bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single‐cell RNA sequencing in exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Zhang Xinzi , Zhang Fang , Xu Xun
Published: July 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the working‐age populations. Despite decades of research on the pathogenesis of DR for clinical care, a comprehensive understanding of the condition is still lacking due to the intricate cellular diversity and molecular heterogeneity involved. Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) has made the high‐throughput molecular profiling of cells across modalities possible which has provided valuable insights into complex biological systems. In this review, we summarise the application of scRNA‐seq in investigating the pathogenesis of DR, focusing on four aspects. These include the identification of differentially expressed genes, characterisation of key cell subpopulations and reconstruction of developmental ‘trajectories’ to unveil their state transition, exploration of complex cell‒cell communication in DR and integration of scRNA‐seq with genome‐wide association studies to identify cell types that are most closely related to DR risk genetic loci. Finally, we discuss the future challenges and expectations associated with studying DR using scRNA‐seq. We anticipate that scRNA‐seq will facilitate the discovery of mechanisms and new treatment targets in the clinical care landscape for patients with DR.

Key points

Progress in scRNA‐seq for diabetic retinopathy (DR) research includes studies on DR patients, non‐human primates, and the prevalent mouse models.

scRNA‐seq facilitates the identification of differentially expressed genes, pivotal cell subpopulations, and complex cell‐cell interactions in DR at single‐cell level.

Future scRNA‐seq applications in DR should target specific patient subsets and integrate with single‐cell and spatial multi‐omics approaches.
Intraspecific variation in Janzen–Connell effect is mediated by stress and plant–soil feedbacks
Authors: Pan Libing , Hogan J. Aaron , Song Xiaoyang , Zhang Wenfu , Zhou Huaze , Chen Zhonglin , Yang Jie , Cao Min
Published: July 2024

Janzen–Connell (JC) effects, hypothesized to be partially driven by negative plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs), are considered to be a key mechanism that regulates tropical forest plant diversity and coexistence. However, intraspecific variation in JC effects may weaken this mechanism, with the strength of PSFs being a potentially key variable process. We conducted a manipulated experiment with seedlings from two populations of Pometia pinnata (Sapindaceae), a tropical tree species in southwest China. We aimed to measure the intraspecific difference in PSF magnitude caused by inoculating the soil from different P. pinnata source populations and growing seedlings under differing light intensity and water availability treatments, and at varying plant densities. We found negative PSFs for both populations with the inoculum soil originating from the same sites, but PSFs differed significantly with the inoculum soil from different sites. PSF strength responded differently to biotic and abiotic drivers; PSF strength was weaker in low moisture and high light treatments than in high moisture and low light treatments. Our study documents intraspecific variation in JC effects: specifically, P. pinnata have less defenses to their natively‐sourced soil, but are more defensive to the soil feedbacks from soil sourced from other populations. Our results imply that drought and light intensity tended to weaken JC effects, which may result in loss of species diversity with climate change.
Gene networks governing the response of a calcareous sponge to future ocean conditions reveal lineage‐specific XBP1 regulation of the unfolded protein response
Authors: Posadas Niño , Conaco Cecilia
Published: July 2024

Marine sponges are predicted to be winners in the future ocean due to their exemplary adaptive capacity. However, while many sponge groups exhibit tolerance to a wide range of environmental insults, calcifying sponges may be more susceptible to thermo‐acidic stress. To describe the gene regulatory networks that govern the stress response of the calcareous sponge, Leucetta chagosensis (class Calcarea, order Clathrinida), individuals were subjected to warming and acidification conditions based on the climate models for 2100. Transcriptome analysis and gene co‐expression network reconstruction revealed that the unfolded protein response (UPR) was activated under thermo‐acidic stress. Among the upregulated genes were two lineage‐specific homologs of X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1), a transcription factor that activates the UPR. Alternative dimerization between these XBP1 gene products suggests a clathrinid‐specific mechanism to reversibly sequester the transcription factor into an inactive form, enabling the rapid regulation of pathways linked to the UPR in clathrinid calcareous sponges. Our findings support the idea that transcription factor duplication events may refine evolutionarily conserved molecular pathways and contribute to ecological success.
First record of a neonate bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) from Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Whitehead Darren A. , Gayford Joel H.
Published: July 2024

The bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) is a wide‐ranged deep‐water shark species found off continental and insular shelves. Despite its global distribution, little is known about the reproductive ecology of the species, particularly with regard to the location and timing of important phenological events such as mating and pupping. In this study, we report the landing of a neonate H. griseus individual from an artisanal fishing camp in Baja California Sur, Mexico. This represents only the ninth confirmed record of the species from the Mexican Pacific and the first to report a neonate specimen in Mexican waters. We discuss this specimen in the context of the environmental conditions in which it was found, ultimately suggesting that these shallow coastal waters may be an important pupping ground for H. griseus in the region. Furthermore, the specimen was found during the winter months (whereas all previous reports have suggested H. griseus pups during the summer), implying regional variation in reproductive periodicity, or the presence of multiple reproductive events per year. This study provides novel insight into the reproductive biology of H. griseus and the ecological characteristics of the species in the Northern Mexican Pacific.
Potential effects of traffic noise on anuran call characteristics in Louisiana, USA during winter
Authors: Kunberger Jane M. , Price Ty J. , Crawford Chloe , Vestal‐Laborde Allison A. , Long Ashley M.
Published: July 2024

