bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Niche modelling and landscape genetics of the yellow‐legged hornet (Vespa velutina): An integrative approach for evaluating central–marginal population dynamics in Europe
Authors: Herrera Cayetano , Pinto M. Alice , Leza Mar , Alemany Iris , Jurado‐Rivera José A.
Published: July 2024

Genetic diversity is an important biological trait for a successful invasion. During the expansion across a new territory, an invasive species may face unprecedented ecological conditions that will determine its demography and genetic diversity. The first record of the yellow‐legged hornet (Vespa velutina) in Europe dates back to 2004 in France, from where it has successfully spread through a large territory in the continent, including Italy, Spain and Portugal. Integrative approaches offer a powerful strategy to detect and understand patterns of genetic variation in central and marginal populations. Here, we have analysed the relationship between genetic diversity parameters inferred from 15 V. velutina nuclear DNA microsatellite loci, and geographical and environmental drivers, such as the distance to the introduction focus, environmental suitability and distance to native and invasive niche centroids. Our results revealed a central–marginal dynamic, where allelic richness decreased towards the edge of the expansion range. The low environmental suitability of the territories invaded by marginal populations could prevent a diverse population from establishing and reducing the genetic diversity in populations at the expansion edge. Moreover, Markov chain Monte Carlo analysis showed both geographical and environmental distances were influencing population genetic differentiation. This study highlights the importance of combining genetic analysis with geographical and environmental drivers to understand genetic trends of invasive species to new environment.
Both movements and breeding performance are affected by individual experience in the Bonelli's eagle Aquila fasciata
Authors: Viollat Lise , Millon Alexandre , Ponchon Cécile , Ravayrol Alain , Couturier Thibaut , Besnard Aurélien
Published: July 2024

Movement is a key behaviour to better understand how individuals respond to their environment. Movement behaviours are affected by both extrinsic factors that individuals face, such as weather conditions, and intrinsic factors, such as sex and experience. Because of the energy costs it entails, movement behaviours can have direct consequences on an individual's demographic parameters—and ultimately on population dynamics. However, the relationship between extrinsic factors, intrinsic factors, daily movement behaviour and demographic parameters such as breeding performance is poorly known, in particular for central place forager territorial species. We investigated here the link between movement behaviours and breeding performance of the French population of Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata), a territorial and sedentary long‐lived raptor, and how this link may depend on extrinsic and intrinsic factors. By using data from annual monitoring of breeding performance for the population and GPS tracking of 48 individuals (26 males and 22 females), we found that the breeding performance of this population was mainly driven by whether a new individual was recruited into the territory, and only slightly by weather conditions. Movement behaviours (proportion of time in flight, range of movement and straightness of trajectories) showed large between‐individual variation. Those behaviours were related with weather conditions (wind and rainfall) at a daily scale, as well as with individual's experience. We found only one significant correlation between movements and breeding performance: male Bonelli's eagles spending more time flying during chick‐rearing phase had lower productivity. Movement behaviours and breeding performance were also indirectly linked through individual's experience, with more experienced birds having better breeding success and a shorter range of movement and spent less time in flight. This suggests that experienced individuals progressively acquire knowledge of their breeding territory, are more efficient in finding prey, and adapt their foraging strategies to weather conditions to minimise energy costs, allowing them higher breeding performance.
Spatiotemporal variations of groundwater and gully impact in two peatland watersheds in the Upper Yellow River, Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Zhou Bingyu , Guo Xiwei , Gao Peng , Chen Bang , Tian Shimin
Published: July 2024

The spatiotemporal variability of groundwater level is an important property of peatland hydrology that directly alternates water storage. Nonetheless, the current understanding of the variations of groundwater level over long periods of time remains limited. In this study, we investigated two peatland watersheds (0.151 km2 for Watershed 1 and 0.844 km2 for Watershed 2) in the Zoige Basin in the upper watershed of the Yellow River to monitor temporal variability of groundwater level using self‐recorded water loggers over 4 years (2017–2021). The main results demonstrate that (1) groundwater level variations were controlled by gully drainage in sites adjacent to the gully but were more affected by rainfall in sites distant from the gully. The groundwater level near the gully downcut was lower than that near the gully without complete downcutting through the pear layer, with a maximum difference of 58.3 cm, indicating the longitudinal effect of groundwater level in the watershed. (2) Because the rainfall had a lag effect on the groundwater level, the length of lag gradually decreased with increased rainfall intensity (i.e., the lag time for sites distant from the gully was about 18 min shorter than that of sites close to the gully in Watershed 1). (3) The peak values of the groundwater level occurred simultaneously with the maximum and minimum rainfall in Watershed 2, and the peak occurrence time was related to the ratio of precipitation to evaporation. In the downstream sites, the groundwater level fluctuated more than the upstream ones in Watershed 2. Moreover, the average groundwater level in the upstream sites was 14.3 cm higher than that of the middle ones, indicating a decreasing trend of water storage along the gully. (4) The differences in groundwater level between wet and dry seasons were clear, but the difference was smaller in the upstream sites due to limited gully incision and higher water storage within the peat layer. Additionally, groundwater level changes were more extreme on rainy days during both the wet and dry seasons, but the different intensities of rainfall resulted in stable groundwater in the dry season and an oscillating groundwater level in the wet season in Watershed 2. This study uncovers the groundwater dynamics in the two peatland watersheds, which is of great significance for understanding runoff variation, ecohydrological processes, and wetland shrinkage.
Synthesis of BODIPY Oligomers Via Post‐Functionalization
Authors: Zhao Mengna , Shen Hangqi , Zhou Yifeng
Published: July 2024

