bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lifestyle Physical Activity for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study
Authors: Warms Catherine A. , Belza Basia L. , Whitney JoAnne D. , Mitchell Pamela H. , Stiens Steven A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a lifestyle physical activity program for people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods.

Sixteen nonexercising adult volunteers with SCI participated in a single group pre-post–test of the “Be Active in Life Program” comprising stage-matched educational materials, home visit by a nurse, construction of a personal plan to increase activity, and four follow-up phone calls. Program acceptability, stage of change, barriers to health-promoting activities, abilities for health practices, health, depression, and muscle strength were rated. Physical activity was monitored using actigraphy and a self-report record.

Results.

Participants rated the program positively, although some preferred a structured exercise approach. Eighty-one percent of participants progressed in stage of change and 60% increased physical activity. There were significant changes in motivational barriers, exercise self-efficacy, self-rated health, and muscle strength.

Discussion.

Lifestyle physical activity is feasible and acceptable and could be effective in promoting greater physical activity among people with SCI.
Changes in Cognitive Measures in a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Health Promotion Program for Couples Targeting Diet and Physical Activity
Authors: Burke Valerie , Giangiulio Nella , Gillam Helen F. , Beilin Lawrie J. , Houghton Stephen
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine cognitive responses to a 4-month health promotion program targeting diet and physical activity in recently cohabiting couples.

Design.

A three-group randomized controlled trial: no intervention (Controls), interactive group sessions and mail-outs (Interactive), and one group session followed by mail-outs (Mail).

Setting.

Australian research studies unit.

Subjects.

Seventy-eight of 137 couples cohabiting for <2 years, recruited by advertising, completed the study.

Measures.

Stages of change; health beliefs; self-efficacy; and perceived barriers to change evaluated by questionnaires at baseline, postintervention, and 1-year follow-up. Data were analyzed using mixed models, factor analysis, and linear regression.

Results.

In the Mail group, the perceived importance of barriers to dietary change decreased by 19% at postintervention and 16% at 1-year follow-up; dietary self-efficacy increased by 9% and 3%, respectively. In the Interactive group, the perceived importance of barriers to dietary change decreased by 26% and 20%, and dietary self-efficacy increased by 14% and 12%, respectively. Similar trends for physical activity were not statistically significant. However, changes in self-efficacy and perceived barriers to change significantly predicted dietary and physical activity behaviors. A preponderance of higher socio-economic groups and the proportion of drop-out may have biased results.

Conclusions.

Health promotion using partners' support and targeting diet and physical activity improves associated cognitive variables in couples. Most improvements were greater and more sustained with interactive group sessions.
Estimating Risk Reduction Required to Break Even in a Health Promotion Program
Authors: Ozminkowski Ronald J. , Goetzel Ron Z. , Santoro Jan , Saenz Betty-Jo , Eley Christine , Gorsky Bob
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To illustrate a formula to estimate the amount of risk reduction required to break even on a corporate health promotion program.

Design.

A case study design was implemented. Base year (2001) health risk and medical expenditure data from the company, along with published information on the relationships between employee demographics, health risks, and medical expenditures, were used to forecast demographics, risks, and expenditures for 2002 through 2011 and estimate the required amount of risk reduction.

Setting.

Motorola.

Subjects.

52,124 domestic employees.

Measures.

Demographics included age, gender, race, and job type. Health risks for 2001 were measured via health risk appraisal. Risks were noted as either high or low and related to exercise/eating habits, body weight, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, depression, stress, smoking/drinking habits, and seat belt use. Medical claims for 2001 were used to calculate medical expenditures per employee.

Results.

Assuming a $282 per employee program cost, Motorola employees would need to reduce their lifestyle-related health risks by 1.08% to 1.42% per year to break even on health promotion programming, depending upon the discount rate. Higher or lower program investments would change the risk reduction percentages.

Conclusion.

