bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of liver parenchyma with shear wave elastography in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug therapy
Authors: Tezcan Dilek , Özer Halil , Topaloğlu Ömer Faruk , Hakbilen Selda , Durmaz Mehmet Sedat , Yılmaz Sema , Öztürk Mehmet
Published: September 2024

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) and leflunomide (LEF) play fundamental roles in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment and require proper monitoring of side effects. Concerns about MTX/LEF‐related liver fibrosis (LF) in patients with RA remain unclear. This study investigated liver stiffness using two‐dimensional shear wave elastography (2D‐SWE) in RA patients undergoing disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy. Moreover, 2D‐SWE was employed to evaluate the correlations between liver stiffness, cumulative MTX and LEF doses and risk factors for substantial LF.

Methods

We recruited 222 participants from the Department of Rheumatology. The participants were divided into healthy controls (n = 78) and patients with RA (n = 144). Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to assess the correlations between liver stiffness and the cumulative dose of MTX/LEF and other clinical and laboratory variables.

Results

The mean elasticity modulus was 4.79 ± 0.92 kPa, excluding the presence of significant fibrosis. Mean 2D‐SWE values were significantly lower in healthy controls than in RA treated with MTX and LEF. The cut‐off ≥3.8 kPa 2D‐SWE values with the sensitivity of 86.1%, specifity of 83.3%. 2D‐SWE values were not significantly different across the strata of the cumulative MTX subgroups.

Conclusions

MTX and LEF increase liver stiffness but may be considered low risk for the development of LF.
Endoscopic appearances of gastric mucosa in different endoscopic models according to H. pylori infection status
Authors: Abdullah Jan Shinwari , Sayed Zekria Hashimi
Published: September 2024

Background

H. pylori infection has been recognized as a type 1 carcinogen of the gastric malignancy; therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are the corner stone of eradication. Recent findings have also shown that atrophy and intestinal metaplasia remain after successful eradication, which moderately increases the risk of gastric cancer compared with those who have never infected, so the evaluation of gastric mucosa during gastroscopy is important.

Aims

We aimed to describe and summarize the reliable literature and proposed features of H. pylori infection status and gastritis in research on newly developed endoscopic models that influence clinical practice. In the result, conventional white light endoscopic, image‐enhanced endoscopic models, and studies related to the Kyoto classification of gastritis were searched and reviewed.

Results

Kyoto classification of gastritis and modified Kyoto classification scoring model for gastritis using conventional white light image (CWLI) endoscopy is an effective tool for evaluating current H. pylori infection status, past infections, eradications, noninfections, and pre‐cancerous conditions. This model is widely used, low cost, and time‐efficient, and is supported by recent findings. Advanced image‐enhanced endoscopic models combined with magnifying endoscopy provide more clear endoscopic features for H. pylori infection status and early gastric cancer.

Conclusion

According to H pylori infection status, endoscopic prediction of gastric mucosal surface architecture analysis is possible, which influences clinical management. Endoscopic models might lead us to accurate and early diagnose of H. pylori infection status and may not be effective only for the eradication of H. pylori infection but also in the detection of early gastric cancer status.
Computational Analysis of Interactions Between Drugs and Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Yildiz Muslum
Published: September 2024

Drug molecules exist as complexed with serum proteins such as human serum albumin (HSA) and/or unbound free form in the blood circulation. Drugs can be effective only when they are free. Thus, it is important to understand aspects that are important for interaction between drugs and interacting proteins. In this study, interactions among 2990 FDA approved drugs and HSA were computational analyzed to unravel principles that are critical for drug‐HSA interactions. Docking results showed that drugs have higher affinity toward cavity‐1 (C1) than cavity‐2 (C2). A total of 1131 drug molecules have docking score greater than 60 while 768 molecules have docking score greater than 60 when they are docked in C2. In addition, three solvent channels have potential to direct solvent to C1 cavity while C2 does not have any effective channel. The post MD analyses demonstrated that drugs are making polar interactions with basic amino acids in the binding cavities. Verbscoside and ceftazidime both have stable low RMSD values throughout MD simulation with 2 Å on average in C1 cavity. The ligand RMSD shows less stability for verbscoside, which is around 4 Å when it is in complex with HSA in C1. The individual contribution of the residues K192, K196, R215, and R254 to ceftazidime are −1.92 ± 0.18, −3.09 ± 0.09, −2.17 ± 0.17, and − 2.32 ± 0.098, respectively. These residues contribute the binding energy of the verbscoside by −6.06 ± 0.08, −2.10 ± 0.06, and − 1.57 ± 0.03 kcal/mol individually in C1 cavity. C2 is making polar interactions with drug via R469, K472, and K488 residues and their contribution to the two drugs are −3.13 ± 0.21 kcal/mol for R469, −1.94 ± 0.18 kcal/mol for K472, and −1.96 ± 0.11 kcal/mol for K488 to total binding energy of ceftazidime. The binding energy of verbscoside is 57.17 ± 7.00 kcal/mol and Arg‐407 has the highest contribution this bind energy individually with −4.29 ± 0.12 kcal/mol. Drugs with hydrogen bond donor/acceptor chemical adducts such as verbscoside involve higher hydrogen bond formation in C1 pocket. Ceftazidime makes interaction with HSA toward hydrophobic residues, L384, L404, L487, and L488 in the C2 cavity.
Glymphatic System in Preterm Neonates: Developmental Insights Following Birth Asphyxia
Authors: Lin Shiwei , Lin Xiaoshan , Liang Qunjun , Chen Shengli , Zhang Yanyu , Li Ying , Dong Tianfa , Qiu Yingwei
Published: September 2024

Background

Birth asphyxia (BA) and germinal matrix hemorrhage–intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH‐IVH) are common clinical events in preterm neonates. However, their effects on the glymphatic system (GS) development in preterm neonates remain arcane.

