bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved reweighting protocols for variationally enhanced sampling simulations with multiple walkers
Authors: Stevensson Baltzar , Edén Mattias
Published: July 2023

We demonstrate that novel time-integration-based reweighting methods along with multiple walkers offer more rapid convergence of reweighted observables in variationally enhanced sampling (VES) simulations.
Assessing the impact of choline chloride and benzyltrimethylammonium chloride-based deep eutectic solvents on the structure and conformational dynamics of bovine serum albumin: a combined steady-state, time-resolved fluorescence and fluorescence correlation spectroscopic study
Authors: Barik Sahadev , Mahapatra Amita , Preeyanka Naupada , Sarkar Moloy
Published: July 2023

The impact of two DESs (ethaline and BMEG) on the structural and conformational dynamics of BSA has been studied. BMEG leads to complete unfolding and aggregation of BSA, while in the presence of ethaline, BSA remains in a partially folded state.
IR cavity ringdown spectroscopy and density functional theory calculation of pyrrole–diethyl ketone clusters: impacts of carbon-chain flexibility on the diversity of N–H⋯OC hydrogen bonds
Authors: Matsumoto Yoshiteru , Honma Kenji
Published: July 2023

The flexibility of carbon-chain between anti and gauche in diethyl ketone strongly induces the diversity of the N–H⋯OC H-bond in pyrrole–diethyl ketone clusters. Various isomeric structures are identified by IR cavity ringdown spectroscopy.
Correction: Sizable magnetic entropy change in bismuth-substituted La0.75Bi0.1Na0.15MnO3 manganite
Authors: Mendonca Lozil Denzil , Murari M. S. , Daivajna Mamatha D
Published: July 2023

Correction for ‘Sizable magnetic entropy change in bismuth-substituted La0.75Bi0.1Na0.15MnO3 manganite’ by Lozil Denzil Mendonca et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2022, 24, 13171–13188, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2CP00559J.
Spin dynamics in a Heisenberg weak antiferromagnetic chain of an iodide-bridged Cu(ii) complex
Authors: Wakizaka Masanori , Arczyński Mirosław , Gupta Shraddha , Takaishi Shinya , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: July 2023

[CuII(chxn)2I]I shows S = 1/2 Heisenberg weak antiferromagnetism and magnetic relaxation. This work represents an unprecedented link between a quantum spin chain system and a spin dynamics system.
The anti-hyperlipidemic effect and underlying mechanisms of barley (Hordeum vulgareL.) grass polysaccharides in mice induced by a high-fat diet
Authors: Yan Jing-Kun , Chen Ting-Ting , Li Long-Qing , Liu Fengyuan , Liu Xiaozhen , Li Lin
Published: July 2023

Polysaccharides obtained from barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grass showed good anti-hyperlipidemia activityin vivoand can be developed as a promising nutritional supplement for dietary intervention in hyperlipidemia.
Multi-omics reveals that green pea (Pisum sativum L.) hull supplementation ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via the SHMT2/glycine/mTOR/PPAR-γ signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Fanghua , Xiong Hua , Tsao Rong , Wen Xushen , Liu Jiahua , Chen Dongying , Jiang Li , Sun Yong
Published: July 2023

Dietary supplementation with green pea hulls alleviates NAFLD induced by DSS combined with a high-fat diet via the SHMT2/glycine/mTOR/PPAR-γ signaling pathway.
Automatic trajectory control of single cells using dielectrophoresis based on visual feedback
Authors: Lefevre Alexis , Gauthier Michaël , Bourgeois Pauline , Frelet-Barrand Annie , Bolopion Aude
Published: July 2023

This paper deals with the automatic control of the trajectory of T-lymphocytes using dielectrophoretic (DEP) actuation. T-lymphocytes have been successfully steered along different trajectories with a mean error below 2 μm.
Stimulus-responsive nonclose-packed photonic crystals: fabrications and applications
Authors: Hu Yang , Yu Siyi , Wei Boru , Yang Dongpeng , Ma Dekun , Huang Shaoming
Published: July 2023

Stimulus-responsive nonclosely packed photonic crystals are reviewed on the aspects of fundamentals, fabrications, properties, and applications.
Facile fabrication of a modified polyamide acid porous membrane for uranium enrichment in wastewater
Authors: Mi Zhiming , Meng Lingjun , Wang Junman , Liao Lintao , Huang Yangyang , Zhang Kaiyang , Xiao Jingling , Xie Tongtong , Yan Yuhang , Zhong Yiping , Liu Zhixiao
Published: July 2023

A GPAA membrane was obtained by nucleophilic polycondensation of dianhydride and excess diamine, followed by crosslinking and NIPS processes. The GPAA membrane exhibited excellent uranium capturing performance in wastewater.
One-pot synthesis of multisubstituted propenylbenzenes from benzyl chlorides through relay catalysis of palladium
Authors: Wang Haiyu , Zhang Sheng , Feng Xiujuan , Yu Xiaoqiang , Yamaguchi Masahiko , Bao Ming
Published: July 2023

A strategy for the synthesis of multisubstituted propenylbenzenes using benzyl chlorides as starting materials is described.
Cationic star copolymers obtained by the arm first approach for gene transfection
Authors: Burgevin Fannie , Hapeshi Alexia , Song Ji-Inn , Omedes-Pujol Marta , Christie Annette , Lindsay Christopher , Perrier Sébastien
Published: July 2023

