bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanohybrids of BCN‐Fe1−xS for Sodium and Lithium Hybrid Ion Capacitors
Authors: Bahadur Rohan , Jason J Ian , Sakamoto Yasuhiro , Chang Shery , Yu Xiaojiang , Breese Mark BH , Bhargava Suresh K. , Lee Jang Mee , Panigrahi Puspamitra , Vinu Ajayan
Published: January 2024

Hybrid ion capacitors (HIC) are receiving a lot of attention due to their potential to achieve high energy and power densities, but they remain insufficient. It is imperative to explore outstanding and environmentally benign electrode materials to achieve high‐performing HIC systems. Here, a unique boron carbon nitride (BCN)‐based HIC system that comprises a microporous BCN structure and Fe1−xS nanoparticle incorporated BCN nanosheets (BNF) as cathode and anode, respectively is reported. The BNF is prepared through a facile one‐pot calcination process using dithiooxamide (DTO), boric acid, and iron source. In situ, crystal growth of Fe1−xS facilitates the formation of BCN structure through the creation of holes/defects in the polymeric structure. The first principle density functional (DFT) theory simulations demonstrate the structural and electronic properties of the hybrid of BCN and Fe1−xS as compelling anode materials for HIC applications. The DFT calculations reveal that both BCN and BNF structures have excellent metallic characters with Li+ storage capacities of 128.4 and 1021.38 mAh g−1 respectively. These findings are confirmed experimentally where the BCN‐based HIC system delivers exceptional energy and power densities of 267.5 Wh kg−1/749.5 W kg−1 toward Li+ storage, which outweighs previous HIC performances and demonstrates favorable performance for Li+ and Na+ storages.
Dynamic Prediction with Statistical Uncertainty Evaluation of Phosphorus Content Based on Functional Relevance Vector Machine
Authors: Qian Qingting , Chang Fu , Dong Qianqian , Li Min , Xu Jinwu
Published: January 2024

In the steelmaking process, inaccurate composition of raw materials, experimental process parameter control, and other factors bring about large statistical uncertainty to the phosphorus content prediction of molten steel. Meanwhile, lots of models mainly predict the end‐point phosphorus content, but the composition change during the whole production process is still in the gray box condition, where the exact refining state is unknown. These two problems increase the difficulty in process parameter optimization and control. In order to improve the phosphorus content control in the steelmaking process, this work proposes the functional relevance vector machine (FRVM) method. This method smooths the time series of process parameters to continuous functions by functional data analysis to predict the phosphorus content change during the whole production process, and estimates the probabilistic distributions of regression weights based on the Bayesian framework to directly output the probabilistic confidence interval of the phosphorus content. The real‐world steelmaking dataset validates that the mean relative prediction error of phosphorus content by the FRVM method is less than 18.04% during the whole production process and the end‐point hit rate is 86.46% when the prediction error is within ±0.005 wt%.
Stress degradation study of Etoricoxib, isolation, and characterization of major degradation impurity by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography, liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance: Validation of ultra‐performance liquid chromatography method
Authors: Goguladinne Babu Reddy , Shyamala Pulipaka , Rao K. M. V. Narayana
Published: January 2024

Etoricoxib (ETO) is a selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, used as a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. In this study, a detailed investigation was conducted on the degradation behavior of ETO under acidic, basic, neutral, photolytic, oxidative, and thermal degradation conditions as per the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guideline Q1A (R2). A gradient “ultra‐performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)” method was developed for separating the degradation products formed under various degradation conditions along with process‐related impurities. Acquity BEH phenyl column was used for the separation of analytes and 0.1% formic acid in water and 0.05% formic acid in acetonitrile:methanol (8:2 %v/v) were used as mobile phase‐A and mobile phase‐B. A major degradant namely, N‐oxide impurity was observed in oxidative degradation along with two minor degradants where N‐oxide was confirmed based on LC‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) studies. Further, the major degradant was enriched and isolated using preparative HPLC and the conformation of the N‐oxide impurity was established using nuclear magnetic resonance techniques including two‐dimensional studies and high‐resolution MS. In addition, the method for related substances by UPLC has been validated by considering a major degradant, namely N‐oxide along with process‐related impurities as per the ICH guidelines validation parameters.
Semilicoisoflavone B induces oral cancer cell apoptosis by targeting claspin and ATR‐Chk1 signaling pathways
Authors: Hsieh Ming‐Ju , Lin Chia‐Chieh , Lo Yu‐Sheng , Chuang Yi‐Ching , Ho Hsin‐Yu , Chen Mu‐Kuan
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is increasing worldwide mainly due to poor oral hygiene and unrestricted lifestyle. Advanced‐stage OSCC is associated with poor prognosis and a 5‐year survival rate of only 30%–50%. The present study was designed to investigate the anticancer effect and mode of action of Glycyrrhiza‐derived semilicoisoflavone B (SFB) in 5‐fluorourasil (5FU)‐resistant human OSCC cell lines. The study findings revealed that SFB significantly reduces OSCC cell viability and colony formation ability by arresting cell cycle at the G2/M and S phases and reducing the expressions of key cell cycle regulators including cyclin A, cyclin B, CDC2, and CDK2. The compound caused a significant induction in the percentage of nuclear condensation and apoptotic cells in OSCC. Regarding pro‐apoptotic mode of action, SFB was found to increase Fas‐associated death domain and death receptor 5 expressions and reduce decoy receptor 2 expression, indicating involvement of extrinsic pathway. Moreover, SFB was found to increase pro‐apoptotic Bim expression and reduce anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL expressions, indicating involvement of intrinsic pathway. Moreover, SFB‐mediated induction in cleaved caspases 3, 8, and 9 and cleaved poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase confirmed the induction of caspase‐mediated apoptotic pathways. Regarding upstream signaling pathway, SFB was found to reduce extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK) phosphorylation to execute its pro‐apoptotic activity. The Human Apoptotic Array findings revealed that SFB suppresses claspin expression, which in turn caused reduced phosphorylation of ATR, checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1), Wee1, and CDC25C, indicating disruption of ATR‐Chk1 signaling pathway by SFB. Taken together, these findings indicate that SFB acts as a potent anticancer compound against 5FU‐resistant OSCC by modulating mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and ATR‐Chk1 signaling pathways.
Ropivacaine combined with sorafenib attenuates hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and metastasis by inhibiting the miR‐224/HOXD10 axis
Authors: Wang Wenting , Wang Tao , Lin Hongyun , Liu Desheng , Yu Peng , Zhang Jing
Published: January 2024

