bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneous changes in global glacial lakes under coupled climate warming and glacier thinning
Authors: Zhang Taigang , Wang Weicai , An Baosheng
Published: July 2024

Global glacial lakes have expanded markedly in recent decades, accompanied by many catastrophic glacial lake outburst floods. However, our understanding of glacial lake evolution and connections with global warming and glacier thinning remains insufficient due to fragmented studies and a lack of standardized mapping. Here we evaluated the glacial lake changes and their drivers, taking care to accurately map glacial lakes while excluding non-glacier fed lakes in the same geographic area. In 2020, a total of 71,508 glacial lakes were identified worldwide, covering an area of 21,770.9$$\pm$$
±
544.2 km2. The total volume of 1280.6$$\pm$$
±
354.1 km3 is equivalent to a sea-level rise of 3.45 mm. Since the 1990s, glacial lake numbers, areas, and volumes increased by 54%, 11%, and 9%, respectively. The spatial evolution patterns align well with resolved large-scale, decadal glacier mass changes. Glacier-fed lakes extensively expanded due to glacier retreat and melting, while ice-dammed lakes were primarily affected by thinning ice dams, resulting in heterogeneous changes and underestimated outburst potential. Under the sustained glacier degradation scenario, the results of this study have implications for further evaluation of glacial lake water resources and outburst risks on a global scale.
The mediating role of systemic inflammation and moderating role of racialization in disparities in incident dementia
Authors: Higgins Tejera César , Ware Erin B. , Hicken Margaret T. , Kobayashi Lindsay C. , Wang Herong , Blostein Freida , Zawistowski Matthew , Mukherjee Bhramar , Bakulski Kelly M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Exposure to systemic racism is linked to increased dementia burden. To assess systemic inflammation as a potential pathway linking exposure to racism and dementia disparities, we investigated the mediating role of C-reactive protein (CRP), a systemic inflammation marker, and the moderating role of the racialization process in incident dementia.

Methods

In the US Health and Retirement Study (n = 6,908), serum CRP was measured at baseline (2006, 2008 waves). Incident dementia was classified by cognitive tests over a six-year follow-up. Self-reported racialized categories were a proxy for exposure to the racialization process. We decomposed racialized disparities in dementia incidence (non-Hispanic Black and/or Hispanic vs. non-Hispanic white) into 1) the mediated effect of CRP, 2) the moderated portion attributable to the interaction between racialized group membership and CRP, and 3) the controlled direct effect (other pathways through which racism operates).

Results

The 6-year cumulative incidence of dementia is 12%. Among minoritized participants (i.e., non-Hispanic Black and/or Hispanic), high CRP levels ( ≥ 75th percentile or 4.73μg/mL) are associated with 1.26 (95%CI: 0.98, 1.62) times greater risk of incident dementia than low CRP ( < 4.73μg/mL). Decomposition analysis comparing minoritized versus non-Hispanic white participants shows that the mediating effect of CRP accounts for 3% (95% CI: 0%, 6%) of the racial disparity, while the interaction effect between minoritized group status and high CRP accounts for 14% (95% CI: 1%, 27%) of the disparity. Findings are robust to potential violations of causal mediation assumptions.

Conclusions

Minoritized group membership modifies the relationship between systemic inflammation and incident dementia.
Regulating the thickness of the NiO layer to optimize the photoinduced carrier separation behavior of BiVO4
Authors: Peng Yaru , Cai Junhao , Li Guoqiang
Published: July 2024

The rational and effective regulation of interfacial charge separation and transport through the construction of composites is an effective strategy to improve photocatalytic performance.
Hexane insoluble fraction from purple rice extract improves steatohepatitis and fibrosis via inhibition of NF-κB and JNK signaling
Authors: Naiki-Ito Aya , Yeewa Ranchana , Xiaochen Kuang , Taychaworaditsakul Weerakit , Naiki Taku , Kato Hiroyuki , Nagayasu Yuko , Chewonarin Teera , Takahashi Satoru
Published: July 2024

Inhibition of NF-κB and JNK signaling by PRE-HIF contributes to decreased expression of cytokines and improved histological changes in NASH.
A review of the biological activities of lactoferrin: mechanisms and potential applications
Authors: Hong Ruiyao , Xie Aijun , Jiang Chengxi , Guo Yangze , Zhang Yumeng , Chen Jiali , Shen Xinyu , Li Mohan , Yue Xiqing
Published: July 2024

This paper reviews the biological activities of lactoferrin.
Palladium-based metal–organic coordination nanoparticles for efficient tumor treatment via synergistic enhancement of ROS production
Authors: Liu Chang , Yang Na , Li Mengyao , Song Shuang , Zhou Wei , Ren Jia , He Di Demi , Han Wenzhao , Li Ying , Yu Cong
Published: July 2024

Multifunctional palladium-based metal–organic coordination nanoparticles (Pd@RB@LAP NPs) are designed for synergistic ROS-mediated tumor therapy.
The prospect of substrate-based kinase inhibitors to improve target selectivity and overcome drug resistance
Authors: Biswas Biswajit , Huang Yen-Hua , Craik David J. , Wang Conan K.
Published: July 2024

