bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust region based chaotic search for solving multi‐objective optimization problems
Authors: El‐Shorbagy M. A.
Published: August 2024

A numerical optimization technique used to address nonlinear programming problems is the trust region (TR) method. TR uses a quadratic model, which may represent the function adequately, to create a neighbourhood around the current best solution as a trust region in each step, rather than searching for the original function's objective solution. This allows the method to determine the next local optimum. The TR technique has been utilized by numerous researchers to tackle multi‐objective optimization problems (MOOPs). But there is not any publication that discusses the issue of applying a chaotic search (CS) with the TR algorithm for solving multi‐objective (MO) problems. From this motivation, the main contribution of this study is to introduce trust‐region (TR) technique based on chaotic search (CS) for solving MOOPs. First, the reference point interactive approach is used to convert MOOP to a single objective optimization problem (SOOP). The search space is then randomly initialized with a set of initial points. Second, in order to supply locations on the Pareto boundary, the TR method solves the SOOP. Finally, all points on the Pareto frontier are obtained using CS. A range of MO benchmark problems have demonstrated the efficiency of the proposed algorithm (TR based CS) in generating Pareto optimum sets for MOOPs. Furthermore, a demonstration of the suggested algorithm's ability to resolve real‐world applications is provided through a practical implementation of the algorithm to improve an abrasive water‐jet machining process (AWJM).
Investigating the effect of polymer additives on the rheology of SiC/clay paste for use in Direct Ink Writing method
Authors: Nikookar Amir Mohammad , Ghaffari Seyed Amir , Sarpoolaky Hossein
Published: August 2024

In this study, we investigated the impact of polyethylene glycol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol on the rheological behavior, printability, and mechanical/physical properties of 3D‐printed scaffolds for high‐temperature applications using SiC/clay ceramic paste. Employing the Direct Ink Writing method, varying concentrations of each polymer (PEG: 2.5%–10% weight, CMC: .6%–1.8% weight, PVA: .25%–1% weight) were incorporated into the composition. The resulting SiC/clay paste, with adjusted additive content, was used to 3D‐print scaffold structures through Direct Ink Writing. Sintering of clay‐bonded SiC samples were carried out at 1300°C for 1 h in an ambient atmosphere. The research revealed that altering the additive amounts significantly influenced the rheological behavior, mechanical properties, and physical characteristics of the printed specimens. Notably, the ideal properties with additive concentrations (10% wt PEG, 1% wt PVA, and .6% CMC) were identified, providing the best outcomes in terms of printability and firing results. High density samples with 2.09, 1.93, and 1.79 g/cm3, high compression strength of 20.82, 14.5 and 12.53 MPa with 32.26%, 42.5%, and 52.63% open porosity for samples containing PVA, CMC, and PEG modifiers were obtained, respectively. Additionally, the study led to the development of a high solid loading printable paste with an 80% weight.
Association between bone age maturity and childhood adiposity
Authors: Chávez‐Vázquez Ana Gabriela , Klünder‐Klünder Miguel , Lopez‐Gonzalez Desiree , Vilchis‐Gil Jenny , Miranda‐Lora América Liliana
Published: August 2024

Background

Evidence shows that overweight and obesity are associated with advanced bone age (BA).

Objective

To analyse the effect of adiposity on BA among Mexican children.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 902 children (5–18 years old). Anthropometric measurements, dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) and automated hand X‐ray‐based BA measurements were obtained. BA curves of children stratified by sex and age were created based on nutritional status. We also calculated odds ratios for advanced BA associated with the body mass index (BMI), waist/height ratio and adiposity estimated using DXA (total and truncal fat mass).

Results

Participants with overweight/obesity by BMI (SDS ≥1) advanced earlier in BA than did normal weight participants (6.0 vs. 12.0 years in boys and 6.0 vs. 10.3 in girls, p < 0.01); similarly, participants with a greater body fat percentage (SDS ≥1) exhibited earlier advanced BA (7.5 vs. 10.0 years in boys and 6.0 vs. 9.6 in girls, p < 0.01). Differences were also observed according to the waist/height ratio and truncal fat. Children with a BMI or DXA SDS ≥1 had greater odds of presenting an advanced BA of more than 1 year (OR 1.79–3.55, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Increased adiposity in children, mainly in boys, is associated with advanced BA at earlier ages.
Excitation–contraction coupling reflects the metabolic profile of mantle muscle in young cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis)
Authors: Callaghan Neal I. , Ducros Loïck , Bennett J. Craig , Capaz Juan C. , Andrade José Pedro , Sykes Antonio V. , Driedzic William R. , Lamarre Simon G. , MacCormack Tyson J.
Published: August 2024

