bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical evaluation of elastomeric thermoplastic polyurethane additively manufactured triply periodic minimal surface area lattice structures for adjustable cushioning properties
Authors: Claybrook Fay Rhianna , Southee Darren John , Mohammed Mazher
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Cushioning is a useful material property applicable for a range of applications from medical devices to personal protective equipment. The current ability to apply cushioning in a product context is limited by the appropriateness of available materials, with polyurethane foams being the current gold standard material. The purpose of this study is to investigate additively manufactured flexible printing of scaffold structures as an alternative.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, this study investigates triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures, including Gyroid, Diamond and Schwarz P formed in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), as a possible alternative. Each TPMS structure was fabricated using material extrusion additive manufacturing and evaluated to ASTM mechanical testing standard for polymers. This study focuses attention to TPMS structures fabricated for a fixed unit cell size of 10 mm and examine the compressive properties for changes in the scaffold porosity for samples fabricated in TPU with a shore hardness of 63A and 90A.

Findings

It was discovered that for increased porosity there was a measured reduction in the load required to deform the scaffold. Additionally, a complex relationship between the shore hardness and the stiffness of a structure. It was highlighted that through the adjustment of porosity, the compressive strength required to deform the scaffolds to a point of densification could be controlled and predicted with high repeatability.

Originality/value

The results indicate the ability to tailor the scaffold design parameters using both 63A and 90A TPU material, to mimic the loading properties of common polyurethane foams. The use of these structures indicates a next generation of tailored cushioning using additive manufacturing techniques by tailoring both geometry and porosity to loading and compressive strengths.
Exploring blue-green roof for a sustainable built environment in South Africa
Authors: Aghimien Douglas Omoregie , Aliu John , Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The current adverse changes in climatic conditions have necessitated innovative nature-based solutions like blue-green roofs to ensure sustainable built environments. The use of blue-green roofs in combating climate change issues has continued to grow, and its benefits are showcased in many countries' studies. However, there is an absence of reports on the use of this approach in South Africa. Therefore, in ensuring a sustainable built environment through nature-based solutions, this study explored the built environment professional’s knowledge of blue-green roofs, the hindrances to their use and motivations for much wider use of blue-green roofs in the country.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the nature of the study, a quantitative design was adopted and data were obtained from professionals within the built environment through a questionnaire. Data analyses were conducted using the Cronbach alpha test, Kruskal–Wallis H-Test, exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation.

Findings

The findings revealed a growing knowledge of blue-green roofs, albeit its slow adoption in the country. Also, five critical clusters of hindrances affecting the use of blue-green roofs were identified. These are understanding the blue-green roof concepts, technical, economic, regulation and client hindrances. Furthermore, the ability to manage stormwater properly, provide climate change adaptation and deliver sustainable buildings were the key motivating factors that could drive the use of this innovative solution.

Practical implications

This study offers actionable insights for built environment professionals and stakeholders to address the hindrances to using blue-green roofs in South Africa. Strategies such as improved education, financial incentives and policy development can help overcome some notable hindrances and promote the widespread adoption of blue-green roofs.

Originality/value

The slow adoption of blue-green roofs and the scant nature of research within the built environment required adequate attention to which this current research contributes. Theoretically, being one of the foremost studies in South Africa to explore blue-green roofs, the findings offer a foundation for future studies seeking to explore this roofing system in the country further.
PM2.5 regulates the progression of lung adenocarcinoma through the axis of HCG18, miR‐195 and ATG14
Authors: Luo Feng , Wu Yinghui , Li Yao , Xu Huaiyang , Wang Lei , Jiang Lianyong , Liu Hongtao
Published: May 2024

Relevant studies have indicated the association of HCG18 with tumour occurrence and progression. In this study, we observed that PM2.5 can enhance the growth of lung adenocarcinoma cells by modulating the expression of HCG18. Further investigations, including overexpression and knockout experiments, elucidated that HCG18 suppresses miR‐195, which in turn upregulates the expression of ATG14, resulting in the upregulation of autophagy. Consequently, exposure to PM2.5 leads to elevated HCG18 expression in lung tissues, which in turn increases Atg14 expression and activates autophagy pathways through inhibition of miR‐195, thereby contributing to oncogenesis.
Addressing Barriers to Women's Representation in Party Candidate Selections
Authors: Collignon Sofia
Published: May 2024

An analysis of Conservative and Labour Party candidate selections reveals persistent gender disparities, with the Conservative Party nominating a significantly higher proportion of men. While various factors, such as local connections and harassment, abuse and intimidation (HAI) are cited as explanations, they fail to address systemic issues within the Conservative Party's recruitment processes and organisational culture. This article argues that the focus should shift from individual women to party structures and practices that perpetuate gender inequality. Drawing on previous research and empirical evidence, it calls for institutional reforms including the implementation of quotas and greater transparency in candidate selection. Finally, it calls for a gender‐sensitive audit of party culture to address underlying barriers to women's participation in politics.
Exercises for developing civil‐military collaboration capability: A constructive alignment analysis
Authors: Hedlund Erik , Alvinius Aida
Published: May 2024

