bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speed and degree of functional and compositional recovery varies with latitude and community age
Authors: Bonfim Mariana , López Diana P. , Repetto Michele F. , Freestone Amy L.
Published: February 2024

Rates at which a community recovers after disturbance, or its resilience, can be accelerated by increased net primary productivity and recolonization dynamics such as recruitment. These mechanisms can vary across biogeographic gradients, such as latitude, suggesting that biogeography is likely important to predicting resilience. To test whether community resilience, informed by functional and compositional recovery, hinges on geographic location, we employed a standardized replicated experiment on marine invertebrate communities across four regions from the tropics to the subarctic zone. Communities assembled naturally on standardized substrate while experiencing distinct levels of biomass removal (no removal, low disturbance, and high disturbance), which opened space for new colonizers, thereby providing a pulse of limited resource to these communities. We then quantified functional (space occupancy and biomass) and compositional recovery from these repeated pulse disturbances across two community assembly timescales (early and late at 3 and 12 months, respectively). We documented latitudinal variation in resilience across 47° latitude, where speed of functional recovery was higher toward lower latitudes yet incomplete at late assembly in the tropics and subtropics. The degree of functional recovery did not coincide with compositional recovery, and regional differences in recruitment and growth likely contributed to functional recovery in these communities. While biogeographic variation in community resilience has been predicted, our results are among the first to examine functional and compositional recovery from disturbance in a single large‐scale standardized experiment.
Acceptability and feasibility of SUCCEAT, an intervention for parents of adolescents with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Philipp Julia , Franta Claudia , Zeiler Michael , Truttmann Stefanie , Wittek Tanja , Schöfbeck Gabriele , Mairhofer Dunja , Mitterer Michaela , Laczkovics Clarissa , Treasure Janet , Karwautz Andreas F. K. , Wagner Gudrun
Published: February 2024

Objective

“Supporting Carers of Children and Adolescents with Eating Disorders in Austria” (SUCCEAT), a skills training for parents, delivered via workshops (WS) or online modules (ONL), has been proven to be effective in terms of parental distress, caregiver skills, and adolescents' outcome. This study examined the adherence to and the acceptability and feasibility of SUCCEAT.

Method

One‐hundred parents (86% mothers) of adolescents with anorexia nervosa participated in the 8‐week training. Parents were assigned to the WS (n = 50) or ONL (n = 50) format using a quasi‐randomised design. Adherence, acceptability, and feasibility were assessed using self‐report questionnaires.

Results

Adherence to the sessions was high (66%–98%) for both groups. The usage of the material was comparable between the groups. However, in the WS group, participants actively approached the coaches (71.8% vs. 48.9% often/very often) or other parents (63% vs. 4.4% often/very often) more often. Perceived helpfulness was high in both groups, overall satisfaction and practicability were higher in the WS group.

Conclusions

Good adherence, acceptability, and feasibility were confirmed for both formats of SUCCEAT, with minimal advantages of the WS regarding satisfaction and contact with other parents and coaches. Thus, both formats can be recommended for implementation in clinical routine.
Forecasting stock market returns with a lottery index: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Yaojie , Han Qingxiang , He Mengxi
Published: February 2024

This study constructs a Chinese lottery index (LI) based on six popular lottery preference variables by using the partial least squares method and examines the relationship between the LI and future stock market returns during the period from January 2000 to December 2021. We find that the LI can negatively predict stock market excess returns in‐sample and out‐of‐sample. In addition, the LI can generate a large economic gain for a mean–variance investor. Finally, the predictive sources of the LI stem from a cash flow channel and can be explained by the positive volume–volatility relationship and investor attention.
Do search queries predict violence against women? A forecasting model based on Google Trends
Authors: Gonzálvez‐Gallego Nicolás , Pérez‐Cárceles María Concepción , Nieto‐Torrejón Laura
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces a new indicator for reported intimate partner violence against women based on search query time series from Google Trends. This indicator is built up from the relative popularity of three topic‐related keywords. We propose a predictive model based on this specific Google index that is assessed relative to two alternative models: the first one includes the lagged variable, while the second one considers fatalities as a predictor. This comparative analysis is run in two different samples, whether the reported cases are a direct consequence of a violent direct or not. Our results show that the predictive model based on Google data significantly outperforms the other two models, regardless the sample and the forecast horizon. Then, using information gathered from Google queries may improve the allocation and management of resources and services to protect women against this form of violence and to improve risk assessment.
A composite water saturation model of continental mixed shale oil reservoirs based on complex lithology identification
Authors: Lai Fuqiang , Liu Yuejiao , Tan Xianfeng , Wang Ruyue , Peng Shouchang , Gao Xuanbo
Published: February 2024

