bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of multifunctional polypyrrole hydrogel/Fe3O4/calcium alginate composite aerogel with electromagnetic shielding and fire warning performance
Authors: Yu Zhicai , Wang Lili , Shao Yiwei , Liu Yun , Zhao Yuhang , Qin Yi , Zhang Yingzi , He Hualing
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to fabricate a novel electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding composite aerogel with both thermal insulation and high temperature warning functions.

Design/methodology/approach

An emerging bio-based polypyrrole (PPy) gel/Fe3O4/calcium alginate (PFC) EMI shielding composite aerogel was prepared by freeze-drying and in situ polymerization method. First, Fe3O4/calcium alginate (CA) aerogel was obtained by freeze-drying the Fe3O4/CA mixture. Then, PPy/Fe3O4/CA was obtained by synthesizing PPy on the surface of CA/Fe3O4 aerogel through in situ polymerization. Finally, PPy/Fe3O4/CA was immersed in porphyrin solution (cross-linking agent) to get the final PFC EMI shielding composite aerogel.

Findings

Due to the matched impedance between Fe3O4 and PPy, the EMI shielding performance of PFC composite aerogel can reach up to −8 dB. In addition, the PFC EMI shielding composite aerogel also shows excellent self-extinguishing and thermal insulation properties. After leaving the flame, the burning PFC aerogel is quickly extinguished. When the PFC aerogel is placed on the heating plate at 230 °C, the temperature on the side of the aerogel away from the heating plate is only 90.3 °C after 5 min of heating. The electrical resistance of the PFC composite aerogel can be reduced from 3.62 × 104 O to 5 × 102 O to trigger the warning light after 3 s of exposure to the alcohol lamp flame. This reversible thermal resistance response characteristic can be used to give an early warning signal when the PFC encounters high temperature or flame.

Originality/value

This work provides a novel strategy for designing a multifunctional EMI shielding composite aerogel with repeatable high temperature warning performance. This PFC composite aerogel shows potential applications in the prevention of material combustion in high temperature electromagnetic environments.
Massive gastropathy due to gallstone obstruction of the duodenum (Bourveret syndrome)
Authors: Challakere Ramaswamy Vasudeva Murthy , Han Suyin Kathleen
Published: June 2024

Gallstones are common in the general population and are often asymptomatic, but they can also cause complications such as cholecystitis and pancreatitis. In rare instances, they can lead to the formation of a cholecystoduodenal fistula and gallstone ileus. Gastric dilatation and distension following gallstone ileus are extremely uncommon and have rarely been reported in the literature. We report a fatal case of massive gastropathy as a result of Bouveret syndrome secondary to gallstone obstruction.
Diminished antibody response to SARS‐CoV‐2 in rheumatoid arthritis compared to metabolic disorders following the primary series of vaccinations and its recovery with a booster: A single‐center prospective observational study
Authors: Sato Hidetomo , Nagatani Katsuya , Minota Seiji
Published: June 2024

Aim

To compare antibody responses after vaccinations between patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and patients with metabolic disorders (MD). The study places special emphasis on understanding how common diseases affect antibody responses in individuals with RA within real‐world settings.

Methods

The participants were 117 patients with RA (66 with RA only and 51 with RA and MD) and 37 patients with MD who received both the primary series of vaccinations and a booster. Antibody titers were compared after the primary series of vaccinations and a booster, and factors influencing the antibody response were assessed.

Results

Following the primary series of vaccinations, a significant reduction in antibody titers was observed in patients with longer days between vaccination and antibody measurement, the use of IL‐6 inhibitors, selective T cell co‐stimulation modulators, and methotrexate. Comorbid MD did not exhibit significant influences on antibody response in RA. Notably, the presence of RA itself was not significant in multivariate linear regression analysis. After the administration of the booster, however, day between vaccination and antibody measurement, the use of IL‐6 inhibitor, and methotrexate no longer remained significant. Only the use of selective T cell co‐stimulation modulators retained its significance.

Conclusions

MD did not exhibit a significant impact on antibody responses in RA patients. The reduced antibody response following the primary series in RA patients appeared to be attributed more to specific RA medications rather than to the disease itself. Booster vaccines are vital in restoring the antibody response in RA.
Introduction: Development practice, power and public authority
Authors: Kirk Tom , Pinnington Rose
Published: June 2024

Drawing upon research across multiple countries, the papers in this special issue explore how public authority dynamics affect development and humanitarian practices and processes. Some focus on places commonly labelled as in crisis or understood to be subject to multiple overlapping crises, where responses to epidemics, persistent conflict and migrations are in progress. Others examine how public authority dynamics affect the everyday governance of development in outwardly more stable contexts. The seven empirical papers are complimented by a conceptual framework for analysing how power permeates the foundations of public authority dynamics. Viewed together, they illuminate why exclusions, coercion and violence are often used by those claiming the legitimacy to govern, and how grasping what this may mean for well‐intended interventions or reform efforts remains a challenge for practitioners. However, they also point towards a pressing need for outsiders to recognise their own roles in constructing and legitimising, sometimes harmful, forms of public authority in the places they work. And they suggest the first step is to confront a reluctance to acknowledge public authority dynamics in their official depictions of programmes' progress, learnings and impacts.
Beta‐blockers for the treatment of infantile haemangiomas in premature infants
Authors: Ling Lynn Chua Ting , Aan Mark Koh Jean
Published: June 2024