Purpose

To evaluate the developmental trajectory of the GS, and to investigate the effects of BA and GMH‐IVH on GS function in preterm neonates.

Study type

Prospective.

Population

Two independent datasets, prospectively acquired internal dataset (including 99 preterm neonates, 40 female, mean [standard deviation] gestational age (GA) at birth, 29.95 [2.63] weeks) and the developing Human Connectome Project (dHCP) dataset (including 81 preterm neonates, 29 female, median [interquartile range] GA at birth, 32.71 [4.28] weeks).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T MRI and diffusion‐weighted spin‐echo planar imaging sequence.

Assessment

The diffusion‐weighted images were preprocessed in volumetric space using the FMRIB Software Library and diffusion along the perivascular space (DTI‐ALPS) index was accessed to evaluate GS function.

Statistical Tests

Two sample t tests, one‐way analysis of variance followed by least‐significant difference (LSD) post hoc analysis, chi‐squared tests, and Pearson's correlation analysis. Significance level: P < 0.05.

Results

In prospectively acquired internal dataset, preterm neonates with BA exhibited a significant lower DTI‐ALPS index than those without BA (0.98 ± 0.08 vs. 1.08 ± 0.07, T = −5.89); however, GMH‐IVH did not exert significant influences on the DTI‐ALPS index (P = 0.83 and 0.27). The DTI‐ALPS index increased significantly at postmenstrual age ranging from 25 to 34 weeks (r = 0.38) and then plateaued after 34 weeks (P = 0.35), which we also observed in the dHCP dataset.

Data Conclusion

BA rather than GMH‐IVH serves as the major influencing factor in the development of GS in preterm neonates. Moreover, as GS development follows a nonlinear trajectory, we recommend close monitoring of GS development in preterm neonates with a GA less than 34 weeks.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Association between SMOF lipid and parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis compared with Intralipid in extremely low birth weight infants: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Velumula Pradeep Kumar , Boddu Praveen Kumar , Lulic‐Botica Mirjana , Khanal Luna , Amoah Joe , Bajaj Monika
Published: September 2024

Background

There is limited evidence on benefits of SMOF lipids (mixed fatty acid emulsion of 30% soybean oil, 30% medium chain triglycerides, 25% olive oil, and 15% fish oil) in reducing parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis in extremely low birth weight infants, compared with soybean oil–based Intralipid.

Aim

To compare incidence of parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis in preterm infants who received Intralipid vs SMOF lipid.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on infants with birth weight <1000 g, admitted between January 2013 to December 2022, who received parenteral nutrition for >14 days and divided them into two groups based on lipid emulsion received (Intralipid, n = 187, SMOF, n = 127). Primary outcome was incidence of parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis, defined as direct bilirubin ≥2 mg/dl.

Results

Baseline characteristics did not differ between the two groups. No significant difference was noted in parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis between the two groups on logistic regression, (adjusted odds ratio: 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.35–1.42, P value 0.33) after adjusting for gestational age, parenteral nutrition days, lipid days, and late‐onset sepsis.

Conclusion

There was no difference in the rates of parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis between preterm infants administered SMOF lipids and those given Intralipid.
The next event will be held with more quality: Identifying and prioritizing barriers to knowledge management in sports events
Authors: Moslehi Leila , Ghahfarokhi Ebrahim Alidoust
Published: September 2024

Effective knowledge management can help in better performance of projects such as sports events, and it can prevent the reinvention of systems, ideas, and also the repetition of errors. However, considering their temporary nature, projects face serious barriers in effective knowledge management. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to identify and prioritize the barriers of knowledge management in sports events. The statistical population included sports managers and also professors who were knowledgeable about the research subject. Barriers to knowledge management in sports events were identified in two steps. In the first step, the literature was reviewed, and then an interview was conducted with the samples, and in this way, three indicators and 19 sub‐indices were identified. Next, a questionnaire was designed. After collecting the questionnaires, the barriers were ranked through the process of pairwise comparisons in an analytic hierarchy process. The results showed that the most important barriers to knowledge management in the sports event are managerial barriers, with a relative weight of 0.521; barriers related to human resources, with a relative weight of 0.356; and infrastructural and support barriers, with a relative weight of 0.123. The results showed the importance of managerial barriers in the knowledge management of sports events, which shows the necessity of informing and training managers in this area.
Lord of the (Magnetic) Rings: Rigid Bronchoscopy for Aspirated Magnetic Foreign Bodies in Tertiary Bronchi
Authors: Zhang Lisa , Hall Daniel B. , Albathi Monirah , Schuett Carly R. , Arch Rebecca S. , Bassett Ethan , Walz Patrick
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To describe operative techniques using rigid bronchoscopy and ferromagnetic bronchoscopic equipment to retrieve magnetic foreign bodies in distal tertiary bronchi beyond the reach of traditional optical instrumentation.