Cationic polymers can be used as vectors to transport and efficiently protect nucleic acids.
Multi-stimuli-responsive copolymers based on 1-pyrenol polyphotoacids
Authors: Kaberov Leonid I. , Sittig Maria , Chettri Avinash , Ibrahim Abdelrahman , Dietzek-Ivanšić Benjamin , Schacher Felix H.
Published: July 2023

In this work we present a set of multi-stimuli responsive copolymers based on a photoresponsive 1-pyrenol-based comonomer and oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEGMA) comonomers of varying molecular weight.
Design and synthesis of RNA-responsive o-phenanthroline Eu(iii) complexes as probes for STED super-resolution dual-targeted bioimaging
Authors: Yuan Hao , Wang Tao , Zhu Tong , Feng Zhihui , Wang Fei , Tian Yupeng , Xiong Liulin , Tian Xiaohe
Published: July 2023

Rare earth complexes for studying interactions between lipid droplets and mitochondria: monitoring changes in LDs and mitochondria using Eu(TTA)3-L3 under two-photon conditions.
Redox transformation of β-sulfinyl esters for asymmetric synthesis of sulfone-based axially chiral styrenes
Authors: Xiang Shiyu , Lu Taotao , Liu Junjun , Zhao Qingyang
Published: July 2023

An unprecedented catalytic sulfonylation strategy has been developed through the redox transformation of β-sulfinyl esters, providing a facile access to axially chiral sulfone-containing styrenes with VQMs in excellent enantioselectivities.
Nanocapsules of unprecedented internal volume seamed by calcium ions
Authors: Sikligar Kanishka , Kelley Steven P. , Wagle Durgesh V. , Ishtaweera Piyuni , Baker Gary A. , Atwood Jerry L.
Published: July 2023

A new class of pyrogallol[4]arene metal-organic nanocapsules has been discovered which are seamed by Ca2+-containing polyatomic ions and have unprecedented internal volume.
Pickering emulsions stabilised with oligoglycine-functionalised nanodiamond as a model system for ocular drug delivery applications
Authors: Huang Zhiwei , Moiseev Roman V. , Melides Solomon S. , Bae Wooli , Jurewicz Izabela , Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy V. , Keddie Joseph L.
Published: July 2023

Nanodiamond – functionalised with oligoglycine – is used as a novel Pickering emulsion stabiliser, offering high retention on bovine cornea tissue via mucoadhesion.
Experimental evidence of β-relaxation and its structural origin in ZIF-62 glass
Authors: Peng Si-Xu , Zhu Ying-Ying , Li Gang , Luo Yongkang , Han Xiaotao , Liu Shi-Yu
Published: July 2023

β-relaxation was first observed in the ZIF-62 metal–organic framework glass together with the maximum full width at half maximum of the relaxation peak among all known glassy materials.
Outer membrane translocation of pyocins via the copper regulated TonB-dependent transporter CrtA
Authors: Premsuriya Jiraphan , Mosbahi Khedidja , Atanaskovic Iva , Kleanthous Colin , Walker Daniel
Published: July 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common cause of serious hospital-acquired infections, the leading proven cause of mortality in people with cystic fibrosis and is associated with high levels of antimicrobial resistance. Pyocins are narrow-spectrum protein antibiotics produced by P. aeruginosa that kill strains of the same species and have the potential to be developed as therapeutics targeting multi-drug resistant isolates. We have identified two novel pyocins designated SX1 and SX2. Pyocin SX1 is a metal-dependent DNase while pyocin SX2 kills cells through inhibition of protein synthesis. Mapping the uptake pathways of SX1 and SX2 shows these pyocins utilize a combination of the common polysaccharide antigen (CPA) and a previously uncharacterized TonB-dependent transporter (TBDT) PA0434 to traverse the outer membrane. In addition, TonB1 and FtsH are required by both pyocins to energize their transport into cells and catalyze their translocation across the inner membrane, respectively. Expression of PA0434 was found to be specifically regulated by copper availability and we have designated PA0434 as Copper Responsive Transporter A, or CrtA. To our knowledge these are the first S-type pyocins described that utilize a TBDT that is not involved in iron uptake.
Does the i-process operate at nearly solar metallicity?
Authors: Karinkuzhi D. , Van Eck S. , Goriely S. , Siess L. , Jorissen A. , Choplin A. , Escorza A. , Shetye S. , Van Winckel H.
Published: July 2023

Context. A sample of 895 s-process-rich candidates has been found among the 454 180 giant stars surveyed by LAMOST at low spectral resolution (R ~ 1800). In a previous study, taking advantage of the higher resolution (R ~ 86 000) offered by the HERMES-Mercator spectrograph, we performed a reanalysis of 15 of the brightest stars of this sample. Among these 15 programme stars, which have close-to-solar metallicities, 11 showed mild to strong heavy-element overabundances. However, we did not investigate the nucleosynthetic process(es) at the origin of these overabundances in our former study.

Aims. We derive the abundances in s- and r-process elements of the 15 targets in order to investigate whether some stars also show an i-process signature, as sometimes found in their lower-metallicity counterparts (namely, the carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP)-rs stars).

Methods. Abundances are derived from the high-resolution HERMES spectra for Pr, Nd, Sm, and Eu using the TURBOSPECTRUM radiative-transfer local thermodynamic equilibrium code with MARCS model atmospheres.

