bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All-optical mapping of Ca2+transport and homeostasis in dendrites
Authors: Hayward Rebecca Frank , Cohen Adam E.
Published: July 2024

Calcium mediates many important signals in dendrites. However, the basic transport properties of calcium in dendrites have been difficult to measure: how far and how fast does a local influx of calcium propagate? We developed an all-optical system for simultaneous targeted Ca2+import and concentration mapping. We co-expressed a blue light-activated calcium selective channelrhodopsin, CapChR2, with a far-red calcium sensor, FR-GECO1c, in cultured rat hippocampal neurons, and used patterned optogenetic stimulation to introduce calcium into cells with user-defined patterns of space and time. We determined a mean steady-state length constant for Ca2+transportϕ∼ 5.8 μm, a half-life for return to baselinet1/2∼ 1.7 s, and an effective diffusion coefficientD∼ 20 μm2/s, though there were substantial differences in Ca2+dynamics between proximal and distal dendrites. At high Ca2+concentration, distal dendrites showed nonlinear activation of Ca2+efflux, which we pharmacologically ascribed to the NCX1 antiporter. Genetically encoded tools for all-optical study of Ca2+transport and handling provide a powerful capability for studying this important messenger.
Representing Transcription Factor Dimer Binding Sites Using Forked-Position Weight Matrices and Forked-Sequence Logos
Authors: Dyer Matthew , Tirado-Magallanes Roberto , Ghayour-Khiavi Aida , Quy Xiao Xuan Lin , Santana Walter , Usefi Hamid , Thomas-Chollier Morgane , Jha Sudhakar , Thieffry Denis , Benoukraf Touati
Published: July 2024

Current position weight matrices and sequence logos may not be sufficient for accurately modeling transcription factor binding sites recognized by a mixture of homodimer and heterodimer complexes. To address this issue, we developedforkedTF, an R-library that allows the creation of Forked-Position Weight Matrices (FPWM) and Forked-Sequence Logos (F-Logos), which better capture the heterogeneity of TF binding affinities based on interactions and dimerization with other TFs. Furthermore, we have enhanced the standard PWM format by incorporating additional information on co-factor binding and DNA methylation. Precomputed FPWM and F-Logos are made available in theMethMotif 2024database, thereby providing ready-to-use resources for analyzing TF binding dynamics. Finally,forkedTFis designed to support the TRANSFAC format, which is compatible with most third-party bioinformatics tools that utilize PWMs. TheforkedTFR-library is open source and can be accessed on GitHub athttps://github.com/benoukraflab/forkedTF.
Differential representation of active and passive touch in mouse somatosensory thalamus
Authors: Sumser Anton , Isaías-Camacho Emilio Ulises , Mease Rebecca Audrey , Groh Alexander
Published: July 2024

Active and passive sensing strategies are integral to an animal’s behavioral repertoire. Nevertheless, there is a lack of information regarding the neuronal circuitry that underpins these strategies, particularly at the thalamus level. We evaluated how active versus passive whisker deflections are represented in single neurons of the ventral posterior thalamus (VPM) and the posterior medial thalamus (POm) in awake mice. These are the first-and higher-order thalamic nuclei of the whisker system, respectively. VPM neurons robustly responded to both active and passive whisker deflections, while POm neurons showed a preference for passive deflections and responded poorly to active touches. This response disparity could not be explained by the animal’s voluntary whisking state or stimulus kinetics. In contrast, cortical activity significantly influenced POm’s responses to passive touch. Inhibition of the barrel cortex strongly attenuated whisker responses in POm and simultaneously increased the whisking phase coding. This suggests that POm receives touch information from the cortex and phase information from the brainstem. Together, these findings suggest two thalamic relay streams, where VPM robustly relays both active and passive deflection, while POm’s sensitivity requires top-down cortical involvement to signal salient events such as unexpected passive deflections.
Mechanism of auxin-dependent gene regulation through composite auxin response elements
Authors: Novikova Daria D. , Omelyanchuk Nadya , Korosteleva Anastasiia , Albrecht Catherine , Lavrekha Viktoriya V. , Weijers Dolf , Mironova Victoria
Published: July 2024

The plant signaling molecule auxin controls growth and development, largely through activating and repressing the expression of thousands of genes. Auxin-dependent transcriptional changes are mediated by DNA-binding Auxin Response Factors (ARF), whose AuxRE DNA binding sites are well-known. The identification of the first AuxRE showed this to be part of a composite element with a second motif. Indeed, systematic analysis showed other DNA motifs to be enriched in auxin-regulated promoters. Neither the basis for this enrichment nor the mechanisms for the activity of composite AuxRE’s is known. Here, we systematically mined Arabidopsis promoters for composite AuxRE elements enriched in auxin-responsive genes. We identified many and show that their presence is a reliable predictor of auxin response. Through mutating these elements and their higher-order modules, we demonstrate function in promoter activity. Lastly, we identified transcription factors (TFs) that bind AuxRE-associated motifs, showed their involvement in auxin response, and discovered that several of these TFs directly bind ARF proteins. We propose that ARF-TF complexes specifically bind compound motifs in promoters, and act as a source of diversification in auxin-dependent gene regulation.
ADToolbox: Incorporating Metagenomics Data for Improved Prediction of Anaerobic Digestion Dynamics
Authors: Ghadermazi Parsa , Rico Jorge L. , Rimmelman Ethan , Stenmark Siri , Reardon Kenneth F. , De Long Susan , Chan Siu Hung Joshua
Published: July 2024

