bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análise comparativa do perfil de diabéticos usuários de Unidades Básicas de Saúde
Authors: Miralles Clara Silvana Weiler , Dal Bosco Simone Morelo , Rempel Claudete
Published: January 2012

Introdução: Com o aumento da expectativa de vida da população, cresce o número de doenças crônicas, entre elas o diabetes, que tem se tornado um grave problema de saúde pública. Objetivo: Descrever a análise comparativa dos perfis sócio-demográfico, nutricional e bioquímico de diabéticos usuários de Unidades Básicas de Saúde. Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por 24 diabéticos. Foram realizados exames bioquímicos e avaliação nutricional. Por meio de questionário foi verificado consumo alimentar de 24 horas e o perfil sócio-demográfico. Resultados: Houve redução da creatinina (p0,001) e aumento da hemoglobina glicada (p=0,004). Em relação ao consumo alimentar, cálcio, sódio e potássio apresentaram diferença significativa, quando comparadas as quantidades ingeridas com os valores de referência. Conclusão: Destacou-se prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade nos dois momentos avaliados, além de inadequação do consumo de micronutrientes em relação aos valores recomendados para grupos populacionais. Constatou-se aumento da hemoglobina glicada e redução de creatinina no fim do estudo.
Treinamento global na pressão inspiratória máxima e funcionalidade de um indivíduo com hemiparesia crônica
Authors: Glória Adam Edwards , Nascimento Lucas Rodrigues , Paiva Célia Maria Rocha e , Fernandes Marcela Sales , Lima Renata Cristina Magalhães , Moura Regina Márcia Faria de
Published: January 2012

Introdução: Fraqueza muscular após Acidente Cerebrovascular (ACV) não é restrita às estruturas apendiculares, acometendo músculos posturais e respiratórios. Embora treinamento específico possa modificar parâmetros respiratórios, intervenções baseadas em atividades globais poderiam reduzir tempo e custo de tratamento. Objetivo: Analisar efeitos do treinamento global na pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx), função motora (FM), capacidade funcional (CF) e velocidade de marcha (VM) de um indivíduo hemiparético. Método: Realizou-se estudo de caso baseado em reforço muscular e exercícios aeróbicos. PImáx foi avaliada pré-intervenção, após três semanas, e pós-intervenção; e as demais variáveis avaliadas pré e pós-intervenção. As variações em CF, VM e PImáx foram descritas em valores absolutos e percentuais. FM foi avaliada pela variação mínima clinicamente significante. Resultados/Conclusões: O participante apresentou melhora considerável nas variáveis estudadas, sendo a PImáx aumentada em 250% e melhora clínica descrita em relação à FM, justificando a realização de estudos para verificar a eficácia dessa intervenção.
Doação voluntária de medula óssea: comparação entre não doadores e doadores cadastrados
Authors: Parentoni Camila Da Costa , Mattos Cinara De Cássia Brandão de , Valério Nelson Iguimar , Ricci Junior Otavio , Mattos Luiz Carlos de
Published: January 2012

Introdução: Há pacientes com indicação de transplante de medula óssea que não possuem doadores compatíveis na família e dependem de doadores voluntários. Objetivo: Comparar os perfis de não doadores e de doadores voluntários de medula óssea cadastrados no Redome. Métodos: Selecionaram-se 180 indivíduos, de ambos os sexos, sendo 80 não doadores (grupo I), e 100, doadores (grupo II). Resultados: Etnia, sexo, estado civil e opção religiosa não diferiram entre os grupos, porém média de idade (p=0,001) e número de filhos (p=0,02) foram foi maior no grupo I. O grupo II apresentou maior nível de escolaridade (p=0,04) e boa condição de saúde (p=0,004). Solidariedade e campanhas de divulgação foram apontadas como fatores favoráveis ao cadastramento. Conclusão: Conclui-se que escolaridade e acesso a informações são fundamentais para a tomada de decisão do indivíduo quanto a cadastrar-se como doador voluntário de medula óssea.
A influência da terapia assistida por animais na funcionalidade de uma criança com diplegia espástica: um estudo de caso
Authors: Zago Laura Guerra , Finger Alenia Varela , Kintschner Fabiana Maria
Published: January 2012

Introdução: O diplégico espástico apresenta uma série de comprometimentos funcionais devido à condição física que lhe é imposta, principalmente em membros inferiores. A Terapia Assistida por Animais (TAA), na qual o principal componente da equipe é o animal, começa a se destacar, apesar de ser um recurso terapêutico ainda pouco pesquisado. Objetivo: Neste estudo, objetivou-se verificar a influência da TAA na sua funcionalidade. Método: Realizou-se um trabalho qualiquantitativo, caracterizado por um estudo de caso, com uma criança diplégica espástica. Para mensuração dos resultados, aplicaram-se ao cuidador da criança o questionário Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) e uma entrevista semiestruturada. A evolução da criança foi registrada em diário de campo pelos pesquisadores. Resultados: Ao término do estudo, identificou-se uma melhora funcional nos quesitos de autocuidado, mobilidade e função social. Conclusão: Percebeu-se que a TAA é um recurso terapêutico lúdico e estimulante, capaz de proporcionar melhor desempenho das atividades funcionais da criança.
Efeitos do alongamento na qualidade de vida e flexibilidade de mulheres jovens
Authors: Pracideli Juliana , Cabral Cristina Maria Nunes
Published: January 2012

