bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive factors of students' physical activity in different learning interest phases: A cluster analysis of physical education
Authors: Jiabin Lin , Ying Yu , Kaixin Yang , Xiaomei Lai , Jingyu Zhang , Shanshan Zhu
Published: December 2023

Introduction

This study investigates the relationships among students' perception of the sports environment, expectancy value, achievement goals, physical activity, sports knowledge and skills in physical education (PE) in different learning interest phases.

Method

This cross‐sectional study used a sample of 4367 Chinese primary and secondary school students enrolled in PE classes, Mage = 12.1, SD = 2.9, 48.9% males. Validated questionnaires assessed their physical activity, expectancy value, achievement goals, and sports knowledge and skills. Cluster analysis examined four student profiles in relation to their learning interest in PE. For each profile identified, correlation and multiple regression analyses examined the relationships among students' expectancy value, achievement goals, sports knowledge and skills, and physical activity.

Results

Four different student interest profiles were identified, revealing a continuum from the “triggered situational interest” (TSI) to the “well‐developed individual interest” (WII) phases. The results confirmed the key role played by students' perception of the family sports environment and sports knowledge and skills in their PE interest in all four phases, while sex, perception of the school and social sports environment, achievement goals and expectancy value had different predictive effects on students' physical activity in different interest phases.

Conclusions

The findings from this study provide a new lens by which to divide the phases of learning interest in PE. Students' characteristics differed among the four different learning interest phases, and the impacts on physical activity varied. Future research is needed to consider the interest phase of adolescents to make more targeted guidance measures when improving physical activities.
Towards stochastic subgrid‐scale modeling of turbulent thermal convection in an under‐resolved off‐lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Polasanapalli Sai Ravi Gupta , Klein Marten , Schmidt Heiko
Published: December 2023

A characteristic‐based Off‐Lattice Boltzmann Method (OLBM) and a stochastic One‐Dimensional Turbulence (ODT) model is utilized for numerical simulation of turbulent thermal convection. Standalone ODT results for low‐order statistics are compared with those from various eddy‐viscosity‐based subgrid‐scale models utilized in Large‐Eddy Simulations (LES) with OLBM. The predictive capabilities of both approaches are discussed by comparison with available reference Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) results. All turbulence models are able to predicted the mean temperature, but fail to fully capture fluctuations. While the OLBM aims to represent large‐scale structures, it misses some constitutional small‐scale fluctuations. By contrast, the reduced‐order ODT model captures small‐scale fluctuations in the vicinity of the wall, but cannot resolve the organized bulk flow. Here, the modeling capabilities of both OLBM and ODT as standalone tools are discussed. On this basis, a strategy for the incorporation of ODT as wall model in OLBM is suggested.
Synergism of non‐covalent interaction and ZIF‐8@GO to improve tribological and mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced recyclable indole‐based poly(hexahydrotriazine) composites
Authors: Li Xiaoqian , Jia Xiaohua , Yang Jin , Li Yong , Lin Hongliang , Song Haojie
Published: December 2023

Existing research on interfacial interactions of recyclable carbon fiber reinforced poly(hexahydrotriazine) (PHT) composites has mainly focused on the study of reinforcing fibers, ignoring the wide range of applications of matrix in advanced friction materials. Herein, polyhedral ZIF‐8 was grown in‐situ on the GO surface (named as ZIF‐8@GO) to improve the load‐bearing capacity of GO nanosheets. The ZIF‐8@GO with zinc ions and imidazole ions were embedded as interlaminar reinforcement into matrix to construct a non‐covalent cation‐π interaction with indole‐based PHT (In‐PHT) matrix, which significantly enhanced the toughness and tensile strength (reached 215.5 MPa) of composites. With the incorporation of armor‐shaped ZIF‐8@GO reinforcement, compared with the composite without ZIF‐8@GO, the wear track width was significantly decreased by 50%. Moreover, the worn surface lubricated by this composite exhibited efficient self‐healing property due to the introduction of the polyethylene wax (PEW), and the healed average friction coefficient showed slight changes. Extensive analyses verify that the ZIF‐8@GO structure and cation‐π interactions across multiscale interfaces can enhance both mechanical strength and wear resistance of recyclable carbon fiber reinforced In‐PHT composites (In‐PHT‐CFRPs).

Highlights

ZIF‐8@GO was embedded as interlayer reinforcement to improve wear resistance.

Cation‐π interaction across interface enhances interface carrying capacity.

Due to strong cation‐π bonding, IPEZGC exhibits outstanding tensile strength.