The mantle muscle of common cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis, is responsible both for high‐magnitude and rapid movements for locomotion, as well as sustained ventilation, which require specific metabolic, electrophysiological, and structural organization. Young cuttlefish have a highly oxidative phenotype and a rapid growth rate. Here, we show high rates of oxygen consumption and protein synthesis in juveniles, and these rates decay exponentially over the first few weeks of growth. This is associated with considerable citrate synthase activity (relative to larger cuttlefish) but a lack of glucose metabolism based on zero uptake of glucose by isolated muscle sheets and minimal activity of hexokinase (similar to larger animals). In contrast to glucose metabolism in the heart, glucose metabolism in these muscle sheets was not stimulated by extracellular taurine. Previous research revealed an unusual ion channel complement in mantle myocytes, the most notable feature of which is the lack of a Na+ current during depolarization. Because this adaptation is not consistent across the coleoid clade, we investigated excitation–contraction coupling. Here, mantle energetics and contractility, including the individual components of the total Ca2+ flux driving contraction, were studied. Results indicate that the majority of Ca2+ current underlying contractile stress development capacity in cuttlefish juveniles is not mediated by dihydropyridine‐sensitive L‐type channels, in contrast to their adult counterparts, and the sarcoplasmic reticulum contributes little to routine contractility. We had previously noted an influence of physiological levels of taurine in limiting cardiac contractility but found no analogous sensitivity in mantle muscle. Finally, transmission electron microscopy of subcellular architecture revealed the presence of sarcoplasmic tubular aggregates, suggesting that oxidative inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticulum function limits its role in this life stage.
Functional variants of the pentraxin 3 gene are associated with the metastasis and progression of prostate cancer
Authors: Weng Wei‐Chun , Hsieh Yi‐Hsien , Lin Chia‐Yen , Liu Yu‐Fan , Su Shih‐Chi , Wang Shian‐Shiang , Yang Shun‐Fa
Published: August 2024

Age, ethnic background and genetic components have been identified as the established risks for prostate cancer (PCa). Pentraxin 3 (PTX3), originally identified as a pattern‐recognition molecule for defence against infectious agents, has multiple functions in tissue repair and in the regulation of cancer‐associated inflammation. In this study, we sought to investigate the impact of PTX3 gene variants on the development of PCa. Genotypes of four common single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PTX3 gene, including rs1840680, rs2305619, rs3816527 and rs2120243, were profiled among 705 PCa patients and 705 ethnicity‐matched controls. In this study, we found that patients who carry at least one minor allele (C) of rs3816527 (AC and CC) tended to develop advanced forms of diseases (clinical large T stage, OR, 1.593, p = 0.032; pathologically‐confirmed nodal spread, OR, 1.987, p = 0.011; metastatic tumour, OR, 3.896, p = 0.032) as compared with those homologous for the major allele (AA). Further stratification analysis showed that such association of rs3816527 with lymphatic and distal metastasis of PCa was accentuated in the younger age group (≤65 at diagnosis) but not seen in the older age group (>65 at diagnosis), suggesting an age‐specific effect of PTX3 variants. Prediction of PTX3 protein structure implied that polymorphism may alter the quaternary organization and oligomerization of PTX3 protein. Moreover, our gene silencing experiments and survey of public datasets revealed that elevation of PTX3 levels in PCa was required for cell migration and associated with tumour metastasis. Our results highlight an association of PTX3 rs3816527 with the progression of PCa.
Normal menstrual flow volume range and its characteristics measured from sanitary napkins in Japanese women: Discrepancy between measured and subjective menstrual flow volume
Authors: Atsuko Shiota , Hiromi Teraoka , Hiroki Ishikawa
Published: August 2024

Aim

The 2018 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics abnormal uterine bleeding System‐1 defines menstrual flow volume on a 3‐point scale based on subjective assessment. However, the normal flow range has not been established, and it is unclear whether subjective assessment is accurate. We investigated the normal menstrual flow volume range in Japanese women and whether the actual measured menstrual flow volume agreed with the subjective evaluation.

Methods

We included female menstruating volunteers aged 18–49 years in this prospective observational study. Menstrual napkins were weighed before and after use for up to three cycles, and the values were recorded in an online diary.

Results

Overall, 211 participants were recruited. All items were completed by 167 participants, and 497 menstrual cycles were included in the analysis. The median total menstrual flow volume per cycle for 497 cycles was 56.7 g. The 5th–95th percentile values ranged from 15.7 to 166.4 g. The mean value was 77.6 ± 99.6 g, with no significant differences according to age group. In the 25 cycles corresponding to heavy flow, that is, above the 95th percentile of measured flow volume, 92% were underrated as “normal” by subjective evaluation, and only 8% were correctly rated as “heavy.”

Conclusions

Our results clarify the actual menstrual flow volume in the Japanese population; this will contribute toward making women aware of the normal range of menstrual flow volume, which may facilitate appropriate preconception care.
Granulomatous mastitis during pregnancy with sudden onset of gait difficulty and erythema nodosum: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Miyahara Hideyuki , Kurokawa Yusuke , Muto Megumi , Takao Yuko , Iwanaga Erina , Mihara Yutaro , Fukushima Nao , Yoshizato Toshiyuki , Tsuda Naotake
Published: August 2024

Granulomatous mastitis (GM), a benign inflammatory disease of the breast, often mimics breast cancer on presentation. We present a case of GM during pregnancy manifesting as a breast mass, sudden onset of plantar pain, and erythema nodosum (EN). A 31‐year‐old pregnant Japanese woman, gravida 2, para 1, was referred to our hospital with severe plantar pain on both soles, causing difficulty walking. This pain worsened and EN appeared on both lower legs, followed by a left breast mass. Ultrasound findings suggested malignancy; however, aspiration biopsy confirmed GM. Her arthritis and EN resolved 2 days after commencing oral prednisolone and her walking improved. EN with/without arthritis is commonly associated with GM, especially during pregnancy. The described manifestations with a breast mass are suggestive of this diagnosis.
Initial development of the Sugar‐Sweetened Fruit Drink Questionnaire for examining beliefs, knowledge, and behaviors in an intervention to reduce sugar‐sweetened fruit drink intake in Alaska Native children
Authors: Edwards Todd C. , Randall Cameron L. , Hill Courtney M. , Hopkins Scarlett , Orr Eliza , Cruz Stephanie , Lee Jeffrey , Mancl Lloyd , Chi Donald L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Alaska Native children may be at increased risk for dental caries because of added sugar intake from sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks. This study describes development of a questionnaire to (a) assess Alaska Native caregivers' beliefs, knowledge, and behaviors regarding sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks, and (b) describe behavior changes within a community‐based intervention.

