bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The adenine nucleotide translocase family underlies cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury through the mitochondrial permeability pore independently of cyclophilin D
Authors: Patel Pooja , Mendoza Arielys , Ramirez Daniel , Robichaux Dexter , Molkentin Jeffery D. , Karch Jason
Published: December 2024

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) is implicated in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. During I/R, elevated mitochondrial Ca
2+
triggers mPTP opening, leading to necrotic cell death. Although nonessential regulators of this pore are characterized, the molecular identity of the pore-forming component remains elusive. Two of these genetically verified regulators are cyclophilin D (CypD) and the adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) family. We investigated the ANT/CypD relationship in mPTP dynamics and I/R injury. Despite lacking all ANT isoforms, Ca
2+
-dependent mPTP opening persisted in cardiac mitochondria but was desensitized. This desensitization conferred resistance to I/R injury in ANT-deficient mice. CypD is hypothesized to trigger mPTP opening through isomerization of ANTs at proline-62. To test this, we generated mice that expressed a P62A mutated version of ANT1. These mice showed similar mPTP dynamics and I/R sensitivity as the wild type, indicating that P62 is dispensable for CypD regulation. Together, these data indicate that the ANT family contributes to mPTP opening independently of CypD.
Transcriptomic landscape of mammalian ventral pallidum at single-cell resolution
Authors: Yang Lite , Fang Lisa Z. , Lynch Michelle R. , Xu Chang S. , Hahm Hannah J. , Zhang Yufen , Heitmeier Monique R. , Costa Vincent D. , Samineni Vijay K. , Creed Meaghan C.
Published: December 2024

The ventral pallidum (VP) is critical for motivated behaviors. While contemporary work has begun to elucidate the functional diversity of VP neurons, the molecular heterogeneity underlying this functional diversity remains incompletely understood. We used single-nucleus RNA sequencing and in situ hybridization to define the transcriptional taxonomy of VP cell types in mice, macaques, and baboons. We found transcriptional conservation between all three species, within the broader neurochemical cell types. Unique dopaminoceptive and cholinergic subclusters were identified and conserved across both primate species but had no homolog in mice. This harmonized consensus VP cellular atlas will pave the way for understanding the structure and function of the VP and identified key neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and neurotransmitter receptors that could be targeted within specific VP cell types for functional investigations.
Hypershifted spin spectroscopy with dynamic nuclear polarization at 1.4 K
Authors: Pang Zhenfeng , Sheberstov Kirill , Rodin Bogdan A. , Lumsden Jake , Banerjee Utsab , Abergel Daniel , Mentink-Vigier Frédéric , Bodenhausen Geoffrey , Tan Kong Ooi
Published: December 2024

Dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) enhances nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) sensitivity by transferring polarization from unpaired electrons to nuclei, but nearby nuclear spins are difficult to detect or “hidden” due to strong electron-nuclear couplings that hypershift their NMR resonances. Here, we detect these hypershifted spins in a frozen glycerol-water mixture doped with TEMPOL at ~1.4 K using spin diffusion enhanced saturation transfer (SPIDEST), which indirectly reveals their spectrum. Additionally, we directly observe
1
H NMR lines spanning 10 MHz. The spectrum is confirmed by simulations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which verify that the signals originate from intramolecular protons on TEMPOL. Using two-dimensional NMR, we demonstrate polarization transfer from hypershifted to bulk nuclei across a spin diffusion barrier. This methodology provides new insights into the structures of radicals and could aid in designing more efficient DNP polarizing agents. It also complements information on hyperfine interaction accessible by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR).
Polycytotoxic T cells mediate antimicrobial activity against intracellular
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Zumwinkel Marc , Chirambo Aaron , Zähnle Markus , Bürger Max , Grieshober Mark , Romahn Vincent , Mwandumba Henry , Stenger Steffen
Published: December 2024

Protection against infections with intracellular bacteria requires the interaction of macrophages and T-lymphocytes, including CD8
+
T cells. Recently, the expression of natural killer cell receptors NKG2A and NKG2C was introduced as markers of CD8
+
T-cell subsets. The goal of this study was to functionally characterize human NKG2A and NKG2C-expressing T cells using the major pathogen
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) as a model organism. Sorted NKG2 populations were analyzed for their capacity to proliferate and degranulate and their intracellular expression of cytotoxic molecules. Cytokine release and the effect on bacterial growth were assessed after coculture of NKG2 populations with
Mtb
-infected macrophages. NKG2A
+
T cells released higher levels of IFN-γ and IL-10, whereas NKG2C
+
T cells released higher levels of IL-2, contained the greatest reservoir of intracellular granzyme B and showed a remarkable constitutive level of degranulation. Both subsets inhibited the intracellular growth of
Mtb
more efficiently than NKG2-negative CD8
+
T cells. Antimicrobial activity of NKG2
+
T cells was not associated with the release of cytokines or cytotoxic molecules. However, the frequency of polycytotoxic T cells (P-CTL), defined as CD8
+
T cells co-expressing granzyme B, perforin, and granulysin, positively correlated with the ability of NKG2-expressing T cells to control
Mtb
-growth in macrophages. Our results highlight the potential of NKG2-expressing P-CTL to trigger the antibacterial activity of human macrophages. Targeting this population by preventive or therapeutic immune interventions could provide a novel strategy to combat severe infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.
Neuraminidase-mediated enhancement of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
colonization is associated with altered mucus characteristics and distribution
Authors: Montgomery Matthew T. , Ortigoza Mila , Loomis Cynthia , Weiser Jeffrey N.
Published: December 2024