Following the Cold War, Sweden adopted a doctrine promoting perpetual peace, resulting in significant reductions in military defense capabilities and the dismantling of civil defense infrastructure. However, geopolitical events such as the Russian invasion of Georgia in 2008 and the annexation of Crimea in 2014 prompted Sweden to reassess its security posture in 2015, leading to the reconstruction of total defense, and an emphasis on collaboration between the civilian and military defense sectors. Exercises have been instrumental in fostering civil‐military collaboration capability. This study aims to investigate whether these exercises are effective in enhancing capability for civil‐military collaboration. Data collection involved participant observation during seven exercises and was analyzed using constructive alignment (CA). Findings indicate that the exercises did not yield discernible learning outcomes, and this is attributed to the Swedish principles of responsibility, deficiencies in CA, contextual support, and entrenched defensive routines.
Stillbirth mortality by Robson ten‐group classification system: A cross‐sectional registry of 80 663 births from 16 hospital in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Hanson Claudia , Annerstedt Kristi Sidney , Alsina Maria Del Rosario , Abeid Muzdalifat , Kidanto Hussein L. , Alvesson Helle Mölsted , Pembe Andrea B. , Waiswa Peter , Dossou Jean‐Paul , Chipeta Effie , Straneo Manuela , Benova Lenka ,   the ALERT team
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess stillbirth mortality by Robson ten‐group classification and the usefulness of this approach for understanding trends.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Prospectively collected perinatal e‐registry data from 16 hospitals in Benin, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda.

Population

All women aged 13–49 years who gave birth to a live or stillborn baby weighting >1000 g between July 2021 and December 2022.

Methods

We compared stillbirth risk by Robson ten‐group classification, and across countries, and calculated proportional contributions to mortality.

Main outcome measures

Stillbirth mortality, defined as antepartum and intrapartum stillbirths.

Results

We included 80 663 babies born to 78 085 women; 3107 were stillborn. Stillbirth mortality by country were: 7.3% (Benin), 1.9% (Malawi), 1.6% (Tanzania) and 4.9% (Uganda). The largest contributor to stillbirths was Robson group 10 (preterm birth, 28.2%) followed by Robson group 3 (multipara with cephalic term singleton in spontaneous labour, 25.0%). The risk of dying was highest in births complicated by malpresentations, such as nullipara breech (11.0%), multipara breech (16.7%) and transverse/oblique lie (17.9%).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that group 10 (preterm birth) and group 3 (multipara with cephalic term singleton in spontaneous labour) each contribute to a quarter of stillbirth mortality. High mortality risk was observed in births complicated by malpresentation, such as transverse lie or breech. The high mortality share of group 3 is unexpected, demanding case‐by‐case investigation. The high mortality rate observed for Robson groups 6–10 hints for a need to intensify actions to improve labour management, and the categorisation may support the regular review of labour progress.
Connecting unstably housed veterans living in rural areas to health care: Perspectives from Health Care Navigators
Authors: Jones Kalea , Cusack Meagan , True Gala , Harris Taylor E. , Roncarati Jill S. , Antonellis Christel , Brecht Tatiana , Montgomery Ann Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Objective

To understand existing care practices and policies, and potential enhancements, to improve the effectiveness of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Health Care Navigators (HCN) in linking Veterans experiencing housing instability in rural areas with health care services.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We used primary data collected during semistructured interviews with HCNs (n = 21) serving rural areas across the United States during Spring 2022.

Study Design

We applied the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) 2009 and the Social Ecological Model (SEM) to the collection and analysis of qualitative data to understand how HCNs administer services within SSVF and the larger community.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We used rapid qualitative methods to summarize and analyze data. Templated matrix summaries identified facilitators and barriers to linking Veterans with health care services and policy and practice implications.

Principal Findings

Using CFIR 2009, we identified contextual factors affecting successful implementation of HCN services within SSVF; we offer a crosswalk between CFIR 2009 and the version updated in 2022. Framing facilitators and barriers within the SEM provided insight into whether implementation strategies should be addressed at a community, interpersonal, or intrapersonal level within the SEM. Facilitators included sufficient knowledge, training, and mentorship opportunities for HCNs and their capacity to collaborate within their organization and with other community‐based organizations. Barriers included lack of local technology and housing resources, inadequate understanding of Veterans' service eligibilities and pathways to access those services, and deficient collaboration with the VA.