Employers can use information from published studies, along with their own data, to estimate the amount of risk reduction required to break even on their health promotion programs.
Measurements of the movement of the jet streams at mid-latitudes, in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, 1979 to 2010
Authors: Hudson R. D.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Previous studies have shown that the mean latitude of the subtropical jet streams in both hemispheres have shifted toward the poles over the last few decades. This paper presents a study of the movement of both the subtropical and Polar fronts, the location of the respective jet streams, between 1979 and 2010 at mid-latitudes, using total ozone measurements to identify the sharp horizontal boundary that occurs at the position of the fronts. Previous studies have shown that the two fronts are the boundaries of three distinct regimes in the stratosphere, corresponding to the Hadley. Ferrel, and Polar meridionally overturning circulation cells in the troposphere, each of which has a distinct temperature profile. Over the period of study the horizontal area of the Hadley cell has increased at latitudes between 20 and 60 degrees while the area of the Polar cell has decreased. A linear regression analysis was performed to identify the major factors associated with the movement of the subtropical jet streams. These were: (1) changes in the Tropical land/ocean temperature, (2) direct radiative forcing from greenhouse gases in the troposphere, (3) changes in the temperature of the lower Tropical stratosphere, (4) the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation, and (5) volcanic eruptions. The dominant mechanism was the direct radiative forcing from greenhouse gases. Over the period of study the poleward movement of the subtropical jet streams was 3.7±0.3 degrees in the Northern Hemisphere and 6.5±0.2 degrees in the Southern Hemisphere, with a net expansion of the Tropical belt of 10.2 degrees. Previous studies have shown that weather systems tend to follow the jet streams. The observed poleward movement in both hemispheres over the past thirty years represents a significant change in the position of the subtropical jet streams, which should lead to significant latitudinal shifts in the global weather patterns, temperatures, precipitation and the hydrologic cycle.
The composition and flux of particulate and dissolved carbohydrates from the Rhône River into the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Panagiotopoulos C. , Sempéré R. , Para J. , Raimbault P. , Rabouille C. , Charrière B.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Carbohydrates are important components of the carbon cycle and may be used as indicators of the origin and the diagenetic status of marine and terrestrial organic matter. Nevertheless, comprehensive studies of both particulate (PCHO) and dissolved (DCHO) carbohydrates in rivers are scarce, and the seasonal and interannual variability of these compounds in relationship to the bulk particulate (POM) and dissolved organic matter (DOM) is largely unknown. For the period 2007–2009, we sampled once per month POM and DOM and measured the total suspended matter (TSM), POM, DOM, PCHO, and DCHO for the Rhône River, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea. Using these measurements, we estimated for the above parameters annual fluxes for the period 2001–2010. The estimated carbohydrate fluxes averaged 0.061±0.043×1010 moles Cy−1 for PCHO and 0.041±0.0062×1010 moles Cy−1 DCHO, representing 8% and 7% of the annual flux of POC and DOC, respectively. During flood and low-water periods, POM variations were reflected into the PCHO pool, whereas this was not observed for DOC and DCHO, indicating a decoupling between particulate and dissolved organic matter. Our results also showed that flood and low-water periods may be differentiated using the ratios PCHO/DCHO and POC/DOC, which had a significant linear relationship. Based on the carbohydrate abundances in both the PCHO and DCHO pools, we conclude that this material mainly derives from allochthonous sources (vascular plants, bacteria and soils). Moreover, during flood events, an enrichment in mannose in POM was observed, probably reflecting an angiosperm source (leaves or grasses). By expanding our results to the northwestern Mediterranean Sea (Gulf of Lions), we found that the total organic carbon (TOC) fluxes of the Rhône River accounted for ~1% of the standing stock of seawater TOC. Considering that glucose is the most abundant carbohydrate in both particulate and dissolved organic matter pools (~33%), its annual flux in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea was estimated to 19.2×108 moles glucose-C.
The FAMOUS climate model (versions XFXWB and XFHCC): description update to version XDBUA
Authors: Smith R. S.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. FAMOUS is an ocean-atmosphere general circulation model of low resolution, based on version 4.5 of the UK MetOffice Unified Model. Here we update the model description to account for changes in the model as it is used in the CMIP5 EMIC model intercomparison project (EMICmip) and a number of other studies. Most of these changes correct errors found in the code. The EMICmip version of the model (XFXWB) has a better-conserved water budget and additional cooling in some high latitude areas, but otherwise has a similar climatology to previous versions of FAMOUS. A variant of XFXWB is also described, with changes to the dynamics at the top of the model which improve the model climatology (XFHCC).
External forcing of earthquake swarms at Alpine regions: example from a seismic meteorological network at Mt. Hochstaufen SE-Bavaria
Authors: Svejdar V. , Küchenhoff H. , Fahrmeir L. , Wassermann J.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. In the last few years, it has been shown that above-average rainfall and the following diffusion of excess water into subsurface structures is able to trigger earthquake swarms in the uppermost brittle portion of the Earth's crust. However, there is still an ongoing debate on whether the crust already needs to be in a critical-to-failure state or whether it is sufficient that water is transported rapidly within channels and veins of karst or similar geological formations to the underlying, earthquake-generating layers. Also unknown is the role of other forcing mechanisms, possible co-variables and probably necessary tectonic loading in the triggering process of earthquakes. Because of these problems, we do not use an explicit physical model but instead analyze the meteorological and geophysical data via sophisticated statistical models. \\newline We are interested in the influence of a more complete set of possible forcing parameters, including the influence of synthetic earth tides, on the occurrence of earthquake swarms. In this context, regression models are the adequate tool, since the calculation of simple correlations can be confounded by the other variables. Since our outcome variable (the number of quakes) is a count, we use Poisson regression models that include the plausible assumption of a Poisson distribution for the counts. For this study, we use nearly continuous recordings of a seismic and meteorological network in the years 2002–2008 at Mt. Hochstaufen in SE-Bavaria. Our non-linear regression model reveals correlations between external forces and the triggering of earthquakes. In addition to the still dominant influence of rainfall, theoretical estimated tidal tilt show some weak influence on the swarm generation. However, the influence of the modeled trend functions shows that rain is by far not the most important forcing mechanism present in the data.
Optimum Alkaline Electrolyzer-Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Coupling in a Residential Solar Stand-Alone Power System
Authors: Khater Hany A. , Abdelraouf Amr A. , Beshr Mohamed H.
Published: November 2011

