bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender Differences in Dendritic Damage, Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis, and Cognitive Impairment During Aging Processes
Authors: Han Yuan‐Yuan , Li Kang , Hu Jing‐Yu , Wu Ji‐Chao , Li Xiao , Liu De‐Xiang , Li Chu‐Hua
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is a common and feared characteristic of aging processes, and one key mechanism of cognition is hippocampal synaptic structure. Previous studies have reported that gut microbiota dysbiosis occurred in neurodegenerative diseases and other brain disorders with cognitive impairment. However, it is not clear how gender differences affect cognitive impairment in aging processes and whether they affect synaptic structure and gut microbiota. Here, we studied the gender differences in cognitive ability, dendritic morphology, and gut microbiota of adult, middle‐, and old‐aged rats.

Methods

The cognitive ability of rats using was assessed by the Y‐maze SAB test, the light/dark discrimination test, and the MWM test. Dendritic morphology was investegated by Golgi staining. Microbiota composition, diversity and richness were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The results showed that the cognitive ability of old‐aged rats was decreased than adult and middle‐aged rats in the spontaneous alternation behavior test, the light/dark discrimination test in Y‐maze, and the MWM test; males have better cognitive ability than the females for middle‐aged rats. The neuronal dendritic structures of CA1, CA3, and DG regions of the hippocampus were damaged to different degrees during aging, and the spine loss of females was more than that of males in CA1 and CA3 of middle‐aged rats. In addition, the microbial diversity of gut microbiota was significantly decreased in old‐aged male rats; the distribution and composition of microbiota communities were different between male and female rats at different ages.

Conclusion

These findings revealed that cognitive impairment in aged rats might result from dendritic damage in the hippocampus and gut microbiota dysbiosis, which provides direct evidence that gender differences in dendritic damage and gut microbiota dysbiosis might associate with cognitive impairment in naturally aged rats.
Altered Cognitive Networks Connectivity in Parkinson's Disease During the Microlesion Period After Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Luo Bei , Zou Yanxiang , Yan Jiuqi , Sun Jian , Wei Xiang , Chang Lei , Lu Yue , Zhao Liang , Dong Wenwen , Qiu Chang , Yan Jun , Zhang Yanhong , Zhang Wenbin
Published: December 2024

Aims

Cognitive functions are reduced in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients after deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The current study attempted to elucidate whether DBS alters the functional connectivity (FC) pattern of cognitive networks in PD patients.

Methods

The study obtained fMRI and cognitive scale data from 37 PD patients before and after the DBS surgery. Seed‐based FC analysis helped demonstrate the FC changes of the default mode network (DMN), executive control network (ECN), and dorsal attention network (DAN).

Results

PD patients indicated significant network connectivity decline in DMN [such as in right precuneus, left angular gyrus, and left middle frontal gyrus (MFG)], ECN [such as in left inferior parietal gyrus, left MFG, and left supplementary motor area (SMA)], and DAN [such as in left inferior frontal gyrus and left MFG] post‐DBS surgery. The phonemic fluency score was positively associated with the FC value of the right precuneus and left angular gyrus in DMN before DBS.

Conclusion

The general reduction in FC in the major cognitive networks after DBS surgery depicted the presence of the corresponding network reorganization. Further research can help explore the mechanism of impaired cognitive function post‐DBS.
Heterogeneous blood pressure treatment effects on cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes: A machine learning analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Xu Xiaoli , Wang Siyu , Zhang Xiaoyun , Zheng Ruizhi , Wang Kan , Xiang Yu , Wang Tiange , Zhao Zhiyun , Li Mian , Zheng Jie , Xu Min , Lu Jieli , Bi Yufang , Xu Yu
Published: December 2024

Aim

We aimed to identify the characteristics of patients with diabetes who can derive cognitive benefits from intensive blood pressure (BP) treatment using machine learning methods.

Materials and Methods

Using data from the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORD‐MIND) study, 1349 patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent BP treatment (intensive treatment targeting a systolic BP <120 mmHg vs. standard treatment targeting <140 mmHg) were included in the machine learning analysis. Seventy‐nine variables correlated with diabetes and cognitive function were used to build the causal forest and causal tree models for identifying heterogeneous BP treatment effects on cognitive decline.

Results

Our analyses identified four variables including urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR, mg/g), Framingham 10‐year cardiovascular risk score (FRS, %), triglycerides (TG, mmol/L) and diabetes duration, that categorized the participants into five subgroups with different risk benefits for cognitive decline from BP treatments. Subgroup 1 (UACR ≥65 mg/g) had an absolute risk reduction (ARR) of 15.36% (95% CI, 5.01%–25.46%) from intensive versus standard BP treatment (hazard ratio [HR], 0.36; 95% CI, 0.18–0.73). Subgroup 2 (UACR <65 mg/g, FRS ≥26%, TG <2.3 mmol/L and diabetes duration ≥9 years) had an ARR of 14.74% (95% CI, 4.56%–24.59%) from intensive versus standard BP treatment (HR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15–0.77). No significant benefits were found for other subgroups.