PEW was embedded as healing agent to obtain self‐healing property.
Source‐Replacement Model for Phase‐Matching Quantum Key Distribution
Authors: Huang Yizhi , Du Zhenyu , Ma Xiongfeng
Published: December 2023

Quantum key distribution has emerged as a promising solution for constructing secure communication networks, with its information‐theoretic security rooted in quantum mechanics. One of the recent quantum key distribution protocols, the phase‐matching protocol, can have a quadratic key‐rate improvement. Its security was initially established using an abstract method known as symmetry‐protected privacy. In this study, this security is reevaluated under the more intuitive source‐replacement model, arriving at the same conclusions as the original proof. This model provides a fresh perspective on the protocol's security. As an application of this approach, a beam‐splitting attack is introduced. Leveraging the source‐replacement model, a lower bound on the phase error rate under this attack is derived, further underscoring the robustness of our security analysis method.
Fast‐Crosslinking Enabled Self‐Roughed Polydimethylsiloxane Transparent Superhydrophobic Coating and Its Application in Anti‐Liquid‐Interference Electrothermal Device
Authors: Tian Ke , Chen Chuanliang , Xiong Lianhu , Chen Xin , Fu Qiang , Deng Hua
Published: December 2023

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)‐based transparent and superhydrophobic coatings have important applications, such as anti‐icing, corrosion resistance, self‐cleaning, etc. However, their applications are limited by the inevitable introduction of nanoparticles/high‐temperature/segmented PDMS to facilitate a raspy surface. In this study, a self‐roughed, neat PDMS superhydrophobic coating with high transparency is developed via a one‐step spray‐coating technique. PDMS suspensions with various droplet sizes are synthesized and used as building blocks for raspy surface formation by controlled curing on the warm substrate. The optimal coating exhibits a large water contact angle of 155.4° and transparency (T550 = 82.3%). Meanwhile, the employed spray‐coating technique is applicable to modify a plethora of substrates. For proof‐of‐concept demonstrations, the use of the PDMS hydrophobic coating for anti‐liquid‐interference electrothermal devices and further transparent observation window for long‐term operation in a sub‐zero environment is shown successful. The proposed facile synthesis method of hydrophobic PDMS coating is expected to have great potential for a broad range of applications in the large‐scale fabrication of fluorine‐free, eco‐friendly superhydrophobic surfaces.
Microstructure‐Driven Self‐Transport and Convection of Water on Membrane Surface for Ultra‐Fast, Highly Sensitive, Low‐Cost Lateral‐Flow Assays
Authors: Liu Yiren , Li Juanhua , Xiao Zihan , Wu Tianyu , Zhou Cuiping , Zhou Jianhua
Published: December 2023

Lateral‐flow assay (LFA) is one of the most commonly used detection technologies, in which the chromatographic membranes are currently used as the lateral‐flow membrane (e.g., nitrocellulose membrane, NC Mem). However, several disadvantages of existing chromatographic membranes limit the performance of LFA, including relatively low flow velocity of sample solution and relatively more residuals of sample on membrane, which increase detection time and detection noise. Herein, a surface structure membrane (SS Mem) is proposed, which enables fast self‐transport of water with a convection manner and realizes low residuals of sample on membrane surface after the flow. On SS Mem, the flow velocity of water is 7.1‐fold higher, and the residuals of sample are decreased by 60–67%, comparing those in NC Mem. SS Mem is used as lateral‐flow membrane to prepare lateral‐flow strips of nanogold LFA and fluorescence LFA for rapid detection of SARS CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein. These LFAs require 210 s per detection, with limits of detection of 3.98 pg mL−1 and 53.3 fg mL−1, sensitivity of 96.5%, and specificity of 90%. The results suggest that SS Mem enables ultrafast, highly sensitive lateral‐flow immunoassays and shows great potential as a new type of lateral‐flow membrane to broaden the application of LFA.
Targeted Protein Fate Modulating Functional Microunits Promotes Intervertebral Fusion
Authors: Zheng Jiancheng , Zhao Jian , Li Cuidi , Zhang Fangke , Saiding Qimanguli , Zhang Xingkai , Wang Guojun , Qi Jin , Cui Wenguo , Deng Lianfu
Published: December 2023

Stable regulation of protein fate is a prerequisite for successful bone tissue repair. As a ubiquitin‐specific protease (USP), USP26 can stabilize the protein fate of β‐catenin to promote the osteogenic activity of mesenchymal cells (BMSCs) and significantly increased bone regeneration in bone defects in aged mice. However, direct transfection of Usp26 in vivo is inefficient. Therefore, improving the efficient expression of USP26 in target cells is the key to promoting bone tissue repair. Herein, 3D printing combined with microfluidic technology is applied to construct a functional microunit (protein fate regulating functional microunit, denoted as PFFM), which includes GelMA microspheres loaded with BMSCs overexpressing Usp26 and seeded into PCL 3D printing scaffolds. The PFFM provides a microenvironment for BMSCs, significantly promotes adhesion, and ensures cell activity and Usp26 supplementation that stabilizes β‐catenin protein significantly facilitates BMSCs to express osteogenic phenotypes. In vivo experiments have shown that PFFM effectively accelerates intervertebral bone fusion. Therefore, PFFM can provide new ideas and alternatives for using USP26 for intervertebral fusion and other hard‐to‐repair bone defect diseases and is expected to provide clinical translational potential in future treatments.
Beyond student support: Leveraging appreciative advising frameworks to increase academic advisor retention
Authors: Englert‐Copeland Jennifer
Published: December 2023