Conclusions

Understanding facilitators and barriers experienced by HCN when linking unstably housed Veterans in rural areas with health care services can inform future strategies, including policy changes such as increased training to support HCNs' understanding of eligibility, benefits, and entitlements as well as improving communication and collaboration between VA and community partners.
Drying kinetic, thermodynamic and quality analyses of infrared drying of truffle slices
Authors: Akhoundzadeh Yamchi Abolfazl , Sharifian Faroogh , Khalife Esmail , Kaveh Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters are the most important part for making a suitable tool for drying agricultural products. Moreover, calculation of the energy required for the drying of product, the properties of the rehydration ratio, the food appearance changes, and the evaluation of the microstructure of food are crucial. Since the thermodynamic properties of truffle slices have not yet been reported, this study aims to establish a mathematical model to describe drying process of agriculture product, evaluate the effective moisture diffusion coefficient (Deff), determining the activation energy (Ea) to elucidate the thermodynamic characteristics, measure color characteristics, and rehydration ratio (RR) during the drying process of truffle slices. Truffle slices were dried in an infrared (IR) dryer at four temperatures of 50–80°C and two thicknesses of 0.5 and 1 cm. The best model to describe the drying process of truffle slices was Midilli et al.’s model. The value of Deff, SEC, and RR were in the range of 3.06 × 10−8 to 2.48 × 10−7 m2/s, 79.68–191.271 kWh/kg, and 5.99–7.49, respectively. The Deff of truffle slices increased with the above‐mentioned parameters of the samples. The Ea obtained was 26.62–27.43 kJ/mol. The results indicated that enthalpy and entropy decreased with increasing drying temperature, while Gibbs free energy improved. The enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy values changed between 24.48–25.28 kJ/mol, −130.47 to −122.63 J/mol °K, and 63.97–70.17 kJ/mol, respectively. In addition, the results of color attributes decreased with increasing temperature, while chroma oppositely increased.
VD3/VDR attenuates bisphenol A–induced impairment in mouse Leydig cells via regulation of autophagy
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhuang Jianan , Xue Zhen , Lu Hongzhao , Zeng Wenxian , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor with reproductive toxicity. Further, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VD3) plays an important role in male reproduction by binding vitamin D receptor (VDR) and mediating the pleiotropic biological actions that include spermatogenesis. However, whether VD3/VDR regulates the effect of BPA on Leydig cells (LCs) injury remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the effects of VD on BPA‐induced cytotoxicity in mouse LCs. Hereby, LCs treated with BPA, VD3, or both were subjected to the assays of cell apoptosis, proliferation, autophagy, and levels of target proteins. This study unveiled that cell viability was dose‐dependently reduced after exposure to BPA. BPA treatment significantly inhibited LC proliferation, induced apoptosis, and also downregulated VDR expression. By jointly analyzing transcriptome data and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) data, autophagy signaling pathways related to testicular development and male reproduction were screened out. Therefore, the autophagy phenomenon of cells was further detected. The results showed that BPA treatment could activate cell autophagy, Vdr−/− inhibits cell autophagy, and active VD3 does not have a significant effect on the autophagy of normal LCs. After VD3 and BPA were used in combination, the autophagy of cells was further enhanced, and VD3 could alleviate BPA‐induced damage of LCs. In conclusion, this study found that supplementing VD3 could eliminate the inhibition of BPA on VDR expression, further enhance LCs autophagy effect, and alleviate the inhibition of LCs proliferation and induction of apoptosis by BPA, playing a protective role in cells. The research results will provide valuable strategies to alleviate BPA‐induced reproductive toxicity.
How to count bird calls? Vocal activity indices may provide different insights into bird abundance and behaviour depending on species traits
Authors: Hutschenreiter Anja , Andresen Ellen , Briseño‐Jaramillo Margarita , Torres‐Araneda Alejandra , Pinel‐Ramos Eduardo , Baier Jacqueline , Aureli Filippo
Published: May 2024

Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) has become an important tool for surveying birds, and there is a growing demand for approaches to obtain abundance and behavioural information from PAM recordings. Changes in bird populations have been assessed by counting recorded calls and calculating the vocal activity rate (VAR, i.e. the number of calls per recording time). However, bird calls could be counted in various ways and depending on species traits, these call counts could give us different insights on bird abundance, vocal behaviour and/or habitat use.

Our study had two goals: (1) to present and evaluate two new indices based on call counts, the detection rate (DR, i.e. the number of 1‐min recordings in which the presence of a target vocalization is detected) and the maximum count per minute (MAX, i.e. the maximum number of calls found in a 1‐min recording); and (2) to present a conceptual framework showing how the interpretations of VAR, DR and MAX could depend on the index and on species traits.

For three Neotropical bird species with distinct traits, we calculated VAR, DR and MAX based on PAM data from 25 sites in the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico) that varied in their degree of anthropogenic habitat disturbance. We found moderate to high correlations between the indices and higher temporal variability in VAR compared to DR and MAX. We also found different effect sizes of habitat disturbance on the three species and indices.

We suggest that DR might be a more reliable index of relative abundance than VAR for species whose calling behaviour exhibits a high cue rate and that MAX may be suitable for estimating family or flock size in gregarious birds. Our findings show the potential usefulness of developing new indices based on call counts to generate ecological hypotheses and assess changes in bird abundance and behaviour.
Oxidative stress‐related cellular aging causes dysfunction of the Kv3.1/KCNC1 channel reverted by melatonin
Authors: Spinelli Sara , Remigante Alessia , Liuni Raffaella , Mantegna Gianluca , Legname Giuseppe , Marino Angela , Morabito Rossana , Dossena Silvia
Published: May 2024