Conclusions

Patients with type 2 diabetes with high UACR, or with low UACR and low TG, but high predicted cardiovascular risk and long diabetes duration were likely to derive cognitive benefits from intensive BP treatment.
Assessing the benefit–risk profile of newer glucose‐lowering drugs: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis of randomized outcome trials
Authors: Tang Huilin , Zhang Bingyu , Lu Yiwen , Donahoo William T. , Singh Ospina Naykky , Kotecha Pareeta , Lu Ying , Tong Jiayi , Smith Steven M. , Rosenberg Eric I. , Kimmel Stephen E. , Bian Jiang , Guo Jingchuan , Chen Yong
Published: December 2024

Aim

To comprehensively evaluate the benefits and risks of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RA), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i), and sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i).

Materials and Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) from inception to November 2023 to identify randomized cardiovascular and kidney outcome trials that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease and compared DPP4i, GLP‐1RAs, or SGLT2i to placebo. Twenty‐one outcomes (e.g., major adverse cardiovascular events [MACE], stroke, and hospitalization for heart failure [HHF]) were assessed. Data were pooled using population‐averaged odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs.

Results

Twenty‐six trials enrolling 198 177 participants were included. GLP‐1RAs were most effective in lowering the risks of MACE (OR, 0.85, [95% CI, 0.79 to 0.92]) and stroke (0.84 [0.77, 0.91]), but increased the risk of thyroid cancer (1.58 [1.36, 2.50]). SGLT2i showed the greatest benefits in reducing the risk of HHF (0.68 [0.64, 0.73]) and improving composite renal outcomes (0.67 [0.58, 0.77]), but increased the risk of genital infections (3.11 [2.15, 4.50]). DPP4i were associated with a lower risk of certain psychiatric disorders, Parkinson's disease (0.54 [0.32, 0.92]), and amputation (0.70 [0.86, 0.93]), but an increased risk of neuropathy (1.10 [1.02, 1.18]) and pancreatitis (1.63 [1.40, 1.91]). The weighted origami plot suggested that GLP‐1RAs were more suitable for reducing macrovascular and microvascular outcomes, while DPP4i might be better for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer concerns.

Conclusions

Given the distinct benefit–risk profiles, the selection of glucose‐lowering drugs should be individualized based on patient characteristics and risk factors.
Serum glycobiomarkers for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Furukawa Soma , Fukami Yuki , Hanamatsu Hisatoshi , Yokota Ikuko , Furukawa Jun‐ichi , Hane Masaya , Kitajima Ken , Sato Chihiro , Hiraga Keita , Satake Yuki , Yagi Satoru , Koike Haruki , Katsuno Masahisa
Published: December 2024

Background

This study conducted a comprehensive glycan analysis of serum to determine how glycan biomarkers are associated with the pathophysiology of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and the effects of its treatment.

Methods

We comparatively analyzed N‐ and O‐glycans in the pretreatment serum of 27 treatment‐naïve patients with typical CIDP and 20 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (HC) using mass spectrometry. We determined the association between clinical parameters and glycans. The serum glycan and neurofilament light‐chain (NfL) levels were assessed at the baseline, and treatment response was defined according to the degree of improvement in the modified Rankin scale 12 weeks after the first dose of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg).

Results

Compared with the HC, the CIDP group demonstrated significantly lower levels of serum total N‐glycans (CIDP, median 973.3 [IQR 836.2–1131.3] pmol/μL; HC, 1125.0 [1005.0–1236.2] pmol/μL; p < 0.05), especially sialylated N‐glycans (CIDP, 898.0 [752.2–1037.2] pmol/μL; HC, 1064.4 [942.7–1189.8] pmol/μL; p < 0.01). In contrast, the O‐glycan levels did not differ significantly between the two groups. The treatment response was associated with low N‐glycan levels, but not with the serum NfL levels. Low levels of sialylated N‐glycans were associated with resistance to treatment over 12 weeks, with an area under the curve of 0.822 (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Low levels of sialylated N‐glycans could potentially serve as a novel biomarker, reflecting pathophysiology and therapeutic resistance in typical CIDP.
Efficacy of thyme honey in the management of oral aphthous ulcers: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ghalwash Dalia , El‐Gawish Ayman , Ammar Ahmed , Abou‐Bakr Asmaa
Published: December 2024

The current study aimed to assess the effect of thyme honey on pain relief in patients with minor aphthous ulcers as a primary objective, its healing effect on ulcer size reduction, and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14). In this randomized clinical trial, 30 patients (15 in each group) having minor aphthous ulcers at the oral diagnostic clinic at the British University in Egypt were treated with either thyme honey or triamcinolone acetonide in orabase. Different clinical parameters were recorded for both groups at various intervals, such as pain intensity using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), size of ulcers in mm, and OHIP‐14. Thyme honey intervention showed more significant ulcer size reduction than the triamcinolone acetonide group on days 5, and 7, and a more substantial decrease in pain intensity on days 3, 5, and 7. Additionally, the thyme honey group showed significantly lower OHIP values than the triamcinolone acetonide group after 7 days. The current clinical trial furnished evidence of the effectiveness of thyme honey in managing minor aphthous ulcers for the first time and revealed clinical efficiency with satisfactory patient outcomes.
Cortical hemodynamics of electrographic status epilepticus in the critically ill
Authors: Kassab Ali , Toffa Dènahin H. , Robert Manon , Chassé Michaël , Lesage Frédéric , Peng Ke , Nguyen Dang K.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The pathophysiological mechanisms of status epilepticus (SE) underlying potential brain injury remain largely unclear. This study aims to employ functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) combined with video‐electroencephalography (vEEG) to monitor brain hemodynamics continuously and non‐invasively in critically ill adult patients experiencing electrographic SE. Our primary focus is to investigate neurovascular coupling and cerebrovascular changes associated with seizures, particularly during recurring and/or prolonged episodes.

