bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
hnRNPs in antiviral innate immunity
Authors: Maceratessi Sofia , Sampaio Natalia G.
Published: August 2024

During virus infection, many host proteins are redirected from their normal cellular roles to restrict and terminate infection. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are cellular RNA‐binding proteins critical to host nucleic acid homeostasis, but can also be involved in the viral infection process, affecting virus replication, assembly and propagation. It has become evident that hnRNPs play important roles in modulation of host innate immunity, which provides critical initial protection against infection. These novel findings can potentially lead to the leveraging of hnRNPs in antiviral therapies. We review hnRNP involvement in antiviral innate immunity, in humans, mice and other animals, and discuss hnRNP targeting as a potential novel antiviral therapeutic.
Multiomics analysis of canine myocardium after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation: Effect of neuropeptide Y on long‐term reinduction of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Song Qiyuan , Zhang Ning , Zhang Yujiao , Zhang An , Li Huilin , Bai Shuting , Shang Luxiang , Du Juanjuan , Hou Yinglong
Published: August 2024

Catheter ablation (CA) is an essential method for the interventional treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF), and it is very important to reduce long‐term recurrence after CA. The mechanism of recurrence after CA is still unclear. We established a long‐term model of beagle canines after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA). The transcriptome and proteome were obtained using high‐throughput sequencing and TMT‐tagged LC‐MS/LC analysis, respectively. Differentially expressed genes and proteins were screened and enriched, and the effect of fibrosis was found and verified in tissues. A downregulated protein, neuropeptide Y (NPY), was selected for validation and the results suggest that NPY may play a role in the long‐term reinduction of AF after CPVA. Then, the molecular mechanism of NPY was further investigated. The results showed that the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) was shortened and fibrosis was increased after CPVA. Atrial myocyte apoptosis was alleviated by NPY intervention, and Akt activation was inhibited in cardiac fibroblasts. These results suggest that long‐term suppression of NPY after CPVA may lead to induction of AF through promoting cardiomyocyte apoptosis and activating the Akt pathway in cardiac fibroblasts, which may make AF more likely to reinduce.
Transgovernmental Labour Standards Enforcement in a Pan‐European Labour Market: An Arms Race Between Institutional Alignment and Regulatory Arbitrage
Authors: Lillie Nathan , Brzozowska Anita , Kall Kairit , Salamońska Justyna , Matuszczyk Kamil
Published: August 2024

Transgovernmental co‐operation is an important European Union (EU) regulatory method, but it imposes transaction costs on the organizations involved. Regulatory requirements under conditions of European free movement drive transgovernmentalism, but transaction costs also shape transgovernmental regulation and regulatory outcomes. We investigate co‐operation around labour standards regulation for posted construction workers, focusing on bilateral co‐operation of labour inspectorates between Estonia and Finland and comparing it with co‐operation efforts between Poland and Finland, and Ukraine via Poland to Finland. The shifting patterns of labour mobility and employer efforts to recruit from less regulated sources mean that investment in bilateral relations can be undermined by the dynamic character of the pan‐European labour market. This article contributes to debates on EU regulatory governance by showing how transaction costs from co‐operation can decrease the effectiveness of transgovernmental network‐based governance; in the case of labour regulation, employers exploit this to undermine the effectiveness of labour inspection co‐operation.
Development and validation of the eMCI‐CHD tool: A multivariable prediction model for the risk of mild cognitive impairment in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Wang Qing , Liu Yanfei , Xu Shihan , Liu Fenglan , Huang Luqi , Xu Fengqin , Liu Yue
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate an eMCI‐CHD tool based on clinical data to predict mild cognitive impairment (MCI) risk in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study prospectively collected data from 400 patients with coronary heart disease (aged 55–90 years, 62% men) from July 2022 to September 2023 and randomized (7:3 ratio) them into training and validation sets. After determining the modeling variables through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis, four ML classifiers were developed: logistic regression, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine, and random forest. The performance of the models was evaluated using area under the ROC curve, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F1 score. Decision curve analysis was used to assess the clinical performance of the established models. The SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method was applied to determine the significance of the features, the predictive model was visualized with a nomogram, and an online web‐based calculator for predicting CHD‐MCI risk scores was developed.

Results

Of 400 CHD patients (average age 70.86 ± 8.74 years), 220 (55%) had MCI. The XGBoost model demonstrated superior performance (AUC: 0.86, accuracy: 78.57%, sensitivity: 0.74, specificity: 0.84, F1: 0.79) and underwent validation. An online tool (https://mr.cscps.com.cn/mci/index.html) with seven predictive variables (APOE gene typing, age, education, TyG index, NT‐proBNP, C‐reactive protein, and occupation) assessed MCI risk in CHD patients.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential for predicting MCI risk among CHD patients using an ML model‐driven nomogram and risk scoring tool based on clinical data.
Toxicological assessment of a novel spiro‐derivative, 4‐amino‐1‐azaspiro[4.5]dec‐3‐en‐2‐one for the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella
Authors: Abdel Hafez Mogeda M. , Ali Jamin , Khan Khalid Ali , Ghramh Hamed A. , Fekry Reda M. , El‐Gendy Rehab M.
Published: August 2024

The greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella L., poses a substantial threat to apiculture, adversely impacting wax quality and potentially acting as a disease vector. There is an urgent need to develop innovative and effective control strategies to address the challenges posed by this pest and ensure the sustainability of the apiculture industry. Spiro‐derivative compounds represent a novel class of environmentally safe compounds with high insecticidal properties. For example, they have demonstrated high efficacy against sap‐sucking insects such as aphids and whiteflies. However, their effect on chewing insects has not yet been well explored. In this study, we hypothesized that 4‐amino‐1‐azaspiro[4.5]dec‐3‐en‐2‐one (4A1AD), a spiro‐derivative compound, would exhibit efficacy against G. mellonella larvae. To test this hypothesis, we conducted dipping and feeding bioassays, incorporating varying concentrations of 4A1AD on fourth instar G. mellonella larvae, and recorded mortality, biochemical parameters including total soluble protein content and enzyme activities, and anatomical abnormalities resulting from treatment. Results revealed a significant increase in larval mortality with increased concentrations and treatment durations across both bioassays. Additionally, a significant decrease in protein content and an increase in phenol‐oxidase activity were observed with alterations in α and β‐esterase activities. Scanning electron microscope findings revealed abnormalities in larval cuticle, spiracular openings and legs. These findings demonstrated the efficacy of 4A1AD, indicating a potential alternative to conventional insecticides in promoting sustainable apiculture practices. Moreover, they provide valuable contributions to the development of novel strategies for effective pest management in apicultural settings.
Public Discourse on the Israel‐Hamas War 2023: A Comparative Analysis of Lithuania and the United Kingdom
Authors: Sutkutė Rūta
Published: August 2024

The conflict between the Israeli government and Hamas escalated on 7th October 2023, with the media playing an unprecedented role in shaping the perceptions and narratives surrounding the ongoing tensions. The portrayal by the media, often mirroring global viewpoints and biases, has significantly influenced public opinion and international stances, serving as a catalyst for political, diplomatic, and humanitarian interventions. The aim of the study is to analyze the formation of discourse on the Israel‐Hamas war (2023) within the media landscapes of Lithuania and the United Kingdom, emphasizing the role of national broadcasters and uncovering the primary disparities in the information provided by online news portals lrt.lt and bbc.com. Employing the qualitative content analysis method, the study provides comprehensive insights into the subject matter. Moreover, it highlights the approaches of the Lithuanian and UK governments towards security discourse in Europe and their concerns regarding humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip. The study is relevant to shed light on how political decisions and public opinion influence the international community's support for various actors in the conflict, including the manifestation of Islamophobic and antisemitic sentiments.
Making “Enemies”: Industry‐State Subterfuge and US Fair Trade Practices Towards Non‐Market Economies Since 1960
Authors: Bassney John P.
Published: August 2024

Studies on US “non‐market economy” (NME) antidumping (AD) policy frame its origins as either an ideological relic of the Cold War or as a case of regulatory capture informed by strategic filing patterns. While these insights are invaluable, they do not address the underlying social processes which inform the creation of economic concepts in the first instance. NME policy evolved out of the legal‐discursive tactics employed by the US steel industry hoping to receive relief from imports, and a US state which had to simultaneously provide a form of protection to the steel industry and maintain an international commitment to free trade. Steel and the state used legal subterfuge to achieve these goals. Accordingly, NME policy developed from the institutional struggle between two stakeholders in a strategic action field.
Reverse scan body: Complete digital workflow for double full‐arch zirconia prostheses
Authors: Papaspyridakos Panos , Castellanos Lina , Bedrossian E. Armand , Romeo Davide , Kudara Yukio , Chochlidakis Konstantinos
Published: August 2024

During intraoral complete‐arch digital implant scanning, one of the most technique‐sensitive steps is the implant data acquisition and merging of different surface geometry data sets for prototype prosthesis fabrication due to the absence of fixed landmarks. Recently developed extraoral techniques have allowed for an alternative approach for the digital acquisition of implant position in completely edentulous patients. Specifically, extraoral digital scanning of the conversion prosthesis after connecting reverse scan bodies has been proposed as an efficient approach. The reverse scan body protocol digitally simulates the traditional back‐pouring technique long utilized in analog workflows. The present article describes a technique for simplifying the digital workflow for the fabrication of passive‐fitting definitive prostheses using the reverse scan body concept.
Development and Initial Validation of the Death Attitudes in Relationships Scale
Authors: Kawashima Daisuke , Kempe Tomomi , Koga Yoshiki , Kubota Sayaka , Tsujimoto Tai , Urata Yu , Watanabe Terumi , Kondo‐Arita Megumi
Published: August 2024