The voltage‐gated Kv3.1/KCNC1 channel is abundantly expressed in fast‐spiking principal neurons and GABAergic inhibitory interneurons throughout the ascending auditory pathway and in various brain regions. Inactivating mutations in the KCNC1 gene lead to forms of epilepsy and a decline in the expression of the Kv3.1 channel is involved in age‐related hearing loss. As oxidative stress plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and age‐related hearing loss, we hypothesized that an oxidative insult might affect the function of this channel. To verify this hypothesis, the activity and expression of endogenous and ectopic Kv3.1 were measured in models of oxidative stress‐related aging represented by cell lines exposed to 100 mM d‐galactose. In these models, intracellular reactive oxygen species, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, sulfhydryl groups of cellular proteins, and the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase were dysregulated, while the current density of Kv3.1 was significantly reduced. Importantly, the antioxidant melatonin reverted all these effects. The reduction of function of Kv3.1 was not determined by direct oxidation of amino acid side chains of the protein channel or reduction of transcript or total protein levels but was linked to reduced trafficking to the cell surface associated with Src phosphorylation as well as metabolic and endoplasmic reticulum stress. The data presented here specify Kv3.1 as a novel target of oxidative stress and suggest that Kv3.1 dysfunction might contribute to age‐related hearing loss and increased prevalence of epilepsy during aging. The pharmacological use of the antioxidant melatonin can be protective in this setting.
Aging amplifies a gut microbiota immunogenic signature linked to heightened inflammation
Authors: Caetano‐Silva Maria Elisa , Shrestha Akriti , Duff Audrey F. , Kontic Danica , Brewster Patricia C. , Kasperek Mikaela C. , Lin Chia‐Hao , Wainwright Derek A. , Hernandez‐Saavedra Diego , Woods Jeffrey A. , Bailey Michael T. , Buford Thomas W. , Allen Jacob M.
Published: May 2024

Aging is associated with low‐grade inflammation that increases the risk of infection and disease, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Gut microbiota composition shifts with age, harboring microbes with varied immunogenic capacities. We hypothesized the gut microbiota acts as an active driver of low‐grade inflammation during aging. Microbiome patterns in aged mice strongly associated with signs of bacterial‐induced barrier disruption and immune infiltration, including marked increased levels of circulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐binding protein (LBP) and colonic calprotectin. Ex vivo immunogenicity assays revealed that both colonic contents and mucosa of aged mice harbored increased capacity to activate toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) whereas TLR5 signaling was unchanged. We found patterns of elevated innate inflammatory signaling (colonic Il6, Tnf, and Tlr4) and endotoxemia (circulating LBP) in young germ‐free mice after 4 weeks of colonization with intestinal contents from aged mice compared with young counterparts, thus providing a direct link between aging‐induced shifts in microbiota immunogenicity and host inflammation. Additionally, we discovered that the gut microbiota of aged mice exhibited unique responses to a broad‐spectrum antibiotic challenge (Abx), with sustained elevation in Escherichia (Proteobacteria) and altered TLR5 immunogenicity 7 days post‐Abx cessation. Together, these data indicate that old age results in a gut microbiota that differentially acts on TLR signaling pathways of the innate immune system. We found that these age‐associated microbiota immunogenic signatures are less resilient to challenge and strongly linked to host inflammatory status. Gut microbiota immunogenic signatures should be thus considered as critical factors in mediating chronic inflammatory diseases disproportionally impacting older populations.
Non‐pituitary growth hormone enables colon cell senescence evasion
Authors: Chesnokova Vera , Zonis Svetlana , Apaydin Tugce , Barrett Robert , Melmed Shlomo
Published: May 2024

DNA damage‐induced senescence is initially sustained by p53. Senescent cells produce a senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that impacts the aging microenvironment, often promoting cell transformation. Employing normal non‐tumorous human colon cells (hNCC) derived from surgical biopsies and three‐dimensional human intestinal organoids, we show that local non‐pituitary growth hormone (npGH) induced in senescent cells is a SASP component acting to suppress p53. npGH autocrine/paracrine suppression of p53 results in senescence evasion and cell‐cycle reentry, as evidenced by increased Ki67 and BrdU incorporation. Post‐senescent cells exhibit activated epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and increased cell motility. Nu/J mice harboring GH‐secreting HCT116 xenografts with resultant high GH levels and injected intrasplenic with post‐senescent hNCC developed fourfold more metastases than did mice harboring control xenografts, suggesting that paracrine npGH enables post‐senescent cell transformation. By contrast, senescent cells with suppressed npGH exhibit downregulated Ki67 and decreased soft agar colony formation. Mechanisms underlying these observations include npGH induction by the SASP chemokine CXCL1, which attracts immune effectors to eliminate senescent cells; GH, in turn, suppresses CXCL1, likely by inhibiting phospho‐NFκB, resulting in SASP cytokine downregulation. Consistent with these findings, GH‐receptor knockout mice exhibited increased colon phospho‐NFκB and CXCL1, while GH excess decreased colon CXCL1. The results elucidate mechanisms for local hormonal regulation of microenvironmental changes in DNA‐damaged non‐tumorous epithelial cells and portray a heretofore unappreciated GH action favoring age‐associated epithelial cell transformation.
Current trends in the role of neuroinflammation & α‐synuclein in alcohol use disorder: A systematic quantitative literature review
Authors: James Brandon C. , Cox Amanda J. , Lewohl Joanne M.
Published: May 2024