Synthesis of BODIPY oligomers has attracted increasing attention due to their intriguing properties and promising applications. Significant progress has been made to synthesize BODIPY oligomers via post‐functionalization, either single‐bond linked or fully conjugated. This concept article highlights the recent developments of BODIPY oligomers, including the synthetic routes, their photophysical properties and applications in the areas of NIR light absorbing dye, photodynamic therapy, and bioimaging etc.
Amyloid‐based functional materials and their application in flexible sensors
Authors: Wu Yage , Zhang Jiqing , Li Ling , Zhao Jian , Yang Peng
Published: July 2024

Flexible electronic devices have garnered increasing attention for their applications in wearable devices, biomedical systems, soft robots, and flexible displays. However, the current sensors face limitations regarding low sensitivity, poor stability, and inadequate adhesion bonding between stimuli‐responsive functional materials and flexible substrates. To overcome these challenges and enable the further development of sensor devices, surface modification of stimuli‐responsive materials with amyloid aggregates has emerged as a promising approach to enhance functionality and create superior multifunctional sensors. This review presents recent research advancements in the flexible sensors based on protein amyloid aggregation. The article begins by explaining the basic principles of protein amyloid aggregation, followed by outlining the process of preparing 1D to 3D amyloid‐based composite materials. Finally, it discusses the utilization of protein amyloid aggregation as a surface modification technique for developing flexible sensors. Based on this foundation, we identify the shortcomings associated with protein amyloid aggregate composites and propose possible solutions to address them. We believe that comprehensive investigations in this area will expedite the development of high‐performance flexible sensors with high sensitivity, high structural stability, and strong interface adhesion, especially the implantable flexible sensors for health monitoring.
Flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene 10‐oxide derivative/zinc molybdate sepiolite modified acrylate emulsion
Authors: Liu Yong , Zhang Tao , Geng Xin‐xi , Liao Xiang
Published: July 2024

Acrylate emulsion is widely used in various industrial fields and is an important polymer emulsion. However, the high flammability limits its application. Besides, acrylate emulsion generally releases a large amount of smoke during combustion. To improve the fire resistance and smoke suppression properties of acrylate emulsions, methyl methacrylate‐butyl acrylate copolymer P(MMA‐BA)/DOPO‐based polymerizable monomer (HEPO)/zinc molybdate sepiolite (Mo‐Sep) composite emulsion was prepared by emulsion polymerization, and the effect of Mo‐Sep content on the flame‐retardant performance, thermal stability, and smoke suppression performance of the composite emulsion was studied. Through microcalorimeter and smoke density meter tests, it was found that the heat release rate (HRR) of the composite emulsion, added with 30% HEPO/3% Mo‐Sep, was reduced by 63.3%, and the peak heat release rate (PHRR) was reduced by 72.1%. The total heat release (THR) is reduced by 49.0%, while the peak‐specific optical density is reduced by 48.0%. It shows that the composite emulsion has excellent flame‐retardant and smoke suppression properties compared to pure MAA‐BA emulsion. In addition, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images show that the addition of Mo‐Sep increases the density of carbon residue. This composite emulsion may have potential application scenarios in the field of flame‐retardant coatings.
Novel organoids mode evaluating the food nutrition and safety: Current state and future prospects
Authors: Tan Fengling , Cui Pengfei , Li Siting , Tan Yingxia , Ma Aijin
Published: July 2024

Food nutrition and safety are the cornerstones of food industry, and appropriate research models are crucial. Unlike traditional animal models, the novel organoid model with unique humanization and genome stability has attracted great attentions in food research. However, there lacks systematic review on the application of organoids in food research. This review compared the organoid model with traditional animal and two‐dimensional cell models, followed by a systemic evaluation of the organoid model in food nutrition and safety regarding foodborne pathogenic bacteria, functional food factors, toxicology, flavor perception, and so on. Furthermore, emerging micromachining technologies such as microfluidic technology and three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting were analyzed to improve the microenvironment and maturity of organoids. Although organoids overcome some shortcomings associated with traditional models, there are still some challenges to simulate the in vivo microenvironment fully. The development direction of organoids is integrating advanced technologies such as microfluidic technology, novel biomaterial scaffold, and 3D bioprinting with multi‐organ coculture technology and multi‐scale real‐time monitoring systems. The innovative development of organoid technology is expected to provide a theoretical basis for developing future foods represented by cell‐cultured meat and synthetic biological foods and for the research of food nutrition and safety.
Relating differential crustal architecture to passive margin evolution: A case study from the Colatina Fracture Zone (SE Brazil) using apatite fission‐track thermochronology
Authors: Costa Deniro Felipe Gonçalves , Fonseca Ana , de Grave Johan , Novo Tiago
Published: July 2024