Methods

Questionnaire development was conducted in three phases with Yup'ik Alaska Native caregivers in Southwest Alaska: (1) initial selection and adaptation of questionnaire items; (2) cognitive testing; and (3) data collection. The Sugar‐Sweetened Fruit Drink Questionnaire (SFDQ) contains 31 culturally‐tailored items across six areas: beliefs/values, environment/skills, knowledge, motivation, self‐efficacy, and behaviors.

Results

Eighty‐one percent of caregivers gave their children sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks. Motivations included: what they grew up with (52%), few other options (46%), makes child happy (46%), healthier than soda (45%), and others in community drink them (42%). On average, 93% of caregivers believed drinking a lot of sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks leads to cavities in children and caregivers agreed (mean 4.1 on 5‐point scale, 5 = strongly agree) it is important to limit sugar‐sweetened fruit drinks. Among a sub‐sample of respondents (n = 20), we found low to moderate temporal stability in some SFDQ items over a 10–14 day period, indicating respondent ambivalence and/or uncertainty.

Conclusions

Using community‐based participatory research methods, we developed a culturally tailored exploratory questionnaire that will be used to describe changes in caregiver knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, self‐efficacy, and behavior within a planned intervention to reduce sugar‐sweetened fruit drink intake in Alaska Native children.
Not intervening as a form of care: Negotiating medical practices at the end‐of‐life
Authors: Cohn Simon , Borgstrom Erica , Driessen Annelieke
Published: August 2024

Biomedicine is organized around interventions. Despite growing concern about overtreatment in healthcare systems, not intervening can still raise questions about potential negligence and the quality of care. Based on ethnographic fieldwork with palliative care teams in England, we explore the work palliative care specialists do to reduce and sometimes halt interventions for patients at the end‐of‐life, in a general medical environment that is largely interventionist. We describe how judgments about what is an action or not aren't based on obvious or agreed criteria, but ultimately according to what different actors feel constitutes the best form of care. In other words, the underlying values that shape ideas of care determine how action and inaction are nominated, and not the other way around.
Winter activity of Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) inside and outside stables in Germany
Authors: Groschupp Sarah , Kampen Helge , Werner Doreen
Published: August 2024

Culicoides biting midge species (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) of the Obsoletus Group and the Pulicaris Complex are considered the major vectors of bluetongue and Schmallenberg viruses in Europe. Overwintering strategies of these arboviruses are controversially discussed, with the ongoing activity of vector species and a non‐disrupted transmission cycle during winter being a plausible explanation. Although data on Culicoides winter activity are relatively scant, a seasonal vector‐free period (SVFP), during which adult Culicoides are not or hardly active, is questionable. To determine winter activity and define SVFPs according to the EU Commission Regulation No 1266/2007, adult Culicoides were trapped weekly with UV‐light traps from October to April 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 inside and outside stables on 16 farms throughout Germany. Temperature measurements were taken regularly at each trapping site since the temperature is a known driver of biting midge activity. In 960 indoor and outdoor catches, 32,377 Culicoides were trapped, with 90.9% of them belonging to the Obsoletus Group, 6.1% to the Pulicaris Complex and 3.0% to ‘other Culicoides’ according to morphological identification. The majority (61.3%) of Culicoides were trapped indoors, with substantial numbers of specimens collected from October to December, in March and in April, and only a few or no specimens in January and February. Obsoletus Group biting midges were active indoors for almost the entire winter. Outdoors, Culicoides numbers decreased from October to December, few or no specimens were caught from January to March, and high numbers were captured in April. Of the collected Culicoides, 2028 were blood‐fed, of which 94.6% were trapped in the stables. The indoor SVFP, although calculated for blood‐fed instead of parous females, lasted for almost 4 months (late November until mid‐March) in winter 2019/2020 and 2 months (January and February) in winter 2020/2021. The outdoor SVFPs covered almost the entire study period in both winters, with slight differences between the onsets and the ends. The Culicoides activity significantly depended on temperature. Specimens of the Obsoletus Group were caught at an average temperature of 7.4°C (minimum 0.3°C) and of the Pulicaris Complex at an average temperature of 10.3°C (minimum 1.2°C). These temperatures were reached inside the stables over more extended periods than outside. The average indoor temperatures were 1.2 K higher than the average outdoor temperatures, although absolute temperature differences of up to 9.0 K were recorded. Based on Culicoides activity, the results of the present study indicate an almost continuous potential for virus transmission in winter within livestock houses.
Natural variation in the Tn1a promoter regulates tillering in rice
Authors: Yang Tao , Ma Xiaoqian , Zhang Quan , Li Lin , Zhu Rui , Zeng An , Liu Wanying , Liu Haixia , Wang Yulong , Han Shichen , Khan Najeeb Ullah , Li Jinjie , Li Zichao , Zhang Zhanying , Zhang Hongliang
Published: August 2024

