bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiomics analysis reveals the potential mechanism of high‐fat diet in dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis mice model
Authors: Zhao Yuyang , Chen Zhimin , Dong Ruiyi , Liu Yufan , Zhang Yixin , Guo Yan , Yu Meiyi , Li Xiang , Wang Jiangbin
Published: August 2024

A high‐fat diet (HFD) is recognized as an important contributor to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the precise underlying mechanism of HFD on IBD remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism by which HFD affects IBD using 16S rRNA‐sequencing and RNA‐seq technology. Results indicated that HFD‐treated mice exhibited notable alternations in the structure and composition of the gut microbiota, with some of these alternations being associated with the pathogenesis of IBD. Analysis of the colon transcriptome revealed 11 hub genes and 7 hub pathways among control, DSS‐induced colitis, and HFD + DSS‐treated groups. Further analysis explores the relationship between the hub pathways and genes, as well as the hub genes and gut microbiota. Overall, the findings indicate that the impact of HFD on DSS‐induced colitis may be linked to intestinal dysbiosis and specific genes such as Abca8b, Ace2, Apoa1, Apoa4, Apoc3, Aspa, Dpp4, Maob, Slc34a2, Slc7a9, and Trpm6. These results provide valuable insights for determining potential therapeutic targets for addressing HFD‐induced IBD.
Uncovering the Sino‐US Dynamic Risk Spillovers Effects: Evidence From Agricultural Futures Markets
Authors: Zhu Han‐Yu , Dai Peng‐Fei , Zhou Wei‐Xing
Published: August 2024

With economic globalization and the financialization of agricultural products continuing to advance, the interconnections between different agricultural futures have become closer. We utilize a TVP‐VAR‐DY model combined with the quantile method to measure the risk spillover between 11 agricultural futures in the United States and China from July 9, 2014, to December 31, 2022. We obtain several findings. First, CBOT corn, soybean, and wheat are identified as the primary risk transmitters, with DCE corn and soybean as the main risk receivers. Second, sudden events or increased economic uncertainty can enlarge the overall risk spillovers. Third, there is an aggregation of risk spillovers amongst agricultural futures based on the dynamic directional spillovers. Lastly, the central agricultural futures under the conditional mean are CBOT corn and soybean, while CZCE hard wheat and long‐grained rice are the two risk‐spillover centers in extreme cases, as per the results of the spillover network and minimum spanning tree.
Comparison of sleep quality, diet quality, and weight change between COVID‐19‐recovered patients and healthy controls: A matched case‐control study
Authors: Muzaffar Farha Ainin Sofia , Tan Seok Tyug
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Literature suggests that individuals who have recovered from COVID‐19 may experience post‐COVID conditions, including sleep problems and alterations in smell or taste. Thus, this study aims to compare the sleep quality, diet quality, and weight change between COVID‐19‐recovered patients and healthy controls.

Methods

A matched case‐control study involving young adults aged 18–30 years was conducted in the Klang Valley of Malaysia. The young adults were matched in a 1:1 ratio based on their sociodemographic characteristics, including gender, age, marital status, ethnicity, educational attainment, employment status, and monthly earned income. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was utilized to evaluate sleep quality, and the Diet Quality for Malaysia was used to determine the diet quality of all young adults. The young adults retrospectively recalled their prepandemic body weight in February 2020, while their current body weight in February 2023 was measured using a TANITA HD‐314 digital weighing scale.

Results

Emerging findings suggest that sleep quality and weight change were comparable between COVID‐19‐recovered patients and healthy controls. However, healthy controls were reported to have a more diversified diet than COVID‐19‐recovered patients. Nevertheless, no significant main effects or interaction effects of sleep and diet quality on weight change were observed in COVID‐19‐recovered patients or healthy controls. In this study, young adults also reported suffering from sleep deprivation and deficiency due to the pandemic.

Conclusion

Intervention programs that emphasize avoiding stimulants before bedtime for healthy controls, promoting the importance of having a diversified and balanced diet among the COVID‐19‐recovered patients, and achieving an ideal body weight for all young adults should be conducted after the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Female genital mutilation/cutting in women delivering in France: An observational national study
Authors: Cinelli Hélène , Lelong Nathalie , Lesclingand Marie , Alexander Sophie , Blondel Béatrice , Le Ray Camille ,   ENP 2021 Study Group
Published: August 2024

Objective

International migration from source countries has meant that clinicians in high income countries, that is, receiving countries, are increasingly caring for affected women affected by female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of FGM/C among women at childbirth, and its association with pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This was an observational study using data from a cross‐sectional population‐based study from the French National Perinatal Survey of 2021 (ENP) conducted in all maternity units in mainland France and including all women delivering a live birth during 1 week in March 2021 (N = 10 928). We estimated the FGM/C prevalence using (i) the diagnosed cases and (ii) the indirect prevalence estimated by UNICEF in each source country. We compared population characteristics and perinatal outcomes between women diagnosed with FGM/C and two groups: (i) women originating in source countries and diagnosed as without FGM/C and (ii) all women without diagnosis of FGM/C whatever the country of birth.