Objective

The development of drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells limits the effectiveness of sorafenib (Sor). However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying the effects of the combination Sor and ropivacaine (Rop) on HCC cells remain unclear.

Methods

miR‐224 and HOXD10 mRNA expression in HCC cells was analyzed using qRT‐PCR. CCK‐8, Transwell assays and tumor formation experiments in nude mice were used to assess HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Migration of HCC cells was also analyzed using a cell scratch assay. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to detect tumor area.

Results

miR‐224 expression profoundly increased in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Treatment with Rop and/or Sor blocked miR‐244 expression, especially the combination treatment. Transfection of miR‐224 mimic increased HCC cell proliferation and tumor size in nude mice, and migration and invasion in vitro in the presence of Rop and Sor compared to the negative control mimic. Dual‐luciferase reporter assays showed that HOXD10 was targeted by miR‐224. HOXD10 protein expression and was markedly reduced in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Rop and/or Sor treatment increased HOXD10 protein expression, particularly the combination treatment. miR‐224 negatively regulated HOXD10 expression in HCC cells treated with Rop and Sor. Transfection‐mediated silencing of HOXD10 increased HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in the presence of Rop and Sor compared with negative control transfection.

Conclusion

The combination of Rop and Sor attenuates HCC cell proliferation and metastasis via the miR‐224/HOXD10 axis.
Extremely high peritoneal cancer index in colorectal peritoneal metastases demonstrates safety and overall survival benefit in selected patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Ben‐Yaacov Almog , Levine Olivia , Schtrechman Gal , Adileh Mohammad , Beller Tamar , Boursi Ben , Halpern Naama , Goldstein Adam , Ben‐Yakov Gil , Nissan Aviram , Laks Shachar
Published: January 2024

Background

Colorectal peritoneal metastases are a devastating consequence of colorectal cancer (CRC) with extremely poor prognosis. Patients that can undergo complete cytoreduction by cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) have a markedly improved overall survival. Traditionally, patients with extremely high peritoneal cancer index (PCI), PCI >20, are not offered CRS/HIPEC.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of our prospectively maintained CRS/HIPEC database and evaluated all patients with CRC peritoneal metastases between 2012 and 2022. We divided the cohorts between those with low operative PCI (PCI<20) and high operative PCI (PCI =>20). We examined demographic, clinicopathologic data, perioperative, and oncological outcomes between the cohorts.

Results

Of the 691 patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC, 289 were evaluable with CRC metastases, 234 with PCI <20 and 43 with PCI => 20. Median radiologic preoperative and operative PCI was 4 and 10 versus 7 and 24.5 in the low and high PCI cohorts, respectively. Operative time was longer (6 vs. 4 h) and blood loss higher (500 vs. 400 mL) in the high PCI cohort. All other demographic, clinicopathological, and operative characteristics were similar. Median disease free survival (DFS) was longer in the low PCI cohort (11.5 vs. 7 months) but overall survival (OS) showed benefit (41.3 vs. 31.8 months), (p = 0.001 and p = 0.189, respectively), comparatively with an only chemotherapy strategy.

