total amine values were selected. The mechanical properties and density of the EPN resin were found higher in the case of both curing agents. EPN was modified with polystyrene (EPN‐PS) and used as a matrix using an IPOX hardener. Nano‐ and hybrid composites were prepared with pristine and modified with tetramethylammonium chloride nano montmorillonite (NC and MNC), and red mud waste (RMW). The chemical structure was elucidated by the Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR). The composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and x‐ray diffraction. Appropriate PS and NC ratio was accepted as 4% and 2% by weight, respectively. Curing degrees calculated from the FT‐IR spectra of ER, EPN, and EPN‐PS were 99.3%, 99.9%, and 86.5%, respectively. A comparative study of the two binary systems; (i) 2 wt% NC‐(15–35) wt% RMW; and (ii) 2 wt% of MNC‐(15–35) wt% of RMW on the mechanical, thermal, and flammability properties of EPN‐PS matrix was carried out. The appropriate RMW ratio was 30 wt%. Hybrid composites with 25–30 wt% RMW can be considered self‐extinguishing materials.
Effects of Promoter and Calcination Temperatures on the Catalytic Performance of Y Promoted Co/WC‐AC for Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Li Tianshan , Wang Jiming , Zhang Guojie , Liu Jun , Wang Ying , Zhao Yuqing , Li Guoqiang , Lv Yongkang
Published: May 2023

CH4‐CO2 reforming is a good way to convert two environmentally harmful greenhouse gases into a high value syngas. However, the catalytic activity and stability of the catalysts need to be further improved. In this paper, the effects of promoter Y and calcination temperature on the catalytic activity and stability of Co/WC‐AC catalysts were investigated. The catalysts were characterized by BET, XRD, CO2‐TPD, H2‐TPR, XPS, and TG‐DSC. XPS and H2‐TPR. The results indicated that the introduction of Y decreased the reduction temperature of Co2O3 species and facilitated the formation of Co2+ species. Meanwhile, the addition of Y increased the content of lattice oxygen on the catalyst surface, which enhanced the carbon elimination capacity of the catalyst. The TG‐DSC results showed that the activity and stability of the catalysts calcined at 550 °C were poor due to the presence of carbon materials with weak carbon interactions on the catalyst support surface. Meanwhile, the catalyst calcined at 700 °C lead to the collapse of the pores due to the high calcination temperature, which eventually led to the decrease of the catalyst stability. It was found that the Co‐Y/WC‐AC catalysts prepared at the calcination temperature of 600 °C had the best catalytic activity and stability.
What are quantitative traits and how can they be used in autism research?
Authors: Lyall Kristen
Published: May 2023

Quantitative traits are measurable characteristics distributed along a continuous scale thought to relate to underlying biology. There is growing interest in the use of quantitative traits in behavioral and psychiatric research, particularly in research on conditions diagnosed based on reports of behaviors, including autism. This brief commentary describes quantitative traits, including defining what they are, how we can measure them, and key considerations for their use in autism research. Examples of measures include behavioral report scales like the Social Responsiveness Scale and Broader Autism Phenotype Questionnaire, as well as biological measurements, like certain neuroimaging metrics; such measures can capture quantitative traits or constructs like the broader autism phenotype, social communication, and social cognition. Quantitative trait measures align with the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) approach and can be used in autism research to help gain a better understanding of causal pathways and biological processes. They can also be used to aid identification of genetic and environmental factors involved in such pathways, and thereby lead to an understanding of influences on traits across the entire population. Finally, in some cases, they may be used to gauge treatment response, and assist screening and clinical characterization of phenotype. In addition, practical benefits of quantitative trait measures include improved statistical power relative to categorical classifications and (for some measures) efficiency. Ultimately, research across autism fields may benefit from incorporating quantitative trait measures as a complement to categorical diagnosis to advance understanding of autism and neurodevelopment.
High Energy Density Li/Ni/Co‐Free O3/P2 Sodium Layered Oxide Intergrowth for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Maughan Philip A. , Naden Aaron B. , Irvine John T. S. , Armstrong A. Robert
Published: May 2023

