bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prototype of Implant for Nitric Oxide Release Controlled by Infrared Radiation in Therapeutic Window
Authors: Virts Natalia A. , Karogodina Tatyana Yu. , Panfilov Mikhail A. , Vorob'ev Alexey Yu. , Moskalensky Alexander E.
Published: December 2024

Local therapeutic action and targeted drug release are promising approaches compared to traditional systemic drug administration. This is especially relevant for nitric oxide (NO), as its effects change dramatically depending on concentration and cellular context. Materials capable of releasing NO in deep tissues in a controlled manner might open new therapeutic opportunities. Light‐sensitive NO donors represent a fascinating class of compounds with significant potential for precise and controlled NO release. However, most of them are sensitive to visible light, with only a few examples absorbing in a near‐infrared therapeutic window. Here, we present the proof‐of‐concept of soft implants consisting of the photon upconverting core and the outer shell loaded with visible‐light triggered NO donor. The separation into two compartments results in efficient energy harvesting by the dye and effective NO release under 980 nm infrared irradiation. Such implants could be used in smart therapies implying well‐controlled and localized NO release.
VDAC Solvation Free Energy Calculation by a Nonuniform Size Modified Poisson–Boltzmann Ion Channel Model
Authors: Jemison Liam , Stahl Matthew , Dash Ranjan K. , Xie Dexuan
Published: December 2024

Voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC) is the primary conduit for regulated passage of ions and metabolites into and out of a mitochondrion. Calculating the solvation free energy for VDAC is crucial for understanding its stability, function, and interactions within the cellular environment. In this article, numerical schemes for computing the total solvation free energy for VDAC—comprising electrostatic, ideal gas, and excess free energies plus the nonpolar energy—are developed based on a nonuniform size modified Poisson–Boltzmann ion channel (nuSMPBIC) finite element solver along with tetrahedral meshes for VDAC proteins. The current mesh generation package is also updated to improve mesh quality and accelerate mesh generation. A VDAC Solvation Free Energy Calculation (VSFEC) package is then created by integrating these schemes with the updated mesh package, the nuSMPBIC finite element package, the PDB2PQR package, and the OPM database, as well as one uniform SMPBIC finite element package and one Poisson–Boltzmann ion channel (PBIC) finite element package. With the VSFEC package, many numerical experiments are made using six VDAC proteins, eight ionic solutions containing up to four ionic species, including ATP4− and Ca2+, two reference states, different boundary values, and different permittivity constants. The test results underscore the importance of considering nonuniform ionic size effects to explore the varying patterns of the total solvation free energy, and demonstrate the high performance of the VSFEC package for VDAC solvation free energy calculation.
Machine Learning Prediction of Physicochemical Properties in Lithium‐Ion Battery Electrolytes With Active Learning Applied to Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Das Debojyoti , Chakraborty Debdutta
Published: December 2024

Accurate prediction of physicochemical properties, such as electronic energy, enthalpy, free energy, and average vibrational frequencies, is critical for optimizing lithium‐ion battery (LIB) performance. Traditional methods like density functional theory (DFT) are computationally expensive and inefficient for large‐scale screening. In this study, we apply active learning on top of graph neural networks (GNNs) to efficiently predict these properties. By focusing on uncertain data points, active learning reduces training data size while maintaining high accuracy. Applied to the LIBE and MPcules datasets, the model achieved an R‐squared (R2) values of 0.9977 with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 9.66 Ha for electronic energy and an R2 values of 0.957 with an MAE of 13.94 cm−1 for average vibrational frequencies. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) provided insights into key features influencing predictions, such as atomic number and spin multiplicity. This approach enhances both predictive accuracy and model interpretability, offering a scalable solution for LIB electrolyte discovery.
Impact of the Stigma of Mental Illness: A Descriptive Exploratory Study of Outpatients in a Public Mental Health Hospital in Ghana
Authors: Gyamfi Sebastian , Owusu Mark Fordjour , Adu Joseph , Amankwaa Isaac , Martin‐Yeboah Ebenezer
Published: December 2024

Despite ongoing efforts, persons with mental illness (PWMI) continue to experience stigma and discrimination and with profound negative outcomes. This study examined the psychological and social impact of the stigma attached to mental illness as experienced by out‐patients at a public mental health facility. We applied a descriptive exploratory method using a semi‐structured interview guide to elicit subjective responses from 12 Outpatient Department members. Study participants described various ways the stigma of mental illness impacted them within the social space. Overall, five (5) themes emerged. These include devaluing, losing their partners, social exclusion, unemployment, and loss of self‐esteem. Participants' account of their experiences with stigma so far depicts stigma as an everyday occurrence that adversely impacts their social standing. To effectively address stigma requires intentional efforts to bridge the gap created by deliberate acts of discrimination and lack of support for PWMI within our social framework.
Distinct Gut Microbiota Profiles in Normal Weight Obesity and Their Association With Cardiometabolic Diseases: Results From Two Independent Cohort Studies
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Wang Feijie , Li Yihan , Shi Yuwei , Wang Xiaoyan , Chen Xinyu , Zheng Weifang , Hsing Julianna C. , Lu Ying , Wu Yi‐Shuan , Hsing Ann W. , Kan Juntao , He Wei , Zhu Shankuan
Published: December 2024

Background

Normal weight obesity (NWO) is characterized by excess body fat in individuals with normal body mass index (BMI). This study aimed to investigate gut microbiota alterations in NWO and their potential associations with cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) risk in two independent cohorts.