Substrate-site inhibitors of protein kinases have the potential to be selective and resistance-resilient.
Electrocatalysts work better in lean-electrolyte lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhao Jia-Jia , Chen Zi-Xian , Cheng Qian , Zhao Meng , Ma Xinzhi , Zhang Xue-Qiang , Huang Jia-Qi , Li Bo-Quan
Published: July 2024

The cathode kinetics promotion effectiveness of electrocatalysts is evaluated in lean-electrolyte lithium–sulfur batteries. The improvement of polysulfide conversion kinetics and battery performance is more significant at higher sulfur concentration.
Ferrocene-modified polymer-SWCNT composite films for high-performance flexible thermoelectric generators
Authors: Sun Zelin , Ma Zhifeng , Zhou Xuan , Wang Yanzhao , Zhang Jie , Wong Wai-Yeung
Published: July 2024

Highly efficient p-type TE composites based on poly(Fc-CPT)-based conjugated polymers are developed. Their morphological analysis and theoretical calculations elucidate the structure-property relationship in their thermoelectric performance.
F-coordinated single-atom Ru species: efficient and durable catalysts for photo-thermal synergistic catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to methane
Authors: Tang Yunxiang , Wang Hao , Guo Chan , Wang Lige , Zhao Tingting , Yang Zhengyi , Xiao Shikang , Liu Jiurong , Jiang Yanyan , Zhao Yufei , Wen Xiao-Dong , Wang Fenglong
Published: July 2024

We show that fine-tuning of coordination structure of Ru sites can significantly enhance performances for CO2 hydrogenation to methane under mild conditions in a photo-thermal synergistic catalytic process.
Template-directed in situ grown bimetallic nanoarchitectures with hydroxide active site enriched multi-charge transfer routes for energy storage
Authors: Savariraj Antonysamy Dennyson , Thondaiman Pugalenthiyar , Sivakumar Periyasamy , Manikandan Ramu , Rodney John D. , Kim Byung Chul , Jung Hyun
Published: July 2024

Binder-free NiCo-MOF@Ni(OH)2 nanoarchitectures were developed via in situ deposition for aqueous supercapacitors. Multi-charge transport routes were realized and the DFT results revealed the significant conductivity and charge storage capability.
Channel swapping of EEG signals for deep learning‐based seizure detection
Authors: Pan Yayan , Dong Fangying , Yao Wei , Meng Xiaoqin , Xu Yongan
Published: July 2024

The purpose of epilepsy detection is to determine whether epilepsy has occurred by analysing the patient's electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. Compared to traditional methods, epilepsy detection methods based on deep learning have achieved significant improvements in detection accuracy. However, when the number of training samples is limited, the model's detection performance often significantly declines. To address this issue, here a sample enhancement method based on electroencephalogram signal channel swapping is proposed. This method generates new electroencephalogram samples by exchanging electroencephalogram sequences from different channels, thereby expanding the training set and improving epilepsy detection accuracy in few‐shot scenarios. Experiments using the Children's Hospital Boston and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (CHB‐MIT) dataset show that for training sets with 100, 500, and 1000 samples, detection accuracy improves from 0.6797 to 0.7789, 0.6952 to 0.8210, and 0.7273 to 0.8517, respectively. Compared to the sliding window method, the proposed method demonstrates higher accuracy in extreme low sample sizes. Combining both methods can further enhances detection performance, showing an improvement of approximately 8% across various configurations.
Evaluation of comfort zone boundary based automated emergency braking algorithms for car‐to‐powered‐two‐wheeler crashes in China
Authors: Yang Xiaomi , Lubbe Nils , Bärgman Jonas
Published: July 2024

Crashes between cars and powered two‐wheelers (PTWs: motorcycles, scooters, and e‐bikes) are a safety concern; as a result, developing car safety systems that protect PTW riders is essential. While the pre‐crash protection system automated emergency braking (AEB) has been shown to avoid and mitigate injuries for car‐to‐car, car‐to‐cyclist, and car‐to‐pedestrian crashes, much is still unknown about its effectiveness in car‐to‐PTW crashes. Further, the characteristics of the crashes that remain after the introduction of such systems in traffic are also largely unknown. This study estimates the crash avoidance and injury risk reduction performance of six different PTW‐AEB algorithms that were virtually applied to reconstructed car‐to‐PTW pre‐crash kinematics extracted from a Chinese in‐depth crash database. Five of the algorithms include combinations of drivers’ and PTW riders’ comfort zone boundaries for braking and steering, while the sixth is a traditional AEB. Results show that the average safety performance of the algorithms using only the driver's comfort zone boundaries is higher than that of the traditional AEB algorithm. All algorithms resulted in similar distributions of impact speed and impact locations, which means that in‐crash protection systems likely can be made less complex, not having to consider differences in AEB algorithm design among car manufacturers.
A two‐stage optimization method of power supply scheme of on‐board supercapacitor‐powered tram
Authors: Zhang Huazhi , Fu Chengcheng , Wang Qingyuan , Sun Pengfei , Feng Xiaoyun , He Bin
Published: July 2024