Methods

Eleven critically ill adult patients underwent simultaneous vEEG‐fNIRS with large cortical coverage. Data from seven patients with identified electrographic SE were analyzed. The timing of recorded seizures was marked using standardized critical care EEG terminology. A general linear model was employed to extract the hemodynamic response to seizures from the fNIRS recordings. Linear mixed‐effects models were utilized to correlate hemodynamic responses with seizure characteristics.

Results

A total of >200 h of monitoring and >1000 seizures were recorded. In most patients, an increase in oxyhemoglobin (HbO) and a decrease in deoxyhemoglobin (HbR) were observed during shorter‐duration seizures. Although a similar response could also be seen initially for longer‐duration seizures, this hemodynamic change was often followed by a progressive decline in HbO concentration and an increase in HbR. At the systemic level, no significant difference in peripheral oxygenation occurred during seizures, and only small changes in mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate occurred in four and two patients, respectively.

Significance

We demonstrate the feasibility of using multichannel vEEG‐fNIRS to measure the hemodynamic changes associated with electrographic seizures in critically ill adult patients. Our findings suggest that disrupted neurovascular coupling is more prevalent during prolonged seizures compared to recurrent short‐duration seizures. This research provides valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between neuronal activity and hemodynamics during critical care seizures.
Elevated Astrocytic NFAT5 of the hippocampus increases epilepsy susceptibility in hypoxic‐ischemic mice
Authors: Jia Xianglei , Xu Jian , Zhang Yan , Kong Shuo , Cheng Xuelei , Wu Ningyang , Han Song , Yin Jun , Liu Wanhong , He Xiaohua , Fan Yuanteng , Liu Yumin , Chen Taoxiang , Peng Biwen
Published: December 2024

Objective

Hypoxic–ischemic brain damage (HIBD) is a leading cause of neonatal mortality, resulting in brain injury and persistent seizures that can last into the late neonatal period and beyond. Effective treatments and interventions for infants affected by hypoxia–ischemia remain lacking. Clinical investigations have indicated an elevation of nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5) in whole blood from umbilical cords of severely affected HIBD infants with epilepsy. Experimental research has demonstrated that NFAT5 has ambivalent effects on neuroprotection and neurologic damage. However, the mechanistic role of NFAT5 in HIBD remains unclear. This investigation aims to further clarify the role of NFAT5 in epilepsy following HIBD insult.

Methods

We created a neonatal HIBD mouse model through left common carotid artery occlusion. By specifically knocking down astrocytic NFAT5 and its downstream molecule, Nedd4‐2, using hippocampal delivery of adeno‐associated virus 5‐driven targeted shRNA, we investigated the role of astrocytic NFAT5 in epilepsy susceptibility in HIBD mice. This was assessed through electroencephalographic recordings, behavioral observations in vivo, and whole‐cell recordings of hippocampal neuronal activity. In vitro, we evaluated the effects of astrocytic NFAT5 alteration on Kir4.1 expression and IKir4.1 in both brain slices from HIBD mice and cultured astrocytes treated with oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation.

Results

Hypoxia–ischemia‐induced upregulation of hippocampal NFAT5 occurs in astrocytes rather than in neurons. This upregulation leads to increased expression of the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4‐2, resulting in excessive degradation of Kir4.1 in astrocytes. Consequently, astrocytic function in buffering extracellular K+ is impaired, causing depolarization of the resting potential and enhanced neuronal discharge. This disruption ultimately affects local neural network balance and increases susceptibility to epilepsy. In contrast, inhibiting or knocking down astrocytic NFAT5 almost completely reverses these effects.

Significance

Our findings suggest that manipulating the NFAT5–Nedd4‐2–Kir4.1 axis in astrocytes could provide a potential therapeutic strategy for the epileptic complications of HIBD.
Role of Odor Novelty on Olfactory Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Scheier Zoe A. , Sturm Kassandra L. , Colavecchio John A. , Pradhan Apekchha , Otazu Gonzalo H.
Published: December 2024

Sensory processing abnormalities are a hallmark of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and are included in its diagnostic criteria. Among these challenges, food neophobia has garnered attention due to its prevalence and potential impact on nutritional intake and health outcomes. This review describes the correlation between novel odor perception and feeding difficulties within the context of ASD. Moreover, this review underscores the role of odor processing in shaping feeding behaviors within the ASD population. It examines the psychophysics of odor perception in individuals with ASD and evaluates the behavioral and neurophysiological assessments conducted using novel odor stimuli in mouse models relevant to autism and wild‐type mice. Additionally, we explore the mechanism on how odor novelty affects neuronal circuitry, shedding light on potential underlying mechanisms for the effect of odor novelty on ASD.
Cyanobacteria Boring Limestones in Freshwater Settings—Their Pioneering Role in Sculpturing Pebbles and Carbonate Dissolution
Authors: Wetzel Andreas , Zopfi Jakob , Uchman Alfred
Published: December 2024