Results

Diagnosed prevalence of FGM/C was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.78–1.14] and the indirect computed estimation prevalence was estimated at 1.53% (95% CI: 1.31–1.77) in 113 and 183 women, respectively. Labor and delivery outcomes were globally similar in women with FGM/C and the other two groups. Only episiotomy was more frequently performed in women with FGM/C than in the other two groups.

Conclusion

In receiving countries, obstetric outcomes of women with FGM/C can be similar to those of other women, which does not preclude need of further research and training to provide the most appropriate care, including enhanced attention to diagnosis.
Enhanced synthetic generation of channel state information for millimeter‐wave networks in 5G communication systems
Authors: Sriharipriya K. C. , Clement J. Christopher , Mary Gerardine Immaculate , Natraj Chandrasekharan , Tharun Kumar R. , Gokul R.
Published: August 2024

In 5G communication systems, millimeter‐wave networks are pivotal, relying heavily on Channel State Information (CSI) for effective user‐to‐base station (BS) transmission. However, the acquisition of genuine CSI data remains a hurdle, often due to the expenses associated with simulations or physical experiments. This paper introduces an innovative method for generating artificial CSI data from real datasets, aiming to closely replicate authentic CSI samples. The procedure begins with an initial clustering analysis, followed using Principal Component Analysis and Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection to reduce dimensionality. Then, the data distributions are transformed into multivariate normal distributions using Probability Integral Transformations (PIT). For data synthesis, Multilayer Perceptron based regression models are utilized, followed by inverse PIT transformations to return the data to its original space. Our method is compared against KDE‐based algorithms, demonstrating superior fidelity in reproducing real CSI samples. Additionally, we stress the importance of capturing CSI correlations among different BSs to refine data synthesis. This research propels forward data synthesis techniques, offering potential solutions for mitigating interference challenges in dense MMW networks and advancing 5G communication systems.
Linear budget management in internet of things and 6G network environments: Linear regression and time series analysis
Authors: Long Jing
Published: August 2024

Budget, as an important component of management accounting, is an effective means for companies to achieve functions such as planning, coordination, and control. It is a bridge and link connecting different units and departments within the company and economic operations. However, current budget management pays less attention to temporal characteristics, leading to budget ambiguity. Taking Company A as an example, the long short‐term memory (LSTM) algorithm was used to collect and process historical data and predict its future budget and revenue situation. It was found that the budget management of Company A was relatively chaotic, with insufficient investor information, and the predicted results were close to the actual situation, proving the effectiveness of the model proposed in this paper.
Post‐Surgical Non‐Invasive Wound Healing Monitoring in Oropharyngeal Mucosa
Authors: Guryleva Anastasia , Machikhin Alexander , Toldanov Alexey , Kulikova Yevgeniya , Khokhlov Demid , Zolotukhina Anastasia , Svistushkin Mikhail , Svistushkin Valeriy
Published: August 2024

Postoperative bleeding is the most significant complication of tonsillectomy. Regular monitoring of post‐surgical wound healing in the pharynx is required. For this purpose, we propose endoscope‐based non‐invasive perfusion mapping and quantification. The combination of imaging photoplethysmography and image processing provides automated wound area selection and microcirculation characterization. In this feasibility study, we demonstrate the first results of the proposed approach to wound monitoring in clinical trial on eight patients after tonsillectomy. Combination of probe‐based optical system and image processing algorithms can provide the valuable and consistent data on perfusion distribution. The quantitative microcirculation data obtained 1, 4, and 7 days after surgery are in good agreement with existing monitoring protocols.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Cilofexor and Firsocostat in Healthy Japanese and Non‐Japanese Participants
Authors: Younis Islam R. , Nelson Cara , Weber Elijah J. , Shen Gong , Qin Ann R. , Xiao Deqing , Watkins Timothy R. , Othman Ahmed A.
Published: August 2024

Cilofexor, an oral farnesoid X receptor agonist, and firsocostat, an oral, liver‐targeted inhibitor of acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase, are being investigated in combination with semaglutide for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (previously known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; NCT04971785). The pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of cilofexor (100 mg) and firsocostat (20 mg) were separately investigated in two phase 1 studies, each of which included healthy Japanese participants (n = 20 in the cilofexor study and n = 21 in the firsocostat study) and non‐Japanese participants (n = 20 in the cilofexor study and n = 21 in the firsocostat study). Intensive pharmacokinetic sampling was performed over 96 h following a single‐dose administration of the study drug. Safety was monitored throughout the study. In total, 39 participants completed each study. The plasma exposures of cilofexor and firsocostat (area under the concentration–time curve [AUC] calculated from time 0 to infinity [AUCinf]) in Japanese participants were 1.24‐fold and 1.98‐fold, respectively, of those in non‐Japanese participants. Both study drugs were well tolerated with no clear differences in adverse events or laboratory abnormalities between Japanese and non‐Japanese participants. The approximate 2‐fold exposure difference of firsocostat between Japanese and non‐Japanese participants at the 20 mg dose does not warrant dose reduction given the previously established safety and tolerability of once‐daily doses of firsocostat up to 200 mg.
Overall mortality for community‐dwelling adults over 50 years at risk of malnutrition
Authors: Gittins Matthew , AlMohaisen Nada , Todd Chris , Lal Simon , Burden Sorrel
Published: August 2024