Objetivo: Analisar o impacto do alongamento muscular sobre a qualidade de vida e flexibilidade de mulheres jovens. Métodos: Foram selecionadas 11 participantes, com baixos escores de qualidade de vida avaliada pelo SF-36, que realizaram um protocolo de alongamento muscular geral durante quatro semanas. A avaliação foi realizada antes, imediatamente após e um ano após o alongamento, utilizando o SF-36 e a medida da distância terceiro dedo-solo. Resultados: Houve diferença estatisticamente significante em quase todos os aspectos da qualidade de vida após um ano (p0,05), exceto no aspecto de capacidade funcional (p=0,20) e estado geral de saúde (p=0,08). Na medida da distância terceiro dedo-solo também se observou diferença estatística importante entre as três avaliações (p=0,02). Conclusão: Estes resultados sugerem que, após um período de tempo, os escores do SF-36 para avaliação da qualidade de vida diminuem, mas não retornam aos iniciais. Ainda, pode-se observar diminuição da amplitude de movimento após um ano.
Prevalência de obesidade e hipertensão arterial em uma população de motoristas profissionais rodoviários interestaduais de ônibus
Authors: Hirata Raquel Pastréllo , Cerra Josiane Carniatto , Macedo Cesar Rodrigues , Favareto Jonilson , Leitão Filho Fernando Sergio Studart , Insalaco Giuseppe , Oliveira Luis Vicente Franco de
Published: January 2012

Introdução: Motoristas rodoviários apresentam comportamento sedentário e dieta incorreta, colaborando para uma epidemia de sobrepeso e obesidade. Objetivos: Identificar a prevalência de obesidade e hipertensão arterial em uma população de motoristas profissionais interestaduais de ônibus. Métodos: Foram coletados dados de 602 motoristas referentes à idade, peso, altura, índice de massa corpórea, circunferências abdominal e de pescoço, pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD). Resultados: Todos os sujeitos eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 41,5±6,9 anos. Do total de motoristas, 343 (57,0%) apresentaram sobrepeso, e 113 (18,8%) foram considerados obesos. Em relação à PAS, 416 (70,9%) eram pré-hipertensos, e 39 (6,4%), hipertensos. Já quanto à PAD, 310 (52,8%) voluntários eram pré-hipertensos, e 182 (31,0%), hipertensos. Conclusões: Foi verificada uma alta prevalência de sobrepeso/obesidade e de hipertensão arterial nessa população, constituindo um problema de grande relevância social, principalmente na área de transporte de passageiros.
Algebra from Chips and Chopsticks
Authors: Yun Jeong Oak , Flores Alfinio
Published: January 2012

Manipulatives are used to help identify triangular, square, pentagonal, and hexagonal numbers to obtain algebraic representations.
Why Don't We Just Divide Across?
Authors: Newton Kristie J. , Sands Janice
Published: January 2012

By exploring algorithms and getting answers to their “Why?” questions, students will gain confidence calculating with fractions.
Cultivating Algebraic Representations
Authors: van den Kieboom Leigh A. , Magiera Marta T.
Published: January 2012

Teachers learn to appreciate varied student representations of the Flower Bed problem after working through it on their own.
Student Thinking about Proportionality
Authors: Banker Teresa G.
Published: January 2012

Connections are made to student understandings of proportion, ratio, and equal parts.
Trends in Naloxone Dispensing From Retail Pharmacies in the US
Authors: Rikard S. Michaela , Strahan Andrea E. , Schieber Lyna Z. , Guy Gery P.
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional study examines trends in naloxone dispensing by US retail pharmacies from 2019 to 2023, including prescriber specialty and product brand.
The Weight of a Differential
Authors: Olson Maren E.
Published: June 2024

In this narrative medicine essay, when a physician’s mother begins experiencing postmenopausal bleeding, the author wonders what it would be like to hear someone’s signs and symptoms and not automatically begin to build a differential.
It Is Time to Consider More Price Regulation in Health Care
Authors: Glied Sherry , Chandra Amitabh
Published: June 2024

This JAMA Forum discusses the promise and pitfalls of regulating prices in the US health care system.
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and American Community Survey Estimates of Vision Difficulty Prevalence
Authors: Brault Matthew W. , Wittenborn John S. , Rein David B.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Inconsistent estimates of self-reported vision impairment across survey sources may cause confusion about the true size of the population with vision problems.

Objective

To explain why the American Community Survey (ACS) and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) produce different prevalence estimates for self-reported vision problems in the US, despite using the same question wording.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a cross-sectional analysis of the 2021 ACS and BRFSS using subgroup analysis and decomposition. Respondents were from 49 states and the District of Columbia. Included in the analysis were a civilian noninstitutionalized population 18 years and older. Data were analyzed from August 2022 to October 2023.

Intervention

Aspects of sample design and composition.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Self-reported vision problems.

Results

This study included a weighted sample of 2.8 million individuals (median [IQR] age, 47.7 [32.8-63.1] years; 51% male). The estimate of self-reported vision problems prevalence from the BRFSS (4.89%; 95% CI, 4.73%-5.04%) was 1.7 times as high as the estimate from the ACS (2.95%; 95% CI, 2.92%-2.97%) for similarly defined populations. If the BRFSS sample were weighted to align with the composition of other disability types in the ACS, the prevalence of vision problems would be 3.67% (95% CI, 3.53%-3.80%), closing about 63% of the gap between survey estimates.