Aiming at the power supply scheme (PSS) of the on‐board supercapacitor‐powered tram, considering the cost and margin of the PSS, a two‐stage method is designed to optimize the layout of the charging stations and the configuration of the supercapacitor (SC). First, the SC‐powered tram model and stable cycle operation model are established, and a two‐stage optimization problem model with the lowest PSS cost and the largest SC margin is established. Then, an improved dual‐population differential evolution algorithm is designed, and the layout of charging stations and the configuration of SC are co‐optimized in the first stage, and then the layout of charging stations is optimized again in the second stage. The simulation results show that co‐optimization can obtain a lower cost of PSS, and furthermore, the layout of charging stations can be optimized again to effectively improve the margin of SC, thereby improving the matching degree between the layout of charging stations and the connection scheme of SC.
Classical channel bandwidth requirements in continuous variable quantum key distribution systems
Authors: Almeida Margarida , Pereira Daniel , Pinto Armando N. , Silva Nuno A.
Published: July 2024

The reconciliation method for continuous variable quantum key distribution systems is usually chosen based on its reconciliation efficiency. Nonetheless, one must also consider the requirements of each reconciliation method in terms of the amount of information transmitted on the classical channel. Such may limit the achievable key rates. For instance, multidimensional reconciliation of dimension 8 demands a classical channel bandwidth 43 times greater than that of the quantum channel baud rate. Decreasing the dimension to 4 halves the required bandwidth, allowing for higher quantum channel baud rates and higher key rates for shorter transmission distances, despite the lesser reconciliation performance.
Peculiarities of neuromuscular apparatus and component composition of limbs of qualified divers
Authors: Popova Irina Evgenievna , Sysoev Aleksander Vladimirovich , Kondakov Viktor Leonidovich
Published: July 2024

To achieve a high sports result in diving it is necessary to have a good development of neuromuscular apparatus. It is important to study the factors influencing its functional state. The article presents a correlation analysis of the relationship between the parameters reflecting the state of the neuromuscular apparatus and indicators of the component composition of the upper and lower limbs of qualified divers. It is shown that it is necessary to develop muscle mass and reduce the amount of adipose tissue to accelerate the conductivity of nerve impulse along the nerves, to increase the synchronization of activation of motor units in the muscles of upper and lower limbs. This will improve the speed and strength qualities of muscles necessary in the performance of technically complex diving.
Effect of HIF-1α inhibition with topotecan and postconditioning on cardiac and skeletal muscle biomarkers during severe hypoxia
Authors: Fedorov D. A. , Frolova M. Yu. , Kuleva N. V.
Published: July 2024

The work used a model of severe hypobaric hypoxia (SH) – a three-hour session of rats staying at 180 mmHg (5% O2) and an attempt was made to evaluate the possibility of its use for muscle tissue by determining biomarkers of cardiac muscle and skeletal muscles damage in the blood plasma. To assess the effect of HIF1, we used the HIF-1α translation inhibitor, topotecan, which was administered intraperitoneally (5 mg/kg body weight) in a DMSO–0.09% NaCl mixture 10 min before hypoxia. For postconditioning (PostC), moderate hypobaric hypoxia was used [1]. A significant increase in the level of cardiac biomarker troponin I in the blood plasma of rats subjected to TH was shown, which indicated myocardial damage after SH. The blood level of the nonspecific muscle biomarker myoglobin did not change significantly after SH. However, when the HIF-1α inhibitor topotecan was used before SH, the amount of myoglobin in the blood plasma of rats one day after the SH session was significantly lower than in the absence of the inhibitor. Thus, it can be assumed that inhibition of the transcription factor HIF-1α before SH reduces skeletal muscle damage. Topotecan can be proposed as a means to reduce damage to injured muscles.
Dynamics of gonadotropic hormones, immunological status and osteometry data in girls in the region of Uzbekistan in the age aspect
Authors: Aripova Farida , Zakirkhodjaeva Dildora , Abdullayev Temur , Karshiyev Shokrukh
Published: July 2024

Complex investigation was undertaken on 1064 healthy girls to study parameters of physical and pubertal development age indications of physical and pubertal development of Uzbek girls. This data is correlated with normative indicators of girls living in the European part of the ISU that allowed considering them as standard for all republics. Analysis of the results showed significant redactor of hormonal activity and level of immunologic resistance, as well as high percentage of identification of pathology of reproductive system at girls and young women in Curlen district of Khoresm province that confirms ecologically unfavorable situation in this region of Uzbekistan.
Protection de la biodiversité et sciences durables
Authors: Grison Claire M. , Grison Claude
Published: July 2024