Handling the global food waste requires sustainable solutions. Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a common approach for waste remediation and bioenergy production which has been traditionally used mainly for methane production. Shifting the focus from methane to volatile fatty acids (VFAs), such as acetic, propionic, and butyric acids, offers promising alternatives due to their diverse applications and higher added value. Achieving desired AD product distributions requires a comprehensive understanding of factors like temperature, pH, feedstock composition, and the complex microbial dynamics inherent in AD. Various AD modeling approaches exist, from simple equations to complex flux balance analysis (FBA) and machine learning (ML) model. The Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM 1) is a commonly used kinetic model, striking a reasonable balance between parameter requirements and biochemical details involved in the model. Yet, it falls short in capturing specific VFAs like caproic acid and integrating microbial information directly. We present ADToolbox, a Python package for modeling AD metabolism. ADToolbox incorporates metagenomic information into an enhanced ADM model. The model accommodates a more detailed feedstock degradation model and VFA and methanogenesis metabolism. ADToolbox provides a variety of interfaces such as command line interface and an interactive web interface line interface, and a Python API, facilitating large-scale metagenomic analyses and modeling simulations. In this article we indicate that prioritizing the microbial aspect of AD enhances flexibility and predictive power in terms of VFA production accuracy, contributing to sustainable waste management strategies. Explore ADToolbox athttps://chan-csu.github.io/ADToolboxfor detailed documentation.
Cellulose synthesis in Arabidopsis by heterologous expression of lower plants CESA proteins
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Gomez Leonardo D. , Turner Simon
Published: July 2024

Cellulose is the most abundant component of plant cell walls where it plays a pivotal role in regulating plant cell size and shape. In addition, as a component of the woody secondary cell walls, cellulose represents an abundant renewable resource to produce materials and chemicals. In higher plants, cellulose is synthesised at the plasma membrane by a hexameric protein complex, known as the rosette, that is able to synthesise 18 glucose chains that bond together to form a microfibril. While this rosette structure is highly conserved, significant variation exists in the structure and physical properties of cellulose found in different cell types and synthesised by different species. In this study, we surveyed the ability of the catalytic subunits of the cellulose synthase complex (CESA proteins) from a range of lower plant species to synthesise cellulose in the Arabidopsis secondary cell walls. Several lower plant CESA proteins are able to function in higher plants in conjunction Arabidopsis CESAs. Additionally, two moss CESA proteins synthesised cellulose in absence of Arabidopsis CESAs but with reduced crystallinity, indicating that it is the structure of CESA proteins themselves and not the cellular environment that determines the properties of the cellulose synthesised.
Engineered NKG2C+NK-like T cells exhibit superior antitumor efficacy while mitigating cytokine release syndrome
Authors: Lupo Kyle B. , Panjwani M. Kazim , Shahid Sanam , Sottile Rosa , Lawry Clara , Kolk Gabryelle , Kontopolous Theodota , Daniyan Anthony F. , Chandran Smita S. , Klebanoff Christopher A. , Hsu Katharine C.
Published: July 2024

Engineered T and NK cell therapies have widely been used to treat hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, with promising clinical results. Current chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapeutics have, however, been associated with treatment-related adverse events such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and are prone to immunologic exhaustion. CAR-NK therapeutics, while not associated with CRS, have limited in vivo persistence. We now demonstrate that an NK-like TCRαβ+CD8 T cell subset, identified and expanded ex vivo through its expression of the activating receptor NKG2C (NKG2C+NK-like T cells), can be transduced to express a second-generation CD19 CAR (1928z), resulting in superior tumor clearance, longer persistence and decreased exhaustion compared to conventional 1928z CAR+CD8 T cells and 1928z CAR+ NK cells. Moreover, CAR-modified NKG2C+NK-like T cells resulted in significantly reduced CRS compared to conventional CAR+CD8 T cells. Similarly, NKG2C+NK-like T cells engineered with a TCR targeting the NY-ESO-1 antigen exhibit robust tumor control and minimal exhaustion compared to TCR-engineered conventional CD8 T cells. These data establish NKG2C+NK-like T cells as a robust platform for cell engineering, and offer a safer, more durable alternative to conventional CAR-T and CAR-NK therapies.
The role of YAP/TAZ signaling in dendritic cell-mediated pathogenesis of insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Schcolnik-Cabrera Alejandro , Lee Megan , Dzierlega Kasia , Basso Paulo , Strachan Erin , Zhu Mengyi , Akbari Masoud , Clemente-Casares Xavier , Tsai Sue
Published: July 2024