The Colatina Fracture Zone (CFZ) defines a distinct NNW–SSE‐oriented linear zone of fractures and brittle faults that represents an inherited weak zone in the current crustal structure of the (Pre)Cambrian Araçuaí Orogen. In the Early Cretaceous, the CFZ was reactivated during rifting of West Gondwana and subsequent opening of the South Atlantic Ocean, as evidenced by the emplacement of dykes along its structural network and the development of major depocentres of the Campos Basin in the offshore segments of the CFZ. Previous thermochronological studies have demonstrated that the CFZ was also rejuvenated during the drift phase of the South Atlantic. However, a number of questions regarding differential surface uplift and basement exhumation between the CFZ and its surrounding areas, such as the Doce River Valley (DRV), are still unresolved. In this study, we aim to investigate the CFZ as a distinctive structure in the tectonic rejuvenation of the passive margin of south‐east Brazil. Samples from the CFZ and the DRV were collected for apatite fission‐track (AFT) analyses. In the DRV, samples yield AFT central ages from 87 to 97 Ma with mean track lengths (MTL) from 12.6 to 13.3 μm. In contrast, in the CFZ, AFT central ages from 70 to 83 Ma with MTL values from 13.2 and 13.4 μm are obtained. The correlation between AFT age and elevation suggests that the tectonic development of these regions was markedly different and uncoupled. The thermal history models from the AFT data further constrain this differential evolution. On the one hand, thermal history modelling for the DRV indicates a slower and protracted cooling since the incipient Atlantic rifting in the Early Cretaceous. On the other hand, the models for CFZ reveal a rapid cooling phase between the Late Cretaceous to the Palaeocene. In the DRV, the observed basement cooling was most probably triggered by erosion of the uplifted rift shoulder generated by Gondwana break‐up. The more recent, Late Cretaceous–Palaeocene rock cooling, localized in the CFZ, was synchronous with a major phase of the Andean orogeny. This suggests that reactivations and erosional exhumation of the CFZ basement could be a consequence of far‐field propagation of intraplate compressional stress. The higher susceptibility of the CFZ to reactivating over its surroundings shows that structural inheritance is a key factor in the differential tectonic evolution of passive margins. Further research on the Late Cretaceous–Palaeocene reactivation in the CFZ's offshore extension may be crucial for the exploitation of hydrocarbons in the Campos and Espírito Santos basins.
Associations between hypopharyngeal defect closure and quality of life in long‐term total laryngectomy survivors
Authors: Tonsbeek Anthony M. , Hundepool Caroline A. , Molier Aprilia L. , Corten Eveline , Rijken Bianca , Sewnaik Aniel , Mureau Marc A. M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Few studies have examined health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes in long‐term total laryngectomy survivors in relation to the type of hypopharyngeal defect.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in long‐term total laryngectomy survivors, treated between 2000 and 2020. The primary outcome was HRQOL, assessed using the FACE‐Q Head and Neck Cancer Module, in relation to the type of hypopharyngeal closure (primary closure, partial or circumferential reconstruction).

Results

Seventy‐nine survivors were included with a median follow‐up of 92.1 months (IQR 75.6–140.2 months). Patients requiring partial hypopharyngeal reconstruction (n = 18) scored significantly worse than patients with primary closure (n = 51) on 4 of 13 FACE‐Q domains: functional domains of eating (p = 0.03), speech (p = 0.05), and swallowing (p = 0.03), and the psychological domain of speaking‐related distress (p = 0.02). No statistically significant differences were found between the circumferential hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction group (n = 10). Stricture occurrence was the only clinical factor associated with worse eating, speaking, swallowing, eating‐related distress, and cancer worry in multivariable analyses.

Conclusion

Several functional and psychological domains were significantly worse following partial hypopharyngeal reconstruction than in patients who received primary closure. Efforts to reduce stricture rates to enhance reconstructive outcomes following total laryngectomy merit further research.
Adverse effects of cadmium on lymphoid organs, immune cells, and immunological responses
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Nanda Kumari Pragati , Firdaus Hena
Published: July 2024

Humans and animals possess robust immune systems to safeguard against foreign pathogens. However, recent reports suggest a greater incidence of immunity breakdown due to exposure to environmental pollutants, with heavy metals emerging as potential candidates in such immuno‐toxicological studies. While we have extensive data on the general toxicity resulting from exposure to heavy metals, comprehensive documentation of their role as immune disruptors remains scarce. Cd (Cadmium) exerts immunomodulation by interfering with immune organs and cells, leading to altered structure, physiology, and function, thereby inducing symptoms of immune deregulation, inflammation and/or autoimmunity.

