bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of potassium uptake in
Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Quintero-Yanes Alex , Léger Loïc , Collignon Madeline , Mignon Julien , Mayard Aurélie , Michaux Catherine , Hallez Régis
Published: August 2024

Potassium (K
+
) is an essential physiological element determining membrane potential, intracellular pH, osmotic/turgor pressure, and protein synthesis in cells. Here, we describe the regulation of potassium uptake systems in the oligotrophic α-proteobacterium
Caulobacter crescentus
known as a model for asymmetric cell division. We show that
C. crescentus
can grow in concentrations from the micromolar to the millimolar range by mainly using two K
+
transporters to maintain potassium homeostasis, the low-affinity Kup and the high-affinity Kdp uptake systems. When K
+
is not limiting, we found that the
kup
gene is essential while
kdp
inactivation does not impact the growth. In contrast,
kdp
becomes critical but not essential and
kup
dispensable for growth in K
+
-limited environments. However, in the absence of
kdp
, mutations in
kup
were selected to improve growth in K
+
-depleted conditions, likely by increasing the affinity of Kup for K
+
. In addition, mutations in the KdpDE two-component system, which regulates
kdpABCDE
expression, suggest that the inner membrane sensor regulatory component KdpD mainly works as a phosphatase to limit the growth when cells reach late exponential phase. Our data therefore suggest that KdpE is phosphorylated by another non-cognate histidine kinase. On top of this, we determined the KdpE-dependent and independent K
+
transcriptome. Together, our work illustrates how an oligotrophic bacterium responds to fluctuation in K
+
availability.

IMPORTANCE

Potassium (K
+
) is a key metal ion involved in many essential cellular processes. Here, we show that the oligotroph
Caulobacter crescentus
can support growth at micromolar concentrations of K
+
by mainly using two K
+
uptake systems, the low-affinity Kup and the high-affinity Kdp. Using genome-wide approaches, we also determined the entire set of genes required for
C. crescentus
to survive at low K
+
concentration as well as the full K
+
-dependent regulon. Finally, we found that the transcriptional regulation mediated by the KdpDE two-component system is unconventional since unlike
Escherichia coli
, the inner membrane sensor regulatory component KdpD seems to work rather as a phosphatase on the phosphorylated response regulator KdpE~P.
Propagating and banking genetically diverse human sapovirus strains using a human duodenal cell line: investigating antigenic differences between strains
Authors: Oka Tomoichiro , Li Tian-Cheng , Yonemitsu Kenzo , Ami Yasushi , Suzaki Yuriko , Kataoka Michiyo , Doan Yen Hai , Okemoto-Nakamura Yuko , Kobayashi Takayuki , Saito Hiroyuki , Mita Tetsuo , Tokuoka Eisuke , Shibata Shinichiro , Yoshida Tetsuya , Takagi Hirotaka
Published: August 2024

There are four genogroups and 18 genotypes of human sapoviruses (HuSaVs) responsible for acute gastroenteritis. To comprehend their antigenic and virological differences, it is crucial to obtain viral stocks of the different strains. Previously, we utilized the human duodenum-derived cell line HuTu80, and glycocholate, a conjugated bile acid, to replicate and propagate GI.1, GI.2, and GII.3 HuSaVs (H. Takagi et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 117:32078–32085, 2020,
https://10.1073/pnas.2007310117
). First, we investigated the impact of HuTu80 passage number on HuSaV propagation. Second, we demonstrated that taurocholate improved the initial replication success rate and viral RNA levels in fecal specimens relative to glycocholate. By propagating 15 HuSaV genotypes (GI.1–7, GII.1–5, −8, and GV.1–2) and accomplishing preparation of viral stocks containing 1.0 × 10
9
to 3.4 × 10
11
viral genomic copies/mL, we found that all strains required bile acids for replication, with GII.4 showing strict requirements for taurocholate. The deduced VP1 sequences of the viruses during the scale-up of serial passaged virus cultures were either identical or differed by only two amino acids from the original sequences in feces. In addition, we purified virions from nine strains of different genotypes and used them as immunogens for antiserum production. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) using rabbit and guinea pig antisera for each of the 15 strains of different genotypes revealed distinct antigenicity among the propagating viruses across genogroups and differences between genotypes. Acquisition of biobanked viral resources and determination of key culture conditions will be valuable to gain insights into the common mechanisms of HuSaV infection.

IMPORTANCE

The control of human sapovirus, which causes acute gastroenteritis in individuals of all ages, is challenging because of its association with outbreaks similar to those caused by human norovirus. The establishment of conditions for efficient viral propagation of various viral strains is essential for understanding the infection mechanism and identifying potential control methods. In this study, two critical factors for human sapovirus propagation in a conventional human duodenal cell line were identified, and 15 strains of different genotypes that differed at the genetic and antigenic levels were isolated and used to prepare virus stocks. The preparation of virus stocks has not been successful for noroviruses, which belong to the same family as sapoviruses. Securing virus stocks of multiple human sapovirus strains represents a significant advance toward establishing a reliable experimental system that does not depend on limited virus-positive fecal material.
Structural Basis for Evasion of New SARS-CoV-2 Variants from the Potent Virus-Neutralizing Nanobody Targeting the S-Protein Receptor-Binding Domain
Authors: Sluchanko Nikolai N. , Shcheblyakov Dmitry V. , Varfolomeeva Larisa A. , Favorskaya Irina A. , Dolzhikova Inna V. , Korobkova Anastasia I. , Alekseeva Irina A. , Esmagambetov Ilias B. , Derkaev Artem A. , Prokofiev Vladimir V. , Zorkov Ilya D. , Logunov Denis Y. , Gintsburg Alexander L. , Popov Vladimir O. , Boyko Konstantin M.
Published: August 2024