Modeling of an alkaline electrolyzer and a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is presented. Also, a parametric study is performed for both components in order to determine the effect of variable operating conditions on their performance. The aim of this study is to determine the optimum operating conditions when the electrolyzer and the PEMFC are coupled together as part of a residential solar powered stand-alone power system comprising photovoltaic (PV) arrays, an alkaline electrolyzer, storage tanks, a secondary battery, and a PEMFC. The optimum conditions are determined based on an economic study which is performed to determine the cost of electricity (COE) produced from this system so as to determine the lowest possible COE. All of the calculations are performed using a computer code developed by using MATLAB. The code is designed so that any user can easily change the data concerning the location of the system or the working parameters of any of the system's components to estimate the performance of a modified system. Cairo city in Egypt was used as the place at which the output of the system will be determined. It was found that the optimum operating temperature of the electrolyzer is 25∘C. Also, the optimum coupling pressure of the electrolyzer and the PEMFC is 4 bars. The operating temperature of the PEMFC had a slight effect on its performance while an optimum current density of 400 mA/cm2 was detected. By operating the fuel cell at optimum conditions, its efficiency was found to be 64.66% with a need of 0.5168 Nm3 (Nm3 is a m3 measured at temperature of 0∘C and pressure of 1 bar) of hydrogen to produce 1 kWh of electricity while its cogeneration efficiency was found to be 84.34%. The COE of the system was found to be 49 cents/kWh, at an overall efficiency of 9.87%, for an operational life of 20 years.
Androgen Deprivation Therapy and Outcomes After Radiation Therapy in Black Patients With Prostate Cancer
Authors: Morgan Kylie M. , Riviere Paul , Nelson Tyler J. , Guram Kripa , Deshler Leah N. , Sabater Minarim Daniel , Duran Elizabeth A. , Banegas Matthew P. , Rose Brent S.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Prostate cancer in Black men compared with White men may be more sensitive to radiation therapy resulting in better outcomes in equal-access settings. The outcomes of androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) vs radiation therapy itself remains uncharacterized.

Objectives

To quantify any outcome modification by receipt of ADT on the association between Black race and prostate cancer outcomes following radiation therapy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a retrospective, nationwide cohort study of Black and White patients treated in the US Veterans Healthcare system between 2000 and 2020 receiving definitive radiation for localized prostate cancer. Data were analyzed from January 2000 to December 2020.

Exposure

Patient self-identified race and use of ADT defined as any gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist or antagonist prescription within 6 months of radiation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Biochemical recurrence (BCR) from time of completion of radiation therapy (prostate-specific antigen nadir plus 2 ng/mL) and development of metastatic disease or prostate cancer mortality (PCSM) from time of recurrence.

Results

A total of 26 542 patients (8716 Black men with median [IQR] age of 64 [59-69] years and 17 826 White men with median [IQR] age of 67 [62-72] years) received definitive radiation therapy for nonmetastatic prostate cancer and had complete staging and follow-up data. A total of 5144 patients experienced BCR (3384 White and 1760 Black patients). The cumulative incidence of BCR at 10 years was not significantly different between Black and White men (1602 [22.14%] vs 3099 [20.13%], respectively) with multivariable hazard ratio (HR) of 1.03 (95% CI, 0.97-1.09; P = .33). In men receiving ADT, Black men had an HR for BCR of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.82-0.99; P = .03) compared with White men, and in men not receiving ADT, Black men had an HR of 1.13 (95% CI, 1.05-1.22; P = .002). Black race was associated with a decreased risk of developing metastatic disease (HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82-0.98; P = .02) or PCSM (subdistribution HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.63-0.82; P < .001) from time of biochemical recurrence.

Conclusions and Relevance

Black patients treated with radiation appear to specifically benefit from the addition of ADT with regard to biochemical control. Additionally, BCR in Black men results in a lower rate of metastatic disease and death from prostate cancer. Future analyses of radiosensitivity in Black men should evaluate for the possibility of outcome modification by ADT.
Phoenix Sepsis Score and Risk of Attributable Mortality in Children With Cancer
Authors: Wolf Joshua , Rubnitz Zachary , Agulnik Asya , Ferrolino Jose , Sun Yilun , Tang Li
Published: June 2024

This prognostic study analyzes the accuracy of the Phoenix Sepsis Score for the classification of attributable mortality risk in children with cancer presenting to the intensive care.
Inflation, Economic Policy Changes, and Access to Essential Drugs by Retirees in Argentina
Authors: Macchia Alejandro , Mariani Javier A. , Tognoni Gianni
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional study investigates whether there are associations between inflation, economic policy changes, and retirees’ access to medicines in Argentina.
Long‐Term Storage Stable Vesicle‐Like Nanoparticles of Lipid and Polymer for siRNA and mRNA‐Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Chaoran , Zhang Yuxi , Cao Ziyang , Li Dongdong , Zhu Yueqiang , Jing Houjin , Li Yan , Li Fangzheng , Xu Cong‐Fei , Yang Xianzhu , Wang Jun
Published: June 2024