Sodium‐ion batteries have attracted widespread interest due to the potential for providing safe and cheap energy storage. However, large scale use of sodium‐ion batteries is limited by insufficient performance from positive electrode materials, while also avoiding the use of expensive and toxic elements. Here, we present a bi‐phasic sodium layered oxide material, O3/P2‐Na0.75Mn0.35Fe0.35Ti0.1Al0.1Cu0.1O2, free of Li, Ni, and Co, which delivered high energy densities up to 420 Wh kg−1, discharge potential of 3.03 V, and high capacity retention of 80 % over 70 cycles in half cells (292 Wh kg−1 in full cells). Crucially, the high Na content is sufficient to provide high energy densities in full cell format. The intergrown nature of the material was confirmed by TEM and SAED analysis, while ex‐situ XRD studies revealed the two phases undergo complementary c‐parameter evolution, reducing overall volume change. These results demonstrate the potential for future commercialisation of bi‐phasic materials utilizing only Earth abundant elements.
Associations among stressors across the lifespan, disability, and relapses in adults with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Polick Carri S. , Ploutz‐Snyder Robert , Braley Tiffany J. , Connell Cathleen M. , Stoddard Sarah A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Stress and adversity during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood could impact the present and future health and well‐being of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS); however, a lifespan approach and nuanced stressor data are scarce in this nascent area of research. Our aim was to examine relationships among comprehensively measured lifetime stressors and two self‐reported MS outcomes: (1) disability and (2) relapse burden changes since COVID‐19 onset.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were collected from a nationally distributed survey of U.S.‐based adults with MS. Hierarchical block regressions were used to sequentially evaluate contributions to both outcomes independently. Likelihood ratio (LR) tests and Akaike information criterion (AIC) were used to evaluate additional predictive variance and model fit.

Results

A total of 713 participants informed either outcome. Most respondents (84%) were female, 79% had relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), and mean (SD) age was 49 (12.7) years. Childhood (R2 = .261, p < .001; AIC = 1063, LR p < .05) and adulthood stressors (R2 = .2725, p < .001, AIC = 1051, LR p < .001) contributed significantly to disability, above and beyond prior nested models. Only adulthood stressors (R2 = .0534, p < .001; AIC = 1572, LR p < .01) significantly contributed above the nested model for relapse burden changes since COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Stressors across the lifespan are commonly reported in PwMS and could contribute to disease burden. Incorporating this perspective into the “lived experience with MS” could facilitate personalized health care by addressing key stress‐related exposures and inform intervention research to improve well‐being.
LncRNA HClnc1 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating PKM2 signaling and indicates poor survival outcome after hepatectomy
Authors: Zhu Qian , Lei Zhengqing , Xu Chang , Zhang Zheng , Yu Zeqian , Cheng Zhangjun , Xiao Pengfeng , Li Shufeng , Yu Weiping , Zhou Jiahua
Published: May 2023

Aim

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key mediators with a wide range of pathophysiological functions, but their role in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear.

Methods

An unbiased microarray study evaluated a novel lncRNA, HClnc1, that is linked to the development of HCC. In vitro cell proliferation assays and an in vivo xenotransplanted HCC tumor model were performed to determine its functions, followed by antisense oligo‐coupled mass spectrometry to identify HClnc1‐interacting proteins. To study relevant signaling pathways, in vitro experiments were performed, including chromatin isolation by RNA purification, RNA immunoprecipitation, luciferase, and RNA pull‐down assay.

Results

HClnc1 levels were considerably greater in patients with advanced tumor‐node‐metastatic stages, and it was found to be inversely connected to survival rates. Moreover, the proliferative and invasive potential of the HCC cells was attenuated by HClnc1 RNA knockdown in vitro, while HCC tumor growth and metastasis were found to be reduced in vivo. HClnc1 interacted with pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) to prevent its degradation and thus facilitated aerobic glycolysis and PKM2‐STAT3 signaling.