Upon entry into the upper respiratory tract (URT),
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(Spn) upregulates neuraminidases (NA) that cleave sialic acid (SA) from host glycans. Because sialylation is thought to contribute to the physical properties that determine mucus function, we posited that Spn directly alters host mucus through NA activity. By directly imaging the colonized URT, we demonstrated NA-mediated alterations to the characteristics and distribution of mucus along the respiratory epithelium, where colonizing bacteria are found. Mucus exposed to NA showed increased localization within goblet cells and lining the glycocalyx. By contrast, NA-naïve mucus was more likely to be observed sloughing away from the epithelial surface. We also visualized Spn in the URT and observed that NA promoted efficient bacterial localization to the firm mucus layer overlying the glycocalyx, whereas NA-deficient Spn was associated more with loose mucus. By facilitating tighter association with the glycocalyx, NA promoted increased Spn colonization density. The magnitude of the NA-mediated effect on colonization was widened during late colonization by increased evasion of host-mediated clearance mechanisms. Thus, Spn-encoded NAs directly modify the host environment by desialylating mucus, which allows close interaction with mucus at the epithelium, and this is associated with enhanced bacterial colonization.

IMPORTANCE

Although severe illness and death caused by Spn result from secondary invasive diseases including pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis, stable colonization of the upper respiratory tract (URT) is a prerequisite to invasive disease. Therefore, understanding host-Spn dynamics during asymptomatic colonization of the URT is warranted with respect to the pathogenesis of Spn disease. In this study, we found that Spn NA activity directly alters mucus characteristics that result in increased density and duration of URT colonization. Therefore, targeting Spn NA activity during URT colonization may be a viable strategy to mitigate Spn infection.
Bacteria-specific modified nucleoside is released and elevated in urine of patients with bacterial infections
Authors: Yamamura Ryosuke , Nagayoshi Yu , Nishiguchi Kayo , Kaneko Hitomi , Yamamoto Keiichi , Matsushita Koki , Shimamura Miho , Kunisawa Akihiro , Sakakida Korin , Chujo Takeshi , Adachi Masataka , Kakizoe Yutaka , Izumi Yuichiro , Kuwabara Takashige , Mukoyama Masashi , Tomizawa Kazuhito
Published: December 2024

Over 170 types of chemical modifications have been identified in cellular RNAs across the three domains of life. Modified RNA is eventually degraded to constituent nucleosides, and in mammals, modified nucleosides are released into the extracellular space. By contrast, the fate of modified nucleosides in bacteria remains unknown. In this study, we performed liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) analysis of modified nucleosides from the RNA of 23 pathogenic bacteria, revealing 2-methyladenosine (m
2
A) as a common bacteria-specific modified nucleoside detected in all bacterial RNAs. Under normal culture conditions, bacteria did not actively release most modified nucleoside species, but robustly released nucleosides, including m
2
A, following addition of antibiotics or immune cells. These results indicate that m
2
A is released following bacterial lysis. Intraperitoneal injection of mice with m
2
A increased detectable levels of m
2
A in the urine, indicating that mammals can effectively excrete m
2
A. Additionally, mice infected with wild-type
E. coli
showed higher levels of m
2
A in their urine than mice infected by m
2
A-deficient
rlmN
KO
E. coli
. This suggests that m
2
A from the infected bacteria is excreted in the urine. Lastly, clinical studies using urine samples from febrile patients revealed significantly elevated levels of m
2
A during bacterial infections, and these values did not correlate with inflammation severity markers, such as white blood count (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP). This study reports the mammalian metabolism of modified nucleosides derived from bacterial RNA, and the elevation of urinary m
2
A in patients with bacterial infections.

IMPORTANCE

This study reveals the differences in the fate and release of modified nucleosides in bacteria and mammals. Additionally, our study highlights that external bacteria-damaging factors, such as antibiotics and phagocytosis by host immune cells, promote the release of bacteria-specific modified nucleosides. Furthermore, we found that m
2
A was elevated in the urine from animal models of bacterial infection and the urine of patients with bacterial infections. Collectively, this work spans basic biology and clinical science, offering valuable insights into the fate of modified nucleosides in bacterial systems and their relevance to infectious diseases.
Multi-omics analysis reveals the interplay between intratumoral bacteria and glioma
Authors: Li Ting , Zhao Zhanyi , Peng Meichang , Zhang Lu , Wang Cheng , Luo Feiyang , Zeng Meiqin , Sun Kaijian , Fang Zhencheng , Luo Yunhao , Xie Yugu , Lv Cui , Wang Jiaxuan , Huang Jian-Dong , Zhou Hongwei , Sun Haitao
Published: December 2024