This review aims to summarize the link between Cd exposure and immune dysfunction, drawing from case studies on exposed human subjects, as well as research conducted on various model organisms and in‐vitro culture systems.
Cranial ultrasound in neonatal herpes simplex encephalitis
Authors: Radulova Petya , Trifonova Ekaterina , Dimitrova Violeta
Published: July 2024

Neonatal infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV) is associated with significant morbidity, high mortality, and long‐term neurological sequelae. We report the clinical case of an infant with HSV encephalitis, where the initial diagnosis was established based on cranial ultrasound (CUS) findings. These findings revealed localized, asymmetrically distributed hyperechoic areas in the parenchyma and signs of brain swelling. CUS dynamics on days 7 and 14 after the onset of clinical symptoms demonstrated multiple subcortical and perivascular zones of encephalomalacia in the right hemisphere, accompanied by ex vacuo ventricular dilatation. The cerebellum, left basal ganglia, and left hemisphere appeared to be less affected by the pathological process.
pH‐induced changes in IgE molecules measured by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Hu Jing , Wang Zuobin , Jiang Dayong , Gao Mingyan , Dong Litong , Liu Mengnan , Song Zhengxun
Published: July 2024

The environment surrounding proteins is tightly linked to its dynamics, which can significantly influence the conformation of proteins. This study focused on the effect of pH conditions on the ultrastructure of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) molecules. Herein, the morphology, height, and area of IgE molecules incubated at different pH were imaged by atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the law of IgE changes induced by pH value was explored. The experiment results indicated that the morphology, height and area of IgE molecules are pH dependent and highly sensitive. In particular, IgE molecules were more likely to present small‐sized ellipsoids under acidic conditions, while IgE molecules tend to aggregate into large‐sized flower‐like structures under alkaline conditions. In addition, it was found that the height of IgE first decreased and then increased with the increase of pH, while the area of IgE increased with the increase of pH. This work provides valuable information for further study of IgE, and the methodological approach used in this study is expected to developed into AFM to investigate the changes of IgE molecules mediated by other physical and chemical factors.

Research Highlights

The ultrastructure of IgE molecules is pH dependent and highly sensitive.

IgE molecules were tend to present small‐sized ellipsoids under acidic pH.

Alkaline pH drives IgE self‐assembly into flower‐like aggregates.
Age and sex differences in sarcopenic dysphagia: A secondary data analysis
Authors: Wakabayashi Hidetaka , Kakehi Shingo , Nagano Ayano , Kishima Masako , Itoda Masataka , Nishioka Shinta , Momosaki Ryo
Published: July 2024

Background

Age and sex differences in sarcopenic dysphagia are unknown. The purpose is to characterize age and sex differences in sarcopenic dysphagia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional and retrospective cohort study using information from the Japanese database on sarcopenic dysphagia was performed. We investigated age and sex differences between sarcopenic dysphagia and other forms of dysphagia. We investigated whether differences in prognosis for swallowing function, as assessed by the Food Intake Level Scale, and activities of daily living (ADL), as assessed by the Barthel Index were influenced by age and sex in patients with sarcopenic dysphagia.

Results

The study included 460 patients, including 229 men and 231 women, with a mean age of 81 ± 10 years. Fifty‐eight percent of the patients had sarcopenic dysphagia. Age was independently associated with sarcopenic dysphagia (odds ratio (OR): 1.056, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.035, 1.078), although sarcopenic dysphagia could also be seen in those younger than 65 years. Sex was not independently associated with sarcopenic dysphagia. The age cut‐off for the diagnosis of sarcopenic dysphagia was 82 years in all patients (sensitivity, 0.660; specificity, 0.644), 80 years in men (sensitivity, 0.619; specificity, 0.631), and 83 years in women (sensitivity, 0.723; specificity, 0.577). Sarcopenic dysphagia showed no significant differences in the improvement of swallowing function and ADL based on age and sex.

Conclusions

Sarcopenic dysphagia was most common in older adults in their 80s or older. The possibility of sarcopenic dysphagia should be considered when dysphagia is present in people 80 years of age or older.
HIV vulnerabilities and psychosocial health among young transgender women in Lima, Peru: results from a bio‐behavioural survey
Authors: Silva‐Santisteban Alfonso , Apedaile Dorothy , Perez‐Brumer Amaya , Leon Segundo R. , Huerta Leyla , Leon Francezka , Aguayo‐Romero Rodrigo , Reisner Sari L.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Peruvian young transgender women (YTW) ages 16−24 years are a critical but understudied group for primary HIV prevention efforts, due to sharp increases in HIV prevalence among TW ages 25 years and older.

Methods

Between February and July 2022, a cross‐sectional quantitative study with YTW ages 16−24 years in Peru (N = 211) was conducted consisting of a bio‐behavioural survey accompanied by laboratory‐based testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Bivariate and multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios between socio‐demographic and behavioural characteristics and HIV status.

Results

HIV prevalence was 41.5% (95% CI: 33.9−49.4%), recent syphilis acquisition 19.4% (95% CI: 12.7−28.4), chlamydia 6.3% (95% CI: 3.1−11.1) and gonorrhoea 12.3% (95% CI: 7.9−18.7). Almost half (47.9%) reported condomless anal sex in the past 6 months, 50.7% reported sex work in the past 30 days and 13.7% reported accepting more money for condomless sex. There were no significant differences in reported sexual behaviours by HIV status. Only 60.8% of participants reported ever having been tested for HIV, and 25.6% reported a past 6‐month STI test. More than two‐thirds (67.8%) had not heard of antiretroviral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and only 4.7% had taken PrEP in the past month. Current moderate‐to‐severe psychological distress was endorsed by 20.3%, 10.0% reported attempting suicide in the past 6 months and 85.4% reported alcohol misuse.