Conclusions

HClnc1 is involved in a novel epigenetic mechanism of HCC tumorigenesis and PKM2 regulation. HClnc1 is not only a more accurate prognostic indicator of HCC but also a potential therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
A nurse‐led intervention in patients with newly diagnosed cancer and Type 2 diabetes: A pilot randomized controlled trial feasibility study
Authors: Scarton Lisa , Nelson Tarah , Jo Ara , O’Neal LaToya J. , Yao Yingwei , Huggins Shavondra , Legaspi Anatolia B. , McClaren Mariah J. , Cabassa Jake S. , Burgos Melendez Joan M. , Munoz‐Pena Juan M. , Markham Merry J. , Murphy Martina C. , Chatzkel Jonathan A. , Rogers Sherise , George Thomas J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been associated with advanced stage cancer at diagnosis, higher mortality, and lower long‐term all‐cause survival. This was a RCT pilot study to examine the feasibility of a nurse‐led T2D intervention for adults with newly diagnosed cancer (≤3 months), and T2D, undiagnosed or untreated with medication, conducted at an outpatient oncology clinic affiliated with a large academic institution.

Methods

Participants needed to meet the eligibility criteria including a HbA1c level between 6.5% and 9.9%. Randomization was 1:1 to a 3‐month intervention that consisted of nursing‐led diabetes education and immediate initiation of metformin versus referral to primary care for usual care (control).

Results

Three hundred and seventy nine patients were screened using EHR, 55 agreed to participate, and 3 had eligible HbA1c levels and were randomized in the study. Primary reasons for study exclusion included life expectancy ≤2 years (16.9%), current use or inability to tolerate metformin (14.8%), and abnormal labs that contraindicated metformin use (13.9%).

Conclusion

This study was not feasible due to recruitment inefficiencies, but acceptable to all who qualified.
Inversion alleviation for stable elastic body simulation
Authors: Lee JaeHyun , Kim Seung‐wook , Um Kiwon , Kee Min Hyung , Han JungHyun
Published: May 2023

In general, it is not easy to simulate an elastic body that undergoes large deformations. Especially when its elements are inverted or tangled, that is, when its vertices penetrate its polygons, simulation often fails. In this paper, we propose a simple yet highly effective method for alleviating the inversion problems of elastic bodies. Our experiments made with typical optimization‐based solvers demonstrate that the proposed method successfully stabilizes the solvers and produces visually plausible motions. We believe that our method can be widely adopted by a variety of state‐of‐the‐art elastic‐body simulators thanks to its simplicity.
Enhancing Catalytic Performance with Sol‐Gel Hydrotalcite‐Derived Nickel Oxide Catalysts for Dry Reforming of Methane: An Examination on Reactivity and Coke Formation
Authors: Gonzalez Caranton Alberth Renne , Stavale Fernando , Annese Emilia , Gaioto Carolina , Checca Huaman Noemi Raquel , Assaf José Mansur
Published: May 2023

Hydrotalcite‐based materials are preferred as catalysts due to their versatility and easiness of their synthesis. This work studies supported nickel catalysts made from hydrotalcites through sol‐gel synthesis, Ni‐EDTA impregnation, and coprecipitation. The synthetized hydrotalcites present nanocapsular morphology and dispersed nickel nano‐oxide particles after calcination at 500 °C. The catalysts were evaluated at 600 °C and 800 °C for 8 hours and demonstrated high conversions and varying yields, with sol‐gel oxide catalysts (SgOxMix) showing the best performance with the highest reactivity and controlled coke formation at 800 °C after 14 hours of testing. The mixed oxide morphology promotes electronic effects and inhibits carbon encapsulation of metallic particles. Principal component analysis was performed to explain fluctuations in the reaction pathway.
Photodecarboxylase Displayed on Microbial Cell‐Surface for Enhanced Biocatalytic Performance
Authors: Li Zuhui , Ge Ran , Tan Ling , Zhang Wuyuan , Zhang Yanfei
Published: May 2023

Surface display technology has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing the stability, accessibility, and reusability of enzymes. Fatty acid photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64A (CvFAP) is capable of catalyzing decarboxylation reactions from free fatty acids to alkanes under blue light, however, its stability and reusability in catalytic cycles remain to be improved. Herein, we successfully displayed CvFAP on the surface of Escherichia coli cells utilizing full‐length ice nucleation protein as the anchor protein. By comparing the performance of the surface displayed CvFAP with whole‐cells harboring CvFAP, it was found that surface displaying of CvFAP significantly reduces the reaction time and enhances substrate accessibility, resulting in a turnover number of 9972. Also, compared to soluble enzymes, the surface displayed CvFAP exhibits enhanced stability and reusability in the decarboxylation reaction. Furthermore, the broad substrate scope of surface displayed CvFAP suggests its potential for large‐scale hydrocarbon and fatty chemicals production. Overall, our results highlight the value of surface display approach in broadening the application of photodecarboxylase.
Selective Peroxygenase‐Catalysed Oxidation of Toluene Derivates to Benzaldehydes
Authors: Wang Yutong , Teetz Niklas , Holtmann Dirk , Alcalde Miguel , van Hengst Jacob M. A. , Liu Xiaoxiao , Wang Mengfan , Qi Wei , Zhang Wuyuan , Hollmann Frank
Published: May 2023