Relationships with close relatives, friends, and future generations should be critical in a collective society; therefore, the fear of separation from others, and care for others, must be core components of attitudes concerning death. However, such relational attitudes toward death have been insufficiently investigated. This study develops a new psychological scale for assessing death attitudes considering relationships with loved ones and future generations. In Study 1, we conducted an exploratory factor analysis using data from 477 Japanese adults. The results revealed a five‐factor structure of the Death Attitudes in Relationships Scale (DARS) and confirmed its internal consistency, convergent validity, and test–retest reliability. In Study 2 (N = 380), we demonstrated the goodness‐of‐fit indices for the factor structure and further verified the construct validity, considering relationships with other variables. As such, we confirmed the validity and reliability of the DARS. The DARS can be used to reexamine the previous, accumulated findings using the existing scale.
The Effect of Coaches' Interpersonal Style Profiles on Young Athletes' Motivation and Sport Commitment
Authors: Mohebi Mahmoud , Zarei Sahar , Zandi Hassan Gharayagh , Bahrami Alireza
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to identify both the latent profiles of coaching styles based on athletes' perceptions and their subsequent associations with athletes' motivation and sport commitment. The sample comprised young athletes from various sports types. Participants provided self‐reports of their perceptions of their coaches' behaviors, and their sport commitment and sport motivation. Cluster analyses revealed three coaching style profiles: Cluster 1 were coaches with a “low coaching style,” including those who lacked an autonomy‐supportive and those with a low controlling coaching style. Cluster 2 was labeled “Supportive coaching style” and represented coaches who were more apt to be autonomy‐supportive and less controlling. Cluster 3 was a “Controlling coaching style” and included coaches who demonstrated a low autonomy‐supportive and a high controlling style. Compared with athletes in Cluster 3, athletes in Clusters 1 and 2 reported higher levels of adaptive motivation and commitment variables. Thus, youth athletes perceived three clusters of coaching styles (Low coaching style, Supportive coaching style, and Controlling coaching style), and these profiles were associated with varying levels of athletes' motivation and commitment to sport.
Replicating Camera Perspective Bias in the Japanese Justice System
Authors: Tanda Tomoyuki , Naka Makiko , Kawahara Jun‐Ichiro
Published: August 2024

The camera perspective of recorded video interrogations has been shown to influence judgments concerning confession voluntariness; this is a phenomenon known as camera perspective bias (CPB), originally reported by Lassiter and Irvine (1986). When comparing perspectives where the suspect is visible (suspect‐focused), the detective is visible (detective‐focused), and both are visible (equal‐focused), the perceived voluntariness of a confession was greatest under the suspect‐focused condition and lowest under the detective‐focused condition. However, research conducted under the Japanese recording style by Nakata et al. (2018), using a dual‐presentation format, yielded inconsistent results, possibly because of insufficient statistical power. To address this issue, our study investigated the occurrence of CPB under the Japanese recording style with sufficient power. In Experiment 1, we aimed to replicate Nakata et al.'s (2018) study using the same mock interrogation materials. In Experiment 2, we aimed to replicate the original study conducted under the Japanese recording style. However, we did not find any evidence supporting the presence of CPB. These results suggest that CPB may not be robust, at least under the Japanese recording style.
A rapid manual technique does not have adequate sensitivity and specificity to reliably discriminate between neutropenic and non‐neutropenic dogs prior to administration of chemotherapy
Authors: Walton‐Clark M. , Henriques T. , Best M.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To develop and determine the accuracy of a rapid manual technique for the detection of pre‐treatment neutropenia (<1.50 × 109/L) in dogs receiving chemotherapy.

Materials and Methods

Twenty canine blood smears with known neutrophil counts between 1.00 × 109/L and 3.00 × 109/L were reviewed by two internal medicine clinicians and linear regressions performed to determine a cut‐off value for a manual neutrophil count equating to >1.50 × 109/L. Consecutive blood samples from dogs undergoing chemotherapy were processed through an automated haematology analyser (VetScan HM5, Abaxis), and prospective blinded manual review by the same two observers assessed whether the manual technique could accurately detect dogs with neutropenia.

Results

Linear regression analysis found a cut‐off of >26 neutrophils per 10 low power fields at the monolayer to be equivalent to a neutrophil count of >1.5 × 109/L. A total of 183 blood samples from 43 dogs were reviewed. Automated techniques detected neutropenia in 16 of 183 (9%) blood samples. Using the manual cut‐off technique, 13 of 16 (81%) and 11 of 16 (69%) of neutropenic samples were correctly identified by observer 1 and observer 2, respectively. Twenty‐three of 167 non‐neutropenic dogs (14%) were incorrectly classified as neutropenic by observer 1, and 27 (16%) by observer 2. Inter‐observer agreement was 92%. Sensitivity was 81% (95% confidence interval 54% to 96%) for observer 1 and 69% (95% confidence interval 41% to 89%) for observer 2. Specificity was 86% (95% confidence interval 80% to 91%) for observer 1 and 84% (95% confidence interval 77% to 89%) for observer 2.