Rice tillering is an important agronomic trait that influences plant architecture and ultimately affects yield. This can be genetically improved by mining favourable variations in genes associated with tillering. Based on a previous study on dynamic tiller number, we cloned the gene Tiller number 1a (Tn1a), which encodes a membrane‐localised protein containing the C2 domain that negatively regulates tillering in rice. A 272 bp insertion/deletion at 387 bp upstream of the start codon in the Tn1a promoter confers a differential transcriptional response and results in a change in tiller number. Moreover, the TCP family transcription factors Tb2 and TCP21 repress the Tn1a promoter activity by binding to the TCP recognition site within the 272 bp indel. In addition, we identified that Tn1a may affect the intracellular K+ content by interacting with a cation‐chloride cotransporter (OsCCC1), thereby affecting the expression of downstream tillering‐related genes. The Tn1a+272 bp allele, associated with high tillering, might have been preferably preserved in rice varieties in potassium‐poor regions during domestication. The discovery of Tn1a is of great significance for further elucidating the genetic basis of tillering characteristics in rice and provides a new and favourable allele for promoting the geographic adaptation of rice to soil potassium.
PpIX‐enabled fluorescence‐based detection and photodynamic priming of platinum‐resistant ovarian cancer cells under fluid shear stress
Authors: Ruhi Mustafa Kemal , Rickard Brittany P. , Overchuk Marta , Sinawang Prima Dewi , Stanley Elizabeth , Mansi Matthew , Sierra Raymond G. , Hayes Brandon , Tan Xianming , Akin Demir , Chen Bin , Demirci Utkan , Rizvi Imran
Published: August 2024

Over 75% percent of ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed with advanced‐stage disease characterized by unresectable intraperitoneal dissemination and the presence of ascites, or excessive fluid build‐up within the abdomen. Conventional treatments include cytoreductive surgery followed by multi‐line platinum and taxane chemotherapy regimens. Despite an initial response to treatment, over 75% of patients with advanced‐stage ovarian cancer will relapse and succumb to platinum‐resistant disease. Recent evidence suggests that fluid shear stress (FSS), which results from the movement of fluid such as ascites, induces epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and confers resistance to carboplatin in ovarian cancer cells. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that FSS‐induced platinum resistance correlates with increased cellular protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), the penultimate downstream product of heme biosynthesis, the production of which can be enhanced using the clinically approved pro‐drug aminolevulinic acid (ALA). These data suggest that, with further investigation, PpIX could serve as a fluorescence‐based biomarker of FSS‐induced platinum resistance. Additionally, this study investigates the efficacy of PpIX‐enabled photodynamic therapy (PDT) and the secretion of extracellular vesicles under static and FSS conditions in Caov‐3 and NIH:OVCAR‐3 cells, two representative cell lines for high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), the most lethal form of the disease. FSS induces resistance to ALA‐PpIX‐mediated PDT, along with a significant increase in the number of EVs. Finally, the ability of PpIX‐mediated photodynamic priming (PDP) to enhance carboplatin efficacy under FSS conditions is quantified. These preliminary findings in monolayer cultures necessitate additional studies to determine the feasibility of PpIX as a fluorescence‐based indicator, and mediator of PDP, to target chemoresistance in the context of FSS.
Light exposure of tetra‐cationic porphyrins containing peripheral Pd(II)‐bipyridyl complexes and the induced effects on purified DNA molecule, fibroblast and melanoma cell lines
Authors: Trentin Luana B. , Viana Altevir R. , Iwersen Sophia , Iglesias Bernardo A. , Chaves Otávio A. , Schuch André P.
Published: August 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a light source, oxygen, and a photosensitizer (PS) to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) for treating diseases. In this study, we evaluated two meso‐tetra‐pyridyl porphyrins with [Pd(bpy)Cl]+, namely 3‐PdTPyP and 4‐PdTPyP, as PS for PDT application. DNA interaction was assessed by spectroscopic measurements (UV–Vis and fluorescence emission), viscosity analysis, and molecular docking simulations. The results indicate that Pd(II)‐porphyrins do not intercalate into DNA, suggesting that the minor groove is the primary interaction site, mainly through van der Waals forces. These metalloporphyrins effectively induced nitrogenous bases oxidation, particularly in purines, after white light irradiation. The induced DNA lesions were able to inactivate plasmid DNA metabolism (DNA replication and transcription) in a bacterial model. 3‐PdTPyP and 4‐PdTPyP significantly decreased the viability of treated melanoma cell lines (A375 and B16‐F10), demonstrating that melanoma cell lines were more sensitive to these Pd(II)‐porphyrins than the fibroblast cell line (L929). Moreover, 3‐PdTPyP was more photototoxic to A375 cells (IC50 = 0.43 μM), whereas 4‐PdTPyP was more photototoxic to B16‐F10 cells (IC50 = 0.51 μM). These findings suggest that these porphyrins are promising PS for future PDT research focused on skin cancer.
Spectral‐genomic chain‐model approach enhances the wheat yield component prediction under the Mediterranean climate
Authors: Sadeh Roy , Ben‐David Roi , Herrmann Ittai , Peleg Zvi
Published: August 2024