In freshwater lakes and rivers, cyanobacteria belonging to the family Leptolyngbyaceae bore > 1 mm deep into limestone pebbles by dissolving carbonate at the tip of their 3–8 μm‐thick filaments. The abundance of these borings decreases downward while it is so high at the rock surface that micrometric debris is formed. Moreover, the disintegrated material on the pebbles' surface can be easily removed, for instance, when pebbles are grinding against each other due to wave or current action or when insect larvae settle and scratch loosened grains from the surface while constructing their cases. After a larvae case has been abandoned, it decays with time and the surface benath it is colonized again by boring cyanobacteria. These processes can alternate repeatedly and lead to a sculptured appearance of the pebbles, especially because insect larvae tend to colonize already existing depressions where they are better protected from predation and where they can access suspended food more easily. In the sculptures entrenched by insect larvae, larvae of byssate bivalves like Dreissena polymorpha may settle. When growing, these bivalves also remove loosened carbonate from the bored surface. Thus, boring cyanobacteria play a pioneering, preconditioning role in the morphological evolution of limestone (pebble) surfaces by transforming an initially hard substrate into a firm‐ to softground that is subsequently colonized and structured by animals. Consequently, sculptured pebbles are the product of multiphase, preconditioned bioerosion. Ultimately, the synergistic effects of these bioerosive processes result in the dissolution of carbonate leading to a maximum take‐up of approximately 0.5–0.8 kg CO2 per square meter and year, as a preliminary estimate indicates.
Identification of Gallbladder‐Specific Distal Regulatory Sequence of Murine Sox17
Authors: Zeng Shihan , Yanagida Ayaka , Ota Noriaki , Uemura Mami , Hirate Yoshikazu , Hiramatsu Ryuji , Mizuno Naoaki , Kanai Yoshiakira , Kanai‐Azuma Masami
Published: December 2024

Sox17 is a key transcriptional regulator of endoderm formation and function in the gallbladder, blood vessels and reproductive organs. Although multiple transcript variants of Sox17 have been suggested, the precise mechanisms underlying their time‐ and tissue‐specific expression remain unclear. In this study, we discovered two putative regulatory sequences (R1 and R2) adjacent to different transcription start sites of mouse Sox17 exon 1 and generated deletion mice for these regions (Sox17Δdr/Δdr). Sox17Δdr/Δdr mice were alive and fertile, and they possessed a normal‐sized gallbladder. However, semiquantitative analysis of immunostaining showed that the expression levels of SOX17 in Sox17Δdr/Δdr embryos were reduced to less than 50% of the wild‐type in the gallbladder epithelium. Furthermore, the bile ductal epithelium marker SOX9 was abnormally upregulated, and PAS/DBA‐positive mucin secretion‐like epithelial cells were induced in the Sox17Δdr/Δdr gallbladder. Our results demonstrate that the distal sequence of Sox17, including R1 and R2, is important for the regulation of Sox17 gene expression in the embryonic gallbladder and is crucial for normal gallbladder epithelial development.
Thriving in the heat: How high temperatures and habitat disturbance shape odonate taxonomic and functional diversity in the tropics
Authors: Castillo‐Pérez Eduardo Ulises , Rivera‐Duarte José D. , Abellán Pedro , del‐Val Ek , González‐Tokman Daniel , Córdoba‐Aguilar Alex
Published: December 2024

Because insects are unable to regulate their body temperatures, they are vulnerable to rising temperatures and habitat disturbances that limit access to optimal microhabitats. This study examines how these factors affect the taxonomic and functional diversity of Odonata insects (Anisoptera and Zygoptera) in a tropical dry landscape.

We assessed taxonomic diversity using Hill numbers (0D, 1D, 2D) and functional diversity in preserved and disturbed sites within a tropical dry forest. Functional diversity was measured using the standardised effect size (SES) of functional richness, evenness, divergence and community‐weighted means (CWMs), focusing on traits related to heat tolerance and resource acquisition (body colouration and size).

Taxonomic diversity was positively related to high temperatures and vegetation in Anisoptera, with no relation for Zygoptera. The SES of functional richness for Zygoptera was higher in preserved areas, while anisopterans showed no changes. Only Anisoptera showed a negative correlation between functional evenness and maximum temperatures. Functional divergence in both suborders was higher in disturbed areas.

In Anisoptera, the CWM of body colour lightness was higher in disturbed sites, but neither environmental factor affected the CWM of body size in either suborder.

While disturbance limited trait variability in zygopterans, it favoured species with extreme traits in both suborders. Reduced trait variability in preserved sites may have affected adaptability to future disturbances. Our study highlights that Odonata communities maintain stable taxonomic diversity despite disturbances, but shifts in functional diversity could compromise their resilience and ecological roles.
Exploring sustainable utilization of ceramic waste in heat‐resistant concrete: A comprehensive review
Authors: Nasare Radha , Shah Vedanshi , Joshi Tejas , Dave Urmil , Ghaffar Seyed Hamidreza
Published: December 2024