Conclusion and Relevance

Results of this survey study suggest that the focus on health may be associated with the higher prevalence in the BRFSS through differential nonresponse or question priming. Differences in other survey operations including frame construction, proxy reporting, and imputation had little impact.
High‐Energy Earth‐Abundant Cathodes with Enhanced Cationic/Anionic Redox for Sustainable and Long‐Lasting Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zuo Wenhua , Liu Shiqi , Zhao Chen , Li Qingtian , Gao Yibo , Liu Xiang , Xiao Dongdong , Hwang Inhui , Ren Yang , Sun Cheng‐Jun , Chen Zonghai , Wang Boya , Feng Yunfa , Yang Wanli , Xu Gui‐Liang , Amine Khalil , Yu Haijun
Published: June 2024

Layered iron/manganese‐based oxides are a class of promising cathode materials for sustainable batteries due to their high energy densities and earth abundance. However, the stabilization of cationic and anionic redox reactions in these cathodes during cycling at high voltage remain elusive. Here, an electrochemically/thermally stable P2‐Na0.67Fe0.3Mn0.5Mg0.1Ti0.1O2 cathode material with zero critical elements is designed for sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) to realize a highly reversible capacity of ≈210 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1 and good cycling stability with a capacity retention of 74% after 300 cycles at 200 mA g−1, even when operated with a high charge cut‐off voltage of 4.5 V versus sodium metal. Combining a suite of cutting‐edge characterizations and computational modeling, it is shown that Mg/Ti co‐doping leads to stabilized surface/bulk structure at high voltage and high temperature, and more importantly, enhances cationic/anionic redox reaction reversibility over extended cycles with the suppression of other undesired oxygen activities. This work fundamentally deepens the failure mechanism of Fe/Mn‐based layered cathodes and highlights the importance of dopant engineering to achieve high‐energy and earth‐abundant cathode material for sustainable and long‐lasting NIBs.
Stacking Fault‐Enriched MoNi4/MoO2 Enables High‐Performance Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Yuan , Arandiyan Hamidreza , Mofarah Sajjad S. , Shen Xiangjian , Bartlett Stuart A. , Koshy Pramod , Sorrell Charles C. , Sun Hongyu , Pozo‐Gonzalo Cristina , Dastafkan Kamran , Britto Sylvia , Bhargava Suresh K. , Zhao Chuan
Published: June 2024

Producing green hydrogen in a cost‐competitive manner via water electrolysis will make the long‐held dream of hydrogen economy a reality. Although platinum (Pt)‐based catalysts show good performance toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the high cost and scarce abundance challenge their economic viability and sustainability. Here, a non‐Pt, high‐performance electrocatalyst for HER achieved by engineering high fractions of stacking fault (SF) defects for MoNi4/MoO2 nanosheets (d‐MoNi) through a combined chemical and thermal reduction strategy is shown. The d‐MoNi catalyst offers ultralow overpotentials of 78 and 121 mV for HER at current densities of 500 and 1000 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH, respectively. The defect‐rich d‐MoNi exhibits four times higher turnover frequency than the benchmark 20% Pt/C, together with its excellent durability (> 100 h), making it one of the best‐performing non‐Pt catalysts for HER. The experimental and theoretical results reveal that the abundant SFs in d‐MoNi induce a compressive strain, decreasing the proton adsorption energy and promoting the associated combination of *H into hydrogen and molecular hydrogen desorption, enhancing the HER performance. This work provides a new synthetic route to engineer defective metal and metal alloy electrocatalysts for emerging electrochemical energy conversion and storage applications.
Achieving sustainable development goals through digitalization in ports
Authors: Almeida Fernando , Okon Edet
Published: June 2024

Sustainable development is crucial to ports due to the interconnection between port activities, the economy, and the environment. This study aims to explore how port digitalization initiatives played the role of promoting sustainable development. To this purpose, the author/authors adopted a mixed methods approach using as database the World Ports Sustainability Program, which features 74 port digitalization initiatives. The first step focused on a quantitative analysis of the distribution of said initiatives in terms of sustainable development goals, followed by a thematic analysis to explore their contribution. The findings indicate that more than 72% of ports addressed sustainable development goals 8, 9, 13, and 17. Digitalization initiatives in ports have mainly focused on improving their infrastructure and operational performance, enabling them to address climate change challenges. This work also recognized the role that partnerships can play in achieving this goal.
Growth of high school NIL impacts college athletics
Authors: Stein Callan G. , Brolley Christopher M. , Broczkowski Brett
Published: June 2024

Name, image, and likeness deals for college student‐athletes, as well as NIL‐related legislation and policies, has dominated the public discourse on the topic.
Did court dismiss rower's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: June 2024

A former member of the Southern Methodist University women's rowing team filed a lawsuit against the university, claiming she sustained serious hip injuries resulting from discrimination against female student‐athletes in violation of Title IX. The rower claimed she suffered these injuries because of: (1) incompetent coaching, (2) substandard medical treatment, and (3) limited access to qualified training personnel. She also claimed the university provided inferior resources to its female rowers. The rower underwent medical treatment for her injuries.
Green Late‐Stage Functionalization of Tryptamines
Authors: Xu Jiayi , Zhang Yahui , Cai Qiling , Chen Li , Sun Yang , Liu Qinying , Gao Yu , Chen Haijun
Published: June 2024