Beta‐blockers have been established as a treatment of infantile haemangiomas (IH) since its serendipitous discovery for use in IH in 2008. However, data on the safety of these beta‐blockers for use in IH in preterm infants are scarce. A retrospective study was performed to review the safety of oral propranolol and topical timolol in the treatment of IH in a cohort of preterm infants treated at our tertiary paediatric hospital. It was observed that there was an increased risk of adverse events amongst the preterm infants with chronic lung disease, retinopathy of prematurity and gastroesophageal reflux, when treated with oral propranolol.
Glycyrrhetinic acid blocks SARS‐CoV‐2 infection by activating the cGAS‐STING signalling pathway
Authors: Qi Hui , Ma Qin‐hai , Feng Wei , Chen Si‐mian , Wu Cai‐sheng , Wang Yanan , Wang Tong‐xing , Hou Yun‐long , Jia Zhen‐hua
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) played an important role in controlling the COVID‐19 pandemic, but the scientific basis and its active ingredients are still weakly studied. This study aims to decipher the underlying anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 mechanisms of glycyrrhetinic acid (GA).

Experimental Approach

GA's anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 effect was verified both in vitro and in vivo. Homogeneous time‐resolved fluorescence assays, biolayer interferometry technology, and molecular docking were employed to examine interactions of GA with human stimulator of interferon genes (hSTING). Immunofluorescence staining, western blot, and RT‐qPCR were used to investigate nuclear translocation of interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and levels of STING target genes. Pharmacokinetics of GA was studied in mice.

Key Results

GA could directly bind to Ser162 and Tyr240 residues of hSTING, thus up‐regulating downstream targets and activation of the STING signalling pathway. Such activation is crucial for limiting the replication of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron in Calu‐3 cells and protecting against lung injury induced by SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron infection in K18‐ACE2 transgenic mice. Immunofluorescence staining and western blot indicated that GA increased levels of phosphorylated STING, phosphorylated TANK‐binding kinase‐1, and cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase (cGAS). Importantly, GA increased nuclear translocation of IRF3. Pharmacokinetic analysis of GA in mice indicated it can be absorbed into circulation and detected in the lung at a stable level.

Conclusion and Implications

Activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway through the GA‐STING‐IRF3 axis is essential for the antiviral activity of GA in mice, providing new insights into the potential translation of GA for treating SARS‐CoV‐2 in patients.
Higher intraoperative detection rate of suspicious non‐palpable lesions using wire marking in skin cancer patients
Authors: Tietze Julia K. , Emmert Steffen , Troitzsch Paulina , Rode Susen
Published: June 2024

Background

Follow‐up protocols in patients after complete resection of high‐risk cutaneous tumors lead to a discovery of metastases in very early stages, but surgery on non‐palpable lesions proves to be challenging.

Patients and methods

In this monocenter retrospective study 39 patients suffering from malignant skin tumors with suspicious non‐palpable lesions located in the lymph nodes (90%) or deep subcutaneously/intramuscularly (10%) were included. In 21 patients the lesions were excised under ultrasound guidance, and 18 patients received a wire marking before surgery. Both patient groups were compared regarding successful intraoperative finding of the lesion, duration of the procedure, and complications.

Results

Wire marking led to a significantly higher intraoperative detection rate of 100% versus 76% (p < 0.05). The average time needed for the complete procedure (p = 0.91) or the rate of complications (p = 0.70) did not differ significantly between both groups. The size of the malignant lesions successfully removed by wire marking was significantly smaller (p < 0.05). Of all 34 detected lesions only 20 (58.8%) were confirmed to be malignant.

Conclusions

Wire marking increases the detection rate of non‐palpable suspicious subcutaneous or lymphatic lesions. It leads to earlier diagnosis of metastasis but also allows to avoid unnecessary complete lymph node dissection.
Modifiable factors to prevent severe hypoglycaemic and diabetic ketoacidosis presentations in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Tamsett Zacchary , James Steven , Brown Fran , O'Neal David N. , Ekinci Elif I.
Published: June 2024

Aims

In tackling rising diabetes‐related emergencies, the need to understand and address emergency service usage by people with type 1 diabetes is vital. This review aimed to quantify current trends in presentations for type 1 diabetes‐related emergencies and identify public health strategies that reduce the frequency of diabetes‐related emergencies and improve glycaemic management.

Methods

Medline (OVID), Cochrane and CINAHL were searched for studies published between 2000 and 2023, focusing on people with type 1 diabetes, severe hypoglycaemia and/or diabetic ketoacidosis, and ambulance and/or emergency department usage. There were 1313 papers identified, with 37 publications meeting review criteria.

Results

The incidence of type 1 diabetes‐related emergencies varied from 2.4 to 14.6% over one year for hypoglycaemic episodes, and between 0.07 and 11.8 events per 100 person‐years for hyperglycaemic episodes. Notably, our findings revealed that ongoing diabetes education and the integration of diabetes technology, such as continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump therapy, significantly reduced the incidence of these emergencies. However, socio‐economic disparities posed barriers to accessing these technologies, subsequently shifting the cost to emergency healthcare and highlighting the need for governments to consider subsidising these technologies as part of preventative measures.