COVID-19 has caused millions of deaths and many times more infections worldwide, emphasizing the unpreparedness of the global health system in the face of new infections and the key role for vaccines and therapeutics, including virus-neutralizing antibodies, in prevention and containment of the disease. Continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has been causing its new variants to evade the action of the immune system, which highlighted the importance of detailed knowledge of the epitopes of already selected potent virus-neutralizing antibodies. A single-chain antibody (“nanobody”) targeting the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD), clone P2C5, had exhibited robust virus-neutralizing activity against all SARS-CoV-2 variants and, being a major component of the anti-COVID-19 formulation “GamCoviMab”, had successfully passed Phase I of clinical trials. However, after the emergence of the Delta and XBB variants, a decrease in the neutralizing activity of this nanobody was observed. Here we report on the successful crystal structure determination of the RBD:P2C5 complex at 3.1 Å, which revealed the intricate protein–protein interface, sterically occluding full ACE2 receptor binding by the P2C5-neutralized RBD. Moreover, the structure revealed the developed RBD:P2C5 interface centered around residues Leu452 and Phe490, thereby explaining the evasion of the Delta or Omicron XBB, but not Omicron B.1.1.529 variant, as a result of the single L452R or F490S mutations, respectively, from the action of P2C5. The structure obtained is expected to foster nanobody engineering in order to rescue neutralization activity and will facilitate epitope mapping for other neutralizing nanobodies by competition assays.
Unmet medical needs and influencing factors among Korean police officers: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lee Hyo Young , Im Hyuk , Kyu Min Kim
Published: August 2024

Objectives

South Korea grapples with a disproportionately high incidence of unmet medical needs, a concern that is particularly acute among police officers, who are exposed to significant occupational risks. Given the pivotal role of police officers in upholding democratic values and public safety, their well-being holds critical societal implications. This study aims to determine the incidence of unmet medical needs among police officers and identify the influencing factors.

Design

This is a retrospective and cross-sectional study. Applying the Andersen behavioural model and multiple logistic regression analysis, we explored factors impacting unmet medical needs.

Setting

The study took place in South Korea and involved its total force of police officers.

Participants

Our analysis encompassed data from 6591 participants, representing 5.2% of South Korea’s total police officers.

Outcome measures

Unmet medical needs.

Results

Our findings revealed several influencing factors. First, predisposing factors included sex, with women experiencing a higher incidence of unmet medical needs. Second, enabling factors highlighted the significance of job positions and reduced annual leave guarantees in influencing unmet medical needs. Finally, need factors demonstrated the substantial impact of chronic diseases, heightened levels of depression, reduced subjective health assessments, increased stress levels and exposure to rough physical activity on driving unmet medical needs.

Conclusions

To mitigate and pre-empt the long-term health repercussions associated with unmet medical needs, intervention strategies should prioritise these identified factors. An integrated healthcare programme emerges as a critical necessity for addressing the healthcare challenges faced by police officers.
Women’s health in focus: Real-world data on valproate prescriptions during pregnancy – a cohort study in Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Bellas Lucía , Camacho-Arteaga Lina , Giner-Soriano Maria , Prats-Uribe Albert , Aguilera Cristina , Vedia Urgell Cristina , Agustí Antonia
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To characterise the exposure to valproate within a cohort of pregnant women using electronic health records (EHRs) from Catalonia (System for the Development of Research in Primary Care, SIDIAP).

Design

Drug-utilisation cohort study covering the period from January 2011 to June 2020. The study included pregnancy episodes of women from Catalonia identified by the algorithm.

Setting

Data were sourced from SIDIAP, a comprehensive EHR repository that includes information from various data sources: recorded prescriptions (both hospital and primary care), diagnoses and sociodemographic characteristics identified by primary care physicians, and sexual and reproductive health data from ASSIR (used by gynaecologists and midwives).

Participants

Women aged 12–50 with at least one pregnancy episode occurred during January 2011–June 2020 and at least a prescription of valproate during pregnancy.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Primary outcomes included valproate exposure, measured through prevalence and cumulative incidence in pregnancy episodes and by trimester. The impact of regulatory measures (risk mitigation measures, RMMs) was assessed, and prescriptions over time were analysed using interrupted time series analysis. Secondary outcomes included health issues, pregnancy outcomes, smoking habits and socioeconomic characteristics.

Results

A total of 99 605 pregnancies were identified, with at least 3.03‰ (95% CI 2.69‰ to 3.39‰) exposed to valproate at some point (302 pregnancies, 276 women). The median pregnancy duration was 38.30 weeks (IQR 12.6–40.1), and the median age at pregnancy was 32.37 years (IQR 27.20–36.56). Epilepsy was the most frequent health issue. The prevalence and cumulative incidence of valproate prescriptions decreased during pregnancy and increased postpregnancy. The RMMs implemented in 2014 led to a reduction in monthly valproate prescriptions during pregnancy in this cohort.