Le dernier rapport de l’IPBES a clairement montré que la pollution et la multiplication des espèces exotiques envahissantes constituaient deux des cinq facteurs majeurs responsables du déclin de la biodiversité. Face à cette situation, nous présentons dans cette brève revue le développement de solutions fondées sur la nature pour répondre à ces deux défis. Cette approche a tout d’abord permis de progresser dans la compréhension des stratégies d’adaptation des plantes et des microorganismes associés, pour répondre à des agressions telles que celle de la pollution. Ainsi, il a pu être démontré que certaines espèces végétales sont capables de se développer dans des milieux contaminés par des éléments métalliques, voire de séquestrer les polluants toxiques dans leurs feuilles ou leurs racines. Ces recherches ont permis d’apporter des solutions originales pour la restauration écologique des sols et la décontamination des systèmes aquatiques à l’aide d’espèces végétales exotiques envahissantes mortes. Afin de les rendre pérennes et économiquement viables, ces solutions ont été valorisées à travers le concept de l’écocatalyse, à l’interface de l’écologie et de la chimie.
Heterogeneous products operation decisions of online dual-channel supply chain considering online reviews under different financing modes
Authors: Shi Pingping , Wang Jiamin , Hu Yaogang , Yin Huaping , Chen Zhengmao , Xu Biao , Duan Yue
Published: July 2024

This research examines the operation decisions of the online supply chain for heterogeneous products under different financing modes: e-commerce platform financing or bank financing, when manufacturers face funding constraints. Considering the manufacturer’s adoption of differentiated channel strategies when providing heterogeneous products is also considered, and combined with the impact of online reviews on consumer utility, an e-commerce platform online dual-channel financing model is constructed. The research findings are as follows: (i) when the effectiveness of online reviews differs within a certain range, the equilibrium solution exists. If the relative interest rates of the e-commerce platforms and bank change within a certain range, the same financing mode can bring mutual benefits to both the manufacturer and e-commerce platform, resulting in a “win–win” situation. (ii) If the interest rates under both financing modes are the same, the e-commerce platform financing mode has a higher wholesale price, but the difference in retail prices of distribution products depends on the costs difference between the two products, and at this point, the manufacturer will select e-commerce platform financing mode. (iii) At the optimal interest rate, when the cost of heterogeneous products is the same, the e-commerce platform consistently offers a more favorable interest rate compared to the bank’s optimal rate. when the e-commerce platform’s commission and the positive difference in product reviews is large, the manufacturer will choose e-commerce platform financing mode. Under the e-commerce platform financing mode, both the manufacturer and e-commerce platform are willing to provide lower retail prices to attract more consumers.
Measuring attitudes towards historic gardens: development and validation of the Garden Heritage Scale
Authors: Emge Daniel , Kleespies Matthias Winfried , Wenzel Volker
Published: July 2024

Historic gardens and parks are special parts of cultural heritage. On the one hand, such areas can be seen as historic monuments. On the other hand, they can play a crucial role for environmental protection. However, previous environmental education research did not pay much attention to historic greenery. One reason may be the lack of suitable measurement tools. The purpose of the current study was to develop and validate the Garden Heritage Scale (GHS). This novel psychometric instrument may be used for measuring attitudes towards historic gardens. It shows sufficient internal validity, confirmed by two factor analyses with different samples (n = 233;183). Convergent and discriminant validity proved to be adequate as well as retest-reliability and internal consistency. Since the scale showed sufficient quality, it can be recommended for further research.
A global perspective on social stratification in science
Authors: Akbaritabar Aliakbar , Castro Torres Andrés Felipe , Larivière Vincent
Published: July 2024

To study stratification among scientists, we reconstruct the career-long trajectories of 8.2 million scientists worldwide using 12 bibliometric measures of productivity, geographical mobility, collaboration, and research impact. While most previous studies examined these variables in isolation, we study their relationships using Multiple Correspondence and Cluster Analysis. We group authors according to their bibliometric performance and academic age across six macro fields of science, and analyze co-authorship networks and detect collaboration communities of different sizes. We found a stratified structure in terms of academic age and bibliometric classes, with a small top class and large middle and bottom classes in all collaboration communities. Results are robust to community detection algorithms used and do not depend on authors’ gender. These results imply that increased productivity, impact, and collaboration are driven by a relatively small group that accounts for a large share of academic outputs, i.e., the top class. Mobility indicators are the only exception with bottom classes contributing similar or larger shares. We also show that those at the top succeed by collaborating with various authors from other classes and age groups. Nevertheless, they are benefiting disproportionately from these collaborations which may have implications for persisting stratification in academia.
Climate impacts of alternative beef production systems depend on the functional unit used: Weight or monetary value
Authors: Wang Tong , Kreuter Urs , Davis Christopher , Cheye Stephen
Published: July 2024

Beef production has been identified as a significant source of anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the agricultural sector. United States and Canada account for about a quarter of the world’s beef supply. To compare the GHG emission contributions of alternative beef production systems, we conducted a meta-analysis of 32 studies that were conducted between 2001 and 2023. Results indicated that GHG emissions from beef production in North America varied almost fourfold from 10.2 to 37.6 with an average of 21.4 kg CO
2
e/kg carcass weight (CW). Studies that considered soil C sequestration (C-seq) reported the highest mitigation potential in GHG emissions (80%), followed by growth enhancement technology (16%), diet modification (6%), and grazing management improvement (7%). Our study highlights the implications of using carbon intensity per economic activity (i.e., GHG emissions per monetary unit), compared to the more common metric of intensity on per weight of product basis (GHG emissions per kg CW) for comparisons across differentiated beef cattle products. While a positive association was found between the proportion of lifespan on grassland and the conventional weight-based indicator, grass-finished beef was found to have lower carbon intensity per economic activity than feedlot-finished beef. Our study emphasizes the need to incorporate land use and management effects and soil C-seq as fundamental aspects of beef GHG emissions and mitigation assessments.
Conformational dynamics underlying atypical chemokine receptor 3 activation
Authors: Otun Omolade , Aljamous Christelle , Del Nero Elise , Arimont-Segura Marta , Bosma Reggie , Zarzycka Barbara , Girbau Tristan , Leyrat Cédric , de Graaf Chris , Leurs Rob , Durroux Thierry , Granier Sébastien , Cong Xiaojing , Bechara Cherine
Published: July 2024