Emerging evidence highlights the potential impact of intratumoral microbiota on cancer. However, the microbial composition and function in glioma remains elusive. Consequently, our study aimed to investigate the microbial community composition in glioma tissues and elucidate its role in glioma development. We parallelly performed microbial profiling, transcriptome sequencing, and metabolomics detection on tumor and adjacent normal brain tissues obtained from 50 glioma patients. We employed immunohistochemistry, multicolor immunofluorescence, and fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (FISH) staining to observe the presence and location of bacteria. Furthermore, an animal model was employed to validate the impact of key bacteria on glioma development. Six genera were found to be significantly enriched in glioma tissues compared to adjacent normal brain tissues, including
Fusobacterium
,
Longibaculum
,
Intestinimonas
,
Pasteurella
,
Limosilactobacillus,
and
Arthrobacter
. Both bacterial RNA and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were observed in glioma tissues. Integrated microbiomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics revealed that genes associated with intratumoral microbes were enriched in multiple synapse-associated pathways and that metabolites associated with intratumoral microbes were (R)-
N
-methylsalsolinol,
N
-acetylaspartylglutamic acid, and
N
-acetyl-
l
-aspartic acid. Further mediation analysis suggested that the intratumoral microbiome may affect the expression of neuron-related genes through bacteria-associated metabolites. In addition, both
in vivo
and
in vitro
models of glioma show that
Fusobacterium nucleatum
promotes glioma proliferation and upregulates CCL2, CXCL1, and CXCL2 levels. Our findings shed light on the intricate interplay between intratumoral bacteria and glioma.

IMPORTANCE

Our study adopted a multi-omics approach to unravel the impact of intratumoral microbes on neuron-related gene expression through bacteria-associated metabolites. Importantly, we found bacterial RNA and LPS signals within glioma tissues, which were traditionally considered sterile. We identified key microbiota within glioma tissues, including
Fusobacterium nucleatum
(Fn). Through
in vivo
and
in vitro
experiments, we identified the crucial role of Fn in promoting glioma progression, suggesting that Fn could be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for glioma patients. These findings offer valuable insights into the intricate interplay between intratumoral bacteria and glioma, offering novel inspiration to the realm of glioma biology.
Association of intratumoral microbiome diversity with hepatocellular carcinoma prognosis
Authors: Jiang Fengle , Dang Yuan , Zhang Zheting , Yan Yanan , Wang Yingchao , Chen Yi , Chen Lihong , Zhang Jialiang , Liu Jingfeng , Wang Jianmin
Published: December 2024

The evidence that intratumoral microbiomes, as a rising hallmark of cancer, have a profound impact on cancer phenotypes is increasingly compelling. However, the impact of the composition and diversity of the intratumoral microbiome on the prognosis of patients undergoing surgical resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains incompletely understood. In this study, we revealed a high abundance of bacteria in the neoplastic tissues. The presence of bacterial lipopolysaccharide and lipoteichoic acid was detected alongside tumor-associated immune cells. By utilizing 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we identified a specific intratumoral microbiome signature that was highly predictive of the prognosis for HCC patients who underwent surgical resection. Specifically, the presence of Intestinimonas, Brachybacterium, and Rothia were identified as independent risk factors for the overall survival of HCC patients who underwent surgical resection.

IMPORTANCE

Although some studies have shown an abundance of bacteria in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there is still limited understanding of the composition and diversity of the intratumoral microbiome that is favorable or adverse to the prognosis of HCC patients. Our results indicated that a greater abundance of bacteria could be observed in the neoplastic tissues than in nonneoplastic tissues. Bacterial cell wall components largely coincided with tumor-associated immune cells. The bacteria in the long overall survival (LOS) group were associated with metabolism and cytokine‒cytokine receptor interaction pathways, while bacteria in the short overall survival (SOS) group were associated with proinflammatory and cell proliferation pathways. Notably, specific taxa could independently predict HCC prognosis. Based on these findings, intratumoral microbiomes facilitate the use of precision medicine in clinical practice.
Prospective clinical performance of CoVarScan in identifying SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants
Authors: Zhu Kenneth , Sah Manoj , Mahimainathan Lenin , Liu Yan , Xing Chao , Roush Karen , Clark Andrew , SoRelle Jeffrey
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the performance of CoVarScan, a multiplex fragment analysis approach, in identifying severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of the Omicron lineage rapidly and accurately. The ability to identify variants with high fidelity and low turnaround time is important both epidemiologically and clinically for pandemic monitoring and therapeutic monoclonal antibody (mAb) selection. Currently, the gold-standard test for this task is whole-genome sequencing (WGS), which is prohibitively expensive and/or inaccessible due to equipment requirements for many laboratories. Omicron variants have been closely related, so the ability of genotyping tests to differentiate them is an important, outstanding question. CoVarScan uses PCR targeting eight SARS-CoV-2 mutational hot spots. In total, 4,918 SARS-CoV-2-positive cases between 17 December 2021 and 31 January 2024 were included in the analysis. CoVarScan achieved 96.5% concordance with WGS and could detect unique mutational signatures for BA.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.4/BA.5, BA.2.75, XBB, and BA.2.86. These are the major variants of concern (VOCs) that have dominated since Omicron originally appeared in December 2021. Lastly, based on panel design, we predict a unique mutational pattern for the newly emergent, highly mutated variant BA.2.87. CoVarScan can rapidly, accurately, and cost-effectively identify all Omicron variants in a scalable manner. Furthermore, CoVarScan does not require design alterations to detect new VOCs. CoVarScan performs as accurately as WGS with higher sensitivity, allowing its use as a tool to quickly identify variants for epidemiological surveillance and clinical decision-making in the selection of effective therapeutic mAbs.