Conclusions

The study highlights the decline in valproate prescriptions during pregnancy due to RMMs and underscores the need for standardised methodologies in future studies to ensure the safety of pregnant patients and optimise scientific evidence.
Equity-informed social media COVID-19 risk communication strategies: a scoping review
Authors: Peter Nedra , Donelle Lorie , George Catherine , Kothari Anita
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating worldwide impact but most prominent was its effect on marginalised, underserved and equity-deserving populations. Social media arose as an important platform from which health organisations could rapidly disseminate information to equity-deserving populations about COVID-19 risks and events, provide instructions on how to mitigate those risks, motivate compliance with health directives, address false information, provide the opportunity for engagement and immediate feedback. The objective of this scoping review was to synthesise the academic and grey literature on equity-informed social media risk communication strategies developed during the pandemic.

Design

The review followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework and focused on the research question: What are the promising principles, processes, and practices for producing equity-informed social media risk communications?

Data sources

CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE (OVID), Business Source Complete, EMBASE database OVID, Scopus and PubMed’s curated COVID-19 literature hub: LitCovid, PsycINFO OVID were searched using terms related to access to health services, social media, risk communication, misinformation, community engagement, infectious disease, pandemics and marginalisation, supplemented by grey literature from relevant health organisations.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Studies were eligible if the population of interest was an equity-deserving population, the concept discussed was COVID-19 risk communication and the article was published in English between January 2019 and December 2022.

Data extraction and synthesis

COVIDENCE facilitated screening and extraction. Charted data were thematically analysed following Braun and Clarke’s phased process. Preliminary findings were collaboratively discussed with representatives from health agencies and community organisations focused on serving equity-deserving groups.

Results

12 studies were included. In terms of principles and process, studies emphasised the need to collaboratively create plans for message construction and targeted dissemination using a risk communication framework, capitalise on access to community resources and pre-established communication mediums and be considerate of population-specific needs and concerns. Practice entails careful consideration of communication mediums, language usage, communication frequency and evaluation.

Conclusion

This scoping review provides valuable insights for health agencies and community organisations in developing principles, processes and practices to equitably communicate risk information through social media. Engagement with stakeholders further refined and confirmed the findings, offering insights for future crisis communication strategies.
Exploring the social and cultural aspects of Chinese family caregivers’ experience as they support loved ones with dementia transitioning into nursing homes: a qualitative study protocol
Authors: Yuan Yiyang , Dube Catherine E , Xu Shu , Lim Emily , Qu Shan , McPhillips Emily , Lapane Kate L
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Asian American caregivers supporting loved ones with dementia experience greater burden and more stress than other racial/ethnic groups, warranting the need for more culturally and linguistically appropriate formal support, such as in nursing homes. Transitioning loved ones into nursing homes with dementia care units is a complex process that can be impacted by a multitude of factors. Employing several established frameworks, including the socioecological model, this qualitative study will focus on the largest Asian American subgroup (people of Chinese descent) and explore the experience of family caregivers as they support the transition of their loved ones with dementia into nursing homes in the USA. Our focus will be on the nuanced influences of the Chinese language and culture and COVID-19-related social isolation and racial discrimination.

Methods and analysis

Recruitment will take place starting in January 2024. Current or former Chinese caregivers for Chinese loved ones with dementia, able to communicate in Mandarin Chinese or English, and currently residing in the USA will be eligible. Key informants with intimate understanding and experience with this population will also be included. Data will be collected through 2024 using semistructured, in-depth interviews with each participant. Depending on participants’ preferences, interviews will be conducted in either Mandarin Chinese or English and either in person, via Zoom or by phone. Interviews will be transcribed verbatim. Iterative thematic analysis will be employed. A coding structure will be developed based on interview questions and themes and patterns that are revealed through data immersion. Transcripts, prepared in their original language, will be dual-coded by bilingual researchers using NVivo 14. Consensus summaries of themes will be prepared. Relevant direct quotes for each thematic area will be identified (those in Chinese will be translated into English) and cited in reports and manuscripts.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the UMass Chan Medical School Institutional Review Board (ID: STUDY00001376). Findings will be published in peer-review journals following the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research.
Efficacy and safety of low-dose sesame oral immunotherapy in paediatric patients: a protocol for a single-centre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zielinska Joanna , Zagórska Wioletta , Krupa-Łaska Anna , Łyżwa Klementyna , Lewandowski Zbigniew , Kulus Marek , Grzela Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Sesame allergy, though with low prevalence, can result in severe, potentially life-threatening reactions and poses challenges in allergen avoidance due to hidden sources. In the majority of patients, sesame allergy persists and there is currently no effective long-term treatment available. Therefore, oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a promising alternative approach to managing sesame allergy. In this study protocol, we present a randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of OIT with low-dose sesame protein in paediatric patients. The study’s aim is to compare OIT with a 300 mg maintenance dose of sesame protein against controls.