This article explores the critical role advisors play in student success and strategies for ensuring that institutions retain them. By using an Appreciative Advising Framework, supervisors can support the advisors on their teams in co‐creating their professional narratives leading to greater job satisfaction, staff retention, and better advising.
Dinucleating N‐donor Ligands with 1,2‐Diethynylbenzene Backbone for the Copper‐Mediated Monooxygenation of Phenols
Authors: Koch Alexander , Herzigkeit Benjamin , Yildiz Küpra , Näther Christian , Engesser Tobias A. , Tuczek Felix
Published: December 2023

New dinucleating, tweezer‐like ligands with 1,2‐diethynyl‐benzene backbone containing three pyridines (Tw1), a combination of pyridine and pyrazole (Tw2) or pyridine and triazole (Tw3), respectively, have been synthesized and characterized spectroscopically and by single crystal structure determination. The ability of the derived copper(I) complexes CuTw1–3 to act as model systems for tyrosinase (Ty) was investigated by studying the reactivity toward monophenolic substrates. No dioxygen intermediate was detected at low temperatures, and CuTw1 was found to be inactive toward monoxygenation of phenolic substrate DTBP‐H. However, a crystal structure containing a μ‐hydroxo ligand, similar to the met‐form of Ty, underlines the ability of the complex to bind oxygen. In contrast, CuTw2 converts phenols to o‐quinones with moderate yield and this activity is even higher when using CuTw3. The observed differences in reactivity are discussed.
Boundary Spanning Methodological Approaches for Collaborative Moose Governance in Eeyou Istchee
Authors: Badry Nathan A. , MacMillan Gwyneth A. , Stern Eleanor R. , Landry-Cuerrier Manuelle , Hickey Gordon M. , Humphries Murray M.
Published: December 2023

Natural resource governance challenges are often highly complex, particularly in Indigenous contexts. These challenges involve numerous landscape-level interactions, spanning jurisdictional, disciplinary, social, and ecological boundaries. In Eeyou Istchee, the James Bay Cree Territory of northern Quebec, Canada, traditional livelihoods depend on wild food species like moose. However, these species are increasingly being impacted by forestry and other resource development projects. The complex relationships between moose, resource development, and Cree livelihoods can limit shared understandings and the ability of diverse actors to respond to these pressures. Contributing to this complexity are the different knowledge systems held by governance actors who, while not always aligned, have broadly shared species conservation and sustainable development goals. This paper presents fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) as a methodological approach used to help elicit and interpret the knowledge of land-users concerning the impacts of forest management on moose habitat in Eeyou Istchee. We explore the difficulties of weaving this knowledge together with the results of moose GPS collar analysis and the knowledges of scientists and government agencies. The ways in which participatory, relational mapping approaches can be applied in practice, and what they offer to pluralistic natural resource governance research more widely, are then addressed.
The impact of contour maps on estimating the risk of gastrointestinal stromal tumor recurrence: indications for adjuvant therapy: an analysis of the Kinki GIST registry
Authors: Teranishi Ryugo , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Sato Shinsuke , Sakurai Katsunobu , Kishi Kentaro , Hosogi Hisahiro , Nakai Takuya , Kurokawa Yukinori , Fujita Junya , Nishida Toshirou , Hirota Seiichi , Tsujinaka Toshimasa
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Contour maps enable risk classification of GIST recurrence in individual patients within 10 postoperative years. Although contour maps have been referred to in Japanese guidelines, their usefulness and role in determining indications for adjuvant therapy is still unclear in Japanese patients. The aims of this study are to investigate the validity of contour maps in Japanese patients with GIST and explore the new strategy for adjuvant therapy.

Materials and methods

A total of 1426 Japanese GIST patients who were registered to the registry by the Kinki GIST Study Group between 2003 and 2012 were analyzed. Patients who had R0 surgery without perioperative therapy were included in this study. The accuracy of contour maps was validated.

Results

Overall, 994 patients have concluded this study. Using contour maps, we validated the patients. The 5-year recurrence-free survival rates of patients within the GIST classification groups of 0–10%, 10–20%, 20–40%, 40–60%, 60–80%, 80–90%, and 90–100% were 98.1%, 96.6%, 92.3%, 48.0%, 37.3%, 41.0% and 42.4%, respectively. We confirmed that this classification by contour maps was well reflected recurrence prediction. Further, in the high-risk group stratified by the modified National Institutes of Health consensus criteria (m-NIHC), the 10-year RFS rate was remarkably changed at a cutoff of 40% (0–40% group vs. 40–100% group: 88.7% vs. 50.3%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Contour maps are effective in predicting individual recurrence rates. And it may be useful for the decision of individual strategy for high-risk patients combined with m-NIHC.
Changes in Mental Health and EEG Biomarkers of Undergraduates Under Different Patterns of Mindfulness
Authors: Luo Miaoling , Gan Quan , Huang Ziyang , Jiang Yunxiong , Li Kebin , Wu Minxiang , Yang Dongxiao , Shao Heng , Chen Yanmei , Fu Yu , Chen Zhuangfei
Published: December 2023