Methods

A 13‐year‐old presented to the Emergency Department following aspiration of three backing magnets from a magnetic nose ring. Chest radiographs demonstrated a 4 mm × 3 mm foreign body in the right lower lobe 0.5 cm from diaphragm on expiratory film. She was taken to the operating room for removal of an airway foreign body.

Results

The foreign body was visualized with direct laryngoscopy followed by rigid bronchoscopy in the distal right lower tertiary bronchus. Attempts to pass optical instruments were limited both by distance of the object and size of instrumentation compared to the diameter of the tertiary bronchus. A salivary wire basket and ureteral stone retrieval basket were then passed with endoscopic visualization into the tertiary bronchus but were unable to engage the foreign body. An attempt was made to pass a 2 French Fogarty embolectomy catheter distally, but the catheter was too large to bypass the foreign body. Finally, ferromagnetic pulmonary rat tooth biopsy forceps were advanced into the tertiary bronchus and successfully attracted the magnetic foreign body for safe removal through our rigid bronchoscope.

Conclusion

We present a novel method of utilizing ferromagnetic flexible bronchoscopic instruments to safely remove magnetic foreign bodies in the tertiary bronchi beyond the reach of traditional bronchoscopic instruments. Laryngoscope, 135:920–922, 2025
Intricate relationship between cancer stemness, metastasis, and drug resistance
Authors: Dakal Tikam Chand , Bhushan Ravi , Xu Caiming , Gadi Bhana Ram , Cameotra Swaranjit Singh , Yadav Vikas , Maciaczyk Jarek , Schmidt‐Wolf Ingo G. H. , Kumar Abhishek , Sharma Amit
Published: September 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are widely acknowledged as the drivers of tumor initiation, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression, and metastasis. Originating from both hematologic and solid malignancies, CSCs exhibit quiescence, pluripotency, and self‐renewal akin to normal stem cells, thus orchestrating tumor heterogeneity and growth. Through a dynamic interplay with the tumor microenvironment (TME) and intricate signaling cascades, CSCs undergo transitions from differentiated cancer cells, culminating in therapy resistance and disease recurrence. This review undertakes an in‐depth analysis of the multifaceted mechanisms underlying cancer stemness and CSC‐mediated resistance to therapy. Intrinsic factors encompassing the TME, hypoxic conditions, and oxidative stress, alongside extrinsic processes such as drug efflux mechanisms, collectively contribute to therapeutic resistance. An exploration into key signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, WNT, NOTCH, and HEDGEHOG, sheds light on their pivotal roles in sustaining CSCs phenotypes. Insights gleaned from preclinical and clinical studies hold promise in refining drug discovery efforts and optimizing therapeutic interventions, especially chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy, cytokine‐induced killer (CIK) cell therapy, natural killer (NK) cell‐mediated CSC‐targeting and others. Ultimately use of cell sorting and single cell sequencing approaches for elucidating the fundamental characteristics and resistance mechanisms inherent in CSCs will enhance our comprehension of CSC and intratumor heterogeneity, which ultimately would inform about tailored and personalized interventions.
Organoids: development and applications in disease models, drug discovery, precision medicine, and regenerative medicine
Authors: Yao Qigu , Cheng Sheng , Pan Qiaoling , Yu Jiong , Cao Guoqiang , Li Lanjuan , Cao Hongcui
Published: September 2024

Organoids are miniature, highly accurate representations of organs that capture the structure and unique functions of specific organs. Although the field of organoids has experienced exponential growth, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, gene editing, and bioinstrumentation, a comprehensive and accurate overview of organoid applications remains necessary. This review offers a detailed exploration of the historical origins and characteristics of various organoid types, their applications—including disease modeling, drug toxicity and efficacy assessments, precision medicine, and regenerative medicine—as well as the current challenges and future directions of organoid research. Organoids have proven instrumental in elucidating genetic cell fate in hereditary diseases, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and malignancies, as well as in the study of processes such as embryonic development, molecular mechanisms, and host–microbe interactions. Furthermore, the integration of organoid technology with artificial intelligence and microfluidics has significantly advanced large‐scale, rapid, and cost‐effective drug toxicity and efficacy assessments, thereby propelling progress in precision medicine. Finally, with the advent of high‐performance materials, three‐dimensional printing technology, and gene editing, organoids are also gaining prominence in the field of regenerative medicine. Our insights and predictions aim to provide valuable guidance to current researchers and to support the continued advancement of this rapidly developing field.
Overexpression of PRDM16 attenuates acute kidney injury progression: genetic and pharmacological approaches
Authors: Li Xiaozhou , Xu Fang , Zhang Pan , Mao Liufeng , Guo Yong , Li Huiling , Xie Yuxing , Li Yijian , Liao Yingjun , Chen Junxiang , Wu Donghai , Zhang Dongshan
Published: September 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) presents as a condition marked by a sudden and rapid decrease in kidney function over a short timeframe, resulting from diverse causes. As a transcription factor, PR domain‐containing 16 (PRDM16), has recently been implicated in brown fat biogenesis and heart diseases. Our recent works indicated that PRDM16 could suppress the occurrence of renal interstitial fibrosis in diabetic kidney disorder. Nonetheless, the effect and regulatory mechanism of PRDM16 in AKI remain elusive. Our study demonstrated that PRDM16 inhibited apoptosis induced by ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) in BUMPT (Boston University mouse kidney proximal tubular) cells and HK‐2(Human Kidney‐2) cells. Mechanistically, PRDM16 not only bound to the promoter region of S100 Calcium Binding Protein A6 (S100A6)and upregulated its expression but also interacted with its amino acids 945–949, 957–960, and 981–984 to suppress the p38MAPK and JNK axes via inhibition of PKC‐η activity and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Furthermore, cisplatin‐ and I/R‐stimulated AKI progression were ameliorated in PRDM16 proximal‐tubule‐specific knockin mice, whereas exacerbated in PRDM16 knockout proximal‐tubule‐specific mice). Moreover, we observed that formononetin ameliorated I/R‐ and cisplatin‐triggered AKI progression in mice. Taken together, these findings reveal a novel self‐protective mechanism in AKI, whereby PRDM16 regulates the S100A6/PKC‐η/ROS/p38MAPK and JNK pathways to inhibit AKI progression.
Cross‐Sectional and Prospective Associations between Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease with Frailty in Latin America
Authors: Kim Dani J. , Khan Nusrat , Llibre‐Rodriguez Juan J. , Jiang Miao , Rodriguez‐Salgado Ana M. , Acosta Isaac , Sosa Ana Luisa , Acosta Daisy , Jimenez‐Velasquez Ivonne Z. , Guerra Mariella , Salas Aquiles , Sánchez Nedelys Díaz , López‐Contreras Ricardo , Hesse Heike , Tanner Caroline , Llibre‐Guerra Jorge J. , Prina Matthew
Published: September 2024