Conclusions

Improving access to continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump therapy, in combination with ongoing diabetes education focusing on symptom recognition and early management, will reduce the incidence of diabetes‐related emergencies. Concurrent research assessing emergency healthcare usage patterns during the implementation of such measures is essential to ensure these are cost‐effective.
‘Werner Syndrome foot’—A case series of four Irish Traveller siblings with Werner Syndrome, diabetes mellitus and complex foot disease
Authors: McGrath Aisling , Lockhart Michael , Griffin Tomas , Lynch Sally Ann , Dinneen Sean F.
Published: June 2024

AimsWerner Syndrome is a rare premature ageing autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the WRN gene. People with Werner Syndrome may develop diabetes mellitus. Chronic foot ulceration is seen, with some characteristics overlapping with diabetic foot disease. However, the clinical course of the ulceration is atypical of diabetic foot disease. We present four siblings from an Irish Traveller family with Werner Syndrome to highlight the complexity of this condition. The Irish Traveller population are an indigenous, endogamous population in which consanguinity is common. As a result, rare autosomal recessive disorders are prevalent among this population

.

Methods

We describe our experience managing the complex foot disease seen in all four siblings. Foot complications present in the siblings include painful peripheral neuropathy, chronic foor ulceration, underlying osteomyelitis and acral melanoma.

Results

The cases are described individually, with a particular focus on the complex foot disease associated with the condition.

Conclusions

Although the siblings attend a diabetic foot clinic, we suggest that the combination of clinical features seen in these cases is unique to Werner syndrome and warrants the title ‘Werner Syndrome’ (rather than ‘Diabetic’) foot.
The role of the gut microbiome in disorders of gut–brain interaction
Authors: Gawey Brent J. , Mars Ruben A. , Kashyap Purna C.
Published: June 2024

Disorders of Gut‐Brain Interaction (DGBI) are widely prevalent and commonly encountered in gastroenterology practice. While several peripheral and central mechanisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of DGBI, a recent body of work suggests an important role for the gut microbiome. In this review, we highlight how gut microbiota and their metabolites affect physiologic changes underlying symptoms in DGBI, with a particular focus on their mechanistic influence on GI transit, visceral sensitivity, intestinal barrier function and secretion, and CNS processing. This review emphasizes the complexity of local and distant effects of microbial metabolites on physiological function, influenced by factors such as metabolite concentration, duration of metabolite exposure, receptor location, host genetics, and underlying disease state. Large‐scale in vitro work has elucidated interactions between host receptors and the microbial metabolome but there is a need for future research to integrate such preclinical findings with clinical studies. The development of novel, targeted therapeutic strategies for DGBI hinges on a deeper understanding of these metabolite‐host interactions, offering exciting possibilities for the future of treatment of DGBI.
Intrinsic microbial temperature sensitivity and soil organic carbon decomposition in response to climate change
Authors: Li Sen , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Ding Jixian , Hu Han , Huang Weigen , Sun Yishen , Ni Haowei , Kuang Yanyun , Yuan Mengting Maggie , Zhou Jizhong , Zhang Jiabao , Liang Yuting
Published: June 2024

Soil microbes are essential for regulating carbon stocks under climate change. However, the uncertainty surrounding how microbial temperature responses control carbon losses under warming conditions highlights a significant gap in our climate change models. To address this issue, we conducted a fine‐scale analysis of soil organic carbon composition under different temperature gradients and characterized the corresponding microbial growth and physiology across various paddy soils spanning 4000 km in China. Our results showed that warming altered the composition of organic matter, resulting in a reduction in carbohydrates of approximately 0.026% to 0.030% from humid subtropical regions to humid continental regions. These changes were attributed to a decrease in the proportion of cold‐preferring bacteria, leading to significant soil carbon losses. Our findings suggest that intrinsic microbial temperature sensitivity plays a crucial role in determining the rate of soil organic carbon decomposition, providing insights into the temperature limitations faced by microbial activities and their impact on soil carbon‐climate feedback.
Ghislain de Marsily: An Appreciation
Authors: Simmons Craig T.
Published: June 2024

Article impact statement: This article honors the life and work of Professor Ghislain de Marsily, an internationally renowned groundwater scholar.
Factors influencing engagement in pelvic floor muscle exercise following radical prostatectomy: A scoping review
Authors: Qan'ir Yousef , Song Lixin , Knafl Kathleen , Sheeran Paschal , Tan Hung‐Jui , Shahait Mohammed , AL‐Sagarat Ahmad
Published: June 2024