Urban environments expose wildlife to levels of anthropogenic noise they would not experience in rural areas (e.g., traffic noise), and research suggests that many species adjust their acoustic signals for optimal transmission in urban soundscapes. However, our understanding of anuran (order Anura) responses to noise pollution in urban environments of the southeastern United States is limited, particularly for species that can breed during winter. Our goal was to examine how vocal anuran advertisement call characteristics during winter varied with increasing distance from roadways in bottomland hardwoods of Louisiana, USA. We deployed acoustic recording units at two sites (i.e., rural and urban) perpendicular to Interstate 10 at 200‐, 400‐, and 600‐m intervals (i.e., close, middle, and far) from November 2019 to January 2020. We detected Cajun Chorus Frogs (Pseudacris fouquettei) and Cricket Frogs (Acris spp.) at our rural site, and only detected Cricket Frogs at our urban site. At the rural site, Cajun Chorus Frogs produced longer duration notes at the far location compared to the middle location. At the urban site, Cricket Frogs produced higher dominant frequency calls at the close location compared to the far and middle locations and longer duration notes at the far location compared to the close location. We were unable to account for additional factors in our models (e.g., temperature, noise levels), but our results generally align with previous research. Our study provides baseline data for future research to examine the potential effects of traffic noise on winter advertisement calls in locations with similar environmental conditions and species.
Synthesis and Conformational Analysis of α,β‐Dichlorocarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Kobayashi Shunta , Prakoso Nurcahyo Iman , Zheng Xin , Noro Shin‐ichiro , Hashimoto Masaru , Morozumi Tatsuya , Umezawa Taiki
Published: July 2024

α,β‐Dichlorocarbonyl compounds were synthesized by facile dichlorination of α,β‐unsaturated amides with TCIA‐PPh3 and the resultant amides were converted to ketones. Conformational analyses of the products were performed to confirm our previous hypothesis regarding vicinal dichlorinated carbonyl compounds. The compounds exhibited 1H NMR signals with large coupling constants (7–11 Hz) for the 1,2‐anti‐configuration and small coupling constants (3–4 Hz) for the 1,2‐syn‐configuration. The syn‐pentane interaction enabled rational conformational analysis of the α,β‐dichlorinated carbonyl compounds, although some interesting exceptions were observed. Consideration of these conformations is helpful in assigning relative configurations of α,β‐dihalogenated carbonyl compounds in general.
Strength characteristics in faster change of direction basketball players: A comparison across cutting angles
Authors: Barrera‐Domínguez Francisco J. , del‐Cuerpo Indya , Riego‐Ruiz Antonio , Martínez‐García Darío , Jerez‐Mayorga Daniel , Javier Chirosa‐Ríos Luís , Molina‐López Jorge
Published: July 2024

Change of directions (COD) involves multidirectional and complex actions, with performance influenced by multiple factors. As lower limb strength is one of the most determinant of COD performance, the present study aimed to (a) explore the differences in strength outcomes across different lower limb muscle actions between faster and slower basketball players in COD actions at different angles and (b) analyse the relationship between isometric, concentric and eccentric strength outcomes and COD performance at different cutting angles. Twenty‐five basketball players (44% female) completed a battery of tests, encompassing isokinetic and isometric squat strength assessments, along with COD tests at 45°, 90° and 180°. Players were categorised as ‘low‐performance’ and ‘high‐performance’ groups based on execution time in COD, facilitating a comparison between performance groups. Results indicated that concentric strength showed the greatest differences between performance groups at 45° COD (effect size ≥ 0.813; p ≤ 0.034). Isometric and eccentric strength demonstrated a moderate‐to‐large relationship with 90° COD performance (Rho ≥ 0.394; p ≤ 0.045), and all muscle actions exhibited a large relationship with 180° COD (Rho ≥ 0.445; p ≤ 0.030). Moreover, the fastest players showed higher levels of concentric strength relative to eccentric strength, regardless of the cutting angle. These findings hold practical applications, suggesting that basketball coaches should train a specific kind of muscle action depending on the individual players' COD demands, focusing on improving the rapid eccentric force application while striving to reduce the eccentric/concentric ratio.
Multifunctional diamond‐based catalysts: Promising candidates for energy conversions in extreme environments—A mini‐review
Authors: Zhao Ziwei , Gao Xiaowu , Zhang Hansong , Jiao Keran , Song Pengfei , Zhang Yumin , Wang Yongjie , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: July 2024

In order to properly utilize the abundant CO2 and water resources, various catalytic materials have been developed to convert them into valuable chemicals as renewable fuels electrochemically or photochemically. Currently, most studies are conducted under mild laboratory conditions, but for some extreme environments, such as Mars and space stations, there is an urgent need to develop new catalysts satisfying such special requirements. Conventional catalytic materials mainly focus on metals and narrow bandgap semiconductor materials, while the research on wide and ultrawide bandgap materials that can inherently withstand extreme conditions has not received enough attention. Given the robust stability and excellent physico‐chemical properties of diamond, it can be expected to perform in harsh environments for electrocatalysis or photocatalysis that has not been investigated thoroughly. Here, this review summarizes the catalytic functionality of diamond‐based electrodes with various but tunable product selectivity to obtain the varied C1 or C2+ products, and discusses some important factors playing a key role in manipulating the catalytic activity. Moreover, the unique solvation electron effect of diamond gives it a significant advantage in photocatalytic conversions which is also summarized in this mini‐review. In the end, prospects are made for the application of diamond‐based catalysts under various extreme conditions. The challenges that may be faced in practical applications are also summarized and future breakthrough directions are proposed at the end.
Predictiveness of preoperative laboratory values for postoperative delirium
Authors: Guttenthaler Vera , Fidorra Jacqueline , Wittmann Maria , Menzenbach Jan
Published: July 2024