Atypical Chemokine Receptor 3 (ACKR3) belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor family but it does not signal through G proteins. The structural properties that govern the functional selectivity and the conformational dynamics of ACKR3 activation are poorly understood. Here, we combined hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, site-directed mutagenesis, and molecular dynamics simulations to examine the binding mode and mechanism of action of ACKR3 ligands of different efficacies. Our results show that activation or inhibition of ACKR3 is governed by intracellular conformational changes of helix 6, intracellular loop 2, and helix 7, while the DRY motif becomes protected during both processes. Moreover, we identified the binding sites and the allosteric modulation of ACKR3 upon β-arrestin 1 binding. In summary, this study highlights the structure-function relationship of small ligands, the binding mode of β-arrestin 1, the activation dynamics, and the atypical dynamic features in ACKR3 that may contribute to its inability to activate G proteins.
The increasingly dominant role of climate change on length of day variations
Authors: Shahvandi Mostafa Kiani , Adhikari Surendra , Dumberry Mathieu , Mishra Siddhartha , Soja Benedikt
Published: July 2024

The melting of ice sheets and global glaciers results in sea-level rise, a pole-to-equator mass transport increasing Earth’s oblateness and resulting in an increase in the length of day (LOD). Here, we use observations and reconstructions of mass variations at the Earth’s surface since 1900 to show that the climate-induced LOD trend hovered between 0.3 and 1.0 ms/cy in the 20th century, but has accelerated to 1.33

±

0.03 ms/cy since 2000. We further show that surface mass transport fully explains the accelerating trend in the Earth oblateness observed in the past three decades. We derive an independent measure of the decreasing LOD trend induced by Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) of

−

0.80

±

0.10 ms/cy, which provides a constraint for the mantle viscosity. The sum of this GIA rate and lunar tidal friction fully explains the secular LOD trend that is inferred from the eclipse record in the past three millennia prior to the onset of contemporary climate change. Projections of future climate warming under high emission scenarios suggest that the climate-induced LOD rate may reach 2.62

±

0.79 ms/cy by 2100, overtaking lunar tidal friction as the single most important contributor to the long-term LOD variations.
Two-tier architecture-based grading for pancreatic cancer outperforms traditional grading
Authors: Dao Andre , Orr Christine Elizabeth , Nyi Nyi May-Phyo , Wang Tao
Published: July 2024

Objectives

A novel architecture-based grading system for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is tested against traditional grading.

Methods

A total of 103 PDAC resections were graded by College of American Pathologists/American Joint Committee on Cancer (CAP/AJCC) guidelines and by a system using an architectural pattern (dispersed larger duct = low grade vs dense smaller duct = high grade). Survival analyses and interobserver variability were assessed. In total, 114 cases from a public data set were used for validation.

Results

Median overall survivals were 15 and 36 months for architectural high-grade and low-grade cases, respectively (P < .001). Conversely, CAP/AJCC grading showed no survival difference between well-differentiated and moderately differentiated tumors (P = .545). Architecture-based grading remained prognostically significant for recurrence-free survival (P = .004), but CAP/AJCC grading was not (P = .226). Adjusted for stage and margin status, architectural high-grade PDACs showed a hazard ratio of 2.69 relative to low grade (P < .001) for survival. The validation cohort confirmed prognostic differences in overall (P < .001) and recurrence-free survival (P = .027) for the architecture-based system, outperforming CAP/AJCC grading. Architecture-based grading exhibited a Cohen’s ĸ value of 0.710 (substantial agreement), superior to traditional grading (0.488, moderate agreement).

Conclusions

Grading PDAC based on architectural pattern results in superior prognostication and reproducibility vs CAP/AJCC grading.
The significance of extensive HPV genotyping for cervical high-grade neoplasia among women with atypical glandular cells
Authors: Tang Xiao , Zilla Megan L , Jiang Wei , He Yanmei , Starr David , Li Lei , Tong Lingling , Wang Cheng , Wang Wei , Yang Kaixuan , Yin Rutie , Zhao Chengquan
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To examine the associated risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasm grade 3+ (CIN3+) lesions in patients with AGC and extensive human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping.

Methods

Cases with atypical glandular cell (AGC) interpretation on a Papanicolaou (Pap) test were identified along with associated extensive HPV genotyping and histologic follow-up results.

