bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harnessing exosomes in theranostic applications: advancements and insights in gastrointestinal cancer research
Authors: Shojaeian Ali , Naeimi Torshizi S. R. , Parsapasand Mahsa Sadat , Amjad Zahra Sobhi , Khezrian Ali , Alibakhshi Abbas , Yun Faye , Baghaei Kaveh , Amini Razieh , Pecic Stevan
Published: May 2024

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (30–150 nm) that are formed by endocytosis containing complex RNA as well as protein structures and are vital in intercellular communication and can be used in gene therapy and drug delivery. According to the cell sources of origin and the environmental conditions they are exposed to, these nanovesicles are very heterogeneous and dynamic in terms of content (cargo), size and membrane composition. Exosomes are released under physiological and pathological conditions and influence the pathogenesis of cancers through various mechanisms, including angiogenesis, metastasis, immune dysregulation, drug resistance, and tumor growth/development. Gastrointestinal cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer in humans and can involve organs e.g., the esophagus and stomach, or others such as the liver, pancreas, small intestine, and colon. Early diagnosis is very important in this field because the overall survival of patients is low due to diagnosis in late stages and recurrence. Also, various therapeutic strategies have failed and there is an unmet need for the new therapeutic agents. Exosomes can become promising candidates in gastrointestinal cancers as biomarkers and therapeutic agents due to their lower immunity and passing the main physiological barriers. In this work, we provide a general overview of exosomes, their biogenesis and biological functions. In addition, we discuss the potential of exosomes to serve as biomarkers, agents in cancer treatment, drug delivery systems, and effective vaccines in immunotherapy, with an emphasis on gastrointestinal cancers.

Graphical Abstract
Interventional therapy combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors with or without immune checkpoint inhibitors as initial treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Du Changjie , Wu Hongyu , Zhong Tao , Zhai Qilong , Yuan Jiajun , Peng Jialun , Ma Rong , Li Jinzheng
Published: May 2024

Background

Interventional therapy, in conjunction with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), has shown promising outcomes for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT). With the advent of immunotherapy, the combined use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has attracted great attention due to their potential effectiveness in advanced HCC. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of a triple therapy regimen (Interventional therapy, TKIs and ICIs, IT-TKI-ICI) with a dual therapy regimen (Interventional therapy and TKIs, IT-TKI) in the treatment of HCC and PVTT (HCC-PVTT).

Methods

A comprehensive search was carried out in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library databases. Primary outcome measures were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), while secondary outcomes included tumor response rate, adverse event incidence as well as downstaging surgery rate. Statistical analysis was conducted using Revman 5.4 software.

Results

The meta-analysis finally included 6 cohort studies. The triple therapy group demonstrated significantly prolonged OS and PFS compared to the dual therapy group. Meanwhile, the former exhibited significantly higher rates of objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and better downstaging effects with a higher salvage surgery rate without significantly increasing adverse events.

Conclusion

In comparison to dual therapy, the triple therapy with interventional therapy, TKIs, and ICIs demonstrates superior efficacy and equivalent safety for HCC-PVTT.
Hydroxymethylation hydroxylation of 1,3-diarylpropene through a catalytic diastereoselective Prins reaction: cyclization logic and access to brazilin core
Authors: Hu Xin-Ting , Cheng Qing-Yan , Chen Yan-Ping , Li Kun , Yan Cai-Xian , Li Dashan , Shao Li-Dong
Published: May 2024

A catalytic diastereoselective Prins reaction for hydroxymethylation and hydroxylation of 1,3-diarylpropene was successfully utilized to prepare various 1,3-dioxanes 7 in 14–88% yields. Take advantage of the synthetic intermediate 7h, the key B/C rings in brazilin core could be constructed by the sequential of Friedel–Crafts/Ullmann-Ma rather than Ullmann-Ma/Friedel–Crafts reactions.

Graphical Abstract
Comparative metabolite analysis of Piper sarmentosum organs approached by LC–MS-based metabolic profiling
Authors: Ware Ismail , Franke Katrin , Frolov Andrej , Bureiko Kseniia , Kysil Elana , Yahayu Maizatulakmal , El Enshasy Hesham Ali , Wessjohann Ludger A.
Published: May 2024

Piper sarmentosum Roxb. (Piperaceae) is a traditional medicinal and food plant widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, offering both health and culinary benefits. In this study the secondary metabolites in different organs of P. sarmentosum were identified and their relative abundances were characterized. The metabolic profiles of leaves, roots, stems and fruits were comprehensively investigated by liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS) and the data subsequently analyzed using multivariate statistical methods. Manual interpretation of the tandem mass spectrometric (MS/MS) fragmentation patterns revealed the presence of 154 tentatively identified metabolites, mostly represented by alkaloids and flavonoids. Principle component analysis and hierarchical clustering indicated the predominant occurrence of flavonoids, lignans and phenyl propanoids in leaves, aporphines in stems, piperamides in fruits and lignan-amides in roots. Overall, this study provides extensive data on the metabolite composition of P. sarmentosum, supplying useful information for bioactive compounds discovery and patterns of their preferential biosynthesis or storage in specific organs. This can be used to optimize production and harvesting as well as to maximize the plant’s economic value as herbal medicine or in food applications.