The effects of short-term mindfulness are associated with the different patterns (autonomic, audio guided, or experienced and certified mindfulness instructor guided mindfulness). However, robust evidence for reported the impacts of different patterns of mindfulness on mental health and EEG biomarkers of undergraduates is currently lacking. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypotheses that mindfulness training for undergraduates would improve mental health, and increase alpha power over frontal region and theta power over midline region at the single electrode level. We also describe the distinction among frequency bands patterns in different sites of frontal and midline regions. 70 participants were enrolled and assigned to either 5-day mindfulness or a waiting list group. Subjective questionnaires measured mental health and other psychological indicators, and brain activity was recorded during various EEG tasks before and after the intervention. The 5-day mindfulness training improved trait mindfulness, especially observing (p = 0.001, d = 0.96) and nonreactivity (p = 0.03, d = 0.56), sleep quality (p = 0.001, d = 0.91), and social support (p = 0.001, d = 0.95) while not in affect. Meanwhile, the expected increase in the alpha power of frontal sites (p < 0.017, d > 0.84) at the single electrode level was confirmed by the current data rather than the theta. Interestingly, the alteration of low-beta power over the single electrode of the midline (p < 0.05, d > 0.71) was difference between groups. Short-term mindfulness improves practitioners’ mental health, and the potentially electrophysiological biomarkers of mindfulness on neuron oscillations were alpha activity over frontal sites and low-beta activity over midline sites.
At the confluence of ethics, laws and society: global working theory merging bio-ethics
Authors: Boudreau LeBlanc Antoine
Published: December 2023

The pressing global challenges facing humanity highlight the urgency of reconciling medicine, society and ecology. By shedding light on the role of theories of translation and justification, the intention here is to show the potential usefulness of an in situ bioethics that reconciles practices in medicine and ecology. Science and policy should be reassembled in hybrid working theories developed, adopted and reframed by/for Society. Yet, a major challenge emerges from translating ethics, sciences, and economics claims, both within expert and lay milieus. This paper proposes foundational pillars for operationalizing the Potterian view of global bioethics. Van Rensselaer Potter challenged the perspective that compartmentalizes values, knowledge and laws, proposing ways to bridge them by linking appreciative, descriptive, and normative knowledge. The missing link, however, is a coherent governance process that coordinates the thinking, ordering, and enacting in the world. Based on an extensive revision of the Potterian legacy and action-research case studies, this article applies the Global theoretical view in the complex in situ practice of bioethics. Little known outside the world of academic bioethics, Potter’s primarily scientific curriculum helps translate and operationalize the socio-political reflections of notable contemporary philosophers of science and critical social theoreticians such as Karl Popper, Thomas Kuhn, John Rawls, Bruno Latour and Jürgen Habermas. In this era of mass communication, government education programs, and large-scale research funding, I propose a conceptual framework for operating a Community-based Global Bio-Ethics, echoing the 60th anniversary of Habermas’ call forThe Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere(1962).
USP30 promotes the progression of breast cancer by stabilising Snail
Authors: Sun Kai , Liao Shichong , Yao Xinrui , Yao Feng
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent tumour in women worldwide. USP30 is a deubiquitinase that has been previously reported to promote tumour progression and lipid synthesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the role of USP30 in breast cancer remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated its biological action and corresponding mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. In our study, we found that USP30 was highly expressed in breast cancer samples and correlated with a poor patient prognosis. Knockdown of USP30 significantly suppressed the proliferation, invasion and migration abilities of BC cells in vitro and tumour growth in vivo, whereas overexpression of USP30 exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, we verified that USP30 interacts with and stabilises Snail to promote its protein expression through deubiquitination by K48-linked polyubiquitin chains and then accelerates the EMT program. More importantly, USP30 reduced the chemosensitivity of BC cells to paclitaxel (PTX). Collectively, these data demonstrate that USP30 promotes the BC cell EMT program by stabilising Snail and attenuating chemosensitivity to PTX and may be a potential therapeutic target in BC.
BETA prime: a first-in-man phase 1 study of AdAPT-001, an armed oncolytic adenovirus for solid tumors
Authors: Conley Anthony P. , Roland Christina L. , Bessudo Alberto , Gastman Brian R. , Villaflor Victoria M. , Larson Christopher , Reid Tony R. , Caroen Scott , Oronsky Bryan , Stirn Meaghan , Williams Jeannie , Burbano Erica , Coyle Angelique , Barve Minal A. , Wagle Naveed , Abrouk Nacer , Kesari Santosh
Published: December 2023