Biocatalytic oxidation reactions of toluene derivates to the corresponding aldehydes are typically challenged by regio‐ and chemoselectivity issues. In this contribution we address both challenges by a combined reactant‐ and reaction engineering approach. We demonstrate that the peroxygenase‐catalysed transformation of ring‐substituted toluenes proceeds highly regioselectively in benzylic position. Furthermore, neat reaction conditions not only enable attractive product concentrations (up to 185 mM) but also result in highly chemoselective oxidations to the aldehyde level.
Counselor educator workload and burnout in the era of COVID‐19
Authors: DeDiego Amanda C. , McGrath Andrea M. , Maurya Rakesh K. , Szepe Arden A.
Published: May 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic brought disruption to teaching and other aspects of workload in higher education. The current study sampled 126 counselor educators about workload, compassion satisfaction, burnout, and job satisfaction. Results indicated that faculty workload and administrative responsibilities increased for counselor educators during the pandemic without adequate compensation or support.
A combined method for stability analysis of linear time invariant control systems based on Hermite‐Fujiwara matrix and Cholesky decomposition
Authors: Fatoorehchi Hooman , Ehrhardt Matthias
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we have developed an integrative method for checking the stability of linear time‐invariant (LTI) systems as well as nonlinear continuous‐time ones. In our method, we first apply the iterative Faddeev–Leverrier algorithm to obtain the characteristic polynomial of the LTI system. Subsequently, the associated Hermite‐Fujiwara matrix will be evaluated by a particularly efficient technique for the calculation of the Bézoutian matrices. The positive‐definiteness of the Hermite‐Fujiwara form, as the stability criterion, is next tested by performing the Cholesky decomposition. Our method is extended to assess the local stability of nonlinear continuous‐time systems with the help of the Jacobian matrix concept. The proposed method is demonstrated to approximately be 2.2 times faster than the classical Hurwitz algorithm in average, at least for matrices with dimensions less than 40, according to a performed central processing unit (CPU) time analysis. For the sake of illustration, four numerical examples are given, including dynamical models for a real‐world hydrolysis reactor and a well‐mixed bioreactor.
Numerical analysis and differential push‐flow structure optimization of vacuum disc drying process
Authors: Lv Kaixin , Liu Hongmei , Liu Xuedong , Zhou Youheng , Jiang Wei , Zheng Weiwen , Zhang Honghong , Chen Hui , Shao Ke , Xu Zhiqiang
Published: May 2023

The drying characteristics of sludge in a uniaxial vacuum disc dryer are numerically studied in the present study, and the results showed that the drying process of sludge includes three stages: the viscous stage, the sticky stage, and the granular stage. The influence of main parameters such as sludge feeding rate, heat source temperature, and rotating speed of the shaft on the drying process of sludge in the uniaxial vacuum disc dryer is analyzed. In order to optimize the drying efficiency of the dryer, a differential push‐flow structure is proposed in this study, which provides different propulsion effects for the sludge in different drying stages. The differential push‐flow is achieved by changing the number and angle of the push‐flow blades on the discs. Compared with the dryer before optimization, the dryer with optimized differential push‐flow structure has better performance.
Ranking of Alzheimer's disease and related dementia among the leading causes of death in the US varies depending on NCHS or WHO definitions
Authors: Tai Shu‐Yu , Chi Ying‐Chen , Lo Yu‐Tai , Chien Yu‐Wen , Kwachi Ichiro , Lu Tsung‐Hsueh
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION

We compared the ranking of Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) among the leading causes of death (LCODs) between those according to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) lists by sex.

