bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production Potentials of Quality Tree Seeds from Orchards and Plantations in Tanzania
Authors:   Tree Seed Production Station, Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) Agency, Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, P. O. Box 373, Morogoro, Tanzania 67101, Senya F S , Kilawe C J ,   Department of Ecosystems and Conservation, College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism, Sokoine University of Agriculture,  P. O. Box 3010, Morogoro, Tanzania 67101, Nyamoga G Z ,   Department of Forest and Environmental Economics, College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism, Sokoine University of Agriculture, P. O. Box 3011, Morogoro, Tanzania 67101, Ngaga Y M ,   Department of Forest and Environmental Economics, College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism, Sokoine University of Agriculture, P. O. Box 3011, Morogoro, Tanzania 67101
Published: January 2025

The availability of large quantities and high-quality planting materials is essential for the sustainability of tree planting and quality forest products. Since 1950, many countries in Africa have established several seed sources of genetically improved tree species. However, there is insufficient information on production potential, both in terms of quality and quantity of tree seeds from the established orchards and plantations, particularly in Tanzania. We assessed and compared seed production potential and germination capacity of four young (8–14 years) and mature (15–48 years) stands of plantations and seed orchards of Tectona grandis and Pinus patula located in different agro-climatic areas of Tanzania. Each seed source, 16 plots measuring 100 m 100 m, were randomly selected. Each plot, seeds were collected from 30 trees bearing seeds and possessing good characteristics. Results showed that matured stands of T. grandis and patula produced significantly heavier seeds with yields of 51.4 kg ha-1 and 926.1 kg ha-1, respectively, compared to young stands, which produced 28.3 kg ha-1 and 782.6 kg ha-1, respectively. The weight of seeds in orchards was significantly lighter (17.2 kg ha-1) than in plantations (62.5 kg ha-1) for P. patola. In contrast, for T. grandis, the weight of seeds in orchards was heavier (911.8 kg ha-1) than in plantations (796.9 kg ha-1). Seeds from P. patula and T. grandis orchards had significantly higher quality, with germination capacities of 64.5% and 25%, respectively, compared to seeds from plantations, with germination capacities of 51% and 23.2%, respectively. Trees in seed orchards perform better than those in plantations due to superior genetics, controlled breeding, optimal spacing, intensive management, and optimized growing conditions. Germination capacity of P. patula and T. grandis seeds collected from young seed orchards and plantation seed sources was significantly higher than that of mature seed orchards and plantation seed sources.
Developmental oligodendrocytes regulate brain function through the mediation of synchronized spontaneous activity
Authors: Masumura Ryo , Goda Kyosuke , Sekiguchi Mariko , Uesaka Naofumi
Published: January 2025

Synchronized spontaneous neural activity is a fundamental feature of developing central nervous systems, hypothesized to be critical for brain development. However, the mechanisms regulating this synchronization and its long-term functional implications remain poorly understood. Here, we unveil a novel role for oligodendrocytes in orchestrating synchronized spontaneous activity during a critical developmental window, with profound consequences for adult brain function. Using cell-specific genetic manipulation in the mouse cerebellum, we demonstrate that oligodendrocyte deficiency during early postnatal development, but not after weaning, disrupts the synchronization of Purkinje cell activity in both developmental and adult stages. These early disruption of oligodendrocytes and neural synchrony resulted in persistent alterations in adult cerebellar-dependent behaviors, including anxiety, sociality, and motor function. Our findings establish a causal link between developmental oligodendrocyte-regulated neural synchrony and the emergence of complex brain functions. This study ensures the proper developmental trajectory necessary for driving brain function and opens new avenues for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders.
Detecting Regime Shifts: Neurocomputational Substrates for Over- and Underreactions to Change
Authors: Wang Mu-Chen , Wu George , Wu Shih-Wei
Published: January 2025

The world constantly changes, with the underlying state of the world shifting from one regime to another. The ability to detect a regime shift, such as the onset of a pandemic or the end of a recession, significantly impacts individual decisions as well as governmental policies. However, determining whether a regime has changed is usually not obvious, as signals are noisy and reflective of the volatility of the environment. We designed an fMRI paradigm that examines a stylized regime-shift detection task. Human participants showed systematic over- and underreaction: Overreaction was most commonly seen when signals were noisy but when environments were stable and change is possible but unlikely. By contrast, underreaction was observed when signals were precise but when environments were unstable and hence change was more likely. These behavioral signatures are consistent with the
system-neglect
computational hypothesis, which posits that sensitivity or lack thereof to system parameters (noise and volatility) is central to these behavioral biases. Guided by this computational framework, we found that individual subjects’ sensitivity to system parameters were represented by two distinct brain networks. Whereas a frontoparietal network selectively represented individuals’ sensitivity to signal noise but not environment volatility, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) showed the opposite pattern. Further, these two networks were involved in different aspects of regime-shift computations: while vmPFC correlated with subjects’ beliefs about change, the frontoparietal network represented the strength of evidence in favor of regime shifts. Together, these results suggest that regime-shift detection recruits belief-updating and evidence-evaluation networks and that under- and overreactions arise from how sensitive these networks are to the system parameters.
mTOR inhibition in Q175 Huntington’s disease model mice facilitates neuronal autophagy and mutant huntingtin clearance
Authors: Stavrides Philip , Goulbourne Chris N , Peddy James , Huo Chunfeng , Rao Mala , Khetarpal Vinod , Marchionini Deanna M , Nixon Ralph A , Yang Dun-Sheng
Published: January 2025

Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by expansion of the polyglutamine stretch in huntingtin protein (HTT) resulting in hallmark aggresomes/inclusion bodies (IBs) composed of mutant huntingtin protein (mHTT) and its fragments. Stimulating autophagy to enhance mHTT clearance is considered a potential therapeutic strategy for HD. Our recent evaluation of the autophagic-lysosomal pathway (ALP) in human HD brain reveals upregulated lysosomal biogenesis and relatively normal autophagy flux in early Vonsattel grade brains, but impaired autolysosome clearance in late grade brains, suggesting that autophagy stimulation could have therapeutic benefits as an earlier clinical intervention. Here, we tested this hypothesis by crossing the Q175 HD knock-in model with our autophagy reporter mouse TRGL (
T
hy-1-
R
FP-
G
FP-
L
C3) to investigate
in vivo
neuronal ALP dynamics. In the Q175 and/or TRGL/Q175 mice, mHTT was detected in autophagic vacuoles and also exhibited high level colocalization with autophagy receptors p62/SQSTM1 and ubiquitin in the IBs. Compared to the robust lysosomal pathology in late-stage human HD striatum, ALP alterations in Q175 models are also late-onset but milder that included a lowered phospho-p70S6K level, lysosome depletion and autolysosome elevation including more poorly acidified autolysosomes and larger-sized lipofuscin granules, reflecting impaired autophagic flux. Administration of a mTOR inhibitor to 6-mo-old TRGL/Q175 normalized lysosome number, ameliorated aggresome pathology while reducing mHTT-, p62- and ubiquitin-immunoreactivities, suggesting beneficial potential of autophagy modulation at early stages of disease progression.
Effectiveness of Ai Chi as Aquatic Intervention for Balance Impairments in Community-dwelling Older Adults in India: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Singh Purnima , Sarma Pratap Chandra
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Balance impairment is a significant concern for older adults in India and worldwide, as it increases the risk of falls and affects quality of life. Aquatic therapy, particularly Ai Chi, which is not a widely popular intervention in India, offers a low-impact approach to improving balance.

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of Ai Chi in improving balance among community-dwelling older adults compared to conventional aquatic therapy.

Materials and Methods: This randomised controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of Ai Chi compared to Conventional aquatic therapy (Control group) in improving balance among community-dwelling older adults. Thirty participants aged 60 and above with balance impairments were randomly assigned to either the Ai Chi or control group. Both groups received 40- minute aquatic therapy sessions three times a week for eight weeks. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), and Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) before (P1), after four weeks (P2), and after eight weeks of intervention (P3). An Independent t-test was used for between-group analyses, and a Dependent t-test was used for within-group analysis. A Bonferroni test was applied to analyse differences between groups.

Results: The participants had a mean age of 72 years, ranging from 65 to 80 years. The mean baseline scores for the BBS, TUGT, and DGI were 39.06, 13.33, and 14.13, respectively. After four weeks of intervention, the mean scores improved to 42.03, 11.73, and 15.69 for the BBS, TUGT, and DGI, respectively. Following the eighth week of intervention, the mean scores further improved to 46.23, 10.66, and 16.23 for the BBS, TUGT, and DGI, respectively. There were significant differences between the pretest and posttest 1 (MD=3.80, p-value=0.005), post-test 1 and post-test 2 (MD=4.8, p-value <0.001), and between the pretest and posttest 2 (MD=8.608, p-value <0.001). These analyses indicated that measures of static and dynamic balance improved consistently in both the groups. A post-hoc analysis of BBS scores showed both short-term and long-term improvements in the Ai Chi group compared to the control group.

Conclusion: The study concluded that Ai Chi is an effective and enjoyable intervention for enhancing balance and potentially reducing the risk of falls and improving overall quality of life in older adults.
Diameter Distribution Models and Carbon Sequestration Potential of Afi Forest Reserve, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Bassey S. E. , Adedeji E. T. , Adekunle V. A. J.
Published: January 2025