Methods and analysis

39 participants aged 3–17 with IgE-mediated sesame allergy confirmed by oral food challenge will be enrolled into the study. The trial will be conducted at the Paediatric Hospital of the Medical University of Warsaw, Poland. The study comprises two arms—sesame OIT and control. In the sesame OIT group, interventions will be administered once daily for up to 18 months. During the first phase, the dose will be escalated every 2–4 weeks, and in the second phase, the maintenance dose of 300 mg sesame protein will continue for 3 months. Members of the control group will receive standard treatment, which includes an elimination diet and will remain under observation for 1 year. The primary outcome is the proportion of participants tolerating a single dose of 4000 mg of sesame protein during the final oral food challenge in the experimental group versus the control group. Secondary outcomes assess adverse events, changes in immunological parameters and the maximum tolerated doses of sesame protein in each group.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical University of Warsaw (approval number: KB/269/2023). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated via presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06261554.
Autoimmune diseases, autoantibody status and silicosis in a cohort of 1238 workers from the artificial stone benchtop industry
Authors: Tomic Dunya , Hoy Ryan F , Sin Jesselyn , Jimenez Martin Javier , Gwini Stella May , Barnes Hayley , Nikpour Mandana , Morrisroe Kathleen , Lim Yuan Z , Walker-Bone Karen
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Autoimmune disorders are multifactorial but occupational exposures have long been implicated, including respirable crystalline silica (RCS). A modern epidemic of silicosis is emerging internationally, associated with dry processing of engineered stone with high (>90%) RCS content. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of clinical autoimmune disease and common autoantibodies in exposed workers.

Methods

Stone benchtop industry workers in Victoria, Australia were offered free screening for silicosis and related disorders. Symptoms or diagnoses of autoimmune disease were evaluated by questionnaire and blood tests taken for rheumatoid factor (RF), antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) and extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs).

Results

Among 1238 workers (93.3% male) screened from 2019 to 2021, 0.9% were confirmed with autoimmune disease. Among those without clinical disease, 24.6% had detectable ANAs (93.5% male), 4.6% detectable ENAs and 2.6% were positive for RF. Silicosis was diagnosed in 253 workers (24.3% of those with diagnostic information available). Of those with ANA readings, 54 (6.6%) had ANA titre >1:320. The likelihood of positive autoantibodies increased with age; smoking; higher exposure to RCS and silicosis diagnosis.

Conclusion

The proportion of workers with detectable ANAs or ENAs was considerably higher than the 5%–9% expected in the general population. Some of the antibodies detected (eg, Scl-70, CENPB) have high sensitivity and specificity for systemic sclerosis. Long-term follow-up will be needed to estimate incidence. Rheumatologists should explore occupational history in new cases of autoimmune disease. Screening for autoimmune disease is indicated in workers exposed to RCS as these individuals need specialised management and may be entitled to compensation.
Unravelling the fragmented sediment–landform assemblage in an area of thick Quaternary sediment, western Hudson Bay Lowland, Canada
Authors: Hodder Tyler J. , Gauthier Michelle S. , Ross Martin , Kelley Samuel E. , Lian Olav B. , Dalton April S. , Finkelstein Sarah A.
Published: August 2024

Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) reconstructions beyond the last glacial maximum (LGM) are difficult due to the incomplete stratigraphic record that has largely been eroded by the most recent glaciation. The Hudson Bay Lowland (HBL) is a key region to understanding the long-term evolution of the LIS, as it contains an extensive pre-LGM stratigraphic record of glacial and nonglacial events. This study uses a hybrid lithostratigraphy–allostratigraphy approach to decipher the stratigraphic record in the Kaskattama highland region of the western HBL, Manitoba, Canada. We identify five glacial (till) units and three nonglacial (sorted sediment) units that were deposited during at least three glacial–interglacial cycles, which are constrained by radiocarbon and optical ages. The provenance of till units is identified using clast-lithology and detrital hornblende 40Ar/39Ar ages and supported by matrix geochemistry. The new stratigraphic framework for this western HBL region indicates that the ice emanating from the Quebec–Labrador dome advanced into the region at the start of the last two glaciations, suggesting accelerated early growth of the Quebec–Labrador dome relative to the Keewatin Dome.
Integrated planning for a multiproduct, multisite reforestation value chain: a Canadian case study
Authors: Mousavijad Mahtabalsadat , LeBel Luc , Lehoux Nadia , Cloutier Caroline , Carles Sylvie
Published: August 2024

This paper addresses integrated supply and distribution planning for a multiproduct, multisite reforestation value chain (RVC) in a make-to-order context. The aim is to develop a tactical planning tool to determine the quantities of seedling species and sizes to order from nurseries to satisfy reforestation site needs while minimizing purchase and distribution costs. A mixed-integer linear programming model was developed and applied to the publicly managed RVC in the province of Quebec, Canada. This tool was also used to analyze scenarios considering the three pillars of sustainability: environmental (climate risk management to bolster resilience), social (fair production allocation), and economic (supply and distribution costs) aspects. This strategic analysis highlights the trade-offs between purely economic and more sustainable scenarios and discusses strategic deployment opportunities to improve the RVC. Ultimately, it serves as a powerful tool for efficiently allocating yearly seedling supply, minimizing costs, and promoting sustainable practices in reforestation planning which provides valuable insights for RVC managers.
Differential response by seedlings of three sub-boreal conifer species to high- and low-carbon wood ash amendment
Authors: Rutherford P. Michael , Massicotte Hugues B. , McGill William B. , Elkin Ché E. , Tackaberry Linda E.
Published: August 2024