Background

It is well reported that malnutrition in acute care is associated with poorer health outcomes including increased mortality. However, the consequences of malnutrition on survival in community settings is uncertain. Malnutrition in people 65 years or over is often cited. Nevertheless, this study includes both middle‐aged and older adults as current public health policy is highlighting the need to increase disease‐free life years and is moving away from just extending life to increase overall longevity. The aim of this study is to describe the association of the risk of malnutrition using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) with mortality in community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older adults.

Methods

We used the UK Biobank to investigate the association between those at risk of malnutrition and mortality in participants aged ≥50 years. MUST identified risk of malnutrition and linked data to national death registries confirmed mortality. Years of life lost (YLL) and Cox proportional hazard models with hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) described risk associated with all‐cause mortality.

Results

There were 502 408 participants recruited, 117 830 were ≤50 years leaving 384 578 eligible participants. Based on MUST scores 63 495 (16.5%) were at risk of malnutrition with 401 missing some data and excluded. Incidence of mortality for at risk participants was 755 per 100 000 person‐years, corresponding to 153 476 YLL. Of those at risk of malnutrition, 9.5% died versus 7.8% at low risk. Initial survival analysis reported an increased risk of mortality (HR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.25 to 1.33) that decreased after adjusting for confounders (HR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.18) in those at risk of malnutrition versus those at low risk.

Conclusions

Risk of malnutrition was associated with increased overall mortality. Modest effect sizes are demonstrated but are supportive of public health policies, which advocate wide‐scale community, based nutritional screening for middle‐aged and older adults.
Morphology of the Digestive Tube of the Amazonian Freshwater Stingray Potamotrygon wallacei (Elasmobranchii: Potamotrygonidae): A Stereological Approach
Authors: Machado Rubia Neris , Duncan Wallice Paxiúba
Published: August 2024

This work aimed to describe and quantify the tissue components of the digestive tube of the neotropical freshwater stingray, Potamotrygon wallacei. For this, conventional histology and stereological methods were used to estimate tissue volume. The volumes of the four fundamental layers and the tissue components in the stomach (cardiac and pyloric) and spiral intestine were also estimated. In the cardiac stomach, the mucosa layer occupies 44.7% of the total volume of the organ wall. The gastric glands are the main components, and these structures alone represent 49.7% of this layer. This large number of gastric glands suggests a high potential for processing food items with a high protein content. The stereological methods were sensitive enough to show a reduction in the volume of the gastric glands from the cardiac region toward the pyloric region. Gastric glands are absent in the pyloric region of the stomach. However, the muscularis becomes thicker towards the pyloric region. The increase in smooth muscle thickness is due to the thickening of the inner muscular layer. This suggests that the role of the pyloric stomach may be related to the mixing of the chyme and assisting its passage to the spiral intestine. In the spiral intestine, data on the volume of the mucosa layer (and epithelial lining) suggest that the spiral valve has a large absorptive area. In several respects, the morphology of the digestive tube of P. wallacei is similar to that of other batoids. However, its slight morphological variations may be related to the habitat specificity of this species.
Reliability of In Vivo Creatine‐Weighted Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CrCEST) MRI in Calf Skeletal Muscle of Healthy Volunteers at 3 T
Authors: Chakraborty Kasturee , Burman Ritambhar , Nisar Sabah , Miller Saorla , Loschinskey Zachary , Wu Shengjie , Li Yimei , Bag Asim K. , Khan Ayaz , Goodenough Chelsea , Wilson Neil , Haris Mohammad , McCormack Shana E. , Reddy Ravinder , Ness Kirsten , Finkel Richard , Bagga Puneet
Published: August 2024

Background

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (mtOXPHOS) is important for ATP generation and its dysfunction leads to exercise intolerance. Phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P‐MRS) is a useful, noninvasive technique for mtOXPHOS assessment but has limitations. Creatine‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrCEST) MRI is a potential alternative to assess muscle bioenergetics.

Purpose

To evaluate the interscan repeatability, intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility of CrCEST during mild plantar flexion exercise.

Study type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Twenty healthy volunteers (age 37.6 ± 12.4 years, 11 females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T/CEST imaging using gradient echo readout.