Forest managers can make well-informed judgments, including prescribing silvicultural treatments, by being able to forecast the distribution of diameters in a stand. This study calculated the carbon potential of the Afi River Forest in Cross River State, Nigeria, and created and verified models for diameter distribution. For this investigation, two transects totaling 1500 meters in length were used, separated by 500 meters. There were ten sample plots per 1500m transect, or a total of 20 sample plots in the study area, with 50m x 50m sample plots spaced 100m apart throughout each transect. Measurements were made of the diameter at the breast height, the diameters at the base, middle, and top, and the overall height of 1368 individual tree species, distributed among 23 species from 18 distinct tree families. The average tree volume and biomass were found to be 12.01 m3 and 80.72 kg, respectively, while the mean diameter at breast height (dbh) and total height were measured to be 25.8 cm and 18.5 m, respectively. At stand level, mean basal area of 48.95m2ha-1 was attained with a mean volume of 244.561m3 ha-1and mean green biomass was 448.860ton ha-1with a dry biomass of 325.423ton ha-1. Diameter Distribution models were created using the Easy Fit program. Three diameter distribution models were validated for the reserve based on their post-development rankings. Nevertheless, among the chosen diameter models in the reserve, the Log-Logistic (3P) distribution model was determined to have the best fit. Since none of the chosen models was statistically significant, the diameter distribution of the study region can be modeled using all three of the fitted and validated models.
The Economic Burden of Work Accidents and Occupational Diseases: Understanding the Invisible Costs
Authors: Kart Cihan Serhat , Miser Evin
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes the economic burden of work-related accidents and diseases, examining both direct and indirect costs at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The findings underscore the broader impact of these incidents, from individual workers to social security systems, and propose strategies for minimizing these economic burdens through preventive measures and safety improvementsAs in all processes involving human and machine elements, it is expected that unexpected events or developments will occur in business life and that these events will lead to unforeseen results. These unforeseen results will definitely have economic effects. These effects will occur at the micro level as well as at the mezzo and macro levels. In other words, a work accident or occupational disease concerns not only the worker or his employer, but also everyone from the end consumer to other companies; from social security institutions to private health insurance institutions. The aim of this study is to analyze the cost of work- related accidents and diseases. For this first we will define work-related(occupational) accident and diseases. Then we will demistify their direct and indirect costs. Then we will offer some basic precautions to avoid these costs. For this purpose, a literature review will be conducted, and data analyses will be performed. Reanalyzing the numerical data from previous studies with a renewed and alternative perspective will support reaching significant findings. From the beginning of study it has been known that work related accidents and diseases have direct and indirect, implicit and explicit costs. After new findings and renewed analyses to introduce new measures.
A Systematic Review on Pharmacological Interventions in Borderline Personality Disorder: Efficacy, Safety, and Management Challenges
Authors: BS Aymun Razzak , BS Dena Kamel , BS Nada Alhaj , BS Mohammed Omar Almosa , BS Ismail Eter , MD Omar Abdelaziz
Published: January 2025

Background: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by emotional instability, impulsivity, and interpersonal difficulties. Pharmacotherapy is commonly used in addition to psychotherapy to manage specific symptom domains of BPD. This systematic review aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pharmacological interventions in BPD.
Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using Ovid Medline. The initial search identified 1,689 papers, which were screened based on relevance to the topic, resulting in 12 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The final 12 articles were grouped into three overarching themes: the efficacy of antipsychotics, the effectiveness of non-antipsychotic treatments, and challenges in pharmacological management.
Results: The review revealed mixed outcomes for pharmacotherapy in BPD. Antipsychotics showed some efficacy in reducing emotional dysregulation and impulsivity, though side effects were noted. Non-antipsychotic treatments, including lamotrigine, showed limited efficacy, while ketamine showed potential effectiveness for refractory cases. Challenges in pharmacological management were prominent.
Discussion: Pharmacotherapy can play a role in symptom management for BPD, especially for severe cases unresponsive to psychotherapy alone. However, the evidence remains inconsistent, and no medication has demonstrated comprehensive efficacy across all symptom domains.
Conclusion: Pharmacological interventions for BPD offer symptom relief for certain patients, particularly with antipsychotics. However, due to the inconsistent evidence and concerns about long-term safety, pharmacotherapy should be carefully individualized and combined with psychotherapy.
Impact of Subacute Heat Stress on Hepatorenal Histophysiology in Wistar Rats and Protective Role of Combined Antioxidants
Authors: Pandey Shailja , Dubey Amita , Verma Yamini , Swamy Madhu , Gattani Anil , Jain Sachin
Published: January 2025

Aim: This study investigates the impact of subacute heat stress on hepatorenal function and histology in Wistar rats, alongside the protective effects of combined antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Selenium)
Study Design: Sixty rats were divided into control, heat-stressed, and antioxidant-treated heat-stressed groups.
Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted in the Department of Veterinary Pathology and rats were housed in Central Laboratory Animal House, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, NDVSU, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (M.P.), India, from April 2024- Aug 2024 (5 months).
Methodology: Serum biochemistry was done at the end of the experiment i.e., on day 30 for parameters such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Rats were humanely sacrificed and the liver and kidney were collected for histopathology.
Results: Biochemical markers (ALT, AST, BUN, and total protein) and histopathological evaluations revealed significant hepatorenal damage in the heat-stressed group, with marked amelioration in the antioxidant-treated group in both male and female rats.
Conclusion: These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of antioxidant supplementation in mitigating heat stress-induced organ damage.
Impact of Post-flowering Chemical Thinning on the Fruit Yield and Quality Metrics in ‘Fuji Suprema’ Apple Trees
Authors: Petri José Luiz , Esperança Caroline de Fátima , Sezerino André Amarildo , Ogoshi Rosana Claudio Silva
Published: January 2025