RNA‐based therapeutics have emerged as a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy, encompassing the silencing of immune checkpoint genes, chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cell production, and antitumor vaccines. Despite their tremendous potential, the urgent need for the development of clinically applicable delivery systems remains paramount. In this study, vesicle‐like nanoparticles (VNPs) are devised using clinically approved amphiphilic polymers and lipids as the delivery system for siRNA and mRNA. Through meticulous formulation adjustments of cationic lipids and ionizable lipids, a VNP formulation with exceptional transfection efficiency is identified. Notably, the VNPs maintained their remarkable transfection efficiency even after 6 months of storage. When loaded with siPD‐L1 and siCD47, these VNPs effectively silenced two critical immune checkpoint genes, enabling successful cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, when employed as a delivery system for mRNA vaccines, the VNPs induced a robust population of antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells in immunized mice. This led to the successful suppression of tumor growth (5 out of 8 subjects becoming tumor‐free) and nearly complete inhibition of lung metastasis. In summary, this lipid‐ and polymer‐based VNPs offer a long shelf life, excellent loading and transfection efficiency, versatility for various RNA types, and hold great promise as a delivery system for clinical applications.
Exploring Colloidal Phase Transitions of Imogolite Nanotubes by Evaporation Induced Self‐Assembly in Levitation
Authors: Hotton Claire , Bizien Thomas , Pansu Brigitte , Hamon Cyrille , Paineau Erwan
Published: June 2024

Evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) is a versatile method for generating organized superstructures from colloidal particles, offering diverse design possibilities through the manipulation of colloid size, shape, substrate nature, and environmental conditions. While some work highlighted the potential of EISA to investigate phase transitions of inorganic liquid crystals, the influence of sample environment to determine their phase diagrams is often overlooked. In this work, the self‐assembly of lyotropic liquid crystals is compared by EISA on substrates, and by acoustic levitation (absence of substrate). The focus is on imogolite nanotubes, a model colloidal system of 1D charged objects, due to their tunable morphology and rich liquid‐crystalline phase behavior. It demonstrates the feasibility to obtain phase transitions in levitating droplets and on soft hydrophobic substrates, whereas self‐assembly is limited on rigid hydrophilic supports. Moreover, the aspect ratio of the nanotubes proves to be a pivotal factor, influencing both transitions and the resulting materials shape and surface. Besides material shaping, acoustic levitation emerges as a promising method for studying phase transitions by EISA, toward the rapid establishment of phase diagrams from diluted to highly concentrated states using a limited volume of sample.
A High‐Mobility n‐Type Noncovalently‐Fused‐Ring Polymer for High‐Performance Organic Thermoelectrics
Authors: Shen Tao , Liu Di , Zhang Jianqi , Wei Zhixiang , Wang Yang
Published: June 2024

Conjugated polymers are emerging as competitive candidates for organic thermoelectrics (OTEs). However, to make the device truly pervasive, both p‐ and n‐type conjugated polymers are essential. Despite great efforts, no n‐type equivalents to the p‐type benchmark PEDOT:PSS exist to date mainly due to the low electrical conductivity (σ). Herein, a near‐amorphous n‐type conjugated polymer, namely pDFSe, is reported with high σ by achieving the synergy between charge transport and doping efficiency. The polymer pDFSe is synthesized based on an acceptor‐triad moiety of diketopyrrolopyrrole‐difluorobenzoselenadiazole‐diketopyrrolopyrrole (DFSe), which has the noncovalently‐fused‐ring structure to reinforce the backbone rigidity. Furthermore, an axisymmetric thiophene‐selenophene‐thiophene donor is introduced, which enables the formation of near‐amorphous microstructures. The above merits ensure good doping efficiency without scarifying efficient intrachain charge‐carrier transport. Thus, pDFSe‐based n‐type transistors exhibit high electron mobility up to 6.15 cm2 V−1 s−1, much higher than its reference polymer pDSe without the noncovalently‐fused‐ring structure (0.77 cm2 V−1 s−1). Further upon n‐doping, pDFSe demonstrates excellent σ of 62.6 S cm−1 and maximum power factor of 133.1 μW m−1 K−2, which are among the highest values reported for solution‐processed n‐type polymers. The results demonstrate the great potential of near‐amorphous n‐type conjugated polymers with noncovalently‐fused‐ring structure for the next‐generation OTEs.
Take proactive steps to limit risks, liability related to court‐storming incidents
Authors: O’Brien Timothy
Published: June 2024

Reports of court‐storming incidents after upset victories or championships tend to renew the focus on event security, safety, and injury prevention. This is especially true this year with the high‐profile incidents of fans colliding with star players such as Caitlin Clark of Iowa and Kyle Filipowski of Duke, as exuberant fans ran wild at the conclusion of their respective games. Although serious injuries were fortunately avoided, there could easily have been a different result in both cases. Indeed, just watching the video replays of these headline‐making stories clearly underscores the potential for a season‐ending injury in both of these situations.
Know when parents have rights to access dually enrolled student's education records
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: June 2024