AdAPT-001 is an oncolytic adenovirus (OAV) with a transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß) trap, which neutralizes the immunosuppressive and profibrotic cytokine, TGF-ß. The aim or purpose of this phase 1 study was to assess the safety and tolerability and, secondarily, the efficacy of AdAPT-001 after single intratumoral injection (IT) (Part 1) and multidose IT injection (Part 2) in patients with superficially accessible, advanced refractory solid tumors. Part 1 enrolled 9 patients with a 3 + 3 single dose-escalation safety run-in involving 2.5 × 1011, 5.0 × 1011, 1.0 × 1012 viral particles (vps). No dose-limiting toxicities or treatment-related serious adverse events (SAEs) were seen. In Part 2, a dose-expansion phase, 19 patients received AdAPT-001 at 1.0 × 1012 vps until disease progression according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors or RECIST 1.1. The overall responses to treatment included confirmed partial responses (3), durable stable disease ≥ 6 months (5), and progressive disease (13). AdAPT-001 is well tolerated. Evidence of an anti-tumor effect was seen in both injected and uninjected lesions. The recommended Phase 2 dose was 1.0 × 1012 vp administered by intratumoral injection once every 2 weeks. Combination of AdAPT-001 with a checkpoint inhibition is enrolling.
Practical techniques for protein crystallization: additive assistance and external field intensification
Authors: Shao Yunxia , Han Rui , Tao Tiantian , Wei Jiahao , Han Dandan , Yang Huaiyu , Gong Junbo
Published: December 2023

Additives (ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents, molecularly imprinted polymers) and external fields (magnetic field, electric field, ultrasonic field, shear, light field) enhance protein crystallization.
High-speed ultrasound imaging of bubbly flows and shear waves in soft matter
Authors: Rosselló Juan Manuel , Izak Ghasemian Saber , Ohl Claus-Dieter
Published: December 2023

In this methods paper, we explore the capabilities of high-speed ultrasound imaging (USI) to study fast varying and complex multi-phase structures in liquids and soft materials.
Recent advances in enhancing the photodetector performance of 2D materials by combining them with organic thin films
Authors: Guo Lei , Han Jiayue , Wang Jun
Published: December 2023

Two dimension (2D) material-based photodetectors usually indicate excellent properties such as ultrafast and broadband response, but the atomic thickness of 2D materials usually leads to low absorption coefficient.
EP Aquarii: A New Picture of the Circumstellar Envelope
Authors: Nhung Pham T. , Hoai Do T. , Darriulat Pierre , Tuan-Anh Pham , Diep Pham N. , Ngoc Nguyen B. , Thai Tran T.
Published: December 2023

New analyses of earlier ALMA observations of oxygen-rich AGB star EP Aquarii are presented, which complete a previously published analysis and offer a different interpretation of the morpho-kinematics of the circumstellar envelope. The birth of the equatorial density enhancement (EDE) is shown to occur very close to the star where evidence for rotation has been obtained. Close to the star and where outflows have been observed: their interaction with the gas of the nascent EDE is seen to play an important role in the development of the wind and the evolution of its radial velocity from 8 to 10 km s−1 on the polar symmetry axis to ∼2 km s−1 at the equator. It implies complex morpho-kinematics: making reliable interpretations with reasonable confidence is difficult. In particular, it questions an earlier interpretation implying the presence of a white dwarf companion orbiting the star at an angular distance of ∼0.″4 from its center. It proposes instead an interpretation in terms of a standard mass ejection associated with a shock wave leaving a void of emission in its wake. High Doppler velocity wings are seen to consist of two components, the upper velocity end of the global wind, reaching above ±12 km s−1, and an effective line broadening, confined within 200 mas from the center of the star, reaching above ±20 km s−1 and interpreted as caused by the pattern of shock waves resulting from the interaction between stellar pulsation and convective cell partition.
Improving the strategy to identify historical military remains: a literature review and Y-STR meta-analysis
Authors: Mitchell Melinda R , Chaseling Janet , Jones Lee , White Toni , Bernie Andrew , Haupt Larisa M , Griffiths Lyn R , Wright Kirsty M
Published: December 2023

The identification of historical military remains by Unrecovered War Casualties—Army (UWC-A) currently relies on Y-chromosome Short Tandem Repeat (Y-STR) testing when maternal relatives are not available, or when a mitochondrial DNA match does not provide sufficient certainty of identification. However, common Y-STR profiles (using Yfiler™) between sets of remains or families often prevent identification. To resolve these cases, an investigation of additional Y-DNA markers is needed for their potential inclusion into the DNA identification strategy. The number of genetic transmissions between missing soldiers and their living relatives needs to be considered to avoid false exclusions between paternal relatives. Analysis of 236 World War I/II (WWI/II) era pairs of relatives identified up to seven genetic transmissions between WWII soldiers and their living relatives, and nine for WWI. Previous Y-STR meta-analyses were published approximately 10 years ago when rapidly mutating markers were relatively new. This paper reports a contemporary literature review and meta-analysis of 35 studies (which includes 23 studies not previously used in meta-analysis) and 23 commonly used Y-STR’s mutation rates to inform the inclusion of additional loci to UWC-A’s DNA identification strategy. Meta-analysis found mutation data for a given Y-STR locus could be pooled between studies and that the mutation rates were significantly different between some loci (at P < 0.05). Based on this meta-analysis, we have identified two additional markers from PowerPlex® Y23 for potential inclusion in UWC-A’s identification strategy. Further avenues for potential experimental exploration are discussed.