Under the climate variability conditions of southern Brazil, post-flowering thinning is a safer practice than thinning during flowering. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the application of post-flowering thinning agent on ‘Fuji Suprema’ apple when used in combinations. The experiment was carried out in an experimental orchard located in the municipality of Caçador, Santa Catarina, Brazil during the 2017 to 2020 harvest seasons. We tested treatments combining Benzyladenine (BA) with Ethephon (ET) or Metamitron (MM), as well as individual applications of each product at different concentrations on apple fruits. Applications were made individually or in tank mixes during post-flowering periods, with manual thinning when fruits were 8 to 12 mm in diameter and chemical thinning at 15 to 20 mm in diameter.  Treatments were as follows: 1. Control (manual thinning); 2. BA (400 ml/100 L) + ET (200 ml/100 L); 3. BA (400 ml/100 L) + MM (100 g/100 L); 4. BA (600 ml/100 L); 5. ET (240 - 200 ml/100 L); MM (150 ml/100 L); MM (150 ml/100 L) + ET (200 ml/100 L). The results showed that the combination of Metamitron with Benzyladenine or Ethephon effectively regulated fruit set and enhanced fruit quality, making these combinations suitable for thinning under southern Brazil conditions.
Assessment of Canal Storage Dynamics for Sustainable Water Management in Thrissur North Kole Lands
Authors: B J Chethan , Joseph Shyla , K K Sathian , Joseph Asha , K P Rema , A Latha
Published: January 2025

Aims: The aim of this study is to estimate the canal storage capacity in Thrissur North kole lands to support effective water management for irrigation, drainage and flood control.
Study Design: The study involves estimating canal storage in Thrissur North kole lands using water depth measurements, bed slope data and trapezoidal rule calculations, conducted on a decadal basis.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Thrissur North kole lands, located in Kerala, India, during 2022.
Methodology: Accurate estimation of canal storage capacity in Thrissur North kole lands is essential for managing water resources to support irrigation and mitigate floods. The study measured water depths in canals while the Enamakkal and Idiyanchira regulators were fully closed and calculated depth variations along the canals using bed slope data and measurements taken at multiple points (start, middle, and end). All canals were digitized within an ArcGIS environment to determine their total length. The trapezoidal rule was applied to estimate the storage capacity of each canal, enabling an accurate evaluation of the canal system's overall storage potential.
Results: The total canal length in the Thrissur North kole lands was determined to be 77.02 km. Decadal storage capacity estimations for 2022 revealed a range of 29.0 to 53.86 Mm³, with an average storage capacity of 42.40 Mm³. Additionally, a relationship between the water level at the Enamakkal regulator and canal storage capacity was developed.
Conclusion: The study concludes that accurate estimation of canal storage capacity using water depth measurements, bed slope data, and trapezoidal rule calculations offers valuable insights for optimizing water management strategies, ensuring effective irrigation and mitigating flood risks in the Thrissur North kole lands.
Contact Stress Analysis of the Slewing Bearing of Truck Cranes
Authors: Yan Hongshuo
Published: January 2025

With the development of industrial technology, lifting equipment has been widely used in various industries. Among them, truck cranes are often chosen in daily use due to their good mobility and rapid transfer. The slewing bearing is an important component in a truck crane that connects the upper and lower parts of the vehicle. Taking a certain model of truck crane as an example, this paper analyzes the contact stress of its slewing bearing by using two methods: Hertz contact theory and finite element method. It also explores the influence of the main structural parameters of the slewing bearing on the contact stress, so as to provide a reference for product selection and design.
Machine Learning in Construction: A Systematic Review with a Focus on Nigeria
Authors: Njama-Abang Osowomuabe
Published: January 2025

The Nigerian construction industry faces persistent challenges, including inefficiencies, delays, and cost overruns, which significantly limit its contribution to national development. Globally, machine learning (ML) has revolutionized the construction sector by improving processes such as cost estimation, project scheduling, and risk management. Despite its potential, ML adoption in Nigeria remains minimal, with significant gaps in research and application. This study seeks to address this gap by conducting a systematic review of ML applications in the global construction industry, with a focused analysis of opportunities and barriers for implementation within the Nigerian context. A systematic review methodology was adopted, following PRISMA guidelines. Relevant peer-reviewed articles were sourced from databases such as Scopus and Google Scholar, and thematic analysis was conducted to compare global trends with the Nigerian construction landscape. Key findings reveal that ML has enhanced project efficiency, optimized costs, and facilitated data-driven decision-making globally. Specific opportunities for ML adoption in Nigeria include resource optimization through efficient allocation of materials and labor, predictive maintenance for minimizing equipment downtime and repair costs, and advanced data-driven project management to improve planning and execution. However, barriers such as economic instability, limited technical expertise, and infrastructure deficiencies hinder widespread adoption. This study recommends targeted strategies, including investments in ML capacity building through specialized training, infrastructure development, and fostering collaborations between academia and industry. Accelerating ML adoption is essential for enhancing the competitiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of Nigeria’s construction industry, thereby contributing to broader national development objectives. Future research should focus on empirical investigations to validate these findings and provide actionable insights for implementing ML in Nigeria’s construction sector.
A Systematic Review on Neuroprotective Effects of Catalpol in Acute Focal Ischemic Stroke and their Possible Mechanisms
Authors: S Harini. , Martinraj Jasper Victoria Leelarani , Krishnamoorthy Shailaja
Published: January 2025