Methods

Our NWO‐CMD mortality analysis included 168 099 adults with normal BMI from two large open‐access databases, while our NWO‐gut microbiota study involved 5467 adults with normal BMI from two independent cohorts: the WELL‐China cohort and the Lanxi cohort. NWO was defined as having a normal BMI (18.5–23.9 kg/m2) but an excess per cent body fat (PBF, ≥ 25% in men and ≥ 35% in women). Normal weight lean was defined as having a normal BMI and normal PBF. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing method was used to analyse gut microbiota data.

Results

The study comprised 3620 (64.0% female, median age 58 years) and 1847 (64.3% female, median age 56 years) participants from the WELL‐China and Lanxi cohorts. In our meta‐analysis, NWO is associated with 26% (95% CI: 1.07–1.41) higher risk of CMD mortality. Gut microbial analyses indicated that the NWO group exhibited reduced levels of observed species (p = 0.009 and p = 0.013) and Chao 1 index (p = 0.002 and p = 0.002) and altered gut microbial compositions (p = 0.009 and p < 0.001) compared with the NWL group. Seven genera were consistently observed to be associated with NWO in both two cohorts (all Q < 0.25). Among them, five (Fusobacterium, Ruminococcus gnavus group, Ruminococcus torques group, Coprococcus and Christensenellaceae_R7_group) have been previously linked to obesity, while the other two (Phascolarctobacterium and Clostridia_UCG‐014) were minimally reported. We also found statistically significant differences in the microbial composition between the NWO group and the obesity group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001). Furthermore, the NWO‐related gut microbiome was associated with an elevated risk of hypertension, dyslipidaemia and metabolic syndrome, the corresponding HR (95% CIs) were 1.11 (1.01–1.22), 1.19 (1.10–1.29) and 1.17 (1.05–1.30) in the WELL‐China cohort and 1.14 (1.02–1.27), 1.15 (1.02–1.29) and 1.16 (1.02–1.32) in the Lanxi cohort.

Conclusions

These two large cohorts provided reliable evidence that gut microbiota alterations in NWO resemble those found in obesity, yet also display unique aspects. This distinct microbiota profile may contribute to heightened cardiometabolic risks in adults with normal BMI.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Altered Mitophagy Are Key Pathways in Inclusion Body Myositis
Authors: Naddaf Elie , Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh , Watzlawik Jens O. , Gao Huanyao , Hou Xu , Fiesel Fabienne C. , Mandrekar Jay , Kokesh Eileen , Harmsen William S. , Lanza Ian R. , Springer Wolfdieter , Trushina Eugenia
Published: December 2024

Background

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is the most prevalent muscle disease in adults for which no current treatment exists. The pathogenesis of IBM remains poorly defined. In this study, we aimed to explore the interplay between inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in IBM.

Methods

The study population consisted of 38 IBM patients and 22 age‐ and sex‐matched controls without a myopathy. Mean age was 62.9 years (SD = 9) in IBM group and 59.7 (10) in controls. Bulk RNA sequencing, Meso Scale Discovery electrochemiluminescence (ECL), western blotting, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry were performed on frozen muscle samples from the study participants.

Results

We demonstrated activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in IBM muscle samples, with the NLRP3 inflammasome being the most upregulated pathway on RNA sequencing, along with increased expression of NLRP3 and ASC proteins in IBM group. NLRP3 RNA levels most strongly correlated with TLR7 (correlation coefficient ρ = 0.91) and complement activation‐related genes, and inversely correlated with several mitochondria‐related genes among others. On muscle histopathology, there was increased NRLP3 immunoreactivity in both inflammatory cells and muscle fibres. Mitophagy is critical for removing damaged mitochondria and preventing the formation of a vicious cycle of mitochondrial dysfunction—NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Herein, we showed altered mitophagy, as witnessed by the elevated levels of p‐S65‐Ubiquitin, a mitophagy marker, in muscle lysates from IBM patients compared to controls (median of 114.3 vs. 81.25 ECL units, p = 0.005). The p‐S65‐Ubiquitin levels were most significantly elevated in IBM males compared to male controls (136 vs. 83.5 ECL units; p = 0.013), whereas IBM females had milder nonsignificant elevation compared to female controls (97.25 vs. 69 ECL units, p = 0.31). On muscle histopathology, p‐S65‐Ubiquitin aggregates accumulated in muscle fibres that were mostly Type 2 and devoid of cytochrome‐c‐oxidase reactivity. NLRP3 RNA levels correlated with p‐S65‐Ubiquitin levels in both sexes (males: ρ = 0.48, females: ρ = 0.54) but with loss of muscle strength, as reflected by the manual motor test score, only in males (males: ρ = 0.62, females: ρ = −0.14). Lastly, we identified sex‐specific molecular pathways in IBM. Females had upregulation of pathways related to response to stress, which could conceivably offset some of the pathomechanisms of IBM, while males had upregulation of pathways related to cell adhesion and migration.