Key points
Study on the influence of spent-catalysts microphysical properties on FCC/asphalt interface interaction
Authors: Kong Lingyun , Li Xinan , He Shengqing , Wu Chufeng , Peng Yi , Wang Hanqing , Shao Qiang , Zhang Allen A
Published: December 2023

This research aims to quantify the interfacial interaction mechanism between the fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) spent catalyst and asphalt. The two types of spent-catalysts, three types of mineral powders, and their bituminous slurries are selected to complete the tests of microscopic morphological, specific surface area, surface energy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, specific adhesion work, and interaction parameter C-value for FCC-spent-catalysts in laboratory. The results indicate that: (1), the physical properties of FCC-spent-catalyst compared with mineral powder when the particle size ranging from −2.2 to 5.4 μm between FCC-spent-catalysts and mineral powder, the specific surface area of FCC-spent-catalyst was 100 to 900 fold that of mineral powder, while the alkali value of FCC-spent-catalysts was 2 to 8 fold that of mineral powder; no significant difference was observed in surface energy; (2), the mixture system did not produce new functional groups after FCC-spent-catalyst addition to the asphalt mixture system; (3), the adhesion work of FCC-spent-catalyst was close to that of mineral powder, the specific adhesion work was 74 to 763 fold that of mineral powder when they have the similar particle size; (4), the interaction parameter C-value between FCC-spent-catalyst and asphalt was higher than the interaction between mineral powder and asphalt at identical test temperatures. This study demonstrates that the FCC-spent-catalyst have the potential to improve the in-service performance of the pavement under high-temperature and moisture damage in terms of a larger specific surface area and stronger.
Crosstalk Between Microbiota, Microbial Metabolites, and Interferons in the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Gut
Authors: Vu Vi To Diep , Mahmood Ramsha , Armstrong Heather K , Santer Deanna M
Published: December 2023

With the prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) continuing to rise in Canada and globally, developing improved therapeutics that successfully treat greater percentages of patients with reduced complications is paramount. A better understanding of pertinent immune pathways in IBD will improve our ability to both successfully dampen inflammation and promote gut healing, beyond just inhibiting specific immune proteins; success of combination therapies supports this approach. Interferons (IFNs) are key cytokines that protect mucosal barrier surfaces, and their roles in regulating gut homeostasis and inflammation differ between the three IFN families (type I, II, and III). Interestingly, the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites impact IFN-signaling, yet how this system is impacted in IBD remains unclear. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of how gut microbiota directly or indirectly impact IFN levels/responses, and what is known about IFNs differentially regulating gut homeostasis and inflammation in animal models or patients with IBD.
What drives OPEC production policy?
Authors: Roeben Volker
Published: December 2023

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is the international organization with the function of coordinating and unifying the petroleum policies of its member countries. It centrally controls much of the world’s oil supply. While this is generally accepted, it is not well understood how OPEC exercises this broad function, what drives its decision-making. The article closes this gap in the literature through a close study of the published OPEC production policies for the period of 2019–2022. The article finds that internally predicted demand was the primary driver, over external factors that could also have affected production decisions, such as sanctions on OPEC or OPEC+ members, the rise of US shale oil, or climate change mitigation. It follows that consumer states can most effectively influence OPEC petroleum production decision-making by reducing their own oil consumption. The article finally places these findings into a broader context of the law of international organizations, where organizations have a responsibility to exercise their functions within evolving international law. Their decision-making can then be assessed through the three vector-matrix that this article proposes, comprising internal drivers, external factors, and the position of third states.
In-silico analysis of probiotic attributes and safety assessment of probiotic strain Bacillus coagulans BCP92 for human application
Authors: Shaikh Sohel S , Jhala Devendrasinh , Patel Alpesh , Chettiar Shiva shankaran , Ghelani Anjana , Malik Anis , Sengupta Priyajit
Published: December 2023

The whole genome sequence (WGS) of Bacillus coagulans BCP92 is reported along with its genomic analysis of probiotics and safety features. The identification of bacterial strain was carried out using the 16S rDNA sequencing method. Furthermore, gene-related probiotic features, safety assessment (by in vitro and in silico), and genome stability were also studied using the WGS analysis for the possible use of the bacterial strain as a probiotic. From the BLAST analysis, bacterial strain was identified as Bacillus (Heyndrickxia) coagulans. WGS analysis indicated that the genome consists of a 3 475 658 bp and a GC-content of 46.35%. Genome mining of BCP92 revealed that the strain is consist of coding sequences for d-lactate dehydrogenase and l-lactate dehydrogenases, 36 genes involved in fermentation activities, 29 stress-responsive as well as many adhesions related genes. The genome, also possessing genes, is encoded for the synthesis of novel circular bacteriocin. Using an in-silico approach for the bacterial genome study, it was possible to determine that the Bacillus (Heyndrickxia) coagulans strain BCP92 contains genes that are encoded for the probiotic abilities and did not harbour genes that are risk associated, thus confirming the strain’s safety and suitability as a probiotic to be used for human application.
The effect of a ketogenic diet on inflammation-related markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ji Jiawei , Fotros Danial , Sohouli Mohammad Hassan , Velu Periyannan , Fatahi Somaye , Liu Yinghao
Published: December 2023

Context

Despite the important role of inflammation-related factors on the occurrence of chronic diseases, there is still conflicting evidence about the effects of the ketogenic diet (KD) on these factors.