The complex lithology, frequent interbedding and strong heterogeneity of the shale oil reservoir in Lucaogou Formation of the Middle Permian in Jimsar Sag lead to the complexity of litho‐electric parameters and the low accuracy of conventional reservoir saturation evaluation methods. Therefore, in this paper, automatic lithologic identification was firstly performed with the optimization inversion method of mineral components and K‐means clustering algorithm, and then, litho‐electric experiments were carried out to determine the litho‐electric parameters of different lithologies. Furthermore, the shale oil reservoir saturation calculation models of different lithologies were optimized and determined. Then, a composite water saturation model (Composite‐SW) based on complex lithology identification was constructed. Finally, the model was verified and analysed with the experimental results of water saturation. The coefficient of correlation between the calculation results of the Composite‐SW model and the core experiment results reached .88, indicating that the model was much better than conventional models. The model can be widely applied in logging evaluation of the continental mixed shale oil reservoir in the study area. The study provides a new idea for oil saturation evaluation of continental shale oil reservoirs and is significant for evaluating other types of shale oil reservoirs.
Evaluation surgical strategies in perianal fistulas treatment: Efficacy draining seton compared to other surgical approaches; a case‐control study
Authors: Ghasemlouei Amir , Naseri Amirhosein , Ashjaei Ali , Sadeghi Shahryar , Keshvari Amir
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Perianal fistula is a prevalent anorectal condition originating from an infectious crypt extending to the external opening. Multiple surgical methods exist for treating perianal fistulas; however, selecting the appropriate options is still controversial. Our study aims to evaluate seton replacement versus other surgical methods in treating perianal fistula.

Methods

This study recruited 72 patients presenting with perianal discharge and diagnosed with perianal fistula through intra‐sphincteric, trans‐sphincteric, and supra‐sphincteric examinations at Imam Reza and Besat Hospitals from July 2022 up to March 2023. Regarding case‐control design, patients were divided into two groups: the first group (n = 36) underwent seton insertion, while the control group (n = 36) received alternative surgical methods. Follow‐up was conducted for 1 month post‐discharge, with monthly visits for 6 months. Patients were evaluated for fistula tract healing, seton loosening, and daily secretion rate (based on infected pads) during each visit. Finally, the two groups were compared in terms of improvement rates.

Results

In the seton group, approximately 94.4% of patients showed improvement. However, the difference between the groups was insignificant (p = 0.494). Seton replacement was performed in 52% of patients, with the majority requiring replacement twice (61%). Improvement rates were highest among cases with two seton replacements, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.073). Following seton replacement, the most common treatment methods were endoanal flap and fistulotomy, with observed improvement in 10 cases for each procedure.

Conclusion

This study highlights that draining seton remains a primary choice for intermediate treatment due to its satisfactory improvement rate and lower requirement for replacement, especially up to two times.
Successful treatment of solar lentigines by topical application of stabilized cysteamine: A vehicle‐controlled, double‐blind randomized study
Authors: Saki Nasrin , Modabber Vahideh , Kasraei Hengameh , Kasraee Behrooz
Published: February 2024

Background

Solar lentigines are common hyperpigmented lesions typically appearing after 50 years of age and associated with negative psychological effects in affected individuals. Topical depigmenting products, such as hydroquinone and even the Kligman's formula, are usually ineffective for treating lentigines. Stabilized cysteamine has been recently shown to be as effective as the modified Kligman's formula for treating melasma. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of a stabilized cysteamine on solar lentigines.

Methods

A vehicle‐controlled, double‐blind, and randomized study was performed on 30 patients with solar lentigines. Stabilized cysteamine or vehicle control creams were applied on solar lentigines on the dorsum of the hands daily for 12 weeks. Clinical measurements with colorimetry and visual analog scale were performed at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Results

Statistically significant results were obtained in the cysteamine group versus the vehicle control group. Stabilized cysteamine provided a 40% reduction in colorimetric values (p < 0.002) versus a 2% reduction in the vehicle group (p < 0.405). Cysteamine also provided a 40% reduction in VAS (p < 0.001) versus a 2% reduction in the vehicle group (p < 0.245).

Conclusion

Significant improvement of solar lentigines was observed after 12 weeks of application of stabilized cysteamine by all evaluation methods. Stabilized cysteamine represents a highly effective topical treatment for solar lentigines and can be considered as one of the first topical therapies effective on this hyperpigmentary disorder.
Beliefs, practices and support needs of preschool teachers toward shy‐withdrawn behaviours
Authors: Guedes Maryse , Veríssimo Manuela , Santos António J.
Published: February 2024

Shy‐withdrawn behaviours place preschoolers at increased risk of experiencing adverse developmental outcomes. Positive teacher‐child relationships play a protective role against these negative socioemotional outcomes. This study aimed to understand, in‐depth, the beliefs, practices and support needs of preschool teachers toward shy‐withdrawn children. Thirty preschool teachers of children aged 3–5 years were interviewed, using a semistructured guide. The thematic analysis revealed that most preschool teachers were aware of the main manifestations, transactional influences and consequences of shy‐withdrawn behaviours, and of the empirically validated strategies that may be useful to modify them. However, a noteworthy proportion of participants reported misconceptions about the intentionality of shy‐withdrawn behaviours, negative emotions and inconsistent or less effective practices. Our findings highlight that strengthening pre‐service and in‐service training and providing coaching to the preschool staff may be helpful to restructure dysfunctional beliefs about shy‐withdrawn behaviours, translate developmental knowledge in evidence‐based classroom practices and enhance professionals' self‐awareness.

Highlights

This study explored, in‐depth, the beliefs, practices and support needs of preschool teachers toward shy‐withdrawn children.