Almost 90% of U.S. high schools offer dual enrollment (bit.ly/3G0m2go). Students are increasingly taking advantage of opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school.
The distally anchored connective tissue graft platform for papilla enhancement: A case report
Authors: Blasi Gonzalo , Abrahamian Lory , Blasi Alvaro
Published: June 2024

Background

As the need for using dental implants to replace single missing teeth grows, so does the demand for greater esthetic results. However, achieving complete interproximal papillae fill in single‐tooth implant restorations remains a challenge. The distally anchored connective tissue platform is a novel soft tissue augmentation technique that consists of harvesting an autogenous connective tissue graft from the palate, folding it, and positioning it at the level of the distal occlusal and buccal surfaces with the help of a distal sling suture to the adjacent distal tooth.

Methods

This case report describes how a maxillary central incisor with compromised hard and soft tissues were replaced using a comprehensive treatment plan.

Results

The clinical outcomes showed stable mucosal margin levels and complete papillae fill. The patient expressed satisfaction with the achieved results.

Conclusions

The distally anchored connective tissue graft platform performed at the time of implant placement emerges as a viable and effective soft tissue augmentation technique that yields highly esthetic results.

Key points

Why is this case new information?

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report in the literature using the distally anchored connective tissue platform.

What are the keys to successful management of this case?

Adequate diagnosis and decision‐making, resulting in a treatment plan focused on reconstructing both soft and hard tissues in a single‐tooth implant within the esthetic area, yield favorable clinical, radiological, and patient‐reported outcomes.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

The primary limitation of this study is its reliance on a single case report.
The Perfluoro‐o‐phenylene‐mercury Trimer [Hg(o‐C6F4)]3 – a Textbook Example of Phase‐Dependent Structural Differences
Authors: Giricheva Nina I. , Tverdova Natalya V. , Otlyotov Arseniy A. , Lamm Jan‐Hendrik , Girichev Georgiy V. , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: June 2024

The geometric and electronic structure of [Hg(o‐C6F4)]3 (1) in the gas phase, i. e. free of intermolecular interactions, was determined by a synchronous gas‐phase electron diffraction/mass spectrometry experiment (GED/MS), complemented by quantum chemical calculations. 1 is stable up to 498 K and the gas phase contains a single molecular form: the trimer [Hg(o‐C6F4)]3. It has a planar structure of D3h symmetry with a Hg–C distance of 2.075(5) Å and a Hg–Hg distance of 3.614(7) Å (both rh1). Structural differences between the crystalline and gaseous state have been analyzed. Different DFT functional‐basis combinations were tested, demonstrating the importance to consider the relativistic effects of the mercury atoms. The combination PBE0/MWB(Hg),cc‐pVTZ(C,F) turned out to be the most appropriate for the geometry optimization of such organomercurials. The electronic structure of 1, the nature of the chemical bonding in C−Hg−C fragments and the nature of the Hg⋅⋅⋅Hg interactions have been analyzed in terms of the Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) and Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) approaches. The influence of the nature of halogen substitution on the structure of the molecules in the series [Hg(o‐C6H4)]3, [Hg(o‐C6F4)]3, [Hg(o‐C6Cl4)]3, [Hg(o‐C6Br4)]3 was also analyzed.
Exploring genotypic diversity in sorghum breeding lines for water‐saving traits to enhance drought adaptation during the post‐rainy season
Authors: Kaliamoorthy Sivasakthi , Gaddameedi Anil , Murugesan Tharanya , Gorthy Sunita , Sravani Boddupalli , Neelam Nagalakshmi , Jayakumar Jaganathan , Choudhary Sunita , Kholovà Jana , Govindaraj Mahalingham
Published: June 2024

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], a crucial staple crop in South Asia and sub‐Saharan Africa, faces challenges amid increasing climate variability. Post‐rainy sorghum serves as a dominant food and fodder crop in India. Aligned with International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics's post‐rainy sorghum product profile, this research extensively characterizes sorghum lines, emphasizing the traits vital for post‐rainy drought adaptation in hybrid parents. We examined genotypic differences and trait correlations in 25 sorghum hybrid parents and varieties (B line for seed parent, R line for restorer, and check for varieties) through atmospheric and soil drought experiments. Results from atmospheric drought experiments revealed significant variation in transpiration rate (TR) under high vapor pressure deficit (VPD), with certain lines showing limited TR (BTX623 and ICSR 21002), while others exhibited high TR. In soil drought experiments, transpiration decline occurred at fractions of transpirable soil water ranging between 0.38 (ICSR 174) and 0.65 (40162 and ICSR 21005). R lines consistently displayed superior plant growth, water use, and biomass compared to B lines. Transpiration efficiency (TE) and total biomass showed positive correlations (r2 = 0.69) in well‐watered and (r2 = 0.45) in water‐stressed conditions. Most R lines displayed higher biomass and TE. Genotypes exhibiting enhanced vigor and limited TR in high VPD conditions and high TE hold potential for enhancing drought adaptation in post‐rainy sorghum. Notably, genotypes with higher biomass, lower TR, and increased TE within both R and B line groups represent valuable genetic resources for enhancing sorghum crops, post‐rainy sorghum adaptation to water deficit.
HHS issues new Section 504 Rule
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: June 2024