This review explores the integration of ceramic waste into heat‐resistant concrete as a sustainable solution aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ceramic waste, a major industrial by‐product, shows promise as coarse aggregate in concrete, supporting waste reduction and energy efficiency in construction. The study examines mechanical properties, durability, and high‐temperature performance through a literature review, bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer, and interviews with ceramic manufacturers. Findings reveal gaps in understanding long‐term thermal behavior and practical challenges in processing ceramic waste. Highlighting environmental benefits such as reduced carbon footprint, the study aligns with SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13, advocating ceramic waste's potential to improve energy efficiency and promote a circular economy in the construction sector. International collaborations could enhance the global supply chain for ceramic waste recycling, fostering partnerships between waste‐producing industries and construction companies to address global environmental challenges. Through such collaborations, economies could scale sustainable practices, driving innovation and facilitating the transition to more sustainable construction materials worldwide.
Comparative Effectiveness of Antivirals and Monoclonal Antibodies for Treating COVID‐19 Patients Infected With Omicron Variant: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lau Kristy T. K. , Xiong Xi , Wong Carlos K. H. , Au Ivan C. H. , Lui Angel Y. C. , Tsai Gavin Y. T. , Wu Tingting , Li Lanlan , Lau Eric H. Y. , Cowling Benjamin J. , Leung Gabriel M.
Published: December 2024

Antiviral drugs likely remain effective against the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant, while monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapies have experienced drops in neutralizing ability. This systematic review and network meta‐analysis aims to estimate the comparative effectiveness of antivirals and mAb therapies for treating COVID‐19 patients infected with Omicron, capturing primarily acute outcomes. We searched multiple databases from July 4 to July 19, 2022, with updates through November 4, 2022. Studies comparing the effectiveness of antivirals or mAb to either nonuser controls or other treatments were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 and ROBINS‐I tools. Data extraction and verification involved five independent researchers. Among 39 studies (727,893 individuals with COVID‐19, including 38 nonrandomized trials), nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and sotrovimab were associated with lower risks of mortality (HR = 0.317, 95% credible intervals [CrI] = 0.144–0.678; HR = 0.176, 95%CrI = 0.052–0.527) and hospitalization (HR = 0.479, 95%CrI = 0.319–0.711; HR = 0.489, 95%CrI = 0.293–0.797) compared with nonuser controls. Remdesivir users were associated with a lower risk of hospitalization (HR = 0.367, 95%CrI = 0.147–0.868) but not mortality. Molnupiravir and bebtelovimab showed no significant benefits for these outcomes. In conclusion, among individuals infected with COVID‐19 during the Omicron wave, mortality risk was lower with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir or sotrovimab use, whereas hospitalization was reduced with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, remdesivir, or sotrovimab. Sotrovimab and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir were effective against Omicron B.1.1.529/BA.1 and BA.2/BA.4/BA.5 subvariants, respectively. A key limitation is that findings rely on data from the last search and may be impacted by potential changes in mortality risk due to immune evasion by emerging variants, highlighting the need for ongoing randomized trials across variants and populations.

Trial Registration

The study was registered on PROSPERO, CRD42022351508.
Improved ablation resistance of Csf/SiBCN composites densified by PIP process: Ablation behavior and damage mechanism
Authors: Dou Wenhao , Wang Bingzhu , Li Daxin , Jiang Haobo , Sun Xiaoliang , Li Ling , Wang Yingying , Yang Zhihua , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu
Published: December 2024

To enhance the ablation resistance of porous Csf/MA–SiBCN composites, the polymer infiltration and pyrolysis (PIP) process is adopted to obtain layered Csf/SiBCN composites containing MA–SiBCN and PDCs–SiBCN. After ablation for 10 s, the ablative layer fails to remain on the Csf/MA–SiBCN surface with mass ablation rate of 0.062 g/s and linear ablation rate of 0.208 mm/s, while the dense Csf/SiBCN surface is covered by a dense and stable ablative layer mainly consisting of amorphous SiO2 glassy phase due to the synergistic ablation effect of MA–SiBCN and PDCs–SiBCN, which could resist the intense scour by ablation flame and prevent internal corrosion, and thus the ablation resistance improves with a 37% decrease in mass ablation rate (0.039 g/s) and an 18% decrease in linear ablation rate (0.171 mm/s), respectively.
3D nanostructure of CO2‐mineralized steel slag
Authors: Li Linshan , Chen Tiefeng , Sun Ming , Gao Xiaojian , He Xingyang , Geng Guoqing
Published: December 2024

Steel slag, a major industrial waste in China, possesses significant CO2 absorption potential. In this study, the CO2 sequestration of steel slag reached up to 15.6%; however, excessive mineralization resulted in reduced hydration activity. Compared to unmineralized slag, the 1‐day compressive strength decreased by 15.9%, and cumulative hydration heat over 72 h dropped by 8%. Using advanced visualization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy‐backscattered electron (SEM‐BSE), 3D X‐ray, and focused ion beam‐transmission electron microscopy (FIB‐TEM), the study reveals the microstructure of overmineralized steel slag, identifying a composition of a calcite outer layer, an amorphous SiO2 layer, a transition area, and an unmineralized core. The mineralization reaction affected 84.80% of the steel slag particles, with volume expansion causing dense regions to become porous, increasing porosity from 0% to 1.62%. This expansion also risks lattice distortion. During CO2 mineralization, a dense calcite layer forms, blocking the hydration of internal silicate gels and calcium silicate minerals, reducing the hydration activity of overmineralized slag. This study offers insights for optimizing CO2 mineralization techniques and applications for steel slag.
Advancing damage‐free machining of KDP: A comprehensive review
Authors: Yang Shengyao , Zhang Liangchi
Published: December 2024