Inconsistent engagement in pelvic floor muscle exercise (PFME) among patients with prostate cancer (PC) following radical prostatectomy may have contributed to varying effectiveness in improving urinary incontinence across studies. Identifying factors influencing engagement can help develop effective interventions to maximize participation, enhance urinary function and improve quality of life (QoL). This scoping review aims to systematically search for factors influencing PFME engagement among post radical prostatectomy patients managing urinary incontinence. Eligible publications in English were identified from various databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest, PsycINFO and Scopus. A health science librarian was consulted to assist in formulating search terms, encompassing PC, PFME terms and influencing factors terms. We employed Colandrapp™ for data extraction, focusing on key themes such as study characteristics, PFME education and training, recommended sessions, engagement rates and factors influencing PFME engagement following radical prostatectomy. Results were presented in tables and supplemented by a narrative discussion addressing gaps in research knowledge. The synthesis drew from a diverse body of literature, blending quantitative and qualitative approaches, to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of PFME engagement factors. Twelve papers, based on 10 studies published between 2011 and 2018, met our inclusion criteria. The reviewed studies primarily employed longitudinal quantitative designs, except for one study that utilized a mixed‐method design. Only three studies incorporated theories to guide the selection of potential factors influencing PFME engagement. The factors examined across the reviewed studies encompassed aspects related to the patient–partner relationship, patient's action control, planning (dyadic or individual), self‐efficacy, perceived urinary incontinence and the patient–provider relationship. We observed conflicting findings regarding the factors influencing PFME engagement across studies. Our review underscores the importance of theory‐informed studies using rigorous methodology and precise theoretical and operational definitions of potential factors. Such studies can help pinpoint the most influential factors to enhance PFME engagement and, ultimately, improve symptoms and QoL for PC patients. The scoping review also showed critical implications for nursing practice. Nurses should develop individualized and culturally sensitive interventions, integrate health behaviour change theories, assess patient–partner relationships and action control and consider intention's mediating role in the enhancement of PFME engagement following radical prostatectomy.
Distribution of Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in the Rapidly Urbanizing Arroyo Colorado Watershed, Texas
Authors: Liu Yina , Shields Michael R. , Puthigai Sangeetha , Gregory Lucas F. , Berthold Allen A.
Published: June 2024

This study presents the first report of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water samples collected in the Arroyo Colorado (n = 15), irrigation canals (n = 6), stormwater and wastewater retention ponds (n = 7), as well as drinking waters (n = 2) across the Arroyo Colorado watershed. Of the 30 PFAS monitored in this study, 14 were detected in the samples in various combinations. Short‐chain PFAS (less than 8 carbon atoms) were observed in most samples. Water collected from the Arroyo Colorado showed significant spatial variabilities, with high total PFAS concentrations observed near possible point sources ‐ a municipal airport and wastewater treatment facilities. PFAS concentrations were generally higher in water samples collected in stormwater and wastewater retention ponds than in the Arroyo Colorado and irrigation canals. PFAS in stormwater retention ponds likely came from roadway runoff. Short‐chain PFAS were observed in the two municipal water samples, but they were below the current U.S. EPA regulation limits or are not currently regulated. This study provides useful information for water quality in this region and provides insights into PFAS occurrence in a rapidly urbanizing area.
Microstructure and mechanical behavior of TaxHf1−xC–SiC fabricated by reactive hot‐pressing: Effect of Ta:Hf ratio
Authors: Ni Dewei , Qin Yanyan , Dong Shaoming
Published: June 2024

TaxHf1–xC are promising candidates for many applications under harsh environments due to their unique properties. Up until now, low‐temperature densification is still a big challenge for these ceramics. Moreover, the effect of Ta:Hf ratio on microstructure development and mechanical behavior of the ceramics is not clear. In this work, highly dense TaxHf1−xC–SiC ceramics (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8) were fabricated at 1700°C by a novel reactive hot‐pressing processing with 8 wt% Si as sintering aid, which present excellent mechanical properties. Fracture toughness of the ceramics is higher than 6.3 MPa·m1/2, with the highest toughness achieved in Ta0.6Hf0.4C–SiC (8.5 MPa·m1/2). With the increase of Ta content, hardness of the ceramics tends to increase, while the bending strength tends to decrease. The highest bending strength is achieved in Ta0.2Hf0.8C–SiC (637 MPa), and the highest hardness is achieved in Ta0.8Hf0.2C–SiC (17.6 GPa). This work lays the foundation for the composition design of TaxHf1−xC‐based ceramics and composites.
The impact of bond market liberalization on accounting conservatism
Authors: Fu Renhui , Gao Fang , Wang Yanhui
Published: June 2024

In a quasi‐natural experimental setting in which Bond Connect allows foreign investors to trade in the Chinese interbank bond market, we predict and find that firms subject to the program increase their accounting conservatism. Further analyses suggest that the increase is concentrated among firms with higher litigation risk, more corporate site visits and greater media attention from overseas, suggesting that foreign bond investors affect firms through the channel of bondholder litigation and monitoring. Additionally, we document that improvement in conservatism is more pronounced when foreign investors participate more and for firms with looser issuance criteria. We also find that enhanced conservatism results in a lower cost of debt for bonds in the liberalized market and those of the same issuers in the nonliberalized market, as well as lower overinvestments and fewer dividends. In addition, firms show greater conservatism in other forms of public disclosure. Together, these findings suggest that firms enhance accounting conservatism to facilitate foreign bond investors’ assessment of credit risk.
Evaluation and economic analysis of fermented fish viscera silage in diets for tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) and its effects on the physical quality of pellets, growth performance, health parameters
Authors: Santana Thiago M. , Dantas Francisco M. , Prestes Armando G. , Jerônimo Gabriela T. , da Costa Jesaias I. , dos Santos Driely K. M. , Pastrana Yugo M. , Yamamoto Fernando Y. , Gonçalves Ligia U.
Published: June 2024