In Canada, there is a need to implement value-added uses for wood ash (hereafter ash) generated from bioenergy facilities as most ash is landfilled. Ash application to forests can provide benefit via nutrient supply, amelioration of soil acidity and, sometimes, increased tree growth. However, information is limited on the response of conifer species to different wood ash types applied to fine-textured soil typical of north-central B.C. We conducted a 16-month seedling pot trial that examined the response of Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii), lodgepole pine ( Pinus contorta var. latifolia), and hybrid white spruce ( Picea glauca × engelmannii) to high- (HCA) and low-carbon ashes (LCA) applied (up to 10 Mg mineral matter ha−1 equiv.), with and without fertilizer N (200 kg N ha−1 equiv.), to fine-textured forest soil. Pine and spruce exhibited a 1.6- and 1.4-fold increase in shoot biomass at the high rate of HCA with fertilizer N. At study end, the high rate of LCA had the greatest soil pH, EC and total K in the upper forest floor, but the HCA had greater total B, P and Zn. LCA elicited increased foliar B in pine, but HCA increased foliar Ca in spruce when co-applied with fertilizer N. In general, Douglas-fir growth did not respond to ash treatments, and seedling mortality was observed in some LCA treatments. Ash treatments helped offset some nutrient deficiencies induced by N fertilization. Ash type influenced soil chemical as well as seedling growth and nutrition responses.
cLFV leptophilic $$Z^\prime $$ as a dark matter portal: prospects for colliders
Authors: Goudelis Andreas , Kriewald Jonathan , Pinsard Emanuelle , Teixeira Ana M.
Published: August 2024

Extensions of the Standard Model featuring light vector bosons have been explored with the goal of resolving certain tensions between theory and experiment, among them the discrepancy in the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, $$\Delta a_{\mu }$$

Δ

a
μ

. In particular, this is the case of a minimal construction including a leptophilic, strictly flavour violating, vector boson $$Z^\prime $$

Z
′

. These new vector bosons are also well-motivated dark matter portals, with non-trivial couplings to stable, weakly interacting states which can account for the correct dark matter density. Here we study the prospects of a Standard Model extension (via a vector boson and a fermionic dark matter candidate) concerning signatures at the LHC, and at future lepton and hadron colliders. We discuss the cross-sections of several processes leading to same- and opposite-sign muon-tau lepton pairs in the final state, as well as final states with missing energy (in the form of neutrinos and/or dark matter). Our findings suggest that a future muon collider offers the best prospects to probe this model (together with searches for dilepton pairs and missing energy signatures at the FCC-ee running at the Z-pole); moreover, the complementarity of the different future high-energy colliders is also paramount to probing distinct $$Z^\prime $$

Z
′

mass regimes.
Surveying More Than Two Decades of Music Information Retrieval Research on Playlists
Authors: Gabbolini Giovanni , Bridge Derek
Published: August 2024

In this article, we present an extensive survey of music information retrieval (MIR) research into music playlists. Our survey spans more than 20 years, and includes around 300 papers about playlists, with over 70 supporting sources. It is the first survey that is self-contained in the sense that it combines all the different MIR research into playlists. It embraces topics such as algorithms for automatic generation, for automatic continuation, for assisting with manual generation, for tagging and for captioning. It looks at manually constructed playlists, both those that are constructed for and by individuals and those constructed in collaboration with others. It covers ground-breaking research into enhancing playlists by cross-fading consecutive songs and by interleaving consecutive songs with speech, similar to what happens on a radio show. Most significantly, it is the first survey that can fully incorporate the paradigm shift that has taken place in the way people consume recorded music: the shift from physical media to music streaming. This has wrought profound changes in the size of music collections available to listeners and thus the algorithms that support the construction, curation and presentation of playlists and the methods adopted by users when they also construct, curate and listen to playlists.
Effect of Different Surface States of Electrolytic Copper Foils on the Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Jie , Liu Eryong , Bai Zhongbo , Du Shuangming , Guo Ruixi
Published: August 2024

Currently, the field of lithium-ion batteries faces an urgent challenge, which is how to effectively inhibit the growth of dendrites, thereby improving the coulombic efficiency of plated/stripped lithium on copper foils and enhancing the cycling stability of the batteries. In this paper, the surface of copper foil is roughened by annealing post-treatment, which in turn improves the interfacial adhesion between the copper foil and the active material. This treatment helps the anode current collector to form a flat graphite electrode sheet and a uniform solid electrolyte interphase film, reducing the growth of lithium dendrites as well as extending the cycle life of the batteries. Among them, the annealed electrode exhibits extremely high roughness (0.533 μm) and elongation (9.91%), with the initial discharge capacity of the prepared lithium battery reaching as high as 384.22 mAh g−1. It also maintains good cycling performance at different rates, which confirms the gain effect of surface roughening on battery capacity.
An Efficient Electrochemical Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide on Zn-Based Coordination Polymer Decorated Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Sherino Bibi , Afzal Saba , Mohamad Sharifah , Sarwar Aziza , Naeem Rabia , Abdul Manan Ninie Suhana
Published: August 2024