The series of successful inertial confinement fusion ignitions from December 2022 to December 2023 marked a groundbreaking milestone in humanity's pursuit for a new, inexhaustible source of clean energy. At the core of this ignition system lies the potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystals, playing an indispensable role. However, ensuring the reliable, long‐term application of KDP components relies heavily on their quality, necessitating finishes that are free from damage or nearly so. Manufacturing KDP components poses significant challenges due to their fragility, unstable microstructure, sensitivity to environmental factors and complex mechanical behavior. To address the quest for damage‐free manufacturing, interdisciplinary investigations have been commenced, incorporating theoretical analyses, atomistic simulations, and experimental trials. The success of the ignitions has catalyzed intensified research efforts aimed at achieving damage‐free machining of KDP components, drawing significant attention. This review is dedicated to examining existing studies on machining‐induced damage mechanisms and exploring potential pathways for achieving damage‐free machining of KDP crystals.
Transnational Healthcare Practices Among Migrants: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Metersky Kateryna , Guruge Sepali , Wang Lu , Al‐Hamad Areej , Yasin Yasin M. , Catallo Cristina , Yang Lixia , Salma Jordana , Zhuang Zhixi C. , Chahine Monica , Kirkwood Melissa , Al‐Anani Ayah
Published: December 2024

Aims

To present a conceptual definition of transnational healthcare in the context of migrant older adults.

Design

This article follows the Walker and Avant concept analysis framework to conduct an in‐depth analysis of transnational healthcare.

Methods

Databases were searched for scholarly articles using keywords associated with transnational healthcare. The DistillerSR software was employed to screen articles for inclusion in the concept analysis. Titles and abstracts of 390 articles were screened with 50 identified for full‐text screening. Thirty‐seven articles were included to inform the concept analysis.

Data Sources

Social Science Citation Index (Clarivate), PsycInfo and CINAHL databases. Search dates: March–May 2024.

Results

Defining attributes of the concept include cultural comfort and alignment, perceived quality and trust, integration barriers and experiences of discrimination, use of digital platforms and informal networks, challenges navigating host country health systems. Cases, antecedents, consequences, empirical referents and cultural considerations were used to shape a conceptual definition of transnational healthcare.

Conclusion

Transnational healthcare is defined as a practice involving those living outside of their country of origin seeking healthcare from that country of origin through physical or other means.

Implications for Professional Practice

This conceptual definition highlights the importance of understanding healthcare access, quality and continuity of care across national borders.

Impact

This study addresses gaps in available literature regarding transnational healthcare and its impacts on treatment outcomes, healthcare satisfaction and continuity of care in migrant communities.

Reporting Method

This article adheres to the PRISMA (2020) reporting guidelines for systematic reviews.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Automating Autograding: Large Language Models as Test Suite Generators for Introductory Programming
Authors: Alkafaween Umar , Albluwi Ibrahim , Denny Paul
Published: December 2024

Background

Automatically graded programming assignments provide instant feedback to students and significantly reduce manual grading time for instructors. However, creating comprehensive suites of test cases for programming problems within automatic graders can be time‐consuming and complex. The effort needed to define test suites may deter some instructors from creating additional problems or lead to inadequate test coverage, potentially resulting in misleading feedback on student solutions. Such limitations may reduce student access to the well‐documented benefits of timely feedback when learning programming.

Objectives

We evaluate the effectiveness of using Large Language Models (LLMs), as part of a larger workflow, to automatically generate test suites for CS1‐level programming problems.

Methods

Each problem's statement and reference solution are provided to GPT‐4 to produce a test suite that can be used by an autograder. We evaluate our proposed approach using a sample of 26 problems, and more than 25,000 attempted solutions to those problems, submitted by students in an introductory programming course. We compare the performance of the LLM‐generated test suites against the instructor‐created test suites for each problem.

Results and Conclusions

Our findings reveal that LLM‐generated test suites can correctly identify most valid solutions, and for most problems are at least as comprehensive as the instructor test suites. Additionally, the LLM‐generated test suites exposed ambiguities in some problem statements, underscoring their potential to improve both autograding and instructional design.
AI‐Assisted Assessment of Inquiry Skills in Socioscientific Issue Contexts
Authors: Zhang Wen Xin , Lin John J. H. , Hsu Ying‐Shao
Published: December 2024

Background Study

Assessing learners' inquiry‐based skills is challenging as social, political, and technological dimensions must be considered. The advanced development of artificial intelligence (AI) makes it possible to address these challenges and shape the next generation of science education.

Objectives

The present study evaluated the SSI inquiry skills of students in an AI‐enabled scoring environment. An AI model for socioscientific issues that can assess students' inquiry skills was developed. Responses to a learning module were collected from 1250 participants, and the open‐ended responses were rated by humans in accordance with a designed rubric. The collected data were then preprocessed and used to train an AI rater that can process natural language. The effects of two hyperparameters, the dropout rate and complexity of the AI neural network, were evaluated.