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients over 60 years, with an incidence ranging from 15% to 50%. In most cases, POD manifests in the first 5 days after surgery. Multiple contributing risk factors for POD have been detected. Besides the predisposing factors such as higher age, cognitive impairment, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and past stroke, pathophysiological mechanisms like neuroinflammation are also considered as contributing factors.

Methods

In a subanalysis of the “PRe‐
Operative 
Prediction of postoperative 
DElirium by appropriate 
SCreening” (PROPDESC) study, the preoperative laboratory values of sodium, potassium, total protein, hemoglobin concentration (Hgb), and white blood cells as well as the biomarkers creatinine, HbA1c, NT‐pro‐BNP, high sensitive Troponin T (hsTnT), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were assessed to investigate a possible relationship to the occurrence of POD.

Results

After correction for age, physical status classification, surgery risk after Johns Hopkins, and operative discipline (cardiac surgery vs. noncardiac surgery), male patients with a Hgb <13 g/dL had significantly higher odds for POD (p = 0.025). Furthermore, patients with CRP ≥ 10 mg/L, HbA1c value ≥ 8.5% as well as patients with hypernatraemia (>145 mmol/L) presented significantly higher odds to develop POD (p = 0.011, p < 0.001, and p = 0.021, respectively). A raised (>14−52 ng/L) or high (>52 ng/L) hsTnT value was also associated with a significantly higher chance for POD compared to the patient group with hsTnT <14 ng/L (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016, respectively).

Conclusions

Preoperative Hgb, CRP, HbA1c, sodium, and hsTnT could be used to complement and refine the preoperative screening for patients at risk for POD. Further studies should track these correlations to investigate the potential of targeted POD protection and enabling hospital staff to initiate POD‐preventing measures in time.
The impact of ICT development on economic resilience during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A country level analysis
Authors: Chen Leida , Lertwachara Kaveepan , Ayanso Anteneh
Published: July 2024

This research explores the relationship between information and communications technology (ICT) development and its impact on a country's economy during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study has two primary objectives: (1) to understand how ICT development influences a country's economic resilience during a crisis, and (2) to examine the interrelationships between various country‐level ICT development measures. We use multi‐year, country‐level data made available by the United Nations, the World Bank, and World Health Organization to empirically examine our research model. Partial least squares path analysis is the primary research methodology employed in this study. Our results suggest that ICT development has a positive impact on economic resilience in the face of the COVID‐19 pandemic. In addition, our results specify the interrelationships between individual ICT development measures and economic resilience. This research contributes to the extant body of knowledge on the impact of country‐level ICT development on economy by empirically validating a research model that explores the relationships between the various measures of ICT development and economic resilience of countries during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Divergent Biochemical Properties and Disparate Impact of Arrhythmogenic Calmodulin Mutations on Zebrafish Cardiac Function
Authors: Da'as Sahar I. , Thanassoulas Angelos , Calver Brian L. , Saleh Alaaeldin , Abdelrahman Doua , Hasan Waseem , Safieh‐Garabedian Bared , Kontogianni Iris , Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Nounesis George , Lai F. Anthony , Nomikos Michail
Published: July 2024

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous, small cytosolic calcium (Ca2+)‐binding sensor that plays a vital role in many cellular processes by binding and regulating the activity of over 300 protein targets. In cardiac muscle, CaM modulates directly or indirectly the activity of several proteins that play a key role in excitation‐contraction coupling (ECC), such as ryanodine receptor type 2 (RyR2), l‐type Ca2+ (Cav1.2), sodium (NaV1.5) and potassium (KV7.1) channels. Many recent clinical and genetic studies have reported a series of CaM mutations in patients with life‐threatening arrhythmogenic syndromes, such as long QT syndrome (LQTS) and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). We recently showed that four arrhythmogenic CaM mutations (N98I, D132E, D134H, and Q136P) significantly reduce the binding of CaM to RyR2. Herein, we investigate in vivo functional effects of these CaM mutations on the normal zebrafish embryonic heart function by microinjecting complementary RNA corresponding to CaMN98I, CaMD132E, CaMD134H, and CaMQ136P mutants. Expression of CaMD132E and CaMD134H mutants results in significant reduction of the zebrafish heart rate, mimicking a severe form of human bradycardia, whereas expression of CaMQ136P results in an increased heart rate mimicking human ventricular tachycardia. Moreover, analysis of cardiac ventricular rhythm revealed that the CaMD132E and CaMN98I zebrafish groups display an irregular pattern of heart beating and increased amplitude in comparison to the control groups. Furthermore, circular dichroism spectroscopy experiments using recombinant CaM proteins reveals a decreased structural stability of the four mutants compared to the wild‐type CaM protein in the presence of Ca2+. Finally, Ca2+‐binding studies indicates that all CaM mutations display reduced CaM Ca2+‐binding affinities, with CaMD132E exhibiting the most prominent change. Our data suggest that CaM mutations can trigger different arrhythmogenic phenotypes through multiple and complex molecular mechanisms.
Later life employment: Benefits and challenges experienced by older immigrants from Sub‐Saharan Africa living in Georgia
Authors: Amin Rebecca Marfawtem
Published: July 2024

