bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Algal‐Derived β‐Glucan on the Growth Performance, Intestinal Health, and Aeromonas veronii Resistance of Ricefield Eel (Monopterus albus)
Authors: Guo Yu , Yuan Zijing , Han Yueyun , Yang Daiqin , Yuan Hanwen , Zhang Fuxian
Published: January 2025

Ricefield eel is an important economic fish in China. However, large‐scale intensive breeding has increased the incidence of diseases in eels. In this study, we conducted an 8‐week feeding trial to investigate the effects of β‐glucan on the growth performance, intestinal health, and Aeromonas veronii resistance of Monopterus albus (M. albus). Three hundred healthy fish (initial body weight: 12.38 ± 0.50 g) were randomly divided into five groups: A1 (basal diet) was considered the control group, whereas A2, A3, A4, and A5 were the experimental groups. The fish in the experimental groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg β‐glucan, respectively. The addition of 0.025%–0.2% β‐glucan resulted in a notable enhancement of eel growth performance, with the most significant improvement observed in eels supplemented with 0.1% β‐glucan (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 0.025%–0.2% β‐glucan could significantly enhance the antioxidant properties of the eel intestinal tract (p < 0.05), and the addition of 0.1% β‐glucan significantly improved trypsin (TPS), amylase (AMS), and lipase (LPS) activities in the intestine (p < 0.05). In terms of intestinal histology, the A3, A4, and A5 groups exhibited significantly greater villus height compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Concentrations of β‐glucan at 0.1% and 0.2% enhanced the composition of the intestinal flora; specifically, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria increased, while the relative abundance of Firmicutes decreased. Moreover, the addition of 0.05%–0.2% β‐glucan significantly improved the relative survival rate (SR) of A. veronii‐infected eels and significantly decreased the bacterial load of the liver, spleen, and kidney (p < 0.05). In comparison to eels that did not receive β‐glucan supplementation, eels supplemented with 0.2% β‐glucan exhibited decreased intestinal structural damage. In summary, the addition of 0.1%–0.2% β‐glucan can promote eel growth, improve intestinal digestion and antioxidant capacity, regulate intestinal flora, and enhance intestinal physical function and anti‐infection ability.
Clinical Diagnosis and Management Challenges of Harlequin Ichthyosis in a Preterm Neonate: A Case Report From Uganda
Authors: Turyasiima Munanura , Mohamed Djamila Magan , Yusuf Hamdi Mohamed , Nakalema Gloria , Akot Balbina Gillian , Kyoshabire Joan , Mutagamba Shabirih , Kimono Grace Gladys , Duca Jimmy Emmy , Makongwa Ibrahimu
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Harlequin ichthyosis is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the ABCA12 gene. It is marked by distinctive skin abnormalities, including armor‐like thickened scales separated by deep fissures. This condition is infrequently reported in the African population.

Clinical Findings: This report presents the case of a preterm neonate, born at 28 weeks of gestation, exhibiting dysmorphic features and severe generalized hyperkeratosis. The defining skin abnormalities included deep fissures across the head and trunk, bilateral eyelid ectropion, eclabium, underdeveloped auricles, and limbs enveloped in thick hyperkeratotic plaques with constricting bands and hypoplastic digits.

Diagnosis, Interventions, and Outcomes: The diagnosis of harlequin ichthyosis was established based on the characteristic clinical presentation. Supportive care included routine neonatal management and conservative treatment for prematurity‐related respiratory distress syndrome. However, specific therapies, such as systemic retinoids, could not be administered due to their unavailability in the clinical setting. Unfortunately, the neonate passed away on the fifth day of life due to respiratory complications.

Conclusion: Harlequin ichthyosis remains associated with a high mortality rate, especially in resource‐limited settings. Contributing factors include inadequate prenatal diagnostic services, restricted access to essential treatments, and insufficient neonatal care infrastructure, all of which exacerbate poor outcomes in developing countries.
Development of a Quinoa‐Based Fermentation Medium for Propagation of Lactobacillus Plantarum and Weissella Confusa in Opaque Beer Production
Authors: Manhokwe Shepherd , Musarurwa Tatenda , Jombo Talknice Z. , Mugadza Desmond T. , Mugari Amiel , Bare Joseph , Mguni Scelo , Chigondo Fidelis , Muchekeza Jane Tafadzwa
Published: January 2025