Conclusions

Findings show that the HIV epidemic for YTW in Lima, Peru is situated in the context of widespread social exclusion, including economic vulnerabilities, violence victimization and the mental health sequelae of transphobic stigma that starts early in life. Future research should aim to further understand the intersection of these vulnerabilities. Moreover, there is an urgent necessity to design and evaluate HIV prevention programmes that address the root systems driving HIV vulnerabilities in YTW and that focus on developmentally specific clusters of stigma‐related conditions.
Ending the HIV Epidemic in Metropolitan Atlanta: a mixed‐methods study to support the local HIV/AIDS response
Authors: Piske Micah , Nosyk Bohdan , Smith Justin C. , Yeung Bianca , Enns Benjamin , Zang Xiao , Sullivan Patrick S. , Armstrong Wendy S. , Thompson Melanie A. , Daniel Gaea , del Rio Carlos
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Four counties within the Atlanta, Georgia 20‐county eligible metropolitan area (EMA) are currently prioritized by the US “Ending the HIV Epidemic” (EHE) initiative which aims for a 90% reduction in HIV incidence by 2030. Disparities driving Atlanta's HIV epidemic warrant an examination of local service availability, unmet needs and organizational capacity to reach EHE targets. We conducted a mixed‐methods evaluation of the Atlanta EMA to examine geographic HIV epidemiology and distribution of services, service needs and organization infrastructure for each pillar of the EHE initiative.

Methods

We collected 2021 county‐level data (during June 2022), from multiple sources including: AIDSVu (HIV prevalence and new diagnoses), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web‐based tools (HIV testing and pre‐exposure prophylaxis [PrEP] locations) and the Georgia Department of Public Health (HIV testing, PrEP screenings, viral suppression and partner service interviews). We additionally distributed an online survey to key local stakeholders working at major HIV care agencies across the EMA to assess the availability of services, unmet needs and organization infrastructure (June−December 2022). The Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change questionnaire assessed the organization climate for services in need of scale‐up or implementation.

Results

We found racial/ethnic and geographic disparities in HIV disease burden and service availability across the EMA—particularly for HIV testing and PrEP in the EMA's southern counties. Five counties not currently prioritized by EHE (Clayton, Douglas, Henry, Newton and Rockdale) accounted for 16% of the EMA's new diagnoses, but <9% of its 177 testing sites and <7% of its 130 PrEP sites. Survey respondents (N = 48; 42% health agency managers/directors) reported high unmet need for HIV self‐testing kits, mobile clinic testing, HIV case management, peer outreach and navigation, integrated care, housing support and transportation services. Respondents highlighted insufficient existing staffing and infrastructure to facilitate the necessary expansion of services, and the need to reduce inequities and address intersectional stigma.

Conclusions

Service delivery across all EHE pillars must substantially expand to reach national goals and address HIV disparities in metro Atlanta. High‐resolution geographic data on HIV epidemiology and service delivery with community input can provide targeted guidance to support local EHE efforts.
Intestinal microbial and metabolite profile in infants with small bowel stomas after bowel resection
Authors: Piper Hannah G. , Bording‐Jorgensen Michael , Veniamin Simona , Zhang Zhengxiao , Suarez Ricardo G. , Armstrong Heather , Silverman Jason A. , Wine Eytan
Published: July 2024

Background

Infants with small bowel stomas (SBstoma) frequently struggle with absorption and rely on parenteral nutrition (PN). Intestinal absorption is difficult to predict based solely on intestinal anatomy. The purpose of this study was to characterize the microbiota and metabolic by‐products within stoma effluent and correlate with clinical features and intestinal absorption.

Methods

Prospective cohort study collecting stoma samples from neonates with SBstoma (N = 23) or colostomy control (N = 6) at initial enteral feed (first sample) and before stoma closure (last sample). Gut bacteriome (16S ribosomal RNA [rRNA] sequencing), short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids (BAs) were characterized along with volume and energy content of a 48 h collection via bomb calorimetry (last sample). Hierarchical clustering and linear regression were used to compare the bacteriome and BAs/SCFAs, to bowel length, PN, and growth.

Results

Infants with ≤50% small bowel lost more fluid on average than those with >50% and controls (22, 18, 16 mL/kg/day, p = 0.013), but had similar energy losses (7, 10, 9 kcal/kg/day, p = 0.147). Infants growing poorly had enrichment of Proteobacteria compared to infants growing well (90% vs. 15%, p = 0.004). An increase in the ratio of secondary BAs within the small bowel over time, correlated with poor prognostic factors (≤50% small bowel, >50% of calories from PN, and poor growth).