The production of silage using fish viscera can be carried out with straightforward methods and permits the exploitation of nutrients that are usually discarded. This process fosters the concept of circular aquaculture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of increasing levels of fish viscera silage (VS) on the physical quality of the feed pellets and their effects on their growth performance, health parameters and on economic indices when the experimental extruded feed was offered to tambaqui. A fermented fish VS produced in‐house was included in increasing levels on a wet‐basis in the formulation of five experimental diets (VS 0%, VS 5%; VS 10%; VS 15% and VS 20%). Juvenile tambaqui (~22.6 g) were stocked in fibreglass tanks of 700 L (n = 4; 21 fish per tank) with a recirculation system and the five experimental diets were attributed in a completely randomized design. The fish were fed with the experimental diets (to apparent satiation) for 13 weeks. At the end of the trial, no significant differences were observed for production performance. Fish fed with the highest inclusion level of VS presented the highest concentration of plasma cholesterol, but this was still within acceptable values for this species. The inclusion of fish VS in diets for juvenile tambaqui reduced the activity of the plasma ALT enzyme, confirming normal liver function. Extruded feed containing fish VS had a production cost of US$ 0.95 per kg, which does not significantly impact the economic indices. Up to 20% of fish VS can be included in the extruded feed formulation for juvenile tambaqui without impairing growth performance or affecting health parameters.
Population genomics resolves cryptic species of the ecologically flexible genus Laspinema (Cyanobacteria)
Authors: Dvořák Petr , Skoupý Svatopluk , Jarošová Hana , Páleníčková Kateřina , Stanojković Aleksandar
Published: June 2024

Cyanobacterial taxonomy is entering the genomic era, but only a few taxonomic studies have employed population genomics, which provides a framework and a multitude of tools to understand species boundaries. Phylogenomic and population genomic analyses previously suggested that several cryptic lineages emerged within the genus Laspinema. Here, we apply population genomics to define boundaries between these lineages and propose two new cryptic species, Laspinema olomoucense and L. palackyanum. Moreover, we sampled soil and puddles across Central Europe and sequenced the 16S rRNA gene and 16S‐23S ITS region of the isolated Laspinema strains. Together with database mining of 16S rRNA gene sequences, we determined that the genus Laspinema has a cosmopolitan distribution and inhabits a wide variety of habitats, including freshwater, saline water, mangroves, soil crusts, soils, puddles, and the human body.
Using Large‐Scale Location Data to Examine Racial Diversity and Segregation in Church Attendees’ Home Neighborhoods
Authors: Greenberg Pierce , Danielsen Sabrina , Wishart Ryan
Published: June 2024

The racial diversity of churches has been a longstanding topic of interest in the social science of religion. Studies have historically found low levels of racial diversity within churches—but some evidence suggests that diversification is increasing. However, past research has not addressed racial segregation in another significant setting: church attendees’ home neighborhoods. Our article illustrates how large‐scale location data collected from smartphones can estimate the average racial demographics of where church attendees live. Our findings show that church attendees in Omaha, Nebraska—especially those attending Evangelical Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Mainline Protestant churches—live in more homogenously white census blocks than the average census block in the city.
How computation explains
Authors: Richmond Andrew
Published: June 2024

Cognitive science gives computational explanations of the brain. Philosophers have treated these explanations as if they simply claim that the brain computes. We have therefore assumed that to understand how and why computational explanation works, we must understand what it is to compute. In contrast, I argue that we can understand computational explanation by describing the resources it brings to bear on the study of the brain. Specifically, I argue that it introduces concepts and formalisms that complement cognitive science's modeling goals. This allows us to understand computational explanation without having to debate what it is to compute.
A promoter polymorphism defines distinct roles in anther development for Col‐0 and Ler‐0 alleles of Arabidopsis ACYL‐COA BINDING PROTEIN3
Authors: Guo Ze‐Hua , Hu Tai‐Hua , Hamdan Mohd Fadhli , Li Minghui , Wang Ruifeng , Xu Jie , Lung Shiu‐Cheung , Liang Wanqi , Shi Jianxin , Zhang Dabing , Chye Mee‐Len
Published: June 2024

Acyl‐CoA‐Binding Proteins (ACBPs) bind acyl‐CoA esters and function in lipid metabolism. Although acbp3‐1, the ACBP3 mutant in Arabidopsis thaliana ecotype Col‐0, displays normal floral development, the acbp3‐2 mutant from ecotype Ler‐0 characterized herein exhibits defective adaxial anther lobes and improper sporocyte formation.

To understand these differences and identify the role of ERECTA in ACBP3 function, the acbp3 mutants and acbp3‐erecta (er) lines were analyzed by microscopy for anther morphology and high‐performance liquid chromatography for lipid composition.

Defects in Landsberg anther development were related to the ERECTA‐mediated pathway because the progenies of acbp3‐2 × La‐0 and acbp3‐1 × er‐1 in Col‐0 showed normal anthers, contrasting to that of acbp3‐2 in Ler‐0. Polymorphism in the regulatory region of ACBP3 enabled its function in anther development in Ler‐0 but not Col‐0 which harbored an AT‐repeat insertion. ACBP3 expression and anther development in acbp3‐2 were restored using ACBP3pro (Ler)::ACBP3 not ACBP3pro (Col)::ACBP3. SPOROCYTELESS (SPL), a sporocyte formation regulator activated ACBP3 transcription in Ler‐0 but not Col‐0.