An efficient and rapid protocol for the oxidative halogenation of tryptamines with 10 % aqueous NaClO has been developed. This reaction is featured by its operational simplicity, metal‐free conditions, no purification, and high yield. Notably, the resulting key intermediates are suitable for further functionalization with various nucleophiles, including amines, N‐aromatic heterocycles, indoles and phenols. The overall transformation exhibits broad functional‐group tolerance and is applicable to the late‐stage functionalization of complex biorelevant molecules.
Stacking Structure of Vaterite Revealed by Atomic Imaging and Diffraction Analysis
Authors: Okumura Taiga , Takahashi Gen , Suzuki Michio , Kogure Toshihiro
Published: June 2024

Anhydrous calcium carbonate crystals exist as three polymorphs: calcite, aragonite, and vaterite. Although vaterite is a metastable phase rarely found in the geological environment, it is intriguing that various biominerals are composed of vaterite. The processes of stable vaterite formation in biological systems cannot be understood without elucidating the nature of vaterite. The crystal structure of vaterite has been discussed for nearly a century but is still an open question. Here we propose the actual structure of vaterite by combining atomic imaging and diffraction analysis with simulations of disordered stacking sequences. Vaterite basically appears as layers of hexagonal calcium planes and carbonate (CO32−)‐containing sheets stacked with +60°, −60°, or 180° rotations from the underlying layer. However, equivalent carbonate positions in alternating layers are forbidden, and four‐layer stacking in which the fourth layer rotates 180° relative to the first layer are predominant, forming an orthogonal reciprocal lattice in diffraction patterns. These stacking characteristics replicate the intensity distribution in the electron and X‐ray diffraction patterns. This study has almost completely elucidated the crystal structure and stacking sequence of vaterite. Our findings provide insights into the thermodynamic stability of vaterite, which facilitates comprehension of the biomineralization processes and growth dynamics of calcium carbonate.
Effects of temperature and resource level on interspecific interactions in two species of Odonata larvae
Authors: Stahl Lisa , Johansson Frank
Published: June 2024

Identifying how temperature and food resources affect interactions between species is important for understanding how climate change will shape community structure in the future. Here, we tested how temperature and resource density affect survival and growth in the larval stage of two coexisting odonates: the damselfly Lestes sponsa and the dragonfly Sympetrum vulgatum. We performed a laboratory experiment at two temperatures (21 and 24°C) with two resource densities. We estimated the timing of egg hatching of individual egg clutches and thereafter the larval growth rate‐, survival‐ and size‐mediated priority effects under interspecific conditions. Eggs of both species hatched slightly faster at 24°C, and S. vulgatum eggs started hatching approximately 1 day earlier than L. sponsa eggs. However, this earlier hatching did not result in a size‐mediated priority effect, that is, a higher predation on the later hatching L. sponsa. Nevertheless, L. sponsa larvae were significantly larger than S. vulgatum at hatching. Growth rate and survival were significantly higher: (1) at 24°C compared with 21°C, (2) at high compared with low‐resource density and (3) in L. sponsa compared with S. vulgatum. Several significant interaction effects between resource density and temperature and between temperature and species were found. At high temperature, L. sponsa had a higher growth rate than S. vulgatum, but no difference in growth rate between species was found at low temperature. Additionally, a high‐resource density resulted in a higher growth rate in both species, but only under high temperature. There was a negative relationship between growth rate and survival in both species, suggesting that the higher growth rate of larvae was to some degree driven by intraguild predation and/or cannibalism. Our results imply that resource levels interact with temperature to affect interactions between the species.
Evaluating the prognostic value of systemic immune‐inflammatory index in patients with acute decompensated heart failure
Authors: Qiu Jiajun , Huang Xin , Kuang Maobin , Wang Chao , Yu Changhui , He Shiming , Xie Guobo , Wu Zhiyong , Sheng Guotai , Zou Yang
Published: June 2024

Aims

The value of the systemic immune‐inflammatory index (SII) in assessing adverse outcomes in various cardiovascular diseases has been extensively discussed. This study aims to evaluate the predictive value and risk stratification ability of SII for 30 day mortality in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).

Methods

This analysis included 1452 patients hospitalized for ADHF, all the participants being part of the China Jiangxi‐acute decompensated heart failure1 project. The risk stratification capability of the SII in patients with ADHF, as well as its correlation with the 30 day mortality risk among ADHF patients, was evaluated utilizing Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and multivariable Cox regression models. A restricted cubic spline was employed to model the dose–response relationship between the two, and the receiver operating characteristic curve was utilized to assess the predictive ability of SII for 30 day mortality.

Results

The Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the risk of mortality in the high SII group (SII ≥ 980 × 109/L) was significantly greater than that in the low SII group (SII < 980 × 109/L, log‐rank P < 0.001). After adjusting for various confounding factors, a higher SII was associated with an increased risk of 30 day mortality in ADHF patients [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34–3.08]. Further restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a non‐linear dose–response relationship between the two (P for non‐linear = 0.006). Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that SII had a high accuracy in predicting 30 day mortality events in ADHF patients (AUC = 0.7479), and the optimal predictive threshold was calculated to be 980 × 109/L, a sensitivity of 0.7547 and a specificity of 0.7234.