Conclusions

There is activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in IBM, along with altered mitophagy, particularly in males, which is of potential therapeutic significance. These findings suggest sex‐specific mechanisms in IBM that warrant further investigation.
Prenatal Methamphetamine Exposure Impairs Helping Behaviour in Male Offspring: The Possible Role of miR‐223 and NLRP3 Inflammasomes in the Amygdala
Authors: Khodagholi Fariba , Dezfouli Mitra Ansari , Yazdanfar Neda , Rashidi Seyed Khalil , Meymand Arman Zeinaddin , Javadpour Pegah , Mirbehbahani Seyed Hamidreza , Zare Nayereh
Published: December 2024

The increasing prevalence of methamphetamine abuse among women, particularly pregnant females, is a global concern. Methamphetamine can readily cross anatomical barriers like the blood‐placenta barrier and cause detrimental impacts on the growing fetus. The current research evaluated the effects of prenatal methamphetamine exposure on helping behaviour and neuroinflammatory cascade in the amygdala of male offspring. On the tenth day of pregnancy, female rats received either saline or methamphetamine (5 mg/kg) until delivery. Once the offspring reached 21 days of age, the male ones were sep arated from their mothers and housed with normal male rats. An empathy‐like behaviour test, which measured helping behaviour towards the cage mate, was conducted. The expression levels of miR‐223‐3p, NLRP3, Caspase 1, and gasdermin D (GSDMD) were evaluated in the amygdala of male offspring. Moreover, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) protein level was measured. Findings of this study revealed that male offspring exposed to methamphetamine during pregnancy had impaired helping behaviour. At the molecular level, prenatal methamphetamine exposure decreased miR‐223‐3p and increased inflammasome signaling by raising the levels of NLRP3, caspase‐1, and GSDMD along with IL‐1β levels. These findings indicate that prenatal methamphetamine exposure impairs emotional behaviour and activates inflammasome pathway in the amygdala.
The impact of sex and body mass index in liver transplantation for acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Akabane Miho , Imaoka Yuki , Nakayama Toshihiro , Esquivel Carlos O. , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: December 2024

Background/Purpose

There have been no studies evaluating how body mass index (BMI) impacts on waitlist and post‐liver transplant (LT) mortality in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) by sex. We aimed to determine these impacts using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database.

Methods

Adults listed for LT with estimated ACLF (Est‐ACLF) (2005–2023) were identified and subdivided by sex and BMI (high/middle/low). Competing‐risk analyses evaluated impacts on waitlist mortality. Kaplan–Meier analyses assessed post‐LT survival. Multivariable Cox regression identified risk factors.

Results

Of 37 251 Est‐ACLF patients, 14 534 (39.0%) were female. Females had higher 90‐day waitlist mortality than males (subhazard ratio [sHR]: 1.20, p < .01). High/low BMI patients had higher mortality than middle (sHR: 1.08/1.11, p < .01). In females, high BMI was associated with higher mortality than low (sHR: 1.10, p = .02); in males, low BMI was associated with higher mortality than high/middle (sHR: 1.16/1.16 vs. high/middle, p < .01). Multivariable analyses showed in females, high BMI was a significant risk factor for waitlist mortality (sHR:1.21, p < .01), while low was not; in males, high/low BMI was significant, with low having higher sHR (1.17) than high (1.09). Post‐LT survival showed no significant difference in females; in males, low BMI showed worse post‐3−/5‐year‐LT survival (p < .01). Multivariable Cox regression showed for females, neither low nor high BMI was significant for post‐LT survival; for males, low BMI was significant for 1−/3−/5‐year‐LT survival (HR: 1.30/1.30/1.22, p < .01).

Conclusions

Our analysis of BMI's impact on LT outcomes in ACLF by sex enables risk stratification and provides a basis for adjusting BMI.
Big brother or big opportunity? Utilization of EHR use metadata in the inpatient setting: A mixed methods study at 16 organizations
Authors: Burden Marisha , Keniston Angela , McBeth Lauren , Astik Gopi , Kangelaris Kirsten N. , Kochar Aveena , Knees Michelle , Segon Ankur , Westergaard Sara , Yu Amy , Sakumoto Matthew , Chadha Romil
Published: December 2024

Background

Clinician electronic actions within the electronic health record (EHR) are captured seamlessly in real‐time during regular work activities in all major EHRs. Analysis of this EHR use metadata, such as audit log data, is increasingly used to understand the impact of work design on critical patient, workforce, and organizational outcomes.

Objective

Understand experiences and perspectives influencing the use and implementation of audit log data into practice.

Methods

Mixed methods design utilizing focus groups and embedded survey with hospitalist group leaders attending a national society special interest group. Themes and subthemes were identified.

Results

Seven semistructured virtual focus groups were held with 16 individuals from 16 different organizations on December 12, 2023, with a 100% survey response rate. Survey results highlighted the lack of familiarity with audit log data, the lack of tools and training for use, and the lack of established protocols to respond to insights, with some concerns for the accuracy of the data. Four themes and multiple subthemes were identified and included: (1) Limited, but widely variable use of audit log data driven by a lack of access, resources, skills, and knowledge, (2) mistrust and skepticism about the data, including concerns about potential misuse and a lack of best practices and standards, (3) perspectives around audit log data are culture and context driven, and (4) excitement for the many potential use cases.