For anther development, the ERECTA‐related role of ACBP3 is required in Ler‐0, but not Col‐0. The disrupted promoter regulatory region for SPL binding in Col‐0 eliminates the role of ACBP3 in anther development.
Urban resilience governance mechanism: Insights from COVID‐19 prevention and control in 30 Chinese cities
Authors: Xia Cao , Delei Wang
Published: June 2024

Due to the pervasive uncertainty in human society, super large and megacities are increasingly prone to becoming high‐risk areas. However, the construction of urban resilience in this new era lacks sufficient research on the core conditions and complex interactive mechanisms governing it. Hence, this study proposes a specialized event‐oriented framework for governing urban resilience in China based on the pressure‐state‐response (PSR) theory. We examined COVID‐19 cases in 30 cities across China and analyzed the distribution of prevention and control achievements between high‐level and non‐high‐level conditions. Our findings reveal the following key points: (1) High‐level achievements in COVID‐19 prevention and control rely on three condition configurations: non‐pressure‐responsive type, pressure‐state type, and pressure‐responsive type. (2) High economic resilience may indicate a robust state of urban systems amid demographic pressures. In cities experiencing fewer event pressure factors, the application of digital technology plays a crucial role in daily urban management. (3) The implementation of flexible policies proves beneficial in mitigating the impact of objective pressure conditions, such as environmental factors, on urban resilience.
Use of a free proximal ulnar autograft for ipsilateral radial lengthening in a dog with a short radius and subsequent elbow incongruity
Authors: Sevy Julia J. , Bevan John
Published: June 2024

Objective

To report the technique and outcome of proximal ulnar autograft transplantation to achieve ipsilateral radial lengthening in a dog with premature closure of both proximal and distal radial physes.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

An 8‐month‐old female spayed Border Collie.

Methods

The dog was presented for a grade III/IV left thoracic limb lameness localized to the elbow. Orthogonal radiographs of both forelimbs revealed a 7% length deficit of the left radius and elbow subluxation indices indicative of left elbow incongruity due to suspect premature closure of both radial physes. Radial lengthening consisted of a proximal ulnar ostectomy, a radial osteotomy, and transplantation of the ulnar autograft into the radial osteotomy site secured with an eight‐hole dynamic compression plate. Orthopedic examinations were conducted at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 3 years postoperatively. Radiographic examinations were completed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at 4 weeks and 3 years postoperatively.

Results

Lameness improved with a grade II/IV lameness at 4 weeks postoperatively and complete resolution at 3 years postoperatively. Radiographic examination at 4 weeks showed persistent radial lengthening of 1 cm, and a decreased humeroradial index (HRI), humeroulnar index (HUI), and radioulnar index (RUI) compared with preoperative values. At the 3 year examination, the HRI and HUI had increased indicating progression of elbow incongruity. The patient remained clinically unaffected.

Conclusion

In dogs with radial shortening and elbow incongruity, use of an ipsilateral proximal ulnar autograft with rigid internal fixation can be an effective treatment for radial lengthening to improve elbow congruity and resolve lameness.
Scalar Field Prediction on Meshes Using Interpolated Multiresolution Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Ferguson Kevin , Gillman Andrew , Hardin James , Kara Levent Burak
Published: June 2024

Scalar fields, such as stress or temperature fields, are often calculated in shape optimization and design problems in engineering. For complex problems where shapes have varying topology and cannot be parametrized, data-driven scalar field prediction can be faster than traditional finite element methods. However, current data-driven techniques to predict scalar fields are limited to a fixed grid domain, instead of arbitrary mesh structures. In this work, we propose a method to predict scalar fields on arbitrary meshes. It uses a convolutional neural network whose feature maps at multiple resolutions are interpolated to node positions before being fed into a multilayer perceptron to predict solutions to partial differential equations at mesh nodes. The model is trained on finite element von Mises stress fields, and once trained, it can estimate stress values at each node on any input mesh. Two shape datasets are investigated, and the model has strong performance on both, with a median R2 value of 0.91. We also demonstrate the model on a temperature field in a heat conduction problem, where its predictions have a median R2 value of 0.99. Our method provides a potential flexible alternative to finite element analysis in engineering design contexts. Code and datasets are available online.
Stability Analysis of Pure Oil-Water Emulsion in Gravity-Based Separators
Authors: Alanazi K. , Mohan R. , Kolla S. S. , Shoham O.
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this work is to investigate the stability of pure (emulsifier-free) oil-water emulsion in a gravity-based separator as a function of various parameters such as mixing speed, water volume concentration, temperature, and appearance. Only simple fluids (ExxsolTMD110 and distilled water) were used to form the dispersion in a separator of operational volume 200 ml and internal diameter of 60 mm. Data were gathered from a portable dispersion characterization rig where videos of liquid phase separation can be saved and scanned. The study considered a wide range of mixing speeds between 600 rpm and 2500 rpm, with elevated temperatures of 60 °C and 80 °C. Both types (oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O)) of pure emulsion were studied. In addition, two volumetric water concentrations (WCs) were considered for each type to investigate its stability under the parameters tested (i.e., 25% and 50% WC for W/O emulsion and 75% and 90% WC for O/W emulsion). The stability of the emulsion was examined in terms of the separation profiles of the water and oil phase, oil/water mixture volume, initiation time of free phase separation and/or the final time of separation. Mixing speed was shown to drastically impact the stability of O/W emulsion, from a few minutes to over 4 h. Conversely, insignificant effects of mixing speed were seen for W/O emulsion as the emulsions overall separated in a few seconds. Although temperature accelerated the oil separation rates of 75% WC emulsions, it delayed the initiation time of water separation.
Essential functions of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) in murine leukemia virus replication
Authors: Biswas Banhi , Lai Kin Kui , Bracey Harrison , Datta Siddhartha A. K. , Harvin Demetria , Sowd Gregory A. , Aiken Christopher , Rein Alan
Published: June 2024