Product inconsistency of opaque beer has for long been a tenacious problem in the brewing industry since the current process relies on spontaneous lactic acid fermentation. In order to impede this challenge, there is a need to add lactic acid bacteria (LAB) starter cultures in opaque beer brewing to improve its organoleptic qualities. This study sought to develop a quinoa‐based fermentation medium for propagation of Lactobacillus plantarum and Weissella confusa as potential starter cultures in opaque beer production. An evaluation of the stability and tolerance of the LAB under various stress conditions was also done. Fermentation wort from opaque beer brewing and different quinoa‐based synthetic media with varying nutritional components was prepared for propagation of LAB. Physiochemical analyses which included pH, Brix value and total titratable acidity (TTA) of monocultured and cocultured synthetic media were measured. The measurements were done at 24 h time intervals ranging from 0 to 96 h. Tolerance studies which included the effect of heat shock, cold shock, oxidative stress and osmotic pressure on the survival rate of LAB were conducted to determine the stability of LAB. MRS with L. plantarum monoculture (MRSp) had a notable change in pH from 4.5 to 3.6 after 24 h. The cocultured (M5p + w) synthetic media and cocultured MRS (MRSp + w) also exhibited change in pH from 4.3 to 3.2 and 4.3 to 3.3, respectively, after 72 h. Brix value in all media samples decreased after 24 h except for the uninoculated MRS sample (MRS C). The synthetic and coculture medium (M5p + w) exhibited an increase in TTA (0.79% (m/v) lactic acid) within the first 24 h. Exposure to heat shock had a significance effect (p < 0.05) on the survival rate of L. plantarum and W. confusa. The W. confusa in synthetic media recorded a higher survival rate (27 ± 0.03%) upon exposure to heat shock than L. plantarum (7 ± 0.01%). In contrast, L. plantarum in MRS recorded a higher survival rate (67 ± 0.02%) upon exposure to cold shock and oxidative stress (34 ± 0.01%). The starter cultures tested survived upon exposure to the stress conditions, indicating their potential use in opaque beer production.
Identifying and Targeting Key Driver Genes for Collagen Production within the 11q13/14 Breast Cancer Amplicon
Authors: Araiza-Olivera Daniela , Prudnikova Tatiana Y. , Uribe-Alvarez Cristina , Cai Kathy Q. , Franco-Barraza Janusz , Dones Jesus M. , Raines Ronald T. , Chernoff Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Breast cancers of the Integrative Cluster 2 (IntClust-2) type, characterized by amplification of a small portion of chromosome 11, have a median survival of only 5 years. Several cancer-relevant genes occupy this portion of chromosome 11, and it is thought that overexpression of a combination of driver genes in this region is responsible for the poor outcome of women in this group. In this study, we used a gene editing method to knock out, one by one, each of the 198 genes that are located within the amplified region of chromosome 11 and determined how much each of these genes contributed to the survival of breast cancer cells. In addition to well-known drivers such as CCND1 and PAK1, we identified two different genes (SERPINH1 and P4HA3) that encode proteins involved in collagen synthesis and organization. Using both in vitro and in vivo functional analyses, we determined that P4HA3 and/or SERPINH1 provide a critical driver function for IntClust-2 basic processes, such as viability, proliferation, and migration. Inhibiting these enzymes via genetic or pharmacologic means reduced collagen synthesis and impeded oncogenic signaling transduction in cell culture models, and a small-molecule inhibitor of P4HA3 was effective in treating 11q13 tumor growth in an animal model. As collagen has a well-known association with tissue stiffness and aggressive forms of breast cancer, we believe that the two genes we identified provide an opportunity for a new therapeutic strategy in IntClust-2 breast cancers.

Implications: Breast cancers with 11q13/14 chromosomal amplifications may be vulnerable to inhibitors of collagen synthesis.
Figure S1 from Targeting PRMT1 Reduces Cancer Persistence and Tumor Relapse in EGFR- and KRAS-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Sun Xiaoxiao , Kumbier Karl , Gayathri Savitha , Steri Veronica , Wu Lani F. , Altschuler Steven J.
Published: January 2025

Supplementary Figure S1 and legend
Association of Liver Fibrosis Markers with Mortality Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Coronary Artery Disease: Insights from the NHANES 1999–2018 Data
Authors: Ye Zixiang , Xie Enmin , Guo Ziyu , Gao Yanxiang , Han Zhongwei , Dou Kefei , Zheng Jingang
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The objective of this research was to explore the possible link between markers of liver fibrosis and survival rates in a group of adults who have been diagnosed with both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data (1999–2018) for participants with both CAD and CKD were analyzed. The fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4), Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Score (NFS), Forns index, and aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) ratio were identified as crucial biomarkers. All-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality were primary outcomes, assessed using Cox models, Kaplan-Meier curves, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: A total of 1,192 CKD and CAD patients were included. The Cox regression analysis revealed substantial correlations between elevated FIB-4, NFS, Forns index, and AST/ALT levels and a heightened risk of all-cause (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.188, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.108–1.274; HR: 1.145, 95% CI: 1.069–1.227; HR: 1.142, 95% CI: 1.081–1.201; HR: 1.316, 95% CI: 1.056–1.639, respectively) and CVD mortality (HR: 1.133, 95% CI: 1.007–1.275; HR: 1.155, 95% CI: 1.024–1.303; HR: 1.208, 95% CI: 1.109–1.316 and HR: 1.636, 95% CI: 1.203–2.224, respectively). The ROC analysis indicated comparable predictive accuracy for all three biomarkers, with AST/ALT showing slightly superior performance. Conclusion: Liver fibrosis markers, including AST/ALT, NFS, Forns index and FIB-4, are significant mortality predictors in CAD-CKD patients. The AST/ALT ratio, being easily measurable, may serve as an effective predictive tool for risk stratification in this population.
The perinatal microbiota-gut-brain axis: Implications for postpartum depression
Authors: Armbruster Marie , Forsythe Paul
Published: January 2025