This study examines the integration of older African immigrants in the United States through work, which provides them autonomy in later life. The study utilizes qualitative data from 27 older African immigrants from Sub‐Saharan Africa living in Georgia. The older adults are 55 or older and immigrated to the United States after 1990. The participants are from five countries (Cameroon, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Togo, and Zambia). Their ages range from 55 to 85 years old. There are 18 men and nine women. Six participants had doctoral degrees, nine had master's degrees, six had associate or college degrees, six had vocational training, and some had college, secondary, or primary education or no formal education. Eighteen participants were employed full‐time. I apply thematic analysis to highlight emerging themes. The findings demonstrate the importance of the push and pull factors in determining immigrants' decisions to migrate in later life. Other findings highlight the challenges older adults, especially African immigrants, encounter to remain active and gainfully employed. The challenges include problems of language and accent and the classification of foreign credentials in the job market. The participants expressed the necessity to work because of family and societal obligations or perceived obligations back in their countries of origin, most notably the desire to achieve autonomy in later life. This paper contributes to the literature on the diverse aging population by expounding on the contributions made by older immigrants in the workforce, their families, and society. With the information acquired from older African immigrants, we can continue advancing policies that address the concerns of our diverse aging population. Policies should aim at training that targets older adults from diverse linguistic, educational, and cultural backgrounds. Policies should also lay out clearer pathways to financial independence, including education on the role of social security and other safety net programs for older Americans. Policies must reflect the importance of healthcare in later life, so healthcare policies should address issues on cultural competencies in training healthcare providers and educating older adult immigrants on navigating the healthcare system.
Physiological and behavioral responses to novel saline conditions in an invasive treefrog
Authors: Messerly Addy E. , Mularo Andrew J. , Longo Ana V. , Bernal Ximena E.
Published: July 2024

Salinity can be an environmental stressor for anurans, as their highly permeable skin makes them prone to osmotic stress when exposed to saline conditions. However, certain anuran species have colonized areas near saltwater habitats, suggesting an ability to acclimate to saline conditions. Here, we evaluated physiological and behavioral responses to saline conditions in adult Cuban treefrogs (Osteopilus septentrionalis), an invasive anuran found throughout Florida. To examine their response to salinity, adult frogs were maintained in two treatments simulating a freshwater (0.5 ppt) or brackish (8.0 ppt) environment for 6 weeks. To assess their physiological response to this potential stressor, all frogs were submerged in a brackish solution to quantify individual weight change every 2 weeks. We found that frogs maintained in brackish solution lost more weight at Weeks 2 and 6 when compared to Week 0, suggesting that salinity may be an environmental stressor for Cuban treefrogs. Yet, the weight change at Week 4 was similar to the pre‐exposure period, which may indicate that constant exposure to salinity may alter their physiological response to saline conditions. To supplement the physiological analyses, we investigated avoidance behavior toward saline conditions by offering individuals a choice between freshwater or brackish environments. Our results showed that Cuban treefrogs chose freshwater environments more frequently and may thus avoid saline ones. This study reveals that salinity may induce plastic and avoidance responses in Cuban treefrogs, potentially allowing them to expand their range into areas typically stressful for most anurans.
Clinical guideline highlights for the hospitalist: Management of COVID‐19
Authors: Thomas Stephanie , Clark Danielle
Published: July 2024

GUIDELINE TITLE: 2023 IDSA Guidelines on the Treatment and Management of Patients with COVID‐19

RELEASE DATE: 06/26/2023

PRIOR VERSION (S): 2021

DEVELOPER: Infectious Diseases Society of America

FUNDING SOURCE: Infectious Diseases Society of America

TARGET POPULATION: Patients with COVID‐19 Infection
Near full‐length genome analysis of HEV 4b subtype in pigs showed a similarity up to 99.944% compared to a patient in Guangdong province, China
Authors: Deng Haohui , Chen Yuanting , Liang Shuzhen , Liang Xiaoting , Dang Shuyuan , Liu Huiyuan , Qiu Jiuxiang
Published: July 2024