The neurodegenerative effects alcohol use disorder (AUD) have been well characterized and are likely due to the long‐term effects of alcohol on the brain. The molecular events that underlie regional neuronal loss are a focus of current research. Chronic inflammation in the central nervous system, termed neuroinflammation, contributes to the progressive loss of neurons in the brain. Using data from genome‐wide association studies and genetic and gene expression data, α‐synuclein was identified as a gene of interest for AUD almost 10 years ago. Despite this and the well‐recognized role of α‐synuclein in mediating neuroinflammation in other neurodegenerative diseases, its role in alcohol‐induced brain damage and AUD is yet to be elucidated. This systematic literature review quantifies and analyzes relationships between AUD, α‐synuclein, and neuroinflammation. The review identified fewer studies focused on the role in AUD of α‐synuclein (30) than on neuroinflammation (177), with published studies heavily centered on the myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)‐dependent toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway. The systematic review revealed that no original literature investigates the roles of α‐synuclein and neuroinflammation in AUD and that there are significantly fewer published articles on the role of α‐synuclein in AUD than in other neuroinflammatory conditions. Studies of the role of neuroinflammation in AUD are largely centered on the TLR4 signaling cascade, followed by TLR2 and TLR3, and soluble cytokines such as IL‐10, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α. Key research themes identified in other neurodegenerative disorders provide new insights for further investigation in AUD.
Phenotypic heterogeneity of mycosis fungoides cells leads to the difficulties in determining tumour origin
Authors: Jin Sha , Zhao Yige , Wang Shiwen , Wang Panpan , Tang Chenyu , Zhu Mengyan , Wang Ping
Published: May 2024

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a low‐grade malignant cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma that originates from memory T cells. It typically follows a unique and relatively indolent disease course. MF is used to be characterized by a tissue‐resident memory T cell (TRM) phenotype, although recent molecular research has revealed its complexity, casting doubt on the cell of origin and the TRM‐MF paradigm. Recent clonal heterogeneity studies suggest that MF may originate from immature early precursor T cells. During development, the tumour microenvironment (TME) influences tumour cell phenotype. The exact origin and development trajectory of MF remains elusive. Clarifying the origin of MF cells is vital for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Letter: Intestinal permeability accounting for ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms following endoscopic remission in IBD
Authors: Leong Rupert W. , Jairath Vipul , Ma Christopher
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Aliu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17988 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18031.
Incorporating transgender and nonbinary participants in phase 1 clinical drug trials: Current knowledge gaps and considerations
Authors: Walker Lauren E. , Stackpoole Michael , Hodge Daryl , FitzGerald Richard
Published: May 2024

Phase 1 clinical drug trials critically depend on the participation of healthy volunteers to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of new medicinal products. Current selection criteria and health definitions often overlook the unique health profiles of transgender and nonbinary individuals, potentially excluding them from participating in these essential early‐stage studies. This review aims to identify and discuss current knowledge gaps and considerations regarding the inclusion of transgender and nonbinary participants in phase 1 clinical drug trials. We highlight the need for research on how gender‐affirming hormone therapy may affect drug pharmacokinetics and call for the development of inclusive biological reference ranges that account for the physiological effects of hormone therapies.
Cognitive impairment among patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kuter David J. , Khan Umer , Maruff Paul , Daak Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease typically associated with severely depleted platelet counts. However, additional symptoms (e.g. increased fatigue and memory/concentration difficulties) can profoundly impact patients' quality of life. The nature and severity of cognitive impairment in ITP, and potential association with patient/disease characteristics were evaluated in 49 adults with relapsed/refractory ITP. The Cogstate Brief Battery quantitatively assessed psychomotor function (DET), attention (IDN), visual learning (OCL) and working memory (ONB) individually, as well as DET/IDN and OCL/ONB composites. Clinically important cognitive impairment (defined as z‐score ≤ −1) for ≥2 individual tests was observed in 29 patients (59%). Impairment was highest for IDN (67% of patients), followed by DET (53%), ONB (39%) and OCL (16%). A higher magnitude of impairment was observed for the DET/IDN composite (mean z‐score −1.54; 95% CI, −1.94 to −1.13) than OCL/ONB (mean z‐score −0.21; 95% CI, −0.49 to 0.07). The severity of cognitive impairment was comparable to mild traumatic brain injury and associated with increasing age and fatigue but unrelated to platelet count or corticosteroid use. Overall, these results warrant a clinical need to further consider the potential of cognitive dysfunction in assessing ITP patients.
Associations between parental socioeconomic status and mental health in Chinese children: the mediating roles of parenting practices
Authors: Sun Xiaoyue , Yuan Yiqing
Published: May 2024

Background

The significance of socioeconomic status (SES) in child mental health is well‐established in Western populations; however, there is little evidence on this topic in Chinese populations. The possibility that Chinese families with different SES elicit different parenting practices that cause positive or negative child mental health outcomes warrants further investigation.