This study aims to systematically review the evidence on the neuroprotective effects of Catalpol in animal models of acute focal ischemic stroke and to determine its potential mechanisms of action. Catalpol is the primary active ingredient extracted from the roots of Radix Rehmanniae. Catalpol is found to have pleiotropic neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative conditions like ischemic stroke. In this study, neuroprotective effects of Catalpol are explored in experimental acute ischemic stroke.
Studies relevant to effects of Catalpol in animal models of acute ischemic stroke were identified from the following databases, PubMed, Wanfang Data information site, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and VIP information database and the time period for the study search was fixed as 2010 to 2022. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the CAMARADES checklist. As per the inclusion criteria, twenty-one studies were included. Six out of eight studies had shown significant impact of Catalpol in reducing infarct size according to 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining compared with the control (P < 0.05). And two studies that determined infarct size by magnetic resonance imaging did not report any significant effect of Catalpol in infarct size reduction when compared to the control.
Several tests were used in the studies to assess neurological function score of the animal models, such as Zea Longa score, Balance beam-walking test, Bederson score, adhesive removal test, muscular strength test, bar-grasping test, corner test, cylinder test, neuromuscular function test and foot-fault test. However, ladder rung walking test, sensorimotor function test, open-field test, horizontal ladder test and novel object recognition test were used each in one of the studies.
To conclude, Catalpol exerts neuroprotective effects in animal models of acute focal ischemic stroke, mainly by alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting apoptosis, and repressing inflammatory reactions and autophagy. However, due to the methodological flaws, such as risk of publication bias due to predominance of Chinese studies and low methodological quality of included studies, these positive findings should be interpreted and analyzed with caution.
A Historic Moment in Global Health—“Futureproofing” the World Against Pandemics
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O.
Published: November 2023

This JAMA Forum discusses the International Health Regulations of the World Health Organization, political declarations of the United Nations, and a pandemic agreement proposed by the World Health Assembly and suggests 5 reforms that could improve pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.
Mortality in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction With Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries and Mimickers
Authors: Quesada Odayme , Yildiz Mehmet , Henry Timothy D. , Bergstedt Seth , Chambers Jenny , Shah Ananya , Stanberry Larissa , Volpenhein Lucas , Aziz Dalia , Lantz Rebekah , Palmer Cassady , Ugwu Justin , Ahsan Muhammad J. , Garberich Ross F. , Rohm Heather S. , Aguirre Frank V. , Garcia Santiago , Sharkey Scott W.
Published: November 2023

Importance

The clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with nonobstructive coronaries (MINOCA) are largely unknown.

Objective

To assess differences in 5-year mortality in patients presenting with STEMI due to MINOCA and MINOCA mimickers as compared with obstructive disease.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective analysis of a prospective registry-based cohort study of consecutive STEMI activations at 3 regional Midwest STEMI programs. STEMI without a culprit artery and elevated troponin levels were categorized as MINOCA (absence of coronary artery stenosis >50% and confirmed or suspected coronary artery plaque disruption, epicardial coronary spasm, or coronary embolism/thrombosis) or MINOCA mimickers (takotsubo cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, or nonischemic cardiomyopathy). Data were analyzed from March 2003 to December 2020.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Adjusted Cox regression analysis was used to assess 5-year mortality risk in STEMI presenting with MINOCA and MINOCA mimickers in comparison with obstructive disease.

Results

Among 8560 consecutive patients with STEMI, mean (SD) age was 62 (14) years, 30% were female (2609 participants), and 94% were non-Hispanic White (4358 participants). The cohort included 8151 patients with STEMI due to obstructive disease (95.2%), 120 patients with MINOCA (1.4%), and 289 patients with MINOCA mimickers (3.8%). Patients were followed up for a median (IQR) of 7.1 (3.6-10.7) years. Patients with MINOCA and MINOCA mimickers were less likely to be discharged with cardiac medications compared with obstructive disease. At 5-year follow-up, mortality in STEMI presenting with obstructive disease (1228 participants [16%]) was similar to MINOCA (20 participants [18%]; χ21 = 1.1; log-rank P = .29) and MINOCA mimickers (52 participants [18%]; χ21 = 2.3; log-rank P = .13). In adjusted Cox regression analysis compared with obstructive disease, the 5-year mortality hazard risk was 1.93 times higher in MINOCA (95% CI, 1.06-3.53) and similar in MINOCA mimickers (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.79-1.49).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this large multicenter cohort study of consecutive clinical patients with STEMI, presenting with MINOCA was associated with a higher risk of mortality than obstructive disease; the risk of mortality was similar in patients with MINOCA mimickers and obstructive disease. Further investigation is necessary to understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in this high-risk STEMI population.
Social Determinants of Health and Perceived Barriers to Care in Diabetic Retinopathy Screening
Authors: Ravindranath Rohith , Bernstein Isaac A. , Fernandez Karen S. , Ludwig Cassie A. , Wang Sophia Y.
Published: November 2023

Importance

Regular screening for diabetic retinopathy often is crucial for the health of patients with diabetes. However, many factors may be barriers to regular screening and associated with disparities in screening rates.

