bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current evidence of climate‐driven colour change in insects and its impact on sexual signals
Authors: Haque Md Tangigul , Khan Md Kawsar , Herberstein Marie E.
Published: July 2024

The colours of insects function in intraspecific communication such as sexual signalling, interspecific communication such as protection from predators, and in physiological processes, such as thermoregulation. The expression of melanin‐based colours is temperature‐dependent and thus likely to be impacted by a changing climate. However, it is unclear how climate change drives changes in body and wing colour may impact insect physiology and their interactions with conspecifics (e.g. mates) or heterospecific (e.g. predators or prey). The aim of this review is to synthesise the current knowledge of the consequences of climate‐driven colour change on insects. Here, we discuss the environmental factors that affect insect colours, and then we outline the adaptive mechanisms in terms of phenotypic plasticity and microevolutionary response. Throughout we discuss the impact of climate‐related colour change on insect physiology, and interactions with con‐and‐heterospecifics.
Behavioural changes in the city: The common black garden ant defends aphids more aggressively in urban environments
Authors: Gaber Hannah , Ruland Florian , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Bernard‐Verdier Maud
Published: July 2024

Urbanisation alters biodiversity patterns and threatens to disrupt mutualistic interactions. Aside from pollination, however, little is known about how mutualisms change in cities. Our study aimed to assess how urbanisation affects the protective mutualism between ants and aphids, investigating potential behavioural changes in mutualistic ants and their implications for aphids in urban environments. To do so, we studied the protective mutualism between the pink tansy aphid (Metopeurum fuscoviride) and the black garden ant (Lasius niger) along an urbanisation gradient in Berlin, Germany. In nine locations along this gradient, we measured aphid colony dynamics and proxies for parasitism, quantified the investment of ants in tending aphids and conducted behavioural assays to test the aggressiveness of ant responses to a simulated attack on the aphids. We found that aphid colonies flourished and were equally tended by ants across the urbanisation gradient, with a consistent positive density dependence between aphid and ant numbers. However, ants from more urbanised sites responded more aggressively to the simulated attack. Our findings suggest that this protective mutualism is not only maintained in the city, but that ants might even rely more on it and defend it more aggressively, as other food resources may become scarce and more unpredictable with urbanisation. We thereby provide unique insights into this type of mutualism in the city, further diversifying the growing body of work on mutualisms across urbanisation gradients.
The interplay of facilitation and competition drives the emergence of multistability in dryland plant communities
Authors: Pichon Benoît , Gounand Isabelle , Donnet Sophie , Kéfi Sonia
Published: July 2024

Within communities, species are wrapped in a set of feedbacks with each other and with their environment. When such feedbacks are strong enough they can generate alternative stable states. So far, research on alternative stable states has mostly focused on systems with a small number of species and a limited diversity of interaction types. Here, we analyze a spatial model of plant community dynamics in stressed ecosystems such as drylands, where each species is characterized by a strategy, and the different species interact through facilitation and competition for space and resources, such as water. We identify three different types of multistability emerging from the interplay of competition and facilitation. Under low‐stress levels, plant communities organize in small groups of coexisting species, maintained by space, competition and facilitation (“cliques”). Under higher stress levels, positive feedback from facilitation lead to the dominance of a single facilitating species (“mutual exclusion states”). At the highest stress levels, the single facilitating species left in the system coexists with the desert state. By linking community ecology and alternative stable states theory using a spatial plant community model for stressed ecosystems, our study contributes to highlight the importance of positive feedback loops for the stability of ecological communities.
A quantitative analysis of vertebrate environmental DNA degradation in soil in response to time, UV light, and temperature
Authors: Guthrie Austin M. , Cooper Christine E. , Bateman Philip W. , van der Heyde Mieke , Allentoft Morten E. , Nevill Paul
Published: July 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) degradation influences the effectiveness of eDNA‐based biodiversity monitoring, but the factors that determine the rate of decay of eDNA in terrestrial environments are poorly understood. We assessed the persistence of vertebrate eDNA from a mock vertebrate community created with soil from zoo enclosures holding 10 target species from different taxonomic classes (reptiles, birds, and mammals) and of different biomass (little penguin and giraffe). We examined species detection rates resulting from eDNA metabarcoding, as well as relative eDNA concentrations via qPCR, from soil samples over eight time points (0–12 weeks), during exposure to three ambient temperatures (10, 25, and 40°C) and three levels of ultraviolet B (UV‐B) radiation (0%, 50%, and 100% intensity). We recorded considerable variation in detectability between species, independent of temperature, and UV‐B effects. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) indicated degradation of eDNA over time for all temperature and UV treatments, although it was still possible to detect eDNA from some species after 12 weeks. Degradation rates were lowest for high UV‐B treatments, presumably due to UV‐B reducing bacterial metabolism. The temperatures investigated did not influence eDNA decay. Our results indicate that eDNA in soil can persist under a range of temperatures and high UV radiation for longer than expected. Sheltered sites with minimal UV‐B radiation, which have previously been considered ideal sites for terrestrial eDNA collection, may not be optimal for eDNA persistence in some cases due to microbial decay. A better understanding of eDNA degradation in terrestrial environments is needed to enhance the accuracy of eDNA metabarcoding for surveying terrestrial vertebrate communities.
Electrocatalytic Properties of meso‐ Perfluorinated Metallo Corroles for the Reduction of CO2
Authors: Zhang Chanjuan , Julliard Paul‐Gabriel , Dragoe Diana , Aukauloo Ally , Canard Gabriel
Published: July 2024