Most of the 30 interviewed preschool teachers were aware of the main manifestations, transactional influences and consequences of shy‐withdrawn behaviours.

Our findings highlight the need to strengthen teachers' training, bridging theoretical knowledge with professional development.
Two babies, two bonds: Frequency and correlates of differential maternal‐infant bonding in mothers of twins
Authors: Wenze Susan J. , Mikula Cynthia M. , Battle Cynthia L.
Published: February 2024

We assessed prevalence and correlates of differential maternal‐infant bonding (i.e., experiencing a stronger bond with one baby vs. the other) in mothers of twins, focusing on aspects of maternal mental health, well‐being, and pregnancy/birth that have been previously linked with maternal‐infant bonding. Participants (N = 108 American women, 88.89% White, 82.41% non‐Hispanic, aged 18–45, who gave birth to twins in the past 6–24 weeks) were recruited from postpartum support websites. Participants completed a Qualtrics survey assessing pregnancy/birth history, symptoms of depression and anxiety, sleep, stress, romantic relationship satisfaction, and postpartum bonding. Twenty‐six participants (24.07%) reported a bonding discrepancy. These participants endorsed higher symptoms of depression and anxiety, lower relationship satisfaction, lower average postpartum bonding, higher general and parenting stress, and longer pregnancy (all ps > .05). Greater degree of bonding discrepancy correlated with more depression, higher parenting stress, longer pregnancy, and lower relationship satisfaction (all ps > .05). Mothers of twins may benefit from postpartum mental health support, stress management strategies, and interventions to improve bonding. Future work should assess the role of breastfeeding difficulties, delivery method, birth‐related trauma, infant regulatory capacity, and temperament. Longitudinal studies will help test cause and effect and potential long‐term repercussions of maternal‐infant bonding discrepancies.
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Authors: Sun Jianguo , Yuan Hao , Yang Jing , Wang Tuo , Gao Yulin , Zhao Qi , Liu Ximeng , Wang Haimei , Zhang Yong‐Wei , Wang John
Published: February 2024

The cover image focuses on a new class of solid electrolytes termed frameworked electrolytes, where the “macroscopically solid” frameworks are purposely laden with 3D ionic channels in the sub‐nano scales, giving rise to both a high ionic conductivity and a desirable interface with the electrode solids. The authors demonstrate a zeolite framework structure based frameworked electrolyte with superior ion diffusion kinetics, which ensures the design of high‐performance all solid state battery running at room temperature. It is confident that the emergence of frameworked electrolyte serves as a powerful motivator for embarking on a new expedition to design the next‐generation battery for EVs or portable electronics in the future.

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Authors: Niu Jingjie , Jeon Sumin , Kim Donggyu , Baek Sungpyo , Yoo Hyun Ho , Li Jie , Park Ji‐Sang , Lee Yoonmyung , Lee Sungjoo
Published: February 2024

A dual‐logic‐in‐memory device is demonstrated through a single bidirectional polarization‐integrated 2D ferroelectric field‐effect transistor.

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How does the dramatic rise of nonresponse in the Current Population Survey impact labor market indicators?
Authors: Bernhardt Robert , Munro David , Wolcott Erin L.
Published: February 2024

Within a decade, the share of households refusing to participate in the Current Population Survey (CPS) tripled. We show households that refuse 1 month but respond in an adjacent month account for an important part of the rise. Leveraging the labor force status of survey participants in the months surrounding their nonresponse, we find that rising refusals suppressed the measured labor force participation rate and employment–population ratio but had little effect on the unemployment rate. Notably, nonresponse bias accounts for at least 10% of the reported decline in the labor force participation rate from 2000 to 2020.
Temporal associations between meaning in life, ultimate meaning struggles, and mental health outcomes in a spiritually integrated inpatient program
Authors: Currier Joseph M. , Bounds Elizabeth M. , Matsuo Hiroki , vanOyen Witvliet Charlotte , Abernethy Alexis D. , VanHarn Karl , Schnitker Sarah A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Meaning in life is a benchmark indicator of flourishing that can likely mitigate the severity of depression symptoms among persons seeking mental healthcare. However, patients contending with serious mental health difficulties often experience a painful void or absence of ultimate meaning in their lives that might hinder recovery. This two‐wave longitudinal study examined temporal associations between perceived presence of meaning in life, struggles with ultimate meaning, flourishing, and depression symptoms among adults in a spiritually integrated inpatient treatment program.

Methods

Of the 242 patients assessed at intake, 90% (N = 218; 40% Cisgender male; 57% Cisgender female; 3.0% nonbinary) completed validated measures of these meaning‐related factors and mental health outcomes at discharge.