Clinical Significance

Manual estimation resulted in up to five of 16 (31%) neutropenic samples being incorrectly classified. A full automated differential cell count remains preferable.
Delayed post‐traumatic alopecia of the dorso‐lumbar area following a road accident in a cat without pelvic fracture
Authors: Burnouf T. , Husson J. C. , Degorce‐Rubiales F. , Muller A. , Guaguere E.
Published: August 2024

An 11‐month‐old female, neutered domestic short‐haired cat was presented for non‐pruritic alopecia of the dorso‐lumbar area which had appeared 1 month after a road accident. After the trauma, a fracture of the left hind limb was demonstrated without dermatological lesions on the dorso‐lumbar area. One month later, hair loss was observed in this area. Four months later, clinical examination revealed dorso‐lumbar alopecia. Histopathological findings included an absence of all adnexae, a mild fibroplasia and fibrosis without oriented collagen deposition, individual to coalescing pyogranulomas at the dermo‐hypodermal junction and a moderately stenotic hypodermal artery. Clinical history, physical examination and histopathological findings were compatible with post‐traumatic dorso‐lumbar alopecia. Special features of this case include the location of the fracture and the more developed histopathological lesions with pyogranulomas at the dermo‐hypodermal junction, the absence of hair follicles and a stenosing arteriopathy.
Tribological properties of real foods using extended Stribeck curves and their relationship with nutritional and rheological parameters
Authors: Hong Jung Sun , Kim Mi‐Ran , Choi Yoo Jeong , Lee In‐Young , Chun Yong Gi , Jang Hae Won , Kim Bum‐Keun
Published: August 2024

The tribological properties of 19 commercial food products, grouped into six categories (yogurt, dressings, spreads, porridges, emulsified sauces, and syrups) were investigated in relation to their rheological (dynamic oscillatory shear test) and nutritional properties (fat, carbohydrate, and protein). A tribological system (a glass ball and three polydimethylsiloxane pins) generated the extended Stribeck curve, monitoring friction factors (f) over an extended range of sliding speed (v) (10−8 to 100 m/s). Tribological parameters (f, v) at four inflection points dividing the frictional regimes (X1, breakaway point between the static and kinetic regimes; X1–X2, boundary; X2–X3, mixed; X3–X4, hydrodynamic regimes) and the slope between X3 and X4 (s) were subjected to principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering on principal components, using rheological and nutritional parameters as quantitative supplementary variables. Tribological patterns were predominantly influenced by viscosity, viscoelasticity, yield stress, fat content, and the presence of particles (e.g., sugar, proteins, and fibers) and pasting materials (e.g., starches and modified starches). The 19 tribological patterns were classified into 3 clusters: low f and s for fat‐ and/or viscoelastic‐dominant foods (Cluster 1), low f and high s for food emulsions and/or those with low extent of shear‐thinning (Cluster 2), and high f at the boundary regime either for the most viscous foods or for those in the presence of particulates (Cluster 3). These results suggest that the compositional and rheological properties have a more profound impact on the classification of complex tribological patterns than the categories of food products.
Outcome prediction in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease using stain‐free digital pathological assessment
Authors: Kendall Timothy J. , Chng Elaine , Ren Yayun , Tai Dean , Ho Gideon , Fallowfield Jonathan A.
Published: August 2024

Computational quantification reduces observer‐related variability in histological assessment of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We undertook stain‐free imaging using the SteatoSITE resource to generate tools directly predictive of clinical outcomes. Unstained liver biopsy sections (n = 452) were imaged using second‐harmonic generation/two‐photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) microscopy, and all‐cause mortality and hepatic decompensation indices constructed. The mortality index had greater predictive power for all‐cause mortality (index >.14 vs. </=.14, HR 4.49, p = .003) than the non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis‐Clinical Research Network (NASH‐CRN) (hazard ratio (HR) 3.41, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.43–8.15, p = .003) and qFibrosis stage (HR 3.07, 95% CI 1.30–7.26, p = .007). The decompensation index had greater predictive power for decompensation events (index >.31 vs. </=.31, HR 5.96, p < .001) than the NASH‐CRN (HR 3.65, 95% CI 1.81–7.35, p < .001) or qFibrosis stage (HR 3.59, 95% CI 1.79–7.20, p < .001). These tools directly predict hard endpoints in MASLD, without relying on ordinal fibrosis scores as a surrogate, and demonstrate predictive value at least equivalent to traditional or computational ordinal fibrosis scores.
Genomic, morphological and physiological data support fast ecotypic differentiation and incipient speciation in an alpine diving beetle
Authors: Pallarés Susana , Ortego Joaquín , Carbonell José Antonio , Franco‐Fuentes Eduardo , Bilton David T. , Millán Andrés , Abellán Pedro
Published: August 2024

An intricate interplay between evolutionary and demographic processes has frequently resulted in complex patterns of genetic and phenotypic diversity in alpine lineages, posing serious challenges to species delimitation and biodiversity conservation planning. Here we integrate genomic data, geometric morphometric analyses and thermal tolerance experiments to explore the role of Pleistocene climatic changes and adaptation to alpine environments on patterns of genomic and phenotypic variation in diving beetles from the taxonomically complex Agabus bipustulatus species group. Genetic structure and phylogenomic analyses revealed the presence of three geographically cohesive lineages, two representing trans‐Palearctic and Iberian populations of the elevation‐generalist A. bipustulatus and another corresponding to the strictly‐alpine A. nevadensis, a narrow‐range endemic taxon from the Sierra Nevada mountain range in southeastern Iberia. The best‐supported model of lineage divergence, along with the existence of pervasive genetic introgression and admixture in secondary contact zones, is consistent with a scenario of population isolation and connectivity linked to Quaternary climatic oscillations. Our results suggest that A. nevadensis is an alpine ecotype of A. bipustulatus, whose genotypic, morphological and physiological differentiation likely resulted from an interplay between population isolation and local altitudinal adaptation. Remarkably, within the Iberian Peninsula, such ecotypic differentiation is unique to Sierra Nevada populations and has not been replicated in other alpine populations of A. bipustulatus. Collectively, our study supports fast ecotypic differentiation and incipient speciation processes within the study complex and points to Pleistocene glaciations and local adaptation along elevational gradients as key drivers of biodiversity generation in alpine environments.
Role of impedance drop and lesion size index (LSI) to guide catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Leo Milena , Banerjee Abhirup , Gala Andre Briosa e , Pope Michael , Pedersen Michala , Rajappan Kim , Ginks Matthew , Bashir Yaver , Hunter Ross J. , Betts Tim
Published: August 2024