Results. Using the new classification scheme proposed in our recent study, we find that two stars show overabundances in both sand r-process elements that are well above the level expected from Galactic chemical evolution (GCE), an analogous situation to that of CEMP-rs stars at lower metallicities. We compare the abundances of the most enriched stars with the nucleosynthetic predictions from the STAREVOL stellar evolutionary code and find abundances compatible with an i-process occurring in asymptotic giant branch stars.

Conclusions. Despite there being a larger number of heavy elements with which to characterize the enrichment pattern, the limit between CEMP-s and CEMP-rs stars remains indistinct. Nevertheless, it is interesting to note that an increasing number of extrinsic stars are found to have abundances better reproduced by an i-process pattern even at close-to-solar metallicities.
Sufficient conditions for the controllability of wave equations with a transmission condition at the interface
Authors: Gagnon Ludovick
Published: July 2023

We consider waves travelling in two different mediums each endowed with a different constant speed of propagation. At the interface between the two mediums, the refraction of the rays of the optic geometry obeys the Snell’s law. We provide sufficient conditions on the geometry’ of the mediums and on the speed of propagation for the exact boundary controllability.
Analysis The Potential of Ecotourism In North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Province
Authors: Suly Eraku Sunarty , Lasaripi Supriadi , Karmin Baruadi Mohamad , Mohamad Nurdin , Hendra
Published: July 2023

Gorontalo Province has abundant potential for tourism resources. The development of ecotourism focuses on aspects of nature conservation, aspects of socio-cultural-economic empowerment of local communities, and aspects of learning and education. One of the tourism potentials in Gorontalo Province is the ecotourism area in North Gorontalo Regency. This study aims to determine the potential for ecotourism in North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Province. Field observation research methods consist of direct measurements, interviews, and distributing questionnaires. This ecotourism potential analysis uses 2 main parameters, namely physical parameters and institutional, social, economic, and environmental parameters with 10 assessment criteria consisting of (1) Physical Parameters: Distance, facilities and infrastructure, accessibility, attractiveness, and availability of clean water. (2) Institutional, Social, Economic, and Environmental Parameters consisting of Management, entertainment attractions, security, sales of souvenirs and food, and spatial planning. Of the three tourist objects that are the object of research, the results show that two of them have high potential and one of them has medium potential as ecotourism. The tourist objects in question are Minanga Beach with a final scoring value of 3.15 and Mohinggito Island 3.25 which are included in the high potential category. Meanwhile, Diyonumo Island received a final score of 2.95 which is included in the medium category.
The Attitudes of First-Year Graduate Students Towards Research: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tauhidah Dian , Rahmasiwi Amining , Jayanti Ummi Nur Afinni Dwi
Published: July 2023

Graduate students must have research skills, so some universities conduct research-based learning. However, students’ attitudes toward research have never been measured. The purpose of this study was to explore graduate students’ attitudes toward research. This study used a cross-sectional survey design. Attitudes toward research can have an impact on self-confidence, learning motivation, and academic achievement. Graduate students from the Biology Department took part in an online survey about their attitudes toward research using Google Forms. The sample consisted of 83 graduate students from various universities in Indonesia. An attitude toward the research questionnaire was used, with six categories: research usefulness for the profession, research anxiety, positive attitude toward research, the relevance of research to life, research difficulties, and research complexity. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics where frequency and percentage were calculated for categorical variables. The study results show that most students like research (81.93%) and think it will be beneficial to their lives and careers (93.98%), but they also believe that research is complex (75.9%) and has some flaws (59.04%). The implication of this research is to make students aware of the usefulness of research and the challenges they face when conducting research. The curriculum for research methodology courses needs to be improved to shift the perception of the difficulty and complexity of research.
The Potential ofgrxBGene for Detection ofC. sakazakiiin Infant Formula Milk Using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Akbar Juliansyah Dandy , Nurjayadi Muktiningsih , Lynford Declan Jefferson , Indira Putri Gladys , Krisdawati Ismaya , Azzahra Maharanianska , Maulana Irvan , Saamia Vira , Anna Oktaviani Saputro Dwi , Made Wiranatha I , Ali El-Enshasy Hesham
Published: July 2023

Cronobacter sakazakiiis one of the bacteria that causes food poisoning that contaminates infant formula. This pathogen causes necrotizing enterocolitis, sepsis, and meningitis in infants or neonates with reported case fatality rates ranging from 40% to 80%. Therefore, it is necessary to develop fast and accurate detection ofC. sakazakiiin infant formula milk. This research aims to develop a method for detectingC. sakazakiibacteria using real-time PCR with high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. A rapid detection method using real-time PCR with the target genegrxBsuccessfully detects the presence of C. sakazakii DNA in artificially contaminated formula milk. The results of the real-time PCR test showed thatC. sakazakiiDNA with a concentration of 53 ng/µL could be amplified by thegrxBgene primer pair with a Ct value of 12 and a Tm value of 85.8ºC. The specificity test showed that thegrxBprimer could differentiate between target and some non-target bacteria. The sensitivity test showed the ability of thegrxBprimer to detect the smallest concentration of 3,392 pg/µL with a Ct of 24,06. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that thegrxBprimer has the potential to be used as rapid detection method forC. sakazakiibacteria in infant formula using real-time PCR.
A simple clinical score to stratify the risk of procedure-related adverse events in ERCP procedures with trainee involvement
Authors: Voiosu Theodor A. , Benguș Andreea , Bronswijk Michiel , Lyutakov Ivan , Klarin Ivo , Voiosu Bianca , Bălănescu Paul , Diaconu Claudia , Busuioc Bogdan , Boskoski Ivo , Voiosu Andrei M. , Mateescu Radu B. , Wani Sachin
Published: July 2023

Background Optimal training strategies in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) remain controversial despite the shift toward competence-based training models, with limited data available on patient safety during training. We aimed to assess whether pre-procedural clinical predictors could identify patients at low risk of developing procedure-related adverse-events (AEs) in a training environment.