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a prevalent pathogen responsible for acute viral hepatitis, HEV genotypes 3 and 4 infections causing zoonotic infections. Currently, the nucleotide similarity analysis between humans and pigs for HEV genotype 4 is limited. In this study, stool samples from an HEV‐infected patient who is a pig farmer and from pigs were collected to obtain the near full‐length genome of HEV, phylogenetic trees were constructed for genotyping, and similarity of HEV sequences was analyzed. The results showed that HEV‐RNA was detected in the stool samples from the patient and six pigs (6/30, 20.0%). Both HEV subtype in the patient and pigs was 4b. Additionally, similarity analysis showed that the range was 99.875%–99.944% between the patient and pigs at the nucleotide level. Four isolates of amino acid sequences (ORFs 1–3) from pigs were 100% identical to the patient. Phylogenetic tree and similarity analysis of an additional nine HEV sequences isolated from other patients in this region showed that the HEV sequence from the pig farmer had the closest relationship with the pigs from his farm rather than other sources of infection in this region. This study provides indirect evidences for HEV subtype 4b can be transmitted from pigs to humans at the nucleotide level. Further research is needed to explore the characteristics of different HEV subtypes.
The prediagnostic general practitioner care of sarcoma patients: A real‐world data study
Authors: Holthuis Emily I. , van der Graaf Winette T. A. , Drabbe Cas , van Houdt Winan J. , Schrage Yvonne M. , Hartman Tim C. Olde , Uijen Annemarie A. , Bos Isabelle , Heins Marianne , Husson Olga ,   and other members of the Study Group
Published: July 2024

Background

Limited understanding exists regarding early sarcoma symptoms presented during general practitioner (GP) consultations. The study explores GP visit patterns and recorded diagnoses in the 12 months preceding sarcoma diagnosis.

Methods

Sarcoma cases diagnosed from 2010 to 2020 were identified through the Netherlands Cancer Registry alongside general practice data. Sarcoma cases were age and gender matched to cancer‐free controls (2:1 or 1:1 ratio).

Results

A total of 787 individuals with soft‐tissue sarcoma (STS) and 188 individuals with bone sarcoma (BS) were identified. There was a significant difference in monthly GP contacts from 4 months to the last month before STS diagnosis, and 2 months before BS diagnosis between cases and controls. Most prevalent diagnoses recorded by the GP for STS cases included musculoskeletal neoplasm (26.6%), uncomplicated hypertension (15.6%), and cystitis/other urinary infections (12.2%). For BS cases, musculoskeletal neoplasm (42.8%), knee symptoms/complaints (9.7%), and shoulder symptoms/complaints (9.7%) were most frequent.

Conclusions and Discussion

A significant difference in GP contacts between cases and controls preceding sarcoma diagnosis. STS cases were predominantly diagnosed with nonspecific symptoms, whereas BS cases with diagnoses more suggestive of BS. Better understanding of the prediagnostic trajectory could aid GPs in early identification of sarcoma
Effects of stand structure on ecological benefits and tree growth of Haloxylon ammodendron plantations: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Nan , Li Xin Ying , Liu Hong Yan , Tang Jin Nian , Ji Yong Fu , Zhao Chang Ming , Li Jin Hua
Published: July 2024

Haloxylon ammodendron is a typical tree species in arid region for windbreak and sand fixation. Understanding how stand structure (i.e., afforestation density, forest type, and stand age) of H. ammodendron impacts ecological benefits and tree growth status has great implications for desertification control in arid area. We obtained a dataset of 446 observations from 79 studies related to H. ammodendron plantations for meta‐analysis. Stand age was the key factor affecting performances of windbreak, tree canopy, and soil properties while afforestation density was more important in determining tree survival rate. Wind speed in H. ammodendron plantations was reduced by 52% in general compared to that at the site without any plantations and decreased as the increasing density. With the increase of stand age, soil carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus accumulated continuously, but soil moisture in 0–60 cm depth decrease when trees grew up to nearly 20 years. Within 4000 plants ha−1, responses of survival rate, tree height, ground diameter, and canopy decreased with the increase of afforestation density. Compared with mono‐species plantation, mixed afforestation was more beneficial to windbreak and survival, while it damaged tree growth. Combining the ecological functions and tree growth of H. ammodendron plantations, the afforestation density and forest age should be controlled to 450–900 plants ha−1 and 20 years, respectively, as the upper limit. Therefore, besides reasonable afforestation density, management measures for regulations of forest age and existing stand density were important to maintain higher ecological benefits and better tree growth of H. ammodendron plantations.
Knowing your limits: Patterns and drivers of nutrient limitation and nutrient–chlorophyll relationships in US lakes
Authors: McCullough Ian M. , Sun Xinyu , Hanly Patrick J. , Soranno Patricia A.
Published: July 2024

Although understanding nutrient limitation of primary productivity in lakes is among the oldest research priorities in limnology, there have been few broad‐scale studies of the characteristics of phosphorus (P)‐, nitrogen (N)‐, and co‐limited lakes and their environmental context. By analyzing 3342 US lakes with concurrent P, N, and chlorophyll a (Chl a) samples, we showed that US lakes are predominantly co‐limited (43%) or P‐limited (41%). Majorities of lakes were P‐limited in the Northeast, Upper Midwest, and Southeast, and co‐limitation was most prevalent in the interior and western United States. N‐limitation (16%) was more prevalent than P‐limitation in the Great Basin and Central Plains. Nutrient limitation was related to lake, watershed, and regional variables, including Chl a concentration, watershed soil, and wet nitrate deposition. N and P concentrations interactively affected nutrient–chlorophyll relationships, which differed by nutrient limitation. Our study demonstrates the value of considering P, N, and environmental context in nutrient limitation and nutrient–chlorophyll relationships.
Paradoxes, challenges, and opportunities in the context of ethical customer experience management
Authors: Velasco Carlos , Reinoso‐Carvalho Felipe , Barbosa Escobar Francisco , Gustafsson Anders , Petit Olivia
Published: July 2024