Obesity and insulin resistance (IR) are global health challenges linked to metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). High-caloric intake, which is associated to NAFLD, induces adipocyte hypertrophy and inflammation, triggering dendritic cell (DC) activation and systemic inflammation. DC exacerbate inflammation by promoting pro-inflammatory responses, aggravating IR and NAFLD progression. NAFLD is characterized by liver fibrosis, which alters tissue stiffness that can trigger mechanosensing pathways such as the Hippo pathway in immune cell types. In this work we explored the roles of key mediators of the Hippo pathway, YAP and TAZ, in DCs within the context of liver fibrosis, obesity and IR, using a model of NAFLD induced by feeding a high fat high sucrose diet. Our findings indicate that specific deletion of YAP and/or TAZ in DCs had minimal impact on IR development and metabolic tissue inflammation. We conclude that YAP and TAZ have limited and possibly redundant roles in the immune pathophysiology of NAFLD and IR.
Identification of BLM’s Aggregation-Prone Nature and Its Similarity to Intrinsically Disordered Proteins: An In-silico Study
Authors: Sharma Sourav , Yadav Suresh Singh , Nair Rohini Ravindran
Published: July 2024

BLM helicase is a member of the RecQ family of DNA helicases, enzymes that play a critical role in maintaining genome stability. The BLM protein is named after Bloom syndrome (BS), a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the helicase domain of BLM gene. BLM role has mostly been studied in DNA repair, replication, and recombination; however, a recent study has highlighted the RNA binding capability of the BLM protein. Several proteins, including TDP43, Tau, and alpha-synuclein, are known to play key roles in neurodegenerative diseases. These proteins possess residues prone to parallel aggregation and fibril formation, the key contributor to neurodegenerative disease development. We utilized various in-silico tools like PASTA 2.0, SIFT, PolyPhen 2, and PhD SNP, SNP&GO, Meta-SNP, and SNAP, etc., to identify the molecular signature of the BLM’s protein. Our in-silico analysis suggests that the BLM’s HRDC domain has ability of parallel aggregation and fibril formation. Moreover, structural similarity with proteins like α-synuclein, TDP-43, and Tau and its interactions with PARP1 suggests it may have a role in neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we identified deleterious mutations in the HRDC domain of BLM protein that may compromise its stability and alter its function. Hence, these findings suggest that in addition to BLM’s well-known functions, the protein may have ability to form parallel aggregation and fibril formation and its role in neurodegenerative disease need to further be explored.

Author Summary

This paper higlights the importance of considering the structural and physical characteristics of the BLM protein, which may have been previously overlooked in the context of disease pathology. Through in-silico analyses, we identified that the BLM protein possesses residues within the HRDC domain that are prone to parallel aggregation and fibril formation. Moreover, the structural similarity of BLM to proteins such as α-synuclein, TDP-43, and Tau indicates a potential role for BLM in neurodegenerative processes. Additionally, we identified deleterious mutations within the HRDC domain that could compromise the stability of the protein. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the association between BLM and PARP1 may involve a regulatory mechanism that could significantly influence BLM’s function.
Classification of Variants of Reduced Penetrance in High Penetrance Cancer Susceptibility Genes: Framework for Genetics Clinicians and Clinical Scientists by CanVIG-UK (Cancer Variant Interpretation Group-UK)
Authors: Garrett Alice , Allen Sophie , Durkie Miranda , Burghel George J , Robinson Rachel , Callaway Alison , Field Joanne , Frugtniet Bethan , Palmer-Smith Sheila , Grant Jonathan , Pagan Judith , McDevitt Trudi , Rowlands Charlie F. , McVeigh Terri , Hanson Helen , Turnbull Clare ,   CanVIG-UK
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Current practice is to report and manage likely pathogenic/pathogenic variants in a given cancer susceptibility gene (CSG) as though having equivalent penetrance, despite increasing evidence of inter-variant variability in risk associations. Using existing variant interpretation approaches, largely based on full-penetrance models, variants where reduced penetrance is suspected may be classified inconsistently and/or as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). We aimed to develop a national consensus approach for such variants within the Cancer Variant Interpretation Group UK (CanVIG-UK) multidisciplinary network.

Methods

A series of surveys and live polls were conducted during and between CanVIG-UK monthly meetings on various scenarios potentially indicating reduced penetrance. These informed the iterative development of a framework for the classification of variants of reduced penetrance by the CanVIG-UK Steering and Advisory Group (CStAG) working group.

Results

CanVIG-UK recommendations for amendment of the 2015 ACMG/AMP variant interpretation framework were developed for variants where (i) Active evidence suggests a reduced penetrance effect size (e.g. from case-control or segregation data) (ii) Reduced penetrance effect is inferred from weaker/potentially-inconsistent observed data.

Conclusions

CanVIG-UK propose a framework for the classification of variants of reduced penetrance in high-penetrance genes. These principles, whilst developed for CSGs, are potentially applicable to other clinical contexts.
Adoption of artificial intelligence and big data analytics: an organizational readiness perspective of the textile and garment industry in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md Khalid , Srivastava Aashish , Oliver Gillian Christina , Islam Md Ekramul , Jahan Nayma Akther , Karim Ridoan , Kanij Tanjila , Mahdi Tanjheel Hasan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the organizational readiness perspective of adopting artificial intelligence and big data analytics in the textile and garment industry in Bangladesh along with identifying the associated factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a qualitative method using semi-structured interviews with representatives of business organizations and stakeholders of Bangladesh’s textile and garment industry.