METHOD

The number of deaths in each LCOD category was obtained from CDC WONDER.

RESULTS

According to the WHO list, ADRD was the second LCOD from 2005 to 2013, the first from 2014 to 2020, and the third in 2021, respectively, for women and was the second in 2018 and 2019, the third in 2020, and the fourth in 2021, respectively, for men. According to the NCHS list, Alzheimer's disease was the fourth in 2019 and 2020 for women and was the seventh from 2016 to 2019 for men.

DISCUSSION

The ranking of ADRD among the LCODs according to the WHO list was higher than those according to the NCHS list.
Loss ofFgfr1andFgfr2in Scleraxis‐lineage cells leads to enlarged bone eminences and attachment cell death
Authors: Wernlé Kendra K. , Sonnenfelt Michael A. , Leek Connor C. , Ganji Elahe , Sullivan Anna Lia , Offutt Claudia , Shuff Jordan , Ornitz David M. , Killian Megan L.
Published: May 2023

Background

Tendons and ligaments attach to bone are essential for joint mobility and stability in vertebrates. Tendon and ligament attachments (ie, entheses) are found at bony protrusions (ie, eminences), and the shape and size of these protrusions depend on both mechanical forces and cellular cues during growth. Tendon eminences also contribute to mechanical leverage for skeletal muscle. Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling plays a critical role in bone development, andFgfr1andFgfr2are highly expressed in the perichondrium and periosteum of bone where entheses can be found.

Results and Conclusions

We used transgenic mice for combinatorial knockout ofFgfr1and/orFgfr2in tendon/attachment progenitors (ScxCre) and measured eminence size and shape. Conditional deletion of both, but not individual,Fgfr1andFgfr2inScxprogenitors led to enlarged eminences in the postnatal skeleton and shortening of long bones. In addition,Fgfr1/Fgfr2double conditional knockout mice had more variation collagen fibril size in tendon, decreased tibial slope, and increased cell death at ligament attachments. These findings identify a role for FGFR signaling in regulating growth and maintenance of tendon/ligament attachments and the size and shape of bony eminences.
Different spatial structure of plant‐associated fungal communities above‐ and belowground
Authors: Faticov Maria , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Hambäck Peter , Roslin Tomas , Tack Ayco J. M.
Published: May 2023

The distribution and community assembly of above‐ and belowground microbial communities associated with individual plants remain poorly understood, despite its consequences for plant–microbe interactions and plant health. Depending on how microbial communities are structured, we can expect different effects of the microbial community on the health of individual plants and on ecosystem processes. Importantly, the relative role of different factors will likely differ with the scale examined. Here, we address the driving factors at a landscape level, where each individual unit (oak trees) is accessible to a joint species pool. This allowed to quantify the relative effect of environmental factors and dispersal on the distribution of two types of fungal communities: those associated with the leaves and those associated with the soil ofQuercus roburtrees in a landscape in southwestern Finland. Within each community type, we compared the role of microclimatic, phenological, and spatial variables, and across community types, we examined the degree of association between the respective communities. Most of the variation in the foliar fungal community was found within trees, whereas soil fungal community composition showed positive spatial autocorrelation up to 50 m. Microclimate, tree phenology, and tree spatial connectivity explained little variation in the foliar and soil fungal communities. Foliar and soil fungal communities differed strongly in community structure, with no significant concordance detected between them. We provide evidence that foliar and soil fungal communities assemble independent of each other and are structured by different ecological processes.
The resistance and resilience of Great Plains ecoregion boundaries to the 1930s drought as a lens to future dynamics
Authors: Burruss N. Dylan , Peters Debra P. C. , Huang Haitao
Published: May 2023