Conclusions

Appropriately selected patients with CRC metastases and extremely high PCI demonstrate similar perioperative safety outcomes in experienced tertiary referral centers. Despite a shorter median DFS, these carefully selected patients demonstrated similar median OS.
Human Resource Management for Military Organizations: Challenges and Trends
Authors: op den Buijs Tessa , Olsthoorn Peter
Published: January 2024

In this chapter, we examine the challenges military organizations face today in terms of their HRM policies and the effect of the institutional environment and strategy on these policies. We begin with an overview of the evolution of HRM over time, and how it is understood today, and will outline some general theories within the HRM domain. Today’s changes in, for example, the internal and external environment of military organizations pose important challenges for the military’s personnel policies and organizational fit. We will discuss the reactions by military organizations to these challenges. What trends do the challenges lead to in relation to the professionalization of the armed forces? Next, we elaborate on some of the more pressing challenges, such as motivating young people, the development in the field of talent management in relation to the organizational strategy, recent technological developments, labor market developments such as diversity in the workforce, but also private military companies, and of course the global security situation. We end this chapter with a short conclusion.
Innovation and Policy in Cancer Pain Management: Systemic Interactions in Tanzania
Authors: Daniels Chux , Steenmans Ine , Makene Fortunata Songora , Ngilangwa Richard , Ngoma Twalib , Santos Cristina , Mackintosh Maureen
Published: January 2024

Abstract﻿

In contrast to India, Tanzania imports all its opiate medication, yet there too, need is unmet. This chapter reports findings from a sustained collaborative effort in Tanzania to understand the roots of undertreatment of severe cancer pain. It analyses the complex sources of this cancer care failure, contrasting the Tanzanian situation to the Ugandan experience of providing more widespread access to opiate medication for severe pain. The chapter describes findings from multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary workshops in Tanzania, documenting critical causal feedback loops that generate sustained undertreatment of severe pain, and identifies innovations that could turn this outcome around.
Identification and validation of the association of Janus kinase 2 mutations with the response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy
Authors: Chen Peipei , Long Junyu , Zhang Jiayang , Xie Fucun , Wu Wei , Tian Zhuang , Zhang Shuyang , Yu Kang
Published: January 2024

Background

Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) mutation plays an important role in T cell immunity. However, the effect of JAK2 mutation on immunotherapy is largely uncharacterized.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the effect of JAK2 mutation on the efficacy and outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in the discovery cohort (n = 662) and the verification cohort (n = 1423). Furthermore, we explored the association of JAK2 mutation with the tumor immune microenvironment in a multiomics cohort.

Results

In the discovery cohort (n = 662), JAK2 mutant-type patients had a better objective response rate (58.8% vs. 26.7%, P = 0.010), durable clinical benefit (64.7% vs. 38.9%, P = 0.043), progression-free survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.431, P = 0.015), and overall survival (HR = 0.378, P = 0.025), relative to JAK2 wild-type patients. Moreover, we further verified the prognostic significance of JAK2 mutation in an independent ICI treatment cohort with a larger sample size (n = 1423). In addition, we discovered that the JAK2 mutation was remarkably related to increased immunogenicity, such as a higher TMB, higher expression of costimulatory molecules and stimulation of antigen processing mechanisms. In addition, JAK2 mutation was positively correlated with activated anticancer immunity, such as infiltration of various immune cells and higher expression of chemokines.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that JAK2 mutation is a novel marker that can be used to effectively predict prognosis and response to ICI therapy.
Analysis of Karst Surface Anisotropy Using Directional Semivariograms, Slovenia
Authors: Verbovšek Timotej
Published: January 2024

The paper presents a study of the anisotropic properties of the karst surface through the use of semivariograms. Karst is formed by hydrogeological and tectonic deformations that determine the surface and subsurface characteristics of the area. Among the most prominent surface features are dolines, which generally form in a linear direction. Semivariograms can be used to determine both the preferred direction of anisotropy and the degree of anisotropy. The surface exhibits the greatest elevation variability in the direction of the most diverse terrain, corresponding to dolines. The results, based on the eight karst areas studied, show that it is possible to detect and, more importantly, quantify anisotropy in all karst areas, although in some cases it is impossible or difficult to detect visually. The directions of the semivariograms agree very well with those obtained from the visual inspection of the maps, as well as with the orientations of the main faults. The method is therefore very useful for quantitative determination of anisotropy and its interpretation could be greatly improved by using the detailed structural geological maps of the karst.
Neues Zulassungsverfahren Humanmedizin: höhere individuelle Gerechtigkeit, aber Verstärkung des Landarztmangels?
Authors: Müller-Hilke Brigitte , Finger Claudia , Hampe Wolfgang
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

Das Bundesverfassungsgericht hat 2017 die Wartezeitquote und die Beschränkung der Ortspräferenzen bei der Vergabe der Studienplätze in der Humanmedizin als verfassungswidrig erklärt und einen Bundeslandausgleich für Abiturnoten gefordert. Daraufhin wurde ab 2020 die Wartezeitquote durch die „Zusätzliche Eignungsquote“ ersetzt, die Zahl der Ortspräferenzen nicht mehr begrenzt und ein Abiturnotenausgleich eingeführt. Die vorliegende Studie untersucht, welche Auswirkungen diese Umstellung auf die neuen Erstsemester hat.