On May 9, 2024, the Office for Civil Rights for the Department of Health and Human Services issued its final rule and updates for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (https://bit.ly/4bzADhd). This rule protects qualified individuals from discrimination based on disability and applies to entities that receive federal financial assistance. Traditionally, it has differed from the Department of Education's regulations in that it applies to federally funded health and human services programs, such as hospitals. On page 5 of this issue, Michael R. Masinter discusses the history of the Section 504 regulations.
Research finds that disability‐friendly businesses have higher revenue than peers
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: June 2024

Research from Accenture, Disability:IN, and the American Association of People with Disabilities has shown that companies that lead in disability inclusion generate more revenue, net income, and profit. The research, entitled “The Disability Inclusion Imperative,” draws from approximately 346 unique respondents of the Disability Equality Index between 2015 and 2022. The Disability Equality Index is a global benchmarking tool that provides scores to businesses based on their inclusion policies and practices.
Complex patterns of genetic population structure in the mouthbrooding marine catfish, Bagre marinus, in the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Atlantic
Authors: Portnoy David S. , O'Leary Shannon J. , Fields Andrew T. , Hollenbeck Christopher M. , Grubbs R. Dean , Peterson Cheston T. , Gardiner Jayne M. , Adams Douglas H. , Falterman Brett , Drymon J. Marcus , Higgs Jeremy M. , Pulster Erin L. , Wiley Tonya R. , Murawski Steven A.
Published: June 2024

Patterns of genetic variation reflect interactions among microevolutionary forces that vary in strength with changing demography. Here, patterns of variation within and among samples of the mouthbrooding gafftopsail catfish (Bagre marinus, Family Ariidae) captured in the U.S. Atlantic and throughout the Gulf of Mexico were analyzed using genomics to generate neutral and non‐neutral SNP data sets. Because genomic resources are lacking for ariids, linkage disequilibrium network analysis was used to examine patterns of putatively adaptive variation. Finally, historical demographic parameters were estimated from site frequency spectra. The results show four differentiated groups, corresponding to the (1) U.S. Atlantic, and the (2) northeastern, (3) northwestern, and (4) southern Gulf of Mexico. The non‐neutral data presented two contrasting signals of structure, one due to increases in diversity moving west to east and north to south, and another to increased heterozygosity in the Atlantic. Demographic analysis suggested that recently reduced long‐term effective population size in the Atlantic is likely an important driver of patterns of genetic variation and is consistent with a known reduction in population size potentially due to an epizootic. Overall, patterns of genetic variation resemble that of other fishes that use the same estuarine habitats as nurseries, regardless of the presence/absence of a larval phase, supporting the idea that adult/juvenile behavior and habitat are important predictors of contemporary patterns of genetic structure.
Production and characterization of anti‐hypertensive and anti‐diabetic peptides from fermented sheep milk with anti‐inflammatory activity: in vitro and molecular docking studies
Authors: Pipaliya Rinkal , Basaiawmoit Bethsheba , Sakure Amar A. , Maurya Ruchika , Bishnoi Mahendra , Kondepudi Kanthi Kiran , Padhi Srichandan , Rai Amit Kumar , Liu Zhenbin , Sarkar Preetam , Hati Subrota
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to evaluate the anti‐hypertensive and anti‐diabetic activities from biologically active peptides produced by fermented sheep milk with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei M11 (MG027695), as well as to purify and characterize the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and anti‐diabetic peptides produced from fermented sheep milk.