In light of the changing climate that jeopardizes future food security, genomic selection is emerging as a valuable tool for breeders to enhance genetic gains and introduce high‐yielding varieties. However, predicting grain yield is challenging due to the genetic and physiological complexities involved and the effect of genetic‐by‐environment interactions on prediction accuracy. We utilized a chained model approach to address these challenges, breaking down the complex prediction task into simpler steps. A diversity panel with a narrow phenological range was phenotyped across three Mediterranean environments for various morpho‐physiological and yield‐related traits. The results indicated that a multi‐environment model outperformed a single‐environment model in prediction accuracy for most traits. However, prediction accuracy for grain yield was not improved. Thus, in an attempt to ameliorate the grain yield prediction accuracy, we integrated a spectral estimation of spike number, being a major wheat yield component, with genomic data. A machine learning approach was used for spike number estimation from canopy hyperspectral reflectance captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle. The spectral‐based estimated spike number was utilized as a secondary trait in a multi‐trait genomic selection, significantly improving grain yield prediction accuracy. Moreover, the ability to predict the spike number based on data from previous seasons implies that it could be applied to new trials at various scales, even in small plot sizes. Overall, we demonstrate here that incorporating a novel spectral‐genomic chain‐model workflow, which utilizes spectral‐based phenotypes as a secondary trait, improves the predictive accuracy of wheat grain yield.
Traces of spiritual care in nursing records: A qualitative study of cancer care
Authors: Hynnekleiv Ingerd Irgens , Giske Tove , Heggdal Kristin
Published: August 2024

Background

Serious illnesses, such as cancer, bring the threat of loss of health and life closer. This may compromise spiritual well‐being. Addressing patients' spirituality is essential in nursing care. Therefore, nursing records should reflect, clarify, and enable spiritual‐care follow‐up.

Aim

The aim of this study is to explore how spiritual care is expressed in nursing records in cancer care.

Method

This study adopted a hermeneutic approach, and a qualitative content analysis was used to explore the nursing records of 43 inpatients with cancer from Norway. Ethical approval was obtained, and the privacy of the patients and healthcare professionals was safeguarded in line with the applicable legislation.

Results

Spiritual care was rarely reported in the nursing records (i.e., the nursing care plans and the progress notes). However, traces of spiritual care appeared in the records of everyday nursing. Four themes emerged from the analysis: (1) relieving life pain and mitigating loss, (2) facilitating faith support, (3) welcoming family and friends, and (4) sustaining normality and sharing joy.

Conclusions

This study showed that the nursing records of cancer care seldom expressed spiritual care concerning patients' life pain, loss, or faith support. Increasing nurses' competencies in mapping, documenting, and attending to spiritual care, as well as overcoming the limitations of documentation systems, could help address the spiritual needs of cancer patients.
High Cognitive Effort Prior to Velocity‐Based Training Sessions Reduces Rate of Force Development but Not Maximum Strength Gains in Untrained Male Adults
Authors: Fortes Leonardo de Sousa , de Lima‐Júnior Dalton , Boullosa Daniel , Roelands Bart , Ferreira Maria Elisa Caputo
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the chronic effect of high cognitive effort immediately before resistance exercise sessions on neuromuscular performance in untrained male adults. We used a mixed experimental design, with the group as between‐participants factor and time as within‐participants factor. Thirty‐four participants were randomly assigned to two parallel groups: high cognitive effort (n = 17) and control (n = 17). Subjects in the control group were seated for 30 min before the resistance exercise sessions, while the high cognitive effort group completed incongruent trials of the Stroop task until subjective mental fatigue was present immediately before resistance exercise sessions. Participants attended 45 sessions over 15 weeks, consisting of three familiarizations, three baseline evaluations, 36 velocity‐based training sessions, and three postexperiment evaluation sessions. Rate of force development (RFD) during the isometric mid‐thigh pull, half back‐squat 1‐RM, and countermovement jump (CMJ) were measured before and after the 12‐week intervention. A significant group × time interaction effect was found for the average RFD at 0–250 ms (p < 0.05), with greater improvements for the control group than for the high cognitive effort group. There was no group × time interaction for half back‐squat 1‐RM (p > 0.05). Also, there was no group × time interaction for CMJ (p > 0.05). In conclusion, repeated high cognitive effort immediately prior to resistance exercise sessions is a phenomenon that can induce greater early velocity loss and, consequently, impairs the improvements in RFD. However, this did not inhibit the increased performance for explosive strength and CMJ in male untrained adults. High cognitive effort before resistance exercise sessions should be avoided.
Profiles Among Women Without a Paid Job and Social Benefits: An Intersectional Perspective Using Dutch Population Register Data
Authors: Kröner Lea , Mazrekaj Deni , van der Lippe Tanja , Poortman Anne‐Rigt
Published: August 2024