Methods We performed a prospective, multicenter, cohort study in five training centers. A data collection system documenting indication, clinical data, trainee performance (assessed using a validated competence assessment tool), technical outcomes, and AEs over a 30-day follow-up was utilized. We developed a clinical risk score (Trainee Involvement in ERCP Risk Score [TIERS]) for patients undergoing ERCP and compared the rate of AEs in a training environment between low-risk and high-risk groups. The association between trainee performance and AE rate was also evaluated.

Results 1283 ERCPs (409 [31.9 %, 95 %CI 29.3 %–34.4 %] with trainee involvement) performed by 11 trainers and 10 trainees were analyzed. AEs were more frequent in the high-risk compared with the low-risk group: 26.7 % (95 %CI 20.5 %–34.7 %) vs. 17.1 % (95 %CI 12.8 %–22.2 %). TIERS demonstrated a high negative predictive value for AEs (82.9 %, 95 %CI 79.4 %–85.8 %) and was the only predictor of AEs on multivariable analysis (odds ratio 1.38, 95 %CI 1.09–1.75). Suboptimal trainee performance was associated with an increase in AE rates.

Conclusion Simple, clinical-based predictive tools could improve ERCP training by selecting the most appropriate cases for hands-on training, with the aim of increasing patient safety.
Multidisziplinäre Behandlungsleitlinie für Unterschenkelbeschwerden in den Niederlanden
Authors: Janssen Ingrid T. J. A. , Zimmermann Wes O. , Bakker Eric W. P.
Published: July 2023

Belastungsbedingte Schmerzsyndrome des Unterschenkels gehören zu den drei häufigsten Verletzungen bei Menschen, die aus beruflichen Gründen oder bei der Sportausübung viel stehen, schnell gehen und/oder viel laufen und springen müssen. Die niederländische multidisziplinäre Leitlinie „Belastungsbedingte Schmerzsyndrome des Unterschenkels“ gibt neue Einblicke in den optimalen Diagnose- und Behandlungspfad.
Krafttraining mit Kindern und Jugendlichen: Kreuzheben
Authors: Zawieja Martin
Published: July 2023

Martin Zawieja stellt in diesem Artikel die Übung Kreuzheben vor. Seiner Ansicht nach ist sie die zentrale Kräftigungsübung für die gesamte Rumpfmuskulatur und die Muskulatur der unteren Extremitäten und daher unverzichtbar, wenn es um die Entwicklung der Rumpfkraft bei Kindern und Jugendlichen geht.
Erleben (potenziell) traumatischer Einsätze und (partielle)
posttraumatische Belastungsstörung bei Polizeibeamt:innen – eine
explorative Befragung von Berufsanfänger:innen
Authors: Posch Lena , Zube Anna-Lena
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund Polizeibeamt:innen werden in ihrer beruflichen Karriere oft
mit traumatischen Einsätzen konfrontiert und weisen im Vergleich zur
Allgemeinbevölkerung ein erhöhtes Risiko eine PTBS zu entwickeln
auf. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war, zu untersuchen, ob und wie häufig
Berufsanfänger:innen der Polizei bereits (potenziell) traumatische
Einsätze erlebt haben und wie häufig eine PTBS oder eine
subsyndromale Ausprägung der PTBS vorliegt. Ferner war von Interesse, ob
ihnen das Konzept zur psychosozialen Notfallversorgung für
Einsatzkräfte (PSNV-E) bekannt ist und ob diese Angebote in Anspruch
genommen werden.

Methode
N=221 Berufsanfänger:innen der Polizei wurden im Rahmen
einer Online-Befragung zum Erleben potenziell traumatischer Einsätze
befragt. Zudem wurde mit der PCL-5 das Ausmaß posttraumatischer
Belastungssymptome erhoben.

Ergebnisse Über die Hälfte der Befragten
(n=121) hatten mindestens einen (potenziell) traumatischen
Einsatz erlebt. Die PTBS-Prävalenz lag in dieser Gruppe bei
1,7%, weitere 14,9% wiesen eine partielle PTBS auf. Einem
Fünftel der Befragten war das PSNV-E Konzept nicht bekannt.

Schlussfolgerung Bereits in den ersten Berufsjahren sind
Polizeibeamt:innen mit extrem belastenden Einsätzen konfrontiert,
woraufhin ein Teil von ihnen erste Anzeichen einer PTBS aufweist. Frühe
Präventionsmaßnahmen sowie Identifikation von Betroffenen zur
sekundären Prävention sind von hoher Relevanz für die
langfristige Gesunderhaltung.
Antibiotic Treatment During Pregnancy and the First Six Months Postpartum – a Secondary Analysis of the “Healthy Living in Pregnancy” (GeliS) Study
Authors: Knoke Johanna , Raab Roxana , Geyer Kristina , Spies Monika , Haller Bernhard , Hauner Hans
Published: July 2023

Antibiotic therapies for the treatment of bacterial infections pose a particular challenge during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For Germany, there is hardly any information on the
frequency of antibiotic use during this phase. Our analysis uses data from the “Healthy Living in Pregnancy” (GeliS) study to describe antibiotic treatments during pregnancy and in the
first six months after birth (postpartum), and to compare their use with existing recommendations.