Assessment

τCrCEST (postexercise Cr recovery time) was assessed in two scans for each participant, following mild plantar flexion exercises targeting the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and soleus (Sol) muscles. Three observers measured τCrCEST for interobserver reproducibility. Three readings by one observer were used to measure intraobserver reproducibility. Two scans were used for within‐participant interscan repeatability.

Statistical Tests

Paired t tests, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Pearson correlation were conducted. Bland–Altman plots were used to analyze the interobserver variability. A P‐value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There was excellent intra‐ (ICC ) and interobserver (ICC ) reproducibility, with moderate interscan repeatability for τCrCEST in LG and MG (ICC ) and poor‐to‐moderate interscan repeatability in Sol (ICC ). Excellent interobserver reproducibility was confirmed by Bland–Altman plots (fixed bias P‐value ).

Data Conclusion

CrCEST MRI shows promise in assessing muscle bioenergetics by evaluating τCrCEST during mild plantar flexion exercise with reasonable reliability, particularly in LG and MG.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Behavioral modeling of LMBA with different back‐off state using PSO optimized XGBoost method
Authors: Ma Yihang , Crupi Giovanni , Cai Jialin , Yu Chao , Chen Shichang , Zhou Tao
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an optimization technique based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is applied to the eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) method for load modulated balanced amplifiers (LMBAs) modeling, taking into consideration both strong nonlinearity and memory effects. An overview of the basic principles of the proposed modeling technique is provided, as well as a detailed description of how the model is extracted. To improve the performance of the XGBoost model, the hyperparameters are optimized using the PSO algorithm. An in‐house designed LMBA was used to perform experimental validation, which demonstrated that the new PSO‐XGBoost model provided very efficient and extremely accurate predictions, especially in the case of strong nonlinearities. When compared to traditional Volterra models, canonical piecewise‐linear based models, and standard XGBoost models, the proposed PSO‐XGBoost model provides improved performance with reasonable complexity.
Optimization of Fermentation Conditions of Cordyceps militaris and In Silico Analysis of Antifungal Property of Cordycepin Against Plant Pathogens
Authors: Showkat Mansoor , Narayanappa Nagesha , Umashankar Nagaraju , Saraswathy Benherlal Palayyan , Doddanagappa Shobha , Ashraf Suhail , Gani Saima , Fatimah Nusrat , Nabi Asha , Perveen Kahkashan , Bukhari Najat A. , Barasarathi Jayanthi , Sayyed Riyaz Z.
Published: August 2024

Cordyceps militaris, a medicinal fungus, has gained considerable attention owing to its potential health benefits, notably the production of bioactive compounds such as cordycepin. Cordycepin possesses significant antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The present study focused on optimizing the fermentation conditions for C. militaris to boost the production of mycelia and cordycepin, alongside investigating its antifungal properties using in silico and in vitro approaches. The optimal conditions, yielding the highest cordycepin and mycelial biomass, were a temperature of 20°C and a pH range of 4–6, with glucose and sucrose as carbon sources and yeast extract and casein hydrolysate as nitrogen sources. Under these conditions, cordycepin production peaked at low pH (600–1000 mg/L) and with carbon and maltose (400–500 mg/L). The low temperature favored cordycepin production (400 mg/L), whereas casein hydrolysate as a nitrogen source boosted cordycepin yield (600 mg/L). The docking analysis indicated that cordycepin had the highest binding affinity for the tubulin beta chain 2 (−10.4 kcal/mol) compared to the fungicide tebuconazole (−7.9 kcal/mol for both targets). The in silico results were corroborated by in vitro studies, where the mycelial extract of C. militaris inhibited approximately 75% of fungal growth at a concentration of 6000 ppm. These findings suggest that optimizing fermentation conditions significantly enhances cordycepin production, and cordycepin shows antifungal solid activity, making it a promising agent for biocontrol in agriculture.
Product personalization and brand retailer performance: The critical role of brand retailer‐upstream supplier control
Authors: Song Peijian , Zuo Li , Peng Xiaosong (David) , Fang Eric (Er)
Published: August 2024