This article examines paradoxes, challenges, and opportunities in the context of ethical customer experience management. Central to this discussion are different stakeholders such as firms, customers, policymakers, regulators, and society at large, as well as key issues associated with them. Firms aim to design and manage compelling experiences using customer data but face challenges balancing cost, customization, ethical concerns, and fairness in customer experience management. Customers should be encouraged to reflect on whether to share personal information for customized experiences, as well as on how far their responsibility goes in ensuring critically informed decision‐making. Policymakers and regulators must integrate the views of various stakeholders into policies and guidelines that promote a healthy society. Importantly, the digitization of customer experience has given rise to unprecedented ethical concerns related to the prospect of ‘programming’ these experiences. The shrinking temporal and spatial distance between stimuli, customer action, data footprint, and tracking poses significant reflections and dilemmas for both customers and firms. In this context, it is essential to determine ethical reflections and guidelines for customer experience design and management. We argue that firms should involve customers in assessing the implications of their experiences, while policymakers should facilitate the involvement of all stakeholders (including firms, customers, regulators, academics, and NGOs) to create an ongoing, healthy dialogue. This dialogue should guide a continuing debate aimed at evaluating the implications of specific actions in customer experience management.
CREB3 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by depressing AKT signaling through competitively binding with insulin receptor and transcriptionally activating RNA‐binding motif protein 38
Authors: He Yi , Han Shenqi , Li Han , Wu Yu , Jia Wenlong , Chen Zeyu , Pan Yonglong , Cai Ning , Wen Jingyuan , Li Ganxun , Liang Junnan , Zhao Jianping , Liu Qiumeng , Liang Huifang , Ding Zeyang , Huang Zhao , Zhang Bixiang
Published: July 2024

cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3), belonging to bZIP family, was reported to play multiple roles in various cancers, but its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 like 3 (CREB3L3), another member of bZIP family, was thought to be transcription factor (TF) to regulate hepatic metabolism. Nevertheless, except for being TFs, other function of bZIP family were poorly understood. In this study, we found CREB3 inhibited growth and metastasis of HCC in vitro and in vivo. RNA sequencing indicated CREB3 regulated AKT signaling to influence HCC progression. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed CREB3 interacted with insulin receptor (INSR). Mechanistically, CREB3 suppressed AKT phosphorylation by inhibiting the interaction of INSR with insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1). In our study, CREB3 was firstly proved to affect activation of substrates by interacting with tyrosine kinase receptor. Besides, CREB3 could act as a TF to transactivate RNA‐binding motif protein 38 (RBM38) expression, leading to suppressed AKT phosphorylation. Rescue experiments further confirmed the independence between the two functional manners. In conclusion, CREB3 acted as a tumor suppressor in HCC, which inhibited AKT phosphorylation through independently interfering interaction of INSR with IRS1, and transcriptionally activating RBM38.
Predictors of preoperative anxiety in pediatric surgical patients in Ghana: A bi‐center study
Authors: Dei‐Asamoa Richard , Fiagbe Delali , Dellor Dzifa , Osafo Joseph
Published: July 2024

Anticipation of surgical procedures has been noted to be a major cause of anxiety, particularly in children and their parents. Preoperative anxiety in children is associated with complications before, during, and after surgery. There is therefore the need to identify predictors of preoperative anxiety in children, for early identification and development of interventions. This study aimed at determining predictors of preoperative anxiety in children. A total of 70 children with their parents, scheduled for general pediatric surgery in two teaching hospitals in Ghana, were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. Parental anxiety, perception of quality of healthcare, and preoperative anxiety in children were measured using the State Section of the State Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Pediatric Quality of Life—Healthcare Satisfaction Module, and the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale, respectively. Previous surgical experience, age and type of surgery were obtained by demographic questionnaire and hospital records. Majority of children who participated in the study were between ages 2 and 7 years (82.9%). 84.3% of parents in the study were females. Parental anxiety (β = 0.953, pp = 0.000) and perceived quality of healthcare (β = −0.257, p = 0.031) predicted preoperative anxiety in children. Older children scheduled for major surgery were more anxious in the preoperative period than younger children scheduled for major surgery (F = 6.75, p = 0.012). Comprehensive anxiety‐alleviation protocols for pediatric surgery should involve parents as well as improving perceptions of quality of healthcare.
Prozessindustrie: Von Simulation bis Pilotanlage
Authors: Chęciński Marek
Published: July 2024

Die Konzeption eines Katalysators für die Methanolherstellung begann im Jahr 2017 auf einem leeren Blatt Papier. Bei der Entwicklung neuer Verfahren sind chemische Erfahrung und Intuition mitentscheidend.
„Das stoffliche Problem ist ernst“
Authors: Remenyi Christian
Published: July 2024

Henning Hopf ist Organiker, GDCh‐Ehrenmitglied und ‐Altpräsident und seit Kurzem auch Primo‐Levi‐Preisträger. Wie wenige andere Wissenschaftler hat er stets einen Blick auf das große Ganze und die gesellschaftliche Aufgabe der Chemie. Ein guter Grund für die Nachrichten, ihn für dieses „Schlaglichtheft 75“ zu befragen, was war, was ist und was in Zukunft sein soll.
Chemiehistorische Gesprächsfetzen
Authors: Kunz Dieter
Published: July 2024