Tetrapyrrolic containing metal complexes are among the most efficient molecular catalysts for the CO2 reduction. Metalloporphyrins and phthalocyanines are currently under investigations and their catalytic properties are among the best molecular catalysts. Corrole, a contracted tetrapyrrolic macrocycle has been also used to design molecular for the CO2 reduction. The electrochemical activity towards CO2 reduction can rival those of their porphyrin analogues. However, the catalytic activity of the metallocorrole is initiated at the corresponding MII/I couple. Accordingly, a catalytic current in presence of CO2 with cobalt corrole appears when the CoI species is generated. We have designed an electron deficient A2B corrole holding two −CF3 groups and a benzonitrile in the meso positions and its cobalt complex (1). We reasoned that these groups could shuffle the redox potentials to reach the M(I) oxidation states at more positive values thereby lowering the overpotential for the catalytic CO2 reduction. Our results clearly show that catalyst 1 when adsorbed on a carbon electrode, shows the most favourable catalytic performance for CO production, achieving an efficiency of 85 % with a current density of −1.5 mA cm−2 at −1.0 V vs NHE. The current densities of controlled potential electrolysis with increasing amount of KHCO3, were found to increase more than one order of magnitude with the formation of MeOH.
Highly twisted 1,3,4‐oxadiazole based hybrid fluorescent organic materials: Synthesis, characterization, density functional theory calculations, and optoelectronic study
Authors: Heena  , Sharma Deepak , Om Hari , Rana Ravi
Published: July 2024

Heterocyclic compounds based on 1,3,4‐oxadiazole (ODA) have attracted considerable attention in the field of pharmacy, drug discovery, and in the field of material sciences. This article reports a series of new highly twisted blue‐ and green‐emitting ODA‐based materials 4(a–e) utilizing a simple and efficient synthetic approach, resulting in high yield. The formation of multiple CN bonds unfolds via a simple nucleophilic method that does not need costly metal catalysts. The derivative structures were validated using analytical methods such as 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and fluorescence lifetime measurements, a thorough investigation was carried out on the photophysical characteristics of the newly synthesized derivatives. A deeper understanding of intramolecular charge transfer was uncovered via solvent‐dependent spectroscopy. Specifically, these materials show a large stock shift of up to 153 nm and long fluorescence decay value between 8 and 8.6 ns. Computational methods pinned on density functional theory (DFT) were used to determine the highest occupied molecular orbital–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy gaps. The optical band gaps derived from absorption peaks and the band gaps computed by DFT computations are highly correlated. Using cyclic voltammetry study, the compounds' redox potentials were further investigated. These results indicate that the ODAs 4(a–e) are promising organic materials and could play an important role in the field of optoelectronic devices, bioimaging, and photo‐redox reactions.
Chondrocranial anatomy of Testudo hermanni (Testudinidae, Testudines) with a comparison to other turtles
Authors: Mauel Carola , Leicht Luca , Broshko Yevhenii , Yaryhin Oleksandr , Werneburg Ingmar
Published: July 2024

Using histological cross‐sections, the chondrocranium anatomy was reconstructed for two developmental stages of Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni). The morphology differs from the chondrocrania of most other turtles by a process above the ectochoanal cartilage with Pelodiscus sinensis being the only other known species with such a structure. The anterior and posterior processes of the tectum synoticum are better developed than in most other turtles and an ascending process of the palatoquadrate is missing, which is otherwise only the case in pleurodiran turtles. The nasal region gets proportionally larger during development. We interpret the enlargement of the nasal capsules as an adaption to increase the surface area of the olfactory epithelium for better perception of volant odors. Elongation of the nasal capsules in trionychids, in contrast, is unlikely to be related to olfaction, while it is ambiguous in the case of Sternotherus odoratus. However, we have to conclude that research on chondrocranium anatomy is still at its beginning and more comprehensive detailed descriptions in relation to other parts of the anatomy are needed before providing broad‐scale ecological and phylogenetic interpretations.
Morphology of the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint: A multi‐domain statistical shape modeling approach
Authors: Trentadue Taylor P. , Thoreson Andrew , Lopez Cesar , Breighner Ryan E. , Leng Shuai , Holmes David R. , Kakar Sanjeev , Rizzo Marco , Zhao Kristin D.
Published: July 2024

The scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) joint is involved in load transmission between the wrist and thumb. A quantitative description of baseline STT joint morphometrics is needed to capture the variation of normal anatomy as well as to guide staging of osteoarthritis. Statistical shape modeling (SSM) techniques quantify variations in three‐dimensional shapes and relative positions. The objectives of this study are to describe the morphology of the STT joint using a multi‐domain SSM. We asked: (1) What are the dominant modes of variation that impact bone and articulation morphology at the STT joint, and (2) what are the morphometrics of SSM‐generated STT joints? Thirty adult participants were recruited to a computed tomography study of normal wrist imaging and biomechanics. Segmentations of the carpus were converted to three‐dimensional triangular surface meshes. A multi‐domain, particle‐based entropy system SSM was used to quantify variation in carpal bone shape and position as well as articulation morphology. Articular surface areas and interosseous proximity distributions were calculated between mesh vertex pairs on adjacent bones within distance (2.0 mm) and surface‐normal angular (35°) thresholds. In the SSM, the first five modes of variation captured 76.2% of shape variation and contributed to factors such as bone scale, articular geometries, and carpal tilt. Median interosseous proximities—a proxy for joint space—were 1.39 mm (scaphotrapezium), 1.42 mm (scaphotrapezoid), and 0.61 mm (trapeziotrapezoid). This study quantifies morphological and articular variations at the STT joint, presenting a range of normative anatomy. The range of estimated interosseous proximities may guide interpretation of imaging‐derived STT joint space.
Effect of different freezing conditions on ice crystal formation behavior and ice‐growth inhibition by cryoprotectants
Authors: Huo Yilin , Yang Dazhang , Xie Jing , Yang Zhikang
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The formation of ice crystals will have adverse effects on aquatic products, and the key to ensure the long‐term preservation and better quality preservations of the product is to evaluate the intercellular ice crystal formation to find suitable refrigeration conditions and cryoprotectants.

RESULTS

The ice crystal formation was successfully captured by using an inverted microscope cryomicroscopic system equipped with a low‐temperature stage, the ice crystals formed under different freezing methods between tuna muscle cells were observed directly, the deformation degree of muscle tissue pores during crystallization was evaluated, and the effect of freeze–thaw times on tuna samples was analyzed. The effects of the use of cryoprotectant such as cellobiose and carboxylated cellulose nanofibers on ice‐growth inhibition were investigated, and the reliability of the ice crystal observation results was further verified by the determination of physical properties. The results showed that carboxylated cellulose nanofibers had the best ice‐growth inhibition effect, they prevented about 50% cell deformation compared with the control group, and also reduced the minimum size of ice crystal formation. In addition, the addition of cellobiose and sodium tripolyphosphate gave the ice crystals a more uniform size and roundness.

CONCLUSION

The experiment proposed a stable and clear observation method for the process of intercellular ice crystal formation, and the accuracy of the observation method was further verified by some physical indicators. This may help in the selection of suitable measurement methods to directly observe ice crystal formation behavior and screen cryoprotectants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
CO2‐induced seawater acidification impairs the stinging cells of a jellyfish
Authors: Sun Tingting , Li Yongxue , Peng Saijun , Wang Fanghan , Wang Lei , Zhao Jianmin , Dong Zhijun
Published: July 2024

CO2‐induced seawater acidification has been shown to modify predator–prey interactions in many marine taxa. Scyphozoans play an important role in the trophic dynamics of marine ecosystems during their blooms in coastal waters; however, the impacts of seawater acidification on the predation behavior of these animals are poorly understood. Here, we aimed to examine the impact of a decrease in seawater pH on the feeding behavior and growth of ephyrae (juvenile medusae) of the scyphozoan Aurelia coerulea. Combining bulk and single‐cell RNA sequencing approaches, we assessed transcriptomic changes of ephyrae under a laboratory‐based pH 7.6 condition. We found that the feeding rates and growth of ephyrae were significantly inhibited by a decrease in seawater pH. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis showed that a decline in pH significantly reduced the expression of genes related to toxins and nematocyst structure in ephyrae. These findings were further confirmed by single‐cell transcriptomic analyses and revealed that low pH impaired the toxin activity and energy metabolism of stinging cells. The pH recovery experiment indicated that moving ephyrae from seawater with pH 7.6 into seawater with pH 8.1 greatly restored their feeding, growth, and toxin‐related and nematocyst structure–related gene expression. However, exposure to pH 7.6 for 23 d could not recover the decrease in the feeding and growth of ephyrae. Together, these findings indicate that CO2‐induced acidification compromised the stinging cells of A. coerulea ephyrae, with concomitant negative consequences on predation and growth that are likely to alter predator–prey interactions, with consequent effects on community structure and ecosystem.
Mutational spectrum and genotype–phenotype correlation in Mexican patients with infantile‐onset and late‐onset Pompe disease
Authors: Martinez‐Montoya Valentina , Sánchez‐Sánchez Luz María , Sandoval‐Pacheco Roberto , Castro Diana Mónica Anaya , Arellano‐Valdez Carmen Araceli , Ávila‐Rejón Carmen Amor , Aguilar‐Juárez Pedro Alejandro , Espino‐Pluma Martín , González‐Santillanes Cruz Antonio , Martínez‐Segovia Rosa Isela , Olmos‐Morfin Dorian , la Torre Ofelia Padilla‐De , Solís‐Sánchez Ishar , Espinosa Mónica Vázquez‐Del Mercado , Villarroel‐Cortés Camilo Ernesto , Velarde‐Félix Jesús Salvador , López‐Valdez Jaime , Olaiz‐Urbina Julio , Ricárdez‐Marcial Edgar , Vergara‐Sánchez Imelda , Radillo‐Díaz Pablo , Kazakova Ekaterina , De la Fuente‐Cortez Beatriz , del Carmen Marquez‐Quiróz Luz , Torres‐Octavo Benjamín , Diaz‐Martinez Rubicel
Published: July 2024