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth are accompanied by widespread maternal physiological adaptations and hormonal shifts, that have been suggested to result in a period of vulnerability for the development of mood disorders such as postpartum depression (PPD). There is also evidence of peripartum changes in the composition of the gut microbiota, but the potential contribution of intestinal microbes to the adaptations, or subsequent vulnerabilities, during this period are unknown.
Summary: Here we outline key pathways involved in peripartum adaptations including GABAergic signaling, oxytocin and immunomodulation that are also associated with susceptibility to mood disorders and present evidence that these pathways are modulated by gut microbes. We also discuss the therapeutic potential of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in postpartum depression and identify future directions for research to help realize this potential.
Key Messages: Peripartum adaptations are associated with shifts in gut microbial composition. Disruption of GABAergic, oxytocin and immunomodulatory pathways may contribute to vulnerability of mood disorders including postpartum depression. These key adaptative pathways are modulated by intestinal microbes suggesting a role for the gut microbiota in determining susceptibility to PPD. More research is needed to confirm relationship been gut microbes and PPD and to gain the mechanistic understanding required to realize the therapeutic potential of microbiota-gut-brain axis in this mood disorder.
Dent Disease 1 Presented Early with Bartter-Like Syndrome Features and Rickets: A Case Report
Authors: Ambarsari Cahyani Gita , Agianda Habibah Azzahra Putri , Saraswati Meilania , Kim Jon Jin
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Dent disease (DD) is characterized by a triad of low-molecular-weight proteinuria, hypercalciuria, and nephrocalcinosis/nephrolithiasis. However, some cases were confounded by other clinical symptoms and signs, namely, hypokalemia and rickets, which resulted in misleading diagnoses. A diagnosis of DD could be delayed even in high-resource countries due to its variability of phenotypes and rarity, causing a lack of awareness in both medical practitioners and parents. Moreover, in low-resource countries, laboratory test limitations can hinder the diagnosis. Case Presentation: A thirteen-year-old boy presented with an acute episode of severe hypokalemia following vomiting due to COVID medication side effects. He had lower extremities weakness, salt craving, and polydipsia since childhood which were not thought to be unusual by the parents. He had a history of intrauterine polyhydramnios and maternal miscarriages. A physical examination showed hypotension, short stature, and genu valgum. His laboratory workup displayed hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis and increased urine potassium, chloride, transtubular potassium gradient, and calcium/creatinine ratio. He also had hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia, and decreased kidney function. Severe osteopenia was prominent on radiologic examination of all extremities. Subsequent laboratory samples sent overseas revealed low-molecular-weight proteinuria and a pathogenic variant in the CLCN5 gene confirming X-linked DD 1. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of considering DD in differential diagnoses of children with the pseudo-Bartter syndrome, that is, renal salt and potassium wasting, with or without hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis. Additionally, in children with rickets and proteinuria, urinary low-molecular-weight protein measurement could assist in screening for the possibility of DD, particularly in low-resource settings.
Resignificarnos como diversidades sexo-genéricas: una aproximación desde el diálogo con video- performances de autorías Mapuche
Authors: Danica Vicente
Published: January 2025

Este artigo analisa duas curtas-metragens mapuches de Ficwallmapu 2021, "You will never be a Weye" de Seba Calfuqueo e "Wüfko" de Neyen Pailamilla, que exploram expressões sexo-afetivas e identificação de género. Estas obras desafiam as narrativas cis-heterossexistas, misóginas e androcêntricas, politizando os corpos e as colectividades mapuches. O estudo situa-se no contexto sociopolítico chileno pós-"Estallido Social" de 2019, destacando a bandeira Wenüfoye como um emblema de resistência. Estas vídeo-performances questionam a hegemonia heteropatriarcal e colonialista, promovendo uma visão heterogénea do género e das sexualidades, articulando ferramentas teóricas e conceptuais para politizar e tornar visíveis as questões sociais.
Quando morrem os pets: sobre humanos e animais de estimação num cemitério da Serra Gaúcha
Authors: Negrão Marcus Vinícius Nascimento
Published: January 2025

Neste artigo, reflito sobre uma experiência de visitação a um cemitério, localizado na Serra Gaúcha, destinado ao sepultamento de animais de estimação. Como parte do trabalho de campo de uma pesquisa de maior escopo acerca de ritos funerários destinados aos pets, trago neste texto considerações acerca da experiência etnográfica em um espaço cemiterial pet, especialmente no que diz respeito à análise do conteúdo discursivo presente no livro de visitas do cemitério, no qual são registradas mensagens de carinho e homenagens póstumas a animais já falecidos. Tenho em mente a seguinte questão: o que a morte e o sepultamento de animais de estimação pode ensinar à Antropologia no que se refere aos debates sobre as relações entre humanos e não humanos?
“Sujeito homem corre pelo certo”: notas etnográficas sobre a articulação entre juventudes, masculinidades e mundo do crime
Authors: Oliveira João Victor Borri de
Published: January 2025