Conclusion

Despite all major EHRs having audit log data, participants had limited access, training, and knowledge. Although there was mistrust, many opportunities were identified.
Comparative Efficacy of Remote Ischemic Conditioning and Hypothermia in Permanent and Transient Cerebral Ischemia in Male Mice
Authors: Saito Moeko , Hoshino Takao , Ishizuka Kentaro , Kato Yoichiro , Shibata Noriyuki , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: December 2024

Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) has attracted considerable attention as a brain protection strategy, although its impact remains unclear. Hypothermia is the most effective strategy in experimental transient cerebral ischemia. Therefore, we compared the efficacy of RIC, hypothermia, and no treatment on cerebral ischemia. We assessed the effects of both permanent and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 45 min in male mice. Brain hemodynamics were monitored during and after the procedure via 2D color‐coded ultrasound imaging. Ischemic lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), early breakdown of microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2), expression levels of inflammatory cytokines by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), and neurological signs and infarct volume were examined. In permanent MCAO, RIC increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the peri‐infarct area, reduced early lesions on MRI–DWI, decreased early MAP2 breakdown, and lowered infarct volume compared with no treatment. However, hypothermia only showed a protective effect against neurological signs. In contrast, in transient MCAO, both RIC and hypothermia reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines, mitigated MAP2 breakdown, and reduced infarct volume to a similar extent compared with no treatment. In conclusion, although RIC proved to be more effective than hypothermia in permanent MCAO, the protective effects of RIC and hypothermia were comparable in transient cerebral ischemia. Thus, RIC could be a promising strategy for brain protection against cerebral ischemia.
The Discovery of Novel ER‐Localized Cellobiose Transporters Involved in Cellulase Biosynthesis in Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Shi Xiaotong , Huo Liujie , Tu Jing , Li Chengcheng , Wu Fu‐Gen , Lin Fengming
Published: December 2024

Sugar transporters are of great importance in sensing and transporting varied sugars for cellulase biosynthesis of lignocellulolytic fungi. Nevertheless, the function and the relevant mechanism of sugar transporters in fungal cellulase biosynthesis remain to be explored. Here, putative maltose transporters Mal1, Mal2, Mal3, Mal4, and Mal5 in Trichoderma reesei were investigated. Despite that only the transcriptional abundance of Mal1 was upregulated under cellulase‐generating condition, the individual deletion of Mal1, Mal2, Mal3, Mal4, and Mal5 all impaired cellulase biosynthesis. The possible reason for this is that the individual knockout of Mal2, Mal3, Mal4, and Mal5 resulted in no gene expression of Mal1 at 24 h during the cellulase production. The transcriptional analysis showed that the absence of these transporters noticeably inhibited cellulase genes at 24 h, which was then relieved. Interestingly, the individual missing of these maltose transporters significantly retarded the cellular consumption of cellobiose, rather than maltose, and they were distributed in cytoplasm, largely in endoplasmic reticulum (ER). These findings manifested that these putative maltose transporters may be in fact endomembrane cellobiose transporters, influencing fungal cellulase generation probably through Mal1 at the early stage. This research advances the knowledge of endomembrane sugar transporters in fungal cellulase biosynthesis.
Autophagy Activated by Atg1 Interacts With Atg9 Promotes Biofilm Formation and Resistance of Candida albicans
Authors: Huang Yun , Yu Shenjun , Liu Siqi , Zhao Xiao , Chen Xueyi , Wei Xin
Published: December 2024

Autophagy regulates the development of Candida albicans (C. albicans) biofilms and their sensitivity to antifungals. Atg1, a serine/threonine protein kinase, recruits autophagy‐related proteins for autophagosome formation. Atg9, the only transmembrane protein, is phosphorylated by Atg1 during autophagy. The specific roles of Atg1 and Atg9 in biofilm formation and resistance of C. albicans remain unclear. The study used RT‐qPCR and Western blotting to assess the correlation between Atg1, Atg9 and biofilm formation, XTT reduction assays to evaluate biofilm formation and antifungal resistance, commercial kits to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and autophagy activity, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the morphological changes, protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis to analyze the interaction between Atg1 and Atg9. Results demonstrated that Atg1 and Atg9 were highly expressed in biofilms than planktonic cells. Biofilm formation, antifungal resistance, MMP and autophagy activity decreased and ROS increased in atg1Δ/Δ and atg9Δ/Δ. TORC1 inhibition with rapamycin rescued the reduced biofilm formation of atg1Δ/Δ and increased antifungal resistance of atg1Δ/Δ and atg9Δ/Δ. PPI analysis and TEM observation indicated that Atg1 interacted with Atg9, which was certified by RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. This study suggested that Atg1 interacts with Atg9, activates the autophagy regulating the formation and sensitivity of C. albicans biofilms.
Different Atmospheric Circulation Patterns Associated With Heatwaves Over Northeastern Siberia in July and August
Authors: Zhou Xiling , Sato Tomonori , Li Shixue
Published: December 2024