Background

When using lesion size index (LSI) to guide catheter ablation, it is unclear what combination of power, contact force and time would be preferable to use and what LSI target value to aim for. This study aimed at identifying desirable ablation settings and LSI targets by using tissue impedance drop as indicator of lesion formation.

Methods

Consecutive patients, undergoing their first left atrial (LA) catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation, with radiofrequency energy (RF) powers of 20, 30 and 40 W were enrolled. Tissue impedance, contact force (CF), Force Time Integral (FTI) and LSI values were continuously recorded during ablation and sampled at 100 Hz. Mean CF and Contact Force Variability (CFV) were calculated for every lesion. The effect of RF power, ablation time, CF and CFV on impedance drop and LSI were assessed.

Results

A total of 3258 lesions were included in the analysis. For any target LSI value, use of higher RF powers translated into progressively higher impedance drops. The impact of lower CF and higher CFV on impedance drop was more relevant when using lower powers. Target LSI values corresponding to maximum impedance drop were identified depending on RF power, mean CF and CFV used.

Conclusions

Even in the context of an LSI‐guided ablation strategy, use of lower or higher powers might lead to different lesion sizes. Different LSI targets might be needed depending on the combination of RF power, CF and CFV used for ablation. Incorporating indicators of catheter stability, like CFV, in the LSI formula could improve the predictive value of LSI for lesion size. Studies with clinical outcomes are required to confirm the clinical relevance of these findings.
Cutback management: Strategy, blame attribution, and evaluation of government
Authors: Flink Carla , Xu Xiaoyang
Published: August 2024

Cutback management literature examines how governments engage strategies and maintain organizational performance in times of resource decline. While much of this literature has focused on financial outcomes, in this study we incorporate citizen evaluation of government as the outcome of interest. Additionally, we assess how blame attribution for the resource decline influences citizen evaluations. Using an online survey experiment, we bridge the literatures of cutback management, citizen evaluation of government, and blame attribution to explore how citizens evaluate governments by financial decisions and blame for a deficit. Results show that less blame improves citizen evaluations for each cutback strategy.
Effects of water stress on apoplastic barrier formation in soil grown roots differ from hydroponically grown roots: Histochemical, biochemical and molecular evidence
Authors: Suresh Kiran , Bhattacharyya Sabarna , Carvajal Jorge , Ghosh Rajdeep , Zeisler‐Diehl Viktoria V. , Böckem Vera , Nagel Kerstin A. , Wojciechowski Tobias , Schreiber Lukas
Published: August 2024

In root research, hydroponic plant cultivation is commonly used and soil experiments are rare. We investigated the response of 12‐day‐old barley roots, cultivated in soil‐filled rhizotrons, to different soil water potentials (SWP) comparing a modern cultivar (cv. Scarlett) with a wild accession ICB181243 from Pakistan. Water potentials were quantified in soils with different relative water contents. Root anatomy was studied using histochemistry and microscopy. Suberin and lignin amounts were quantified by analytical chemistry. Transcriptomic changes were observed by RNA‐sequencing. Compared with control with decreasing SWP, total root length decreased, the onset of endodermal suberization occurred much closer towards the root tips, amounts of suberin and lignin increased, and corresponding biosynthesis genes were upregulated in response to decreasing SWP. We conclude that decreasing water potentials enhanced root suberization and lignification, like osmotic stress experiments in hydroponic cultivation. However, in soil endodermal cell suberization was initiated very close towards the root tip, and root length as well as suberin amounts were about twofold higher compared with hydroponic cultivation.
Serum cortisol and neuroticism for post‐traumatic stress disorder over 2 years in patients with physical injuries
Authors: Kim Jae‐Min , Kang Hee‐Ju , Kim Ju‐Wan , Jang Hyunseok , Kim Jung‐Chul , Chun Byung Jo , Lee Ju‐Yeon , Kim Sung‐Wan , Shin Il‐Seon
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to explore the relationships between serum cortisol levels, personality traits, and the development of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) over 2 years among individuals with physical injuries.

Methods

Participants were consecutively recruited from a trauma center and followed prospectively for 2 years. At baseline, serum cortisol levels were measured, and personality traits were categorized into five dimensions (Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Openness), using the Big Five Inventory‐10. The diagnosis of PTSD during follow‐up (at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post‐injury) was determined using the Clinician‐Administered PTSD Scale for DSM‐5. Binary and multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the interactions between cortisol levels, personality traits, and PTSD development.