Partindo de uma pesquisa etnográfica com jovens em cumprimento de medidas socioeducativas em meio aberto em São Carlos (cidade do interior de São Paulo), proponho uma reflexão acerca da categoria sujeito-homem. Considerando a perspectiva de que existem múltiplas performances de masculinidades, o meu foco é refletir em como os elementos dessas masculinidades atravessam as práticas, sociabilidades e experiências no “mundo do crime” (Feltran, 2008a). Para isso, irei explorar a categoria de sujeito-homem como um caso específico desse pensamento conjunto. O sujeito-homem é um jovem adulto, que evoca signos de respeito, humildade, proceder e responsabilidade ao realizar sua performance. Além disso, a instituição onde esses jovens cumprem suas medidas socioeducativas é tomada como um território, e por isso, dou insights de pensá-la como uma casa de homens com valores pautados na homossociabilidade.
Imaginação e transfiguração: a ideia de sociedade em Adam Smith e Émile Durkheim
Authors: Borges Francisco
Published: January 2025

O conceito de “sociedade” passou por escrutínios na antropologia contemporânea através de autores(as) como Marilyn Strathern, Roy Wagner e Bruno Latour. A ideia de que ‘sociedade’ havia perdido seu potencial analítico e se tornado uma abstração autoexplicativa é um ponto comum dessa crítica, em boa parte direcionada à herança durkheimiana. Retomando as reflexões de Marshall Sahlins sobre “metafísicas ocidentais da ordem”, em A Ilusão Ocidental da Natureza Humana (2008), e a História do Pensamento Antropológico (1981) de Evans-Pritchard, esse artigo trata da relação indivíduo-sociedade a partir de Adam Smith, como um representante do iluminismo escocês, e Émile Durkheim, tido como o sistematizador da sociologia enquanto disciplina. Ambos traçaram no pensamento ocidental a ideia de sociabilidade natural em contraposição à ideia de estado de natureza e de guerra. Nesse sentido, abordo como a relação indivíduo-sociedade/egoísmo-altruísmo ganha contornos mais dinâmicos e relacionais para Smith e Durkheim, produzindo desdobramentos na concepção de ordem na Filosofia Moral e na Filosofia Política no ocidente.
"Você entra na Etec e vira gay, drogado ou rebelde”: território, gênero e sexualidade na experiência de estudantes de ensino médio
Authors: Pereira Sasha Cruz Alves , Simões Júlio Assis
Published: January 2025

Baseado em trabalho de campo em uma escola pública de ensino médio profissionalizante, situada em um bairro popular na zona sul da cidade de São Paulo, este artigo explora etnograficamente a modulação de sentidos da frase “Você entra na Etec e vira gay, drogado ou rebelde”, dita tanto por estudantes quanto por docentes e servidores. A Etec em questão, reconhecida pela qualidade do ensino que oferta, atrai jovens de diversas localidades de uma vasta região marcada por alta vulnerabilidade social. Considerando as particularidades do território escolar, desde sua posição na geografia social da metrópole até os diferentes modos de apropriação e produção do espaço escolar, procuramos nos valer da referida frase como uma chave para marcar a singularidade da experiência e do imaginário coletivo juvenil que ela evoca e caracteriza.
Deep Learning–Enabled Assessment of Right Ventricular Function Improves Prognostication After Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Lachmann Mark , Fortmeier Vera , Stolz Lukas , Tokodi Márton , Kovács Attila , Hesse Amelie , Leipert Antonia , Rippen Elena , Alvarez Covarrubias Héctor Alfonso , von Scheidt Moritz , Tervooren Jule , Roski Ferdinand , Fett Michelle , Gerçek Muhammed , Schuster Tibor , Harmsen Gerhard , Yuasa Shinsuke , Mayr N. Patrick , Kastrati Adnan , Schunkert Heribert , Joner Michael , Xhepa Erion , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Hausleiter Jörg , Rudolph Volker , Trenkwalder Teresa
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Right ventricular (RV) function has a well-established prognostic role in patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) and is typically assessed using echocardiography-measured tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion. Recently, a deep learning model has been proposed that accurately predicts RV ejection fraction (RVEF) from 2-dimensional echocardiographic videos, with similar diagnostic accuracy as 3-dimensional imaging. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the deep learning–predicted RVEF values in patients with severe MR undergoing TEER.

METHODS:

This multicenter registry study analyzed the associations between the predicted RVEF values and 1-year mortality in patients with severe MR undergoing TEER. To predict RVEF, 2-dimensional apical 4-chamber view videos from preprocedural transthoracic echocardiographic studies were exported and processed by a rigorously validated deep learning model.

RESULTS:

Good-quality 2-dimensional apical 4-chamber view videos could be retrieved for 1154 patients undergoing TEER between 2017 and 2023. Survival at 1 year after TEER was 84.7%. The predicted RVEF values ranged from 26.6% to 64.0% and correlated only modestly with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (Pearson
R
=0.33;
P
<0.001). Importantly, predicted RVEF was superior to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion levels in predicting 1-year mortality after TEER (area under the curve, 0.687 versus 0.625;
P
=0.029). Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with reduced RV function (n=723; defined as a predicted RVEF of <45%) had significantly worse 1-year survival rates than patients with preserved RV function (n=431; defined as a predicted RVEF of ≥45%; 80.3% [95% CI, 77.4%–83.3%] versus 92.1% [95% CI, 89.5%–94.7%]; hazard ratio for 1-year mortality, 2.67 [95% CI, 1.82–3.90];
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Deep learning–enabled assessment of RV function using standard 2-dimensional echocardiographic videos can refine the prognostication of patients with severe MR undergoing TEER. Thus, it can be used to screen for patients with RV dysfunction who might benefit from intensified follow-up care.
Key to sessile gnesiotrochan rotifers: Lacinularia and Sinantherina (Monogononta; Flosculariidae)
Authors: DAVIES NATALIE , LAFLEUR ALEXANDRE , HOCHBERG RICK , WALSH ELIZABETH J. , WALLACE ROBERT L.
Published: January 2025