Globally, heatwaves have become more frequent over recent decades. Summer Siberian heatwaves have received less attention, even though ecosystems are vulnerable to high temperatures. This study investigates and compares the atmospheric circulation patterns associated with northeastern Siberian heatwaves in July and August. The results suggest a strong teleconnection between eastern Europe and northeastern Siberia, similar to the British–Okhotsk Corridor pattern, along a strengthened polar jet when frequent heatwaves occur in July. However, this teleconnection is less clear in northeastern Siberia in August due to weak Rossby wave activity linked to the waveguide effect. Instead, the formation of northeastern Siberian heatwaves in August is related to abnormally low pressure over the Arctic, as supported by a linear baroclinic model experiment. Additionally, the abnormally high pressure over northeastern Siberia may influence weather in the northwestern Pacific. These findings enhance the current understanding of summer Siberian heatwaves, suggesting their connection to Arctic atmospheric circulation and their importance for subseasonal weather predictions in the northwestern Pacific.
Exploring soil erosion in the lake basins of Michoacán, Mexico: From sediment cores to conservation policies
Authors: Aguilera Lara Jahzeel , Metcalfe SARAH E.
Published: December 2024

Understanding soil erosion, its history and links to potential drivers such as land use (particularly agriculture and deforestation), different cultural perspectives and climate change are crucial for the development of effective management and conservation strategies. Here, we explore soil erosion in two lake basins, Pátzcuaro and Zirahuen, in the highlands of Michoacán, Mexico, weaving together scientific enquiry (including lake sediment studies and monitoring data) and cultural–historical perspectives based on documentary sources. Both lake basins are within the Trans Mexican Volcanic Belt, lying at >2000 m a.s.l. Pátzcuaro is large, but shallow, while Zirahuen is smaller, but deep. Archaeological evidence for long‐term human occupation is clearer for Pátzcuaro. Pátzcuaro is known for severe degradation of both the catchment and the lake, while Zirahuen has, until recently, been regarded as less disturbed. The relative impacts of pre‐Hispanic and post‐Hispanic practices have been the subject of debates across the disciplines and have impacted approaches to conservation, particularly attitudes to indigenous land use practices. Palaeoenvironmental records highlight human impact on these basins, often expressed as periods of accelerated erosion in response to forest clearance, over at least 3500 years. This shows that neither can be regarded as pristine and were not pristine at the time of the Conquest. As well as responding to varying intensities of land use, often linked to population change, erosion relates to climate, but is also affected by cultural and socio‐economic contexts and discourses. Historical documents show that concerns about deforestation and erosion have influenced the development of forest conservation policies, in the context of government reforms, tensions between agricultural expansion and forest conservation, and the growth of scientific research in limnology. These policies have also been shaped by changing cultural discourses regarding indigenous land management practices. The value of taking an holistic approach to understanding erosion is emphasized.
Harvest management and mast abundance affect black bear harvest demographics in the United States
Authors: Kluge Nathan P. , Sartini Cady E. , Sedinger Benjamin S. , Barringer Brian C. , Hygnstrom Scott E. , Tri Andrew N. , Denryter Kristin A. , Carpenter Colin P. , Olfenbuttel Colleen , Carrollo Emily M.
Published: December 2024

American black bear (Ursus americanus) populations are abundant across many parts of the United States and provide diverse hunting experiences for thousands of outdoor enthusiasts annually. We must understand factors that influence harvest vulnerability of black bears to effectively set harvest quotas, manage hunter harvest, and meet management objectives. Hard mast, such as acorns, makes up a large portion of a black bear's autumn diet throughout much of their range and the abundance of mast can alter the annual vulnerability of bears to hunting. Across the United States, various methods are used to dictate harvest, some of which allow hunting with the aid of dogs or bait. We used historical data from 2000‒2020 on acorn production and black bear harvest from California, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, USA, to investigate the influence that acorn production, harvest methods, season structure, and bear density had on autumn bear harvest. When acorn production was high there was a lower number of bears harvested, median age of harvested females, and proportion of the harvested bears that were females. Use of bait increased harvest of adult female bears when acorn production was low, whereas use of dogs increased harvest of adult female bears when acorn production was high. Hunting seasons that started later in the year resulted in a lower proportion of the harvested bears that were female and young bears. Total number and number of young bears harvested were positively related to density of bear hunting licenses issued. Depending on the bear population and existing regulations, these results can be used by managers to better align harvest of black bears with management objectives by adjusting the density of available licenses, the overall season length, or allowing use of bait and dogs to increase harvest.
Bilateral Lesions in Parkinson's Disease: Gaps and Controversies
Authors: Rodriguez‐Oroz Maria C. , Martínez‐Fernández Raúl , Lipsman Nir , Horisawa Shiro , Moro Elena
Published: December 2024