Results

Cross‐sectional analyses revealed perceptions of meaning in life and ultimate meaning struggles were inversely linked with one another along with being associated with indices of positive and negative mental health in varying ways at the start and end of treatment. Drawing upon a two‐wave cross‐lagged panel design, longitudinal structural equation modeling analyses supported a Primary Meaning Model whereby having a subjective sense of meaning in life at intake was prospectively linked with lower levels of ultimate meaning struggles and greater flourishing at discharge. However, baseline levels of mental health outcomes were not predictive of the meaning‐related factors in this sample.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the utility of assessing patients' perceived meaning in life and ultimate meaning struggles in spiritually integrated programs and for clinicians to be prepared to possibly address these meaning‐related concerns in the treatment process.
Focused cardiac ultrasound: Competency among pre‐internship medical officers in diagnosing cardiac causes of dyspnea
Authors: Muriuki Daniel , Kagima Jacqueline , Mugera Anne , Joekes Elizabeth , Kwasa Thomas , Joshi Mark David
Published: February 2024

Background

Differentiating cardiovascular causes of dyspnea in resource‐limited healthcare settings can be challenging. The use of easy‐to‐train, point‐of‐care, focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) protocols may potentially alleviate this challenge.

Research Question

Can novices attain competency in FoCUS use after training using the cardiac ultrasound for resource‐limited settings (CURLS) protocol?

Methods

A quasi‐experimental study was conducted at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Forty‐five graduate medical pre‐interns, novices in cardiac ultrasound, received simulated didactic and hands‐on FoCUS skills training using the CURLS protocol and 2018 European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) FoCUS training and competence assessment recommendations. Competency was assessed in image interpretation, image acquisition, and image quality.

Results

Aggregate image interpretation competency was attained by n = 38 (84%) of trainees with a median score of 80%. The proportion of trainees attaining category‐specific image interpretation competency was as follows: pericardial effusion n = 44 (98%), left atrial enlargement n = 40 (89%), cardiomyopathy n = 38 (84%), left ventricular hypertrophy n = 37 (82%), and right ventricular enlargement n = 29 (64%). Image acquisition skills competency was attained by n = 36 (80%) of trainees. Three‐quarters of trainee‐obtained images were of good quality.

Conclusion

Majority of the trainees attained competency. Training constraints limit the generalizability of our findings.
Anticoccidial and jejunum‐protective effects of Krameria lappacea roots extract on experimental Eimeria papillata infection
Authors: Alamari Ghada , Abdel‐Gaber Rewaida , Al‐Shaebi Esam M. , Al‐Quraishy Saleh
Published: February 2024

Coccidiosis is a protozoan parasitic disease caused by Eimeria species and affects wild and domestic animals. Coccidiostats are currently available to control this disease, although drug resistance has been confirmed for all of them. As a result, there is an urgent need to identify eco‐friendly agents to control and treat this disease. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative role of the Krameria lappacea roots extract (KLRE) on the outcome of coccidiosis induced by Eimeria papillata. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into seven groups (5 mice/group), as follows: Group 1: noninfected‐nontreated (control group), Group 2: noninfected‐treated group with KLRE (200 mg/kg), Group 3: infected‐nontreated group, Group 4: infected‐treated group with KLRE (50 mg/kg), Group 5: infected‐treated group with KLRE (100 mg/kg), Group 6: infected‐treated group with KLRE (200 mg/kg), and Group 7: infected‐treated group with amprolium (120 mg/kg). Groups (3–7) were inoculated orally with 1 × 103 sporulated E. papillata oocysts. One hour after infection, groups (4–6) were daily treated for 5 days with KLRE and amprolium. On day 5 postinfection, oocyst output was determined, and mice were euthanized for the collection of jejuna then preparation of histological sections and jejunal homogenate was used for the determination of biochemical and oxidative damage markers. The coccidial infection induced weight loss of mice by 3.971%, which improved after KLRE to −1.512%. After KLRE treatment, the rate of feed intake was improved to be 52.21 ± 2.30 than those in infected group (40.47 ± 2.25). Oocyst output was significantly reduced in mice treated with KLRE (1.308 × 106 oocysts/g.feces) compared with those in the infected group (5.387 × 106 oocysts/g.feces). E. papillata infection induced marked histological alterations within jejunum tissue. After treatment, KLRE was able to impair the development of parasite stages (meronts, gamonts, and developing oocysts) in the jejunum through a significant reduction of number and size in comparison with the infected group. Infection with E. papillata induced a disturbance in the nutrient absorption in the jejunal mice tissue, which improved after the treatment with KLRE and amprolium. Also, KLRE counteracted significantly the E. papillata‐induced loss of reduced glutathione and total antioxidant capacity. Our findings indicate that KLRE could be used as an alternative to the available coccidiostats currently available.

Research Highlights

Krameria lappacea exhibit significant anticoccidial and antioxidant activities induced by E. papillata infection.

Krameria lappacea exhibit significant improvement in the pathological alterations of the jejunal tissue induced by E. papillata infection.
Assessing factors that increase dusky gopher frog larval performance in open‐canopy wetlands
Authors: Lance C. Myles , Pechmann Joseph H. K.
Published: February 2024