Brand retailers are increasingly offering product personalization to accommodate the requests of individual customers. While prior research has examined product personalization from a customer's or a manufacturer's perspective, this study focuses on product personalization from a brand retailer's perspective. Under product personalization, brand retailers that outsource production to upstream suppliers face two significant challenges: product returns from downstream customers, and personalization costs charged by upstream suppliers. Employing an analysis of transaction data from an online women's wedding dress firm, this study finds that as product requests increase (i.e., more product features must be modified), personalization costs increase, but the likelihood of product returns decreases. Additionally, as time requests increase (i.e., delivery is more urgent), the likelihood of product returns increases. Furthermore, relationship‐specific process control exacerbates (i) the effect of product requests on personalization costs, and (ii) the effect of time requests on the likelihood of product returns. Finally, relationship‐specific outcome control and transaction‐specific control alleviate the impact of time requests on the likelihood of product returns while exacerbating the effect of product requests on personalization costs. The findings suggest that retailers can realize greater benefits from product personalization by selecting control mechanisms tailored to personalization requests.
Enhancement of nutrient use efficiency with biochar and wood vinegar: A promising strategy for improving soil productivity
Authors: He Lizhi , Geng Kun , Li Boling , Li Song , Gustave Williamson , Wang Jie , Jeyakumar Paramsothy , Zhang Xiaokai , Wang Hailong
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The co‐application of biochar and wood vinegar has demonstrated the potential to enhance premium crop production. The present study reveals the effects of co‐applying rice husk biochar and wood vinegar (both foliar and soil application) on soil properties and the growth of Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis L.) in a two‐season pot experiment.

RESULTS

The soil pH, electrical conductivity and dissolved organic carbon contents in combination treatments of wood vinegar and biochar were increased more when wood vinegar was applied to soils rather than to leaves, and the parameters were observed to surpass those for chemical fertilizer treatments. The biomass of Chinese cabbage shoots was significantly increased by 60.8‐ and 27.3‐fold in the combined treatments compared to the control when 1% wood vinegar was sprayed to the leaves (WF1) in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Higher contents of vitamin C, soluble protein and soluble sugar were also observed in the combined wood vinegar and biochar treatments compared to chemical fertilizer treatments and the control; for example, the vitamin C content of plant shoot in WF1 was 21.3 times that of the control. The yield and quality of plants were decreased across all treatments in 2023 compared to 2022 but the combination treatments still displayed superiority.

CONCLUSION

The co‐application of wood vinegar and biochar enhances the growth and improve the quality of Chinese cabbage through improving the soil properties and plant photosynthesis. Moreover, the foliage application of wood vinegar is more preferable compared to soil application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Jabuticaba (Myrciaria trunciflora) extract improves metabolic and behavioral markers of obese rats fed on a hypercaloric diet
Authors: Boldori Jean Ramos , Nogueira Jean Carlos Costa , Munieweg Félix Roman , Lunardi Annelize Gruppi , de Freitas Rodrigues Cristiane , Cibin Francielli Weber Santos , Denardin Cristiane Casagrande
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a metabolic disease that affects many individuals around the world, related to imbalance between energy consumption and expenditure, which can lead to comorbidities. A healthy diet can significantly contribute to the prevention or treatment of this condition. Jabuticaba is an emerging fruit presenting a wide range of bioactive compounds and is being extensively studied due to its effects on lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the jabuticaba extract in the anxious‐like behavior and in the lipid and oxidative metabolism in the context of obesity.

METHODS

Forty male Wistar rats divided into five groups were used. The animals received a standard diet and/or a hypercaloric diet and after 60 days of induction, interventions were carried out with jabuticaba extract (5% and 10%) via gavage for 30 days.

RESULTS

It can be observed that the jabuticaba extract was able to reverse the anxious behavior observed in obese animals and modulate parameters of lipid and oxidative metabolism. We observed a reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to obese animals. Furthermore, we observed an improvement in oxidative parameters, with a reduction in protein carbonylation in the liver and modulation of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. Contrary to expectations, we did not observe changes in leptin, adiponectin and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) levels.

CONCLUSION

Our work demonstrates that jabuticaba extract can improve metabolic, oxidative and behavioral changes in animals with obesity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Modeling population dynamics of beluga whales in the Eastern High Arctic – Baffin Bay population
Authors: Biddlecombe Brooke A. , Watt Cortney A.
Published: August 2024

Beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) have a long history of subsistence harvest that has continued into the present and a history of exploitation through commercial harvest. The Eastern High Arctic – Baffin Bay (EHA) population of beluga whales has the northernmost distribution of any beluga whale population in Canada. Beluga whales from the EHA population have a single complete abundance estimate from 1996 and 3 partial abundance estimates in 1981, 2010, and 2012 from aerial surveys; reliable estimates from surveys are lacking in recent years, limiting the ability to determine population dynamics. In 2020 satellite imagery was used to estimate abundance for beluga whales in the EHA population for estuaries in the whales' summering area. We built a stochastic stock production model to estimate population dynamics from the start of reliably compiled harvest history data in 1977 to 2022, using abundance estimates from 1981, 1996, 2010, 2012, and 2020. We also extended the model 10 years into the future under 7 potential annual harvest scenarios (within the range of annual reported harvests) to calculate the probability of decline. We estimated the starting population in 1977 as 29,615 whales (95% CI = 20,765–46,251), and the estimate from 2022 was 16,495 whales (95% CI = 6,731–33,504). Landed catch of 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 beluga whales annually resulted in <1%, 3%, 23%, 50%, 70%, 83%, and 90% probabilities of decline, respectively. There was a notable decrease in abundance over the time series, likely caused by harvest pressure. Harvest in recent years has ranged from 155–553 catches per year, and our results suggest that 108 landed catches per year equates to a 5% risk of decline, the low risk goal for precautionary fisheries management, which aligns with population conservation goals. Our model is a first step in understanding the EHA beluga whale population dynamics using what data are available and suggests that current harvests in some years may result in a population decline and should be monitored.
Divergent metabolism estimates from dissolved oxygen and inorganic carbon: Implications for river carbon cycling
Authors: Shangguan Qipei , Payn Robert A. , Hall Robert O. , Young Fischer L. , Valett H. Maurice , DeGrandpre Michael D.
Published: August 2024