Findings

The research reveals that the textile and garment industry in Bangladesh currently has low organizational readiness to adopt artificial intelligence and big data analytics. This is due to moderate knowledge- and leadership-readiness along with low human-, finance- and engagement-readiness of most of the business organizations. The readiness aspects interplay with each other and need to be improved holistically.

Practical implications

Considering the significant global and national importance of Bangladesh’s textile and garment industry, gaining insights into the industry’s current state of readiness for adopting artificial intelligence and big data analytics would offer valuable assistance to both national and global economies and may enhance economic outcomes.

Originality/value

Since no exploratory study was conducted to understand the organizational readiness aspects of adopting artificial intelligence and big data analytics of the globally significant textile and garment industry in Bangladesh, the paper analyzes five key aspects of such readiness and offers a basis for conducting similar studies in other emerging economies.
Cryo‐electron tomography elucidates annular intraluminal configurations in Caenorhabditis elegans microtubules
Authors: Zhu Hao , Li Ming , Li Meijing , Li Xueming , Ou Guangshuo
Published: July 2024

Background information

Microtubules serve as integral components in cellular operations such as cell division, intracellular trafficking, and cellular architecture. Composed of tubulin protein subunits, these hollow tubular structures have been increasingly elucidated through advanced cryo‐electron microscopy (Cryo‐EM), which has unveiled the presence of microtubule inner proteins (MIPs) within the microtubular lumen.

Results

In the present investigation, we employ a synergistic approach incorporating high‐pressure freezing, cryo‐focused ion beam milling, and Cryo‐electron tomography (Cryo‐ET) to interrogate the in situ architecture of microtubules in Caenorhabditis elegans larvae. Our Cryo‐ET assessments across neuronal cilia and diverse tissue types consistently demonstrate the formation of annular configurations within the microtubular lumen.

Conclusions

In concert with recently characterized MIPs, our in situ observations within a living organism corroborate the hypothesis that intricate luminal assemblages exist within microtubule scaffolds. These findings necessitate further exploration into the molecular constituents and functional ramifications of these internal microtubular configurations in both cellular physiology and pathophysiology.
The role of gastric mucins and mucin‐related glycans in gastric cancers
Authors: Arai Junya , Hayakawa Yoku , Tateno Hiroaki , Fujiwara Hiroaki , Kasuga Masato , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: July 2024

Gastric mucins serve as a protective barrier on the stomach's surface, protecting from external stimuli including gastric acid and gut microbiota. Their composition typically changes in response to the metaplastic sequence triggered by Helicobacter pylori infection. This alteration in gastric mucins is also observed in cases of gastric cancer, although the precise connection between mucin expressions and gastric carcinogenesis remains uncertain. This review first introduces the relationship between mucin expressions and gastric metaplasia or cancer observed in humans and mice. Additionally, we discuss potential pathogenic mechanisms of how aberrant mucins and their glycans affect gastric carcinogenesis. Finally, we summarize challenges to target tumor‐specific glycans by utilizing lectin‐drug conjugates that can bind to specific glycans. Understanding the correlation and mechanism between these mucin expressions and gastric carcinogenesis could pave the way for new strategies in gastric cancer treatment.
The neuroinflammatory role of microglia in Alzheimer's disease and their associated therapeutic targets
Authors: AmeliMojarad Melika , AmeliMojarad Mandana
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the main cause of dementia, is characterized by synaptic loss and neurodegeneration. Amyloid‐β (Aβ) accumulation, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain are considered to be the initiating factors of AD. However, this hypothesis falls short of explaining many aspects of AD pathogenesis. Recently, there has been mounting evidence that neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of AD and causes neurodegeneration by over‐activating microglia and releasing inflammatory mediators.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and MEDLINE were used for searching and summarizing all the recent publications related to inflammation and its association with Alzheimer's disease.

Results

Our review shows how inflammatory dysregulation influences AD pathology as well as the roles of microglia in neuroinflammation, the possible microglia‐associated therapeutic targets, top neuroinflammatory biomarkers, and anti‐inflammatory drugs that combat inflammation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, microglial inflammatory reactions are important factors in AD pathogenesis and need to be discussed in more detail for promising therapeutic strategies.
Successful gall induction on wild roses by gall wasps under lab conditions
Authors: László Zoltán , Szilágyi Bálint , Macalik Borbála , Biró Mátyás , Iordache Constantin‐Teodor , Nicula Marco , Podar Dorina
Published: July 2024

Plant galls are unique outgrowths caused by various organisms, including insects, serving as nourishment for the inducer's larvae. Despite the taxonomists and ecologists attempts to elucidate the mechanisms behind plant gall formation, its understanding is still incomplete. Modern genetic techniques allow in‐depth analysis of the molecular processes, but variations across species entangle the analysis. Establishing laboratory‐friendly plant–gall inducer communities is crucial, yet past attempts have faced challenges.

Our study partly aimed to create a laboratory community involving wild roses (Rosa sp.) and rose gall wasps belonging to the genus Diplolepis as gall‐inducing insects. Controlled indoor conditions were optimized for plant growth. Wild roses were transplanted, then exposed to gall inducers, and monitored.