Despite their potential vulnerability and untapped work potential, research on the group of women without a paid job and social benefits is limited. This study is the first to identify profiles among women in this group based on their intersecting economic, sociodemographic and contextual characteristics. A cluster analysis conducted on Dutch population register data from 2019 challenges previous research that lumped women without a paid job and social benefits into a single group. Rather, we reveal three distinct profiles: ‘Dutch empty nesters (i.e., mothers with adult children) in affluent households’, ‘Migrant women in urban living areas’ and ‘Dutch, educated mothers with affluent partners’. The identification of these three profiles can mark a significant step in developing tailored active labour market policies for women without a paid job and social benefits.
The newly characterised HLA‐B*41:84 allele, found in a prospective liver transplant candidate
Authors: Sharma Arpit , Al Agbar Sabina , Beaune David , Sidahmed Abubaker M. E.
Published: August 2024

HLA‐B*41:84 has a single base substitution in exon 2, altering glutamic acid to glutamine’.
Prevalence of hepatitis and HIV infection among 18‐months old children in Guinea‐Bissau before vaccination
Authors: Dutschke Alexander , Agergaard Jane , Medina Candida , Hønge Bo Langhoff
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study reports on the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in children in Guinea‐Bissau before the hepatitis B vaccine was introduced.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study. From 2005 to 2008, 187 children aged 18 months were enrolled in a vaccine trial and had blood samples taken to test for HBV (HbsAg, anti‐HBs and anti‐HBc), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV.

Results

HBsAg prevalence was 11.2% and prevalence of any HBV serological marker was 16.0%. No children were positive for HCV. One was positive for HIV‐1.

Conclusions

The prevalence of HBsAg was high compared to other sub‐Saharan African countries pre‐immunisation, underscoring the importance of broad and sustained HBV vaccination. This study indicates that the majority of HBV transmission is horizontal during childhood in Guinea‐Bissau.
The chloroplast‐localized casein kinase II α subunit, CPCK2, negatively regulates plant innate immunity through promoting S‐nitrosylation of SABP3
Authors: Rui Lu , Kang Ping , Shao Jing , Lu Minfeng , Cui Beimi , Zhao Yaofei , Wang Wei , Cai Huiren , Tang Dingzhong , Loake Gary J. , Wang Mo , Shi Hua
Published: August 2024

The casein kinase II (CK2) complex consists of catalytic (α) and regulatory (β) subunits and is highly conserved throughout eukaryotes. Plant CK2 plays critical roles in multiple physiological processes; however, its function in plant immunity remains obscure. In this study, we demonstrated that the unique chloroplast‐localized CK2 α subunit (CPCK2) is a negative regulator of Arabidopsis thaliana innate immunity. cpck2 mutants displayed enhanced resistance against the fungal pathogen powdery mildew, Golovinomyces cichoracearum and the virulent bacterial pathogen, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pto) DC3000. Moreover, the cpck2‐1 mutant accumulated higher salicylic acid (SA) levels and mutations that disabled SA biosynthesis or signaling inhibited cpck2‐1‐mediated disease resistance. CPCK2 interacted with the chloroplast‐localized carbonic anhydrase (CA), SA‐binding protein 3 (SABP3), which was required for cpck2‐mediated immunity. Significantly, CPCK2 phosphorylated SABP3, which promoted S‐nitrosylation of this enzyme. It has previously been established that S‐nitrosylation of SABP3 reduces both its SA binding function and its CA activity, which compromises the immune‐related function of SABP3. Taken together, our results establish CPCK2 as a negative regulator of SA accumulation and associated immunity. Importantly, our findings unveil a mechanism by which CPCK2 negatively regulates plant immunity by promoting S‐nitrosylation of SABP3 through phosphorylation, which provides the first example in plants of S‐nitrosylation being promoted by cognate phosphorylation.
Functional biomarkers for sickle cell disease
Authors: Tanhehco Yvette C.
Published: August 2024

See article on page 1752–1761, in this issue
Exploring exudate viscosity: A rheological analysis of wound exudates
Authors: Melotto Gianluca , Sinha Avick , Forss Jaqueline Rachel
Published: August 2024

Exudate and its viscosity are critical in wound healing. Changes in viscosity can interfere with dressings properties as well as affect the diffusion of immune cells, nutrients, oxygen and bacteria. Current international standards for laboratory testing of wound dressings use a single low‐viscosity solution, named as ‘Test Solution A’, which fails to simulate the diverse range of exudates encountered clinically. This study employs rheological analysis to characterise exudates viscosity, comparing cattle‐derived samples to the test solution A. Results reveal non‐Newtonian, shear‐thinning behaviour in exudates, contrasting with the Newtonian behaviour of the test solution A. Although clinically classified as ‘seropurulent’, three exudate samples analysed at 37°C present with different viscosity at various shear rates, ranging from 30.8 (±14.7) to 6.5 (±1.9) mPas. Findings show that the current tests on dressings employing Test Solution A are missing the complexity of real exudates.
Isolation and Identification of Halophilic Bacteria Isolated from Mangrove Soil in Blue Lagoon, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
Authors: Azmi Siti Khadijah , Zainal Fuadi Nur Zahra , Yaacob Ilyanie
Published: August 2024