Understanding the general biology, biodiversity, ecology, and evolutionary history of organisms necessitates correct identification. Found worldwide in fresh, brackish, and some marine waters, rotifers can be difficult to identify due to their small size, complex characteristics, and dearth of keys to their identification. Moreover, many species lack a hard body wall (i.e., illoricate species), thus they are nearly impossible to identify when preserved. As a result detailed study of many illoricate rotifers is wanting. This is especially acute for the sessile rotifers where quality illustrations, either as line art or light or scanning electron photomicrographs, of adults and trophi is deficient. This leads to a serious impediment in providing a comprehensive accounting for some species. Lacinularia and Sinantherina (Monogononta; Gnesiotrocha; Flosculariidae) are two sessile genera in which the literature provides inadequate treatment. In this contribution we (1) provide simple, dichotomous keys for the identification of all valid species of both genera and (2) present collated information on their morphology thereby detailing where additional research is needed. Both keys focus on easily observable characters of adult female morphology, including features of their coronae, antennae, colony formation behaviors, and presence/absence of eyespots in the adults. We hope that our effort promotes additional research on these two genera, including better documentation of their trophi and general body morphology.
A new species of Grotea (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) in Argentina: systematics and biological notes
Authors: RAMELLO PABLO J. , AQUINO DANIEL A. , LUCIA MARIANO
Published: January 2025

We describe a new species of parasitoid of the bee Ceratina (Crewella) rupestris Holmberg, Grotea coca sp. nov. Images and data on the parasitoid’s life cycle are provided. Also, G. eburnea (Porter) is recorded for the first time in southern Argentina. An identification key is provided for Grotea species present in Argentina.
Contribution to the knowledge of Chinese Gryllacrididae (Orthoptera: Ensifera: Stenopelmatoidea) XXVII: One new species of the genus Ultragryllacris Gorochov & Dawwrueng, 2015 from China
Authors: LUO TING , BIAN XUN
Published: January 2025

The Chinese Ultragryllacris is further studied. Ultragryllacris nigrifrontis sp. nov. as a new species is described and illustrated. It differs from Ultragryllacris chandra Dawwrueng, Gorochov & Suwannapoom, 2023 in the coloration of the pronotum, the shape of male ninth abdominal tergite and the female subgenital plate. All the specimens are deposited in Guangxi Normal University.
Coupling of Atmospheric Rivers and Levee Failure Events in California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, 1980–2021
Authors: Rittelmeyer Pamela , Bowers Corinne , Guan Bin
Published: January 2025

California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin delta is situated at the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, where more than 60 agricultural islands are protected by levees. The region has experienced hundreds of floods since the levees were first built in the mid-1800s; however, the state of California has contributed millions of dollars to levee maintenance and improvements since the 1970s. Using a novel dataset of 57 levee failure events recorded from 1980 to 2021, this study 1) assesses the historical relationship between levee failures and the intensity and occurrence of atmospheric rivers (ARs) and 2) analyzes changes in ARs and failure events over time. Results show a strong relationship between ARs and levee failure events at the seasonal scale, and a more granular analysis at the daily scale reveals that AR conditions in the days and weeks prior to the levee failure are at least as influential as conditions on the day of failure. Over 90% of weather-related levee failure events were preceded by ARs, the major flood producers in the region, within the preceding 2 weeks. These findings highlight the importance of watershed memory for levee failure risk. A trend analysis finds that levee failures have significantly decreased in frequency since 1980, possibly due to levee improvements, and a watershed-level extreme value analysis shows differences in AR behavior across the Delta. The study concludes by offering hypotheses about how levee failure risk will continue to evolve in the future based on projected shifts in AR behavior.

Significance Statement

Levee failures along the low-lying islands of the Sacramento–San Joaquin delta have become less frequent in recent decades; however, as the atmosphere warms under climate change, atmospheric rivers (ARs) may become more frequent and intense and cause more floods. This study looks at trends in levee failure events and the AR intensity and frequency both separately and together. Some highlights from our results include the importance of watershed memory, the effectiveness of California’s levee improvement investments, and the influence of changing AR conditions on levee failure risk. An understanding of changes in the characteristics of the ARs and where they are occurring can help residents and flood managers better prepare for future flood events.
What Does It Mean to Stand Out? How Visual Design and Presentation Affect Attention and Memory in a Warning Message
Authors: Waugh Nicholas , Sutton Jeannette , Fischer Laura , Orton Ginger
Published: January 2025

In emergency communication, it is essential to call attention to key information that can be interpreted quickly and remembered easily. Individuals possess a limited number of cognitive resources to allocate to message processing in an emergency. Because of this, they are more likely to allocate attention to messages they are motivated to care about or to message attributes that stand out. In this study, we focus on how warning messages are attended to when they are viewed in a busy media environment and ask the question: “What does it mean to stand out?” To address the research questions, we used a sequential explanatory design, mixed-methods approach. We employed eye tracking, a memory exercise, and think-aloud interviews to investigate visual attention, memory, and perceptions in response to warnings communicated via Twitter and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) for snow squall (SS) and dust storm (DS) hazards. Our findings revealed insights to assist message designers as they develop warning messages without burdening the message receiver with contents that require additional cognitive load. Colors help to draw attention to key elements and evoke a feeling of risk. Icons also draw attention and can serve as a signal that catches the eye, especially when actively viewed in a busy messaging environment. Additionally, techniques to make key text stand out through bold or the use of ALL CAPS may reduce effortful processing and eliminate the need for conscious fixations while resulting in easily remembered content.