Conclusion

Infants with SBstoma and poor growth have a unique bacteriome community and those with poor enteral tolerance have metabolic differences compared to infants with improved absorption.
Water bead injuries by children presenting to emergency departments 2013−2023: An expanding issue
Authors: Pasman Eric A. , Khan Muhammad A. , Kolasinski Nathan T. , Reeves Patrick T.
Published: July 2024

A 2023 product recall has described the risk for morbidity and mortality for children ingesting water beads. We aimed to describe water bead exposure and management trends in the United States. We used the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) to identify water bead injuries from 2013 to 2023. Inclusion criteria were ages 0–17 years, diagnosis of ingested object/foreign body, and the narrative word(s) suggested water bead(s). NEISS supplied weights and variance variables to generate national estimates. There were 226 water bead injuries (66% ingestion). Children under age 2 years comprised 29% of injuries. Multiple water beads were involved in 56% of cases. There was a significant uptrend in water bead injury frequency after 2020. Sixteen (7%) cases required escalation of care. Water bead injuries are rising and appear to affect children of all ages. Children aged less than 5 years appear most vulnerable.
Calculating the power of a planned individual participant data meta‐analysis to examine prognostic factor effects for a binary outcome
Authors: Whittle Rebecca , Ensor Joie , Hattle Miriam , Dhiman Paula , Collins Gary S. , Riley Richard D.
Published: July 2024

Collecting data for an individual participant data meta‐analysis (IPDMA) project can be time consuming and resource intensive and could still have insufficient power to answer the question of interest. Therefore, researchers should consider the power of their planned IPDMA before collecting IPD. Here we propose a method to estimate the power of a planned IPDMA project aiming to synthesise multiple cohort studies to investigate the (unadjusted or adjusted) effects of potential prognostic factors for a binary outcome. We consider both binary and continuous factors and provide a three‐step approach to estimating the power in advance of collecting IPD, under an assumption of the true prognostic effect of each factor of interest. The first step uses routinely available (published) aggregate data for each study to approximate Fisher's information matrix and thereby estimate the anticipated variance of the unadjusted prognostic factor effect in each study. These variances are then used in step 2 to estimate the anticipated variance of the summary prognostic effect from the IPDMA. Finally, step 3 uses this variance to estimate the corresponding IPDMA power, based on a two‐sided Wald test and the assumed true effect. Extensions are provided to adjust the power calculation for the presence of additional covariates correlated with the prognostic factor of interest (by using a variance inflation factor) and to allow for between‐study heterogeneity in prognostic effects. An example is provided for illustration, and Stata code is supplied to enable researchers to implement the method.
Pupillary Light Reflex Detected by Ophthalmic Ultrasonography in Critically Ill Children With Difficult to Assess Pupils
Authors: Nagarajan Vaishnavi Divya , Hunt Megan F. , Hwang Misun , Kraus Courtney L. , Riggs Becky J.
Published: July 2024

Direct visualization of the eye can be difficult or impossible when there is significant facial burns, trauma, or edema. We present 4 nonresponsive, critically ill children whose pupils could not be directly visualized. Ophthalmic ultrasound revealed pupillary reactivity at presentation and throughout their recovery. Determining pupillary reactivity in these nonresponsive patients impacted their initial triage, resuscitation, and medical management. We propose that ophthalmic point‐of‐care ultrasonography can assess the pupillary light reflex in critically ill children whose pupils cannot be directly visualized.
Assessing knowledge management's impact on supply chain performance in a strategic trend
Authors: Lehyani Fatma , Zouari Alaeddine
Published: July 2024

Supply chain performance (SCP) is the major factor that helps companies to increase its competitiveness. However, knowledge management (KM) has, in appearance, a direct impact on SCP, but its formalization remains always ambiguous. In fact, this paper aims to determine KM impact on SCP facets (SCPF) through highlighting the relation between KM elements (KME) and SCPF. Proposed approach consists, first, to design a conceptual model identifying the relationship between KME and SCPF. Thereafter, to implement this model, quality function deployment (QFD) house of quality (HOQ) was used. Through the interrelationship matrix, the impact of each KME on whole SCPF can be measured and evaluated, similarly, the impact of whole KME on each SCPF. Finally, based on interviews treated with the managers of SIDILEC international company, a case study was implemented. The results demonstrate that knowledge application, sharing, and capitalization are the most impacting KME on all SCPF. Furthermore, reliability and sustainability are the most impacted SCPF by all KME.
Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on anterior knee pain: Patellofemoral pain and patellar tendinopathy
Authors: Ophey Martin , Koëter Sander , van Ooijen Lianne , van Ark Mathijs , Boots Fred , Ilbrink Shanna , Lankhorst Nienke A. , Piscaer Tom , Vestering Myrthe , den Ouden Vierwind Mirre , van Linschoten Robbart , van Berkel Sietske
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop a multidisciplinary guideline for patellofemoral pain (PFP) and patellar tendinopathy (PT) to facilitate clinical decision‐making in primary and secondary care.

Methods

A multidisciplinary expert panel identified questions in clinical decision‐making. Based on a systematic literature search, the strength of the scientific evidence was determined according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) method and the weight assigned to the considerations by the expert panel together determined the strength of the recommendations.