Wie wäre es, wenn wir zwei Chemiker auf dem Weg zum Paradies (Dantes „Göttliche Komödie“ lässt grüßen) belauschen könnten? Wie dem fiktiven Dialog unschwer zu entnehmen ist, lag ihr beruflicher Höhepunkt in der zweiten Hälfte des letzten Jahrhunderts, das Zeitgeschehen verfolgen sie aber nach wie vor mit Interesse.
Chemische Proteinsynthese/Trendbericht Biochemie 2024 (1/3)
Authors: Hartrampf Nina
Published: July 2024

Chemische Proteinsynthese: Neue Techniken in der Durchflusschemie und selektive Ligationsmethoden ermöglichen, komplexe und präzise modifizierte Peptide und Proteine für biologische Anwendungen herzustellen. Funktionelle Charakterisierung: Mit Methoden aus Mikrobiologie, chemischer Biologie und Biochemie untersuchen Forschende die molekulare Funktion bakterieller Enzyme des Mikrobioms und decken so deren Relevanz bei der Entwicklung von Darmerkrankungen auf. DNA‐Origami: Biomoleküle auf mikro‐ und nanoskopischer Ebene zu untersuchen soll helfen, neue Therapeutika zu entwickeln, herzustellen und an ihren Zielort zu bringen. Besonders die Interaktionen von Proteinen miteinander und mit Ligandenmolekülen sind dabei wichtig.
Selective electrochemical degradation of bottlebrush elastomers
Authors: Albanese Kaitlin R. , Morris Parker T. , Roehrich Brian , Read de Alaniz Javier , Hawker Craig J. , Bates Christopher M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We introduce a simple synthetic strategy to selectively degrade bottlebrush networks derived from well‐defined poly(4‐methylcaprolactone) (P4MCL) bottlebrush polymers. Functionalization of the hydroxyl groups present at the terminal ends of P4MCL side chains with α‐lipoic acid resulted in bottlebrush polymers having a range of molecular weights (Mn = 45–2200 kg mol−1) and a tunable number of reactive dithiolane chain ends. These functionalized chain ends act as efficient crosslinkers due to radical ring‐opening of the dithiolane rings under UV light. The resulting redox‐active disulfide crosslinks enable mild electrochemical or chemical degradation of the SS crosslinks to regenerate the starting bottlebrush polymer. P4MCL side chains and the disulfides can be degraded simultaneously using harsher reducing conditions. This combination of bottlebrush architecture with facile disulfide crosslinking presents a versatile platform for preparing highly tunable elastomers that undergo controlled degradation under mild conditions.
Psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the Chinese version of the cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire‐short in patients with cancer
Authors: Zheng Xiaoting , Tian Xia , Zhou Xiaojun , Huang Yongqi , Xiao Wenli
Published: July 2024

Objective

The study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties and measurement invariance (MI) of the Chinese version of the cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire‐short (CERQ‐short) in cancer patients.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 505 cancer patients from mainland China. In addition to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the CERQ‐short and the distress thermometer were included in the study measures.

Results

Item analysis indicated a promising result. And the results of CFA indicated that the CERQ‐short demonstrated satisfactory factorial validity in cancer patients. Cronbach's alpha coefficients were between 0.663 and 0.910, while McDonald's omega coefficients were between 0.664 and 0.910. The CERQ‐short had sufficient convergent, discriminant and concurrent validity among cancer patients. Lastly, MI supported that the CERQ‐short demonstrated strong measurement equivalence across gender, residence and age.

Conclusions

This study shows that the Chinese version of the CERQ‐short has convincing psychometric properties and MI, which supports its use in cancer patients.
Red Fluorescence from Organic Microdots: Leveraging Foldamer‐Linked Azobenzene for Enhanced Stability and Intensity in Bioimaging Applications
Authors: Zhang Lianjin , Jeong Seoneun , Lee Jeehee , Kim Jaewook , Lee Jung Seok , Park Jihye , Hong Jungwoo , Eom Jae‐Hoon , Kim Hyungjun , Rhee Young Min , Lee Haeshin , Lee Hee‐Seung
Published: July 2024

Azobenzene, while relevant, has faced constraints in biological system applications due to its suboptimal quantum yield and short‐wavelength emission. This study presents a pioneering strategy for fabricating organic microdots by coupling foldamer‐linked azobenzene, resulting in robust fluorescence intensity and stability, especially in aggregated states, thereby showing promise for bioimaging applications. Comprehensive experimental and computational examinations elucidate the mechanisms underpinning enhanced photostability and fluorescence efficacy. In vitro and in vivo evaluations disclose that the external layer of cis‐azo‐foldamer microdots performs a self‐sacrificial function during photo‐bleaching. Consequently, these red‐fluorescent microdots demonstrate extraordinary structural and photochemical stabilities over extended periods. The conjugation of a β‐peptide foldamer to the azobenzene chromophore through a glycine linker instigates a blue‐shifted and amplified π*–n transition. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the aggregated state of cis‐azo‐foldamers fortifies the stability of cis isomers, thereby augmenting fluorescence efficiency. This investigation furnishes crucial insights into conceptualizing novel, biologically inspired materials, promising stable and enduring imaging applications, and carries implications for diverse arenas such as medical diagnostics, drug delivery, and sensing technologies.
Bimetal Oxides Anchored on Carbon Nanotubes/Nanosheets as High‐Efficiency and Durable Bifunctional Oxygen Catalyst for Advanced Zn–Air Battery: Experiments and DFT Calculations
Authors: Ruan Qi‐Dong , Zhao Yun‐Cai , Feng Rui , Haq Mahmood Ul , Zhang Lu , Feng Jiu‐Ju , Gao Yi‐Jing , Wang Ai‐Jun
Published: July 2024