Background

Little is known about the relationship between parkinsonism or Parkinson's disease (PD) and frailty in Latin America.

Objective

The study aimed to determine the cross‐sectional and prospective associations between parkinsonism and PD with frailty in a large multi‐country cohort in Latin America. Frailty was assessed using three different models to explore which definitions are more appropriate to screen for frailty in a PD population.

Methods

12,865 older adults (aged ≥65 years) from the 10/66 population‐based cohort study in six Latin American countries were analyzed. Logistic regression models assessed the cross‐sectional association between parkinsonism/PD with baseline frailty. Individual country analyses were combined via fixed‐effect meta‐analysis. In non‐frail participants who were followed up for 4 years, Cox proportional hazards regression models assessed the prospective association between parkinsonism/PD with incident frailty accounting for competing risk of mortality.

Results

At baseline, the prevalence of parkinsonism and PD was 7% and 2%, respectively, and the prevalence of frailty varied across the three models with rates of 18% for frailty phenotype, 20% for frailty index and 30% for multidimensional frailty model. PD was associated with baseline and incident frailty after accounting for age, sex, and education: odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for frailty were 2.49 (95% CIs 1.87–3.31), 2.42 (95% CIs 1.80–3.25), and 1.57 (95% CIs 1.16–2.21), and cause‐specific hazard ratios were 1.66 (95% CIs 1.07–2.56), 1.78 (95% CIs 1.05–3.03), and 1.58 (95% CIs 0.91–2.74). Similar results were found for parkinsonism.

Conclusion

Parkinsonism and PD were cross‐sectionally and prospectively associated with frailty in Latin America. Routine screening for frailty in PD patients may aid earlier detection of those at greater risk of adverse outcomes.
η‐Ricci‐Bourguignon solitons on three‐dimensional (almost) coKähler manifolds
Authors: Mandal Tarak , De Uday Chand , Sarkar Avijit
Published: September 2024

The aim of the present article is to characterize (almost) coKähler manifolds admitting
‐Ricci‐Bourguignon solitons. Among others, it is proved that if a three‐dimensional compact almost coKähler manifold admits
‐Ricci‐Bourguignon soliton and the potential vector field is pointwise collinear with the Reeb vector field, then the manifold is K‐almost coKähler and
‐Einstein. Gradient
‐Ricci‐Bourguignon solitons on such manifolds are also considered. Finally, we construct an example of almost coKähler manifold to verify a result.
On the well‐posedness of some model arising in the mathematical biology
Authors: Efendiev Messoud , Vougalter Vitali
Published: September 2024

In the article, we establish the global well‐posedness in
of the integro‐differential equation in the case of anomalous diffusion when the one‐dimensional negative Laplace operator is raised to a fractional power in the presence of the transport term. The model is relevant to the cell population dynamics in the mathematical biology. Our proof relies on a fixed point technique.
Wideband circularly polarized high accuracy survey active antenna for global navigation satellite systems applications
Authors: Wei Jia , Liao Shaowei , Xue Quan , Che Wenquan
Published: September 2024