IMPORTANCE

Almost 5 years since the start of the pandemic, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern continue to emerge, with mutations conferring new properties like increased transmissibility and resistance to therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and vaccines. Conventionally, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has characterized new SARS-CoV-2 variants, but results come too late for clinical actionability. WGS suffers from high failure rates for samples with low viral RNA and is inaccessible for lower-resource laboratories. As new variants like Omicron appear, it is necessary to develop rapid and accurate testing to distinguish between variants. Fast and accurate identification of sensitive viral lineages would allow tailored use of monoclonal antibodies that may otherwise have been pulled from the market due to rising overall resistance. Rapid results also allow public health officials to make policy decisions in time to reduce morbidity and mortality for sensitive populations such as patients who are immunocompromised or have significant medical comorbidities.
Successful surgical management of uveitic glaucoma in a sarcoidosis patient with cutaneous manifestations
Authors: Jeyabaladevan Priyancaa , Jain Mishank , Bloom Philip
Published: December 2024

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease with variable ocular involvement. The most common ocular manifestation is uveitis, which can have potentially sight threatening complications such as glaucoma. We present the case of a man in his 30s with sarcoidosis and recurrent anterior uveitis, necessitating surgical intervention to control intraocular pressure and prevent further glaucomatous optic neuropathy progression. Notably, the patient exhibited cutaneous granulomatous reactions correlating with uveitic flares, suggesting a possible link between tattoo-associated granulomas and uveitis in sarcoidosis. This case underscores the efficacy of surgical intervention in medically uncontrolled uveitic glaucoma and emphasises the importance of multidisciplinary involvement for management of complex systemic diseases like sarcoidosis.
Navigating the challenge of high-grade cervical lesions (CIN3) in pregnancy: a near miss
Authors: Kulkarni Tithi , Fitch Anthony
Published: December 2024

In this case, a pregnant Indigenous woman presented with high-grade cervical lesions (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN2–3) and was lost to follow-up for over 5 years, posing a unique management challenge. Despite higher regression rates in pregnant women, personalised care was crucial due to potential pregnancy-related intervention risks.

This case underscores the complexities of managing high-grade cervical lesions in pregnancy and highlights the significant burden of cervical cancer within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It emphasises the urgent need for equitable screening access, patient-centred care and culturally sensitive education among vulnerable populations.

Of particular note is the case’s uniqueness, with the patient’s CIN3 diagnosis persisting for over 5 years and spanning three pregnancies without definitive management. Post partum, a subsequent LLETZ revealed extensive HSIL (CIN3) involving ectocervical and endocervical margins. Due to margin involvement, the patient now requires ongoing surveillance, with continued risk of being lost to follow-up due to the factors described.
Occult ovarian adenocarcinoma manifesting as dermatomyositis
Authors: Khastgir Gaurav , Siwatch Sujata , Gainder Shalini , Gupta Nalini
Published: December 2024

A woman in her 60s presented with erythematous lesions predominantly over the joints. After evaluation by dermatology and rheumatology, she was diagnosed with dermatomyositis and initiated on oral steroids and immunosuppressants. She was subsequently referred to gynaecology services for further evaluation of possible malignancies. On pelvic examination, a firm, mobile mass was noted in the right adnexa which was confirmed on imaging. A decision for staging laparotomy was taken. Intraoperatively, a solid mass was observed in the right ovary with no adjacent tumour deposits. Histopathology indicated high-grade serous carcinoma. Following surgery, her dermatological condition improved drastically, and she is currently off medications. She has received postoperative chemotherapy. Five years on, she is doing well.
Clinical variability ofBBS1across siblings
Authors: Giang Vanna , Weber Sarah R , Sundstrom Jeffrey M
Published: December 2024

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS), an autosomal recessive ciliopathy with pleiotropic effects, manifests as a spectrum of anomalies involving multiple genes and affects fewer than 3,000 individuals in the USA. Due to its rarity and phenotypic variability, early diagnosis of BBS poses a significant challenge. Therefore, we aim to shed light on the intrafamilial phenotypic variation of BBS resulting from aBBS1variant by delineating the clinical presentation in two siblings.
Macular hole closure with a vertical joint of the inner limiting membrane (ILM)
Authors: March de Ribot Francesc , Greaves Thomas , March de Ribot Anna
Published: December 2024