Results

After confirming PFP or PT as a clinical diagnosis, patients should start with exercise therapy. Additional conservative treatments are indicated only when exercise therapy does not result in clinically relevant changes after six (PFP) or 12 (PT) weeks. Pain medications should be reserved for cases of severe pain. The additional value of imaging assessments for PT is limited. Open surgery is reserved for very specific cases of nonresponders to exercise therapy and those requiring additional conservative treatments. Although the certainty of evidence regarding exercise therapy for PFP and PT had to be downgraded (‘very low GRADE’ and ‘low GRADE’), the expert panel advocates its use as the primary treatment strategy. The panel further formulated weaker recommendations regarding additional conservative treatments, pain medications, imaging assessments and open surgery (‘very low GRADE’ to ‘low GRADE’ assessment or absence of scientific evidence).

Conclusion

This guideline recommends starting with exercise therapy for PFP and PT. The recommendations facilitate clinical decision‐making, and thereby optimizing treatment and preventing unnecessary burdens, risks and costs to patients and society.

Level of Evidence

Level V, clinical practice guideline.
Save the subchondral bone plate: Debridement versus bone marrow stimulation in acetabular cartilage defects over 60 months of follow‐up
Authors: Riedl Moritz , Lenz Julia E. , Goronzy Jens , Sobau Christian , Steimer Oliver , Thier Steffen , Zinser Wolfgang , Landgraeber Stefan , Alt Volker , Fickert Stefan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Bone marrow stimulation is a common treatment for full‐thickness cartilage defects in the hip joint. However, common procedures may result in poor fibrous repair tissue and changes to the subchondral anatomy. This study investigated the clinical outcome of a cohort of International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grades 3 and 4 cartilage defects treated with bone marrow stimulation compared to those who received simple debridement/chondroplasty.

Methods

In this retrospective registry study, 236 patients with uni‐focal acetabular chondral lesions of the hip up to 400 mm² (mean 177.4 ± 113.4 mm²) and of ICRS grade ≥3 with follow‐up of at least 12 months (mean 33.2 ± 15.3 months) were included. Eighty‐one patients underwent bone marrow stimulation (microfracture: n = 44, abrasion: n = 37) besides treatment of the underlying pathology, 155 patients underwent defect debridement/chondroplasty. The patient‐reported outcome was measured using the International Hip Outcome Tool 33 (iHOT33) score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain.

Results

iHOT33 and VAS both improved highly statistically significantly (p < 0.001) in the debridement group after 6, 12, 24, 36 and 60 months compared to the preoperative scores, whereas iHOT33 and VAS after microfracture or abrasion did not show statistically significant changes over time. Twenty‐four and sixty months postsurgery the debridement group revealed significant higher scores in the iHOT33 compared to the bone marrow stimulation groups.

Conclusion

Patients with chondral lesions of the hip ≤400 mm2 sustainably benefit from arthroscopic debridement under preservation of the subchondral bone plate in terms of functional outcome and pain in contrast to patients treated with bone marrow stimulation. These findings discourage the currently recommended use of microfracture in the hip joint.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Decreasing the electrostatic discharge generated from friction of polyester and polyamide sing carbon fiber
Authors: Suaad H. , Mohamed M. K. , Ali W. Y.
Published: July 2024

The present work discusses the voltage difference as a measure for electrostatic charge generated from the contact‐separation and sliding of polymeric textiles on polyamide textile. It is proposed to blend polyester by carbon fiber to decrease the electrostatic charge generated on the contact surfaces. Because polyester acquires a negative charge and polyamide gains a positive one, carbon fiber is proposed to conduct the negative electrostatic charge from polyester to polyamide and conducts the positive one from polyamide to polyester, so that the resultant electrostatic charge decreased. The effect of carbon fiber to decrease the electrostatic charge depends on its area of contact, interaction, and distribution with polyester. Polyester double weaved by carbon fiber showed the lowest voltage. Based on those observations, it can be recommended to use double weaves of carbon fiber with polyester. The reduction in voltage was relatively lower for braided polyester by carbon fiber than that detected for double‐weaved polyester by carbon fiber.
Regulation of bone homeostasis: signaling pathways and therapeutic targets
Authors: Wu Zebin , Li Wenming , Jiang Kunlong , Lin Zhixiang , Qian Chen , Wu Mingzhou , Xia Yu , Li Ning , Zhang Hongtao , Xiao Haixiang , Bai Jiaxiang , Geng Dechun
Published: July 2024