Amphibians are declining worldwide, and research on their habitats and ecology is important for their conservation. The endangered dusky gopher frog (Rana sevosa) breeds exclusively in isolated, open canopy wetlands, usually with extensive herbaceous growth. Larvae of the dusky gopher frog have higher growth and survival under open canopy than under closed canopy conditions. The mechanisms whereby this occurs are poorly understood, however. In the summer of 2021 in Harrison County, Mississippi, USA, we conducted a complete factorial experiment in mesocosms to compare the relative influence of factors differing between open and closed canopy ponds on larvae. A heat and light treatment consisted of one third of tanks being exposed to full sunlight, one third of tanks being shaded with 70% shadecloth, and the final third being shaded with 70% shadecloth but heated to mimic the temperature of the full sun tanks. In addition, tanks received a closed canopy tree leaf litter mixture or an open canopy herbaceous vegetation mixture, and vertical vegetation‐like structure made of polypropylene rope or not. Cool shaded tanks and heated shaded tanks had identical survival to metamorphosis at 74.7% and produced frogs with an average mass of 2.21 g and 2.09 g, respectively, while tanks in full sunlight achieved significantly higher 93.4% survival to metamorphosis and an average mass of 2.64 g. The open canopy vegetation mixture yielded an average tank survival of 88.3% and mass of 2.94 g, compared to closed canopy vegetation tanks with a significantly lower survival of 73.5% and average mass of 1.61 g. Added structure had no effect on survival or mass. These results indicate that sunlight (not heat alone) and herbaceous plants are important in increasing dusky gopher frog survival and mass in open canopy conditions and suggest that management for these characteristics receive priority in captive‐rearing programs and habitat restoration.
Assessment of loess terraced slope erosion using unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry: Topographic and hydrological effects
Authors: Kou Pinglang , Xu Qiang , Jin Zhao , Yunus Ali P. , Tao Yuxiang , Xia Ying , Pu Chuanhao , Yuan Shuang , Cao Guofan
Published: February 2024

Terraced slopes are widely used in the Loess Plateau to control gully erosion, yet their potential to induce new erosion patterns remains overlooked. Here we used unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry to obtain centimeter‐resolution digital surface models (DSMs) and derived hydrological networks, slopes, aspects, and curvatures of the terraced slopes. Our analysis reveals terraces disrupted natural water pathways, spurring new rill formations during each rainy season—a process neglected by models. Intriguingly, despite gentler gradients, terraced slopes exhibited higher erosion rates than steeper gullies, with widespread rills on terrace ridges. Vegetation‐induced deposition surpassed erosion by 1.52 times, but moisture evaporation on sunny slopes limited plant growth and enhanced erosion. We propose targeted strategies tailored to these erosion mechanisms, including terrace redesign, runoff diversion, slope strengthening, and suitable vegetation, advancing sustainable land management. However, this study faces limitations due to the reliance on drone photogrammetry, which may be influenced by environmental factors like varying solar angles and vegetation growth, and the lack of extensive field validation to support the UAV‐derived data. Our study spotlights drone photogrammetry's potential for elucidating complex erosion dynamics on terraced slopes.
Lagging spawning and increasing phenological extremes jeopardize walleye (Sander vitreus) in north‐temperate lakes
Authors: Barta Martha E. , Sass Greg G. , Reed Jeffrey R. , Cichosz Thomas A. , Shultz Aaron D. , Luehring Mark , Feiner Zachary S.
Published: February 2024

The phenology of critical biological events in aquatic ecosystems is rapidly shifting due to climate change. Growing variability in phenological cues can increase the likelihood of trophic mismatches (i.e., mismatches in the timing of peak prey and predator abundances), causing recruitment failures in important fisheries. We assessed changes in the spawning phenology of walleye (Sander vitreus) in 194 Midwest US lakes to investigate factors influencing walleye phenological responses to climate change and associated climate variability, including ice‐off timing, lake physical characteristics, and population stocking history. Ice‐off phenology shifted earlier, about three times faster than walleye spawning phenology over time. Spawning phenology deviations from historic averages increased in magnitude over time, and large deviations were associated with poor offspring survival. Our results foreshadow the risks of increasingly frequent natural recruitment failures due to mismatches between historically tightly coupled spawning and ice‐off phenology.
Preclustering Gelatin for Faster‐Forming Injectable Hydrogels: A Strategy for Fabricating 3D Hydrogel Scaffolds with Improved Cell Dispersion
Authors: Ishikawa Shohei , Kamata Hiroyuki , Sakai Takamasa
Published: February 2024

Gelatin‐based injectable hydrogels capable of encapsulating cells are pivotal in tissue engineering because they can conform to any geometry and exhibit physical properties similar to those of living tissues. However, the slow gelation process observed in these cell‐encapsulating hydrogels often causes an uneven dispersion of cells. This study proposes an approach for achieving fast gelation of unmodified gelatin under physiological conditions through gelatin preclustering. By using tetrafunctional succinimidyl‐terminated poly(ethylene glycol) as a clustering agent, the gelation process is successfully expedited fivefold without requiring chemical modifications, effectively addressing the associated challenges of uneven cell distribution.
Single‐cell transcriptomics reveal the remodeling landscape of bladder in patients with obstruction‐induced detrusor underactivity
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Peng Liao , Chen Guo , Chen Yuanzhuo , Zeng Xiao , Zhang Jie , Zhang Chi , Shen Hong , Liao Banghua , Luo Deyi
Published: February 2024