This case report describes an unexpected surgical outcome with the presence of a vertical joint of the inner limiting membrane (ILM) after a vitrectomy using the inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique. A woman presented with 5 months of vision loss in the left eye. The visual acuities were 6/9 in the right eye and 6/75 in the left eye. Examination revealed a large macular hole (MH). After vitrectomy with an inverted ILM flap technique using 14% C3F8 as endo tamponade, the MH was closed with a vertical ILM joint detected. A second operation was performed to remove the ILM without significantly improving vision. We present a non-previously described situation of forming a vertical standing joint ILM related to the surgical choice of inverted ILM flap technique. Our findings suggest that the presence of ILM is not clinically relevant in vision or scotoma.
Timing dilemma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of short-term mortality in patients with COVID-19 undergoing tracheostomy with varied timing, including 7, 10 and 14 days
Authors: Kim Beong Ki , Choi Hangseok , Kim Chi Young
Published: December 2024

Objective

To analyse the effects of tracheostomy timing on COVID-19 outcomes by comparing mortality rates at different time points (7, 10 and 14 days).

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Scopus were searched from 31 August 2023 to 6 September 2023.

Primary and secondary outcomes measures

The primary outcome was short-term mortality, defined as intensive care unit (ICU) mortality, hospital mortality and 28-day or 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes included mechanical ventilation duration, ICU and hospital days.

Results

Among 3465 patients from 12 studies, the 10-day subgroup analysis revealed higher mortality for earlier tracheostomy than for later tracheostomy (49.7% vs 32.6%, OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.37–2.65). No significant differences were observed at 7- and 14-day marks. Earlier tracheostomy was associated with shorter mechanical ventilation (mean difference=−7.35 days, 95% CI −11.63 to −0.38) and ICU stays (mean difference=−11.24 days, 95% CI −18.50 to −3.97) compared with later tracheostomy. Regarding hospital stay, the later tracheostomy group exhibited a trend towards longer-term inpatients, with no significant difference.

Conclusions

No significant difference in short-term mortality was observed between patients undergoing tracheostomy at 7 and 14 days; however, at 10 days, later tracheostomy resulted in a lower mortality rate. Accordingly, subtle timing differences may impact short-term results in COVID-19 patients. Considering that the later tracheostomy group had longer mechanical ventilation and ICU stays, additional research is required to determine an optimal timing that reduces mortality cost-effectively.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards postoperative management among patients with type A aortic dissection or their relatives: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Zhang Kai , Gao Shiqi , Zhou Chenyu , Xie Enzehua , Song Jian , Wang Zhu , Qiu Juntao , Yu Cuntao
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of patients with type A aortic dissection (AD) or their relatives regarding postoperative management.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The participants were recruited from three hospitals between October 2022 and February 2023.

Participants

Patients diagnosed with type A AD or their relatives.

Interventions

No interventions were administered. A structured questionnaire was used to gather the demographic and KAP data from the participants.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The outcome measures included the levels of KAP regarding postoperative management.

Results

A total of 483 participants were included. They exhibited poor knowledge (15.52±7.67, possible score: 0–32), positive attitude (31.10±5.86, possible score: 9–45) and poor practice (21.96±4.83, possible score: 8–40) towards postoperative management. The multivariable logistic analysis showed that knowledge scores (OR=1.09, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.12, p<0.001), attitude scores (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.29, p<0.001) and diagnosis for ≤5 years (OR=1.97, 95% CI 1.23 to 3.15, p=0.005) were independently associated with good practice. The structured equation modelling analysis showed that knowledge directly influenced attitudes (β=0.22, p<0.001) and practice (β=0.15, p<0.001), while attitude directly impacted practice (β=0.52, p<0.001) and mediated the relationship between knowledge and practice (β=0.11, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with type A AD and their relatives have poor knowledge, positive attitudes and poor practice towards postoperative management. Knowledge might be the prerequisite for practice, and attitudes have a mediating effect.
Improving uptake of COVID-19 testing and vaccination in a homeless population: mixed-methods evaluation of community health worker-led education in a shelter
Authors: Ziolkowski Rebecca A , Balian Lara , Sridhar Shreya , Rodriguez Natalia M
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Access to healthcare and accurate health information is a persistent issue for people experiencing homelessness (PEH), one heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic and exacerbated by issues of health literacy and mistrust. Strategies involving community health workers (CHWs) have the potential to improve education and service delivery for PEH. The objective of this study is to assess PEH knowledge, attitudes and barriers to COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and the impact of CHW-led education within a homeless shelter in Indiana.

Design/setting

Between November 2021 and April 2022, 15 sessions were held at a homeless shelter that combined focus group discussions with COVID-19-related education. Pre-/post-tests measured knowledge gains and attitude shifts among PEH. Guided by the socioecological model, thematic analysis of focus group transcripts identified key motivators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccination and testing.

Participants

78 PEH (73% male, 74% white, mean age=48).

Outcome measures

COVID-19-related knowledge gains and willingness to receive testing and vaccination among PEH.