This is a retrospective secondary analysis of the GeliS study. In the cluster randomized lifestyle intervention study, detailed information on antibiotic therapies during pregnancy and
postpartum was collected using surveys. Chi-square tests and generalized estimating equations were used for evaluation.

Of the 1636 women included in the analysis, 21% reported antibiotic treatment at least once during pregnancy (14%) or in the first six months postpartum (7%). During pregnancy, the
antibiotic therapies of women increased from 1.7% in the first trimester to 6.5% in the third trimester. Common reasons for treatment were urinary tract infections (7.3% of women), ear,
nose, throat (ENT) infections (3.6%), and birth complications (2.6%). The information on the prescribed preparations corresponded to the current recommendations. A significant increase in
the frequency of treatment with antibiotics was observed in the lifestyle intervention group (p < 0.001), in participants without a partner (p < 0.001), and in women who breastfed
their children (p = 0.005) or gave birth by caesarean section (p = 0.003) or prematurely (p = 0.012). Other socioeconomic or lifestyle factors were not significant.

Approximately one in five women receives at least one antibiotic treatment during pregnancy and breastfeeding that meets current treatment recommendations. Treatment with antibiotics is
more common in premature births, caesarean sections, and breastfeeding women.
The Addition of Exercise to High-Intensity Laser Therapy Improves
Treatment Effectiveness on Pain and Muscle Strength in Patients with Subacromial
Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Yeşilyaprak Sevgi Sevi , Paskal Seda , Koşay Can , Hapa Onur
Published: July 2023

Objective To assess the efficacy of adding exercise to high-intensity
laser therapy (HILT) in improving treatment effectiveness for clinical outcomes
in patients with subacromial pain syndrome.

Methods Thirty patients with subacromial pain syndrome were randomly
assigned to the HILT-only group (n=15) or HILT&Exercise group
(n=15). The primary outcome was shoulder function and disability.
Secondary outcomes were pain, range of motion, proprioception (joint position
sense), and muscle strength.

Results Shoulder function and disability, pain, range of motion, joint
position sense, and some muscle strength improved in both groups
(p<0.05). There was no significant time-group interaction for the
Constant-Murley Score, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, rest pain, range of
motion, and joint position sense (p>0.05). Time-group showed significant
effects for activity pain and strength in favor of the HILT&Exercise
group. Middle trapezius, lower trapezius, and supraspinatus strength increased
after HILT plus exercise (p<0.05), activity pain, upper trapezius,
serratus anterior, and subscapularis strength improved more compared to HILT
(p<0.05).

Conclusions We found no clinically important differences between HILT and
HILT-plus exercise in shoulder function and disability, rest pain, mobility, and
proprioception, in patients with subacromial pain syndrome. The addition of
exercise to HILT was superior to HILT for improving activity pain and muscle
strength.
Adverse Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes among Adolescent Pregnancies in the United States
Authors: Katlaps Isabel , Ghafari-Saravi Afsoon , Mandelbaum Ava , Packer Claire H. , Doshi Uma , Garg Bharti , Caughey Aaron B. , Valent Amy M.
Published: July 2023

Objective Despite a downward trend in recent years, adolescent pregnancies in the United States remain higher than any other western country. Adolescent pregnancies have been inconsistently associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between adolescent pregnancies and adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes in the United States.

Study Design This is a retrospective cohort study of singleton births in the United States from 2014 to 2020 using national vital statistics data. Perinatal outcomes included gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, preterm delivery <37 weeks (preterm birth [PTB]), cesarean delivery (CD), chorioamnionitis, small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), and neonatal composite outcome. Chi-square tests were used to compare outcomes among adolescent (13–19 years) versus adult (20–29 years) pregnancies. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine association of adolescent pregnancies with perinatal outcomes. For each outcome, we utilized three models: unadjusted logistic regression, adjusted for demographics, and adjusted for demographics and medical comorbidities. Similar analyses were used to compare younger (13–17 years) and older (18–19 years) adolescent pregnancies to adults.

Results In a cohort of 14,014,078 pregnancies, we found that adolescents were at an increased risk of PTB (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.12, 99% confidence interval (CI): 1.12–1.13) and SGA (aOR: 1.02, 99% CI: 1.01–1.03) compared with adult pregnancies. We also found that multiparous adolescents with a prior history of CD were at an increased risk of CD, compared with adults. For all other outcomes, adult pregnancies were at higher risk for adverse outcomes in the adjusted models. When comparing birth outcomes among adolescents, we found that older adolescents are at an increased risk of PTB, whereas younger adolescents are at an increased risk of both PTB and SGA.

Conclusion After adjusting for confounders, our study demonstrates adolescents have an increased risk of PTB and SGA, compared with adults.