Graphical Abstract
Parent-Mediated Play-Based Interventions to Improve Social Communication and Language Skills of Preschool Autistic Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Deniz Emre , Francis Gill , Torgerson Carole , Toseeb Umar
Published: May 2024

Play-based interventions are gaining popularity amongst autistic children. Parents are uniquely placed to deliver these interventions as they are most familiar with their child’s strengths and challenges. Accordingly, reporting the effectiveness of play-based interventions and/or parent-delivered or mediated early-year interventions have been popular topics in the literature in the last decade. Despite this, little is known about the efficacy of parent-mediated play-based interventions on the developmental outcomes of autistic children. To close this gap in knowledge, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials and quasi-experiments focusing on social communication skills, language skills, and autistic characteristics of preschool autistic children (0–6-year-old) in non-educational settings. Overall, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria 21 of which were included in the synthesis. Of the included studies, 20 studies reported social communication skills, 15 studies reported language skills, and 12 studies reported autistic characteristics. Pooling effect sizes across the included studies showed that parent-mediated play-based interventions were effective on social communication (d =  .63) and language skills (d =  .40) as well as autistic characteristics (d =   − .19) of preschool autistic children. Our findings suggest that parent-mediated play-based interventions hold promise for improving social functioning and related autistic characteristics for preschool autistic children.
The relationship between weight-adjusted-waist index and suicidal ideation: evidence from NHANES
Authors: Guo Shijie , Qing Guangwei , Chen Qiqi , Yang Guang
Published: May 2024

Background

Amidst growing evidence of the intricate link between physical and mental health, this study aims to dissect the relationship between the waist-to-weight index (WWI) and suicidal ideation within a representative sample of the US population, proposing WWI as a novel metric for suicide risk assessment.

Methods

The study engaged a sample of 9500 participants in a cross-sectional design. It employed multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses to probe the association between WWI and suicidal ideation. It further examined potential nonlinear dynamics using a weighted generalized additive model alongside stratified analyses to test the relationship's consistency across diverse demographic and health variables.

Results

Our analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between increased WWI and heightened suicidal ideation, characterized by a nonlinear relationship that persisted in the adjusted model. Subgroup analysis sustained the association's uniformity across varied population segments.

Conclusions

The study elucidates WWI's effectiveness as a predictive tool for suicidal ideation, underscoring its relevance in mental health evaluations. By highlighting the predictive value of WWI, our findings advocate for the integration of body composition considerations into mental health risk assessments, thereby broadening the scope of suicide prevention strategies.
Rational maps of balls and their associated groups
Authors: Grundmeier Dusty , Lebl Jiří
Published: May 2024

Given a proper, rational map of balls, D’Angelo and Xiao introduced five natural groups encoding properties of the map. We study these groups using a recently discovered normal form for rational maps of balls. Using this normal form, we also provide several new groups associated to the map.
Development of Al2O3-supported nanobimetallic Co-La-B catalyst for boosting hydrogen release via sodium borohydride hydrolysis
Authors: Keskin M. Salih , Horoz Sabit , Şahin Ömer , Kutluay Sinan
Published: May 2024

This study introduces the novel Al2O3-supported nanobimetallic Co-La-B (Al2O3@Co-La-B) catalyst, specifically designed to enhance hydrogen production via sodium borohydride hydrolysis, marking its first application in hydrogen generation. Characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, and scanning electron microscopy, the catalyst exhibits a porous, homogeneous cubic structure which significantly contributes to its high catalytic efficiency. It demonstrated remarkable hydrogen generation rates of up to 6057.72 mLH2 min−1 gcat−1 at 30 °C and maintained 91.63% catalytic activity over multiple cycles, with a notable increase to 8661.94 mLH2 min−1 gcat−1 at 60 °C. Kinetic studies, utilizing nth-order and Langmuir–Hinshelwood models, indicated activation energies of 51.38 kJ mol−1 and 49.33 kJ mol−1, respectively, showcasing the catalyst's potential as a sustainable solution for hydrogen production in various industrial applications.
Survey of potential fungal antagonists of Coffee Leaf Rust (Hemileia vastatrix) on Coffea arabica in Hawai‘i, USA
Authors: Luiz Blaine C. , Sugiyama Lionel S. , Brill Eva , Keith Lisa M.
Published: May 2024