Results

Completion of an educational session was associated with a significant increase in knowledge scores (mean pre-test score=10.76/15, SD=2.16; mean post-test score=13.58/15, SD=1.72; p<0.001), with most participants (91%) improving by up to 10 points. The proportion of unvaccinated participants (42%) willing to be vaccinated increased from 21% to 39%. Participants willing to get tested for COVID-19 after a known exposure increased from 83% to 92%. Qualitative findings from the sessions provided insights into key knowledge gaps and revealed participant preferences towards health education format and topics.

Conclusion

CHW-led COVID-19 education increased knowledge gains and positively influenced attitudes towards vaccination and testing among PEH. Findings highlight the importance of tailored, community-driven interventions for pandemic response and emphasise the crucial role of education in building trust and promoting health literacy to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Qualitative study on the influence of mealtime screen exposure on children’s feeding practices: perspectives from paediatricians and speech-language pathologists in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Fathima Nathira , Venkatraman Krupa , Hariharan Thangatur Sukumar
Published: December 2024

Objective

This qualitative research study investigates perspectives on the influence of mealtime screen exposure (MTSE) on feeding practices in children through semi-structured interviews with paediatricians and speech-language pathologists (SLPs).

Design

This study used a constructivist paradigm and a qualitative research approach, employing thematic analysis, to understand the research objectives from the lens of practitioners. The researchers used transcripts from semistructured interviews to generate themes.

Setting

This was a multisite, in situ research study conducted in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, private clinics and educational institutions in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, between March and April 2023.

Participants

24 participants, 12 SLPs and 12 paediatricians, were interviewed. The researchers selected these participants purposively based on their expertise and experience in dealing with children’s feeding practice-related disorders.

Results

The study identified six themes: limited awareness of MTSE’s effects, cultural expectations on mothers, screen dependency, sensory deprivation, fragile caregiver–child bonding and picky eating tendencies. Key findings reflect a lack of caregiver awareness, sociocultural pressures and the negative developmental impacts of MTSE on children’s feeding practices.

Conclusions

This study highlights the need for increased awareness among primary caregivers and healthcare professionals regarding the risks of prolonged MTSE. Both paediatricians and SLPs unanimously agree that MTSE can adversely affect feeding practices.
Carbon footprints and CO2 removal in primary production of coffee: a meta-analytical review
Authors: Cornelius Jonathan P. , Hardy Flaam W. , Harvey Celia A.
Published: December 2024

Producing countries and value-chain participants are seeking to minimize the effect of coffee production on global warming. In support of this goal, we present a global review of carbon footprints and atmospheric-CO2 removal rates in primary production of coffee, based on 21 studies of carbon footprint and 16 with data on CO2 removal rate. We aimed to characterize typical values, identify determinants, compare arabica and robusta coffee, compare cropping systems, and suggest ways of reducing footprints and increasing CO2 removal rates. The median ± interquartile range of carbon footprints of coffee production were 2954 ± 3636 CO2e ha−1 year−1 (area carbon footprint, ACF) and 2.18 ± 2.04 CO2e kg−1 green beans (product carbon footprint, PCF). Manufacture and application of fertilizers, particularly nitrogenous fertilizers, were almost always the main emissions sources (65%–100% of the total). ACF was significantly higher in arabica than robusta, while ACFs of agroforestry and organic systems were <50% of those of unshaded and non-organic systems; these differences were also significant. PCF of organic production was significantly lower than that of non-organic production, but marginally so; no other significant differences in PCF were found. The median CO2 removal rate of unshaded production was 6990 ± 3405 kg CO2 ha−1 year−1. For agroforestry production the median was much higher (17 676 ± 3971 kg CO2 ha−1 year−1). Removal rates of organic and non-organic production did not differ significantly. We present a generalized approach for reducing the overall global-warming effect of coffee production, consisting of 10 options for interventions within an overarching principle of zero deforestation. Wider use of agroforestry production and use of organic nitrogen sources are features of eight of the interventions. Implementation of the interventions will also require the building of enabling frameworks that allow farmers to meet climate-change mitigation goals without sacrificing productivity or profitability.
Note on a BCS analogy of Majorana neutrinos
Authors: Fujikawa Kazuo , Tureanu Anca
Published: December 2024

In this note, we discuss an analogy between the BCS theory and the seesaw model of neutrinos. We believe that the analogy indicates some fundamental aspects of Majorana neutrinos. A paper on the issue has been recently presented, and we would like to describe the background of the paper together with our personal views on the problem. In essence, the conventional construction of a Majorana neutrino from a chiral fermion is too simplified, and we argue that one would actually have to go through a Bogoliubov-type canonical transformation to generate two Majorana fermions from an effective single Dirac fermion in the seesaw model.
CyclicFL: Efficient Federated Learning with Cyclic Model Pre-Training
Authors: Zhang Pengyu , Zhou Yingbo , Hu Ming , Wei Xian , Chen Mingsong
Published: December 2024