Detrusor underactivity (DUA) is a common and thorny problem in urology, which severely impairs patients’ bladder function and quality of life. However, its underlying pathophysiological mechanism remains unclear. Hence, we sequenced 69,973 cells from five controls and nine patients with bladder dysfunction using single‐cell RNA sequencing. Twelve distinct cell types were identified and they showed high cellular and functional heterogeneity among each group. Among them, fibroblasts, macrophages, and epithelial cells had the most intercellular communications. Their aberrant gene expressions and altered intercellular interactions were mainly involved in extracellular matrix organization, inflammation/immune regulation, and cellular injury. Further re‐cluster analysis revealed an accumulation of the RBFOX1+ fibroblasts and RIPOR2+ macrophages in dysfunctional bladder wall, which mediated bladder remodeling through dysfunctional extracellular matrix organization and inflammation/immune reaction. Besides, the subtype of the epithelial cells was significantly altered. They underwent an intricate process including inflammation, damage, and repair during bladder remodeling. Overall, this work constructed the first single‐cell atlas for obstruction‐induced DUA, which could provide a valuable resource for deciphering the cellular heterogeneity and function changes in DUA, as well as potential strategies for bladder function improvement.
Novel hemizygous single‐nucleotide duplication in RPGR in a patient with retinal dystrophy and sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: German Ryan J. , Vuocolo Blake , Vossaert Liesbeth , Owen Nichole , Lewis Richard A. , Saba Lisa ,   The Texome Project, Wangler Michael F. , Nagamani Sandesh
Published: February 2024

Background

The RPGR gene has been associated with X‐linked cone‐rod dystrophy. This report describes a variant in RPGR detected with exome sequencing (ES). Genes like RPGR have not always been included in panel‐based testing and thus genome‐wide tests such as ES may be required for accurate diagnosis.

Methods

The Texome Project is studying the impact of ES in medically underserved patients who are in need of genomic testing to guide diagnosis and medical management. The hypothesis is that ES could uncover diagnoses not made by standard medical care.

Results

A 58‐year‐old male presented with retinitis pigmentosa, sensorineural hearing loss, and a family history of retinal diseases. A previous targeted gene panel for retinal disorders had not identified a molecular cause. ES through the Texome Project identified a novel, hemizygous variant in RPGR (NM_000328.3: c.1302dup, p.L435Sfs*18) that explained the ocular phenotype.

Conclusions

Continued genetics evaluation can help to end diagnostic odysseys of patients. Careful consideration of genes represented when utilizing gene panels is crucial to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Medically underserved populations are less likely to receive comprehensive genetic testing in their diagnostic workup. Our report is an example of the medical impact of genomic medicine implementation.
Isolation enhancement of distinct element dual polarized compact MIMO antenna for 5G/WLAN application
Authors: Munusami Cholavendan , Venkatesan Rajeshkumar
Published: February 2024

A novel‐shaped dual‐polarized low‐profile multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna with high isolation is proposed for 5G/WLAN application. An 8‐element MIMO antenna design comprises two unique planar radiators (chamfer, circular). Each radiator has dual feed and dual polarization characteristics. The prototype is fabricated with an FR‐4 dielectric substrate. A decoupling structure maintains desirable isolation for self‐isolated elements (−12 dB) using substrate integrated waveguide stubs between inter‐ports and high isolation among the adjacent radiating elements (−15 dB). The simulation was performed by using CST microwave studio. The simulated results of the proposed MIMO antenna are compared with the measurement results. Furthermore, ECC and DG are investigated.
Reproducibility of absolute quantification of adenosine triphosphate and inorganic phosphate in the liver with localized 31P‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3‐T using different coils
Authors: Jonuscheit Marc , Wierichs Stefan , Rothe Maik , Korzekwa Benedict , Mevenkamp Julian , Bobrov Pavel , Kupriyanova Yuliya , Roden Michael , Schrauwen‐Hinderling Vera B.
Published: February 2024

Concentrations of the key metabolites of hepatic energy metabolism, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi), can be altered in metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus. 31Phosphorus (31P)‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is used to noninvasively measure hepatic metabolites, but measuring their absolute molar concentrations remains challenging. This study employed a 31P‐MRS method based on the phantom replacement technique for quantifying hepatic 31P‐metabolites on a 3‐T clinical scanner. Two surface coils with different size and geometry were used to check for consistency in terms of repeatability and reproducibility and absolute concentrations of metabolites. Day‐to‐day (n = 8) and intra‐day (n = 6) reproducibility was tested in healthy volunteers. In the day‐to‐day study, mean absolute concentrations of γ‐ATP and Pi were 2.32 ± 0.24 and 1.73 ± 0.26 mM (coefficient of variation [CV]: 7.3% and 8.8%) for the single loop, and 2.32 ± 0.42 and 1.73 ± 0.27 mM (CVs 6.7% and 10.6%) for the quadrature coil, respectively. The intra‐day study reproducibility using the quadrature coil yielded CVs of 4.7% and 6.8% for γ‐ATP and Pi without repositioning, and 6.3% and 7.1% with full repositioning of the volunteer. The results of the day‐to‐day data did not differ between coils and visits. Both coils robustly yielded similar results for absolute concentrations of hepatic 31P‐metabolites. The current method, applied with two different surface coils, can be readily utilized in long‐term and interventional studies. In comparison with the single loop coil, the quadrature coil also allows measurements at a greater distance between the coil and liver, which is relevant for studying people with obesity.
Orforglipron, a novel non‐peptide oral daily glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist as an anti‐obesity medicine: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dutta Deep , Nagendra Lakshmi , Anne Beatrice , Kumar Manoj , Sharma Meha , Kamrul‐Hasan A. B. M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Orforglipron is a novel once‐daily oral non‐peptide glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist with several recently published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating its role in diabetes and obesity. No meta‐analysis has analyzed the efficacy and safety of orforglipron; this meta‐analysis aimed to address this knowledge gap.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in electronic databases to identify RCTs that included individuals with obesity who were administered orforglipron and compared to either a placebo or an active comparator. The primary outcome of interest was the percent change in body weight.