Bilateral lesions of the basal ganglia using termocoagulation or radiation for improving tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) have been performed starting several decades ago, especially when levodopa and deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery were not available. However, because of unclear additional benefit compared to unilateral lesion, and particularly to the evidence of increased adverse events occurrence, bilateral lesions were basically abandoned at the end of the 20th century. Therefore, bilateral DBS has become the standard procedure to treat PD. Magnetic resonance imaging‐guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is an emerging incisionless technique used to produce therapeutic brain ablation. The positive experiences of unilateral MRgFUS ablation for PD, along with the preliminary favorable outcomes of bilateral thalamic MRgFUS for essential tremor, raise the possibility to eventually reintroduce bilateral lesioning in the management of PD motor features. This possibility has so far only been tested in a few small studies. This article reviews the evidence of bilateral lesioning of the basal ganglia to treat PD, and elaborates on current gaps, controversies, and perspectives of the different available neurosurgical procedures and specifically of MRgFUS ablation. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Phospholipase PlcH is involved in the secretion of cell wall glycoproteins and contributes to the host immune response of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Hao Jinbin , Guo Yin , Zhou Hui , Ouyang Haomiao , Yang Jinghua , Fang Wenxia , Jin Cheng
Published: December 2024

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchoring is one of the conserved posttranslational modifications in eukaryotes that attach proteins to the plasma membrane. In fungi, in addition to plasma membrane GPI‐anchored proteins (GPI‐APs), some GPI‐APs are specifically released from the cell membrane, secreted into the cell wall, and covalently linked to cell wall glucans as GPI‐anchored cell wall proteins (GPI‐CWPs). However, it remains unclear how fungal cells specifically release GPI‐CWPs from their membranes. In this study, phospholipase PlcH was identified and confirmed as a phospholipase C that hydrolyzes phosphate ester bonds to release GPI‐APs from the membrane of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Deletion of the plcH gene led to abnormal conidiation, polar abnormality, and increased sensitivity to antifungal drugs. In an immunocompromised mouse model, the ΔplcH mutant showed an attenuated inflammatory response and increased macrophage killing compared with the wild type. Biochemical and proteomic analyses revealed that PlcH was involved in the localization of various cell wall GPI‐APs and contributed to the cell wall integrity. Our results demonstrate that PlcH can specifically recognize and release GPI‐CWPs from the cell membrane, which represents a newly discovered secretory pathway of GPI‐CWPs in A. fumigatus.
Design of TMLAA for the Utilization of Radiated Harmonic Beam Over Digital Modulation Schemes
Authors: Varma D. Suneel , Ram Gopi , Kumar G. Arun
Published: December 2024

This work presents the effective steering of multi‐harmonic beams of a time‐modulated linear antenna array (TMLAA) for multi‐channel communication. A classroom learning‐inspired Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO) is utilized for active duration optimization of the 16‐element TMLAA for harmonic steering. The simulation study employing the optimization technique effectively steered the first two harmonic beams with enhanced radiated power and considerable Sidelobe level (SLL) below . Further, for practical validation, the measurement of the fabricated prototype is presented for one scenario. Finally, the use of harmonic beams for the communication links is validated by measuring the bit error rate (BER) of the considered digitally modulated scheme.
Closely Placed Single‐Layer Patch Antenna Array With Self‐Decoupling Using Hybrid Modes
Authors: Li Lei , Wu ZiLiang , Xie ShaoRui , Xiao YuXuan
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a novel single‐layer patch antenna is presented, designed to excite dual resonant modes for bandwidth expansion. By arranging these elements into an array, the mutual coupling between them is effectively suppressed by exploiting their inherent modes. This design strategy effectively suppresses mutual coupling in the antenna array without the need for additional decoupling structures. Instead, modifications in the physical placement of closely spaced antenna elements achieve high isolation. Within −10 dB of impedance bandwidth, an isolation greater than 25 dB is achieved by the array, with an antenna profile of 0.017 λ0. Both simulation and experimental results demonstrate a strong correlation, affirming the design's effectiveness. The antenna array is capable of operating within the n78 band from 3.34 to 3.48 GHz, characterized by advantages such as high radiation efficiency, high isolation, and a low profile.
Accuracy of 3D printing template‐assisted CT‐guided radioactive iodine‐125 seed implantation for peripheral locally recurrent rectal cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Li Xuemin , Wang Hao , Jiang Yuliang , Ji Zhe , Sun Haitao , Fan Jinghong , Li Weiyan , Wang Junjie
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of needle insertion and dosimetric parameters in three‐dimensional printing template (3D‐PT)‐assisted computed tomography (CT)‐guided radioactive iodine‐125 (125I) seed implantation (RISI) for the treatment of peripheral locally recurrent rectal cancer (pLRRC).

Materials and methods

A total of 37 patients with pLRRC who underwent 3D‐assisted CT‐guided RISI treatment at Peking University Third Hospital between January 2016 and November 2019 were included in this study. All patients underwent preoperative assessment, CT simulation positioning, preoperative plan design, 3D template printing, 3D template reduction, needle and seed implantation, postoperative dosimetry evaluation, postoperative care, and regular follow‐up. The preoperative and postoperative needle position, angle, and tip distance were compared. The dosimetric parameters, including D90 (the dose to 90% of the target volume), D100, V100 (the volume receives 100% of the prescribed dose), V150, V200, conformal index (CI), external index (EI), and homogeneity index (HI), were compared among preoperative plan, intraoperative plan, and postoperative plan. The perioperative complications were assessed.

