bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospun advanced nanomaterials for in situ transmission electron microscopy: Progress and perspectives
Authors: Zhao Jingyue , Li Zulin , Lv Shiwen , Wang Manxi , Li Chuanping , Li Xuan , Chen Hongyang , Li Manxian , Chen Xiaochuan , Wang Feifeng , Fan Weiwei , Wu Junxiong , Wang Ziqiang , Li Xiaoyan , Chen Yuming
Published: September 2023

Electrospun nanofibers (NFs) have shown excellent properties including high porosity, abundant active sites, controllable diameter, uniform and designable structure, high mechanical strength, and superior resistance to external destruction, which are ideal nanoreactors for in situ characterizations. Among various techniques, in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has enabled operando observation at the atomic level due to its high temporal and spatial resolution combined with excellent sensitivity, which is of great importance for rational materials design and performance improvement. In this review, the basic knowledge of in situ TEM techniques and the advantages of electrospun nanoreactors for in situ TEM characterization are first introduced. The recent development in electrospun nanoreactors for studying the physical properties, structural evolution, phase transition, and formation mechanisms of materials using in situ TEM is then summarized. The electrochemical behaviors of carbon nanofibers (CNFs), metal/metal oxide NFs, and solid‐electrolyte interphase for different rechargeable batteries are highlighted. Finally, challenges faced by electrospun nanoreactors for in situ TEM characterization are discussed and potential solutions are proposed to advance this field.

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Sequence variants in the BTD underlying biotinidase deficiency in families of Pakistani origin
Authors: Moatter Tariq , Ahmed Sibtain , Majid Hafsa , Jafri Lena , Bilal Muhammad , Najumuddin  , Faisal  , Khan Aysha Habib
Published: September 2023

Background

Biotinidase deficiency (BTD) is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disease, which develops neurological symptoms because of the impaired biotin recycling. Pathogenic mutations on BTD gene cause BTD deficiency. The clinical features and mutation analysis of Pakistani children with BTD deficiency have rarely been described. Herein, for the first time, we report the clinical features, BTD gene mutations and biochemical analysis of seven symptomatic children with BTD deficiency from Pakistan.

Methods

Seven suspected BTD‐deficient patients who presented abnormal organic acid profiles and clinical features were subjected to Sanger sequencing to identify pathogenic mutations in the BTD gene. The results were analyzed by Mutation Surveyor Software.

Results

All seven patients exhibited common biotinidase deficiency symptoms including hypotonia, developmental delay and seizures. Biochemical analysis shows marked excretion of 3‐hydroxy isovalerate in all cases, followed by 3‐hydroxy propionate and methyl citrate. Sanger sequencing revealed one frame‐shift mutation, c.98_104delinsTCC (p.Cys33Phefs), and two missense mutations, c.1612C>A (p.Arg538Ser) and c.1330G>C (p.Asp444His). All mutations were in the homozygous state and classified as pathogenic in published studies and mutation databases.

Conclusions

This study has validated the BTD variants as the underlying cause of biotinidase deficiency in which molecular testing of BTD is supported by urinary organic acid analysis and clinical diagnosis. Secondly, the strength of the local availability of this test in Pakistan will paved the way for the neonatal screening of biotinidase deficiency.
The long‐term impact and value of curative therapy for HIV: a modelling analysis
Authors: Guzauskas Gregory F. , Hallett Timothy B.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Curative therapies (CTx) to achieve durable remission of HIV disease without the need for antiretroviral therapy (ART) are currently being explored. Our objective was to model the long‐term health and cost outcomes of HIV in various countries, the impact of future CTx on those outcomes and the country‐specific value‐based prices (VBPs) of CTx.

Methods

We developed a decision‐analytic model to estimate the future health economic impacts of a hypothetical CTx for HIV in countries with pre‐existing access to ART (CTx+ART), compared to ART alone. We modelled populations in seven low‐and‐middle‐income countries and five high‐income countries, accounting for localized ART and other HIV‐related costs, and calibrating variables for HIV epidemiology and ART uptake to reproduce historical HIV outcomes before projecting future outcomes to year 2100. Health was quantified using disability‐adjusted life‐years (DALYs). Base case, pessimistic and optimistic scenarios were modelled for CTx+ART and ART alone. Based on long‐term outcomes and each country's estimated health opportunity cost, we calculated the country‐specific VBP of CTx.

Results

The introduction of a hypothetical CTx lowered HIV prevalence and prevented future infections over time, which increased life‐years, reduced the number of individuals on ART, reduced AIDS‐related deaths, and ultimately led to fewer DALYs versus ART‐alone. Our base case estimates for the VBP of CTx ranged from $5400 (Kenya) up to $812,300 (United States). Within each country, the VBP was driven to be greater primarily by lower ART coverage, lower HIV incidence and prevalence, and higher CTx cure probability. The VBP estimates were found to be greater in countries where HIV prevalence was higher, ART coverage was lower and the health opportunity cost was greater.