Results

Within this cohort of 469,694 Pap tests, 0.4% were diagnosed as AGCs. In total, 1267 cases had concurrent high-risk HPV (hrHPV) genotyping, and 40.3% were hrHPV positive. The percentage of AGC cases with cervical CIN3+ on histologic follow-up was 52.2% when hrHPV was positive, whereas it was 4.9% with a negative hrHPV result. The top 5 hrHPV genotypes associated with cervical CIN3+ in this cohort were HPV16, HPV18, HPV58, HPV52, and HPV33. Indeed, 92.8% of the hrHPV-associated CIN3+ lesions identified in this cohort were positive for at least one of these HPV genotypes. The sensitivity of detecting cervical CIN3+ lesions was 85.6% with the top 5 hrHPV genotypes (HPV16/18/58/52/33) and only increased to 89.0% when the additional 12 genotypes were included.

Conclusions

In patients with an AGC Pap, the risk of having a cervical CIN3+ lesion is greatly increased by positivity for hrHPV types 16, 18, 58, 52, and/or 33. Incorporating comprehensive HPV genotyping into AGC cytology allows for refined risk stratification and more tailored management strategies.
Risk and Protective Factors of Probable Binge Eating Disorder in US Military Spouses: Findings From the Millennium Cohort Family Study
Authors: Ray Travis N , Esquivel Alejandro P , McMaster Hope S , Jacobson Isabel G , Maguen Shira , Cohort Family Study Team for the Millennium
Published: July 2024

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a public health concern that has received little research attention in military families. Further research is needed to identify risk and protective factors to inform intervention and prevention efforts. This longitudinal study examined predictors of probable BED in a sample of U.S. military spouses (N = 5,269). Data were derived from the Millennium Cohort Family Study, which included baseline assessments of risk and protective factors and a follow-up assessment of probable BED approximately 3 years later. Results of a multivariable logistic regression model indicated that spouses with probable posttraumatic stress disorder, adverse childhood experiences, or who were former smokers had increased risk of probable BED at follow-up. Spouses whose service member had a deployment with combat exposure, or had not deployed, had higher risk of probable BED than spouses whose service member deployed without combat exposure. Age >34 years was the only protective factor to emerge as significant in the adjusted model. Results highlighted the need for interventions to improve psychoeducation and coping skills in military spouses, which may mitigate BED symptoms stemming from military-related stressors (e.g., combat deployment) or prior trauma, especially once maladaptive coping mechanisms (e.g., smoking) have ceased.
Pharmacotherapy considerations for pediatric acute agitation management in the emergency department
Authors: Mills Kimberly P , Kemper Megan , Charatcharungkiat Natchanan , Hoganson George M
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To review the current literature regarding the pharmacological management of acute agitation in pediatric patients and practical considerations when comparing agents for empiric use in the emergency department (ED).

ED providers play an integral role in the management of acute agitation in pediatric patients. The development of acute agitation is multifactorial, and patients may quickly escalate upon arrival or while boarding in the ED. Non-pharmacological de-escalation strategies should be prioritized. If a patient poses a safety risk to themself or staff members, the administration of pharmacological treatment may be necessary to target the underlying cause and allow for the patient to safely engage in assessment and treatment. There is limited guidance regarding medication selection and dosing for acute agitation in pediatrics despite being a key facet of multimodal management.

Conclusion

The literature regarding pharmacotherapy for acute agitation management in pediatric patients remains scarce. Medications utilized vary depending on institutional practice as well as provider preference. Evidence suggests that implementing an institutional protocol for pediatric acute agitation in the ED may improve patient outcomes. Additional studies are needed optimize the pharmacological management of acute pediatric agitation and patient outcomes in the ED.
consICA: an R package for robust reference-free deconvolution of multi-omics data
Authors: Chepeleva Maryna , Kaoma Tony , Zinovyev Andrei , Toth Reka , Nazarov Petr V
Published: July 2024

Motivation

Deciphering molecular signals from omics data helps understanding cellular processes and disease progression. Effective algorithms for extracting these signals are essential, with a strong emphasis on robustness and reproducibility.

Results

R/Bioconductor package consICA implements consensus independent component analysis (ICA)—a data-driven deconvolution method to decompose heterogeneous omics data and extract features suitable for patient stratification and multimodal data integration. The method separates biologically relevant molecular signals from technical effects and provides information about the cellular composition and biological processes. Build-in annotation, survival analysis, and report generation provide useful tools for the interpretation of extracted signals. The implementation of parallel computing in the package ensures efficient analysis using modern multicore systems. The package offers a reproducible and efficient data-driven solution for the analysis of complex molecular profiles, with significant implications for cancer research.

Availability and implementation

The package is implemented in R and available under MIT license at Bioconductor (https://bioconductor.org/packages/consICA) or at GitHub (https://github.com/biomod-lih/consICA).
Automated, image-based quantification of peroxisome characteristics with perox-per-cell
Authors: Neal Maxwell L , Shukla Nandini , Mast Fred D , Farré Jean-Claude , Pacio Therese M , Raney-Plourde Katelyn E , Prasad Sumedh , Subramani Suresh , Aitchison John D
Published: July 2024

perox-per-cell automates cumbersome, image-based data collection tasks often encountered in peroxisome research. The software processes microscopy images to quantify peroxisome features in yeast cells. It uses off-the-shelf image processing tools to automatically segment cells and peroxisomes and then outputs quantitative metrics including peroxisome counts per cell and spatial areas. In validation tests, we found that perox-per-cell output agrees well with manually quantified peroxisomal counts and cell instances, thereby enabling high-throughput quantification of peroxisomal characteristics.