Hemileia vastatrix, causal agent of coffee leaf rust (CLR), is an aggressive pathogen of coffee plants worldwide. Conventional fungicides play a major role in the suppression of this disease, but a recent shift toward eco-friendly farming practices has occurred and additional novel, effective, and sustainable strategies for CLR control are needed. Naturally occurring fungal antagonists could be well-positioned to meet this demand, but these fungi need to be isolated and tested for efficacy to identify organisms with potential. In this study, a survey of fungi associated with CLR lesions in four districts of Hawai‘i Island, HI, USA (Kona, Ka‘ū, Hāmākua, and Hilo) was conducted. Coffee leaves infected with CLR were collected from 22 locations and over 600 lesions were plated on ½ APDA and CTC 4T media. DNA was extracted from purified isolates and the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) was sequenced and analyzed by BLASTn. In total, 194 isolates comprising 50 taxa were recovered. Several of the genera are known antagonists of CLR or other plant pathogens, including Simplicillium, Akanthomyces, Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Clonostachys. The wide diversity of fungi associated with CLR lesions provide a wealth of possibilities for identifying potential CLR antagonists that could serve as a valuable tool for coffee farmers as part of an integrated pest management plan.
U.S. beef producer perspectives on “sustainable beef” and implications for sustainability transitions
Authors: Smith Ada P. , Metcalf Alexander L. , Metcalf Elizabeth Covelli , Yung Laurie , Swinger Brenna , Cummins Tina M. , Chaffin Brian C. , Shuver Austin , Slattery Drew
Published: May 2024

Beef production systems are at the center of ongoing discussion and debate on food systems sustainability. There is a growing interest among beef producers, consumers, and other beef supply chain stakeholders in achieving greater sustainability within the industry, but the relationship of this interest to general sustainability issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food security, livelihood risks, and animal welfare concerns is unclear. Specifically, there is very little research documenting how beef producers define and view the concept of sustainability and how to achieve it. Producer perspectives are critical to identifying constraints to sustainability transitions or to help build agreement with other producers about the shared values such transitions may support. Through a secondary analysis of survey data of U.S. beef producers (n = 911) conducted in 2021 by the Trust in Food division of Farm Journal, a corporation that provides content, data, and business insights to the agricultural community (e.g., producers, processors/distributors, and retailers), we investigated what “sustainable beef” means to U.S. beef producers, highlighting the key components and constraints they perceive to achieving desirable sustainability outcomes. Leveraging the three-pillar model of sustainability as a framework for analysis, we identified key themes producers use to define “sustainable beef.” We found that producers collectively viewed sustainability as: (1) multidimensional and interconnected; (2) semi-closed and regenerative; (3) long-lasting; and (4) producer-centered, although an integrated perspective uniting these aspects was rare. We discuss how these perspectives may be the basis for sustainability efforts supported by producers and raise future research considerations toward a shared understanding of what sustainability is and what is needed for enduring sustainability solutions in the U.S. beef industry.
A quantitative study examining the effects of sleep quality on construction workers’ performance in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Baghdadi Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Poor sleep and related sleep disorders have been linked to subpar performance in sectors like health and education. Such sleep issues in the workforce negatively affect individual and organisational productivity. Despite this, the high-stress environment of the construction sector has been largely overlooked. This study delves into the role of sleep in construction field management and human resource practices, examining how a better understanding of workers' sleep patterns could enhance job performance. The research involved an online survey of 119 construction workers in the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, focusing on their sleep duration and its impact on job performance, with data analysis conducted using SPSS software. The findings indicate that inadequate sleep influenced by factors such as dietary habits is significantly related to poor performance. The majority of workers are affected by poor sleep quality. The study suggests that construction management should implement health awareness campaigns to improve workers' responsiveness and awareness regarding sleep. It emphasises the need for management to develop strategies to increase sleep awareness and education in the construction industry, aiming to improve overall job performance.
Personality and acceptance as predictors of ChatGPT use
Authors: de Winter Joost , Dodou Dimitra , Eisma Yke Bauke
Published: May 2024