Potential natural vegetation (PNV) remains an important concept in ecology by providing the basis for comparing current or future conditions and trends in vegetation with historic conditions. However, nonstationary climate and land‐use‐driven deviations from baseline conditions challenge the validity of PNV at local scales or for locations that are especially sensitive to environmental changes, such as ecotonal boundaries between ecosystem types. Our goal was to identify the historic boundaries between major grassland types in the Central Great Plains (CGP) of North America (tallgrass prairie and northern and southern mixed‐grass prairies) by examining the environmental drivers of primary production prior to, during, and after the decades‐long drought in the 1930s. We sought to explore differences among grassland types in resistance and resilience to drought, and to evaluate legacy effects resulting from spatially explicit processes during drought. We used county‐level cropland production data from 1926 to 1948 as a proxy for native grass production data. We regressed production data against a suite of models containing variables associated with climate, soils, land use, and drought indices prior to, during, and after drought. We used a dimension reduction approach to identify the locations of grassland boundaries in multivariate space defined by each model. Our results show that climate and soil factors predicted grass production prior to the drought, yet additional land use and erosion factors were needed to explain production in both drought and post‐drought. Grassland responses were most variable along ecotonal boundaries. Tallgrass prairie exhibited stronger production responses to precipitation and temperature compared with northern and southern mixed‐grass prairies during all periods. Tallgrass prairie counties along the ecotone with mixed‐grass prairies were more negatively impacted by soil loss from abandoned cropland during the drought compared with other tallgrass prairie counties. As the intensity and frequency of drought are predicted to increase, landscape‐scale variables and spatially explicit processes that govern novel production responses will need to be accounted for in explaining heterogeneity in grassland responses.
High cardiac output state due to pelvic arterio‐venous shunt: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ranjbar Maryam , Amin Ahmad , Amin Ali , Pouraliakbar Hamidreza , Mohamadifar Arezoo
Published: May 2023

We are presenting a 35‐year‐old woman with past medical history of disseminated leiomyomatosis who presented with heart failure symptoms and was found to have post‐capillary pulmonary hypertension and high cardiac output state in right heart catheterization secondary to a huge pelvic arterio‐venous fistula.
Combination of FSO and RF channels by using Ethernet link aggregation
Authors: Chen Biao
Published: May 2023

Hybrid free‐space optical and radio frequency (FSO/RF) systems have attracted much attention for more than a decade because of their enhanced reliability and capacity as comparison to single FSO or RF systems. Existing schemes to construct such a hybrid system are usually to use either switching or encoding/decoding strategies for combination of channels. The proposed scheme, based on packet sharing strategy of Ethernet link aggregation, provides a different way to combine FSO and RF channels. Theoretical analysis and Experimental results show that the proposed scheme does enhance the reliability and utilize both channel capacities for a multi‐channel system. Moreover, this scheme is simple and scalable because more channels can be combined based on such a packet sharing strategy without modifying the physical channel structures, therefore, this scheme may provide a good solution for constructing an efficient and cost‐effective hybrid FSO/RF system.
Pseudo‐dynamic hybrid simulations of steel eccentrically braced frames equipped with cast steel replaceable modular yielding links
Authors: Mortazavi Pedram , Kwon Oh‐Sung , Christopoulos Constantin
Published: May 2023

Previous studies have underlined the importance of establishing a database of high‐fidelity benchmark experimental test results under random loading histories such as earthquake excitations for both existing structural systems as well as newly proposed ones. Such experimental results are useful for understanding the limitations of previously developed numerical models, proposing new numerical models for more recently developed structural systems, better assessing the ultra‐low cycle fatigue (ULCF) life of energy dissipative components, and improving the loading protocols used for element assessments or developments of numerical model. This paper presents experimental results from pseudo‐dynamic hybrid simulations on steel eccentrically braced frames (EBF) equipped with novel cast steel replaceable modular yielding links. The first set of experiments are carried out on a four‐story EBF, with the first‐floor yielding link physically tested in the laboratory. The second set of experiments are performed on a two‐story EBF where the second‐floor link is physically tested in the laboratory, while considering axial loads due to the imbalanced distribution of the seismic weight in the building. Each building structure is subjected to three Maximum Credible Event (MCE) level earthquakes. A framework for performing hybrid simulations on EBFs is proposed where the response of the yielding link is physically captured in a single degree of freedom control system, with or without axial loads. A substructuring strategy is proposed in conjunction with a modeling approach in the integration module. The results confirm the effectiveness of the hybrid simulation framework, which can be adopted in similar studies. Two numerical models are proposed for capturing the response of cast steel links using a simplified and a more advanced approach. The models are first calibrated using incremental reversed‐cyclic experimental test results, and then refined using the hybrid simulation test results. The effects of this calibration improvement are quantified through critically comparing the response prediction for different response parameters before and after improving the calibration with the experimental results. The numerical model which captures the physical mechanism of the cast steel links provides a more accurate response prediction compared to the simplified numerical model using a phenomenological truss with calibrated force‐deformation. The remaining ULCF life of the tested yielding links is experimentally investigated after having sustained three MCE level earthquakes, which indicates a large reserve ductility capacity which is more than twice the required plastic rotation capacity for cast steel links after seismic events.
Huangjing—From medicine to healthy food and diet
Authors: Shi Yan , Liu Jingjing , Si Dun , Golding John B. , Pristijono Penta , Li Yongxin , He Fule , Zhang Xinfeng , Han Zhigang , Wu Lingshang , Chen Donghong , Si Jinping
Published: May 2023