Objective

In order to obtain a better viewpoint, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of a KD on inflammation-related markers.

Data Sources

To find pertinent randomized controlled trials up to August 2023, databases including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched.

Data Extraction

This study included all randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of a KD on C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-10 levels. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes.

Data Analysis

Forty-four studies were included in this article. The pooled findings showed that a KD has an effect on lowering TNF-α (WMD: −0.32 pg/mL; 95% CI: −0.55, −0.09; P = 0.007) and IL-6 (WMD: −0.27 pg/mL; 95% CI: −0.52, −0.02; P = 0.036) compared with control groups. However, no significant effect was reported for others inflammation marker–related levels. The results of the subgroup analysis showed that, in trials following the KD for ≤8 weeks and in people aged ≤50 years, the reduction in TNF-α levels was significantly higher than in other groups. In addition, in people with a body mass index greater than 30 kg/m2 compared to a body mass index ≤30 kg/m2, IL-6 levels decreased to a greater extent after receiving the KD.

Conclusions

Consequently, adherence to a KD appears to improve some markers associated with inflammation, including TNF-α and IL-6.
Changes in tissue protein N-glycosylation and associated molecular signature occur in the human Parkinsonian brain in a region-specific manner
Authors: Rebelo Ana Lúcia , Drake Richard R , Marchetti-Deschmann Martina , Saldova Radka , Pandit Abhay
Published: December 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) associated state of neuroinflammation due to the aggregation of aberrant proteins is widely reported. One type of post-translational modification involved in protein stability is glycosylation. Here, we aimed to characterize the human Parkinsonian nigro-striatal N-glycome, and related transcriptome/proteome, and its correlation with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR), providing a comprehensive characterization of the PD molecular signature. Significant changes were seen upon a PD: a 3% increase in sialylation and 5% increase in fucosylation in both regions, and a 2% increase in oligomannosylated N-glycans in the substantia nigra. In the latter, a decrease in the mRNA expression of sialidases and an upregulation in the UPR pathway were also seen. To show the correlation between these, we also describe a small in vitro study where changes in specific glycosylation trait enzymes (inhibition of sialyltransferases) led to impairments in cell mitochondrial activity, changes in glyco-profile, and upregulation in UPR pathways. This complete characterization of the human nigro-striatal N-glycome provides an insight into the glycomic profile of PD through a transversal approach while combining the other PD “omics” pieces, which can potentially assist in the development of glyco-focused therapeutics.
Ultrasound-based detection of inflammatory changes for early diagnosis and risk model construction of psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Wang Yiyi , Liu Nuozhou , Zhang Lingyan , Yang Min , Xiao Yue , Li Furong , Hu Hongxiang , Qiu Li , Li Wei
Published: December 2023

Objectives

PsA is the most prevalent coexisting condition associated with psoriasis. Early-stage PsA patients always present unspecific and subtle clinical manifestations causing delayed diagnosis and leading to unfavourable health outcomes. The application of US enables precise identification of inflammatory changes in musculoskeletal structures. Hence, we constructed US models to aid early diagnosis of PsA.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study carried out in the Department of Dermatology at West China Hospital (October 2018–April 2021). All participants underwent thorough US examinations. Participants were classified into the under 45 group (18 ≤ age ≤ 45 years) and over 45 (age >45 years) group and then randomly grouped into derivation and test cohort (7:3). Univariable logistic regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and multivariable logistic regression visualized by nomogram were conducted in order. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC), calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve analysis (CICA) were performed for model verification.

Results

A total of 1256 participants were included, with 767 participants in the under 45 group and 489 in the over 45 group. Eleven and 16 independent ultrasonic variables were finally selected to construct the under 45 and over 45 model with the area under the ROC of 0.83 (95% CI 0.78–0.87) and 0.83 (95% CI 0.78–0.88) in derivation cohort, respectively. The DCA and CICA analyses showed good clinical utility of the two models.

Conclusion

The implementation of the US models could streamline the diagnostic process for PsA in psoriasis patients, leading to expedited evaluations while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Ammonium perchlorate: serum dosimetry, neurotoxicity, and resilience of the neonatal rat thyroid system
Authors: Gilbert Mary E , Hassan Iman , O’Shaughnessy Katherine L , Wood Carmen , Stoker Tammy E , Riutta Cal , Ford Jermaine L
Published: December 2023