Conclusions

Our results quantify the VBP for future curative CTx that may apply in different countries and under different circumstances. With greater CTx cure probability, durability and scale up, CTx commands a higher VBP, while improvements in ART coverage may mitigate its value. Our framework can be utilized for estimating this cost given a wide range of scenarios related to the attributes of a given CTx as well as various parameters of the HIV epidemic within a given country.
A conserved N protein nano‐vaccine of COVID‐19 exerts potent and cross‐reactive humoral and cellular immune responses in mice
Authors: Li Bing , Zhang Jing , Huang Yang , Li Xinrui , Feng Jing , Li Yan , Zhang Rongxin
Published: September 2023

As severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) mutates continually, the current vaccines are unable to provide sufficient protection. It is important to develop a broad‐spectrum vaccine with conserved antigens to prevent variant infection. Here we fused the SARS‐CoV‐2 N protein with Helicobacter pylori nonheme ferritin to construct a SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐Ferritin nanoparticle vaccine. Compared with the monomer N protein, the N‐Ferritin nanoparticles induced more lymph node dendritic cells in mice to trigger adoptive immunity. Following this, the N‐Ferritin elicited more robust and long‐lasting antibody responses, which had better cross‐reactivity with the SARS‐CoV N protein. It is also worth noting that higher levels of N‐specific IgG and IgA were distributed in the lungs of N‐Ferritin‐immunized mice. Furthermore, the N‐Ferritin nanoparticles also resulted higher proportion of interferon‐γ+ CD8+ T cells, CD8+ Tcm cells, and T cells with cross‐reactivity in SARS‐CoV‐2, SARS‐CoV, and Middle East respiratory syndrome‐related coronavirus. The conserved N‐based nanoparticles could provide a promising vaccine developing strategy against SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and other coronaviruses.
The role of destination personality fit in destination branding: Antecedents and outcomes
Authors: Hultman Magnus , Strandberg Carola , Oghazi Pejvak , Mostaghel Rana
Published: September 2023

Drawing from fit research in strategic management, this study develops and investigates a model predicting destination attitude and (re)visit intention. The study introduces the concept of destination personality fit on the basis of how well consumer perceptions of a tourist destination's brand personality fits that of what the destination brand manager wishes to convey. A model incorporating destination advertising awareness as an antecedent of destination personality and consumer‐manager destination personality fit is tested on international consumers with the destination personality of Switzerland as the study setting. Structural equation modeling results reveal that destination advertising awareness does indeed relate positively to both stronger perceived destination personality and destination personality fit in consumers’ minds. Interestingly, the subsequent destination personality–destination attitude relationship is moderated by consumer–manager destination personality fit in such a way that the link grows stronger in cases where fit is high. The results have important implications for destination brand managers in that they reinforce the importance of strong and distinct destination personalities. The findings also show the importance of actively communicating the destination brand to consumers since the positive outcomes of a strong destination personality increase in magnitude when successfully communicated, and the vision of the destination brand manager has been adopted by the consumer.
circPPP2R4 promotes colorectal cancer progression and reduces ROS production through the miR‐646/FOXK1 axis
Authors: Hong Yuntian , Chen Baoxiang , Wang Chun , Gui Rui , Zhai Xiang , Qian Qun , Ren Xianghai , Xie Xiaoyu , Jiang Congqing
Published: September 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. This study aimed to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of circPPP2R4 in CRC. Based on bioinformatic analyses and validation by qRT‐PCR, we identified a novel circRNA, circPPP2R4, which was upregulated in CRC tissues. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis implied a high diagnostic value of circPPP2R4 for CRC. Additionally, high circPPP2R4 levels were positively correlated with advanced clinical stage and lymph node metastasis. Functionally, circPPP2R4 overexpression facilitated CRC cells proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas circPPP2R4 knockdown attenuated the malignant behaviors. In mouse models, circPPP2R4 overexpression remarkably promoted tumor growth and lung metastasis. Mechanistically, a series of experiments containing RIP, RNA pull‐down, and dual‐luciferase reporter assays revealed the circPPP2R4/miR‐646/FOXK1 axis in CRC. Further experiments were conducted to verify that circPPP2R4 reduced reactive oxygen species generation to exert its oncogenic function by sponging miR‐646 to upregulate FOXK1 expression. For the first time, we identified the regulatory role of circPPP2R4 in CRC pathogenesis, providing a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic strategy for CRC.
Comparison of prevention and treatment of portal vein thrombosis between proximal splenic vein ligation followed by postoperative transcatheter anticoagulant therapy and systemic anticoagulant therapy in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension
Authors: Bu Yang , Liu Kejun , Tian Mingguo , Li Baoding , Wang Liyun , Jia Dong , Yang Yong , Liu Junhao
Published: September 2023

Aims

Splenectomy combined with pericardial devascularization is one of the important methods to treat hypersplenism, gastrointestinal bleeding, and other complications caused by liver cirrhosis; however, it is accompanied by a high risk of portal vein thrombosis (PVT). This study aimed to explore the preventive and therapeutic effects of proximal splenic vein ligation (PSVL) with postoperative transcatheter anticoagulant therapy (TCAT) on PVT.

Methods

This study retrospectively selected 143 patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, who received splenectomy combined with pericardial devascularization from June 30, 2018 to June 30, 2021. According to computed tomography photography, within 1 week before the operation, the patients were divided into a prevention group (without preoperative PVT, n = 112) and a treatment group (preoperative PVT, n = 31). Then, each group was subdivided based on the treatment and prevention measures into PSVL + TCAT (n = 70) and systemic anticoagulant therapy (SAT) subgroups (n = 73). The preventive and therapeutic effects of PSVL followed by TCAT on PVT were analyzed.