This letter presents a new circularly polarized (CP) active antenna for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) operating in the L1‐band (1.164–1.28 GHz) and L2‐band (1.525–1.615 GHz). The active antenna consists of a passive antenna and a two‐channel low‐noise amplifier (LNA) circuit. To achieve wideband coverage of the L1/L2 bands while maintaining a low profile, a new electroplating process is utilized in fabricating the passive antenna. Additionally, to realize CP performance, the passive antenna is sequentially fed by four ports with a wideband feeding network. To minimize phase variations, a 90° phase shifter loaded with open‐short‐stub is integrated into the feeding network. Furthermore, to improve noise immunity, out‐of‐band rejection, and amplify GNSS signals, the LNA circuit cascades two‐stage dielectric bandpass filters and three‐stage LNAs. Consequently, the circuit features a low noise figure of below 1.65 dB, a maximum out‐of‐band rejection level of 60 dB, and a stable active gain of 30 dB. The performance of the active antenna is evaluated in an outdoor open field using a GNSS receiver.
A highly survivable X‐band low noise amplifier based on GaN HEMT technology and impact of pulse width on recovery time
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Imran , Zafar Salahuddin , Akoglu Busra Cankaya , Caglar Gizem Tendurus , Hannan Abdullah , Urfali Emirhan , Aras Erdem , Ozbay Ekmel
Published: September 2024

GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT)‐based low noise amplifiers (LNAs) are an integral part of microwave receiver systems to enhance signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). The noise of LNA itself becomes critical for systems requiring high SNR, such as imaging and satellite communication systems. This paper discusses the design of a three‐stage LNA operating at the X‐band in the frequency range of 8.0–12.0 GHz. The amplifier's design and small signal, noise, and linearity characterizations are discussed. Stagewise analysis for gain, noise figure (NF), and matching network losses at the design stage results in achieving promising results. The proposed LNA provides a gain of 23.2 dB with  dB gain ripple. Its NF is below 1.5 dB, output power at 1 dB gain compression is 16.4 dBm, and third‐order intercept point is 24.7 dBm at 10 GHz. LNA's survivability is validated to input stress as high as 42 dBm. This LNA is the best reported NF and survivability combination in the 8.0–12.0‐GHz frequency range. The reverse recovery time of LNA is measured under two different pulse conditions, and it has been shown that LNA has better recovery times for lower pulse width signals. This LNA finds its applications in radars and satellite communication systems.
Psychometric evaluation of the extended inclusion of nature in self scale in Chinese adults through the Rasch analysis
Authors: Wang Xuanyi , Chen Shulin
Published: September 2024

How humans connect with nature impacts the well‐being of both people and ecosystems. Being disconnected from nature can lead to attitudes and behaviours that ultimately damage our physical and mental health and cause irreparable harm to the planet. To measure the human‐nature connection, measurements with good psychometric properties are warranted.

By synthesizing the existing instruments, we suggested the distinctive advantages of the Extended Inclusion of Nature in Self scale (EINS), such as using multiple graphical spatial metaphors. Based on the back‐translation method, we translated the EINS into a Chinese version (EINS‐C). Then, using the Rasch model and the classical test theory, we elaborately examined the psychometric properties of the scale with a sample of 786 Chinese adults.

Exploratory factor analysis, principal components analysis of Rasch residuals, and confirmative factor analysis together provided robust evidence for the one‐factor structure of the EINS‐C. Category probability curves showed the satisfying functioning of the rating scale. The scale further exhibited high criterion validity, convergent validity, internal consistency and test–retest reliability. The Rasch model fit statistics were also substantial for items. Each item presented a moderate difficulty, suggesting high discrimination power for levels of self‐nature connection. Scores on the scale could be meaningfully compared across genders, as no substantial differential item functioning was found.

The EINS‐C consequently demonstrated generally robust psychometric properties, which could be applied to the Chinese‐speaking community, approximately 16 per cent of the world's population. This high‐quality and convenient tool for evaluating and monitoring the relationship between humans and nature lays a foundation for and might facilitate conservation‐related research and policy formulation.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Characterization of the Prenatal Ultrasound Phenotype Associated With 7q11.23 Microduplication Syndrome and Williams–Beuren Syndrome
Authors: Wang Fengyang , Peng Huijuan , Lou Guiyu , Ren Yanxin , Liao Shixiu
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the intrauterine phenotype of fetuses with 7q11.23 microduplication syndrome and Williams–Beuren syndrome (WBS) to provide insight into prenatal genotype and phenotype correlations in the 7q11.23 region.

Methods

Seven fetuses with 7q11.23 microduplication syndrome and sixteen with WBS were diagnosed via array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) or copy number variation sequencing (CNV‐seq) at our center. Clinical data were also systematically collected and analyzed, including intrauterine phenotype, pregnancy outcome, and inheritance.

Results

In our cases, the most common prenatal ultrasound feature of 7q11.23 microduplication syndrome was cardiovascular defects; less frequent features included choroid plexus cysts, anencephaly, bilateral pyelectasis, and cervical lymphatic hygroma. On the other hand, WBS was mainly associated with cardiovascular defects and intrauterine growth retardation. Other clinical phenotypes included hypoechoic frontal horn of the right lateral ventricle, crossed fused renal ectopia, hyperechogenic bowel, hyperechogenic right thoracic cavity, and hyperechogenic hepatic parenchyma/intrahepatic duct wall.