Conclusions

This study found a significant positive association between SII and 30 day all‐cause mortality in ADHF patients. We determined the SII cut‐off point for predicting 30 day all‐cause mortality in patients with ADHF to be 980 × 109/L.
Ultra‐broadband sound absorption characteristics in underwater ultra‐thin metamaterial with three layer bubbles
Authors: Gao Nansha , Huang Qiaogao , Pan Guang
Published: June 2024

The interest of this article is to obtain the underwater broadband sound absorption characteristics by filling three layers of bubbles in Polydimethylsiloxane polymer (PDMS). In this underwater ultra‐thin metamaterial, three‐layer bubbles are arranged from small to large with the same radius center. The finite element analysis (FEA) method and transfer matrix (TM) method have good consistency in calculating the sound absorption coefficient of this metamaterial. The results reveals that sub‐wavelength metamaterial properties can be achieved below 6.4 MHz. Bubble coupling critical viscosity, waning coupling between layers, waveform transformation, and increasing scattering (reflection) waves all affect broadband sound absorption characteristics. The position and size of three bubbles are discussed, and design summary could be potentially in underwater ultrasound filter devices and medical ultrasound field.
One pot multicomponent reaction of curcumin: Green synthesis of novel 1,4‐dihydropyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylates
Authors: Motamed Nasim Khoshlahjeh , Larijani Kambiz , Pournamdari Elham , Saeidian Hamid , Hargalani Fariba Zamani
Published: June 2024

In this research, investigation of one‐pot multicomponent reactions of (1E,6E)‐1,7‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)hepta‐1,6‐diene‐3,5‐dione (curcumin), primary amines, and activated acetylenic compounds in an aqueous medium at room temperature in the presence of catalytic amounts of silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles functionalized by iminodiacetic acid‐copper (Fe3O4@SiO2/IDA‐Cu) was studied which was produced 1,4‐dihydropyridine‐2,3‐dicarboxylate in high yields. The advantages of this procedure were easy separation of products and catalyst, high yields of products, reusability of synthesized catalyst, and good rate of reactions.
Playfulness and Kindergarten Children's Academic Skills: Executive Functions and Creative Thinking Processes as Mediators?
Authors: Fung Wing Kai , Chung Kevin Kien Hoa
Published: June 2024

This study examined the direct and indirect relationships between playfulness (social and cognitive spontaneity), executive functions, convergent thinking, divergent thinking, and academic skills in Hong Kong Chinese kindergarten children. Participants were 181 second‐year (4 to 5 years) kindergarten children (45.9% boys) and their parents. Parents reported demographic information and children's playfulness and executive functions through a questionnaire. Children were administered behavioral assessments of convergent thinking, divergent thinking, Chinese word reading, and number word comparison at their kindergarten. Results from a path analytic model revealed the mediating roles of convergent and divergent thinking in the relationship between playfulness and number word comparison. In contrast, convergent thinking mediated the link between playfulness and Chinese word reading. Executive functions were positively related to playfulness but unrelated to children's academic skills. The findings suggest that playful children might develop better creative thinking processes, supporting their academic skills. Practically, the findings underscore the importance of play‐based learning in developing children's creativity and academic skills in the early years.
Corrosion and degradation behavior of bent aluminum and copper pipes for practical use in air conditioning
Authors: Uchiyama Seiji , Uemura Satoshi , Hayashi Takeharu , Kimura Yuji , Seki Shiro
Published: June 2024

Although copper (Cu) pipes are widely used in refrigerant piping owing to their high thermal conductivity and weathering resistance, there are concerns regarding the increasing price and limited supply of Cu. Consequently, our focus has shifted to aluminum (Al), which is relatively abundant and inexpensive, to investigate its application in refrigerant piping. We previously examined corrosion factors on both the internal and external surfaces of straight piping and conducted accelerated degradation tests, showing that Al has a durability comparable to that of Cu. However, bending sections are always used in addition to straight pipes, and bending induces tensile stress on the outer side of the bending curvature and compressive stress on the inner side. Notably, stress corrosion cracking may occur under tensile stress in corrosive environments. Herein, we investigate the mechanical, electrochemical, and weather resistance properties of bent Al and Cu pipes to evaluate the practicality of Al refrigerant piping.
G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor agonist G‐1 decreases ADAM10 levels and NLRP3‐inflammasome component activation in response to Staphylococcus aureus alpha‐hemolysin
Authors: Zheng Huayu , Triplett Kathleen D. , Prossnitz Eric R. , Hall Pamela R. , Daly Seth M.
Published: June 2024

The G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor, also known as GPER1 or originally GPR30, is found in various tissues, indicating its diverse functions. It is typically present in immune cells, suggesting its role in regulating immune responses to infectious diseases. Our previous studies have shown that G‐1, a selective GPER agonist, can limit the pathogenesis mediated by Staphylococcus aureus alpha‐hemolysin (Hla). It aids in clearing bacteria in a mouse skin infection model and restricts the surface display of the Hla receptor, ADAM10 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease 10) in HaCaT keratinocytes. In this report, we delve into the modulation of GPER in human immune cells in relation to the NLRP3 inflammasome. We used macrophage‐like differentiated THP‐1 cells for our study. We found that treating these cells with G‐1 reduces ATP release, decreases the activity of the caspase‐1 enzyme, and lessens cell death following Hla intoxication. This is likely due to the reduced levels of ADAM10 and NLRP3 proteins, as well as the decreased display of the ADAM10 receptor in the G‐1‐treated THP‐1 cells. Our studies, along with our previous work, suggest the potential therapeutic use of G‐1 in reducing Hla susceptibility in humans. This highlights the importance of GPER in immune regulation and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Cost and impact of off-flavor on U.S. catfish farms
Authors: Cheatham Morgan , Kumar Ganesh , Tucker Craig , Roy Luke A. , Dahl Sunni , Peterman Mark , Avery Jimmy , Johnson Jeff
Published: June 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to quantify the economic costs and impacts of off-flavor on U.S. catfish farms.