Background

Pompe Disease (PD) is a metabolic myopathy caused by variants in the GAA gene, resulting in deficient enzymatic activity. We aimed to characterize the clinical features and related genetic variants in a series of Mexican patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of clinical records of patients diagnosed with LOPD, IOPD or pseudodeficiency.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were included in the study, comprising these three forms. Overall, age of symptom onset was 0.1 to 43 years old. The most frequent variant identified was c.‐32‐13T>G, which was detected in 14 alleles. Among the 23 different variants identified in the GAA gene, 14 were classified as pathogenic, 5 were likely pathogenic, and 1 was a variant of uncertain significance. Two variants were inherited in cis arrangement and 2 were pseudodeficiency‐related benign alleles. We identified two novel variants (c.1615 G>A and c.1076‐20_1076‐4delAAGTCGGCGTTGGCCTG).

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this series represent the largest phenotypic and genotypic characterization of patients with PD in Mexico. Patients within our series exhibited a combination of LOPD and IOPD associated variants, which may be related to genetic diversity within Mexican population. Further population‐wide studies are required to better characterize the incidence of this disease in Mexican population.
A compact dielectric resonator antenna with wideband circular polarization characteristics for C and X‐band applications
Authors: Harkare Ankita H. , Kothari Ashwin G. , Bhurane Ankit A. , Abegaonkar Mahesh P. , Patel Pragati
Published: July 2024

A wideband circularly polarized (CP) stacked rectangular dielectric resonator antenna (RDRA) is proposed in this article. The 3 dB axial ratio (AR) and 10 dB impedance bandwidth overlap of more than 66% is obtained. For increased bandwidth, the antenna comprises two dielectric resonators separated by an air gap. The upper dielectric layer is rotated at relative to the lower layer to obtain orthogonal modes for CP Both layers have dielectric constant . The rotation aids excitation of orthogonal modes , and in RDRA. The higher‐order modes generate left‐hand circular polarization at frequencies 6.75, 7.8, and 10.7 GHz, respectively. The upper layer consists of three holes giving a 10 dB impedance bandwidth of 66.7% from 6.52 to 11.02 GHz. The CP gain of 8.7, 6.8, and 6.4 dBi for 6.75, 7.8, and 10.7 GHz, respectively, is measured. The conformal orthogonal feeds enable a 72 3 dB AR bandwidth across the entire frequency band. The radiation efficiency is observed above 89 in the entire band (6.5–11 GHz). This work demonstrates a 66.7 overlap of 10 dB impedance and 3 dB AR bandwidth along with high gain in a single design which is suitable for 5G applications in C‐band as well as other X‐band applications.
Utilizing nerve conduction studies to identify very early Guillain–Barré syndrome and distinguish it from mimics in emergency settings
Authors: John Thomas , Mathew Asha Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Accurately diagnosing Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) in its early stages and distinguishing it from mimics poses challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of an existing electrodiagnostic criterion in very early GBS (VEGBS) for discerning mimics. Additionally, we explored specific electrophysiological abnormalities in VEGBS to design a new diagnostic criterion for more accurate VEGBS diagnosis.

Methods

We retrospectively identified all patients with flaccid quadriparesis initially suspected of GBS who underwent nerve conduction studies (NCS) ≤4 days from symptom onset. We then retrieved their NCS data and applied an existing electrodiagnostic criterion for sensitivity and specificity analyses based on the final discharge diagnosis. Furthermore, we designed a new criterion based on the observed electrophysiological abnormalities that have maximum specificity and at least 50% sensitivity.

Results

Among 70 patients suspected of VEGBS, 44 (63%) received a final diagnosis of GBS, while in 26 (37%), the GBS diagnosis was later refuted. Umapathi's definite criterion exhibited a sensitivity of 61.36% and a specificity of 92.31%. The probable and possible groups showed very high sensitivity (90.91% and 100%, respectively); however, specificity was low (57.69% and 30.77%, respectively) in the very early stage. Our proposed criterion demonstrated a sensitivity of 88.64% (CI: 75.44%–96.21%) and a specificity of 96.15% (CI: 80.36%–99.90%).

Discussion

The criterion based on presumed electrophysiological correlates of specific early GBS pathophysiology proved more effective than the existing electrodiagnostic criterion in differentiating VEGBS from mimics.
A two‐stage combined filtration‐consolidation model for slurry ground treated by vacuum preloading
Authors: Ye Xiaoqian , Shi Li , Cai Yuanqiang
Published: July 2024