Diet‐related chronic diseases are becoming more common where many consumers and nutritionists are seeking food and lifestyle interventions to improve health and standard of living. To supplement regular dietary intake, scientists are seeking to develop new crops that are productive and nutritious, which can improve health outcomes. This review focused on the history of Huangjing as a medicine, healthy food as part of a diverse diet and as an input into pharmacology uses. The sustainable production of Huangjing and the development of health‐promoting Huangjing products are reviewed through consulting the “Chinese Pharmacopoeia” along with other herbal textual research and modern research publications. Hence, the potential development of Huangjing as a regular part of a healthy diet is discussed. Huangjing has been used as medicine and food in China for over 2000 years. While it contains no starch, it is rich in fructan, saponins, and flavonoids, which have been reported to prevent and treat chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. As part of a healthy diet, Huangjing has been developed into innovative products used in meals, snacks, drinks, health foods, and drugs. Furthermore, Huangjing is a perennial plant, is suitable for cultivation in forests, and does not occupy fertile farmland. It is proposed to use the achievements of genomics and targeted precision breeding to make in‐forest cultivation of Huangjing more productive, comprehensively nutritious, and environmentally friendly and obtain high‐quality food from forests and mountains, providing Chinese wisdom for the global food and nutrition security issue.
Effect of fluid property variations on the effectiveness of a cryogenic heat exchanger
Authors: Etagi Anirudh , Katte Parinith , Talya Ananya , Mishra Ayushi , Krishna V.
Published: May 2023

Cryogenic heat exchangers are commonly used for industrial processes, such as air separation and natural gas liquefaction. Generally, the performance of heat exchangers is analyzed adopting constant properties for the working fluid. But, in cryogenic heat exchangers, fluids reach their critical states with significant variations in their properties. The current work is based on the effect of fluid property variations in the performance analysis of a two‐fluid countercurrent cryogenic heat exchanger subject to ambient heat in a leak. Finite element method–subdomain method is used to conduct the performance analysis. The effect of fluid property variations is analyzed considering effectiveness, ∈, as the performance parameter. The percentage deviation in the effectiveness value on considering fluid property variation is determined. The relationship between effectiveness ∈ and the number of transfer units (NTUs) is obtained by plotting the ∈‐NTU curve by varying the mass flow rate of the fluid flow. A maximum deviation of 16.108% in the effectiveness and 58.734% in the hot fluid exit temperature is obtained by considering fluid property variation.
Empowering higher energy sodium‐ion battery cathode by oxygen chemistry
Authors: Wan Guangying , Dou Wendi , Zhu Hanye , Zhang Wu , Liu Tiefeng , Wang Liguang , Lu Jun
Published: May 2023

Sodium (Na) ion batteries (SIBs) promise low‐cost energy storage systems but are still restricted by insufficient energy density. Introducing oxygen (O) redox into the design of the Na‐storage cathode is presently considered an effective avenue to generate extra capacity in solving the energy density bottleneck. The succeeding issues are how to overcome the irreversible electrochemical behavior accompanied by O release. Meanwhile, the O redox chemistry and subsequent structural evolution remain ambiguous so far. Here, we deliberate on the O redox mechanism in Na‐storage transition metal oxides. Challenges associated with the reaction irreversibility and structural collapse are summarized by virtue of the advanced characterization techniques. Beyond that, strategies that potentially enhance the electrochemical properties of O redox and future research perspectives on exploring useable O redox cathode materials are outlined.
Positive correlation between the proximal femur Hounsfield units from routine CT and DXA results
Authors: Ye Kaifeng , Xing Yong , Zou Da , Zhou Fang , Zhang Zhishan , Du Guohong , Tian Yun
Published: May 2023