As a highly dynamic tissue, bone is continuously rebuilt throughout life. Both bone formation by osteoblasts and bone resorption by osteoclasts constitute bone reconstruction homeostasis. The equilibrium of bone homeostasis is governed by many complicated signaling pathways that weave together to form an intricate network. These pathways coordinate the meticulous processes of bone formation and resorption, ensuring the structural integrity and dynamic vitality of the skeletal system. Dysregulation of the bone homeostatic regulatory signaling network contributes to the development and progression of many skeletal diseases. Significantly, imbalanced bone homeostasis further disrupts the signaling network and triggers a cascade reaction that exacerbates disease progression and engenders a deleterious cycle. Here, we summarize the influence of signaling pathways on bone homeostasis, elucidating the interplay and crosstalk among them. Additionally, we review the mechanisms underpinning bone homeostatic imbalances across diverse disease landscapes, highlighting current and prospective therapeutic targets and clinical drugs. We hope that this review will contribute to a holistic understanding of the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms sustaining bone homeostasis, which are promising to contribute to further research on bone homeostasis and shed light on the development of targeted drugs.
Gallium complex K6 inhibits colorectal cancer by increasing ROS levels to induce DNA damage and enhance phosphatase and tensin homolog activity
Authors: Li Wei , Yang Chuanyu , Cheng Zhuo , Wu Yuanyuan , Zhou Sihan , Qi Xiaowei , Zhang Yi , Hu Jinhui , Xie Mingjin , Chen Ceshi
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. In the clinical realm, platinum‐based drugs hold an important role in the chemotherapy of CRC. Nonetheless, a multitude of patients, due to tumor protein 53 (TP53) gene mutations, experience the emergence of drug resistance. This phenomenon gravely impairs the effectiveness of therapy and long‐term prognosis. Gallium, a metallic element akin to iron, has been reported that has the potential to be used to develop new metal anticancer drugs. In this study, we screened and established the gallium complex K6 as a potent antitumor agent in both in vitro and in vivo. K6 exhibited superior efficacy in impeding the growth, proliferation, and viability of CRC cells carrying TP53 mutations compared to oxaliplatin. Mechanistically, K6 escalated reactive oxygen species levels and led deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. Furthermore, K6 effectively suppressed the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB)/glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) pathway, leading to the degradation of its downstream effectors myelocytomatosis (c‐Myc) and Krueppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5). Conversely, K6 diminished the protein expression of WW domain‐containing protein 1 (WWP1) while activating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) through c‐Myc degradation. This dual action further demonstrated the potential of K6 as a promising therapeutic compound for TP53‐mutated CRC.
A useful interpretation of firm level Tobin's q
Authors: Zaleski Peter A.
Published: July 2024

Industrial organization economists and financial analysts often employ firm level Tobin's q, typically interpreted as the firm's market value divided by its book value. The measurements, applications, and interpretations vary considerably enough to warrant the questioning of its usefulness. This paper develops a conceptual framework for Tobin's q and, in doing so, offers some useful interpretations that hopefully clear up some of the past misunderstandings regarding this useful metric.
Open access segmentations of intraoperative brain tumor ultrasound images
Authors: Behboodi Bahareh , Carton Francois‐Xavier , Chabanas Matthieu , de Ribaupierre Sandrine , Solheim Ole , Munkvold Bodil K. R. , Rivaz Hassan , Xiao Yiming , Reinertsen Ingerid
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Registration and segmentation of magnetic resonance (MR) and ultrasound (US) images could play an essential role in surgical planning and resectioning brain tumors. However, validating these techniques is challenging due to the scarcity of publicly accessible sources with high‐quality ground truth information. To this end, we propose a unique set of segmentations (RESECT‐SEG) of cerebral structures from the previously published RESECT dataset to encourage a more rigorous development and assessment of image‐processing techniques for neurosurgery.

Acquisition and Validation Methods

The RESECT database consists of MR and intraoperative US (iUS) images of 23 patients who underwent brain tumor resection surgeries. The proposed RESECT‐SEG dataset contains segmentations of tumor tissues, sulci, falx cerebri, and resection cavity of the RESECT iUS images. Two highly experienced neurosurgeons validated the quality of the segmentations.

Data Format and Usage Notes

Segmentations are provided in 3D NIFTI format in the OSF open‐science platform: https://osf.io/jv8bk.

Potential Applications

The proposed RESECT‐SEG dataset includes segmentations of real‐world clinical US brain images that could be used to develop and evaluate segmentation and registration methods. Eventually, this dataset could further improve the quality of image guidance in neurosurgery.
Acute nicotinamide riboside supplementation increases human cerebral NAD+ levels in vivo
Authors: Nanga Ravi Prakash Reddy , Wiers Corinde E. , Elliott Mark A. , Wilson Neil E. , Liu Fang , Cao Quy , Swago Sophie , Jacobs Paul S. , Armbruster Ryan , Reddy Damodara , Baur Joseph A. , Witschey Walter R. , Detre John A. , Reddy Ravinder
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of acute nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplementation on cerebral nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in the human brain in vivo by means of downfield proton MRS (DF 1H MRS).

Methods

DF 1H MRS was performed on 10 healthy volunteers in a 7.0 T MRI scanner with spectrally selective excitation and spatially selective localization to determine cerebral NAD+ levels on two back‐to‐back days: once after an overnight fast (baseline) and once 4 h after oral ingestion of nicotinamide riboside (900 mg). Additionally, two more baseline scans were performed following the same paradigm to assess test–retest reliability of the NAD+ levels in the absence of NR.

Results

NR supplementation increased mean NAD+ concentration compared to the baseline (0.458 ± 0.053 vs. 0.392 ± 0.058 mM; p < 0.001). The additional two baseline scans demonstrated no differences in mean NAD+ concentrations (0.425 ± 0.118 vs. 0.405 ± 0.082 mM; p = 0.45), and no difference from the first baseline scan (F(2, 16) = 0.907; p = 0.424).

Conclusion

These preliminary results confirm that acute NR supplementation increases cerebral NAD+ levels in healthy human volunteers and shows the promise of DF 1H MRS utility for robust detection of NAD+ in humans in vivo.