Results

The operation time in the PSVL + TCAT subgroups was longer than that in the SAT subgroups (185 ± 76 min vs. 161 ± 55 min; p < 0.01). There was no difference between the two subgroups in terms of operative bleeding (345 ± 82 mL vs. 336 ± 65 mL; p > 0.50). There was no operative death, and all patients recovered uneventfully. In the prevention group, procedure‐related complications occurred in two patients in the PSVL + TCAT subgroup (3.7% [2/54]), including one patient with slight pancreatitis and one patient with chylous leakage, owing to mobilization of the pancreas. The PVT incidence in the prevention group was significantly different between the two subgroups at postoperative 7th day, 3rd month, and 6th month (PSVL + TCAT: 0%, 11.1%, and 5.6% vs. SAT: 39.7%, 31.0%, and 20.7%, respectively; all p < 0.05). In the treatment group, the thrombus regression rate at postoperative 7th day and disappearance rates at the 3rd month and the 6th month of the PSVL + TCAT subgroup were significantly higher than those in the SAT subgroup after anticoagulant and thrombolysis therapy (PSVL + TCAT: 75.0%, 68.8%, and 87.5% vs. SAT: 20.0%, 26.7%, and 40.0%; all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

PSVL + TCAT reduces the risk of PVT after splenectomy and is safe and effective in treating PVT during surgery for portal hypertension.
Polyphyllin I induces ferroptosis in castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells through the ERK/DNMT1/ACSL4 axis
Authors: Zou Peiliang , Chen Zheng , He Qixiong , Zhuo Yumin
Published: September 2023

Background

Castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) inevitably arises after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Therefore, there is an urgent need to search for novel treatment strategies for CRPC. Polyphyllin I (PPI), one of the steroidal saponins in paris polyphylla, has been shown to have an anticancer effect. This study investigated the role and mechanism of PPI in CRPC cell ferroptosis.

Methods

Protein levels of GPX4, p‐extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK), ERK, DNMT1, and ACSL4 were measured by Western blot. DNMT1 and ACSL4 mRNA expression was analyzed by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Prostate cancer cells (DU145, PC3) were treated with PPI. Cell viability was assessed utilizing Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay. The role of PPI in regulating ferroptosis was determined by analyzing lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), malonyl dialdehyde (MDA), iron (Fe2+), and glutathione (GSH) content. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay verified the effect of DNMT1 on the ACSL4 promoter. The methylation level of ACSL4 promoter was assessed utilizing MSP. A nude mice xenograft was adopted to detect the effect of PPI in vivo.

Results

PPI inhibited CRPC cell proliferation, reduced levels of GSH and GPX4, and increased levels of MDA, Fe2+, and ROS, while ERK inhibitor reversed the effect of PPI on ferroptosis. PPI repressed the methylation level of ACSL4 promoter by inhibiting DNMT1. DNMT1 knockdown promoted CRPC cell ferroptosis by regulating ACSL4. PPI induced ferroptosis and suppressed CRPC growth in nude mice.

Conclusion

PPI can be used as a ferroptosis inducer to induce ferroptosis in CRPC cells via the ERK/DNMT1/ACSL4 axis, suggesting that PPI may be a new strategy for CRPC treatment.
The diagnostic accuracy of 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT in primary staging of patients with high‐risk nonmetastatic prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy: A single‐center cohort analysis
Authors: Rajwa Pawel , Heidenreich Julian , Drzezga Alexander , Schmidt Matthias , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Heidenreich Axel
Published: September 2023

Background

68Ga‐prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) is a recommended imaging modality for patients with recurrent prostate cancer (PCa). Its routine implementation before radical prostatectomy (RP) may allow avoiding undertreatment. We aimed to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT for pelvic lymph node metastases in a large cohort of patients treated with RP and extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) for high‐risk PCa.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of an institutional database of patients who underwent 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT before RP and ePLND for high‐risk PCa. The diagnostic estimates of 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for lymph node involvement were calculated.

Results

We included 165 high‐risk PCa patients. The median PSA value was 24.5 ng/mL (range: 6.7–185) and all the patients had biopsy Grade Group 4–5. In total, 46 (28%) of patients had clinical lymph node involvement at 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT. A mean number of resected lymph nodes per patient was 22 (range: 15–45) and 149 (4.2%) of all resected nodes were positive for lymph node metastasis at final pathology. The diagnostic estimates for the detection of pN+ disease at RP were as follows: sensitivity 63% (95% CI: 51–75), specificity 97% (95% CI: 91–99), positive predictive value 94% (95% CI: 82–99), and negative predictive value 79% (95% CI: 70–86). The total accuracy of PSMA‐PET was 83% (95% CI: 76–88).