Methods

A survey was conducted to quantify the costs and economic methods using enterprise budget techniques to enumerate the costs of off-flavor on catfish farms.

Result

Diuron was the most popular-choice algicide for off-flavor management. Direct annual costs associated with off-flavor management on catfish farms amounted to US$40 million/year. Total industry economic losses due to off-flavor was estimated at $73.9 million in 2022.

Conclusion

The study confirms the continued significance of off-flavor in U.S. catfish farming and quantifies the associated economic effects.
Population modeling analyses of crizotinib in pediatric patients with ALK‐positive advanced cancers
Authors: Jerry Li , Swan Lin , Dana Nickens , Balis Frank M. , Greengard Emily , Huiping Xu
Published: June 2024

Background

Alterations in the ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase) gene play a critical role in pathogenesis of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). Crizotinib is a small molecule competitive inhibitor of ALK, ROS1, and MET kinases and was approved for pediatric patients with ALK‐positive relapsed or refractory, systemic ALCL, and ALK‐positive unresectable, recurrent, or refractory inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT).

Procedure

Crizotinib data from pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory solid tumors, IMT, or ALCL were included in the analyses. All patients received crizotinib orally at doses ranging from 100 to 365 mg/m2 twice daily (BID). PopPK analyses were conducted to characterize crizotinib disposition in pediatric patients. Exposure–response (ER) safety and antitumor analyses were conducted to characterize relationships between crizotinib dose or exposure with safety and antitumor activity endpoints of interest.

Results

The population pharmacokinetic (popPK), ER safety, and ER antitumor analysis included 98, 110, and 36 pediatric patients, respectively. A one‐compartment pharmacokinetic model with allometric scaling, first‐order elimination, and first‐order absorption with lag time adequately described the data. Natural log‐transformed model‐predicted crizotinib AUCss (steady‐state area under the concentration–time curve) demonstrated a significant, positive relationship with Grade ≥3 NEUTROPENIA and Any Grade VISION DISORDER. Crizotinib dose demonstrated a positive relationship with objective response rate.

Conclusions

No significant differences in PK were identified across a wide range of ages or across tumor types, suggesting body surface area (BSA)‐based dosing adequately adjusted for differences in patient size to achieve similar systemic crizotinib exposures across young children and adolescent pediatric patients. None of the myelosuppressive events except Grade ≥3 NEUTROPENIA had significant relationships identified with crizotinib dose or exposure, suggesting crizotinib is a tolerable treatment with less hematological toxicity than traditional chemotherapy regimens for pediatric patients with ALK‐mutated cancers. Results from the presented analyses support the pediatric dosing recommendations in the product label.
HPLC/ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS based untargeted metabolomics authentication of Taxus × media six tissues
Authors: Bai Hangyu , Li Dengwu
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Taxus media (Taxus × media Rehder) is renowned for its high paclitaxel content, serving as a major source for industrial paclitaxel production. In addition to paclitaxel, T. media contains a diverse range of metabolites, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, which have been shown to possess antioxidant, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. However, these compounds have not been thoroughly studied as key metabolites in T. media.

Objective

The untargeted metabolomics analysis of six T. media tissues provides new insights into the development and utilization of T. media metabolites.

Method

The extracts from six tissues of T. media were analyzed and subjected to analysis using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (HPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS) and chemometric techniques.

Results

Using a reliable HPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS method, we identified 312 compounds in six T. media tissues, including 214 previously unreported in T. media. To identify characteristic compounds across different tissues, 34 metabolites were further screened. KEGG metabolic pathway analysis revealed that these compounds primarily occur in the metabolic pathways of terpene glycosides, flavans, and O‐methylated flavonoids.

Conclusion

This study initially utilized an HPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS‐based metabolomics approach to assess the metabolites in different tissues of T. media, providing a basis for their utilization and management.
The virtual brain endocast of Incamys bolivianus: insight from the neurosensory system into the adaptive radiation of South American rodents
Authors: Bertrand Ornella C. , Lang Madlen M. , Ferreira José D. , Kerber Leonardo , Kynigopoulou Zoi , Silcox Mary T.
Published: June 2024