Rivers efficiently collect, process, and transport terrestrial‐derived carbon. River ecosystem metabolism is the primary mechanism for processing carbon. Diel cycles of dissolved oxygen (DO) have been used for decades to infer river ecosystem metabolic rates, which are routinely used to predict metabolism of carbon dioxide (CO2) with uncertainties of the assumed stoichiometry ranging by a factor of 4. Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) has been less used to directly infer metabolism because it is more difficult to quantify, involves the complexity of inorganic carbon speciation, and as shown in this study, likely requires a two‐station approach. Here, we developed DIC metabolism models using single‐ and two‐station approaches. We compared metabolism estimates based on simultaneous DO and DIC monitoring in the Upper Clark Fork River (USA), which also allowed us to estimate ecosystem‐level photosynthetic and respiratory quotients (PQE and RQE). We observed that metabolism estimates from DIC varied more between single‐ and two‐station approaches than estimates from DO. Due to carbonate buffering, CO2 is slower to equilibrate with the atmosphere compared to DO, likely incorporating a longer distance of upstream heterogeneity. Reach‐averaged PQE ranged from 1.5 to 2.0, while RQE ranged from 0.8 to 1.5. Gross primary production from DO was larger than that from DIC, as was net ecosystem production by . The river was autotrophic based on DO but heterotrophic based on DIC, complicating our understanding of how metabolism regulated CO2 production. We suggest future studies simultaneously model metabolism from DO and DIC to understand carbon processing in rivers.
Highly Efficient and Stable Narrow Band Green Emitting Phosphor of Sb3+/Ce3+ Sensitized Cs2NaTbCl6 for WLED
Authors: Chen Changheng , Chen Renze , Gao Ruibo , Zheng Jiming , Xiang Jinmeng , Guo Chongfeng
Published: August 2024

Realizing narrow‐band green phosphors with high efficiency and thermal stability remains an enormous challenge for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) backlighting in the pursuit of wide‐gamut display. Inspired by excellent and characteristic green sharp line emission of rare‐earth ion Tb3+, the rare‐earth‐based halide double perovskite Cs2NaTbCl6 phosphor with line‐shape emission (FWHM: ≈7 nm) at 547 nm is developed. The introduction of sensitizers Ce3+ or Sb3+ enhanced the quantum yield of Cs2NaTbCl6 to 76% or 90% from 52% due to the strong absorption of sensitizer and efficient energy transfer from sensitizers to Tb3+. The phosphors with or without sensitizer express better thermal stability than traditional perovskite, which originated from the phonon assistance, low thermal ionization probability, stronger localization of 4f electrons through the spectrum, and first‐principles calculation. The warm white LED fabricated using the present green emitting phosphor exhibits low color temperature of 3081 K and ≈100% of the NTSC gamut, which indicates that the Ce3+ or Sb3+ sensitized Cs2NaTbCl6 phosphors possess great application potential in WLED illumination and display fields.
Regenerative Retinal Laser and Light Therapies (RELITE): Proposal of a New Nomenclature, Categorization, and Trial Reporting Standard
Authors: von der Burchard Claus , Miura Yoko , Stanzel Boris , Chhablani Jay , Roider Johann , Framme Carsten , Brinkmann Ralf , Tode Jan
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Numerous laser and light therapies have been developed to induce regenerative processes in the choroid/retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/photoreceptor complex, leaving the neuroretina undamaged. These therapies are applied to the macula for the treatment of various diseases, most prominently diabetic maculopathy, retinal vein occlusion, central serous chorioretinopathy, and age‐related macular degeneration. However, the abundance of technologies, treatment patterns, and dosimetry protocols has made understanding these therapies and comparing different approaches increasingly complex and challenging. To address this, we propose a new nomenclature system with a clear categorization that will allow for better understanding and comparability between different laser and light modalities. We propose this nomenclature system as an open standard that may be adapted in future toward new technical developments or medical advancements.

Methods

A systematic literature review of reported macular laser and light therapies was conducted. A categorization into a standardized system was proposed and discussed among experts and professionals in the field. This paper does not aim to assess, compare, or evaluate the efficacy of different laser or dosimetry techniques or treatment patterns.