Conclusion

Our analyses support high specificity and positive predictive value of pretreatment 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT for the detection of pelvic lymph node metastasis in patients treated with RP for high‐risk PCa. While a positive finding should be considered as robust indicator for clinical decision‐making, a negative result cannot reliably rule out the presence of lymph node involvement in high‐risk PCa; there is a need for advanced risk stratification in those patients.
Human bocavirus respiratory infection: Tracing the path from viral replication and virus‐cell interactions to diagnostic methods
Authors: Colazo Salbetti María Belén , Boggio Gabriel Amilcar , Moreno Laura , Adamo María Pilar
Published: September 2023

Human bocaviruses were first described between 2005 and 2010, identified in respiratory and enteric tract samples of children. Screening studies have shown worldwide distribution. Based on phylogenetic analysis, they were classified into four genotypes (HBoV1‐4). From a clinical perspective, human bocavirus 1 (HBoV1) is considered the most relevant, since it can cause upper and lower acute respiratory tract infection, mainly in infants, including common cold, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia, as well as wheezing in susceptible patients. However, the specific processes leading to structural, biochemical, and functional changes resulting in the different clinical presentations have not been elucidated yet. This review surveys the interactions between the virus and target cells that can potentially explain disease‐causing mechanisms. It also summarises the clinical phenotype of cases, stressing the role of HBoV1 as an aetiological agent of lower acute respiratory infection in infants, together with laboratory tests for detection and diagnosis. By exploring the current knowledge on the epidemiology of HBoV1, insights into the complex scenario of paediatric respiratory infections are presented, as well as the potential effects that changes in the circulation can have on the dynamics of respiratory agents, spotlighting the benefits of comprehensively increase insights into incidence, interrelationships with co‐circulating agents and potential control of HBoV1.
Simultaneous Performance and Stability Enhancement in Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells by Powder‐Atomic Layer Deposited LSCF@ZrO2 Cathodes
Authors: Jo Sung Eun , Jeon SungHyun , Kim Hyong June , Yang Byung Chan , Ju Kyoungjae , Gür Turgut M. , Jung WooChul , An Jihwan
Published: September 2023

Employing porous structures is essential in high‐performance electrochemical energy devices. However, obtaining uniform functional coatings on high‐tortuosity structures can be challenging, even with specialized processes such as atomic layer deposition (ALD). Herein, a novel method for achieving a porous composite electrode for solid oxide fuel cells by coating La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF) powders with ZrO2 using a powder ALD process is presented. Unlike conventional ALD, powder ALD can be used to fabricate extremely uniform coatings on porous electrodes with a thickness of tens of micrometers. The powder ALD ZrO2 coating is found to effectively suppress chemical degradation of the LSCF electrodes. The cell with the powder ALD coated cathode shows a 2.2 times higher maximum power density and 60% lower thermal degradation in activation resistance than the bare LSCF cathode cell at 700–750 °C. The result demonstrated in this study is expected to have significant implications for high‐performance and durable electrodes in energy conversion/storage devices.
Summer upper-level jets modulate the response of South American climate to ENSO
Authors: Collazo Soledad , García-Herrera Ricardo , Barriopedro David
Published: September 2023

The upper-level jet stream is a critical element of atmospheric circulation, driving synoptic systems and extreme weather events. This study analyzes the impact of upper-level jets on South American (SA) summer temperature and precipitation under different El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phases. Using the ERA5 reanalysis dataset from 1979 to 2022, we perform a daily multiparametric characterization of the jet stream, considering its spatial and temporal discontinuities. Besides latitude and intensity, we find that the departure and number of branches of the subtropical jet (STJ) and the longitudinal extent of the Pacific branch of the polar front jet (PFJ) are needed for their description. An additional parameter is required to characterize the STJ due to its absence on around 40% of summer days over SA. Moreover, we observe distinct long-term changes in PFJ parameters across different ocean basins. Three synoptic weather types (WTs) of the upper-level zonal wind are identified: normal conditions, a prominent STJ pattern, and a PFJ-only pattern. The latter pattern is associated with anticyclonic anomalies at 500 hPa in the South Atlantic Ocean and an active SA Convergence Zone, which favors clear skies and warm (wet and cold) conditions in southern SA (Brazil). Consistently, the probability of experiencing warm spells in central Argentina is increased more than twofold. Finally, we detect that the temperature anomalies associated with the WTs are independent of the ENSO phase. However, ENSO modulates the frequency of the WTs: during La Niña (El Niño), the PFJ-only (prominent STJ) pattern is more common.
Unveiling the role of cerebellar alterations in the autonomic nervous system: a systematic review of autonomic dysfunction in spinocerebellar ataxias
Authors: Urbini Nicole , Siciliano Libera , Olivito Giusy , Leggio Maria
Published: September 2023

Background

Autonomic dysfunctions are prevalent in several cerebellar disorders, but they have not been systematically investigated in spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). Studies investigating autonomic deficits in SCAs are fragmented, with each one focusing on different autonomic dysfunctions and different SCA subtypes.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, we conducted a systematic review of the literature to assess the presence of autonomic dysfunctions in various SCAs. PubMed served as the primary database, and the Rayyan web application was employed for study screening.

Results

We identified 46 articles investigating at least one autonomic function in patients with SCA. The results were analyzed and categorized based on the genetic subtype of SCA, thereby characterizing the specific autonomic deficits associated with each subtype.