Federated learning (FL) has been proposed to enable distributed learning on artificial intelligence Internet of Things (AIoT) devices with guarantees of high-level data privacy. Since random initial models in FL can easily result in unregulated stochastic gradient descent (SGD) processes, existing FL methods greatly suffer from both slow convergence and poor accuracy, especially in non-IID scenarios. To address this problem, we propose a novel method named CyclicFL, which can quickly derive effective initial models to guide the SGD processes, thus improving the overall FL training performance. We formally analyze the significance of data consistency between the pre-training and training stages of CyclicFL, showing the limited Lipschitzness of loss for the pre-trained models by CyclicFL. Moreover, we systematically prove that our method can achieve a faster convergence speed under various convexity assumptions. Unlike traditional centralized pre-training methods that require public proxy data, CyclicFL pre-trains initial models on selected AIoT devices cyclically without exposing their local data. Therefore, they can be easily integrated into any security-critical FL methods. Comprehensive experimental results show that CyclicFL can not only improve maximum classification accuracy by up to [Formula: see text], but also significantly accelerate the overall FL training process.
RESEARCH NOTES—GMRepair: Graph Mining Template-Based Automated Software Repair
Authors: Cao Heling , Guo Yanlong , Wang Yun , Tian Fangchao , Wang Zhaolong , Chu Yonghe , Deng Miaolei , Wang Panpan , He Zhenghao , Wei Shuting
Published: December 2024

With the increasing scale and complexity of software recently, automated software bug repair has grown in importance. However, the current automated software bug repair process suffers from issues such as coarse-grained repair granularity and poor patch quality. To address these problems, we propose a graph mining template-based automatic software repair (GMRepair) to improve the performance of automated software bug repair. First, this approach adopts the Ochiai fault localization technique to locate and generate a list of suspicious defect statements. We utilize the GumTree tool to parse the bug and repair program files, generating edit scripts. These edit scripts are then transformed into a graphical representation. Second, we utilize a frequent graph miner to obtain graph mining templates by matching the context of the suspicious statements with the context of the graph mining templates, generating an initial population for them. The buggy program is evolved using genetic programming through mutation and crossover operations, generating new individuals. Finally, we sequentially pass the candidate patches (CPs) through corresponding test cases and prioritize the test cases using priority sorting techniques. Patches that fail to pass the test cases are filtered out, and the patches that pass the test cases are output. We conducted the experiments using two datasets, QuixBugs and Defects4J. In Defects4J, the GMRepair successfully repaired 41 defects, while in QuixBugs, it successfully repaired 15 defects. Compared to the existing methods, GMRepair offers a higher success rate and efficiency in defect repair.
MORPHOLOGICAL INSIGHTS OF CARBON NANOMATERIALS USING ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY AND THEIR APPLICATIONS
Authors: KENNEDY SENTHIL MAHARAJ , RAGHAV G. R. , BRITTO J. JERALD JOHN , AMUDHAN K.
Published: December 2024

This paper reviews the application of atomic force microscopy (AFM) in analyzing the nanoscale morphological properties of key carbon nanomaterials: carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and fullerene. AFM imaging techniques, operating at sub-nanometer resolutions of approximately 0.5 nm, are utilized to evaluate surface topography, roughness, and dimensional attributes. CNTs exhibit diameters ranging from 1[Formula: see text]nm to 10[Formula: see text]nm, with surface roughness correlating to their mechanical strength, reported to exceed 50[Formula: see text]GPa. For graphene, AFM measurements confirm a monolayer thickness of ∼0.34[Formula: see text]nm, while defects such as wrinkles and grain boundaries are identified, which significantly influence its exceptional thermal conductivity of up to 5000 W/mK. Fullerene structures, characterized by their spherical morphology and uniform diameters averaging 0.7[Formula: see text]nm, demonstrate superior dispersion in composite matrices. The review further explores the synergistic effects and trade-offs in utilizing these nanomaterials as fillers in composite systems. For instance, graphene improves electrical conductivity by over 200% in polymer composites, while CNTs contribute significantly to mechanical reinforcement, and fullerene enhances chemical stability and compatibility in biomedical applications. Through comparative analysis, the paper identifies pathways to optimize filler performance through tailored dispersion and functionalization. These insights serve as a foundation for future innovations in nanomaterial-enhanced composites across industries.
On S-valuation rings
Authors: Guennach Nassima , Mahdou Najib
Published: December 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative ring and [Formula: see text] be a multiplicative subset of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we introduce and study an [Formula: see text]-version of valuation rings, that is called the notion of [Formula: see text]-valuation rings. Therefore, we say that [Formula: see text] is an [Formula: see text]-valuation ring if for all [Formula: see text], there exists an element [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we study the transfer of this property in trivial ring extensions and amalgamated algebras along an ideal. Finally, we explore the graded version of this concept in rings graded by a torsionless grading monoid.
Weakly (uni)serial modules
Authors: Shirzadi S. , Beyranvand R. , Moradzadeh-Dehkordi A.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we continue to study weakly uniserial modules and rings. A module is called weakly uniserial if its submodules are comparable regarding embedding. Also, a right weakly uniserial ring is a ring which is weakly uniserial as a right module over itself. In addition to providing more properties of these modules, we introduce and investigate weakly serial modules (which are a direct sum of weakly uniserial modules). A right weakly serial ring is a ring which is weakly serial as a right module over itself. It is shown that over a right Artinian local ring [Formula: see text], every (2-generated) right [Formula: see text]-module with a semiprime annihilator is weakly uniserial. The converse is true when [Formula: see text] is a commutative Noetherian ring. We prove that an injective [Formula: see text]-module is weakly uniserial if and only if it is isomorphic to [Formula: see text], for some prime number [Formula: see text]. In a weakly serial module we show that every its nonzero submodule contains a weakly uniserial submodule and every its fully invariant submodule is weakly serial. Also, it is shown that a right duo right self-injective ring is right weakly serial if and only if every projective right module is (weakly) serial.
Sylowizers and p-nilpotency in finite groups
Authors: Zhang Boru , Lu Jiakuan , Meng Wei
Published: December 2024