RESULTS

After 48 h of fermentation at 37 °C, sheep milk demonstrated significant changes in anti‐diabetic effects and ACE‐I effects, with inhibition percentages observed for ACE inhibition (76.32%), α‐amylase (70.13%), α‐glucosidase (70.11%) and lipase inhibition (68.22%). The highest level of peptides (9.77 mg mL–1) was produced by optimizing the growth conditions, which included an inoculation rate of 2.5% and a 48 h of incubation period. The comparison of molecular weight distributions among protein fractions was conducted through sodium dodecyl‐sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis, whereas spots were separated using 2D gel electrophoresis according to both the molecular weight and pH. Peptide characterization with ultra‐filtration membranes at 3 and 10 kDa allowed the study to assess molecular weight‐based separation. Nitric oxide generated by lipopolysaccharide and the secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 immune cells were both inhibited by sheep milk fermented with M11. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to assess changes in functional groups after fermentation, providing insights into the structural changes occurring during fermentation.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that fermentation with L. paracasei (M11) led to significant changes in fermented sheep milk, enhancing its bioactive properties, notably in terms of ACE inhibition and anti‐diabetic activities, and the generation of peptides with bioactive properties has potential health benefits. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Optimal pursuit strategies for multi‐pursuer single‐evader games based on cooperative tracking
Authors: Zhou Yinglu , Li Yinya , Sheng Andong , Qi Guoqing , Cong Jinliang
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates a multi‐pursuer single‐evader nonzero‐sum differential game. Unlike traditional treatments, cooperative tracking is considered to design the optimal pursuit strategy by introducing a novel weighted topology and a scalar coupling gain. First, the distributed control strategy is designed based on the Hamilton–Jacobi–Isaacs (HJI) under the nonzero‐sum differential game. Then the modified LQR‐based cooperative tracking strategy is applied to achieve cooperativity among all the pursuers. The interception condition is also analyzed using a coupling gain based on the Laplacian matrix. Several illustrative examples under different scenarios are presented, and the results show that the pursuers with the proposed strategy can successfully intercept the evader.
Consensus recommendations for the use of novel antiretrovirals in persons with HIV who are heavily treatment‐experienced and/or have multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1: Endorsed by the American Academy of HIV Medicine, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Cluck David B. , Chastain Daniel B. , Murray Milena , Durham Spencer H. , Chahine Elias B. , Derrick Caroline , Dumond Julie B. , Hester E. Kelly , Jeter Sarah B. , Johnson Melissa D. , Kilcrease Christin , Kufel Wesley D. , Kwong Jeffrey , Ladak Amber F. , Patel Nimish , Pérez Sarah E. , Poe Jonell B. , Bolch Charlotte , Thomas Ian , Asiago‐Reddy Elizabeth , Short William R.
Published: June 2024

Treatment options are currently limited for persons with HIV‐1 (PWH) who are heavily treatment‐experienced and/or have multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1. Three agents have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2018, representing a significant advancement for this population: ibalizumab, fostemsavir, and lenacapavir. However, there is a paucity of recommendations endorsed by national and international guidelines describing the optimal use (e.g., selection and monitoring after initiation) of these novel antiretrovirals in this population. To address this gap, a modified Delphi technique was used to develop these consensus recommendations that establish a framework for initiating and managing ibalizumab, fostemsavir, or lenacapavir in PWH who are heavily treatment‐experienced and/or have multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1. In addition, future areas of research are also identified and discussed.
Discovery and biological profile of pyridachlometyl
Authors: Matsuzaki Yuichi , Kurahashi Makoto , Watanabe Satoshi , Kiguchi So , Harada Toshiyuki , Iwahashi Fukumatsu
Published: June 2024

Pyridachlometyl is a novel tubulin dynamics modulator fungicide developed by Sumitomo as a new agent designed to tackle fungicide resistance. Pyridachlometyl is being developed as a first‐in‐class molecule with an anti‐tubulin mode of action, the chemical structure of which is characterized by a unique tetrasubstituted pyridazine ring. The first commercial product ‘Fuseki flowable’ received initial registration in 2023 in Japan. The concepts of the discovery project, optimization of chemical structures, and biological profiles are reviewed herein. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Use of a fluoroscopy‐based robotic‐assisted total hip arthroplasty system resulted in greater improvements in hip‐specific outcome measures at one‐year compared to a CT‐based robotic‐assisted system
Authors: Ong Christian B. , Buchan Graham B. J. , Hecht Christian J. , Liu David , Petterwood Joshua , Kamath Atul F.
Published: June 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare one‐year patient reported outcome measures between a novel fluoroscopy‐based robotic‐assisted (FL‐RTHA) system and an existing computerised tomography‐based robotic assisted (CT‐RTHA) system.

Methods

A review of 85 consecutive FL‐RTHA and 125 consecutive CT‐RTHA was conducted. Outcomes included one‐year post‐operative Veterans RAND‐12 (VR‐12) Physical (PCS)/Mental (MCS), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome (HOOS) Pain/Physical Function (PS)/Joint replacement, and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity scores.

Results

The FL‐RTHA cohort had lower pre‐operative VR‐12 PCS, HOOS Pain, HOOS‐PS, HOOS‐JR, and UCLA Activity scores compared with patients in the CT‐RTHA cohort. The FL‐RTHA cohort reported greater improvements in HOOS‐PS scores (−41.54 vs. −36.55; p = 0.028) than the CT‐RTHA cohort. Both cohorts experienced similar rates of major post‐operative complications, and had similar radiographic outcomes.