Halophiles bacteria are capable of tolerating and surviving in extreme salinity due to the special biological structure that it possesses. Classification of halophilic bacteria includes slight, moderate, and extreme halophiles which range from low to high concentrations of salt. Biotechnological products yielded from bacteria residing in saline environment are proven to be valuable in a few industries. The isolated halophilic bacteria may yield powerful biomolecules such as enzymes which can enhance plant development, hence boosting agricultural industries. However, the insufficient data related to halophiles available in Malaysia may reduce the potential use of these bacteria in related industries. The goal of this study is to isolate and identify the potential halophilic bacteria and to determine the tolerance of halophiles in different concentrations of salt. Collection of soil samples was done at the mangrove soil in Blue Lagoon, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Isolation and purification of halophiles was done on nutrient agar media supplemented with 3% salt. Next, Gram-staining was performed on 4 colonies of bacteria with different types of single colony appearances. Then, the selected bacteria with different colony and morphological characteristics were tested in nutrient broth supplemented with 0%, 3%, 10% and 20% of salt. Molecular identification was conducted which involved DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction. All 4 isolates selected were tested to be Gram-stain positive and possessed rod-shaped. The bacteria have various salinity tolerance levels which may be due to the presence of different enzymes produced in their cells. Gene sequences and phylogenetic tree were analyzed based on 16s rRNA sequences to identify the species of the isolates. At the end of the experiment, isolate 2A1 and 2A4 were identified as Bacillus sp., while isolate 2A2 and 2A3 were identified as Cytobacillus oceanisediminis.
Exploring The Boundaries of Uncertainty: Interval Valued Pythagorean Neutrosophic Set and Their Properties
Authors: Abdul Razak Samsiah , Md. Rodzi Zahari , Ahmad Noraini , Ahmad Ghafur
Published: August 2024

The interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy set (IVPFS) presents a novel approach to tackling vagueness and uncertainty, while neutrosophic sets, a broader concept encompassing of fuzzy sets and intuitionistic fuzzy sets, are tailored to depict real-world data characterized by uncertainty, imprecision, inconsistency, and incompleteness. Additionally, the development of Interval Value Neutrosophic Sets (IVNS) enhances precision in handling problems involving a range of numbers within the real unit interval, rather than focusing solely on a single value. However, despite these advancements, there is a deficiency in research addressing practical implementation challenges, conducting comparative analyses with existing methods, and applying these concepts across various fields. This study aims to bridge this research gap by proposing a novel concept based on the Interval Valued Pythagorean Neutrosophic Set (IVPNS), which is a generalization of the IVPFS and INS. The development of IVPNS provides a more comprehensive framework for handling uncertainty, ambiguity, and incomplete information in various fields, leading to more robust decision-making processes, improved problem-solving capabilities, and better management of complex systems. Furthermore, this research introduces the algebraic operations for IVPNS, including addition, multiplication, scalar multiplication, and exponentiation and provides a comparative analysis with IVPFS and IVNS. The study incorporates illustrative numerical examples to demonstrate these operations in practice. Additionally, this study provides and rigorously proves the algebraic properties of IVPNS, specifically discussing their commutative and associative properties. This validation ensures compliance with established conditions for IVPNS, reinforcing their theoretical soundness and practical applicability.
Recommendations for Protective Actions Based on Projected Public Health Risks Following a Postulated Nuclear Power Plant Accident
Authors: Batur Maryna , Alkan Reha Metin , Karaman Himmet , Ozener Haluk
Published: August 2024

This study conducted a regional assessment of the environmental and health consequences due to the release of radionuclides, including the most harmful, such as Cs-137 and I-131, from a hypothetical reactor accident at the first Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, in Turkiye under different meteorological conditions. Simulations of the atmospheric flow were done using a Gaussian-based probabilistic model. Based on the estimated air and land contamination, radiation doses and cancer risks to the population were calculated. The assessment results were then compared with the criteria for protective actions in the event of a radioactive release and were subsequently used to assess the sufficiency of the Precautionary Action Zone (PAZ) and Urgent Protective Zone (UPZ) provided by regulations. The assessment indicated that evacuation outside the UPZ would likely be required during the early phase of the emergency, while sheltering indoors might be necessary up to 80 km. Protective actions such as restrictions on being outdoors or iodine prophylaxis are needed far beyond the radius of the UPZ. These results provide important insights into safe protective measures to reduce the risk of radiation-related cancer when considering a hypothetical severe nuclear accident. In addition, the results of this study aim to improve the current nuclear emergency response program and support nuclear decision-making.
Ketone monoester attenuates oxygen desaturation during weighted ruck exercise under acute hypoxic exposure but does not impact cognitive performance
Authors: McClure Tyler S. , Phillips Jeffrey , Kernagis Dawn , Coleman Kody , Chappe Ed , Cutter Gary R. , Egan Brendan , Norell Todd , Stubbs Brianna J. , Bamman Marcas M. , Koutnik Andrew P.
Published: August 2024