The vacuum preloading technique is extensively employed for ground improvement, particularly for slurry ground characterized by high‐water content and low strength. Such ground frequently exhibits a delay in pore water pressure dissipation when treated with prefabricated vertical drains. To clarify the drainage and consolidation behaviour of high‐water content slurry ground under vacuum preloading, this study proposed a two‐stage combined model that integrates both filtration and consolidation processes. Initially, an axisymmetric filtration model was used to describe the formation of the soil column through the radial migration and compaction of the particles. The end‐of‐filtration radial distributions of void ratio, permeability coefficient, and effective pressure served as initial conditions for the consolidation stage analysis. This stage was depicted using a large strain consolidation model based on the free strain condition. The results showed the necessity of incorporating the filtration stage to capture the overall drainage mechanism and characteristics of slurry ground with vacuum preloading treatment.
Nurses, midwives and students' reports of effective dedicated education units in five European countries: A qualitative study
Authors: Pedregosa Sara , Zabalegui Adelaida , Fabrellas Núria , Risco Ester , Pereira Mariana , Dmoch‐Gajzlerska Ewa , Şenuzun Fisun , Martin Sandra
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate nursing/midwifery students, Clinical Mentors, Link Teachers and Head Nurses experiences within “Dedicated Education Unit” model in 6 European clinical placements and analyse the necessary elements for a powerful clinical learning environment.

Design

A multi‐country, phenomenological, qualitative study.

Methods

Focus group interviews were performed to identify the personal and organizational factors of importance for students and nurses/midwives.

Results

Data analysis produced 4 main themes (1) Clinical placement organization, (2) students' clinical knowledge and skill acquisition, (3) students, and nurses/midwives' experiences within the DEU model and (4) factors for creating an effective learning environment.

Conclusions

A close educational‐service collaboration, a realistic clinical placement planning, a focus on student learning process and an investment in professionals’ education and development among others, are elements to set up a powerful clinical learning environment.

Implications for the profession

It is considered advisable and urgent to improve the working conditions of nurses/midwives and the learning environments of students as a strategy to alleviate the global shortage of nurses and respond to the increasingly demanding health needs of the population.

Impact

Due to the close relationship between students’ learning and features of the clinical environment nurse educators seek innovative models which allow students to manage patient care and their transition to professional practice. To implement new learning strategies, identifying students, nurses and midwives perceptions and suggestions is a powerful information to evaluate implementation process and outcomes.

Public Contribution

Our findings could help academic and clinical managers to meet the human and organizational requirements to create a successful learning environment in every student placement.
The genomic trajectory of ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma can be observed in STIC lesions
Authors: Cheng Zhao , Ennis Darren P , Lu Bingxin , Mirza Hasan B , Sokota Chishimba , Kaur Baljeet , Singh Naveena , Le Saux Olivia , Russo Giorgia , Giannone Gaia , Tookman Laura A , Krell Jonathan , Barnes Chris , McDermott Jackie , McNeish Iain A
Published: July 2024

Ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) originates in the fallopian tube, with secretory cells carrying a TP53 mutation, known as p53 signatures, identified as potential precursors. p53 signatures evolve into serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) lesions, which in turn progress into invasive HGSC, which readily spreads to the ovary and disseminates around the peritoneal cavity. We recently investigated the genomic landscape of early‐ and late‐stage HGSC and found higher ploidy in late‐stage (median 3.1) than early‐stage (median 2.0) samples. Here, to explore whether the high ploidy and possible whole‐genome duplication (WGD) observed in late‐stage disease were determined early in the evolution of HGSC, we analysed archival formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) samples from five HGSC patients. p53 signatures and STIC lesions were laser‐capture microdissected and sequenced using shallow whole‐genome sequencing (sWGS), while invasive ovarian/fallopian tube and metastatic carcinoma samples underwent macrodissection and were profiled using both sWGS and targeted next‐generation sequencing. Results showed highly similar patterns of global copy number change between STIC lesions and invasive carcinoma samples within each patient. Ploidy changes were evident in STIC lesions, but not p53 signatures, and there was a strong correlation between ploidy in STIC lesions and invasive ovarian/fallopian tube and metastatic samples in each patient. The reconstruction of sample phylogeny for each patient from relative copy number indicated that high ploidy, when present, occurred early in the evolution of HGSC, which was further validated by copy number signatures in ovarian and metastatic tumours. These findings suggest that aberrant ploidy, suggestive of WGD, arises early in HGSC and is detected in STIC lesions, implying that the trajectory of HGSC may be determined at the earliest stages of tumour development. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Periodontal Health Among Pregnant Women in Sri Lanka: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Gammulle Kavithrini Anunadika , Dhanapriyanka Manori , Bhat Meghashyam
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of periodontal disease among Sri Lankan women in the reproductive age group is considerably high. The present study aimed to assess the oral hygiene status, gingival status, and the associated factors among pregnant women attending community Antenatal Clinics (ANC) in Sri Lanka, against the challenging sociopolitical backdrop.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 576 pregnant women attending community ANCs within a specific Medical Officer of Health area in Sri Lanka. The clinics were selected using a two‐stage cluster sampling method with probability proportionate to size technique. Pregnant women were recruited from each clinic using a systematic sampling method. Data was collected with an interviewer‐administered questionnaire and an oral health examination form.