Conclusions

Use of the fluoroscopy‐based robotic system resulted in greater improvements in HOOS‐PS in one‐year relative to the CT‐based robotic technique.
Analysis of MiR-20b, MIR-197 markers for differentiation between forensic body fluids encountered in sexual assault cases
Authors: Alsaeed Shimaa Ahmed , Elrewieny Noha Maher , Eltokhy Rabab Abdulmoez Amin , Mohamed Mohamed Shokr , Khalil Wagdy K. B. , Shalby Aziza B. , Booles Hoda F. , Aboubakr Heba Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Identifying body fluids can be a critical clue that aids in reconstructing the crime scene. Semen and vaginal fluid identification is crucial, especially in cases of sexual assault. The majority of forensic studies focused on identifying normal body fluids and neglected the expression variation of semen in pathology. To differentiate between vaginal fluids, fertile and infertile semen samples (oligospermia and azoospermia) using miR 20b and miR197. A total of 48 body fluid samples, divided as 16 vaginal fluids, 16 fertile semen, and 16 infertile semen samples (8 with oligospermia and 8 with azoospermia), were collected, and the expression levels of miR-20b and miR-197 were detected by the SYBR Green real-time quantitative PCR technique. Our results showed significant different expression of these miRNAs in normal semen compared to vaginal and infertile semen. Moreover, we designed a model based on Fisher’s discriminant function to forecast the group affiliations of unidentified samples. With three novel equations, we were able to accurately distinguish between semen and vaginal fluid, fertile and infertile semen, and oligospermia and azoospermia semen samples with validation accuracy of 81.3%, 100%, and 100%, respectively. MiR-20b and miR-197 expression levels are efficient and appropriate markers to distinguish semen from vaginal fluid and to differentiate between fertile and infertile semen samples. However, the present study is a preliminary study based on clinical samples, and the potential role of these markers in differentiating real crime scene samples is still unknown, so we recommend further research to investigate these markers expression while using forensic samples.
CD4 nadir and neurocognitive trajectories in people living with HIV
Authors: Garabet Razmig , Dampier Will , Tillman Shinika , Malone Kim , Szep Zsofia , Althoff Amy , Pirrone Vanessa , Nonnemacher Michael R. , Wigdahl Brian , Schultheis Maria , Devlin Kathryn N.
Published: June 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus-associated neurocognitive disorders persist in the combination antiretroviral therapy era. CD4 nadir is a well-established predictor of cognition cross-sectionally, but its impact on longitudinal neurocognitive (NC) trajectories is unclear. The few studies on this topic examined trajectories of global cognition, rather than specific NC domains. The current study examined CD4 nadir in relation to domain-specific NC decline. 132 HIV + adults from the Temple/Drexel Comprehensive NeuroHIV Center, Clinical and Translational Research Support Core Cohort were administered comprehensive NC assessments longitudinally, with last visit occurring an average of 12 years after CD4 nadir. Linear mixed models were used to examine CD4 nadir in relation to longitudinal NC trajectories in three empirically identified NC domains: speed/executive function (S/EF), visuospatial memory (VM), and verbal fluency (VF). CD4 nadir was associated with change in VF (p = 0.020), but not with S/EF or VM. Specifically, those with CD4 nadir < 200 demonstrated increasing VF over time (p = .002), whereas those with CD4 nadir > 200 demonstrated stable VF (p = .568), though these differing trajectories may partly reflect regression to the mean or differential practice effect. CD4 dynamics over time were analyzed as potential mechanisms for the identified associations, with mixed findings. While low CD4 nadir has been associated with weaker neurocognition among people living with HIV, the results of this study suggest that low CD4 nadir is not associated with ongoing decline a decade later. Nadir-related deficits in VF may be stable or even improve over time, possibly reflecting the beneficial cognitive effects of long-term treatment and immune reconstitution.
Study on the dynamic constitutive model of coal at different depths in Pingdingshan mining area
Authors: Hao Haichun , Gao Mingzhong , Li Shengwei , Li Yexue , Zeng Gang
Published: June 2024

The environment of deep in-situ occurrence is complex, and secondary dynamic disasters occur frequently. Exploring the dynamic constitutive models of coal at different depths is the foundation for deep resource development, which can help promote the safe and efficient mining of coal resources at different depths and reveal the mechanism of sudden dynamic disasters. Dynamic mechanical testing of coal at different depths of the Pingdingshan mine (China) was carried out using a split Hopkinson pressure bar system with confining pressure. On the basis of statistical damage theory, dynamic constitutive models of coal at different depths were explored, and the theoretical models were compared and verified using the experimental results. An expression relating to the infinitesimal element strength of coal and loading rate was derived, and the parameters σ1dp, Ed, and ε1dp were determined. Inversion verification of the model showed that the experimental results agree well with the theoretical results prior to the peak stress. These research results are expected to be applied to the exploitation of deep resources, laying a foundation for the law of deep earth science and the construction of deep engineering.
Research on the early warning indicator system for public safety risks in county areas of the Yangtze River Delta region during urbanization process
Authors: Ke Yin
Published: June 2024

China’s intense urbanization has profoundly impacted county-level societies, leading to increased diversity and contradictions, and pushing these communities towards a risk society. This is especially pronounced in the Yangtze River Delta, a region of peak urbanization. The stability and progress of these local societies are vital for the region’s overall high-quality development. Yet, with ongoing urbanization, these areas face numerous challenges. To effectively tackle these issues, a robust system encompassing pre-evaluation, early warning, and emergency preparedness is essential. This study explores the relationships and structures among various risk factors using grounded theory analysis. Furthermore, it applies the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to develop a comprehensive risk early warning index system, significantly enhancing the response capabilities to public security challenges in the Yangtze River Delta’s county-level societies.