Within a year of its launch, ChatGPT has seen a surge in popularity. While many are drawn to its effectiveness and user-friendly interface, ChatGPT also introduces moral concerns, such as the temptation to present generated text as one’s own. This led us to theorize that personality traits such as Machiavellianism and sensation-seeking may be predictive of ChatGPT usage. We launched two online questionnaires with 2000 respondents each, in September 2023 and March 2024, respectively. In Questionnaire 1, 22% of respondents were students, and 54% were full-time employees; 32% indicated they used ChatGPT at least weekly. Analysis of our ChatGPT Acceptance Scale revealed two factors, Effectiveness and Concerns, which correlated positively and negatively, respectively, with ChatGPT use frequency. A specific aspect of Machiavellianism (manipulation tactics) was found to predict ChatGPT usage. Questionnaire 2 was a replication of Questionnaire 1, with 21% students and 54% full-time employees, of which 43% indicated using ChatGPT weekly. In Questionnaire 2, more extensive personality scales were used. We found a moderate correlation between Machiavellianism and ChatGPT usage (r = 0.22) and with an opportunistic attitude towards undisclosed use (r = 0.30), relationships that largely remained intact after controlling for gender, age, education level, and the respondents’ country. We conclude that covert use of ChatGPT is associated with darker personality traits, something that requires further attention.
Particulate matter (pm10) monitoring in the United Arab Emirates using a satellite remote sensing based model
Authors: Al Suwaidi Aisha , Ali Tarig , Atabay Serter , Singer Mohamed , Elaksher Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the major factors causing air pollution, which is considered a concern for human health. Hence, measuring and monitoring the concentrations of these particles is essential. In this study, the main objective is to develop a remote sensing based PM10 monitoring model for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using Landsat 8 imagery. Landsat 8 images acquired during the four-year period from 2016 to 2022 were obtained and used along with PM10 data collected at 41 ground monitoring stations corresponding to the acquisition of the satellite data (data from 30 stations used for model development 11 stations were used for model testing). The Landsat 8 data was obtained from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Core Science Systems in the form of Digital Numbers (DNs). The DNs of the four optical bands of Landsat 8 were then converted to top of the atmosphere reflectance (TOA) through radiometric processing, and then used to estimate the Aerosol Optical Thickness. A spectral PM10 model was then developed through regression analysis, correlating AOT to PM10 values obtained at the ground stations. The model provided an R-squared value of 65% and a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 12.55 µg/m3. The results suggest that the developed model is robust in estimating PM10 values and can therefore be used for satellite-based monitoring at any location in the UAE.
Synergizing trade and sustainability: advancing SDG 14 through international trade dynamics
Authors: Zreik Mohamad
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the intricate relationship between international trade and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), focusing on the potential of trade to contribute positively to marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources. By examining the intersection of economic, social, and environmental dimensions, the study delves into how trade policies and practices can be aligned with environmental objectives, particularly concerning marine ecosystems. A principal challenge identified is the tension between economic growth driven by international trade and the sustainability of marine ecosystems, exacerbated by practices such as overfishing and pollution from maritime transport. Another significant challenge is the lack of robust enforcement mechanisms for existing environmental provisions in trade agreements. To address these challenges, the paper recommends the integration of stringent and enforceable environmental clauses in trade agreements, coupled with the promotion of sustainable trade practices through international cooperation and capacity building. Furthermore, the study suggests the adoption of innovative trade mechanisms, such as eco-certification and the implementation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), to enhance the protection of marine life, support sustainable fisheries, and reduce ocean pollution. The paper concludes with specific policy recommendations for leveraging international trade as a tool for the sustainable management of marine resources, ultimately contributing to the broader agenda of sustainable development.
Martinu and the Symphony
Authors: Crump Michael
Published: May 2024

The first systematic assessment of the symphonic style of the Czech composer Bohuslav Martinu (1890-1959), tracing the evolution of his musical language and including detailed analyses of all six symphonies.
The Chronicle of William of Puylaurens
Authors: Sibly W. A. , Sibly M. D.
Published: May 2024

First translation into English of key chronicle for events of the Albigensian Crusade and the attack on heresy, including the siege of the Cathar stronghold, Montsegur.
A Micro-perspective Analysis of the Demand for Greek and Non-Greek Yogurt in the United States Over Calendar Years 2018 to 2020
Authors: Capps Oral , Jia Ruixin , Mishra Vikas , Ogieriakhi Macson
Published: May 2024

Using the Heckman framework, we develop profiles of households who purchase Greek yogurt and non-Greek yogurt and estimate own-price, cross-price, and income elasticities of demand. Attention is centered on the impacts of age, race, education, and ethnicity of the household head, household income, household size, region, the presence of children, and prices of Greek yogurt and non-Greek yogurt. This analysis rests on data acquired from Nielsen pertaining to 164,484 households over calendar years 2018–2020. Own-price elasticities are estimated to be −1.36 for Greek yogurt and −0.70 for non-Greek yogurt. Additionally, these yogurt products are not only substitutes but also necessities.
Likelihood neglect bias and the mental simulations approach: An illustration using the old and new Monty Hall problems
Authors: Wilcox John E.
Published: May 2024

This article introduces a new violation of a law of probability, likelihood neglect bias. The bias occurs when one is (i) aware that some evidence is more likely given one hypothesis rather than another but (ii) that evidence does not cause them to raise their probability for the former hypothesis relative to the latter. The Monty Hall problem illustrates this bias, although the bias is potentially present in other contexts as well. Unlike previous studies, the present study shows that incorrect responses to the problem are attributable to failure to realize the implications of likelihoods (i.e., likelihood neglect) instead of unawareness of what the likelihoods are. Likelihood neglect is also distinguished from other biases which it is occasionally confused with, and a theoretical explanation of likelihood neglect is proposed. Experimental results further indicate that a new approach—the mental simulations approach—showed a large effect in reducing likelihood neglect and increasing correct probabilities when encountering the Monty Hall problem. The approach also increased correct probabilities for a new modification called the ‘new Monty Hall problem’, unlike two prominent alternative approaches to the original Monty Hall problem. The new Monty Hall problem also illustrates that humans can fail to recognize objectively strong evidence for a hypothesis if they neglect likelihoods.
Flat model structures and Gorenstein objects in functor categories
Authors: Di Zhenxing , Li Liping , Liang Li , Ma Yajun
Published: May 2024