Results

Poor oral hygiene was detected among over 60% of pregnant women. Moderate‐to‐severe gingivitis was seen among 23.3% of them. Nearly 67% of the participants demonstrated limited knowledge of periodontal diseases. Approximately, 67% of them were unemployed, and 32.5% had a monthly income of less than 40,000 Sri Lankan rupees. Regression analysis revealed that the trimester, socioeconomic factors, frequency of dental visits, recency of full mouth scaling, and knowledge of periodontal diseases predicted the oral hygiene status, and age, trimester, frequency of brushing, recency of full mouth scaling, and knowledge of periodontal diseases were significant predictors of gingival health. Particularly, individuals with a lower socioeconomic status experienced both poor oral hygiene and gingival health.

Conclusion

The suboptimal oral hygiene and gingival health, limited access to dental care, and inadequate periodontal health knowledge, highlight an urgent need for interventions such as empowering young women through educational and employment initiatives.
Dual‐Atom P–Co–Dy Charge‐Transfer Bridge on Black Phosphorus for Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: He Minghao , Tian Zhenghui , Lin Huinan , Wang Guofeng
Published: July 2024

The synergistic effect of rare earth single‐atoms and transition metal single‐atoms may enable us to achieve some unprecedented performance and characteristics. Here, Co–Dy dual‐atoms on black phosphorus with a P–Co–Dy charge‐transfer bridge are designed and fabricated as the active center for the CO2 photoreduction reaction. The synergistic effect of Co–Dy on the performance of black phosphorus is studied by combining X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, ultrafast spectral analysis, and in situ technology with DFT calculations. The results show that the Co and Dy bimetallic active site can promote charge transfer by the charge transfer bridge from P to Dy, and then to Co, thereby improving the photocatalytic activity of black phosphorus. The performance of catalysts excited at different wavelength light indicates that the 4G11/2/2I15/2/4F9/2→6H15/2 and 4F9/2→6H13/2 emissions of Dy can be absorbed by black phosphorus to improve the utilization of sunlight. The in situ DRIFTS and density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to investigate the CO2 photoreduction pathway. This work provides an depth insight into the mechanism of dual‐atom catalysts with enhanced photocatalytic performance, which helps to design novel atomic photocatalysts with excellent activity for CO2 reduction reactions.
Polymer‐Supported Graphene Sheet as a Vertically Conductive Anode of Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Rahman Md Tareq , Hossen Sarwar , Jeong Kyoung‐Jin , Bhuiyan Nabil H. , Rahman M. Mahabubur , Sarkar Bappa , Jung Yongmin , Shim Joon S.
Published: July 2024

The increasing demand for electric vehicles necessitates the development of cost‐effective, mass‐producible, long‐lasting, and highly conductive batteries. Making this kind of battery is exceedingly tricky. This study introduces an innovative fabrication technique utilizing a laser‐induced graphene (LIG) approach on commercial Kapton film to create hexagonal pores. These pores form vertical conduction paths for electron and ion transportation during lithiation and delithiation, significantly enhancing conductivity. The nongraphitized portion of the Kapton film makes it a binder‐less, free‐standing electrode, providing mechanical stability. Various analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are utilized to confirm the transformation of a 3D porous graphene sheet from a commercial Kapton film. Cross‐sectional SEM images verify the vertical connections. The specific capacity of 581 mAh g−1 is maintained until the end, with 99% coulombic efficiency at 0.1C. This simple manufacturing method paves the pathway for future LIG‐based, cost‐effective, lightweight, mass‐producible, long‐lasting, vertically conductive electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries.
Viscosity, Density, Surface Tension, and Crystallization Behavior of Commercial Mold Fluxes
Authors: Chebykin Dmitry , Heller Hans‐Peter , Schulz Klaus , Endo Rie , Volkova Olena
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the viscosity, density, surface tension, and crystallization behavior of two commercial mold fluxes that are utilized to cast ultralow‐carbon, low‐carbon, and medium‐carbon steel grades, as well as electric steels (high‐B magnetic and grain‐oriented steels). Experiments are performed in the temperature range of 1073–1673 K using the rotating bob method, maximum bubble pressure method, buoyancy method, and single hot thermocouple technique. The phase structure is investigated via scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray powder diffraction. The results indicate that viscosity and density exhibit nonlinear temperature dependence. Increased basicity (CaO/SiO2) results in reduced viscosity and elevates the break temperature of the mold fluxes. Furthermore, the incubation time required for phase formation decreases with increasing basicity. Finally, time–temperature transformation and continuous cooling transformation diagrams are constructed.
Effective interactions of the open bosonic string via field theory
Authors: Garozzo Lucia M. , Guevara Alfredo
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We describe a method to extract an effective Lagrangian description for open bosonic strings, at zero transcendentality. The method relies on a particular formulation of its scattering amplitudes derived from color-kinematics duality. More precisely, starting from a (DF)2 + YM quantum field theory, we integrate out all the massive degrees of freedom to generate an expansion in the inverse string tension α′. We explicitly compute the Lagrangian terms through $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(α′4), and target the sector of operators proportional to F4 to all orders in α′.
Pulsed DPOAEs in serial measurements
Authors: Bader Katharina , Zelle Dennis , Gummer Anthony W. , Dalhoff Ernst
Published: July 2024

Background

To date, there is no consensus on how to standardize the assessment of ototoxicity in serial measurements. For the diagnosis of damage to the cochlear amplifier, measurement methods are required that have the highest possible test-retest reliability and validity for detecting persistent damage. Estimated distortion-product thresholds (LEDPT) based on short-pulse distortion-product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) level maps use individually optimal DPOAE stimulus levels and allow reliable quantitative estimation of cochlea-related hearing loss.