Significance Statement

Visual risk communication messaging is often used to provide individuals with quick decision-making and protective action information in response to hazards. As messages increase in length and complexity, a burden is placed on risk communicators to capture the attention of message receivers. This study uses eye tracking, a memory exercise, and think-aloud interviews to investigate what factors influence visual attention, memory, and perceptions in response to warning messages over different channels. These methods allow us to not only answer questions about where people look, what they remember, and what draws their attention but also recommend tactics such as using ALL CAPS, colors, symbols, and icons, that can be used by message creators to maximize message effectiveness.
Effect of nitrogen-containing alloy and N2 injection on nitrogen absorption and cleanliness of molten steel in RH vacuum
Authors: Dong Wenliang , Fang Yuan , Liu Baisong , Xu Anjun
Published: January 2025

The industrial trials of N2 injection and nitrogen-containing alloy addition for increasing the nitrogen content in molten steel were carried out on a 300 t ladle Ruhrstahl–Heraeus (RH) treatment. The effects of the order of N2 injection and alloy addition, as well as vacuum chamber pressure on the nitrogen dissolution rate of the molten steel were investigated. A nitrogen dissolution model for N2 injection of RH was established and the predicted result was in good agreement with the measured. The equilibrium [N] contents corresponding to pressure of 7.5–8.5 kPa, 3.0–4.0 kPa and <0.1 kPa were 160–170 ppm, 110–130 ppm and 90–100 ppm, respectively. The [N] content increase rate was slow with only N2 injection, and the [N] content was not further increased after reaching the equilibrium. The [N] content increase rate was fast with nitrogen-containing alloy addition, while the [N] content rapidly rised to a supersaturation state if the amount of nitrogen brought in by the alloy exceeded the nitrogen equilibrium. Thereafter, the [N] content decreased to near the equilibrium value. The nitrogen-containing alloy addition led to a deterioration of the cleanliness of molten steel, and the earlier addition of alloys had more time to remove the inclusions and to reduce the T.O content.
Transitioning from academia to the professional arena: Evaluating higher education curriculum strategies – A review
Authors: Dlamini Nkosinathi G , Dlamini Nothando D
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a systematic review of literature from databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, Taylor & Francis Online, and JSTOR to examine the belief that university graduates are unprepared for the job market, particularly during their transition from academia to employment. It investigates the complex nature of employability, which includes various skills and attributes essential for success in today’s workforce. The study focuses on the employability of higher education graduates globally, identifying challenges they face and suggesting possible solutions. It emphasizes the importance of empirical research over anecdotal evidence in understanding employability. The analysis highlights factors contributing to the perception of unpreparedness, including the gap between academic learning and practical skills, rapid industry changes, and anecdotal narratives. Ultimately, it advocates for a collaborative approach between academia and industry to enhance graduates’ readiness for the evolving job market through practical skill development.
Development of Chinese Medicinal Ointment with Antibacterial Properties from Tripterygium wilfordii
Authors: Wong Ching , Law Siu Kan , Wu Xiao Xiao , Tong Christy Wing Sum , Wang Yanping , Chow Wesley Yeuk Lung , Au Dawn Ching Tung
Published: January 2025

Background

Chinese medicinal ointment was first recorded in the Shan Hai Jing ( The Classic of Mountains and Seas). Different formulations of Chinese medicinal ointments have been made based on the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory. Many TCMs possessed antibacterial properties that were used as microecological regulators to inhibit the growth of gram-negative bacteria, “ Escherichia coli.”

Purpose

To develop and make an antibacterial ointment by Tripterygium wilfordii (TW) and evaluate its antibacterial function.

Materials and Methods

The methodologies included physical (cream selection), chemical [ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) and high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector (HPLC-DAD)], and biological (agar assay) experiments for making TW ointment.

Results

An active ingredient, “celastrol,” was extracted from TW. Aqueous Cream BP was chosen as the base for ointment making since it did not have any smell and contained only natural substances. UV–Vis and HPLC-DAD identified the active ingredient of “celastrol” from TW with an absorption peak at 230 nm and a symmetrical peak at a retention time of 19.855 min. The 1%, 2%, and 5% TW ointments with antibacterial properties and inhibitory effects on the colony formation units of E. coli were 109.33 ± 14.32, 85.67 ± 10.22, and 44.00 ± 6.66, respectively.