To determinate the correlation between the proximal femur Hounsfield unit (HU) value and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) results, and to identify its feasibility for opportunistic screening osteoporosis. A total of 680 patients underwent computed tomography (CT) containing proximal femur and DXA test within 6 months between 2010 and 2020 in our hospital. The CT HU value of four axial slices of the proximal femur were measured. The measurements were compared with the DXA results by Pearson correlation coefficient. Receiver operator characteristic curve were generated to identify the best cutoff for diagnosing osteoporosis. These 680 consecutive patients included 165 male and 515 female; the average age was 63.66 ± 11.36 years old, the mean interval time between two examinations was 45.43 days. The most representative CT HU value measurement was the 5‐mm slice measurement. The average CT HU value was 59.3 ± 36.5 HU, and the differences among the three DXA defined bone mineral density (BMD) categories were significant (all p < 0.001). The Pearson correlation analysis showed that the proximal femur CT values had strong positive correlation with femoral neck T‐score, femoral neck BMD and total hip BMD (r = 0.777, r = 0.748, r = 0.746, respectively; all p < 0.001). The area under the curve for CT value for diagnosing osteoporosis was 0.893 (p < 0.001), the best cutoff was 67 HU with 84% sensitivity, 80% specificity, 92% positive predictive value and 65% negative predictive value. Proximal femur CT values had good positive correlation with DXA results, which could be used to opportunistic screening for potential osteoporosis patient.
Totally real flat minimal surfaces in the hyperquadric
Authors: He Ling , Jiao Xiaoxiang , Li Mingyan
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study geometry of totally real minimal surfaces in the complex hyperquadric , and obtain some characterizations of the harmonic sequence generated by these minimal immersions. For totally real flat surfaces that are minimal immersed in both and , we determine them for , and give a classification theorem when they are Clifford solutions.
Epigenetic Association Analyses and Risk Prediction of RLS
Authors: Harrer Philip , Mirza‐Schreiber Nazanin , Mandel Vanessa , Roeber Sigrun , Stefani Ambra , Naher Shamsun , Wagner Matias , Gieger Christian , Waldenberger Melanie , Peters Annette , Högl Birgit , Herms Jochen , Schormair Barbara , Zhao Chen , Winkelmann Juliane , Oexle Konrad
Published: May 2023

Background

As opposed to other neurobehavioral disorders, epigenetic analyses and biomarkers are largely missing in the case of idiopathic restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Objectives

Our aims were to develop a biomarker for RLS based on DNA methylation in blood and to examine DNA methylation in brain tissues for dissecting RLS pathophysiology.

Methods

Methylation of blood DNA from three independent cohorts (n = 2283) and post‐mortem brain DNA from two cohorts (n = 61) was assessed by Infinium EPIC 850 K BeadChip. Epigenome‐wide association study (EWAS) results of individual cohorts were combined by random‐effect meta‐analysis. A three‐stage selection procedure (discovery, n = 884; testing, n = 520; validation, n = 879) established an epigenetic risk score including 30 CpG sites. Epigenetic age was assessed by Horvath's multi‐tissue clock and Shireby's cortical clock.

Results

EWAS meta‐analysis revealed 149 CpG sites linked to 136 genes (P < 0.05 after Bonferroni correction) in blood and 23 CpG linked to 18 genes in brain (false discovery rate [FDR] < 5%). Gene‐set analyses of blood EWAS results suggested enrichments in brain tissue types and in subunits of the kainate‐selective glutamate receptor complex. Individual candidate genes of the brain EWAS could be assigned to neurodevelopmental or metabolic traits. The blood epigenetic risk score achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.70 (0.67–0.73) in the validation set, comparable to analogous scores in other neurobehavioral disorders. A significant difference in biological age in blood or brain of RLS patients was not detectable.

Conclusions

DNA methylation supports the notion of altered neurodevelopment in RLS. Epigenetic risk scores are reliably associated with RLS but require even higher accuracy to be useful as biomarkers. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.