Conclusion

This review confirms the presence of autonomic dysfunctions in various genetic subtypes of SCA, underscoring the cerebellum's role in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It also emphasizes the importance of investigating these functions in clinical practice.
HK-2 cell response to TGF-β highly depends on cell culture medium formulations
Authors: Garmaa Gantsetseg , Manzéger Anna , Haghighi Samaneh , Kökény Gábor
Published: September 2023

The immortalized human renal proximal tubular epithelial cell line HK-2 is most commonly used to study renal cell physiology and human kidney diseases with tubulointerstitial fibrosis such as diabetic nephropathy, obstructive uropathy or allograft fibrosis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the main pathological process of tubulointerstitial fibrosis in vitro. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a key inducer of EMT. Several pro-fibrotic gene expression differences have been observed in a TGF-β-induced EMT model of HK-2 cells. However, growth conditions and medium formulations might greatly impact these differences. We investigated gene and protein expression of HK-2 cells cultured in six medium formulations. TGF-β1 increased the expression of ACTA2, TGFB1, COL4A1, EGR2, VIM and CTGF genes while reducing PPARG in all medium formulations. Interestingly, TGF-β1 treatment either increased or decreased EGR1, FN, IL6 and C3 gene expression, depending on medium formulations. The cell morphology was slightly affected, but immunoblots revealed TGFB1 and vimentin protein overexpression in all media. However, fibronectin expression as well as the nuclear translocation of EGR1 was medium dependent. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that, using the HK-2 in vitro model of EMT, the meticulous selection of appropriate cell culture medium formulation is essential to achieve reliable scientific results.
Larval morphology of Frostius pernambucensis (Anura): contribution of larval characters for the systematics of the family Bufonidae and evolution of endotrophic tadpoles
Authors: Dubeux Marcos Jorge Matias , do Nascimento Filipe Augusto Cavalcanti , Dias Pedro Henrique dos Santos
Published: September 2023

Frostius pernambucensis is a phytotelm-breeding frog with endotrophic larvae. Although the larvae were formally described, no aspect of its internal morphology is known. In this paper, we re-describe the tadpole based on a large sample, describe its internal anatomy (buccopharyngeal cavity and musculo-skeletal system), provide data on natural history, and discuss the evolution of endotrophy and phytotelma colonization. The tadpoles of F. pernambucensis are highly modified, with depressed bodies, reduced mouthparts, and long tails. Many character-states described for these tadpoles can be related to its endotrophic development. Consequence of this highly modified phenotype, we propose several novel putative synapomorphies for the genus: (1) labial tooth row formula 1/1; (2) absence of pustulation in the buccal roof and (3) floor; (4) absence of median ridge; (5) absence of lateral ridge papillae; (6) absence of secretory ridges and pores; (7) absence of filter plates; (7) m. subarcualis rectus II–IV originating on ceratobranchial III; (8) m. subarcualis rectus II–IV inserting on ceratobranchial I; (8) ventral slip of the m. subarcualis rectus I inserting on the ceratobranchial III; (9) suprarostral corpora fused to the cornua trabeculae; (10) commissura quadratoorbitalis absent; (11) cerabranchial II attached to the planum hypobranchiale; and (12) ceratobranchial III attached to the planum hypobranchiale. Finally, we also propose that the presence of a single pair of infralabial papilla could represent a synapomorphy of bufonids. The colonization of phytotelma seem to have created a selective pression on the development of F. pernambucenis, favoring the evolution of endotrophy.
Enhancing resilient coping strategies for quality of life in Chinese adult children caregiving for parents with advanced cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Xian , Qiao Chengping , Arber Anne , Shen Yan , Rui Yehao , Zhang Rui , Pei Zhongling , Tang Yuanyuan , Sha Ziyu , Bao Jianying , Zhang Jia , Li Jinhua , Wang Dan , Wang Xuemei
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the mediating role of individual resilience in the relationship between caregiver burden and quality of life (QoL) among Chinese adult children providing care to their parents with advanced cancer, with the aim to inform effective coping strategies and positive caregiving outcomes.

Methods

In a cross-sectional design, 614 caregivers from multiple centers, whose parents were undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, completed questionnaires encompassing demographics, caregiver burden, symptoms of anxiety and depression, resilience, and QoL.

Results

Findings revealed a moderate level of caregiver burden among participants, significantly influenced by factors including education level, family income, single-child status, and participation in social media patient support groups. Caregivers who were only children or involved in patient support groups reported higher burden. Importantly, path analysis showed a significant impact of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression on QoL, with these relationships being mediated by individual resilience.

Conclusions

Chinese adult child caregivers face a considerable burden, negatively influencing their QoL. Individual resilience, a modifiable factor, was identified as a critical mediator in this relationship, mitigating the negative implications of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression. These findings underscore the need for caregiver interventions that consider not only demographics but also the socio-psychological dynamics of caregiving to enhance caregiver QoL.
Immunoliposomes for detection of rupture-prone intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Jahromi Behnam Rezai , Zamotin Vladimir , Code Christian , Netti Eliisa , Lorey Martina B. , Alitalo Kari , Öörni Katariina , Laakso Aki , Tulamo Riikka , Niemelä Mika
Published: September 2023

Background

It is estimated that significant (3.2%) of population carries intracranial aneurysm (IA). An increasing number of imaging studies have caused that the chance of finding an incidental aneurysm is becoming more common. Since IA rupture causes subarachnoidal hemorrhage (SAH) and have significant mortality and morbidity prophylactic treatment should be considered when IA is detected. The benefit and risk of treatment of IA is based on epidemiological estimate which takes account patient and aneurysm characteristics. However we know that aneurysm rupture is biological process where inflammation of aneurysm wall is actively leading to degeneration of aneurysm wall and finally weakens it until it bursts. Until now, there have not been imaging method to detect inflammatory process of aneurysm wall

Methods

We created targeting immunoliposome for use in the imaging of aneurysm. Immunoliposome comprises antibodies against at least one vascular inflammatory marker associated with aneurysm inflammation and a label and/or a contrast agent.