Key Points
Effect of ABCA1-R219K Polymorphism in Serum Lipid Parameters in Patients under Statin Therapy Visiting Tertiary Cardiac Center of Nepal
Authors: Ghimire Sapana , Yadav Binod Kumar , Shrestha Sweta , Shakya Jivan , Poudel Chandra Mani , Tuladhar Eans Tara , Sharma Vijay Kumar , Raut Mithilesh , Bhattarai Aseem , Manandhar Krishna Das , Pant Vivek , Shrestha Deependra
Published: July 2023

Introduction ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) encoded by ABCA1 gene is one of the important protein involved in lipid metabolism. The effect of statin therapy on dyslipidemia varies among individuals and it may be due to different genetic polymorphism. The R219K polymorphism of ABCA1 gene is found to have a significant role in the response of statin.

Objective This study was designed to evaluate the effect of R219K polymorphism in lipid-lowering action of statin in patients with dyslipidemia.

Material and Methods This study was conducted in 88 patients. Blood samples were taken from patients before and at the end of 3 months of statin use and were analyzed for lipid profile. Whole blood was analyzed for R219K Polymorphism using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results R219K polymorphism was associated with significant percentage reduction of serum triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein (TG/HDL) ratio and total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (TC/HDL) ratio in atorvastatin users. However, there was no significant association of polymorphism with change in serum TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TG, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Among KK genotype individuals, value of TG, VLDL, TG/HDL, and TC/HDL were significantly lower than in RR genotypes. Also, TG/HDL and TC/HDL were significantly lower in RK genotype than in RR. Treatment of dyslipidemia with statin was found to be comparatively better in patients having the genotypes KK and RK.

Conclusion Our study demonstrated association of R219K polymorphism with the significant reduction of TG/HDL and TC/HDL and particularly the KK genotype was associated with significant improvement of lipid parameters following atorvastatin treatment.
Awareness of Preeclampsia among Antenatal Clinic Attendees in Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Adamu Aisha N. , Callahan Katie L. , Anderson Peter B.
Published: July 2023

Background Preeclampsia (PE) is among the five main causes of maternal mortality in low resource countries. This study was designed to assess PE awareness and its socioeconomic determinants among antenatal clinic attendees in northwestern Nigeria.

Methods Two hundred twenty-one antenatal clinic attendees in northwestern Nigeria were selected through systematic random sampling for this quantitative study. Women who were 9 months pregnant and had consented to participate were included; those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes mellitus were excluded. Data on respondents' sociodemographic variables, and PE awareness were collected using a validated questionnaire. Associations between variables were tested using chi-square test and multiple regression analysis.

Results Ninety-one percent of respondents were aged 20 to 40 years, 53.9% were multiparous, 27% had no or low level of formal education, and 52% had attended antenatal care (ANC) at least four times in the index pregnancy. Only 37% (N = 83) were aware of PE. Women with formal education were 3.8 times more likely (odds ratio [OR] = 3.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–10.3) to be aware of PE compared with those with no formal education (p < 0.05). Also, women who experienced hypertension in their previous pregnancies were 2.8 times more likely (OR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.37–5.71) to be aware of PE than those women who had not (p < 0.05).

Conclusion There was a low level of PE awareness among pregnant women in this study; being formally educated and having had hypertension in a previous pregnancy were positively associated with PE awareness. PE education should be part of ANC.
Effect of Oral Anticoagulants in Atrial Fibrillation Patients with Polypharmacy: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Yuxiang , Li Siyuan , Liu Xiao , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Guo Linjuan , Zhu Wengen
Published: July 2023

Background The aim of the present meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) versus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with polypharmacy.

Methods and Results Randomized controlled trials or observational studies reporting the data of NOACs versus VKAs among AF patients with polypharmacy were included. The search was performed in the PubMed and Embase databases up to November 2022. A total of 12 studies involving 767,544 AF patients were included. For the primary outcomes, the use of NOACs compared with VKAs was significantly associated with a reduced risk of stroke or systemic embolism in AF patients with moderate polypharmacy (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.77 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.69–0.86]) and severe polypharmacy (HR: 0.76 [95% CI: 0.69–0.82]), but there was no significant difference in major bleeding (moderate polypharmacy: HR: 0.87 [95% CI: 0.74–1.01]; severe polypharmacy: HR: 0.91 [95% CI: 0.79–1.06]) between the two groups. In secondary outcomes, there were no differences in the rates of ischemic stroke, all-cause death, and gastrointestinal bleeding between the NOAC- and VKA- users, but NOAC users had a reduced risk of any bleeding compared with VKA- users. Compared with VKAs, the risk of intracranial hemorrhage was reduced in NOAC- users with moderate polypharmacy but not severe polypharmacy.

Conclusion In patients with AF and polypharmacy, NOACs showed advantages over VKAs in stroke or systemic embolism and any bleeding, and were comparable to VKAs for major bleeding, ischemic stroke, all-cause death, intracranial hemorrhage, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
D-β-Hydroxybutyrate Dehydrogenase Mitigates Diabetes-Induced Atherosclerosis through the Activation of Nrf2
Authors: Lin Jie , Ren Qian , Zhang Fanjie , Gui Jing , Xiang Xin , Wan Qin
Published: July 2023

Background We aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 (Bdh1) in regulating macrophage oxidative stress in diabetes-induced atherosclerosis (AS).