Conclusions

Our study describes a series of new ultrasound features identified prenatally in fetuses with 7q11.23 microduplications and microdeletions with the intent of expanding the prenatal phenotype associated with copy number variants in this chromosomal region. Additional studies are needed to clearly delineate specific prenatal features associated with these rare genetic entities.
Development of high‐performance EGMA/EVA‐bamboo powder composite foams with enhanced stability, strengthening and toughening for sustainable applications
Authors: Hao Jianxin , Wang Xinghuo , Xie Hugang , Chen Qiqi , Chen Xiaoqing , Chen Yukun
Published: September 2024

Commercial ethylene vinyl acetate co‐polymer (EVA) foam is already an important part of everyday life thanks to its weather resistance and stability. However, the large amount of inorganic fillers present in commercial EVA foams is the main obstacle to their full carbon recovery. In this work, high‐performance ethylene‐acrylic ester‐glycidyl methacrylate/EVA‐bamboo powder (EGMA/EVA‐BP) composite foams with multiple cross‐linked network structures were successfully prepared by introducing a bio‐based filler, BP, and using EGMA as a partial replacement of the foaming matrix. Influenced by the multiple cross‐linked networks, the EGMA/EVA‐BP foam shows increased strength and toughness. Compared with EVA foams, the stability of EGMA/EVA‐BP foam is greatly improved by the introduction of BP and dispersion of EGMA, with tensile toughness and compressive modulus reaching 7.20 kN/m3 and 1.05 MPa. Meanwhile, the EGMA/EVA‐BP foam still retains the advantages of light weight (density of 0.175 g/cm3), high resilience (52%) and good thermal stability and durability (more than 400 cycles at 20% compression). In particular, BP enables the foam fully carbon‐degradable, making it easier to achieve sustainability in commercial polymer foams. This cost‐effective strategy offers an easily scalable solution for high‐performance, eco‐friendly commercial foam production.

Highlights

Bio‐based bamboo powder reinforces the foam to improve strength and toughness.

Multi‐crosslinking network design improves foam stability.

Lightweight, flexible, and durable foam.

Eco‐friendly foam: combination of renewable energy and advanced polymers.
Gaining headspace: A classroom‐based mindfulness intervention to promote attention for primary students
Authors: Rigney Alexander M. , Drevon Daniel D. , Hixson Michael D.
Published: September 2024

The authors investigated whether a functional relation exists between the mindfulness‐based intervention Headspace and student attentive behavior, and the perceptions of Headspace from instructors who used the intervention. The study was conducted in three classrooms with elementary‐age students. The intervention was delivered via the Headspace application. Data were collected using systematic direct observation. The research design was a multiple baseline design. Each classroom was the unit of analysis. Data were analyzed using visual analysis and by calculating a between‐case standardized mean difference. Results showed a nonsignificant, small effect size (g = 0.53, (95% CI [−0.15, 1.22]). Overall, results from the visual analysis suggest there was not a functional relation between Headspace and attentive behavior. The perceptions of Headspace by instructors were not positive. The results differ from previous results in the literature and are interpreted considering limitations related to the planning/design of the study as well as its execution.
“May all be well”: The links between compassion, psychological distress, and mindfulness in teaching in early years
Authors: Cheung Rebecca Y. M. , Kambouri Maria
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the relationship between compassion and mindfulness in teaching among early years practitioners, with low levels of psychological distress as a mediator. A total of 81 early years practitioners were recruited from the United Kingdom via mass emails and announcements on social media platforms. Findings based on path analysis indicated that lower psychological distress mediated the positive relation between compassion and intrapersonal mindfulness in teaching, after controlling for level of education, years of practice, and role of practitioner. More specifically, compassion was related to psychological distress, intrapersonal mindfulness, and interpersonal mindfulness in teaching, whereas psychological distress was related to intrapersonal mindfulness, but not interpersonal mindfulness in teaching. The present findings inform early years practitioners and researchers of a differential chain of processes between compassion, psychological distress, and mindfulness in teaching.
Prediction of Anti‐Freezing Proteins From Their Evolutionary Profile
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Choudhury Shubham , Bajiya Nisha , Patiyal Sumeet , Raghava Gajendra P. S.
Published: September 2024

Prediction of antifreeze proteins (AFPs) holds significant importance due to their diverse applications in healthcare. An inherent limitation of current AFP prediction methods is their reliance on unreviewed proteins for evaluation. This study evaluates, proposed and existing methods on an independent dataset containing 80 AFPs and 73 non‐AFPs obtained from Uniport, which have been already reviewed by experts. Initially, we constructed machine learning models for AFP prediction using selected composition‐based protein features and achieved a peak AUROC of 0.90 with an MCC of 0.69 on the independent dataset. Subsequently, we observed a notable enhancement in model performance, with the AUROC increasing from 0.90 to 0.93 upon incorporating evolutionary information instead of relying solely on the primary sequence of proteins. Furthermore, we explored hybrid models integrating our machine learning approaches with BLAST‐based similarity and motif‐based methods. However, the performance of these hybrid models either matched or was inferior to that of our best machine‐learning model. Our best model based on evolutionary information outperforms all existing methods on independent/validation dataset. To facilitate users, a user‐friendly web server with a standalone package named “AFPropred” was developed (https://webs.iiitd.edu.in/raghava/afpropred).
Glass fiber reinforced PA6 composites with high strength and high flowability by hyperbranched polyesters
Authors: Liang Xueting , Hu Qiangsheng , Cheng Kai , Jiang Yu , Chen Sufang , Zhang Daohong
Published: September 2024