Acute ingestion of exogenous ketone supplements in the form of a (R)‐3‐hydroxybutyl (R)‐3‐hydroxybutyrate (R‐BD R‐βHB) ketone monoester (KME) can attenuate declines in oxygen availability during hypoxic exposure and might impact cognitive performance at rest and in response to moderate‐intensity exercise. In a single‐blind randomized crossover design, 16 males performed assessments of cognitive performance before and during hypoxic exposure with moderate exercise [2 × 20 min weighted ruck (∼22 kg) at 3.2 km/h at 10% incline] in a normobaric altitude chamber (4572 m, 11.8% O2). The R‐BD R‐βHB KME (573 mg/kg) or a calorie‐ and taste‐matched placebo (∼50 g maltodextrin) were co‐ingested with 40 g of dextrose before exposure to hypoxia. The R‐βHB concentrations were rapidly elevated and sustained (>3 mM; P < 0.001) by KME. The decline in oxygen saturation during hypoxic exposure was attenuated in KME conditions by 2.4%–4.2% (P < 0.05) compared with placebo. Outcomes of cognitive performance tasks, in the form of the Defense Automated Neurobehavioral Assessment (DANA) code substitution task, the Stroop color and word task, and a shooting simulation, did not differ between trials before and during hypoxic exposure. These data suggest that the acute exogenous ketosis induced by KME ingestion can attenuate declining blood oxygen saturation during acute hypoxic exposure both at rest and during moderate‐intensity exercise, but this did not translate into differences in cognitive performance before or after exercise in the conditions investigated.
Short‐latency afferent inhibition is reduced with cold‐water immersion of a limb and remains reduced after removal from the cold stimulus
Authors: Delahunty Eden T. , Bisset Leanne M. , Kavanagh Justin J.
Published: August 2024

The experience of pain that is induced by extremely cold temperatures can exert a modulatory effect on motor cortex circuitry. Although it is known that immersion of a single limb in very cold water can increase corticomotor excitability it is unknown how afferent input to the cortex shapes excitatory and inhibitory processes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine motor‐evoked potentials (MEP), short‐latency afferent inhibition (SAI) and long‐latency afferent inhibition (LAI) in response to immersion of a single hand in cold water. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to assess MEPs, and peripheral nerve stimulation of the median nerve paired with TMS was used to measure SAI and LAI in motor circuits of the ipsilateral hemisphere. Measurements were obtained from electromyography (EMG) of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) at baseline, during cold‐water immersion, and during recovery from cold‐water immersion. The intervention caused unconditioned MEPs to increase during exposure to the cold stimulus (P = 0.008) which then returned to baseline levels once the hand was removed from the cold water. MEP responses were decoupled from SAI responses, where SAI was reduced during exposure to the cold stimulus (P = 0.005) and remained reduced compared to baseline when the hand was removed from the cold water (P = 0.002). The intervention had no effect on LAI. The uncoupling of SAI from MEPs during the recovery period suggests that the mechanisms underlying the modulation of corticospinal excitability by sensory input may be distinct from those affecting intracortical inhibitory circuits.

Highlights

What is the central question of this study?

Does immersion of a limb in very cold water influence corticospinal excitability and the level of afferent inhibition exerted on motor cortical circuits?

What is the main finding and its importance?

In additional to perception of temperature, immersion in 6°C water also induced perceptions of pain. Motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude increased during immersion, and short‐latency afferent inhibition (SAI) of the motor cortex was reduced during immersion; however, these responses differed after the limb was removed from the cold stimulus, as MEPs returned to normal levels while SAI remained suppressed.
Transient Shutdown Cooling Simulation of a Gas Turbine Test Rig Configuration Under Ventilated Natural Convection
Authors: Sun Zixiang , Amirante Dario , Barnes Christopher J. , Hills Nicholas J. , Fahy Daniel
Published: August 2024

A transient simulation of shutdown cooling for a gas turbine test rig configuration under ventilated natural convection has been successfully demonstrated using a coupled aerothermal approach. Large eddy simulation (LES) and finite element analysis (FEA) were employed for fluid domain computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and solid component thermal conduction simulation, respectively. Coupling between LES and FEA was achieved through a plugin communicator. The buoyancy-induced chimney effect under the axially ventilated natural convection is correctly reproduced. The hotter turbulent flow in the upper part of the annular path and the colder laminar-type air movement in the lower part of the annulus are appropriately captured. The heat transfer features in the annular passage are also faithfully replicated, with heat flux of the inner cylinder reaching its maximum and minimum at the bottom dead center (BDC) and the top dead center (TDC), respectively. Agreement with experimental measurements is good in terms of both temperature and heat flux, and the result of the transient simulation for the shutdown cooling is encouraging too. In addition, radiation is simulated in the FEA model based on the usual gray body assumptions and Lambert's law for the coupled computation. It has been shown that at the high power (HP) condition, the radiation for the inner cylinder is approximately 11% of its convective heat flux counterpart. The importance of radiation is thus clearly revealed even for the present rig test case with a scaled-down temperature setup.
African Cultural Case: Reexamining Apologia in Communication Theory
Authors: Onwumechili Chuka , Akpan Unwana
Published: August 2024

The image repair theory, alluded to by the situational crisis communication theory, assumes two conditions that require a public oral rhetorical defense. The conditions are that (a) an act is reprehensible and (b) the person or organization is responsible for the act. However, those theories have been largely tested in the Western world, where individualism has primacy over the community. In this work, we argue that rhetorical defenses during image crisis and repair cannot escape the cultural dictates of its social environment. We advance situations in Africa and the United States that demonstrate the differences in the concept of collectivism and individualism and their impact on image and crisis situations. In the African example, we use Blessing Okagbare’s drug-testing case to demonstrate involvement of her community or collective, and in the Western cultural example we use Sha’Carri Richardson’s drug-test case to compare. The key point, overall, is to demonstrate that image-repair incidences in Africa and the West are not encountered similarly, and thus, a universal process of the image repair theory and situational crisis communication theory is not recommended. Instead, we recommend modification of both theories to account for the cultural differences.