Conclusion

The Chinese medicinal ointment with antibacterial properties from TW was successfully developed using an Aqueous Cream BP and the Chinese medicinal plant “TW.” An active ingredient, “celastrol,” from “TW,” was determined by using UV–Vis and HPLC-DAD studies. The 1%, 2%, and 5% TW ointments were evaluated for its effectiveness for antibacterial properties. These Chinese medicinal ointments were the starting milestone for further studying the biological mechanisms or applications on human skin.
Full lifecycle quantitative monitoring and early warning of bolt loosening based on acoustic emission
Authors: Wang Xiaoran , Zhang Jianing , Liu Zenghua , He Tian , Tang Guoliang
Published: January 2025

Bolted joints are a critical fastening method widely used in mechanical structures, and monitoring their loosening, particularly in the early loosening, is crucial for ensuring structural safety and reliability. This article presents a method for full lifecycle quantitative monitoring and early warning of bolt loosening based on acoustic emission (AE) technology. Variational mode decomposition is applied to the AE signals from the bolted joint interface to extract the energy characteristics of the intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). The IMFs most sensitive to changes in preload force are then selected as the characteristic mode. Segmented fitting equations are developed for the relationship between the energy of this characteristic mode and the bolt preload force across three key stages of loosening: early loosening, intermediate loosening, and late loosening. These equations enable effective monitoring and quantitative assessment of bolt loosening. This method not only allows for full lifecycle monitoring of bolted joints from fastening to loosening but also provides effective early warnings during the initial loosening phase.
Compound damage detection using wavelet transform and deep neural network trained on healthy and single damage states: Validation on a laboratory-scale offshore jacket model
Authors: Feng Wei-Qiang , Mousavi Zohreh , Lin Jian-Fu , Bayat Meysam , Ettefagh Mir Mohammad , Varahram Sina
Published: January 2025

Structural health monitoring is vital for the early detection of damage, enabling effective life cycle management of structures. Detecting compound damage, where multiple types of damage occur simultaneously in different sections of a structure, is particularly challenging, especially when some of the damages are subtle or minor. Existing methods typically treat compound damage as a distinct category, separate from single damage types. This paper introduces a novel approach to damage detection based solely on vibration responses, combining the wavelet transform with a deep convolutional neural network with multiple interference (MIDCNN). In this approach, the MIDCNN is trained using time-frequency data from healthy and single damage states, intentionally excluding compound damage data from the training phase. During testing, the MIDCNN model accurately distinguishes between healthy, single damage, and untrained compound damage states when the output probabilities meet predefined conditions. The method is validated using data from a laboratory-scale offshore jacket structure. The results demonstrate the method’s ability to extract relevant features and accurately classify different structural states, including healthy, single, and compound damage.
Upskilling and reskilling in the United Arab Emirates: Future-proofing careers with AI skills
Authors: Santandreu Calonge David , Kamalov Firuz , Medina Aguerrebere Pablo , Hassock Leisa , Smail Linda , Yousef Dima , Thadani Dimple R. , Kwong Theresa , Abdulla Nadia
Published: January 2025

The rapid evolution of technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), is reshaping the global job market at an unprecedented pace. This transformative wave presents challenges and opportunities, especially for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as it endeavours to future-proof its workforce. This article examines the imperative of upskilling and reskilling as a strategic response to the dynamic demands of the contemporary job landscape in the UAE. Focusing on the pivotal role of AI skills, the paper explores the current state of the UAE workforce, highlighting the vulnerabilities of existing job roles and industries to technological disruptions. The global context of upskilling initiatives provides a backdrop to understand the urgency of this issue and offers insights into successful implementation strategies.
Racial Variation of Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Ralph Oliver G. , Williams Michael D. , Chan Edie Y. , Olaitan Oyedolamu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

There is a need for a noninvasive, affordable, sensitive, and specific biomarker to diagnose early acute rejection, to negate the need for frequent biopsies. Dd-cfDNA is a powerful adjunct yet there is limited data on the ethnic differences in its values. There is anecdotal evidence that dd-cfDNA values at rejection may be higher in Black as compared to non-Black recipients. This study aims to add to this literature while defining such variability and comparing it to previously validated cutoffs for dd-cfDNA of 0.5% or 1%.

Design

This was a single-center retrospective observational study of patients who underwent graft biopsies with a preceding, paired, dd-cfDNA value. Recipients were separated into White, Black, and Hispanic racial and ethnic groups, and dd-cfDNA values at rejection versus nonrejection were compared.

Results

With 0.5% and 1% cutoffs, false negative rates for rejection were 13% and 22%, respectively. The false positive rate was 38.4%. 12.2% of Black recipients, 11.8% of Hispanic recipients, and 44% of White recipients had rejection with a negative AlloSure®. Values >0.5% corresponded to histologic rejection in 61.5% of Black, 66.7% of White, and 56.3% of Hispanic recipients. Antibody-mediated rejection occurred in 65.5% of rejection cases in Black recipients, while exhibiting the lowest rate of T-cell-mediated rejection. Dd-cfDNA values gave an accurate diagnosis of rejection in 52.8% of recipients with AMR versus 19.3% in TCMR.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that dd-cfDNA was applicable to Black recipients with a robust ability to detect antibody-mediated rejection, as compared to White and Hispanic recipients.
Fabrication of novel carbon nanofiber membrane microporous layer to improve water management ability of PEMFC
Authors: Yu Mingming , Cui Han , Tao Jin , Chu Yuji , Shen Zhigang , Fang Lin , Ma Pibo , Xie Wang , Ren Musu , Sun Jinliang
Published: January 2025