Lightweighting of automotives is one of the efficient strategies to save energy and reduce CO2 emission and environmental pollution. Glass fiber reinforced polyamide composites (PA/GF) have accounted for about 20% of plastic composites for automotives, showing a large potential to replace metal materials. However, it is an imperative challenge to prepare high‐strength and rapid‐processing PA/GF composites due to poor compatibility between GF and PA. Here, we have synthesized amphiphilic hyperbranched polyesters (H24‐m) containing long aliphatic chains and hydroxyl groups by esterification between hydroxyl‐ended hyperbranched polyester (H24) and stearoyl chloride (SC), which are used to prepare high‐performance GF/PA6 composites. Influence factors on the mechanical properties and melt flow index (MFI) of PA6/GF composites have also been investigated, including GF content, H24‐50 content, esterification degree of H24, and the ratio of H24‐50 to carboxyl‐ended hyperbranched polymer (HyPer C100). The obtained C100/H24‐50/PA6/GF composites show simultaneously high strength, super toughness, high MFI, and high GF content of about 60 wt%. A dispersion‐bridging‐interfacial improvement mechanism has been discovered deeply by investigating crystal behavior, rheological behavior, hydrogen bond interaction, GF length variation, and the synergistic effect of amphiphilic hyperbranched polyester and HyPer C100. This work provides a simple approach to fabricating high‐performance GF/PA6 composites for extensive application in automotive parts, showing great prospects in the lightweight of automotives.
Research progress of cardiotoxicity caused by radiotherapy in breast cancer
Authors: Xu Xiaofei , Yin Yuesong , Zhang Lixia , Wang Dongmiao , Zhou Ye , Li Qingxia
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer has surpassed lung cancer as the most common type of malignancy worldwide. Treatments for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, endocrine therapy, immunotherapy, and hyperthermia. Radiotherapy plays an important role in breast cancer treatment. Patients with early breast cancer can have longer survival after combined treatment, but cardiotoxicity caused by radiotherapy may affect long‐term prognosis. This article reviews cardiac damage caused by radiotherapy in breast cancer.
Testing the potential of entomopathogenic nematodes in attract‐and‐kill and autodissemination approaches in the control of Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni
Authors: Aryal Sitaram , Tilden Geraldine , Riegler Markus
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Many studies have demonstrated that tephritid fruit fly larvae are highly susceptible to entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and may become infected as they enter the soil to pupate. However, the susceptibility of adult tephritids and their suitability as EPN targets have been less studied. We performed laboratory assays with 12 Australian EPN strains of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Heterorhabditis indica and Heterorhabditis zealandica in adults of the Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni. Infective juveniles were delivered in a yeast hydrolysate solution that is attractive to flies. We also measured the flight ability of adults up to 3 days after treatment.

RESULT

Flies that consumed the EPN‐yeast preparation experienced 72.8–84% mortality. Between 33.5% and 46.2% of EPN‐treated adults were still able to fly before death following treatment, mostly within the first day, thereby contributing to EPN dispersal. Another 31.9–39.9% of EPN‐treated flies that were unable to fly died as a result of EPN treatment. Overall, >65% of flies that died following EPN treatment had visible signs of infection and EPN reproduction.

CONCLUSION

Our study is foundational to the development of attract‐and‐kill and autodissemination approaches involving EPNs in fruit fly control. Furthermore, H. indica and H. zealandica strains showed the highest potential as biocontrol agents against adult flies. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Role of Neurotropic Viruses in Brain Metastasis of Breast Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Qiu Ziran , Liu Xinyu , Cao Wenqing , Li Rui , Yang Jun , Wang Chengyu , Li Zhong , Yao Xiaoqin , Chen Yuan , Ye Chunhua , Chen Shanzheng , Jin Na
Published: September 2024

Neurotropic viruses have been implicated in altering the central nervous system microenvironment and promoting brain metastasis of breast cancer through complex interactions involving viral entry mechanisms, modulation of the blood–brain barrier, immune evasion, and alteration of the tumour microenvironment. This narrative review explores the molecular mechanisms by which neurotropic viruses such as Herpes Simplex Virus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Japanese Encephalitis Virus, and Rabies Virus facilitate brain metastasis, focusing on their ability to disrupt blood–brain barrier integrity, modulate immune responses, and create a permissive environment for metastatic cell survival and growth within the central nervous system. Current therapeutic implications and challenges in targeting neurotropic viruses to prevent or treat brain metastasis are discussed, highlighting the need for innovative strategies and multidisciplinary approaches in virology, oncology, and immunology.
Rapid photo‐responsive dynamic disulfide strategy for accessing self‐healing, reconfigurable shape of high‐strength shape memory polyurethane
Authors: Zhang Qingxiang , Yang Jing , Zhou Kai , Zhang Nan , Pei Xianqiang , Zhang Xinrui , Chen Shoubing , Luo Heming , Wang Tingmei , Wang Qihua , Zhang Yaoming
Published: September 2024