Caviomorph rodents are endemic to South America and are one of the most adaptively diverse radiations of rodents today. Although their origin and diversification have been intensively studied, questions still remain about many of the details of where, when and how the group radiated. One area of continuing debate relates to the evolution of their neurosensory system. Modern caviomorphs exhibit a rich brain shape and size diversity. So far the oldest species for which endocranial data are known is dated to the Early Miocene. Here, we describe the virtual brain endocast of the late Oligocene stem chinchillid Incamys bolivianus from Bolivia and provide new hypotheses regarding the ancestral brain of Chinchillidae and Caviomorpha more broadly. Caviomorph rodents, independent from other rodent clades, acquired an expanded neocortex and their common ancestor was probably lissencephalic or had few sulci. Incamys uniquely combines extended neocortical temporal lobes and exposed caudal colliculi, which have roles in audition and vocalization processing. We interpret this morphology as evidence for enhanced auditory acuity, vocalization processing and potentially group‐living in Incamys, which is known in modern members of the Chinchillidae family. No temporal effect was found on relative brain size in South American mammals; however, our sample is limited to available brain endocasts and as such remains small and unevenly distributed taxonomically and temporally. Incamys provides crucial insight into the evolution of the caviomorph brain and shows that we still have much to explore regarding how these small mammals achieved one the most impressive adaptive radiations of the Cenozoic.
Optimal Reconstruction of Vector Fields from Data for Prediction and Uncertainty Quantification
Authors: McGowan Sean P. , Robertson William S. P. , Blachut Chantelle , Balasuriya Sanjeeva
Published: June 2024

Predicting the evolution of dynamics from a given trajectory history of an unknown system is an important and challenging problem. This paper presents a model-free method of forecasting unknown chaotic systems through reconstructing vector fields from noisy measured data via an adaptation of optimal control methods. This technique is also applicable to partially observed systems using a Takens delay embedding approach. The algorithms are validated on the Lorenz system and the four-dimensional hyperchaotic Rössler system, and demonstrate successful predictions well beyond the Lyapunov timescale. It is found that for small datasets or datasets with large levels of noise, the prediction accuracy of partially observed systems approaches that of fully observed systems. The presented approach also allows the model-free assessment of local predictability on the attractor by evolving initial condition density through the reconstructed vector fields via estimation of the transfer operator. The method is compared to predictions made by an imperfect model which highlights the utility of model-free approaches when the only available models have significant model error. The capability of this method for reconstruction of continuous and global vector fields may be applied to model validation, forecasting of initial conditions not in the training set, and model-free filtering.
Mid- to long-term functional outcome and return to sport after elbow dislocation in bouldering: a clinical retrospective cohort study
Authors: Müller M. , Pedersen S. , Mair O. , Twardy V. , Siebenlist S. , Biberthaler P. , Banke I.J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Traumatic elbow dislocations are among the most common injuries in sport climbing. They occur most frequently in bouldering (a climbing discipline with strong upward trend often performed indoors) due to the typical low-height backward fall into crashpads. There is still no data about the functional outcome and return to sport of this typical bouldering injury.

Materials and methods

All Patients with elbow dislocations due to a bouldering associated fall between 2011 and 2020 were identified retrospectively in our level I trauma centre. Trauma mechanisms, injury types and therapies were obtained. Follow-up was performed with an online questionnaire including sports-related effects, return to sport and the Elbow Self-Assessment Score (ESAS).

Results

30 patients with elbow dislocations after bouldering accidents were identified. In 22 (73.3%) patients the injury was a simple dislocation. The questionnaire was completed by 20 patients. The leading mechanism was a low-height fall into crashpads. Surgical procedures were performed in every second patient. 18 patients (90%) reported return to bouldering after 4.7 ± 2.1 months. 12 patients (66.7%) regained their pre-injury level. Mid-/Long-term follow-up (mean 105 ± 37.5 months) showed excellent results in ESAS score (97.2 ± 3.9 points). Persistent limited range of motion or instability was reported by only 3 patients (15%).

Conclusion

Most athletes are able to return to bouldering but only two thirds regain their pre-injury performance level in this demanding upper-extremity sport. The unique low-height trauma mechanism may create a false sense of security. Specific awareness and safety features should be placed for climbing athletes to reduce elbow injuries.
Survival Analysis and Immune Differences of HIV Long-Term Non-progressors in Xinjiang China: A 12-Year Prospective Cohort Observation
Authors: Li Yuefei , Ni Yongkang , He Qian , Hu Xiaoyuan , Zhang Yu , He Xiaoyan , Ni Mingjian
Published: June 2024

This 12-year cohort study of 80 long-term non-progressors (LTNPs) observed a cumulative follow-up duration of 628.5 person-years. Among them, 60 received antiretroviral therapy (ART) for a total of 418.6 person-years. Twenty-four deaths occurred during the follow-up period, with an average age of 42.36 years and a lowest 8-year survival rate of 0.90. Cox model analysis revealed that the risk of AIDS-related death was 1.47 times higher for non-marital, non-commercial heterosexual transmission than for injection drug use. Treatment initiation at ages 31–40 was correlated with an elevated risk of mortality, while treatment for 3–10 years reduced mortality risks in untreated LTNPs. Flow cytometry observed significant differences in the proportion of NK cells. Long-term ART (> 2 years) before LTNPs developed AIDS symptoms could lower mortality risk and potentially extend lifespan, especially when it was initiated at a younger age without affecting NK cell balance. Epidemiological and immunological studies on ART-treated LTNPs are vital for advancing HIV treatment and achieving functional cures for AIDS individuals.
Compatibility of synthetic and biological pesticides with a biocontrol agent Phytoseiulus longipes (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Savi Patrice Jacob , de Moraes Gilberto José , Hountondji Fabien Cossi Charles , Nansen Christian , de Andrade Daniel Júnior
Published: June 2024