Methoden

Daten der Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung wurden für die letzten beiden Wintersemester (WS) vor und die ersten 3 WS nach der Umstellung verglichen.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Während sich der Einfluss des neuen Verfahrens auf die Studierenden mit vorheriger medizinnaher Ausbildung noch nicht endgültig beurteilen lässt, bleiben durchschnittliche Abiturnote und Frauenanteile annähernd unverändert und der Studienort ist nach wie vor bevorzugt wohnortsnah. Die Studierenden sind jünger geworden und der Länderausgleich gleicht die Chancen für Abiturient:innen aus Bundesländern mit besseren und schlechteren Abiturnoten an. Ein neues Ungleichgewicht entsteht jedoch, weil der Länderausgleich die Anzahl der Bewerber:innen berücksichtigt – und ländlich geprägte Bundesländer weniger Bewerber:innen hervorbringen. Da aber Landärzt:innen häufig auch ursprünglich aus ländlichen Gebieten stammen, ist eine Verschärfung des Ärzt:innenmangels gerade in den neuen Bundesländern ein mögliches Zukunftsszenario. Ein veränderter Notenausgleichsmechanismus könnte hier zusätzlich zur Landarztquote entgegenwirken.
School starting age and the impact on school admission
Authors: Cáceres-Delpiano Julio , Giolito Eugenio
Published: January 2024

This study employs Chilean administrative data to investigate the impact of school starting age on the characteristics of students’ initial enrolled schools. Employing minimum age requirements and an RD design to mitigate endogeneity concerns, we identify benefits linked to commencing school at a later age. Our findings demonstrate that children starting school at an older age enroll in institutions with higher average scores in standardized tests and interact with older peers whose parents have higher education levels. Furthermore, they display a heightened likelihood of entering schools employing academic selection methods, a greater proportion of full-time teachers, and a larger percentage of instructors with a 4-year college degree. The analysis by level of education of the parents and gender reveals that most of our results are driven by parents with lower levels of education and girls. Subgroup analyses further reveal that many of our results are driven by parents with lower levels of education and parents of girls.
Simultaneous optimization of cost, active power loss and water quantity in irrigation: a techno-economic study incorporating PV panels and demand-side management
Authors: Samir Omar , Abdel-Salam Mazen , Nayel Mohamed , Elnozahy Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Currently, the whole world is facing energy shortage and water crisis. Management of water and energy usage in irrigation is essential to overcome the current crisis. This research introduces a techno-economic study to achieve simultaneous optimization of cost, active power loss and water quantity without violating the crop water requirement. Four scenarios are proposed incorporating energy demand-side management, PV panels integration and modification of the irrigation schedule and irrigation methodology for comparison against the existing scenario of pump-based irrigation system in Karot line, Assiut, Egypt. The grid-connected PV panels scenario achieves minimum system cost as well as minimum total system active-power loss and water quantity when compared with the other scenarios. Grid-connected PV panels with surface irrigation reduce the total system cost by 93% when compared with that of the Karot line. On the other hand, grid-connected PV panels with drip irrigation give a much more saving in water quantity and a further reduction in the total system active-power loss by 48.1 and 25.13%, respectively, when compared with those of the Karot line case.
Cleavage of cell junction proteins as a host invasion strategy in leptospirosis
Authors: Kumari Preeti , Yadav Suhani , Sarkar Sresha , Satheeshkumar Padikara K.
Published: January 2024

Infection and invasion are the prerequisites for developing the disease symptoms in a host. While the probable mechanism of host invasion and pathogenesis is known in many pathogens, very little information is available on Leptospira invasion/pathogenesis. For causing systemic infection Leptospira must transmigrate across epithelial barriers, which is the most critical and challenging step. Extracellular and membrane-bound proteases play a crucial role in the invasion process. An extensive search for the proteins experimentally proven to be involved in the invasion process through cell junction cleavage in other pathogens has resulted in identifying 26 proteins. The similarity searches on the Leptospira genome for counterparts of these 26 pathogenesis-related proteins identified at least 12 probable coding sequences. The proteins were either extracellular or membrane-bound with a proteolytic domain to cleave the cell junction proteins. This review will emphasize our current understanding of the pathogenic aspects of host cell junction-pathogenic protein interactions involved in the invasion process. Further, potential candidate proteins with cell junction cleavage properties that may be exploited in the diagnostic/therapeutic aspects of leptospirosis will also be discussed.

Key points

• The review focussed on the cell junction cleavage proteins in bacterial pathogenesis

• Cell junction disruptors from Leptospira genome are identified using bioinformatics

• The review provides insights into the therapeutic/diagnostic interventions possible
Prospects of formamide as nitrogen source in biotechnological production processes
Authors: Schwardmann Lynn S. , Benninghaus Leonie , Lindner Steffen N. , Wendisch Volker F.
Published: January 2024

This review presents an analysis of formamide, focussing on its occurrence in nature, its functional roles, and its promising applications in the context of the bioeconomy. We discuss the utilization of formamide as an innovative nitrogen source achieved through metabolic engineering. These approaches underscore formamide’s potential in supporting growth and production in biotechnological processes. Furthermore, our review illuminates formamide’s role as a nitrogen source capable of safeguarding cultivation systems against contamination in non-sterile conditions. This attribute adds an extra layer of practicality to its application, rendering it an attractive candidate for sustainable and resilient industrial practices. Additionally, the article unveils the versatility of formamide as a potential carbon source that could be combined with formate or CO2 assimilation pathways. However, its attributes, i.e., enriched nitrogen content and comparatively limited energy content, led to conclude that formamide is more suitable as a co-substrate and that its use as a sole source of carbon for biomass and bio-production is limited. Through our exploration of formamide’s properties and its applications, this review underscores the significance of formamide as valuable resource for a large spectrum of industrial applications.