Materials and methods

Hearing thresholds were estimated objectively using LEDPT and subjectively using modified Békésy tracking audiometry (LTA). Recordings were performed seven times within three months at 14 frequencies (f2 = 1–14 kHz) in 20 ears (PTA4(0.5–4 kHz) < 20 dB HL). Reconstruction of the DPOAE growth behavior as a function of the stimulus levels L1, L2 was performed on the basis of 21 DPOAE amplitudes. A numerical fit of a nonlinear mathematical function to the three-dimensional DPOAE growth function yielded LEDPT for each stimulus frequency. For the combined analysis, probability distributions of hearing thresholds (LTA, LEDPT), DPOAE levels (LDP), and combinations thereof were determined.

Results

LTA and LEDPT each exhibited a test-retest reliability with a median of absolute differences (AD) of 3.2 dB and 3.3 dB, respectively. Combining LEDPT, LDP, and LTA into a single parameter yielded a significantly smaller median AD of 2.0 dB.

Conclusion

It is expected that an analysis paradigm based on a combination of LEDPT, suprathreshold LDP, and fine-structure-reduced LTA would achieve higher test performance (sensitivity and specificity), allowing reliable detection of pathological or regenerative changes in the outer hair cells.
The individual Laffer curve: evidence from the Spanish income tax
Authors: Gamarra Rondinel Ana , Sanz-Sanz José Félix , Arrazola María
Published: July 2024

This paper characterises the Laffer curve of each individual taxpayer in a schedular multi-rate income tax with income shifting. Analytical expressions for the revenue-maximising tax rate and the revenue-maximising elasticity are provided for the individual taxpayer and the aggregate population, as well as new estimates of the Elasticity of Taxable Income. Applying these to the Spanish income tax demonstrates that 44.72% (58.49%) of the taxpaying population in the non-savings tax base (savings tax base) is on the “normal” side of the Laffer curve. On average, these taxpayers are 6.59 points (24.73 points) above (below) the maximum of the Laffer curve. The fraction of total tax revenue lost through behavioural responses amounts to 53.77%. However, this fraction varies by population subgroup and decreases when we account for income-shifting responses, suggesting the presence of fiscal externalities in the Spanish PIT.
A “Prime and Expand” strategy using the multifunctional fusion proteins to generate memory-like NK cells for cell therapy
Authors: Shrestha Niraj , Dee Michael J. , Chaturvedi Pallavi , Leclerc Gilles M. , Mathyer Mary , Dufour Celeste , Arthur Laura , Becker-Hapak Michelle , Foster Mark , McClain Ethan , Pena Natalia Valderrama , Kage Karen , Zhu Xiaoyun , George Varghese , Liu Bai , Egan Jack , Echeverri Christian , Wang Meng , You Lijing , Kong Lin , Li Liying , Berrien-Elliott Melissa M. , Cooper Matthew L. , Fehniger Todd A. , Rhode Peter R. , Wong Hing C.
Published: July 2024

Adoptive cellular therapy (ACT) using memory-like (ML) natural killer (NK) cells, generated through overnight ex vivo activation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18, has shown promise for treating hematologic malignancies. We recently reported that a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9201, comprising IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18 domains could replace individual cytokines for priming human ML NK cell programming (“Prime” step). However, this approach does not include ex vivo expansion, thereby limiting the ability to test different doses and schedules. Here, we report the design and generation of a multifunctional fusion molecule, HCW9206, consisting of human IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 cytokines. We observed > 300-fold expansion for HCW9201-primed human NK cells cultured for 14 days with HCW9206 and HCW9101, an IgG1 antibody, recognizing the scaffold domain of HCW9206 (“Expand” step). This expansion was dependent on both HCW9206 cytokines and interactions of the IgG1 mAb with CD16 receptors on NK cells. The resulting “Prime and Expand” ML NK cells exhibited elevated metabolic capacity, stable epigenetic IFNG promoter demethylation, enhanced antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo, and superior persistence in NSG mice. Thus, the “Prime and Expand” strategy represents a simple feeder cell-free approach to streamline manufacturing of clinical-grade ML NK cells to support multidose and off-the-shelf ACT.
Characterization of chitin and description of its antimicrobial properties obtained from Cydalima perspectalis adults
Authors: Kılcı Leyla , Altun Nurver , Karaoğlu Şengül Alpay , Karaduman Yeşildal Tuğçe
Published: July 2024