Results

From 12 initially screened articles, data from three RCTs involving 774 people were analyzed with a follow‐up duration of up to 36 weeks. Compared to placebo, patients receiving orforglipron 12 mg/day (mean difference (MD), MD −5.48%, 95% CI [−7.64, −3.33], p < 0.01), 24 mg/day (MD −8.51%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−9.88, −7.14], p < 0.01), 36 mg/day (MD −8.84%, 95% CI [−11.68, −6.00], p < 0.01) and 45 mg/day (MD −8.24%, 95% CI [−12.84, −3.63], p < 0.01) had a significantly greater percent reduction in body weight. The percentage of patients being able to achieve >15% weight loss from baseline was significantly higher with orforglipron 24 mg/day [Odds ratio (OR) 21.90 (95% CI [4.06, 118.15], p = 0.0003), 36 mg/day (OR 17.43, 95% CI [3.18, 95.66], p = 0.001) and 45 mg/day (OR 23.17, 95% CI [4.37, 123.03], p = 0.0002). Total but not severe adverse events were significantly higher with all the doses of orforglipron compared to placebo, with the hazard ratios being higher with higher doses. Gastrointestinal side‐effects were predominant side effects, being dose‐dependent, with nausea, vomiting, constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux being the predominant ones.

Conclusion

Orforglipron at 24–45 mg/day doses is an effective weight loss medication. The efficacy versus side effect profile suggests that 24–36 mg/day is the most optimal dose for orforglipron as an anti‐obesity medicine.
Assessment of microwave drying for rapid and convenient analysis of medicinal plants for quality assurance
Authors: Bala Esha , Dey Saurav , Patra Sanjukta , Singha Siddhartha
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The safety and quality of many medicinally important herbs are compromised since farmers and small organizations are involved in the cultivation, aggregation, and primary processing of these herbs. Such organizations often lack adequate quality control facilities. To improve the safety and quality of herbal products, simple, rapid, and affordable quality control systems are required.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of microwave oven‐drying for moisture content (MC) determination and sample preparation of herbs in small organizations.

Methods

Microwave oven‐drying (720 W) and convective oven‐drying at 105°C for MC determination were compared. The effects of three different drying methods (microwave oven‐drying, low‐temperature convective drying, and freeze‐drying) on in vitro antioxidant and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity were determined, similarity analysis was conducted using HPLC signature spectra, and validation was performed with LC‐MS focusing on one herb.

Results

Microwave oven‐drying at 720 W significantly reduced the drying time (from hours to minutes), whereas the spatial variation of temperature in convective ovens set at 105°C can cause about 10% underestimation of MC. Microwave oven‐drying showed similar macro‐properties like freeze‐drying and higher extractability (10%–20%) and in vitro antioxidant capacity (33%–66%) and lower PPO activity compared to low‐temperature convective drying. HPLC signature spectra revealed strong similarity of soluble components between freeze‐dried and microwave oven‐dried herbs. LC‐MS analysis demonstrated more common compounds between freeze‐dried and microwave oven‐dried Centella asiatica extracts, whereas convective tray‐dried samples had fewer compounds common with samples obtained by freeze‐drying or microwave oven‐drying.

Conclusions

Microwave oven‐drying is rapid (tens of min) and shows small batch‐to‐batch variation compared to oven‐drying at 105°C. The in vitro antioxidant assays and signature spectra can be used for assessing the source and purity or quality of a specific herb variety.
Digital interventions for autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Tianqi , Ma Yu , Du Xiaonan , Li Chunpei , Peng Zhongbi , Wang Yi , Zhou Hao
Published: February 2024

Importance

Digital technology is now widely available for the interventions of autism, but its validity and feasibility remain to be proved.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHIs) in improving core symptoms or intelligence quotient in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods

Three databases including PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus, were searched on November 15, 2022. Randomized clinical trials that enrolled patients with ASD who received DHIs and a control group without DHI treatment were included. Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2) was applied to assess the risk of bias.

Results

A total of 33 studies, involving 1285 participants (658 [51.2%] in DHI groups and 627 [48.8%] in control groups), were analyzed to investigate the differences between DHI groups and control groups. Significantly greater improvements in the overall performance of ASD were observed in the DHI groups compared to the control groups (including active, waitlist, treatment‐as‐usual, and no treatment) with an effect size of 1.89 (Cohen's d 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26–2.52). Studies with treatment‐as‐usual, waitlist, and no treatment control demonstrated large effect sizes of Cohen's d 3.41 (95% CI: 0.84–5.97), Cohen's d 4.27 (95% CI: 1.95–6.59), and Cohen's d 4.52 (95% CI: 2.98–6.06) respectively. In contrast, studies with active control revealed insignificant effect sizes (Cohen's d 0.73, 95% CI: 0.12–1.33).