Results

Among 923 patients analyzed, 112 (12.1%) were diagnosed with PTSD at some point during the study period, with prevalence rates decreasing from 8.8% at 3 months to 3.7% at 24 months post‐injury. Direct associations between cortisol levels or personality traits and PTSD were not observed. However, a significant interaction between lower cortisol levels and higher Neuroticism in relation to PTSD risk was identified, especially during the early follow‐up periods (3 to 6 months), but this association waned from the 12‐month follow‐up onward.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal Neuroticism‐dependent associations between serum cortisol levels and PTSD development, exhibiting temporal variations. These results suggest that PTSD development may be influenced by a complex, time‐sensitive interplay of biological and psychosocial factors, underscoring the importance of considering individual differences in stress reactivity and personality in PTSD research and treatment.
The association between the use of fertility indicators and fecundability in a Danish preconception cohort
Authors: Pedersen Emma Skovgaard , Mikkelsen Ellen M. , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Hatch Elizabeth E. , Wise Lauren A. , Rothman Kenneth J. , Stanford Joseph B. , Laursen Anne Sofie Dam
Published: August 2024

Background

The use of fertility indicators to predict ovulation has largely been studied for contraceptive purposes, while less so as fertility‐promoting tools.

Objective

To investigate the association between fertility indicators and fecundability in Danish women trying to conceive.

Methods

Web‐based preconception cohort study. We analysed data from 11,328 females aged 18–49 years trying to conceive without fertility treatment for ≤6 menstrual cycles, from the Danish SnartGravid.dk and SnartForældre.dk cohorts (2007–2023). Participants reported the use of fertility indicators (counting days since the last menstrual period, cervical fluid monitoring, urinary ovulation testing, feeling ovulation, using a smartphone fertility app and measuring basal body temperature [BBT]). Time to pregnancy was measured in menstrual cycles ascertained by self‐reported pregnancy status. We estimated fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using proportional probabilities regression models adjusted for age, socio‐economic position, health indicators, reproductive history and gynaecological factors.

Results

Fertility indicators were used by 63.3% of participants at study entry. Counting days was the most common (46.9%), while measuring BBT was the least (3.0%). Other indicators ranged from 17.0% to 23.6%, with 69.7% using more than one indicator. Compared with non‐use, use of any fertility indicator was associated with greater fecundability (adjusted FR 1.14, 95% CI 1.08, 1.19). Cervical fluid monitoring showed the strongest association (aFR 1.46, 95% CI 1.03, 2.07), followed by urinary ovulation testing (aFR 1.35, 95% CI 1.16, 1.58) and counting days (aFR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09, 1.29). Feeling ovulation and fertility apps were modestly associated with fecundability, while measuring BBT was not associated. Sensitivity analysis restricting to ≤2 cycles of attempt time and two cycles of follow‐up showed an aFR for any indicator use of 1.21 (95% CI 1.13, 1.31).

Conclusion

In this Danish preconception cohort, use of fertility indicators was associated with a higher fecundability, varying by type of indicator.
Meta‐analysis of nanomaterials and plants interaction under salinity stress
Authors: Kwaslema Damiano R. , Michael Paulo Sulle
Published: August 2024

Salinity stress threatens global food security, requiring novel and sustainable approaches for its mitigation. Over the past decade, nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as a promising tool to mitigate salinity stress in plants. However, their use has been questioned in terms of whether they really benefit plants or are phytotoxic. Here, we specifically ask whether NMs can help ameliorate plant salinity stress. We use a multivariate meta‐analysis of 495 experiments from 70 publications to assess how NMs interact with plants under salinity stress, with a focus on plant biomass accumulation and yield. We also analyzed the influence of NM type, dosage, application method, plant species and families, and growth media on the NM‐plant interaction under salinity stress. We demonstrate that NMs enhance plant performance and mitigate salinity stress when applied at lower dosages. However, NMs are phytotoxic at higher dosages and may worsen salinity stress. Also, plant responses to NMs vary across plant species, families, and NM types. We propose a dose‐dependent hypothesis to account for the effect of NMs on plant growth under salinity stress and highlight the knowledge gaps and research needs in this field.
Natural resource management, green energy, financial development, and ecological sustainability: Reshaping urban landscape in G7 countries
Authors: Xu Shanming , Xu Li
Published: August 2024

The management of natural resources is critically important for resource conservation along with the adoption of green energy and financial development, which are indigenous to ecological sustainability. In G7 countries, none of the studies explored the fostering mechanisms of natural resource management, green energy, and financial development for the ecological sustainability in the context ecological sustainability theory presented by Marks and Engels. Pooled OLS, feasible GLS, Prais–Winsten regression, and bootstrap quantile regression methods are applied for empirical analysis using data from 1995 to 2020. The study concludes that natural resource, financial development, and urban land use decrease ecological sustainability, while the adoption of green energy, the moderating impact of financial development on green energy‐sustainability relationships, and environmental innovations increase ecological sustainability. The findings reveal that Marks and Engles were pessimistic about the concept of ecological crises due to capitalism. However, the profits associated with natural resources correctly predicted the Marx and Engles concept of human beings' interactions with nature in the era of the industrial revolution 4.0. This study holds promising policy implications and suggests the adoption of green energy, conservation of natural resources, more R&D in environmental innovations, and the vertical sprawl of population in G7 countries.
What is Mechanical Engineering?
Authors: Frecker Mary , Dames Chris , Cagan Jonathan , Siegel Donald J. , Pelegri Assimina , Jacobi Anthony , Erickson David , Ranjan Devesh
Published: August 2024