We have investigated the function of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) and inositol pentakisphosphate (IP5) in the replication of murine leukemia virus (MLV). While IP6 is known to be critical for the life cycle of HIV-1, its significance in MLV remains unexplored. We find that IP6 is indeed important for MLV replication. It significantly enhances endogenous reverse transcription (ERT) in MLV. Additionally, a pelleting-based assay reveals that IP6 can stabilize MLV cores, thereby facilitating ERT. We find that IP5 and IP6 are packaged in MLV particles. However, unlike HIV-1, MLV depends upon the presence of IP6 and IP5 in target cells for successful infection. This IP6/5 requirement for infection is reflected in impaired reverse transcription observed in IP6/5-deficient cell lines. In summary, our findings demonstrate the importance of capsid stabilization by IP6/5 in the replication of diverse retroviruses; we suggest possible reasons for the differences from HIV-1 that we observed in MLV.

IMPORTANCE

Inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) is crucial for the assembly and replication of HIV-1. IP6 is packaged in HIV-1 particles and stabilizes the viral core enabling it to synthesize viral DNA early in viral infection. While its importance for HIV-1 is well established, its significance for other retroviruses is unknown. Here we report the role of IP6 in the gammaretrovirus, murine leukemia virus (MLV). We found that like HIV-1, MLV packages IP6, and as in HIV-1, IP6 stabilizes the MLV core thus promoting reverse transcription. Interestingly, we discovered a key difference in the role of IP6 in MLV versus HIV-1: while HIV-1 is not dependent upon IP6 levels in target cells, MLV replication is significantly reduced in IP6-deficient cell lines. We suggest that this difference in IP6 requirements reflects key differences between HIV-1 and MLV replication.
Impact of first pass effect in endovascular treatment of large core stroke: a post-hoc analysis of the ANGEL-ASPECT trial
Authors: Huang Xianjun , Sun Dapeng , Nguyen Thanh N , Pan Yuesong , Wang Mengxing , Abdalkader Mohamad , Zaidat Osama O , Ma Ning , Gao Feng , Mo Dapeng , Miao Zhongrong , Huo Xiaochuan , Zhou Zhiming
Published: June 2024

Background

The first-pass effect (FPE) is linked to better safety and efficacy prognosis in patients with small- to- moderate sized ischemic infarctions. We evaluated the incidence, prognosis, and predictors of FPE in patients with large core infarctions (LCIs).

Methods

We conducted a post-hoc analysis of data from the Trial of Endovascular Therapy in Acute Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusive Patients with a Large Infarct Core (ANGEL-ASPECT). The FPE was defined as a successful recanalization (expanded Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (eTICI) 2 c/3, and eTICI 2b-3 as modified FPE (mFPE)) after one pass. The primary outcome was clinical functional independence, and the secondary outcomes were independent ambulation, assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days. Safety outcomes included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) defined by the Heidelberg bleeding classification, any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and death within 90 days of stroke onset.

Results

Of the 226 patients in the study, FPE and mFPE were achieved in 33 (14.6%) and 82 (36.3%) patients, respectively. Patients with FPE exhibited shorter onset-to-puncture times (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.915; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84 to 0.996), and patients with mFPE were older (OR 1.039; 95% CI: 1.005 to 1.075). mFPE was significantly associated with favorable outcomes (modified Rankin score [mRS] 0–2: OR 2.64; 95% CI: 1.37 to 5.07; mRS 0–3: OR 3.31; 95% CI: 1.73 to 6.33). FPE tended to improve outcomes (mRS 0–3: OR 2.24; 95% CI: 0.92 to 4.97; p=0.08). ICH rates (OR 0.60; 95% CI: 0.34 to 1.05; p=0.07) and 90-day deaths (OR 0.57; 95% CI: 0.30 to 1.09; p=0.09) tended to decrease in patients who achieved mFPE but not in patients who achieved FPE.