Key points

• Formidases enable access to formamide as source of nitrogen, carbon, and energy

• The formamide/formamidase system supports non-sterile fermentation

• The nitrogen source formamide supports production of nitrogenous compounds
First record of ocular albinism in sub-Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) pups on Marion Island
Authors: Shihlomule Yinhla D. , Weideman Eleanor A. , van der Vyver J. S. Fredrik , Conry Danielle S. , Jordaan Rowan K. , de Bruyn P. J. Nico
Published: January 2024

We report on an occurrence of ocular albinism in sub-Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) pups born on Marion Island, Prince Edward Archipelago. While previous observations have documented pups with atypical lanugo pelage colorations, this is the first case involving hypopigmentation of both fur and other tissues, including the eyes and nails. During the austral summer of 2021/22, we encountered four sub-Antarctic fur seal pups displaying this anomalous pigmentation. These anomalous individuals were found along two beaches on the island’s western side and one beach on the eastern side during an island-wide fur seal census. Although the characteristics observed strongly suggest ocular albinism, confirmation would be necessary through genetic analyses. The absence of melanin in mammalian eyes is known to compromise visual acuity, which may likely result in reduced survival beyond the weaning period, explaining the paucity of such adults in this well-observed population.
Trends in kidney transplantation and living donor nephrectomy in Germany: a total population analysis from 2006 to 2021
Authors: Zacharis Aristeidis , Reimold Philipp , Aksoy Cem , Jung Jonas , Martin Thomas , Eisenmenger Nicole , Thoduka Smita George , Groeben Christer , Huber Johannes , Flegar Luka
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To analyze recent trends of surgical access routes, length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality in kidney transplantation (KT) and living donor nephrectomy (LDN) in Germany.

Materials and methods

We studied the nationwide German hospital billing database and the German hospital quality reports from 2006 to 2021.

Results

There were a total of 35.898 KTs. In total, 9044 (25%) were living donor transplantations, while 26.854 (75%) were transplantations after donation after brain death (DBD). The share of open LDN decreased from 82% in 2006 to 22% in 2020 (− 4%/year; p < 0.001). The share of laparoscopic LDN increased from 18% in 2006 to 70% in 2020 (+ 3%/year; p < 0.001). The share of robotic LDN increased from 0% in 2006 to 8% in 2020 (+ 0.6%/year; p < 0.001). Robotic-assisted KT increased from 5 cases in 2016 to 13 procedures in 2019 (p = 0.2). LOS was shorter after living donor KT, i.e., 18 ± 12.1 days versus 21 ± 19.6 days for DBD renal transplantation (p < 0.001). Moreover, LOS differed for open versus laparoscopic versus robotic LDN (9 ± 3.1 vs. 8 ± 2.9 vs. 6 ± 2.6; p = 0.031). The overall in-hospital mortality was 0.16% (n = 5) after LDN, 0.47% (n = 42) after living donor KT and 1.8% (n = 475) after DBD KT.

Conclusions

There is an increasing trend toward minimal-invasive LDN in recent years. Overall, in-hospital mortality was low after KT. However, 5 deceased healthy donors after LKD caution that the risks of this procedure should also be taken very seriously.
Projecting Wintertime Newly Formed Arctic Sea Ice through Weighting CMIP6 Model Performance and Independence
Authors: Zhao Jiazhen , He Shengping , Fan Ke , Wang Huijun , Li Fei
Published: January 2024

Precipitous Arctic sea-ice decline and the corresponding increase in Arctic open-water areas in summer months give more space for sea-ice growth in the subsequent cold seasons. Compared to the decline of the entire Arctic multiyear sea ice, changes in newly formed sea ice indicate more thermodynamic and dynamic information on Arctic atmosphere–ocean–ice interaction and northern mid–high latitude atmospheric teleconnections. Here, we use a large multimodel ensemble from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) to investigate future changes in wintertime newly formed Arctic sea ice. The commonly used model-democracy approach that gives equal weight to each model essentially assumes that all models are independent and equally plausible, which contradicts with the fact that there are large interdependencies in the ensemble and discrepancies in models’ performances in reproducing observations. Therefore, instead of using the arithmetic mean of well-performing models or all available models for projections like in previous studies, we employ a newly developed model weighting scheme that weights all models in the ensemble with consideration of their performance and independence to provide more reliable projections. Model democracy leads to evident bias and large intermodel spread in CMIP6 projections of newly formed Arctic sea ice. However, we show that both the bias and the intermodel spread can be effectively reduced by the weighting scheme. Projections from the weighted models indicate that wintertime newly formed Arctic sea ice is likely to increase dramatically until the middle of this century regardless of the emissions scenario. Thereafter, it may decrease (or remain stable) if the Arctic warming crosses a threshold (or is extensively constrained).
Necrotizing enterocolitis: current understanding of the prevention and management
Authors: Hu Xiaohan , Liang Hansi , Li Fang , Zhang Rui , Zhu Yanbo , Zhu Xueping , Xu Yunyun
Published: January 2024