Successfully initialized gall growth was measured and analysed, revealing insights into the impact of plant vigour on gall size as a secondary aim.

Our study successfully established a novel laboratory community for further research on gall formation mechanisms.
Perceptions of undertaking a higher degree alongside dental specialty training: A cross‐sectional survey of UK dental specialty trainees
Authors: Haworth Jennifer A. , Jopson Jenifer L. , Harrison Jayne E. , Cobourne Martyn T. , Cunningham Susan J. , McIntyre Grant T. , Ireland Anthony J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The curricula for UK dental specialty training have recently been under review and until 2024, completion of a research component during training in Dental Public Health, Oral Microbiology and Orthodontics has been mandatory (with an alternative route for Orthodontics involving the submission of two scientific papers for those trainees not wishing to undertake a higher degree). Anecdotally, some trainees in other dental specialties choose to undertake higher degrees alongside specialty training.

Aims

The aims were to investigate how many dental specialty registrars study for higher degrees alongside specialty training, and whether undertaking a higher degree alongside specialty training has an impact on completion of training, research skills, research experience, patient care and career opportunities.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study design, involving the distribution of an online, anonymous questionnaire‐based survey to UK dental specialty registrars in November and December 2022.

Results

In total, 38 questionnaires were completed, representing a 7.7% response rate of the entire dental specialty registrar cohort in the UK and 42% of those who received it. Most respondents (76.3%) were either studying or had completed a clinically relevant higher degree prior to specialty training. Most respondents (76.3%) reported that the higher degree increased career opportunities and gave them additional skills.

Conclusions

Dental specialty trainees who responded to this survey perceived the higher degree to be beneficial in terms of preparing for exams, gaining skills in critical appraisal and for increasing future career opportunities.
Improved Patient Adherence to Family‐Based Helicobacter pylori Infection Control and Management Strategy in Central China and Its Influencing Factors
Authors: Li Xiao‐Ting , Xu Lu , Zhang Chen , Qi Ya‐Bin , Hu Ruo‐Bing , Abdun Mohammed Awadh , Yu Xue‐Chun , Li Kuan , Liu Ting‐Ting , Ma Jing , Xiao Wei , Lan Ling , Wang Xue‐Mei , Cao Ming‐Bo , Li Jian , Han Shuang‐Yin , Li Xiu‐Ling , Ding Song‐Ze
Published: July 2024

Background

Patient adherence status to the newly introduced family‐based Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection control and management strategy remains unclear, so are its influencing factors. We aim to investigate family members' adherence and its influencing factors during the family‐based H. pylori infection management practice for related disease prevention.

Materials and Methods

Based on our previously family‐based H. pylori survey in 2021, 282 families including 772 individuals were followed up 2 years after the initial survey to compare if the investigation and education might improve family member's adherence. The participant's adherence to H. pylori infection awareness, retest, treatment, publicity, gastroscopy, and hygiene habits were followed up, and their influencing factors were also analyzed.

Results

The overall participant's adherence to recommendations on H. pylori awareness, retest, treatment, publicity, gastroscopy, and hygiene habits were 77% (187/243), 67.3% (138/205), 60.1% (211/351), 46.5% (107/230), 45.6% (159/349), and 39.1% (213/545), respectively; and all showed improvements compared with their prior survey stages. The top reasons for rejection to treatment, retest, and gastroscopy were forgetting or unaware of H. pylori infection (30.3%), busy (32.8%), and asymptomatic (67.9%), respectively. Independent risk factor for low adherence to treatment was occupation (e.g., staff: OR 4.49, 95% CI 1.34–15.10). Independent favorable factors for treatment adherence were individuals at the ages of 18–44 years (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.04–0.89) and had a large family size (e.g., four family members: OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.06–0.41); for retest adherence, it was individuals at the ages of 60–69 years (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.06–0.97); for gastroscopy adherence, it was individuals at the age of 60–69 years (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.28–0.75), and with gastrointestinal symptoms (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.90).

Conclusions

Family‐based H. pylori management increases individual adherence to treatment, retest, and awareness, and there are also improved adherence to gastroscopy, publicity, and personal hygiene recommendations; further efforts are required to enhance the individual adherence rate for related disease prevention.
Listening to the Voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women in Regional and Remote Australia About Traumatic Brain Injury From Family Violence: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wills Elaine , Fitts Michelle
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Indigenous women experience high rates of family violence‐related head injuries. At present, lived experience accounts from Indigenous women are absent, which results in incomplete understandings and inadequate responses that have detrimental impacts on them and their families. The aim of this study was to gain insight into Indigenous women's personal and family perspectives regarding violence‐related traumatic brain injury (TBI), including impacts on life, as well as decision‐making processes about healthcare access and engagement.

Methods

Purposeful sampling was used to complete semi‐structured interviews with 18 Indigenous women living in regional and remote Australia who had experienced TBI from family violence. The data from these interviews were augmented by data from interviews and focus groups with 28 community members, including family members or carers of Indigenous women living with TBI from family violence.