Availability and implementation

The software is coded in Python. Compiled executables and source code are available at https://github.com/AitchisonLab/perox-per-cell.
Drawing mitochondrial genomes with circularMT
Authors: Goodman Simon J , Carr Ian M
Published: July 2024

Mitochondrial DNA sequences are used extensively in phylogeographic and phylogenetic studies for a wide range of organisms. With the advent of low-cost, high-throughput “next generation” DNA sequencing, and user-friendly bioinformatics pipelines for generating and annotating whole mitochondrial genome assemblies, the analysis of whole mitochondrial genomes has become an important component of phylogenomic studies for taxa with high species diversity but limited coverage for other genomic resources. An important step in characterizing de novo mitochondrial genome assemblies is to evaluate and describe structural rearrangements relative to reference taxa. Accessible tools are needed to help visualize gene and non-coding feature complement, their order, and strand orientation. However, there are few dedicated applications that generate high-quality genome diagrams. Here we present circularMT and circularMT-console that allow users to create highly customizable, publication-quality images, of linear and circular mitochondrial genome maps, either individually or integrated into an analysis pipeline.

Availability and implementation

Both applications are implemented in C#, with binaries, source code, and user guides available on GitHub (https://github.com/msjimc/circularMT). An archive of the published version is available on Zenodo (https://zenodo.org/records/10912319).
Causal inference with hidden mediators
Authors: Ghassami Amiremad , Yang Alan , Shpitser Ilya , Tchetgen Tchetgen Eric
Published: July 2024

Proximal causal inference was recently proposed as a framework to identify causal effects from observational data in the presence of hidden confounders for which proxies are available. In this paper, we extend the proximal causal inference approach to settings where identification of causal effects hinges upon a set of mediators that are not observed, yet error prone proxies of the hidden mediators are measured. Specifically, (i) we establish causal hidden mediation analysis, which extends classical causal mediation analysis methods for identifying natural direct and indirect effects under no unmeasured confounding to a setting where the mediator of interest is hidden, but proxies of it are available; (ii) we establish a hidden front-door criterion, criterion to allow for hidden mediators for which proxies are available; (iii) we show that the identification of a certain causal effect called the population intervention indirect effect remains possible with hidden mediators in settings where challenges in (i) and (ii) might co-exist. We view (i)–(iii) as important steps towards the practical application of front-door criteria and mediation analysis as mediators are almost always measured with error and, thus, the most one can hope for in practice is that the measurements are at best proxies of mediating mechanisms. We propose identification approaches for the parameters of interest in our considered models. For the estimation aspect, we propose an influence function-based estimation method and provide an analysis for the robustness of the estimators.
Effective Interventions to Reduce Burnout in Social Workers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bryce Carl , Povey Rachel , Oliver Mike , Cooke Richard
Published: July 2024

Social workers are at risk of developing burnout, which is associated with many adverse implications including increased risk of depression. A number of intervention studies have aimed to reduce burnout in this population; however, a systematic review of the evidence has yet to be performed. This review therefore aimed to fill that gap. A comprehensive search of major academic databases was conducted and the inclusion criteria were interventions that reported pre- and post-measures of burnout outcomes within a population of qualified social workers. Of the 2,456 records identified, nine were included in the review. Results showed that a number of burnout interventions have been developed for social workers, including mindfulness-based interventions, group-based skills training, exercise and taking a sabbatical. However, the overall quality of the studies was poor and therefore definitive recommendations for effective interventions could not be offered. Mindfulness-based and group skills development interventions warrant further investigation and organisational or institutional change to tackle burnout, alongside individual-level interventions, is crucial. It was concluded that future burnout intervention researchers should implement a greater methodological rigour, use theory to underpin intervention approaches, adopt a longitudinal design where possible, and administer validated measures of burnout.
Uromodulin and progression of IgA nephropathy
Authors: Chen Zijin , Xu Lin-lin , Du Wen , Ouyang Yan , Gu Xiangchen , Fang Zhengying , Yu Xialian , Li Junru , Xie Lin , Jin Yuanmeng , Ma Jun , Wang Zhaohui , Pan Xiaoxia , Zhang Wen , Ren Hong , Wang Weiming , Chen Xiaonong , Zhou Xu-jie , Zhang Hong , Chen Nan , Xie Jingyuan
Published: July 2024

Background

This study investigates the link between genetic variants associated with kidney function and immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) progression.

Methods

We recruited 961 biopsy-proven IgAN patients and 651 non-IgAN end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients from Ruijin Hospital. Clinical and renal pathological data were collected. The primary outcome was the time to ESRD. A healthy population was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate >60 mL/min/1.73 m2 without albuminuria or hematuria. Fifteen single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected from a genome-wide association study of kidney function and genotyped by the SNaPshot. Immunohistochemistry in renal tissue and ELISA in urine samples were performed to explore the potential functions of genetic variations.