Phytoseiulus longipes is a predatory mite of Tetranychus evansi, which is an invasive pest in Africa and elsewhere. The introduction of this predator in Africa has considerable potential, but little is known about the compatibility of P. longipes with commonly used pesticides. Here, we examined lethal and sublethal effects of two pyrethroids (cypermethrin and deltamethrin), two organophosphates (dimethoate and chlorpyrifos), one nicotinoid (imidacloprid), two acaricides (propargite and abamectin), two naturally derived pesticides (oxymatrine and azadirachtin), and one entomopathogenic fungal-based formulation (Hirsutella thompsonii) on P. longipes eggs and adults. The pesticides were sprayed at their maximum recommended concentrations. Topical exposures to azadirachtin, imidacloprid, propargite, abamectin, oxymatrine, and H. thompsonii significantly reduced the net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r) and finite rate of increase (λ)of P. longipes. Pesticide lethal and sublethal effects on the predator were summarized in a reduction coefficient (Ex) for the classification based on IOBC toxicity categories. Results revealed that Azadirachtin and H. thompsonii were slightly harmful effects to adults. Imidacloprid, propargite, abamectin, and oxymatrine were moderately harmful to both eggs and adults. Residual persistence bioassays revealed that 4-day-old residue of azadirachtin had no harmful effect on the predator. Abamectin, oxymatrine, and H. thompsonii became harmless to it 10 days post-spraying, and propargite and imidacloprid were considered harmless after 20 days. Cypermethrin, deltamethrin, dimethoate, and chlorpyrifos were highly harmful to both eggs and adults, persistence remaining high even after 31 days of application. These findings provide valuable insights into decision-making when considering P. longipes for use in IPM programs.
Bacterial pathogens in Ixodes ricinus collected from lizards Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara in urban areas of Wrocław, SW Poland– preliminary study
Authors: Dyczko Dagmara , Krysmann Alicja , Kolanek Aleksandra , Borczyk Bartosz , Kiewra Dorota
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the level of infection of Ixodes ricinus ticks with pathogens (Borrelia spp., Rickettsia spp., and Anaplasma spp.) collected from Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara lizards in the urban areas of Wrocław (SW Poland). The study was carried out in July-August 2020. Lizards were caught by a noose attached to a pole or by bare hands, identified by species, and examined for the presence of ticks. Each lizard was then released at the site of capture. Ticks were removed with tweezers, identified by species using keys, and molecular tests were performed for the presence of pathogens. From 28 lizards (17 specimens of Z. vivipara and 11 specimens of L. agilis) a total of 445 ticks, including 321 larvae and 124 nymphs, identified as I. ricinus were collected. A larger number of ticks were obtained from L. agilis compared to Z. vivipara. Molecular tests for the presence of pathogens were performed on 445 specimens of I. ricinus. The nested PCR method for the fla gene allowed the detection of Borrelia spp. in 9.4% of ticks, and it was higher in ticks from L. agilis (12.0%) than from Z. vivipara (1.0%). The RFLP method showed the presence of three species, including two belonging to the B. burgdorferi s.l. complex (B. lusitaniae and B. afzelii), and B. miyamotoi. The overall level of infection of Rickettsia spp. was 19.3%, including 27.2% in ticks collected from Z. vivipara and 17.0% from L. agilis. Sequencing of randomly selected samples confirmed the presence of R. helvetica. DNA of Anaplasma spp. was detected only in one pool of larvae collected from L. agilis, and sample sequencing confirmed the presence of (A) phagocytophilum. The research results indicate the important role of lizards as hosts of ticks and their role in maintaining pathogens in the environment including urban agglomeration as evidenced by the first recorded presence of (B) miyamotoi and (A) phagocytophilum in I. ricinus ticks collected from L. agilis. However, confirmation of the role of sand lizards in maintaining (B) miyamotoi and A. phagocytophilum requires more studies and sampling of lizard tissue.
Subtropical stormwater ponds are more frequently net nitrogen fixing compared to natural ponds
Authors: Goeckner Audrey H. , Smyth Ashley R. , Holgerson Meredith A. , Reisinger Alexander J.
Published: June 2024

Urban stormwater ponds (SWPs) are engineered ecosystems designed to prevent flooding and protect downstream ecosystems by retaining nutrients associated with stormwater runoff, including nitrogen (N). Despite these expectations, multiple studies have found that SWPs have low N removal efficiencies and can be sources of N to downstream ecosystems. To understand mechanisms controlling the fate of N in SWPs, we quantified dinitrogen (N2) gas saturation to characterize net N2 exchange as either net denitrification or net N-fixation. We assessed temporal and spatial patterns of N2 dynamics in fifteen SWPs and six naturally occurring ponds in undisturbed watersheds (Florida, USA) by sampling in two seasons (dry and wet) and from multiple depths of the water column. Samples from SWPs were equally likely to exhibit N2 supersaturation (net denitrification; 50%) or undersaturation (net N-fixation; 50%). In contrast, the majority (82%) of samples from natural ponds were supersaturated with N2, indicating net denitrification. The mean SWP air–water N2 flux was − 1.7 μg N2-N m−2 h−1 (range − 500 to 433 μg N2-N m−2 h−1), which was lower than clear (40 μg N2-N m−2 h−1; range − 68 to 74 μg N2-N m−2 h−1) and humic (202 μg N2-N m−2 h−1; range 41 to 407 μg N2-N m−2 h−1) natural ponds despite considerably higher variation in SWPs. These results indicate that SWPs may have low N removal efficiencies in part due to N-fixation adding new N to the system. Overall, this study shows that SWPs are less effective than natural ponds at removing reactive N from the environment, potentially impacting downstream water quality.