We construct a flat model structure on the category

${_{\mathcal {Q},\,R}\mathsf {Mod}}$

of additive functors from a small preadditive category

$\mathcal {Q}$

satisfying certain conditions to the module category

${_{R}\mathsf {Mod}}$

over an associative ring

$R$

, whose homotopy category is the

$\mathcal {Q}$

-shaped derived category introduced by Holm and Jørgensen. Moreover, we prove that for an arbitrary associative ring

$R$

, an object in

${_{\mathcal {Q},\,R}\mathsf {Mod}}$

is Gorenstein projective (resp., Gorenstein injective, Gorenstein flat, projective coresolving Gorenstein flat) if and only if so is its value on each object of

$\mathcal {Q}$

, and hence improve a result by Dell'Ambrogio, Stevenson and Šťovíček.
Overview of neutral beam injectors for plasma heating and diagnostics developed at Budker INP
Authors: Shikhovtsev Igor , Ivanov Alexander , Davydenko Vladimir , Belchenko Yuri , Abdrashitov Grigoriy , Belov Viktor , Akhmetov Timur , Amirov Vladislav , Brul Alexander , Deichuli Peter , Deichuli Nikita , Donin Alexander , Dranichnikov Alexander , Finashin Roman , Gavrisenko Daniil , Gorbovsky Alexander , Kapitonov Valerian , Kolmogorov Vyacheslav , Kondakov Alexey , Maslakov Ivan , Oreshonok Vladimir , Rashchenko Vladimir , Sanin Andrey , Sorokin Alexey , Sotnikov Oleg , Stupishin Nikolay , Vakhrushev Roman , Vointsev Vadim
Published: May 2024

An overview of the neutral beam injectors developed at the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics in Novosibirsk during the last 10 years is presented. These neutral injectors are used for plasma diagnostics, heating and current drive in modern fusion devices with magnetic confinement. An arc or a radio-frequency (RF) discharge generates a plasma in the ion sources of the injectors, and a positive hydrogen or deuterium ion beam is extracted and accelerated by a multiaperture ion-optical system (IOS). The accelerated ion beam is converted into a neutral one in a gas target. The precision multiaperture IOS with spherically concave electrodes provides ballistic focusing of the neutral beam. The high-energy, high-power beam injector based on negative ions, which is currently under development, is described as well. It comprises a RF negative ion source and a wide-aperture electrostatic accelerator separated from the source by a low-energy beam transport line, thereby improving the injector reliability.
Editorial
Authors: Markey Oonagh
Published: May 2024

Multimorbidity, the existence of two or more concurrent chronic conditions in a single individual, represents a major global health challenge. The Nutrition Society’s 2023 Winter Conference at the Royal Society, London focused on the topic of ‘Diet and lifestyle strategies for prevention and management of multimorbidity’, with symposia designed to explore pathways for prevention of multimorbidity across the lifecourse, the role of ageing, the gut-brain-heart connection and lifestyle strategies for prevention and management of multimorbidity. It also considered machine learning and precision nutrition approaches for addressing research challenges in multimorbidity. The opening plenary lecture discussed advancing diet and lifestyle research to address the increasing burden and complexity of multimorbidity. The two-day programme concluded with a plenary which addressed the key dietary risk factors and policies in multimorbidity prevention.
WHY LIBERAL COSMOPOLITANS SHOULD WORRY ABOUT SUPPLY CHAINS
Authors: Cowen Tyler
Published: May 2024

The complexity of supply chains means that it is difficult to tell where national security arguments begin and end. That may weaken some of the traditional arguments for free trade for the same reasons that we accept the difficulty of rational economic calculation in a socialist society. National security arguments for protectionism may not remain restricted to very small and manageable segments of the economy. Liberals and cosmopolitans will need to pay greater heed to these problems. This essay also considers why complex supply chains may create problems for a carbon tax and for the notion of corporate social responsibility.
Could self-reported physical performance help predict individuals at the highest risk of mortality and hospital admission events in clinical practice? Findings from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study
Authors: Rambukwella Roshan , Westbury Leo D. , Pearse Camille , Ward Kate A. , Cooper Cyrus , Dennison Elaine M.
Published: May 2024

Aim:

To consider how self-reported physical function measures relate to adverse clinical outcomes measured over 20 years of follow-up in a community-dwelling cohort (aged 59–73 at baseline) as compared with hand grip strength, a well-validated predictor of adverse events.

Background:

Recent evidence has emphasized the significant association of physical activity, physical performance, and muscle strength with hospital admissions in older people. However, physical performance tests require staff availability, training, specialized equipment, and space to perform them, often not feasible or realistic in the context of a busy clinical setting.

Methods:

In total, 2997 men and women were analyzed. Baseline predictors were measured grip strength (Jamar dynamometer) and the following self-reported measures: physical activity (Dallosso questionnaire); physical function score (SF-36 Health Survey); and walking speed. Participants were followed up from baseline (1998–2004) until December 2018 using UK Hospital Episode Statistics and mortality data, which report clinical outcomes using ICD-10 coding. Predictors in relation to the risk of mortality and hospital admission events were examined using Cox regression with and without adjustment for sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics.