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the diseases in neonates, with a high morbidity and mortality rate, especially in preterm infants. This review aimed to briefly introduce the latest epidemiology, susceptibility factors, and clinical diagnosis and presentation of NEC. We also organized new prevention strategies by risk factors according to different pathogeneses and then discussed new treatment methods based on Bell's staging and complications, and the classification of mild to high severity based on clinical and imaging manifestations. Such a generalization will help clinicians and researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the disease and to conduct more targeted classification, grading prevention, and exploration. We focused on prevention and treatment of the early and suspected stages of NEC, including the discovery of novel biomarkers and drugs to control disease progression. At the same time, we discussed its clinical application, future development, and shortcomings.
Reliability of recovery heart rate variability measurements as part of the Lamberts Submaximal Cycle Test and the relationship with training status in trained to elite cyclists
Authors: Lamberts Robert P. , van Erp Teun , Javaloyes Alejandro , Eken Maaike M. , Langerak Nelleke G. , Tam Nicholas
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To determine if post-exercise heart rate variability, in the form of logged transformed root mean square of successive differences of the R–R intervals (LnRMSSD) can be measured reliably during the recovery from a submaximal cycle test and what the relationship of LnRMSSD is with training status of the cyclists.

Methods

Fourteen male cyclists participated in the reliability part for the study, which included performing six Lamberts Submaximal Cycle Test (LSCT), during which recovery LnRMSSD was measured over 30 s (LnRMSSD30 s), 60 s LnRMSSD60 s)and 90 s LnRMSSD90 s). In addition, fifty male and twenty female cyclists completed a peak power output (PPO) test (including VO2peak) and 40 km time trial (40 km TT) before which they performed the LSCT as a standardized warm-up. Relationships between the LnRMSSD and PPO, VO2peak and 40 km TT time were studied.

Results

Due to the design of the LSCT, submaximal heart and breathing rate were similar at the end of stage 3 of the LSCT, as well as during the recovery periods. The highest reliability was found in LnRMSSD60 s (ICC: 0.97) with a typical error of the measurement (TEM: 5.8%). In line with this the strongest correlations were found between LnRMSSD60 s and PPO (r = 0.93[male]; 0.85[female]), VO2peak (r = 0.71[male]; 0.63[female];) and 40 km TT (r = – 0.83[male]; – 0.63[female]).

Conclusions

LnRMSSD60 s can be measured reliably after the LSCT and can predict PPO, VO2peak and 40 km TT performance well in trained-to-elite cyclists. These findings suggest that recovery LnRMSSD can potentially play an important role in monitoring and fine-tuning training prescriptions in trained-to-elite cyclists.
Multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis of Contracaecum magnipapillatum infections in Australian black noddies, Anous minutus (Charadriiformes: Laridae)
Authors: Shamsi Shokoofeh , Nelson Leanne , Gordon Anita , Markham Kathryn , Francis Nidhish , Suthar Jaydipbhai , Zhu Xiaocheng
Published: January 2024

We provide the incidental necropsy findings associated with anisakid nematode infections of black noddy terns,Anous minutusBoie, 1844 (Charadriiformes: Laridae), from offshore islands in the southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia. Specimens collected from the proventriculi were identified morphologically asContracaecum magnipapillatumChapin, 1925 (Rhabditida: Anisakidae), using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The entire nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced to provide reference sequences for morphologically well-identified voucher specimens. Interestingly, after an alignment with closely related taxa using BLAST, sequences of the ITS1 and ITS2 were 100% identical to the sequences assigned toContracaecum septentrionaleKreis, 1955, from a razorbill,Alca tordaLinnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes: Alcidae), from Spain. These results either raise questions about the ITS as a genetic marker for some members ofContracaecum, or the identity of the specimens assigned toC. septentrionale, given that no supporting morphological data was associated with them. We highlight the need for a combined morphological and molecular approach to parasite diagnostics and the use of multiple genetic loci to resolve the molecular taxonomy of cryptic species. Morphological identifications should be taxonomically robust, transparent and precede the deposition of molecular barcodes in public repositories. The gross and histopathological findings of our investigation concur with previous reports of widespreadContracaecuminfections in black noddies and support the contention thatContracaecumspp. are an unlikely primary cause of mortality.
Development of a tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children and young adults with congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract
Authors: Kołbuc Marcin , Kołek Mateusz F. , Motyka Rafał , Bieniaś Beata , Habbig Sandra , Burgmaier Kathrin , Prikhodina Larisa , Papizh Svetlana , Tasic Velibor , Okorn Christine , Szczepańska Maria , Kiliś-Pstrusińska Katarzyna , Wasilewska Anna , Adamczyk Piotr , Tkaczyk Marcin , Pańczyk-Tomaszewska Małgorzata , Miklaszewska Monika , Pawlaczyk Krzysztof , Bukowska-Olech Ewelina , Jamsheer Aleksander , Jankauskiene Augustina , König Jens , Cheong Hae Il , Ahn Yo Han , Kaspar Sophie , Sikora Przemysław , Beck Bodo B. , Zaniew Marcin
Published: January 2024

Background

We aimed to develop a tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children with congenital abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUT).

Methods

The clinical and laboratory data from 234 children and young adults with known HNF1B mutation status were collected and analyzed retrospectively. All subjects were randomly divided into a training (70%) and a validation set (30%). A random forest model was constructed to predict HNF1B mutations. The recursive feature elimination algorithm was used for feature selection for the model, and receiver operating characteristic curve statistics was used to verify its predictive effect.