Methods We performed immunohistochemical analysis of femoral artery sections to determine differences in Bdh1 expression between normal participants, AS patients, and patients with diabetes-induced AS. Diabetic Apoe−/−
mice and high-glucose (HG)-treated Raw264.7 macrophages were used to replicate the diabetes-induced AS model. The role of Bdh1 in this disease model was determined by adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression of Bdh1 or overexpression or silencing of Bdh1.

Results We observed reduced expression of Bdh1 in patients with diabetes-induced AS, HG-treated macrophages, and diabetic Apoe−/−
mice. AAV-mediated Bdh1 overexpression attenuated aortic plaque formation in diabetic Apoe−/−
mice. Silencing of Bdh1 resulted in increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and an inflammatory response in macrophages, which were reversed by the ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine. Overexpression of Bdh1 protected Raw264.7 cells from HG-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting ROS overproduction. In addition, Bdh1 induced oxidative stress through nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation by fumarate acid.

Conclusion Bdh1 attenuates AS in Apoe−/−
mice with type 2 diabetes, accelerates lipid degradation, and reduces lipid levels by promoting ketone body metabolism. Moreover, it activates the Nrf2 pathway of Raw264.7 by regulating the metabolic flux of fumarate, which inhibits oxidative stress and leads to a decrease in ROS and inflammatory factor production.
Livestock preference and feeding value as key determinants for forage improvement – why not ask the consumers?
Authors: Norman Hayley C. , Masters David G.
Published: July 2023

This review presents a new model for a multidisciplinary approach to development of modern forage cultivars to enable high-value meat and wool production in the mixed farming zones of Australia. Many pasture improvement activities focus on biomass production, filling novel agro-ecological niches, fixing nitrogen and phenotypic markers. Key traits that drive profitability of livestock, such as feeding value (FV), and nutritive value (NV), are rarely considered in a timely manner. Farmers are often not seriously engaged until late in the development pipeline. Of the nearly 10 000 publications that reference forage improvement or breeding and Australia, less than 5% also reference ruminant production factors such as FV, metabolisable energy, digestibility, methane or toxicity in the abstract, title or keywords. We make the case that the late engagement of livestock science and farmers results in early discarding of potentially valuable genetic material. This in turn may contribute to market and nutritional limitations that contribute to the high failure rate of new pasture cultivars. Four case studies demonstrated the within and among species variation in FV and NV. The first showed the variability in dry matter digestibility and crude protein of 20 species of herbaceous perennials at different stages of maturity. A second study with annual legumes, grasses and brassicas indicated highly significant differences in the rate of decline of NV over time and across species. The third case study focused on commercial and experimental accessions of lucerne and demonstrated highly significant differences among accessions in NV, with a doubling of livestock growth expected with the lowest and highest NV accessions. These case studies demonstrated the potential risks associated with evaluation of FV and NV after most of the germplasm has been excluded. The final case study described a different model that was used in the identification and commercialisation of a woody perennial species. This process incorporated a multidisciplinary team, farmers and livestock-relevant characteristics from the start. In 9 years, Anameka™ oldman saltbush was selected for higher palatability, 20% higher organic-matter digestibility and eight times more biomass than the average of the original genetic material.
Leech breach: a first record of the invasive freshwater leech Helobdella europaea (Hirudinea: Glossiphoniidae) in Fiji
Authors: Rashni Bindiya , Brown Kelly T. , McLenachan Patricia A. , Lockhart Peter J. , Southgate Paul C. , Lal Monal M.
Published: July 2023

Context The freshwater flat leech Helobdella europaea Kutschera, 1987 is a small annelid indigenous to South America. This invasive species feeds on the haemolymph of host aquatic invertebrates, with occurrences reported from Europe, USA, Taiwan, North Africa, Hawai‘i, Australia and New Zealand. A large number of individuals were discovered in the Ba River catchment, Fiji, during a 2015–2020 freshwater biodiversity survey, raising concerns of potential impacts on endemic Fijian aquatic invertebrate fauna and ecosystem integrity. Aims To facilitate assessments of its spread and ethology, this study employed morphological and phylogenetic analyses for verification of taxonomic identity. Methods Phylogenetic trees were constructed using a 658 bp fragment of the mitochondrial DNA cox1 (COI) gene. The first complete mitochondrial genome sequence of H. europaea was also determined using selective multiple displacement amplification and Oxford Nanopore Technology to provide a reference for future comparative analyses and source tracking of spread to other regions. Key results Morphological and COI analyses identified all Fijian leech specimens collected (n = 16) as H. europaea, reporting the first occurrence of this species on a south-west Pacific Island. The complete mitochondrial genome was sequenced. Conclusions Confirmation of its presence in Fiji is a national biosecurity concern and will guide the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and national agencies in further ecosystem assessment and response strategies. Implications With the complete mitochondrial genome of H. europaea now available, transmission pathway traceability is possible in other regions where this species may be detected.
Factors associated with the development of coronary artery disease in people with HIV
Authors: Mushin Ari S. , Trevillyan Janine M. , Lee Sue J. , Hearps Anna C. , Hoy Jennifer F.
Published: July 2023