Results

The rs77924615-G was independently associated with an increased risk for ESRD in IgAN patients after adjustments for clinical and pathologic indices, and treatment (adjusted hazard ratio 2.10; 95% confidence interval 1.14–3.88). No significant differences in ESRD-free survival time were found among different genotypes in non-IgAN ESRD patients (log-rank, P = .480). Moreover, rs77924615 exhibited allele-specific enhancer activity by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Accordingly, the urinary uromodulin–creatinine ratio (uUCR) was significantly higher in healthy individuals with rs77924615 AG or GG than in individuals with AA. Furthermore, uromodulin expression in tubular epithelial cells was higher in patients with rs77924615 AG or GG. Finally, we confirmed that an increased uUCR (P = .009) was associated with faster IgAN progression.

Conclusion

The SNP rs77924615, which modulates the enhancer activity of the UMOD gene, is associated with renal function deterioration in IgAN patients by increasing uromodulin levels in both the renal tubular epithelium and urine.
Stenting of aortic coarctation before coronary artery bypass surgery in an adult with acute myocardial infarction: a case report
Authors: Tomasino Marco , Valente Filipa , Rello Sabatè Pau , Martì Aguasca Gerard , Miranda Barrio Berta
Published: July 2024

Background

Aortic coarctation is a major risk factor for high blood pressure and atherosclerotic disease development. Evidence is lacking regarding the treatment of acute coronary syndrome in patients with untreated aortic coarctation.

Case summary

A 50-year-old male with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and haemodynamically significant untreated aortic coarctation presented to the emergency department with non-ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction. Coronary catheterization showed severe three-vessel disease. The aortic coarctation was addressed percutaneously using a covered CP stent. A quadruple coronary artery bypass surgery was conducted the following day. He was discharged home 10 days after surgery.

Discussion

We describe a successful sequential approach involving the percutaneous repair of a native aortic coarctation followed by a surgical myocardial revascularization in the context of acute coronary syndrome. Discussion within a multidisciplinary Heart Team is key in patients with such complexity.
Long-term prognostic impact of fasting plasma glucose and myocardial flow reserve beyond other risk factors and heart disease phenotypes
Authors: Filidei Elena , Caselli Chiara , Menichetti Luca , Poli Michela , Petroni Debora , Guiducci Letizia , Sorace Oreste , Pisani Patrizia , Pardini Silvia , Bonora Danilo , Giorgetti Assuero , Gimelli Alessia , Neglia Danilo
Published: July 2024

Cardiometabolic risk factors, including high fasting plasma glucose (hFPG), are emerging prognostic determinants in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) or heart failure (HF). Coronary microvascular dysfunction might be a comprehensive risk predictor in these patients. The purpose of this study was to assess whether hFPG and global myocardial blood flow (MBF) reserve measured by positron emission tomography (PET), expressing global coronary function, predict long-term prognosis beyond other risk factors and presence of obstructive CAD or left ventricular (LV) dysfunction associated with HF. We retrospectively collected long-term follow-up data in 103 patients (mean age 61 ± 10 years, 74 males) with stable chest pain or dyspnoea who underwent cardiac PET/computerized tomography and coronary angiography. Disease phenotypes included obstructive CAD (35%), LV dysfunction without obstructive CAD (43%), or none (22%). At multivariable logistic regression analysis, MBF reserve lower than the median value (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.5–2.2) was significantly associated with male gender (OR 3.45, 95% CI 1.21–9.83) and hFPG (OR 3.87, 95% CI 1.17–12.84) among all risk factors. In a median follow-up of 10.9 years (interquartile range 7.8–13.9), 39 patients (37.8%) died (13.6% cardiac death). At multivariable Cox analyses including all risk factors and disease phenotypes, age (HR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.12), hFPG (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.02–4.63), and depressed MBF reserve (HR 4.47, 95% CI 1.96–10.18) were independent predictors of death (global χ2 37.41, P = 0.0004). These results suggest a strong long-term prognostic role of hFPG and depressed MBF reserve in a high-risk population of patients with a high prevalence of obstructive CAD or HF.
Materials writing as a vehicle for teacher learning
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Sato Masatoshi , Shu Dingfang , Wang Beilei
Published: July 2024

This study explored how secondary school EFL teachers engaged in professional learning opportunities when they participated in the development of ELT materials. While increasing research has examined language teaching materials and teacher learning, the two research fields have remained largely disconnected, hindering the potential of materials writing for professional learning. With eight teachers as focal participants, the data included in-depth interviews, written reflections, and official documents. Findings showed that the EFL teachers took advantage of materials writing for their professional learning in the areas of policy, theory, and practice. Their engagement with the national curriculum standards, language, and language learning theories, together with local classroom realities in relation to teaching materials, reciprocally interacted with their professional learning. Based on the findings, we recommend that professional development programs include materials writing by localizing the content, clarifying its objectives, teaming teachers with researchers, and creating feedback loops.