Objective

To evaluate the associations between visiting an eye care practitioner for diabetic retinopathy screening and factors related to overall health and social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status and health care access and utilization.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cross-sectional study included adults aged 18 years or older with type 2 diabetes who answered survey questions in the All of Us Research Program, a national multicenter cohort of patients contributing electronic health records and survey data, who were enrolled from May 1, 2018, to July 1, 2022.

Exposures

The associations between visiting an eye care practitioner and (1) demographic and socioeconomic factors and (2) responses to the Health Care Access and Utilization, Social Determinants of Health, and Overall Health surveys were investigated using univariable and multivariable logistic regressions.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary outcome was whether patients self-reported visiting an eye care practitioner in the past 12 months. The associations between visiting an eye care practitioner and demographic and socioeconomic factors and responses to the Health Care Access and Utilization, Social Determinants of Health, and Overall Health surveys in All of Us were investigated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 11 551 included participants (54.55% cisgender women; mean [SD] age, 64.71 [11.82] years), 7983 (69.11%) self-reported visiting an eye care practitioner in the past year. Individuals who thought practitioner concordance was somewhat or very important were less likely to have seen an eye care practitioner (somewhat important: adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.83 [95% CI, 0.74-0.93]; very important: AOR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.76-0.95]). Compared with financially stable participants, individuals with food or housing insecurity were less likely to visit an eye care practitioner (food insecurity: AOR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.61-0.91]; housing insecurity: AOR, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.75-0.98]). Individuals who reported fair mental health were less likely to visit an eye care practitioner than were those who reported good mental health (AOR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74-0.96).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that food insecurity, housing insecurity, mental health concerns, and the perceived importance of practitioner concordance were associated with a lower likelihood of receiving eye care. Such findings highlight the self-reported barriers to seeking care and the importance of taking steps to promote health equity.
Plasminogen deficiency suppresses pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma disease progression
Authors: Chowdhury Nayela N. , Yang Yi , Dutta Ananya , Luo Michelle , Wei Zimu , Abrahams Sara R. , Revenko Alexey S. , Shah Fenil , Miles Lindsey A. , Parmer Robert J. , de Laat Bas , Wolberg Alisa S. , Luyendyk James P. , Fishel Melissa L. , Flick Matthew J.
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly fatal metastatic disease associated with robust activation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems. However, the potential contribution of the primary fibrinolytic protease plasminogen to PDAC disease progression has remained largely undefined. Mice bearing C57Bl/6‐derived KPC (KRasG12D, TRP53R172H) tumors displayed evidence of plasmin activity in the form of high plasmin–antiplasmin complexes and high plasmin generation potential relative to mice without tumors. Notably, plasminogen‐deficient mice (Plg‐) had significantly diminished KPC tumor growth in subcutaneous and orthotopic implantation models. Moreover, the metastatic potential of KPC cells was significantly diminished in Plg‐ mice, which was linked to reduced early adhesion and/or survival of KPC tumor cells. The reduction in primary orthotopic KPC tumor growth in Plg‐ mice was associated with increased apoptosis, reduced accumulation of pro‐tumor immune cells, and increased local proinflammatory cytokine production. Elimination of fibrin(ogen), the primary proteolytic target of plasmin, did not alter KPC primary tumor growth and resulted in only a modest reduction in metastatic potential. In contrast, deficiencies in the plasminogen receptors Plg‐RKT or S100A10 in tumor cells significantly reduced tumor growth. Plg‐RKT reduction in tumor cells, but not reduced S100A10, suppressed metastatic potential in a manner that mimicked plasminogen deficiency. Finally, tumor growth was also reduced in NSG mice subcutaneously or orthotopically implanted with patient‐derived PDAC tumor cells in which circulating plasminogen was pharmacologically reduced. Collectively, these studies suggest that plasminogen promotes PDAC tumor growth and metastatic potential, in part through engaging plasminogen receptors on tumor cells.
Serum trace element levels and activity of enzymes associated with oxidative stress in endometriosis and endometrial cancer
Authors: Rabajdová Miroslava , Špaková Ivana , Smolko Lukáš , Abrahamovská Michaela , Baranovičová Barbora , Birková Anna , Vašková Janka , Mareková Mária
Published: November 2023