Results

Three themes were conceptualised based on the data and research aims: interweaving of the past and the present—ways women experience brain injury; factors that inform decision‐making to access healthcare; and managing everyday changes that result from TBI from family violence. Indigenous women described living with a range of symptoms following repeated head injuries including problems with memory, cognition and concentration. A range of strategies to manage long‐term symptoms of TBI were used by Indigenous women and when they did seek healthcare, Indigenous women were required to navigate a range of barriers.

Conclusions

The findings identify a range of gaps in healthcare and housing supports for Indigenous women with TBI from violence, highlighting the significant investment needed to develop responsive and appropriate pathways of care in regional and remote areas. A range of suggestions are discussed including development of a specialised workforce who can provide apppropriate follow‐up support, co‐designed concussion clinics and educational resources. TBI must also be a key aspect of policy and practice for services working with Indigenous women who have experienced violence to ensure appropriate responses are provided.

Public or Patient Contribution

Indigenous women shared their views and experiences of TBI from family violence as well as decision‐making about accessing healthcare and managing TBI symptoms. As such, study participants provided public contributions to the research.
Study on the high‐temperature resistance of tungsten tailings‐based alkali‐activated materials by pressure forming
Authors: Tong Zhifang , Xie Zhaoxun , Hua Pujie , Zeng Qiang , Zhang Shengzhou , Li Xianjun
Published: July 2024

Alkali‐activated materials (AAMs) were prepared using tungsten tailings via pressure molding and casting, and their high‐temperature resistances were analyzed. Variations in their compressive strength, gel, and physical phase transformation, pore structure, and morphology at different temperatures were investigated and comparatively analyzed. Results showed that the compressive strength of both AAMs first increased and then decreased with increasing temperature. At 600°C, the pressure‐molded AAM exhibited a considerably higher compressive strength (152.38 MPa) than the cast‐molded AAM (42.05 MPa). Thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry, XRD, and FTIR analyses showed that the pressure‐molded AAM contained more gel phases than the cast‐molded AAM at the same temperature. The gel phase further polymerized and decomposed at high temperatures (>800°C), forming nepheline and zeolite crystals. Mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy results revealed that pressure molding increases the contact between the gel and unreacted materials, effectively reducing the porosity and densifying the AAM. The pressure‐molded AAM had a considerably smaller pore diameter than the cast‐molded AAM; thus, the former had considerably higher compressive strength. The porosity and pore size of the pressure‐molded AAM gradually increased with the temperature, which polymerized the gel phase and eventually decomposed it; this increased its compressive strength first and then decreased.
Treatment of lichen sclerosus with hydroxychloroquine: a Mayo Clinic experience
Authors: Akpala Christeebella O. , Tekin Burak , Torgerson Rochelle R. , Wetter David A. , Nguyen Giang Huong
Published: July 2024

Background

There is a dearth of studies investigating the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of either anogenital lichen sclerosus or extragenital lichen sclerosus, a condition that, if left untreated, could lead to a greater degree of scarring and malignant transformation.

Objective

This study aims to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinicopathological features, treatment response, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with either anogenital or extragenital lichen sclerosus who received hydroxychloroquine therapy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted involving 70 patients diagnosed with lichen sclerosus who underwent treatment with hydroxychloroquine at our institution between 2018 and 2023.

Results

Among the cohort, 67 patients were female, and 3 were male. Extragenital lichen sclerosus was diagnosed in 23 patients, with 16 exhibiting concomitant morphea overlap. Itching was the predominant clinical presentation (67%). A notable proportion of patients (36%) had a connective tissue disorder, prompting hydroxychloroquine therapy. Among the 30 patients treated solely for lichen sclerosus, 21 demonstrated response and 9 had no response. From a broader comparison of response to hydroxychloroquine, the overall anogenital response rate was 84.6% as opposed to 50% in extragenital lichen sclerosus. The median time to initial response was 4 months. Adverse effects, predominantly mild, were observed in 10 (14.3%) patients.

Limitation

This study is constrained by its retrospective nature and reliance on data from a single center, resulting in a limited sample size.

Conclusion

Hydroxychloroquine demonstrates promise as a therapeutic option for anogenital lichen sclerosus because of its favorable response rates and low incidence of adverse effects. However, further investigations, including larger‐scale or prospective studies, are imperative to ascertain its definitive efficacy.
The role of participation in training in the relationship between informal learning and its antecedents
Authors: Lucena Barbosa Flávia , Borges‐Andrade Jairo Eduardo
Published: July 2024

We investigated the relationships between Participation in Training, Informal Learning Behaviours (ILBs), and their dispositional (Readiness to Learn) and situational (Workplace Interaction and Autonomy) antecedents. Aiming to produce findings with greater reproducibility and generality, we used secondary data from 34 countries participating in the first cycle of the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, but we also compared these countries. We randomly selected a sample of 504 respondents from each country who were divided equally into training and non‐training participant groups. Then, we aggregated the sample of all countries (n = 17,136). The group that participated in training achieved higher mean ILBs with lower variance. In the aggregated sample, Participation in Training moderated only the relationships between ILBs and their situational antecedents. Workplace Interaction and Autonomy were more strongly associated with ILBs among non‐training participants. Moderation findings differed among countries. Aspects of job design should be considered—in addition to the skills developed in training—to improve the use of learning opportunities at the workplace. This implication is based on diverse education levels, occupations, age groups, and countries, better supporting global policies. Autochthonous features that may moderate the prediction of ILBs deserve further investigation. Specific training and other dispositional and job design predictors should be longitudinally investigated in the future.
Crystalline‐amorphous dual‐phase ceramic nanocomposites regulated by entropy engineering
Authors: Fu Le , Wang Bohan , Jiang Fuqing , Yu Wenjun , Xia Wei
Published: July 2024