Interpretation

This meta‐analysis found significantly greater improvements in core symptoms or intelligence quotient in ASD patients receiving DHIs compared to those in control conditions. ASD patients may benefit from the DHIs and reduce the economic burden.
Development of a high‐pressure infiltration process for phenol–formaldehyde matrix composites
Authors: Weiler Samuel , Schwartzkopf Patrick , Haffner Henry , Chandrashekhara K
Published: February 2024

Phenol–formaldehyde (phenolic) thermosets are known for excellent heat and chemical resistance, high flame retardance, and good mechanical performance. However, phenolics are also known for their high brittleness, and tendency to form voids, due to a condensation reaction forming water during curing. These voids can decrease the mechanical performance of the resultant phenolic composite and introduce undesirable performance characteristics. This work aims to develop a technique that uses high‐pressure infiltration to obtain dense phenolic matrix composites, with commercially available resin and fiber reinforcement. The high‐pressure system developed in this work is compared to a conventional low‐pressure resin infusion technique, and the porosity after each infusion is analyzed. A model of the low‐ and high‐pressure systems was developed, and the predicted time of infiltration was compared to the experimental results. The high‐pressure system had 97% less open porosity after infusion than the low‐pressure technique, suggesting that it can produce a higher‐quality and better‐performing phenolic composite than conventional techniques. Also, the mechanical test performed indicates improved performance for the high‐pressure injection with a 30.73% increase in ultimate tensile strength in comparison to low pressure, indicating better mechanical performance. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Evaluation of the cardiac safety of parsaclisib, a selective PI3Kδ inhibitor, in patients with previously treated B‐cell malignancies: Results from the CITADEL‐101 study
Authors: Li Jia , Gong Xiaohua , Liu Xing , Liu Xiang , Szeto Ke , Chen Xuejun
Published: February 2024

Parsaclisib, a potent and selective phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase δ inhibitor, has been investigated for the treatment of B‐cell malignancies and studied in patients with autoimmune diseases and myelofibrosis. The CITADEL‐101 study (NCT02018861) assessed safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of parsaclisib in patients with relapsed or refractory non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. This study evaluated the cardiac safety of parsaclisib as monotherapy based on data from 72 patients enrolled in the CITADEL‐101 study. Time‐matched pharmacokinetic and ECG measurements were collected at specified times for 69 patients receiving monotherapy in doses of 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 45 mg once daily. Based on the categorical outlier analysis, no dose‐dependent effect was observed on the incidence of outliers in QT interval corrected for heart rate (HR) by Fridericia's method (QTcF), HR, or cardiac conduction. Based on central tendency analysis, the least square means (LSMs) (90% confidence interval [CI]) of ΔQTcF from the central tendency analysis ranged from −6.83 (−18.8 to 5.19) to 4.75 ms (0.410–9.09) across dose groups (below 20 ms, the threshold of large QT effects) and was not considered dose dependent. Moreover, the LSMs of ΔHR, ΔPR interval, and ΔQRS interval were minor. From the concentration‐ΔQTcF analyses, the predicted ΔQTcF (90% CI) for all dose levels was between 0.365 (−1.75 to 2.48) and 7.87 ms (0.921–14.8), with the highest upper limit of CIs well below 20 ms, and therefore, a large QT/QTc effect was ruled out up to the highest dose level (45 mg) investigated. Overall, parsaclisib at the dose ranges studied did not reveal concentration‐dependent effects on change in QTcF and did not have a significant effect on HR or cardiac conduction.
Nut bush pesticide limits: urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address current and emerging insect pests and insecticide options in the Australian macadamia industry
Authors: Ellis Kirsten L , Anderson Jay M , Yonow Tania , Kriticos Darren J , Andrew Nigel R
Published: February 2024

In Australia, macadamia orchards are attacked by four main insect pest groups. Management and control of three of these key pests currently relies on broad‐spectrum insecticides whose long‐term future is questionable. Of the 23 insecticides registered for use in macadamia in Australia, 19 face issues affecting their availability and 12 are presently not approved in the EU, the USA or Canada. These international markets may refuse produce that does not adhere to their own insecticide use standards, hence Australian produce may be excluded from market access. Many of the potential replacement integrated pest management methods of pest control are generally considered less effective by the industry and have not been adopted. There are 17 insect pest groups identified by the industry, any of which have potential to become major problems if broad‐spectrum insecticide options become unavailable. Thirteen pest groups need urgent attention as they are at risk of losing current effective control methods, and no replacement solutions have yet been developed. The lag period for research and development to identify new chemical and biological control solutions means there is now an urgent need for the macadamia industry to craft a strategy for sustainable pest management for each pest. Critically, this industry strategy needs to address the vulnerabilities identified in this paper, identify potential solutions for any cases of market failure and consider funding mechanisms to address these gaps. On economic and sustainability grounds, potential biological control options should be explored, especially in cases where insecticide control options are vulnerable. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.