The environmental contaminant perchlorate impairs the synthesis of thyroid hormones by reducing iodine uptake into the thyroid gland. Despite this known action, moderate doses of perchlorate do not significantly alter serum thyroid hormone in rat pups born to exposed dams. We examined perchlorate dosimetry and responsivity of the thyroid gland and brain in offspring following maternal exposure to perchlorate. Pregnant rat dams were delivered perchlorate in drinking water (0, 30, 100, 300, 1000 ppm) from gestational day 6 to postnatal day (PN) 21. Perchlorate was present in the placenta, milk, and serum, the latter declining in pups over the course of lactation. Serum and brain thyroid hormone were reduced in pups at birth but recovered to control levels by PN2. Dramatic upregulation of Nis was observed in the thyroid gland of the exposed pup. Despite the return of serum thyroid hormone to control levels by PN2, expression of several TH-responsive genes was altered in the PN14 pup brain. Contextual fear learning was unimpaired in the adults, supporting previous reports. Declining levels of serum perchlorate and a profound upregulation of Nis gene expression in the thyroid gland are consistent with the rapid return to the euthyroid state in the neonate. However, despite this recovery, thyroid hormone insufficiencies in serum and brain beginning in utero and present at birth appear sufficient to alter TH action in the fetus and subsequent trajectory of brain development. Biomarkers of that altered trajectory remain in the brain of the neonate, demonstrating that perchlorate is not devoid of effects on the developing brain.
Bp-miR408a participates in osmotic and salt stress responses by regulating BpBCP1 in Betula platyphylla
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Xu Ruiting , Fan Yingbo , Dong Wenfang , Han Yating , Xie Qingjun , Li Jinghang , Liu Baichao , Wang Chao , Wang Yucheng , Fu Yujie , Gao Caiqiu
Published: December 2023

The microRNAs, which are small RNAs of 18–25 nt in length, act as key regulatory factors in posttranscriptional gene expression during plant growth and development. However, little is known about their regulatory roles in response to stressful environments in birch (Betula platyphylla). Here, we characterized and further explored miRNAs from osmotic- and salt-stressed birch. Our analysis revealed a total of 190 microRNA (miRNA) sequences, which were classified into 180 conserved miRNAs and 10 predicted novel miRNAs based on sequence homology. Furthermore, we identified Bp-miR408a under osmotic and salt stress and elucidated its role in osmotic and salt stress responses in birch. Notably, under osmotic and salt stress, Bp-miR408a contributed to osmotic and salt tolerance sensitivity by mediating various physiological changes, such as increases in reactive oxygen species accumulation, osmoregulatory substance contents and Na+ accumulation. Additionally, molecular analysis provided evidence of the in vivo targeting of BpBCP1 (blue copper protein) transcripts by Bp-miR408a. The overexpression of BpBCP1 in birch enhanced osmotic and salt tolerance by increasing the antioxidant enzyme activity, maintaining cellular ion homeostasis and decreasing lipid peroxidation and cell death. Thus, we reveal a Bp-miR408a–BpBCP1 regulatory module that mediates osmotic and salt stress responses in birch.
2015–2021 Industry Payments to Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeons: Analysis of Trends and Characteristics of Top-earning Surgeons
Authors: Noe McKenna C. , Kaji Ellie , Thomas George , Warren Jonathan R. , Schwend Richard M.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Analysis of industry payments to pediatric orthopaedic surgeons last occurred in 2017. We investigated payments to pediatric orthopaedic surgeons from 2015 to 2021 to understand surgeon characteristics associated with increased industry payments.

Methods:

Open Payments Database datasets from 2015 to 2021 were queried for nonresearch payments to pediatric orthopaedic surgeons. Annual aggregates and subcategories were recorded. For surgeons receiving payments in 2021, the Hirsch index (h-index), gender, and US census division were found using the Scopus database, Open Payments Database, and online hospital profiles, respectively. χ2, Fisher exact, Mann-Whitney U, and t tests were used to compare surgeons in the top 25%, 10%, and 5% payment percentiles to the bottom 75%, 90%, and 95%, respectively.

Results:

Payments rose 125% from 2015 to 2021. Education, royalties, and faculty/speaker increased most, while travel/lodging, honoraria, charitable contributions, and ownership interest decreased. Only royalties increased from 2019 to 2021. In 2021, of 419 pediatric orthopaedic surgeons receiving industry payments, men received greater median aggregate payments than women ($379.03 vs. $186.96, P=0.047). There were no differences in gender proportions between the top 75% and bottom 25% (P=0.054), top 10% and bottom 90% (P=0.235), and top 5% and bottom 95% (P=0.280) earning comparison groups. The h-index was weakly positively correlated with industry payments (r
s=0.203, P<0.001). Mean h-indices in the 75th (P<0.001, 95% CI: 2.62-7.65), 90th (P=0.001, 95% CI: 3.28-13.03), and 95th (P=0.005, 95% CI: 4.25-21.11) percentiles were significantly higher. Proportions of surgeons from the Middle Atlantic and West South Central in the 90th (P=0.025) and 95th percentiles (P=0.033), respectively, were significantly lower compared to all other regions. A higher proportion of surgeons from the Pacific were placed in the 90th (P=0.004) and 95th (P=0.024) percentiles.

Conclusions:

Industry payments to pediatric orthopaedic surgeons rose from 2015 to 2021. Most categories fell from 2019 to 2021, which may be related to the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic. In 2021, though gender was not related to aggregate payment percentile, location in select US census divisions and h-index was.

Level of Evidence:

Level II—Retrospective study.