Results

The total number of needles was 595. The depths of needle insertion in preoperative and intraoperative plans were 109.87 ± 1.33 mm and 108.46 ± 1.26 mm, respectively, with no significant difference (p > 0.05). The angles of needle insertion in preoperative and intraoperative plans were (93.55 ± 2.05)° and (92.04 ± 1.99)°, respectively, with no significant difference (p > 0.05). The average deviation of the needle insertion distance was 1.99 ± 0.08 mm. There were no differences in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters, including D90, D100, V100, V150, V200, CI, EI, and HI. All patients were closely followed up during the perioperative period (from seven days before surgery to seven days after surgery). No patients experienced severe perioperative complications. A total of eight patients (21.6%) experienced grade 1−2 complications. Among all patients, six individuals (16.2%) experienced pain, one patient (2.7%) had a fever, and one patient (2.7%) suffered from a hemorrhage. All patients recovered after conservative treatment.

Conclusion

The needle insertion in 3D‐PT‐assisted CT‐guided RISI showed good accuracy for treating pLRRC.
Risdiplam in Adult Patients With 5q Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A Single‐Center Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gavriilaki Maria , Moschou Maria , Pagiantza Maria , Arnaoutoglou Marianthi , Kimiskidis Vasilios
Published: December 2024

Introduction/Aims

Risdiplam was the first orally administered drug approved to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Efficacy in adults is based on short‐term observational studies. This longitudinal study aimed to examine risdiplam's efficacy and safety in adults over a long period of follow‐up.

Methods

All eligible SMA patients ≥ 16 years old, followed at the Muscular Dystrophy Association Hellas Neuromuscular Diseases Unit between April 2021 and December 2023, were included. We prospectively evaluated motor function, muscle strength, and pulmonary function before and after 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 months of treatment. Laboratory assessments and patient‐reported adverse events were recorded.

Results

Overall, 14 patients (18–57 years, 93% treatment‐naive) received risdiplam for a median period of 28.5 months (range 6–30). There were statistically significant improvements in the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale–Expanded (mean difference [MD] 1.5 [95%CI 0.49–2.42]), Revised Upper Limb Module (MD 1.6 [95%CI 0.54–2.73]), Motor Function Measurement‐32 (MD 2.7[95%CI 1.52–3.93]), Medical Research Council scores of the upper (MD 3 [95%CI 0.8–5.2]), and lower (MD 1.7 [95%CI 0.1–3.3]) limbs (all p ≤ 0.05). Eighty‐two percent of patients achieved a clinically meaningful improvement (CMI) in at least one scale. Overall, CMI occurred earlier in type 3 patients. SMA functional rating scale and respiratory function tests remained stable over time. Fifty‐seven percent of patients did not report any adverse events. None discontinued treatment.

Discussion

Risdiplam treatment over 30 months resulted in overall CMI in most treated adult SMA type 2 or 3 patients. Outpatient drug administration and overall patient management proved feasible and safe. Larger studies are warranted.
Exploring Drug Repurposing for Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: Defining Novel Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Inal‐Gültekin Güldal , Çetin Zeliha , Mangır Naşide
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a debilitating pain condition of unknown etiology. Effective therapies for this condition could not have been developed in the last century. Drug repurposing is a practical strategy for enhancing patient access to successful therapies. It is an approach for discovering novel applications for licensed or investigational pharmaceuticals that extend beyond the initial medical indication. This work aims to identify repurposable medications through bioinformatics to discover potential drugs or compounds that can reverse the IC/BPS disease signature.

Methods and Material

The analysis involved examining the differentially expressed genes in IC/BPS patients with two distinct disease phenotypes (Hunner's lesion disease, non‐Hunner's lesion disease) and controls using the datasets GSE11783, GSE28242, and GSE57560. The goal was to assess the reversal of the disease signature on the L1000CDS2 and cMAP platforms.

Results

Twenty‐one compounds were repurposed, consisting of 11 small molecules, 10 chemical compounds, 3 natural products, and 6 FDA‐approved drugs, currently used for clinical indications such as cancer, myelofibrosis, and diabetes.

Discussion

Bioinformatics can be useful for identifying therapeutic agents for IC/BPS by accessing and processing big data on molecular and cellular levels. Prospective in vivo experiments must validate repurposed drugs. The expansion of large‐scale genome sequencing, gene expression studies, and clinical data for IC/BPS will improve successful drug selection.
Dual Perturbation Method for Spectral Solution of Block‐Posed Harmonic Problems
Authors: Lau Stephen R.
Published: December 2024

We present a new direct (or quasi‐direct) strategy for solving the three‐dimensional Poisson and Helmholtz problems posed on a Cartesian block subject to Dirichlet boundary conditions. Our approach starts with a spectral approximation of either problem involving modal Chebyshev integration matrices. With the number of Chebyshev modes associated with each of the coordinate directions, the total number of modes is . The relevant complexities for our base methods are then similar to certain classical methods; in particular, a set‐up cost scaling like and, thereafter, an solve cost. The memory storage for our approach is and involves no hierarchical data formats. Our approaches exhibit spectral accuracy and are empirically well‐conditioned. We describe acceleration via the introduction of an iterative element. This acceleration yields a method with an set‐up cost, followed by a sub‐quadratic solve complexity seen empirically to also be . The concluding section remarks on possible further acceleration (not established), targeting set‐up and solve costs.
Patient Experiences and Prerequisites of Collaboration as Partners in Person‐Centred Care: An Interview Study
Authors: Rosenlund Lena , Jakobsson Sofie , Lloyd Helen , Diffner Anna , Lundgren‐Nilsson Åsa , Dencker Anna
Published: December 2024

Aim

To explore what characterises communication and collaboration within a patient and professional partnership in outpatient care settings garnered from the experiences of persons living with long‐term conditions.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study design.