Results and Conclusion

The results suggested neither of the two hyperparameters was found to strongly affect the accuracy of the AI rater. In general, the human and AI raters exhibited certain levels of agreement; however, agreement varied among rubric categories. Discrepancies were identified and are discussed both quantitatively and qualitatively.
Legume‐Colonising Aphids as Potential PNYDV‐Vectors: Reproduction and Infestation Dynamics in Two Different Field Bean Varieties
Authors: Berawe Ahmed , Ziebell Heiko , Seeger Judith , Saucke Helmut
Published: December 2024

Faba bean can be infected by Pea necrotic yellow dwarf virus (PNYDV), a novel pathogen throughout Europe, and transmitted persistently by several legume‐colonising aphid species. Recent field screenings in Austria and Germany of different faba bean varieties were encouraging as consistently the lowest viral symptom development in the variety ‘GL Sunrise’ was reported. However, our own greenhouse experiments revealed that ‘GL Sunrise’ was not resistant to PNYDV but showed a similar susceptibility such as other common varieties, for example, ‘Fuego’. Therefore, we suspected varietal host traits were affecting the reproductive potential of virus vector species with reduced virus transmission, probably explaining the empirical superior health status in the field. Under greenhouse conditions, vector‐specific intrinsic rates of increase (rm) for Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris Aphis fabae Scopoli and Megoura viciae Buckton were similar for both varieties, except for a particular A. pisum‐biotype derived from field pea, with a significantly reduced rm and fecundity in ‘GL Sunrise’. Furthermore, vector abundance assessments in multisite varietal showed A. pisum as the predominant species. In overall cross‐year and ‐site evaluation, early aphid census in ‘GL Sunrise’ at growth stage BBCH 61–65 indicated significantly lower primary A. pisum‐infestation pressure (factor 0,43 relative to ‘Fuego’). This lower infestation level in ‘GL Sunrise’ was kept until BBCH 77–79 but the difference had diminished down to the non‐significant factor of 0,74 A. pisum‐density relative to ‘Fuego’ in the late census, respectively. Based on our findings of (i) basic PNYDV susceptibility, (ii) similar reproductive vector performance of key aphid species, together with (iii) a significantly weaker initial A. pisum‐infestation levels in the field, we hypothesise ‘GL Sunrise’‐specific additional antixenosis/antibiotic traits, must influence host recognition and settling behaviour of alighting (viruliferous) migrants and/or apteres, which finally determine the superior PNYDV‐health status in ‘GL Sunrise’ at field conditions.
Quality Detection of Fresh‐Cut Pineapples During Cold Storage Based on Diffuse Reflectance and Fluorescence Hyperspectral Imaging Technique
Authors: Xie Yongkang , Fu Xiaping
Published: December 2024

The fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables industry has developed rapidly in recent years, with pineapple being a popular fruit. The quality of pineapple plays a crucial role in determining its market value. This research explored the potential of diffuse reflectance hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and fluorescence hyperspectral imaging (FHSI) in monitoring L*a*b*, pH, and soluble solids content (SSC) of fresh‐cut pineapples during cold storage. Fresh‐cut pineapples were stored at a temperature of 4°C for 0–5 days, with daily acquisition of diffuse reflectance and fluorescence hyperspectral images at 380–1000 nm, along with measurement of quality indices. Changes in spectral properties and quality indices during cold storage were analyzed. Seven preprocessing algorithms were used to preprocess two types of spectra. Subsequently, five feature selection methods were employed to extract feature variables from the preprocessed spectra. The Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) models were constructed to predict the various quality indices. Data fusion methods were introduced to leverage the complementary information from different spectra. Both feature‐level and decision‐level fusion methods demonstrated improvement in model accuracy. The hybrid fusion method, combining the advantages of these two fusion methods, effectively enhanced the prediction accuracy of all quality indices. The determination coefficients (R2) for predicting L*a*b* consistently exceeded 0.8, while the R2 for predicting pH was close to 0.8, and the R2 for predicting SSC reached 0.91. In summary, the quality indices of fresh‐cut pineapples can be accurately predicted using diffuse reflectance HSI and FHSI, with model accuracy further enhanced through multi‐level data fusion methods.
Defining Midwifery‐Led Care in the United States Using Concept Analysis
Authors: Page Katie , Phillippi Julia , Emeis Cathy L. , Cummins Allison , Thumm Brie
Published: December 2024

National health policy initiatives recommend increased integration of midwifery care in the United States to improve care quality and reduce maternal health disparities. However, the service models through which midwives provide midwifery care and produce quality outcomes are poorly understood. Midwifery‐led care is a service model frequently associated with improved outcomes compared with other models. The service model has been infrequently or inconsistently studied in the Unites States and has been narrowly defined and applied to perinatal care. The purpose of this concept analysis was to evaluate the concept of midwifery‐led care and expand the definition to guide midwifery practice, research, and health policy. The analysis followed Walker and Avant's methodology. Three attributes of midwifery‐led care were identified: (1) midwife as the lead clinician; (2) person‐midwife partnership; and (3) care embodies midwifery philosophy. Antecedents were (1) license to practice as a midwife; (2) a person needing or desiring sexual, reproductive, perinatal, or newborn care; (3) a person with low‐ or moderate‐risk health status; (4) regulations and guidelines that support provision of midwifery care; and (5) reimbursement for services. Consequences of midwifery‐led care included (1) improved maternal and neonatal outcomes, (2) patient satisfaction, and (3) reduced health care costs. The presented expanded definition of midwifery‐led care is the first to use a systems level approach and explicitly center the person receiving care and the philosophical approach of midwifery care. Application of this definition is needed in theoretical and pragmatic research to classify midwifery‐led care and other service models and compare patient‐ and organization‐level outcomes.
Plasticity of Mouse Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons by Innate Immune Activation Is Influenced by Electrophysiological Activity
Authors: Friedman Timothy N. , Lamothe Shawn M. , Maguire Aislinn D. , Hammond Thomas , Tenorio Gustavo , Hilton Brett J. , Plemel Jason R. , Kurata Harley T. , Kerr Bradley J.
Published: December 2024