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be finite groups of relative coprime orders and [Formula: see text] act on [Formula: see text] via automorphisms. An [Formula: see text]-invariant subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is called an [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-Sylowizer of an [Formula: see text]-invariant [Formula: see text]-subgroup [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is maximal in [Formula: see text] with respect to having [Formula: see text] as its Sylow [Formula: see text]-subgroup. In this paper, we obtain some criteria for [Formula: see text]-nilpotency of a finite group by analyzing the relation to specific subsets and characteristics of the maximal [Formula: see text]-invariant subgroups of an [Formula: see text]-invariant Sylow [Formula: see text]-subgroup.
Stability for systems of coupled nonlinear oscillators described by second-order ODEs with coefficient functions in Wloc1,1(0,∞)
Authors: Moroşanu Gheorghe , Vladimirescu Cristian
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate the stability of the null solution of different systems of differential equations describing the motion of several coupled nonlinear oscillators, in the case when its coefficient functions are in [Formula: see text]. Under assumptions more general than those from [G. Moroşanu and C. Vladimirescu, Stability for systems of coupled nonlinear oscillators, Nonlinear Anal. Real World Appl. 59 (2021) 103242], we obtain new stability results relying on classical differential inequalities and the Lyapunov’s method. Our theoretical results are illustrated with numerical simulations.
Industrial Collaborative Robotics, Humanoid Cobots, and Social Embodiment: A Critical Look on Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Crivelli Davide , Balconi Michela
Published: December 2024

Collaborative robotics combines human and robot capabilities in shared workspaces, integrating robotics, human-computer interaction, ergonomics, and psychology. In industrial settings, human–robot collaboration typically involves physical interaction with collaborative robots (cobots), designed to assist in tasks such as manufacturing and logistics. However, we discuss that cognitive and social-affective layers of interaction are equally crucial for enhancing collaboration. By adopting the 4E-cognition framework, we argue that the concept of social embodiment, widely used in virtual agents and service robotics, could contribute to the design and implementation of industrial cobots. While socially relevant functions are often secondary to operational efficiency, integrating them into cobot design could enhance interaction quality, trust, and overall task performance. Focusing on cobots’ social presence and their ability to engage in proactive interactions can improve their acceptance and facilitate a sense of shared intentionality and agency in human operators. Finally, we discuss the ethical and practical challenges of developing socially embodied humanoid cobots, addressing the balance between cobot autonomy and human control, adaptive learning in long-term interaction and personalization, and the implications of building trust and transparency in human–robot collaboration. A more holistic design approach could yield both operational benefits and improved human well-being in collaborative environments.
Recent application of near-infrared fluorescence probes in food safety detection
Authors: Li Lei , Peng Zhongrui , Zeng Yun , Liu Gang
Published: December 2024

Fluorescent probes have wide applications in biological and environmental analysis due to their advantages of simple operation, convenient flexibility, high sensitivity and efficiency. They are considered to be promising tools for accurate analysis of agriculture- and food-related hazardous substances. In this review, the types and characteristics of the near-infrared fluorescence probes (NIFPs) are briefly described. The recent advances of NIFPs for precisely detecting various hazardous substances including heavy metals, sulfite and related sulfiting agents and hydrogen peroxide are summarized. Finally, the present challenges and future perspectives faced by NIFPs in food safety analysis are discussed.
Some properties of proper power graphs in finite Abelian groups
Authors: Dhawlath G. , Raja V.
Published: December 2024

The power graph of a group [Formula: see text], denoted as [Formula: see text], constitutes a simple undirected graph characterized by its vertex set [Formula: see text]. Specifically, vertices [Formula: see text] exhibit adjacency exclusively if [Formula: see text] belongs to the cyclic subgroup generated by [Formula: see text] or vice versa. The corresponding proper power graph of [Formula: see text] is obtained by taking [Formula: see text] and removing a vertex corresponding to the identity element, which is denoted as [Formula: see text]. In the context of finite abelian groups, this paper establishes the sufficient and necessary conditions for the proper power graph’s connectedness. Moreover, a precise upper bound for the diameter of [Formula: see text] in finite abelian groups is provided with sharpness. This paper also explores the study of vertex connectivity, center, and planarity.