Results

Histological analysis of IAs where immunoliposome comprises antibodies against vascular inflammation with a label shows promising results for selectively detecting aneurysms inflammation. In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) we were able to detect immunoliposomes carrying gadolinium.

Conclusion

Our work opens a new avenue for using contrast labeled immunoliposomes for detecting rupture-prone aneurysms. Immunoliposomes can cary gadolinium and selectively bind to inflammatory section of aneurysm that can be detected with MRI. Further research is needed to develop immunoliposomes to be used with MRI in humans to target treatment to those patients who benefit from it the most.
Identity, sociality and mobility: understanding internal fisher migration along India’s east coast
Authors: Rao Nitya , Sophia J. D
Published: September 2023

Fisher movement in the pursuit of fish is a well-established truism. In this paper, we explore the motivations and mechanisms deployed for internal migration within the fishing sector in coastal Tamil Nadu, rather than only on the seas, as a strategy for both economic and social mobility. Marine fisheries in India is a caste-based occupation, with its own social and political hierarchy, responsible for the governance and management of common resources. For those belonging to the subordinate fishing castes, excluded from decision-making processes, migration is an important strategy for gaining economic resources, social power and recognition as skilled and successful marine fishermen. Using qualitative research methods, the paper explores the migration of fishermen from Rajakuppam, a small fishing village in Cuddalore district, belonging to such a subordinate fishing caste, to Kasimedu, in the capital city of Chennai, the largest fishing harbour in the state of Tamil Nadu. We find that family and its social organization, in particular kinship and marriage ties, brokered by senior women, are significant factors in facilitating successful migration. Recognizing women’s contributions to the sector, both direct and through their social reproductive and networking activities, invisible in both the larger maritime literature and production-centric fisheries’ policy-making, is crucial for achieving wellbeing and sustainability outcomes.
What Placebos Teach Us about Health and Care
Authors: Ho Dien
Published: September 2023

Placebo effects raise some fundamental questions concerning the nature of clinical and medical research. This Element begins with an overview of the different roles placebos play, followed by a survey of significant studies and dominant views about placebo mechanisms. It then critically examines the concept of placebo and offers a new definition that avoids the pitfalls of other attempts. The main philosophical lesson is that background medical theories provide the ontology for clinical and medical research. Because these theories often contain incoherent and arbitrary classifications, the concept of placebo inherits the same messiness. The Element concludes by highlighting some impending challenges for placebo studies.
Harmonising and standardising military airworthiness in Europe: a review of key aspects and achievements
Authors: Pittini M. , Kourousis K.I.
Published: September 2023

The distinct operational characteristics of military aircraft, relative to civil aircraft, have impeded the standardisation of airworthiness management practice across Europe. Standardisation has been further deterred by the intertwined certification and qualification activities specific to military aircraft. The management of airworthiness in European military aviation has undergone significant changes over the past 15 years, with the progress made attributed to the harmonisation efforts driven by the European Defence Agency (EDA). The creation of a Military Airworthiness Authorities Forum and the development of the European Military Airworthiness Requirements (EMAR) have been instrumental in creating a more homogenous regulatory landscape. The examples of five main players of the European aerospace sector, namely France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom, are examined from the point of view of adoption and implementation of an EMARs-based system. Their regulatory structures have revealed similarities and primary differences. The EMAR’s framework has enabled a gradual build-up of technical knowhow within the European countries who embraced this, civil-based, framework. All five countries have adopted EMARs, though through a variety of regulatory constructs. Their regulatory structures exhibit diverse practices, especially in how initial and continuing airworthiness is managed. Some countries have also elected to have more than one authority overseeing/been responsible for airworthiness. Closer collaboration between national Military Aviation Authorities (MAAs) can be achieved through standardisation at regulatory structure level. The establishment of a joint MAAs may be the next logical step in the harmonisation process, in line with EDA objective’ for a EU-wide authority with greater powers.
In Appreciation of AGU’s Outstanding Reviewers of 2022
Authors: Giampoala Matt , Frost Carol
Published: September 2023

AGU editors recognize the contributions of peer reviewers in 2022, whose expertise and dedication are integral to the science published within our journals.
Coupled Cycling of Carbon and Water in the Form of Hydrous Carbonatitic Liquids in the Subarc Region
Authors: Chen Wei , Keshav Shantanu , Peng Weigang , Zhang Guoliang
Published: September 2023