Methods

This study examined the associations of SES, parenting practices, and child mental health among 1401 Chinese school children and their parents residing in Shanghai. SES was measured by a composed index of parental education levels, occupations, and household incomes. The Alabama parenting questionnaire (APQ; child version) and the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ; parent version) were used to assess parenting practices and child mental health. We also explored the underlying mechanisms between parental SES and the mental health of children by testing different parenting practices as mediators of the relationships.

Results

The results showed that a higher SES is positively associated with better mental health in children. Positive involvement and deficient monitoring can mediate the relationship between SES and child mental health outcomes. Negative discipline did not significantly mediate the above relationship.

Conclusions

The results highlight the significance of positive involvement and sufficient monitoring in promoting children's mental health and provide evidence for designing effective programs to improve parenting skills.
Diagnostic discordance among histopathological reviewers of melanocytic lesions
Authors: Hosler Gregory A. , Goldberg Matthew S. , Estrada Sarah I. , O'Neil Brendan , Amin Sapna M. , Plaza Jose A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Histopathological examination is adequate for the diagnosis of most cutaneous melanocytic neoplasms. However, there is a subset that is either difficult to definitively diagnose or would have diagnostic disagreement upon review by multiple dermatopathologists if a more exhaustive review was performed.

Methods

Melanocytic lesions underwent an independent, blinded diagnostic histopathological review of hematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections. Each lesion was reviewed by three to six dermatopathologists and categorized as benign, malignant, or unknown malignant potential (UMP). Diagnoses were grouped as concordant (all the same designation); opposing (received benign and malignant designations); majority (single designation with the highest number of diagnoses, no benign/malignant opposing designations); and non‐definitive (equal number of non‐opposing designations [i.e., benign/UMP or malignant/UMP]). Lesions with equivocal designations (concordant or majority UMP, opposing, majority, and non‐definitive) were utilized in a patient treatment model of projected surgical treatment discrepancies.

Results

In total, 3317 cases were reviewed, and 23.8% of lesions received equivocal diagnoses. Of these, 7.3% were majority benign, 4.8% were majority malignant, 2.7% were majority UMP, 0.5% were concordant UMP, 6.9% were opposing, and 1.6% were non‐definitive. Patient treatment models of those with equivocal lesions (n = 788) revealed a potential of overall surgical treatment variations ranging from 18% to 72%, with the highest variation amongst lesions with opposing, non‐definitive, or majority UMP (40%–72%) diagnoses.

Conclusion

Histopathologic review in this large cohort demonstrated substantial diagnostic variation, with 23.8% of cases receiving equivocal diagnoses. We identified diagnostic ambiguity even in lesions where a definitive diagnosis was previously rendered by a single real‐world dermatopathologist. The combined clinical impact of diagnostic discordance or a final diagnosis of UMP is highlighted by high diagnosis‐dependent treatment variation in the patient treatment model, which could be underreported in a real‐world setting, where review by more than one to two dermatopathologists is relatively rare.
Drivers and spatial patterns of avian defaunation in tropical forests
Authors: Ferreiro‐Arias Iago , Santini Luca , Sagar H. S. Sathya Chandra , Richard‐Hansen Cécile , Guilbert Eric , Forget Pierre‐Michel , van Kuijk Marijke , Scabin Andressa B. , Peres Carlos A. , Revilla Eloy , Benítez‐López Ana
Published: May 2024

Aim

Wildlife overexploitation, either for food consumption or for the pet trade, is one of the main threats to bird species in tropical forests. Yet, the spatial distribution and intensity of harvesting pressure on tropical birds remain challenging to quantify. Here, we identify the drivers of hunting‐induced declines in bird abundance and quantify the magnitude and the spatial extent of avian defaunation at a pantropical scale.

Location

Pantropical.

Methods

We compiled 2968 abundance estimates in hunted and non‐hunted sites across the tropics spanning 518 bird species. Using a Bayesian modelling framework, we fitted species' abundance response ratios to a set of drivers of hunting pressure and species traits. Subsequently, we applied our model to quantify the spatial patterns of avian defaunation across tropical forests and to assess avian defaunation across biogeographic realms, and for species captured for the pet trade or for food consumption.

Results

Body mass and its interactions with hunter accessibility and proximity to urban markets were the most important drivers of hunting‐induced bird abundance declines. We estimated a mean abundance reduction of 12% across the tropics for all species, and that 43% of the extent of tropical forests harbour defaunated avian communities. Large‐bodied species and the Indomalayan realm displayed the greatest abundance declines. Further, moderate to high levels of defaunation extended over 24% of the pantropical forest area, with distinct spatial patterns for species captured for the pet trade (Brazil, China and Indonesia) and for food consumption (SE Asia and West Africa).