To meet increasing requirement for innovative energy storage and conversion technology, it is urgent to prepare effective, affordable, and long‐term stable oxygen electrocatalysts to replace precious metal‐based counterparts. Herein, a two‐step pyrolysis strategy is developed for controlled synthesis of Fe2O3 and Mn3O4 anchored on carbon nanotubes/nanosheets (Fe2O3‐Mn3O4‐CNTs/NSs). The typical catalyst has a high half‐wave potential (E1/2 = 0.87 V) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), accompanied with a smaller overpotential (η10 = 290 mV) for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), showing substantial improvement in the ORR and OER performances. As well, density functional theory calculations are performed to illustrate the catalytic mechanism, where the in situ generated Fe2O3 directly correlates to the reduced energy barrier, rather than Mn3O4. The Fe2O3‐Mn3O4‐CNTs/NSs‐based Zn–air battery exhibits a high‐power density (153 mW cm−2) and satisfyingly long durability (1650 charge/discharge cycles/550 h). This work provides a new reference for preparation of highly reversible oxygen conversion catalysts.
Single Atom Ag Bonding Between PF3T Nanocluster and TiO2 Leads the Ultra‐Stable Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic H2 Production
Authors: Kao Jui‐Cheng , Teng Ting‐Yu , Lin Hao‐Wu , Tseng Fan‐Gang , Ting Li‐Yu , Bhalothia Dinesh , Chou Ho‐Hsiu , Lo Yu‐Chieh , Chou Jyh‐Pin , Chen Tsan‐Yao
Published: July 2024

Atomic Ag cluster bonding is employed to reinforce the interface between PF3T nano‐cluster and TiO2 nanoparticle. With an optimized Ag loading (Ag/TiO2 = 0.5 wt%), the Ag atoms will uniformly disperse on TiO2 thus generating a high density of intermediate states in the band gap to form the electron channel between the terthiophene group of PF3T and the TiO2 in the hybrid composite (denoted as T@Ag05‐P). The former expands the photon absorption band width and the latter facilitates the core‐hole splitting by injecting the photon excited electron (from the excitons in PF3T) into the conduction band (CB) of TiO2. These characteristics enable the high efficiency of H2 production to 16 580 µmol h−1 g−1 and photocatalysis stability without degradation under visible light exposure for 96 h. Compared to that of hybrid material without Ag bonding (TiO2@PF3T), the H2 production yield and stability are improved by 4.1 and 18.2‐fold which shows the best performance among existing materials in similar component combination and interfacial reinforcement. The unique bonding method offers a new prospect to accelerate the development of photocatalytic hydrogen production technologies.
Choanal atresia: A review of surgical outcomes in a tertiary medical center
Authors: Dheyauldeen Sinan , Heimdal Ketil , Osnes Terje , Akre Harriet , Olsson Lars
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Choanal atresia (CA) is a congenital narrowing or obliteration of the posterior nasal aperture. The condition is rare with an incidence of approximately 1 in 5000 to 9000 live births.

Objective

The aim of this work was to assess the results of treating this condition at the Otolaryngology Department in Oslo University Hospital‐Rikshospitalet.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients treated at Oslo University Hospital‐Rikshospitalet between 2005 and 2015 were performed. The review consisted of surgical techniques and outcomes, types of atresia, uses of stent and mitomycin C, age at operation, laterality of atresia, and associated anomalies.

Results

Thirty‐one patients with CA were referred to Oslo University Hospital‐Rikshospitalet during the mentioned observation period. Nine (29%) of the cases had bilateral CA and 22 (71%) had unilateral CA. Ten patients (32%) had bony atresia, 12 (39%) had membranous and eight (26%) had mixed type of atresia. Twenty‐one patients (68%) needed revision surgery because of complete or partial restenosis after primary surgery. Stents were applied in 16 cases (52%) of patients and Mitomycin C was only used in the primary surgery of three patients. In the bilateral group, eight of the nine patients were operated on within the first 9 days of life. Sixteen patients (45%) had associated anomalies.

Conclusions

According to the observations in our sample, the restenosis problem is expected more and may need more revisions in bilateral CA than the unilateral type. The presence of other anomalies is associated with higher incidence of restenosis. Stenting is not essential in preventing restenosis.
EU Fiddling While the Rule of Law Burns
Authors: Pech Laurent
Published: July 2024

Imagine a Country Where, Due to the Cumulative Effect of Repeated and Grossly Unconstitutional Legislative Changes Targeting the Judiciary, the Executive and Legislative Powers Can “Interfere Throughout the Entire Structure and Output of the Justice System”;