Solid‐state reaction (SSR) is frequently used to fabricate bulk high‐entropy ceramics (HECs). However, a high temperature and a long dwelling time are typically required to allow the occurrence of SSR. Meanwhile, conventional HECs were typically composed of single‐phase solid solution with micrograins. It is of great interest to develop nanocrystalline dual‐phase HECs under mild conditions. Here, we fabricated entropy‐mediated crystalline‐amorphous dual‐phase ceramic nanocomposites, and the fabrication process showed significantly higher energy and time efficiency than the conventional SSR. The nanocomposites were composed of entropy‐mediated nanoparticles (EM‐NPs) embedded in an amorphous SiO2 matrix. The constituent elements were homogeneously distributed in the EM‐NPs at the atomic level. The EM‐NPs were dislocations‐free but with lattice strain, and they showed a strong coarsening tendency during annealing. The nanocomposites showed a significant solid solution hardening effect. The reported results would provide useful guidance to fabricate nanocrystalline HECs with crystalline‐amorphous dual‐phase microstructure.
Crystal facet‐controlled CeO2 as surface decoration on nanosheet‐type SnO2 for sensing ultralow concentration gases
Authors: Choi Pil Gyu , Ema Takuma , Takami Seiichi , Masuda Yoshitake
Published: July 2024

Improving the gas‐sensing properties of sensors is important for the detection of ultralow‐concentration gases. As sensor signals are generated from the reactions on the surface of the sensor material, improving the surface structure of the sensor material can enhance the sensing properties. In this study, nanosheet‐type tin oxide with a metastable (101) crystal facet surface was used as the gas sensor material. To enhance the sensing properties, crystal facet‐controlled cerium oxide with superior oxygen storage capacity at moderate temperatures was decorated on the surface of the nanosheet‐type tin oxide material. An investigation of the sensor properties revealed that the decorated sensor exhibited improved gas selectivity and enhanced sensitivity to all tested gases. Prior to decoration, selectivity was observed for acetone and ethanol, whereas the decorated sensor exhibited high selectivity for acetaldehyde. The limits of detection of the decorated sensors were 245, 459, and 934 ppt for acetone, ethanol, and acetaldehyde, respectively. Thus, the proposed material can effectively enhance the sensing of extremely low‐concentration gases.
Synthesis and characterization of double‐shell structure hollow SiO2 nanospheres
Authors: Li Fangxian , Wang Yasong , Ma Liang , Li Bin , Wei Jiangxiong , Yu Qijun , Jiang Jun
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study is to synthesize hollow SiO2 nanospheres (HSNs), and to investigate the effect of varying divinylbenzene (DVB) amounts during synthesis on their morphology and pore structure. Additionally, it seeks to characterize the thermal conductivity of the synthesized HSNs and evaluate the impact of their incorporation on the thermal insulation properties of acrylic coatings. Single‐shell HSNs were synthesized using the Stöber method, which involved hydrolysis‐polycondensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate. The double‐shell HSNs were prepared using a stepwise wrapping synthesis method, with single‐shell HSNs as the core matrix and an appropriate amount of crosslinking agent added. The addition of DVB resulted in different morphologies, shell spacings, and specific surface areas for the double‐shell HSNs. The thermal conductivity of the double‐shell HSNs decreased significantly to as low as 0.0252 W·m1·K−1 with an increase in shell spacing. The shell spacing of double‐shell HSNs had doubled, resulting in a reduction of its thermal conductivity by approximately 18%. When the double‐shell HSN content reached 8%, the thermal conductivity decreased by 85% compared to that of the original acrylate coating. These results indicate that double‐shell HSNs can substantially decrease the thermal conductivity of the matrix material for thermal insulation applications.
Association between pre‐hip fracture depression and days at home after fracture and assessing sex differences
Authors: Mehta Rhea , Orwig Denise L. , Chen Chixiang , Dong Yu , Shardell Michelle D. , Yamashita Takashi , Falvey Jason R.
Published: July 2024

Background

Hip fracture and depression are important public health issues among older adults, but how pre‐fracture depression impacts recovery after hip fracture is unknown, especially among males who often experience greater depression severity. Days at home (DAH), or the days spent outside a hospital or healthcare facility, is a novel, patient‐centered outcome that can capture meaningful aspects of fracture recovery. How pre‐fracture depression impacts DAH after fracture, and related sex differences, remains unclear.