Main Conclusions

Our study emphasizes the role of hunter accessibility and the proximity to urban markets as major drivers of bird abundance declines due to hunting and trapping. We further identified hotspots where overexploitation has detrimental effects on tropical birds, encompassing local extinction events, thus underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts to address unsustainable exploitation for both subsistence and trade.
Estrogen signalling and Alzheimer's disease: Decoding molecular mechanisms for therapeutic breakthrough
Authors: Rishabh  , Rohilla Manni , Bansal Seema , Bansal Nitin , Chauhan Samrat , Sharma Sheenam , Goyal Navjyoti , Gupta Sumeet
Published: May 2024

In females, Alzheimer's disease (AD) incidences increases as compared to males due to estrogen deficiency after menopause. Estrogen therapy is the mainstay therapy for menopause and associated complications. Estrogen, a hormone with multifaceted physiological functions, has been implicated in AD pathophysiology. Estrogen plays a crucial role in amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing and overall neuronal health by regulating various factors such as brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), intracellular calcium signalling, death domain‐associated protein (Daxx) translocation, glutamatergic excitotoxicity, Voltage‐Dependent Anion Channel, Insulin‐Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor, estrogen‐metabolising enzymes and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) protein polymorphisms. All these factors impact the physiology of postmenopausal women. Estrogen replacement therapies play an important treatment strategy to prevent AD after menopause. However, use of these therapies may lead to increased risks of breast cancer, venous thromboembolism and cardiovascular disease. Various therapeutic approaches have been used to mitigate the effects of estrogen on AD. These include hormone replacement therapy, Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs), Estrogen Receptor Beta (ERβ)‐Selective Agonists, Transdermal Estrogen Delivery, Localised Estrogen Delivery, Combination Therapies, Estrogen Metabolism Modulation and Alternative Estrogenic Compounds like genistein from soy, a notable phytoestrogen from plant sources. However, mechanism via which these approaches modulate AD in postmenopausal women has not been explained earlier thoroughly. Present review will enlighten all the molecular mechanisms of estrogen and estrogen replacement therapies in AD. Along‐with this, the association between estrogen, estrogen‐metabolising enzymes and ApoE protein polymorphisms will also be discussed in postmenopausal AD.
Blockchain‐enabled decentralized service selection for QoS‐aware cloud manufacturing
Authors: Meng Ke , Wu Zhiyong , Bilal Muhammad , Xia Xiaoyu , Xu Xiaolong
Published: May 2024

In recent years, cloud manufacturing has brought both opportunities and challenges to the manufacturing industry. Cloud manufacturing enables global manufacturing resources to be unified and shared, thus breaking down geographical constraints to enhance the level and efficiency of manufacturing. However, with the explosive growth of manufacturing resources and user demands, traditional cloud manufacturing platforms will face problems of insufficient computility, lack of real‐time data and difficulties in securing user privacy during the service selection process. In this article, a blockchain‐based decentralized cloud manufacturing service selection method is proposed, where the computility resource is deployed in multiple distributed nodes rather than the traditional centralized cloud manufacturing platform to solve the problem of insufficient computility. The credibility of the users is evaluated based on their performance on the contract and the PBFT consensus algorithm is improved based on the credibility of the users. In addition, a tri‐chain blockchain data storage model is designed to ensure the security, real‐time and transparency of data in the cloud manufacturing service selection process. The experimental results show that the method both speeds up service selection process and improves the quality of service selection results, and achieves a significant increase in manufacturing efficiency.
In situ observation of fatigue crack propagation in soda‐lime glass with initial crack and residual stress induced by Vickers indentation under four‐point bending
Authors: Komine Hibiki , Fujita Keisuke , Niwa Akifumi , Kobayashi Yusuke , Sato Yosuke , Kuroda Ryunosuke , Kikuchi Shoichi
Published: May 2024

The present study examined the four‐point bending fatigue properties of glass with an initial crack and residual stress induced by Vickers indentation. The fatigue properties of glass with an initial crack are influenced by the residual stress induced by Vickers indentation. Regardless of the presence of residual stress, the failure time under static fatigue is shorter than that under cyclic fatigue. In the region of a small crack, the fatigue crack aspect ratio for glass is smaller than that for metallic materials. The crack growth rate in glass with an initial crack initially decreases and then increases with an increase in the maximum stress intensity factor, Kmax. To investigate the effect of residual stress on the fatigue crack propagation behavior of soda‐lime glass, the in situ observation of fatigue crack propagation was conducted. Crack closure occurs in glass in which tensile residual stress induced by Vickers indentation was released by annealing.
Interpreting an Archaean paleoenvironment through 3D imagery of microbialites
Authors: Howard Cecilia M. , Sheldon Nathan D. , Smith Selena Y. , Noffke Nora
Published: May 2024