Methods

Semi‐structured individual interviews were conducted with 15 persons with long‐term condition/s who experienced outpatient treatment or follow‐up care. Data were explored through inductive thematic analysis. The COREQ checklist was followed.

Results

The analysis revealed five themes: adapting and self‐managing in daily life, handling and carrying information, building trust and continuity, acting in a flexible and transparent dialogue and sharing the way forward. The participants described their personal and informal resources, and their actions to take control and manage health and well‐being. A person‐centred approach, sharing of knowledge and communication skills enabled the development of trust in the healthcare providers and their treatment and care. Communication was facilitated through availability, shared documentation, continuity and coordination of care. Collaboration was described as a flexible dialogue with mutual trust and transparency, shared learning and problem‐solving. Sharing the way forward was a process, alongside and important to the life‐changing process to cope with the illness.

Conclusions

Prerequisites for the collaboration in outpatient settings were availability, continuity and a healthcare system that acknowledged, empowered and adapted to patients' health status, resources, everyday life and a patient's coping processes to manage their disease. For a co‐created, person‐centred outpatient care, it is important to acknowledge and/or collaborate with the patient's team of other healthcare providers and informal caregivers.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The study contributes to better understanding of patient preferences and prerequisites how to work in partnership and how to develop future services and person‐centred care for persons living with long‐term conditions.

Patient and Public Contribution

Patients included in this study were participants during the data collection process.
Hybrid glass/Kevlar fiber reinforced phenolic matrix composites: Thermal degradation and flammability studies
Authors: Krishnasamy Senthilkumar , Ramachandran Sasikumar , Swaminathan G. , Thirukumaran M. , Hema M. , Parameswaranpillai Jyotishkumar , Thiagamani Senthil Muthu Kumar , Aravind D. , Chandrasekar M. , Natarajan Varagunapandiyan
Published: December 2024

In the present work, bio‐based phenolic matrix composites (PMCs) were fabricated by reinforcing them with bi‐directional glass fiber mats, bi‐directional Kevlar fiber mats, and their hybrid combinations. Both fiber mats were treated with (3‐glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) to enhance fiber‐to‐matrix adhesion. Subsequently, the fibers were coated with a phenolic binder made from a mixture of phenol‐hexamine‐based novolac (N) resin and cardanol‐hexamine‐based benzoxazine (Bz) resin. Then the layers of binder‐coated fibers were compressed using a hot press molding machine at 200°C to cure the resins. The developed composites were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and UL‐94 V flammability test. The glass fiber (GF‐NBz) and Kevlar fiber (KF‐NBz) reinforced PMCs show an overall mass loss of ~18.5% and 66% at 850°C. Whereas the hybrid GF/KF fiber‐reinforced PMCs exhibit balanced properties of improved thermal stability and higher char yield. The flammability test results show both pure and hybrid samples exhibited a V‐0 rating. Based on these observations, the combination of glass fiber and Kevlar fiber‐reinforced PMCs may be suitable for automotive applications, such as dashboards, and door panels, with improved performance and fire safety.

Highlights

Glass and Kevlar/phenolic and their hybrids were developed using hot press.

Fibers coated by (3‐glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane to enhance bonding.

GF/KF composites exhibited balanced properties in thermal property.

The pure and hybrid samples achieved a V‐0 rating under UL‐94 V test.
Ramie fiber and its composites: A review
Authors: Shakir Mufaddal Huzefa , Singh Akant Kumar
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, natural fibers are in greater demand as compared to synthetic fibers because of their various benefits, such as affordability, lightweight, biodegradability, and environmental friendliness. Ramie is one such natural fiber that is gaining importance owing to its outstanding mechanical properties. This article examines the literature on ramie fibers as a reinforcing material, with the main emphasis on the recent decade (2013–2023). Various studies on surface treatments to improve the bonding and properties of ramie fiber‐reinforced composites (RFRCs) are discussed. The tribological and mechanical properties of several RFRCs are explored. The applications of ramie‐based composites in several industrial areas are also highlighted. The findings of this review indicate that a combination of alkali and silane surface treatment greatly improves the mechanical and thermal behavior of RFRCs, whereas treating ramie fibers with ammonium polyphosphate enhances their flame retardant properties. Furthermore, the lack of literature on the characterization of RFRCs with different filler materials, such as rice husk, eggshell powder, waste tire particles, and fishbone powder needs to be studied. The insufficient studies on the tribological behavior of RFRCs, particularly in thermoplastic polymers, highlight research gaps that demand attention from researchers to understand their potential for wear‐resistant applications.

Highlights

Surface treatments enhance ramie fiber‐polymer bonding.

Alkali + silane treatment boosts composite rigidity.

Ammonium polyphosphate improves flame retardancy.

Hybrid ramie/epoxy with synthetic fibers shows strong mechanical properties.

Research needed on RFRCs with LDPE, PC, and various filler materials.