Methods

Participants included 63,618 Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries aged 65+ years, with a hospitalization claim for hip fracture surgery between 2010 and 2017. The primary exposure was a diagnosis of depression at hospital admission, and the primary outcome was total DAH over 12 months post‐discharge. Longitudinal associations between pre‐fracture depression and the count of DAH among beneficiaries were estimated using Poisson regression models after adjustment for covariates; sex‐by‐depression interactions were also assessed. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) reflecting relative differences were estimated from these models.

Results

Overall, beneficiaries with depression were younger, White females, and spent 11 fewer average DAH compared to counterparts without depression when demographic factors (age and sex) (IRR = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.90, 0.92; p < 0.0001) and social determinants of health (race, Medicaid dual eligibility, and poverty) were adjusted for (IRR = 0.92; 95% CI = 0.91, 0.93; p < 0.0001), but this association attenuated after adjusting for medical complexities (IRR = 0.99; 95% CI = 0.98, 1.01; p = 0.41) and facility and geographical factors (IRR = 1.0037; 95% CI = 0.99, 1.02; p = 0.66). There was no evidence of effect modification by sex.

Conclusions

The comorbidity burden of preexisting depression may impact DAH among both male and female Medicare beneficiaries with hip fracture. Results suggest a holistic health approach and secondary prevention of depressive symptoms after hip fracture.
Viscerosensory signalling to the nucleus accumbens via the solitary tract nucleus
Authors: McDougall Stuart J. , Ong Zhi Yi , Heller Rosa , Horton Anna , Thek Kimberly K. , Choi Eun A. , McNally Gavan P. , Lawrence Andrew J.
Published: July 2024

The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) receives direct viscerosensory vagal afferent input that drives autonomic reflexes, neuroendocrine function and modulates behaviour. A subpopulation of NTS neurons project to the nucleus accumbens (NAc); however, the function of this NTS‐NAc pathway remains unknown. A combination of neuroanatomical tracing, slice electrophysiology and fibre photometry was used in mice and/or rats to determine how NTS‐NAc neurons fit within the viscerosensory network. NTS‐NAc projection neurons are predominantly located in the medial and caudal portions of the NTS with 54 ± 7% (mice) and 65 ± 3% (rat) being TH‐positive, representing the A2 NTS cell group. In horizontal brainstem slices, solitary tract (ST) stimulation evoked excitatory post‐synaptic currents (EPSCs) in NTS‐NAc projection neurons. The majority (75%) received low‐jitter, zero‐failure EPSCs characteristic of monosynaptic ST afferent input that identifies them as second order to primary sensory neurons. We then examined whether NTS‐NAc neurons respond to cholecystokinin (CCK, 20 μg/kg ip) in vivo in both mice and rats. Surprisingly, there was no difference in the number of activated NTS‐NAc cells between CCK and saline‐treated mice. In rats, just 6% of NTS‐NAc cells were recruited by CCK. As NTS TH neurons are the primary source for NAc noradrenaline, we measured noradrenaline release in the NAc and showed that NAc noradrenaline levels declined in response to cue‐induced reward retrieval but not foot shock. Combined, these findings suggest that high‐fidelity afferent information from viscerosensory afferents reaches the NAc. These signals are likely unrelated to CCK‐sensitive vagal afferents but could interact with other sensory and higher order inputs to modulate learned appetitive behaviours.

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Influence of blood loss on cerebral oxygen saturation in paediatric patients undergoing surgery for scoliosis correction: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Gao Jia , Li Lijing , Gao Zhengzheng , Ren Yi , Wang Fang , Wang Xiaoxue , Li Duoyi , Liu Guoliang , Zhang Xuejun , Zhang Jianmin
Published: July 2024

Aim

Surgery for congenital scoliosis correction in children is often associated with considerable blood loss. Decrease in regional oxygen saturation (rScO2) can reflect insufficient cerebral perfusion and predict neurological complications. This retrospective observational study explored the relationship between blood loss during this surgery and a decrease in rScO2 in children.

Methods

The following clinical data of children aged 3–14 years who underwent elective posterior scoliosis correction between March 2019 and July 2021 were collected: age, sex, height, weight, baseline rScO2, basal mean invasive arterial pressure (MAP), preoperative Cobb angle, number of surgical segments, preoperative and postoperative haemoglobin level, percentage of lowest rScO2 below the baseline value that lasted 3 min or more during the operation (decline of rScO2 from baseline, D‐rScO2%), intraoperative average invasive MAP, end‐tidal carbon dioxide pressure, fluid infusion rate of crystalloids and colloids, operation time, and percentage of total blood loss/patient's blood volume (TBL/PBV).

Results

A total of 105 children were included in the study. Massive haemorrhage (TBL/PBV ≥50%) was reported in 53.3% of patients, who had significantly higher D‐rScO2 (%) (t = −5.264, P < 0.001) than those who had non‐massive haemorrhage (TBL/PBV <50%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that TBL/PBV (β = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.018–0.062, P < 0.05) was significantly associated with D‐rScO2%.

Conclusions

Intraoperative massive blood loss in children significantly increased D‐rScO2%. Monitoring should be improved, and timely blood supplementation should be performed to ensure maintenance of the blood and oxygen supply to vital organs, improve the safety of anaesthesia, and avoid neurological complications.