While stromatolites, and to a lesser extent thrombolites, have been extensively studied in order to unravel Precambrian (>539 Ma) biological evolution, studies of clastic‐dominated microbially induced sedimentary structures (MISS) are relatively scarce. The lack of a consolidated record of clastic microbialites creates questions about how much (and what) information on depositional and taphonomic settings can be gleaned from these fossils. We used μCT scanning, a non‐destructive X‐ray‐based 3D imaging method, to reconstruct morphologies of ancient MISS and mat textures in two previously described coastal Archaean samples from the ~3.48 Ga Dresser Formation, Pilbara, Western Australia. The aim of this study was to test the ability of μCT scanning to visualize and make 3D measurements that can be used to interpret the biotic–environmental interactions. Fossil MISS including mat laminae with carpet‐like textures in one sample and mat rip‐up chips in the second sample were investigated. Compiled δ13C and δ34S analyses of specimens from the Dresser Fm. are consistent with a taxonomically diverse community that could be capable of forming such MISS. 3D measurements of fossil microbial mat chips indicate significant biostabilization and suggest formation in flow velocities >25 cm s−1. Given the stratigraphic location of these chips in a low‐flow lagoonal layer, we conclude that these chips formed due to tidal influence, as these assumed velocities are consistent with recent modeling of Archaean tides. The success of μCT scanning in documenting these microbialite features validates this technique both as a first step analysis for rare samples prior to the use of more destructive techniques and as a valuable tool for gaining insight into microbialite taphonomy.
Severe ocular Mpox in person living with advanced HIV treated with extended course of tecovirimat
Authors: Brown Lottie , Sargent Pippa , Islam Meriam , Downie Catriona , Hassan Ali , O'Hara Geraldine , Douthwaite Sam , Kulasegaram Ranjababu , Robbie Scott , Aarons Emma , Milligan Iain D.
Published: May 2024

Background

People living with HIV are disproportionately represented among people with severe mpox. Mild and self‐limiting conjunctival involvement has been well‐documented, and severe ocular complications, including keratitis, corneal scarring, and the associated loss of vision, are increasingly recognized. Tecovirimat is the first‐line antiviral therapy for severe mpox, but data around the efficacy of systemic antiviral agents for mpox are limited, particularly in cases of ocular mpox.

Case Report

Here, we describe a case of sight‐threatening necrotic blepharokeratoconjunctivitis in a person with advanced HIV, requiring an extended course of tecovirimat due to persistent mpox viral shedding for nearly 5 months.
E‐learning anxiety and satisfaction with online EFL courses in times of COVID‐19: A moderated mediation model of positive coping and gender
Authors: Kao Po‐Chi
Published: May 2024

This study proposed and statistically examined a research model to understand university learners’ satisfaction with online English as a foreign language (EFL) courses during the pandemic. Variables including e‐learning anxiety, positive coping, and gender were under investigation. These variables did not receive much attention in the previous literature, and yet they are considered essential to understanding satisfaction with online EFL courses. A total of 439 undergraduate EFL learners from a university in Taiwan participated in the present study. The technique of structural equation modeling was adopted to test the hypotheses in the moderated mediation model. This study discovered: (1) e‐learning anxiety had a negative impact on EFL learners’ satisfaction with online EFL courses; (2) positive coping was able to reduce the negative impact of e‐learning anxiety on satisfaction with online EFL courses; (3) males used more positive coping strategies than females, and they had better satisfaction scores as well. The results can enrich the current applied linguistics literature by providing an insight into the dynamics of these variables.
Development of novel lactose‐free Tigernut milk pudding with no added sugar and determination of physicochemical and organoleptic attributes
Authors: Kalahal Sagar Pandappa , Gavahian Mohsen , Lin Jenshinn
Published: May 2024

Developing health‐oriented novel products (e.g. no sugar added for diabetes and lactose‐free for lactose intolerance) supports diverse consumer needs, promotes healthier eating habits and fosters inclusivity in the food sector. This study aimed to develop a Tigernut milk pudding (TNP), an alternative to dairy‐based pudding and assess its physicochemical and sensory attributes. TNP was formulated by incorporating hydrocolloids κ‐carrageenan (KC), konjac powder (KP) and corn starch (CS), then compared with a commercial milk pudding (CMP) and traditionally prepared raw cow milk pudding (RMP). The crude protein, fat, ash and moisture levels ranged from 5.62% to 8.04%, 5.25% to 7.03%, 2.81% to 3.98% and 68.71% to 74.76% respectively. Lightness (L*) ranged from 69.87 to 77.89, while a* ranged from 0.36 to 0.86 and b* ranged from 8.13 to 9.97. Syneresis ranged from 4.98% to 8.00%, slightly higher than RMP (4.98%) and CMP (4.87%), while pH levels ranged from 6.31 to 6.89, nearly acidic to neutral pH range. Total soluble solids ranged from 2.90 °Brix to 3.67 °Brix. The bacterial count was in the marginal range below 105 CFU g−1, with no presence of Salmonella spp. or E. coli. Total antioxidant properties showed total flavonoid and phenolics, ranging from 306.24 mg QE/100 g to 358.58 mg QE/100 g and 39.06 mg GAE/100 g to 54.81 mg GAE/100 g respectively. An overall organoleptic rate of 3.50 was attained with 0.25% KC, 0.50% KP and 2.50% CS, achieving a desired texture comparable to CMP. The novel study on using Tigernut milk in pudding explores its plant‐based, vegan‐friendly, lactose‐free attributes as a healthy dairy milk alternative. With desirable physicochemical properties, promising improved nutrition, potential health benefits and possible contribution to food security and enhanced resource efficiency, TNP could be considered for commercialisation.