In a World of Diverse Challenges, Mechanical Engineers are Developing the Solutions. Their Contributions Have Never Been as Valuable As They are Today. “Almost everyone comes into contact with the products of mechanical engineering on a daily basis, but very few people—including some engineers themselves—can provide a succinct explanation of what mechanical engineering is. ”
The VExUS score and mortality in patients with Acute Kidney Injury: findings from a multidisciplinary prospective study
Authors: Aslaner Mehmet Ali , Helvacı Özant , Haycock Korbin
Published: August 2024

Aim: The utility of the venous excess ultrasound (VExUS) score in predicting mortality remains uncertain in acute kidney injury (AKI) patients.Material and methods: This was a post-hoc study involving 246 AKI patients presenting to a tertiary care emergency department. Venous ultrasound assessments were conducted to determine the VExUS score. Cox regressionanalysis was used to identify predictors of 6-month mortality.Results: The study found no significant association between the VExUS score and 6-month mortality in AKI patients in the regression analyses. However, in the subgroup analyses, VExUS grades 2-3 were associated with lower survival rates in the cardiorenal subgroup (HR: 3.98 [95% CI: 1.33–11.93]), and in AKI grade 1 (HR: 4.07 [95% CI: 1.74–9.49]). This association was not present in other AKI subgroups. The predictors of mortality included higher age (OR: 1.024; 95% CI 1.005-1.043), malignancy (OR: 2.186; 95% CI 1.408-3.392), lower systolic blood pressure (OR: 0.990; 95% CI 0.982-0.998), elevated pulse (OR: 1.013; 95% CI 1.005-1.022), and higher lactate levels (OR: 1.210; 95% CI 1.097-1.334).Conclusion: The VExUS score did not predict 6-month mortality in the general cohort of AKI patients in the emergency department. However, VExUS grades 2-3 were associated with lower survival rates in the cardiorenal subgroup and patients with AKI grade 1.
An efficient model for underwater noise prediction during pile driving
Authors: He Rui , Song Yongshan
Published: August 2024

Underwater noise pollution from pile driving is now attracting increasing attention. However, most of the current numerical and semi-analytical models for predicting the noise are still expensive and time-consuming, and the near-field noise and far-field noise have to be obtained from different models. This paper proposes an efficient semi-analytical solution for predicting underwater noise in both near field and far field with only one model, whose computational efficiency is orders of magnitude higher than that of the finite element model. It is the first time that the Baranov–Novak thin-layer model for soil-pile interaction has been extended to the subject of underwater noise prediction during pile installation, taking into account pile-fluid-soil interaction. The solutions are obtained using the Laplace transform and the variable separation method. By comparing the prediction results with the five reported research cases, it is shown that the error of the proposed model is within reasonable limits for both near-field and far-field noise predictions.
Fiber-optic bionic microphone based compact sound source localization system with extended directional range
Authors: Liu Xin , Hu Xinyu , Cai Chen , Wang Haibo , Qi Zhi-mei
Published: August 2024

Traditional sound source localization (SSL) systems based on electret condenser microphone arrays are bulky because their localization accuracy depends on the size of the array. Inspired by the hearing mechanism of the parasitic fly Ormia ochracea, the localization accuracy of miniature bionic SSL devices breaks through the limitations of device size, but their ability to localize low-frequency sound sources over a wide angular range remains a challenge. In this work, a compact low-frequency SSL system with an extended directional range was prepared using two bionic micro-electro-mechanical system diaphragm based fiber-optic microphones, which form a non-coplanar array with a size of Φ44 mm × 13 mm. An algorithm for quantifying the azimuthal angle of a sound source is established for the prepared SSL system. Simulation and experimental results show that the prepared SSL system is capable of determining the propagation direction of acoustic signals with a frequency of less than 1 kHz in the azimuthal range from –90° to 90°, with a linear response in the range from −70° to 70°, and an angular measurement accuracy of the system within the range of ±7°.
Suppressing interfacial nucleation competition through supersaturation regulation for enhanced perovskite film quality and scalability
Authors: Zhang Gao , Ding Bin , Ding Yong , Liu Yan , Yu Changze , Zeng Lirong , Wang Yao , Zhang Xin , Liu Meijun , Tian Qingyong , Fan Bin , Liu Qiuju , Yang Guanjun , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Chen Bo
Published: August 2024