Findings:

The mean age at baseline was 65.7 and 66.6 years among men and women, respectively. Over follow-up, 36% of men and 26% of women died, while 93% of men and 92% of women were admitted to hospital at least once. Physical activity, grip strength, SF-36 physical function, and walking speed were all strongly associated with adverse health outcomes in both sex- and fully adjusted analyses; poorer values for each of the predictors were related to greater risk of mortality (all-cause, cardiovascular-related) and any, neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, any fracture, and falls admissions. SF-36 physical function and grip strength were similarly associated with the adverse health outcomes considered.
Origin of Philippine Sea Basins During Subduction Initiation in the Western Pacific
Authors: Ishizuka Osamu , Tani Kenichiro , Taylor Rex N. , Umino Susumu , Sakamoto Izumi , Yokoyama Yuka , Ogitsu Itaru , Shimoda Gen , Harigane Yumiko , Sato Taichi , Ohara Yasuhiko , Conway Christopher , Perez Americus , Fujii Masakazu , Kusano Yuki , Yagi Masatoshi , Tamura Yoshihiko
Published: May 2024

Understanding the age and dynamics of the overriding plates allows an assessment of competing subduction initiation hypotheses. The Izu‐Bonin‐Mariana margin in the Western Pacific is a key example of initiation and hence it is important to constrain the age and origin of the oldest igneous crust of the supra‐subduction Philippine Sea Plate. We present geochronological and geochemical data of igneous rocks from the oldest ocean basins of the Philippine Sea Plate: the West Philippine and Palau Basins. Basalts from these basins have enriched geochemical characteristics similar to the EM‐2‐like mantle component found in OIB‐like basalts associated with the Oki‐Daito mantle plume. Ages of basalts from the northernmost West Philippine Basin (WPB) and the Palau Basin range from 43.5 to 50.5 Ma, which is similar to the oldest samples associated with the Oki‐Daito mantle plume (48–50 Ma). This implies that the plume contributed to magmatism from the onset of basin formation. It also provides support for the proposition that rifting of the Mesozoic arc terrane and subsequent seafloor spreading of the WPB was triggered by the arrival of the Oki‐Daito mantle plume at the base of the lithosphere. The age of these Philippine Sea Basins implies that only the Mesozoic Daito Ridge Group and the Gagua Ridge existed as Philippine Sea Plate crust before subduction initiation. A major fault activity after 37 Ma in the northernmost WPB demonstrates that careful reconstruction of the Eocene Philippine Sea Plate is critical to understanding plate dynamics during subduction initiation in the Western Pacific.
Persistent ENSO Forcing on Holocene Flooding in the Middle‐Lower Yangtze River at Millennial Timescales
Authors: Peng Fei , Nie Junsheng , Toonen Willem , Li Huichun , Hu Zhenbo , Pan Baotian
Published: May 2024

El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is the most dominant interannual signal of climate variability and profoundly affects river flooding globally, especially in East Asia. However, ENSO also has ∼2,000 and ∼1,000‐year cycles, but due to the lack of flood records with sufficient length, little is known about the ENSO's impact on floods at these millennial timescales. Here we test this in the middle‐lower Yangtze River by reconstructing the first Holocene flood record with optically stimulated luminescence and 14C ages of flood deposits. We find the periods with high flooding probability generally correspond with intervals of weakened solar activity. Importantly, the flood record displays 2,000 and 1,000‐year cycles similar to the ENSO record, and band‐pass filter results show the two records are synchronous at these bands. Our results reveal a persistent control of ENSO on millennial‐scale hydroclimatic variability in the Yangtze basin and likely other basins.
The Observed Impact of the Lower Stratospheric Thermodynamic Environment on Overshooting Top Characteristics During the RELAMPAGO‐CACTI Field Campaign
Authors: Berman Melinda T. , Trapp Robert J. , Nesbitt Stephen W. , Di Girolamo Larry
Published: May 2024