The melting behavior of subducted ophicarbonate is experimentally investigated under conditions relevant for slabs at subarc depths (2.5–6 GPa and 650–1000°C). Hydrous carbonatitic liquids appear between 900 and 950°C at 2.5 GPa, between 800 and 850°C at 4–5 GPa, and at ∼800°C over 6 GPa. Water significantly depresses the thermal stability of carbonate, which drives the formation of hydrous carbonatitic liquid at low temperatures realistic for most subduction zones. Ophicarbonate fully dehydrates prior to wet melting. From an experimental point of view, the melting of ophicarbonate is essentially equal to the fluid–present melting of magnesite–bearing wehrlite lithology (i.e., meta–ophicarbonate). In the natural subduction process, the melting of meta–ophicarbonate occurs only when external water is available assuming dehydration fluid by ophicarbonate has been efficiently expelled at shallower depths. In the framework of the previously constructed dehydration history of subducting slab, the flux melting of meta–ophicarbonate at the slab–mantle interface is examined to be feasible under majority of geothermal conditions, even in cold subduction zones. Thus, hydrous carbonatitic liquid acts as a pervasive agent to transfer carbon from the slab surface to the mantle wedge at shallow depths beneath arcs. In contrast, ophicarbonate within the slab–serpentinized mantle just undergoes dehydration, and the vast majority of carbon retained in these lithologies is likely transported deeper into the mantle.
Trend and Drivers of Satellite‐Detected Burned Area Changes Across Arctic Region Since the 21st Century
Authors: Xing JiaWen , Wang MengMeng
Published: September 2023

The Arctic has experienced the frequent and severe fires in recent years. Due to the unique geography and vegetation type in Arctic region, the fire trend and its driving mechanism are different from other regions and still unclear. This study investigated the fire trends across Arctic region based on Moderate‐resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) burned area product MCD64A1 during 2001–2020. In addition, the burned area change was attributed at spatial and temporal scales based on 15 natural and anthropogenic factors. Results show that the average burned area in Arctic region during 2001–2020 is 31.2 × 103 km2, with a maximum of 51.9 × 103 km2 in 2019. The change of burned area in Arctic region is spatially heterogeneous, with a significant increasing trend (Z > 1.96) in central Russia and a significant decreasing trend (Z < −1.96) in western Russia. There is a clear seasonality in the occurrence of fires in the Arctic, with a peak in the summer months and almost no fires in the winter. Relative humidity has the largest explanatory power for the spatial variation of burned area (q = 0.487), followed by vapor pressure deficit (q = 0.475) and land surface temperature (q = 0.367). The combined effect of precipitation and land surface temperature is the most powerful interaction (q = 0.587) to explain the spatial variation of burned area. The significant increase in time‐series burned area is primarily driven by the decrease of relative humidity. The results of this study are helpful to understand the fire trends and the contribution of climate change to Arctic fires.
Thrace Basin—An Oligocene Clastic Basin Formed During the Exhumation of the Rhodope Complex
Authors: Okay Aral I. , Özcan Ercan , Siyako Muzaffer , Bürkan Kerem A. , Kylander‐Clark Andrew R. C. , Bidgood Michael D. , Shaw David , Simmons Michael D.
Published: September 2023

Some orogenic sedimentary basins are difficult to assign to a particular category. An example is the hydrocarbon‐bearing Thrace Basin in the northern Aegean. It has more than 9‐km‐thick Cenozoic clastic sediment, and is spatially associated with the Rhodope metamorphic core complex in the west, and with the Tethyan subduction‐accretion complexes in the south, and is cut by the North Anatolian Fault and its precursors. It has been interpreted variously as an intramontane, a forearc, or an orogenic collapse basin. Here, we provide new geochronological and biostratigraphic data to constrain the tectonic evolution of the Thrace Basin. The new data indicate that as an individual depocenter the Thrace Basin has a short age span (late Eocene—Oligocene, 36–28 Ma) and more than 90% of the basin fill consists of early Oligocene (34–28 Ma) siliciclastic turbidites, deposited at rates of 1.0 km/my. Paleocurrents and new detrital zircon U‐Pb ages show that the Rhodope Complex was the main sediment source. The exhumation of the northern Rhodope Complex (36–28 Ma) was coeval with the main subsidence in the Thrace Basin (34–28 Ma), and involved clockwise crustal rotation in the northern Aegean and possibly crustal flow from underneath the Thrace Basin. Crustal rotation is indicated by the paleomagnetic data, regional stretching lineations in the Rhodope Complex, and the triangular shape of the Thrace Basin. The rotating crustal block must have been bounded in the south by a sinistral fault zone; the location of which corresponds largely with the present day North Anatolian Fault.
In vivo acoustic patterning of endothelial cells for tissue vascularization
Authors: Comeau Eric S. , Vander Horst Melinda A. , Raeman Carol H. , Child Sally Z. , Hocking Denise C. , Dalecki Diane
Published: September 2023