Endometriosis and endometrial cancer are closely related to oxidative stress. However, the direct relationship between copper and zinc levels and oxidative stress in the extracellular and intracellular space remains unclear. The presented study is focused on the determination of serum Zn and Cu levels, glutathione concentration and enzyme activity in three groups: patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer (EC), patients diagnosed with endometriosis (EM), and a healthy control group. Spectrophotometric determination of trace elements revealed that levels of zinc and copper were lower in blood plasma of patients with endometriosis as compared with the other groups; however, there were no significant differences in the Cu/Zn ratio. Furthermore, significantly increased blood serum glutathione levels were detected in both EM and EC groups compared with the control group. While the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was similar across the studied groups, we observed differences in the activity of other enzymes associated with oxidative stress, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST), between the control group and the EM and EC patients. Additionally, analysis of gene expression based on free circulating mRNA indicated significant differences in the expression of SOD isoenzymes between the patient groups and the control group; expression of GPx isoenzymes was also altered. Obtained results may have potential application in diagnostics as well as monitoring of endometriosis and endometrial cancer.
Bio‐Inspired Fog Harvesting Meshes: A Review
Authors: Kennedy Brook S. , Boreyko Jonathan B.
Published: November 2023

Freshwater scarcity has become a critical global challenge affecting some of the most vulnerable populations. In response, significant effort has focused on ways to increase access to this precious resource. Within the context of geographical, cultural, political, and technological factors governing freshwater availability, atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) has demonstrated tremendous promise to help address these shortages. Specifically, mesh‐based fog harvesters have received considerable attention for their passive qualities compared with their energy‐dependent technological siblings (sorbents, condensation, etc.), yet their specific water yield (SY) has developed only modestly in recent decades. While the plant and animal kingdom provide diverse examples of passive fog collection, and science has developed a remarkable understanding of these processes, much of this knowledge has yet to be translated practically at scale. This is partially due to challenges in mass‐producing complex (often micro‐scale) structures observed in nature. Fortunately, manufacturing technology is catching up with scientific understanding, especially at the scale of mesh design. To this end, the review begins by surveying bioinspired research in fog harvesting. Afterward, this study identifies milestones in developing bioinspired fog harvesting meshes, concluding in a discussion of future mesh research opportunities connecting bioinspiration and emerging advanced manufacturing techniques.
Iodine‐Mediated C─C Coupling in Neutral Flow Cell for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Lv Xiangzhou , Yang Yue , Lv Jiabao , Ji Liang , Wang Jianghao , Wu Xiuju , Li Zhengjie , Li Xiaotong , Liu Qian , Qi Zhifu , Lin Qingyang , Wu Angjian , Wu Hao Bin
Published: November 2023

Carbon utilization efficiency is of vital importance for electrochemical CO2 reduction systems. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers using nonalkaline electrolytes can prevent CO2 crossover and increase carbon utilization efficiency, yet they suffer from unfavored C─C coupling and severe hydrogen evolution. Herein, an iodine‐mediated approach to facilitate C─C coupling on Cu‐based catalysts toward multi‐carbon products in a neutral PEM electrolyzer is reported. By in situ constructing an I‐modified Cu surface, the hydrogenation of *CO is promoted and the C─C coupling process progresses through the *CO−*COH pathway with a low energy barrier. A high Faradaic efficiency of ≈72% and a high partial current density of 575 mA cm−2 are achieved for multi‐carbon products. The present study demonstrates an efficient approach to developing advanced CO2 electrolyzers for high‐value products with high efficiency.
Injectable Self‐Expanding/Self‐Propelling Hydrogel Adhesive with Procoagulant Activity and Rapid Gelation for Lethal Massive Hemorrhage Management
Authors: Zhao Xin , Huang Ying , Li Zhenlong , Chen Jueying , Luo Jinlong , Bai Lang , Huang Heyuan , Cao Ertai , Yin Zhanhai , Han Yong , Guo Baolin
Published: November 2023

Developing hydrogels that can quickly reach deep bleeding sites, adhere to wounds, and expand to stop lethal and/or noncompressible bleeding in civil and battlefield environments remains a challenge. Herein, an injectable, antibacterial, self‐expanding, and self‐propelling hydrogel bioadhesive with procoagulant activity and rapid gelation is reported. This hydrogel combines spontaneous gas foaming and rapid Schiff base crosslinking for lethal massive hemorrhage. Hydrogels have rapid gelation and expansion rate, high self‐expanding ratio, excellent antibacterial activity, antioxidant efficiency, and tissue adhesion capacity. In addition, hydrogels have good cytocompatibility, procoagulant ability, and higher blood cell/platelet adhesion activity than commercial combat gauze and gelatin sponge. The optimized hydrogel (OD‐C/QGQL‐A30) exhibits better hemostatic ability than combat gauze and gelatin sponge in rat liver and femoral artery bleeding models, rabbit volumetric liver loss massive bleeding models with/without anticoagulant, and rabbit liver and kidney incision bleeding models with bleeding site not visible. Especially, OD‐C/QGQL‐A30 rapidly stops the bleedings from pelvic area of rabbit, and swine subclavian artery vein transection. Furthermore, OD‐C/QGQL‐A30 has biodegradability and biocompatibility, and accelerates Methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA)‐infected skin wound healing. This injectable, antibacterial, self‐expanding, and self‐propelling hydrogel opens up a new avenue to develop hemostats for lethal massive bleeding, abdominal organ bleeding, and bleeding from coagulation lesions.
Nanomedicine Combats Drug Resistance in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zheng Xiuli , Song Xiaohai , Zhu Guonian , Pan Dayi , Li Haonan , Hu Jiankun , Xiao Kai , Gong Qiyong , Gu Zhongwei , Luo Kui , Li Weimin
Published: November 2023

Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer and the leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Surgery, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy are currently available as treatment methods. However, drug resistance is a significant factor in the failure of lung cancer treatments. Novel therapeutics have been exploited to address complicated resistance mechanisms of lung cancer and the advancement of nanomedicine is extremely promising in terms of overcoming drug resistance. Nanomedicine equipped with multifunctional and tunable physiochemical properties in alignment with tumor genetic profiles can achieve precise, safe, and effective treatment while minimizing or eradicating drug resistance in cancer. Here, this work reviews the discovered resistance mechanisms for lung cancer chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, and outlines novel strategies for the development of nanomedicine against drug resistance. This work focuses on engineering design, customized delivery, current challenges, and clinical translation of nanomedicine in the application of resistant lung cancer.
Supersensitive and Broadband Photodetectors Based on High Concentration of Er3+/Yb3+ Co‐doped WS2 Monolayer
Authors: Liu Shaoxiang , Zhao Yang , Huang Zuqiang , Chen Yin , Wu Zepeng , Liang Xianxiao , Liu Xiu , Wang Chunxiang , Zhao Hongquan , Shi Xuan
Published: November 2023

Chemical doping is a significant means to modulate bandgap structures and optoelectronic properties of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). Herein, an Er3+/Yb3+ co‐doped WS2 monolayer with ultrahigh and tunable concentrations is successfully fabricated by in‐situ chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique. The morphologies, thicknesses, components, and structures of the samples are systemically characterized by optical microscope, atomic force microscopy, Raman, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectrometer, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Photoluminescent peaks are enhanced significantly with red shifts, and the absorption is broadened to near‐infrared, implying a shrinked bandgap after RE co‐doping, which is consistent to the calculation results by density functional theory (DFT). The Er3+/Yb3+ co‐doped WS2 device demonstrates high carrier mobility, photocurrent, photoresponsivity, external quantum efficiency, and specific detectivity, which are approximately two orders of magnitudes compared with those of the pristine WS2 device. The values of photoresponsivity and specific detectivity approach 4.8 × 104 A W−1 and 5.5 × 1014 Jones, respectively, at 20 V bias and 1.77 mW cm−2 luminescence, which may refresh the records as has been reported. The excellent performances of the WS2 photodetector prove the effectiveness of Er3+/Yb3+ co‐doping for practical application in optoelectronics.
Recent Advances in Nucleophilic Lewis Base‐Catalyzed Cycloadditions for Synthesis of Spirooxindoles
Authors: Li Qing‐Feng , Ma Jing , Meng Junjia , Li Er‐Qing
Published: November 2023

Spirooxindoles are privileged scaffolds in diverse bioactive natural products and pharmaceuticals, significant achievements for the construction of these molecules have thus been made in the past years. Among them, organocatalysis, in particular, nucleophilic Lewis base catalysis, has recently emerged as an efficient and reliable method for the preparation of diverse and valuable functionalized spirooxindoles. According to different kinds of nucleophilic catalysts, we summarize and classify three catalytic strategies; these are tertiary amine‐catalyzed cycloadditions, NHC‐catalyzed cycloadditions, and tertiary phosphine‐catalyzed cycloadditions, respectively. Through these methods, potential bioactive spirooxindole skeletons owning various functional groups can be produced to enrich the small organic molecule library. In this review, we describe a comprehensive and updated advances of nucleophilic Lewis base catalytic cycloaddition reactions for the construction of spirooxindoles. Meanwhile, the related mechanism and the application of these annulation strategies in natural product total synthesis will be highlighted in detail.
Imino‐Fluoroalkanesulfonylation of γ,δ‐Unsaturated Oxime Esters Enabled by Photoredox/Cu Dual Catalysis
Authors: Li Huaigui , Chen Bin , Xie Xiaofei , Li Weinan , Chen Kang , Zhu Yingguang
Published: November 2023

Sulfonyl‐tethered N‐containing heterocycles are valuable building blocks in synthetic and pharmaceutical chemistry. Recently, the installation of fluoroalkanesulfonyl groups into heterocycles via the difunctionalization of alkenes still remains challenging. Herein in this work, an imino‐fluoroalkanesulfonylation of γ,δ‐unsaturated oxime esters has been achieved via photoredox/Cu dual catalysis. A variety of fluoroalkanesulfonyl‐tethered pyrroline derivatives have been readily synthesized in moderate to good yields under mild conditions.