Due to the important role of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in biological systems and its wide range of practical applications, the development of efficient electrochemical H2O2 sensors has become a highly attractive research area. Herein, we reports the synthesis and fabrication of zinc-based coordination polymer [Zn(bim)(L1)(Cl)]n (CP-a): [bim = 1-benzylimidazole, L1 = terephthalic acid] on modified carbon paste electrode (CP-a/CPE) for the electrochemical detection of H2O2. The surface morphology of CP-a/CPE was confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Electrochemical sensing features were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and chrono-amperometry. The linear range at the potential of −0.5 V based on CP-a/CPE for H2O2 was 0.001 mM–60 mM, with a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.0004 mM. The effect of interfering species on the reduction peak current response shows a minor change of signals (>5%). The as-synthesized CP-a/CPE sensor exhibited efficient reproducibility and stability. The electrocatalytic activity and good performance imply that the metal-based coordination polymers are potential candidates for fabricating electrochemical sensors.
The independent effects of hydrostatic pressure and hypercapnic breathing during water immersion on ventilatory sensitivity and cerebrovascular reactivity
Authors: Sackett James R. , Schlader Zachary J. , Hostler David , Johnson Blair D.
Published: August 2024

Although not fully elucidated, the ventilatory and hemodynamic alterations during water immersion appear to be a result of the combined effects of immersion (i.e., elevated [Formula: see text], central hypervolemia, increased cerebral perfusion, increased work of breathing, etc.). Our findings demonstrate that an augmented ventilatory sensitivity to CO2 during immersion may be due to the hydrostatic pressure across the chest wall, whereas an attenuated cerebrovascular reactivity to CO2 may be due to the combined effects of immersion.
Hypertension restricts leg blood flow and aggravates neuromuscular fatigue during human locomotion in males
Authors: Thurston Taylor S. , Weavil Joshua C. , Wan Hsuan-Yu , Supiano Mark A. , Kithas Philip A. , Amann Markus
Published: August 2024

The impact of primary hypertension on the cardiovascular and neuromuscular fatigue response to locomotor exercise is unknown. We compared central and peripheral hemodynamics and the development of central and peripheral fatigue during cycling exercise in patients with stage I/II hypertension and age- and activity-matched healthy individuals. In addition to a significantly elevated blood pressure, hypertensive patients were, compared with their nonhypertensive counterparts, also characterized by considerable leg blood flow limitations and impaired neuromuscular fatigue resistance.
Spontaneous and evoked angiotensin II sniffer cell activity in the lamina terminalis in vitro
Authors: Farmer George E. , Cunningham J. Thomas
Published: August 2024

These studies used Chinese hamster ovary cells that were cloned to express an angiotensin receptor ( At1ra) and a calcium indicator (R-GECO) to detect the release of angiotensin from brain slices containing the lamina terminalis of rats. Some of the experiments use tissue from renin knockout rats. The results support the existence of an angiotensin system in the brain that may involve alternative synthetic pathways and is upregulated by intermittent hypoxia.
Swift Onset, Swift Recovery: Unusual Nonrheumatic Myocarditis in a Young Adult Post Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Authors: Rios Andres , Wood Colby , Garcia Ricardo Isaiah , Mitchell Emily C. , Nichols Jacob
Published: August 2024

This case report highlights the unusual presentation and management of nonrheumatic myocarditis in a 24‐year‐old male, an age demographic not commonly associated with myocardial complications following Group A streptococcal pharyngitis. The patient, devoid of any prior medical history, manifested symptoms one day after being diagnosed with Group A streptococcal pharyngitis, a stark contrast to the typical progression of myocardial complications. The swift onset of symptoms and the patient’s subsequent clinical presentation necessitated a comprehensive diagnostic approach. The patient’s symptoms were successfully alleviated with amoxicillin and anti‐inflammatory therapy, underscoring its potential efficacy in managing nonrheumatic myocarditis. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis, especially in atypical presentations, and the pivotal role of timely clinical intervention. The insights from this report contribute to the broader understanding of nonrheumatic myocarditis, emphasizing the significance of tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
The Physiological Impacts of the Low‐ and Moderate‐Volume‐HIIT with or without Nano‐Curcumin Supplement in Women in Menopause with Obesity
Authors: Dabidi Roshan Valiollah , Noorbakhsh Sepideh , Ziatabar Ahmadi Seyedeh Fatemeh , Nikseresht Mehdi
Published: August 2024