Results

A total of 213 patients were analyzed, including HNF1B-positive (mut + , n = 109) and HNF1B-negative (mut − , n = 104) subjects. The majority of patients had mild chronic kidney disease. Kidney phenotype was similar between groups, but bilateral kidney anomalies were more frequent in the mut + group. Hypomagnesemia and hypermagnesuria were the most common abnormalities in mut + patients and were highly selective of HNF1B. Hypomagnesemia based on age-appropriate norms had a better discriminatory value than the age-independent cutoff of 0.7 mmol/l. Pancreatic anomalies were almost exclusively found in mut + patients. No subjects had hypokalemia; the mean serum potassium level was lower in the HNF1B cohort. The abovementioned, discriminative parameters were selected for the model, which showed a good performance (area under the curve: 0.85; sensitivity of 93.67%, specificity of 73.57%). A corresponding calculator was developed for use and validation.

Conclusions

This study developed a simple tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children and young adults with CAKUT.

Graphical abstract
Geomagnetic activity affects animal myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury: an experimental-simulated study
Authors: Chang Weiyu , Chen Xinli , Yang Yuan , Deng Yanglin , Dong Liang , Wu Hui
Published: January 2024

Numerous studies have shown that geomagnetic activity (GMA) contributes to the development and escalation of cardiovascular disease (CVD), as well as increased morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and approaches for understanding GMA remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of GMA on oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI) rat models were created under various geomagnetic field conditions. The range of cardiac function, markers of myocardial injury, inflammatory factors, and the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway were measured after the 24-h period. The findings showed that weak GMA significantly improved cardiac function in the MI/RI rat model and reduced the size of myocardial infarction and creatine kinase (CK) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Additionally, weak GMA enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Furthermore, weak GMA significantly reduced the levels of the myocardial inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Conversely, the effects observed under severe GMA conditions were opposite to those observed under weak GMA. Western blot and qPCR analysis demonstrated that weak GMA led to a significant downregulation of TLR4, TRAF6, NF-κB, TNF-α, and MCP-1 in the MI/RI rat models. In contrast to weak GMA, severe GMA increased TLR4, TRAF6, NF-κB, and TNF-α expression. This study suggested that weak GMA had a limiting effect on MI/RI rat models, whereas severe GMA exacerbated injury in MI/RI rats. These effects were associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and might potentially involve the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.
In situ white mica Rb/Sr geochronology of the Leszczyniec metaigneous complex, West Sudetes: evidence of upper plate deformation at the onset of Variscan collision
Authors: Młynarska Maria , Barnes Christopher J. , Zack Thomas , Majka Jarosław , Mazur Stanisław
Published: January 2024

The Karkonosze-Izera Massif in the West Sudetes preserves evidence of subduction of the Saxothuringian Ocean beneath the Teplá-Barrandian Domain. Within the massif, the Leszczyniec metaigneous complex (LMC) is identified as the upper allochthon. It exhibits a unique structural history in comparison to the underlying allochthons, suggesting that the LMC records a distinctive tectonic history. To investigate the timing of this history, two orthogneisses were studied from a single outcrop of the LMC for in situ white mica Rb/Sr geochronology. The outcrop bears a southeast-dipping foliation (S1) and a north/northeast plunging stretching lineation (L1), defined by white mica and quartz. Quartz recrystallization textures, white mica chemistry (celadonite content of 0.23–0.47), preservation of igneous plagioclase phenocrysts, and the metamorphic mineral assemblage, all indicate maximum epidote–amphibolite facies conditions. Single-spot Rb/Sr dates were calculated from white mica using initial87Sr/86Sr values obtained by titanite and epidote. Results are similar for both rocks, providing weighted averages of 352.4 ± 4.1 Ma (MSWD: 0.6; n: 24) and 349.3 ± 2.5 Ma (MSWD: 0.4; n: 31). The rocks are interpreted to have the same structural and metamorphic history; thus, a pooled weighted average of 350.1 ± 5.3 Ma (2σ) is reported as the timing of white mica (re)crystallization during S1 and L1 development in epidote–amphibolite facies conditions. This event is bracketed by the timing of blueschist-facies metamorphism for the subjacent middle (c. 364 Ma) and lower (c. 345–341 Ma) allochthons, associated with an east/southeast-plunging L1. Considering the different structural and metamorphic histories of the LMC compared to the subjacent allochthons, it is likely that the complex was extracted from the Teplá-Barrandian upper plate due to subduction erosion prior to collective exhumation and stacking of the Karkonosze-Izera Massif.