Chitin is the most abundant biopolymer group after cellulose and forms the exoskeleton of arthropods, the largest animal group. The morphology of chitin differs between and within species. In this study, we determined the physicochemical and biological activity of chitin samples obtained from different body parts of the boxwood moth Cydalima perspectalis for its application as a biotechnological material. The collected chitin samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and elemental analysis. FTIR confirms that the isolation of chitin is successful. The SEM results showed that the surface morphology of the obtained chitins was both fibrous and porous and had a rough surface. As a result of the elemental analysis, the %N values of chitins were calculated as 6.60 on average, and the values were shown to be close to each other. We also investigated the biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties of these chitin samples. We used L929 (mouse fibroblast) cells to perform indirect cytotoxicity experiments and investigated their viability by performing the MTT assay. Our findings showed that the samples had no cytotoxic effect on the L929 cells at 24, 48, and 72 h. The cytotoxic study showed that Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and Candida albican fungi adhered to chitin surfaces regarding biofilm production. The chitin contents were determined as 21.02% for the head, 5.74% for the body, 32.22% for the wing, 33.53% for the legs, and 2.65% for the pupal shell. Chitin is a material with high potential for use in various fields. Our findings suggested that Cydalima perspectalis can be used as an alternative source of chitin in biomedical applications.
Machine learning predicts peak oxygen uptake and peak power output for customizing cardiopulmonary exercise testing using non-exercise features
Authors: Wenzel Charlotte , Liebig Thomas , Swoboda Adrian , Smolareck Rika , Schlagheck Marit L. , Walzik David , Groll Andreas , Goulding Richie P. , Zimmer Philipp
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is considered the gold standard for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness. To ensure consistent performance of each test, it is necessary to adapt the power increase of the test protocol to the physical characteristics of each individual. This study aimed to use machine learning models to determine individualized ramp protocols based on non-exercise features. We hypothesized that machine learning models will predict peak oxygen uptake ($$\dot{V}$$

V
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O2peak) and peak power output (PPO) more accurately than conventional multiple linear regression (MLR).

Methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted with 274 (♀168, ♂106) participants who performed CPET on a cycle ergometer. Machine learning models and multiple linear regression were used to predict $$\dot{V}$$

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O2peak and PPO using non-exercise features. The accuracy of the models was compared using criteria such as root mean square error (RMSE). Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) was applied to determine the feature importance.

Results

The most accurate machine learning model was the random forest (RMSE: 6.52 ml/kg/min [95% CI 5.21–8.17]) for $$\dot{V}$$

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O2peak prediction and the gradient boosting regression (RMSE: 43watts [95% CI 35–52]) for PPO prediction. Compared to the MLR, the machine learning models reduced the RMSE by up to 28% and 22% for prediction of $$\dot{V}$$

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O2peak and PPO, respectively. Furthermore, SHAP ranked body composition data such as skeletal muscle mass and extracellular water as the most impactful features.

Conclusion

Machine learning models predict $$\dot{V}$$

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O2peak and PPO more accurately than MLR and can be used to individualize CPET protocols. Features that provide information about the participant's body composition contribute most to the improvement of these predictions.

Trial registration number

DRKS00031401 (6 March 2023, retrospectively registered).
Pyroptosis-related long-noncoding RNA signature predicting survival and immunotherapy efficacy in patients with lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhan Xiang , Li Jixian , Ding Yi , Zhou Fengge , Zeng Renya , Lei Lingli , Zhang Ying , Feng Alei , Qu Yan , Yang Zhe
Published: July 2024

Pyroptosis-related long-noncoding RNAs (PRlncRNAs) play an important role in cancer progression. However, their role in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is unclear. A risk model was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis based on RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The LUSC cohort was divided into high- and low-risk groups based on the median risk score. For the prognostic value of the model, the Kaplan–Meier analysis, log-rank test, and Cox regression analysis were performed. A nomogram was constructed to predict the prognosis of patients, using a risk score and clinical parameters such as age, sex, clinical stage, and tumor node metastasis classification (TNM) stage. Afterwards, six common algorithms were employed to assess the invasion of immune cells. The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted to identify differences between patients at high and low risk. Furthermore, the pRRophetic package was employed to forecast the half-maximal inhibitory doses of prevalent chemotherapeutic drugs, while the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion score was computed to anticipate the response to immunotherapy. The expression levels of the seven PRlncRNAs were examined in both LUSC and normal lung epithelial cell lines using RT-qPCR. Proliferation, migration, and invasion assays were also carried out to investigate the role of MIR193BHG in LUSC cells. Patients in the low-risk group showed prolonged survival in the total cohort or subgroup analysis. The Cox regression analysis showed that the risk model could act as an independent prognostic factor for patients with LUSC. The results of GSEA analysis revealed that the high-risk group showed enrichment of cytokine pathways, Janus tyrosine kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription signalling pathway, and Toll-like receptor pathway. Conversely, the low-risk group showed enrichment of several gene repair pathways. Furthermore, the risk score was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration. Moreover, patients in the high-risk category showed reduced responsiveness to conventional chemotherapeutic medications and immunotherapy. The majority of the long noncoding RNAs in the risk model were confirmed to be overexpressed in LUSC cell lines compared to normal lung epithelial cell lines by in vitro tests. Further studies have shown that downregulating the expression of MIR193BHG may inhibit the growth, movement, and infiltration capabilities of LUSC cells, whereas increasing the expression of MIR193BHG could enhance these malignant tendencies. This study found that PRlncRNAs were linked to the prognosis of LUSC patients. The risk model, evaluated across various clinical parameters and treatment modalities, shows potential as a future reference for clinical applications.