Tabata exercise has been proposed as an extremely time‐efficient high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) method to achieve health benefits, but direct comparisons between the low‐volume‐HIIT (LV‐HIIT), moderate‐volume‐HIIT (MV‐HIIT) with and without nano‐curcumin (NaC) supplement for 8‐week on cardiovascular hemodynamic, respiratory function, muscular fitness, and physical performance in the obese menopause women are limited. In a double blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study, 53, moderately obese menopause women (average age 45–60 yrs, BMI > 30 kg/m2, WC for >85 cm, and body fat > 35%) were randomly assigned to undertake either LV‐HIIT, MV‐HIIT, or NaC supplement (daily 80 mg in two 40‐mg capsules) for two sessions per week for 8 weeks. The maximal exercise testing after 8‐week of the LV‐HIIT and MV‐HIIT interventions caused significantly increase in the VO2max (mean difference: 6.83 (95% CI: 25.58–43.51), p = 0.01, mean difference: 5.31 (95% CI: 23.98–39.02), p = 0.028), and oxygen pulse (mean difference: 0.02 (95% CI: 0.16–0.19), p = 0.04, mean difference: 0.04 (95% CI: 0.17–0.21), p = 0.02), respectively. Moreover, MV‐HIIT with and without NaC had significant improve in muscular fitness and physical performance (hand grip in MV + NaC (mean difference: 3.8 (95% CI: 21.46–31.81), p = 0.02), quadriceps strength in MV (mean difference: 14.58 (95% CI: 52.75–69.82), p = 0.01), MQI (mean difference: 31.23 (95% CI: 112.67–197.15), p = 0.02, mean difference: 31.52 (95% CI: 159.13–184.07), p = 0.01), sit to stand test (mean difference: 1.84 (95% CI: 6.60–8.41), p = 0.02, mean difference: 1.78 (95% CI: 6.69–9.03), p = 0.01), and the running distance (mean difference: 96.95 (95% CI: 470.05–637.42), p = 0.02, mean difference: 114.53 (95% CI: 458–641.87), p = 0.02)), when compared to baseline. In compared with the LV‐HIIT groups, the MV‐HIIT could improve FVC (mean difference: 0.12 (95% CI: 2.21–3.26)). Our data demonstrated that both the LV‐HIIT and MV‐HIIT, as part of activities of daily living, maybe a time‐efficient strategy to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and physical performance. Beyond the purported health benefits, the MV‐HIIT with and without NaC supplement appears to be safe approach in the previously sedentary obese menopause women.
A Novel Hybrid Analytic‐Numerical Algorithm for Scattering from a 3‐D Coated Target above a PEC Rough Surface
Authors: He Hong-Jie , Zhang Ya
Published: August 2024

A novel hybrid algorithm combining the 3‐D vector finite element method‐boundary integral method (FEM‐BIM) with the half‐space Green’s function with the rough‐surface interface is developed in this paper to study the scattering from a 3‐D coated target above a perfectly electric conducting (PEC) rough surface. The half‐space Green’s function is derived from the Kirchhoff approximation (KA). The 3‐D vector FEM is applied to model the coated object, and the BIM with the half‐space Green’s function is selected as the exact radiation boundary conditions. The accuracy of our numerical code is validated by the numerical method. Some numerical results are provided to study the electromagnetic scattering characteristics from a coated sphere above a Gaussian rough surface.
Carbapenem Resistance in Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii Complex Isolates From Kathmandu Model Hospital, Nepal, Is Attributed to the Presence of blaOXA-23-like and blaNDM-1 Genes
Authors: Gurung Anupama , Napit Rajindra , Shrestha Basudha , Lekhak Binod
Published: August 2024

The Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii (ACB) complex, also known as ACB complex, consists of four bacterial species that can cause opportunistic infections in humans, especially in hospital settings. Conventional therapies for susceptible strains of the ACB complex include broad‐spectrum cephalosporins, β‐lactam/β‐lactamase inhibitors, and carbapenems. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of these antibiotics has declined due to increasing rates of resistance. The predominant resistance mechanisms identified in the ACB complex involve carbapenem‐resistant (CR) oxacillinases and metallo‐β‐lactamases (MBLs). This research, conducted at Kathmandu Model Hospital in Nepal, sought to identify genes associated with CR, specifically blaNDM‐1, blaOXA‐23‐like, and blaOXA‐24‐like genes in carbapenem‐resistant Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii (CR‐ACB) complex. Additionally, the study is aimed at identifying the ACB complex through the sequencing of the 16s rRNA gene. Among the 992 samples collected from hospitalized patients, 43 (approximately 4.334%) tested positive for the ACB complex. These positive samples were mainly obtained from different hospital units, including intensive care units (ICUs); cabins; and neonatal, general, and maternity wards. The prevalence of infection was higher among males (58.14%) than females (41.86%), with the 40–50 age group showing the highest infection rate. In susceptibility testing, colistin and polymyxin B exhibited a susceptibility rate of 100%, whereas all samples showed resistance to third‐generation cephalosporins. After polymyxins, gentamicin (30.23%) and amikacin (34.88%) demonstrated the highest susceptibility. A substantial majority (81.45%) of ACB complex isolates displayed resistance to carbapenems, with respiratory and pus specimens being the primary sources. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed that the primary CR gene within the ACB complex at this hospital was blaOXA-23-like, followed by blaNDM-1. To ensure the accuracy of the phenotypic assessment, 12 samples were chosen for 16s rRNA sequencing using Illumina MiSeq™ to confirm that they are Acinetobacter species. QIIME 2.0 analysis confirmed all 12 isolates to be Acinetobacter species. In the hospital setting, a substantial portion of the ACB complex carries CR genes, rendering carbapenem ineffective for treatment.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Cutibacterium acnes in Egyptian Acne Patients
Authors: Khashaba Shrook A. , Gamil Hend , Mostafa Sarah , Amer Rania M. , Ateya Rehab M. , Amer Amin
Published: August 2024