Conclusions

In the ANGEL-ASPECT trial, patients who achieved mFPE had a higher rate of independent ambulation and functional independence, and the rates of any ICH and 90-day death tended to decrease.
Will psychology ever ‘join hands’ with disability studies? Opportunities and challenges in working towards structurally competent and disability-affirmative psychotherapy for energy limiting conditions
Authors: Hunt Joanne
Published: June 2024

Despite sustained efforts among critically informed scholars to integrate thinking from disability studies into psychology, the psy disciplines continue to largely neglect the lived experience of disabled people and overlook disability as a form of social inequity and valued culture. In this article, I make a renewed case for integrating thinking from disability studies into psy, in particular within the psychotherapy professions and in the case of ‘energy limiting conditions’, a grass-roots concept that includes clinically and socially marginalised chronic illness such as Long COVID. Drawing on my experience as a disabled practitioner, and situating this within extant literature on disability and psy, I take an autoethnographic approach to exploring opportunities and challenges in bridging the interdisciplinary divide. I argue that unacknowledged institutional ableism within psy reproduces and is reinforced by physical and attitudinal barriers for disabled practitioners and service users, engendering under-representation of disability in psychotherapy professions and lacunae in disability-affirmative conceptual resources. Additionally, I propose that hermeneutical lacunae are bolstered by documented defensive clinical practices pertaining to disability. After discussing a wealth of opportunities for integration offered by disability studies, and noting the institutional failure within psy to embrace disability-related demographic and epistemic diversity, I question whether ongoing epistemic and social exclusions within the psy disciplines constitute a case of ‘willful epistemic ableism’. Drawing on theorising vis-à-vis epistemic injustice and epistemologies of ignorance, I signal a form of systematic, actively maintained and structurally incentivised (motivated) non-knowing that results in collective failure among dominant groups to recognise established hermeneutical resources of the disabled community and allies. I conclude with suggestions of how this form of epistemic injustice might be mitigated.
Tracing the footprints of MPXV in Asia: phylogenetic insights and lineage dynamics
Authors: Chen Yung-Chun , Liao Yu-Chieh , Mao Yan-Chiao , Yeh Ting-Kuang , Liu Po-Yu
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The 2022 global outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV), previously confined to Central and West Africa, necessitates an enhanced understanding of its spread. Comprehensive genomic surveillance to understand the virus’s evolution and spread is needed, particularly in Asia.

Methods

Genomic data from 169 MPXV genome sequences in Asia were analysed. Through advanced genomic sequencing of clinical samples, we analysed the distribution and mutations of MPXV lineages in Asia.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis revealed a distinct clustering of C.1 strains rise in Northeast Asia in 2023, while genomic examination identified specific consensus mutations like R84K, R665C and L16F in C.1 strains. The mutations, coupled with an increased rate of apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing catalytic polypeptide-like 3 motif G-to-A mutations in C.1 (OR 24.87±8.81), indicate a potential adaptation mechanism.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and provide vital insights into MPXV’s evolving dynamics, aiding in public health strategy formulation against this emerging infectious threat.
Hepatitis C virus infection is uncommon at baseline and during follow-up among individuals using PrEP in the Dutch national PrEP programme between 2019 and 2022
Authors: Hage Kris , Boyd Anders , Op de Coul Eline L M , Sarink Danja , Hoornenborg Elske , Prins Maria
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Studies showed that men who have sex with men (MSM), including those using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), are at increased risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We evaluated HCV prevalence and incidence, along with their associated determinants, in a cohort of PrEP-using individuals in the Netherlands.

Methods

In 2019, the Netherlands launched a 5-year national programme that offers subsidised PrEP to eligible individuals. We used prospectively collected data from individuals registered in this programme between 2019 and 2022. Individuals underwent annual testing for HCV antibodies and additional HCV-RNA testing when antibodies were present. We calculated the prevalence of past/current HCV infection at first visit and overall incidence rate (IR) during follow-up. Univariable logistic and Poisson regression models were used to identify determinants associated with past/current prevalent or incident HCV infection, respectively. Behavioural factors referred to those occurring in the previous 6 months.

Results

A total of 10 563 (n=10 319, 97.7% MSM) were included. At first visit, 66 of 10 563 (0.6%) had a past/current HCV infection, which was associated with older age [odds ratio (OR) per 10 years=1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.31 to 1.88], the use of PrEP before first visit (OR=3.03, 95% CI=1.79 to 5.13), receptive condomless anal sex (CAS) (OR=2.73, 95% CI=1.25 to 5.98), chemsex (OR=2.44, 95% CI=1.49 to 3.99) and injecting drug use (IDU) (OR=6.61, 95% CI=2.35 to 18.61). Among 9851 individuals contributing to 17 150 person-years (PYs) of follow-up, 64 incident HCV infections (IR=0.37 per 100 PYs, 95% CI=0.29 to 0.48) were identified. Factors associated with incident HCV infection were receptive CAS [incidence rate ratio (IRR)=2.59, 95% CI=1.12 to 6.02], chemsex (IRR=1.78, 95% CI=1.06 to 2.98), sexually transmitted infection diagnosis (IRR=2.30, 95% CI=1.23 to 4.31) and IDU (IRR=6.15, 95% CI=2.20 to 17.18).

Conclusions

Past/current prevalence and incidence of HCV were low among individuals in the Dutch PrEP programme. Infections were associated with behaviour known to be associated with HCV. Instead of annual HCV testing, as stated in most PrEP care guidelines, testing frequency for HCV could be based on behaviours associated with HCV acquisition.