The issue of water flooding in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) under conditions of humidity levels leads to significant mass transfer losses. To address this challenge, a fiber-structured microporous layer (MPL) with high porosity is developed, and investigates the impact of carbon nanotube (CNT) on its heat treatment process. The inclusion of CNT facilitates the cyclization of polyacrylonitrile in the pre-oxidation process. Thereby reduces the fracture of nanofibers, improved the microstructure and the porosity of the membrane during carbonization. The carbon nanofiber membranes containing CNT shows a higher oriented arrangement of carbon grains after graphitization. The high porosity of the fiber membrane MPL confers exceptional mass transfer capabilities. At 100% RH, the MPL sample CFP-2C improves the maximum power density and a maximum current density of PEMFC by 47.5% and 55.3%, respectively, compares to the conventional carbon black particles MPL.
The Diagnostic Journey of Dysautonomia Patients: Insights from a Patient-Reported Outcome Study
Authors: O’Dell John A. , Walker Ash , Latham Andrew J. , Parisian Daniel J. , Branch Lindsay E. , Vanderburg Dreena D. , Cox Ava A. , Chavis Shelley , Smith Silvia E.
Published: January 2025

Dysautonomia refers to any disorder involving altered function of the autonomic nervous system. Dysautonomia can be debilitating as it often affects multiple organ systems. The diagnostic journey for individuals affected by dysautonomia can be hindered by symptom overlap with other conditions and by limited access to autonomic specialists. The present patient-reported outcome study aims to characterize the diagnostic journey of 672 adult individuals affected by different types of dysautonomia. The average time to diagnosis was 7.7 years (SD 10 years) and diagnosis was made primarily by cardiologists, followed by neurologists, and internists or primary care physicians. Common comorbid conditions are Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, mast cell disorders, vitamin deficiency, fibromyalgia, and myalgic encephalomyelitis, all of which can contribute to the symptoms burden and can potentially confound the diagnostic process. We suggest that the prolonged time to diagnosis contributes to morbidity and compounds the psychological and economic burden of dysautonomia. Raising awareness about the numerous obstacles that hinder the diagnostic process among both clinicians and dysautonomia patients is the first step to reduce morbidity and improve clinical outcomes.
Psychosocial moderators of the association between pain intensity and physical function in people with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Whibley Daniel , Minhas Deeba , Sturgeon John A , Chen Yen T , Kratz Anna , Khanna Dinesh , Murphy Susan L
Published: January 2025

Background:

Pain is a prevalent symptom of systemic sclerosis. While previous studies have demonstrated a correlation between higher pain intensity and lower physical function in individuals with systemic sclerosis, the potentially moderating effect of psychosocial factors on the association has yet to be explored.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study used data from a fatigue self-management trial for adults with systemic sclerosis. Baseline questionnaire instruments measured pain intensity (11-point scale), physical function (PROMIS 4a short form), and psychosocial factors: positive and negative affect (Positive and Negative Affect Schedule), resilience (Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale), anxiety, depression (PROMIS short forms), and self-efficacy domains (PROMIS item banks). Linear regression quantified the pain intensity–physical function association with interaction terms for candidate psychosocial moderators included in separate models (adjusted for age, systemic sclerosis subtype, and disease duration).

Results:

Among 173 participants (mean age 54.5, Standard Deviation 11.7, 93% female, 83% White), 47% had diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, 35% limited, 13% overlap, and 5% other/unsure. Mean pain intensity was 4.9 (Standard Deviation 2.3) and mean physical function T-score was 38.5 (Standard Deviation 6.4). Pain intensity accounted for 31% of the variability in physical function (B −1.34, 95% confidence interval −1.69, −0.99). Statistically significant interactions were found between pain intensity and negative affect and anxiety, with higher levels of these factors amplifying the negative pain–physical function association.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that higher levels of negative affect and anxiety exacerbate the negative effect of pain on physical function in individuals with systemic sclerosis. Interventions targeting these factors may help improve overall physical function regardless of pain intensity.
Unveiling a Rare Complication: Coronary Stent-Related Infection Manifesting as Cardiac Tamponade—A Case Report
Authors: V Vivek Narasimha , Premchand Rajendra Kumar , Swamy Ajay J , Patil Pratik
Published: January 2025

Coronary stent infection leading to Acute bacterial pericarditis is a rare but critical condition associated with significant mortality and morbidity, often complicated by the development of pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. 1 In this case report, we present the case of a 30-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes, who experienced an acute inferior wall myocardial infarction and subsequently underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to the right coronary artery (RCA). Approximately two weeks after the PCI, the patient developed pericardial effusion with impending cardiac tamponade, requiring a pericardiocentesis procedure that resulted in the aspiration of 200 mL of fluid. Analysis of the pericardial fluid revealed the presence of pus cells, low glucose, and growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in culture. Further evaluation, including FDG PET imaging, demonstrated increased tracer uptake in the area corresponding to the RCA stent, while coronary angiography revealed the presence of an RCA aneurysm. The patient received appropriate antibiotic therapy followed by resection of aneurysm. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and promptly managing coronary stent infection-related complications to optimize patient outcomes.