Overshooting tops (OTs) are manifestations of deep convective updrafts that extend above the tropopause into the stratosphere. They can induce dynamic perturbations and result in irreversible transport of aerosols, water vapor and other mass from the troposphere into the stratosphere, thereby impacting the chemical composition and radiative processes of the stratosphere. These and other effects of OTs depend on their characteristics such as depth and area, which are understood to connect to mid‐tropospheric updraft speed and width, respectively. Less understood is how static stability in the lower stratosphere (LS) potentially modulates these OT–updraft connections, thus motivating the current study. Here, LS static stability and observed OT characteristics are quantified and compared using a combination of reanalysis data, observed rawinsonde data and geostationary satellite data. A weak to moderate relationship between OT depth and LS lapse rate and Brunt‐Väisälä frequency (N2) (R = 0.38, −0.37, respectively) is found, implying that OT depth is reduced with an increasingly stable LS. In contrast, a weak relationship (R = −0.03, 0.03, respectively) is found between OT area and LS static stability, implying that OT area is controlled primarily by mid to upper tropospheric updraft area. OT duration has a weak relationship to LS lapse rate and N2 (R = 0.02, −0.02, respectively). These relationships may be useful in interpreting mid‐ and low‐level storm dynamics from satellite‐observed characteristics of OTs in near real‐time.
Joint Impact of the AO and ENSO on Vegetation NPP Over Indo‐Myanmar in Boreal Winter
Authors: Lan Yunfei , Gong Daoyi
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the authors quantitatively investigated the joint impact of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) over Indo‐Myanmar in boreal winter from 1981 to 2018, and found that there is a significant in‐phase variation between them. When the warm ENSO co‐occurs with the positive AO, the NPP in more than 80% of the grids in the study region significantly increases by approximately 24 gC m−2. For the cold ENSO plus the negative AO, the regionally averaged NPP anomalies are approximately −10 gC m−2, and the local minimum is as low as −60 gC m−2. The combination of AO and ENSO can explain approximately 36% of the total variance of NPP in Indo‐Myanmar. The AO/ENSO linkages to the NPP are very likely due to regional precipitation anomalies through atmospheric circulation. In association with the positive (negative) AO, the Rossby wave, propagating eastward along the subtropical jet stream, brings an anomalous cyclone (anticyclone) over Indo‐Myanmar. This enhances (weakens) Indo‐Myanmar Trough, and resulting in more (less) regional precipitation. During the warm (cold) ENSO, through the Gill‐type response, an anomalous high (low)‐pressure appears in the lower and middle troposphere over Philippine‐South China Sea. The Walker circulation is also weaker (stronger) than normal. These are conducive to anomalous southerly (northerly) winds in Indochina. As a result, in the warm ENSO plus positive AO winters, the mean precipitation anomaly in Indo‐Myanmar increased by 27% as averaged for five data sets. In contrast, when the cold ENSO co‐occurs with negative AO, the precipitation is significantly reduced where the largest anomaly exceeds 100 mm in the ERA5. The precipitation changes are consistent with the local NPP anomalies, whereas the temperature does not seem to be a dominant limiting factor.
Thin Clouds Control the Cloud Radiative Effect Along the Sc‐Cu Transition
Authors: Choudhury Goutam , Goren Tom
Published: May 2024

In situ and spaceborne studies reveal the prevalence of thin clouds in the major Stratocumulus‐to‐Cumulus Transition (SCT) regions. Using instantaneous satellite and reanalysis data, this study investigates the properties of thin clouds in the Southeast Pacific Ocean and their impact on the cloud radiative effect (CRE). Our findings demonstrate that thin clouds are intrinsic to the SCT. The overcast stratocumulus‐dominated regime exhibits a minimal presence of thin clouds, which become notably prominent after the clouds breakup into the cumulus‐dominated regime. The regime dependence of the occurrence of thin clouds is also observed in terms of the marine cold‐air outbreak parameter and the sea surface temperature. Thin clouds at a given cloud cover significantly modulate the shortwave (SW) and longwave (LW) components of CRE. SW CRE decreases by 46 %–65 % with increasing thin cloud cover. They account for a larger variance in cloud albedo than the combined influence of the liquid water path and effective radius. Furthermore, LW CRE decreases by about 12 %–52 % with thin cloud cover. An increase in the fraction of thin clouds also leads to a larger fraction of negative SW CRE offset by positive LW CRE at a given cloud cover. This LW compensation ranges from approximately 8 % at overcast cloud cover to as much as 19 % at about 50 % cloud cover. These findings elucidate the crucial role of thin clouds, and thus cloud morphology, in modulating CRE and underscore the necessity of their accurate representation in climate models.
Spectral Study of Rare Upward Developing, Circling, and Branching Cloud‐To‐Ground Lightning
Authors: Xu Liwen , Gou Xueqiang , Yuan Ping , An Tingting , Jiang Rubin , Deng Hong
Published: May 2024

The development of cloud‐to‐ground (CG) lightning channel is one of the main bases reflecting the discharge characteristics. Time‐resolved spectra of CG lightning with eight return strokes were recorded by a slit‐less high‐speed spectroscope. We found an unusual phenomenon in which a branch developed upward from a node following a circling structure into the cloud after the first return stroke. To investigate the propagation properties of this lightning, characteristic parameters such as the two‐dimensional speed of the leader, node temperature, and electron density are analyzed. The physical mechanism of the branch is discussed. Spectral analysis reveals that the main channel temperature and electron density are approximately 2.72–3.07 × 104 K and 0.23–2.03 × 1018 cm−3, respectively. The temperature and electron density increase as the branch approaches the cloud base, similar to the feature of the main channel approaching the ground. The temperature and electron density of the node are higher than at other locations in the circular channel, indicating that massive charge accumulated around the node. Lightning occurred in the Qilian Mountains in a complex landscape, which easily yielded an uneven distribution in the local electric field of the air, resulting in channel bending, kinking, and even circle development. The phenomenon of the branch developed from the node to the cloud may be due to the fact that the branch is formed during the return stroke process.
Enhancing Nitrate Removal With Industrial Wine Residue: Insights From Laboratory Batch and Column Experiments Using Chemical, Isotopic and Numerical Modeling Tools
Authors: Abu Alex , Carrey Raúl , Navarro‐Ciurana Dídac , Margalef‐Marti Rosanna , Soler Albert , Otero Neus , Causapé Jesús , Domènech Cristina
Published: May 2024