Enabling soft shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) with self‐healing is an effective strategy to extend its service life; however, the tradeoff between high mechanical strength and rapid self‐healing to meet the practical applications remains a challenge. Herein, we prepared a polyurethane (PU) with polycarbonate diol as a soft segment, incorporating urea bonds and dynamic disulfide bonds through chain extenders. This material, denoted as PU‐NSS75, exhibited a remarkable tensile strength of 51.4 MPa, attributed to the synergistic energy dissipation effect of urea hydrogen bonding and dynamic disulfide bonds during stretching, leading to enhanced mechanical properties of the PU. The dynamic nature of the bonds, including hydrogen bonding and disulfide bonds, endowed the PU with exceptional self‐healing capabilities. Furthermore, leveraging the reversible mechanism of disulfide bonds under UV irradiation at room temperature, PU‐NSS75 achieved complete self‐healing within 1 min. This photoinduced dynamic chemical bonding also facilitated rapid reconfigure the original shape of the soft SMPU at room temperature, thus broadening its potential applications. This study offers a design approach to enhance soft shape memory polyurethane materials, while the rapid self‐healing and shape reconfiguration provide new avenues for expanding the applications of shape memory polyurethanes.
Understanding the role of pig manure, rice straw, and calcium carbonate on the cadmium pollution in soil–wheat system
Authors: Gao Qiliang , Chang Huiqing , Huang Tiangang , Zhou Rui
Published: September 2024

To explore the specific effects of pig manure and rice straw on cadmium‐contaminated soils and the effect of different mass fractions of calcium carbonate on cadmium efficacy, a pot experiment was conducted with different rates of pig manure, rice straw, and calcium carbonate. The results showed that pig manure addition increased the soil humic acid/fulvic acid ratio, thereby reducing the available Cd. The addition of calcium carbonate increased the soil pH and reduced the available Cd. The addition of pig manure and calcium carbonate significantly reduced the Cd content of wheat grains by 51.96% and 45.95%, respectively, at 3% and 5% application rates. Rice straw application reduced the soil pH, improved the soil Cd availability, and increased the accumulation of Cd in wheat grains. Compared with that in the control, the grain biomass increased significantly with 3% pig manure and 3% rice straw application, and the grain biomass increased significantly, by 58.86% and 39.11%, and 93.3% and 75.08%, respectively, in 2020 and 2021. With the application of calcium carbonate, the grain biomass of wheat first decreased and then increased. Additionally, the grain biomass significantly increased by 26.36% and 71.22%, respectively, at the 5% calcium carbonate application rate. Therefore, high application rates of pig manure (3% and 5%) have potential application in the safe production of wheat in Cd‐contaminated soils.
Perceived control predicts lower end‐of‐day stress through engagement in moderate or vigorous physical activity: A daily diary study in a US adult sample
Authors: Magin Zachary E. , Gnall Katherine E. , Emrich Mariel , Park Crystal L.
Published: September 2024

Perceived control (PC) is associated with lower perceived stress, but the mechanisms of this relationship have not yet been established. The current study examined whether moderate or vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) mediated the relationship between PC and daily stress in a sample of US adults. Participants (N = 264, Mage = 34.08, 61.4% female) completed a baseline measure of two dimensions of PC (i.e., mastery and constraints), followed by 11 days of daily surveys that assessed daily MVPA and perceived stress. We employed linear mixed effects modelling to estimate the within‐and between‐person indirect effects (IE) of MVPA on the relationships between each dimension of PC and daily perceived stress. Greater PC (i.e., higher mastery and lower constraints) was associated with a higher frequency of MVPA engagement, and participants reported lower levels of end‐of‐day perceived stress on the days in which they had engaged in MVPA. We observed within‐person mediating effects of MVPA on the relationship between both PC dimensions and daily stress (mastery: within‐person IE = −0.03, 95% CI: [−0.06, −0.01]; constraints: within‐person IE = 0.03, 95% CI: [0.01, 0.06]). These findings suggest that MVPA is a potential mechanism through which US adults with greater PC experience reduced levels of daily stress. The current study illuminates a key pathway for the stress‐reducing impact of PC to inform future research and interventions targeting stress and its associated sequelae.
Hybrid Electro search beetle optimization based task scheduling and game theory SOA based resource allocation in multi cloud computing
Authors: Sreelatha Gavini , Reddy C. Kishor Kumar , Hanafiah Marlia Mohd , Madana Mohana R.
Published: September 2024

The most complicated process in multi‐cloud computing is resource allocation, as it needs to cope with a number of configurations and constraints of cloud providers and customers. At the time of resource allocation, the centralized cloud broker monitors the virtual machines (VM) status, scheduling process, and fitness. However, VM scheduling is found tedious and has received huge attention in business, academia, and research. This enhances the demand for both task scheduling and resource allocation in a multi‐cloud environment. To bridge the gap between the consumer requirement and server infrastructure, a joint optimization‐based resource allocation and task scheduling concept is analyzed in the proposed framework. The first phase introduces the task scheduling mechanism, which uses Hybrid Electro Search and Beetle Swarm Optimization to determine the optimal task for specific VMs. The optimal selection procedure is done by analyzing a multi‐cloud environment's makespan, energy, cost, and throughput parameters. In the second step, an Adaptive Game Theory‐based Seagull optimization approach performs several rounds of reassignment iteratively to minimize the variation in the expected completion time, consequently decreasing high energy consumption and load balancing. The experimental analysis for the proposed model is implemented using Python. The proposed methodology is shown to achieve cheaper costs, shorter waiting times, improved resource allocation, and efficient load balancing. Finally, a comparative analysis is performed with some hybrid optimization models, which illustrate the efficiency of the proposed hybrid optimization model.