Results

The literature search yielded 194 papers describing laser techniques, 50 studies describing dosimetry, 272 studies with relevant clinical trials, and 82 reviews. Following the common therapeutic aim, we propose “regenerative retinal laser and light therapies (RELITE)” as the general header. We subdivided RELITE into four main categories that refer to the intended physical and biochemical effects of temperature increase (photothermal therapy, PTT), RPE regeneration (photomicrodisruption therapy, PMT), photochemical processes (photochemical therapy, PCT), and photobiomodulation (photobiomodulation therapy, PBT).

Further, we categorized the different dosimetry approaches and treatment regimens. We propose the following nomenclature system that integrates the most important parameters to enable understanding and comparability:

Pattern—Dosimetry—Exposure Time/Frequency, Duty Cycle/Irradiation Diameter/Wavelength—Subcategory—Category.

Conclusion

Regenerative retinal laser and light therapies are widely used for different diseases and may become valuable in the future. A precise nomenclature system and strict reporting standards are needed to allow for a better understanding, reproduceable and comparable clinical trials, and overall acceptance. We defined categories for a systematic therapeutic goal‐based nomenclature to facilitate future research in this field.
Firm theories in neoclassical institutional economics
Authors: Huang Shaoan
Published: August 2024

This paper defines the “new” institutional economics pioneered by Coase's contributionas “neoclassical” institutional economics. It develops the firm theory on the basis of criticizing neoclassical economics for treating firms as black boxes. Coase's contribution is ground‐breaking: He created the transaction cost theory, reinterpreted the origin and essence of firms and the changes in firm size, and analyzed the internal power structure of firms from a contractual perspective. The follow‐up economists build incomplete contract theory, principal–agent theory, team production theory, corporate governance theory, mechanism design theory, and comparative institutional advantage theory to further develop the firm theory. Finally, according to the characteristics of China's economy, this paper provides the future direction of the firm theory.
Interposition of Free Vascularized Fascia Into the Trapezial Resection Cavity for the Surgical Treatment of Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mattila Simo , Haapamäki Ville , Waris Eero
Published: August 2024

Backround

Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis has been treated with interposition of autologous fascia into the trapezial resection cavity to prevent scaphometacarpal impingement with suboptimal results. Autologous fascia may undergo necrosis and gradual shrinkage due to avascularity. We propose vascularization of the interposed fascia using microvascular techniques as a new alternative to achieve a durable graft with sufficient soft tissue volume.

Patients and Methods

In this retrospective study, 11 surgeries for 8 patients (6 women, 2 men) (5 primary and 6 revision cases) were performed using vascularized fascial grafts from the anterolateral thigh for interposition in the trapezial resection cavity with microvascular anastomosis for revascularization. Subjective assessment included the short version of the Quick Disabilities of the Hand, Shoulder and Arm and patient related hand wrist evaluation scores. Objective assessment included strength and range of motion measurements. Radiographs were obtained preoperatively and at each follow‐up visit. An MRI was done at a mean of 19 months postoperatively.

Results

The size of the harvested fascial grafts was 2 × 2–3 cm with a thickness of 1.5–2 cm. There were no postoperative complications apart from one seroma in the graft harvest site. The mean clinical and radiologic follow‐up was 2 years and 8 months. The procedure provided pain relief PRWHE pain 32 (SD 13)—9 (SD 12), p < 0.0001, increased tip pinch strength 4 kg (SD3)—6 kg (SD2), p < 0.05, and improved overall function PRWHE 60 (SD28)—16 (SD21), p < 0.0001 and QuickDash 50 (SD21)—13 (SD17), p < 0.0001. Radiographs demonstrated maintenance of the scaphometacarpal space, while MRI scans showed the presence of mildly edematous interposed tissue within the resection cavity.

Conclusions

Although technically demanding, vascularized fascia presents an attractive alternative for the treatment of trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis. It may be particularly advantageous in complex cases requiring revision surgery and in young patients with high functional demands.
Global solvability for semidiscrete Kirchhoff equation
Authors: Hirosawa Fumihiko
Published: August 2024

It is effective to consider discretized problems for partial differential equations that are difficult to analyze themselves. The global solvability of the initial value problem of the Kirchhoff equation is still unsolved except in cases where the initial value is a specially restricted class. In this paper, we prove the global solvability of the semidiscrete Kirchhoff equation, which is obtained by discretizing the Kirchhoff equation with respect to spatial variables.
Thermoring basis for heat unfolding‐induced inactivation in TRPV1
Authors: Wang Guangyu
Published: August 2024

Transient receptor potential vanilloid‐1 (TRPV1) is a capsaicin receptor that employs use‐dependent desensitization to protect highly evolved mammals from noxious heat damage in response to repeated or constant heat stimuli. However, the underlying structural factor or motif has not been precisely resolved. In this computational study, the graph theory‐based grid thermodynamic model was used to reveal how temperature‐dependent noncovalent interactions, as identified in the 3D structures of rat TRPV1, could develop a well‐organized fluidic grid‐like mesh network. This network features various topological grids constrained as thermosensitive rings that range in size from the biggest to the smallest, governing distinct structural and functional traits of the channel in response to different temperature degrees. After discovering that heat unfolding of three specific biggest grids, one in the closed state and two in the open state, respectively, causes the reversible activation at 43°C and thermal inactivation between 56°C and 61°C, a smaller random grid was also found to be responsible for irreversible inactivation and use‐dependent desensitization from the pre‐open closed state within the temperature range of 43°C–61°C. Thus, these two distinct inactivation pathways of TRPV1 may be involved in protecting those mammals against noxious heat damage.