Agricultural run‐off exposes recipient water bodies to nitrate (NO3−) pollution. Biological denitrification is a suitable method for removing NO3− in water resources that can be induced by the use of industrial organic liquid waste as an electron donor source. In light of this, batch and column laboratory experiments were performed to assess the potential of two industrial wine residues (lías and vínico) to induce biological denitrification of NO3− contaminated water from a constructed wetland and to evaluate the efficiency of these treatments using chemical and isotopic tools. In batch experiments (performed at a C/N ratio of 1.25), vínico was not efficient enough in removing N species, attenuating only 35% NO3− and was not used in column experiments. In similar experimental conditions, lías completely removed N species from water in both batch and column experiments. The calculated isotope fractionation (ε15NNO3 and ε18ONO3) was the same in both batch and column experiments biostimulated with lías and differed from those for vínico. The isotopic data confirmed that denitrification was the principal NO3− attenuation pathway in all the experiments. The isotopic fractionation can be later applied to field studies to quantify the efficiency of biologically enhanced denitrification. A numerical geochemical model that accounts for the changes in nitrate, nitrite concentration and isotopic composition due to the degradation of lías and vínico, including transport in the case of the column experiment, was performed to simulate the experimental results and can be up‐scaled in field treatments.
Molecular subgroups of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in adults treated according to pediatric-based GMALL protocols
Authors: Neumann Martin , Beder Thomas , Bastian Lorenz , Hänzelmann Sonja , Bultmann Miriam , Wolgast Nadine , Hartmann Alina , Trautmann Heiko , Ortiz-Tanchez Jutta , Schlee Cornelia , Schroeder Michael , Fransecky Lars , Vosberg Sebastian , Fiedler Walter , Alakel Nael , Heberling Lisa , Kondakci Mustafa , Starck Michael , Schwartz Stefan , Raffel Simon , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Schneller Folker , Reichle Albrecht , Burmeister Thomas , Greif Philipp A. , Brüggemann Monika , Gökbuget Nicola , Baldus Claudia D.
Published: May 2024

In contrast to B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), molecular subgroups are less well defined in T-lineage ALL. Comprehensive studies on molecular T-ALL subgroups have been predominantly performed in pediatric ALL patients. Currently, molecular characteristics are rarely considered for risk stratification. Herein, we present a homogenously treated cohort of 230 adult T-ALL patients characterized on transcriptome, and partly on DNA methylation and gene mutation level in correlation with clinical outcome. We identified nine molecular subgroups based on aberrant oncogene expression correlating to four distinct DNA methylation patterns. The subgroup distribution differed from reported pediatric T-ALL cohorts with higher frequencies of prognostic unfavorable subgroups like HOXA or LYL1/LMO2. A small subset (3%) of HOXA adult T-ALL patients revealed restricted expression of posterior HOX genes with aberrant activation of lncRNA HOTTIP. With respect to outcome, TLX1 (n = 44) and NKX2-1 (n = 4) had an exceptionally favorable 3-year overall survival (3y-OS) of 94%. Within thymic T-ALL, the non TLX1 patients had an inferior but still good prognosis. To our knowledge this is the largest cohort of adult T-ALL patients characterized by transcriptome sequencing with meaningful clinical follow-up. Risk classification based on molecular subgroups might emerge and contribute to improvements in outcome.
Investigating heart rate variability measures during pregnancy as predictors of postpartum depression and anxiety: an exploratory study
Authors: Eriksson Allison , Kimmel Mary Claire , Furmark Tomas , Wikman Anna , Grueschow Marcus , Skalkidou Alkistis , Frick Andreas , Fransson Emma
Published: May 2024

Perinatal affective disorders are common, but standard screening measures reliant on subjective self-reports might not be sufficient to identify pregnant women at-risk for developing postpartum depression and anxiety. Lower heart rate variability (HRV) has been shown to be associated with affective disorders. The current exploratory study aimed to evaluate the predictive utility of late pregnancy HRV measurements of postpartum affective symptoms. A subset of participants from the BASIC study (Uppsala, Sweden) took part in a sub-study at pregnancy week 38 where HRV was measured before and after a mild stressor (n = 122). Outcome measures were 6-week postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms as quantified by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). In total, 112 women were included in a depression outcome analysis and 106 women were included in an anxiety outcome analysis. Group comparisons indicated that lower pregnancy HRV was associated with depressive or anxious symptomatology at 6 weeks postpartum. Elastic net logistic regression analyses indicated that HRV indices alone were not predictive of postpartum depression or anxiety outcomes, but HRV indices were selected as predictors in a combined model with background and pregnancy variables. ROC curves for the combined models gave an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.93 for the depression outcome and an AUC of 0.83 for the anxiety outcome. HRV indices predictive of postpartum depression generally differed from those predictive of postpartum anxiety. HRV indices did not significantly improve prediction models comprised of psychological measures only in women with pregnancy depression or anxiety.