Background People living with HIV (PLHIV) are at increased risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aimed to describe the features associated with CAD in PLHIV. Methods A case ([n = 160] PLHIV with CAD) control ([n = 317] PLHIV matched by age and sex without CAD) study was performed at the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (January 1996 and December 2018). Data collected included CAD risk factors, duration of HIV infection, nadir and at-event CD4+ T-cell counts, CD4:CD8 ratio, HIV viral load, and antiretroviral therapy exposure. Results Participants were predominantly male (n = 465 [97.4%]), with a mean age of 53 years. Traditional risk factors associated with CAD in univariate analysis included hypertension (OR 11.4 [95%CI 5.01, 26.33], P < 0.001), current cigarette smoking (OR 2.5 [95% CI 1.22, 5.09], P = 0.012), and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR 0.14 [95%CI 0.05, 0.37], P < 0.001). There was no association between duration of HIV infection, nadir or current CD4 cell count. However, current and ever exposure to abacavir (cases: 55 [34.4%]; controls: 79 [24.9%], P = 0.023 and cases: 92 [57.5%]; controls: 154 [48.6%], P = 0.048, respectively) was associated with CAD. In conditional logistic regression analysis, current abacavir use, current smoking, and hypertension remained significantly associated (aOR = 1.87 [CI = 1.14, 3.07], aOR = 2.31 [1.32, 4.04], and aOR = 10.30 [5.25, 20.20] respectively). Conclusion Traditional cardiovascular risk factors and exposure to abacavir were associated with CAD in PLHIV. This study highlights that aggressive management of cardiovascular risk factors remains critical for reducing risk in PLHIV.
U=U: the life force given by the mother’s breast
Authors: Tamati Rhonda Marama
Published: July 2023

The background of this paper starts with the history and significance of the author’s relationship to the Campaign, U=U; Undetectable equals Untransmissable as an Indigenous woman and well-known advocate living with HIV. The methods used in this paper explored an adaptation of a thriving indigenous Health Framework implemented in New Zealand for over 40 years. We anticipate the methods used in this paper along with the U=U Campaign will make the U=U relevant to other Indigenous Peoples. The common threads of the cultures are our creation stories and our rendition of the Health Circle or the Four Pillars. We interviewed and surveyed key community members, family, people living with HIV, and social workers that work in those communities over a period of 6 months; 36 people participated. We shared personal stories anecdotally of her experiences. The results were a health model comparison of U=U from a Māori worldview. Each aspect of the Four Pillars or cornerstones of the model is explained from a personal experience perspective, which is inclusive and reflects a process familiar to Indigenous Peoples and worldviews. We are using stories to relay that information from that particular worldview. In conclusion, after much deliberation, discussions with key people, and personal experiences, we can tie the concept of U=U to an intrinsic framework that other Indigenous Peoples and communities can easily interpret.
The ephemeral record: The role of opportunistic animal resources in the archaeology of Pampa and Patagonia
Authors: Borrero Luis A.
Published: July 2023

The acquisition of opportunistic animal resources by hunter-gatherers—such as scavenged carcasses—is a well-known subsistence strategy. It is frequently mentioned in the context of the history of early human evolution, but not regularly considered among the strategies utilized by more recent foragers of the Southern Cone of South America. Historical and ethnographic information presented here suggests that the use of opportunistic animal resources was a strategy used under a number of conditions but only partially documented in the archaeological literature. We also present archaeological evidence from four sites—Guardia del Río, Paso Otero 1, Ponsonby, and Myren—in different Pampean and Patagonian settings where relevant guanaco (
Lama guanicoe
) bone assemblages were recovered. These sites record minimal anthropic involvement, basically cut marks on some guanaco bones accompanied by few stone tools, that we interpret as evidence for access and use of water logged immobilized or recently dead animals. Archaeological evidence for the use of these scavenging strategies is difficult to obtain at large archaeological sites that usually result from multiple occupations, since the distinction between the acquisition of actively pursued versus opportunistic animal resources is not straightforward. One conclusion from our review is that the best places to find and recognize this evidence are archaeological sites resulting from ephemeral occupations. The inclusion of these sites gives us access to crucial and rarely documented evidence for the long-term survival of hunter-gatherers.
Phytoplankton responses to dust addition in the Fe–Mn co-limited eastern Pacific sub-Antarctic differ by source region
Authors: Wyatt Neil J. , Birchill Antony , Ussher Simon , Milne Angela , Bouman Heather A. , Shoenfelt Troein Elizabeth , Pabortsava Katsiaryna , Wright Alan , Flanagan Oliver , Bibby Thomas S. , Martin Adrian , Moore C. Mark
Published: July 2023

The seasonal availability of light and micronutrients strongly regulates productivity in the Southern Ocean, restricting biological utilization of macronutrients and CO
2
drawdown. Mineral dust flux is a key conduit for micronutrients to the Southern Ocean and a critical mediator of multimillennial-scale atmospheric CO
2
oscillations. While the role of dust-borne iron (Fe) in Southern Ocean biogeochemistry has been examined in detail, manganese (Mn) availability is also emerging as a potential driver of past, present, and future Southern Ocean biogeochemistry. Here, we present results from fifteen bioassay experiments along a north–south transect in the undersampled eastern Pacific sub-Antarctic zone. In addition to widespread Fe limitation of phytoplankton photochemical efficiency, we found further responses following the addition of Mn at our southerly stations, supporting the importance of Fe–Mn co-limitation in the Southern Ocean. Moreover, addition of different Patagonian dusts resulted in enhanced photochemical efficiency with differential responses linked to source region dust characteristics in terms of relative Fe/Mn solubility. Changes in the relative magnitude of dust deposition, combined with source region mineralogy, could hence determine whether Fe or Mn limitation control Southern Ocean productivity under future as well as past climate states.