Graphical abstract
Impacts on Embankments, Rigid and Flexible Barriers Against Rockslides: Model Experiments vs. DEM Simulations
Authors: Berger Simon Matthias , Hofmann Robert , Preh Alexander
Published: January 2024

As a result of climate change, rockfalls and rock avalanches as well as landslides lead to an increasing hazard for settlement areas and infrastructures. The hazards of such mass movements mean that numerous protective structures must be planned and built. In addition to building such constructions, the refurbishment of existing protective structures is also playing an increasingly important role. Some of these protective structures are rigid structures consisting of concrete and/or steel elements. Due to the difficult accessibility, flexible net constructions are often considered. Embankment constructions are normally erected to protect against large mass movements. The choice of the right type of construction is based not only on geotechnical and geographical conditions, but also on the occurring energies and the impact of rockslides on the protective structure. In this study, small-scale laboratory experiments with different protective structures are presented. Rigid and flexible structures as well as reinforced embankments are investigated. Based on the results of the experiments, the impacts and deformations are recalculated numerically using the discrete element method (DEM). From the small-scale laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, the differences regarding the construction type of the protective structure can be investigated. An essential main point concerns the relationship between the flexibility of the barrier and the total impact load. The presented work is limited to the investigation of strongly fragmented gravitational mass movements such as rock avalanches.
Cumulative pulse methylprednisolone and its relation to disease activity, damage and mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus patients: A post hoc analysis of COMOSLE-EGYPT study
Authors: Sobhy Nesreen , Ezzat Yasser , Gamal Sherif M. , Ghoniem Shada A. , Nasr Sarah S. , Badran Shaimaa , Soliman Ahmed , Fouad Nermeen Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the relation between cumulative intravenous methylprednisolone dose and disease activity, damage, and mortality among a group of Egyptian SLE patients.

Patients and methods

This is a post hoc analysis of a retrospective multicenter COMOSLE study. Cumulative pulse methylprednisolone dose was abstracted from COMOSLE database. Patients with cumulative pulse dose of ≤ 3.0 g (median dose) were compared to those with cumulative dose of > 3.0 g regarding demographic data, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and The Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/ACR Damage Index (SLICC) score as well as treatment received. Additionally, at 1.5, 3, 6, and 9 g of cumulative methylprednisolone, patients were compared regarding SLICC score and risk of mortality.

Results

Patients who received > 3 g of methylprednisolone were statistically significantly younger at disease onset, had longer disease duration, higher SLEDAI score at last visit, and higher SLICC score (p = 003, p = 0.002, p = 0.004 and p =  < 0.001, respectively). Additionally, with every gram increase in the cumulative methylprednisolone, there was a significant increase in SLICC score by 0.169 (B = 0.169, CI = 0.122–0.216, p-value =  < 0.001) and an increased risk of mortality by 13.5% (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.135, CI = 1.091–1.180, p-value = 0.001). The best cutoff value of methylprednisolone dose at which damage may occur, ranged between 2.75 (with sensitivity of 81.4% and specificity of 33.9%) and 3.25 g (with sensitivity of 48.3% and specificity of 71.5%).

Conclusion

With every gram increase in the cumulative methylprednisolone, there may be increase in damage and mortality, especially in doses exceeding the range of 2.75–3.25 g.

Key Points• Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus should be with the least possible dose of steroids to decrease the risk of damage and mortality.• With every gram increase in the cumulative intravenous methylprednisolone there may be increase in damage and mortality.
A competitive algorithm for throughput maximization on identical machines
Authors: Moseley Benjamin , Pruhs Kirk , Stein Clifford , Zhou Rudy
Published: January 2024

This paper considers the basic problem of scheduling jobs online with preemption to maximize the number of jobs completed by their deadline on m identical machines. The main result is an O(1) competitive deterministic algorithm for any number of machines $$m >1$$

m
>
1

.
Long-lasting adverse effects of short-term stress during the suckling–mastication transition period on masticatory function and intraoral sensation in rats
Authors: Katagiri Ayano , Yamada Masaharu , Sato Hajime , Toyoda Hiroki , Niwa Hitoshi , Kato Takafumi
Published: January 2024

Early-life stress affects brain development, eventually resulting in adverse behavioral and physical health consequences in adulthood. The present study assessed the hypothesis that short-term early-life stress during infancy before weaning, a period for the maturation of mastication and sleep, poses long-lasting adverse effects on masticatory function and intraoral sensations later in life.

Rat pups were exposed to either maternal separation (MS) or intermittent hypoxia (IH-Infancy) for 6 h/day in the light/sleep phase from postnatal day (P)17 to P20 to generate “neglect” and “pediatric obstructive sleep apnea” models, respectively. The remaining rats were exposed to IH during P45–P48 (IH-Adult). Masticatory ability was evaluated based on the rats’ ability to chew pellets and bite pasta throughout the growth period (P21–P70). Intraoral chemical and mechanical sensitivities were assessed using two-bottle preference drinking tests, and hind paw pain thresholds were measured in adulthood (after P60).

No differences were found in body weight, grip force, and hind paw sensitivity in MS, IH-Infancy, and IH-Adult rats compared with naïve rats. Masticatory ability was lower in MS and IH-Infancy rats from P28 to P70 than in naïve rats. MS and IH-Infancy rats exhibited intraoral hypersensitivity to capsaicin and mechanical stimulations in adulthood. The IH-Adult rats did not display inferior masticatory ability or intraoral hypersensitivity.

In conclusion, short-term early-life stress during the suckling–mastication transition period potentially causes a persistent decrease in masticatory ability and intraoral hypersensitivity in adulthood. The period is a “critical window” for the maturation of oral motor and sensory functions.