The complex relationship between inflammation, its effects on neuronal excitability and the ensuing plasticity of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons remains to be fully explored. In this study, we have employed a system of experiments assessing the impact of inflammatory conditioned media derived from activated immune cells on the excitability and activity of DRG neurons and how this relates to subsequent growth responses of these cells. We show here that an early phase of increased neuronal activity in response to inflammatory conditioned media is critical for the engagement of plastic processes and that neuronal excitability profiles are linked through time to the structural phenotype of individual neurons. Pharmacological blockade of neuronal activity was able to abolish the growth‐promoting effects of inflammatory media. Our results suggest that targeting the activity of DRG neurons may provide a novel therapeutic avenue to manipulate their growth status and potential for plasticity in response to inflammation. Importantly, the same pharmacological blockade in vivo abolished pain responses in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. While further studies are needed to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the relationship between neural activity and growth status, a more complete understanding of this relationship may ultimately lead to the development of new treatments for neuropathic pain in disorders associated with heightened immune responses such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

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A case of transient hyperthyroidism induced by placental site trophoblastic tumor
Authors: Ishii Sumire , Hirayama Takashi , Saeki Harumi , Fujino Kazunari , Terao Yasuhisa , Itakura Atsuo
Published: December 2024

We report a case of placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT) with transient hyperthyroidism. A 29‐year‐old gravida 2 para 2 woman presented with abnormal genital bleeding 6 months after delivery. Endometrial histology suggested PSTT. Serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was 117 mIU/mL and serum estradiol (E2) were 51 pg/mL. She reported increased appetite, sweating, fatigue, and 7‐kg weight loss within 3 months. Blood samples showed a thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) level <0.01 μIU/mL, FT3: 24.3 pg/mL, FT4: 5.3 ng/mL. The patient was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. After thyroid function normalized, laparoscopic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy were performed. Two years postsurgery, there was no recurrence, and thyroid function improved. The hCG produced from gestational trophoblastic disease has stronger TSH activity than that from gestational trophoblasts. However, in PSTT, the E2 level, which increases thyroid‐binding proteins and suppresses elevated thyroid hormone levels, is low and may induce hyperthyroidism. In cases of suspected PSTT, thyroid function should be evaluated when hyperthyroid symptoms are present.
Trade union legal mobilization and consciousness
Authors: KIRK ELEANOR , CRUZ KATIE
Published: December 2024

Patricia Ewick and Susan Silbey's recent auto‐critique invited legal consciousness scholars to develop their analyses of legal hegemony in the context of collective sites of legality construction and the contestation of the hegemony of state law. Trade unions provide a particularly apposite group and institutional site to study such processes. From a Marxist perspective, recent labour law scholarship has argued that union engagement with law reproduces liberal legal hegemony by depoliticizing domination and disciplining the individual and collective consciousness of workers and unions. First, we argue that critical legal consciousness research (cLCR) can nuance this Marxist perspective via its insights about polyvocality and legal pluralism. Second, we argue that cLCR relating to the relationship between counter‐hegemonic projects and hegemony could be enriched by elements of the Marxist critique of labour law, albeit one that is committed to viewing theory as productive of hypotheses, rather than certainties, that should always be empirically investigated.
Students' Perspectives on Fostering a Sense of School Belonging in Greece: Moving Beyond COVID‐19
Authors: Tate Lara , Allen Kelly‐Ann , Berger Emily , Grove Christine , May Fiona , Patlamazoglou Lefteris , Gamble Nicholas , Wurf Gerald , Warton William , Reupert Andrea
Published: December 2024

Background

Students' sense of school belonging is important for mental health, physical health, and academic performance. However, some students do not feel as though they belong in their schools. This study investigated Greek secondary school students' perspectives on practices that enhanced their sense of belonging during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

An online survey used open‐ended questions to explore the views of 226 Greek secondary school students.

Results

Thematic analysis identified four teacher‐level practice themes: communication and understanding, respect and inclusion, support to become involved in the school community, and classroom structure. Four school‐level practice themes were identified: support and inclusion, psychological support and career guidance, improved school facilities and safety, and activities and opportunities for social connections.

Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity

Teacher communication that fostered belonging included being approachable, understanding, and caring. Students valued inclusion, safety, and equality. Extracurricular activities and workshops strengthened belonging at school. Group work, creative lessons, and at the school‐level, opportunities for social connection, were also important for developing a sense of belonging.

Conclusions

By understanding different level factors linked to school belonging, schools and policymakers can better identify effective and appropriate practices that improve student belonging.