Strategies to fabricate microvascular networks that structurally and functionally mimic native microvessels are needed to address a host of clinical conditions associated with tissue ischemia. The objective of this work was to advance a novel ultrasound technology to fabricate complex, functional microvascular networks directly in vivo. Acoustic patterning utilizes forces within an ultrasound standing wave field (USWF) to organize cells or microparticles volumetrically into defined geometric assemblies. A dual-transducer system was developed to generate USWFs site-specifically in vivo through interference of two ultrasound fields. The system rapidly patterned injected cells or microparticles into parallel sheets within collagen hydrogels in vivo. Acoustic patterning of injected endothelial cells within flanks of immunodeficient mice gave rise to perfused microvessels within 7 days of patterning, whereas non-patterned cells did not survive. Thus, externally-applied ultrasound fields guided injected endothelial cells to self-assemble into perfused microvascular networks in vivo. These studies advance acoustic patterning towards in vivo tissue engineering by providing the first proof-of-concept demonstration that non-invasive, ultrasound-mediated cell patterning can be used to fabricate functional microvascular networks directly in vivo.
Effective implementation of $$\text{L}{0}$$-regularised compressed sensing with chaotic-amplitude-controlled coherent Ising machines
Authors: Gunathilaka Mastiyage Don Sudeera Hasaranga , Kako Satoshi , Inui Yoshitaka , Mimura Kazushi , Okada Masato , Yamamoto Yoshihisa , Aonishi Toru
Published: September 2023

Coherent Ising machine (CIM) is a network of optical parametric oscillators that can solve large-scale combinatorial optimisation problems by finding the ground state of an Ising Hamiltonian. As a practical application of CIM, Aonishi et al., proposed a quantum-classical hybrid system to solve optimisation problems of$$l_0$$l0-regularisation-based compressed sensing. In the hybrid system, the CIM was an open-loop system without an amplitude control feedback loop. In this case, the hybrid system is enhanced by using a closed-loop CIM to achieve chaotic behaviour around the target amplitude, which would enable escaping from local minima in the energy landscape. Both artificial and magnetic resonance image data were used for the testing of our proposed closed-loop system. Compared with the open-loop system, the results of this study demonstrate an improved degree of accuracy and a wider range of effectiveness.
Coagulation markers as independent predictors of prostate cancer aggressiveness: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lei Xu , Zhang Tengfei , Deng Zhixuan , Jiang Tao , Hu Yang , Yang Ning
Published: September 2023

Coagulation system activation is commonly observed in tumor patients, including prostate cancer (PCa), with coagulation markers proposed as potential prognostic indicators for cancer severity. However, the correlation between these markers and clinicopathological features in PCa remains unclear. Thus, this study investigates the association between comprehensive coagulation markers and clinicopathological characteristics in PCa patients. A retrospective evaluation of 162 PCa patients diagnosed and categorized into low-intermediate-risk or high-risk groups based on clinical and pathological features was conducted. Coagulation markers, including fibrinogen (FIB), d-dimer (DD), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), prothrombin activity (PTA), thrombin time (TT), platelet count (PLT), and international normalized ratio (INR), were assessed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine associations with clinicopathological features. FIB and DD were confirmed as independent factors associated with high-risk PCa. Furthermore, FIB and DD levels showed significant positive correlations with clinical parameters, including PSA levels, ISUP grade, T stage, N stage, and M stage. Our findings suggest that FIB and DD hold promise as independent prognostic biomarkers for risk stratification in PCa. These coagulation markers may aid in assessing PCa severity and guiding personalized treatment strategies.
Tumor-targeting cell membrane-coated nanorings for magnetic-hyperthermia-induced tumor ablation
Authors: Vijayan Veena , Sundaram Aravindkumar , Vasukutty Arathy , Bardhan Rizia , Uthaman Saji , Park In-Kyu
Published: September 2023

Tumor-targeting cell membrane-coated magnetic nanorings for enhanced tumor accumulation and magnetic-hyperthermia-induced tumor ablation.
Enhancing the electrostatic potential difference of high entropy perovskite fluorides by ligand modification for promoted dynamic reconstruction
Authors: Hao Zeyu , Du Zhengyan , Deng Ting , Wang Dong , Zeng Yi , Yu Shansheng , Meng Zeshuo , Hu Xiaoying , Hao Xiufeng , Tian Hongwei
Published: September 2023

A novel strategy employing ligand engineering for surface modification has been developed to promote rapid surface reconstruction and enhance the kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in high entropy perovskite fluoride.
Nanoarchitectonics tuning for Fe/N-doped C60-derived carbon electrocatalysts with enhanced ORR activity by oxygen plasma treatment on C60
Authors: Ju Li , Hao Gazi , Meng Fancang , Jiang Wei , Ji Qingmin
Published: September 2023

The oxidation of C60s by oxygen plasma treatment enabled higher Fe–N doping ratio and promoted the formation of FeNx–C–O sites in the carbon electrocatalyst with enhanced ORR activity.
Regulating the solvation structure with N,N-dimethylacetamide co-solvent for high-performance zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Li Mingyan , Feng Xiang , Yin Junyi , Cui Tianyi , Li Fuxiang , Chen Jingzhe , Lin Yuyao , Xu Xin , Ding Shujiang , Wang Jianhua
Published: September 2023

Benefiting from the strong coordination effect and localized hydrophobicity of DMA molecules, the optimized electrolyte comprising water and DMA has excellent long-term cycle life and stable capacity retention.
A perspective on the future of electrochemical ammonia synthesis: aqueous or non-aqueous?
Authors: Gupta Divyani , Kafle Alankar , Kaur Sukhjot , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: September 2023

Ammonia (NH3) production by N2 reduction is deemed as a green revolution in the fertilizer industry. The choice of optimal electrolyte is necessary to interpret the actual future of NH3 production i.e. either aqueous or non-aqueous?