The growing interest in cost-effective and high-performing perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has driven extensive research. However, the challenge lies in upscaling PSCs while maintaining high performance. This study focuses on achieving uniform and compact perovskite films without pinholes and interfacial voids during upscaling from small PSCs to large-area modules. Competition in nucleation at concavities with various angles on rough-textured substrates during the gas-pumping drying process, coupled with different drying rates across the expansive film, aggravates these issues. Consequently, substrate roughness notably influences the deposition window of compact large-area perovskite films. We propose a supersaturation regulation approach aimed at achieving compact deposition of high-quality perovskite films over large areas. This involves introducing a rapid drying strategy to induce a high-supersaturation state, thereby equalizing nucleation across diverse concavities. This breakthrough enables the production of perovskite photovoltaics with high efficiencies of 25.58, 21.86, and 20.62% with aperture areas of 0.06, 29, and 1160 square centimeters, respectively.
The Paleoproterozoic Trans-Australian Orogen: Its magmatic and tectonothermal record, links to northern Laurentia, and implications for supercontinent assembly
Authors: Gibson G.M. , Champion D.C. , Doublier M.P.
Published: August 2024

The 2.1–1.79 Ga Trans-Australian and Canadian Trans-Hudson orogens preserve a common record of Himalayan-scale orogenesis and voluminous Cordilleran-style magmatism behind which turbidite-dominated sedimentary sequences evolved in a backarc or retroarc foreland setting. Successive cycles of subduction retreat and advance drove the orogenic process, culminating in continent-continent collision and closure of a shared and formerly contiguous ocean basin—the Paleoproterozoic Diamantina and Manikewan oceans. Cordilleran-style arc magmatism in proto-Australia commenced along the southern reaches of the Diamantina Ocean with emplacement of the 2005–1975 Ma Dalgaringa Batholith along the leading edge of the Pilbara Craton (Gascoyne Province) before both it and its host craton docked against the Yilgarn Craton, resulting in the Glenburgh Orogeny. After a brief episode of post-kinematic granitic magmatism from 1965 Ma to 1945 Ma, tectonic activity switched to the opposing margin of the Diamantina Ocean in what is now northern Australia, where three more cycles of upper plate orogenesis and Cordilleran-style magmatism occurred from 1890 Ma to 1850 Ma, 1840 Ma to 1810 Ma, and 1810 Ma to 1760 Ma along a convergent continental margin extending from the Kimberley and Pine Creek regions southward through the Mount Isa domain into the eastern Gawler Craton. Batholiths developed along this margin include granites of both low- and high-Sr/Y composition, with the more adakitic varieties interpreted to have been intruded during periods of enhanced asthenospheric upwelling accompanying the opening of one or more slab windows following slab breakoff, tearing, and/or subduction of an actively spreading oceanic ridge. Terminal collision between the North and South Australian (Mawson) cratons at ca. 1790 Ma brought this succession of subduction-related events to a close, although neither this event nor the corresponding Trans-Hudson Orogen need equate to final assembly of the Nuna supercontinent. Instead, the 1870 Ma peak in global compilations of magmatic and detrital zircon ages may be interpreted more simply as the result of elevated tectonism and magmatism along a Paleoproterozoic Cordilleran-style continental plate margin that was transcontinental in scale and continued uninterrupted from proto-Australia into northern Canada and beyond.
Implications of child poverty reduction targets for public health and health inequalities in England: a modelling study between 2024 and 2033
Authors: McCabe Ronan , Pollack Roxana , Broadbent Philip , Thomson Rachel M , Igelström Erik , Pearce Anna , Bambra Clare , Bennett Davara Lee , Alexandros Alexiou , Daras Konstantinos , Taylor-Robinson David , Barr Benjamin , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal
Published: August 2024

Background

We investigated the potential impacts of child poverty (CP) reduction scenarios on population health and health inequalities in England between 2024 and 2033.

Methods

We combined aggregate local authority-level data with published and newly created estimates on the association between CP and the rate per 100 000 of infant mortality, children (aged <16) looked after, child (aged <16) hospitalisations for nutritional anaemia and child (aged <16) all-cause emergency hospital admissions. We modelled relative, absolute (per 100 000) and total (per total population) annual changes for these outcomes under three CP reduction scenarios between 2024 and 2033—low-ambition(15% reduction),medium-ambition(25% reduction) andhigh-ambition(35% reduction)—compared with a baseline CP scenario (15% increase). Annual changes were aggregated between 2024 and 2033 at national, regional and deprivation (IMD tertiles) levels to investigate inequalities.

Results

All CP reduction scenarios would result in substantial improvements to child health. Meeting thehigh-ambitionreduction would decrease total cases of infant mortality (293; 95% CI 118 to 461), children looked after (4696; 95% CI 1987 to 7593), nutritional anaemia (458, 95% CI 336 to 574) and emergency admissions (32 650; 95% CI 4022 to 61 126) between 2024 and 2033. Northern regions (eg, North East) exhibited the greatest relative and absolute benefit. The most deprived tertile would experience the largest relative, absolute and total benefit; underhigh-ambitionreduction, total infant mortality cases were predicted to fall by 126 (95% CI 51 to 199) in the most deprived tertile compared with 71 (95% CI 29 to 112) in the least between 2024 and 2033.

Conclusions

Achieving reductions in CP could substantially improve child health and reduce health inequalities in England.