Key Points

A perturbation at the protein–water interface was accompanied by partial heat or cold unfolding of the membrane protein.

A reversible or irreversible gating transition of an ion channel may result from a specific or random interaction between two active sites, respectively.

Kinetically driven protein aggregation was not the cause of thermodynamically trapped irreversible inactivation, but rather a later stage of partial heat‐induced unfolding.
First direct detection of large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on asteroid (162173) Ryugu samples: An interstellar heritage
Authors: Sabbah Hassan , Quitté Ghylaine , Demyk Karine , Joblin Christine
Published: August 2024

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are considered major players in the physics and chemistry of star‐ and planet‐forming regions. The interstellar PAH hypothesis is based on our understanding of the origin of the aromatic infrared bands (AIBs), a set of bright emission features that are now the focus of observations by the James Webb telescope. While AIB carriers are expected to be large free PAHs (50 carbon atoms or more), laboratory analysis of primitive carbonaceous chondrites (CCs) has mainly revealed relatively small PAHs, up to 24 carbon atoms. In this study, we present a comprehensive analysis of aromatic species in bulk samples from the carbonaceous asteroid Ryugu using a surface mass spectrometry technique provided by two‐step laser desorption ionization. The resulting molecular distribution differs significantly from that obtained for a sample from the CC Orgueil, revealing aromatic species extending up to 61 carbon atoms. The species identified are composed of both peri‐condensed PAHs and non‐condensed aromatics. These results directly support the interstellar PAH hypothesis and open up new perspectives on the formation and evolution of organic matter in star‐forming regions and in the solar nebula.

Key Points

First direct detection of free aromatic species of large sizes with up to 61 carbon atoms in primitive extraterrestrial matter by applying a highly sensitive two‐step laser mass spectrometry analysis to grain samples from the carbonaceous asteroid Ryugu (Hayabusa2 mission).

First direct support for the interstellar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) hypothesis, according to which large free PAHs are responsible for the aromatic emission bands that are major infrared features currently observed by the James Webb Space Telescope.

The large aromatic species detected are present in trace amounts and future research is needed to develop sensitive techniques for studying these compounds in sample return missions and meteorites.
Peripheral neuropathy prevalence and effect on mobility 12 months after prosthesis prescription among individuals with dysvascular lower extremity amputation
Authors: Norvell Daniel C. , Halsne Elizabeth G. , Henderson Alison W. , Turner Aaron P. , Biggs Wayne T. , Webster Joseph , Czerniecki Joseph M. , Morgenroth David C.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To determine the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy (PN) and its effect on mobility in patients who were prescribed a lower limb prosthesis (LLP) after an incident dysvascular transtibial (TT) or transfemoral (TF) lower extremity amputation (LEA). We also sought to determine if the effect of PN on mobility was modified by amputation level or depression.

Design

Participants were identified retrospectively through the Veterans Affairs (VA) Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW) from March 1, 2018, to November 30, 2020, then were contacted prospectively to obtain their self‐reported mobility. Multiple logistic regression was used to control for potential confounders and identify potential effect modifiers.

Setting

The VA CDW, the National Prosthetics Patient Database, participant mailings and phone calls.

Participants

Three hundred fifty‐seven individuals who underwent a TT or TF amputation due to diabetes and/or peripheral arterial disease and were fitted with a qualifying LLP.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcomes Measures

The Locomotor Capabilities Index basic and advanced mobility subscale scores.

Results

Two‐hundred thirty seven participants (66%) had a diagnosis of PN prior to prosthesis prescription. The detrimental effect of PN on achieving basic and advanced mobility was significant after adjusting for potential confounding factors (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.30–0.94; p = .03 and aOR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.24–0.77; p = .005, respectively). The detrimental effect of PN was more pronounced in patients with depression, especially for advanced mobility (aOR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.14–0.95; p = .04) versus no depression (aOR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.27–1.0; p = .07).

Conclusions

PN is common in patients who have undergone an LEA due to diabetes and/or vascular disease and patients with this diagnosis should be carefully evaluated. Targeted rehabilitation programs to mitigate its potential detrimental effects on mobility are important and should specifically include mental health assessment and treatment.