Background. Recent studies have revealed that antibiotics are yielding unsatisfactory outcomes in certain patients with acne. Therefore, attention was drawn to antibiotic resistance as a rapidly growing problem that might lead to treatment failure. Objective. The study aims to assess the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of Cutibacterium acne isolates in a sample of Egyptian patients to the antibiotics most frequently prescribed for acne vulgaris. Methods. A total of 155 patients with moderate to severe acne were included in the study. Skin swab samples were collected and inoculated. Cutibacterium acnes was identified based on colonial morphology, Gram stain, and biochemical reactions and further confirmed by VITEK 2 automated systems. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using minimum inhibitory concentrations determined by the Epsilometer test. Results. Cutibacterium acnes was detected in 50 samples (32.2%), alone in 17 (10.9%), and in combination with Staphylococci in 33 (21.3%) cases. The results of the antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed high resistance to erythromycin, followed by clindamycin, tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and doxycycline. Conclusion. Cutibacterium acnes showed high resistance rates to most antibiotics used in the clinical treatment of acne vulgaris.
Proportional Hazards Violations in Phase III Cancer Clinical Trials: A Potential Source of Trial Misinterpretation
Authors: Lin Timothy A. , McCaw Zachary R. , Koong Alex , Lin Christine , Abi Jaoude Joseph , Patel Roshal , Kouzy Ramez , El Alam Molly B. , Sherry Alexander D. , Noticewala Sonal S. , Fuller Clifton D. , Thomas Charles R. , Sun Ryan , Lee J. Jack , Lin Ruitao , Yuan Ying , Shyr Yu , Meirson Tomer , Ludmir Ethan B.
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Survival analyses of novel agents with long-term responders often exhibit differential hazard rates over time. Such proportional hazards violations (PHV) may reduce the power of the log-rank test and lead to misinterpretation of trial results. We aimed to characterize the incidence and study attributes associated with PHVs in phase III oncology trials and assess the utility of restricted mean survival time and maximum combination test as additional analyses.

Experimental Design:

Clinicaltrials.gov and PubMed were searched to identify two-arm, randomized, phase III superiority-design cancer trials with time-to-event primary endpoints and published results through 2020. Patient-level data were reconstructed from published Kaplan–Meier curves. PHVs were assessed using Schoenfeld residuals.

Results:

Three hundred fifty-seven Kaplan–Meier comparisons across 341 trials were analyzed, encompassing 292,831 enrolled patients. PHVs were identified in 85/357 [23.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 19.7%, 28.5%] comparisons. In multivariable analysis, non–overall survival endpoints [OR, 2.16 (95% CI, 1.21, 3.87); P = 0.009] were associated with higher odds of PHVs, and immunotherapy comparisons [OR 1.94 (95% CI, 0.98, 3.86); P = 0.058] were weakly suggestive of higher odds of PHVs. Few trials with PHVs (25/85, 29.4%) prespecified a statistical plan to account for PHVs. Fourteen trials with PHVs exhibited discordant statistical signals with restricted mean survival time or maximum combination test, of which 10 (71%) reported negative results.

Conclusions:

PHVs are common across therapy types, and attempts to account for PHVs in statistical design are lacking despite the potential for results exhibiting nonproportional hazards to be misinterpreted.
Supplementary Table S3 from Membrane-bound Heat Shock Protein mHsp70 Is Required for Migration and Invasion of Brain Tumors
Authors: Shevtsov Maxim , Bobkov Danila , Yudintceva Natalia , Likhomanova Ruslana , Kim Alexander , Fedorov Evegeniy , Fedorov Viacheslav , Mikhailova Natalia , Oganesyan Elena , Shabelnikov Sergey , Rozanov Oleg , Garaev Timur , Aksenov Nikolay , Shatrova Alla , Ten Artem , Nechaeva Anastasiya , Goncharova Daria , Ziganshin Rustam , Lukacheva Anastasiya , Sitovskaya Daria , Ulitin Alexey , Pitkin Emil , Samochernykh Konstantin , Shlyakhto Evgeny , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: August 2024

Characteristics of patients with brain metastases.
Probabilistic Mathematical Model for Dietary Consumption and Exposure Assessment in the Absence of Data from National Nutrition Surveys: A Case Study on Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhumaidan Omar A. , Alakeel Shihana A. , Alkhunein Sarah M. , Fallata Ghadir A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Noncommunicable diseases, which account for 71% of annual global deaths, necessitate the implementation of targeted legislative measures to reduce exposure to risk factors, particularly those related to nutrition. Accurately assessing these risk factors is challenging owing to infrequent national surveys, high costs, and uncertainties from human behavior. Thus, addressing these issues is crucial. This study aimed to develop a model for estimating dietary exposure. Methods: Our study utilizes the National Nutrient Consumption (NNC) model, which employs a probabilistic and cost-effective approach. This model leverages open data and focuses on supply chain dynamics and uncertainties, integrating import, production, and stock levels. It estimates commodity supply, consumption, and nutrient intake using predictive coefficients from historical data. Model accuracy was assessed using mean absolute error, correlation coefficient, and one-sample t test. The findings were evaluated against the recommended intake outlined in the Technical Regulation of Food Labeling (SFDA.FD 2233). Results: The model demonstrated high accuracy in estimating dietary intake, with minimal error margins. For both genders, the 50th percentile nutrient exposure exceeded the reference values – with males consuming 3,310 kcal (+65%), 144 g of total fat (+105%), 33.8 g of saturated fat (+69%), 86 g of free sugar (+72%), and 2,545 mg of sodium daily (+0.06%); females consumed 3,306 kcal (+65%), 143 g of total fat (+104%), 33.5 g of saturated fat (+67%), 86 g of free sugar (72%), and 2,500 mg of sodium (+4%). Conclusion: The model, both cost-effective and accurate, identifies elevated nutritional risk factors in Saudi Arabia, informing targeted health policies.